《Becoming The Real Rich Daughter After Divorce》
Chapter 1
Chapter 1: Divorce Paper
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the month of March, in a small city in Ancient Southern China, it was drizzling. In a small riverside restaurant in Linan City, raindrops dripped from the eaves outside.
The spring rain had been falling for about half a month, and the willow tree in front of the restaurant had sprouted. At the Eight Immortal Table in the house, a young woman who was about 17 to 18 years old was clenching a piece of paper in her hands tightly.
There were two striking words on the paper, Divorce Paper.
Qiao Jinniangs usually bright eyes had lost their sparkle and were currently filled with hatred. She couldnt help gnashing her teeth. How dare he, how dare he!
The maid on her side said indignantly, Miss, how could he do this to you?! If you hadnt rescued him from the river back then, he would have lost his life. Although he lost his memory, you still took him in and even married him, but as soon as he recovered his memory, he wanted to divorce you. This kind of b*stard should be chopped up and eaten as human meat buns!
Oh, Nuomi, what are you talking about?! If others heard what you said, they might think our Myriad Taste sells human meat buns! But Miss husband is outrageous indeed. He even took Young Master away.
Qiao Jinniang bit her lower lip silently. Three years ago, her parents were both severely sick and in critical condition. At that time, her uncles and aunts wanted to seize their family restaurant, Myriad Taste.
Her parents only had a daughter, and she just happened to rescue a stunningly handsome young man from the river. He was luxuriously dressed but had lost his memory. Seeing this, her parents deceived him that he was their son-inw-to-be.
They made him marry Qiao Jinniang in order to make Qiao Jinniangs uncles and aunts give up the n to snatch their restaurant.
After Jinniang got married, her parents passed away not long after, and soon Qiao Jinniang found herself pregnant. After that, she gave birth to a son and lived a happy life with her husband.
However, several months ago, her husband suddenly recovered his memory. He immediately told Qiao Jinniang that he was born in an aristocratic family in the capital, and that if he wanted to marry Qiao Jinniang as his wife, he had to first make some preparations.
After that was said, her husband took their son back to Changan first. She waited for two long months, from the Lantern Festival to the Qingming Festival. However, after waiting for two months, what she finally got was not his proposal letter and a dowry but a divorce paper sent from Changan City.
The messenger didnt even ce the divorce paper in an envelope, which allowed a lot of people to spot it along the way. Undoubtedly, it would not be long before the news of her divorce spread throughout the entire Linan City.
And she, the young hostess of Myriad Taste, would definitely be theughing stock of Linan City!
Qiao Jinniang! Come out!
Now that your ex-husband has left with your child and given you your divorce paper, you, as a woman, are not qualified to inherit this restaurant of our Qiao Family. Come out, and hand over Myriad Taste to us!
Hearing the noise outside, Qiao Jinniang went outside only to see it was filled with the nsmen of the Qiao Family and the thugs they hired, from the door of the restaurant all the way to the river.
The sound of drizzling rain couldnt cover up their noisy protest.
Why? My father was driven out of the Qiao Family, helpless and penniless when he was young. Fortunately, he followed his master to go to Changan City and worked as a cook for Duke Anyuan and his family. He married my mother and earned some money before he returned back to his hometown and opened this restaurant. Myriad Taste is the fruit of my parents lifelong painstakingbor, so what does it have to do with your Qiao Family?
Qiao Jinniang walked out of the restaurant holding an umbre.
Before her father died, he told her that even if she sold Myriad Taste, she could never give it to the Qiao Family.
Her father was forced to leave his hometown to make a living when he was only ten years old. Fortunately, he was taken in by Duke Anyuan before he finally enjoyed a good life.
Heh! Anyway, your fathers surname is Qiao. Moreover, youre childless now, arent you? Your husband has run away with your son. If you dont want any trouble, quickly hand over the restaurant to us!
Oh my god, we are all your uncles and aunts. You should show respect to your elders! No matter whether you agree or not, Myriad Taste will not belong to you, a childless divorcee!
The dozens of people below were all shouting unabashedly.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands. He was really hateful! Even if he wanted to leave her, why did he have to make it known to everyone that he had divorced her?
She looked at the restaurant behind her. You want this restaurant? Over my dead body!
In the misty rain, Qiao Jinniangs eyes were resolute.
One of her uncles said, This is the property of the Qiao Family. As a woman, do you even deserve to inherit it?
Moreover, the Qiao Family never keeps a divorced woman.
And considering that you are from the Qiao Family, the patriarch has already generously betrothed you to the son of the prefect as his eighteenth concubine!
Maid Nuomi said angrily, It ismon knowledge that the son of the prefect is an obese andscivious person.
No one knows how many girls he has ruined!
How can you force Miss to marry that kind of a man as a concubine?!
The shabbily-clothed second aunt of the Qiao Family bared her yellow teeth.
Hes the son of the prefect! And Qiao Jinniang is a divorced woman! Its her blessing to marry the son of the prefect as a concubine.
Exactly, her husband has abandoned her, but she can still marry the son of a government official. How lucky she is!
Herees the bridal sedan chair of the son of the prefect.
Qiao Jinniang then saw a fat man with cloudy eyesing over from the bridge.
This man was the son of the Prefect of Linan.
The Prefect of Linan was a good official, but his son was a dandy.
As lecherous as he was, he had raped a lot of women.
Today, we must stuff Qiao Jinniang into the sedan chair! The son of the prefect has given a lot of dowries!
The women of the Qiao Family rushed up, holding a rope in an attempt to tie up Qiao Jinniang.
In the rain, the servants, maidservants and chefs of the restaurant all came out to stop the people of the Qiao Family.
However, they were outnumbered.
For the first time, Qiao Jinniang felt so desperate that she took out a lighter in a flurry.
Donte over. If anyonees over, I will burn down the Myriad Taste today. Lets die together!
However, even God didnt help her, as the drizzling rain got heavier and heavier.
A middle-aged man of the Qiao Family said triumphantly, With such a heavy rain, Im afraid the fire wont be able to spread!
The lighter in Qiao Jinniangs hands fell to the ground, and just when she was being held down by the women of the Qiao Family, she heard the stomps of horse hooves near her.
tter! tter!
Qiao Jinniang listened, wondering if it was her husbanding back.
However, a carriage suddenly stopped, from which an old maid came out.
At the very first nce of Qiao Jinniang, the old maid immediately burst into tears and said, Miss, Miss, Im sorry. Its my fault to let you suffer so much in Linan City!
The old maid of Duke Anyuans mansion confirmed Qiao Jinniangs identity at a single nce.
She looked exactly the same as Duchess Anyuan when she was young, although she was more beautiful than her mother.
You lousy old women, what are you doing to our Miss?
The old maid could tell that these shabby vige women were harboring malicious intentions. She is the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan. Do you think she is someone you can insult at will?!
Qiao Jinniang was confused to hear the old maids words.
The guards brought over by the old maid were all armed.
They quickly drove the disgusting people of the Qiao Family away.
Seeing this, Qiao Jinniang thought even if the old maid was a swindler, she would regard her as her benefactor.
Inviting the old maid and the guards into the restaurant, Qiao Jinniang poured tea for the old maid. Thank you for helping me today, Madam. However, Im not the daughter of Duke Anyuan. Is there some kind of misunderstanding?
My mother used to be a maid in Duke Anyuans mansion, and my father worked as a cook there, but they returned to Linan City to open this restaurant 18 years ago.
The old maid wiped away the tears from her eyes with a brocade handkerchief. Yes, Miss, back then when the Duchess went back to the Dukes hometown with the Duke, they suddenly came across a group of bandits on the way.
In such a situation, she had to hide and give birth to you on the road.
It just so happened that a cooks wife was giving birth to her child too. With that in mind, a bad person came up with a vicious idea and swapped the daughters of the Duchess and the cook.
That bad person had only confessed what she did back then before she died.
Only then did the Duchess know that you are her biological daughter, so she ordered me to bring you back to the Duke Mansion!
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. She had never thought that a sequence of events that only novels had would happen to her!
Chapter 2
Chapter 2: Youre the Eldest Daughter of Duke Anyuan
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Although Qiao Jinniang was shocked, hearing the sincere words of the old maid, she felt that what thetter said didnt seem to be fake
Was she really the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan?
How was this possible!
For the people in Linan City, a prefect was already a high-ranking official, let alone a duke!
When her mother was still alive, she had talked about the strict rules and the luxurious life in the Duke Mansion, which waspletely a different world to Qiao Jinniang.
Miss, the Duke and the Duchess are eager to see you, so please go back to Changan with me as soon as possible.
Changan?
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, but the Qingming Festival ising soon. Although my foster parents are not my biological parents, they still treated me as their biological daughter.
They regarded me as the apple of their eyes, so I want to visit their graves before I leave.
The old maid said, As it should be. I remember eating the food Cook Qiao made 18 years ago. His cooking skills are as good as a royal cooks.
The next day, holding an umbre, Qiao Jinniang went to her foster parents grave. Mom, Dad, Im sorry, Ill be going to Changan soon.
Tuaner was taken to Changan by that b*stard.
But with the help of Duke Anyuan, I may be able to find Tuaner sooner.
Thus, Myriad Taste needs to temporarily close for a while.
Im afraid that the servants and maids will be abused by the people of the Qiao Family while Im not around, so Ill take them to Changan with me.
Mom, Dad, please rest assured. Ill open a new Myriad Taste in Changan.
I heard from Maid An that the girl who was swapped with me is now married to the eldest son of another duke and lives a happy life now.
When I go back to Changan, Ill take good care of her for you.
Please bless Tuaner to be safe, and bless me to find Tuaner as soon as possible.
Qiao Jinniang knelt on the futon, knocked her head three times, and left.
Myriad Taste was closed, and no one knew where Qiao Jinniang had gone.
The people of the Qiao Family didnt believe that Qiao Jinniang was the daughter of Duke Anyuan, so they didnt take that old maids words to heart.
They just told others that Qiao Jinniang had eloped with a man after being divorced.
Several guards in ck brocade arrived in front of Myriad Taste only to see the door closed.
They asked around, but no one knew where the people of Myriad Taste had gone.
Head, theyre gone. How should we report to Master?
Report truthfully. Come on, lets return to Changan!
With great difficulty, Master had secured thisdy the position of a concubine, but it seemed that the young hostess of Myriad Taste didnt have the luck to enjoy it.
Qiao Jinniang took the waterway, so it would take half a month before she could arrive in Changan.
Along the way, she had seen a lot of scenery, but she had no time or mood to enjoy it.
All she could think about was her Tuaner. She hadnt seen Tuaner for three months. She didnt know if he had lost or gained weight, or if he could speak more fluently now.
When he left her side, Tuaner still couldnt speak fluently.
The clearest words he could say were Mommy and Eat.
Miss, well be arriving at the dock tomorrow. The Duke Mansion has delivered four maids to you.
Two of them grew up close to the Duchess, while the other two were newly bought.
Qiao Jinniang had heard from her foster mother that each of the Dukes daughters would have four maids, eight second-ss maids, and a maid-in-charge.
Mammy, Nuomi has been serving as my maid since I was a child. I am used to her, and I n to let her follow me into the Duke Mansion.
Maid An said, So as it should be. Ill let Miss Nuomi serve you together with them, okay?
Qiao Jinniang named the four maids Hongling, Luhe, Yingtao, and Yuyan.
Hongling and Luhe used to serve the Duchess, so they were quite steady.
Yingtao and Yuyan were young, only 13 years old, but they looked adorable.
For the past half a month, Qiao Jinniang roughly learned about the current situation of the Duke Mansion from Maid An
Her father had two brothers.
Her father, Duke Anyuan, had a wife and two concubines.
One of the concubines died abruptly during thest Chinese New Year. She was the one who swapped her with the cooks daughter.
The duke had three daughters and two sons.
The eldest daughter, Qiao Ruoyun, was the girl who was swapped with Qiao Jinniang, and was now the daughter-inw of another duke.
The second daughter, Qiao Ruoshui, was 15 years old this year, and she didnt have a fianc yet.
Qiao Ruoyi, who was born from a concubine, was 14 years old, and she was very famous in Changan for her talent.
The two sons were both born by the Duchess. The eldest son was 16 years old, and the second son was only six, not much older than Tuaner.
The Dukes second brother was from the same mother as him, and he had four daughters.
On the other hand, the Dukes third brother was from another mother, and he had three sons.
These were the masters of the Duke Mansion.
Maid An said, Dont worry, Miss. The Duchess has been in charge of the Duke Mansion for 18 years. You are her biological daughter, so no one in the Duke Mansion will dare to disrespect you.
Qiao Jinniang was not afraid of being disrespected. What she worried about was how to ask the Duke and the Duchess to find Tuaner for her.
The next day, Qiao Jinniang rode the carriage to the central street of Changan City.
She had thought that Linan was a very prosperousnd for fish and rice, but she didnt expect Changan to be even more prosperous.
The Emperor had been working very hard to make the country prosperous, so now Changan was flourishing.
Qiao Jinniang lowered the curtain. It turned out that Changan was so lively.
The carriage continued on for another two-quarters of an hour before stopping at an imposing mansion.
This mansion upied an astonishing amount ofnd, and the gate was so wide that Qiao Jinniang couldnt even imagine such a wide gate existed.
The carriage entered the Duke Mansion through the side door. After Qiao Jinniang got off the carriage, she saw a winding corridor.
Following Maid An to a courtyard, she walked through a moon gate and saw ady sitting in front of the hall.
Thedy wore a luxurious silk dress, and her hair was done up in a high, elegant bun. Her aura reminded Qiao Jinniang of the peonies that were blooming on both sides of the road when she wasing here. As Qiao Jinniang approached, she saw thedys face clearly.
Only then did she know why Maid An was so sure of her identity.
It was because thisdy looked very simr to her.
The Duchess stood up excitedly and quickly walked toward Qiao Jinniang. If it werent for maintaining her graceful demeanor, she might have already run up to her.
She walked up to Qiao Jinniang with tears in her eyes. My child, my baby girl, Im sorry. Its due to my negligence that you suffered for 18 years.
Perhaps it was because of her bloodline, or perhaps because Qiao Jinniang thought about her own child.
She couldnt help but hug the nobledy in front of her tightly. There was a faint scent on her, which smelled very nice. Mother.
Hearing it, the Duchess cried more bitterly.
My child, Ill definitely make it up to you. I will never let you suffer again.
Qiao Jinniang knelt on the ground and said, Mother, in all fairness, my foster parents have treated me very well for the past 18 years. I also live a well-to-do life in Linan.
My foster parents taught me how to read and write, so I didnt suffer at all.
But they passed away three years ago. And bullied by the people of the Qiao Family, I had to marry a matrilocal husband.
However, that man is faithless. He divorced me and took my child to Changan. Mother, please help me find my child. He is only two years old
When the Duchess heard Qiao Jinniangs words, she almost fainted in shock. My poor girl, how can you say you didnt suffer at all?! I didnt expect you to already have a child.
Maid Anforted the Duchess. Madam, Miss is already 18 years old. Even if she has a child
The Duchess clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, My child, settle down in the Duke Mansion first, okay?
Dont tell anyone about your former marriage.
Ill ask your father to look for your Tuaner in secret.
Qiao Jinniang used to hear from her foster mother that the nobles valued their reputation very much.
Thus, she replied obediently, Okay, Mother, there is one more thing.
My foster parents ran a restaurant called Myriad Taste in Linan, and I brought some of the restaurants staff to Changan with me.
Myriad Taste has made me some money all these years, so I want to open a restaurant in Changan to help settle down these people.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3: Crown Princes Capping Ceremony
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang looked up at the Duchess, fearing that she would not agree.
Noble families had many rules, and the Duchess might just not let her out to make money.
Surprisingly, the Duchess simply said, Okay, okay, ask me if you need any money.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. I have enough money to open a shop.
The members of the Qiao Family coveted Myriad Taste greedily because Myriad Taste was doing very well financially. Over the years, Qiao Jinniang had earned a lot of money and bought a lot of shops in Linan to rent out.
In fact, she was not short of money.
The Duchess personally took Qiao Jinniang to the courtyard prepared for her, which was right beside the Duchess courtyard, NingXin Garden. This new courtyard hadnt been named yet.
Jinniang, name this courtyard as you like.
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while before saying, How about Jin Garden?
The Duchess smiled and said, What a nice name you picked.
Qiao Jinniang entered the boudoir and found that it was full of precious decor. Thank you, Mother.
The Duchess said with tears in her eyes, All these things cant make up for anything. Im just d that you like it. If you need anything, just tell Mammy An. Dont be shy.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
In the blink of an eye, it was time for lunch, and Qiao Jinniang arrived at Ningxin Garden with the Duchess.
When they arrived at Ningxin Garden, Qiao Jinniang saw a well-dressed young woman donning the hairstyle of a married woman. When she saw this woman, Qiao Jinniang was a little dazed. Her nose started to sour as she saluted. Nice to meet you,dy.
This woman looked exactly like her foster mother, so she recognized her at a nce.
Oh, I really dont deserve this. Im sorry. I took the high position and great wealth that were supposed to be yours. Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly helped Qiao Jinniang up.
Qiao Ruoyun said with red eyes. Ever since I knew about what happened to us back then, Ive been feeling guilty. Im so sorry
Qiao Jinniang was frightened by Qiao Ruoyun. Madam, dont say this. When we were swapped, you were only a baby. You didnt do anything wrong.
And I lived a happy life in Linan, so please dont feel guilty.
The Duchess patted Qiao Ruoyun on the shoulder. Ruoyun, you have always thought too much ever since you were a child. This has nothing to do with you. I raised you up, so you are also my daughter too. Jinniangs suffering has nothing to do with you. Jinniang doesnt me you, neither do I. Dont think too much about it and hurt yourself.
Qiao Ruoyun wiped her tears with a handkerchief. Sister, my parents
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, They died of illness three years ago
Qiao Ruoyun cried again. Sister, you must have gone through a lot of hardship.
The Duchess also wiped her tears and said, Okay, dont cry. Today is a good day. Tell the cooks to make a few more dishes to wee Jinniang back.
At lunch, Qiao Jinniang didnt see her two younger sisters, so she asked the Duchess, Mother, where are my younger sisters?
The Duchess said, Today is the Crown Princes capping ceremony, and your younger sisters have both gone to the East Pce to celebrate the ceremony. Originally, Ruoyun and I were going there too, but I didnt want to make you wait, so I pleaded illness.
After that, Qiao Jinniang lowered her head to eat without saying a word.
There were strict dining etiquettes in the Duke Mansion, but the maids were serving attentively. Even if Qiao Jinniangs dining etiquette was not perfect, no one dared tough at her.
It wasnt until after the meal that the Duchess said to Qiao Ruoyun,
You are just too honest. Why did you tell the truth to your husbands family? Your two sisters-inw are not easy to get along with.
And now that the entire Changan has realized that youre not the biological daughter of your father, youll have to get pregnant as soon as possible.
Qiao Ruoyun lowered her head and nodded.
The Duchess said to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, you must be tired from the long trip. Go to sleep for a while. I think your father, grandmother and sisters might not be back until night falls. You can meet them tomorrow.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, Mother, I want to find a suitable store in Changan City first, in order to reopen Myriad Taste as soon as possible.
Feeling guilty towards Qiao Jinniang, the Duchess certainly wouldnt reject her request. I will have the butler go with you. Unlike Linan, in Changan, if you want to buy a store, you need to have someone powerful behind you. If you find the store you want to buy, just tell them youre from Duke Anyuans Mansion.
Thank you, Mother.
The central street of Changan Main was very lively. It was a warm breezy spring day, and the merchants and vendors on both sides of the street were peddling.
Hongling helped Qiao Jinniang out of the carriage. Changan is divided into five streets and twelvenes. The central street is connected to the imperial city, and those living on it are all dignitaries. Therefore, the central street is very lively. Beside it, there are many stores along the moat, including countless restaurants and tea houses.
Miss, if you want to open a restaurant, this is the most suitable ce.
At first nce, Qiao Jinniang took a liking to a two-story restaurant next to a bridge. This location is very good. Its noon now, but why arent there any customers in this restaurant?
Compared to the other bustling stores, this restaurant was indeed deserted.
Hongling asked a footboy to inquire. Soon, the footboy came back and said, Miss, this restaurant is called Tasty Pavilion. It used to be famous in Changan, and it was opened during the reign of the former emperor with a history of 40 to 50 years.
Its just a pity that the shopkeeper has no son but only three daughters, so he married his youngest daughter to a matrilocal husband.
Unexpectedly, after his son-inw learned the good cooking skills of the shopkeeper, he was favored by the daughter of an imperial chef. Then, he hooked up with that woman and divorced his wife.
After that, he opened a Guest Weing Building not far from Tasty Pavilion and poached many cooks from Tasty Pavilion.
So Tasty Pavilions business is getting worse every day.
Life is tough for women in this world. Qiao Jinniang said, Lets go have a look!
Hearing this poor womans story, Qiao Jinniang thought of the b*stard who divorced her and stole her son!
She and Tasty Pavilions young shopkeeper had the same experience.
The Crown Princes capping ceremony was a big event for the East Pce, so all the civilian, military officers and noble families hade to celebrate it.
Nowadays, men would receive their capping ceremony when they were 20, but if a male royal family member was exceptionally favored by the Emperor, he could have his capping ceremony in advance.
His Majesty wanted to hold the capping ceremony for the Crown Prince when he was 17, but the Crown Prince disappeared abruptly. For thest three years, the Crown Prince had been missing.
His Majesty had seven sons. The Crown Prince was the youngest, but he was also the one most favored by the Emperor.
For the past few years, many ministers demanded to change the Crown Prince, and for this, His Majesty severely punished many senior ministers.
But, 20 days ago, the Crown Prince suddenly came back. At this news, the Emperor was overjoyed and decreed to hold a capping ceremony for him, so the ceremony was very grand and lively.
In the Tang Dynasty, the restrictions on women were not as harsh as before, so standing among the noble youngdies, Qiao Ruoshui and her friends looked at the young man in the middle of the hall. His Royal Highness has be even more handsome than before.
As Gods favored one, he certainly looks different from ordinary men. But, Sister, as an unmarried woman, Im afraid its inappropriate for you toment on the Crown Princes appearance like this.
A girl in a pink dress greeted Qiao Ruoshui.
Qiao Ruoshui snorted. She really disliked this sister whose mother was a concubine.
His Majesty loved the Crown Prince very much, and the Queen even came to the East Pce in person to attend the capping ceremony. At the moment of capping, the Crown Princes nose was itchy, so he couldnt help but sneeze.
The sneeze was indecent but the Crown Prince was so handsome and graceful that Qiao Ruoshui felt that he was very charming even when he was sneezing.
Humph, no man in the world is good.
In the Tasty Pavilion, a woman in her early twenties cursed men with Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said, Sister, youre right, but I believe theyll get their retribution sooner orter! Getting back on topic, Sister, Id like to buy the Tasty Pavilion.
When the girl surnamed Lin heard Qiao Jinniangs words, she said, Tasty Pavilions business is poor now, but I inherited it from my father after all. If
Qiao Jinniang could understand her concerns. If someone asked her to sell Myriad Taste, she would refuse too. Sister, Tasty Pavilions business is so poor now that it is useless to hold on. It is better to sell it and make other ns.
Miss Lin sighed. Firstly, this restaurant is my ancestral property. Secondly, my ex-husband has Earl Chengen behind him, and Earl Chengen is the Queen Dowagers brother. The imperial cook was very appreciated by the Queen Dowager, so she married his eldest daughter to the eldest son of Earl Chengen as his concubine
The restaurants nearby that have no powerful people behind them are no match for the Guest Weing Building run by my ex-husband.
Qiao Jinniang said, Sister Lin, dont worry.. Im not afraid of Earl Chengen.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4: Your Highness, Youve Got the Wrong Person
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang sympathized with Miss Lin, so she kept all the staff of Tasty Pavilion.
Being able to resist the temptation of Miss Lins ex-husband, these people must be faithful, and she didnt change the name of Tasty Pavilion. After all, it was an old brand in Changan.
As for Myriad Taste, she could open it once she gained a foothold in Changan.
After going through all the transfer procedures with Miss Lin through the government, Qiao Jinniang handed her notes worth 50,000 taels of silver, but Miss Lin refused to take them. This is too much. Isnt the transfer fee just 30,000 taels of silver? Even when Tasty Pavilion was at its best, it was only worth 50,000 taels of silver.
Qiao Jinniang said, Tasty Pavilion is worth it.
Looking at the extra 20,000 taels of silver notes, Miss Lin bowed to Qiao Jinniang. Thank you.
After returning to Tasty Pavilion, Qiao Jinniang arranged amodation for the staff from Myriad Taste and put up a sign that the restaurant would be closed for a few days.
Qiao Jinniang sat on the table and said to the waiters. Tasty Pavilion needs to be refurbished, so lets refurbish the restaurant in the next few days. After that, Ill choose a good day to reopen it.
Yes, Master.
Qiao Jinniang assigned separate jobs for the staff members, negotiated and set their wages with them, and made it clear to them about the rules of the restaurant. She didnt return to the Duke Mansion until the sun was about to set.
When she returned to the Duke Mansion, she was told the Duchess had gone to the East Pce.
Miss, something happened to the Little Ancestor of the East Pce, which happened to concern Third Miss, so Madam could only go
Qiao Jinniang asked, Little Ancestor?
Hongling replied, Miss, Little Ancestor is His Majestys grandson, the Crown Princes two-year-old son. His Majesty and Her Majesty are very fond of him, so everyone in Changan calls him Little Ancestor.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but feel a little worried. The operas she heard when she was in Linan often mentioned that to be in the kingspany was tantamount to living with a tiger, so offending the emperors grandson was no trifling matter.
In the East Pce.
Qiao Ruoshui was stunned. After being missing for three years, the Crown Prince came back with a child who was very adorable.
Although she wanted to be the crown princess, it didnt mean that she would apple-polish this illegitimate child.
However, after the child saw her, he ran over crying and called her Mom, asking her to hug him.
As the daughter of Duke Anyuan, Qiao Ruoshui immediately scolded him angrily when she heard that. The little imperial grandson was so frightened by her that he kept crying.
But even so, the little imperial grandson still called Qiao Ruoshui Mom and dragged her to stop her from leaving.
Qiao Ruoshuis maidservant was afraid something bad would happen and hurriedly sent someone back to call the Duchess over, and a maid of the little imperial grandson also went to invite the Crown Prince over.
Little Ancestor, dont cry, Miss Qiao is not leaving. His nanny hurriedlyforted him. Miss Qiao, could you please say something tofort him?
Qiao Ruoshui was annoyed. What are you talking about, you lowly servant? How can I, an unmarried woman, pretend to be his mother just to please him? This will tarnish my reputation! Do you think Im someone you can bully
Shut up! The Duchess happened to arrive at this time. Hearing what Qiao Ruoshui said, she suddenly had a headache. Her second daughter was way too wayward and unruly.
When Qiao Ruoshui saw the Duchess, she said angrily, Mother, you are finally here. This bad servant wants to ruin my reputation!
The Duchess saluted the little imperial grandson, but as soon as he saw her, his big eyes blinked and he ran at her, calling her Mom.
The Duchess certainly didnt dare to respond. Your Highness, Im afraid you got the wrong person
The little imperial grandson stretched out his chubby little hand and grabbed the Duchesss sleeve. Mom, Mommy.
The Crown Prince has arrived.
As an imperial maid chanted, the Duchess and the crowd who was watching on the side all knelt on the ground.
The Crown Prince, dressed in an embroidered gold and ck robe, picked up his son who was still crying. My son is still too young. Duchess, Miss Qiao, Id like to apologize in his ce. You two look a bit like his mother, so he mistook you for his mother. Please forgive him for his offence.
The Duchess didnt dare to make the Crown Prince apologize, so she hurriedly said, No problem, no problem.
After leaving the East Pce, Qiao Ruoshui was still annoyed. I wonder which woman of unknown origin gave birth to that b*stard child
The Duchess raised her hand and pped Qiao Ruoshui. Are you crazy? If your words reach the Crown Prince, everyone in Duke Anyuans household will be executed because of you!
Qiao Ruoshui covered her face and cried. Mother, you dont like me anymore because you got Sister back, do you?
The Duchess warned Qiao Ruoshui. It is a blessing for you to look like the little imperial grandsons mother.
Dont you want to be the crown princess? Isnt it a good thing that the little imperial grandson likes you?!
Hes just a b*stard child born by a concubine.
Hearing it, Qiao Ruoyi on the side looked a bit unhappy.
The Duchess patted Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, You have always been steady. Take care of your elder sister when you attend banquets with her.
Qiao Ruoshui was very annoyed, which increase her ire for that little b*stard even more.
It pained the Queen to see the little imperial grandson constantly crying.
She asked the Crown Prince, Havent the people sent to Linane back?
The Crown Prince sighed. Shes no longer in Myriad Taste, and no one knows where the people of Myriad Taste have gone.
The Queen finally crooned her lovely little grandson to sleep. Then make the third daughter of Duke Anyuan your concubine first.
As a daughter of Duke Anyuan, she is worthy of the position of the Crown Princes concubine. Most importantly, Tuaner likes her.
The Crown Prince shook his head and said, Mother, its inappropriate. Ill order all my men to search for Jinniang all over the country.
The Queen asked, Why didnt you bring her back to Changan with you?
The Crown Princes look gave the Queen the answer. Youre really my good son. Do you think me, your kind mother, will look down on her just because she was not born in an aristocratic family?
The Crown Prince saluted and said, Mother, I didnt mean that, but I was afraid that the Queen Dowager and Imperial Concubine Xian might cause troubles, so I wanted to gain an imperial decree from Father first before bringing her back, but who knew
The Queen sighed, Okay, forget it. You better find her soon. I dont want to see my little grandson cry himself hoarse again.
Once a two-year-old child started to understand peoples words, he would cling to his mother the most.
Qiao Jinniang was startled awake at mid-night because she just had a nightmare of her Tuaner being tortured by that b*stard.
Hongling and Luhe, who were guarding outside, heard her crying and hurriedly came inside, asking, Miss, are you okay?
Qiao Jinniang coughed. Im fine. Whats the time? Is my mother back?
Its 11 pm, and Madam has already returned. The Crown Princes son mistook the Third Miss as his mother, so there was some trouble.
Hongling poured a ss of water for Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of water. Even the little imperial grandson who was coddled by so many people clung to his mother this much, so how could her poor Tuaner not miss his mother?
Qiao Jinniang had made up her mind. Once she met the duke tomorrow, she would kneel down and beg him to help find Tuaner.
She was living a luxurious life in the Duke Mansion, but she didnt even know if her Tuaner would have enough to eat.
She didnt know if that b*stard could take good care of Tuaner.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt fall asleep anymore and stayed awake all night.
The maids were dressing her up. Qiao Jinniang had thought that grooming on the boat was cumbersome, but she didnt expect this to be truly cumbersome.
It was no wonder that she was given four maids. It took nearly a quarter of an hour to justb her hair. And after that, the maids applied some hair cream on her hair and continued tob it.
A maid at the side took a hot towel and gently applied it onto Qiao Jinniangs face.
Two other maids poured out some hand lotion and gently smeared them on Qiao Jinniangs hands.
Watching this, Nuomi was stunned and said, Miss, I was too useless. Im sorry that I took poor care of you.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. I liked to sleepte, so I didnt have enough time for this. Even if you can do all these, I still want to save the time for sleep.
Her foster parents died three years ago, and although she had the b*stard help her, she was still very busy.
After all, Myriad Taste was a very famous restaurant in South China.
Hongling also smiled and said, Miss, you can sleepte from now on. The Duchess is so kind to you. You definitely wont have to get up early.
After that, she put Qiao Jinniangs hair in a beautiful winding snake bun, inserted a golden hairpin into her hair, and helped her put on a red dress embroidered with auspicious clouds. All dressed up, Qiao Jinniang looked very elegant and charming.
Miss, youre so beautiful.. Youre the best looking girl in the Duke Mansion, Luhe said fawningly.
Chapter 5
Chapter 5: He Cant be the Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang arrived at the Duchess courtyard, only to find out that the duke had gone to the barracksst night and hadnt returned.
At the news of that, she could only follow her mother to her grandmothers courtyard.
In the courtyard of the Duchess Dowager, there was a faint scent of sandalwood. Qiao Jinniang guessed that the Duchess Dowager must be a Buddhist.
Qiao Jinniang, supported by a maid, knelt down to the Duchess Dowager and greeted, Grandmother, Im Jinniang.
The Duchess Dowager hurriedly helped Qiao Jinniang up. My girl,e sit next to me. You look exactly like your mother. That damned vicious woman made you suffer!
Qiao Jinniang said, Grandma, that person is already dead. Dont be angry. My life was not bad in Linan.
The Duchess Dowager said to the Duchess, Since Jinniang is back, the ranking of the girls needs to be changed. From now on, Jinniang will be called Second Miss, and the other girls ranking will move down one ce.
And we shall hold more banquets to introduce Jinniang. We must not let the noble girls in Changan look down on my eldest granddaughter.
As for Ruoyun, visit her more. Shes a good girl. Dont let her be wronged for this.
Yes, Mother, I know, the Duchess replied respectfully.
The Duchess Dowager waved her hand, motioning the servants and maids to leave before she asked the Duchess, Last night, when I was chatting with the Duchess Dowager of Duke Annings Mansion, I heard that the little imperial grandson mistook Little Third, oh, no, Little Fourth, as his mother?
s, hes just a child who doesnt know anything and cant even speak clearly. ording to the Crown Prince, Little Fourth looks a bit like his mother.
The Duchess Dowager was turning the Buddha beads in her hand as she said, Dont me me for being biased. If Ruofeng or Ruowan marries into the East Pce, I wont be worried at all, but if its Ruoshui, its not a good thing for our family.
The Duchess nodded. Ruoshui is not fit to marry the Crown Prince, but if the Crown Prince asks to marry her because of the little imperial grandson
The Duchess Dowager was still turning the Buddhist beads. The Crown Prince went missing for three years in the South and suddenly came back with a child.
But he didnt say whether the childs mother was dead or alive. A woman who gave birth to the eldest son of the Crown Prince, whether she bes the first concubine or the second concubine, even the Crown Princess will have to take her seriously.
If shes dead, itll be even more troublesome. His Majesty and Her Majesty love the little imperial grandson very much. If Ruoshui marries into the East Pce and the Crown Prince wants Ruoshui to raise this child up You know, its always difficult to be a stepmother
Qiao Jinniang suddenly said, The Crown Prince was missing for three years in the South? When did he return to Changan?
Around early February. The Duchess Dowager asked, Whats the matter?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. Nothing.
This was probably a coincidence. How could the dignified Crown Prince agree to marry into a merchant family?
However, being missing for three years and the age of the little imperial grandson Was it really a coincidence?
Qiao Jinniang felt that she must be missing Tuaner too much, so she came up with such a delusion.
The Duchess Dowager pondered for a while and said, Our family doesnt need to have an imperial concubine to add glory to our family. Choose a good young man for Ruoshui as soon as possible and make her give up the thought of marrying the Crown Prince.
After that, the Duchess Dowager began to ask Qiao Jinniang about her life in Linan.
Qiao Jinniang didnt mention her former marriage and her son as her mother told her not to tell anyone about it.
She only talked about how happy her life was in Linan.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang had noints at all, the Duchess Dowager liked her even more and endowed her with a lot of her personal jewelry.
Qiao Jinniang bowed and epted her gifts. Thank you for your generosity, Grandmother.
It was time for the Duchess Dowager to chant Buddhist scriptures, so Qiao Jinniang left with the Duchess. Qiao Jinniang tentatively asked the Duchess, Mother, does the little imperial grandson look like His Royal Highness?
Yes, they look very much alike, especially their phoenix eyes, which are exactly like the Queens eyes. No wonder His Majesty loves him so much.
Qiao Jinniangs heart trembled. Tuaner also had a pair of phoenix eyes, making him look a lot like that b*stard
The Duchess asked gently, Its normal that children look like their parents. Why are you asking about this?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and replied, Im just curious about the Crown Princes appearance. Yesterday, I heard on the street that the Crown Prince was very favored by His Majesty, and Ive never seen a royal family member, so I got a bit curious.
Qiao Jinniang was self-aware, so she wouldnt be so cheeky as to fantasize that she was the little imperial grandsons mother.
Even with so many coincidences, she didnt think it was likely.
After all, he was the Crown Prince!
How could she possibly make the Crown Prince marry into her family?
Besides, that unfaithful b*stard could never be the Crown Prince!
The Duchess patted her daughters hand and said, His Majesty met the Queen not long after he ascended the throne. Although he was much older than the Queen, he was very affectionate to her. His harem exists only in name over the past two decades, so you can tell how much His Majesty likes the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang said, His Majesty is really a good husband.
The Duchess sneered. Its true for the Queen, but for other imperial concubines
I know I may get myself killed for saying this, but the imperial pce is not such a good ce to go. Your sister is obsessed with bing the crown princess and refuses to listen to me. Now she is already fifteen but hasnt gotten a fianc yet.
Surprised at the Duchesss bold words and her insight, Qiao Jinniangforted her. Dont worry, Mother. Nowadays, many girls dont get married until theyre seventeen or eighteen. All my friends in Linan havent got married yet.
If it hadnt been for the sudden illness of her foster parents, Qiao Jinniang wouldnt have married someone so early.
Nowadays, in Changan, girls wouldnt beughed at even if they got married at the age of seventeen or eighteen.
The Duchess said, This is true. You are only 18 years old now. Nowadays, women are not treated as harshly as before. Many women can even get divorced and remarried.
Ill definitely find you a good husband.
Qiao Jinniang was slightly taken aback. Mother, I just want Tuaner.
The Duchess said, Well find Tuaner, but his father is really a bad guy! Just bring Tuaner back. Well take good care of him!
Qiao Jinniang never thought that her mother had already nned her future.
But she didnt want to fall in love again.
The b*stard had vowed that he would love her forever, but in the end, their marriage ended up like this.
Qiao Jinniang followed the Duchess back to her courtyard and saw Qiao Ruoshui and Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoshui looked up and down at the woman in front of her who was wearing a thin spring dress with a slender figure and a prettier face than hers. She sympathized with her when she learned that she had a sister raised up by servants a few months ago.
But when she learned that her parents wanted to take her back, she threw a tantrum. How could they let a ve-raised girl who grew up in the countrysidee to Changan? This would definitely disgrace her.
Yesterday, many noble girls congratted her ironically that she was going to have one more sister.
Qiao Ruoshui thought that she would see a vulgar, shabbily-clothed woman, but it turned out that her temperament was very good.
Qiao Ruoyi took the lead in saluting. Mother, is this Eldest Sister?
Qiao Jinniang inferred from her appearance that this should be the Fifth Miss, so she saluted back. Hi, Fifth Sister, this is a small gift I bought in Linan for you.
Behind her, Nuomi took out an exquisitely carved wooden box and handed it to Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi smelled the scent and asked, Is this an ink stick?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. This is Gold Thread Ink, a specialty of Huizhou. I heard that you like painting and calligraphy, so I prepared this for you.
Qiao Ruoyi was overjoyed and saluted. Thank you, Sister. I like it very much.
Gold Thread Ink was even more expensive than gold. Only fifty pieces could be produced every year, and they were almost all bought by officials as gifts for their superiors. It could be seen how expensive the ink was and how carefully Qiao Jinniang prepared the gift for her.
Qiao Ruoshui snorted, What is the big deal of a small piece of ink?
The Duchess red at Qiao Ruoshui. Why havent you saluted your sister yet?
My sister is Qiao Ruoyun, the future Duchess of Duke Qins Mansion, not a wild girl from the countryside! Qiao Ruoshui said with her head high.
The Duchess was very annoyed, and she mmed the table. Humph, if you dont respect Jinniang, dont call me Mother anymore!
Qiao Jinniang had never seen the Duchess be so angry, so she hurriedly said, Mother, Fourth Sister is still a child. Dont be angry at her. This is the pearl head ornament I prepared for her.
When Nuomi handed the gift to her, Qiao Ruoshui unexpectedly mmed the box to the ground, causing the pearl head ornament to fall to the ground and shatter.
Chapter 6
Chapter 6: Punish Her to Stay On Her Knees
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Duchess was truly angered now. You! Mammy An, take her to kneel at the ancestral hall. Dont give her anything to eat until she apologizes!
Qiao Jinniang picked up the head ornament on the ground. What a pity. Its broken. I dont know if it can be repaired.
Unconvinced, Qiao Ruoshui shouted angrily, Mom, do you know how I wasughed at by the other girls in the East Pce yesterday?
They said I was going to have a ve-raised sister and told me not to be contaminated by her air of lowliness
The Duchess mmed the table and said, Who said that? Im going to ask their parents how they educate their daughters!
Id like to see, in Changan City, who dares to disrespect the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan!
Qiao Ruoshui said in an unconvinced attitude, Even if they dont say such words anymore, they will think it in their hearts. Im going to marry into the East Pce, and having a ve-raised sister will affect my reputation.
We have so many farms. She can live on a farm. Why do you have to bring her home!
The more the Duchess listened, the angrier she was. Fearing that Qiao Jinniang would be sad, she hurriedly held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Jinniang, you must feel very wronged. Dont take her stupid nonsense to heart. No matter who brought you up, you are my good daughter. .
Qiao Jinniang smiled with relief. I dont mind. Im very happy. After my foster parents left, I thought that no one in this world loves me anymore. But now that I have Father, Mother, Grandmother, Sister Ruoyi, and Sister Ruoyun, there is no reason for me to feel wronged.
Qiao Jinniang could tell the Duchess really loved her and Qiao Ruoyun truly felt guilty about her situation.
This was enough.
As for those people who said nasty things about her, she wouldnt take their words seriously.
She wouldnt take those words to heart.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was so sensible, the Duchess was even more annoyed at Qiao Ruoshui and urged Mammy An to quickly take her to the ancestral hall.
Mother.
A childs soft, cute voice came from outside.
Qiao Jinniang looked over and saw a cute little boy in a red round-necked robe trotting over. When he saw Qiao Jinniang, he was slightly taken aback.
The Duchess said, Ali, this is your eldest sister.
The boy called her sister sweetly.
Qiao Jinniang was 12 years older than this younger brother of hers. She motioned Nuomi to take out a gold-iid jade longevity lock and gave it to him.
The Duchess said, You must have spent a lot of money on these gifts. Let me take you to buy some clothes and jewelry this afternoon.
Mother, youve already prepared a lot of clothes and jewelry for me.
Thats not enough. Its spring, so you should wear brighter colors. Ruoyi, if youre free in the afternoon, lets go together.
Qiao Ruoyi nodded obediently.
Qiao Jinniang thought that the one most difficult to get along with would be this half-sister of hers. However, although this sister was only 14 years old, she was polite and sensible, who reminded Qiao Jinniang of her former female teacher.
In the afternoon, Qiao Jinniang followed the Duchess to the central street to buy some jewelry and clothes.
Mother, the head ornament for Fourth Sister is of great value, so I want to find a shop to repair it. Which store is the best jewelry store in Changan?
The Duchess sighed when she thought of her annoying younger daughter. Im sorry for what she did to you, Jinniang. There is no need to fix it. I will buy you a new one.
Mother, I got it with a lot of effort. Its very precious. Itll be a pity to throw it away.
The Duchess thought Qiao Jinniang simply didnt want to waste money, so she took her to the most popr jewelry store in Changan, Treasure Pavilion.
They sold the best jewelry in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang entered the store and looked around at the jewelry here, discovering they were simr to those sold in Linan City.
She took out the head ornament shattered by Qiao Ruoshui and asked a staff member, Do you have any hard-gold craftsman who can repair this pearl head ornament?
Hard gold? Is it the new jewelry-making technique invented in the South? The shopkeeper hurriedly came over. This is hard gold indeed. This kind of gold is very precious. I guess this head ornament costs you at least 10,000 taels of silver, right?
The Duchess was surprised.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Its hard gold. Do you have a craftsman who can fix it.
The shopkeeper said, There is no hard gold in Changan yet. Hard gold normally wont break like this, so this thing must have been smashed really hard.
Qiao Jinniang said helplessly, Forget it. Ill have it repaired after I go back to Linan.
The Duchess asked the shopkeeper to take out the newest batch of jewelry that the shop had and let Qiao Jinniang choose at will. Qiao Jinniang really didnt like jewelry, but she didnt want to disappoint the Duchess.
Pretending to be interested, she picked four to five pieces and then chose a set of jewelry for the Duchess. Mother, you look really beautiful in this piece of jewelry.
The Duchess was very happy to hear it, so she generously paid for it.
I just saw the carriage of Duke Anyuans Mansion. Has their ve-raised eldest daughter who grew up in the countryside returned?
Such a vulgar woman. Im afraid that sooner orter, she will be disgusted by the people of Duke Anyuans Mansion aftering to Changan!
A group of noble girls in colorful clothing shook their fans,ughed and talked in small voices.
The Duchess was picking jewelry with the shopkeeper in the store so she didnt hear these words, but Qiao Jinniang heard them clearly.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister, dont mind them. They are nothing but a bunch of snobs. The most senior official among the elders of those people is no more than a deputy minister. Theyre just jealous of you.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at Qiao Ruoyi. Okay, Ill just ignore them.
At such a young age, they already talked so viciously. Paying attention to these kinds of people would abase herself.
The spring hunt will being in a few days. I heard that the Crown Prince will go on the spring hunt this year. The Crown Prince has received his capping ceremony and is about to choose his wife and concubines. We cant be the crown princess, but if we can be his concubine
Qiao Jinniang was shocked by the boldness of the girls in Changan.
They even dared to say those words so loudly.
Qiao Ruoyi said to Qiao Jinniang, His Majesty loves the Crown Prince very much, so even just bing his concubine means a bright future, so Sister Ruoshui
After the Crown Prince came back, many noble girls in Changan got into conflicts with each other.
Daughters and sisters of aristocrats wanted to be the crown princess, and daughters and sisters of those government officials wanted to be the Crown Princes concubines
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but chuckle. Dangerously handsome!
Qiao Ruoyiughed too. Exactly, dangerously handsome. There will be a lot of interesting things happening in this years spring hunt. Sister, I think we will have a lot of fun this spring hunt.
Qiao Jinniang was amused. What about you, Sister? Dont you want to make it to the sky in one step?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Daddy is a duke, a marshal and the Defense Minister. Our family is already very high up in Changan, so why bother to take the risk?
Qiao Jinniang finally understood why Duke Anyuan was so powerful in Changan. It turned out that his position was so high.
Being already so powerful, he really didnt have to rely on his daughter to advance his career.
It was no wonder that her grandmother asked her mother to pressure Qiao Ruoyuns husbands family to treat Qiao Ruoyun nicely, which made her relieved.
After the Duchess settled the bill, she took Qiao Jinniang to a clothing store, where many noble youngdies were choosing their clothes, most of whom came to tailor riding outfits.
In the Tang Dynasty, people held the military arts in high regard, so most women could ride horses. The spring hunt was just around the corner, so many youngdies came to tailor themselves a riding outfit.
The Duchess also gave a set of tailor-made riding outfits to Qiao Jinniang. Seeing this, she hurriedly declined. Mother, I cant ride a horse
It doesnt matter. My daughter has to have what anyone elses daughter has.
When the Duchess and Qiao Jinniang entered, they attracted the attention of manydies and girls.
One of thedies came over and said, Duchess Anyuan, this is your second daughter, right? She looks so much like you, as if she was brought up by you personally.
Qiao Jinniang realized that thisdy looked a little simr to the girl who insulted her just now.
Qiao Ruoyi whispered to her, She is the wife of a deputy minister of defense. You saw her daughter in the Treasure Pavilion just now.
The Duchess was happy when others praised her daughter, Yes, Jinniang, be it temperament or appearance, is simr to me when I was young.
Mrs. Lin sighed. You must have suffered a lot, poor girl, but fortunately, after sufferinges happiness. Second Miss, please study etiquette hard so as not to disgrace the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang simply said, Ive never suffered. My foster parents treated me like the apple of their eye.
Also, they have long redeemed themselves from very, but your daughter keeps calling me a ve-raised girl. May I ask you, Madam, does your daughter think that government documents are not valid?
Mrs. Lin looked utterly embarrassed.
Hearing this, the Duchess was immediately annoyed, Did Miss Lin really say that just now?
Chapter 7
Chapter 7: Get A New Husband for Jinniang
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang nodded. She was never one to swallow insults.
She didnt want to waste time on these people, but since Mrs. Lin had provoked her, if she tolerated it, others would think she was a pushover.
Everyone in the Duke Mansion all felt guilty towards her. With them behind her, Qiao Jinniang didnt have to tolerate this person at all.
No matter what kind of a person she was, Mrs. Lin was in no position to lecture her.
And this woman was obviously implying that she was vulgar!
The Duchesss face darkened. She then said, Mrs. Lin, you really educate your daughter well!
With that, she brought Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi back to the Duke Mansion.
After they entered the Duke Mansion, the concierge hurried forward and said, Madam, the Duke is back, and he specifically set aside two hours of his time to see Third Miss today. The spring hunt is just around the corner, so he might not have time toe back in the near future.
The spring hunt was an important event in the Tang Dynasty where the emperor would lead the civil and military officials to hunt.
Among the four major hunting events in the year, the spring hunt was the most important.
Qiao Jinniang followed the Duchess to a hall and saw a handsome and majestic man who looked still young. In his armor, it seemed as though he had just returned from the barracks.
Is she Jinniang?
At those words, Qiao Jinniang immediately knelt and said, Father, Im Jinniang.
Duke Anyuan hurriedly helped Qiao Jinniang up and said, Get up quickly. Sorry, my daughter.
The Duchess snorted. Duke Anyuan was to me for her daughters suffering. If he hadnt indulged that little b*tch, her daughter would not have been separated from her for so many years.
Fortunately, her daughters foster parents had treated her well. Moreover, they were in a period filled with peace and prosperity, so Jinniang didnt have to worry about food and clothing.
Qiao Jinniang didnt get up. She instead knocked her head on the ground hard, saying, Father, please help me find Tuaner back.
Duke Anyuan asked in surprise, Tuaner?
Qiao Jinniang recounted what had happened in Linan. That jerk brought Tuaner to Changan a few months ago, and what was sent back to Linan was only a divorced letter
Duke Anyuan clenched his hands. B*stard, how dare that guy insult my daughter like this! Dont worry. Ill have my men to look for your son. Although there are many nobles in Changan City, its easy to find someone who had been missing for three years and came back with a child.
Well, I remember His Royal Highness has juste back from the South with a two-year-old child.
The Duchess snorted. Even if you want to be the Crown Princes father-inw, I dont think my daughter is that lucky. How can the Crown Prince possibly marry into a merchant family? You must be dreaming.
Duke Anyuan felt very guilty for his wife, so he had been avoiding her in the past few months. He simply said,
Im not saying that the man is the Crown Prince. I just gave an example.
Jinniang, just wait in the Duke Mansion. Ill have my men investigate this matter secretly, so dont worry.
How could Qiao Jinniang not worry? But in Changan, all she could rely on was the Duke Mansion.
Although she had money, in Changan, money didnt work as well as power.
Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Dad.
After Qiao Jinniang left, Duke Anyuan said to the Duchess, His Majesty seems to intend to let Ruoshui marry into the East Pce, but I heard that she is grounded?
She is spoiled by you. Ive already discussed it with Mother. Ruoshui is not fit to marry into the East Pce. Our family doesnt have to get involved in the harem fight at the East Pce.
Duke Anyuan thought in the same way. Yes, it might not be a good thing for Ruoshui to marry into the East Pce. As my daughter, she doesnt need to marry just for the sake of power.
Get her a fiance.
The Duchess said with a frown, Its time to get her a fiance, but Jinniang is older than her. And she has juste back, so I want her to stay by my side longer. I dont want to let her marry so soon, but if she isnt married, its inappropriate to let Ruoshui marry first.
Then get Jinniang a fiance first. Choose a schr who has a good personality and doesnt mind her former marriage. You can get them engaged first and hold the wedding for them in two years.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know that her parents had already nned to choose a new husband for her.
She went to tell Duke Anyuans subordinates what that jerk looked like.
Qiao Jinniang learned guqin, chess, calligraphy and painting since she was a child. She had learned everything well, except for painting. With that in mind, she drew a rough outline with an ink brush before saying in satisfaction, This is what he looks like.
Duke Anyuans subordinate took the portrait, feeling sorry for Qiao Jinniang. Why did Miss marry such an ugly man? And he even dared to divorce her!
Miss, dont worry. Ill find the Little Master as soon as possible.
Before the spring hunt, a flower viewing feast would be held in the pce, and the event was meant to select wives and concubines for the princes.
However, this time the flower viewing banquet was held by the Queen Dowager and Imperial Concubine Xian, with the Queen not participating, so some nobledies were not quite interested.
No river was wide enough when you had crossed the sea. Which prince could bepared to the Crown Prince?
It just so happened that the day of the flower viewing banquet was the same day that the Duke Mansion would host a banquet for their second miss.
The nobledies and girls in Changan all used the banquet of the Duke Anyuans Mansion as an excuse to reject the feast held by Imperial Concubine Xian.
On this day, Qiao Jinniang got up very early and was dressed up by several maids. When she finally stood in front of a bronze mirror, even she was slightly taken aback. Was this noble woman in the mirror really her?
The dress on her was as exquisite and beautiful as what fairies wore. Even her embroidered shoes were decorated with two big pearls. In this outfit, she looked really elegant and noble.
Miss, not good, the Third Miss of the Duke Qins Mansion and Princess Fulu both came today.
Yingtao hurried in and reported in a panic. Qiao Jinniang asked, Is that bad?
Hongling exined to Qiao Jinniang, There are manyrge and small cliques among the nobledies in the capital, and the tworgest cliques are respectively headed by Qin Miaomiao, the Third Miss of the Duke Qins Mansion, and the only daughter of Princess Shouan, Princess Fulu.
Princess Shouan is the Emperors sister and the Queen Dowagers beloved little daughter. She had a difficult delivery of Princess Fulu, and so she only had this daughter. Thus, she doted on her very much. Princess Fulu was known as the First Female Dandy in Changan.
The daughters of military officials were headed by Princess Fulu.
On the other hand, the Third Miss of the Duke Qins Mansion was famous for her talent in literature and graceful manner since childhood, and had been the model of noble women. Therefore, she is the head of the daughters of civil officials who called themselves aristocrats or those who tried to act like aristocrats.
Whenever these two parties meet, it was like diamond cut diamond, there would definitely be trouble!
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang just smiled. Changan City is really lively.
At the gate of the Duke Mansion, Princess Fulu got off her horse and spotted Miss Qin who had just gotten off the carriage. She teased, Qin Third, did youe so early today to see the girl who should have be your sister-inw? Tsk, you always im to be the head of the noble girls, but unfortunately, you have a ve girl as your sister-inw!
Miss Qin shook her fan hard and said, I cant bepared to someone who is obsessed with marrying her cousin, the Crown Prince. Moreover, the Crown Prince actually forbids her from entering the East Pce in case she leads the little imperial grandson astray!
Fulu and Qin Miaomiao would try their best to humiliate each other every time they met.
Without considering the consequences at all.
Fulu was furious. I really feel sorry for you. The blood of ves will flow in the veins of the descendants of your Qin family forever.
Just then, Qiao Ruoyun happened to get off the carriage, and her eyes were instantly red when she heard this.
Fulu caught a glimpse of Qiao Ruoyun and stomped her feet. Ah no, dont cry. Im talking about Qin Third. I didnt mean to hurt you.
The quarrel at the gate passed from the mouth of the maids to Qiao Jinniangs ears. At that moment, Qiao Jinniang had a hunch that todays banquet would be very lively.
When she went out, the nobledies and girls were all amazed.
Shes gorgeous!
Girls who grow up in the South all look so gentle.
Shes worthy of being the daughter of Duke Anyuan. Look how graceful she is.
She doesnt look like she grew up in the countryside at all.
Chapter 8
Chapter 8: The Little Imperial Grandson Is Called Tuaner Too
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
These ttering words were certainly spoken in the Duchess presence.
The Duchess was very happy to hear them, but she didnt know as soon as she left, many people turned their heads and whispered to their friends, Her beautiful appearance is an illusion created with money.
Even a beggar will look like a fairy in that cloud brocade dress. She is just a countryside girl. I wonder when the Duke Mansion will throw her out.
Qiao Jinniang obediently followed the Duchess to greet the guests and try to remember their identities.
It might be difficult for others to remember so many people at once, but Qiao Jinniang had been in charge of a restaurant for three years, so she had a good memory.
After introducing thedies, the Duchess asked Qiao Ruoyun to take her to y with the girls.
Duchess Anyuan, where is Sister Ruoshui? Why is she absent on such a big day?
The person who was speaking was Li Lingling, the daughter of Earl Chengen.
The Duchess really didnt like this girl, but Ruoshui considered her as her best friend. She is sick, so she cant be present today.
Qiao Ruoyun took Qiao Jinniang to meet the noble girls, but many of them dodged away as if the two of them were monsters.
Some people took the initiative to curry favor with them, but most of these people had fathers who worked in the Ministry of Defense that was led by Duke Anyuan.
Qiao Ruoyun took Qiao Jinniang to her sister-inw, Miss Qin Third.
Qin Miaomiao was still angry, but she couldnt vent on her delicate sister-inw, so she shouted at Qiao Jinniang, What are you doing here? Are you here tough at me?
Qiao Jinniang:
Jinniang, Miaomiao has a quick tongue, but in fact she is very kind.
Qin Miaomiao snorted. Forget it, you are poor too. If you are willing to be my friend and help me teach Fulu a good lesson, I wont do anything to you.
If you are her friend, youll have to put up with her bad temper every day! Princess Fulu walked up to Qiao Jinniang. Be my friend instead, and I will take you to eat, drink and have fun every day.
Qin Miaomiao sneered coldly. What a dandy.
Princess Fulu said, Are you not a dandy as well? If not, why dont you get first ce in the Imperial Examination? If you do, Ill ask my imperial uncle to make you a female prime minister.
Stop bragging, okay? His Majesty doesnt even allow you to marry the Crown Prince. Dont speak as if His Majesty is close to you. Qin Miaomiao hit the nail on the head.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Fulu and Qin Miaomiao. They were really different from the nobledies in the capital that she had imagined.
Fulu couldnt beat Qin Miaomiao in this topic, so she tried to save face as she asked Qiao Jinniang, Hey, whose friend do you choose to be?
Qiao Jinniang tentatively asked in a quiet tone, Can I not choose?
No!
Qin Miaomiao and Fulu shouted at the same time.
Qiao Jinniang was already a mother, so she really didnt want to get involved in the childish quarrels of these two little girls.
Decide quickly.
But neither of them was to be trifled with, so Qiao Ruoyun said, Third Sister, stop it. The banquet is about to start.
After Qiao Ruoyun took Qin Third away, the other girls dispersed.
With her gone, only Princess Fulu walked up to Qiao Jinniang and asked, Have you decided whose friend you want to be?
But at this moment, the voice of Li Lingling, the daughter of Earl Chengen, was heard.
That fool Qiao Ruoshui is tricked by me again. She provoked her sister, causing her to be grounded and scolded by Duchess Anyuan. I have one lesspetitor now.
But what about Princess Fulu?
Fulu? How can she, the First Female Dandy in Changan, be worthy of the Crown Prince?!
Fulu was immediately annoyed. If Im not worthy of the Crown Prince, is she worthy then? Earl Cheng and his family are nothing but a bunch of jerks!
Qiao Jinniang wanted to say, Your grandmother is also from Earl Chengens Mansion, but she was afraid that she might be decapitated for saying that.
However, perhaps it was because of Li Linglings instigation that Qiao Ruoshui hated her so much.
A handsome man could be really dangerous!
Fulu brought Qiao Jinniang closer to hear what Li Lingling and her maidservant were saying more clearly.
Li Lingling said to the maid, Find a way to continue to sow discord between Qiao Ruoshui and Miss Countryside.
The Duchess loves Miss Countryside so much, so she will definitely not let Qiao Ruoshui marry into the East Pce.
Miss, why do you care about Qiao Ruoshui so much ?
Li Lingling said, I tried every means to get close to that little b*stard in the East Pce, but he ignores me constantly, but yet he calls Qiao Ruoshui Mom.
So I told Qiao Ruoshui that this would ruin her reputation, and as I expected, she started to dislike that little b*stard.
If Qiao Ruoshui wins that little b*stards favor, considering how powerful her father is, she is almost certainly going to be the crown princess.
The more Fulu listened, the angrier she was. She walked around the artificial hill and confronted Li Lingling. Great, how dare you call Tuaner a b*stard. I must report this to my imperial cousin!
Qiao Jinniang was stunned when she heard Tuaner.
Li Lingling said disdainfully, Apart from you, who else has heard it? I can say that you are framing me!
Princess Fulu looked behind and pulled Qiao Jinniang out. Jinniang heard it too. You framed Qiao Ruoshui with such a dirty trick. Duke Anyuan wont let you off easily!
Li Lingling said I dont know what youre talking about and left.
Princess Fulu spat. No wonder Tuaner dislikes her.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang stunned, she asked, Qiao Jinniang, whats the matter with you?
Qiao Jinniang asked in a hoarse voice, Princess Fulu, you just said that the young master of the East Pce is called Tuaner, right?
Princess Fulu nodded. Yes, Tuaner is his pet name, but my imperial uncle hasnt given him a formal name yet.
My imperial cousin said that a Taoist priest in the South once told him not to give Tuaner a name until he was three.
Hes called Tuaner because he was born on the Mid-Autumn Festival and looks like dough.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, there seemed to be thunder rumbling in her ears. How could there be so many coincidences!
The Crown Prince was missing for three years in the South, his son was two years old, Tuaner was two years old too, and they both had a pair of phoenix eyes.
The Emperors grandson mistook her sister for his mother
Their birthdays were both on the Mid-Autumn Festival
Seeing Qiao Jinniangs strange expression, Fulu hurriedly asked, Whats wrong with you?
Why do you shed tears as easily as Qiao Ruoyun?
Okay, okay, I wont force you to be my friend anymore.
Im most afraid of girls that cry. Dont cry.
Qiao Jinniang reached out and touched the corner of her eyes.
No wonder he gave her a divorce letter. How could she possibly make the Crown Prince marry into her family?
But if Tuaner was the Emperors grandson, how could she snatch him back?
Princess Fulu, I want to be your friend, but can you do me a favor? Id like to see the little imperial grandson. I just want to see him.
She just wanted to confirm whether the little imperial grandson was her Tuaner.
Princess Fulu took a look at Qiao Jinniang. Huh? Do you want to be the crown princess too?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head in denial.
If the Crown Prince was not that jerk, she was not worthy.
But if the Crown Prince was that jerk, then she was even more unlikely to marry into the East Pce.
Not only would she not marry into it, she would also have to hide her identity.
What if that b*stard wanted to kill her to silence her?
Then why do you want to see the little imperial grandson?
Qiao Jinniang said, As your friend, Id like to remind the little imperial grandson to be careful of that vicious woman just now.
Oh, thats good. I will take you to see the little imperial grandson in the spring hunt.
Then Fulu suddenly smelled the fragrance on Qiao Jinniangs body. What kind of perfume do you use? It smells good.
Qiao Jinniang replied, Its fresh jasmine from the South. If you like it, Ill have my maid to give you some. You can make tea with it or put it in your sachet.
Girls friendship could start from talking about sachets, rouge and gossip in Linan and Changan.
At the end of the day, she and Fulu were like very good friends who had known each other for a long time.
After Qiao Jinniang returned to her room, she counted with her fingers how many days were left before the spring hunt. When the spring hunting started, she would be able to see the little imperial grandson.
Then she could find out whether that Tuaner was her Tuaner.
Chapter 9
Chapter 9: Millennium Ginseng
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Everyone in Changan City said that the spring hunt was just a few days away.
But Qiao Jinniang counted with her fingers and found that there was still half a month left!
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to wait for half a month.
But how could she enter the Imperial Pce with her current status?
Without being summoned, she could not enter the Imperial Pce at all, nor could she enter the East Pce.
The spring hunt was her only chance. No matter how much she missed Tuaner, she had to wait until the spring hunt to have a chance to see the little imperial grandson.
The next day, Jinniang went to the Duchess courtyard.
Just when she was about to enter the room, she saw Qiao Ruoshui crying on the Duchessp.
The Duchess looked quite distressed. Ruoshui, I never said I dont want you. I just want you to be nicer to your sister.
The Duke Mansion owes her a lot after all.
Qiao Ruoshui said with tears, So you want to ruin my reputation for her, Mother?
I am your daughter too. Just because you owe her does not mean I have to suffer!
I dont owe her anything. She should be grateful that the Duke Mansion provides her with food and clothing.
Does the Duke Mansion have to make her the crown princess to make it up to her? She is just here to collect debts!
At that moment, Qiao Jinniang entered the room and said, Mother, you dont have to feel like you owe me.
And Sister, Im not here to collect debts.
Although the members of the Qiao family had bullied me, thats just because the status of women in Linan is not as high as here.
I can still live well even if I leave the Duke Mansion. After all, I own a whole street in Linan.
Even if the Myriad Taste cant be opened again, I still have a lot of properties, so I dont need to depend on the Duke Mansion.
I still stay in the Duke Mansion because after my foster parents were gone, I have been missing them very much, so God pitied me and bestowed upon me with another pair of parents who treat me very well. Therefore, I wish to stay with you all.
But if Mother feels like you owe to me, or mistreats Sister just to make up for me, causing her to feel that I am here to collect debts, I can leave.
Qiao Jinniang said gently.
The two of them were both the Duchess daughters, but Qiao Ruoshui was brought up by her after all.
She held a deeper affection for Qiao Ruoshui.
If the Duchess just felt that she owed Qiao Jinniang, and what she was doing for her was out of guilt instead of love, then the guilt would be exhausted one day.
At that time, she would feel guilty towards Qiao Ruoshui even more.
What Qiao Jinniang asked for had always been a sincere heart. She preferred the Duchess to be partial to Qiao Ruoshui rather than this kind of pensation.
The Duchess was a wise person. She immediately understood what Qiao Jinniang meant and said in distress,
Jinniang, I dont only feel like I owe you but I also love you, the kind of love a mother has for her daughter.
As soon as I saw you, I knew you were my daughter. My girl, dont say you want to leave again.
Qiao Jinniang hugged the Duchess and said, Mother, I know you love me.
Qiao Ruoshui was very angry. She wanted to make her mother feel guilty for her, so that she would grant her anything she demanded.
But with a few words, Qiao Jinniang ruined her n.
This vulgar woman from the countryside was really scheming!
At this time, Qiao Ruoyi came in and greeted. Mother, Sisters.
The Duchess wiped the tears from her eyes and said, Ruoyi.
Mother, my concubine mother has gotten seriously ill. The doctor said that she needs millennium ginseng slices. Just five slices will be enough
Qiao Ruoshui sneered. Is she that important? Even Grandmother only has a hundred-year ginseng. And you want millennium ginseng slices? Only in your dreams!
The Duchess said with a sigh, Ruoyi, its not that I dont want to save Concubine Wang.
However, even in the entire Changan, its highly unlikely to find two millennium ginseng roots.
There may be some in the Imperial Pce, but if the Duchess Dowager needs it, I can ask the royal family for it However, if it is going to be used on Concubine Wang, it would be disrespectful to the royal family
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were red as she said, I see. Thank you, Mother..
Immediately after, the Duchess ordered her maid to fetch some hundred-year ginseng slices.
Ive got some hundred-year ginseng slices here. Hope it will help
Qiao Ruoyi said in a small voice, The doctor said that hundred-year ginseng slices are already useless
Qiao Jinniang said, Ruoyi, wait a minute. Nuomi, go get my millennium ginseng. When I was in Linan, I happened to buy a single millennium ginseng root from an oriental merchant. Ruoyi, take and use it first.
Qiao Ruoshuis eyes widened. Are you crazy? Why dont you instead present the millennium ginseng to Mother, rather than waste it on a little concubine?!
Qiao Jinniang said, I only know that ginseng is a medicine, and medicine is used to save lives. Even if its a beggar on the road, Ill save him, let alone Ruoyis biological mother!
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were full of gratitude.
After Qiao Ruoyi took the ginseng slices and left, Qiao Ruoshui left in a huff too.
The Duchess asked Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, I never asked you how much money you have.
ording to Mammy An, you could hardly keep your restaurant in Linan, but the gifts you gave to your sisters and brothers and todays ginseng are all very expensive
Qiao Jinniang didnt hide it from the Duchess. I only had the Myriad Taste that my foster parents left me to start with.
After they died, the jerk took over the restaurant, and he was very good at managing it, so we made a lot more money and bought two more shops.
Then we began to do business with oriental merchants and made a fortune. After that, we opened a jewelry shop.
As we made more and more money, we bought a whole street in Linanst year to collect rentals.
Im afraid that the members of the Qiao family and the local government covet my wealth, so I keep these businesses a secret, so not many people know that I own these shops.
In total, I have an ie of about 30,000 taels of silver every month.
The Duchess gasped in shock. The monthly ie of the entire Duke Mansion was only about 30,000 taels.
And Duke Anyuans Mansion was already one of the richest families in Changan.
She never knew that Qiao Jinniang was so rich.
Those shops were previously managed by that jerk.
Although Jinniang hated him, she had to admit that his talent for making money was excellent.
The Duchess thought so too, but no matter how good he was at making money, a man who dumped his wife and took their son away from his wife was still a jerk!
The spring hunt was just around the corner, and the Duchess was busy directing the maids and servants to pack.
Only then did Qiao Jinniang know that the spring hunt would be in the paddock of the North Mountain Pce, and most aristocratic families had manors around there. The spring hunt wouldst three days and the womenfolk would stay there for five or six days.
East Pce.
The Crown Prince finally got the little boy in his arms to sleep. He ced him on a small bed and sighed.
He walked out and ask his guard, Still no news about Jinniang?
Weve searched the entire Linan but failed to find her. Please punish us, Master.
The Crown Prince waved his hand. Forget it, it has been so many days
He looked at the bright moon in the sky. It was the full moon again. It had been almost four months since he left Linan.
He should hate that woman for making him marry into her family, but asionally he would think of her smiling face. She had a pair of nice almond eyes, which looked so beautiful and gentle when she smiled.
The Myriad Taste was so important to her, so why did she leave abruptly?
The spring hunt that everyone was looking forward to had finallye. One carriage after another left Changan. It was so lively on the street.
When the carriage of the Duke Anyuans Mansion left, Qiao Ruoshui pouted. Mother, why do we have to humor Qiao Jinniang to go to the North Mountain first? If we leave half a dayter, we can see the Crown Prince riding a horse!
Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, Will the Crown Prince ride to the paddock?
Qiao Ruoshui stared at Qiao Jinniang and said, Im telling you, dont you even think of being the crown princess, you ve-raised lowly woman.
Although youre technically my sister, you grew up in a vulgar ce and are not worthy of the Crown Prince!
The Duchess scolded. Ruoshui, get out!
Mom!
The Duchess said with a straight face, I have been too tolerant with you, resulting in you insulting your sister over and over again! Youre not joining in the spring hunt this year!
Qiao Ruoshui was flustered. The Crown Prince wasing to the spring hunt, so how could she be absent?
Mammy, take Qiao Ruoshui home, the Duchess shook her fan and said angrily.
Qiao Jinniang didnt try to persuade the Duchess. Qiao Ruoshuis words were indeed getting more and more outrageous.
Qiao Jinniang was not kind enough to intercede on behalf of Qiao Ruoshui who repeatedly insulted her.
Chapter 10
Chapter 10: There Will Be a Royal Banquet Tomorrow
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Qiao familys mansion in the North Mountain was not as magnificent as the Duke Mansion in Changan, but it was still spacious.
The Duchess left the best courtyard to Qiao Jinniang. From the decoration inside, one could tell how well the Duchess was treating her.
Miss, Madam loves you very much. She scolded Fourth Miss so hard, and she didnt even allow her toe to the paddock because of you.
Yingtao said while sorting Qiao Jinniangs luggage.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Now Qiao Ruoshui must resent her even more.
It was getting dark, and tomorrow the Emperor would bring the Crown Prince and the little imperial grandson to the North Mountain paddock, and then she would be able to see the little imperial grandson.
With so many coincidences, she was almost certain that the little imperial grandson was her Tuaner.
At night, Qiao Jinniang tossed and turned, unable to sleep. She wanted to see Tuaner, but was afraid that Tuaner was the little imperial grandson.
If that jerk was the Crown Prince, it made sense for him to give her a divorce letter. How could the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty marry into a merchant family?
In fact, when she thought about it carefully, she realized that the graceful bearing he asionally revealed and his money-making ability were not what an ordinary man could have.
The daughter of the Xie family in Linan had once said that Qiao Jinniang, a girl of humble birth, was not worthy of him.
Miss, you havent slept yet? Hongling came in with amp and asked, Are you nervous about the spring hunt tomorrow?
His Majesty and Her Majesty are both tolerant people. You dont have to worry about tomorrows royal banquet.
A royal banquet? Qiao Jinniang asked, Can I see His Majesty at the banquet?
Hongling smiled and said, Sure, Duke Anyuans Mansion is one of the most important noble families, so we wont sit too far from His Majesty. You will certainly see His Majesty and Her Majesty.
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. Then will I see His Royal Highness too?
Hongling nodded. Thats why every noble girl in Changan is busy making new riding outfits and buying new jewelry these days, all because the Crown Prince will attend the spring hunt!
Qiao Jinniang was a little worried. She wanted to see Tuaner, but she didnt want to see the Crown Prince
If the Crown Prince was really that b*stard, would he kill her to silence her when he learned that she hade to Changan?
Perhaps it would even implicate the Duke Mansion.
Now Qiao Jinniang waspletely restless. It was a bit cold in the mountains in April, so she looked pale after a night without sleep.
When the Duchess came to Qiao Jinniangs room and noticed her pale face, she med Hongling. Why does your miss look so haggard?
Hongling lowered her head and said, Madam, Sorry, I didnt take good care of Miss.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at the Duchess. Mother, dont me them. I couldnt sleepst night, so I feel very tired today. May I be absent from the royal banquet today? Id like to rest for the day.
The Duchess nodded. Okay, take a good rest. If you need anything, have a maid call me over.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay, Mother.
In the end, she was a fragile woman. Without sleep a whole night, Qiao Jinniang was sleepy now, so she fell asleep soon.
The Emperor and the Queen wereing to the paddock, so both sides of the roads were crowded with the vigers on the North Mountain, wanting to see what the Emperor looked like.
The Emperor was very kind and didnt forbidmoners from seeing his wife and concubines.
Thus, people started gathering on both sides of the roads just to see the appearance of the nobles.
It was the first time Nuomi came to Changan, so Yingtao brought Nuomi here to have fun.
Nuomi looked from a distance and followed the crowd to kneel down. When she saw the Queen who was even more beautiful than fairies, she asked, Sister Yingtao, who are the seven young men in python robes in front?
Theyre His Majestys seven princes, and the one in the front should be His Royal Highness.
From a distance, Yingtao could only see their clothes but not their faces, so she guessed.
Since Nuomi came to Changan, she had been hearing from the little maids in the Duke Mansion about how handsome the Crown Prince was, but now she was a bit disappointed. The Crown Prince was not even as handsome as Miss a*shole ex-husband!
The man in the front was actually Junior Duke Rong. Although he found that the people were mistaking him for the Crown Prince, he couldnt stop and exin that he was not the Crown Prince.
The real Crown Prince had seized his carriage and made him ride a horse under the scorching sun. As a Crown Prince, didnt he even have his own carriage?
When Qiao Jinniang woke up, the sound of drumming was all in her ears.
When Nuomi saw her wake up, Noumi said, Miss, Miss, its so lively outside. I saw His Majesty and Her Majesty. Her Majesty is so beautiful!
Hearing her words, Qiao Jinniang asked sleepily, Then have you seen His Royal Highness?
Nuomi said, Yes. The princes were all riding horses, each more handsome than another, but the Crown Prince is not as good-looking as it was rumored. Hes not even one-tenth as handsome as your ex-husband.
When Qiao Jinniang heard Nuomis words, she realized that her guess was wrong.
Qiao Jinniang blushed. What was wrong with her? How could she think that His Royal Highness would be her ex-husband?
Fortunately, she didnt tell anyone about her guess. Otherwise, she would definitely be aughingstock for others.
Maybe it was just a coincidence.
In Junior Duke Rongs carriage.
Listening to his secret guards report, the Crown Prince said, Qiao Jinniang is not invisible, but you still cant find her? Can she hide underground?
The head of the secret guards said in shame, Your Royal Highness, weve already checked all the travel permits at the piers and city gates. Qiao Jinniang must have not left Linan. Perhaps she has hidden herself to avoid trouble from the members of the Qiao family.
If it was possible, the Crown Prince really wanted to look for her himself.
Tuaner wanted her mother more and more at night. When he saw Qiao Ruoshui on the road just now, he called her Mom and even dragged her into the carriage.
So the Crown Prince had to go to Junior Duke Rongs carriage.
He was busy all nightst night, causing him to miss Qiao Jinniang a bit, who often made him a bowl of dim sum when he was busyte at night
Amidst the beating of drums, the Emperor announced the beginning of the spring hunt.
When Qiao Ruoshui got off the Crown Princes carriage, countless envious gazes fell on her.
Li Lingling clenched her hands hard, causing her nails to dig deep into the flesh of her palm. Didnt the people of Duke Anyuans Mansione to the North Mountain yesterday? Why did Qiao Ruoshuie with the little imperial grandson?
Duke Anyuan frowned when he saw Qiao Ruoshui.
Qiao Ruoshui was holding Tuaner, thinking that this boy was quite a little heavy. Currently, her parents doted on that ve-raised woman from the countryside, which was a great disgrace for her.
Since she couldnt count on her parents anymore, she could only rely on herself to be the crown princess.
The Duchess hurried forward and greeted the Crown Prince. Thank you for giving my daughter a ride, Your Highness.
Tuaner nestled into Qiao Ruoshuis shoulder, and when he saw Duchess Anyuan, he opened his arms and wanted her to hug him.
The Duchess had a terrible headache, but she could only hug him.
For some reason, she liked the little imperial grandson very much at the first nce she saw him.
Princess Fulu walked to the Duchess and asked, Where is Jinniang? Why didnt Qiao Jinniange today? I want to bring her to Qin Miaomiao to annoy her!
The Duchess said with a fawning smile, Princess, Jinniang is from a small ce. Please dont give her a hard time.
I wont give her a hard time. Shes my good friend. Fulu stretched out her hand and rubbed the little imperial grandsons face. Tuaner, youre getting more and more adorable.
Tuaner called her sweetly, Auntie!
Fulu took out cakes and teased him. Tuaner, do you want toe y with me?
The little imperial grandson nodded hurriedly.
Ignoring the obstruction of the eunuchs and imperial maids, Fulu took Tuaner in her arms and left the pce.
She had promised to let Qiao Jinniang see the little imperial grandson. Coming from the countryside, Qiao Jinniang must be very curious.
But the eunuchs and imperial maids suddenly knelt in a row in front of her when Fulu was about to walk out the gate of the pce. Princess, please, please dont...
If His Royal Highness knows that you took away the little imperial grandson, we will be severely punished!
Chapter 11
Chapter 11: Jinniang Cooked A Meal
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Princess Fulu snorted but could only put down the little imperial grandson and go to Qiao Jinniang alone.
During the spring hunt, the people of the Duke Mansion would usually have their dinner in the pce.
However, today, Qiao Jinniang stayed in the manor alone, and the cooks actually forgot to make food for Qiao Jinniang.
Even the stove was turned off. Obviously, they didnt want to cook for Qiao Jinniang.
Yingtao said angrily, The servants and the maids in the manor are really outrageous! They heard from someone that Miss came from the countryside and was raised by ves, so they are unwilling to cook for us. Sister Hongling, what should we do?
Hongling was also annoyed. These people reallycked discipline, but it will be toote to wait for Madam toe back. Miss needs to eat!
Shall we go to the imperial banquet to report this to Madam? She is so nice to Miss, surely she wille back to give her justice.
Hearing what they said outside, Jinniang said, Dont bother. You havent eaten either. Let me go to the kitchen to see if there are any ingredients. Ill cook for you.
Nuomis eyes widened as she said cheerfully, Great, its been a long time since I ate the dishes Miss made.
On the other hand, the other maids tried to stop Qiao Jinniang, but they failed.
Qiao Jinniang entered the kitchen and asked Nuomi to light a fire.
Although they were manor here, it was still the manor of the Duke Mansion. There were many seasonal vegetables grown here, with chickens and ducks being raised here too.
Qiao Jinniang asked Nuomi to kill a chicken. When Nuomi was chopping the chicken, the other maids looked frightened. Hongling and the other maids grew up in the Duke Mansion. How could they ever see such a scene?
When Princess Fulu arrived, she was frightened too when she saw Qiao Jinniangs maidservant killing a chicken.
This, this, this
When Qiao Jinniang saw that Princess Fulu had arrived, she asked, Princess, isnt the royal banquet about to begin? Why did youe to our manor?
Princess Fulu said, The hunt hasnt begun yet, so the dinner will definitely be unptable. When we get prey tomorrow, well be able to eat roasted venison, which will be very delicious.
Why do you have to cook by yourself? Are you already disliked by the people of the Duke Mansion so quickly?
Qiao Jinniang smiled helplessly. Princess, would you like to join us for dinner? If youd like, I will make you the famous Lotus-Leaf Beggars Chicken.
Beggars Chicken? Little Princess Fulu was taken aback.
Nuomi was almost drooling. The Beggars Chicken Miss makes is a must-eat!
Princess Fulu snorted. I am a famous gourmet in Changan. I dont believe there is any chicken that is a must-eat.
Qiao Jinniang said, The way the South makes the Beggars Chicken is different. We dont bloodlet the chicken or pluck its feathers. My foster father and mother have improved on the recipe a bit. They would soak the chicken in Yuezhou rice wine, brush it with ayer of honey, wrap it with a fewyers of lotus leaves, and then cover it with red mud and salt before putting the chicken in an earth pit and starting a fire on the ground.
Qiao Jinniang said while wrapping the chicken with lotus leaves.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang applying the mud on the chicken, Fulu gasped in surprise. Is this still edible?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Yes.
Qiao Jinniang kneaded the dough and rolled out noodle strands of equal size.
Then she ced another chicken into a casserole and boiled a pot of chicken broth. After that, she poured a lot of water in the pot and ced the noodles in it when the water boiled.
Fulu waited outside, and when the firewood burned for about a quarter of an hour, she smelled a strong fragrance.
The scent was really mouth-watering.
Qiao Jinniang took out the noodles, distributed them evenly in six bowls, then poured the chicken broth into the bowls, and garnished the noodles with chopped green onion.
Qiao Jinniang, are you just feeding me a bowl of in noodles?
Fulu had never eaten such in noodles before.
Qiao Jinniang said, Princess, why dont try it out? The Beggars Chicken is done too. Let me take it out.
Seeing that the mud had be lumpy, Princess Fulu felt nauseous.
Even if I jump down to the lotus pond today, I will definitely not eat your Beggars Chicken!
Its wrapped in mud. Look how dirty it is!
Qiao Jinniang just smiled. If you dont like it, then forget it.
Qiao Jinniang beckoned the maids to sit down and eat together with her, but Hongling didnt dare to sit and eat together with her. Qiao Jinniang said, We dont have so many rules between masters and servants in Linan. Nuomi has been eating at the same table with me all the time.
Besides, Id like you to help me try my cooking skill. I havent cooked for a long time after all.
Princess Fulu said, I, a princess, dont mind sitting with you. Why do you mind? Do you look down on me?!
Hearing that, Hongling and the other maids could only sit down.
After Qiao Jinniang cracked the mud shell open, the fragrance was overflowing. She washed her hands, peeled off the lotus leaves, and cut the chicken that had the fragrance of lotus leaves with a knife.
The fragrance of the lotus leaf had seeped deep into the chicken.
Princess Fulu tasted the noodles and eximed, Oh, the noodles are really tasty and juicy. How did you make it? How can such in noodles be so delicious?
Qiao Jinniang said, Just put in a few eggs when kneading the dough. Princess, would you like a drumstick?
Although the chicken smelled very fragrant, considering that it was previously covered in mud, Fulu refused.
But then she saw Nuomi looking at the drumstick eagerly. Obviously, she really wanted to taste it.
Qiao Jinniang cut a small piece of chicken thigh for Fulu.
As a princess, Fulu ate it elegantly. After she finished eating, she gently pursed her lips and said,
The skin is crispy, and the chicken is tender and juicy. There is the fragrance of lotus leaves in the chicken. This chicken is really yummy,pletely different from the chicken I usually eat, which is very chewy!
Qiao Jinniang gave the whole drumstick that had been cut open to Princess Fulu. Have more if you like it.
Hehe, no wonder they said you were ve-raised. You even cooked for the maids? How cheap is this!
A female voice dripping with sarcasm sounded.
Qiao Jinniangs maids were all infuriated.
Qiao Jinniang asked Nuomi, Are you full?
Nuomi nodded.
Then catch that person, as well as those kitchen stewards and servants who refused to cook for us, and hand them to my mother when shees back.
Qiao Jinniang was never a person to swallow insults.
Princess Fulu patted Qiao Jinniangs shoulder and said, I really feel sorry for you. As the daughter of the Duke, you lived a miserable life for eighteen years, and aftering back, youre still bullied by the servants.
If you cant bear the life in the Duke Mansion, you can go to the Princess Mansion. I can take you in!
Thank you, Princess. Qiao Jinniang smiled. Thats very kind of you.
Fulu said, Of course. Im the best princess in the Tang Dynasty. For the sake of your dinner, I will hunt you a hare tomorrow!
Im not a child. Qiao Jinniang smiled. Im way past the age when I liked hare.
Fulu was surprised. Dont you know that roasted hare is a true delicacy?
Qiao Jinniang:
Fulu said, My imperial cousin is good at roasting hare. Tomorrow Ill ask him to roast a hare for you.
Qiao Jinniang:
Qiao Jinniang suddenly remembered when she was on an outing with that jerk in the Qingming Festivalst year, they were trapped in a mountain by heavy rain.
The jerk felt that catching fish was too dangerous, so he caught a hare, preparing to roast it.
But hearing that she was born in the Year of the Rabbit, he let go of the hare and ate her in the cave instead
When Qiao Jinniang remembered this, her face blushed red.
Chapter 12
Chapter 12: I Must Be the Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Qiao Jinniang finished the meal, she felt that she ate too much, so she was asked by Princess Fulu to take a walk together.
The pce was heavily guarded, so there was no danger even at night.
Princess Fulu kicked the pebbles on the road as she walked and said, Actually, I am not attending the royal banquet today because I am afraid that Her Majesty will choose the crown princess for my imperial cousin.
Today your sister came out of the carriage of my imperial cousin.
Im afraid that it wont be long before she bes the crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang rarely saw Princess Fulu ever be so serious.
Fulu continued, Ive known since I was a child that my imperial cousin is a very excellent man.
He is beyond the reach of mortals like the brilliance of the sun and the moon, so I think if I be his wife, Ill be envied by everyone.
In fact, Im not sad that my imperial cousin doesnt like me. I just dont want to beughed at by Qin Miaomiao and her gang.
But I dont want Qiao Ruoshui to be the crown princess. She doesnt like Tuaner at all.
When Qiao Ruoshui has a child of her own, given that she has Duke Anyuan behind her, what will happen to Tuaner? Although Tuaner was not born by the crown princess, he is still my imperial cousins eldest son, so hell be a thorn in Qiao Ruoshuis side.
I said all these things to you because I think you are different from Qiao Ruoshui.
Qiao Jinniang carried thentern and said, Princess, I know youre worried about the little imperial grandson. But he is still His Majestys grandson and is much loved by His Royal Highness. Even if Qiao Ruoshui marries into the East Pce, it will not necessarily affect his status.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help thinking whether that jerk would find Tuaner a stepmother since he had divorced her.
Would he love Tuaner like the Crown Prince?
After sending the princess back to the pce, Qiao Jinniang was about to go back to the manor.
From afar, she heard a group of mammies shouting, Little imperial grandson, please dont run so fast.
Qiao Jinniang quickly looked back and saw a little chubby boy who was about two years old. Tuaner was a little chubby too, but he lookedpletely different from this little imperial grandson.
Sure enough, she thought too much.
After Qiao Jinniang left carrying thentern, Princess Consort Qi (Prince Qis wife) hurried over and hugged her son, Baoer. This is the paddock. Dont run around. If your grandfather knows about this, he will scold you!
If only you could be favored by your grandfather like Tuaner.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the manor, the Duchess and Qiao Ruoshui had both returned.
At the gate of the manor, Qiao Jinniang saw a few men in pce costumes. With different voices from normal men, they seemed to be eunuchs.
When Qiao Jinniang entered, she heard some maids in the manor talking triumphantly.
Her Majesty actually granted our Fourth Miss an agate head ornament, which is very valuable!
It seems that it wont take long for the Fourth Miss to be the crown princess.
Several maids and mammies were talking happily.
That ve-raised woman from the country locked up Qian Guis wife! Her mother-inw is Fourth Misss nanny!
Qiao Ruoshui was in the limelight at the royal banquet today.
When the banquet was over, the Queen rewarded her with many jewels.
Qiao Ruoshui was very smug about this, but when she returned back to the manor, her nanny came up and said, Miss, please save my daughter-inw! She was caught by the Second Miss.
Qiao Ruoshui shouted angrily, That lowly b*tch from the countryside! I wasughed at because of her and now she even dares to touch my maid?
The Duchess hurried to Qiao Jinniangs courtyard as soon as she came back, but there was only Luhe in the courtyard.
How is Jinniang? Why doesnt she stay in her room since shes sick?
The Duchess looked quite worried.
Qiao Jinniang came in from outside the courtyard and saluted the Duchess. Sorry to make you worry, Mother. I was walking with the princess after dinner. Ive already recovered.
The Duchess patted her hand. Thats great. Is the princess you are talking about Princess Fulu?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Yes, Princess Fulu is different from the women Ive seen before.
The Duchess smiled and said, Fulu is cheerful and straightforward. Although she is not on good terms with Miss Qin, they are both good girls. You are about the same age as them. You should hang out with them.
Qiao Ruo rushed into Qiao Jinniangs yard huffily and yelled, Qiao Jinniang, how dare you! Who the hell do you think you are?
How dare you detain my nannys daughter-inw?
Qiao Jinniang held the Duchesss hand and said, Mother, I was just about to tell you about it. The cooks in the manor said that I was not worthy to eat the food they cooked and humiliated me for being raised by ves
I dont mind it, but if these words spread to the Duke Qins Mansion, what trouble will Ruoyun face?
The Duchess was infuriated when she heard Qiao Jinniangs words. You are not worthy? Then who is worthy? Those damn servants are getting more and more outrageous!
The Duchess immediately ordered to catch those cooks.
Qiao Jinniang beckoned Nuomi to bring those people up. Mother, these are the people who insulted me just now. Ive already caught them.
Qiao Ruoshui took a look. That one is my nannys daughter-inw. Qiao Jinniang, what do you mean?
Qiao Jinniang didnt know that this woman had such a rtionship with Qiao Ruoshui. No wonder this woman was so arrogant and even dared to insult her.
The Duchess red at Qiao Ruoshui. Lets talk about your mistakes first. I grounded you at home, but you sneaked out and deliberately appeared in front of the little imperial grandson.
Qiao Ruoshui, you are the daughter of Duke Anyuan. Take a look at your current style. How is it different from a prostitutes?
Qiao Ruoshui snorted and said agitatedly, If it werent for you to be so unfair, I wouldnt have done this!
Now His Royal Highness likes me, so does his son!
Her Majesty even granted me a phoenix hairpin today!
Mother, just go ahead and dote on that precious daughter from the countryside of yours!
When I be the crown princess, lets see who can bring you greater honor!
The Duchess clutched her heart. How did I teach a daughter like you! You, you
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly offered the Duchess a cup of tea. Mother, calm down. Dont be angry.
Qiao Ruoshui said, Mother, you have educated a crown princess. Countless people in Changan city envy you!
The Duchess said angrily, What are you talking about? Are these words what a noble youngdy in Changan should say? Do you think its so easy to be the crown princess?
Qiao Ruoshui said disapprovingly, My father is a marshal, and my sister will be the next Duchess Qin.
If it werent for Qiao Jinniang, this ve-raised b*tch, who ruined my reputation, isnt it for sure that Ill be the crown princess?
The Duchess almost fainted in anger but she still remembered tofort Qiao Jinniang. Jinniang, dont take her words to heart
Qiao Jinniang gently patted the Duchesss back and said, Mother, I wont.
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ruoshui, Yes, Father is a marshal. But what if youpare this title with a princess?
Or Earl Chengen, who is the Queen Dowagers nephew.
Not to mention that the daughters of some of the most powerful families in the Tang Dynasty also want to be the crown princess.
Sister, do you think your family background is better than theirs?
If you me me for your inability to be the crown princess, that really does me wrong.
You dont take me as your sister, its fine, but I cant bear this injustice in vain.
Qiao Ruoshui couldnt refute what Qiao Jinniang said, but being scolded by Qiao Jinniang, she was utterly upset. Stop cursing me. I must be the crown princess!
At that time, she would show her mother which daughter was better.
If you dare to touch Qian Guis wife today, I will never let you off!
Chapter 13
Chapter 13: Rescue His Royal Highness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Duchess said, It is I who want to punish Qian Guis wife. Do you have a problem with it?
If I dont punish this lousy ve who even dares to insult her master, I cant imagine how terribly my daughter will be insulted again!
Come, flog these servants ten times and sell them. Flog those who insulted Jinniang thirty times before selling them.
As for most of the servants in the manor, their whole families were ves of the Duke Mansion. Being flogged and sold, their future lives were bound to be miserable.
Mammy Qian looked at Qiao Ruoshui anxiously. Fourth Miss
Qiao Ruoshui hurriedly said, Mother, Qian Guis wife is my nannys daughter-inw. If you punish her, people will look down on me because I cant even protect my nannys family!
Qiao Jinniang is your daughter, but Im your daughter too!
The Duchess said solemnly, No one in this Duke Mansion can hurt my Jinniang. She is your sister. She was humiliated by the servants, but you actually spoke up for the one who humiliated her! Ruoshui, you are abasing yourself!
With that, the Duchess said to Jinniang, Its gettingte. The hunt tomorrow will be very lively. Youre still sick, so go to bed early.
Qiao Jinniang saluted. Mother, please go to bed early too.
Spring hunt.
There were many small tables ced outside the paddock for the nobles to rest and watch the heroic bearings of the people hunting in the paddock from a distance.
Many women joined in on the hunt.
Princess Fulu and Qin Miaomiao always liked topete with each other, so they certainly wouldnt let go of such a good battlefield.
Qiao Ruoshui and the other girls of the Qiao Family also went hunting.
Qiao Jinniang sat at the table of the Duke Anyuans Mansion and tasted the pastries from time to time. The pastries were not quite delicious, so she stopped after eating only two pieces.
Herees Her Majesty!
An eunuch chanted.
All the people resting here saluted the Queen.
Qiao Jinniang had learned about some pce traditions these few days, so she didnt dare to look up at the Queen. When she was about to take her seat after saluting, she heard the Queen ask,
Duchess Anyuan, is this your daughter who was swapped when she was a child? She looks very simr to you, and judging from her bearing, she really deserves to be the daughter of the Duke Mansion.
Although Qiao Jinniang had been doing business for a few years, causing her to be natural and graceful in her dealings, this was the first time she had met such a distinguished person, so she didnt know what to do for a while.
The Duchess saluted and replied, Your Majesty, youre right. This is my daughter, Jinniang.
Signaled by the Duchess, Qiao Jinniang saluted the Queen respectfully. Nice to meet you, Your Majesty. Im Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang? The Queen almost dropped the cup in her hand.
It was the first time that the nobledies and girls present had seen the Queen have such a gaffe.
The queen continued to ask, Well, Ive only read about babies being swapped in novels before. I guess Miss Qiao must have suffered a lot being separated from your parents. Judging from your ent, youre not from Changan, right?
Qiao Jinniang replied, I grew up in Linan, so I have a Southern ent. Please dont mind it, Your Majesty.
When the Queen heard this, there was a hint of shock on her beautiful face. Raise your head.
Qiao Jinniang looked up at the Queen and was a bit surprised. The Queens eyes were very simr to Tuaners as if they were carved out of the same mold.
However, Nuomi had already said that the Crown Prince was not that jerk
She must be thinking too much.
The Queen smiled. Jinniang, Im very fond of you. Mammy, take the golden-threaded phoenix hairpin that I often wear and give it to Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. For a moment, she didnt know what to do.
Although the Queen also gave Qiao Ruoshui a head ornament and a phoenix hairpin yesterday, they were not what the Queen wore. Now the Queen was granting her the jewels she wore, which was a great honor.
Although Qiao Jinniang was from the South, she knew the value of this hairpin.
Although the Duchess didnt know why the Queen gave Jinniang such a valuable item, seeing Jinniang stunned, she knelt and thanked on her behalf. Thank you for your generous reward, Your Majesty.
Even the mammy beside the Queen didnt know why the Queen gave Qiao Jinniang such a precious gift either.
The Duchess loved Jinniang, but one tree far taller than others might fall victim to a strong wind more easily. Unlike Qiao Ruoshui, Qiao Jinniang had juste to Changan but had received such a precious reward from the Queen.
When those nobledies came back from the hunt, they would definitely pick on Qiao Jinniang, and she might not be able to protect herself.
So the Duchess asked Qiao Jinniang to go back to rest.
Knowing the Duchess was worried about her, Qiao Jinniang left.
There was a mountain road from the paddock to the manor, and Qiao Jinniang only brought Nuomi and Yuyan with her.
It was a good spring day, and just like when they were still in the South, Nuomi begged Jinniang to make dishes with wild vegetables for her.
Yuyan was the youngest among the maids, so she didnt abide by the rules as strictly as Hongling and Luhe. Hearing Nuomi describe how delicious the wild vegetables were, the little maid, who had never tasted them, was tempted.
So Qiao Jinniang took the two maids to climb up the hill to find wild vegetables.
However, the climate here was different. Changan was not as humid as Linan, so there were much less wild vegetables here than in Linan.
Qiao Jinniang saw a blooming locust tree from a distance and said, Lets pick some locust flowers and make some Locust Flower Honey Cake and Golden Locust Flower.
Nuomi nodded happily.
Qiao Jinniang held the hem of her skirt. The clothes for nobledies were beautiful but wearing them made it difficult to move.
When they got under the tree, a gust of wind came, and a rain of locust flowers fell.
Few people had trod here, so the locust flowers on the upperyer were all clean. Qiao Jinniang took off her outer silk coat and used it to bag the locust flowers.
Help, help!
Suddenly, Qiao Jinniang heard someone crying for help. Then she saw a well-dressed man crying for help not far away from the locust tree.
He was carrying a sword on his back.
Nuomi looked over and said, Miss, he is the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the man from a distance. The Crown Prince was not as handsome as she had imagined. Maybe what was more tempting was the high status of the crown princess.
Miss, should we save him?
No! Qiao Jinniang said coldly. Last time she kindly saved that jerk, she ended up being divorced by him and even her son was taken away by him.
Because of the Crown Prince, the nobledies in the capital fought each other desperately, causing a lot of trouble. Why should she bother to save him?
Besides, he was the Crown Prince, so his guards woulde to save him soon.
Lady, Young Lady! Help me!
Spotting Qiao Jinniang, Junior Duke Rong hurriedly waved his hand and shouted.
Qiao Jinniang couldn no longer pretend she didnt see him. If she didnt save him, the whole Duke Mansion might be med.
Qiao Jinniang walked over only to see a snake as thick as a babys arm lying in front of the Crown Prince.
So he couldnt move at all!
Yuyan screamed after seeing the snake. Qiao Jinniang walked over, abruptly pressed the snake on the ground, and saluted, saying, Your Highness, dont worry. This is a non-toxic Caihua Snake. It is very delicious once steamed with lotus leaves.
Junior Duke Rong opened his eyes wide. This, this, this
Among the nobledies in Changan, there was nock of girls who excelled in martial strength, but it was the first time that he had seen a woman who dared to catch a snake with her bare hands!
Chapter 14
Chapter 14: Locust Flower
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Nuomi said very happily, Its been a long time since I ate snake meat. Snake meat is cold in nature. After eating it, you wont get heat rashes in the summer. Its a pity that Tuaner isnt here
Qiao Jinniang thought of Tuaner and said with affection, Tuaner had a lot of heat rashes in the summerst year. I dont know how he is in Changan this year
It was very hot in summer in Changan.
When Junior Duke Rong heard the two women talking about eating snake meat, he was startled. Do you dare to eat this snake?
Seeing that the Crown Prince was still here, Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, Snake meat is a delicacy. And among them, the Caihua Snake is the most delicious.
Princess Rongxiao couldnt help swallowing. Which family are you from?
During the spring hunt, the North Mountain was heavily guarded. The girls who could enter here were mostly nobles or daughters of officials. Besides, this girl was dressed in fine brocade.
However, Junior Duke Rong could recognize most of the nobledies in Changan, but he had never seen her before.
My surname is Qiao. Its gettingte. Please allow me to leave first, Your Highness.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to talk to the Crown Prince too much. If it was known by Qiao Ruoshui, she would make a scene again.
When she returned to the manor, Princess Fulu had alsoe. She said huffily, They dont allow us to hunt hares! Then there is nothing fun about hunting!
Women usually hunted hares.
But this year, somehow His Royal Highness ordered that hare hunting was not allowed. Although there were other small wild animals, they werent as easily hunted as hares.
Princess Fulu hadnt had a good catch for a long time, so she came to Qiao Jinniang dispirited.
I heard that my imperial aunt gave you the hairpin she often wears. Do you know how wonderful the expressions of the women who mocked you behind your back were when this news came out.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. I have no grievances with them, and I have never even talked with them. Why did they mock me?
Princess Fulu said, Many people want to take the opportunity to mock your elder sister, Qiao Ruoyun.
She married Mr. Qin more than a year ago, but she hasnt been pregnant yet. You know, her husband is renowned as the First Child of Changan.
Qin Miaomiao often showed off how excellent of a brother she has to me!
At this time, Qin Miaomiaos voice suddenly came, and she snorted. How do you have the cheek to criticize others? Didnt you mock my sister-inw? Because of your remarks, she didnt evene to North Mountain this time!
She has a bad appetite recently and has lost a lot of weight. This is all because you said the descendants of our Qin family will have the blood of ves in their veins
Fulu touched her nose and said awkwardly, I didnt mean to hurt her. I just said that to disgust you.
Although you didnt mean that, my sister-inw is suffering because of your words! Qin Miaomiaos voice was cold.
When Qiao Jinniang was in Linan, if she wanted to visit someone, she would have to make an appointment first, but these two nobledies in Changan just came and left freely as if this manor was their own home.
Miss Qin, why did youe here?
Qin Miaomiao knew that she was rude toe without making an appointment, but she still sat on the stone stool beside Fulu gracefully. Why, your Qiao family doesnt wee me toe?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. No, its a pleasure to have you here. I happen to be making Golden Locust Flower and Locust Flower Honey Cake. Now that you two are here, let me make you some snake broth.
Qin Miaomiao frowned. Do you cook by yourself?
Does the Qiao family not even have a cook?
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats not true, but Im interested in cooking. Princess, Miss Qin, please wait a while.
Qiao Jinniang took the spring water from Hongling, washed the locust flowers, and began to chop the snake.
Watching Qiao Jinniang killing the snake without batting an eye, Fulu shuddered, and Qin Miaomiao leaned slightly toward her mortal enemy Fulu.
When a mammy of the Duchess came over to deliver food to Qiao Jinniang, she saw Qiao Jinniang cutting the snake meat and hurriedly said, Miss, the Duchess has brought you some royal dishes. You dont need to cook yourself.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Mammy, Im doing this out of the craving for these dishes.
The mammy could only tell the maids not to let Qiao Jinniang hurt her hand.
Qiao Jinniang fried the snake meat, added the white fungus and shiitake mushrooms, and stewed the snake broth in a casserole.
After mixing the flour and eggs with a pair of chopsticks to form a rice paste, she wrapped the locust flower with the rice paste, then dipped it into the hot oil and fried it. Nowadays, cooking methods like stir-frying, frying and boiling were popr for only ten years.
So the nobles rarely saw food cooked this way. The fried locust flowers were like gold.
After sprinkling a handful of salt onto it, Qiao Jinniang put a tter of locust flowers in front of Princess Fulu and Qin Miaomiao.
Princess Fulu had tasted the food Qiao Jinniang made, so without a word, she picked the chopstick and tasted the dishes. The more she tasted it, the more delicious she felt it was.
I never knew that locust flowers could be eaten.
Seeing Fulu eating mouthful after mouthful, Qin Miaomiao picked the chopsticks and tasted it too. The deep-fried crispy food mixed with the scent of locust flower gave the taste buds on the tip of her tongue the ultimate pleasure.
After Qiao Jinniang smashed the remaining locust flowers and put them in honey, she grabbed some flour and kneaded them into dough. Then she shaped the dough into small balls like flowers before steaming them on the steamer.
At this time, the snake broth was done. Qiao Jinniang ordered Nuomi to ce the snake broth on the stone table and serve Fulu and Qin Miaomiao each with a bowl of snake broth.
The two of them didnt know that it was snake broth. Thinking it was some chicken soup, they tasted it and a savory taste instantly filled their mouths.
Fulu said, Qiao Jinniang, you have such great cooking skills. It is indeed a pity not to open a restaurant in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. It happens that my restaurant in Changan will open in about half a month. You are most wee toe to my restaurant.
Princess Fulu said tauntingly, Miss Qin is a nobledy from a distinguished family. She doesnt have any mortal desire for food, and a graceful youngdy like her will certainly not go to the restaurant to make a pig of herself.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats okay. In addition to the wine and food, our restaurant also has the finest West Lake Longjing, Luan Maofeng and other fine teas, as well as delicate pastries.
Qin Miaomiao retorted, Your fine Longjing is probably to be wasted. After all, someone drinks tea like a cow drinking water and doesnt understand what good tea is like at all!
Seeing that Fulu and Qin Miaomiao were about to fight, Qiao Jinniang quickly said, If you two like the snake broth, please have some more.
What? Snake broth? What I just ate was snake meat?!
Qin Miaomiao and Fulu were both in shock.
The two shouted in unison, I pity you, so I treat you as my good friend. How can you feed us snake meat? Humph!
Exactly, I wont talk to you anymore! Qin Miaomiao walked away in a huff.
Qiao Jinniang touched her nose awkwardly and told herself that she was already a mother and shouldnt be angry at the two children, so she sat down and began to eat the snake broth.
However, halfway through the meal, she saw Qiao Ruoshui hurry over.
She shouted rudely, Qiao Jinniang, hand out the gold phoenix hairpin Her Majesty gave you!
Chapter 15
Chapter 15: Qiao Ruoyun Had A Miscarriage
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ruoshui rushed over, extending her hand, signaling Qiao Jinniang to give her that hairpin.
If it were an ordinary gold hairpin, Qiao Jinniang would just give it to her. She had a jewelry shop in Linan, so she had no shortage of these things.
But this was a reward from the Queen, which had to be kept very carefully and couldnt be given to others. How could Qiao Jinniang give it to Qiao Ruoshui?
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang ignored her, Qiao Ruoshui simply sat in front of her and said, Her Majesty meant to give the golden hairpin to me. It was for the sake of me that she gave it to you!
Qiao Jinniang scooped out a spoonful of snake broth and savored it casually. It was delicious. Why did Princess Fulu and Qin Miaomiao not like it?
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was still ignoring her, Qiao Ruoshui was furious. Come, search her!
Hongling, Yuyan and other maids hurriedly stepped forward to stop Qiao Ruoshuis maids.
Qiao Jinniang put down the spoon and said, Sister, what are you talking about? Howe the golden phoenix hairpin that Her Majesty gave me is yours?
Qiao Ruoshui said proudly, Her Majesty was just afraid of rewarding me too much, so she rewarded me with this gold phoenix hairpin through you!
Otherwise, how could Her Majesty give such a grand reward to you who just came from the countryside and met her for the first time?
At the gate, Princess Fulu looked awkwardly at Qin Miaomiao and suddenly said, Actually I feel that snake broth is quite delicious.
Qin Miaomiao couldnt deny her words.
Fulu said, I, Princess Fulu, am brave and invincible. How can I be afraid of snake broth like a delicate little girl like you?
I must be out of mind if I choose to attend the royal banquet in the pce instead of enjoying that delicious snake broth!
It was undeniable that the imperial meals were delicious, as the best cooks in the world were in the imperial pce, but royal banquets were another story.
The dishes in the royal banquet were prepared in advance because they were used to entertain the ministers and their families, so most of them were cold by the time of the banquet. And although they looked exquisite and the ingredients were very good, their taste was in fact in and dull.
Fulu turned around and went back to the manor of the Duke Mansion. Seeing this, Qin Miaomiao hesitated and followed. She certainly couldnt let Princess Fulu hog all that the delicious snake broth.
After the two went back, they heard Qiao Ruoshuis voice.
Qiao Ruoshui continued disdainfully. Do you really think you are favored by Her Majesty? Who the hell do you think you are? Youre just a ve-raised lowly b*tch! Mother is being too kind, letting you return to ruin the Duke Mansions reputation!
If it werent for you, Id definitely be the crown princess.
Im the one who Her Majesty likes. How dare you take the golden phoenix hairpin and not return it to me?
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she got up and suddenly pped Qiao Ruoshui hard. I am the real eldest daughter of the Duke Mansion. Just like you, Im the owner of the Duke Mansion too!
If Her Majesty really likes you, why did she bother to give you the golden phoenix hairpin through me?
As His Majestys beloved wife, if she has to do that, whats the point for her to be the Queen?
I came from the grassroots. When the people of the Qiao family came to harass me, I would drive them away with a broom, and when my restaurant was ckmailed by gangsters, I would fight with them.
You look down on me, saying that I have no manners of nobledies. Yes, I came from the grassroots.
But if you keep insulting me, I wont just swallow it.
Princess Fulu pped her hands and walked over, saying, Good point. Now I like not only the dishes you make, but also your personality. Qiao Ruoshui, Jinniang is my good friend. Youre insulting me, Princess Fulu, if you insult her again!
Qin Miaomiao used to be good friends with Qiao Ruoshui. After all, her brother and Qiao Ruoyun had a marriage engagement ever since they were young.
Before their marriage, when his elder brother invited Qiao Ruoyun out, he would ask her to bring Qin Miaomiao and Qiao Ruoshui too. Qin Miaomiao didnt know when childhood friend had be such a person.
Qiao Ruoshui didnt dare to really offend Fulu, but how could she endure this p.
She covered her face and ran toin to her parents. She must make everyone in Changan know that Qiao Jinniang was a shrew.
After Qiao Ruoshui left, Jinniang said, Sorry for the embarrassing scene, but Im not a fairdy in the first ce, and I can no longer put up with Qiao Ruoshui.
If it werent for the fact that she needed the Duke Mansion to help find Tuaner for her, she wouldnt have tolerated her for so long.
Qin Miaomiao said, Ruishui was not like this before, but she has be crazier and crazier ever since the Crown Prince came back.
The position of the crown princess really drives many girls in Changan crazy.
Princess Fulu sneered coldly. Are you talking about me? My imperial cousin is so handsome and in such a high position that any decent woman would want to marry him! Dont y the holier-than-thou card!
Qin Miaomiao said, I wont be as shameless as you anyway.
Qiao Jinniang:
Third Miss, not good. A mammy of the Duke Qins Mansion rushed in. Your eldest sister-inw had a miscarriage at home. The masters are all in the pce, and we servants cant go in
Qin Miaomiao red at Fulu bitterly. This is all your fault! Mammy, I will go to the pce to find my mother and Duchess Anyuan to see what to do.
Fulus face was slightly pale. I didnt mean it
Although Qiao Jinniang had never suffered from a miscarriage, she knew that miscarriage was extremely hurtful for women, not to mention that Qiao Ruoyun was a person easy to be psychologically burdened.
Miss Qin, I want to visit my elder sister. Qiao Jinniang said, I am afraid its not easy for your mother and my mother to leave. No offense, but I heard that your other two sister-inws are not easy to get along with. Im more suitable to take care of my sister than the servants.
Qin Miaomiao knew what kind of person her other two sister-inws were. And just as Qiao Jinniang said, his mother and the Duchess might not be able to leave here for the next two days.
Okay, take my name card and go.
Princess Fulu said in a small voice, Ill go too.
Qin Miaomiao snorted. Are you going to anger my sister-inw to death?
I really know that I was wrong. Fulu was so anxious that she almost cried. I only meant to ridicule you, but I didnt expect she would hear it.
Qiao Jinniang said, Lets be quick. Its not bad that Princess Fulu wants to go with me.
After all, Qiao Jinniang didnt know what was going on in the Duke Qins Mansion and whether the people there were easy to deal with. With Fulu with her, they wouldnt dare go too far.
Princess Fulu told her maid to deliver a message to Princess Shouan, and then followed Qiao Jinniang to take the carriage back to Changan.
It took them nearly two hours, and it was already dusk when they rushed to the Duke Qins Mansion.
The setting sun was shining, dyeing everything golden, and the concierge ushered Fulu and Qiao Jinniang in after checking Qin Miaomiaos name card.
Qiao Jinniang entered the courtyard of the Duke Qins Mansion. It was even bigger than the Duke Anyuans Mansion and was more exquisitely decorated.
Qiao Ruoyuns nanny came out and saluted, saying, Second Miss, Princess Fulu, Miss had no appetite these days, so she didnt even go to the pce on the North Mountain. This morning, she was provoked by that damn bitch again, I mean her husbands concubine maid, so as soon as she went back to her room, she...
Qiao Jinniang felt that it was really inappropriate for the nanny to say these foul words to them, two unmarried girls.
Why did the Duchess give Qiao Ruoyun such a dumb mammy?
When Qiao Jinniang entered, she saw Qiao Ruoyun, who was lying in her bed, looking extremely haggard. She didnt see Qiao Ruoyun for only a few days, but thetter looked skinny now.
Her appearance reminded Qiao Jinniang of her foster mother when she was seriously ill. And she died when she was only thirty
Chapter 16
Chapter 16: Take Qiao Ruoyun Away From the Qin Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ruoyun was surprised when she saw Jinniang. Shouldnt you be at the Spring Hunt Paddock? Why are you here?
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont know anyone in North Mountain, and I dont know how to hunt. I was bored all day long, so after getting the message from the people of the Qin family, I came over with Princess Fulu. Why do you be so thin?
A mammy on the side cried. Miss doesnt eat or drink these days. The doctor just came and said that Miss might die in a few days
Princess Fulu said with red eyes, Mrs. Qin, I shouldnt have said those words to you on that day. I just wanted tough at Qin Miaomiao. I didnt mean anything else
Seeing Qiao Ruoyun look like a mere bag of bones, Princess Fulu felt extremely guilty.
Qiao Ruoyun said with dull eyes, Princess, youre not to me. I dont know how many times Ive heard the same words. Even if you dont say it, others will.
Looking at Qiao Ruoyuns worried look, Qiao Jinniang said, Why do you have to take those peoples words to heart, Sister? Are you ming Mom and Dad for having humble origins?
Although they were not nobles, they treated me very well. I dont allow anyone to look down on them or you
If you even look down on them, how sad they will be in heaven.
Qiao Ruoyun said in a small voice, I never look down on them
Qiao Jinniang came up and wiped Qiao Ruoyuns tears. So dont be sad. They have long redeemed themselves from very, and they are not humble. Sister, dont care about birthright so much.
If you dont eat or drink, youre ruining your own health.
If Mom and Dad knew about this, they would be sad and worried about you in heaven.
Qiao Ruoyun said bitterly, Jinniang, you havent been married, so you dont understand the difficulties of a married woman
Thank you for visiting me, but you should go back to North Mountain as soon as possible!
Qiao Jinniang frowned and asked, Did the people of the Qin family bully you?
Youre the eldest daughter of the Duke Anyuans Mansion, which has been recorded in their genealogy, and youre their eldest sons wife. If they bully you, the Duke Anyuans Mansion will definitely uphold justice for you!
As soon as Qiao Jinniang said so, a woman came in from outside.
Phew, the real daughter of the Duke Anyuans Mansion really talks big!
My cousin is supposed to marry the real eldest daughter of the Duke Anyuans Mansion, but now, what is Qiao Ruoyuns identity?
Seeing this woman wearing silk and jewels, Qiao Jinniang guessed she was probably not a servant.
Qiao Ruoyun sat up with difficulty and asked, What are you doing here? Dont you know your identity? How dare youe and make trouble here?
Yuzhui saluted without any respect and said, Madam, do you still consider yourself as the daughter of a duke? But youre nothing but a servants daughter
Qiao Jinniang got up and asked, Are you a concubine of my brother-inw?
Yuzhui said arrogantly, Im his concubine maid!
Qiao Jinniang chuckled when she heard the words concubine maid.
Over the years, many people tried to persuade her foster father to get a concubine maid to give birth to a son so as to inherit the family business, but her foster father refused.
He said that there was no need to ruin an innocent girls life.
Qiao Jinniang was still young at the time, so after hearing that, she went to ask one of her friends, Miss Xie, what a concubine maid was.
The Xie Family was one of the most powerful families in Linan, and Miss Xie had been taught how to manage a big family since she was a child.
Miss Xie loved the pastries she made, so she was never stingy to teach Qiao Jinniang this kind of knowledge. She exined to her the difference between a concubine and a concubine maid.
A concubine had more or less the status of a master, while a concubine maid was still a maid, and her master could even kill her.
In the Duke Qins Mansion, a mere concubine maid dared to speak to the mistress like this. If it werent for the fact that the other masters looked down on the mistress, would a maid dare to do this?
Qiao Jinniang couldnt do anything in the Duke Qins Mansion, and she was not in a position to do so.
But if she waited two days for the Duchess toe over, Qiao Ruoyun would defintely be tortured to death.
Qiao Jinniang walked to Princess Fulu and whispered to her, Princess, if you do me a favor, the best private room in the Tasty Pavilion will be yours and all the drinks will be free for you.
Princess Fulu could guess that the restaurants business must be very good with Qiao Jinniangs culinary skills. Besides, she had yed a part in Qiao Ruoyuns tragedy.
I havent seen Ruoyun for a long time, and I really miss her. It just so happens that the Princess Mansion has no guests today. I want to invite her to the Princess Mansion today!
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Princess Fulu in shock, but Qiao Jinniang nodded at her.
Princess Fulu had always been free-willed and capricious, and was a mortal enemy with Miss Qin. No matter what she did, the people of the Qin family wouldnt be surprised.
A little maid in the courtyard hurried to the courtyard of the Duchess Dowager Qin.
The Duchess Dowager was drinking medicine, and when she saw the little maid hurry in, she snapped, Watch your manners! How is Qin Ruoyun doing now?
It happened that Qin Shu and Duke Anyuan were not in Changan these days, so this was the best time to make Qiao Ruoyun die.
It was simply a disgrace for a ves daughter to be the next Duchess Qin!
The little maid kowtowed and said, Old Madam, Princess Fulu wants to take Madam away!
Fulu? Why is she here? Why does she want to take Qin Ruoyun away?
A ferocious gleam shed across Duchess Dowager Qins eyes. Qiao Ruoyun was already dying. If Yuzhui went to anger her every day, she would not be able to survive until the people of the Duke Anyuans Mansion came.
Even though the people of the Duke Anyuans Mansion would definitely confront them, she could just say that Qiao Ruoyun had died because she was too pressured to eat and drink, and her death had nothing to do with the Duke Qins Mansion.
Even if the Duke Anyuans Mansion was angry, they had no evidence to me the Qin family.
The Duchess Dowager hurriedly stood up with a crutch and tried to stop Fulu, but Fulu was very quick and had already taken Qiao Ruoyun into her carriage.
To be exact, she had her carriage stop directly in front of Qin Ruoyuns courtyard.
After getting on the carriage, Fulu asked Qiao Jinniang, Shall I really take Ruoyun to my home?
Qiao Jinniang said, Of course not. She had just had a miscarriage. Your mother might think she would bring bad luck to the Princess Mansion. Please circle around the Princess Mansion to let the people of the Qin family believe that she is in the Princess Mansion, and then send her to the Duke Anyuans Mansion.
Fulu said, I dont think shell bring bad luck, neither do my parents.
Qiao Ruoyun said weakly, Sister, why are you taking me out of the Qin family?
Qiao Jinniang said, Cant you still realize it? You are seriously ill, but even a mere concubine maid dares tough at you, and your mammies have no authority at all.
Although its not cold now, there is still cold wind at night. Youve just had a miscarriage, but the windows and doors in your room are all wide open.
Youve just had a miscarriage, and you couldnt eat anything these days. Whats worse, this concubine maid provokes and mocks you every day. In such an environment, how long can you hold on?
If you dont leave there, when Motheres back, I am afraid what awaits her will be your corpse.
Princess Fulu said in surprise: This, this how can it be?
How do you know that?
Qiao Jinniang said, Although I didnt grow up in a big family, I ran a restaurant. This kind of thing is not umon in big families in the South. In a battle between women, sometimes they dont need to poison or kill their enemies with a knife. They can just kill with dirty tricks instead.
If the Qin family really regards you as their family member, how could they let a concubine maid bully you?
And Qin Shu, your husband, I dont think he is a good husband! How can he indulge his concubine maid like this? Men are all b*stards!
Chapter 17
Chapter 17: Miss Qiaos Name
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Although Fulu was already seventeen, it was the first time she had heard of such a horrible dirty trick.
Qiao Ruoyun blushed and said, Jinniang, my husband is not that kind of person Are you thinking too much?
Qiao Jinniang tucked Qiao Ruoyun in and said, Even if I really am thinking too much, the Duke Qins Mansion is not a good ce for you to recuperate. If you keep pining away, Im afraid you wont be able to see Mother again.
Qiao Jinniang arranged for Qiao Ruoyun to live in her old courtyard.
The servants in the Duke Mansion were all shocked when they learned the news. Qiao Jinniang said to them, Dont tell anyone about it. If it is leaked, I will definitely not let any of you off.
With that, Qiao Jinniang went to her grandmother.
The Duchess Dowager was already asleep at the moment, but she still came out wearing clothes after she heard the report from her mammy.
Qiao Jinniang knelt to the Duchess Dowager and said, Please forgive me for my recklessness, Grandma. I did one thing without asking for your permission.
The Duchess Dowager hurriedly asked a mammy to help Qiao Jinniang up. Get up quickly, didnt you go to the North Mountain for the spring hunt? Why did youe back?
Qiao Jinniang said, I happened to hear a Qin Familys servant report to Miss Qin that Sister Ruoyun had a miscarriage, so I went to the Duke Qins Mansion only to see that she was very gaunt and almost dying
And her husbands concubine maid was repeatedly provoking her, purposely irritating her.
Sister Ruoyuns mammies are ipetent and the maids were cking off, letting the windows wide open, and with the wind blowing into the room, it is very harmful for a woman who had just had a miscarriage.
So I asked Princess Fulu to do me the favor of taking Sister Ruoyun into the Princess Mansion, but in secret, I took her back home to recuperate!
The Duchess Dowager clenched her hand and pounded her fist on the table angrily. That old witch from the Qin Family wants to kill my Yuner!
Among her granddaughters, the Duchess Dowager had special feelings for Ruoyun. After all, as the eldest daughter of the Duke, she was brought up by the Duchess Dowager.
Good girl, you did the right thing. Come on, take me to see Ruoyun.
Qiao Jinniang said to the Duchess Dowager, Grandma, dont worry. If anything happens to you, Sister Ruoyun will feel guilty, but you really should persuade her to eat and drink. Otherwise, she might lose her life.
The Duchess Dowager ordered someone to bring the sedan chair and went to Qiao Ruoyuns courtyard with Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Ruoyun was so skinny and ghastly pale that she looked a bit scary.
Seeing the Duchess Dowagere over, Qiao Ruoyun said, Grandma
The two of them cried on each others shoulder until the doctor came.
After examining Qiao Ruoyun, the doctor said, She has just had a miscarriage and has been depressed, so she is currently very weak. If she still doesnt eat or drink, she might die. You should take care of yourself,dy.
Qiao Jinniang took out the locust cake that she had just made. Sister, this is the locust cake I made. Please have a taste of it.
Qiao Ruoyun said, I really cant eat. Ever since I learned about what happened to us back then, my appetite has been poor, causing me to vomit every time I ate. Seeing this, my grandmother-inw gradually began to dislike me. In order to avoid vomiting, I simply stopped eating. And in the end, I couldnt even drink medicine anymore. Now I cant even drink any water
The doctor said, This is anorexia!
As Qiao Jinniang ran a restaurant before, she had heard of anorexia. Anorexia can be cured.
However, Sister Ruoyun, vomiting should be a symptom of pregnancy. Even if you didnt know that, how could the elders in the Duke Qins Mansion not know it?
And how could your mammies and maids not even notice that you got pregnant? This doesnt make sense. The only exnation is that the people at the Duke Qins Mansion did it on purpose!
Qiao Ruoyun panicked when she heard her words.
The Duchess Dowager looked at Qiao Jinniang appreciatively. Jinniang is right. Ruoyun, take a good rest first. When your motheres back, well go to the Duke Qins Mansion to settle the ounts with them.
Qiao Jinniang said to the Duchess Dowager, Grandma, I had met anorexics when I ran my restaurant in the past. Let me cook some dishes that an anorexic can eat
The Duchess Dowager said, You dont have to do it yourself. Just let the cooks do it. Good girl, the Duke Mansion owes you a lot, but you dont mind it at all and even try to help your sister.
Grandma, Sister Ruoyuns biological parents were very kind to me. I cant be an ingrate.
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ruoyun, Sister, you dont have to put too much pressure on yourself. Ive never suffered. But if you just pass away, this will only sow a discord between the Duke Mansion and I.
In tears, Qiao Ruoyun took the pastry and forced herself to swallow it. Jinniang, please rest assured. I will definitely live well.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont force yourself to eat. It will damage your body even more. Anorexia needs to be treated slowly.
In the pce.
Junior Duke Rong was talking about the woman he had just met to the Crown Prince.
Its a pity that I dont know her name. She is so courageous that she just grabbed such a long snake without batting her eyes. If you find her, please reward her for me!
The Crown Prince nodded. Okay.
She appeared under a locust tree. If she hadnt spoken, I would have thought she was a Fairy Locust Flower!
Sitting next to Junior Duke Rong were Qin Shu and Qin Miaomiao.
Hearing his words, Qin Miaomiao said, Junior Duke Rong, are you talking about the Second Miss of the Qiao Family? She made Golden Locust Flowers and snake broth that day.
Yes, she said her surname is Qiao, but didnt the Second Miss of the Qiao Family marry to the Southwest a long time ago?
As soon as he said so, the people of the Qin Family present all looked a bit embarrassed.
Qin Shu said frankly, Well, as a matter of fact, the eldest daughter of the Qiao Family was swapped with a cooks daughter when she was born, so the real eldest miss of the Qiao Family is not my wife but someone else.
The people of the Qiao family took her back from Linan, and imed that she was the second daughter of Duke Anyuan and my wife was the eldest daughter.
This matter was known to all in Changan, so Qin Shu didnt need to conceal it.
Junior Duke Rong flipped open his folding fan and said, So is she your wife? But the Second Miss is really pitiful. With such a graceful demeanor, she turns out to be raised by a cook in Linan. Destiny makes fools of the people!
Qin Shu said, No, Junior Duke Rong, my wife is not her but Ruoyun, the one who was engaged with me in our childhood.
The Crown Prince narrowed his deep dark eyes. Is Miss Qiao from Linan?
Qin Shu nodded. Yes, she seemed to have run a restaurant in Linan, which is quite famous. I remember its called the Myriad Taste
The Crown Prince almost dropped the wine cup in his hand. What is Miss Qiaos name?
Qin Shu certainly didnt know it. Qin Miaomiao was surprised the Crown Prince would ask this but she still answered, Jinniang.
The Crown Prince swept his gaze to the people of the Duke Anyuans Mansion, but didnt see that familiar face. Did she note to the North Mountain for the spring hunt?
Your Royal Highness, my eldest sister-inw had a miscarriage. She was worried about her so she returned to Changan.
Qin Miaomiao noticed that the Crown Prince didnt look right.
Chapter 18
Chapter 18: I Miss You So Much, Mommy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Crown Prince clenched his jade ring with a jerk. Jinniang, this exined everything.
It was no wonder no matter how hard his men searched in Linan, they couldnt find Jinniang. It turned out that she hade to Changan and became the second daughter of Duke Anyuan
The Crown Prince couldnt wait to go back to Changan to find her.
Qin Shu was surprised. Did Ruoyun have a miscarriage? Why did no one tell me about it?
Qin Miaomiao said, Perhaps Mother didnt want to make you worry. Were going back to Changan the day after tomorrow anyway.
The Crown Prince said to the Junior Duke Rong, Take care of Tuaner. I need to return to Changan right away.
Junior Duke Rong:
In the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang carved flowers on a melon and made two nice and appetizing snacks. Making sure Qiao Ruoyun didnt vomit after eating them, she got up and returned to the Jin Garden.
Walking on the way, Qiao Jinniang somehow felt a pair of eyes staring at her.
For the first time, the Crown Prince, throwing aside his demeanor, climbed up the wall of the Duke Mansion and finally confirmed that she was really Qiao Jinniang
Qiao Jinniang turned out to be the daughter of Duke Anyuan?
The Crown Prince thought it was really incredible, but it was not the time to check this matter tonight. The spring hunt was tomorrow and he was tied up. He wouldnt have time to see her before everyone returned to Changan.
In the manor of the Duke Anyuans Mansion, North Mountain.
Qiao Ruoshui cried andined to Duke Anyuan, Sister Jinniang actually pped me. You see, the handprint hasnt disappeared yet. Mother dotes on her blindly. You know, Im going to be the crown princess. How could she p me like that?
Looking at the mark on his daughters face, Duke Anyuan slightly frowned.
The Duchess said on the side, Qiao Ruoshui, the maid has reported to me what actually happened between you two.
The golden phoenix hairpin was bestowed by Her Majesty to your sister. How could you demand her to give it to you?!
And this p still cant wake you up?
Dont you feel ashamed to keep saying youre going to be the crown princess?
Qiao Ruoshui raised her face with the red mark. Qiao Jinniang is a scourge. If it werent for her, Sister Ruoyun would not have had a miscarriage!
The Duchess said, Jinniang is not a scourge, but you are like a scourge. If you keep being like this, Ill just marry you off far away instead of finding you a husband in Changan, which will just save me a lot of trouble!
The Duchess felt utterly disappointed that her daughter who she had been carefully educating became what she was now.
But Jinniang, her poor daughter, had been separated from her family for so long and had suffered so much. How could she let her be wronged again?
Qiao Ruoshui yelled, Mother, everyone says that Ill be the crown princess, but you and Father are so partial to Qiao Jinniang, and even want to marry me off far away?!
The Duchess frowned. Crown princess, crown princess, whenever ites to the Crown Prince, all your manners and sanity are gone. It will save us a lot of trouble to marry you off far away!
In the Duke Anyuans Mansion.
Qiao Ruoyun recuperated for two days and looked better than the day she came home.
Today, all the nobles returned from the North Mountain.
As soon as the Duchess entered the door, she ordered a servant to make an appointment with the Duke Qins Mansion to visit Qiao Ruoyun only to be told that thetter was right in the Duke Anyuans Mansion.
When the Duchess hurried to Qiao Ruoyuns courtyard in surprise, she saw Qiao Jinniang telling Qiao Ruoyun about the local customs and practices of the South. Ruoyun, Why did youe back?
Qiao Jinniang told her what happened.
Mother, I know I have no right to take Sister Ruoyun home, so I asked Princess Fulu to do me the favor.
In that case, even if the Qin family wanted to refuse, they couldnt.
The Duchess was furious. Humph, how dare the Qin family torture their eldest daughter-inw like that? Do they not want their face anymore?!
Qiao Ruoyun bowed her head and said nothing.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I know I shouldnt gossip about the rtionship between Sister Ruoyun and her husband, but that concubine maid, Yuzhui, imed to be Qin Shus cousin
If she is not driven out, even if Sister Ruoyun goes back, there would be no peace.
The Duchess asked Qiao Ruoyun, When did Qin Shu take in that concubine maid?
Qiao Ruoyun said, I have been unwell recently, so my grandmother-inw wanted to give my husband a concubine, but he refused. Then my grandmother-inw directly gave Yuzhui to him as a concubine maid. She is the granddaughter of my grandmother-inws half cousin, who was born by a concubine
Even the Emperor had poor rtives. Duchess Dowager Qin dug out this so-called cousin just to make things difficult for Qiao Ruoyun.
The Duchess patted Qiao Ruoyuns hand. Just have a good rest in the Duke Mansion. The Duke Qins Mansion must give us an exnation for this matter. If they dont, you can divorce your husband.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at the Duchess in shock. Mother
No men in the world are reliable. Qiao Jinniang said, Your husband couldnt even protect his child and allowed his concubine maid to humiliate you. If you dont divorce him, do you want to be angered to death by him?
The Duchess swallowed after hearing Qiao Jinniangs words. Jinniang, this is just an angry remark. You dont have to take it seriously.
Qiao Jinniang knew that Sister Ruoyuns miserable experience had reminded her of that jerk.
Hongling hurried in and said, Miss, Duke Rongs daughter, Princess Fuan, sent you an invitation, inviting you to visit her.
Princess Fuan? In Qiao Jinniangs memory, she had never seen this princess.
The Duchess said, Princess Fuan has been in poor health since childhood, so she rarely sees guests. Why did she invite Jinniang to visit her?
Hongling nodded and said, The concierge said that Princess Fuan just said, Second Miss, please doe.
The original Second Miss of the Qiao Family had already been married to the Southwest, so the Second Miss she referred to must be Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang asked the Duchess, Mother, should I go?
The Duchess said with worry, Duke Rong and His Majesty are brothers of the same mother and are very close, and Junior Duke Rong is very close to the Crown Prince
But if you dont want to go, I can refuse it for you.
Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, Ill go. Ive juste to Changan after all. Its not bad to get to know more nobles.
Qiao Jinniang got into the carriage of the Duke Mansion, wondering why Princess Fuan invited her to visit her.
When she arrived at Duke Rongs Mansion, Qiao Jinniang was still upset. A maid of the Duke Rongs Mansion led her in, but the more they walked, the more Qiao Jinniang felt it was not right.
Normally, the backyard and the front yard of a family were separated, and the womenfolk would usually live in the backyard.
But the maid was clearly guiding her to the front yard.
After guiding Qiao Jinniang to the Kirin Pavilion, the maid left.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and entered, only to hear someone call her Mother.
Tears immediately gushed out of her eyes. Her little Tuaner who she had been missing all this time ran staggering towards her from a distance.
Tuaner. Qiao Jinniang hurried forward and picked up Tuaner, holding and kissing his little face. My dear Tuaner!
Tuaner rubbed his chubby little face against Qiao Jinniangs neck and said sweetly. Mommy, I miss you so much.
Qiao Jinniang burst into tears. I miss you too. I will not let anyone take you away this time.
Qiao Jinniang wiped her tears with her handkerchief, but then she spotted the man standing under the cypress trees in the courtyard. He was as handsome as she remembered. Undeniably, his face was even more beautiful than a womans.. Everyone said he was so handsome that he was like an immortal banished to the mortal world.
Chapter 19
Chapter 19: p the Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Crown Prince walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, I finally found you.
However, Qiao Jinniang put down Tuaner, raised her hand, and heavily pped the mans face.
At that moment, she exerted the greatest strength she could muster in her life.
You b*stard!
Being pped abruptly, Lu Chen frowned. You
Qiao Jinniang asked Nuomi to take Tuaner aside. Tuaner still remembered Nuomi and followed her away obediently.
Qiao Jinniang tried to p Lu Chen again, but this time Lu Chen was prepared and grasped Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Her wrist was much slenderer than when she was in Linan.
And she was a lot thinner.
Lu Chen asked, What are you doing? Do you know how long Ive been searching for you? How can you leave Linan without even leaving me a message?
Qiao Jinniang tried to break free from Lu Chens hand huffily. Not leave you a message? You had given me a divorce letter. Why should I leave you a message? I just didnt expect you to be so heartless!
Lu Chens brow furrowed deeper. A divorce letter? I never gave you a divorce letter.
What ame excuse! I can recognize your handwriting. And you also snatched Tuaner from me. Do you know how hard I tried to find him for the past month?
Lu Chen said, Calm down. Listen to my exnation I didnt know the situation in Changan back then. You know, my identity is special, and I was afraid you might not adapt if I rashly took you to Changan.
But if I left Tuaner in Linan, he might be in danger if someone found out hes my son.
Therefore, I took Tuaner away and left you in Linan.
As soon as I returned to Changan, I begged my imperial father to give a decree, marrying you to me as my Second Concubine, but when the decree arrived at Linan, you were gone. I didnt know that you are actually the daughter of Duke Anyuan
Hearing my imperial father, Qiao Jinniang was finally certain of his identity. It turned out that she had not guessed wrong. He was the Crown Prince!
That Crown Prince Nuomi saw must not be the true one.
His Second Concubine
Lu Chen, this b*stard, how dare he make her his concubine
Qiao Jinniang sneered. You said you didnt write the divorce letter. I can believe you for the time being. But what do you mean by your Second Concubine? Youve married into my family, havent you? Do you want to demote your wife to a concubine?
Lu Chen got a headache when he heard Qiao Jinniang mention he had married into her family. My Second Concubine will be recorded in the genealogy of the royal family. Its different from ordinary concubines
Its still a concubine, isnt it? Qiao Jinniang roared in a low voice, In Linan, I am your wife! But now you want me to be your concubine?
Lu Chen said, Qiao Jinniang, calm down. Since your identity is different now, Ill ask my imperial mother and imperial father to grant you to be my First Concubine
A teardrop rolled down from the corner of Qiao Jinniangs eye. No need.
Your Royal Highness, if you think it is a disgrace that you had married into my Qiao family when you were in Linan, then just grant me death. Then no one will know about this.
But you cant force me to be your concubine.
Lu Chen said, If you want to be my crown princess, its not impossible, but it will take some time!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. I dont want to be your crown princess. Since you said that the divorce letter was not written by you, okay, Ill give you a divorce letter instead, and well have nothing to do with each other from now on!
Lu Chen refrained from his anger. Dont push me too hard. Ive already agreed to make you my crown princess
I dont care! Qiao Jinniang bit her lower lip. When you left Linan, you didnt even tell me your real identity. Do you even have the slightest bit of respect for me?
Why do you think that you can make me your Second Concubine?
Why do you think that I want to stay in your harem and be one of your future countless concubines?
When you married into my family, you had promised that you wouldnt take a concubine in this life!
Now, why do you think I will share my husband with other women?
Lu Chen was silent.
Qiao Jinniang wiped her tears with a handkerchief and said, Your Royal Highness, for the sake that I once saved your life, please pretend you dont know me at all from now on. Ill just take that divorce letter as your writing.
As for those properties in Linan, lets split them fifty-fifty
Tuaner
When it came to Tuaner, Qiao Jinniang didnt know what to do. Everyone knew Tuaner was an imperial grandson, and it was literally impossible for her to get him back
If you still have some conscience, let Princess Fulu take Tuaner to the Princess Mansion from time to time so that I can go visit him.
When Qiao Jinniang finally stopped, Lu Chen sped her wrist, his eyes full of rage. So you have it all nned out?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen unyieldingly. In this way, no one will know that the Crown Prince has once married into a merchant family, and you dont have to see me, an eyesore, anymore.
Lu Chen was annoyed. When did I say you were an eyesore to me?
If not, why do you think Im only worthy of being your Second Concubine? Qiao Jinniang said, Im afraid that even the position of the Second Concubine is to buy me to shut up and not to expose your secret, right? But let me tell you, you can just rest assured.
I will never tell anyone that because you make me sick.
Lu Chens face was livid. Make you sick?
Isnt what you did sickening enough?
He gave her a divorce letter but didnt admit it. He demoted her to his concubine but still put on that condescending attitude. He was utterly disgusting.
Now Qiao Jinniang really regretted not listening to the advice of others. A handsome man who was willing to marry into your family could never be a good choice!
Lu Chen lowered his voice and said, If I am really disgusting, considering your disrespect to me today, you would have died a few times.
Ill give you some time to calm down.
Its gettingte. I have to go back to the East Pce.
When you calm down, if you want to see me, just send a message to Princess Fuan.
Qiao Jinniang said, Tuaner is he going back too?
Seeing her face was still streaked with tears, Lu Chen gently wiped her tears off with his thumb. Ill leave Tuaner with you for a while, and Junior Duke Rong will send him back to the East Pceter.
After Lu Chen left, Nuomi brought Tuaner over. Miss, he is wearing a python robe. Only the Crown Prince can wear a four-wed python robe
After seeing Qiao Jinniang, Tuaner threw himself into Qiao Jinniangs arms and stretched out her chubby little hand to wipe the tears from Qiao Jinniangs face.
Mommy, dont cry.
Qiao Jinniang hugged Tuaner tightly and forced a smile. Okay, I wont cry. Im gonna be seeing a lot more of you from now on.
When Lu Chen left the Kirin Pavilion, Junior Prince Rong stepped forward only to see a red handprint on the handsome face of the Crown Prince.
Miss Qiao is really fierce! Not only can she catch a snake, but she can really p!
Only then did Lu Chen notice the burning pain on his face. With this handprint on his face, he couldnt meet anyone temporarily.
Lu Chen said to Junior Duke Rong.Take Tuaner back to the East Pce in an hour. Dont tell anyone about Qiao Jinniangs identity.
Junior Duke Rong nodded. Okay, but your face shall I get you some medicine?
Lu Chen covered his face and nodded.. Without applying medicine, he might not even be able to see the Emperor now.
Chapter 20
Chapter 20: Went Back to Linan
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang never thought that an hour could be so short.
It seemed like only the blink of an eye before Junior Duke Rong came in from outside the courtyard and said, Second Miss Qiao, the imperial grandson has to go back to the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang hugged Tuaner tightly. Although she had been holding him for an hour and her arm was almost numb, she didnt feel tired at all.
Seeing this familiar face, she asked: Who are you?
Junior Duke Rong said, I am Junior Duke Rong. Thank you for saving me in the North Mountain.
Since you and the Crown Prince have met again, therell be plenty of opportunities for you to meet in the future. It is gettingte. If you stay too long outside, the Duchess may be worried about you.
Qiao Jinniang reluctantly handed Tuaner to Junior Duke Rong. Tuaner, go home first. Ill bring you your favorite Orange Red Cake next time.
Tuaner didnt want to leave Qiao Jinniang. Mommy, stay with me.
Qiao Jinniang clenched the handkerchief in her hand and tears started to appear in her eyes again. Tuaner, be good. Ille to see you tomorrow.
Junior Duke Rong held Tuaner and left, but when Tuaner saw that his mother didnt follow, he cried out to his mother in tears.
Qiao Jinniangs heart broke when she heard him crying. She hurried forward and said to Junior Duke Rong. Wait, let me put him to sleep first.
She really couldnt bear to hear Tuaners sad cries.
He had always been as good as gold and seldom cried when he was with her.
For the sake of Qiao Jinniangs life-saving grace, Junior Duke Rong handed Tuaner back to Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang held Tuaner with one hand and wiped his sweat from crying with a handkerchief.
Tuaner squeezed Qiao Jinniangs cor tightly, fearing that Jinniang would give him to others again.
Qiao Jinniang sat down and began to sing a Southern folk song softly. In the past, Tuaner would fall asleep soon when he was listening to this song.
But today, Tuaners watery phoenix eyes were wide open, and he hummed the song with Qiao Jinniang from time to time.
Seeing that another quarter of an hour passed, Junior Duke Rong was afraid that the gates of the imperial pce would be locked up. Second Miss Qiao, its gettingte
Qiao Jinniang said to Junior Duke Rong, May I take him to the gates of the East Pce?
Even a little more time with Tuaner would be good.
Junior Duke Rong nodded and had someone drive the Crown Princes extravagant carriage over. When Qiao Jinniang carried Tuaner inside, she was surprised at the spaciousness of the carriage. The carriage was made of precious Gold Phoebe wood.
The carriage was covered with fine silk nkets inside, looking very luxurious.
There were fruits, pastries, and fine tea in the carriage. Qiao Jinniang looked at the luxurious carriage. She had never imagined these items could be ced in a small carriage in the past.
After getting on the carriage, Tuaner gradually closed his eyes.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. However, Duke Rongs Mansion was not far away from the East Pce, so it took less than two quarters of an hour to reach the gates of the East Pce.
Hearing the voice of Junior Duke Ronging from outside, Qiao Jinniang gently kissed Tuaners forehead. No matter how reluctant she was to leave her son, she could only leave.
When getting off the carriage, Qiao Jinniang looked at the majestic pce gates, which was heavily guarded and looked very solemn and awe-inspiring. So this was the imperial pce
Nuomi supported Qiao Jinniang and said, Miss, shall we return to the Duke Mansion?
Duke Anyuans Mansion was not far from here. Qiao Jinniang didnt get on a carriage but walked back step by step.
She needed to adjust her emotions on the road. The Duchess cared about her so much that she would definitely notice that her emotions were not right.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want the people of the Duke Mansion to know what happened between her and the Crown Prince. Nuomi, dont tell anyone that my ex-husband is the Crown Prince.
Nuomi nodded and said indignantly, Yes, Miss. Even if he is the Crown Prince, he shouldnt dump his wife and seize the child How could he do this to you?!
Qiao Jinniangs nails that were painted with nail polish dug deep into her palm. God made jokes with her one after another.
The man who had been her husband for three years turned out to despise her.
From the time Lu Chen regained his memory, he treated her with nothing but contempt. If he had the slightest bit of affection for her, he would not have hidden his identity from her.
And he even gave her a divorce letter.
He had agreed to let her be his First Concubine only because he learned that she was actually the long-lost daughter of Duke Anyuan.
In Lu Chens eyes, she was never his wife
Although her heart was bleeding, Qiao Jinniang still tried to look calm.
As soon as she was back in the Duke Mansion, she heard Qiao Ruoshuis scoffing voice.
Oh, you finally came back from Duke Rongs Mansion. Qiao Jinniang, youre really scheming. Its been only a few days since you returned to Changan but youve already nned to steal Sister Ruoyuns husband?
You im that you did everything for Sister Ruoyuns own good, but you took her back to the Duke Mansion, which would only make the Qin family hate her. I know what youre thinking of. You just want to take Sister Ruoyun back to the Duke Mansion so that you can be Qin Shus wife in her ce, right?
Qiao Ruoshui deliberately waited at the gates of the Duke Mansion. Both her grandmother and her mother thought Qiao Jinniang was clever and praised that she dealt with this matter perfectly.
However, Qiao Ruoshui felt that only she knew what Qiao Jinniang was up to.
You are really vicious. Because of your return, Sister Ruoyun had a miscarriage, and now you even want to steal her husband!
Hearing these shocking words, the concierge and the servants all bowed their heads and wished that they were deaf.
Nuomi blushed with anger. Fourth Miss, youre going too far. Miss has never done anything to you, but you humiliated her repeatedly !
How could you, a distinguished youngdy, have such dirty thoughts?!
Qiao Ruoshui frowned, raised her hand, and was about to p Nuomi hard. You lowly ve, you dont get to talk to me!
Before Qiao Ruoshuis hand fell, Qiao Jinniang held her hand tightly and pushed her to the ground. Idiot, do you think youre humiliating me?
What good will you have if the Duke Mansions reputation is tarnished? Do you think it wont affect you if you ruin my reputation?
Qiao Ruoshui cried when she caught a glimpse of a corner of a red cloud brocade skirt. How can you beat me over and over again? Your maid insulted me first. I cant believe Im bullied like this in my own home. Let me die!
The Duchess came over and said angrily, Whats going on here? Why do you make such a scene at the gates of the Duke Mansion?
Qiao Ruoshui cried. Mother, ask your beloved daughter what a vicious n she has. After being exposed by me, she was exasperated and tried to beat me. Why dont you send such a person away to a manor? Itll only bring us trouble to keep her in the Duke Mansion!
The Duchess noticed that Qiao Jinniangs face was pale. Jinniang, were you wronged in the Duke Rongs Mansion?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head, No.
Mother, if Sister really cant stand me, I can go back to Linan
Chapter 21
Chapter 21: The Crown Prince Will Choose His Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang really disdained Qiao Ruoshuis trick of ying weak, but she had to admit that this trick worked best.
She had been enduring Qiao Ruoshui for long enough. Today, hearing Qiao Ruoshuis malicious spection about her, most people would believe her words and doubt that she was innocent.
If she struck back hard, her reputation would bepletely ruined.
When the Duchess heard return to Linan, she hurriedly held Qiao Jinniangs wrist tightly. No, dont mention that ever again!
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, ever since I came to the Duke Mansion, Ive never done anything wrong, but Sister Ruoshui continues to specte about me maliciously. If I dont return to Linan, I wont have the face to show up in public again.
She could y weak too.
Qiao Jinniangs tears then fell. I think it will be better for me to go back to Linan.
Nuomi cried sadly. Madam, I have been serving Miss since I was a child, and she has never suffered such a grievance. Miss just tried to save Miss Ruoyuns life.
She personally cooked for Miss Ruoyun every day, but in the eyes of Fourth Miss, Miss took Miss Ruoyun back to the Duke Mansion with the intent to steal her husband.
Although Miss grew up in an ordinary family, she was well-educated. How can she have such nasty thoughts?
The Duchess looked at her youngest daughter who was sitting on the ground, crying. How, how dare you frame your sister like this?
Qiao Ruoshui cried. Mother, why dont you believe me despite the fact that I have lived with you for 15 years? Even if you feel guilty about Jinniang, you dont have to go so far, do you? I am the one who you brought up by yourself, not her! Do you know what vicious thoughts Qiao Jinniang has?!
Why did you say I framed her? Thats just what she thinks!
Mother, quickly send her away to a manor. Dont let her ruin the reputation of the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang wiped away her tears. Mother, you dont have to bother to find a manor for me. Ill just return to Linan.
The Duchess said angrily, Those Qiao Family bullies are still in Linan. How can you go back? The one who should be sent away to a manor is not you.
Mammy Liu, take Fourth Miss to a manor to stay for a month. If she still doesnt change her attitude toward her sister, shell stay in the manor for the rest of her life!
Qiao Ruoshui was dumbfounded, as if a basin of cold water had been poured over her.
Mother Im going to be the crown princess. How can you send me away to a manor now? Have you ever considered my reputation?
The Duchess said to Mammy Liu, Fourth Miss lost her mind temporarily because of an illness. Shes not allowed to take a step out of the manor until she recovers!
Qiao Jinniang noticed that the Duchess eyes were full of distress even though her expression was calm.
She knew that she should intercede for Qiao Ruoshui, but she didnt want to.
Mother, Im going back to my room first.
The Duchess said, Have you had dinner
Yes, Ive had dinner in Duke Rongs Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and returned to the Jin Garden. As soon as she entered her room, she couldnt help but hold the quilt and cry.
Everyone in Linan said that she was so blessed that her husband was so handsome and that they had a cute son soon after their marriage.
She cried when she received the divorce letter he gave her.
But now what embarrassed her more was that in her husbands eyes, she never deserved to be his wife
After the Duchess had Qiao Ruoshui brought away, she immediately felt regretful as she walked into the Jin Garden. She wanted to defend Qiao Ruoshui a bit, but then she heard sad cries from the room.
Jinniang must feel so wronged.
The Duchess quickly went in. Jinniang, tell me if you feel wronged. Dont cry alone. Its not good for your health
Ruoshui had insulted you so terribly. She should reflect on her mistake in the manor for two months. I wont bring her back unless she admits her mistake.
Hearing it, Qiao Jinniang hugged the Duchess and cried. Mother.
The Duchess hugged Qiao Jinniang tightly. Im sorry, Jinniang. I should have punished Ruoshui sooner. If I had done so, you wouldnt have been bullied by her over and over again.
Good girl, dont cry. Its not worth crying over those who bullied you. You have me by your side.
Qiao Jinniang was reluctant to leave her mothers warm embrace. Yes, she had got to move on, and it was really not worth it to cry for that jerk
Her tears were as worthless as her in that jerks eyes.
Imperial Pce.
The Queen ordered to serve the dishes, and when Lu Chen sat down, the Queen stared at her sons face. Why did you apply make-up like those dandies?
The Emperor looked at his face carefully. Is your face swollen?
Knowing that he couldnt hide it from his parents, Lu Chen could only say, I had a fall just now.
The Queen said coldly, A fall? Then why is there a handprint on your face? Who dares to p the Crown Prince? Why are you covering up for that person?
Lu Chen said, Just take it as I pped myself!
The Queen said, I guess the one who pped you is a girl but you want to protect her, right? By the way, I didnt tell you in the North Mountain, but I suspect that the second daughter of Duke Anyuan is that Jinniang you are looking for.
Lu Chen responded. Ive already seen her.
The Emperor raised his eyebrows. Is she that daughter of Duke Anyuan who was swapped by Duke Anyuans concubine?
Lu Chen nodded. Yes.
The Emperor said, I think she can be your second concubine. If she gives birth to another child for you, she can be promoted to your first concubine.
The Queen frowned. Which woman would be willing to be demoted from a wife to a concubine? Everyone said that the concubines of the crown prince were not ordinary concubines but were considered masters of the country, but after staying in the harem for so many years, she knew that a concubine would always be a concubine.
Although she felt pity for Qiao Jinniang, the Queen knew the rules of the imperial family. The Queen Dowager and Imperial Concubine Xian would definitely not agree to let her be the crown princess. It was already the best result for Qiao Jinniang to be the Crown Princes second concubine.
The emperor said, You should select your crown princess now, and then Ill grant a decree to Qiao Jinniang, making her your second concubine, so as not to arouse any suspicion.
It was a scandal that the Crown Prince had once married into a merchants family, so it would save a lot of trouble to grant Qiao Jinniang to be the second concubine after dering who was the crown princess.
Thinking of Qiao Jinniang, who tearfully scolded him for demoting her to be his concubine in Duke Rongs Mansion, Lu Chen said to the Emperor, Father, Jinniang is Duke Anyuans daughter after all. And Duke Anyuan is one of your favorite subjects. Isnt the position of the second concubine too low for her?
The Emperor looked at Lu Chen. Then what position do you think is appropriate?
Lu Chen said in a low voice. The crown princess.
The emperor said, Choosing a crown princess is not a trivial matter. Although she gave birth to Tuaner, she was brought up by a merchant. A girl who grew up in a restaurant doesnt deserve to be the crown princess.
Hearing this, Lu Chen pursed his lips and said nothing more.
Since the Queen entered the imperial pce, the Emperor hadnt picked any more concubines.
As suggested by the Ministry of Rites, the date for the Crown Prince to choose his crown princess would be June 21, which was only two months away.
This event instantly became the hottest news.
Qiao Jinniang was recuperating in her room for three days before she came out.. It was a coincidence that she ran into Princess Fulu who came to the Duke Mansion when she walked out of the Jin Garden.
Chapter 22
Chapter 22: The Crown Princes Harem
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang saluted Princess Fulu. Princess Fulu.
Fulu tilted her head and looked at Qiao Jinniang. Your sister went too far. I cant believe she made you so gaunt. It has only been four or five days since Ist saw you but you look so thin now. How poor you are!
Qiao Ruoshui was making a scene at the gate of the Duke Mansion. With so many peopleing and going at the gate of the Duke Mansion, this news quickly spread as Qiao Jinniang had guessed.
However, people just talked about Qiao Ruoshui, not daring to gossip that Qiao Jinniang tried to steal Qiao Ruoyuns husband.
After all, Qiao Ruoshui who spread this rumor had been sent away to a manor
No one in Changan dared to offend Duke Anyuan.
Qiao Jinniang had indeed lost a lot of weight in the past few days. Hearing Fulus words, she didnt exin. Princess, sorry for troubling you and your mother for Sister Ruoyuns affair.
Fulu said, My mother often feels bored. The people of the Duke Qins Mansione to beg my mother to return their daughter-inw every day, which gives my mother a lot of fun.
Besides, my mother was very angry when she heard what they did to your sister.
The Qin Family had spread a lot of rumors about me for Qin Miaomiao, so my mother is happy to see them in trouble
Qiao Jinniang still thanked her. I still have to thank you, Princess. My Tasty Pavilion will open soon. You can eat for free in my restaurant.
Princess Fulu smiled at Qiao Jinniang. If you really want to thank me, just tell me what the daughter of the Xie Family is like.
I heard that she is so stunningly beautiful that is considered the number one beauty in the South.
You are already so beautiful, but no one calls you the number one beauty in the South. Since that is the case, I wonder how shockingly beautiful she would be?
Qiao Jinniang asked, Is it Xie Yun?
Fulu nodded. Yes, the Crown Prince is going to choose his crown princess soon, so the Xie Family sent their daughter to Changan. Now all the nobledies in Changan are guessing that she might have an 80% chance of being the crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang was surprised that the Crown Prince was going to choose his crown princess soon. And when she heard Xie Yuns name, she paused.
Xie Yun liked eating pastries, and Qiao Jinniang often sent pastries to her. Despite the difference in status between them, Xie Yun treated her very well.
Qiao Jinniang remembered that she once heard a matchmaker, who often came to her restaurant, say that the people of the Xie Family nned to marry Xie Yun into the imperial family, so the young men of the wealthy families in Linan shouldnt waste time courting her.
Jinniang, Jinniang?
Hearing Fulus voice, Qiao Jinniang said gently, Miss Xie Yun is extremely beautiful, like a fairy descending from the heavens!
Fulu asked, Although the crown princess would be selected on June 21, a casino has already opened a gamble on who will be the crown princess. The earlier I bet, the higher the odds. I n to bet on Xie Yun to win.
Qiao Jinniang:
Princess Fulu said, Are you going to bet too?
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly waved her hand. No, thanks.
But she was thinking, if Xie Yun was the crown princess, what would happen to her Tuaner?
When she once asked Xie Yun what a concubine maid was, Xie Yun had taught her how to overawe and punish concubines and their sons. At that point, Qiao Jinniang listened to her with relish and was shocked that there were so many dirty tricks in the strife among women in the high-ranking families.
But if those tricks were used on her Tuaner Qiao Jinniang suddenly got chills all over her body.
She didnt know if Xie Yun would treat her Tuaner kindly for the sake of the friendship they once had.
Princess Fulu put her arm around Qiao Jinniangs shoulders. Dont worry. That casino is run by Junior Duke Rong, and it has a good reputation. Plus, Ive done such a big favor for you, so just apany me to make a bet!
Last time when your family hosted the banquet for you, there was also a flower viewing banquet in the imperial pce to choose the wives and concubines for the princes.
However, none of the top nobledies in Changan attended the flower viewing banquet, so it failed.
This time, after the Crown Prince chooses his crown princess, the royal family would choose wives and concubines for the other princes.
My friends who want to marry into the royal family dont go out at all these days for fear that their reputation will be tarnished. None of them dare to apany me to a casino!
Even those noble girls who dont want to marry into the royal family are busy finding their fiances before the royal family starts to choose wives and concubines for the princes, so they dont have time to go to the casino either.
So only you can apany me to the casino.
Since Princess Fulu said so, Qiao Jinniang could only go with her.
Lucky Casino had a good reputation just as Fulu Princess said.
There were a lot of women and old people in it.
There were even people ying leaf cards here, with the stakes being no more than a penny.
It could be seen how prosperous Changan was.
Why is the youngest daughter of Duke Anyuan not included? The little imperial grandson is very close to Qiao Ruoshui, and she got off the Crown Princes carriage previously in the North Mountain.
You didnt hear the news, right? Qiao Ruoshui had offended her sister, the long-lost daughter of Duke Anyuan, and was driven away to a manor. Thus, she wont have the time to return to join in on the selection.
Will Duke Anyuan send his daughter who was born by a concubine, Qiao Ruoyi, or his brothers daughter to join in on the selection?
Why cant it be that long-lost daughter of Duke Anyuan? She is Duke Anyuans daughter too, right?
Hearing their words, Qiao Jinniang walked over.
One of the women said, Although she is Duke Anyuans daughter, she was raised by ves.
I heard that she used to run a restaurant. Raised by ves and did business, if her father werent Duke Anyuan, she doesnt even deserve to be the Crown Princes concubine.
Even if she is a nobledy now, she can at most be the fifth concubine of the Crown Prince.
Hearing what they said, Princess Fulu took Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Dont pay attention to their nonsense. If Xie Yun is really as beautiful as rumored, she will definitely win.
Why are your hands so cold? Princess Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said, Maybe its because I havent recovered from my illness. On another note, how many concubines can the Crown Prince have?
Qiao Jinniang only knew that a crown prince would have concubines, but she didnt know that he could have so many of them.
Fulu exined to Qiao Jinniang, You may not have been informed of it in the South. Except for the crown princess, a crown prince can have:
Two first concubines, two second concubines, who are equal to level-three officials.
Six third concubines, who are equal to level-four officials; ten fourth concubines, who are equal to level-five officials.
16 fifth concubines, who are equal to level-seven officials; 24 sixth concubines, who are equal to level-nine officials, as well as many concubine maids who have no official ranks.
The Crown Prince should have chosen his crown princess in the year he disappeared, so now his harem is empty, and he doesnt even have a concubine.
This time, no matter what, the royal family will select for him a crown princess, a first concubine, two second concubines, and one for each of the other ranks
Qiao Jinniang had been running a restaurant, so she was very good at arithmetic, but it took her quite a while to count the number of women that would be in the harem of a crown prince.
So the Crown Prince could have one wife and sixty concubines in total!
Even if as Fulu said, there would be at least seven women selected into the East Pce this time, and it was considered not many
Although Qiao Jinniang knew that rich men would have many concubines and an emperor could have a huge harem, she grew up in an ordinary family, and most ordinary families were monogamous. She could never imagine sharing her husband with so many women.
Seventh Brother, what are you looking at?
On the second floor of the casino, Junior Duke Rong saw Lu Chen stop and asked.
Following Lu Chens gaze, he looked down. Fulu and Miss Qiao?
Qiao Jinniang felt someone was looking at her, so she looked up, then her and Lu Chens eyes met.
Chapter 23
Chapter 23: Disrespect
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the casino, it was very noisy. Qiao Jinniang could hear people were guessing who would be the crown princess:
I think Princess Fulu has a chance. Although she and the Crown Prince are cousins, and she is a dandy, she is still the niece of His Majesty. Wouldnt it be great to be extra rted?
If you want to talk about being extra rted, wouldnt Li Lingling from Empress Dowagers family, Earl Chengen Mansion, be a better choice? Plus, shes famous for being talented.
Qin Miaomiao from Duke Qins Mansion
Princess Fulu squeezed her way up and said, If you bet on Qin Miaomiao, youll definitely lose. Ill bet on Xie Yun.
Princess Fulu? You came to bet too? Why not bet on yourself?
Princess Fulu smiled and said, If I cant be chosen, I should still win some money. Jinniang, are you going to bet as well?
Qiao Jinniang shifted her gaze to the name of Qin Miaomiao.
Princess Fulu was annoyed. How can you bet on Qin Miaomiao? Dont you know that she is my most hated person? Pick another one.
At this point, Junior Duke Rong suddenly walked up to Fulu and Qiao Jinniang. Fulu, Miss Qiao, what a coincidence. I have a private room on the second floor. Would you like to have a cup of tea there?
Qiao Jinniang didnt see Lu Chening downstairs, so she guessed that he should still be in the private room.
She didnt want to see Lu Chen, but it would be rude to refuse Junior Duke Rongs invitation.
On the other hand, Fulu happily responded. Okay.
At the door of the private room, Qiao Jinniang entered, and Junior Duke Rong said to Fulu, There is a new game in the casino. Miss Qiao, please wait here for a while. Let me take Princess Fulu to try the new game.
Fulu said, Is it good? Jinniang, lets go together?
Ms. Qiao has just returned to Changan, so dont ruin her reputation. There is a Guqin yer in the room. With her there, Miss Qiao wont be bored.
With that, Junior Duke Rong pulled Fulus sleeves and went downstairs.
Fulu and Junior Duke Rong were cousins, so with no qualm, Fulu broke free from him and said, Dont drag me. Ill go with you.
After Fulu and Junior Duke Rong left, the door of the private room closed.
In the room, Lu Chen was sitting at the table with a teacup in his hand as he said coldly, Its been three days. Can we talk now?
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands. Ive said what I want to say.
Ill just take that divorce letter as the truth, then you and I will have nothing to do in the future.
Anyway, I still have the opportunity to see Tuaner in Duke Rongs mansion or the Princess Mansion.
As for you, you make me sick whenever I see you.
They had been together for three years, so Qiao Jinniang wasnt in awe of him at all, even though he was the Crown Prince.
Lu Chens face turned dark. Do you want Tuaner to cry himself hoarse every time he separates from you?
Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief and said, If you really love Tuaner, let him feign death. And I will take him to Linan and will never step into Changan again!
When Lu Chen heard her words, he sneered. Did you get some inspiration from some random novel you read?
Tuaner is my eldest son. Do you think you can hide his identity?
Qiao Jinniang knew how fierce the fight for the throne could be, but she could only say, Tuaner is still young, so he cries after separating from me, but itll be better as he grows up.
Lu Chen stood up and approached Qiao Jinniang step by step. Am I that disgusting to you? You dont want to marry into the East Pce even for the sake of Tuaner?
Yes, I cant look at you without throwing up.
Qiao Jinniang looked straight into Lu Chens eyes, without flinching. Even a pig wont mate with more than a dozen sows!
In the past three days, she tortured herself into such a pining state, but Lu Chen was happily preparing to choose his wife and concubines
Lu Chens face became darker and darker, and his deep dark eyes lost the usual elegance. He said with a dark look, Qiao Jinniang, are you aware who youre talking to?
Qiao Jinniang said, You can kill me to silence me so that no one can tarnish your reputation!
Lu Chen suppressed his anger and said, It seems that you still havent calmed down. Ive already discussed it with my father. In two months, he will grant you to be my second concubine. You will enter the East Pce as soon as the imperial decree is issued
Qiao Jinniang spat on Lu Chen. Bah, no way! His Majesty is kind and benevolent. He will definitely not force a meritorious ministers daughter to be a concubine! Besides, my dad is the Defense Minister. His Majesty will not let a loyal minister down.
Lu Chen simply said, Then what if your father has agreed?
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. She only said a few words with her so-called father, so she didnt know if he would support her.
Maybe he wanted her to enter the East Pce?
At this point, Fulus voice suddenly came from outside. The new game you said is just dice. Its not fun at all.
With a squeak, Fulu pushed the door open. Imperial Cousin, why are you here?
Lu Chen restored his elegant and gentle mask again. He said, Well, you can enjoy yourself but dont lead other girls astray. Although this casino is very popr, youd better note here too frequently.
Princess Fulu said, I donte often. Imperial Cousin, choose Xie Yun as your crown princess, okay? I bet a whole hundred taels of silver on her.
I heard that Xie Yun is from Linan, and you stayed in Linan for three years, so you should have met Xie Yun, right?
Is she better-looking than my friend, Jinniang?
Lu Chen nced at Qiao Jinniang lightly and said, Your friend looks better.
Princess Fulu stared at Qiao Jinniang. You lied to me?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, he is blind.
Princess Fulu hurriedly covered Qiao Jinniangs mouth. Imperial Cousin, Jinnianges from the countryside and doesnt know the rules. I will take her away and make her aware of how big a mistake she just made.
Fulu quickly took Qiao Jinniang out of the room and scolded Qiao Jinniang in a low voice at the door, Are you crazy? How dare you say the Crown Prince is blind?
Qiao Jinniang said, Xie Yun is prettier than me.
Princess Fulu said, s, you have to know that there are a lot of nobles in Changan. Not everyone is as beautiful and kind-hearted as me, so be careful in the future. Dont say that about His Royal Highness again.
Qiao Jinniang finally smiled. Okay.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Duke Mansion, she went to Qiao Ruoyuns courtyard. Qiao Ruoyun was already in a much better state, but she was still weak after the miscarriage.
After checking up on her, she went back to the Jin Garden.
There, the Duchess was waiting for her in the room. Seeing Qiao Jinniange back, she said, I heard that you could get out of bed today, so I came to see you, but I was told that you were taken away by Princess Fulu.
Fulu is a straightforward girl but is a bit capricious. If you cant handle her, just tell me and Ill refuse for you.
Some noble girls can go to a ce like a casino, but its not good for their reputation.
Your father is already looking for a husband for your fourth younger sister, and your fifth younger sister and sixth younger sister will have theiring-of-age ceremony next month. Maybe they will be married into the royal family.
I n to find you a fiance first and let you marry in one or two years so that you can stay by my side longer.
If it were not for Lu Chens words, Qiao Jinniang would definitely reject it. She had lost faith in men, so she didnt want to meet another jerk.
But what she was more reluctant to do was to enter the harem of Lu Chen, that b*stard.
It would be better for her to engage with a man first, then cancel the engagement after Lu Chen chose his wife and concubines.
So Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, Mother, when ites to marriage, you can decide for me.
Chapter 24
Chapter 24: Cannot Take Any Concubine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Duke Anyuan was usually very busy, but after returning from the trip to the North Mountain, he had a few days free.
Although he knew that the Duchess was still angry at him, he had to discuss with her about the selection of the crown princess.
When the Duchess came back from the Jin Garden, she saw Duke Anyuan waiting for her, and she asked coldly, Why are you here, Your Excellency?
Duke Anyuan said, This is my mansion. Why cant I be here? Now that weve found Jinniang back, cant you just forgive me?
The Duchess sneered coldly. Forgive you? For the sake of my children, especially my poor Jinniang, Ive already forgiven you. Otherwise, I would have divorced you and gone back home!
Your beloved little concubine ruined my daughters life. If it werent for the fact that Jinniang would be med if I divorce you and that Nianer is still young, I wouldnt have tolerated you anymore!
Duke Anyuan sighed. She has been beaten to death for what she did. Why are you still so angry? I came to you because His Majesty said today that he wanted to be inws with me.
The Duchess was surprised to hear this. Really?
Duke Anyuan nodded. This afternoon, in the imperial study, the Emperor suddenly said this to him.
Duke Anyuan thought the Emperor wanted Qiao Ruoshui to marry the Crown Prince. Im afraid that we cant decide on Ruoshuis marriage. Since His Majesty has said so, let Ruoshuie back from the manor as soon as possible!
In fact, for the past few days when Qiao Ruoshui was in the manor, the Duchess had been worrying about her every single day.
After all, she was her daughter.
But thinking that Qiao Jinniang had been ill for three days and had be so gaunt, the Duchess felt that Ruoshui deserved it.
The Duchess said, If Ruoshuies back, what should Jinniang do? I dont care. Jinniang has been away from me for eighteen years. I will never let her return to Linan. Ruoshui needs to be taught a lesson.
With such a personality, even if she marries into the East Pce, how long can she survive? Xie Yun is the most renowned girl among those powerful families
Duke Anyuan asked, Has Jinniang recovered from her illness?
Do you still have Jinniang in your eyes? If you didnt favor that b*tch, my poor daughter wouldnt have suffered for so many years
The conversation returned to the previous subject.
Duke Anyuan sighed secretly and left the courtyard.
A mammy tried to persuade the Duchess: Madam, why are you still angry at His Excellency? Although he used to like that b*tch, he still respects and loves you. Who doesnt envy you in Changan?
Duke Anyuan had only one wife and two concubines. Qiao Ruoyis mother was a maid who took care of Duke Anyuan since he was a child. They were more like families than lovers.
This was why Duke Anyuan allowed her to give birth to Ruoyi.
As for the concubine who swapped Jinniang and Ruoyun, she was forced to drink sterilizing medicine when she entered the Duke Mansion.
All the nobledies in Changan envied the Duchess for her husbands deep affection for her.
The Duchess sneered. Respect? Love? Women in this world are only allowed to have one husband, but men can love two to three women at the same time!
Now that Im going to choose a husband for Jinniang, the most important thing is that he must vow not to take any concubines or concubine maids.
If there is no such man, it would be better to let Jinniang raise gigolos like those princesses do. Having the Duke Mansion behind her and with the care of her younger brother, she can live happily in this life.
The mammy was shocked at her words and hurriedly said, Second Miss will definitely find her Mr. Right. I heard that the Buddha in Yuanxi Temple outside the city is very effective in facilitating marriages
The Duchess said, Then go prepare. Ill take Jinniang to Yuanxi Temple tomorrow.
The mammy responded. Yes.
Qiao Jinniang was leafing through the almanac and trying to pick an auspicious day to reopen the Tasty Pavilion, but in the end, she felt that she should go to a temple for advice.
She was about to go out to tell the Duchess that she was going to a temple tomorrow when she saw Duke Anyuaning over.
Seeing him, Qiao Jinniang saluted. Father.
Duke Anyuan was only thirty-five years old. Although he had a beard, he still looked very handsome.
When Duke Anyuan saw Jinniang, a gleam of guilt shed across his eyes. It was not unreasonable for the Duchess to hate him. If it hadnt been for him to indulging in that b*tch too much, she would not have the chance to swap his daughter.
Jinniang, are you going to your mother?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, Father. Id like to open a restaurant in Changan, so I want to go to a temple and ask for an auspicious day to open it.
Duke Anyuan asked, Which restaurant? Tell me the opening day when its decided, Ill bring my colleagues to visit your restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang had thought that the Duke would not allow her to open a restaurant, but to her surprise, her father was very supportive of her. Tell me when you decide the opening day.
Father...
Duke Anyuan looked at Qiao Jinniang kindly. Is it about Tuaner? Ive ordered my men to search for him in Changan ording to his portrait that you painted.
But they cant find him. Did your ex-husband lie to you? Maybe they didnte to Changan?
Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief and said, Father, Ive made up my mind. Since that jerk had given me a divorce letter, Ive nothing to do with him anymore.
But if hees and forces me to marry him as a concubine, will you protect me, Father?
Duke Anyuan was instantly irritated. If I see that guy, I will break his legs!
How dare he make such a ridiculous demand? You can rest assured that I must not let him humiliate you.
Qiao Jinniang was relieved to hear that. The Emperor was wise and benevolent.
If Duke Anyuan refused, the Emperor wouldnt force her to marry the Crown Prince as a concubine.
After saluting the Duke, Qiao Jinniang went into the Duchesss courtyard and exined her intentions.
A mammy said, Oh, Second Miss, you really have a telepathic connection with your mother. Madam is also going to go to Yuanxi Temple tomorrow to offer incense.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand. You can inquire about the auspicious day there, but Ill beg the Buddha to bless you to find a good husband. His Majesty intends to let Ruoshui marry into the East Pce. So before that, we have to choose a fianc for you.
Qiao Jinniang was surprised. Lu Chen, that b*stard! Did he want her and her sister to marry him together?!
She didnt know if she should tell the truth.
Even if she did so, Qiao Ruoshui would not give up marrying into the East Pce, and she would be involved in it, so it would be for her better not speak it out.
It was a sunny day the next day. Inte April, it was a bit hot.
Yuanxi Temple was on a mountain outside Changan. There were already many noble madams and girls who came to offer incense early in the morning, as well as manymoners.
The road was so crowded that the carriages could not move at all.
The Duchess opened the carriage curtain and asked a maid outside, Howe we havent arrived yet?
The maid replied. Madam, the abbot is holding a dharma assembly in Yuanxi Temple today, so there are many people who came to offer incense.
Qiao Jinniang also opened the curtain to look at the long queue in front, and said to the Duchess, Mother, shall we get off the carriage and walk to the temple? It may take a long time for the carriage to pass.
The Duchess nodded.. Okay.
Chapter 25
Chapter 25: Apologize
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Duchess Anyuan got out of the carriage, many nobledies greeted andplimented her.
Duchess Anyuan, did youe to offer incense too? This is your second daughter, right? She looks so beautiful.
Duchess, you two look as if you both are carved out of the same mold. We can tell she is your daughter just from a nce.
The madams had all heard that the Duchess drove her youngest daughter who was expected to be the crown princess to a remote manor for this daughter who they found from the countryside.
It could be seen how much she loved this daughter, so they all came up to tter Jinniang.
Among them, some wanted to match Jinniang and their sons. After all, the Buddha in this Yuanxi Temple was very proficient in promoting marriages.
Qiao Jinniang was already 18 years old, so the Duchess probably wouldnt keep her for long and must be currently selecting a fiance for her.
Although Qiao Jinniang was raised by servants, the Duchess obviously loved her very much. If their sons could marry Qiao Jinniang, with Duke Anyuans support, they would definitely have a promising career.
Besides, Qiao Jinniang looked beautiful and graceful. It would be great if their sons could marry her.
During this time, the wife of Foreign Minister came forward and said, If my son could marry a beautiful wife like Miss Second, it must be our ancestors blessing him.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. These words were a bit rude.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Im afraid I may have to let you down, Madam. My daughter has suffered for so many years due to a concubine. Any man who wants to marry Jinniang cant take any concubine or concubine maid!
Qiao Jinniang looked at the Duchess gratefully. At this moment, she believed there was a telepathic connection between mother and daughter.
The otherdies looked at each other in embarrassment.
Apart from the sons-inw of the royal family, was there any official in Changan who didnt have concubines or concubine maids?
Thedies soon left awkwardly one after another.
The Duchess patted Jinniangs hand. Jinniang, your sister and I both suffer because of concubines.
Therefore, I hope that your future husband wont have any concubines even if his family is not as powerful as our Duke Mansion. It doesnt matter if his family is rich or not. Mom and Dad will always help you in the future.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Mom, I think so too.
When they came to the temple, there were even more people here.
After finally drawing a divination stick, the Duchess wanted to ask the abbot to exin it, but the abbot was at the dharma assembly, so the Duchess decided to join the dharma assembly first and then ask the abbot to exin the divination stick when he was free.
Qiao Jinniang was not quite interested in the dharma assembly, so she decided to go to the monks who set up a stall in the temple to ask which day was a good day for her restaurant to open.
The Duchess said to her, Be careful. When youre done, wait for me at the gate of the temple.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
There were so many people in the temple today, so Qiao Jinniang waited for quite a while before it was her turn.
Master, Id like to pick an auspicious day to open my restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang handed the divination stick she drew to the monk.
The monk looked at it and said, This is a good draw. April 28 is a good day.
Qiao Jinniang handed over a piece of silver and said, Thank you for your exnation, Master.
When did you start to believe these things?
Hearing the contemptuous voice, Qiao Jinniang turned around and saw Lu Chen.
And Tuaner was in his arms.
Fortunately, the nobledies and girls in Changan had all gone to the dharma assembly. At this moment, the people here were all ordinary people who didnt recognize the Crown Prince.
Today, Qiao Jinniang brought Hongling and Luhe with her. Both of them had met the Crown Prince before, so they quickly saluted him.
Afraid that Qiao Jinniang didnt know this man was the Crown Prince, Hongling whispered into Qiao Jinniangs ear. Miss, he is the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang saluted him reluctantly.
As soon as Tuaner saw Qiao Jinniang, he kept staring at Jinniang with his round little eyes, but he didnt call her Mommy this time.
Qiao Jinniang really wanted to hug Tuaner but with the two maids here, she could only refrain herself from doing so.
Lu Chen handed Tuaner to Qiao Jinniang. Give him to my secret guard in half an hour.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly hugged Tuaner and saluted Lu Chen. Yes.
Both Hongling and Luhe were shocked by the princes move. After he left, Hongling asked, Why did His Royal Highness give you the little imperial grandson, Miss?
Im going to find Madam, Luhe said.
Qiao Jinniang quickly stopped her. No need, I met the little imperial grandson in the Duke Rongs Mansion, and we seem to like each other. I saw there was a fair outside the temple. Lets go take him there for fun.
Hongling felt it was not proper, but since Qiao Jinniang was her master, she could only listen to her.
Tuaner suddenly whispered into Qiao Jinniangs ear. Mommy.
His voice was as soft as a mosquitos hums, so only Jinniang could hear it. Hearing this, she couldnt help but tighten her hug, reluctant to let go of Tuaner.
With Hongling and Luhe here, it was not convenient for Qiao Jinniang to talk to Tuaner, so she tried her best to make Tuanerugh while she brought him around the fair.
Fairs in Changan were very lively, selling all kinds of trinkets.
As the Dragon Boat Festival approached, sachets and the like were also sold in the fair.
In the past, Qiao Jinniang would make a sachet for Tuaner at each Dragon Boat Festival. Now that she had found Tuaner, she nned to make a sachet for him again, so she went to a brocade shop.
Madam, what would you like?
Hongling said, Our miss has not married yet!
The hawker touched his head and said awkwardly, The little boy looks simr to this youngdy, so I thought they were mother and son. Im sorry.
Jinniang looked at Tuaner and said, Everyone says that this child looks like his father. Why did you say that he looks like me?
The hawker said, The little boys eyes are not like yours, but the contours of his face and nose are like yours very much. Are you brother and sister? This piece of red silk suits you very well.
Hearing this, Hongling and Luhe looked at Jinniang and Tuaner and were surprised to find that they looked simr indeed.
Since the birth of Tuaner, everyone said that he was like Lu Chen. This was the first time that someone said Tuaner looked like her.
Very pleased, she generously bought two bolts of silk.
However, a sneer suddenly sounded behind her. Humph, someone thinks she has changed from a sparrow into a phoenix, but a sparrow is always a sparrow. Even my ves wont use this rough kind of cloth to make shoes!
Qiao Jinniang looked back. The woman who spoke looked a little familiar, but she couldnt remember who this woman was.
Hongling and Luhe nced at each other. Neither of them recognized this woman as well.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know her, so she didnt bother to pay attention to her.
But the woman continued, Youre really good at acting. With a small trick, you sent Ruoshui to a manor to suffer. How can you still have the cheek toe here to have fun?
At this point, Qiao Jinniang remembered that this woman was one of Qiao Ruoshuis friends. Her father should be a low-ranking official in the Ministry of Defence, so she didnt even know who Tuaner was.
Tonger, dont mess around. At this moment, a man in his twenties suddenly came over and scolded Yu Tong.
Then he turned to salute Qiao Jinniang politely. Miss Qiao, Im sorry. My sister is worried about her friend, so she offended you.. Please allow me to apologize for her.
Chapter 26
Chapter 26: A Toad Lusting After A Swans Flesh
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang looked at the man who saluted her. He was in his twenties. Although he was not as handsome as the damn Crown Prince, he did not look bad.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was silent, the man said, Im Yu An, the son of an official in the Defense Department. Today, I came to Yuanxi Temple with my sister to pray for the Buddha to bless me to pass the Imperial Examination.
My sister misses your sister too much, so she said those improper words. Please forgive her.
As an apology, Ill pay for the two bolts of silk you chose.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, No need, your sister looks about fifteen to sixteen years old, and she is obviously not dumb. If she really wants to apologize, why does she let you apologize to me in her ce?
Yu An was slightly stunned. Why was Qiao Jinniang different from what he guessed?
He originally thought that this woman from the countryside would grow interested in him when she heard that he was going to pass the Imperial Examination.
After all, a countryside girl hadnt seen much of the world. He believed that he was good-looking and his temperament was good, so she would definitely fancy him.
However, to his surprise, Qiao Jinniang was so cold to him.
Yu An thought that it must be because she was annoyed by his sisters words, so he tugged at Yu Tongs arm. Come on, apologize to Miss Qiao!
Yu Tong snorted. No way! When Ruoshui returns and bes the crown princess, she will definitely punish this sparrow.
Tuaner asked with a cute voice in Jinniangs arms, Is she talking bad about you?
Qiao Jinniang didnt want Tuaner to hear these lousy words, so she said, Good boy, do you want to eat candied haws?
Tuaner kept nodding. Qiao Jinniang smiled and left with Tuaner.
Yu An and Yu Tong were left where they were.
Yu Tong said disdainfully, That vige girl knows no manners. How could she just leave like that? Brother, why were you so polite to her?
What do you know?! The gentle smile suddenly disappeared from Yu Ans face and he said angrily, Shes a good choice for me, but you ruined everything!
Hearing it, Yu Tong stomped her feet and shouted, Brother, how can that countryside woman be worthy of bing your wife?
How could the future mistress of our Yu family be an ill-mannered woman from the countryside?
People willugh at us!
Looking at his stupid sister, Yu An regretteding out with her today. Cant you see how much the Duke and the Duchess love her? The clothes and jewelry she wears are all the most fashionable pieces in Changan.
Her younger sister offended her and was sent away to a manor.
However, after all, she grew up in the countryside, so its not easy for her to marry a high-ranking husband. She can only marry into a family that is not as powerful as the Duke Anyuans Mansion.
Even if I pass the Imperial Examination, Ill still have to climb up thedder slowly.
But if I can marry Qiao Jinniang, how could Duke Anyuan not help his son-inw? Even if I fail to pass the Imperial Examination, hell help me get a ce in court.
And Father may also be promoted to be the Deputy Minister of Defense. Why were you so stupid as to offend her?!
Yu Tong said with disdain, Ruoshui is my friend. If she bes the crown princess, she will definitely help Father and you for my sake.
Qiao Jinniang held Tuaner and bought him a bunch of candied haws.
Luhe paid and said to Qiao Jinniang, Miss, that girl from the Yu family is really rude, but her brother is gentle and polite. If he passes the Imperial Examination, his future must be bright.
Hongling scolded Luhe, Dont say these improper words to Miss.
Qiao Jinniang stopped at a pavilion, put down Tuaner, and said to Luhe with a chuckle. You are so young that you probably think Mr. Yu is a good person.
Luhe lowered her head and said, Miss, isnt he? Its his sister who was rude to you, but he apologized to you and made his sister apologize to you as well.
Qiao Jinniang took the fan from Honglings hand and gently fanned Tuaner. Its the first time we met, so why did he bother to mention that he was going to pass the Imperial Examination? He thought he hid his real thoughts well, but a discerning person can see him through at a nce.
Yu An mentioned that just to attract her attention.
There were many novels in which nobledies fell in love with young schrs at first sight and were desperate to marry them.
And girls from wealthy or powerful families threw aside their family and eloped with young schrs.
Qiao Jinniang had read so many of such novels. How could she not tell what Yu An was thinking?
Luhe said in surprise, Miss, do you mean that Mr. Yu was seducing you?
Qiao Jinniang took her handkerchief and wiped off the sugar crumbs on Tuaners lips. Her silence said it all.
Luhe said in annoyance, How is he deserving of marrying you? It is like a toad lusting after a swans flesh.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Tuaners cute face and sighed. If she guessed right, there would be more and more young men like Yu An appearing around her in the future.
After all, she was a divorced woman. With this badge, she could only marry into a lower-ss family.
But if a young man from a lower-ss family had some dignity and ability, he wouldnt choose to marry her, while those who were willing to marry her probably just wanted her fathers help
After Tuaner ate two candied haws, Jinniang forbade him from eating more.
Both Hongling and Luhe were surprised that the little imperial grandson was so obedient to Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang had a lot of words to say to Tuaner, but with the two maids here, she couldnt say much to him.
So she just bought lots of trinkets from the street stalls for Tuaner. Then she saw a dough figurine stall.
Jinniang decided to buy one for herself and one for Tuaner.
The dough figurine master was very dexterous, and the dough figurines he made were very vivid.
Qiao Jinniang gave her dough figurine to Tuaner and said, I will keep your dough figurine, and Your Highness, please keep mine. If you miss me, you can y with my dough figurine, and when I miss you, I can look at yours.
Tuaner asked innocently, Where is Daddys dough figurine? Why no Daddys?
Qiao Jinniang stroked Tuaners head. Your daddy is not here, so the Master cant make one for him.
Tuaner nodded somewhat confusedly.
Half an hour was too short.
Before Qiao Jinniang could look at her Tuaner more, a secret guard from the East Pce appeared in front of Qiao Jinniang. Miss Qiao, the time is up.
There was no telling what Lu Chen said to Tuaner. When Tuaner was taken away, he didnt cry at all.
Qiao Jinniang, however, had tears in her eyes. She hid Tuaners dough figurine in her handkerchief and went to the Duchess.
Tuaner was carried back to the Crown Princes carriage, and he put the little dough figurine in front of his father like he presenting a treasure, Mommy, beautiful.
The Crown Prince took the dough figurine and looked at it carefully. It looked like Qiao Jinniang indeed. Ill keep it for you. Youll break it if you keep holding it.
Seeing that the dough figurine was taken away, Tuaner climbed onto Lu Chens body and shouted anxiously, Mommy gave it to me. Its mine.
Lu Chen took out the pastry wrapped in oiled paper from the side. Look, Ill keep the dough figurine and this pastry will be yours, okay?
Tuaner weighed the importance of the pastry and the dough figurine in his heart before stretching out his little hand to reach for thetter. I want Mommys dough figurine.
Lu Chen, ....
Chapter 27
Chapter 27: Sachet
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Enduring the sadness of separating from her son, Qiao Jinniang adjusted her emotions and went to the courtyard where the dharma assembly was held.
After the dharma assembly finished, the Duchess took the divination stick to the abbot of Yuanxi Temple.
The Duchess was a generous donor, so the abbot didnt dare to take it lightly. He held the divination stick and said, Congrattions, Duchess, this divination stick forebodes good luck. All your wishes wille true.
The Duchess chuckled when she heard it. Thats good, thats good.
The abbot looked up the divination book and transcribed the exnation to this divination stick to the Duchess. There was once a phoenix ying in the Phoenix Pce. The pce was empty after the phoenix left, and now only the river is still running.
The flowers and grasses in the pce shade deste paths, and the aristocrats of the old days have be the bones in the tombs.
Three mountains are looming in the clouds and the river is divided into two streams by egret ind.
Those clouds always blot out the brilliance of the sun, so when I climb high, I cant see Changan City anymore, which makes me sad and depressed.
Duchess, although this divination stick forebodes good luck, there are also tribtions in the good luck. Once the tribtions are transcended, your daughter will surely dispel the clouds and see the sun, and then the phoenix will be hovering over Changan City.
Hearing his words, the Duchesss heart skipped a beat.
Phoenix? Changan? At this time when the Crown Prince was going to choose his crown princess, others might be overjoyed to draw this divination stick, but the Duchess wasnt so happy about it.
At this moment, Qiao Jinniang walked to the Duchess and said, Mother.
The Duchess smiled at Qiao Jinniang and said, Ive drawn a divination stick for you, and its a very good one. It seems that the Buddha has blessed you to find a good husband.
Qiao Jinniang was surprised to see the word phoenix in the exnation of the divination stick, wondering if the Yuanxi Temple was trying to fawn on the Duchess.
Knowing that the Crown Prince was going to choose his crown princess, they thought that the Duchess came for Qiao Ruoshui. Did the abbot say this on purpose?
Qiao Jinniang didnt quite believe in Buddhism in the past, but after God made two jokes with her, she had to believe in fate.
Perhaps what the divination stick was foreboding was true. After all, His Majesty had already told the Duke that he wanted Qiao Ruoshui to marry into the East Pce.
After returning home, the Duchess got down to selecting a suitable fianc for Qiao Jinniang.
However, Qiao Ruoyi and their cousin sister, Ruofeng, were going to have theiring-of-age ceremonies soon, so the Duke Mansion also had to prepare for their ceremonies.
As the Dragon Boat Festival approached, the people of the Qin Family finally came to Duke Anyuans Mansion instead of continuing to pretend not to know Qiao Ruoyuns real whereabouts.
Faced with so many issues, the Duchess could only temporarily put aside the matter of selecting a fianc for Qiao Jinniang.
Currently, Qiao Jinniang was embroidering a Dragon Boat Festival sachet for Tuaner in her room.
In the end, the small sachet looked very exquisite, and she sent the sachet to Duke Rongs Mansion along with a letter.
Although she said it was for Princess Fuan, Qiao Jinniang assumed that the people in the Duke Rongs Mansion would know who to give the sachet to.
In the afternoon, Nuomi came in with mung bean soup, saying, Miss, today even the old madam of the Qin Family came. I think Miss Ruoyun is going back to the Qin Family.
With the Duchess and the Dowager Duchess here, even if the old madam of the Qin Family came, it wouldnt change anything.
The Duchess and the Dowager Duchess would definitely not let Qiao Ruoyun go back to the Qin Family unless they punished that concubine maid, Yuzhui, and promised to treat Qiao Ruoyun well.
Hearing that the Qin Family had left, Qiao Jinniang went to the Duchess.
The Duchess looked sullen. Only when she saw Jinniange in did she no longer frown.
Qiao Jinniang handed a sachet to the Duchess and said, Mother, this is a Dragon Boat Festival sachet that I made for you. Ive made a sachet for you, Father and Grandmother. I hope you like it.
The Duchess took the sachet and smiled. Thank you, Jinniang. Is your restaurant going to open tomorrow?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, its all ready. If you are free tomorrow, can you go to the Tasty Pavilion with me?
Sure, Im free. The Duchess held the sachet, feeling very warm in her heart.
But Ive just quarreled with the people of the Qin Family, and Ruoyun is still recovering from the miscarriage, so its not convenient for me to go to a restaurant for dinner.
I will write to your aunts and ask them to attend the opening ceremony of your restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Okay, did the people of the Qin Family refuse to drive Yuzhui out?
The Duchess sneered and said, Old Madam Qin said that Yuzhui is her rtive, so she must protect Yuzhui. The people of the Qin Family dont respect us at all!
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I have an idea. It may be improper, but since we are a family, I want to speak it out even if you me me.
I dont go out frequently, but every time I go out, I will definitely be mocked. Even though our family is powerful and is favored by His Majesty, we cant do anything to those gossip mongers.
All because they dont think that Father would make things difficult for their husbands or fathers just because of their gossip.
The people of the Qin Family must have heard those gossips, and Old Madam Qin certainly doesnt want any stains on the Qin Familys reputation.
If this time, we cant make them admit their mistake, even if Sister Ruoyun goes back, she would definitely continue to be tortured.
Judging from Old Madam Qins attitude, Sister Ruoyun will definitely have a hard time if she goes back.
But if she doesnt go back, the Qin Family wont care either. They can take the chance to get rid of the stain on their familys reputation, which in their eyes is Sister Ruoyun.
The Duchess nodded. Then what do you think we should do, Jiner?
Qiao Jinniang said, The reason why Mrs. Qin did this is for their reputation, so we should fight them back with reputation too.
I have a selfish idea. It will save Sister Ruoyun and me from any embarrassment in the future, but may make things difficult for Mother and Father
The Duchess asked, What is the idea?
Qiao Jinniang said, My adoptive father is also surnamed Qiao.
Why dont we tell others my adoptive father is Fathers sworn brother?
Peopleugh at Sister Ruoyun and I because of my adoptive fathers identity as a servant.
But if Father acknowledges him as his sworn brother, then Sister Ruoyun is the daughter of a dukes sworn brother.
At this point, no one would dare tough at her bloodline again, including the people of the Qin Family.
The Duchess thought for a while before saying, But your adoptive father is just a cook
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, Mother, the founding emperor of Tang Dynasty also had a sworn brother who was amoner. After ascending to the throne, he granted his sworn brother to be a duke.
Even the founding emperor of our country had amoner as his sworn brother, so it should be fine for Father to do the same.
If Father does the same, those gossip mongers can no longerugh at my adoptive parents identity.
And I wont be ridiculed for being raised by ves anymore, because I was brought up by Fathers sworn brother.
The Duchess said, I need to discuss this matter with your father.
East Pce.
Lu Chen looked at the letter and the sachet sent by Junior Duke Rong and yed with the sachet.
The sachet was very small but was very delicate. It had the same fragrance as those made in previous years.
Lu Chen took it and tied it to his jade belt.
Junior Duke Rong said in a small voice, Seventh Brother, this sachet seems to be for Tuaner
Lu Chen nced sideways at Junior Duke Rong. Only one sachet?
Yes.
Then its for me.
Lu Chen read the letter, which read that My restaurant will open tomorrow. I can go to the Duke Rongs Mansion tomorrow afternoon, and I hope to see Tuaner there.
Lu Chen said to Junior Duke Rong, Ill take Tuaner to the Duke Rongs Mansion tomorrow afternoon. Write her back.
Lost for words, Junior Duke Rong looked at the sachet on Lu Chens waist
No matter how he looked at it, such a small sachet must be made for Tuaner.
Chapter 28
Chapter 28: Where Is My Sachet?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
On April 28th, it was a good day. It was a sunny day but it was not hot at all.
Today, Qiao Jinniang arrived at the Tasty Pavilion, wearing a long red silk skirt with a fan embroidered with peacocks in hand.
Theyout of the Tasty Pavilion was the same as the Myriad Taste in Linan.
The restaurant was opening today, and the waiters and waitresses were wearing new clothes.
Qiao Jinniang waited for the firecrackers to be set off in an auspicious hour. Outside of the restaurant, there were already many people standing outside waiting for the shopkeeper to scatter coins.
In the Guest Weing Building not far from the Tasty Pavilion, a thin man with very high cheekbones looked at the Tasty Pavilion in the distance with disdain. That countryside girl is ill-bred indeed. I cant believe the Duke is actually indulging her with a restaurant.
A servant next to him fawned on him. Exactly, how can a countryside woman know anything about running a restaurant? Master, dont worry. Your wifes sister is the concubine of the first son of Earl Chengen. For Earl Chengens sake, the nobles in Changan will definitelye to our Guest Wee Building.
Although the Duke and the Duchess both said they would invite their friends to attend the opening ceremony of the Tasty Pavilion, Qiao Jinniang was still a bit worried.
But at noon, Qiao Jinniang found her worries unnecessary.
Duke Anyuan personally came to the Tasty Pavilion, and he brought his subordinates in the Defense Ministry with him.
Princess Fulu even brought over her mother, Princess Shouan. To add to that, even the Duchess brothers and sister-inws also came.
The Duchess was from the Zheng Family, the Duke Dingbeis Mansion. Duke Dingbeis Mansion had declined and only had the title of duke, so as soon as they were invited by the Duchess, the whole family immediately came.
However, this put even more stress on Jinniang. These people, who were ustomed to delicacies, must be very picky about their food.
Jinniang, you dont have to worry. Ive tasted the dishes you made. I think the chefs in your restaurant cant be bad either.
Princess Fulu dragged Qiao Jinniang into the No.1 private room.
Qiao Jinniang saluted Princess Shouan and said, Nice to meet you, Your Highness. Sorry for troubling you for the matter of my sister Ruoyun.
Princess Shouan smiled and said, Please arise. I often hear Fu Lu talk about you. Today, I finally see you, and youre much more polite than my little monkey-like daughter. Is the tea Mingqian Longjing Tea?
Qiao Jinniang replied. Yes, this tea is a new product produced in my tea farm. It was specially prepared for you.
Princess Shouan said, Oh, I forgot that you came from Linan. Do you have a tea farm of your own?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, the tea used in my restaurant was produced there. If Your Highness likes the tea, Ill have my maid send some to your mansion.
The princess smiled. Then Fulu and I would eat, drink and take tea from you for free. Thats not good.
Qiao Jinniang said, Please give me a chance to express my gratitude to you, Your Highness. The tea was produced in my own tea farm, so it wont cost me anything. Im very d you like it.
The princess looked at Qiao Jinniang kindly. When Fulu talked about Qiao Jinniang, she was a bit disdainful of Jinniangs identity.
But today, when she saw Qiao Jinniang in person, she found that although Qiao Jinniang was not raised by the Duchess, her temperament and manners were even better than ordinary noble girls.
She gave away the precious Mingqian Longjing Tea without hesitation. There was nothing petty about her at all.
The Tasty Pavilionbined Changan-style cuisine and southern style cuisine. But today, most people order thetter.
The nobles in Changan could rarely eat fresh shrimps, but the stir-fried shrimp with Longjing tea was the most popr dish today.
Many guests came to the restaurant when they heard that many nobles hade here. Soon, there were no empty seats in the restaurant.
There were still some guests in the Guest Weing Building, but they came just because there were already no seats left in the Tasty Pavilion.
The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building was so angry about this that he went back to discuss it with his wife.
That Tasty Pavilions new shopkeeper is not as useless as I thought. I thought that the people of the Duke Mansion would disdain her for running a restaurant herself.
Unexpectedly, Duke Anyuan actually came to join the opening ceremony in person, so did the nobledies from Duke Dingbeis Mansion, as well as Princess Shouan and her daughter.
His wife shook her fan and said, What are you afraid of? They just went there today for the sake of Duke Anyuan, but no one is stupid. If the dishes in the Tasty Pavilion are unptable, will they still go there to waste their money?
The shopkeeper said, Why not? Do you know how many people in Changan who want to get to know Duke Anyuan but cant find a way?
Now that his daughter has opened a restaurant, they can just go to the Tasty Pavilion and order many dishes to please Duke Anyuan.
No officials in Changan arent afraid of offending Duke Anyuan. They will definitely all patronize the Tasty Pavilion!
His wife thought his husband was overthinking it and said carelessly, His Majesty hates corrupt officials the most. If there is such a thing, Ill ask my brother-inw to report Duke Anyuans misdeed to His Majesty!
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect the restaurants business to be so good on the first day. Even the shrimps she prepared were sold out quickly.
Therefore, when she took Nuomi to the Duke Rongs Mansion, she was in a very good mood.
However, her good mood was instantly gone as soon as she stepped into the Kylin Garden and saw Tuaner crying.
She hurried over and took Tuaner from Lu Chen. Honey, why are you crying?
Tuanerined to Qiao Jinniang with his cute voice, Mommy, your dough figurine is gone. Daddy snatched it.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. How old are you already? How could you snatch your sons toy?
Lu Chen frowned. I didnt. He was holding that dough figurine constantly, even when he was sleeping. It was just that it was so hot that the dough figurine melted and was squashed by him when he fell asleep on the carriage.
Tuaner said pitifully, Daddy wanted to snatch it. Tuaner didnt let go
Although Tuaner couldnt speak clearly, Qiao Jinniang figured out what Tuaner meant.
Lu Chen tried to snatch the dough figurine from him, so Tuaner was holding it tightly.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen and wiped away the tears from the corners of Tuaners eyes.
Then she softlyforted him. Mom will have the master make a new one for you, okay? Dont cry. I made a sachet for you, right? It smells so good. Why dont you wear it, Tuaner?
Tuaner blinked his innocent phoenix eyes. Daddy is wearing it.
Qiao Jinniang looked over. Lu Chen was wearing a white round-necked robe today, and the little tiger sachet she made was hanging on his waist!
Qiao Jinniang scolded, Shame on you! Give it back to Tuaner.
There were only the three of them in the courtyard now.
Lu Chen sat on the round stool in the courtyard and asked, Where is mine?
Qiao Jinniang was stunned for a while, not knowing what Lu Chen meant.
Lu Chen poured himself a cup of tea. In previous years, I was always the first to get the sachet you made, so I thought this sachet was for me. Since this ones for Tuaner, where is mine?
Qiao Jinniang sneered. Hmph, in your dream.
This b*stard nned to demote her from his wife to his concubine. What made him think she would still make a sachet for him?
He must be daydreaming.
Chapter 29
Chapter 29: Grant Her To Be the Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen frowned. Qiao Jinniang, just because I indulge you for old times sake doesnt mean you can do whatever you want to me.
Qiao Jinniang snorted coldly. Indulge? How do you have the cheek to say you indulge me?
She went over, tore off the sachet from Lu Chens waist and ced it on Tuaners waist before saying softly, My little dough is fragrant now.
Tuaner snuggled against Qiao Jinniangs shoulder. Mommy is fragrant too.
Qiao Jinniang smiled gently.
Looking at them, Lu Chen was surprised by the speed Qiao Jinniang changed her face. She treated him and Tuaner withpletely different faces!
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Ive already asked my father to grant you the position of my first concubine. Your father has already known about it too. The imperial decree will be issued on June 21.
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. Her father had known about it?
But her mother said her father told her His Majesty intended to let Ruoshui marry into the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang thought that perhaps Duke Anyuan misinterpreted His Majestys words? Duke Anyuan didnt know what happened between her and the Crown Prince, so he subconsciously thought the Emperor was talking about Qiao Ruoshui.
If this is the case, she should urge the Duchess to find her a fianc as soon as possible.
Yes, His Majesty was wise and benevolent and wouldnt force anyone to marry the Crown Prince, but she was different. She had a child with Lu Chen.
Moreover, His Majesty had said to Duke Anyuan that he wanted to be inws with him.
With Duke Anyuans misunderstanding, His Majesty must think that Duke Anyuan had agreed to marry Qiao Jinniang to the Crown Prince.
If the imperial decree was issued at the end of June, she could only be the Crown Princes concubine and there would be nothing she could do!
If the imperial decree was issued, since Duke Anyuan had already agreed to it, it would be a punishment of decapitation if she dared to refuse
Therefore, she had to be engaged to another man as soon as possible and make it known to everyone in Changan before the imperial decree was issued.
Then His Majesty could only give up.
Qiao Jinniang was lost in thoughts and didnt notice that Lu Chen had Tuaner taken away.
In the huge courtyard of Kylin Garden, only Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were left.
Qiao Jinniang came back to her senses only to see that Lu Chen was only one foot away from her.
He put his dirty hands around her waist, his voice hoarse. Since we were separated, not only Tuaner is missing you, but I have also been thinking of you.
Qiao Jinniang mocked. Thinking of how to make me your concubine or how to kill me so as not to tarnish your reputation?
Jiner. Lu Chen sighed. You didnt grow up in an aristocratic family, so you dont know the position of my first concubine means. Although your father is Duke Anyuan, its not a bad position for you.
Hearing Lu Chen called her Jiner, Qiao Jinniang was so disgusted that she raised her hand and pped Lu Chen hard in his left cheek, on which the swelling had not subsided yet.
I only know that my husband must treat me wholeheartedly, just like my foster father only loves my foster mother.
You want to be a breeding pig and sleep more than a dozen sows, but I dont want to be a sow!
Your first concubine? If you have other women, even if you make me the crown princess, Ill disdain it!
Lu Chen covered his left face, thinking that Qiao Jinniang really went too far
Master. His secret guards voice sounded from the darkness.
Lu Chen walked to the side, his face livid with anger. The secret guard had reported something to him, causing him to hurry away.
Only a little eunuch was left. He plucked up the courage and said to Qiao Jinniang carefully, Miss Qiao, His Royal Highness said, if you want to see the little imperial grandson during the Dragon Boat Festival, youll have to make a dragon boat sachet for him.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief and cursed Lu Chen over and over again in her heart, but she still had to make a sachet for him!
It worked really well to threaten her with Tuaner.
After Qiao Jinniang went back to the Duke Mansion, she was called over by the Duchess.
Seeing Qiao Jinniange over, the Duchess said, Your aunts came to visit me this afternoon. They all praised your chefs cooking skills. What a pity, if it werent for the people of the Qin Family, I would have gone to taste it.
Mother, its okay. Ill cook for you myselfter.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, How can I let you cook? I just want to ask you, did you see Mr. Yu in Yuanxi Temple not long ago?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, her younger sister had said some rude things to me, but Mr. Yu apologized for her.
The Duchess smiled. His Majesty was very happy that the Crown Prince who has been missing for years returned to Changan, so he decided to hold an imperial examination this autumn.
Mr. Yu is confident of finishing in the top three in this imperial examination.
Moreover, his father is a high-ranking official in the Defense Ministry. If he is promoted, he may be the Deputy Secretary of Defense in the future. You dont have to be shy. Tell me, how do you think of Mr. Yu?
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, Ive already married once, and I know I shouldnt be picky.
But just because it will be my second marriage, I dont want to marry another jerk.
Mr. Yu seems gentle and polite but is actually very shrewd and calcting. I dont think he is a good choice for me.
If he speaks frankly that he wants to make a deal with me, with him giving me marriage in exchange for a career, I may admire his frankness.
But he deliberately approached me in the temple harboring ulterior motives. I dont think this kind of man is a good choice for me.
I dont want to marry a rich or powerful husband. I just want an honest and sincere man.
At least that man must not be like Lu Chen, who said he missed her but wanted her to be his concubine.
The Duchess nodded. Jinniang, Im d you think so.
On the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, there will be a dragon boat race in Changan. At that time, members of the royal family, children of aristocratic families, and sons of courtiers will all go to the Imperial River.
When the timees, we can go over there, and Ill definitely pick a good man for you.
Qiao Jinniang nodded shyly and left.
Back in the room, she took out the fabric leftst time. If that jerk werent the Crown Prince, she really wanted to stuff poison instead of spice into the sachet!
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully. She would be decapitated if she put poison into the sachet. Instead, she should put in some special spices.
She remembered that there was a spice that was extremely fragrant at first, but as time went by, it would be extremely foul.
The jerk disgusted her so much, and she should pay him back a little!
In the imperial pce, the emperor looked at his beloved youngest sons swollen face and said in anger, You still want to protect her? You are the Crown Prince of our Tang Dynasty, how could she p you repeatedly?
Were you beaten by her every day in the three years when you were in Linan?
The emperor had heard that the men who married into their wives families had a low status and would even be beaten by their wives.
Just look at the princesses, which one of them didnt bully their husbands?
Lu Chen said, No, she is mad at me because I want her to be my concubine. Father, if you really worry about me, can you just grant her the title of crown princess, so that she wont beat me anymore?
The emperor was annoyed. What are you talking about? How can you be so spineless? You are the Crown Prince. If she beats you, cant you punish her?
That being said, the emperors face was full of worry but no anger.
Lu Chen paused and said, If Mother ps you, will you punish her?
The emperor said, As the motherly model of the entire nation, your mother is so gentle and virtuous. How could she possibly hit me?
But why did I hear that when I was missing, every time you went to Mothers pce, you came out with injuries, Father?
Chapter 30
Chapter 30: Prince Mediocre
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When the emperor heard Lu Chens words, he was angry. How do you have the nerve to say that? You were happily enjoying your family life in the South, but do you have any idea how I and your mother got through the past three years
Lu Chen bowed his head and said, I know. That was why I rushed back to Changan as soon as I recovered my memory, not daring to dy for half a day.
But Father, do you really think that the person who assassinated me was my eldest brother?
The emperor certainly knew that his eldest son was just a scapegoat. But there is no evidence pointing to your fifth brother. I have ordered your fifth brother to go guard the border, which had already made your grandmother very unhappy.
Now that you are back, your grandmother and Earl Chengen have petitioned me many times, asking me to let him back, so I can no longer make him stay at the border.
Lu Chen saluted and said, I see, Father.
Lu Chen left the imperial study, applied ayer of powder on his cheek to cover the swelling, and went to the Queens pce.
When the Queen saw Lu Chening in, she hurriedly got up from the chaise lounge, Chener.
Mother. Lu Chen respectfully bowed. Prince Mediocre will return to Changan before the Dragon Boat Festival.
The Queen clenched her hands. How dare hee back!
Lu Chen said, Ive received a message that he is already in Luoyang.
The Queen said with annoyance. Nice, just let hime back. The Queen Dowager sacrificed your eldest brother to protect him. Id like to see what trouble he can make with the title of Mediocre!
As the Dragon Boat Festival approached, it got hotter.
After Qiao Jinniang finally made a sachet two dayster, she decided to send it to the Duke Rongs Mansion by herself.
She could go check how Tasty Pavilions business was on the way there.
As soon as she arrived on the street holding a sunshade umbre, she saw a four horse-drawn carriage entering the city, followed by a great flood of troops.
This was the first time Nuomi saw such a scene. She raised herself on tiptoe to get a better view. Miss, who is in the carriage?
Qiao Jinniang saw a g hanging on the carriage with the character Mediocre on it, but she didnt know who was in the carriage.
Suddenly, a gust of wind blew the curtain of the carriage, revealing the face of the man inside. He seemed to be around twenty-four or twenty-five.
The people watching on the streets all praised, Prince Mediocre is really good-looking. He still looks the same after being at the border for three years!
Prince Mediocre is not as handsome as the Crown Prince! Among all the princes, the best looking one is still the Crown Prince!
Qiao Jinniang listened to the crowds words, wondering why this prince was titled Mediocre
After all, he was the emperors son. How could the emperor give his son such a title?
When she arrived at the Tasty Pavilion, there happened to be literati officials talking about Prince Mediocre in the lobby.
Some of them felt sorry for Prince Mediocre.
Prince Mediocres former title was Wise. He was famous for his smartness and was known as a virtuous prince. Unfortunately, someone envied him and made his title be changed to Mediocre. What a pity!
Prince Wise is virtuous, polite, and caring for the people, but His Majesty is too partial to, s
Shhh, dont talk about that. The officials who spoke for Prince Mediocre were either demoted or dismissed
Master, Princess Fulu is in the No.1 private room. Are you going to meet her? A waiter greeted her.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and went to the private room on the second floor. Today, in addition to Princess Fulu, there were also Junior Duke Rong, and two handsome young men.
Qiao Jinniang entered and saluted.
Fulu waved her hand and said, Jinniang, you dont have to salute me. Let me introduce, this is Lin Mo, the son of the Left Prime Minister, and Zhou Siming, the eldest son of Duke Wuguo, the Queens nephew.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know that the two young mens family background was so prominent, so she wanted to leave.
But Fulu held her hand. This is the little shopkeeper of this restaurant. Her cooking skills are even better than the cooks here. Its a pity that I am a woman.
If the three of you are smart, quickly marry her, and then you will be able to eat the delicacies she makes every day. What a blessing itll be!
Qiao Jinniang,
If it wasnt for her knowing the straightforward personality of Princess Fulu, she would leave immediately after hearing these words.
Junior Duke Rong said with a smile, I want to marry her but Im not that lucky!
Princess Fulu said, Do you also pick on her for being raised by a servant and running a restaurant to make a living? Hmph, youre just a dandy!
Qiao Jinniang: Princess Fulu always managed to say the wrong thing.
Junior Duke Rong said with a knowing smile: How dare I pick on Miss Qiao? I may have to rely on her in the future!
Zhou Siming also said, Miss Qiao is bound to have an umon future, so I dont dare to marry her.
Princess Fulu looked at Lin Mo.
Lin Mo turned to Qiao Jinniang and saluted. Miss Qiao, forgive me. I prefer a lively woman.
Junior Duke Rong hurriedly changed the topic. Why did you call the three of us here?
Princess Fulu bowed her head and sighed. You know that Prince Mediocre is back, right?
My imperial grandmother wants to marry me off to Prince Mediocre, but I dont like him!
Which of you is willing to pretend to be married to me? After Prince Mediocre marries someone else, we can divorce and I will give you half of my dowry as payment!
Puff. Zhou Siming spat out the liquor in his mouth. Princess, are you kidding me?!
Princess Fulu said, No, this is a life-threatening matter. If I were to marry Prince Mediocre, I might as well just jump down from here.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly stopped Fulu Princess. No! Princess, if you jump down here, my fifty thousand taels of silver will be gone.
Fulu: Very good, Qiao Jinniang, I take you as my good friend, but you dont care about my life at all. All you worry about is your Tasty Pavilion.
Seeing that Fulu could still joke, Qiao Jinniang said, When I came over, I came across Prince Mediocre on the road. He was really handsome and charming. If he hade out of the carriage, there would have been a lot of women throwing themselves into his arms
Before Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, she suddenly felt a cool breeze behind her. She looked back
Lu Chen stood behind her, but fortunately, the powder on his face covered his angry livid face.
When Fulu saw Lu Chen, she saluted him. Imperial Cousin, Grandmother wants me to marry Prince Mediocre. You have to save me!
Lu Chen nced at Qiao Jinniang. I think the one blind is not me but Miss Qiao.
Fulu remembered that Qiao Jinniang had scolded the crown prince for being blindst time, and said, Jinniang, quickly apologize to His Royal Highness. He is very kind. If you apologize, he will definitely not be angry at you.
Qiao Jinniang coldly snorted in her heart, Kind?
However, under the gazes of the others, she had to salute and say, Your Royal Highness, please forgive me. This sachet was made by me. Please ept it as my apology to you.
Lu Chen said, Then Id like to trouble Miss Qiao to put it on for me.
Qiao Jinniang clenched the sachet, her nails going deep into the flesh of palm. If the son of the Left Prime Minister and the son of Duke Wuguo were not here, she would definitely m the sachet and spit on Lu Chens face.
But now she could only walk up to Lu Chen obediently and tie the sachet to his jade belt.
Chapter 31
Chapter 31: Qiao Ruoshui Is Seriously Ill
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen looked down at Qiao Jinniang. He remembered that when they just got married, she would always adjust his belt for him.
When she was doing that, her little face would always be blushing with shame, making her look so cute.
Three yearster, Qiao Jinniang had grown a lot, bing more morous.
In this room, only Princess Fulu wasnt aware of the real rtionship between the two.
Fulu said with worry, My mother said that Queen Mother is already determined to marry me to Prince Mediocre. But even if Prince Mediocre is good-looking, he is just a hypocrite. I would rather die here than marry him. Imperial Cousin, youve gotta help me.
Lu Chen chuckled. I think Prince Mediocre is even more reluctant to marry you.
Fulu, ?
Was she so undesirable?
Junior Duke Rong said to Lu Chen, Seventh Brother, only half a year after you disappeared, Prince Mediocre, his followers and some veteran officials couldnt wait to force His Majesty to pick another crown prince.
They almost forced His Majesty to abdicate. If it were not for the fact that the Queen threw away her manners and quarreled crazily with them in the court, and the State Preceptor stating that the Queens madness was caused by Prince Mediocre, he might have already be the crown prince.
Zhou Siming nodded and said, Many literati still feel sorry for Prince Mediocre even now.
Qiao Jinniang had figured out that this Prince Mediocre was probably a deadly foe of Lu Chen.
Prince Mediocre had a good reputation among courtiers and was considered a virtuous prince.
There were often novels about a talented, virtuous prince who was not favored by the emperor and was persecuted by an ipetent crown prince and an evil queen, but sessfully seized the throne in the end.
Prince Wise became Prince Mediocre due to the Queens maniption.
This prince must have borne a deep grudge.
Holding the sachet in his hand, Lu Chen was in a good mood. It must be for the throne that he returned before I could select my crown princess.
But unfortunately, he doesnt have a good mother. If he couldnt get it when he was born, he wont get it in his entire life.
Even if those literati feel pity for him, so what? Can they change his title back to Wise?
Lu Chen spoke arrogantly, but Qiao Jinniangs heart did a flip.
This was exactly the way those arrogant and ipetent crown princes spoke in those novels!
Qiao Jinniang would be happy if this jerks position was snatched by others, but she was worried about Tuaner
After all, he was Lu Chens son. If Lu Chen was no longer the Crown Prince, wouldnt Tuaner have to suffer too?
Lin Mo, the son of the Left Prime Minister, smiled gently. Your Royal Highness, youre His Majestys favorite son. No matter how hard Prince Mediocre tries, it wont get him anywhere. Dont be distracted by him, Your Royal Highness.
Junior Duke Rong winked at Lin Mo.
Unfortunately, Lin Mo didnt notice it. He continued. The Queen Dowager wants Princess Fulu to marry Prince Mediocre because she wants Princess mother to shelter him.
But Im afraid that Prince Mediocre and his mother wont ept her kindness and will marry the daughter of an important minister to win his support.
Your Royal Highness, I think the daughter of the Xie Family is most suitable to be the crown princess.
Hearing that they began to talk about the choice of the crown princess, Qiao Jinniang saluted and left.
As soon as she went out, she saw her servant, Bajiao, and some other servants.
Bajia hurriedly said, Master, Xiaohui said that she just saw your husband.
But when Xiaohui called him, he just ignored her.
Xiaohui nodded and said, Master, I cant be wrong about this. The man who entered the No.1 private room just now is your husband.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, He is not my husband. My husband is dead. He is the Crown Prince, so dont say any improper words. Otherwise, you may be executed.
Xiaohui was surprised. Oh, His Royal Highness really does look alike to your husband, Master.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the people in the private room, who were still discussing the choice of the crown princess. She knew that no matter what, the crown princess wouldnt be her.
However, even if Lu Chen begged her to be his crown princess, she would disdain it.
Back at the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang saw one of her mothers mammies, Mammy An, who was responsible for watching Qiao Ruoshui in the manor.
Mammy An.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang, Mammy An said a bit guiltily, Second Miss, Fourth Miss identally fell into a river in the manor and suffered from a high fever for two days. And since the manor is not a ce to recuperate, Madam let her back.
Just at that moment, Qiao Ruoshuis maid helped the pale-faced Qiao Ruoshui out of the carriage.
She seemed to be seriously ill indeed.
Qiao Ruoshuis former arrogance was gone. She coughed. Sister, Im sorry. I was being stupid. I shouldnt have said those words to you.
But now I am seriously ill and the manor is not a ce to recuperate.
I already know that I was wrong. I shouldnt have been so unfriendly to you. I beg you to allow me toe back home to recuperate, please!
With that, Qiao Ruoshui was about to kneel down. It was bustling at the entrance of the Duke Mansion, so Qiao Jinniang hurriedly stopped Qiao Ruoshui from kneeling down.
Qiao Jinniang gently wiped the corners of her eyes with her handkerchief and sobbed. What are you talking about, Ruoshui? Ive been missing you ever since you went to the manor. As your elder sister, even if you bullied me and insulted me, I should have endured it! Pleasee in, my dear sister!
Qiao Ruoshui red at Qiao Jinniang, gnashing her teeth.
This countryside lowly b*tch was really cunning.
She nned to give people an impression that Qiao Jinniang had bullied her, but she didnt expect Qiao Jinniang to cry before she did.
If it werent for the uing selection of the crown princess on June 21, she would definitely not endure Qiao Jinniang.
What her mammy said was right. She should endure Qiao Jinniang for now. Once she became the crown princess, she would have plenty of time to take revenge on Qiao Jinniang.
After Qiao Jinniang entered the Duke Mansion, she didnt put down her handkerchief and went to the Duchess courtyard.
She squeezed out tears. Mother, the fault is all mine. If it werent for me, you wouldnt have punished Fourth Sister and she wouldnt have fallen into a river and be seriously ill.
The Duchess said, You dont have to feel guilty, Jinniang. You were ill too. Dont be sad anymore. Your Fourth Sister just got what she deserves.
How could the Duchess not love Qiao Jinniang who was so caring and sensible?
However, she was also worried about her seriously ill youngest daughter.
She entered Qiao Ruoshuis room only to see that Qiao Ruoshui was pale.
Qiao Ruoshui shouted, Mother, I miss you so much. Why were you so cruel to me? Cough, cough!
The Duchess came up to her. It was because you insulted your sister. I sent you away to the manor to reflect on your mistake.
She must be very happy to see me be seriously ill! Qiao Ruoshui said.
Thinking of Qiao Jinniang who was panicking just now, the Duchess said with distress, Happy? Jinniang was very worried about you when she heard that you were seriously ill. How could you talk about her like that behind her back? Treat your sister better. Otherwise, even if you are sick, I wont let youe back.
Qiao Ruoshui was exasperated. Thinking that if she could be the crown princess, she would definitely make her mother regret that she petted the wrong daughter!
After the Duchess left, Qiao Ruoshuis mammy, Mammy Zheng, said, Miss, why were you so hasty to talk badly about Qiao Jinniang in front of Madam? It would only annoy her.
Be patient. My son overheard that His Majesty wanted to be inws with His Excellency.
Just endure her for this period of time. It wont take long before you be the hostess of the Eastern Pce. Then you can punish whoever you want.. At that time, you will have plenty of chances to teach that countryside woman a lesson.
Chapter 32
Chapter 32: Bayberries and Crabs
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Prince Mediocre and his party arrived at the gates of the imperial pce, Prince Mediocre lifted the curtain of the carriage and looked at the pce that he left three years ago and a sharp gleam shed across his eyes. When he got off the carriage, he, dressed in white, looked really graceful and handsome.
At this time, the courtiers just happened to finish the morning report ande out of the imperial pce. When they spotted Prince Mediocre, most of them sighed for him in their hearts.
Duke Anyuan and other courtiers saluted Prince Mediocre.
Prince Mediocre said elegantly, Lords, you dont have to be so polite.
Then he said to Duke Anyuan. I had been on the border all this time, so only when I arrived in Luoyang did I hear that Your Excellency has found your eldest daughter back. Congrattions.
Duke Anyuan was a bit surprised at his words, but he still smiled and said, Thank you, Your Highness.
After a few words of pleasantries, Prince Mediocre went to the Hall of Diligent Governance. He knelt down and kowtowed towards Emperor Huilin. Father, Im back.
Thinking of the Queens indifferencest night, Emperor Huilin said indifferently to Prince Mediocre, Arise.
Your grandmother is not feeling very well. To get you back to Changan, she really suffered great pains. Now that youve returned to Changan, spend more time with her!
Prince Mediocre could see the indifference in Emperor Huilins eyes, but he was used to it. When the Crown Prince was born, he was only four or five years old.
He couldnt figure out why his father, who had always treated him coldly, would love this baby so much.
As soon as the baby called him Father for the first time, he ignored all objections and made him the Crown Prince.
Only when the Crown Prince disappeared three years ago did he realize that perhaps in Emperor Huilins eyes, he only had one son.
Prince Mediocre bowed his head and said, Yes, Father.
Emperor Huilin waved his hand. Take your leave.
When Duke Anyuan returned to the Duke Mansion and went to visit his mother, he talked about the Prince Mediocre, Prince Wise used to be brilliant indeed, but it is a pity Today he asked about Jinniang, and I feel that it cant be simple.
The Duchess Dowager turned the Buddhist beads in her hand and frowned. Although Prince Mediocre is very talented, he was too hasty back then. Soon after the Crown Prince disappeared, he tried to make His Majesty make him the new crown prince. Did the Imperial Concubine Xian and the Queen Dowager think His Majesty was stupid?
As for why he asked about Jinniang, I think he may intend to win our support by marrying Jinniang.
Ruoyis mother is a concubine. As for Ruoshui, he knows that we wont marry her to him
But if he makes Jinniang his first concubine, he can win our support without annoying the Crown Prince.
Duke Anyuan said, I think so too, so weve gotta find Jinniang a husband as soon as possible, but my wife, she is determined to find Jinniang a man who will never take any concubines. But except for those poverty-stricken vigers, which man in the world wont take a concubine
I cant persuade her. Mother, please talk to her. If she continues to dy, Jinniang might be involved in the princes fight for the throne.
The Duchess Dowager also felt that her daughter-inw went too far, so she said, The Yu Familys son is the most suitable for Jinniang, but he was too hasty. I will take this matter to heart.
The fourth day of May.
Qiao Jinniang was checking the ounts of the Tasty Pavilion during the past few days in her courtyard. The daily profit was about 500 taels of silver, which was much better than in Linan.
Nuomi hung wormwood leaves, peach branches and cmus leaves at the door.
When she turned around, she saw Qiao Ruoyiing over. Fifth Miss.
The maid behind Qiao Ruoyi was carrying a te of rice dumplings, and Qiao Ruoyi said, My mother and I made a few rice dumplings by ourselves, so I brought some for Second Sister.
Hearing Qiao Ruoyis voice, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly came out. Ruoyi, you dont have to bother. The kitchen has made rice dumplings, so has my Tasty Pavilion.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Most of the rice dumplings the kitchen made are sweet rice dumplings. I think you may not like it, so I specially made salty rice dumplings.
Jinniang smiled. Thats so nice of you, Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi said with gratitude, If it werent for your thousand-year ginseng, I am afraid that my mother might have already died. These trivial rice dumplings are really nothing.
Sister, dont hesitate to tell me if you need me to do anything for you. Im willing to go through hell for you.
Phew, it seems that I came at the wrong time. I just wanted to deliver Sister the crabs and the bayberries that His Royal Highness specially sent to me!
As soon as Qiao Ruoyi finished speaking, Qiao Ruoshui entered the Jin Garden without being allowed in.
Qiao Ruoshui stared at the precious antiques ced in Qiao Jinniangs room. When she saw that even the curtains were made of precious Smoke Cloud Gauze, she gnashed her teeth in anger. She had asked her mother to give her the gauze to make clothes but was rejected, and yet Qiao Jinniang was using it as curtains!
His Royal Highness must be thinking about me so much. Bayberries are so rare to see that even the imperial concubines dont have many chances to eat it.
Everyone says that fresh lychees are precious, butpared to fresh lychees, even fewer people in Changan have seen fresh bayberries.
Qiao Ruoshui put a te of red iced bayberries in front of Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Ruoyi asked in surprise, Are crabs sold this early? Arent crabs sold around the Mid-Autumn Festival?
The maid of Qiao Ruoshui, Hongxiu, said smugly, His Royal Highness must be missing our Miss so much. It turns out that crabs are sold in all seasons in the South.
These are May Yellows just taken from Taihu Lake, so they are very fresh. It is extremely difficult to deliver bayberries and crabs all the way here.
In particr, bayberries rot easily. Even if it is iced, it will rot in just five days.
So they were delivered via Royal Express to ensure the freshness of the bayberries.
This is all because the little imperial grandson wanted to eat them. Although there arent many of them, His Royal Highness still gave two tes of bayberries and a basket of crabs to the Duke Mansion!
Qiao Jinniang said indifferently, Since these were gifted to you by His Royal Highness, how can I take them?
Qiao Ruoshui raised her head and said triumphantly, After I be the crown princess, is there any delicacy that I cant eat? But you
Mother is trying to pick a husband for you among the young students who came to Changan to participate in the Imperial Examination
When you get married, Im afraid you may not be able to taste these precious foods.
Nuomi snorted. Whats the big deal about these? In the South, bayberries can be picked everywhere at this time. In the Myriad Taste, hundreds of jars of bayberry wine would be made every season.
Not to mention crabs, which can be easily caught in any river. Are they really precious?
Jinniang nced at Nuomi and said, Say no more. Ruoshui, please take the bayberries back and eat it yourself.
Qiao Ruoshui never intended to give the bayberies and crabs to Qiao Jinniang. She just wanted to show the Duchess how nicely she treated Qiao Jinniang and show off to Qiao Jinniang.
After Qiao Ruoshui left, Qiao Ruoyi also left.
Nuomi said indignantly, Had His Excellency and Madam mistaken? How is it possible that the barberries and crabs were for Fourth Miss? I remember you like eating bayberries and crabs. Your husband must have sent them to you.
Qiao Jinniang liked to eat bayberries. When she left the South, it was during the Qingming Festival when the bayberries hadnt matured yet.
Now it was the maturing period of bayberries in the South, but she couldnt get any barberries here. After all, even the Duke Mansion couldnt use the Royal Express
Qiao Jinniang said to Nuomi, Hes not my husband now. Dont call him that anymore. Today, Qiao Ruoshui is in a good mood, so she didnt care about your disrespect, but you should speak and act cautiously in the future. This is the Duke Mansion after all.
Nuomi pouted and said, Yes, Miss, but I still think the bayberries and crabs are for you Miss, he still cares about you.
After all, Tuaner didnt like sour bayberries, but Jinniang liked to eat bayberries very much.
Chapter 33
Chapter 33: Dragon Boat Festival Family Banquet
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang advised Nuomi. Dont say those words again.
Tomorrow was the Dragon Boat Festival, so the Duke Mansion held a family banquet today.
Qiao Jinniang finally saw her cousin brothers and cousin sisters.
Her second uncle and his family should havee to her weing banquet, but back then, her second aunt returned to her parental home to attend her mothers birthday banquet, so they missed it.
And her third uncle whose mother was a concubine didnte to the banquet either.
Qiao Jinniang also saw her first younger brother, who would inherit the title of duke.
Her second uncle had four daughters. One of them was married to the Southwest. And the remaining three were Ruofeng, Ruowan and the youngest sister who was only seven or eight years old.
When the three saw Qiao Jinniang, they saluted. Nice to meet you, Second Sister.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Nuomi to give the gold locks that she had prepared a long time ago to the three younger sisters.
Her second aunt smiled and said, How can they ept such a precious gift from you? It seems that the gift I prepared for you is too meager now.
Qiao Jinniang had long received a gift from her second aunt, a red coral ornament, which was valuable and not as meager as she said.
She chuckled. Second Aunt, if your gift is cheap, no gift can be called precious.
Watching Qiao Jinniang and Second Aunt exchange pleasantries, Qiao Ruoshi snorted coldly in her heart.
There were threerge tables in the hall to amodate all these people.
Qiao Ruoyun had finally been able to get up from bed after a long period of recuperation, so she came to the banquet.
After learning what happened to her, Second Aunt angrily cursed the Qin Family.
The Duchess Dowager said, Its a big day today. Dont talk about this.
Third Aunt said, Second Sister-inw is right. But Ruoyuns father-inw is a duke after all, and the other girls of our family have reached marriageable age.
I dont think Ruoyun should divorce. Since thats exactly what the Qin Family wants.
The Duchess nced at Third Aunt indifferently and said coldly, Even Second Sister-inw doesnt care, why do you care? After all, you dont have any daughters, right? The girls of our family are able to easily find good husbands.
Third Aunt certainly didnt dare to offend the Duchess, so she hurriedlyplimented,Yes, yes. Thanks to Ruoshui, we can taste such fresh and red bayberries. I only saw bayberry preserves before.
If it werent for Ruoshui, how could we have eaten crabs during the Dragon Boat Festival?
She is bound to have a bright future!
The Duchess Dowager didnt like the fakepliments from the Third Aunt. Somehow she felt it strange that the Crown Prince granted the bayberries and crabs to the Duke Mansion.
The seven girls of the Qiao Family were sitting at one table, and Qiao Ruoshui purposely had the bayberries and crabs ced at the most conspicuous ce.
With Qiao Ruoshui generously asking them to taste them, the Eighth Miss reached out to get one, but Qiao Ruoshui knocked her hand away with chopsticks.
Qiao Ruoshui said arrogantly, This is a reward from His Royal Highness. How can you just touch it with your hands Do you know how difficult it is to get bayberries in Changan? How do you have the cheek to eat it?
Seeing her sister being beaten, Ruowan taunted.
Its just due to the Little Imperial Grandson. Anyway, his mother is not dead, and you are just a substitute for his mother.
When his motheres back, you will only be thrown aside!
Qiao Ruoshui said, After I marry into the East Pce. I can give birth to my own son!
Ruofeng said with a frown, Fourth Sister, please be cautious with your words and deeds. This is not what an unmarried girl should say.
Besides, even if you give birth to your own son, so what?
What matters is whether the Crown Prince loves you or not. Cant you see what happened to Prince Wise
Qiao Ruofeng, shut up! At this moment, Second Aunt came over and yelled, Youre going to have youring-of-age ceremony. How could you say that?
Qiao Ruoshui was even morecent seeing Ruofeng being scolded. Who in the Duke Mansion does not envy her now?
Only Qiao Ruoyun was whispering to Jinniang, You told me about bayberries in the South some time ago, and I didnt expect to see it today.
Arent these your favorite fruit? If you want some, talk to Mother. His Royal Highness only said that it was a gift for the Duke Mansion and did not specify that it was for Qiao Ruoshui.
Jinniang shook her head. No need.
She would choke if she ate the bayberries that jerk gave.
Looking at Qiao Ruoshuis smug face, however, Jinniang thought, if Qiao Ruoshui found out about the truth
The sisterhood between her and Qiao Ruoshui would bepletely severed.
But she didnt want to tell the truth now.
After the banquet, Second Aunt came to the Duchess and said,
Are you selecting a fianc for Jinniang? I have a good candidate in mind.
Its the third son of my sister. My brother-inw will be transferred back to the capital in a few days. Although he is only a member of the Imperial Academy, he has a promising future.
Most importantly, their family tradition is very good, and the men in their family are not allowed to take concubines unless their wives dont give birth to a son when they are forty. He is a good choice for Jinniang.
The Duchess was a little tempted. Firstly, the man was Second Aunts nephew, and secondly, they could know the man through and through.
Second Aunt smiled and said, My nephew will participate in the Imperial Examination this year, although he is only in his early twenties.
My sister has already arrived in Changan. If you think it is suitable, I will talk to my sister tomorrow.
The Duchess waved the maids to leave and said, Weve been sisters-inw for more than ten years. To tell you the truth, Jinniang was actually married when she was in the South and had a son.
Second Aunt was surprised. Huh? Where are her husband and children?
The Duchess said bitterly, My girl is unfortunate. Her husband is a scum. He divorced Jinniang and took her son. Thats why Im only picking among the young schrs whose families are not rich.
Go ask your sister. If she can ept it, Jinniangs father and I will definitely support her son as much as we can.
If she cant ept it, it doesnt matter. If your nephew is a talented young man, Jinniangs father will still help him.
Second Aunt thought for a while and said, I will go to discuss this with my sister tomorrow. s, poor Jinniang
Im afraid that my sister will mind it.
Its okay if she cant ept it.
The Duchess didnt want to force anyone to marry Jinniang because that would only harm Jinniang.
The next day was the Dragon Boat Festival. Qiao Jinniang woke up early because she could see Tuaner today.
She knitted Tuaner a bracelet with colorful ropes and asked Nuomi to fetch realgar wine.
Before the Dragon Boat Race of the Dragon Boat Festival began, she went to Duke Rongs Mansion early.
After waiting for half an hour, Lu Chen finally came over with Tuaner.
Qiao Jinniang stepped forward, put the bracelet on Tuaners wrist, and dipped her finger with realgar wine and wrote the King character on Tuaners forehead.
Lu Chen lowered his head to look at Qiao Jinniang and said, Do the crabs and bayberries yesterday taste good?
Qiao Jinniang said, I didnt dare to eat them because I was afraid of being poisoned.
Lu Chen put down Tuaner and chuckled. You little ingrate, do you know how much effort it took me to transport the bayberries here for you?
Nuomiughed on the side and said, Miss, just like I guessed, the bayberries and crabs are for you, but Madam and His Excellency thought it was for the Fourth Miss and gave them all to her. You didnt even get any.
When Lu Chen heard Nuomis words, he stared at Qiao Jinniang. Up till now, havent you told Duke Anyuan and his wife about our real rtionship yet?
Chapter 34
Chapter 34: Dragon Boat Festival Evil Day
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said, Do you want me to tell my parents that my ex-husband is His Royal Highness? It would only make them worry.
As long as she found a fianc, Lu Chen definitely wouldnt admit that he had once married into her family.
This matter could be kept secret from her parents for her lifetime.
Hearing Qiao Jinniangs exnation, Lu Chen also felt that before Qiao Jinniangs status was determined, there was no need to tell their real rtionship to Duke Anyuan and his wife. He then said, There are still some iced bayberries in the East Pce. I will have someone fetch them for you.
No, I dont like to eat bayberries anymore.
Qiao Jinniang turned to hug Tuaner. Tuaner smiled at her. Mother, row a boat!
Qiao Jinniang nced at the sun. The Dragon Boat Race held by the court would begin in half an hour. Okay, Ill take you to see the boat rowing, but Tuaner, youll have to put on a mask.
Qiao Jinniang took two masks from Nuomi, one for Tuaner and the other for herself.
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniangs mask that covered only half of her face. This mask was bought during the Lantern Show of this years Lantern Festival, so he had one as well. The Lantern Show in Linan that day was very lively.
In the Lantern Festival of previous years, she had always missed her parents, but this years Lantern Festival was the happiest Lantern Festival she had ever experienced.
It was just in that Lantern Festival he identally fell into the water, which helped him recover his memories.
Where is my mask?
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, You are now the Crown Prince. Shouldnt you sit on the seat prepared for the Crown Prince to watch the Dragon Boat Race?
In case the people find out that Im holding Tuaner while watching the Dragon Boat Race, I will also put on a mask.
Lu Chen frowned and said, When did I allow you to take Tuaner to watch the Dragon Boat Race?
Qiao Jinniang pointed to the sachet on Lu Chens waist. When you asked for the sachet, didnt you say that you would allow Tuaner to apany me for the Dragon Boat Festival?
Lu Chen said, I mean you can see Tuaner, not you taking Tuaner to squeeze in the crowd to watch the Dragon Boat Race. You know, Tuaners identity is unusual now. If something happens to him, can you be responsible for it?
He is my son. How can I let anything happen to him? Qiao Jinniang hugged Tuaner tightly.
Lu Chen said in a low voice, My father will alsoe to watch the Dragon Boat Race today. Moreover, Tuaner has long been saying that he wants to watch the Dragon Boat Race. If he is not there today, how can I exin to my father?
If you want to apany Tuaner to watch the Dragon Boat Race and celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival, you can only stay by my side.
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect Lu Chen to be so shameless. But you promised to allow me to apany him during the Dragon Boat Festival.
Lu Chen said, I didnt say that you cant apany him around. Anyway, in two months, you will be my concubine. It wont be a problem for you to apany me to watch the Dragon Boat Race.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands, but as soon as she raised her hand, Lu Chen grabbed her wrist. No third time! If you p me again, you will be punished.
Qiao Jinniang held Tuaner in her arms with one hand with difficulty and said, Let go of me. I cant hold Tuaner with one hand. Okay, Ill go with you, but I need to change my clothes first.
Lu Chen then let go of Qiao Jinniang and took Tuaner back, with the corners of his lips slightly curled. Okay, be quick.
In Linan, the Dragon Boat Festival was called Evil Day.
The legend of the White Snake was widespread in Linan, and it was at the Dragon Boat Festival that the White Snake showed its true serpent form.
The climate was humid in the South. During the Dragon Boat Festival, mosquitoes and flies bred and epidemics broke out, so the Dragon Boat Festival was called Evil Day.
People would put bracelets made of colorful ropes on their children and write the character King on their foreheads to protect them.
When Qiao Jinniang was a little girl, she once forgot to wear the colorful-rope bracelet during the Dragon Boat Festival and fell ill. Since then, her foster parents were so scared that they would close the restaurant and look after her every year during the Dragon Boat Festival.
After Qiao Jinniang gave birth to Tuaner, she would keep close to Tuaner all day during the Dragon Boat Festival, fearing that he might fall ill.
Lu Chen gently stroked the tassel under the sachet. He knew that because of Tuaner, Qiao Jinniang wouldnt refuse to stay by his side today.
Qiao Jinniang sent Nuomi to buy a new dress for her at a ready-to-wear store, as well as a head curtain, a white gauze that hung down to cover her face.
When Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniang dressed like this, he just thought she was shy.
When Qiao Jinniang got off the Crown Princes carriage with Tuaner, both sides were already full of people. When an eunuch announced that His Royal Highness arrived, all the civilian, military officers and their families on the viewing tform saluted Lu Chen.
There were some young noblemen under the tform, who were the teamsing topete in the Dragon Boat Race today.
Dressed like this, standing beside Lu Chen and holding Tuaner in her arms, Qiao Jinniang caught a lot of attention, but those around were all noblemen and officials. Even if they were curious, they didnt dare to look straight at her.
The seats of the people of the Anyuan Duke Mansion were not far from the viewing tform. Qiao Ruoshui stared at the woman in the pink dress, clenching her handkerchief in anger.
Princess Fulu came over and asked the Duchess, Duchess, where is Jinniang?
The Duchess smiled and said, Princess Fuan of Duke Rongs Mansion invited Jinniang to visit her early in the morning.
Fulu said in surprise, Princess Fuan? She hides in her room all year round and would cough for several days every time she goes out. How can she be friends with Jinniang?
The Duchess was also surprised, but it was a princess, and Duke Rong was very trusted by His Majesty, so even if she felt that it was strange, she didnt ask.
Fulu looked at the woman next to the Crown Prince. It turns out that she is in the Duke Rongs Mansion. I thought the person next to the Crown Prince was Jinniang!
Qiao Ruoshui sneered coldly. How is Qiao Jinniang worthy of sitting next to His Royal Highness? Moreover, how is she worthy of holding the little imperial grandson?
Hearing Fulus words, the Duchess looked at the woman next to the Crown Prince, who looked like Jinniang indeed, but why was she wearing a head curtain?
Fulu snorted. Then are you worthy?
Qiao Ruoshui didnt dare to argue with Fulu, so she just took out the bayberries and unted. Princess, you must not have seen this fruit, right? These are fresh bayberries. His Royal Highness granted them to me!
The Duchesss head instantly ached. She didnt expect Qiao Ruoshui to act so rudely. Isnt it enough for her to show off the bayberries at home?
She even brought them here!
Look how energetic she was. She didnt look seriously ill at all.
Fulu thought silently, Jinniang was right. Her imperial cousin must be blind to grant bayberries to Qiao Ruoshui!
Qiao Ruoshui held the bayberries high, wishing to show them to all the noble girls in Changan.
Qiao Ruofengs eyes were red with anger. Qiao Ruoshuis stupid boast would in turn ruin her reputation as well. If that man saw this, would he think that all the girls in the Duke Anyuans Mansion were all so ill-mannered
Ruoyi was already used to it. She looked at the woman next to the Crown Prince. Actually, just like Princess Fulu, she thought that person looked very much like Jinniang too.
How could there be so many coincidences in this world? The Crown Prince stayed in Linan in thest several years, and Jinniang was also from Linan.
The little imperial grandson mistook the Duchess and Qiao Ruoshui for his mother, and Jinniang looked very alike the Duchess, so the answer was obvious
Soon, the Emperor and the Queen arrived at the viewing tform, followed by four to five imperial concubines.
The imperial guards on both sides disyed power and grandeur, and Qiao Jinniang followed the imperial maids beside her to get on her knees, listening to the deafening hails of Long Live Your Majesty.
This was the first time she experienced what imperial power was like ever since she arrived from the South.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the imperial concubines behind the emperor. They could only sit aside, but the Queen could sit next to the Emperor. She was determined to never be like one of those women.
After that, five princes including Prince Qi came one after another.
Among the five princes, only Prince Qi and Prince Shu had wives, with the remaining three only having concubines.
Among the people of the Anyuan Duke Mansion, Qiao Ruofeng looked at those princes.. Even among his handsome brothers, that man was the most handsome.
Chapter 35
Chapter 35: Gang Up For Private Gain
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After the ritual music stopped, Emperor Huilin said, Today is the Dragon Boat Festival. The Dragon Boat Race is an indispensable event of the Dragon Boat Festival. It can also disy the bravery of our young men. Ill reward the winner of the Dragon Boat Race handsomely!
The young men in various uniforms underneath responded in unison, Thank you, Your Majesty.
Qiao Jinniang looked over and saw many familiar faces in the teams. The one dressed in red was Junior Duke Rong. Most of his team members were young male members of the royal family.
And Lin Mo, the son of the Right Prime Minister, was in green. In his team, most of them were the sons of civilian officials.
There were two other teams. One consisted of young noblemen, who were in brown. Her younger brother and cousins were in this team.
The members of the fourth team were in blue, and this team received the most udits.
When they boarded the boats, many bold girls on both sides threw handkerchiefs and fruits onto their boats.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang looking at them, Lu Chen introduced,
The captain of the blue team is Qin Shu.
And the vice-captain is Zhou Siming, whom you sawst time in the Tasty Pavilion.
The members of the blue team and the brown team were all young noblemen. They are divided into two teams ording to their ages, thats why your younger brother is in the brown team.
Qiao Jinniang was wondering just now why her younger brother was not in Qin Shus team. Now she knew the reason.
Qin Shu, the eldest son of Duke Qin, was thrown a lot of silk handkerchiefs by the women on both sides of the river.
Seeing this, Qiao Jinniang was annoyed. Ruoyun was still recuperating at home, but Qin Shu was dressed up like a peacock and flirting with other women.
Sure enough, in this world, few men were loyal to their wives.
After the Emperor hit the gong, rowers began to beat the war drums on the bows of the ships, and the dragon boats shot out like arrows.
Qiao Jinniang thought of Lu Chens first year in the restaurant.
At that time, her foster parents had just passed away and she was just pregnant with Tuaner.
She missed the past Dragon Boat Festivals when her foster parents were still alive.
Noticing her sadness, Lu Chen took her to the river.
It just so happened that a dragon boat team needed a rower, so Lu Chen was dragged over to participate in the Dragon Boat Race.
And the prize for the winner was a jade hairpin.
Lu Chen tried his best and won the jade hairpin. Then, he put it on for her in public. Everyone bantered about how sweet the young couple was.
This dispelled the sadness in her heart.
But just three yearster the so-called sweetness turned out to be a joke.
In Jinniangs arms, Tuaner was watching the Dragon Boat Race in relish. Mommy, will Uncle Rong win?
Jinniang looked over. It seemed that Qin Shu was more likely to win.
But Tuaners voice was not small, so many people on the viewing tform heard him call Qiao Jinniang Mommy.
Qiao Ruoshui was showing off about the bayberries with Li Lingling who was from Earl Chengens Mansion. Li Lingling secretly gnashed her teeth when she heard the call. How can His Royal Highness be so extravagant and wasteful
Qiao Ruoshui said triumphantly, There was once an emperor who had litchi transported from far away to please his beloved imperial concubine, and now His Royal Highness fetched bayberries for me. Its obvious that he loves
At this time, Li Linglings maid came over and said, Miss, the woman wearing the head curtain turns out to be the biological mother of the little imperial grandson. The little imperial grandson just called her Mommy.
Li Lingling stared directly at the woman on the viewing tform. How did this woman just pop up out of thin air?
Although the te of bayberries in Qiao Ruoshuis hands was such an eyesore to Li Lingling, she didnt mind using Qiao Ruoshui as a sharp de.
Ruoshui, His Royal Highness loves you so much. Even if the position of the crown princess is reserved for the daughter of the Xie Family, the position of his first concubine will definitely be yours.
His Royal Highness loves you because the little imperial grandson likes you, but now the little imperial grandsons mother is back
Qiao Ruoshui also felt that the woman was an eyesore. A woman who came from nowhere would never have a chance to snatch her ce.
From the viewing tform, a female voice sounded, The Crown Prince is really capable. I heard that you had granted fresh bayberries to the fourth miss of Duke Anyuans Mansion yesterday. Ive lived this long but Ive never seen fresh bayberries.
Her words were abrupt. Qiao Jinniang looked at the woman only to notice the wrinkles on her face that couldnt be concealed.
She sat next to the Queen, and she looked like the Queens mother.
Imperial Concubine Xian said, Why not summon the Fourth Miss of Duke Anyuans Mansion over and let me see what the bayberries that the Crown Prince took so many pains to transport all the way from the South look like!
Lu Chen said indifferently, Imperial Concubine Xian, Im afraid that youre mistaken. One of my subordinates went to the South and since my son has been missing his hometown, I asked that subordinate to bring bayberries back to Changan on his way back.
I am very grateful for Duke Anyuans hard work for the country and the people.
If it werent because of his busy work, it wouldnt have taken him a full eighteen years to find his real daughter.
Plus, I heard that his long lost daughter was from the South too, so I rewarded him with some bayberries.
I just rewarded a meritorious official for my father, but why are you saying that the bayberries were for his fourth daughter?
Prince Mediocre gave Prince Lu, who was watching the fun, a sneaky kick under the table, forcing Prince Lu to say, Brother, why did you only reward Duke Anyuan? Are you trying to form a clique?
Prince Lu was confident that this would give the Emperor an impression that the Crown Prince was forming a clique for his private gains.
However, as soon as he said so, Emperor Huilin suddenly smashed a rice dumpling onto his head. He is the Crown Prince. Why couldnt he reward a meritorious official for me?
Prince Lu hurriedly knelt down. Father, I was wrong.
Prince Mediocre looked at Emperor Huilin coldly. He was too partial to the Crown Prince!
Almost all emperors were afraid of their sons forming cliques and wooing powerful officials, but he didnt care at all.
Although Qiao Jinniang didnt know much about politics, she knew people well. His Majesty was clearly defending Lu Chen.
Therefore, it showed that if Lu Chen really wanted her to be his wife, His Majesty would not refuse.
Lu Chen said that she could only be his first concubine because she only deserved to be a concubine in Lu Chens heart.
The drums stopped, and unsurprisingly, the winner was Qin Shus team.
The Emperor rewarded Qin Shu and also praised him and Zhou Siming.
After that, the Emperor returned to the imperial pce with the Queen and his concubines.
Lu Chen asked Qiao Jinniang, What are you nning to do in the afternoon?
Qiao Jinniang yed with Tuaners little hand. Of course to stay with Tuaner.
Tuaner will have a nap after lunch. Go to the East Pce with me. I will order someone to send you back to the Duke Mansion at night.
Qiao Jinniang looked down at Tuaner and said, Okay.
Lu Chen wanted to help Qiao Jinniang down the viewing tform, but Qiao Jinniang would rather hold the wooden handrail on the side than hold Lu Chens hand.
Seeing this scene, Qiao Ruoshui who happened toe over was infuriated.
The Duchess took Qiao Ruoshuis hand, signaled her not to make a fool of herself, and saluted to the Crown Prince. Thank you for granting the bayberries to us, Your Royal Highness. We deeply appreciate your kindness.
Lu Chen said coldly, Duchess, I granted the Duke Mansion the bayberries for the sake of the Dukes service to the court.
But you people took me wrong, spread wrong information, and made me look like a fatuous lecher.
Moreover, your fourth daughter is not a beauty, but you people rumored about how much I love her, which is an insult to my taste.
However, I will forgive you for the sake of the Duke.
Hearing his words, his secret guards silentlyughed in their hearts. His Royal Highness was trying to please his beloved beauty with the bayberries indeed!
It was just that the beauty was not Qiao Ruoshui.
Hearing Lu Chens words, the Duchess hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Royal Highness, I failed to educate my daughter well. The fault is all mine. Thank you for your understanding.
Lu Chens words were like a bolt from the blue for Qiao Ruoshui. But, Your Royal Highness, didnt His Majesty say that he wanted to be inws with my father?
Lu Chen grinned and said meaningfully, Duke Anyuan has more than one daughter, right?
Chapter 36
Chapter 36: Renounce Your Status As Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen through the veil. How could he
Although everyone in the Duke Mansion was very nice to her due to their guilt for her, Jinniang believed that if his parents learned that that jerk was the Crown Prince, they would no longer stand on her side and scold him.
After Lu Chen finished speaking, he got into the carriage and Qiao Jinniang followed behind. When she got into the carriage, she asked Lu Chen, How could you say that to my mother?
Lu Chen looked at her, who had taken off her veil, and said, Sooner orter, she will know. Were a family. Why hide it?
Qiao Jinniang certainly wouldnt tell Lu Chen that she still wanted to find a new husband before the imperial decree was issued.
She had a headache, wondering how to exin it after returning home.
However, just as the carriage started, there was a loud face-pping sound outside.
Hearing it, Lu Chen had a conditioned reflex and felt his face hurt
Qiao Ruoshui felt as if being struck by a thunderbolt out of blue when she heard the Crown Prince say that the Duke Mansion had more than one daughter. She then red at Qiao Ruoyi behind her and suddenly pped her.
Little b*tch, youre as slutty as your mother! All you know is to seduce men. How dare you seduce His Royal Highness, you b*tch
Qiao Ruoyi covered her face and her eyes turned red.
The families of high-ranking officials and nobles who had not left all looked over.
The Duchess felt so ashamed and immediately said to Mammy An, Ruoshui went crazy again. I am afraid that she hasnt recovered. Bind her up and send her home.
With that, the Duchess went over and wiped Qiao Ruoyis tears gently with a handkerchief. Your sister is crazy. I apologize for her.
Qiao Ruoyi covered her face and forced her tears back. Mother, I did not I never seduced His Royal Highness.
The Duchess sighed helplessly. After all, youve been calling me Mother for so many years, so Ill definitely uphold justice for you. Youre famous for your talent in literature, which is known to almost everyone in Changan, so its not strange that His Royal Highness is interested in you.
Qiao Ruoyi bowed her head and wringed her handkerchief. She looked at the carriage of the Crown Prince. It was obvious that His Royal Highness was talking about Jinniang.
She felt that she became Jinniangs scapegoat, but thinking of Jinniangs life-saving grace, she decided to keep it a secret for Jinniang.
In the carriage, thinking of Ruoyi who was pped for nothing, Qiao Jinniang felt very guilty.
If she didnt speak up for her, Ruoyi would definitely have a hard time. Qiao Jinniang decided to exin to the Duchess after she returned so as not to tarnish Qiao Ruoyis reputation.
If her parents insisted on marrying her off to Lu Chen as his concubine, she would rather go to a Taoist temple and be a Taoist priest.
When the carriage stopped in the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang found that Tuaner had already fallen asleep in her arms. There was no ice basin in the carriage, so his forehead was full of sweat.
Lu Chen got out of the carriage first, took Tuaner from Qiao Jinniang, and reached out, intending to help Qiao Jinniang get off the carriage.
Qiao Jinniang once again ignored him and jumped down the carriage herself.
The East Pce neighbored the Imperial Pce, but had its own gate and courtyard.
During the Dragon Boat Festival, the flowers in the courtyard rushed to bloom, and peonies, a flower rarely seen in the south, were also in full bloom.
Lu Chen took Tuaner to a side pce and Qiao Jinniang followed in. There were luxurious decorations everywhere, and inside was a bed made of golden nanmu wood.
Seeing Lu Chen put down Tuaner, she went to check the stitches of the quilt. Although she knew that the quilt in the East Pce must be carefully made, the bedding Tuaner used to use was all made by her own hands. She was afraid that the quilt would cut Tuaners skin if it was not soft enough.
Lu Chen ordered all the maids to leave and walked to Qiao Jinniang, saying, This is made by imperial embroiderers, whose skills are better than yours, so dont worry.
Qiao Jinniang tucked Tuaner in and said crossly, Yes, my needlework is not good enough. Since it is not good, why are you wearing my sachet?
Lu Chen said, Im not saying that your needlework is not good. If youre worried about Tuaner, when you enter the East Pce in two months, I will let you raise Tuaner yourself.
Qiao Jinniang took off her veil and red at Lu Chen. Are you saying that you nned to have someone else raise Tuaner?
Lu Chen said indifferently, Tuaner is my eldest son. If he is raised by the crown princess, its easier for him to inherit the throne from me in the future
Qiao Jinniang threw the veil onto Lu Chen and cursed unbearably, Damn you, I never want to marry into the East Pce! Even if I wanted to previously, after hearing this, I would rather kill you than marry you!
Do you think my Tuaner wants the throne? He has his mother. Why does he have to recognize another woman as his mother?
We were a legal couple for the past three years, but does it count for anything in your eyes?
Lu Chen frowned and said, Jiner, your husband in the past three years is Lu Chen, not the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty!
Although we were married, I used the fake identity that you made for me. Its not my real identity
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands, picked up the teapot on the side, threw it at Lu Chens forehead and cursed in a low voice:
A*shole, didnt you agree when you were asked to marry into my family three years ago? You are a man after all. If you didnt want to marry me, could I force you?
Isnt Lu Chen you?
The teapot hit Lu Chens forehead, causing it to immediately drip with blood.
Lu Chen clutched his forehead. Fearing to wake Tuaner up, he said in a lowered voice, Why dont you learn to control your temper?
You have repeatedly humiliated me. Do you really think that I wont punish you?
Qiao Jinniangs eyes turned bloodshot and anger made her fearless. If you have what it takes, throw me in jail and cut me into pieces!
Id like to ask the public to judge. I saved your life, gave you a well-to-do life for three years, married you and gave birth to a son for you!
But you dont even want to admit that Tuaner was born by your wife? So you have never cared for him, right? Thats why youre only willing to make me your concubine
Lu Chen covered the wound on his forehead with his hand. Jiner, calm down. If I dont care for Tuaner, why did I bother to tell you these?
As soon as I returned to Changan, I immediately asked my father to designate him as my inheritor, but my grandmother felt it inappropriate.
I have been holding Tuaner every day since he was born. He is my most beloved child. Is it wrong for me to try to make him my inheritor?
Jiner, this is in Changan, in the imperial pce, not in Linan. If Im only amon prince, I wont make you my concubine, let alone let Tuaner call someone else mother. But I am the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty!
Qiao Jinniang spat on him. Dont be so high-sounding. If you really care about Tuaner and I, you should just renounce your status as the crown prince.
In novels, those emperors were willing to abandon the throne for the sake of the peasant girls they loved. Are you willing to give up the throne?
Lu Chen helplessly said, I told you to read less novels. How can I just renounce the status of crown prince so easily?
Chapter 37
Chapter 37: Full of Smell
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen said, Im the only son my mother has. If I abandon the position of the crown prince, no matter which one of my six brothers bes the emperor, he wont easily spare me or Tuaner.
In the royal family, the slightest carelessness would arouse a storm of blood
Abandoning the position of the crown prince is not as easy as you think.
As Lu Chen exined, his forehead kept bleeding, so he had to leave Tuaners pce.
Qiao Jinniang didnt feel guilty at all when she saw the blood on the shards of the teacup on the ground.
Although she knew who would be the crown prince was very important, if he really regarded her as his wife, he would never insult her!
She only regretted her being nosy to save him from the river back then. She shouldnt have been deceived by his pretty face. All of him was extremely disgusting except for his good looks.
After Tuaner woke up, Qiao Jinniang yed with him for a while, and it was not until a servant of the East Pce said that the pce banquet was about to begin that Qiao Jinniang reluctantly handed over Tuaner.
She earnestly asked the servant to take good care of Tuaner.
After that, she endured the urge of burning the East Pce and left the pce bitterly.
The pce banquet at the Dragon Boat Festival was very lively.
There was a custom of shooting rice dumplings in the Imperial Pce. Whoever shot a rice dumpling could eat that rice dumpling. The rice dumplings made by the royal chef might not be delicious, but they were the rice dumplings bestowed by the royal family after all.
Everyone had a great time ying.
His Royal Highness is here.
When Lu Chen came in, all the nobles, officials and their families present saluted him.
The Queen noticed the bright red scar on Lu Chens forehead at a nce. Chener,e here.
Lu Chen stepped forward and saluted her. Mother.
The Queen stood up, reached out to touch Lu Chens forehead, and frowned angrily, Who did this?
Lu Chen lowered his eyes and said, I just fell.
Again? Last time, she pped you, and this time you lost a lot of blood! Are you still protecting her? I will never allow my son to be so insulted!
The Queen was furious. How could she beat you over and over again? Has she ever shown any respect to the royal family? Even I have never beaten you!
You didnt lose your life in the South, but Im afraid that you will lose your life in Changan!
Noticing that the Queen was furious, Lu Chen quicklyforted her, Mother, I did identally fall. Dont be angry. If Father knows that I made you angry, hell me me.
Lu Chen winked at Emperor Huilin, but thetter ignored him. Instead, he said, What your mother said is right. After the pce banquet is over, Ill punish Qiao Jinniang!
The Queen frowned and looked at Lu Chen. Why do you smell?
The warm wind of early summer blew over, and the Yuhua Garden where the pce banquet was held suddenly filled with a strange smell.
It smelled like slops in June and July, very disgusting.
The closer one got to Lu Chen, the more obvious the smell was.
Prince Lu gloated, Whats the matter with the Crown Prince? Why do you stink? Are you sick? Summon a royal doctor to examine you!
Prince Lu rolled his eyes. His seventh younger brother had always outshone them since he was a child.
He knew that he would never be the crown prince, but he didnt want Lu Chen, who had always been unkind to his brothers, to ascend the throne smoothly.
On the other hand, Prince Mediocre was kind, polite and very nice to his brothers. After getting demoted to Prince Mediocre and sent to the frontier, he still didnt forget to send gifts to them and never forgot about them.
Prince Lu thought, as long as he didnt rebel, he would be a duke no matter what.
He liked to cause troubles for the Crown Prince, which might help Prince Mediocre be the next emperor!
If the Crown Prince really suffered from a foul-smelling illness, even if the father loved him the most, as a sick man, he couldnt be the next emperor.
Lu Chen lowered his head and took away the sachet from his waist. The stench came from the sachet.
He clenched the sachet and looked at Prince Lu sharply, asking coldly, Fourth Brother, why did you say the smell came from me? Do you have any evidence?
Prince Lu shuddered, angry yet a bit scared. Lu Chen was the youngest son of Emperor Huilin, but he always dwarfed the other sons. And unlike Prince Mediocre who respected them very much, he was very rude to them!
Prince Lu said, Im just concerned about your health Im afraid everyone in this hall has smelled the stink, right?
Prince Mediocre stood up and said, Fourth Brother, maybe I was contaminated with the smell of fertilizer when I went to the outskirts today to check the growth of the farmers wheat. This smell doesnte from the Crown Prince.
The civil officials and Prince Lu all felt sympathetic for Prince Mediocre. The Queen had changed his title to the insulting Mediocre, but Prince Mediocre still tried to protect the Crown Prince. He was such a noble man.
It was a pity that he wasnt born by the Queen.
However, Lu Chen didnt seem grateful and said with irony, There is still a month away from cutting the wheat. How could farmers possibly put fertilizer in the wheat fields?
Fifth Brother, you need to go to the field and do some farm work. Dont talk nonsense. You know, talking nonsense in front of Father will get you punished
Emperor Huilin asked Lu Chen, I remember you still couldnt tell the wheat from beans three years ago, but now you even know when the wheat fields are fertilized?
Lu Chen smiled meaningfully at Prince Mediocre. Thanks to Fifth Brother, I got to know it.
Prince Mediocre hurriedly said, Maybe I was mistaken. They were fertilizing fruits, not wheat
After Lu Chen burned the spice in the sachet, the smell in the courtyard was gone.
Lu Chen arched his hands and said, Father, this is an insect repellent made of mugwort leaves and realgar.
Although it has a foul smell, it can repel insects. I dont know why Fifth Brother insisted that the smell came from him?
But since Fifth Brother likes it, Ill have more sachets made and give them to Fifth Brother to repel insects.
Prince Mediocre clenched his hands, his eyes full of resentment after being humiliated.
Emperor Huilin praised, Thats very considerate of you, but dont y favorites. Your Fourth Brother easily attracts insects as well. Give him some too.
Lu Chen chuckled. Yes, Father.
Everyone in the garden could tell how much His Majesty favored His Royal Highness.
Imperial Concubine Xian and other imperial concubines looked very embarrassed too.
After the Dragon Boat Festival banquet was over, the Queen called Lu Chen over. She approached, picked up the sachet on Lu Chens waist, and looked at it. This sachet is not made by the imperial embroiderers. Who tried to set you up?
Lu Chen said, Mother, maybe Jinniang didnt know that she used the wrong spices.
That being said, Lu Chen remembered the look in her eyes when she put on the sachet for him and knew that she definitely did it on purpose to let him make a fool of himself.
The Queens beautiful face turned gloomy. Its her again? I wont forgive her!
Lu Chen hurriedly said, She is upset because she doesnt want to be my concubine. She didnt mean to set me up.
Hasnt your father changed her title to your first concubine? Why is she still upset?
Looking at the scar on Lu Chens forehead, the Queen was very angry.
Lowering his eyes and sighing, Lu Chen told the Queen that Jinniang wanted to be his legitimate wife.
Today, I said that I wanted to let my future crown princess raise Tuaner, so hell be more justified to inherit my throne in the future. Hearing this, she was annoyed, but she didnt mean to harm me.
Hearing Lu Chens exnation, the Queen paused before she said slowly, You really deserve it. If it were me, I would have burnt the East Pce down!
Lu Chen, ?
Chapter 38
Chapter 38: The Handwriting of the Divorce Letter
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen wondered. Mother, am I wrong?
The Queen hurriedly waved her hand. Leave. I find you such an eyesore now.
Lu Chen:
Okay, Im leaving.
After Lu Chen left, the Queen rubbed her temples. She had thought that the Crown Prince had informed Jinniang of his real identity when he was in the South.
She had thought that Qiao Jinniang was willing to be the Crown Princes concubine because they were a loving couple for three years and had Tuaner.
After all, for the noble girls in Changan, being the first concubine of the Crown Prince was not a bad choice.
The biological mother of Prince Lu, who was a daughter of an aristocratic family, was married to Emperor Huilin as a concubine, who was only an unfavored prince back then.
However, she didnt expect that Jinniang was unwilling to be a concubine, not to mention that her son actually sprinkled salt on Jinniangs wound.
The Queen said to a mammy she trusted, I am such a smart person, but why did I give birth to such a silly son? Did someone swap my son too?
Since it was known that Duke Anyuans eldest daughter was swapped, many nobles in Changan also doubted the identities of their children.
The mammy smiled and said, His Royal Highness is brilliant, handsome, and talented. He looks so much like you. How could he be possibly swapped?
I think His Royal Highness is too proud to realize that he has fallen in love!
The Queen said, Sooner orter, hell regret it, just like his dad did.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Duke Mansion, the Duke and the Duchess hadnte back from the pce banquet yet.
Back in the Jin Garden, Jinniang saw Qiao Ruoyi waiting for her.
Qiao Ruoyi saluted. Sister.
Jinniang hurriedly fetched an ointment and handed it to Qiao Ruoyi. Im so sorry. This ointment can reduce the swelling.
Ruoyi took the ointment and said, Thank you, Sister, but you did nothing wrong. It was Fourth Sister who beat me. It has nothing to do with you.
Qiao Jinniang said, No, its my fault. That jerk was talking about me, but Qiao Ruoshui thought he was talking about you.
Ruoyi was a bit frightened when she heard what Qiao Jinniang called the Crown Prince. Sister, dont call His Royal Highness that. It may bring you trouble.
Jinniang said angrily, He is a jerk, a scum. Even if he is burnt to ashes, his bone ashes are dirty!
Ruoyis heart trembled when she heard Qiao Jinniang scolding the Crown Prince.
Her Second Sister, who was so gentle and nice, looked so fierce when she was cursing the Crown Prince.
Qiao Ruoyi asked tentatively, Sister, did the Crown Prince do anything to harm you?
Jinniang didnt want to hide it from Qiao Ruoyi. Anyway, she had already decided to tell it to the Duke and the Duchess.
After I had mying-of-age ceremony, my foster parents were seriously ill and my rtives all coveted our restaurant. It happened that my father and I saved Lu Chen from a river.
At that time, he lost his memory and had nowhere to go, and I needed a husband who was willing to marry into my family, so as arranged by my foster parents, he married into my family.
We spent three happy years together, but at thest Lantern Festival, he identally fell into a river and remembered everything. Then without any exnation, he just took my son back to Changan.
I waited for him for a few months, only to get a divorce letter from him. When I returned to Changan and finally met him, he actually said that he wanted me to be his concubine.
Maybe he was afraid that I would cause trouble, so he said he would allow me to be his first concubine, but who f*cking cares? He divorced me, seized my son, and made me his concubine
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister, being the Crown Princes concubine is different.
To put it bluntly, youll be an imperial concubine when the Crown Prince bes the emperor.
If youre his first concubine, youll at least be one of the four major imperial concubines. Plus, youve given birth to a son for him, so maybe youll directly be canonized as the Noble Imperial Concubine.
Although Father is Duke Anyuan, its not an insult to you at all to be the Crown Princes first concubine.
Moreover, His Majesty hasnt taken any imperial concubines for 20 years, so the crown princess will probably be the daughter of a civil official or from a powerful family.
The more Qiao Ruoyi said, the gloomier she found Jinniangs face. She then coughed awkwardly and said,
However, since you had formally married the Crown Prince, you should be his wife. How can he demote you to be his concubine?!
Qiao Ruoyi asked tentatively, But since you were once married to His Royal Highness, you may not be able to marry someone else.
And since His Royal Highness is insisting you to marry into the East Pce, you may need to control your temper.
Jinniang frowned and said, Even if I refuse, so what? When Father and Mothere back, Ill tell them about this matter. If they feel guilty for me they will definitely not force me to marry into the East Pce.
If the Emperor is angry, then I will be a nun and spend the rest of my life in the temple.
Qiao Ruoyi hurriedly said, No, Second Sister, there is always a way out, but you must not tell Father and Mother about your rtionship with the Crown Prince.
Qiao Ruoyi thought that even she felt that being the Crown Princes first concubine was a very good choice for Jinniang.
If Father and Mother knew about this, they probably wouldnt feel angry at all.
Whats more, there were so many things Father and Mother had to consider.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Although Father and Mother love you, as a high-ranking official, Father is always very cautious. He will definitely not disobey the Crown Princes order.
Although Mother loves you very much, she still has to consider our two younger brothers
And the entire Duke Dingyuans Mansion is counting on her. She may not have a choice.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief. I wanted to keep it a secret and asked Mother to find me a fianc before the imperial decree is issued.
His Majesty wont force a woman who has already got a fianc to marry into the East Pce, will he?
But if I dont tell them now, everyone would misunderstand that the Crown Prince is interested in you.
If that happens, it will tarnish your reputation and affect your marriage.
Ruoyi smiled and said, I dont care about my reputation. Besides, I dont want to marry into a noble family.
Second Sister, you should ask Mother to find a fianc for you as soon as possible.
Then you can spread what happened between you and the Crown Prince in the South throughout Changan.
Make that jerk lose face!
Qiao Jinniang felt what Qiao Ruoyi said made sense.
She should find a fianc first before wide-spreading this scandal of the Crown Prince.
She would rather marry an ordinary man than marry the Crown Prince. This fact would definitely disgrace that jerk.
But then youll be wronged, Qiao Jinniang said to Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi smiled and said, Im still young and my biological mother is sick. Mother has talked to me about my marriage, but I dont want to marry so early.
I dont care about my reputation. Besides, when you are married, the truth will naturallye to light.
Qiao Jinniang said, I heard that youre very good at literature. Ive brought a lot of books out of print from the South, pick some.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Nuomi to open the crate full of books.
Qiao Ruoyi found that these were all precious books out of print. Sister, howe you have so many precious books?
These are all handwritten copies and are rare to see.
Qiao Jinniang said, Some were handwritten by the jerk from memory, and some were bought by him with my money!
Back then, Lu Chen often spent hundreds of taels of silver on books, and she always gave him the money without saying a word. Thinking of that, she really regretted it.
When Qiao Ruoyi realized that the jerk in Qiao Jinniangs mouth was the Crown Prince, she pursed her lips and said,
The jerks handwriting is simr to Master Lius style and probably even better than his.
Jinniang asked Qiao Ruoyi, Master Liu?
Qiao Ruoyi exined, Master Liu is from the Liu Family in Longnan. He is a famous calligrapher.
In Changan, many young noblemen learned his handwriting.
Among them, the Crown Prince learned his handwriting the best.
His Majesty once praised His Royal Highness handwriting, so everyone in Changan scrambled to learn Master Lius handwriting, but no one was as talented as the crown prince. So, his handwriting is better than anyone else.
Qiao Jinniang looked at a handwritten book of Lu Chen and recalled the handwriting on the divorce letter
Although they looked identical, it was obvious that Lu Chens handwriting seemed to be more powerful, while the handwriting in the divorce letter seemed to be a little more elegant.
Could there really be some misunderstanding about the divorce letter?
But even if there was a misunderstanding, it was a fact that Lu Chen was a jerk!
Chapter 39
Chapter 39: Cement the Old Ties by Marriage
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Duke Anyuan and the Duchess left the pce gate, Qin Shu chased after them, saluted and said, Father-inw, Mother-inw.
The Duchess frowned when she saw Qin Shu.
Considering the friendship between the two families, Duke Anyuan said politely, You dont have to be so polite, Son-inw.
Qin Shu said, Ruoyun has been troubling you for a long time, so Id like to take her back home. Moreover, my grandmothers birthday banquet is approaching. As my wife, she is supposed to show up at the birthday banquet.
The Duchess sneered and said, I dont mind Ruoyun staying in the Duke Mansion. We can afford a daughter. Didnt your grandmother and mother prefer to make you two divorce than punish your concubine maid?
My daughter finally got pregnant, but because of your family, she almost lost her life. How can I let you take her back so easily? Although I did not give birth to her, she is still my precious daughter who stayed with me for 16 years. She is not someone your Qin family can humiliate at will!
When Qin Shu heard this, he hurriedly promised, I will be good to Ruoyun in the future. Ive never looked down upon her because of her change in identity
The duchess snorted. Let your grandmother and mothere and talk about this matter with me. If they dont admit their mistakes, wed rather let you divorce!
Qin Shu sighed, and Qin Miaomiao stepped forward and said, Brother, itll be Ruoyi and Ruofengsing-of-age ceremony in a few days. I will take the chance to go to the Duke Mansion to talk to Ruoyun. Shes good-tempered. If she is willing toe back, I dont think the Duchess will stop her.
Qin Shu nodded helplessly.
On the day after the Dragon Boat Festival, it rained. Changan rained less than Linan.
Jinniang held her umbre and went to the Duchesss courtyard. When she entered, she heard Qiao Ruoshui crying bitterly.
Mother, if you hold a granding-of-age ceremony for that little b*tch, Qiao Ruoyi, itll be a p on my face!
She seduced His Royal Highness and made me look like a joke! That concubine-born slut! How is she deserving of such a granding-of-age ceremony? Its almost as grand as mine.
Boohoo, its all Qiao Jinniangs fault. Mother, the little imperial grandson likes me and His Royal Highness even let me ride in his carriage. It must be because of Qiao Jinniang, that vige woman, causing His Royal Highness to change his attitude towards our family.
If I marry into the East Pce, I can at least be the Crown Princes first concubine, but if its Qiao Ruoyi, shell just be a concubine of the lowest rank!
Hearing it at the door, Qiao Jinniang was helpless. Did this have anything to do with her? She stepped inside and said, Mother.
Seeing her, the Duchess said, Its cold and raining today. You should wear more clothes. Are you cold? Cuier, serve hot tea for the miss.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, Im not cold. The rain today has dispelled the sultry heat of yesterday.
The Duchess looked at Qiao Ruoshuidao coldly. Your father has discussed with Deputy General Liu who is guarding the southwest border. In a few days, Deputy General Liu will have the betrothal gift sent over! After Jinniang is engaged, youll be married off!
Qiao Ruoshui cried and said, Mother, youve always loved me the most. Why do you have to treat me like this?
The Duchess sighed. Its my fault. I had been fighting with that b*tch all this while and neglected your education, causing you to be such a foolish and self-willed person. Its for your own good to marry you off to the Southwest.
Your third sister is the daughter-inw of the Southwest Governor. Moreover, you have the Duke Anyuans Mansion behind you, and there are generals who used to be your fathers subordinates there. Your life wont be hard in the Southwest.
Qiao Ruoshui red at Qiao Jinniang fiercely and ran away crying. Qiao Jinniang literally ruined her life! Everything changed after she came back.
After watching Qiao Ruoshui leave, Qiao Jinniang said to the Duchess, Mother, Id like to ask about the matter of Father recognizing my foster father as his sworn brother I mentionedst time
The Duchess said, Ive mentioned this to your father, but lets talk about it when the people we sent to Linane back.
The Duchess still had some concerns. If, as Qiao Jinniang said, the chef and his wife treated Qiao Jinniang very well, she didnt mind the Duke acknowledging the chef as his sworn brother. By doing that, at least people wouldntugh at Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyuns identities anymore.
But if they were bad people, it might cause trouble.
Most importantly, those annoying kinsmen of the Qiao Family must be resolved.
Oh, I couldnt havee at a better time! Suddenly, Second Madams voice came.
Qiao Jinniang got up and saluted. Second Aunt.
Second Aunt smiled and said to the Duchess, My brother-inw has returned to Changan today and is inviting our family to dinner. Theyve just returned to Changan, and they nned to have their dinner in the Tasty Pavilion. They would like to invite you to dinner. Since Jinniang is already here, lets go together.
Looking at the smiling face of Second Madam, the Duchess remembered her third nephew she had mentionedst time. It would be nice to go and see thatd.
Jinniang, do you have anything up for today?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No.
Okay, lets go together then. I havent been to the Tasty Pavilion yet. I can take this chance to visit your restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. She didnt think it was to save money that Second Madam invited her to dinner in the Tasty Pavilion.
From the Duchesss attitude, she guessed that this was probably a blind-date dinner for her.
Then go back and prepare. the Duchess said to her.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said yes.
After seeing Qiao Jinniang leave, Second Madam said to the Duchess, I told my sister that Jinniang has a child, and she seemed to be a little ufortable with it.
But it happened that my sisters mother-inw was there. She heard that Jinniang was a sensible and filial girl, and she felt pity for Jinniangs misfortune, so she said it would be good to let the two children meet and see each other.
My sisters husbands family name is Li, and at first he was just an ordinary schr. But over the years, his mother helped him marry the daughter of a powerful family, helping him to be a high-ranking official. His mother is a very shrewd and clever woman.
The Duchess said to Second Madam, From what Ruoyun has experienced, I understand that its not enough if a womans husband is nice to her. Her mother-inw and grandmother-inw are important too.
Since Old Madam Li has agreed, let the two children meet. If theyre interested in each other, isnt it good to cement the old ties of our two families?
If Jinniang was married to a strange family, the Duchess was afraid that Jinniang might not be treated well.
In the No.1 private room of the Tasty Pavilion.
Junior Duke Rong took Fulus exclusive private room without any guilt. When he saw the person at the door, he said, Siming,e on in and take a seat. Its really difficult to order a private room in this Tasty Pavilion. But fortunately, Fulu gave me her private room.
Zhou Siming shook his fan and said, How dare you snatch her private room? Be careful of Princess Shouans anger being directed towards you.
Junior Duke Rong sat down. Howe Lin Mo hasnt arrived yet?
Speak of the devil. Lin Mo entered the door and said, I ran into my dads protg when I was going upstairs. We talked for a while, so it took me some time.
However, if the matter he is up to today can seed, we wont have to steal the No.1 Private Room from Fulu when wee to the Tasty Pavilion in the future
Junior Duke Rong asked, Your fathers protg? Is that Li Yun, the person most likely to win the first prize in this Imperial Examination?
Lin Mo nodded and said, Exactly, I heard that he seemed to be here for a blind date with the owner of the Tasty Pavilion. Li Yuns aunt is the Second Madam of Duke Anyuans Mansion. So if they get married, the two families can cement their old ties.
Plus, he calls me Senior Brother. If they click together well, wont it be a breeze to ask for a private room from him?
The tea in Junior Duke Rongs mouth suddenly spurted onto Lin Mos face and he coughed hard. What did you say?! Who will marry whom?
Chapter 40
Chapter 40: Be Cuckolded
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lin Mo wiped his face with a handkerchief in disgust.
He said, Li Yun and Duke Anyuans long-lost daughter. We saw her herest time. This matter may not seed, so dont spread it. Itll damage Li Yun and that girls reputation.
Zhou Siming also asked in surprise, Zishu, did you mishear something?
Lin Mo said, Theyre right next door. If you dont believe it, just go and see. Why are you both so shocked?
Junior Duke Rong was not only shocked, but his heart was beating fast.
Isnt the long-lost daughter of Duke Anyuan Qiao Jinniang?
Does His Royal Highness know that Duke Anyuan intends to cuckold him?
Because Second Madam had no daughters or daughters-inw, Qiao Jinniang was the only young girl present.
Seeing them passing by the door of the room, Junior Duke Rong felt what Lin Mo said was probably true.
Qiao Jinniang followed Second Madam and the Duchess into the room and saluted.
Grandma Li, Aunt Li, and Cousin.
Li Yuns eyes brightened when he saw Qiao Jinniang who was wearing a light yellow embroidered dress. He saluted the Duchess while not forgetting to salute Qiao Jinniang too. Cousin.
Qiao Jinniang nodded gently and sat down with the Duchess.
On this kind of asion, the juniors didnt need to talk much. Although this was a weing banquet for Li Yuns father in name, he didnte.
At the banquet, Old Madam Li and the Duchess were chatting the most.
Old Madam Li asked about Qiao Jinniang asionally.
She was quite satisfied with Jinniang. She didnt believe in the nonsense that she was ve-raised.
The South was a very rich and prosperous ce, and the Myriad Taste in Linan was quite famous among the literati in the South.
A woman who could run such a restaurant must be sensible and smart.
What is this? We didnt seem to order this dish.
Mrs. Li asked when she saw the waiter serve a bowl of food.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and exined, This dish is called Crab Meat Tofu. I heard that Grandma Li was a Buddhist, so I deliberately reced the crab meat with salted duck egg powder. It tastes smooth and is easy to digest. Please have a try, Grandma Li.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, Noumi served a bowl for Old Madam Li.
Qiao Jinniang also served a bowl respectively for the Duchess and Second Madam. Mother, this dish was invented by me. Please have a try.
The Duchess tasted it and immediately realized that this restaurants sess was notpletely because of the power of Duke Anyuan.
This dish was even more delicious than the dishes in the Duke Mansion.
Old Madam Li was aged, so her teeth werent very good. After taking a bite of tofu, the scent hit the tip of her tongue.
She smiled. This tofu is the best tofu I have ever tasted.
Qiao Jinniang introduced a few more signature dishes.
The goal of this kind of banquet was not to eat, so the dishes would usually not be eaten up.
But under Jinniangs introduction, the dishes on the table were all eaten up.
This made the Duchess quite embarrassed. Nobles usually wouldnt finish the dishes in a banquet.
Old Madam Li joked, The dishes are really delicious. Even wasting a little bit is a great loss. Unfortunately, I turned into a vegetarian recently. But Im definitely going to try the Fried Shelled Shrimps with Longjing Tea here in the future.
Mrs. Li followed. Yes, we muste back and taste itter.
After the meal, the bowls and chopsticks were removed and the tea was served.
The Duchess said to Jinniang There is a rouge shop nearby. You rarely go out, so why dont you go pick some rouge?
Second Madam then said to Li Yun, You can apany your cousin to go there.
With that, she handed her nephew a piece of silver and winked at him.
Her third nephew was a very excellent young man but was a nerd. She was afraid that he might forget to pay for Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang went downstairs with Li Yun. Seeing theme downstairs side by side, Junior Duke Rong was stunned.
Are they really having a blind date?
He hurriedly followed them downstairs.
Seeing Junior Duke Rong leave halfway through dinner, Lin Mo asked Zhou Siming, Whats wrong with him today? Why is he so absent-minded?
Zhou Siming saw Qiao Jinniang and Li Yun too, and he said, Maybe he is afraid that His Royal Highness will me him.
me him? For what? Lin Mo was confused.
Zhou Siming heard from his father that Qiao Jinniang was the biological mother of the little imperial grandson.
But the Crown Prince hadnt announced Qiao Jinniangs identity yet, so he certainly wouldnt tell Lin Mo.
After all, Lin Mos cousin was also going to marry into the East Pce.
After Qiao Jinniang and Li Yun went downstairs, she saw from the corner of her eye that Li Yun looked very embarrassed. He wanted to speak, but he didnt know what to say, so he just blushed.
He looked just like a little dull goose that was raised in the kitchen of the Tasty Pavilion.
Qiao Jinniang said, Cousin, Ive bought all the new products in the rouge shop. Its sunny now. Why dont we go to a bookstore?
Do you like reading too? Li Yun looked at Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, but I only read novels. Will you disdain me for that, Cousin?
Of course not. In fact, I liked to read novels when I was a kid. I liked reading novels about swordsmen, but my father thought that they were not orthodox books, so he threw them away.
Speaking of books, Li Yun was no longer embarrassed and became talkative. Have you ever read novels about swordsmen?
What Qiao Jinniang read were mostly romance novels, so she hadnt read any swordsmen novels.
She said with a smile, Not yet. When we go to the bookstore, please pick some for me. I can read them to kill time.
Li Yun said, I only read those novels when I was a kid, so I dont know if there are any now.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats okay. Ill find some first.
If they are interesting, when you finish the imperial examination, Ill lend them to you to read.
But youd better not read these novels before the imperial examination because they may take up your time. After all, youre very likely to get first ce in the imperial examination.
Li Yun smiled. I hope so.
Qiao Jinniang grew up in a restaurant. As long as she was willing, she could get acquainted with anyone soon. Soon, she and Li Yun entered a bookstore chatting andughing.
Junior Duke Rong hid in an alley and watched them, thinking to himself, Oh my god!
He knew Li Yun. He was Prime Minister Lins favorite protg and was a nerd.
He had never seen him so close to a woman.
But this nerd was smiling at Qiao Jinniang!
Do they have to be so close when they are just picking books?
Junior Duke Rong shook his fan and walked into the bookstore. Miss Qiao, its been a long time.
When Qiao Jinniang saw him, she saluted coldly. Junior Duke Rong.
Junior Duke Rong looked at Qiao Jinniang, thinking of her life-saving grace, while eximing in his heart, Oh, she is cuckolding His Royal Highness indeed!
She was smiling so sweetly at Li Yun just now but was so cold to him.
Qiao Jinniang was cold to him because she thought Junior Duke Rong was here to deliver Lu Chens message.
But then she noticed the ming look in the eyes of Junior Duke Rong
As if she did something wrong?
She hadnt done anything wrong to him, right?
Chapter 41 - Are You Going To Marry Soon?
Chapter 41: Are You Going To Marry Soon?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Junior Duke Rong shook the fan in his hand vigorously. Miss Qiao, I have something to talk to you about.
Qiao Jinniang saluted Li Yun and walked up to Junior Duke Rong.
Junior Duke Rong asked, Lin Mo told me that you are going on a blind date with Li Yun?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, whats the matter?
Now Junior Duke Rong was sure that His Royal Highness was cuckolded. Whats the matter?! His Royal Highness
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, He divorced me first. There are many women in our country who remarried after divorce, just like all the women in the royal family did. Are you implying that I should stay single for the rest of my life for him?
He divorced you?
Junior Duke Rong was even more shocked. Is his seventh brother crazy?
He actually divorced Qiao Jinniang!
Apart from other things, considering the delicious food in Tasty Pavilion alone, it would be a huge loss to divorce Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want Li Yun to misunderstand her if she talked to Junior Duke Rong for too long, so she said, Your Highness, you can ask His Royal Highness if he gave me a divorce letter or not. Now that he has given me a divorce letter, we have nothing to do with each other now.
Junior Duke Rong thought if His Royal Highness really divorced Qiao Jinniang, wouldnt he be scolded if he mentioned Qiao Jinniang to the Crown Prince?
Forget it, as long as Qiao Jinniang didnt cuckold the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang went back to Li Yun. Li Yun didnt ask her why Junior Duke Rong talked to her but only pointed at some novels.
I just asked the shopkeeper. These novels are the most popr among the women in Changan recently. You can check them out.
Qiao Jinniang went over, picked up one of the novels and flipped through it. Unlike the novels in the South, those sold in Changan didnt dare to mention any emperors or princesses.
Most of them were stories about poor young schrs and rich-family daughters.
Qiao Jinniang was a bit bored with these kinds of novels, but she didnt want to disappoint Li Yun, so she chose two books.
Then she followed Li Yun back to the Tasty Pavilion.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang return, the Duchess said goodbye with a smile. On the carriage of the Duke Mansion, the Duchess asked Jinniang, What do you think of Li Yun?
Qiao Jinniang said, He is very talented. No wonder he could win first ce in the provincial imperial examination. I believe hell have a bright future
The duchess smiled. Then are you satisfied with him?
Qiao Jinniang thought that she should be satisfied. Li Yun was the favorite protg of the Prime Minister. Although his father had just returned to the capital, he would probably enter the Hanlin Academy as a Hanlin Bachelor who was usually called a Prime Minister Candidate.
Li Yun had two elder brothers, so their wives would be in charge of the trivial family affairs.
Then she would be at leisure, without needing to enter the social circle in Changan after marrying him.
What made Qiao Jinniang even more satisfied was the Li Familys family tradition that no man in the family shall take a concubine unless his wife couldnt give birth to a son at forty. Besides, Li Yuns mother was her second aunts sister.
With the Duke Anyuan Mansion behind her, her mother-inw wouldnt treat her harshly.
And Li Yun would probably have a bright future. Whichever way she looked at it, Li Yun was a good choice for her.
But for some reason, she wasnt at all as happy as when she learned that she was going to marry Lu Chen back then
Thinking of Lu Chen, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly replied, Mother, Im satisfied, but I was once married and had a son. Does the Li Family know about it?
The Duchess said, Dont worry. We didnt hide it from them. The Li Family already knows that you had once been married. Your father has ordered someone to notarize the divorce letter in the government.
However, Mrs. Li said, if you found back Tuaner, he can stay with you, but he cannot be surnamed Li.
But this is not a problem. Tuaner is the heir of the Qiao family and can keep the surname Qiao.
The Duchess was also very satisfied with the Li Family. She didnt expect that she could find such a good husband for Jinniang so easily.
Jinniang returned to the Jin Garden.
Nuomi waited on Jinniang to remove her makeup and hair essories. Miss, Li Yun is not as handsome as that jerk.
Jinniang smiled. Its not easy to find someone who is more handsome than that jerk even if we searched the whole country.
Although Lu Chen was a scumbag, he was truly handsome. If he was ugly, she wouldnt have been willing to marry him.
Li Yun looked fine, not handsome or ugly. He had a decent appearance.
Plus, an overly handsome man would only unnecessarily attract other womens attention.
After Hongling and Yingtao came in, Jinniang signaled Nuomi not to mention the Crown Prince again.
Jinniang wanted to take a nap in the afternoon. Thinking of the novels she had just bought, she picked one andy on the chaise couch before she began to read it.
But she kept asking herself in her heart. Why did she feel a little ufortable when she thought about marrying Li Yun?
But Li Yun was much better than the jerk!
Theing-of-age ceremony of the two daughters of Duke Anyuan was very grand.
Although Qiao Ruoyi was born by a concubine, she was recorded as the Duchess daughter in the genealogy, so she was considered as the Duchess daughter.
And Qiao Ruofeng was born by the Second Madam. Therefore, many nobles in Changan came to celebrate the twosing-of-age ceremony.
The Duchess invited the Qin family, so she didnt invite Princess Fulu, but Princess Fulu came uninvited and began to quarrel with Qin Miaomiao as soon as they met at the gates of the Duke Mansion.
Seeing this, Jinniang went out and said to Princess Fulu, Princess, werent you worried that the Empress Dowager will force you to marry Prince Mediocre? Why do you still have the mood to quarrel with Miss Qin?
Princess Fulu said in a rxed manner, Prince Mediocre had already told the Empress Dowager that he has already fallen for a girl, and he wishes to marry her. Hearing this, the Empress Dowager didnt want to make things difficult for him, so she no longer mentioned this matter.
When Qiao Ruofeng, who was all dressed up, came over and heard her words, she was slightly shy.
Just as he promised her, Prince Mediocre said to the Empress Dowager that he wanted to marry her.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Congrattions.
Princess Fulu joked, I heard that you went on a blind-date with Li Yun, who is very likely to win first ce in the Imperial Examination, a few days ago? Are you going to marry soon?
How did you know it, Princess? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Lin Mo told me. They are aiming for my private room in the Tasty Pavilion. Qiao Jinniang, even if you and Li Yun are married, that room will still be mine.
Qiao Jinniang:
Qiao Ruofeng smiled. Second Sister and Cousin are meant for each other. Its kismet.
Qiao Jinniang said a bit shyly, This hasnt been decided yet. Sixth Sister, dont say that.
Prince Mediocre arrives!
The doorman shouted loudly, and the Duke and the Duchess hurriedly came out to greet Prince Mediocre.
Although Prince Mediocre was not favored by the Emperor, he was still a prince.
Qiao Ruofeng bent to salute and then gazed at Prince Mediocre affectionately.
But to her disappointment, Prince Mediocres eyes were not on her at all, but on Jinniang.
Prince Mediocre asked everyone to rise and walked directly to Jinniang. I heard that you have a tea house in Linan that produces very good Mingqian Longjing Tea?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and responded, Yes.
May I have the honor to try the authentic Longjing made by you, Miss Qiao?
Prince Mediocre lowered his voice and asked into Qiao Jinniangs ear.
Seeing Prince Mediocres ambiguous attitude towards Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Ruofeng felt very sour. Did Prince Mediocre forget her?
But they had corresponded by letter for a year, and they had even met at her grandmothers home not long ago!
Prince Mediocre even promised her that he would marry her!
Prince Mediocre raised his eyebrows and looked at Qiao Jinniang. Second Miss, are you unwilling to let me taste the Longjing you made?
Yes! Qiao Jinniang thought in her heart but it would be rude if she rejected him in public.
She was about to say okay when a familiar voice sounded from the door:
It just so happens that I miss the authentic Mingqian Longjing in Linan too.
Chapter 42 - A Gold Hairpin
Chapter 42: A Gold Hairpin
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Seeing Lu Chen arrive, everyone saluted him.
Duke Anyuan stepped forward and said, Greetings, Your Royal Highness. Jinniang, make tea for His Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said to Prince Mediocre and Lu Chen, Pleasee to the tea room with me.
Sister Ruoyi, youre really lucky, Qiao Ruofeng said to Qiao Ruoyi.
Everyone in the Qiao family thought that the reason the Crown Prince came to the Duke Mansion today was for Qiao Ruoyi. Hearing this, Qiao Ruoyi sighed in her heart. The jerk obviously came for the second sister!
Today, Li Yun and his family came to the Duke Mansion too to attend Ruofengsing-of-age ceremony.
God bless that the two dont run into each other.
When the two entered the tea room, Jinniang ordered Nuomi to fetch Mingqian Longjing Tea.
Before the tea was taken, Lu Chen knocked over the spring water used to make tea, and the water all spilled over Prince Mediocre.
Oops, Brother, Im really sorry.
Prince Mediocre was quite annoyed. Did Lu Chen know that he wanted to win over Duke Anyuan? But no matter what, as a prince, he shouldnt wear wet clothes on this asion.
Miss Qiao, Im sorry, Allow me to leave to change. Ille back to taste the tea you made!
After Prince Mediocre left, Lu Chen waved all the maids away. Tasting tea needs peace. Except for Miss Qiao and her maid, you all may leave.
The mammies whom the Duchess sent over were worried Jinniang didnt know the court etiquette, but since Lu Chen had said so, they could only leave.
In the quiet tea room, only Lu Chen and Jinniang remained, as well as Nuomi who had just brought the tea leaves.
Lu Chen asked Jinniang, Why havent you been to the Duke Rong Mansion since the Dragon Boat Festival? Tuaner has been missing you and waiting for your news.
Jinniang lowered her eyes sadly when she thought of Tuaner.
However, although she loved Tuaner very much, she would never give up her dignity for the sake of Tuaner.
Jinniang picked up some tea leaves with a tea clip and was about to put them into the teapot but was stopped by Lu Chen. How many times have I taught you? Mingqian Longjing Leaves are very delicate and tender. Theyll be broken if you pick them up with a clip.
Jinniang put down the tea clip and said coldly, Make it yourself if you want to drink it!
There was no one else here anyway, so she didnt want to pretend anymore.
Not annoyed by her rudeness, Lu Chen took the tea leaves and made tea himself. This is all the Mingqian Longjing youve got this year?
Jinniang said, I gifted most of them to Princess Rongan.
Lu Chen skillfully brewed the tea in the blue and white porcin-made teacup and handed it to Jinniang. Thats very generous of you. Those shops in the South should have someone to take care of. You and I are not in Linan, so we cant keep an eye on those shopkeepers. Write a letter of appointment, and Ill have my staff go to Linan to run the shops.
Jinniang said indignantly, Not only do you want to demote me from your wife to your concubine, but you are also coveting my properties?
Lu Chen: ???
Jinniang snapped, Although the shops in the South were founded by you, they belong to me now. I would rather shut them down than submit them to you!
B*stard, how dare he covet her money!
Jinniang thought angrily in her heart and couldnt help blurting out.
Lu Chens face darkened when he heard her words, and he said angrily, Qiao Jinniang! The entire country is mine! How is it possible for me to covet that petty amount of money of yours?
When he married into the Qiao Family, the Qiao Family owned nothing but the Myriad Taste and the other stores were all founded by him. He just didnt want to waste his efforts, but Qiao Jinniang med him for coveting her money?
Qiao Jinniang said, You are only a Crown Prince. How dare you say you own the entire country? Do you want to rebel?
Lu Chen taunted, Very good! Now you know to threaten me. Then what punishment should you receive for repeatedly insulting the Crown Prince?
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea.
It took Lu Chen a while to calm down, and he said, Im not coveting your money, but if you can sell jewelry made with hard gold craftsmanship in Changan, youll definitely make much more money.
I took pains to manage the shops in the South for the past three years. I just dont want to see my effort wasted. If you manage them well, the money you earn from them can secure your life.
If you have more suitable candidates, you can send them over to manage the shops. I just thought you have no men to use, so I said I could have my men take charge of them. Do you think they are willing to go to the remote South?
Qiao Jinniang felt his words make sense. Whether she married another man or became a Taoist priest, money would be very important to her.
No bother. Ill discuss it with my parents.
The Duke Mansion must have many shops. It shouldnt be difficult for them to find her a good steward.
Lu Chen said helplessly, Jiner, dont you trust me anymore?
He didnt think that the steward the Duke Mansion found for Jinniang could be any better than his men.
Weve been married for three years, but would you rather believe in people you know for less than two months?
Qiao Jinniangughed sarcastically. Yes, we had been married for three years, but youve never regarded me as your wife. Maybe Lu Chen in Linan was sincere to me, but the Crown Prince in Changan only treats me with contempt.
The ceremony is going to start. Im going to watch the ceremony! Qiao Jinniang got up and left.
Theing-of-age ceremony was very lively, which reminded Qiao Jinniang of hers.
She had hering-of-age ceremony the day before she was getting married. At that time, her foster parents were already seriously ill, so hering-of-age ceremony wasnt held until the eve of her wedding.
At the ceremony, Lu Chen gifted her a silver hairpin. She didnt know where Lu Chen got the money to buy it.
But she kept wearing that silver hairpin until she lost it in the crowded Lantern Festival this year.
Perhaps, the affection between her and Lu Chen was gone too, just like the lost silver hairpin.
Walking on a path in the garden, Jinniang suddenly heard a voice.
Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang raised her eyes and saw Li Yun. She saluted. Cousin.
Li Yuns ears were reddish, and he quickly took out a small wooden box from his sleeve and put it in Qiao Jinniangs hand. This is a bted gift for youring-of-age ceremony.
With that, Li Yun left.
Qiao Jinniang opened the wooden box, and there was a golden phoenix hairpin lying in it, which looked quite precious.
Cousin? Lu Chen asked in Qiao Jinniangs ear, When did you have a cousin?
Lu Chen knew all the men in Duke Dingbei Mansion. He was sure this man was not from Duke Dingbei Mansion. And in the Qiao Family, Qiao Jinniang didnt have such a cousin either.
As a man, Lu Chen could see Li Yuns affection for Qiao Jinniang at a nce. Moreover, Qiao Jinniang called him Cousin so sweetly.
She probably didnt know how tempting she was when she called him that.
Qiao Jinniang closed the wooden box and suddenly thought that Li Yun might not be a good choice for her.
Li Yun had a promising future, and he would definitely take the Imperial Examination and be an official in the future. But judging from what she knew of Lu Chen, he would definitely give Lin Yun a hard time.
She shouldnt marry an official or an official-to-be. She should find someone who had little to do with Lu Chen, preferably a man far away from Changan.
Seeing Qiao Jinniangs gaze at the golden hairpin in the wooden box, Lu Chen said coldly, Hmph, tacky.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Thats exactly what I like!
Chapter 43 - Lu Chens "Humiliation"
Chapter 43: Lu Chens Humiliation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen came to the lobby, the ceremony had already begun.
The people of the Duke Mansion invited Lu Chen to sit at the seat of honor, but Lu Chen just sat beside Qiao Jinniang. The Duchess Dowager should take the seat of honor. Ill just sit here.
Hearing this, the Duke stood beside Lu Chen. Seeing Qiao Jinniang sit down, he winked at her as a sign for her to get up but Qiao Jinniang didnt seem to understand what he meant.
His youngest daughter was having hering-of-age ceremony but he had missed Qiao Jinniangsing-of-age ceremony forever. Thinking of this, the Duke felt very guilty, and he no longer asked Qiao Jinniang to get up.
Theing-of-age ceremony for noble girls in Changan was very long and tedious.
Watching the ceremony, Qiao Jinniang felt a little drowsy.
But at that moment, Lu Chen suddenly thought of Qiao Jinniangsing-of-age ceremony.
Qiao Jinniang was almost sixteen that year.
Because her foster parents were seriously ill at that time, hering-of-age ceremony had been dyed.
Rescued from the river, Lu Chen had amnesia.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniangs foster parents were dying, their rtives wanted to seize Myriad Taste and came to make trouble day and night. Qiao Jinniangs foster father was worried about Qiao Jinniang and wanted him to marry into their family. At first, Lu Chen was reluctant.
Although he was homeless and had lost his memory, he didnt think a decent man would marry into his wifes own family.
Plus, Qiao Jinniang was really hot-tempered.
When he lived in the backyard of Myriad Taste, he often saw Qiao Jinniang holding a rolling pin or a broom to drive those greedy rtives away.
The Qiao Family wanted Qiao Jinniangs foster father to adopt a son from the n, but he adamantly refused. However, those people didnt give up and forcibly kept that young man in the Qiao Family.
That guy lived at his opposite door and went to provoke Qiao Jinniang every day, iming that Qiao Jinniang couldnt inherit the Myriad Taste as a woman, so the restaurant would be his sooner orter, and that her parents would die soon, so even if Qiao Jinniang didnt give Myriad Taste to him, it would be his as soon as her parents died.
He would be swearing at Qiao Jinniang terribly every day.
And in response, Qiao Jinniang led the maids and servants in the Myriad Taste to beat that guy up.
Then she simply threw him out.
Although Lu Chen didnt remember the past, he vaguely felt that he had never seen such a grumpy woman before.
Although she was beautiful, he didnt think he could stand her hot temper.
Thus, he decided to reject her father.
He would repay his life-saving grace in other ways.
But then he heard her crying next door.
She had already battered that guy and threw him out. Why was she still crying?
Her crying sound was really annoying, so Lu Chen went next door.
Then he saw the petite Jinniang squatting in the corner, her face full of tears, looking at him with her tearful doe-like eyes.
At that time, he thought maybe he should just marry her. Although it would be a shame for a man to marry into his wifes family, at least she wouldnt cry so pitifully if he married her.
After all, she saved his life.
As soon as he agreed to her fathers request, her father immediately hired a matchmaker, and in five days, they got married. This haste was because her parents were afraid that they could notst long, and if they died before Qiao Jinniang was married, her marriage would be up to those rtives.
Before they were going to be married, Lu Chen heard that she was going to have hering-of-age ceremony, so he wanted to give her a hairpin as a gift.
Unfortunately, he didnt have a single penny left on him. even the clothes he wore were bought by the Qiao Family. The only thing he had was a piece of jade pendant hanging on his neck.
This jade pendants quality was not too good but it was enough to be traded for a silver hairpin.
Thus, he traded the jade pendant for a silver hairpin and gave it to Jinniang.
Ever since then Jinniang had always been wearing that silver hairpin, and he really fancied the scene when her ck hair fell like a waterfall when he took off the silver hairpin for her in bed.
Lu Chen looked at Jinniangs hair bun. He hadnt seen her wear that silver hairpin ever since he returned to Changan.
Noticing that Lu Chen was staring at her, Qiao Jinniang frowned. Why is this jerk looking at me like that?
Second Madam and the Duchess respectively put on a hairpin for Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruoyi, which symbolized that the two were no longer children but women who could get married.
Qiao Ruofengs eyes have been following Prince Mediocre, who had been on the cusp of her heart for more than a year.
She had already had hering-of-age ceremony and could be his wife now
After the ceremony, there was a banquet.
At the banquet, most of the guests were fawning on Qiao Ruoyi.
Li Lingling from the Earl Chengen Mansion walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Miss Qiao, I have heard of your illustrious name for a long time, and Im honored to see you in person today.
But it is a pity that you can only marry a young schr whose future is uncertain, while your sister Ruoyi, although her mother was a concubine, can marry the Crown Prince
Qiao Jinniang could certainly tell that Li Lingling was soliciting discord, so she chuckled. Oh? Which young schr am I going to marry? Why dont I know it myself?
Li Lingling was really well-informed. She had only gone on a blind date with Li Yun once and they werent even engaged yet, but she had already known it.
Li Linglings informant must be in the Duke Mansion.
Li Lingling smiled awkwardly.
She thought to herself, Although Qiao Jinniang came from the countryside, she is not stupid, at least much smarter than Qiao Ruoshui!
Unfortunately, if she had known that His Royal Highness was interested in Qiao Ruoyi earlier, she shouldnt have wasted her good chess piece, Qiao Ruoshui.
She must think of a way to stop Qiao Ruoyi from marrying into the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang was sure that Li Lingling was up to no good.
Before the banquet was over, Nuomi held a wooden box to Qiao Jinniang with difficulty. Miss, this is from Princess Fuan from the Duke Rong Mansion.
Hongling came up to pick up the wooden box. However, she underestimated the weight of the wooden box. So as soon as she took it, it dropped on the bluestone b, causing all the glistening gold jewelry inside to fall to the ground.
Hongling was so frightened that she got on her knees. Miss, forgive me.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly asked Hongling to get up. Its okay.
Nuomi and Hongling picked up the gold jewelry on the ground piece by piece. This box was so heavy because there were about twenty catties of gold bars underneath.
There were about twenty small gold bars stacked in the wooden box.
There were also a pair of golden dragon and phoenix bracelets, a nine-tailed golden phoenix hairpin, golden earrings, and several small goldenbs.
Hearing the noise here, everyone at the banquet looked over.
Fulu leaned over, holding the nine-tailed phoenix hairpin, and said, Isnt this the nine-tailed phoenix hairpin was just made by the imperial goldsmiths in the Imperial Pce? How could it be gifted to you by Fuan?
My imperial uncle said that I was his favorite niece. Now it seems that he likes Fuan more than me, humph!
Qiao Jinniang had not even met Princess Fuan. How could she possibly give her such an expensive gift?
It must be the jerk who gifted this to her in the name of Princess Fuan.
Just now he said that gold was tacky. Then was he humiliating her by giving her so much tacky gold?
However, if this was considered him humiliating her, Qiao Jinniang didnt mind him humiliating her more.
After all, there were more than 300 taels of gold here, equivalent to more than 30,000 taels of silver.
Tacky as it was, she loved it!
It was the first time that Li Yuns mother, Mrs. Li had seen so much gold and her heart was pounding. She still couldnt ept the fact that Qiao Jinniang had once married and even had a child.
If Li Yun got first ce in the Imperial Examination, it might not be impossible for him to marry a noble girl in Changan, but her mother-inw thought Qiao Jinniang was suitable for Li Yun, so she could only agree.
But today, she found that Qiao Jinniang knew the two princesses well. Moreover, Princess Fuan even gave her so much gold for no reason.
Mrs.. Li thought that she should have her son and Qiao Jinniang be engaged as soon as possible in case the Duke Mansion backed out.
Chapter 44 - Marry Another Man
Chapter 44: Marry Another Man
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the afternoon, after the banquet, Qiao Jinniang went to the Duchess.
The Duchess entertained guests for a day and was about to take a break in the afternoon. When she heard Qiao Jinniange over, however, her sleepiness was immediately gone.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, Mother, Ive thought it over, and I dont think I should marry Cousin.
The Duchess immediately asked, Jinniang, did the Li Family say something to you?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, theyre very good people. If Ive never been married, I will definitely think Cousin is a good choice for me, but I had once been married, so I am afraid that marrying me may ruin his bright future.
The Duchess was surprised. Why do you think so? They still need your father to help Li Yun in his career.
Jinniang, His Royal Highness will choose his wife and concubines this June 28th. If nothing else happens, Ruoyi will probably marry into the East Pce.
In such a short period of time, its not easy to find a man with a good personality and a good family background. If you feel guilty for Li Yun, you can be engaged to him first and then cancel the marriage contract
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully. Yes, she could cancel the marriage contract.
Li Yun was innocent. As long as the marriage contract was canceled, that jerk would probably not take revenge on him.
And His Majesty cherished talents, so he probably wouldnt allow the Crown Prince to pick on Li Yun
Thinking about it, Qiao Jinniang went back to her Jin Garden.
After Hongling and the other maids left, Nuomi whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, Miss, there is a message from the Duke Rong Mansion, asking you to go to Duke Rong Mansion in the afternoon in the name of thanking Princess Fuan for her reward.
Qiao Jinniang thought that she hadnt seen Tuaner for several days, so she groomed herself a bit and went to the Duke Rong Mansion.
However, in the Kirin Garden of the Duke Rong Mansion, Qiao Jinniang didnt see Tuaner.
The one she saw was Lu Chen who was wearing a ck robe embroidered with a golden python.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Where is Tuaner?
Lu Chen said, Tuaner is taking a nap after lunch.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, Then why did you ask me toe over?
Lu Chen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and asked, Where is mying-of-age gift for you?
Qiao Jinniang said, I lost it.
Lu Chen frowned. How could you lose it?
Qiao Jinniang said impatiently, I couldnt find it, okay? Its just a shabby silver hairpin!
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to talk to Lu Chen any longer.
Since Tuaner was not here, she should leave.
Not wanting to spend any time with Lu Chen, she turned around, intending to leave.
However, Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and asked, Without Tuaner, you dont even want to talk to me?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen unyieldingly. I am a human. Why should I bother talking to a dog?
Lu Chen frowned and sped Qiao Jinniangs hand, his eyes full of anger. What have I done to you?! Why do you keep insulting me?
Hmph, you gave me a divorce letter, demoted me from your wife to your concubine, and made Tuaner a son of a concubine. You ingrate! And youre asking me what you have done to me?!
Qiao Jinniang sneered.
Lu Chen said, I told you the concubines in the royal family are not like those ordinary concubines!
Qiao Jinniang tried to break free from Lu Chens hands. What is this jerk holding her wrist so tightly?
Lu Chen, think about it, if you are not the Crown Prince and I am a princess, after I return to Changan, I demote you from my husband to one of my gigolos, what will you think? And what will you think if I make Tuaner the son of a gigolo?
Lu Chen said, Thats different.
Qiao Jinniang pried Lu Chens fingers from her hands one by one. Whats the difference?
If you still have any conscience left in you, just let me go for the sake of my life-saving grace for you.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniangs wrist had turned red, he let go.
Qiao Jinniang turned around and left without any hesitation
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang left, Junior Duke Rong walked to Lu Chen and said, Seventh Brother, didnt you give Qiao Jinniang a divorce letter? She is going to be married to another man. Dont tell me that you regret it now.
Be married to another man? Lu Chen narrowed his eyes. A divorce letter?
Junior Duke Rong said, Didnt you give her that? A few days ago, I saw her going on a blind date with Li Yun in the Tasty Pavilion. They may even be engaged in the next few days.
Lu Chens face turned dark. Blind date? Engaged?
Junior Duke Rong touched his own head. Seventh Brother, since youve given her a divorce letter, why dont you just let her go?
Shut the f*ck up!
Lu Chen, who had always been elegant, said foul words for the first time.
Lu Chen strode to catch up with Qiao Jinniang.
At the gate of the Duke Rong Mansion, Jinniang was about to go into the sedan chair when Lu Chen dragged her into his carriage.
His action was so quick that no one had the time to respond.
Qiao Jinniang got into the carriage, only to see Lu Chens dark face. She asked, Are you out of your mind?
Qiao Jinniang, do you think Im dead? How dare you go on a blind date with another man? No wonder you called him Cousin so sweetly. What kind of cousin would give his cousin sister a gold hairpin?!
Lu Chen lowered his voice and snapped. She broke his bottom line over and over again!
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen unyieldingly. You want to make me your concubine! So why cant I marry someone else? Youve already given me a divorce letter. Even if you dont admit that the divorce letter was written by you, I have registered it with the government!
Lu Chen almost suffocated when he heard that she was going to marry someone else. Are you really going to marry someone else?
Qiao Jinniang raised her head and said, Perhaps in the eyes of you nobles, it is a joke for a man to have only one woman for his entire life, but in Linan, this is verymon.
Although my foster parents were very kind to me and Id never lived in poverty, after you left, the nsmen of my father tried to force me to marry the son of the prefecture governor as a concubine. If the people from the Duke Mansion came a stepter, I would have burned myself with Myriad Taste
I was separated from my biological parents for eighteen years because Duke Anyuan indulged his concubine!
In this life, I would rather live a poverty-stricken life with my husband who loves and respects me than fight with many other women for my husbands favor every day. That kind of life will even ruin my children!
Lu Chen gritted his teeth and said, Are you sure Li Yun wont take any concubines? He is going to be an official. How is it possible for him to have no concubines in the future?
The Li Family has a tradition that no man in their family shall take a concubine unless his wife doesnt have a son at forty, Qiao Jinniang said.
Lu Chen sneered. Then how can you be sure that he wont have any concubine maids or mistresses?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen. Dont guess the heart of a gentleman with your own mean thoughts!
Lu Chen let go of her. Okay, lets wait and see if you can find a man in Changan who will only have one woman in his life!
Qiao Jinniangs eyes lit up. Is this jerk finally agreeing to let her go?
She smiled and said, Then please remember, Your Royal Highness, we will be strangers from here on out. Except for Tuaner, we have nothing to do with each other.
With that, Qiao Jinniang saluted and got out of the carriage.
In the carriage, Lu Chen clenched the teacup in his hand, which soon turned into powder!
The fragment of the cup cut into Lu Chens hand, causing his hand to drip with blood. Although his hand was injured, he somehow felt his heart was aching too
She had no affection for him now!
She was so happy to be allowed to marry another man!
But how could she still smile so seductively at him?!
Chapter 45 - Gift Him Maids
Chapter 45: Gift Him Maids
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The weather in Changan in May was very fickle. In the daytime, it could still be sunny, but in the evening, thunderstorms could suddenly arrive.
Qiao Jinniang, who had just returned to the Duke Mansion, couldnt help but worry about Tuaner.
Last year, Tuaner was still very afraid of thunder, and she didnt know if he would still be scared of thunder
When Lu Chen returned to the East Pce, an eunuch saw the wound on his hand and hurriedly called an imperial doctor over to bandage him.
Tuaner ran into Lu Chens arms with his chubby little legs. Daddy, thunder, Im scared.
Lu Chen touched Tuaners small ears. Dont be afraid, Tuaner is a big boy. Tuaner is not afraid of thunder.
That being said, Lu Chen still hugged Tuaner in his arms.
Tuanery on Lu Chens shoulder and asked cutely, Why Mommy wonte and see Tuaner?
Lu Chen: Your cold-hearted mother abandoned her husband and is going to marry another man.
Without showing the slightest emotion on his face, he said, Mommy is busy and cante to the East Pce, but soon shell be with you all the time.
Although Tuaner was young, he vaguely felt that his father sounded a bit fragile today.
After Lu Chen coaxed Tuaner into sleep, he ordered someone to go to Princess Jinghuas mansion to invite Lin Mo into the East Pce.
When Lin Mo arrived, he looked a bit unhappy, looking as though he had been interrupted just when something was getting good.
Whats the matter, Your Royal Highness. Why did you call me over sote? Are you so bored that you call me over to chat with you?
Lin Mo had been Lu Chens studying partner ever since he was a child. Although Lu Chen was the Crown Prince, they were like friends in private and would make jokes about each other.
Lu Chen looked at Lin Mo and said, I heard that your father has a protg who got first ce in the Provincial Imperial Examination and is expected to win first ce in this National Imperial Examination?
Lin Mo shook his fan and said, Your Royal Highness, itste at night. You dont have to be in such a rush even if you want to recruit talents
Lu Chen just replied tly, Its urgent!
Lin Mo: Li Yun is just good at writing articles, and he is not necessarily talented.
He got first ce in the Provincial Imperial Examination when he stayed on the southwest border with his father, where it was not difficult to get first ce.
Was the Crown Prince really in such a dire need of talents that he summoned him over from the princess mansionte at night?
He knew what he was doing in the princess mansion!
Lu Chen said, Tell him toe to the East Pce tomorrow.
Lin Mo:
Was there something special about Li Yun that he didnt know about?
His Royal Highness called him over sote just to ask him to pass on a message to Li Yun toe tomorrow?
The Li Family was almost sleepless all night when they got the news from Lin Mo that the Crown Prince wanted to see Li Yun.
Mrs. Li was extremely excited.
But Old Madam Li said calmly, Even if the Crown Prince wants to recruit talents, he didnt have to ask Young Master Lin to deliver the news sote.
Besides, if he really wants to recruit Yuner, shouldnt he wait to see Yuners Imperial Examination results first?
Li Yuns father was also confused. This Imperial Examination this year is going to be held in the name of the Crown Prince, and His Majesty has nned to let the Crown Prince preside over the pce exam.
Technically, all the examinees this year will be the protgs of the Crown Prince, so why did he bother to do this?
Something suddenly urred to Mrs. Li and she said, Could it be because of Duke Anyuan?
I heard that His Royal Highness loves the youngest daughter of Duke Anyuan very much. In hering-of-age ceremony today, His Royal Highness even came in person and gave her gifts.
Perhaps he heard that Yuner is going to be his brother-inw, so he wanted to test Yuners talent?
Mrs. Li felt her words made sense, but she still told Li Yun not to offend the Crown Prince tomorrow.
On the next day, Qiao Jinniang received a letter from Princess Fuan early in the morning, which stated that Tuaner was frightened by thunderst night and cried all night calling Mommy.
Qiao Jinniang burnt the letter. After thinking it over, she still went out.
After all, she couldnt just sit idle and ignore Tuaner. He was still too young. Even if she had to reduce the time with him, it was better to do it when he was older.
After getting on the carriage, Qiao Jinniang discovered that the carriage was driving in the wrong direction, not heading towards the Duke Rong Mansion but towards the East Pce.
After the carriage stopped, she looked at the majestic pce in front of her and couldnt help sighing. As she expected, it was the East Pce.
Following the familiar path, Qiao Jinniang came to Tuaners pce only to see that Tuaner was sleeping soundly.
There were no tear marks on his chubby little face at all.
She was deceived.
Miss Qiao, please move to the hall.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Did the jerk go back on his promise? He had promised her that he would have nothing to do with her yesterday onwards!
The eunuch led Qiao Jinniang to a room screened by a screen in the lobby, where the voices outside could be clearly heard.
Student Li Yun greets Your Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang peeped through the gap of the screen, only to see the person who was saluting on his knees was Li Yun.
What is the jerk going to do?
Lu Chen, who was sitting on the seat of honor, lowered his eyes slowly. There was a big pair of dark circles on his face because he had not slept all night, but he still looked stunningly handsome.
Arise. I have been hearing from Lin Mo that youre very talented and are one of the most outstanding among literati.
Li Yun hurriedly bowed and said, Im ttered, but Im just an ordinary student.
Lu Chen took a cup of tea handed over by an imperial maid.
He asked, I heard that your family is trying to select a wife for you?
Why dont you wait until you finish the Imperial Examination? Thatll be better for your fiance. Are you not afraid of failing the exam?
Li Yun exined, No, Your Royal Highness. I had been staying on the southwest border with my father, so I dont have a fiance, but after returning to Changan, I met a very good girl, and were going to be engaged.
Ill try my best to get a good result in the Imperial Examination and not let the girl down.
Lu Chens face grew darker when he heard this. He said, The Imperial Examination is just around the corner. Im afraid that you should have a woman to take care of you.
Yueming, Xingming, go to the Li Family to serve Mr. Li
Li Yun looked at the two gorgeous imperial maids that the Crown Prince gifted him.
But he wasnt happy at all and even felt they were trouble.
He certainly couldnt take them as maids since they were granted by the Crown Prince
But neither his familys tradition nor Duchess Anyuan would allow him to take concubines.
Besides, he didnt want to disappoint Jinniang by epting the concubines rewarded by the Crown Prince before they got engaged.
Li Yun braced himself and knelt down again. Your Royal Highness, please forgive me. Thedy who is going to marry me has always hated concubines, and my family also has a tradition that forbids me from taking concubines. So, please forgive me for not being able to ept the twodies.
Qiao Jinniang, who was behind the screen, was slightly touched.
Li Yun could do what Lu Chen couldnt do for her.
Lu Chen frowned. Li Yun, you took me wrong. You can just take them as maids.
You dont have to worry. Ill give you their ownership deeds!
Li Yun raised his eyes, only to see Lu Chen staring at him with murderous eyes. He was confused. Does His Royal Highness appreciate his talent or hate him?
This look was really scary.
Li Yuns head was covered with cold sweat. He didnt dare to refuse anymore, so he lowered his head and said, Thank you for your gift, Your Royal Highness. I will definitely live up to Your Royal Highnesss appreciation.
Li Yun left with the two maids.
Qiao Jinniang came out from behind the screen and said, Your Royal Highness, how could you be so despicable?!
To your disappointment, my honey is different from other men and wont be fooled by Your Royal Highness! He would rather give up his future thanpromise!
Hearing Qiao Jinniang call Li Yun my honey, Lu Chens face turned livid, and he suddenly had a severe headache
Chapter 46 - Qiao Jinniang Is Not Worthy Of Being the Crown Princess
Chapter 46: Qiao Jinniang Is Not Worthy Of Being the Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Today, Qiao Jinniang was in a cyan dress, and she was wearing her hair in a snake bun with a butterfly hairpin on her head.
Lu Chen thought, Fortunately it isnt the golden phoenix hairpin that Li Yun gave her. Otherwise, I would have died of anger!
Lu Chen said, How do you know that he would rather give up his future thanpromise?
Does he know the past between you and I? Do you think he still dares to marry you if he knows? What makes you think he would rather give up his bright future?
Qiao Jinniang actually wasnt quite sure. But even if Li Yun chose his career, she would not me him.
Mom!
Tuaners happy voice came from outside the door, and Qiao Jinniang put aside the wild thoughts in her heart.
She bent and hugged the cute little boy in her arms. Tuaner is a lot heavier. I can hardly hold you anymore!
Tuaner blushed. Tuaner can walk by myself.
Qiao Jinniang was certainly reluctant to let go of Tuaner. She hugged Tuaner tightly and said, Mom is joking with you. No matter how heavy Tuaner is, I can still hold you.
Tuaner gently rubbed his forehead against Qiao Jinniangs neck. Mother, I miss you so much.
Qiao Jinniang felt her throat sour. I miss you too.
Lu Chen snorted coldly and taunted, You dont even have enough time to think of your honey. How can you have the time to think of Tuaner Tsk!
Tuaner turned to looked at Qiao Jinniang and asked, Mom, who is your honey?
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen and said word by word. Your-step-father!
Tuaner pouted in confusion. What is a stepfather? Dont I only have one father?
No, Tuaner is going to have a lot of mothers and fathers.
Qiao Jinniang purposely said to piss off Lu Chen.
Tuaner hugged Qiao Jinniangs neck and said, No, I just want Mommy and Daddy, no other fathers and mothers
Lu Chen lowered his voice and warned Qiao Jinniang, Dont talk nonsense in front of Tuaner.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not talking nonsense. Tuaner will know about these matters sooner orter. If you dont want him to bear this, let me bring him back to Linan.
Tuaner blinked his tearful phoenix eyes, I just want Mommy and Daddy.
Lu Chen was distressed to see his son cry, so he said, Okay, only Mommy and Daddy.
Qiao Jinniang: Have you heard the story of Zeng Zi Killing A Pig? It tells us not to lie to kids!
Lu Chen: Thats called Zeng Shen Cooks A Pig.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen coldly. Whether its Zeng Zi Killing A Pig or Zeng Shen Cooks A Pig, it tells the same truth. Since you know it, why did you lie to Tuaner?
Lu Chen looked into Qiao Jinniangs eyes and said firmly, I didnt lie to him!
Qiao Jinniang didnt believe Lu Chens words, so she changed the subject and said, My maids all miss Tuaner very much. May I take Tuaner to the Tasty Pavilion today and send him backter in the evening?
Lu Chen nodded, and after Qiao Jinniang left with Tuaner, Lu Chen went to the Hall of Diligent Governance.
It was a holiday today.
However, Emperor Huilin still went to the Hall of Diligent Governance early to handle official business.
Datang was so prosperous mostly due to the hard work of Emperor Huilin.
Lu Chen saluted and said, Father.
Emperor Huilin nced at Lu Chens hand and said crossly, Your birth date and Qiao Jinniangs must be conflicting, right? Why are you injured every time you see her?
Lu Chen withdrew his hand and said to Emperor Huilin, We had asked someone to check it in Linan. Our birth dates arepatible.
Emperor Huilin: You lost your memory back then. How did you remember your birth date?
Lu Chen said, I still remembered my name and birth date.
Seeing that Lu Chens right hand was injured, Emperor Huilin said, Since your hand is injured, take a good rest for two days.
Lu Chen should say. Father, Id like to discuss something with you.
Emperor Huilin raised his eyes to look at Lu Chen. Whats the matter?
Ive thought it over, and Id like to make Jinniang my crown princess. You know, she is strong-minded, stubborn and really hates being a concubine.
She would rather marry someone else than be my first or second concubine.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, Chener, do you think Qiao Jinniang can be a good crown princess?
The crown princess is not only a crown princess, but also the future mother of the country and the leader of your harem!
Is her talent and ability worthy of the honor of the mother of the country?
Emperor Huilin took a sip of water and said, It doesnt matter what her background is, not to mention that she is now Duke Anyuans daughter.
But your wife must be a gentle and dignified woman who deserves to be the mother of the country!
Not a businesswoman who holds an abacus and stays in the kitchen all day.
Lu Chen said, Jinniang is still young. If she is married into the East Pce, Mother can teach her.
Emperor Huilin said with a sneer, Isnt it enough that your mother has been working hard for your sake for so many years? And now she has to teach your wife for you?
Besides, Qiao Jinniang was brought up by servants. If you take concubines with greater family backgrounds than her in the future, how can she help you manage your harem?
Since she despises concubines so much, how can she get along with your future concubines?
If your wife cant tolerate your concubines, how long can she be your crown princess?
If you hand over the internal affairs of the East Pce to her, will she have the ability to handle it?
Not to mention that she will have to manage the internal affairs of the entire Imperial Pce when you be the emperor.
Lu Chen said in a low voice, I dont have to take concubines.
Emperor Huilin nced at Lu Chen. Howe you are getting more and more naive? If you dont take any concubines, do you think you can still be the Crown Prince?
Lu Chen smiled. Even if the sky falls, Father will support it for me. Father, dont you only have Mother all these years? I always take you as my example
Emperor Huilin choked. Thats because I already had six sons before you were born, but you only have Tuaner.
Even though he already had seven sons, there were still a group of ministers trying to persuade him to take imperial concubines.
They tried persuading him once every few years, and it wasnt until in recent years that they finally stopped.
As the Crown Prince, Lu Chen didnt even have a concubine maid now. How was it possible for him to have only one woman?
Lu Chen: Oh? It turns out that if I hadnt had six elder brothers, you would have nned to take concubines. I got it. Father, Im going to talk to Mom
Emperor Huilin hurriedly said, Come back! No more the naive talks of taking no concubines. As for Qiao Jinniangs position, I will think about it carefully.
Lu Chen dared not to push his father too hard, so he said fawningly, Father, although my right hand is injured, I can write with my left hand.
If you need me to do anything for you, just tell me.
Looking at the memorials that piled up into a hill on the table, Emperor Huilin said, Okay, then process these memorials for me. Your mother and I havent been out of the imperial pce to have fun for a long time.
Lu Chen:
Changan looked so beautiful after the spring rain.
Qiao Jinniang took Tuaner to the Tasty Pavilion, and the servants and maids were very happy to see Tuaner again.
Tuaner had a good memory, so he still remembered the uncles and aunts who yed with him in the past.
Many customers hade, so Qiao Jinniang yed with Tuaner in the No. 1 private room.
The dough figurine she bought for Tuanerst time was destroyed by Lu Chen, and she couldnt find the dough figurine stall anymore.
So this time, she was going to apany Tuaner to make dough figurines.
Downstairs, a woman wearing a white veil looked up at the sign Tasty Pavilion and said to the well-dressed middle-aged man beside her. I havent visited the Tasty Pavilion for a long time.
Ever since Lu Chen disappeared, the Queen had not been in the mood of going out of the imperial pce to y. It had been almost four years since she tasted the dishes here.
Recently, she missed the delicacies outside the imperial pce a bit.
Chapter 47 - Jinniang Cooks
Chapter 47: Jinniang Cooks
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Emperor Huilin and the Queen arrived at the door, they nced over and saw many high-ranking officials and nobles dining in the lobby.
They hadnt been here for a long time, and the decoration of the Tasty Pavilion was a lot more elegant.
Huixiang came up to greet them. Im so sorry, dear guests. There are no more vacant seats today. Sorry for wasting your time.
Queen Zhou said, Its still early and you already have no vacant seats?
Huixiang said with a smile: Our restaurant is newly opened, and our seats are booked up quickly every day.
Our private rooms have been scheduled for next month, and the seats in the lobby have all been booked today, so there are no more seats avable. Were truly sorry.
Emperor Huilin signaled his entourage to take out a note of 50 taels of silver. Fifty taels for two seats.
Huixiang said awkwardly, Im sorry, two distinguished guests, but our restaurant has rules. If the seats are already ordered, we cant sell them again.
Queen Zhou said, Forget it, we can go to another restaurant.
As soon as she said that, she saw Fulu, Jinghua, Lin Mo and Zhou Siminging in together.
Lin Mo and Zhou Siming wanted to pretend they didnt recognize the Emperor and the Queen.
But Fulu quickly shouted, Uncle, Auntie, you sneaked out of the imperial pce again!
Emperor Huilin: This darn girl.
Princess Jinghua saluted. Father, Mother.
Emperor Huilin said, You dont need to salute us outside the imperial pce. I and the Queen came out to check out the peoples livelihood in Changan. Dont publicize it.
Princess Fulu smiled and said, Uncle, are you here to taste the food in the Tasty Pavilion?
But the seats of the Tasty Pavilion have to be booked a month in advance because its too popr.
Luckily, the No.1 private room here is mine. Why dont we have dinner together, Uncle?
Jinghua tugged at Fulus sleeve.
But Fulu, who was always careless, didnt think there was anything wrong with dining with the Emperor and the Queen.
Zhou Siming said to Queen Zhou, Auntie, its not easy to get a seat in the Tasty Pavilion.
If you dont mind, please use the No.1 private room. We can find another room.
Queen Zhou nodded lightly. Okay.
She really wanted to see how delicious the dishes in the Tasty Pavilion were, which she hadnt eaten for four years.
How could it be so popr among the high-ranking officials and nobles in Changan?
In the private room, Tuaner had just finished making a dough figurine that he thought looked very much like Jinniang but it actually had the mouth on the eyes.
He proudly handed the dough figurine to Qiao Jinniang. Mom, its done.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the horrible-looking dough figurine and smiled gently. Well done, Tuaner. This dough figurine looks exactly like your father.
But its you, Mom.
At this time, the door was opened from the outside, and in shock, Qiao Jinniang saw Emperor Huilin and Queen Zhoue in.
When Tuaner saw Emperor Huilin, he immediately shouted, Grandpa!
Emperor Huilin was very kind to Tuaner. He lowered his body and held Tuaner. Why are you here?
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly knelt down. Qiao Jinniang greets Your Majesties.
Although the woman beside the emperor was wearing a veil, Qiao Jinniang could guess she must be the Queen.
The Queen took off her veil and said, Dont be too polite. Arise. Are you here for dinner?
This was the first time that Qiao Jinniang spoke to the Emperor and the Queen in such close proximity. It would be a lie to say that she was not nervous.
She dared to yell at and beat the Crown Prince because she still regarded him as Lu Chen rather than the Crown Prince.
But in front of her now were the Emperor of Tang Dynasty and his wife who could have millions of people executed with the wave of hand.
Qiao Jinniang said uneasily, Your Majesty, I bought this Tasty Pavilion.
The Queen said, I heard that you used to run a restaurant in the South. This restaurant seems to be doing quite well. The seats are difficult to book.
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and replied, clenching her handkerchief. The customers are just curious about Southern cuisine. Tasty Pavilion has many dishes from the South.
The diners in Changan have never tasted the dishes of the South, so they are curious, but after an initial surge of interest, our business will probably not be as good as it is now.
The Queen said softly, You dont have to be nervous. Since you are the owner of the Tasty Pavilion, why dont you introduce the signature dishes in your restaurant?
When Qiao Jinniang talked about the dishes, she became a little less nervous. The signature dishes of our restaurant are mostly Southern dishes. If Your Majesties dont mind it, please let me cook for the two of you.
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to let others cook for the two. If the dishes were poisoned, it would be troublesome.
Queen Zhou noticed Qiao Jinniangs nervousness and said, Okay, but dont make too many dishes. Five dishes and two soups will do.
Qiao Jinniang replied, Yes.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, How can a daughter of a duke run a restaurant and even personally cook? Thiss a disgrace to her family.
It was not that he didnt want to grant Lu Chens wish but it was that Qiao Jinniang really didnt deserve to be the crown princess.
In the kitchen.
Qiao Jinniang went to the innermost stove.
When she was a child, her foster parents didnt allow her to learn how to cook. But Qiao Jinniang would peep through the window and learn secretly, so her foster father passed on his cooking skills to her in the end.
She was very talented in cooking, but she rarely cooked.
Asking Huixiang to light the fire, Qiao Jinniang began to think about what dishes she should make.
About a quarter of an hourter, the five dishes and two soups were finally cooked.
Qiao Jinniang put the dishes into the food box and went up to the private room, ced the dishes one by one on the wooden round table, and slowly introduced,
Your Majesties, this dish is called Water Bamboo Fried Meat. This water bamboo was just shipped from the south today. It is a dish that has never been seen in Changan.
This is called Stir-fried Shrimp with Longjing tea. It is the best-selling dish since the reopening of the Tasty Pavilion. The shrimps here are fresh shrimps that were frozen and shipped over from the South. Its juicy and tasty. With the fragrance of Longjing tea, this dish is best eaten in early summer, clearing inner fire and reducing heat.
An eunuch wanted to test if there was any poison in the dish but the Queen said, No need.
The Queen picked up a shrimp with a pair of silver chopsticks. The shrimp was tender and juicy. Mixed with the fragrance of Longjing tea, it tasted really good. She eximed, Its really good. Your Majesty, have a try.
The Queen picked up a shrimp with chopsticks and put it in Emperor Huilins bowl.
When Emperor Huilin tasted it, his eyes lit up. The shrimp had no fishy smell, and its texture was tender and springy, which was really delicious.
Qiao Jinniang brought up a casserole. This is a famous Suzhou dish, Eight Treasures Duck, cooked with scallops, ham, chicken liver, diced chicken, mushrooms, winter bamboo shoots, chestnuts, glutinous rice, shrimp and other side dishes. Once the lid is opened, the house will be full of fragrance.
After Qiao Jinniang took off the lid of the casserole, the fragrance of Eight Treasures Duck permeated
The diners in the lobby on the first floor also smelled the fragrance and all asked what dish it was.
Qiao Jinniang picked up a piece of meat with chopsticks from the ducks back for the Queen. The best part of the Eight Treasures Ducks is meat on the ducks back. Your Majesty, please try it.
The Queen took a bite of it and smiled. Ive never eaten such a delicious duck before. Your Majesty, why dont you have a try?
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, I never eat duck meat.
The Queen picked up a piece of the duck and put it into Emperor Huilins bowl. Come on, try it. Its much more delicious than what the imperial kitchen makes.
Emperor Huilin reluctantly took a bite, expecting some chewy duck meat
To his surprise, the delicious marinade bloomed on his taste buds, and the meat was not at all chewy. He didnt expect the duck meat he had always hated could be so delicious!
Qiao Jinniang served two other dishes. Your Majesties, the other two dishes are called Steamed Crucian Carp and Braised Lion Head.
The two soups are the famous Pickled Fresh Soup and West Lake Beef Soup.
There is also an after-dinner dessert, Sweet-scented Osmanthus Fermented Rice Balls.
Qiao Jinniang served all the dishes, and on either side of the two lion-head meatballs, there was a little lion carved from carrots.
On the side of the Steamed Crucian Carp, there was Jiang Tai Gong carved from a turnip, which looked very lifelike.
These are very well carved. The Queen said, Im afraid this knife craftsmanship was not learned overnight. Which chef carved it?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and said, Thank you for your praise, Your Majesty. These were carved by me.
Emperor Huilin said with disdain, These carvings are just unnecessary ornaments to show off ones knife craftsmanship. The most important thing in a dish is the color, aroma and taste.
Qiao Jinniang nodded obediently.
The Queen nced at Emperor Huilin. Why are you scaring her? How do you know this dish doesnt taste good?
Emperor Huilin took a piece of fish meat, but as soon as the fish entered his mouth, he shut up.
He had never tasted such delicious fish in the past 40 plus years of his life
It turned out that fish could taste so fresh and smooth without any fishy smell at all!
Emperor Huilin even thought that if Qiao Jinniang became the crown princess, it would be convenient for him to go to the East Pce and eat the dishes she made
No, he was the emperor of the country, the father of his people. He must notpromise for a few delicious dishes. Otherwise, his people wouldugh at him!
But these dishes were really yummy
Chapter 48 - Gigolos
Chapter 48: Gigolos
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Although Emperor Huilin maintained his royal manners, his chopsticks moved obviously much faster, but he didnt forget to feed Queen Zhou with fish.
Qiao Jinniang watched from the side. It was said the Emperor and the Queen loved each other very much, and now it seemed to be true.
The Queen couldnt help but praise, Miss Qiao is really good at cooking. Chener is lucky.
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head, twisted the handkerchief in her hands in embarrassment, and thought for a while.
At the risk of being beheaded, she knelt down and said,
Your Majesties, His Royal Highness has given me a letter of divorce. Were no longer a couple, and Ill have nothing to do with His Royal Highness.
The Queen:
It had been so many days, but Lu Chen still could not pacify Qiao Jinniang?
Emperor Huilin, who was scooping the fermented rice balls, put down the spoon and said,
He came to the Hall of Diligent Governance early in the morning and asked me to grant you the position of crown princess. If you y hard to get, you can never be the crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang knelt down and kowtowed. Your Majesties, Im not ying hard to get. Im really through with him.
Queen Zhou motioned her entourage to take Tuaner away and asked slowly, Then what about Tuaner?
Qiao Jinniang bit her lip and said, Tuaner is the flesh that fell from my body. I will always love him. But, I wont trap myself in a fight with other women for the rest of my life for the sake of Tuaner!
Qiao Jinniangs hands trembled violently, and her voice was nervous.
The Queen chuckled. Its rare to see a sober woman like you, but can you be rest assured that Tuaner wont be bullied in the East Pce without the protection of his mother?
Qiao Jinniang replied indifferently, With the blessing of Your Majesties, Tuaner will surely have a smooth life.
Emperor Huilin was truly annoyed. His Chener was definitely one of the best among men in terms of martial arts, appearance, and temperament!
Not to mention which woman in the world didnt want the position of crown princess?
Was his son that bad?
Qiao Jinniang would rather take the risk of offending the Emperor and the Queen and give up the position of crown princess than be with Lu Chen?!
The Queen got up and helped Qiao Jinniang up. Dont be afraid. Although our country allows divorced women to remarry, but there must be some misunderstanding about the divorce letter you said.
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, If there was a misunderstanding, after so long, he should have found out who dared to pretend to imitate his handwriting, but he didnt even check it!
Besides, I grew up in an ordinary family and ordinary men usually wont take concubines.
Therefore, Im short-tempered and jealous and cant ept my husband to take any concubines, so Im not suitable to marry into the East Pce!
Qiao Jinniang understood that although the Emperor and the Queen were benevolent, they wouldnt like anyone talking bad of their son, so she simply took the me on herself.
Emperor Huilin said coldly, If you dont want to, no one will force you to marry into the East Pce.
However, you shall not reveal that Chener had married into your family in Linan!
Sure.
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to look directly at Emperor Huilin, but she was very excited!
She thought that her happiness was very well concealed.
But the two people in front of her were the Emperor and the Queen who were sharp-eyed.
Emperor Huilin was surprised to see Qiao Jinniang so happy
In addition to being annoyed, he couldnt help but wonder what horrible things Lu Chen did to make Qiao Jinniang so happy to leave him?
After Qiao Jinniang left the private room, the Queen frowned and said, Chener s!
Emperor Huilin pondered and said, Does Chener have any unmentionable disease that you and I dont know?
The Queen said, No, he is just stupid!
Emperor Huilin said, Is he?
The Queen no longer exined. She knew arge part of the reason why Qiao Jinniang was reluctant to marry into the East Pce was because of Emperor Huilin.
Men and women had different concerns. Why should she bother to y the piano to the cow?
Its a pity. I may not be able to eat the Sweet-scented Osmanthus Fermented Rice Balls in the future.
Emperor Huilin said to the Queen, Dont worry. Although she cant be your daughter-inw, you can still summon her to the imperial pce to cook dinner for you. Even if she doesnt want to see Lu Chen, she has to consider Tuaner!
The Queen smiled. Thats true. Tuaner is more useful than his father.
Qiao Jinniang had thought that she could stay with Tuaner for a day.
But when the Emperor and the Queen left, they took Tuaner away.
She certainly hoped that Tuaner could be closer to the Emperor and the Queen. With their protection, Tuaners life would be more secure.
Jinniang! Jinniang!
Hearing Fulus voice, Qiao Jinniang turned back. Princess.
Fulu said, You finally recovered from your thoughts. Ive been calling you for so long. What kind of dishes did you cook for my uncle just now? The whole restaurant was full of fragrance!
Qiao Jinniang replied. Eight Treasures Duck. I can make it for you if you want to eat it.
Fulu nodded hastily. Okay!
In the kitchen, Jinniang absentmindedly added a lot of salt when cooking the duck. By the time she reacted, she had to change to another duck.
She should be happy, but why was she so absent-minded?
Qiao Jinniang tried to cheer up, put the Eight Treasure Duck into the pot, and after about two quarters of an hour, she took the Eight Treasure Duck out and brought it to the private room where Fulu was.
Fulu rubbed her stomach and said, You are finally back. Im starving.
Jinghua smiled. You ate so much just now. Are you still hungry? Be careful, you wont be able to find a man to marry if others hear that you are so gluttonous.
Fulu said carelessly, I dont care. If I cant get married, Ill just raise some gigolos like you do. Ill be so jolly and unfettered.
There are very few nice men in this world. Since I cant marry my imperial cousin, I might as well find a few gigolos to make me happy every day!
Jinniang, do you think so as well?
Zhou Siming coughed and said, Princess, Im a nice man. Dont count me in!
Jinghuaughed and said to Fulu, Dont talk nonsense in front of Miss Qiao. Shell be scared by you!
Although the princesses were used to raising gigolos, in the eyes of the nobledies, raising gigolos was a sign of slutty behavior, so they despised this behavior in private.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know this woman, but she was gorgeous and was sitting in the seat of honor, so she must have a high status.
Jinniang replied, Princess Fulu is right. If I cant find a nice man to marry
I will hang out with her, make merry and raise gigolos. Anyway, I have no shortage of money.
Princess Fulu said, It just so happens that Im short of money! If I want to raise gigolos, Im afraid that my father will not give me money. When the timees, you pay the money and Ill help you catch the men you like!
You know what, my cousin sisters are really good at snatching handsome gigolos in the opera troupes!
Seeing that Princess Fulu was talking more and more outrageously, Zhou Siming stepped on Fulus feet underneath the table, motioning her to shut up.
If these words were to reach the Crown Princes ears, would Fulu be spared?
She was literally instigating the Crown Princes wife to raise gigolos!
Was she trying to teach Qiao Jinniang to cuckold His Royal Highness?
Fulu said crossly, Zhou Siming, why are you stepping on my feet?
Qiao Jinniang asked Fulu, Do we have to snatch to get a gigolo?
Fulu said, Of course. There arent many good-looking men in the world, and we cant touch handsome literati, not to mention military generals.
So we can only find gigolos from the actors in the opera troupes, but only a few of them were handsome.
Besides, I am now used to my imperial cousins handsome face, so my standard is very high. That makes it even harder for me to find a satisfactory gigolo!
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while and said, Does money work?
At the door of the private room, Lu Chens face was all dark. So, Li Yun was not enough for her? Now she even thought of raising gigolos!
In the entire Changan, which man could be more handsome than him?
Chapter 49 - Exchange Betrothal Tokens
Chapter 49: Exchange Betrothal Tokens
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Halfway through processing the memorials, Lu Chen heard from his secret guard that his father and mother went to the Tasty Pavilion.
He was afraid that Qiao Jinniang would offend them, so he quickly hurried over.
But he didnt expect that instead of offending his parents, she was thinking about raising gigolos!
In the room, Princess Fulu replied, As for how to snatch a good gigolo, you should consult Cousin Jinghua. She is more experienced
Her gigolos are all very good-looking.
Cousin Jinghua, do you mind if I take Jinniang to your mansion to take a look at them?
Princess Jinghua chuckled. No, Im afraid that Duchess Anyuan wille for me.
Zhou Siming glimpsed at a ck figure by the door and immediately said, Your Royal Highness.
Lu Chen stepped in and red at Fulu and Jinghua.
Fulu was confused. She was no longer pestering her imperial cousin, so why was he giving her this fierce look?
Lu Chen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Isnt Miss Qiao going to marry Li Yun? Why are you still thinking about gigolo? Isnt this behavior too sluttish?
Hearing the word sluttish, Qiao Jinniang could not wait to smash Lu Chens dog head with a jug!
He was selecting concubines all over the country. How dare he have the nerve to call her sluttish?
Princess Jinghua shook her fan and said, Am I a sluttish woman in your eyes, my dear brother? Aunt Shouyang and Aunt Pingyang also raised gigolos. Are they sluttish as well?
Only then did Qiao Jinniang know that this girl was a princess.
There were very few princesses in the Tang Dynasty. The Emperor only had seven sons and three daughters.
Therefore, His Majesty granted her the title Jinghua and doted on her very much.
Lu Chen said, But you didnt abandon your husband
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. Was he implying that she abandoned him?
If it werent for the fear of implicating Bajiao, Huixiang, Nuomi and the other servants and maids in the Myriad Taste who grew up together with her
She couldnt wait to die with Lu Chen.
The other people somehow sensed a trace of grievance from Lu Chens words.
Zhou Siming asked Lu Chen, Your Royal Highness, have you had dinner? Shall we have the waiter serve some dishes?
Qiao Jinniang said, No need, the food in my restaurant is not for dogs. Huixiang, hang a sign outside the door, reading Lu Chen and dogs not admitted!
Fulu tugged at Qiao Jinniangs sleeve. Although my imperial cousin scolded you for being sluttish, he is the Crown Prince after all! If you offend him, I cant protect you!
Among the people present, only Fulu couldnt tell that Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen knew each other.
Zhou Siming said to Fulu, Didnt you say you were going to y in the casino? Come on, Ill go with you.
Lin Mo also said, Princess, I heard that there is a new type of rouge in the rouge shop. Why dont we go and have a look?
After a while, only Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were left in the private room.
Seeing the Eight Treasures Duck on the table, Lu Chen knew that this was made by Qiao Jinniang.
When they were in the South, she often cooked, and her culinary skills were even better than royal chefs.
He hadnt tasted the dishes she made for a long time.
But Qiao Jinniang pointed at the door and said, Get lost!
If he still didnt get out, she was afraid that she would kill the Crown Prince and end up being beheaded.
Seeing her so pissed, Lu Chen said, Is it wrong to call your attempt of raising gigolos sluttish?
Do you know why princesses raise gigolos? Its because their husbands are not allowed to serve as officials. As a result, they would bear a grudge in their hearts and not treat the princesses well, causing the princesses to raise a lot of gigolos in order tofort themselves.
But how many gigolos treat them sincerely? If you, an ordinary noble girl, raise gigolos, you will only be scorned as sluttish by others.
Qiao Jinniang sneered. You mean concubines of men are all sincere to them?
Lu Chen choked and said, Thats for the sake of having more offspring.
Qiao Jinniang sneered sarcastically. What a coincidence. I also want to have as many children as possible.
After all, if Ruoyun can no longer give birth to children, I should have an offspring for my foster parents.
Besides, even if Im sluttish, youre not in the position to judge me.
Just now, I have already told your father and mother that Im already through with you. And His Majesties have granted me freedom!
Lu Chen clenched his hands, and his temples were pulsing hard..
His face was livid.
Qiao Jinniang looked straight at Lu Chens angry eyes and said,
Whether Ill marry Li Yun or not, how many gigolos Ill raise, or whether theyll love me has nothing to do with you!
Besides, how many people get married for love?
Dont they get married for their own interests? Just like you and I, we were married for three years but had no love for each other, didnt we?
Lu Chens face darkened. He gritted his teeth and said, Had no love for each other? Do you dare say that you had no love for me when you were under me?
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect him to be so straightforward, so she replied straightforwardly too, Yes, not at all.
He was so ruthless to her. Even if she had a little affection for him, it had been worn out a long time ago.
Lu Chen felt a heart-wrenching pain when he heard these words, but he still calmed himself and asked Qiao Jinniang,
So, you have no love for Li Yun too?
Qiao Jinniang: ?
Why is this jerk talking about Li Yun?
Seeing Qiao Jinniangs expression, Lu Chen breathed a sigh of relief.
Fortunately, she only chose Li Yun just because Li Yun wouldnt take concubines.
It turned out that she had no affection for Li Yun!
Qiao Jinniang was puzzled to see Lu Chen leave with a smile.
It was getting hotter and hotter, and in a blink of an eye it was June, and the Duke Mansion was full of ice cubes.
Qiao Jinniang invented some ice-infused foods to relieve the heat, and had people buy ice and send it to the Tasty Pavilion to ensure that diners could eat cool.
Miss, Miss, the Li Family hase to propose to you!
Yuyan came over in a hurry.
When Qiao Jinniang heard that the Li Family hade to propose to her, she was struggling in her heart on whether she should tell them about her rtionship with Lu Chen?
However, the Emperor was wise and benevolent, and he certainly wouldnt pick on Li Yun because of her.
Plus, although Lu Chen was a scumbag, he probably wouldnt mess around with the political matters.
In the front hall, the Duchess received Mrs. Li with a smile.
The Li Family hired a matchmaker to propose to Qiao Jinniang today.
The matchmaker was very happy that the two families had already tacitly agreed on the marriage, so this job wouldnt take her much effort.
The two parties exchanged tokens.
In the Jin Garden, Qiao Jinniang took the purse from the Duchess and wondered, Why is the betrothal token a purse?
The duchess said, Dont look down on this purse. This embroidery method is extremely rare. The small purse has been embroidered very delicately, which shows how carefully this purse was made.
Youre going to be married soon. Im really reluctant to let you leave me.
Ive discussed with the Li Family that you wont get married until you are twenty, but the Six Rituals have to be finished first.
Qiao Jinniang held the purse. It just so happens that I dont want to get married so early either.
She no longer had to worry that His Majesty would issue an imperial decree to force her to marry Lu Chen, so the engagement was no longer urgent.
Besides, the two families had exchanged betrothal tokens. WIth this, it could be considered that they were already engaged.
Qiao Ruoyi came to Jin Garden and brought a gift for her.
Congrattions, Sister. Although Li Yun is not from a very wealthy family, he has a bright future ahead of him. Jinniang, you will definitely have a good life.
Qiao Jinniang nodded gently.
Li Yun was a nice man.
But she thought that she should find a chance to tell Li Yun that her ex-husband was the Crown Prince.
Although she didnt think that Lu Chen would use power to take it out on Li Yun
But she didnt know if Li Yun cared about it.
If Li Yun didnt, then it would not be bad to marry him.
In the East Pce.
Prince Rongxiao hurriedly came to Lu Chen. Seventh Brother, today Mrs. Li has gone to Duke Anyuan Mansion to propose to Qiao Jinniang for her son, and the two families have already exchanged betrothal tokens!
Lu Chen nodded. I know.
Looking at Lu Chen sympathetically, Junior Duke Rong said, You know? Then why dont you stop it? The exchange of betrothal tokens symbolizes that they are already engaged!
Lu Chen said casually, I dont have to do anything.
Chapter 50 - My Ex-husband Is the Crown Prince
Chapter 50: My Ex-husband Is the Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniangs birthday was on the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, and she and Qiao Ruoyun were born on the same day.
The Duchess was preparing to hold a big birthday party for the two sisters to make up for her regret that she could not hold aing-of-age ceremony for Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Ruoyun was already married, and the conflict between her parents family and her husbands family was the topic of gossip amongst the nobles in Changan.
The nobledies and girls who came to the birthday banquet today more or less expected tough at their predicament.
Why is Qiao Ruoyun still assuming airs? Shes not even a daughter of the duke! How dare she divorce Young Master Qin?
She must be stupid to give up the position of a future Duchess!
I think Qiao Jinniang is more stupid. That vige girl actually engaged to an obscure young schr! I thought that the Duke doted on her.
Li Yun is the Prime Ministers favorite disciple, and his mother has just gained the attention of the Crown Prince. I heard that His Royal Highness asked His Majesty to appoint Lord Li as a Hanlin Bachelor!
Li Yun has a bright future. Many noble girls who were born by concubines in Changan want to marry him. Who knows how Qiao Jinniang beat them to him?
Li Linglings lips curled slightly. Just like you said, only noble girls who were born by concubines want to marry him, but Qiao Jinniang was born by Duchess Anyuan Besides, its still unknown whether he can pass the Imperial Examination or not!
She is really unlucky. If she wasnt swapped at birth, not to mention the disciple of the Prime Minister, she can even marry the son of the Prime Minister!
By the way, Young Master Lin is a year older than His Royal Highness. Why isnt he engaged yet?
None of Lin Mo, Zhou Siming, and Junior Duke Rong were engaged although they were old enough
Everyone in Changan guessed that it was because the Crown Prince had been missing, and as his good friends, they were not in the mood to find fiances.
But now that the Crown Prince had returned, and Lin Mo and Zhou Siming were already old enough, they still had no intention of finding a fiance.
In the entire Changan, there werent many outstanding young men. As for the rest, some were from powerful families but had shorings either in terms of appearance or personality.
Some had good looks and good character, but their family background was not good enough.
There were only a few women who could marry into the East Pce.
Therefore, there were many women who wanted to marry Lin Mo and Zhou Siming.
Li Lingling looked at the girls who were discussing Lin Mo and Zhou Siming with disdain. She believed that she was going to marry into the East Pce, so she had no interest in other men.
Her biggest rival was the daughter of the Xie Family in the South
Shh, Qiao Jinniang ising over!
Qiao Jinniang was wearing a red long breast-length dress with a golden crown on her head, which made her skin look snow-white. She walked gracefully over, making all the guests feel that her bearing was no lesser than that of those raised in the Duke Mansion.
Princess Fulu jumped up to Qiao Jinniang. Your red cloud-brocade dress is so beautiful. I havent seen this fabric in Changan. The Duchess really loves you!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, This cloth was produced by my cloth factory in the South. If you like the cloth, I can give you some.
Li Lingling sized up Qiao Jinniang with her eyes and whispered to the girls beside her, She is not worthy of this dress at all! If it werent for the Duchess, who would havee here to celebrate her birthday?
She should be d that she can still wear a cloud brocade dress. Although Li Yun may have a bright future, she may have to suffer poverty for many years before Li Yun rises to prominence!
No matter how much the Duchess loves her, she wont be able to wear such fine fabrics after marriage.
Qiao Jinniang noticed the contemptuous looks of Li Lingling and the others. She knew that although Changan women were more interesting, there were also many with snobbish eyes.
She didnt mind what they said. They were just jealous of her.
Miss, the old madam, madam and third young master of the Li Family havee. Yuyan came over and said, Madam asked you to go to see them!
Qiao Jinniang went to the Duchesss courtyard. There, Second Madam and her sister, Mrs. Li were chatting happily.
After Li Yun saw Qiao Jinniang, he was so amazed by her beauty that he couldnt look away from her.
Second Madam joked, Jinniang, in this dress, you look so stunningly beautiful that a certain someone simply cant look away from you!
When Li Yun heard this, the tip of his ear turned slightly red, and he handed a box and said, Cousin, this is a birthday gift for you.
Thank you, Cousin.
Qiao Jinniang didnt open it. After careful consideration, she decided to tell Li Yun about her and Lu Chen.
Since the two were already engaged, the Duchess said to Jinniang, The peonies at our home are in full bloom. Take your cousin to see it.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
Li Yun followed behind Qiao Jinniang, his eyes attracted by the red mole on Qiao Jinniangs earlobe.
Qiao Jinniang stopped by the shade of a tree and asked all the maids to leave.
She said slowly, Cousin, I have something to tell you. Can you swear that you wont tell anyone else about this matter?
Li Yun raised three fingers and said, I swear I wont. If I vite this oath, I wont be able to pass the Imperial Examination!
Qiao Jinniang turned the fan embroidered with orchid in her hand. Cousin, you should know that I was once married to a jerk, right?
Li Yun cupped his hands and said, I know, but its not your fault. It would be a lie to say that I dont mind it at all, but I will cherish you even more. I will never let you be wronged again.
Qiao Jinniang took a deep breath. My ex-husband is indeed a jerk, but
Qiao Jinniang heard some sounds from the tree above her head. She looked up, but saw nothing, and continued to say, Its just that his identity is a little troublesome.
Li Yun asked, Didnt you say that you cant find him?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, I lied to my parents. In fact, not long after I came to Changan, I met that b*stard. He is actually the Crown Prince Lu Chen!
When Li Yun heard this, it was as if a thunder had exploded in his ear!
Lu Chen!
The Crown Prince!
Cousin, you cant joke about this Li Yun said, clenching his fists.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head slightly. Im not joking. His Royal Highness was missing for three years because he married into my family and was my husband for three years. But, Cousin, I have nothing to do with him now, and His Majesty has granted me the freedom to marry.
However, if you think this will affect your future, then I will go to my mother and discuss the matter of cancelling the engagement.
Ill also make it known that the engagement was cancelled because of me, and make sure it wont affect your reputation.
But please keep this matter a secret. I dont want to reveal this secret!
After Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, she looked up at Li Yuns eyes.
Only then did Li Yun understand why the Crown Prince gave him two beautiful imperial maids
It turned out to be because of Qiao Jinniang.
Cousin, this matter is very important. Can you give me some time to think about it?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay, if you have an answer, juste to the Duke Mansion to find me.
Li Yun lowered his eyes and asked, Jinniang, is the Little Imperial Grandson your child?
Qiao Jinniang nodded again.
Li Yun asked, Since youve already given birth to a child for His Royal Highness, why dont he admit you to the East Pce? His Highness gave me two beauties a few days ago. I think he still has you in his heart
Qiao Jinniang said indifferently, But I despise that jerk who divorces his wife, seizes her son, and demotes his wife to a concubine.
Li Yun pondered for a moment before looking at Qiao Jinniangs beautiful face with determined eyes
If he missed out on Qiao Jinniang, he might never meet such a cheerful and beautiful woman again.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was about to leave, Li Yun came up and held Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Jiner, I dont mind that your ex-husband is the Crown Prince. I will definitely treat you well in the future, and I wont let you be wronged again.
His Majesty is wise and benevolent. Since he has promised you freedom, he wont pick on me. You can marry me without having to worry.
On the big tree, a pair of phoenix eyes was staring at their hands that were sped together with a gaze that was filled with icy des!
How dare he call her Jiner?!
Chapter 51 - Li Familys Maid, Ruyu
Chapter 51: Li Familys Maid, Ruyu
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang was caught off guard by Li Yuns touch. This was the first time she held hands with a man other than Lu Chen
Noticing Qiao Jinniangs look, Li Yun hurriedly withdrew his hand. Sorry, Cousin, I shouldnt have touched your hands.
Qiao Jinniangforted softly. Its fine.
After that, Qiao Jinniang and Li Yun walked away together. Junior Duke Rong looked at Lu Chen who was hiding in the bushes dark-faced and said in a low voice,
Well, Seventh Brother, are you still going down to give Miss Qiao her birthday present?
Without a word, Lu Chen turned around and jumped down the tree, leaving behind Junior Duke Rong.
Junior Duke Rong really regretted suggesting to Lu Chen to hide in the tree to give Qiao Jinniang a surprise.
But instead of giving Qiao Jinniang a surprise, he was frightened by Qiao Jinniang!
Qiao Jinniang was really bold.
Qiao Jinniang and Li Yun returned to the garden where the banquet was held.
Qiao Ruofeng came over with a smile, jesting, Cousin, as soon as you came, you went straight to Second Sister. Im so jealous of her!
Li Yun blushed shyly.
Qiao Jinniang knew that she was joking, and she said with a smile too, Were family. Dont be jealous, my dear sister.
Qiao Ruofeng blinked and said, Yes, were family, especially you and Cousin.
Qiao Ruoshui snorted. How funny it is! A cheap woman from the countryside finds a mediocre man as her fianc and shows him off in front of everyone!
Qiao Ruofeng said angrily, Qiao Ruoshui, arent you crazy? Howe you were allowed toe out today?
Ruofeng looked down on the Li Family a bit too, but Mrs. Li was still her aunt after all, so Qiao Ruoshuis contempt was undoubtedly an insult to her too.
Qiao Ruoshui nced at Qiao Jinniang disdainfully. You want to marry trash. No one will stop you from doing so, but dont affect my reputation!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Li Yun apologetically. Cousin, Im sorry, my sister is out of her mind.
Li Yun said, She is right. Its true that I dont deserve you now, but Ill try to get first ce in the Imperial Examination so that no one dares to despise you again.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Okay.
Qiao Ruoshui snorted coldly, but didnt burst into fury. She now had a backing anyway. Qiao Jinniang abandoned herself to vice, and she just needed to wait to see her doom!
At the birthday banquet, Qiao Jinniang received a lot of gifts, although it was unknown whether the guests gifted her out of sincerity or because of Duke Anyuan.
The five maids were busy all night unpacking all the birthday gift boxes they had received.
Nuomi held a Ruyi carved with mutton-fat jade and said, Miss, look at this jade.
Qiao Jinniang said, This is the best Hetian mutton-fat jade. Who is this from?
Nuomi took out a note from the box and said, It seems to be from Prince Mediocre.
The note read A Beautiful Jade for A Beautiful Woman and it was signed by Prince Mediocre.
She didnt know why Prince Mediocre gave her a birthday gift, but she had Nuomi ce it on the bookcase.
Although mutton-fat jade was precious, Qiao Jinniang had no shortage of it. But it was still nice to put it on the bookcase to add a touch of color.
Qiao Jinniang found that Princess Jinghua gave her a present too. But she had just met her once in the Tasty Pavilion.
Unexpectedly, the princess gifted her a set of red coral head ornaments.
A mammy said something outside the door. Hongling went out and then came in with a small box before saying to Qiao Jinniang, Miss, this is a gift from Princess Fuan.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to look at it at first, but then she thought there might be a gift from Tuaner in the box.
The box was opened, and inside was just some herbs.
Yuyan asked, Miss, is there something wrong with your eyes?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No.
Yuyan tilted her head and said, Did the princess send the wrong gift? Cassia seeds, wolfberry, atractylodes, chrysanthemum, dendrobium, etc. are all good medicines for eyes. I had thought that there was something wrong with your eyes.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. What did the jerk mean? Was he implying that she was blind?
In early June, there was a big event in Changan, that is, the daughter of the Xie Family, who was well-renowned among nobles, hade to Changan.
Old distinguished families were well-respected, and the current royal family, the Lu Family, and the Qiao Family both used to be such families.
There was always a saying that old distinguished families stood even longer than royal families.
After His Majesty ascended the throne, he tried to eliminate the power of the old distinguished families and recruit talents from ordinary families.
Therefore, in the past two decades, the power of old distinguished families had long since declined.
But a lean camel was bigger than a horse. The Xie Family had always been respected by the literati in the country, and the daughters of the Xie Family were also exemry dignified and virtuousdies in the eyes of literati.
In the No. 1 private room of the Tasty Pavilion.
Princess Fulu brought Qiao Jinniang to the window, waiting to see the daughter of the Xie Family enter Changan.
What kind of fairy-like character is this Xie Yun? I can finally see her today.
Qiao Jinniang knew Xie Yun well, so she was not curious. Just as rumored, she is a dignified, virtuous and beautiful woman.
Princess Fulu stuck her head out. Such a woman must be boring, but my imperial uncle thinks that such a woman is suitable to be the crown princess and the mother of the country!
Li Lingling tried her best to be the crown princess. She must be daydreaming.
This crown princess will only be Xie Yun. Do you know how much my imperial uncle praised Xie Yun?
Qiao Jinniang finally figured out why Lu Chen wanted to demote her to be a concubine. He must have felt that she was not worthy of being the mother of the country.
Here shees!
The sedan chair of the Xie Family came over, but it was covered tightly.
Everyone had thought that on such a hot day, the daughter of the Xie Family would not cover the sedan chair so tightly.
Fulu couldnt help but sigh after not seeing Xie Yun.
Excuse me, are you Miss Qiao?
At the door of the No.1 private room, a coy maid in rough clothes suddenly looked inside and asked.
Fulus maid who was guarding the door said, Who are you? Leave!
Qiao Jinniang said, Wait, you know me?
The woman clenched the hem of her dress so tightly that it got wrinkled. Immediately after, she knelt on the ground, ignoring the gazes of other customers, and kowtowed.
Please, Miss Qiao, dont drive me away. I will never dare to mess around in the future!
My parents are dead, and I dont have any family left.
Even though the Li Family has given me money, I was forced to drink sterilizing medicine in the past and cant give birth to children any longer. In this state, I wont be able to survive if Im driven out!
I dare not ask to be Young Masters concubine or concubine maid. I just want to be a maid and serve you and Young Master for a lifetime!
Qiao Jinniang was a little confused. Please get up. I dont even know who you are? How can I drive you away?
Still on her knees, Ruyu kept kowtowing. I am Ruyu, the maid who served Young Master since I was a child
This afternoon, there were many people in the Tasty Pavilion who waited to see Xie Yun. But because they couldnt see Xie Yun, they were about to leave.
Unexpectedly, there was a good drama for them to watch.
Li Lingling said, Oh, is she Li Yuns maid? Miss Qiao, why do you have to be so ruthless to make such a weak woman kneel on the ground?
Yeah, get up. Miss Qiao is a kind person and will definitely not bully you.
ncing at these nobledies who were waiting to see her make a joke out of herself, Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief and said to Ruyu, Since you are the maid of the Li family, I cant decide whether you can stay or not
Ruyu didnt get up because of this but continued to kowtow so hard that her head began to bleed. No, Second Miss, my life is in your hands!
Please, Second Miss, dont make the Li Family drive me away!
Chapter 52 - Xie Yun’s Invitation
Chapter 52: Xie Yuns Invitation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
There were more and more nobledies gathering to watch.
Some kind-hearted girls said, Miss Qiao, youre also a woman. This maid looks so pitiful. Why dont you just let her stay?
Qiao Jinniang nced coldly at the woman who said this. I am not from the Li Family, so how can I decide whether she can stay or not?
Li Lingling covered her mouth with a handkerchief and said, Oh, this maids head is bleeding. What a poor girl! Come on, please help her up!
Miss Qiao, this maid is not forcing you to ept her as a concubine, but just asking you to allow her to stay in the Li Family. Why are you so jealous and ruthless? Youre literally murdering her!
Miss Qiao, werent you in the same situation as her? A few months ago, you couldnt evenpare to her. Just because youve gained power now doesnt mean that you can hurt others. This is contemptible!
Fulu said angrily, Humph, do you think I wont hit you? How dare you nder my friend?
Bajiao, Huixiang, are you dead? This maid is harassing your master. Come and drive her out!
Bajiao and Huixiang had never seen such a scene.
It was only after they heard Fulus words that they realized what they should do, and they hurriedly dragged out the woman who was kneeling on the ground.
When the crowd dispersed, Qiao Jinniang fanned her fan, trying to calm down, and said, Thank you, Princess.
Fulu said, I dont think Li Yun is a good choice for you. Do you know why those women dare tough at you just now? Its because your fianc is Li Yun
Qiao Jinniang said, The Li Family has the tradition that no men in the family shall take concubines unless their wives dont have a son at the age of forty, which is really rare in Changan.
Besides, apart from having the bloodline of a noble, Im never a noble no matter in manners or bearing, so I dont want to marry into a powerful family. It will do me no good.
Fulu shook her head and said, The family tradition is set by Old Madam Li. After Old Madam Li dies, maybe not many people in the Li Family will abide by this tradition.
A man who really doesnt want to take a concubine will not take a concubine even if they are allowed to.
Like my father, even if a peerless beauty is ced in front of him, he will not take a nce at her.
If a man really wants to take a concubine, even if the family tradition forbids him from doing so, so what?
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said nothing.
Fulu said, If you want your future husband not to take a concubine, youd better find a man who truly loves you.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Youre right, Princess.
After Qiao Jinniang returned to the Duke Mansion, she was called to her courtyard by the Duchess.
The Duchess looked at Qiao Jinniang worriedly and said, Are you alright? Its my fault. How dare a lowly maid go and harass you?
Second Madam said in a small voice from the side, Jinniang, dont take it to heart. That Ruyu is nothing but a toy.
In Changan, when a man bes an adult, his family will arrange for a woman to teach him about sex.
This is to avoid him from being too curious about sex and going astray. Ruyu is just a maid, not even a concubine maid
The Li Family has already said that when you and Yuner get married, they will give Ruyu a lot of money and send her away, and she will definitely not bother you again.
Qiao Jinniang shook the fan. She didnt mind that Li Yun had a concubine maid previously.
She herself was once married, and it would be harsh to demand Li Yun to be a virgin.
But Ruyu grew up with Li Yun. If Ruyu was driven away, how could Li Yun not feel guilty towards her?
Hongling hurried in and saluted the Duchess and Second Madam. The daughter of the Xie Family sent an invitation to invite our miss to visit her.
The Duchess asked, Is it Xie Yun?
Hongling nodded.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the invitation and said to the Duchess, I havent seen Miss Xie for a long time
Go ahead. Dont forget to pick some gifts for Miss Xie from the warehouse.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
After Qiao Jinniang left, the Duchess asked Second Madam, Why did Ruyu do this? And why was she fed contraceptives? If she is just a maid who taught Li Yun about sex, why would she be unwilling to leave the Li Family? She should know that the men in the Li Family are not allowed to take concubines!
Second Madam said helplessly, Ruyu is a poor girl. Her parents died when she was a child and she has no family left, not even a nsman.
Four years ago, after serving Yuner, she drank too much contraceptive, and it hurt her body, causing her to not be able to get pregnant in the future.
The Li Family had nned to keep her, but Jinniang doesnt allow Yuner to take any concubines. My sister was afraid that Ruyu would be a thorn in the eyes of Jinniang, so she asked her to leave the Li Family.
But Ruyu worried that she might not be able to survive after leaving the Li Family, so she went to Jinniang
The Duchess frowned. If there werent such an incident, it would have been fine to let this poor woman stay.
But with what happened today, if Ruyu still stays in the Li Family, I would be afraid that Jinniang would be bullied!
Second Madam said, My sister said that she will definitely drive Ruyu out of the Li Family, and she will not let her get in the way of Jinniang! Its better to let Jinniang and Yuner get married earlier
Suddenly, Old Madam Qiao came in with a maids help and said crossly, This marriage is inappropriate. Just cancel it!
If a poor woman like Ruyu is driven out of the Li Family, Jinniang will be seen as ruthless, and she will definitely be criticized by everyone.
Since that maid has nowhere to go, if shemits suicide
Wouldnt Jinniang be med for her death all her life?
Even if Jinniang was once married, she is still the daughter of a duke. She is not begging Li Yun to marry her. The Li Family really should have handled this matter better!
Second Madam didnt dare to refute her mother-inw, but she couldnt help thinking that Qiao Jinniang was not only once married, but she was also a businesswoman.
Although the Li Family is not that powerful, Li Yuns father is an official, and Li Yun has a bright future ahead
Second Madam paused and said, Mother, but the news of Jinniangs engagement has already been spread. If we cancel the marriage now, it will harm Jinniangs reputation.
Mrs. Qiao said, So what? This is called stopping losses in time. How can we let Jinniang bear the reputation of being a venomous and ruthless woman?
Second Madam lowered her head and dared not say anything more.
When Qiao Jinniang arrived at the Xie Familys house in Changan, the scenery she saw along the way was no different from that of the Xie Familys mansion in Linan.
The southern style garden was full of greenery, and there were many orchids on both sides of the path.
Entering the courtyard, Qiao Jinniang caught sight of a man wearing a jade crown and a python robe.
If this was not Lu Chen, who else could he be?
This jerk! As soon as Xie Yun entered Changan, he couldnt wait toe over to please Xie Yun?
Even in Linan, Lu Chen and Xie Yun had already known each other. Now she couldnt help but wonder, did this jerk fall for Xie Yun in Linan back then?
Jinniang, long time no see.
Xie Yun walked slowly to Qiao Jinniang. She was slender and beautiful and wore a turquoise long dress today.
Jinniang was tall among women, but she was still a head shorter than Xie Yun.
Xie Yun held Jinniangs hand affectionately and said, Why didnt youe to me when your rtives were causing trouble for you?
You didnt even say goodbye to me when you left Linan. I was so worried about you.
Fortunately, I learnedter that you were picked up by the Duke. This time, I came to Changan just to see if youre doing well in Changan
Lu Chen came over, took Qiao Jinniangs hand, and red at Xie Yun fiercely!
Xie Yun didnt mind it. She just looked at Lu Chen yfully and said, I heard that Jinniang is going to marry the Prime Ministers disciple, Li Yun, right?
Qiao Jinniang shook off Lu Chens hand and said to Xie Yun, Yes, the betrothal tokens have been exchanged, and Miss Xie, I hope you dont tell anyone that Lu Chen used to be my husband for the sake of our friendship.
Lu Chen sneered. Your betrothal token was embroidered by Ruyu. She spent three days and three nights making it and almost went blind. Dont you feel disgusted?
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. Was Ruyu arranged by you?
Chapter 53 - Personally Pushed Jinniang to Li Yun
Chapter 53: Personally Pushed Jinniang to Li Yun
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen snorted coldly. I have a million ways to stop the marriage between you and Li Yun. Why would I bother to send a maid to embarrass you?
Even if I want to use Ruyu, I will never make you lose face in public.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. If it was really done by Lu Chen, she would definitely not let Lu Chen off.
After this matter spread, she became a joke among those nobledies in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Youd better not lie! But even if you did it, you cant stop me from marrying Li Yun.
Lu Chen frowned and said, I remember you cant tolerate concubines, right? Can you really force Ruyu to leave the Li Family and let her die? Or will you keep her and let this eyesore stay in front of you every day?
Qiao Jinniang said, Duke Anyuan Mansioncks maids. Since Ruyu is willing to be a maid in the Li Family, why doesnt she just work as a maid in the Duke Mansion?
Lu Chens face turned ck with anger. You are determined to marry Li Yun, arent you?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, anyway, I would rather marry a beggar on the street than marry you again!
Xie Yun nced at Qiao Jinniang and said, Jinniang, I invited you over to talk with you, not to listen to you two quarrel.
How are you doing in Changan? Is anyone bullying you? If there is, you can tell me.
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, No one has bullied me except Lu Chen.
Lu Chen said angrily, When did I bully you? Qiao Jinniang, I broke my bottom line for you again and again
Qiao Jinniang said with a sarcastic smile. Isnt it considered an insult to demote your wife to a concubine? Today, Miss Xie has just entered Changan, and you rushed over eagerly. Maybe you already took a fancy to Miss Xie back when we were in the South
Lu Chen said, So youre jealous.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Who is jealous? I just want to advise Miss Xie not to be deceived by you, an ungrateful and shameless person.
When you were still my husband in the South, you went to Miss Xie every day. At that time, I should have known that you are by no means a good person!
Why was this jerk so confident?
Lu Chen said with a straight face. I didnt! Besides, Xie Yun is a man, and Im not gay!
Hearing it, Qiao Jinniang sneered. I cant believe that the dignified Crown Prince of our country will talk barefaced nonsense.
How can Xie Yun be a man? I knew her when she was about seven or eight years old. Xie Yun has always been a woman
Lu Chen said, Only you cant tell that Xie Yun is a man!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Xie Yun carefully, and thetter looked one hundred percent like a woman.
The only thing special about her was that she was tall!
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, I went to visit Xie Yun frequently in the South because I had a deal with Xie Yun. I would help him solve his third uncle, and he would protect our business in Linan.
After I regained my memory, I made another deal with him. He needed the position of the crown princess to take power in the Xie Family, and when he marries into the East Pce as the crown princess, he will take Tuaner as his son.
In this way, Tuaner will be the legitimate eldest son of the crown princess and can inherit my position.
And when you marry into the East Pce, no woman will have a higher status than you except for Xie Yun!
Lu Chen paused and said, Jinniang, I never wanted you to be wronged.
Dont cause trouble anymore. Li Yun is really not a good choice for you. Break off the engagement with him as soon as possible. Ive already asked my father to allow me to marry you
Qiao Jinniang bit her lip and said, Do you think Im causing trouble by being engaged to Li Yun?
Do you think Im causing trouble just to get the position of crown princess? I told you I dont need it. Youve always been self-righteous and never took my words to heart.
Okay, Your Royal Highness, listen up, let me tell you that I disdain the position of the crown princess. I am not ying hard to get, and Im not causing trouble to get the position of the crown princess!
After Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, she bowed to Xie Yun.
Miss Xie, no, Young Master Xie, you are all high-ranking people. Im from a humble background, and I really dont deserve to be yed with by you people. Ill take my leave first.
Xie Yun sighed and said, Jinniang, I never wanted to y with you.
I didnt tell you my identity because I didnt want to cause trouble for you. You and I have known each other since childhood, and I have always treated you as my own sister.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and turned to leave.
Lu Chen wanted to catch up, but was stopped by Xie Yun.
Xie Yun said coldly to Lu Chen, Your Royal Highness, dont forget that you promised me in the South that you would take care of Little Jinniang for the rest of your life, but why did you make her suffer all these grievances when you returned to Changan?
Lu Chen said coldly, I never want her to be wronged!
Xie Yun only said, If I were you, I would have never made Jinniang a concubine. Although a royal concubine is different from an ordinary concubine, a concubine is still a concubine after all.
If your mother is not the queen, but just an imperial concubine, do you think your position as the Crown Prince can be as secure as it is today?
Seeing that Lu Chen pursed his lips and remained silent, Xie Yun said, Although Jinniang was from a humble background, she is not a person who covets power. No matter how rich and powerful you are, it is not what she wants.
Jinniang has decided never to be a concubine since she was a child, and she hates concubines and concubine maids very much.
I taught her about concubines and concubine maids in the past because I wanted her to have a better life after she got married.
But she said it was not necessary because her future husband would never take any concubines or concubine maids.
She never wanted to marry into a wealthy or powerful family.
Otherwise, why do you think Jinniang insisted on finding a man to marry into her family although she was so beautiful and owned the Myriad Taste?
Even if she couldnt marry into an official family in Linan, it was more than enough for her to marry a wealthy businessman.
Lu Chen frowned, remembering the resentment Qiao Jinniang had always had towards him after they met again in Changan.
He thought maybe he was wrong.
Horribly wrong.
What Jiner valued was never money nor power.
Therefore, different from ordinary noble girls in Changan, she would not feel happy bing his concubine, but she would only feel shameful
But he didnt notice it at all, thinking that she was threatening him with his love for her to get a higher position.
It wasnt until today that he understood that Qiao Jinniang wanted to marry someone else not to force him to give her the position of the crown princess, but because she really disliked him!
He personally pushed Jinniang to Li Yun.
Thinking of this, Lu Chen felt sour in his heart.
Qiao Jinniang felt that today was not her day. She was insulted twice this day. She really shouldnt have gone out today!
After leaving the Xie Familys residence, Nuomi whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Miss, is Miss Xie really a man? Then when you were a child
As a child, Qiao Jinniang often yed with Xie Yun when she went to deliver pastries to him.
As he was slightly older, Xie Yun would teach Qiao Jinniang something she didnt know. Sometimes, Qiao Jinniang would sleep on Xie Yuns bed when she was sleepy.
Although they were only eight or nine years old back then, men and women should keep a distance!
Qiao Jinniang said, Whether Xie Yun is a man or a woman, he has never hurt me.
Thinking back, she found that there were traces showing that Xie Yun was a man.
After the age of thirteen, Xie Yun didnt allow her to be close to him any longer. At that time, Qiao Jinniang naively thought that it was because of the difference in status.
They couldnt be as close as when they were children because after all. Xie Yun was the daughter of an old distinguished family, while she was just the daughter of a merchant.
But it turned out that Xie Yun just didnt want to ruin her reputation.
Qiao Jinniang walked to a street corner and heard someone call Miss Qiao from behind. She turned around and saw Prince Mediocre walking towards him.
Qiao Jinniang saluted. Greetings, Your Highness.
Prince Mediocre said, Miss Qiao, you dont have to salute me. Do you like the birthday gift I prepared for you?
Chapter 54 - Let Jinniang cook
Chapter 54: Let Jinniang cook
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, Thank you for the white mutton-fat jade that Your Highness rewarded.
Prince Mediocre looked at Qiao Jinniang gently and said,
That white mutton-fat jade is a national treasure given to me by the Beimo Kingdom. Im d you like it.
Prince Mediocre looked gentle, but he couldnt help thinking in his heart:
Qiao Jinniang came from the countryside, so she must have never seen anything good.
Now that she knows the value of this gift, she must be very grateful to me.
She might even have a crush on me.
Duke Anyuan is very powerful. If I can be his son-inw and get his support, Ill surely be able to rece the Crown Prince and get the throne.
He had thought that Duke Anyuan would arrange Qiao Ruoshui to marry into the East Pce.
But he didnt expect that in the end, Lu Chen took a fancy to the concubine-born Qiao Ruoyi.
A mere concubine-born daughter certainly couldnt be valued by Duke Anyuan.
But there were more daughters of the Qiao Family for him to choose from.
Qiao Ruofeng had already fallen head over heels for him, but unfortunately, she was not born by Duke Anyuan.
And she didnt have any brothers, so Qiao Ruofeng couldnt be regarded as a real miss of the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Ruoshui had a higher status. If he wanted to marry Qiao Ruoshui, he might have to marry her as his wife, but Qiao Ruoshui was too stupid to deserve to be his wife.
As for Qiao Jinniang, she was beautiful, and she didnt grow up in the Duke Mansion, causing the Duke to feel guilty towards her.
It was perfect for Qiao Jinniang to be his concubine!
Qiao Jinniang noticed that a calcting gleam shed across the eyes of Prince Mediocre. For some reason, she instinctively disliked this well-renowned prince.
Unexpectedly, this scene was spotted by Qiao Ruofeng, who apanied Second Madam to the Li Family to annul the engagement for marriage.
When Qiao Ruofeng saw Prince Mediocre and Qiao Jinniang so close to each other, she couldnt help clenching her hands.
She said to Second Madam, Mom, its no wonder that Second Sister is determined to annul the engagement with Cousin!
Its ridiculous to do that just for the sake of that little maid, Ruyu. It turns out that Second Sister sessfully seduced Prince Mediocre.
Second Madam looked over only to see that Prince Mediocre and Qiao Jinniang were walking so close to each other, and she snorted softly.
She has once been married and even given birth to a child in Linan, but she was abandoned by her husband. She should be grateful that the Li Family is willing to ept her.
But she is still delusional about marrying into the imperial family. She must be daydreaming!
Qiao Ruofeng said in surprise, What? Second Sister has already been married and even had a child?
Mrs. Qiao didnt realize that she had identally spilled the beans. Although she was annoyed, she didnt really want to ruin Qiao Jinniangs reputation.
Now in the Duke Mansion, from the Old Madam to the Duchess and the Duke, everyone took Qiao Jinniang as a treasure.
If she or the Li Family leaked the information about Qiao Jinniang that the Duke Mansion was strictly concealing, the Duke Mansion would definitely not let her and the Li Family off.
Ruofeng, you must not tell anyone that Jinniang has once been married!
Mrs. Qiao lowered her voice and warned Qiao Ruofeng.
Qiao Ruofeng clenched her hands and couldnt help but feel angry that Qiao Jinniang, a woman who had been abandoned, was shameless enough to seduce Prince Mediocre!
When Second Madam arrived at the Li Family, Mrs. Li hurriedly came out to greet her. Sister, what did the Hou Mansion say about the marriage?
Second Madam sighed. The Old Madam said the engagement shall be annulled.
Mrs. Li almost fainted. Just because of Ruyu? That girl used to be obedient. We interrogated her, and she said that she was instigated by a noble to harass Jinniang.
She just served Yuner a few times when he was sixteen years old. Later, Yuner devoted himself to studying and didnt pay much attention to her.
Sister, please talk to the Duchess
Ruyu was instigated by a noble to do such a stupid thing, and she was already willing to leave the Li Family with thepensation we gave her.
Second Madam said, Even if I talk to the Duchess, no one can change the decision the Old Madam has already made. Yuner is very talented, and he will definitely find a better wife. Why bother to beg a divorced woman?
Qiao Ruofeng echoed, Yes, Aunt, Cousin is Prime Minister Lins favorite disciple. If he wins first ce in the Imperial Examination, therell be a lot of noble girls for him to choose from. Why bother with Qiao Jinniang?
Mrs. Li said helplessly, Sister, you probably dont know yet that His Majesty has granted Duke Anyuan to be the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince today!
The Duke is already very powerful, and now he is granted to be the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince. The wealth and power the Qiao Family will obtain is unimaginable!
Now in Changan, the Qiao Family is only slightly worse than the imperial family and the Queens family, the Zhou Family.
Once the Duke bes the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince, I am afraid that even the Queens family will be no match for the Qiao Family.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Duke Mansion, she found that every servant and maid in the Duke Mansion was beaming with smiles.
Back in the Jin Garden, even Hongling and her other maids saluted Qiao Jinniang with joy. Congrattions, Miss, His Majesty has issued an order today to confer the Duke with the title of Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince!
Qiao Jinniang didnt understand these official titles. Isnt my father already the Minister of Defense and the Grand Commander? Arent the ranks of the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince and the Grand Commander the same?
Hongling prepared tea for Qiao Jinniang. Miss, this title means that the Duke is the mentor of His Royal Highness. His Royal Highness has three mentors, all of whom are very famous schrs.
Now, His Majesty intends to let His Royal Highness take over the affairs of the state. I heard that His Royal Highness has already processed the memorials for His Majesty, and the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince is supposed to instruct His Royal Highness in state affairs. Isnt this position a very powerful one?
Yuyan said, That olddy of the Qin Family has always refused to get rid of that concubine maid and refused to admit her mistake, right? But as soon as the imperial decree was issued today, she came over in person to ask the Eldest Miss to return to the Qin Family.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Has my Eldest Sister gone back?
Old Madam Qin hase in person. If the Eldest Miss still doesnt go back, people will me her.
Qiao Jinniang felt a pity that she had not said goodbye to Qiao Ruoyun yet.
However, since Old Madam Qin came in person to ask her to go home, Qiao Ruoyun would probably no longer be bullied at the Qin Family.
There was finally a piece of good news today.
Your Excellency.
A maids voice came from the door.
Qiao Jinniang went out to greet the Duke. She didnt see the Duke much, and she didnt know why the Duke came here today.
Father.
The Duke said to Qiao Jinniang, My daughter, you dont have to be so polite. You have been wronged in the Tasty Pavilion today. Ill make those women who gossip about youe and apologize to you.
Qiao Jinniang said, I didnt take their words to heart.
Duke Anyuan thought for a while and then said embarrassedly, Jinniang, can you make some Southern-style dishes now?
Qiao Jinniang was stunned for a while and said, Okay.
The matter of Qiao Jinniang going to the kitchen soon reached the Duchesss ears, and the Duchess angrily went to Duke Anyuan.
What kind of a father are you? You owe so much to Jinniang, yet you made her cook? Are there no cooks in the Duke Mansion? The kitchen is full of choking smoke. Do you have the slightest care for your daughter?!
Duke Anyuan frowned and said, His Majesty wants to taste the dishes Jinniang made. Even if I feel sorry for Jinniang, can I disobey His Majestys order?
Duke Anyuan recalled how shocked he was when he heard His Majestys request in the Hall of Diligent Governance.
Perhaps His Majesty felt embarrassed too, so he immediately issued an imperial decree to designate him as the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince.
He somehow felt that he got the title because of the dishes Jinniang made?
The Duchess muttered, Its not like there is no royal chef in the imperial pce. Why does His Majesty want Jinniang to cook?
Chapter 55 - Scheme of that Noble in the Imperial Palace
Chapter 55: Scheme of that Noble in the Imperial Pce
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the summer, the kitchen was quite hot, and the cooks in the Duke Mansion were curious to see Qiao Jinnianging in.
But they knew that she was the most favored miss in the mansion, so they dared not say anything other than fawning on her.
It was almost evening, and people usually had no appetite on a summer night, so Qiao Jinniang nned to cook some appetizing food to cool off the heat.
After being busy for about half an hour, Qiao Jinniang followed the maids to bring out the dishes one by one.
Duke Anyuan ordered the servants to pack these dishes into a food box.
Qiao Jinniang asked, You are not eating them, Father?
Duke Anyuan said, It was His Majesty who ordered you to cook. Im going to the Imperial Pce to offer your dishes. Would you like to go together?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. She had been to the East Pce, and she felt suffocated there.
She was absolutely reluctant to go to the Imperial Pce.
Qiao Jinniang said, In case the dishes go cold, Ill have Nuomi put some charcoal stoves under the food box
Duke Anyuan said, Okay.
Duke Anyuan sent the dishes to the Imperial Pce, and as soon as he entered the Emperors bedroom, he saw Lu Chening.
Duke Anyuan hurriedly saluted. Your Royal Highness.
Your Excellency, you dont have to be so polite. I should call your Teacher now.
Im so ttered. Duke Anyuan hurriedly said.
Lu Chens eyes turned to the food box in Duke Anyuans hand. This is?
Duke Anyuan said, These are a few home-cooked dishes made by my daughter. I am bringing them to His Majesty to taste.
Lu Chen frowned and said, Its so hot in the summer. Why bother to go inside a sultry kitchen?
Duke Anyuan thought so too, but he dared not to disobey the Emperors order. He smiled and said, Jinniang loves to cook.
Emperor Huilin heard the voice outside the pce and asked, Is Duke Anyuan here?
Duke Anyuan hurriedly handed the food box to an eunuch. He took it and tested the dishes with a silver needle before cing them on the Emperors dining table.
The Queen slowly came and said, Your Majesty, how could you make Duke Anyuans daughter cook for you? If people hear about this, theyllugh at you.
Duke Anyuan said, Its okay. Its a blessing for my daughter to be able to cook for His Majesty.
Emperor Huilin said to Duke Anyuan, Thank you, Duke. I will reward Miss Qiao. Wang Quan, choose a box of treasures from the Queens private treasury and let Duke Anyuan take it back to Miss Qiao.
Duke Anyuan kneeled and thanked again before he left with Eunuch Wang Quan.
Lu Chen sat next to the Queen and said to Emperor Huilin, Father, the kitchen is smoky and hot. There are so many cooks in the imperial kitchen, so why did you make Jinniang cook?
Emperor Huilin said angrily, Humph, since you feel sorry for Miss Qiao, go eat the dishes made by the imperial kitchen. Dont eat these dishes.
Lu Chen:
Empress Zhou smiled and said, Chener must have been ustomed to the dishes Jinniang made, right?
Lu Chen said, She doesnt cook very often. She is good at making cakes, pickled food, etc. Its too tiring to cook. Even if she wants to, I dont want her to be so tired.
The Queen sighed. Now she is going to marry another man, but you dont want her to leave you? Will you really just watch her marry Li Yun?
Lu Chen pursed his lips. Of course not. Ill give her an exnation about the divorce letter and the matter of demoting her from my wife to my concubine. Ive already had my men investigate the divorce letter. The handwriting on the letter was fake, but it doesnt seem to be sent from Changan.
Prince Mediocre and Consort Xian dont seem to know anything about the rtionship between Jinniang and I. My men have checked the post stations along the way. This letter of divorce didnt seem to be sent from Changan. Maybe someone in Linan did it, so they have gone to Linan to investigate it.
The Queen took a sip of yellow wine. Oh, youre really quick. Qiao Jinniang is already preparing for her dowry and you just finally remembered the divorce letter?
Lu Chen said slowly, As long as the divorce letter is not written by me, Qiao Jinniang and I are still a legitimate couple.
Emperor Huilin tasted a bowl of fish meat slices, which was very delicious and appetizing. He was still wondering why there was a faint aroma of wineing out of the fish meat when he heard Lu Chens words and said,
How can the marriage be valid? Youre the Crown Prince of our country. How can you marry into a merchants family? Its a disgrace!
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Father, you can directly hand over the throne to Tuaner, so that I wont be a disgrace to the imperial family.
Emperor Huilin ate a piece of fish, swallowed it and said, You wish! What is the name of this dish?
Lu Chen nced at it and said, This is the Stewed Sliced Fish in Wine Sauce. Jinniang is very good at making this dish, but I think the Drunken Crab that she makes in autumn and winter is the most delicious.
The Queen tasted it and said, Its really good, but Chener, you said that the divorce letter does not count, but you should know that ording to our countrysw, if a man marries into his wifes family, his wife has the right to divorce him without his consent.
Lu Chen said, I dont believe she dares to do that to me.
However, the Queen felt that from what she knew of Qiao Jinniang, she probably dared to do it.
Early the next morning, it rained in Changan where it seldom rained.
Qiao Jinniang nned to make some stewed food in wine sauce. Yesterday, she found a lot of wine sauce in the kitchen, which was some really good stuff.
She was dealing with goose meat and goose feet with her maids in the courtyard.
Suddenly, Yuyan came in from outside and said, Miss, Miss, Young Master Li is here. He is now kneeling before the Duchess and pleading guilty. Would you like to take a look?
Qiao Jinniang washed her hands clean, pulled down her sleeves, and went to the Duchesss courtyard with an umbre.
She saw Li Yun kneeling on the porch. His robe was wet from the raindrops falling from the eaves.
Qiao Jinniang went over to Li Yun and said, Cousin, please get up.
Li Yun looked at Qiao Jinniang with guilty eyes and said, Cousin, no matter if we can be married or not, it is indeed my fault to make you beughed at by the nobledies in Changan.
The Duchess was annoyed and punished me with kneeling here, and I deserved it.
At this time, Second Madam came over and saw Li Yun kneeling outside the door. When she heard that Li Yun had been kneeling here for a quarter of an hour, she was very angry.
Second Madam went directly inside and said loudly, Sister-inw, since this engagement has already been annulled, why are you treating Yuner like this?
He will be taking the imperial examinations soon, and he is also a reserve official. Are you worthy of him kneeling to you?
The Duchess said, He wanted to kneel himself. You dont know how those women talked about my Jinniang yesterday. Jinniang suffered so much grievance. Why cant he kneel?
Second Madam snorted. Qiao Jinniang just takes this as an excuse. She looks down on Yuner and wants to marry into the royal family!
She didnt have an excuse to annul the engagement, so she had that noble in the royal family instigate Ruyu to set up Yuner!
Now she has a justifiable reason to annul the engagement and marry into the royal family!
Jinniang is a divorced woman. Is she worthy of marrying into the royal family?
To be an imperial concubine, she tried really hard!
Qiao Jinniang asked Li Yun, Is what Second Aunt said true? Ruyu was instigated by the Crown Prince?
Li Yun said, Ruyu confessed that she was instigated by a noble in the royal family indeed.
She was afraid of offending that noble, and also afraid that the noble would think of other ways to set me up, so she agreed to go to the Tasty Pavilion to harass you
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands, gnashed her teeth and said, Lu Chen really went too far!
Then she held the umbre and left the Duke Mansion with Nuomi.
Chapter 56 - She Must Be Having An Affair with Prince Mediocre
Chapter 56: She Must Be Having An Affair with Prince Mediocre
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the room, the Duchesss face was extremely ugly. Sister-inw, what do you mean by imperial concubine?
Second Madam said with disdain, I saw Jinniang entangle with Prince Mediocre on the street with my own eyes. Now her father has be Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince, but she still wants to be the concubine of Prince Mediocre!
Deep in her heart, she is still a short-sighted vige girl. She is jealous that her sister has won the favor of His Royal Highness, so she went to seduce Prince Mediocre instead!
The Duchess angrily pped Second Madams face. My daughter is definitely not such a short-sighted and shameless girl!
Second Madam looked at the duchess in disbelief. How dare you hit me?
The maids hurriedly went to report to the Old Madam.
When Qiao Jinniang left the Duke Mansion, she went straight to the East Pce. When she arrived at the entrance of the East Pce, she realized that she could not get in at all.
The mighty and armored guards at the gate were very solemn and majestic, even more frightening than the guards in front of the Duke Mansion.
Miss Qiao. An eunuch at the door hurried over. His Royal Highness invites you in.
In the study, hearing that Qiao Jinniang was here, Lu Chen hurriedly had his men invite Qiao Jinniang in.
He thought that maybe Qiao Jinniang realized that Li Yun was unreliable, so she regretted it and came to him
Lu Chen straightened his clothes and went out to greet Qiao Jinniang.
When Qiao Jinniang came over, she saw Lu Chen wearing a purple round-neck robe embroidered with golden python. He was holding an umbre. His face under the umbre was handsome and dazzling like the sun and the moon.
It was a pity that he was a beast in human attire.
Lu Chen held the umbre for Qiao Jinniang, took off a jade pendant on him, and said with a smile, Take this jade pendant. If you want to enter the East Pce in the future, just show the guards this jade pendant.
Qiao Jinniang took Lu Chens jade pendant and smashed it on the ground!
The jade pendant shattered into two halves, and Lu Chen couldnt help frowning. Qiao Jinniang, what are you doing?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen with hatred and said, You said that Ruyu was not arranged by you, but now Ruyu has confessed that she was instigated by a noble in the imperial family!
There were tears in Qiao Jinniangs eyes. After wiping away the tears with a handkerchief, she continued. What did I do wrong? Are you trying to force me to die? If I had known this, I shouldnt have saved you in the first ce. I should have watched you die!
Lu Chen took a deep breath. Jinniang, you and I had slept in the same bed for three years. Dont you believe me? I didnt instigate Ruyu.
If I want to ruin the engagement between you and Li Yun, I can tell Li Yuns father and his two brothers about the rtionship between you and I. I dont believe that Li Yun and the Li Family wont mind it.
Moreover, why would I manipte a little maid to ruin your reputation? How does this benefit me?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, how does this benefit you? Why do you have to torture me like this?!
Lu Chen knew that Qiao Jinniang didnt have any trust in him now, so he just said, Its raining heavily outside,e in first. Tuaner hasnt seen you for a long time. I will order someone to investigate this matter now to prove that I am innocent and give you an exnation. You can y with Tuaner for a while first.
Qiao Jinniang finally calmed down. Shed like to see how Lu Chen would quibble.
She went to Tuaners pce first.
As soon as Tuaner saw Qiao Jinniang, he hurriedly trotted over and asked Qiao Jinniang to hug him.
Qiao Jinniang squatted down and held Tuaner up. Tuaner, do you miss Mommy?
Tuaner nodded. I miss you, Mommy. I miss you every day.
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and kissed Tuaner gently on the forehead. Her Tuaner was really pitiful. Fortunately, Xie Yun was a man and would not treat her Tuaner badly.
After solving a puzzle ring with Tuaner, an eunuch came to ask her to go to see Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang said to Tuaner, Tuaner, y slowly alone. Ille to y with you next time.
Tuaner hugged Qiao Jinniangs calf and said, No, Mommy, y with Tuaner. Tuaner doesnt want Mommy to leave.
Qiao Jinniang helplessly picked up Tuaner and went to the main pce together, thinking that shed better leave after Tuaner fell asleep at noon.
As the most favored son of the Emperor, the East Pce was magnificent and luxurious.
After Qiao Jinniang entered the main pce, she saw Ruyu kneeling in the pce.
She shivered and said, Your Royal Highness, I, Im just a little maid. How dare I frame you?!
Lu Chen, who was sitting on the seat of honor, put down the teacup in his hand and said, You said that you were instigated by a noble in the royal family to go to the Tasty Pavilion to harass Miss Qiao? Who is that noble?
Ruyu said, Your Royal Highness, please spare my life! If I say who he is, that person will never let me off!
Lu Chens voice was extremely cold. If you dont confess, I will kill you right now!
Ruyu kept kowtowing. Its Prince Mediocre. He ordered me to go to Miss Qiao. I was afraid that he would pick on Young Master, so I did what he wanted me to do!
Lu Chen waved his hand and said, Come on, drag her down, cane her ten times and then send her back to the Li Family!
Qiao Jinniang came out and said, No need. She is also a poor person. Just let her go.
Lu Chen waved his hand, signaling to let Ruyu go.
Lu Chen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, You heard it yourself, right? It was Prince Mediocre.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. It made sense if it was Prince Mediocre.
Lu Chen was a little puzzled. Arent you curious why he did this? He shouldnt know the rtionship between you and I
Qiao Jinniang put down Tuaner and said, On my birthday, Prince Mediocre gave me a piece of mutton-fat jade, and when we met on the streetter, he specially came to talk to me
When Lu Chen heard Qiao Jinniangs words, he understood the situation and said angrily,
Its been almost four years, but Prince Mediocre is still so stupid!
I thought it was stupid enough for him to use Qiao Ruofeng to win over the Duke Mansion, but now he has actually cast his eyes at you.
Qiao Ruofeng? Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, What does this have to do with Ruofeng?
Lu Chen said slowly,Prince Mediocre wanted to win over the Duke Mansion, so he kept writing to Qiao Ruofeng when he was still at the border. A few months ago, Qiao Ruofeng met with Prince Mediocre when celebrating her grandmothers birthday in Luoyang and thetter promised to marry her. My secret guards have already reported this matter to me.
Qiao Jinniang shook her fan and said, Youre not ndering Prince Mediocre, right?
Lu Chen said, Him? I have never taken him seriously. A thorough fool who can only deceive ignorant literati and innocent girls!
Qiao Jinniang said, But back then, he was the one who caused you to lose your memory, right? You fell into his trap It shows that you are even more stupid!
Lu Chen said unhappily, Three years ago, I didnt fall into his trap, but I couldnt bear watching the people suffer, and I never thought that he would ignore the lives of the people of a whole county. Did you say that because you care about me?
Qiao Jinniang said, No! Im just concerned about Tuaner. The royal familys struggle for the throne is so dangerous. I hope it wont involve Tuaner.
Lu Chen said, Sure. I will definitely protect you and Tuaner!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. Im going to marry Li Yun soon. I dont need you to protect me. You just need to protect Tuaner!
Lu Chen gritted his teeth and said, With Ruyu, you still want to marry Li Yun?
At this time, Nuomi watched nervously outside, and Qiao Jinniang let Nuomie in and asked, Whats wrong?
Miss, Old Madam had the housekeeper go to the Duke Rongs Mansion to find you. She is now asking you to go back quickly.
Reluctant to leave Tuaner, Qiao Jinniang took thest nce at him, but regardless of his cries, she forced herself to leave the East Pce.
She hurriedly returned to the courtyard of the Old Madam, only to hear Qiao Ruofengs cry from afar.
Grandmother, I went to visit Princess Fuan today, but she said that she had never seen Second Sister.
Then why does Second Sister often go to Duke Rongs Mansion? And who gifted her the gold jewelry that was only produced in the Imperial Pce?
She must be having an affair with Prince Mediocre!
But Aunt pped my mother in order to maintain her reputation!
Grandma, you must get justice for my mother!
Among the granddaughters, Old Madam liked Qiao Ruofeng most. Seeing her so aggrieved, the Old Madam felt distressed too
Qiao Ruoshui added fuel to the mes on the side. Like I said, a countryside girl is always a countryside girl even with the bloodline of our family!
She must despise the husband Mother found for her, so she went to seduce Prince Mediocre, in an attempt to be his concubine!
The Duchess was extremely annoyed when she heard her words. Shut up, I believe Jinniang absolutely did nothing of the sort!
Chapter 57 - Break Up the Family
Chapter 57: Break Up the Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing the Duchesss scolding, Qiao Ruoshui didnt dare to say anything more.
The Duchess said to Old Madam Qiao, Mother, I believe that Jiner is definitely not such a person.
Old Madam Qiao said, Jinniang left the Duke Mansion without a word, knowing that you feel guilt towards her, but guilt is not connivance!
Which familys daughter doesnt report to her mother when she goes out? Dont indulge her out of guilt.
Qiao Jinniang entered from outside the courtyard and knelt down to Second Madam.
Grandmother, I know I should be punished for going out of home without permission and breaking the rules of the Duke Mansion, but I dont ept Sister Ruofeng and Sister Ruoshuis usations of me of seducing Prince Mediocre!
Seeing Jinniang kneel down as soon as she came in, Old Madam Qiao couldnt vent her anger. After all, the Duke Mansion owed her a kit.
She said, Get up. Can you exin the matter about Princess Fuan?
Qiao Jinniang certainly couldnt tell the truth.
Qiao Jinniang stood up and lowered her head, saying slowly, It was Junior Duke Rong. He liked to eat the dishes I cooked, so he often invited me to the Duke Rongs Mansion.
Because he was a junior duke, His Majestys favorite nephew, and the best friend of the Crown Prince, I dare not refuse him.
But if this matter was revealed, it would damage the reputation of Junior Duke Rong and I, so I used Princess Fuan as an excuse.
The box of gold gifted by Princess Fuan was the money that Junior Duke Rong paid for the dishes I cooked. Grandmother, if you dont believe me, you can go ask Junior Duke Rong.
Junior Duke Rong agreed to use Princess Fuan as the excuse in case the reputation of the Duke Mansion gets damaged. Although I didnt grow up in the Duke Mansion, I knew the reputation of the Duke Mansion will affect everyone in the Duke Mansion.
And now that the two sisters ndered me for seducing Prince Mediocre, what good will it do to them?
Qiao Ruofeng snorted coldly and said, I saw with my own eyes that you and Prince Mediocre were talking andughing on the street.
If you didnt seduce Prince Mediocre, why would Prince Mediocre bother to make Ruyu set up Third Cousin?
Besides, how do you exin this mutton-fat white jade? I searched your room and found it!
Qiao Ruofeng ordered a maid to put the mutton-fat white jade in front of Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands and said, Searched? Grandmother, Mother, forgive me but I cant stay in the Duke Mansion any longer.
I didnt do anything serious, but the Duke Mansion actually searched my courtyard. What do they take me for?
Ill leave the Duke Mansion right away so as not to be treated as a prisoner!
The Duchess hurriedly stepped forward and held Qiao Jinniangs hand. You dont have to leave. I really didnt know about this matter, and I wasnt aware that they searched your courtyard!
Come, ask the Duke toe over!
I would like to ask the Duke who is in charge of the Duke Mansion?
Second Madam red at Qiao Ruofeng. How could you search Qiao Jinniangs courtyard?
Qiao Ruofeng ced the jade heavily in front of Qiao Jinniang and said,
Anyway, this filthy thing has been found! Do you dare to say that this was not given by Prince Mediocre?
Qiao Jinniang sneered. How do you know this is from Prince Mediocre?
Qiao Ruofeng paused. She knew this jade belonged to Prince Mediocre because she had seen this thing when she went to Prince Mediocres mansion a few days ago.
However, she certainly couldnt say that she had seen it in Prince Mediocres mansion.
Noticing the panic in Qiao Ruofengs eyes, Qiao Jinniang said to the Old Madam,
Grandmother, this jade is indeed a birthday gift from Prince Mediocre to me.
However, theres nothing between Prince Mediocre and I. Ive never vited any rules.
Besides, if a girl has done something wrong, her family will only cover up for her.
But why are Second Madam and Qiao Ruofeng so eager to nt the charge of adultery on me?
Everyone said that I was lucky enough to be the daughter of a duke, but if as the daughter of a duke, I have to be ndered like this, I would rather leave the Duke Mansion.
When the Duke came in, he heard Qiao Jinniangs words, and he immediately came over and said, What happened? How could you say such stupid words?
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, Father, Second Madam and her daughter ndered me for seducing Prince Mediocre and even searched my courtyard.
If I still stay in the Duke Mansion, I dont know if something even worse will happen to me.
A servant reported to Duke Anyuan what happened, and the Duke frowned and said,
So its Second Brother who is in charge of the Duke Mansion now?
Old Madam Qiao said to Second Madam with anger, Apologize to Jinniang.
Qiao Ruofeng said unhappily, Grandmother, its obvious that Qiao Jinniang and Prince Mediocre are having an affair.
Look, this is the evidence I searched from her room.
My mother is Qiao Jinniangs elder. Why should she apologize to Qiao Jinniang? My mother never said anything wrong!
Qiao Jinniang saluted the Duchess. Forgive me, Mother.
As long as Second Madam and Qiao Ruofeng are in this Duke Mansion, I wont stay!
Sister Ruoshui has insulted me several times, but I tolerated her because we are blood sisters after all.
She has Mother protecting her, so she causes trouble with me from time to time. I can only ept it.
But Second Madam and Qiao Ruofeng are not my immediate family, I dont have such a good temper to tolerate them!
Today, if you want me to stay, then break up the family and let them leave. If they dont leave the Duke Mansion, please let me leave!
Second Madam was shocked. You want to break up the family just for such a trivial matter?
Your grandmother is still alive! How dare you be so unfilial to demand to break up the family?
Qiao Jinniang said to Nuomi, Go pack up. Just take what we brought from the South.
Nuomi nodded and didnt forget to say, Although my miss grew up from the grassroots, she has never suffered such grievances since she was a child.
Even her nsmen in Linan, who coveted the Myriad Taste, dared not search her room when her foster parents were still alive. The people in the Duke Mansion are even worse than those people!
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand tightly and said, I wont let you go alone.
Then she turned to the Old Madam and said, Mother, I know its a bit unconventional to split up the family now, but if we dont, Sister-inw and her daughter will definitely do things even more outrageous!
Second Madam hurriedly knelt down and said, Mother, its my fault this time. Sister-inw, Jinniang, please forgive me.
Second Madam pped herself a few times as she said, I shouldnt have talked such nonsense!
Old Madam Qiao said, Okay, Jinniang, your second aunt has apologized. You are your fathers daughter, and no one dares to bully you.
Qiao Jinniang insisted. I will leave if they dont.
Qiao Jinniang remembered that Lu Chen told her that Prince Mediocre and Qiao Ruofeng had an affair
If this scandal was revealed, the reputation of the Duke Mansion would be ruined.
In the eyes of everyone, Lu Chen had already said that he would take a daughter of the duke as his concubine, but the Sixth Miss of the Duke Mansion was in love with Prince Mediocre.
People wouldnt think it was Qiao Ruofengs personal conduct. They would only think that Duke Anyuan had used his daughter and niece to please the Crown Prince and Prince Mediocre.
If Father became a fence-sitter in the eyes of the courtiers, his reputation would be ruined.
If she hadnt known about this scandal, she would have endured Qiao Ruofeng.
But Qiao Ruofeng who actually had an affair with Prince Mediocre ndered her as a slut with her mother and even went to search her courtyard, so she didnt need to save them any face.
It was better to separate rtions with them than let Qiao Ruofeng ruin the reputation of Duke Anyuan Mansion.
Qiao Ruofeng said indignantly, My mother has already knelt down, yet you still want to split up the family?!
You can leave. Id like to see if you really will go!
You are nothing if you leave the Duke Mansion. Do you think Prince Mediocre will help you?
Do you think Prince Mediocre will ept you, an abandoned woman who has once been married and had a child?
Go, if you have what it takes, leave the Duke Mansion now!
Chapter 58 - I Am the Biological Mother of the Little Imperial Grandson
Chapter 58: I Am the Biological Mother of the Little Imperial Grandson
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ruoshui said in shock, Qiao Jinniang, not only were you raised by servants, but you had once been married?
Mom, just for this abandoned woman, you told everyone that I am crazy? How can you be so partial?
The Duchess said coldly, If I were really partial, I wouldnt have tolerated you pretending to be sick and always making trouble! Shes your own sister. Whats the benefit of you insulting her?
Running the rosary through the fingers of her hand, Old Madam Qiao took a few deep breaths and said, Jinniang, let me ask you, if the Duke Mansion doesnt split up today, youll leave and never return to the Duke Mansion, right?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes!
Qiao Ruofeng was smug. She was always Grandmas favorite granddaughter. Qiao Jinniang would definitely be disliked by Grandmother for making such a big fuss. Grandmother, Second Sister really disappointed us. Everyone in our family treats her so nicely, but she wants to destroy this family only a few days after she returned
She is being unreasonable. Where can she go if she leaves the Duke Mansion? If she returns to Linan in despair, shell be aughing stock in front of everyone in Linan!
The Old Madam said slowly, Then break up the family.
Both Second Madam and Qiao Ruofeng thought they had heard wrong.
Mother!
Grandmother!
Second Madam got on her knees and kowtowed. Separating the family was the worst oue for her. Although the Dukes third brother was not born by the Old Madam, he had as many as four sons.
His eldest son was only ten now, so he didnt need to worry about his sons marriage.
But for her family, her husband was just a fourth-rank Deputy Minister of Court of State Ceremonials.
Although this official position was not low, nobles wouldnt take it seriously in Changan where it was full of officials.
Second Madam knew very well that her parents familys respect for her, or to be exact, everyones respect for her was not based on her husbands official position but Duke Anyuan Mansion.
Especially her daughters. Ruofeng and Ruowan, hadnt been married yet. Moreover, Ruofeng was already of age and it was time to find her a husband
Ruowan was fourteen, and soon it would be time to find her a husband.
If the family was broken up, Ruofeng would no longer be counted as a miss of the Duke Mansion.
In terms of status, the daughter of a fourth-rank official and a miss of the Duke Mansion werepletely different.
Duke Anyuan hurriedly said, Mother, Jinniang just blindly said some words. If the family is split now Im afraid Ill beughed at by other officials.
The Duchess was angry. Didnt you see how they insulted Jinniang? Is your reputation the only thing that matters to you?
Qiao Jinniang said to Duke Anyuan, Father, I didnt blindly say some words. If the family is not split up, the damage to your reputation will be even greater.
Qiao Ruofeng said angrily, How is it possible? Are you out of your mind?
Old Madam Qiao red at Qiao Ruofeng in disappointment and said,
Except for Ruoyun, among my granddaughters, I dote on you the most.
You used to be smart and lovely. I dont know why you have be so unreasonable today?
Its good to split up the family lest you get lost in some ridiculous delusions!
Then she said to Duke Anyuan, Since you got the title of duke, your two brothers should get more shares of family property.
Except for the ancestralnds and houses, the rest should be divided equally to your two brothers. Do you and your wife have any objections?
Duke Anyuan shook his head and said, Everything is up to you, Mother.
The Duchess echoed. Youre right, Mother, but Third Brother was not born by you
Second Madam fidgeted with the rosary and said, Although your third brother is not in Changan, he has been quite filial to me. Besides, he has four sons, and the expenses are huge.
Second Madam copsed onto the ground. She had no son. After the family was split up, she would be theughing stock of Changan!
After finishing speaking, Old Madam Qiao said to Qiao Jinniang, Come with me.
Qiao Jinniang went over to support Madam Qiao.
When they got to the Old Madams courtyard, the Old Madam waved all the servants and maids to leave.
Old Madam Qiao sat down and said, Jinniang, let me ask you, is what you said about Junior Duke Rong real?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and said, Well yes.
The Old Madam threw the teacup in her hand beside Qiao Jinniangs shoes. Today I drove Ruofeng away not for you, but for the Duke Mansions reputation.
Even if you didnt tell me, I know that the rtionship between Ruofeng and Prince Mediocre is not normal.
Ruofeng has always been sensible. If it werent for Prince Mediocre, how could she possibly search your courtyard just for the sake of an unfamiliar cousin?
When she looked at you, her eyes were burnt with jealousy.
But if you dont tell the truth, I wont tolerate you either!
As for the box of gold that Princess Fuan gave you, where could the gold hairpin in it be obtained by Junior Duke Rong, a mere dandy?
Also, the ambergris tainted on your body can only be used by a few royal family members. Are you still not telling the truth?
Qiao Jinniang twisted the handkerchief in her hands and said, Grandma, its not convenient for me to tell you the truth now.
The Old Madam said with a frown, Not convenient? Your father is now one of the highest-ranking officials. There are only two prime ministers who can sit on an equal footing with your father. What are you afraid of?
If you dont give me a proper exnation now, Ill give you physical punishment!
Qiao Jinniang bit her lower lip, knelt down and said, Grandmother, I can tell you the truth, but please dont force me to do things I dont want to.
The Old Madam snapped, Speak!
Qiao Jinniang said slowly, I went to Duke Rongs Mansion, not to meet Junior Duke Rong, but the Crown Prince.
Old Madam Qiao asked, Did he give you the golden hairpin?
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
Old Madam Qiao said, How can you be so stupid, Jinniang! His Royal Highness is interested in you perhaps just because you look simr to the biological mother of the little imperial grandson. Was Ruyu also instigated by him?
Qiao Jinniang twisted her handkerchief and said, No, it should be Prince Mediocre. He seems to have some ulterior motive towards me.
As for the Crown Prince, its not because I look like the biological mother of the little imperial grandson.
But because I am the biological mother of the little imperial grandson.
Running the rosary through the fingers of her hand, Old Madam Qiao suddenly froze. She looked a little surprised, and then she seemed to take a tumble.
The Crown Prince came back from Linan, so did you. The little imperial grandson mistook Ruoshui, who looks simr to you, as his mother
I should have figured it out long ago. When did you discover it?
Why didnt you tell me earlier?
So the bayberries and crabs were for you, which shows that the Crown Prince still has you in his heart.
Has His Royal Highness told you about your future title? Is it First Concubine or Second Concubine?
Qiao Jinniangs heart was a little sour. No wonder Lu Chen always said that she wouldnt be wronged. It turned out that even her own grandmother thought she could only be his first concubine or second concubine.
Qiao Jinniang said solemnly, Whether it is his first concubine or second concubine, Ive nothing to do with His Royal Highness.
Her Majesty is also aware of this matter, and she has allowed me to marry another man.
The beads of the rosary in Old Madam Qiaos hands were scattered all over the floor, and she asked in shock, Does the Crown Prince refuse to ept you?
It shouldnt be! Although our family is not as powerful as Duke Wu Mansion, were still a first-ss family in Changan.
And youve given birth to a son for him. He is supposed to make you at least his second concubine no matter what
Its I who dont want to ept that jerk!
Chapter 59 - Who Said Jinniang Is Illiterate
Chapter 59: Who Said Jinniang Is Illiterate
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
While Old Madam Qiao was still thinking, she suddenly heard Qiao Jinniangs words. She lowered her voice and said angrily, Do you want to die? How dare you call His Royal Highness that?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her eyes and replied, Yes, I will not call the jerk jerk anymore.
The Old Madam took a deep breath and told her to stop talking
Did the Crown Prince do something bad to you?
Qiao Jinniang twisted her handkerchief and said, Grandmother, perhaps you think that being his first or second concubine is already good enough for me.
But I never want to marry into a powerful family. All I want is to run the Myriad Taste well together with my husband. Its enough for me to live happily for the rest of my life like my foster parents.
Thats why I dont want to marry into the East Pce as a concubine, not even if I can be an imperial consort in the future.
Old Madam Qiao shook her head and said, You silly girl, you have already given birth to the eldest son of the Crown Prince. Even if you can only be his first or second concubine now, in the future you will definitely be one of the imperial consorts when he bes the emperor, not to mention that your father has reached the highest rank for officials. Your son is very likely to be the next emperor!
Dont we women care about our children the most? If your son bes the emperor, youll be the most powerful woman in the world.
Although I shouldnt say these words, with the support of the Qiao Family, it will not be difficult for you to be the queen mother in the future
Qiao Jinniang said, But if I have to suffer and live a lonely life for a lifetime just for that position,
If I have to be trapped in the imperial pce for a lifetime, argue against other women, and stay subservient to my husbands wife, even if I can be the most powerful woman in the country when I am old, whats the point of it?
Grandmother, I didnt grow up in the Duke Mansion. Im just amoner from the grassroots, so I dont want to be trapped in the Imperial Pce.
Now our family is already very prosperous, so I dont think you need me to fight for our familys future.
Grandma, I hope you can understand me. Please dont tell anyone this matter in case Mother and Father worry about me.
Old Madam Qiao had always felt that Qiao Jinniang was a very smart girl, but it was not until today did she realize that Qiao Jinniang was really not an ordinary woman. The little imperial grandson is your own flesh and blood. Do you have the heart to leave him in the East Pce alone?
Qiao Jinniang said, I will often visit him.
Madam Qiao closed her eyes and said, Go back first and let me think about it.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and went back to her courtyard. Hongling and the other maids had already knelt in a row to plead guilty. Today, they failed to stop Qiao Ruofeng from searching her room.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its not your fault. Since Qiao Ruofeng was determined to search my room, you wouldnt have been able to stop her. Get up.
The rain finally stopped, and Qiao Jinniang continued to cook stewed goose palms in wine sauce that she had not finished yet, but she was rather absent-minded.
Her grandmother hadnt given her a clear answer, and she didnt know what she could do if her grandmother really forced her to marry Lu Chen.
In the afternoon, Yuyan came in with a few boxes and said, Miss, these are the apology gifts from those women who gossip about you in the Tasty Pavilion yesterday.
Qiao Jinniang opened the boxes and checked them out. It was all jewelry and rouge. Those women were just pretending to feel guilty in case they offended his father, so she said, Divide these things up. If there is anything you dont want, give them to the maids and mammies doing heavybor work.
Thank you, Miss.
After Xie Yun came to Changan, very few people had seen her. As June 28 got closer, many nobledies couldnt sit still.
Li Lingling from Earl Chengens Mansion took the lead to hold a lotus appreciation poetry party and invited Xie Yun.
The invitations were handed out to all the nobledies in the homes of ministers and officials of the second rank and above in Changan City.
The Empress Dowager and Consort Xian were both from Earl Chengens Mansion. Even though it was gradually declining, it was still an important family in Changan. People would still give them some face.
Li Lingling also gave invitations to all the girls of the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Ruoshui also got the invitation, but the Duchess rejected it for her with the excuse that she was still sick.
Only Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Jinniang were allowed to go, and the Duchess didnt forget to tell Qiao Ruoyi, Take good care of Jinniang. This is the first time she is going to a poetry party for noble girls. Dont let her be bullied.
Qiao Ruoyi nodded.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Mother, youre worrying too much. Im older than Ruoyi. I dont need her to take care of me.
The Duchess sighed helplessly. Earl Chengen and his family run amuck because the Empress Dowager is from their family, so you have to be very careful.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Okay.
In such hot weather, Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi were wearing dresses made of top-quality Cloudy Smoke Silk today.
This fabric was light and thin, so they would not feel too hot to wear it in the summer, so there wasnt much of this fabric for sale in Changan.
The two of them got off the soft sedan chair, which attracted the eyes of many nobledies.
As the host today, Li Lingling was wearing the Cloudy Smoke Silk awarded by the Empress Dowager, and she had shown it off just now.
But she didnt expect that the Duke Mansion would give this expensive fabric to a daughter who came back from the countryside and a concubine-born daughter!
What a disgrace to her!
Li Lingling said unceremoniously, Miss Qiao, youre really capable. Its only been three months since you came back, right?
You have driven your younger sister crazy and forced the Duke Mansion to break up. For gods sake, your grandmother is still alive!
Your parents actually dote on you so much. How I envy you!
Although she said she envied Jinniang, the ridicule in her words couldnt be concealed.
The other noble girls also taunted, It is normal for a man to have a concubine maid. Miss Qiao, you cant me your second aunt just because your fiancs concubine maid came to the Tasty Pavilion for you!
If youre so narrow-minded, who else will be willing to marry you in the future?!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Why, Ive just received your apology gifts. Do you want to give me apology gifts again?
When the noble girls heard this, they all fell silent.
Li Lingling looked at her friends and felt angry that they were so useless, but she still didnt give up. Oh, I forgot that Miss Qiao is from the countryside. Im sorry I forgot that you are illiterate.
If you feel bored at the poetry party, please tell me as soon as possible. Dont pretend to understand poems.
Miss Xie wille to the poem party today, so well y the poem making games. If you cant make a poem, youll be punished with three sses of liquor.
I hope you dont get drunk today.
Who said my little Jinniang is illiterate? Xie Yuns sedan chair stopped in front of Earl Chengens Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang looked back and saw that today Xie Yun was wearing ake blue skirt and a snake bun, looking very tall and slender. With such a gorgeous face, he didnt look like a man at all.
Xie Yun walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, It has been only a hundred years since the imperial examination was held for the first time. Among the thirty-two imperial examinations, five people who won first ce were from Linan and many officials were also from Linan.
How did Linan, thend of talents and wealth, be the countryside in Miss Lis mouth?
The women present were all stunned when they saw Xie Yun
After seeing her, Princess Fulu said to her maid, I had thought that my imperial cousin was the most beautiful person in the world, but today I finally see a beauty no weaker than him. Hurry up, take another hundred taels of silver to bet that Xie Yun will be the crown princess!
Fulu could imagine how beautiful a picture it would be when Xie Yun and the Crown Prince stood together in the future!
Chapter 60 - Lu Chen and Dogs Not Admitted
Chapter 60: Lu Chen and Dogs Not Admitted
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The moment Li Lingling saw Xie Yun, she only had three words in her heart: It was over.
Both courtiers and His Majesty wanted Xie Yun to be the crown princess. Li Lingling and some noble girls still had the hope that Xie Yun was ugly.
They felt that if Xie Yun was ugly, she would definitely not be loved by His Royal Highness.
But when they saw her today, they found that no girl in Changan was prettier than Xie Yun.
Li Lingling said, Just because there are many talents in Linan doesnt mean Miss Qiao is literate. Miss Xie, do you know Miss Qiao?
Xie Yun said, Miss Qiao and I have known each other for more than ten years. We grew up together.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Xie Yun in surprise. In fact, they were not so close. She just sent cakes to Xie Yun every now and then.
However, since Xie Yun had said this, the nobledies in Changan who looked down on her wouldnt dare to despise her again.
Li Lingling nced at Qiao Jinniang and said, Howe Miss Qiao never said that she knows you?
Fulu came over and said, Why does she have to tell you? Miss Xie is just someone Jinniang knows, not Jinniangs great aunt or aunt who can be mentioned every day
Li Lingling pointed at Fulu angrily and said, How dare you! How dare you be disrespectful to the Empress Dowager and Consort Xian?!
Li Lingling mentioned the Empress Dowager and Consort Xian every day, reminding people that her great aunt was the Empress Dowager, and her aunt was Consort Xian.
Fulu snorted. Yes, I am, so what? If you have what it takes, you canin to my grandmother!
Li Lingling didnt dare to offend Fulu. After all, she was the Empress Dowagers favorite granddaughter.
Fulu walked to Qiao Jinniang and said, Now I know you didnt lie to me. Miss Xie is really stunningly beautiful. No wonder she didnt show her face that day. Otherwise, countless men would have been fascinated by her!
Xie Yun said, Im ttered, princess.
Li Lingling was furious, but as the host, she had to force a smile and guide them in.
Earl Chengens Mansion was the smallest mansion that Qiao Jinniang had seen since she came to Changan. The so-called lotus poetry party was held in a small pond...
And they even wanted to y the Winding Water and Poem Making game in this pond that had a weird smell. With the strange smell of the pond water, even the liquor they drank on the small wooden boat was inevitably contaminated with a strange smell.
Without any shelter, the scorching sun almost peeled off ayer of skin of the girls.
Li Lingling already felt embarrassed, and the nobledies could only endure it in order not to offend her.
But Fulu said straightforwardly, Li Lingling, what are you up to? You know that the crown princes consort selection banquet is approaching, but you made these candidate girls bask in the scorching sun. Your skin is rough and thick so youre not afraid of the sun, but dont get Miss Xie sunburned.
Qiao Jinniang looked helplessly at Fulu who was holding an umbre for Xie Yun.
Xie Yun just smiled at Fulu and said, Thank you, Princess Fulu. I really cant sunbathe The sun is really scorching. I havent tasted the dishes of Myriad Taste for a long time. I heard that a new Myriad Taste was opened in Changan, right?
Fulu said, Its called the Tasty Pavilion. Why dont we go to the Tasty Pavilion? I heard that there are several famous southern-style summer snacks in the Tasty Pavilion? I havent tried them yet.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, Why not go together?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and followed Fulu and Xie Yun to leave Earl Chengens Mansion with Qiao Ruoyi.
Seeing them leave, Li Lingling smashed a cup in rage!
She could tolerate Fulu and Xie Yun because one of them was the daughter of an old distinguished family admired by literati, and the other was the only daughter of a princess.
But how dare Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi leave like this?
The venue of the poetry party was not far from the Tasty Pavilion, so the four of them walked away side by side, and Fulu kept asking Xie Yun how she could be so beautiful along the way.
Xie Yun had a good temper and answered her patiently.
Qiao Ruoyi couldnt help but slow down, and Qiao Jinniang looked back at Qiao Ruoyi. Whats wrong? Why are you walking so slowly?
Qiao Ruoyi sighed. Second sister, the temperament, family background and appearance of Miss Xie are all above yours, and she was raised with the standard of a future crown princess. Im afraid that she will be the crown princess, but then what about you?...
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, I have nothing to do with Lu Chen.
Talk of the devil. He came.
When the four of them arrived at the Tasty Pavilion, they saw Lu Chen, Junior Duke Rong, Zhou Siming, and Lin Mo who were here for lunch.
At the door, seeing Lu Chening, Huixiang hurriedly put the sign that Lu Chen and dogs were not admitted outside the door.
When Junior Duke Rong saw the sign, he almost couldnt hold back hisughter.
Zhou Siming and Lin Mo looked at each other and pretended not to see the sign.
However, Fulu came over and read loudly, Lu Chen and dogs were not admitted. Jinniang, who is Lu Chen? Lu is the imperial familys surname, and the word Chen also means emperor. Who would dare to take such a name in Changan?
Qiao Ruoyi hurriedly said, Im afraid that some illiterate servant wrote it wrong. This means that dogs are not admitted at Chen Hours.
This exnation was far-fetched, but it was better than her second sister being punished by His Royal Highness!
Qiao Jinniang said, No, they didnt write it wrong. It means that Lu Chen and dogs were not admitted. Your Royal Highness, please leave. Youre not weed here.
Fulu was shocked. So Lu Chen is the name of my imperial cousin!
Does this mean that the Crown Prince and the dog are not admitted?
Outside the door were all nobles and officials. Hearing Fulus loud shout, many customers who were having dinner here looked over.
Junior Duke Rong covered Fulus mouth. Quiet! Why do you have to shout so loudly?
When everyone thought that Lu Chen was going to get angry, he just looked at the sign and said, Lets go, go to the Guest-weing Building next door.
Everyone was shocked.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. The jerk only deserved to eat the dishes made by scum.
Junior Duke Rong almost burst into tears and said, Although the chefs in the Guest-weing Building were all from the Tasty Pavilion, the food they made is getting worse and worse, and I dont even know why? I would rather go back home than eat there!
Inside, the Duke hurriedly came out and said, Your Royal Highness, please wait a minute. Im sorry for the offense. Jinniang, apologize to His Royal Highness!
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect Duke Anyuan to be here today.
Lu Chen said, Your Excellency, you dont have to me Miss Qiao. I offended her, so its okay for her to hate me.
The Duke red at Qiao Jinniang and continued, No, Your Royal Highness, no matter how you treat her, it is her blessing.
My daughter has never learned etiquette. If there is any offense, please forgive her!
Jinniang,e here, invite His Royal Highness in.
Qiao Jinniang thought helplessly, Did her father obtain his high official position by licking boots?
Look how fawning he looked!
Lu Chen said, Your Excellency, dont you want to know how I offended Second Miss Qiao?
Qiao Jinniang gnashed her teeth and red at Lu Chen, afraid that he would say improper words to the Duke, so she could only grit her teeth and say, Pleasee in, Your Royal Highness!
Chapter 61 - Willingly Become My Crown Princess
Chapter 61: Willingly Be My Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Xie Yun smiled slightly and said, Since we met by chance, how about having dinner together with us, Your Royal Highness?
Lu Chen nodded gently. Okay.
In the No.1 private room, it was very lively. Duke Anyuan was afraid that Qiao Jinniang was going to be rude to Lu Chen, so he served Lu Chen by side like a waiter.
Your Royal Highness, you can taste the Magnolia Tofu in the Tasty Pavilion. Its a very delicious summer snack. This is the first time I have seen it in Changan. It is very refreshing.
Duke Anyuan introduced enthusiastically. As for Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Jinniang, they could only stand beside Duke Anyuan.
Lu Chen said, Thank you, Your Excellency. But Miss Qiao seems to not want to see me, so I wont bother you.
Duke Anyuan thought that there were all young people here and they might not want him to stay, so he said, Your Royal Highness, Ill take my leave soon. Jinniang,e out with me.
Qiao Jinniang went outside with Duke Anyuan. Duke Anyuan found an empty corner and said, Jinniang, you just came back recently, so you dont know the difficulties our family is facing.
In the eyes of outsiders, our family is very prosperous, but do please remember, to be in the kingspany is tantamount to living with a tiger!
The Crown Prince is merciful, but it doesnt mean that we, as ministers, can do whatever we want. The royal family can easily wipe out our family. If were disrespectful to them, His Majesty and His Royal Highness may doubt our loyalty.
Qiao Jinniang:
Duke Anyuan said helplessly, You have to be respectful to His Royal Highness in the future. If it were another royal family member today, our family would have probably been used of disrespecting the royal family.
You have to remember not to offend His Royal Highness again. How could you let him say that he had offended you? The only people in the world who deserve this are only the Emperor, the Queen and the Empress Dowager.
Qiao Jinniang took a deep breath, I see, Father.
Duke Anyuan said, Good, remember to be polite to His Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang nodded, thinking that fortunately, she didnt tell Duke Anyuan the truth.
Otherwise, judging from Duke Anyuans loyalty to the royal family, he would probably pack her up and send her to the East Pce immediately!
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Anyway, there would always be a way out.
Back in the No.1 private room, she heard Princess Fulu say, Miss Xie, why is there still an empty seat between you and my imperial cousin? Come on, sit next to him!
Princess Fulu thought happily, How beautiful a picture it would be if the two of them sat together! At the sight of them together, she would definitely be able to eat three more bowls of rice today!
Xie Yun said, I can sit next to you and Jinniang. Let Jinniang sit there.
Lu Chen gave Xie Yun an appreciative look.
After Qiao Jinniang came back crest-fallen, she found that there was only an empty seat between Xie Yun and the Crown Prince. Although there was some space between Qiao Ruoyi and Zhou Siming, there was no stool.
She had to sit between the Crown Prince and Xie Yun.
Fulu had thought that when Qiao Jinniang sat there, the beautiful picture would be ruined, but when she took a closer look, she inexplicably found that this was even better.
Jinniang was a beauty too. Whether she paired with the Crown Prince or with Xie Yun, it was very pleasing to the eye.
Those present, except for Princess Fulu, were well aware of the rtionship between Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen.
Junior Duke Rong said, This is the first time I saw Miss Xie. She is really beautiful. Its boring to just eat. Why dont we y the drinkers wager game?
Fulu was the first to agree. Okay, what shall we y? No poem making, okay? With the girl best at poem making in Changan and the one best in the South, Jinniang and I will definitely lose.
Junior Duke Rong said, Thats true. There are also Lin Mo and Seventh Brother. They are both very good at literature, so we will definitely lose. How about ying the drum-and-pass game? Whoever loses shall do one thing or drink three bottles of liquor.
Fulu was a little surprised. Three bottles of liquor? Isnt that a bit too much?
Junior Duke Rong said, Well drink Southern Yellow Wine. Its not intoxicating. If there is no objection, may I call my servant toe in and y the drums?
Lu Chen said, Alright, call him in.
Qiao Jinniang said, Why dont you guys y and I y the drums?
No. Junior Duke Rong hurriedly said, Just let my servant y the drums.
Qiao Jinniang hadnt yed a game for a long time. Seeing that Fulu was very interested, she didnt want to disappoint her, so she said, Okay.
The drums sounded, and the flower made of handkerchief was passed from one person to another. When Lu Chen handed it to Qiao Jinniang, he secretly held her hand. Qiao Jinniang frowned, shook his hand away and threw the flower to Xie Yun.
Xie Yun gave the flower to Fulu gracefully.
The drumming stopped.
Fulu said helplessly, Why is it me? Miss Xie, you cheated. You passed the flower to me so slowly.
Junior Duke Rong jeered, Hey, Fulu, just admit defeat. Lets think about what we should ask Fulu to do?
Fulu said, Humph, do you think Ill be afraid of you?
Lin Mo said, How about having Princess Fulu feed the person next to her?
Junior Duke Rong said, Thats too simple. Wouldnt it be too easy for her?
Lin Mo red at Junior Duke Rong. Come on, their target was not Fulu but Qiao Jinniang!
With Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyi beside Fulu, Fulu certainly chose to feed the more beautiful one.
Junior Duke Rong asked the servant to start ying drums again, and this time Xie Yun happened to hand the flower to Qiao Jinniang when the drums stopped
Seeing that it was Qiao Jinniang, Junior Duke Rong didnt dare to mess around, but Lin Mo said, Miss Qiao, just like Princess Fulu, feed the person beside you, okay?
Princess Fulu red at Lin Mo. No way! Between the sexes there should be a prudent distance. My imperial cousin is notcking maids. Its okay for a woman to feed a woman, but what you suggest is not fun at all.
Lu Chen gave Lin Mo a warning nce and said, In this case, let Miss Qiao make us Magnolia Tofu!
Qiao Jinniang replied coldly, Okay.
Fulu was interested in Magnolia Tofu and went to watch Qiao Jinniang making the dish.
Qiao Ruoyi went to help Qiao Jinniang with the dish too.
In the private room, Xie Yun said to Lin Mo crossly, Young Master Lin, just because youve been serving as a gigolo for a long time doesnt mean that you can treat Jinniang like a prostitute.
Lin Mo hurriedly exined, She and His Royal Highness are a couple. Its normal for a woman to feed her husband a mouthful of food, right?
Xie Yun nced at Lu Chen meaningfully. A couple? If theyre a couple, Jinniang should be the crown princess now. Where is the imperial decree?
Lu Chen said to Xie Yun, Its not that I cant get an imperial decree from my father to make her my crown princess. Its just that she doesnt want to forgive me now. Granting an imperial decree is equivalent to forcing her with imperial power. I dont want to push her.
Xie Yun drank a bottle of wine and said indifferently, Its toote to say how much you love her now.
Lu Chen said, Its notte. I know I was wrong, but my love for Jinniang is true. Ill make her willingly be my crown princess, instead of being forced by imperial power.
Princess Fulu held the Magnolia Tofu to the private room, only to hear Lu Chens words. She was stunned and then red angrily at Qiao Jinniang behind her.
Very good, Qiao Jinniang, I dont care about your background and treat you like my friend from the moment I saw you, but you secretly seduced Miss Xies future husband!
What made Fulu even more nervous were the hundreds of taels of silver she had betted!
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. She didnt expect Lu Chen to say that
This jerk! How could he tell such aplete lie just to eat Magnolia Tofu?
Did he think that she would not do something to his Magnolia Tofu if he said that?
Humph, impossible!
Chapter 62 - I Must Marry Prince Mediocre
Chapter 62: I Must Marry Prince Mediocre
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said to Fulu, Sorry, Princess, but I didnt seduce His Royal Highness.
Princess Fulu thought about the sign that read Lu Chen and dogs arent admitted. Perhaps, she really wronged Qiao Jinniang. Then what do you think of the Crown Prince?
Qiao Jinniang didnt answer, but asked Huixiang for salt and threw a lot of salt on one of the bowls of Magnolia Tofu.
This was a summer dessert. With so much salt sprinkled on it, it could be imagined how terrible the taste would be!
Although Princess Fulu hadnt tasted it, she could imagine how salty this bowl of Magnolia Tofu would be.
Entering the room, Fulu saw Qiao Jinniang ce that bowl of Magnolia Tofu in front of the Crown Prince.
Fulu:
Now she believed that Qiao Jinniang must hate the Crown Prince very much.
Junior Duke Rong took the te handed over by Qiao Jinniang and saw a plum tree painted on the porcin te. There was a plum blossom-shaped transparent cake on the blooming plum blossom pattern.
Some tiny gold foils were sprinkled on the cake, which looked like plum blossom stamens.
Junior Duke Rong gently touched the cake with a golden spoon and found that it was simr to fish jelly. Is this the Magnolia Tofu that everyone in Changan praised?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Exactly, you can take a taste, Your Highness.
Junior Duke Rong scooped up a spoonful of the plum blossom-shaped tofu and said, This is colorless like a crystal? Is it really edible?
Xie Yun said, Dont worry, Your Highness. Eating this summer dessert can relieve summer heat. It is very popr in the South with officials, nobles, and from merchants to peddlers and menial servants. A penny can buy a big bowl of it.
Junior Duke Rong said, But you charge 0.5 taels of silver in the Tasty Pavilion per te, and two tes cost a tael of silver. I am afraid that Miss Qiao can make a lot of money!
Qiao Jinniang said, This te is troublesome to make, there are gold foils on it. Moreover, our Magnolia Tofu uses the best climbing fig fruit.
Plus, unlike those sold on the street, our Magnolia Tofu is iced. Your Highness, I think you know how expensive the ice is in Changan, right?
Junior Duke Rong thought that Qiao Jinniang was a profiteer. Even though she added gold foil and ice cubes, fifty cents would be enough. At such a piece, she was making ten times the profit.
However, as soon as he tasted it, Junior Duke Rong knew that he was wrong. The dessert was sweet and icy with a little mint sweetness, which dissipated the summer heat.
It was not expensive even if it cost a tael of silver per te!
Junior Duke Rong smiled at Qiao Jinniang and said, Pack up two more tes for me. I want to give them to my royal uncle and grandmother to taste.
Fulu said, How could I have not thought of such a good opportunity to apple-polish my royal uncle? No, Qiao Jinniang, you cant sell it to him. Sell it to me! Im going to the Imperial Pce now.
Junior Duke Rong held his te and said, Ill take my leave first.
Fulu was annoyed, Apple polisher!
Qiao Jinniang replied, Dont worry, Princess. There are many other good summer desserts we sell. Ill ce them in an iced box, so theyll still be cold when you arrive at the Imperial Pce.
Even if Junior Duke Rong took the Magnolia Tofu to the pce, theyll probably be no longer cold and wont taste so good.
Fulu nodded. Okay,e on, prepare it for me.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and ordered Huixiang to prepare an iced box.
Xie Yun asked, I didnt see this dish in Myriad Tastest year. Did you develop it in Changan? But I dont think you can draw so well.
Lin Mo looked at the te and said, The plum blossoms painted on this porcin te have quite the style of His Royal Highness, which perfectly portrayed the characteristic of plum blossom. Its thanks to this porcin te that the dessert can sell at such a high price.
Lu Chen said, It was drawn by me, but I didnt expect it to be made into a te.
In fact, he painted it together with Qiao Jinniang.
The South rarely snowed, and after it snowedst year, Qiao Jinniang was very excited and wanted to paint the plum blossoms in the snow, but her painting skills were really poor.
After Qiao Jinniang painted for a little while, she gave up and went to pick plums, and while she was gone, he drew on the painting Qiao Jinniang made.
At that time, Qiao Jinniang really liked this painting and hung it in her room.
Qiao Jinniang said, I drew this, but a Fairy Plum Blossom touched it up for me. What does it have to do with you?
Lu Chen remembered that in order not to annoy her that day, he used this excuse to exin to her, but now she was using it to taunt him.
Fulu suddenly said, My imperial cousin and you were both in Linan in thest three years. Jinniang, is the little imperial grandson your child?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. I had to keep it a secret. Im sorry.
Fulu was shocked. Then why did you want to marry Li Yun? Oh my god, I even encouraged you to raise gigolos. What stupid things have I done?!
Qiao Jinniang: Youre not stupid. Its not bad to raise gigolos. After all, all men in the world are jerks.
Zhou Siming coughed. Im not.
Lin Mo immediately said, Me neither.
Both of them looked at Lu Chen
Lu Chen scooped a spoonful of Mangolia Tofu, which was horribly salty, but he ate it calmly and said to Jinniang, Even if I was, I am willing to change.
Please tell me what you dont like about me. Im willing to change for you.
When Lu Chen said these words, everyone was surprised. This was the first time that Lu Chen was this humble.
Qiao Jinniang only said, Its toote!
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Give me another chance, okay?
Can Your Royal Highness cancel the concubine selection ceremony that is in a few days? Qiao Jinniang shook off Lu Chens hand. Whether its for my cooking skills or something else, can you promise that you will no longer look down on me in the future?
Youve never regarded me as your wife, so why should I give you a chance?
Your Royal Highness, youre going to have your wife and a lot of concubines. You dont need me anymore. Just let me go.
Lu Chen said, Jinniang, I didnt know you cared so much about
Qiao Jinniang interrupted Lu Chen. I dont care about you anymore. Although I cant marry Li Yun, I can marry someone else. Even if I am ridiculed by everyone, raising gigolos can make me happy.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, there was a burst ofughter from outside.
Have you heard about the scandal between Qiao Jinniang and Prince Mediocre? That woman is from the countryside and was not brought up by the Duchess, leading to her being so muddle-headed as to seduce Prince Mediocre.
No, that countryside woman is quite smart. Li Yun is just a schr. It will take twenty or thirty years for him to be a high-ranking official, but Prince Mediocre is already highly respected by the officials!
Yes, although His Royal Highness has returned to Changan, he was outside the capital for more than three years. Maybe His Majesty is not as fond of His Royal Highness as before?
Besides, the familial bonds in the royal family are weak, and the Crown Prince only relies on His Majestys favor, but now that His Majesty is in his prime. He may not want His Royal Highness to be too powerful.
But Prince Mediocre has the support of the Empress Dowager, so he may be able to win the throne in the future.
Being a concubine of Prince Mediocre is better than marrying a poor schr, right?
Hearing the chatter andughter outside, Lu Chen gritted his teeth and asked Qiao Jinniang, You said you would marry someone else. Did you mean you would marry Prince Mediocre?
Chapter 63 - Confer Jinniang the Title of County Mistress
Chapter 63: Confer Jinniang the Title of County Mistress
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Xie Yun smiled and said, Do I smell jealousy?
Fulu looked at Xie Yun curiously. Wasnt she said to be the future crown princess? She was really tolerant. How could she be in the mood for jokes? Was she really not afraid of her status being threatened?
After all, Duke Anyuan was very powerful.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen angrily and said, Youve done enough disgusting things. Dont disgust me again.
If Lu Chen was a scum, then Prince Mediocre was even worse than a scum in Qiao Jinniangs eyes.
The rumors outside were groundless, and Qiao Jinniang wouldnt allow such rumors to spread.
It was not that she cared about her reputation, but that she just hated her name being tied together with Prince Mediocre.
In the Imperial Pce.
The Emperor had a headache dealing with memorials in the Hall of Diligent Governance. Although the country was in its prime, the territory was vast and there were a lot of things to deal with.
Emperor Huilin took a sip of water, feeling unbearably hot. It was useless although the hall was filled with ice.
Eunuch Quan standing next to Emperor Huilin cautiously said, Your Majesty, there is a rumor widely circting recently
Yes?
Eunuch Quan said, It is said outside that Miss Qiao canceled the engagement with Li Yun because of His Highness Prince Mediocre. It is also rumored that Miss Qiao loves His Highness Prince Mediocre and that she has an affair with him
Emperor Huilin snorted coldly and said, Ive just conferred the title of Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince to Duke Anyuan and some people are already unable to sit still!
Emperor Huilin who felt very hot was immediately annoyed.
Your Majesty, Junior Duke Rong asks to see you.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, What is he doing here? Let him in.
Junior Duke Rong held a te of Magnolia Tofu and ced it in front of Emperor Huilin like he was offering a treasure. Imperial Uncle, this is the most popr summer dessert in Changan. I tasted it, and I just couldnt wait to bring it for you to taste.
Emperor Huilin nced at him. Great.
The painting on this te seemed to be made by Chener. Is this dessert from the Tasty Pavilion?
Imperial Uncle, youre really wise. Yes, this is from the Tasty Pavilion.
After waiting for Eunuch Quan to test if it was poisonous, Emperor Huilin tasted a bit of it and immediately smiled. What is the name of this thing?
Magnolia Tofu.
Emperor Huilin said, This dessert is refreshing and tender, sweet and cool. Qiao Jinniang is really good at cooking.
Eunuch Quan, pass on my imperial decree to bestow Qiao Jinniang as County Mistress Jiaan.
Junior Duke Rong: ???
It was him who presented this dessert to the Emperor. Shouldnt he be the one to be that was rewarded? He was even more filial to the Emperor than the Crown Prince, his own son!
Why did His Majesty reward Qiao Jinniang for no reason?
Seeing the shock in Junior Duke Rongs eyes, Emperor Huilin said, I know youre a good kid. Today, the Southwest presented lychees as tribute, and I will give you a box of it.
Junior Duke Rongs wounded heart was healed a little bit, and he said, Thank you, Imperial Uncle.
When Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Duke Mansion, they were called by the Duke into his study.
Duke Anyuan said to Qiao Jinniang with a frown, Is the rumor about you and Prince Mediocre true?
Even if you dont want to marry a schr, you can tell your mother. Its not difficult for you to marry into a powerful family.
But dont even think about marrying Prince Mediocre. Our family is currently at our prime, and many people are waiting to see us copse.
Although Prince Mediocre has some abilities and a good reputation, he will never be the next emperor, and I wont help him get the throne. If you want to marry him, I can only disown you!
This was the first time that Qiao Jinniang was a little disappointed with her father. Father, am I such a stupid and greedy person in your eyes?
When Duke Anyuan saw the sadness in Qiao Jinniangs eyes, he suddenly felt guilty.
When Qiao Jinniang was born, he was only seventeen. At that time, his ymates were all young men, and he needed an heir to show his maturity when he inherited the position of Duke.
At that time, he had not yet had the sense of responsibility of being a father, nor did he know that his childhood sweetheart he grew up with would hurt his daughter like that.
When he saw Qiao Jinniang again, he was so full of guilt that he didnt dare to face her.
Seeing the disappointment in her eyes, the Duke felt even more guilty. Im sorry, Jinniang, I should have trusted you. Ill definitely find out who spread this rumor.
Qiao Jinniang saluted. Thank you, Father.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang leave, Qiao Ruoyi wanted to follow, but then she hesitated and said to the Duke, Dad, Second Sister has suffered a lot of grievances. Sister Ruoyun often says that she is to me for the suffering of Second Sister, but I think youre the one to me for that!
Duke Anyuan wanted to refute, but couldnt find a word to refute.
After Qiao Ruoyi said that, she followed Qiao Jinniang tofort her.
They met Qiao Ruoshui on the way to the Jin Garden.
Qiao Jinniang thought she would hear Qiao Ruoshuis sarcasm, but she didnt.
Qiao Ruoshui just looked at her with sympathy.
Qiao Jinniang frowned, feeling surprised. It was strange that Qiao Ruoshui didnt take the chance to taunt her when she had such a big scandal.
Second Miss, Fourth Miss, Fifth Miss, an imperial decree has arrived. Madam told you to quickly change clothes to receive the decree.
Hearing it, Qiao Jinniang frowned. Was it the imperial decree about making her Lu Chens concubine?
If so, would her family be executed if she refused to ept the imperial decree?
In Prince Mediocre Mansion.
Qiao Ruofeng looked at the handsome man in front of her with blushing cheeks and said, Your Highness, Ive already spread the news that Qiao Jinniang seduced you ording to your instructions, and everyone is talking about this news now.
Prince Mediocre smiled with satisfaction. No matter how stupid Qiao Ruofeng was, she could still help him.
This rumor was spread by the family of Qiao Jinniangs second uncle, so the public would definitely believe that Qiao Jinniang had seduced him. By now Qiao Jinniangs reputation had been ruined, so Duke Anyuan would definitely agree to marry Qiao Jinniang off to him as his concubine.
Otherwise, which man in Changan would marry a woman whose reputation had been ruined?
Although Qiao Ruoyi would be a concubine of the crown prince, she was no match for Xie Yun and would be of no use to Duke Anyuan.
But Qiao Jinniang was born by the Duchess and was very favored by her.
As long as Qiao Jinniang gave birth to his eldest son, Duke Anyuan would definitely be his helper in the court.
Ruofeng, you did a great job.
Qiao Ruofeng looked up at the prince who was nine years older than her. This was the man she had fallen in love with ever since she was thirteen years old.
Thank you for your praise, Your Highness. Im already an adult. Now my parents want to find me a husband. I wonder when you will
Prince Mediocre said to Qiao Ruofeng, Ive always treated you as my younger sister. Ill find a good husband for you. Dont worry.
Sister? When Qiao Ruofeng heard this word, she felt as if being doused with a basin of cold water.
Your Highness, do you forget that you said you would marry me as your wife in Luoyang? Are our affection over the years fake?
Prince Mediocre said, Ruofeng, I did want to marry you as my concubine, but now your family has been separated from Duke Anyuan Mansion. You are no longer a noble, so how can I marry you? What makes you think youre worthy of being my concubine?
Qiao Ruofeng felt a pain in her heart and almost cked out in anger.
Chapter 64 - Qiao Jinniang Stole Everything from Her
Chapter 64: Qiao Jinniang Stole Everything from Her
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ruofeng clutched her chest and looked at the man in front of her desperately. Your Highness, you just wanted to use me from the very beginning, didnt you?
Prince Mediocre nodded and said, Duke Anyuan is very powerful. His eldest daughter married into the Duke Qin Mansion, and his second daughter was too spoiled to gain Lu Chens favor even if she could marry into the East Pce.
Besides, when Lu Chen was missing, if I proposed to Qiao Ruoshui, I would have to make her my wife, but Miss Lin is more suitable to be my wife.
Qiao Ruoshui is not qualified to be my wife, so you are a perfect choice for me because marrying you as my concubine can win over Duke Anyuan.
Qiao Ruofeng propped against the pir beside her with a hand and asked slowly, Then dont you need to win over Duke Anyuan now?
Prince Mediocre smiled, his eyes full of calction.
But Qiao Jinniang appeared, right? Although she was born by the Duchess, she grew up in the countryside. She would only be grateful to me if I allowed her to be my concubine. By the way, she is more beautiful than you.
Even in Changan, which was full of beauties, Qiao Jinniangs appearance was top-notch.
At this moment, Qiao Ruofeng hated Qiao Jinniang to her guts. Qiao Jinniang stole everything from her! It turns out that Qiao Jinniang insisted on kicking us out of the Duke Mansion because of this!
When she was no longer a noble, Qiao Jinniang could make Prince Mediocre abandon her because she no longer had any value
Qiao Jinniang was too ruthless! To be Prince Mediocres concubine, she simply had no regard for their sisterhood!
In the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang put on formal clothes and went to the gate to receive the imperial decree.
There was an incense table ced at the door, and the Old Madam and the Duchess both knelt in front of it wearing formal uniforms. When the Duke saw Qiao Jinniang, he beckoned her to kneel in the front.
Qiao Jinniangs heart skipped a beat. Was what she guessed right?
The second daughter of Duke Anyuan is smart, knowledgeable, gentle, graceful, prudent, virtuous and beautiful
When the eunuch was reading the imperial decree, the Duchess and the Duke were confused. Why did His Majesty issue an imperial decree to praise Jinniang?
At the exact moment when Qiao Jinniang wanted to stand up and reject the imperial decree, Old Madam Qiao held her hand, her eyes seeming to be begging her.
Qiao Jinniang could only listen helplessly. If she rejected the imperial decree, she would harm the entire Qiao family.
I appreciate her very much, so I hereby bestow Miss Qiao with the title of County Mistress Jiaan.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief when the eunuch finished reading the imperial edict, and then she followed the others to express their gratitude to the Emperor.
Eunuch Quan handed the imperial edict to Qiao Jinniang and said, Congrattions, County Mistress.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Thank you.
The Duchess hurriedly asked a mammy to give Eunuch Quan a red packet, and then she asked Qiao Jinniang in confusion, Why did His Majesty bestow you the title of county mistress for no reason?
Regardless of the reason, this is great. There arent many county mistresses and prefecture masters in Changan. Now Id like to see who dares to gossip about you again!
The Duchess was also very annoyed when she heard about the rumors about Qiao Jinniang and Prince Mediocre.
In the face of such rumors, this imperial decree would be a great support to Qiao Jinniang!
Since Qiao Jinniang had be a county mistress, she had to enter the imperial pce to thank the Emperor.
Thinking of this, the Duchess realized she had not yet taught Qiao Jinniang the pce etiquette.
Now she could only hurriedly teach Qiao Jinniang some basic royal etiquette.
Only then did Qiao Jinniang know that there were so many rules in the imperial pce, so many that they were almost suffocating.
You can only call yourself this humble girl in front of the Emperor and the Queen. You must never look directly at the Emperor and the Queen, but you still have to secretly pay attention to their emotions.
Qiao Jinniang:
The Duke said, Jinniang was only a county mistress, not the crown princess. She doesnt have to follow the rules so strictly.
The Duchess said, If she is a crown princess, there would be way more rules for her. Jinniang, when you salute, gently bend your legs. Keep it ssy and dont be so stiff.
If it was the crown princess, even the degree of her bow when she salutes will have to meet a certain standard, no more, no less.
By the way, speaking of royal etiquette, I forgot to teach Ruoyi that. She is going to marry into the East Pce, so she has to learn some royal etiquette!
Qiao Jinniang unwillingly followed a mammy to learn the etiquettes. She was a quick learner in cooking, but why was it so difficult for her to learn etiquette?
There was a prescribed gait when walking, the head couldnt move, and the hair ornament must not shake in the slightest
Mother, but I didnt see Princess Fulu follow these rules, Qiao Jinniang said.
The Duchess said, Fulu is His Majestys only niece, so she doesnt have to abide by these rules, but the other princesses and county mistresses in Changan all strictly follow royal etiquette, dont they?
Xie Yun is the recognized future crown princess because her manners are the temte of noble girls, which are almost perfect.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but sympathize with Tuaner. Would he have to learn so many royal etiquettes in the future?
Duke, Madam, His Royal Highness came with the Minister of Public Security.
The Duke was stunned for a moment and hurriedly went out to greet them.
The Duchess was surprised too and said to Qiao Jinniang, Continue to learn royal etiquette. Ill go out and have a look.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay.
Duke Anyuan was wondering why the Crown Prince came with the Minister of Public Security. Could it be that the prince was really annoyed by that sign of Tasty Pavilion? Did he feel that the Duke Mansion didnt respect the royal family enough, so he came to punish them?
Frightened all the way, when he reached the front hall, he hurriedly saluted. Your Royal Highness.
Lu Chen said, Teacher, you dont have to be so polite to me. Is County Mistress Jiaan around?
Duke Anyuan said, Your Majesty has granted the imperial edict, which is an honor for our family. Jinniang is currently learning royal etiquette to go to the Imperial Pce to thank His Majesty tomorrow. Did Jinniang do anything wrong?
Lu Chen said slowly, No. Its just that the Minister of Public Security has found the person who ndered County Mistress Jiaan, so I came to tell her.
If Duke Anyuan still didnt discover which daughter Lu Chen liked, he must be a fool.
He should have figured it out at the Dragon Boat Festival.
But the Duchess and Qiao Ruoshui both thought it was Qiao Ruoyi, so he thought it was Qiao Ruoyi too.
Bayberries and crabs were all popr in the South, so the Crown Prince actually wanted to give them to Jinniang!
And at noon today, the name of the Crown Prince was clearly written on that sign.
But His Royal Highness wasnt annoyed at all. Now he even had the Minister of Public Security find the person who ndered Jinniang.
Thank you, Your Royal Highness, Brother Zhou. Come on, call Second Miss over.
After the Duke ordered, he felt a little proud.
The Minister of Public Security was the second brother of Duke Wu and the Crown Princes second uncle.
If it werent for the Crown Prince, how would he bother to deal with such a trivial matter?
It could be seen how much the Crown Prince loved Jinniang.
Chapter 65 - Put Qiao Ruofeng In Jail
Chapter 65: Put Qiao Ruofeng In Jail
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Feeling proud, the Duke also felt that it was a pity. If it wasnt for him indulging his concubine back then, Jinniang would not have been swapped and gotten married so early.
Even if the Crown Prince didnt mind that Qiao Jinniang had already given birth to a child, neither the Emperor nor the Empress Dowager would give Qiao Jinniang a high position.
Before Qiao Jinniang came, a concierge came to report that Prince Mediocre hade to visit the Duke.
Lu Chen put down the teacup in his hand and said, I heard that lotuses are blooming in the Duke Mansion. I want to go see it with my uncle.
Master Zhou got up and said, Okay.
The Duke ordered someone to invite Prince Mediocre in. When Qiao Jinniang arrived at the front yard, a servant stopped her and led her to a room beside the lobby.
Here, she could just hear the conversationing from the lobby.
Prince Mediocre sat on the honored seat, took the tea handed by a maid and said to the Duke,
Your Excellency, the rumor about me and your Second Miss is widely circting these days. I appreciate your contribution to the country, so I dont want to see your daughter to beughed at, thus Im willing to marry her as my concubine. I promise I will cherish her all my life.
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang wanted to vomit.
The Duke said calmly, Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness. Like you said, its just a rumor. A rumor should not be taken seriously. As for whom Jinniang will marry, weve our own ns.
Prince Mediocre frowned. He originally wanted to wait for Duke Anyuan toe to beg him to marry Qiao Jinniang, but he just heard that the Emperor had bestowed Qiao Jinniang to be a county mistress.
In the previous dynasty, there were quite a lot of county mistresses and prefecture mistresses in Changan, but now there were only five princesses and less than ten county mistresses and prefecture mistresses, so this title was quite valuable.
Once this imperial decree spread, no ordinary people would dare to spread the scandal about Qiao Jinniang.
Therefore, he came in person to propose to Qiao Jinniang, but to his surprise, the Duke refused.
Prince Mediocre said, Oh, may I ask what your n is? Now the entire Changan is buzzing about this rumor. Im afraid that no decent man in Changan wont mind it. If there is such a man, he must be coveting your power, Your Excellency.
I dont mind.
Lu Chen came from the door and said casually.
Prince Mediocre frowned, but he had to stand up, salute, and give up the honored seat to Lu Chen. Your Royal Highness, may I ask what you mean?
Lu Chen sat down, nced carelessly at Prince Mediocre and said,
I dont mind the rumor about Jinniang. A clean hand wants no washing. My uncle has already investigated this rumor. Its made by Qiao Ruofeng, the daughter of the Dukes second brother. I came here today to ask Jinniang how she would like to deal with those rumormongers!
Prince Mediocre gnashed his teeth. Lu Chen must have the same n as him.
Oh? It turns out that someone deliberately spread the rumor.
Ill be very d if the rumor can be rified as soon as possible and Miss Qiaos innocence can be proven. Ill take my leave now.
The Duke ordered the housekeeper to send Prince Mediocre away, and had someone bring Qiao Jinniang here from the room beside the lobby.
Qiao Jinniang asked in confusion,
If Qiao Ruofeng hates me for splitting apart the family, the rumor she should have spread was that I was once married and abandoned. Why did she spread the rumor about Prince Mediocre and I?
Lu Chen said, No matter the reason, how do you think she should be punished?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Duke Anyuan, and he said helplessly, Its about your reputation. As your father, I will definitely not be partial to her. Just speak as you see fit.
Qiao Jinniang said, Then follow thew.
Master Zhou looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, Then she will have to stay in jail for half a month. As a noble girl, her reputation will be ruined. Shes going to suffer a lot!
Qiao Jinniang said, But because of her, I was almost regarded as a slut who seduced Prince Mediocre for money and power. Doesnt my reputation count?
Master Zhou smiled. Well-said. Then Ill deal with her ording to thew.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and thanked him. Thank you, Master Zhou.
Dont be so polite. You can just call me Second Uncle, Master Zhou smiled and said amiably.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen.
The Duke hurriedly exined for her. Brother Zhou, you must be joking, but Jinniang is not that lucky. To tell you the truth, my daughter is a poor girl.
A few years ago, she married an ungrateful, despicable, shameless, scumbag, and was abandoned by that guy, so she may not be worthy of His Royal Highness now!
Lu Chen:
At this moment, he couldnt admit that he was that scumbag!
Seeing Lu Chen look so aggrieved, Jinniang gave acent smile.
Qiao Jinniang returned to the Jin Garden and continued to learn royal etiquette.
The Duchess looked at her with a look of guilt.
If Jinniang was brought up by her, she would not miss such a good chance to marry into the royal family.
The next morning, Qiao Jinniang was woken up early by Hongling to put on makeup.
After dawn, she left the Duke Mansion and got into the carriage.
Just before the carriage moved, a shrill cry was heard from outside.
You goddamn slutty whore! ve-raised b*tch! You drove your own sisters crazy!
Broke the family! Shamelessly seduced Prince Mediocre but sent your cousin to jail!
Aunt, Jinniang is not this kind of a person. Please stop it!
Li Yun tried to stop Second Madam.
Li Yuns mother, Mrs. Li, also said, Sister, I know that you are worried about Fenger, but dont curse You just woke up froma
Second Madam said, Fenger spent a night in jail. Her reputation has been ruined. Its all the fault of that scourge, Qiao Jinniang. She will destroy the Duke Mansion!
Mrs. Li said helplessly, Sister! Sober up. It was the Ministry of Public Security that took Fenger away.
You have to think about your husbands career. If there is a censor who reports this to His Majesty, his career will be over. You should make up with Jinniang now instead of
But Second Madam yelled even more loudly, Make up with that ve-raised vile thing? Bah!
This was a time when the morning market started to get lively. As such, there were many nobles, merchants and servants passing by.
Many ordinary people stopped to watch the fun.
Isnt that the Second Madam of the Qiao family? How did she be so miserable?
I heard that the Minister of Public Security came to her home, took her daughter, Qiao Ruofeng, and threw her in jail yesterday for ndering a county mistress.
This lost daughter of the Qiao family is really capable. She seduced Prince Mediocre but forbade others from talking about it. She even threw her delicate younger sister in jail for this!
What a scheming and despicable woman!
Qiao Jinniang got down from the carriage. She was dressed so gorgeously that the gossiping old women thought they saw a fairy that descended to earth.
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Second Madam and said,
Aunt, if you think Qiao Ruofeng was wronged, shouldnt you go question the Ministry of Public Security?
Second Madam said, My daughter said that you seduced Prince Mediocre, and what she said is true! I saw it with my own eyes!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. I only talked with Prince Mediocre for a while on a street, and you call it seducing?
Then she lowered her head to whisper to Second Madam in a voice that only the two of them could hear,
Did you know Qiao Ruofeng made out with Prince Mediocre at her grandmothers birthday banquet in Luoyang?
Did you know that Prince Mediocre had promised to marry her?
Mrs. Qiao looked at Qiao Jinniang in disbelief. Nonsense!
Qiao Jinniang continued.
Second Aunt, you can go to the jail and ask Qiao Ruofeng. Did you know that Prince Mediocre came to the Duke Mansion yesterday to ask to marry me as his concubine only half a day after the rumor was spread?
Second Aunt, think about it carefully, how could Prince Mediocre havee so quickly?
Besides, did you know that bayberry was my favorite fruit when I was in Linan?
Chapter 66 - Ill Never Stay in the Imperial Palace
Chapter 66: Ill Never Stay in the Imperial Pce
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Second Madam was stunned for a moment, but she understood in an instant.
Before the Dragon Boat Festival, the Crown Prince granted the Duke Mansion bayberries. They all thought it was granted to either Ruoshui or Ruoyi.
But the Duke still had another daughter, Qiao Jinniang!
Second Madam hurriedly went to the imperial prison. When she entered the damp, cold and dark imperial prison, she could even hear rats squeaking sounds from the straw piles
Mother! Qiao Ruofeng quickly called her after seeing her.
Second Madam walked up to Qiao Ruofeng and asked angrily, Tell me honestly why you were so sure that Qiao Jinniang seduced Prince Mediocre. Do you like Prince Mediocre yourself?
Qiao Ruofeng hurriedly said, Mother,e on! Save me. Get me out of here!
My ancestors were the founders of the country! Doesnt our Qiao family still have an Absolution Token?
Second Madam snapped, You already offended your uncle so much, and you still want to use the Absolution Token? Tell me, have you and Prince Mediocre fallen in love?
Qiao Ruofeng nodded and said, Yes, if it werent for Qiao Jinniang, I would have been Prince Mediocres wife now.
Second Madams hand reached into the bars and pped Qiao Ruofeng hard.
Qiao Ruofeng, you are always smart. How can you be so stupid about the matter of Prince Mediocre? How is it possible for Prince Mediocre to marry you as his wife?
Qiao Ruofeng said, Mother, among the girls in the Duke Mansion, Qiao Ruoyun is dull and cowardly, Qiao Ruoshui is stroppy and wayward, and Qiao Ruoyi is cold and unapproachable although she is smart
But every time we went out, these three people were always more respected than me.
Were all girls of the Duke Mansion. Why are they more respected than me? Just because their father is a Duke?
Why cant I be Prince Mediocres wife? If I can be his wife, Ill be above them!
My ancestors were founders of the country, and my uncle is one of the most powerful ministers!
If it werent for Qiao Jinniang, that slut, I would have be Prince Mediocres wife.
Second Madam said angrily, Dont you understand?
Prince Mediocre doesnt like you at all. He just used you!
Even without Qiao Jinniang, you are only a tool to Prince Mediocre.
Prince Mediocre dared to pick concubine among you and your cousins and abandoned you for choose Qiao Jinniang because youre stupid!
Qiao Ruofeng said, How is it possible?
Second Madam shook her head and said, Why is it impossible? Do you know that Prince Mediocre went to the Duke Mansion to propose to Qiao Jinniang yesterday?
Do you think you are just spreading the rumor of Jinniang just to humiliate her? No! Thats exactly what Prince Mediocre wants!
If all things went ording to his n, in order to preserve Qiao Jinniangs reputation, the Duke Mansion can only agree to marrying Qiao Jinniang to him as a concubine!
Qiao Ruofeng was not hopelessly stupid. After hearing her mothers words, she immediately realized that she had been cheated. She copsed to the ground and said,
Then I Mother, what should I do? Now Ive been ruined by Prince Mediocre!
Second Madam said with tears, What else can you do? After youe out, apologize to Jinniang. Shell forgive you.
And your grandmother will help you. At worst, you can marry far away. The Duke Mansion still has military influence in the Southwest.
Your cousin is over there too, and the Duke also ns to marry Ruoshui to the Southwest, so you can find a decent man to marry and live well in the Southwest.
Qiao Ruofeng bit her lip and said, Then what about Prince Mediocre? Are we just letting him off?
Otherwise, what else can we do? Second Madam said helplessly.
If you dare to say anything bad about him, Prince Mediocre can just say that you seduced him.
He can just say that you nder him because youre jealous of Jinniang.
Besides, Prince Mediocres protector in the Imperial Pce is still alive!
Qiao Jinniang went to the Hall of Diligent Governance to see the Emperor and thank him.
Emperor Huilin said to Qiao Jinniang, Arise. I tasted the summer desserts brought by Junior Duke Rong and Fulu yesterday. They tasted very good. It happened that a lot of fresh fish were sent to the imperial kitchen today
When Emperor Huilin said this, he paused.
Qiao Jinniang forgot the rules in the Imperial Pce, looked at Emperor Huilin, pondered for a moment, and said, I happen to be itchy to cook. I wonder if I can have the honor to cook for Your Majesty.
Thats good. Emperor Huilin said with a rxed expression, Then please do that, County Mistress Jiaan.
On the way to the imperial kitchen, Qiao Jinniang was thinking about the title the Emperor granted to her
Did he give her this title to make her cook for him?
Walking into the garden, Qiao Jinniang was reprimanded by a mammy.
Where are you from? How can you be so rude? This is Her Highness Consort Xian, quickly get on your knees!
Qiao Jinniang looked up and saw Consort Xian was sitting high in a sedan. Seeing that she looked at Consort Xian, the mammy was immediately enraged.
Which family are you from? Have you not learned court etiquette? How dare you look directly at Her Highness?
With that, she was about to p Qiao Jinniang.
Consort Xian didnt stop her. It was not that she wasnt afraid of offending the Duke Mansion.
But yesterday, she learned from Prince Mediocre that this girl actually had the ability to win the Crown Princes favor.
Plus, she still had a trump card to use in the Duke Mansion, which was Qiao Ruoshui.
And she didnt think the Duke Mansion would choose to fight against her and Prince Mediocre just because she pped Qiao Jinniang.
However, when the mammys hand was about to touch her face
Someone suddenly grabbed her waist and then she was brought to a mans back.
Lu Chen nced coldly at the mammy next to Consort Xian and said,
She is a county mistress. Her grandfather and father are all the pirs of the country. Who do you think you are? How dare you p her?
Consort Xian said, Your Royal Highness, youre wrong. ording to the court etiquette, she is supposed to salute me!
I wonder when court etiquette is up to you. I allow the County Mistress Jiaan to not salute in the Imperial Pce.
Qiao Jinniang heard a soft female voice.
She looked over, only to see the Queen in a red dress, followed by Tuaner in a little red robe, who looked so cute.
Consort Xian had to get out of the sedan chair and saluted reluctantly to the Queen. Your Majesty.
The Queen nced at Consort Xian coldly and said, Im afraid you have forgotten how to salute me, right? Now I order you to salute here for an hour!
Consort Xian stared at the Queen with vicious eyes. The sun was scorching. Saluting here for an hour? Her skin would be damaged by the ring sun.
Moreover, she was seven years older than the Queen. How could she boss around her like that?
How dare she!
Qiao Jinniang saluted the Queen, but she felt a bit scared. This was the imperial pce. It was basically a jungle.
If she became Lu Chens second concubine, then the crown princess and his first concubine would be able to punish her and bully her at will!
Consort Xian still had the Empress Dowager to rely on, but what about her?
The Queen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, I heard that you are going to cook? Id like to learn how to cook from you.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im afraid the kitchen is too messy and will get your clothes dirty, Your Majesty.
The Queen said, Its okay. Although the pce is hierarchical, Im not an unreasonable person.
Consort Xian hurt my son, so I picked on her. Dont sympathize with her.
Qiao Jinniang thought to herself, The queen is so loved by the Emperor but she still has to endure Consort Xian.
And Consort Xian has to salute under the scorching sun for an hour even though she is protected by the Empress Dowager
She was even more determined that she would never marry into the imperial pce and be involved in harem disputes.
Finding that Lu Chen was still holding her hand, she quickly threw his hand away and wiped the wrist that Lu Chen had touched with a handkerchief in disgust.
Lu Chen:
Chapter 67 - Consort Xian Never Considered You
Chapter 67: Consort Xian Never Considered You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang entered the imperial kitchen.
The Queen drove out all the royal chefs and imperial servants in the imperial kitchen.
She just let her maids stay to help.
Only then did Tuaner threw himself into Qiao Jinniangs arms. Mother!
Qiao Jinniang picked up Tuaner and kissed him on the head.
Tuaner, you look so cute in red. Let me make some red clothes for you.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, My father doesnt like to eat fish. He hates the fishy smell and fish bones. Why not make fish balls for him? Tuaner likes to eat them too.
But Qiao Jinniang remembered that he was the one who liked to eat fish balls the most.
How dare he have the nerve to use Tuaner as an excuse?
However, making fish balls was indeed the best choice.
Yesterday, when Qiao Jinniang was studying court etiquette, she heard from the Duchess that fish was not generally eaten in the imperial pce.
The royal chefs would never take the initiative to cook the fish.
His Majestys dislike of eating fish might also be because none of the royal chefs in the pce knew how to cook fish well.
After all, the royal chefs didnt dare to make fish for the Emperor. If the fish bones were not cleaned up and it by some chance hurt the nobles, they might be beheaded.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang started to make fish balls, Lu Chen smiled slightly.
She didnt hate him that much. At least she was willing to make fish balls for him.
Qiao Jinniang was busy all morning, and eventually she made six dishes and one soup, plus cool and exquisite desserts and pastries.
The meal was taking ce in the Queens pce. After Qiao Jinniang served the dishes one after another
She divided the fish ball soup into small portions and brought a portion to the Emperor, the Queen, and Tuaner.
Lu Chen looked up at Qiao Jinniang, and Qiao Jinniang scoop out a bowl of winter melon soup for Lu Chen.
It is easy to get inmed in summer, so it is most suitable for Your Royal Highness to drink winter melon soup.
Lu Chen clenched his fist. She knew that what he hated most was winter melon.
The Queen chuckled and said, Jinniang, sit down and eat. You must be tired after working all morning.
Qiao Jinniang declined. I dare not.
Its okay. This is not a pce banquet, but just an ordinary meal.
The Queen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and let her sit beside Tuaner.
Qiao Jinniang watched Tuaner cutely eating fish balls with a small spoon.
Emperor Huilin looked at the dishes on the table and asked, Where are the fish balls?
Qiao Jinniang pointed at the white balls in the soup bowl and said, Your Majesty, this is the famous fish ball soup in the South.
The fish balls will melt as soon as they enter your mouth, and they taste very delicious. One fish can only make ten fish balls.
Emperor Huilin tasted it and his eyes lit up. Is this dish avable in the Tasty Pavilion?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, People in Changan dont like eating fish very much, so this dish is not served.
However, if Your Majesty likes it, it will definitely be a popr delicacy in Changan soon.
Ill add it to the menu of Tasty Pavilion when I go back.
Emperor Huilin turned his eyes to the winter melon soup in front of Lu Chen. This winter melon soup relieves heat? Let me try it!
Qiao Jinniang didnt have time to stop him.
But Emperor Huilin had already picked up the soup bowl and begun to drink, ignoring royal dining etiquette.
The next minute, Emperor Huilin put down the soup cup and spat out all the soup in his mouth.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Majesty, please forgive me. I may have added too much salt
Seeing Qiao Jinniang kneeling down, Tuaner also got on his knees and hugged Qiao Jinniang.
Emperor Huilin took the water handed to him by Eunuch Quan. Is it because of the prevalence of illicit salt that you almost put a jar of salt into the soup?
Chener, go and check the status of salt tax all over the country, and then check whether there is any illicit salt circting in Changan.
The Queen said, Dont make such a fuss. Jinniang, get up quickly.
Chener has always loved salty food, so Jinniang specially made this for him.
Chener, dont let her down.
Lu Chen:
Maybe he wasnt born by the Queen?
After lunch, Qiao Jinniang went to the East Pce to y with Tuaner.
She then apanied him to take a nap.
When Lu Chen entered, he saw that Qiao Jinniang was taking a nap
Cupping her chin with her hand, she was lying on the couch and her beautiful figure was outlined
His heart throbbed, and his Adams apple bobbed slightly.
He knew how fair the skin under this beautiful dress was, and he could hold that slim waist with a single hand
And after giving birth to Tuaner, her chest grew bigger
Lu Chen clenched his fists, forcing himself to stop thinking about it.
At this moment, if he touched Jinniang, he was asking for trouble.
No matter what, he had to get her not to be so angry with him first.
After Qiao Jinniang woke up, she left the East Pce before Tuaner woke up.
After she returned to the Duke Mansion, the Duchess hurriedly came to asked her,
Why did you stay in the pce all day? The maids couldnt get in, and I could get no news about you from the imperial pce. I was so worried about you.
His Majesty asked me to cook for him. Dont worry, Mother.
The Duchess said, Jinniang, there is one thing that I should have asked you yesterday, but I was afraid that you would be nervous when you entered the imperial pce today, so I didnt
Do you want to marry the Crown Prince?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head.
The Duchess breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, you dont want to. Otherwise, as a woman who has once married and given birth to a child Im afraid that you can only be a concubine.
However, if His Royal Highness really likes you, Im afraid that we cant refuse him!
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, Mother, dont worry. His Majesty has agreed to not force me to marry the Crown Prince.
The Duchess was relieved to hear that. Thats good, but youd better find a husband as soon as possible.
Your father is so powerful that the princes might want to win over his support.
I never wanted to marry you off so quickly
But now I think that it will be better for you to get married as soon as possible to avoid being used by the Crown Prince and Prince Mediocre.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay.
Madam Hou sighed and said, Li Yun is a good boy. Yesterday he tried to defend you, saying that it was his fault, not yours.
Qiao Ruofeng was thrown into jail, but the Li family didnt stay away from your second aunt.
If he can pass the Imperial Examination, you wont be wronged if you marry him.
Its a pity that your engagement has been annulled. You have to find someone else.
Qiao Jinniang was given the title of county mistress, which was a great plus. With such a title, the Duchess was not so worried about Jinniangs marriage.
The weather was getting hotter.
The long-awaited selection day, June 21, also arrived unknowingly.
On this day, the Duke Mansion was very busy.
It turned out that Qiao Ruoshuis future husband hade to propose from the Southwest.
Qiao Ruoshuis future husband was the nephew of the wife of the governor of the Southwest who grew up in the Governors Mansion.
The Duke and the Duchess were very satisfied with the man.
Yuyan got the news and came to Jin Garden, saying,
Miss, Mr. Xu is very strong and imposing. Although he is not that handsome, he is tall and looks very majestic in his armor.
Honglingughed and said, You should tell Fourth Miss about this. Why did you tell our Miss?
You dont have to tell me this either.
Qiao Ruoshui walked into Qiao Jinniangs room without being allowed.
Qiao Jinniang, do you really think that I will marry that man?
Qiao Jinniang asked, What do you mean?
Qiao Ruoshuiughed arrogantly and said,
The consort selection banquet is over now, and the Empress Dowagers decree is already on the way to the Duke Mansion
What you cant get is at my fingertips.
At this moment, Qiao Jinniang was embroidering a small red robe for Tuaner. Hearing Qiao Ruoshuis words, she identally poked her finger with the needle, causing blood to slowly ooze out.
She didnt care about Qiao Ruoshui. She was just thinking how many more mothers would Tuaner suddenly have
Would Lu Chens wife and concubines hurt her Tuaner? s!
Seeing Qiao Jinniangs reaction, Qiao Ruoshui felt even morecent.
She had been enduring for so many days, and now she was finally able to avenge herself.
Qiao Ruoshui snorted coldly. You tried your best to seduce Prince Mediocre, but you didnt expect that Consort Xian and the Empress Dowager would never consider you, right?
Chapter 68 - The Consort Selection Banquet Canceled
Chapter 68: The Consort Selection Banquet Canceled
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang suddenly realized, no wonder Qiao Ruoshui didnte to ridicule her although she had heard the rumors about her. This turned out to be the reason!
The Duchess hurriedly entered the Jin Garden, red at Qiao Ruoshui, and asked,Why did the Empress Dowager suddenly grant you to be the concubine of Prince Mediocre?
The Empress Dowager was a smart person. Although no one could reject an imperial decree, the Emperor was kind and would definitelymunicate with them first before issuing an imperial decree.
Qiao Ruoshui said with a look of grievance, Mother, since this ve-raised woman came to our home, you always side with her and no longer like me. You even im that I have gone mad and want to marry me far away. I certainly have to take matters into my own hands!
The Duchess was extremely annoyed. Do you know that your father is the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince? Do you know that Prince Mediocre set up Ruofeng to force Jinniang to marry him as his concubine a few days ago?
Qiao Ruoshui said disdainfully, Mother, its not that His Highness wanted to marry Qiao Jinniang but that Qiao Jinniang had seduced him. He was just being kind and didnt want to disappoint her.
The Duchess said, Then what about the Crown Prince? What Ruofeng did wont affect us much, but you are your fathers biological daughter. If you marry Prince Mediocre, how can the Crown Prince trust your father?
Hadnt you been insisting on marrying the Crown Prince? Why are you suddenly willing to be the concubine of Prince Mediocre?
Qiao Ruoshui raised her head and said proudly, The Crown Prince? He went missing for three years. At this point, he may not be able to secure the position of crown prince.
Plus, His Majesty is still very healthy and strong. Hell inevitably suspect the Crown Prince for seizing his power.
As for Prince Mediocre, he has always been wise and capable and admired by courtiers
Didnt Daddy also praise Prince Mediocre? Its not certain yet who will be the next emperor!
The Duchess: You refuse to be a generals wife but are willing to be a concubine? If only you have the slightest bit of Jinniangs wisdom!
Mother, youre wrong. Since Ive be Prince Mediocres concubine, even youll have to salute me when you meet me!
Qiao Ruoshui looked at Qiao Jinniang sideways and said, A concubine of a royal family member will be recorded in the imperial genealogy and enjoys a very high status. How can a generals wife bepared to it? Mother, even you have to kneel to the lowest-grade imperial concubine when you enter the Imperial Pce, dont you?
As for Qiao Jinniang, she grew up in the countryside and is hopelessly stupid, so she thinks that being a generals wife is great, but even so, didnt she seduce Prince Mediocre secretly as well?
Im not stupid. Im waiting for you to beg me!
Looking at Qiao Ruoshuiscent look, the Duchess was almost out of breath.
The imperial decree has been issued, and the Duke Mansion cannot reject it.
But the Duke Mansion wont help you in the future. Whether you live a good or miserable life in Prince Mediocres Mansion, youll have nothing to do with the Duke Mansion!
Qiao Ruoshui saidcently, Fine, Im waiting for the day you regret it!
Qiao Ruoshui said and left.
The Duchess burst into tears. Qiao Jinniang handed her a handkerchief and said, Mother, the imperial decree has been issued. We can do nothing about it.
It must be for the power of Father that Prince Mediocre did this to Ruofeng and me.
Even if he cant win over Fathers support, he wont dare to offend Father easily, so I dont think Ruoshui will be abused by him.
The Duchess wiped away her tears gently and spotted the little red clothes that Qiao Jinniang put on the table. Why are you making such little clothes?
Qiao Jinniang said, Its for Tuaner.
The Duchess patted Qiao Jinniangs hand gently and said, My poor girl, I know how difficult its for you.
It must be very painful being separated from her own son.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Tasty Pavilion in the afternoon with the hope to get some news about the future crown princess. She didnt care about Lu Chen but just wanted to know what kind of person Tuaner future stepmothers were.
The Tasty Pavilions business wasnt quite good today. It was not as busy as usual.
Qiao Jinniang entered the No.1 private room and saw Princess Fulu and Princess Jinghua there. The two cousins were at different extremes of character, one quiet and one lively.
Jinniang, I wanted to go to the Duke Mansion to find you just now but then I heard about my grandmothers imperial decree.
It just so happens that you came. This is the money you betst time in Junior Duke Rongs casino.
Qiao Jinniang had forgotten about the bet. Im not winning or losing?
Fulu said, You dont know yet, do you? Its been a few days since my imperial cousin left Changan for the Shu Region, and he wont be back for a month or two. His consort selection banquet has been canceled.
Qiao Jinniang really didnt know it and asked, Did something happen in Shu?
Fulu shook her fan and said, The salt merchants in Shu colluded with the salt officials, sold illicit salt, extracted the salt tax from the imperial court, and raised the price of official salt, making the salt merchants in Shu cities a lot of money.
Before my imperial cousin went to Shu to investigate the illicit salt, he had already executed two officials in charge of salt sales in Changan, causing many officials dont daree out to have dinner recently for fear of being implicated in this matter.
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect that her bowl of winter gourd soup would arouse so many matters.
Official salt was not expensive, and illicit salt would also be sold in the market asionally.
But what those salt merchants did in the Shu Region would undermine the foundation of the country. It was no wonder that the Crown Prince went there to investigate this matter personally.
Fulu jested, Those salt officials and salt merchants are really hateful. Because of them, I cant make money. I heard that this time my imperial cousin only brought Lin Mo, Zhou Siming and Xie Yun with him. If he can return safely from Shu, Xie Yun will definitely be the crown princess.
Princess Jinghua took a sip of tea and said, Our country has been on a roll for too long, if it werent for the Crown Prince who found that something was wrong with the salt sales, who would have thought that there is such a dark side hidden in this golden age.
Plus, the Crown Prince seemed to really hate salt. His consort selection banquet is soon but he put aside all those beautiful girls and chose to examine the hundreds of salt tax journals. If it werent for him, this matter wouldnt have been revealed!
Qiao Jinniang thought to herself, Lu Chen hates salt indeed.
Even a person who had lost his sense of taste would taste the saltiness after drinking that bowl of winter gourd soup. Yet, Lu Chen had drunk a whole bowl. It would be strange if he didnt hate salt.
It seemed that that bowl of winter gourd soup she made had made a little contribution for the country and the people.
Fulu was feeling impatient listening to Princess Jinghua talking about these state affairs and said to Qiao Jinniang, What imperial decree did the Empress Dowager give to your family?
Qiao Jinniang said slowly, To grant Qiao Ruoshui to be the concubine of Prince Mediocre.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang in surprise. Is Qiao Ruoshui crazy?
Sometimes I really dont know whether my grandmother likes or hates Prince Mediocre? She actually granted such a concubine to him?
Jing Hua smiled and said, Sometimes I have such doubts too. After all, she wanted you to be his wife before.
Very good, how dare youugh at me! Fulu said angrily.
Qiao Jinniang said, The Empress Dowager wants to help Prince Mediocre. After all, my father cant just ignore Qiao Ruoshui.
Fulu said, Then I bet shell be disappointed. After all, Tuaner is your fathers grandson. He will definitely support his own grandson!
Qiao Jinniang didnt think much about this. If it was possible, she just wanted Tuaner to be safe. She didnt want him to be involved in the struggle for the throne.
Qiao Ruoshui was going to marry into the Prince Mediocre Mansion on the eighth day of the seventh lunar month ahead of Prince Mediocres wife, so as her elder sister, Qiao Jinniang had to get married as soon as possible.
The Duchess was very worried about this matter. She originally thought that Jinniang could take her time finding a suitable husband since she was a county mistress now, but because of Qiao Ruoshui, she had to be in a rush.
The Duke asked tentatively, Old Xu intends to let Xu Mingwei seed him as the governor of Yunzhou.. Xu Mingwei is a very good young man and has a very promising future. How about marrying Jinniang off to Xu Mingwei?
Chapter 69 - Qiao Ruofeng Commits Suicide
Chapter 69: Qiao Ruofeng Commits Suicide
When the Duchess heard this, she said angrily, What do you take Jinniang for? Xu Mingwei was meant to marry Ruoshui. If the news spreads out, what will people think of Jinniang? More importantly, your niece Ruoyin who was born by a concubine is the daughter-inw of the governor of the Southwest. If Jinniang marries Xu Mingwei, wont she be in a lower status than Ruoyin?
The duke frowned and said, Old Xus son has no ability to lead troops and fools around with Ruoyin every day, so Old Xu has long said that Xu Mingwei will seed his position.
You have seen Xu Mingwei. No matter in demeanor, appearance, ability and family, he is a good choice for Jinniang. Besides, the Xu familys men are known for loving their wives. Ruoyin has been married to the Xu family for two years. Cant you see the difference between her life and Ruoyuns?
Although Qiao Ruoyin never came back, she often asked people to bring some gadgets from the Southwest to her sisters and cousins in the Duke Mansion.
She and her husband were very in love, and she even gave birth to a boy the year before. This time, Xu Mingwei brought the good news that Qiao Ruoyin was pregnant again.
What a joyous life she lived.
The Qiao family used to be a very powerful family in the southwest, so the founding emperor of the dynasty granted Anyuan County of Yunzhou to Duke Anyuan. And most of the Dukes troops were stationed in the southwest, so the governor of the southwest was appointed by the Duke.
Although Qiao Ruoyin was born by a concubine and her father was not the Duke but the Dukes brother, she wasparable to a princess in the southwest.
The Duke: If it werent for the fact that the Xu family doesnt have many children, Xu Mingwei would have waited for Ruoshui to have hering-of-age ceremony before marrying her. Now that Old Xus son has no intention of taking his fathers position, if Jinniang marries Xu Mingwei, shell be the wife of the future governor of the southwest.
The duchess said unhappily, No matter what you said, Jinniang will be far away from me if she marries Xu Mingwei. She finally came back to me, and I dont want to let her go to the southwest!
Ruoshui is stubborn and willful. If she marries to the southwest, shell have the Duke Mansion and Ruoyin behind her, so I wont be worried about her, but Jinniang is different!
Duke Anyuan frowned. This is not up to you. Ruoshui is going to marry Prince Mediocre. Do you want to see Jinniang beingughed at by everyone in Changan?
The Duchess said, I married the wrong man, so I certainly have to keep my eyes open when Im selecting my son-inw!
Duke, Madam, the Old Madam said that since Fourth Miss will be a concubine, there is no need for the Duke Mansion to hold a ceremony, so as not to annoy the future Consort Mediocre. In this case, we dont need to rush to marry off Second Miss.
One of the Old Madams maidservants passed on this message.
The Duchess was taken aback for a moment. Tell Mother, I know.
The Duke said to the Duchess, Right! If I take Ruoshuis marriage too seriously, wouldnt it be like announcing that Im on Prince Mediocres side?
The Duchess said sadly, Since Ruoshui is only a concubine, just send her to the Prince Mediocre Mansion with a sedan chair.
Qiao Jinniang made two clothes for Tuaner in the Jin Garden. Her eyes hurt, so she went for a walk in the garden.
Suddenly, she found that the red silks that decorated the whole Duke Mansion had been taken off.
She asked in surprise, Isnt Qiao Ruoshui going to get married? Why were the red silks taken off?
Hongling replied, Miss, the Old Madam said that since shell only be a concubine, just send her to the Prince Mediocre Mansion with a sedan chair. Besides, our Duke is the Grand Mentor of the Crown Prince, so he cant be too friendly with Prince Mediocre. In this case, you dont have to rush to find a husband.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Old Madams courtyard to greet her and heard the conversation inside from a distance.
The Old Madam said to the duchess, You dont have to rush to find Jinniang a husband. Even if youve got a good choice, decide it after the Crown Prince returns. The Crown Prince likes Jinniang. Its inappropriate if we marry off Jinniang when he is not around.
At the door, Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands. She didnt know what her grandmother was thinking.
Her grandmother didnt force her to marry the Crown Prince, but why did she have to wait for Lu Chen toe back?
The Duchess said, But Jinniang is unwilling to marry into the East Pce. His Majesty has allowed Jinniang to marry another man.
The Emperor is the Emperor, but the Crown Prince is the Crown Prince. Even if Jinniang doesnt marry the Crown Prince, she has to gain the Crown Princes consent if she wants to marry someone else, understand?
The duchess nodded. I see, Mother. Are you afraid that the Crown Prince will be angry with us if we marry Jinniang off without letting him know?
The old madam said, Exactly. Lets just wait for the Crown Prince to return.
With the advent of Qixi Festival, the maids in the Jin Garden were all very excited.
Nuomi said excitedly, Miss, only after hearing what Yuyan told me did I realize that there are so many interesting things about the Girls Festival in Changan.
There will be a ringpetition at the gate of the imperial pce to make Qixi Festival snacks, and every girl in Changan can participate in thepetition. Miss, if you participate in it, I bet no one can match you!
Hongling came over with a dress. The Liuguang Dress has been made. Miss, if you wear this dress today, I am afraid that tons of young men will swarm into the Duke Mansion to propose to you!
During the Qixi Festival, there was no curfew at night, and the streets and alleys were full ofnterns, which were very beautiful.
Snacks and fruits could be seen everywhere and many cute y dolls were for sale.
On the main street, the imperial court had set up several stages, some of which werepeting in needle threading under the moonlight, and the woman who sessfully threaded most needles within the specified time would be granted with the title of Skillful Hand.
Any girl in Changan could participate in thepetitions, so it was very lively.
There were also stagespeting in carving fruit and making snacks The atmosphere was fantastic everywhere.
Qiao Jinniang went out with Qiao Ruoyi and her brother. They saw a lot of interesting things along the way. Qiao Jinniang always enjoyed the hustle and bustle of life.
The Liuguang Dress that Qiao Jinniang was wearing today looked radiant and gorgeous under the candlelight, attracting the attention of many people.
Qiao Ruoyi smiled at Qiao Jinniang and said, Jinniang, you can try carving melons. Your carving skills are the best!
Qiao Jinniang said, Well, Im not going to join in the fun.
Come on, Jinniang. Today is the Qixi Festival. If you carve melons really well, maybe the Goddess of Weaver will reward you with your Mr. Right.
Qiao Jinniang was pushed to the stage by Qiao Ruoyi.
The game wasing to an end, and there were only some crooked melons left.
Qiao Jinniang used the carving knife to carve the pattern of a cowherd and a weaver girl meeting on the magpie bridge on a melon, which looked very lifelike.
Fulu came over as the judge and said, County Mistress Jiaan, if you participate in thispetition, it will be unfair to other girls.
Fulu whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, Zhou Simings sister gave me 100 taels of silver to choose her as the winner of thispetition. But if you participate in thepetition, the others will scold me for being blind if I choose her as the winner. How about this? You quit thepetition, and we can split the money equally.
Qiao Jinniang: Was her moral integrity only worth fifty taels of silver?
At this moment, an exmation came from the crowd. Oh no! The Sixth Miss of Duke Anyuan Mansion ismitting suicide by jumping into the river!
When Qiao Jinniang heard it, she could only quit thepetition even if she didnt want to.
Jinniangs brother hurried over, only to see Qiao Ruofeng struggling in the river, about to sink.
Just as Jinniangs brother was about to jump into the river to save Qiao Ruofeng, a ck shadow swooped into the river with a big ssh and brought Qiao Ruofeng out of the water..
Chapter 70 - Abandoned Woman
Chapter 70: Abandoned Woman
Today was Girls Day, so it was very crowded on the street. As soon as this incident happened, everyone gathered around.
Jinniangs brother took off his jacket and took Qiao Ruofeng from the man in ck.
Jinniangs brother was only one year older than Qiao Ruofeng. The two grew up together. When he saw his cousin attempting suicide, he was very angry. Why did you do such a stupid thing?
Jinniang stepped forward, supported Qiao Ruofeng, and said to the man in ck, Thank you for saving my sister. Duke Anyuan Mansion is very grateful to you. Please let my maid help you change wet clothes in case you catch a cold.
Xu Mingwei cupped his hands and said to Qiao Jinniang, Second Miss, youre wee. As a person who practices martial arts, Im not afraid of cold water.
Qiao Ruofeng was still a little conscious and couldnt stop crying. Why did you save me? Ive lost my reputation. He would rather marry Qiao Ruoshui than me Im a joke.
Xu Mingwei cupped his hands and said, I often hear my sister-inw mention Sixth Miss. She really misses you. Is reputation more important than life?
When Qiao Jinniang heard sister-inw, she knew who the man was. He should be Qiao Ruoshuis poor fianc, Xu Mingwei.
Qiao Ruofeng still cried and said, Id rather die than be pointed andughed at.
Jinniang said to Qiao Ruofeng,Since you are not even afraid of death, why should you be afraid of losing your reputation?
If I were you, I would take the man who cheated me to die with me. Even if you die, the man will still marry other women and will still be a high-ranking prince!
Your death will only hurt the people who love you. Your grandmother is already heartbroken after you made that mistake. She is old. Can she endure the pain of losing her granddaughter?
Qiao Ruofeng closed her eyes and said, But he is a prince. What can I do to him? If I take revenge, the whole Qiao Family will be implicated by me!
Jinniang said, I dont know what others will think, but if you really can kill the man who cheated you, I wont me you even if I am beheaded because of you.
Jinniangs brother said on the side. Me neither.
Qiao Ruoyi listened and shivered. She didnt want to die. She still wanted to live. She said weakly, Second sister, Sixth Sister is still wet, lets go back first?
Back in the Duke Mansion, after Second Madam heard the news, she rushed over, crying bitterly and cursing Prince Mediocre madly.
The Duchess didnt quite sympathize with them because they ndered Qiao Jinniang.
But she watched Qiao Ruofeng grow up. She didnt want Qiao Ruofeng to die at such a young age.
Its alright. Its humiliating to be thrown into jail, but it wont kill you. The Duchess advised, Youre still young. After you get married in a few years, people will probably forget about this matter. There will always be a way out. At worst, you can find a man to marry into your family. You can still live your life.
Second Madam hugged Qiao Ruofeng and said, Yeah, Fenger, dont be stupid. I only have two daughters. I want you to live happily.
On the night of Qixi Festival, because of Qiao Ruofeng, it waste into the night when Qiao Jinniang returned to the Jin Garden.
Yuyan came in from the outside and said, Miss, this is the Qixi Festival gift from Princess Fuan.
Qiao Jinniang took the wooden box and opened it, and inside was a silver hairpin.
It was the silver hairpin that Lu Chen gifted her but she threw away during the Lantern Festival.
Petty! Qiao Jinniang closed the box. Throw it away.
Qiao Ruofeng even wanted tomit suicide because of a royal family member, so she wouldnt want to go on the same route as Qiao Ruofeng.
Hence, this silver hairpin was such an eyesore.
Nuomi said, Dont, Miss, this is worth a tael of silver anyway. It can buy a lot of food.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, its yours. You can use it to buy food.
Nuomi smiled and said, Thank you, Miss.
Nuomi excitedly went to the vendors on the street with the silver hairpin and traded it for a lot of snacks.
She ate one but soon spat it out.
This craftsmanship was far inferior to that of Miss. She regretted trading the silver hairpin for these unptable snacks.
The next day, in the early morning, Qiao Ruoshui left the Duke Mansion in a small sedan chair.
If not told, who would have thought that this was the wedding of the daughter of a duke?
Qiao Jinniang watched from a distance and couldnt help but sigh. She turned and saw the burly man in ck that she had metst night.
Young Master Xu.
Second Miss, you dont have to be so polite. Just call me by my name. Xu Mingwei smiled. After my sister-inw heard about you, she wanted to go back to Changan to meet you, but she is pregnant, so she has to wait until her child is older before she can return to Changan.
Qiao Jinniang smiled too. This younger sister of hers, who was only a few days younger than her, was rarely mentioned by people in the Duke Mansion.
She just heard that when he was in the Duke Mansion, she was even duller than Qiao Ruoyun.
I have never met her but Im looking forward to seeing her soon. Please give my regards to Third Sister, Young Master Xu.
Seeing the two of them from a distance, the Duke said to the Duchess who was beside him, Look at Jinniang and Xu Mingwei, arent they a perfect match? Except for the fact that he is stationed far away from Changan, Xu Mingwei is a perfect choice for a husband.
The Duchess snorted softly, Mother said that Jinniang is not in a hurry to get married. Lets wait for His Royal Highness to return.
The Duke said, Mother is always wise, but she is wrong this time. When His Royal Highnesses back, hell definitely not allow Jinniang to marry another man. I think Xu Mingwei is very good.
The Duchess sneered. You can marry him yourself. Leave my daughter alone. I wont even allow Ruoyi to marry so far away, let alone Jinniang.
Ruoyin was indeed living a good life in the southwest, but it had been almost three years since she was married, and she couldnt even go home. The duchess couldnt bear the pain of separation.
The Duke stroked his beard. Let me ask Jinniang. I think Jinniang has no bad feelings for Mingwei. If Jinniang is willing to marry him, dont stop her.
The Prince Mediocre Mansion was decorated with red silk, and it was night time.
Qiao Ruoshui sat on the bed, lookingcent.
Although her wedding was shabby, she was still the concubine of Prince Mediocre who would be the next emperor. Come on, go check why His Highness hasnte over.
Concubine Qiao, His Highness has gone to Hengwu Garden to sleep.
Qiao Ruoshui clenched her fist angrily. The third daughter of the right prime minister was granted to be Prince Mediocres concubine together with her, but in terms of family background, that b*tch was way inferior to her!
Qiao Ruoshui ignored the obstruction of the servants and maids, hurried to Hengwu Garden, and heard the conversation inside.
Your Highness, I know you treat me with sincerity. Thest two years were the best time of my life, when we exchanged letters and expressed love to each other. Although I married you as a concubine, I am already satisfied.
Qiao Ruoshui is insensible and wayward. If you want to win over Duke Anyuans support, you should spend this night with her.
I dont mind sacrificing myself for your future.
When Qiao Ruoshui heard this, she was furious. The person who was talking was the third daughter of the Jian family. This woman always liked to y vulnerable.
Prince Mediocre said, The one I want to marry is Qiao Jinniang, but unfortunately I failed to make her marry me. Qiao Ruoshui is a crazy and unreasonable woman. I dont know why my mother and grandmother want me to marry her!
Today, Duke Anyuan Mansion arranged her marriage so perfunctorily, which is a sign of them drawing a clear line with me. I dont want to see that disgusting woman.
Moreover, I already dont like her in the first ce. I just didnt know that my grandmother had issued such a decree. If I had known earlier, I would have made her cancel it.
Although Prince Mediocre cast a wide among the noble girls in Changan, he was not unselective.
Qiao Ruofeng was raised by the Old Madam of Duke Anyuan Mansion. She is smart and obedient. Qiao Jinniang is graceful and approachable although she was raised outside, but Qiao Ruoshui is stupid, ignorant and ipetent. I dont want to have such a stupid woman as my concubine.
Qiao Ruoshui was infuriated.
Does Prince Mediocre know that Qiao Jinniang is an abandoned woman?
She must return this humiliation to Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruofeng in full..
Chapter 71 - Blocked the Knife for the Jerk
Chapter 71: Blocked the Knife for the Jerk
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang found that the Tasty Pavilions business became a lot worse.
Not only Tasty Pavilion, the business of the cosmetics, jewelry and clothing shops that were frequented by nobledies in Changan had be ck as well.
While all this happened, many people came to visit the Duke every day, sending gifts and begging for the Duke to intercede for them.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Duchess courtyard, and when she walked in, she came across a nobledy.
This woman was the wife of the Duchess brother, Duchess Dingyuan. Jinniang saluted.
Hi, Auntie.
Mrs. Zheng said indifferently, Arise. Its been almost half a year since you came back. You should try to persuade your mother to stop being angry with your father.
Your father is only thirty-six years old and has no concubine, but your mother doesnt allow him to take a concubine and refuses him when he wants to enter her courtyard.
There are a lot of women in Changan who want to marry your father. Tell your mother not to put on airs anymore and not to give those little b*tches a chance.
Sister-inw, why are you talking about this matter with Jinniang? Shes still a child.
The Duchess was displeased.
Mrs. Zheng said, Im doing this for your own good. Just because you already have had a son doesnt mean that your position is secure!
Now that you are having a cold war with the Duke, those little sluts will take advantage of it!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Mrs. Zheng. She didnt see any kindness of her mother in this womans eyes.
There were only calctions in her eyes. Besides, Jinniang is not young. She is already a mother. It is time for her to know about these things.
If you dont want to be reconciled with your husband, he wont be willing to help your nephew.
Your brother only has this son! Do you have the heart to see him suffer?
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to listen to this and was about to leave
Then she heard Mrs. Zheng suddenly said with an inexplicable confidence that was very simr to Qiao Ruoshuis.
I heard Jinniang cant find a husband, right? Didnt you want Jinniang to marry my sonst time?
If Boer can return to Changan unscathed this time, I will agree to Jinniang marrying my Boer, and I wont mind her past.
Qiao Jinniang was confused. Who is this Boer?
She went out every day these past few days because her father tried to fix her and Xu Mingwei up.
From what he said after he saved Qiao Ruofeng, she knew that Xu Mingwei was a good man.
But she didnt want to marry far away.
When did her mother decide to marry her to this Boer? She never heard this from her mother.
The Duchess angrily smashed the teacup to the ground and said, Just because Im polite to you doesnt mean Im a pushover, Sister-inw!
Zheng Bo was involved in selling illicit salt. This is a case personally handled by the Crown Prince in person. How can the Duke save him?
The Duke has been helping the Zheng Family enough over the years. Its not that the Duke is unwilling to save Zheng Bo but he cant!
He told me that since Zheng Bo was not the principal offender, he will at most lose his office or his title of nobility.
Madam Zheng said angrily, No, Boer cant lose his office or his nobility title!
The Duchess said coldly, This case is handled by the Crown Prince himself, and its about the foundation of the country. I heard that two men have already been decapitated.
Zheng Bo should be thankful that he wasnt the principal offender.
I heard that some people even tried to assassinate the Crown Prince in the Shu Region. If it werent for Xie Yun who had blocked the knife for the Crown Prince
His Majesty is already furious about this matter. Everyone in the royal court who is implicated in the matter is scared. Do you want to implicate the Duke Mansion into this matter?
Qiao Jinniang was shocked. The jerk and Xie Yun were almost assassinated?
Although she would curse Lu Chen to die every day, she actually never wanted him to die.
If he died, what would happen to Tuaner?
Mrs. Zheng said, You can turn to Ruoshui for help. Ruoshui has married Prince Mediocre and Boer is her brother no, cousin! Cant she help Boer?
Mrs. Qiao red at Mrs. Zheng. Sister-inw, dont say anymore. I will help the Zheng Family if I can, but I cant help Zheng Bo this time!
Madam Zheng stood up angrily and said,
Are you still angry that I didnt allow Jinniang to marry Boer?
But think about it, although Jinniang was born by you, she was brought up by ves!
How can this kind of stuff be my daughter-inw?
The Duchess said angrily, Sister-inw, wake up. Do you think the Zheng Family is still the same family before my grandparents died?
Twenty years have passed, the Duke Dingbei Mansion has now be an insignificant family in Changan!
I proposed to my mother that I wanted to marry Jinniang off to Zheng Bo just because I thought that since Zheng Family is my natal family, they would treat Jinniang well.
But after the Duke found out that Zheng Bo had taken ten concubines in the Shu Region, I immediately gave up the idea.
Mrs. Zheng sarcastically said, Oh, did you forget youre from the Zheng Family? Now that youve be Duchess Anyuan, you look down on your own family?
But no matter how much the Zheng Family has declined, Qiao Jinniang, this abandoned vige woman who has already given birth to a child, isnt worthy of bing my daughter-inw!
The Duchess was so angry that her hands trembled. Even Duchess Dingbei was like this. No wonder Duke Dingbei Mansion was declining day by day.
Qiao Jinniang was puzzled. The first two times she saw Mrs. Zheng, she was very polite and courteous.
But today she found that Mrs. Zhengs rude yet inexplicable confident demeanor was exactly the same as Qiao Ruoshuis!
After Mrs. Zheng left, the Duchess said to Qiao Jinniang,
Dont take her words seriously. She is such a snob. She was so rude just now because we refused to help her. If we are still useful to her, she will even be willing to kneel and kowtow to us.
Jinniang asked, Mother, was His Royal Highness assassinated?
The duchess nodded and said, Yes, but the Crown Prince is fine, but Xie Yun, who blocked the knife for him, is dying.
Qiao Jinniang was worried about Xie Yun. Although Xie Yun lied to her about his sex, he was very kind to her.
Hearing that he was seriously injured, she hurriedly wrote a letter asking about Xie Yuns situation and sent it to the Shu Region.
The Shu Region had been raining for several days.
In the pce, Lin Mo took the letter that was sent from Changan and handed it to Lu Chen. Your Royal Highness, its Qiao Jinniangs letter.
Lu Chen raised his head and took the letter from Lin Mo with a smile.
The news of him being almost assassinated had spread to Changan. This letter must be for him
Miss Xie, thank you for reading the letter.
I heard that you blocked the knife for that jerk and your life is now in danger? Its really not worth it. How are you doing now?
I have sent you a thousand-year-old ginseng and Tianshan Snow Lotus.
Hope you get better soon. Take care.
Lu Chen clenched the letter in his hand.
Lin Mo leaned forward to take a look and jested, I didnt expect Miss Qiaos handwriting to be quite good Xie Yun would be happy to see this letter.
Lu Chen put the letter above the candle and burned it into ashes:
Qiao Jinniang, you wait! Ill fix you when I return to Changan!
Lin Mo heard Lu Chens murmurs and thought to himself, Its uncertain who will fix whom.
Since Qiao Jinniang dared to write such a letter, she was definitely not afraid of Lu Chen.
Lu Chen didnt look like a Crown Prince at all in front of Qiao Jinniang.. If he was as resolute and awe-inspiring as he was in Shu in front of Qiao Jinniang, she would have been dealt with long ago.
Chapter 72 - Tuaner Gets Sick
Chapter 72: Tuaner Gets Sick
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As August approached, autumn rain fell, dissipating the heat in Changan.
There were several major events in Changan in August.
The first was the Imperial Examination in early August, and the second was the third-year-old birthday banquet for the little imperial grandson. His Majesty intended to give the little imperial grandson a name.
Although the matter of illicit salt had not yet been solved, Changan became lively again with theing of the Imperial Examination.
Before the Imperial Examination, Qiao Jinniang received a letter from Li Yun, asking her to meet in the Tasty Pavilion.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Tasty Pavilion to see him.
The restaurant had been full of imperial examinees recently, all inquiring about the test questions and discussing literary topics.
I heard that this time, the Crown Prince will be responsible for setting the test questions. I think there will be some test questions about the illicit salt trafficking.
Brother Wu, it makes sense.
Qiao Jinniang went to the private room. Li Yun smiled when he saw her. I thought you didnt want to see me anymore.
Qiao Jinniang said, Although our marriage contract was canceled, were still rtives. How can we pretend to be strangers?
This is the pastry I prepared for you, Cousin. Youll take the Imperial Examination the day after tomorrow. Since its getting cooler, food cannot be preserved for too long.
But this pastry can be stored for ten days or even half a month. You can take it to the examination venue. When youre hungry during the examination, you can eat it to appease your hunger.
The Imperial Examination would take three days. Although food would be provided three times a day in the examination venue, the food portions were small, and some people might not be used to the food.
If they were hungry before dinner time, it would inevitably affect their performance.
Li Yun bowed his hands and thanked, Thank you, Cousin. If I can pass the Imperial Examination, will we still have a chance
I have already driven Ruyu away. You can rest assured that Ill never take any concubine.
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, My marriage will be up to my parents.
An anxious voice came from outside the door. s, Jinniang, why are you here? Come, follow me to the East Pce.
It suddenly became cold, and Tuaner got a cold yesterday and is now suffering from a high fever.
Hearing Princess Fulus words, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly said goodbye to Li Yun and followed Fulu to the East Pce.
With Fulu and the secret guards who Lu Chen assigned to her around, Qiao Jinniang directly entered Tuaners pce without being stopped.
Tuaners maids knew Qiao Jinniangs identity. After saluting Qiao Jinniang, she gave her the position by the bed.
Qiao Jinniang hurried over and picked up the crying Tuaner.
As soon as she picked him up, she felt that he was as hot as a small stove.
Tuaner.
Mommy. With tears in his eyes, Tuaner put his hands around Qiao Jinniangs neck. I feel so ufortable, so painful.
Qiao Jinniang touched Tuaners head. With such a high fever, of course he felt ufortable.
Wheres the imperial doctor? Qiao Jinniang asked the maid.
The maid saluted and said, The imperial doctor has alreadye to examine His Highness and has prescribed the medicine, but His Highness refuses to drink it because its too bitter
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, Bring the medicine over.
It was easy for children to catch colds and get sick. Tuaner would be very clingy to her whenever he would be sick. At that point, no one could make him drink medicine except for Qiao Jinniang, not even Lu Chen could make him.
Tuaner leaned on Qiao Jinniangs shoulder and said, Mommy, dont go. I wont drink the medicine unless you sleep with me.
Qiao Jinniang took a spoon from the maid and said with tearful eyes.
Okay, Mommy will sleep with Tuaner today. Drink the medicine, okay?
Bitter. Tuaner pouted. I want to eat candy.
Qiao Jinniang wiped his little runny nose with a handkerchief. Mommy will make you a sugar figurine after you recover.
I want it now.
Drink the medicine first. Qiao Jinniang put the medicine close to Tuaners mouth.
She hadnt seen Tuaner for a few days, but he could already spoke much more fluently.
Tuaner closed his eyes and drank the medicine, then frowned in a very exaggerated way. Ive already taken my medicine. Now I want a sugar figurine.
Fulu tittered. Tuaner is so cute.
Seeing that there was still a lot of medicine left, Qiao Jinniang said, You have to finish it.
The little rice ball drooped his head, simply took the medicine bowl and emptied it. Okay, Ive finished it. Now I want the sugar figurine and Mommy has to apany me.
Qiao Jinniang ordered the servants to bring a stove and a pot over and began to boil sugar with Tuaner.
Fulu said, Jinniang, you can even make sugar figurines? Youre awesome!
Your carving is already so exquisite. The sugar figurines you make must be very beautiful. Make one for me first.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. She then smeared ayer of oil on the empty te and drew with the boiled syrup on the te.
Huh? Jinniang, why did you draw such an ugly person?
Qiao Jinniang was a little ashamed and said, I dont know how to draw, so the sugar figurines I made are generally not good-looking, sorry!
Fulu:
As night drew near, Fulu could not stay in the East Pce any longer, but Qiao Jinniang was in a dilemma.
Tuaner had just drunk the medicine again and fell asleep in her arms, but as long as she moved slightly, he would wake up.
He clutched Qiao Jinniangs sleeve with tears in his eyes, not letting Qiao Jinniang leave.
Although the fever had subsided, Tuaners little face and nose were still red.
asionally, he would cough, looking very weak. No matter how ruthless Qiao Jinniang was, she couldnt bear to leave at this time.
A maid walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said,
Dont worry, Miss. Ive made proper arrangements. Princess Fulu will send you back to the Duke Mansion tomorrow, so please stay in the East Pce today. Can you leave when the little highness is better?
The little highness cried Mommy all night yesterday. He looked so pitiful.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Since Lu Chen was not in the East Pce, she could stay here for a night.
After taking care of the little rice ball for a day, Qiao Jinniang was very tired.
There was no telling if she caught a cold yesterday too or was infected by the little rice ball.
She felt a little drowsy
Miss, if you dont mind, please wear my new clothes tomorrow.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Thank you very much then.
Qiao Jinniang held Tuaner and hurriedly groomed with the help of the maids. Then shey down beside Tuaner and fell asleep.
Outside the gate of Changan, a group of people were riding back as fast as they could.
Lu Chen ordered Zhou Siming to arrange for soldiers to surround the Right Prime Ministers mansion, while he went to the Imperial Pce to see the Emperor.
When he arrived at the Imperial Pce, he went straight to the Queens pce. Seeing him, Eunuch Quan said with an embarrassed expression,
Your Royal Highness, you cant go in! His Majesty and Her Majesty have already slept.
Lu Chen said, Eunuch Quan, I have something important to report.
Eunuch Quans face blushed slightly red and asked, Does Your Royal Highness want to copy out the Historical Records ten times more?
Hearing this, Lu Chen blushed too.
When he was a child, every time he made a scene and wanted to see his mother at night, he would be punished by his father to copy the Historical Records ten times.
It was not until he identally broke into Lin Mos room and caught him and a woman on bed when he was sixteen did he understand why his father punished him.
For gods sake, his father was no longer young. Did he want to give him a younger brother or a younger sister?
Lu Chen said to Eunuch Quan, Please tell my father that the Governor of Shu has confessed that the person behind the illicit salt trafficking is the grandfather of Prince Lu, Right Prime Minister Zhou.
Ive already had soldiers surround the Right Prime Minister and Prince Lus mansions.
Eunuch Quan broke out in a cold sweat. Yes, Your Royal Highness. By the way, the little imperial grandson got a coldst night.
Lu Chen frowned and went straight back to the East Pce. After the exhausting journey, he wanted to take a good shower
Chapter 73 - See No Evil
Chapter 73: See No Evil
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After washing up, Lu Chen changed and went to Tuaners pce.
As soon as he entered, he smelled a strong and pungent medicinal smell.
The little rice ball had never drunk medicine obediently, so he didnt know how he was doing.
Lu Chen walked to the bed, and under the faint candlelight, he could clearly see the woman lying next to Tuaner, the woman who made him angry for half a month
Her skin was still so fair and tender.
Lu Chens Adams apple bobbed, and he went over and gently tucked Qiao Jinniang in.
His hand inadvertently touched Qiao Jinniangs face and felt that it was very hot.
He gently ced the back of his hand on Qiao Jinniangs forehead and found it was very hot.
Jinniang? Jinniang?
Qiao Jinniang was woken up by his voice and felt a severe headache.
Blushing red, she raised her hand and pped Lu Chen in the face.
B*stard, A*shole, why do you even appear in my dreams?!
Jinniangs voice was hoarse and sleepy.
Lu Chen took a deep breath. Qiao Jinniangs present appearance reminded him of the look when she was in bed with him. Perhaps because she was too tired, she pped him as if she was messing with him.
Lu Chen ordered the servants who rushed over. Go concoct some medicine for typhoid fever.
The servants hurriedly went down to concoct the medicine.
Qiao Jinniang whispered vaguely, B*stard dont feign kindness.
Lu Chen was so angry that heughed. How do you still have the strength to scold me?
It didnt take long for the medicine to be made, and Lu Chen took over the medicine bowl.
After ordering all the servants and maids to leave, he carefully fed the medicine to Qiao Jinniang. It was much more difficult to feed medicine to Qiao Jinniang than to feed Tuaner.
As long as Jinniang was around, Tuaner would drink medicine obediently.
However, Qiao Jinniang was being too squeamish. She had to eat sugar every mouthful of medicine, and the sugar had to be maltose
Qiao Jinniang woke up, and the bitter medicine was stuffed into her mouth. She suddenly felt an extremely bitter taste in her mouth. Bitter!
She looked back only to see Lu Chen. She frowned and asked, Why are you here?
This is the East Pce. Why cant I be here?
Lu Chen said, No matter how bitter the medicine is, you have to drink it. Otherwise, Im afraid your brain will burn out.
Qiao Jinniang retorted, Isnt that what you want? Then no one will scold you!
Lu Chen didnt argue with Qiao Jinniang. Since youre sick, dont sulk with me and dy treatment. Just drink the medicine.
Qiao Jinniang felt hot all over and wanted to drink the medicine, but the medicine was too bitter.
Maltose.
Lu Chen: Where can I find maltose at this time?
I just made a sugar figurine in the afternoon and didnt finish it.
Qiao Jinniang pointed to the table.
Lu Chen looked over and saw that there were two strings of sugar figurines inserted into the sewing kit pad on the table. He took them and handed them to Qiao Jinniang.
No matter how much Qiao Jinniang hated Lu Chen, she wouldnt torture herself.
After eating some maltose, Qiao Jinniang wanted to empty the medicine bowl in one go like Tuaner.
But after taking only two sips, she couldnt bear the bitter taste anymore. She coughed and identally knocked over the medicine bowl, and the medicine spilled and wet her neckline
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly took off her shirt, revealing arge area of snow-white skin.
When Lu Chen saw this scene, his Adams apple bobbed slightly, and the candles beside the bed were reflected in his eyes
Noticing that Lu Chen was staring at her chest, Qiao Jinniang snapped, You beast, pervert, dont you understand see no evil?
Lu Chen said, You and I are husband and wife. Does this have anything to do with see no evil? Besides, I have not only seen your chest, but also
Qiao Jinniangs face turned red with anger. Bah, Im not your wife! Youve divorced me.
I didnt, Lu Chen said, The person who went to the South to investigate the divorce letter should being back soon.
Qiao Jinniang sneered coldly. Even if you didnt divorce me, then Ill divorce you!
Lu Chen heard one of his subordinates calling him from outside, and said softly,
Ill have the maids make another bowl of medicine. Drink it obediently, okay? Dont wait for me toe back. You can sleep first.
Dont say those foolish things about divorcing me again.
With that, Lu Chen kissed Qiao Jinniang gently in the corner of her lips.
When Qiao Jinniang realized what the jerk had done to her, he had already gone far away
She was left here, sulking.
She didnt want to wait for him!
And she didnt allow him to kiss her!
Early the next morning, Qiao Jinniang yed with Tuaner for a while after he woke up and then went out of the East Pce in the clothes of the same style as hers given from the maid.
When Qiao Jinniang went back to the Duke Mansion, she saw noticed that the main street was full of soldiers armed to the teeth.
They surrounded the huge mansion of the Right Prime Minister.
It was the first time that Qiao Jinniang had seen this many soldiers, and the first time she had seen such a horrible scene
Just when she was about to put down the curtain of the carriage, she saw Lu Chen sitting at the entrance of the Right Prime Ministers Mansion.
Lu Chen held a teacup in his hand, and a lot of people were on their knees in front of him.
The person at the front was the Right Prime Ministers wife who had been ttered by everyone during the Yu Lan Festival at Yuanxi Temple a few days ago.
On both sides of her were her beautiful daughters, whocently showed their delicate hair essories at the banquet not long ago.
But now they were on their knees with their hair disheveled and without the bearing of nobledies.
Your Royal Highness, spare us! We really dont know anything about this matter.
Seventh Miss of the Jian Family stood up and said loudly,
Your Royal Highness, His Majesty hasnt convicted us yet, and you are only the Crown Prince. How do you have the right to search our house and confiscate our property?
A eunuch on the side scolded, How dare you! Come on, teach Miss Jian how she should speak to His Royal Highness!
Then Qiao Jinniang saw a few burly men go over and kicked Miss Jian on the knee.
After Miss Jian was forced to kneel down, she was pped hard by the eunuch.
Humph, do you think Your Royal Highness is someone you can offend?
In the carriage, Nuomi who came to the East Pce to pick up Qiao Jinniang saw this scene and took a deep breath.
Miss, Miss Jian was tortured like this just for being a little rude to the Crown Prince, but we call the Crown Prince Jerk every day. Will we be
Qiao Jinniang clenched her handkerchief and asked, Did I scold him? Did you hear that?
Nuomi hurriedly shook her head. Miss is the kindest person in the world and never scolds anyone.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Good, remember, I didnt scold him, neither did you.
Just as Qiao Jinniangs carriage drove away, the Right Prime Ministers wife kept kowtowing.
Your Royal Highness, this matter has nothing to do with my daughter. I will confess, I will confess all. Please forgive my daughter, Your Royal Highness!
Lu Chen raised his hand to stop the eunuch. Speak.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Duke Mansion, shey down. She had only been in Changan for four months but had already been sick twice.
The Duchess was so worried about her that she invited an imperial physician to treat Jinniang and went to the Buddhist hall to pray to Buddha.
In the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang was a bit ashamed to say that she wanted maltose while drinking medicine, and she felt so bored lying in bed all day long.
Qiao Ruoyi came over and told her about a lot of recent news that was bubbling in the royal court. I only heard about confiscating a familys property and exterminating the entire family, but Ive never seen one with my own eyes.
Hongling said from the side. My dear Fifth Miss, dont scare our miss. Shes still sick.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its okay. It just so happens that Im bored right now and I cant read the novels.
As soon as she finished speaking, Yuyan came over with a wooden box. Miss, Princess Fuan sent you a few novels, saying that they are the most popr recently in Changan
Qiao Jinniang snorted softly. Lu Chen always didnt want her to read novels. Why did he send her these novels now?
She almost blurted out jerk but suddenly remembered the scene when Miss Jian was being ppedst morning. She shivered and shut up.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Hongling to put the novels aside and asked Qiao Ruoyi, Do you know what the charges of Cousin Zheng are?
Chapter 74 - Old Madam Zheng Proposed Marriage
Chapter 74: Old Madam Zheng Proposed Marriage
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ruoyi replied. I heard that the title of Duke Dingbei was reduced to Earl Dingbei and Cousin Zheng Bo has no hope of bing an official in this life, even his title has been withdrawn.
From now on, Uncle is Earl Dingbei, and if he dies, the Zheng Family will have no nobility title.
Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, Mother must be sad. Im sorry to make her worry about me at such a difficult time.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Zheng Bo should thank God for being able to survive this time.
How many people involved in the illicit salt trafficking have already been killed this time?
They embezzled the taxes of the imperial court and squeezed the workers in the salt wells, causing so many people to die in the salt wells.
They killed the whole families of all the officials who refused to beplicit in the illicit salt deals.
The involved local officials shielded one another and the Right Prime Minister and Prince Lu protected them in the imperial court. No, to be exact, it is not Prince Lu, but Prince Mediocre.
Qiao Ruoyi talked about political affairs with great interest.
The Right Prime Minister has long since pledged allegiance to Prince Mediocre.
When the Crown Prince was missing, the Right Prime Minister was the one who kept demanding His Majesty to appoint a new crown prince.
Everyone thought he was doing this for his grandson, but Prince Lu had no hope of bing the Crown Prince.
At that time, the likeliest candidate for the crown prince was Prince Mediocre.
ording to the ledger for illicit salt deals found in the mansion of the Right Prime Minister, arge amount of money was transferred away, and the Right Prime Minister confessed that he gave the money to Prince Lu, but none of the money was not found in the mansion of Prince Lu
On the other hand, Prince Mediocre was spending money like water to recruit talents.
It is clear who received the money, but the Right Prime Minister is still trying to cover for Prince Mediocre.
And Prince Lu was stupid too. In order to save his grandfather, he even admitted that he was behind all these matters and helped his grandfather manipte the Ministry of Revenue.
But everyone knew those people in the Ministry of Revenue are inextricably linked with Prince Mediocre.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. What a pity. If youre a man, youll definitely be able to win first ce in the Imperial Examination.
Qiao Ruoyi lowered her head and said, Sister, women can take it too, but I dont dare to take it. Plus, Father will never allow me to take it.
Jinniang asked curiously, Why not?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Although there were many female officials in the Tang Dynasty, most of them have entered the harem.
There are very few women still serving in the court, and our family is already powerful and doesnt need me to be a female official
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help sighing. Thats true. Just look at what happened to the Right Prime Ministers family
Qiao Ruoyi was afraid that Qiao Jinniang would be too worried, so she said,
Sister, you dont have to be afraid. We have the Absolution Token, which can save us from death penalty to some extent.
Thanks to our ancestors, were safe as long as we dont rebel. It doesnt matter how many times you scold the Crown Prince. If he wants to punish you, show him the Absolution Token.
Qiao Jinniang:
How could such a precious Absolution Token be wasted for scolding Lu Chen? It was not worth it.
Then if I kill the Crown Prince, can the Absolution Token save me from death?
Qiao Ruoyi shivered. Sister, dont try it, OK?
Jinniang said, ording to the novels I read, the Absolution Token is rewarded to founders of a country. Its really not worth using it on Lu Chen.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Exactly, our ancestors founded this country with the founding emperor.
And our great-grandfather and grandfather also died guarding the border. When they died, Father was only 16 years old and was bullied by others.
Only the old Duke Dingyuan helped him with all his might, and even married his granddaughter, Mother, who was brought up by him personally to Father.
Qiao Jinniang was angry when she heard this. So Father failed Mother, didnt he? Mother married him at the height of his difficulties but he indulged in his concubine and lost me!
Qiao Ruoyi said, Its more than that. When Mother gave birth to Brother and Qiao Ruoshui, she was so irritated by that woman that she returned to her parents home.
I heard from my mom that one of Mothers children was almost suffocated during childbirth, and Mother almost died
Qiao Jinniang asked, So Brother Lv and Qiao Ruoshui are twins? But they dont look alike at all. I always thought Brother Lu was a year younger than Qiao Ruoshui.
Theyre twins. When they were born, many people were envious of Mother.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Why did Mother forgive Father at that time?
Qiao Ruoyi sighed. At that time, Old Duke Zheng and his wife, who brought up Mother, had just passed away.
And Mothers mother never liked her, and at that time, the Zheng Family was declining and was relying on Father. Without any support, Mother dared not divorce Father.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. It turns out that Mother had such a hard life.
While the two were talking, Yuyan came in and said, Miss, Fifth Miss, Madam asks you to see Old Madam Zheng in the hall.
Qiao Ruoyi supported Jinniang and said, Sister, lets go.
In the hall.
Old Madam Zheng angrily said to the Duchess,
Xiaoer, Chenger is my only grandson!
What can he do if he loses both his nobility title and official position? Come on, beg the Duke to help him. The Duke is very trusted by His Majesty
The Duchess said helplessly, Mother, the Duke has done his best on this matter.
Old Madam Zheng said, You refuse to help because you think the Zheng Family is useless to you, right?
If Duke Anyuan hadnt married you back then, how could the Qiao Family be so prosperous today?!
Before Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi could go inside, they heard what Old Madam Zheng said.
The Duchesss eyes instantly turned red. Mother, what are you talking about? How much have I done for the Zheng Family over all these years?
Old Madam Zheng pped the table angrily and said, Since you dont look down on the Zheng family, then marry Jinniang to Zheng Bo!
And the Tasty Pavilion should be given to the Zheng family as a dowry! At that time, we will see if the Duke will help his son-inw!
The Duchess said, No, Mother, Jinniang is my life. Zheng Bo has so many concubines and children
Jinniang doesnt want her husband to have any concubines.
Old Madam Zheng threatened the Duchess. She doesnt want to marry Zheng Bo? Does she still want to be Consort Mediocre?
If people in Changan know that Qiao Jinniang had once married an ugly man in Linan and was abandoned by him, wouldnt she beughed to death?
You should be grateful that Boer doesnt despise this merchant cousin and is willing to ept her for the sake of you.
The Duchess could scold Mrs. Zheng but not Old Madam Zheng. Mother, we would rather raise Jinniang for her lifetime than let her marry an unsuitable man.
Old Madam Zheng said, What do you mean by unsuitable? Isnt Boer an excellent young man?
Qiao Ruoyi took Qiao Jinniang aside and said, Sister, you have to be careful with Grandmother. Now that the Zheng family has declined, they will do anything to get what they want.
They want you to marry Zheng Bo, because you are a county mistress and because of Father and the Tasty Pavilion.
Once the illicit salt case was over, the business of Tasty Pavilion became better and better. Someone once calcted that Tasty Pavilion had nearly a thousand taels of ie per day.
It was literally a cash cow, so some people coveted it.
After Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi entered, they saluted Old Madam Zheng.
Old Madam Zheng ordered Qiao Ruoyi to serve her and looked at Qiao Jinniang arrogantly and said,
Jinniang, I know you want to marry your Cousin Zheng. Now I give you my consent.
Qiao Jinniang:
She wanted to marry Cousin Zheng? Why didnt she know it herself?
Chapter 75 - Qiao Ruoshuis Oral Decree
Chapter 75: Qiao Ruoshuis Oral Decree
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Old Madam Zheng took the tea cup and gently skimmed off the foam with the lid. But you had once been married after all, so we will not give you any betrothal gifts, but your dowry is indispensable.
The dowry must be based on the standard for a Dukes daughter. After all, Boer was a fourth-rank prefect in Shu.
And you have also lost your virginity, so youll have to abide by the Virtues of Women after marrying him.
Qiao Ruoyi said weakly, His Majesty has annulled the so-called the Virtues of Women. Now its normal for women to divorce and remarry.
Old Madam Zheng snapped, Shut up! Im talking to your sister! What makes you think you, a concubine-born girl, can interrupt us?
Your mother is too good-tempered, but I will not allow a concubine-born daughter to enjoy the same status as a biological daughter.
Qiao Ruoyi replied. Okay.
Old Madam Zheng ran the Buddha beads through her fingers and said, Where were we? Yes, you must abide by the Virtues of Women. After you marry Boer, you cant leave the house, cant see any strange man, and cant talk with any man except your husband.
Also, I dont know if you can still give birth to children. If you dont give birth to a child within a year, youll have to recognize the eldest son of Boer as your own son!
Qiao Jinniang couldnt believe that this mean old woman was her maternal grandmother!
But somehow she felt that Qiao Ruoshuis bearing was very simr to this old womans.
So it seemed that she was indeed her maternal grandmother.
The Duchess couldnt listen anymore. Mother, dont daydream. Jinniang would rather marry His Royal Highness as the lowest-rank concubine than marry Zheng Bo.
Old Madam Zhengughed. Her? Marry His Royal Highness?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head. Mother, I dont want to marry Cousin Zheng, nor will I marry His Royal Highness.
Old Madam Zheng said, Phew, dont you feel ashamed to say this? I know youre jealous of your sister, but just because your sister can be the concubine of Prince Mediocre doesnt mean you can marry into the East Pce
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, I have never been jealous of anyone.
Mother, Im not feeling well, so I will take my leave so as not to infect Old Madam Zheng.
Old Madam Zheng pped the table again and roared, I am your grandmother! How did you call me?! Where are your manners? Our country values filial piety. How dare you be so unfilial to me?
The Duchess said, Mother, Jinniang is suffering from a cold. She just doesnt want to infect you. Dont be angry. Jinniang, go back first.
Hearing the Duchesss words, Qiao Jinniang saluted and left.
Qiao Ruoyi followed her and said, Sister, it seems that Grandmother wont give up. What are you going to do?
Qiao Jinniang said, Then Im afraid shell be disappointed.
Old Madam Zheng was only her maternal grandmother. Her paternal grandmother was still alive, so she didnt need to abide by the marriage contract Old Madam Zheng made.
Back in the Jin Garden, autumn rain fell again.
Qiao Jinniangy on the couch and listened to the sound of autumn rain outside.
She picked up a novel sent by Lu Chen today and began to read it.
It was getting dark, so Qiao Jinniang could only read by the candlelight.
As she read, her face was getting redder and redder
What that jerk sent turned out to be a book full of porn poems that had been banned in the market.
There were even erotic paintings in this book. Hearing the footsteps of the maids, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly closed the book.
You can leave now.
Nuomi looked at Jinniang who looked very nervous and said, Miss, you cant read sote into the night. Youre still ill. Its not good for your eyes to stay up all night reading.
Qiao Jinniang said, I know what Im doing. You can leave now.
After all the maids left, Qiao Jinniang surreptitiously took out the book with her heart beating like a drum.
It was already dark.
Lu Chen returned from the Imperial Examination ce Hall to the Hall of Diligent Governance and said to the Emperor,
Father, during the Imperial Examination, there are some examinees who have diarrhea. After the imperial doctor investigated, he said that the food sent by Prince Mediocre was not clean.
Emperor Huilin who was processing memorials paused. s, why is he so stupid?
Knowing that this Imperial Examination was held for you, his undisguised dirty trick will only damage his reputation among civil officials.
Lu Chen said, Prince Mediocres original intention was to win over these examinees by giving him food in the examination venue.
Its a pity that the restaurant he ordered food from was not doing well, so they used rotten meat and vegetables in the food.
Emperor Huilin:
Lu Chen continued. There are still two days left, but many promising examinees from Qingming Academy are suffering from serious diarrhea, which will definitely affect their grades.
Emperor Huilin said, Theyre really unlucky. There will be another imperial examination in the spring of next year. Just be it so. There is no need to re-hold this Imperial Examination.
Yes, Father.
When Lu Chen went back to the East Pce, Junior Duke Rong hurriedly came up to him and said, Seventh Brother, didnt you ask me to buy some novels for girls to read?
My servant didnt know the books were bought for you, so all he bought were erotic books that had been banned in the market. Are the books still here?
Come on, show them to me. Each book cost me 10 taels of silver! Theyre already not for sale in the market.
Lu Chen:
Junior Duke Rong said, Seventh Brother, you cant hide them! Those are some good stuffs. I heard that the paintings in the books are very realistic.
The men in the paintings were modeled after the most famous gigolo in Changan, Mr. Qinghe
Lu Chen red at Junior Duke Rong. How many of these books are still for sale in Changan? Find them all.
Junior Duke Rong didnt know what was going on and nkly blinked at Lu Chen.
Oh, Seventh Brother, I didnt expect you to be this kind of a person.
Lu Chen immediately said, Burn them all!
Junior Duke Rong touched his nose. This was typical of his seventh brother!
He still remembered before Lu Chen went missing, he didnt know about anything about sex. Back then he and Lin Mo alwaysughed at him for this
Even the imperial maid who was arranged to teach him about sex was mistaken as an assassin and thrown out by him.
Even with a child, he still hadnt made much progress in this aspect.
Jinniang didnt recover from her illness until the day the result of the Imperial Examination was released.
On this day, Old Madam Zheng and Mrs. Zheng came to the Duke Mansion again, and Old Madam Qiao called Qiao Jinniang over.
When she went in, she saw Old Madam Qiao looking very angry.
Old Madam Zheng said, Mrs. Qiao, its for the sake of our kinship that we are willing to ept Jinniang. Besides, Consort Qiao has issued an oral decree.
Qiao Jinniang was puzzled, and Qiao Ruoyi whispered in her ear,
ording to thew, a princes concubine can give an oral decree. Qiao Ruoshui has sent you an oral decree, ordering you to marry Cousin Zheng Bo.
Qiao Ruoshuis mammy who came to issue the oral decree said arrogantly, Her Highness hereby issued an order that Second Miss shall marry the son of the Zheng Family, Zheng Bo. If you reject, itll be taken as insulting Prince Mediocre!
Chapter 76 - Only When A Broken Mirror Joins Together Will I Forgive You
Chapter 76: Only When A Broken Mirror Joins Together Will I Forgive You
Old Madam Qiao pped the table angrily and said, Shes really a good daughter of her father! How could she bully her own sister like this?!
She is just a princes concubine, while Jinniang is a county mistress. Theyre of the same rank. How can she issue a decree to Jinniang? What a joke!
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Old Madam Qiao and said, Grandma, calm down. Dont be angry.
Old Madam Zheng said, Old Madam Qiao, its fine that you dont obey Consort Qiaos decree.
But you cant ignore Jinniangs future!
After she broke off with Li Yun, did you see any other maning to propose to her?
Now outsiders dont know that Jinniang had once been married and was divorced, but if this matter were to spread out
Before she finished, the hurried voice of a little maid came from outside. Old Madam, Madam, the third son of the Li family, Li Yun won first ce in the Imperial Examination. Mrs. Li and Old Madam Li came to tell the good news, and they also brought a matchmaker with them.
The exam results had just been released, but there was still a pce exam.
Two dayster, the final results would be decided after the pce exam, but winning the first ce in this exam, Li Yun would have at least obtained the second ce position in the pce exam.
The Duchess was a little surprised. Li Yun really got first ce? The Duke said that with his talent, he would pass the imperial exam but he might not rank very high.
Hurry up, invite Li Yun over and call Young Master over to get some luck.
The Duchess smiled.
Old Madam Zheng said dismissively, Hadnt your family already been divided up? Why do you bother to entertain a poor rtive of the Dukes sister-inw?
Twenty years ago, a child from such a poor family would have no chance of bing an official without a nobles rmendation!
Annoyed by her words, Old Madam Qiao said, Even if our family has divided up, they are still the Dukes brother and sister-inw, so the Li family is still a rtive of us!
Fortunately, her daughter-inw wasnt like Old Madam Zheng, but Qiao Ruoshuis bearing was very simr to her maternal grandmothers.
Mrs. Li brought the matchmaker over and said, Old Madam, Duchess, my son passed the imperial examination thanks to County Mistress Jiaan. She is really a lucky star.
Old Madam, Duchess, we were wrong about Ruyust time. I hope you can forgive us.
I swear with my life that if the County Mistress marries into our family, we will never let her be wronged.
I promise there will be no Ruyu or any other woman. I wonder if you would be willing to talk about their marriage again?
Old Madam Zheng really gave the Duchess a headache. She asked Jinniang, Jinniang, this is about your life. No more excuses. Tell me what you think.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Li Yun and said, I think Cousin has known my past. I have no other requirements for my future husband, except that he cant have any concubines.
If we get married, I will definitely fulfill my duties as a wife
Mrs. Li smiled and said, Dont worry. Ruyu has already left.
Old Madam Qiao didnt have any objection either. She just said, In this case, we can discuss their marriage again.
Seeing that they had decided to discuss this matter again, Old Madam Zheng was anxious.
Do you know that Qiao Jinniang has been married before? Moreover, she had even given birth to a child!
Mrs. Li nodded and said, Yes, itsmon for divorced women to re-marry in Changan. Thanks to Jinniang, my son could pass the imperial examination.
Qiao Jinniang was confused. She didnt seem to do anything to help Li Yun pass the Imperial Examination, right?
Old Madam Zheng had nothing to say, so she turned her eyes to Qiao Ruoyi.
It was a pity that she was born by a concubine, but she was still the Dukes daughter, so she could rx her standard a little to let her be Zheng Bos concubine.
Lu Chen had been busy with the illicit salt case and the Imperial Examination these days.
When he finally got time to see Qiao Jinniang, he was called by the Emperor to the Hall of Diligent Governance.
Xie Yun saved you with her life. You should take her as your crown princess.
If you chose her as the crown princess, Ill dere on the Mid-Autumn Festival that Tuaner will be your heir.
Being announced by the Emperor to be Lu Chens heir was of great significance.
Lu Chen said, Father, only Jinniang can be my wife.
But she doesnt want to marry you at all. The Emperor said in a slightly annoyed tone, You are the Crown Prince! You can have the best woman in the country. Why does it have to be her?
Lu Chen said: Father, you dont know how good Jinniang is.
Whats so good about her? Shes only a little good at cooking, isnt she?
When Emperor Huilin said it, he began to miss the dishes of the Tasty Pavilion.
He decided to have Eunuch Quan go out of the imperial pce and pack some dishes back from the Tasty Pavilionter.
Lu Chen said, Tuaner is about to be three years old. Please give him a name, Father.
Emperor Huilin wrote a few words on the decree. Pick one.
Lu Chen nced at the words and said, Ill tell you my decision after I discuss it with Jinniang, Father.
When Lu Chen went to the Duke Mansion, he saw that betrothal gifts were being sent into the Duke Mansion like flowing water. Who took advantage of his busy days to send betrothal gifts over?
The two geese in the betrothal gifts looked like such an eyesore
Lu Chen climbed over the wall and entered the Jin Garden.
Entering Qiao Jinniangs room, she was taking a nap. Her shirt slipped down, revealing her fair shoulders.
Lu Chen walked up to her, gazed at her face, and heard the talk of some little maids from outside.
After so many hurdles, Miss is still engaged to Young Master Li.
I think Young Master Li is a good man. Although he got first ce in the imperial examination, he still didnt forget Miss. Many men would have gotten over their heads after passing the Imperial Examination.
Hope they can make it this time.
The road to happiness is strewn with setbacks..
Lu Chen was annoyed. Is Li Yun better than me? After that disgusting matter about Ruyu, you can still forgive him, why cant you forgive me?
Qiao Jinniang was taking a nap, but she suddenly opened her eyes when she heard Lu Chens words.
Your Royal Highness, youre really capable. Now you can even sneak into a girls room!
Lu Chen approached Qiao Jinniang, but she dodged away in disgust. He said, Yes, since Ive sneaked into your room, I cant be scolded by you for nothing.
Qiao Jinniang pulled off a gold hairpin on her head and said to Lu Chen, I am engaged to be married now. If you dare to touch me, I will die with you!
Lu Chen said coldly, Why do you insist on marrying someone else? Why dont you give me a chance to make up for it?
Jinniang said, I wasnt in a hurry, but you should have seen when you came in that someone came to propose to Ruofeng.
As her elder sister, I should find a husband too.
Lu Chen sat on the chair. Jinniang, that divorce letter is fake, and the handwriting is just an imitation of mine. Since the divorce letter is not real, were still husband and wife.
So you cant marry another man.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, Let me ask you, since we are still husband and wife, then your wife should be the crown princess, but am I?
Lu Chen: If you are willing, I will go back to the imperial pce to ask for an imperial decree right away.
Qiao Jinniang put down the golden hairpin and stared at Lu Chen. Look, its so easy for you to ask for this imperial decree.
Then why were you only willing to make me your concubine back then?
I know, you must be thinking that Im making a fuss just to be the crown princess.
But listen up, I really disdain the position of the crown princess.
Lu Chen, please let me go. Ill be Li Yuns wife and you will still be the Crown Prince. Wouldnt it be nice if we never disturb each other again?
Lu Chen said, No, its not nice at all. Youre still my wife. I can wait for you to forgive me, but you are not allowed to marry someone else.
Qiao Jinniang got up, walked to the dressing table, and threw a mirror on the ground. The bronze mirror fell to the ground and broke
Only when a broken mirror joins together will I forgive you..
Chapter 77 - Questioning Lu Chen
Chapter 77: Questioning Lu Chen
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The maidservants outside heard the sound of mirror breaking and hurried in. When they saw Lu Chen, they were dumbfounded
Why is His Royal Highness here?
Lu Chen nced at the fragments of the bronze mirror on the ground, frowned and said to Qiao Jinniang, Tuaner will be three years old soon. Father has thought of several names for him. Take a look. Which one do you like?
Qiao Jinniang nced at the note that Lu Chen took out and thought for a while. This one, Lu Xi.
Will youe to Tuaners birthday banquet?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes.
Although she didnt like pce banquets, she wouldnt miss Tuaners birthday banquet.
After Lu Chen left, Qiao Jinniang said to the maids, Dont tell anyone that the Crown Prince came here.
Hongling took the lead to respond. Yes, Miss.
After Lu Chen left the Duke Mansion, he went to find Zhou Siming for a drink.
Watching Lu Chen finish one bottle of liquor after another, Zhou Siming said to Lu Chen, Your Royal Highness, the pce exam is tomorrow. If you are drunk, Im afraid itll be inappropriate.
Is Li Yun better than me? But he is such an average-looking and average-talented man!
Lu Chen said as he finished another bottle.
Zhou Siming said, If Your Royal Highness wants a woman, just ask His Majesty to issue an imperial decree. Why do you have to torture yourself like this?
Lu Chen was slightly drunk and said, You dont know her. She is very stubborn. If I force her, she may even kill herself.
You dont know that she already dared to bring a group of servants to beat a hooligan and almost killed him when she was only fifteen.
When she was six or seven months pregnant, she held the door bolt and fought with the refugees. She is a very tough woman.
Zhou Siming:
He couldnt believe that such a violent girl could make his noble cousin so miserable to the extent that he had to drown his sorrows in alcohol.
The one who came to propose to Qiao Ruofeng was a rtive from Old Madam Qiaos natal family.
He came to Changan to visit Old Madam during the Mid-Autumn Festival and happened to fall in love with Qiao Ruofeng.
He was a merchant, and it was not easy for him to marry a noble girl, so he didnt care that Qiao Ruofeng had been in prison.
As for the matter of Prince Mediocre, Old Madam and Qiao Ruofeng didnt tell anyone about it, so very few people knew about it.
After the Qiao Family was divided up, Qiao Ruofeng and Jinniang were not family anymore. So what Jinniang told Lu Chen was just an excuse.
Old Madam Qiao said to the Dhess with a happy smile, Now two girls of our family have got fiancs. The next one will be your son. Select a good girl for him.
The Duchess said, Mother, my son is only sixteen years old!
Hes already an adult. The Duke married you when he was sixteen years old, Old Madam Qiao said to the Duchess.
Xiaoer, I know what youve done for this family over the years.
I know you still cant forgive the Duke because of what happened to Jinniang, but that b*tch has been dead for almost a year, so its time for you to reconcile with the Duke.
The Dukes birthday banquet is just around the corner, and hes only thirty-six.
If you keep him from touching you, other women may take advantage of this. Youre a grown-up. Dont be childish, okay?
The Duchess lowered her eyes and said, Mother, I see.
Old Madam Qiao turned the Buddha beads and said, I hope Li Yun can rank among the top three in the pce exam. Then Jinniangs wedding will be grander.
However, I heard that the Crown Prince would be in charge of this pce exam. I hope he wont pick on Li Yun because of Jinniang.
After the pce exam, Li Yun was full of sweat.
Only after this exam did he realize how lucky he was to win first ce in the previous exam.
As everyone knew, the Imperial Examination this time was held to recruit talents for the Crown Prince, so many talented people attended it.
The reputation of the famous Qingming Academy was really well-deserved, and the talent of its students was far above his own.
Emperor Huilin who was sitting on a high seat asked, Where is Li Yun?
Li Yun knelt down and said, Your Majesty, Im here.
Emperor Huilin asked, In the Imperial Examination this time, Prince Mediocre delivered meals to you. All the examinees had eaten the food and had diarrhea, but only you didnt eat it. Why?
Li Yun said, Your Majesty, I know County Mistress Jiaan very well. I saw the logo of Guest Weing Building on the package of the food delivered to us, and Guest Weing Building is the opponent of Tasty Pavilion, so I didnt eat the food.
Emperor Huilin nodded. Then what did you eat during the three-day examination?
Li Yun took out two pieces of cakes from his pocket and said, Your Majesty, this is the pastry County Mistress Jiaan made for me to eat for the Imperial Examination. It tastes very good, and I wasnt hungry after eating it.
Lu Chen stared at the pastry and had a headache!
Emperor Huilin motioned to the eunuch beside him to bring the pastry up to him and took a bite. The aroma of glutinous rice melted on the tip of his tongue as soon as it entered his mouth. He said, This pastry is not bad.
Lu Chen exined to Emperor Huilin, This pastry is called the Champion Cake in the South, because the champion of the previous Imperial Examination also ate it during the exam, so when he returned to his hometown after winning the first ce, he granted this pastry the name of Champion Cake.
After he finished speaking, Lu Chen looked at Li Yun and said, Unfortunately, ording to Mr. Lis discourse on politics You didnt do quite well in this pce exam. Im afraid you cant be the champion this time.
She wanted to be Li Yuns wife? Even if he cherished talents, he couldnt rx the standard too much and let Li Yun be the champion!
Li Yun cupped his hands and said, Youre right, Your Royal Highness. Ill study diligently and make persistent efforts.
Lu Chen grunted indifferently.
After the pce exam, the rankings would be announced on the very day, and the champion would parade through the streets on horseback.
Therefore, on this day, the private rooms of Tasty Pavilion were even more crowded with women, who all wanted to watch the champion parade.
Qiao Jinniang looked down in the No.1 private room, but didnt see Li Yun.
Fulu stood on tiptoe and looked. Why is Li Yun not among them? Did my imperial cousin pick on him? Li Yun got first ce in the previous examination, but why is he not even second ce in the pce exam?
Qiao Jinniang frowned. She thought too well of Lu Chen. She thought that at least Lu Chen would not use his power to pick on Li Yun.
Yuyan hurried over and said, Congrattions, Miss, Young Master Li won eighth ce in the pce exam!
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands. Li Yun was first ce in the previous exam, but only eighth this time?
She didnt believe that Lu Chen didnt do anything.
Jinniang. Seeing Jinniang suddenly be angry, Fulu hurriedly chased after her.
Qiao Jinniang went straight to Duke Rongs Mansion, and Junior Duke Rong weed her warmly. Miss Qiao, how did you make the Champion Cake? His Majesty really liked it!
Qiao Jinniang said, If you like to eat it, I will make it for you another day.
Junior Duke Rong:
After a long pause, Junior Duke Rong said helplessly to Qiao Jinniang, There is a banquet in the imperial pce, and His Royal Highness cant get away, so he had someone send Tuaner back.
Qiao Jinniang said to Junior Duke Rong, Can you get me into the East Pce?
Yes, but
Qiao Jinniang said to Junior Duke Rong. Please help me, Your Highness.
She must not ruin Li Yuns future. If he lost the championship because of her, she would feel guilty toward him the rest of her life.
After the banquet, His Majesty would give these examinees official positions, so she must be quick.
Qiao Jinniang disguised herself as a pce maid in the East Pce and entered Lu Chens study with Junior Duke Rong.
Lu Chen was writing the official positions to be granted to the examinees, and when he saw Qiao Jinniange in, he was a little surprised. Why are you here? Im very busy today. Ill talk to you tomorrow.
Qiao Jinniang waited until Junior Duke Rong went out and went straight to the point.. If you hate me,e at me. Why do you have to ruin Li Yuns future?
Chapter 78 - The Li Family Annulled Engagement for Marriage
Chapter 78: The Li Family Annulled Engagement for Marriage
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Blue veins burst out on the back of Lu Chens hand. Did Li Yunin to you?
No, its just that he was first ce in the previous exam, but why was he only the eighth ce in the pce exam?
Qiao Jinniang said angrily, Your Majesty is so wise. How could he allow you to mess around with state affairs?
Lu Chens throat was sore. Qiao Jinniang, do you think you are so peerlessly beautiful that I cant do without you?
Do I need to y such a dirty trick on a minor schr just for you? Are you a fairy? What makes you think you can make me ruin the Imperial Examination, which is the foundation of the country?
Qiao Jinniang trembled with anger. You, you dare to talk back to me?
Lu Chen taunted, Do you think you were still Miss Qiao in Linan and I was still your husband who married into your family?
When Qiao Jinniang saw the look in Lu Chens eyes, she suddenly thought of the scene she saw outside the mansion of the Right Prime Minister where Lu Chen looked so awe-inspiring.
Qiao Jinniang immediately calmed down. Then Id like to ask Your Royal Highness to do what you say. Dont pick on Li Yun on the allocation of official positions.
When Qiao Jinniang walked out of the study, she almost bumped into the three people outside the door, who were the Duke, Li Yun, and Li Yuns father who came to thank the Crown Prince.
The door of the study was open, so the three of them had heard what they said just now.
The Dukes legs went soft after he saw Qiao Jinniang. Jinniang?
Qiao Jinniang saluted. Father, Uncle Li, Cousin.
Li Yun bowed his head in shame and said, Cousin, you misunderstood His Royal Highness. He didnt pick on me. I didnt do well in the exam indeed, but His Royal Highness made an exception to let me enter Hanlin Academy.
ording to rules, only the top three of the pce exam can directly enter Hanlin Academy after the exam.
Duke Qiao dragged Qiao Jinniang into the study, motioned her to kneel down and said, Your Royal Highness, I didnt educate my daughter well. If she offended His Highness, please punish her.
Qiao Jinniang had no choice but to kneel down and said with her head lowered, Your Royal Highness, I know I was wrong. Please forgive me.
She counted secretly in her heart, and when she counted to eight, Lu Chen still didnt let her get up, so she looked up at Lu Chen.
However, Lu Chen was indifferent. How could she think of him this way? He couldnt forgive her easily.
The Imperial Examination had been started only a hundred years ago. It was the fruit of the efforts of three generations of people. How could he manipte the Imperial Examination?
Qiao Jinniang had never knelt on such hard ground for such a long time. Her knees ached, and she couldnt help but move her knees slightly.
Seeing her small movements, Lu Chen said, Get up.
When Qiao Jinniang got up, she almost fell. The Duke red at her and said, Your Royal Highness, well take our leave.
Lu Chen nodded. Okay.
The Duke entered the Duke Mansion with a ck face and snapped at Qiao Jinniang, Get on your knees! Why didnt you tell me the truth? You even dared to pretend to be a pce maid and enter the East Pce, and speak to His Royal Highness like that! Are you trying to kill our Qiao family?
Qiao Jinniang knelt down and said, Father, if youre afraid that I will implicate the Duke Anyuan Mansion, you can sever ties with me.
The Duke said, What are you talking about? You are my daughter. How can I sever ties with you? So His Royal Highness was your husband when you were in Linan?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes.
Then you still let your mother and me find a husband for you?
Qiao Jinniang raised her head and said, Why not? He wants to demote me from his wife to his concubine and wants to keep a lot of concubines. Why should I tolerate it? Why cant I marry another man?
The Duke said helplessly, If he was just an ordinary prince, I could help you, but hes the Crown Prince!
Qiao Jinniang said disappointedly, So, this is thepensation Father talked about?
Duke Anyuan sighed and said, Jinniang, although our family looks prosperous, it will copse if Im just slightly careless.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont worry, Father. The Emperor and the Queen have already known about this matter. They have already allowed me to marry someone else freely, so you can rest at ease.
Back in the Jin Garden, Qiao Jinniang went to bed after dinner.
After closing her eyes, she tossed over and couldnt fall asleep. When she closed her eyes, her mind was full of Lu Chens disappointed and aggrieved eyes.
She didnt sleep well.
Early in the morning, Mrs. Li came to annul the engagement.
Mrs. Li said to Old Madam Qiao, Old Madam, I didnt know that Jinniang had such good fortune. Yuner is not worthy of her. That stupid child, he didnt even tell us about it.
Old Madam Qiao said, We should have told you about it.
Mrs. Li brought a lot of silk and satin and went to the Jin Garden to thank Qiao Jinniang in person.
Yuner passed the Imperial Examination thanks to your Champion Cake. Your kindness will be remembered by the Li family for a lifetime. However, Yuner still has two brothers and our family is not a noble family. It is entirely because of His Majestys favor that we are where we are today. Yuner is not worthy of you.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Auntie, youre too modest. Were still rtives.
After Qiao Jinniangs engagement was annulled, the Zheng family quickly came over like flies smelling meat.
Jinniang didnt want to see the Zheng family, so she went to Tasty Pavilion with the excuse that she had something to tend to in Tasty Pavilion.
When she arrived at Tasty Pavilion, she heard that Junior Duke Rong was there, so she went into the kitchen and nned to make a crab feast for Junior Duke Rong as a thank-you gift for helping her enter the East Pce.
The period before and after the Mid-Autumn Festival, crab was the most delicious, and hairy crabs were shipped from Taihu Lake every day.
Qiao Jinniang made Wine Preserved Crabs two days ago.
In the No.1 private room.
Junior Duke Rong said, Seventh Brother, I heard that the Li family has annulled the engagement. And Li Yun was almost beaten to death by his father
My father also beat me, but never this hard.
Lu Chen held the wine bottle and took a sip.
At the door, Bajiao came in with a dish and was stunned when he saw Lu Chen.
He ced a cup of Crab Stuffed Oranges in front of each of Junior Duke Rong, Lin Mo and Zhou Siming.
Only Lu Chen didnt have one because Lu Chen wasnt here just now.
Junior Duke Rong asked curiously, What is this? We didnt order this dish, did we?
This is our bosss thank-you gift to you. Our Tasty Pavilion has recentlyunched a lot of dishes made of crabs. These are all new products and are now presented to you, Your Highness.
Lin Mo handed his crab-stuffed orange to Lu Chen.
Looking at the orange in the white porcin cup, Junior Duke Rong took off the top of the orange, and the fragrance of crab mixed with the aroma of wine instantly wafted in the air. What is this?
Lu Chen said, Crab-stuffed Orange is made of crab meat, crab roe, pork, and orange, plus Kuaiji Yellow Wine.
Junior Duke Rong took a spoonful with a delicate small silver spoon and said, Wow, this is simply the most delicious food in the world.
Before long, Huixiang served a dark gray crab.
Junior Duke Rong stepped back and said, Is the crab still alive?
Huixiang said, Your Highness, this crab is not alive. It is called Wine Preserved Crab. If Crab-stuffed Orange is the most delicious food in the world, then the Wine Preserved Crab our boss made is definitely a heavenly dish that can only be found at an immortals banquet.
Huixiang opened the crab shell with a tool, and the aroma of wine came out, revealing the crab meat inside.
Junior Duke Rong looked at the ck crab paste and the golden crab roe and didnt dare to eat it, but seeing Lu Chen eating it without hesitation, he decided to bite the bullet to taste it
After Junior Duke Rong swallowed it, he blinked and said, Seventh Brother, since Li Yun has broken off the engagement with Miss Qiao, can I marry her?
Chapter 79 - Portrait of Jinniangs Ex-husband
Chapter 79: Portrait of Jinniangs Ex-husband
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Zhou Siming smiled and said, Is it really so delicious? Isnt it just a Wine Preserved Crab? I ate it when I was in the South
Junior Duke Rong picked up a piece of ck crab paste with his chopsticks and put it into Zhou Simings mouth.
Zhou Siming pursed his lips and said, Since His Majesty and Aunt have already allowed Miss Qiao to marry someone else. I think I can marry her too?
Lu Chen indifferently nced at the two of them and said, Unfortunately, you two have both got concubine maids, so youre not worthy of Jinniang.
Junior Duke Rong said, Dont you have them? Oh, yes, you dont
Thest soup dumpling was delivered by Qiao Jinniang herself.
Entering the room, Jinniang paused when she saw Lu Chen.
She put the little bamboo steamer on the table, opened the lid and said,
This is Crab-roe Soup Dumpling. Would you like some, Your Highness?
Under the threatening stare of Lu Chen opposite him, Junior Duke Rong took a soup dumpling into his bowl and took a bite. The juice of the crab roe immediately came out, and it was so delicious.
He took another bite, and it was the delicious and slightly sweet crab roe and crab meat
Junior Duke Rong sighed. If I could marry you, I would be willing to give up my title of nobility. Some people are just blind.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at Junior Duke Rong. You must be kidding, Your Highness.
Lu Chen wiped his hands with the handkerchief on the side and said to Qiao Jinniang, If these three dishes can be served at Xiers birthday banquet, it would be great.
Qiao Jinniang grunted in response. You know how to make them. Just tell the royal chef how to make the dishes.
Lu Cheng found that Qiao Jinniangs attitude towards him had eased a lot, but it made him even more depressed.
He would rather Qiao Jinniang be angry with him and scold him than treat him so calmly.
It was as if he was a stranger to her.
Hey, you guys are upying my private room again. I smelled the fragrance from far away.
Fulu sat next to Junior Duke Rong. Whats in this orange? Can oranges be a dish?
Give me something to eat. Im starving.
Guess what good show I saw in the imperial pce just now!
I thought Id be able toe out after greeting my grandmother, but who knows I havent had breakfast yet.
Qiao Jinniang put the Crab-roe Soup Dumpling in front of Fulu and said, Help yourself, Your Highness.
When Fulu was eating, she didnt speak, which was dining etiquette. But after she finishing eating it, she said,
Today, Prince Mediocre brought his two concubines into the imperial pce. Qiao Ruoshui hahahaha.
Junior Duke Rong said, If youugh like this, no man will marry you in the future.
Fulu clutched her stomach and continued, Qiao Ruoshui and Concubine Jian started a fight in front of the Empress Dowager and wouldnt give in to each other.
Concubine Jian couldnt beat Qiao Ruoshui in an argument, so she pretended to have a headache, but Qiao Ruoshui insisted that Concubine Jian was feigning illness.
Junior Duke Rong said, That Concubine Jian was already very pretentious even before she was married. Then what happened?
Fulu said, Consort Xian and the Empress Dowager both wanted to summon an imperial physician, but Qiao Ruoshui said that the imperial physician they summoned was not trustworthy and would be partial to Concubine Jian. She only believed in the head of the imperial physicians who was famous for being upright.
The Empress Dowager didnt want to offend Duke Anyuan Mansion and she was really annoyed by Qiao Ruoshui, so she summoned the head of the imperial physicians and said she would severely punish Qiao Ruoshui if Concubine Jian was diagnosed as sick.
However, the head of the imperial physicians found that Concubine Jian had been pregnant for three months, but she was married to Prince Mediocre only a month ago.
If it were another imperial physician, he might have concealed the fact for Concubine Jian, but the head of the imperial physicians never lied.
Qiao Ruoshui insisted that Concubine Jian fornicated with another man and got pregnant.
Concubine Jians father, the Right Prime Minister, had been put into jail but Concubine Jian was still Prince Mediocres concubine, so Consort Xian echoed Qiao Ruoshuis sentiment, trying to get rid of Concubine Jian.
But although the Right Prime Minister is gone, Prince Lu and Imperial Consort Jian are still there.
Imperial Consort Jian never disobeyed the Empress Dowager and Consort Xian, but this time she came out to defend her niece.
She said her maids saw Concubine Jian and Prince Mediocre making love in the imperial pce with their own eyes, and hahahaha.
When Qiao Jinniang heard what Fulu said, she only knew felt harems were tooplicated. Qiao Ruoshui and Concubine Jian were only two concubines, but they could cause such big trouble
Junior Duke Rong said, What did she say? Hurry up and say it?
She said Prince Mediocres penis was as small as a teapot mouth, not even an inch long.
The maid originally thought that a teapot mouth couldnt make Concubine Jian pregnant, but it turned out she was wrong! Hahaha.
Lu Chen nced at Fulu and said, How can you, an unmarried girl, talk about this kind of matter?
Fulu clutched her stomach andughed. As soon as Imperial Consort Jian said those words, my mother asked me to go.
But I saw the letters Prince Mediocre wrote to Concubine Jian before they were married. Oh, the letters are really sappy.
And in one letter, Prince Mediocre mistook Concubine Jians name as Miaomiao. Qin Miaomiao is doomed!
Zhou Siming frowned and said, Your Highness, speak carefully. This concerns Miss Qins reputation.
Fulu said, Okay, then I wontugh at Qin Miaomiao. Lets justugh at the teapot mouth, hahaha. Im afraid that tomorrow, the whole Changan will know that Prince Mediocres penis is as small as a teapot mouth.
I will never drink tea in the future.
Qiao Jinniang wondered. Why teapot mouth?
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, You really dont understand it, or are you faking it? Even I, who havent been married, understand it.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. I really dont understand it.
Lu Chen said to her, You dont have to understand it. Dont listen to her nonsense.
Fulu said, Poor Jinniang, may I take you to a brothel to learn some knowledge?
No, its not necessary.
Just as Fulu said, except for preparing for the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Everyone was talking about the teapot mouth these days.
Some young girls didnt know what it meant.
But older women all made fun of it.
Consort Xian was so angry that she vented on Qiao Ruoshui and punished her every day.
The day after tomorrow was the Mid-Autumn Festival Banquet, but Consort Xian grounded Qiao Ruoshui.
In Prince Mediocres mansion, Qiao Ruoshuiy prostrate on the table and cried aggrievedly.
Why dont they let me go to the Mid-Autumn Festival Banquet? That slut hooked up with His Highness before marriage, and even when she was pregnant, she gave her maid to His Highness to stop him froming to see me. But why is everyone ming me?
Qiao Ruoshuis mammy said, Consort, please dont cry. Concubine Jian is pregnant with His Highness child, so no one dares to do anything to her.
If you want to be favored by His Highness, you have to rely on the Duke Mansion.
With tears in her eyes, Qiao Ruoshui said, But my parents are unwilling to help me.
The mammy said, Isnt there still the Zheng family? Old Madam Zheng has always loved you the most. If you help Zheng Bo marry Second Miss, the Zheng family can torture Second Miss, and by then it can help restore the Zheng family to its old days glory, and after that they can provide you with great support.
Qiao Ruoshui felt what the mammy said made sense. Didnt Qiao Jinniang hate concubines?
Then she would make Qiao Jinniang marry Cousin Zheng Bo who had a lot of concubines!
Mommy, but how should I do it?
The mammy said, Dont you have the portrait of Qiao Jinniangs ex-husband that she painted herself? It doesnt matter if you cant find her ex-husband. Just find a man who looks like the person in the painting
Chapter 80 - Qiao Jinniang Had A Husband And A Child in Linan
Chapter 80: Qiao Jinniang Had A Husband And A Child in Linan
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang had been preparing gifts for Tuaner in the past few days. She had made a lot of small clothes and still wanted to make a few stuffed dolls for Tuaner.
She couldnt apany Tuaner at all times, but it would be good if these stuffed dolls could apany him.
The Duchess and Qiao Ruoyun entered the Jin Garden together. Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was still making childrens clothes, she sighed. s, are you missing Tuaner?
Qiao Jinniang had thought that the Duke had already told her mother about her real rtionship with the Crown Prince, but now it seemed that the Duchess was still in the dark about this.
My poor girl, the Li family broke faith with us and annulled the marriage. What should you do now? the Duchess said with tears, The Li family is really hateful.
Qiao Ruoyun said in a low voice, Mother, Jinniang should have married into Duke Qin Mansion. I can return the marriage to her
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly raised her head and looked at Qiao Ruoyun. Sister, no!
The Duchess also said to Ruoyun, What are you talking about? How can you return your marriage to her?
s, neither of us is lucky enough to meet a good man.
Qiao Jinniang asked the Duchess, Mother, have you ever thought about divorcing Father?
The Duchess gently stroked Qiao Jinniangs hair and said, Its useless even if I think about it. I just hope you and your sisters can live happily and freely.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Yes, Mother.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Why did youe over today, Sister?
Ruoyun smiled and said, Dont you know that tomorrow is Dads birthday party? I came back to help Mother with the banquet.
Qiao Jinniang had heard about the birthday party some time ago.
However, after knowing what happened between her father and mother from Qiao Ruoyi, she didnt n to prepare a birthday present for her father.
She even forgot that tomorrow is the Dukes birthday.
The Duchess said, Oh, Im so busy with the birthday banquet these days and even forgot to tell you about it.
Your Father doesnt want a high-profile birthday banquet, so we just invited our rtives, friends and some of your fathers colleagues.
Ive prepared the clothes and jewelry for you and your sisters to wear tomorrow, which are the same. Unfortunately, Ruoshui was grounded by Consort Xian because of the teapot mouth thing.
Qiao Ruoyun tittered. Teapot mouth
Qiao Jinniang became even more curious. Even Ruoyun knew the meaning of teapot mouth, and the entire city wasughing at it, but she didnt know what it meant.
Although Duke Anyuan didnt want a high-profile banquet, there were still four or five tables of female guests.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt imagine how grand the banquet would be if it was a high-profile one.
When the guests saw Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi, they were full of praise, but it was only apliment on the surface.
Qin Miaomiao came over and said to Qiao Jinniang, Its been a long time. Miss Qiao, you became even more beautiful.
Qiao Jinniang noticed that Qin Miaomiao didnt look very good. She must have suffered because of Prince Mediocres letter. You too, Miss Qin.
Someone suddenly shouted out loud from outside. Let me in! Qiao Jinniang, the daughter of Duke Anyuan, abandoned her husband and child!
Tuaner,e on, call Mother!
Qiao Jinniang, youve already been married in Linan and have a husband. Why do you still pretend to be an unmarried girl and get engaged to another man?
Im your Second Misss husband. Who the hell are you? How dare you stop me?
Qiao Jinniang didnt hear the voices outside quite clearly, but she heard something like husband and what?
Mrs. Zheng said, Oh, I hear someone is saying he is Jinniangs husband? Come on, lets go to the door and take a look.
The Duchess frowned and went to the gate of Duke Mansion, and saw a group of guards stopping a man and a child who was about three years old.
The man and the child both looked very unsightly.
It was crowded with people watching the fun at the gate.
Mrs. Zheng followed out and said, Phew, this must be Jinniangs son. He looks exactly like Jinniang!
Qiao Jinniang said, Aunt, find a doctor to check your eyes!
This kid looked very ugly, with tiny eyes, a t nose and very thick lips, which wrinkled together.
After seeing Qiao Jinniang, the man hurried forward and said,
Jiner, Im your honey. You are really heartless. After you became the Dukes daughter, you just abandoned us!
The ugly man secretly pinched the little dirty boy in front of him.
The child pounced on Qiao Jinniang and cried, Mommy, boohoo, Mommy.
Qiao Jinniang stepped back.
Mrs. Zheng said sarcastically, So Jinniang was already married in Linan? Why didnt you tell us earlier?
This is the Dukes son-inw and grandson. Come on in!
Qiao Ruoyun held Qin Miaomiaos hand nervously and said, Sister, what should I do now?
The Duchess almost fainted. She pointed at the ugly man. It was you who divorced my daughter. How do you have the nerve toe at her?
Qiao Jinniang supported the Duchess and said, Mother, he is not my ex-husband.
The ugly man said crossly, Of course I am
Then he took out a portrait and said, This is the portrait of Qiao Jinniangs husband who she drew herself. Look, dont my son and I look exactly the same as the person in the portrait?
Seeing the painting in the mans hand, Qiao Jinniang covered her face in shame. She always knew that her painting skills were terrible
But she didnt expect her poor painting skill would cause her such a big trouble.
She drew the painting for the dark guards in the Duke Mansion to find Lu Chen not long after she returned.
The man continued to shout, Jinniang, how could you be so cruel to abandon us?
Mrs. Zheng echoed, Yes, Jinniang, how could you be so cruel as to abandon your son? Hes still so young. Look how dirty his face is.
Among the nobledies who came today, only Mrs. Zheng dared to say these words.
However, the people outside watching the fun began to curse.
How can the Dukes daughter be so despicable? When she gained wealth and power, she just abandoned her husband and child!
Oh my god, she abandoned her husband and child! Tsk, fortunately, the Li family broke off the engagement with her!
How can an aristocratic woman do such a shameless thing?!
The ugly man continued. Qiao Jinniang, if you dont admit it, we can invite someone from Linan to prove it.
You wont be able to abandon us and live your happy and rich life.
Old Madam Zheng said to Old Madam Qiao from behind, Mrs. Qiao, as you can see, Jinniangs reputation has been ruined. Im her maternal grandmother after all. Im willing to let her marry Zheng Bo as a concubine
How could Old Madam Qiao not figure out who arranged this show out today. She simply said, Thank you.
Old Madam Qiao had thought that since Jinniang had a child with the Crown Prince, it would be best for her to marry into the East Pce.
But she didnt want to force Jinniang to do that.
Firstly, she felt guilty to this granddaughter, and secondly, if she forced Jinniang to marry into the East Pce, she would only be an enemy of the Duke Mansion.
But she didnt expect the Zheng family to arrange such a show.
What happened between Jinniang and the Crown Prince couldnt be kept secret any longer, and the royal family had got to get Jinniang in the right ce
Chapter 81 - My Ex-husband Is His Royal Highness
Chapter 81: My Ex-husband Is His Royal Highness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Old Madam Zheng said with joy on her face, Youre wee. I am Jinniangs grandmother after all.
Even if she can only be Boers concubine, as her grandmother, I will protect her!
Hearing her words, the nobledies around talked in a low voice.
Mrs. Yu, whose husband had just been promoted, recalled that her son Yu An wanted to propose to Jinniang.
Fortunately, he didnt seed in Yuanxi Temple that day.
Miss Yu said to Mrs. Yu proudly, Mother, Qiao Jinniang looked down on Brother and I back then. You saw it, right?
Fortunately, she rejected Brother. Otherwise, shell be a disgrace of our family!
Mrs. Yu nodded and said, Mrs. Li is really smart. Perhaps she had long discovered what kind of a woman Qiao Jinniang is.
Hearing their words, Mrs. Li exined, Jinniang had been married and had a child indeed, but she had long told us. The annulment of the marriage has nothing to do with this matter.
Mrs. Yu taunted, Oh? Really? Then why did you want to annul it?
Not only were themon people gathered at the door, but there were also some maids from the families of dignitaries and nobles who also came to inquire about the news.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang refused to admit it, the man pinched the child again and said, Come on, ask your mother to hug you.
The child, whose facial features were wrinkled into a ball, cried and broke free from the pull of the servants, and shouted loudly, Mother! Mother, give me a hug. Im your son.
You are talking nonsense. This is my mother.
Tuaner ran towards Qiao Jinniang in a bright little red robe.
Arge group of imperial maids and guards followed behind.
The little rice ball had just recovered from a serious illness and was looking much better.
Qiao Jinniang opened her arms and hugged the little rice ball in her arms. Good son.
The little rice ball ced his head on Qiao Jinniangs shoulder, rubbed against it and said with a smile, Mommy, you smell so sweet.
Qiao Jinniang said to the guards of the Duke Mansion, Tie up these two people who pretended to be the Crown Prince and the little imperial grandson and came to nder me. Send them to the Ministry of Public Security for an investigation.
The Duchess was stunned, and couldnt help recalling when the imperial grandson had just returned to Changan, he often called her and Ruoshui Mother.
The Duchess suddenly figured out everything. It turned out that the Crown Prince was the jerk who divorced her daughter.
Mrs. Zheng hurriedly said, nder? Pretend to be the Crown Prince and the little imperial grandson? Qiao Jinniang, this is your own son!
Qiao Jinniang arranged the bangs of the little rice ball in her arms and said, I know who my son is. Aunt, Im afraid you dont know my ex-husband is the Crown Prince and my son is the little imperial grandson, do you?
As soon as she said so, it was dead silent and then there was an uproar.
Who would have imagined that this long-lost daughter of the Duke was actually the wife of the Crown Prince?
Of course Mrs. Zheng didnt know about it.
Not only Mrs. Zheng, but Second Madam also almost fainted.
Second Madam hated Prince Mediocre even more now. If Prince Mediocre hadnt made use of Qiao Ruofeng, given the fact that Ruofeng and Jinniang were on good terms before, she wouldnt have only married a merchant!
Old Madam Zhengs expression changed, and she said tteringly, Oh, is this Tuaner? I miss you so much, so does your mother. Let Grandma hug you.
Qiao Jinniang hugged the little rice ball tightly and secretly eximed that her grandmothers face had changed too quickly.
Qin Miaomiao clenched Qiao Ruoyuns hand and said, I guessed right.
Mrs. Zheng snapped, Qiao Jinniang, how dare you get engaged to Li Yun with your husband as His Royal Highness? Were you trying to cuckold His Royal Highness?
I and the Crown Prince are already divorced!
Qiao Jinniang said casually, His Majesty and Her Majesty have allowed me to marry someone else. Do you have a problem with it?
Mrs. Zheng was relieved. Since they had already divorced, it meant that Qiao Jinniang was not favored by the Crown Prince
Although she had borne the imperial grandson, the Emperor was still strong, and it would still be a long time before the Crown Princes enthronement.
In such circumstances, this imperial grandson might not necessarily be the future emperor.
When he grew older, he might not be so close to Qiao Jinniang.
Tuaner hugged Qiao Jinniang and said, Mother, why did that boy call you Mother? You are my mother.
Qiao Jinniang pinched Tuaners little nose. Someone wanted to set me up. Youre my one and only baby.
Old Madam Qiao took the lead to salute Tuaner. Little Imperial Grandson.
The people present saluted him one after another, and Tuaner casually waved his little hand. Arise.
Still holding Tuaner, Qiao Jinniang saluted the Duchess and Old Madam Qiao. Mother, Im sorry. I had been hiding it from you because I didnt want to make you worry. Sorry for shocking you.
The Duchess smiled and said, No, its great that you found Tuaner. No wonder I felt so close to him at the first sight of him.
It just so happened that Duke Anyuan and his colleagues had just returned from court.
Duke Anyuan had heard the news from his servant on the way home, and he was relieved to hear that Qiao Jinniang had turned the two people to the Ministry of Public Security.
But his colleagues hadplicated feelings when they heard about this.
Duke Qin really hated his mother now. She abused Qiao Ruoyun back then and offended the Qiao Family badly. Now with the little imperial grandson, the Qiao family was definitely on the rise!
Qiao Jinniang would be the Crown Princes second concubine at least.
Congrattions, Your Excellency.
Thinking about Qiao Jinniangs attitude towards Lu Chen, Duke Anyuan said helplessly, No, were going to lose our Absolution Token.
After Duke Anyuan came back, a banquet was held, and Qiao Jinniang sat next to Tuaner.
The Duchess hurriedly ordered maids to serve Tuaner his dinner.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, no need. Tuaner could already eat by himself when he was two years old.
Tuaner picked up a small spoon and babbled, Yes, Im a good baby. I should eat by myself.
The Duchess looked at her youngest son, a six-year-old boy, but he still needed two maids and a mammy to chase after him to feed him. What a shame.
Old Madam Qiao said with a smile, The little imperial grandson is very well-behaved. There are very few children who can obediently eat by themselves.
Qiao Jinniang said, He didnt want to eat by himself when he was two years old, but after I starved him a few times, he surrendered.
At that time, Lu Chen felt that she doted on Tuaner too much, and Tuaner didnt want to eat obediently when it was time for dinner.
Every time she finished feeding Tuaner, the dishes would go cold, so he made Tuaner eat by himself. If Tuaner refused, he would starve him once.
In less than three days, Tuaner was able to eat by himself. Judging from the way he ate by himself now, Lu Chen must have not spoiled him when he was in the East Pce.
When Mrs. Zheng heard this, she was surprised. Jinniang, you dare to starve the little imperial grandson? He is your son! How could you be so ruthless?
No wonder His Royal Highness wants to divorce you!
It must be for the sake of your father that he didnt punish you!
Mrs. Zheng didnt know why the people here were so afraid of Qiao Jinniang.
She was abandoned and disliked by the Crown Prince!
Chapter 82 - He Doesnt Like Mommy Anymore
Chapter 82: He Doesnt Like Mommy Anymore
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Duchess said angrily, Sister-inw, Tuaner is Jinniangs son. How is it possible for her to abuse him? As for whether the Crown Prince will punish her or not, its not up to you!
After being scolded, Mrs. Zheng finally shut up and awkwardly ate the food in front of her.
In the afternoon, Qiao Jinniang took Tuaner to the Jin Garden to have him try on the clothes she made for him.
The little rice ball tugged at Qiao Jinniangs sleeve and said, Mother, what about Daddys clothes?
Qiao Jinniang pinched the little rice balls face and said, You like Daddy so much?
The little rice ball sighed. No, if you dont make clothes for Daddy, he will snatch mine again. The dough figurine you bought for mest time was snatched by Daddy.
Qiao Jinniang said, No, Daddy has divorced Mommy, so he wont grab your clothes again. Besides, your clothes dont fit him.
Tuaner held a doll in his hand and said, But these dolls, Daddy will snatch them away. The little bunny you made for me was snatched by him.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont worry. Daddy doesnt like Mommy anymore. He wont snatch your stuff again.
In the study of the East Pce that day, Lu Chen had already made it clear that he despised her, so he would definitely not snatch Tuaners doll.
The little rice ball smiled happily. Daddy said that I have a new name. Its called Lu Xi, which is from the Book of Songs.
The corners of Qiao Jinniangs lips curved slightly and she said, Oh, Tuaner knows a lot.
Tuaner said proudly, Yes! I can already recite the Book of Songs!
Qiao Jinniang thought Tuaner was bragging. When he left Linan, he couldnt even speak clearly. How was it possible for him to recite the Book of Songs now?
The little rice ball wagged his head rhythmically and began to recite a poem in the Book of Songs
Qiao Jinniang was surprised to find that he recited it correctly. Who taught you this?
I went to find my cousins to y with me, but they all had to study in school, so I read articles with them.
Qiao Jinniang rubbed the little rice balls head and said, Tuaner is awesome, but do you know the meaning of the word Xi?
Tuaner shook his head.
Qiao Jinniang said, It means dawn and implies new life.
You will no longer be the young master of Myriad Taste in Linan, but the imperial grandson Lu Xi.
The little rice ball hugged Qiao Jinniang, kissed her face and said, Tuaner will always be Mommys baby.
Qiao Jinniang hugged the little rice ball tightly and a drop of tear fell from the corner of her eyes. Her son was so sensible, but she was so cruel.
After the birthday banquet.
Everyone gathered around to gossip about Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince.
In just one afternoon, there were several versions of the story.
The maids in the East Pce came to urge the little imperial grandson to return to the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang could only reluctantly send the little rice ball into the carriage, and Tuaner held her hands and said, Mom, can I stille to y with you tomorrow?
Of course, you cane if you want, Qiao Jinniang said.
Tuaner smiled while holding the rabbit doll in his hand and returned to the East Pce.
Lu Chen had just returned from the imperial pce and saw Tuaner secretly hiding something into his secret wooden box.
He walked over and found a few very delicate dolls.
One of them was a white rabbit doll wearing a chest-length skirt, which looked a lot like Qiao Jinniang.
Lu Chen picked up the doll, and Tuaner boy jumped up and shouted at Lu Chen, Mine, Mom gave it to me.
Lu Chen raised the doll high and said, You already have so many dolls. I will keep this for you.
Hmph, Mommy said you dont like her anymore, so you wont snatch my dolls. She is a liar, and youre bad. Im going to tell Granny!
Tuaner was about to go out to the East Pce with his short legs.
Lu Chen picked up Tuaner, hugged him in his arms and said, Did you go to see your mother today?
Um. Tuaner took the opportunity to take the rabbit doll back into his hand. There were bad people bullying Mommy today.
The maid next to Tuaner saluted Lu Chen. Your Royal Highness, a man and a child came to the Duke Mansion today, iming that they were the husband and child of Miss Qiao when she was in Linan
Before the maid could finish, an eunuch came to report that the Emperor wanted to see Lu Chen.
On the way to the Hall of Diligent Governance, Lu Chen learned that some people had pretended to be him and Tuaner in an attempt to ruin Jinniangs reputation.
When Lu Chen arrived at the Hall of Diligent Governance, Minister Zhou of Public Security said to the Emperor, Your Majesty, that child is not actually that mans son.
The man is just a hooligan in the outskirts of Changan, and the child is just a child of an ordinary viger.
They were hired by Prince Mediocres concubine, Qiao Ruoshui, to cause trouble at the gate of the Duke Mansion.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said to Lu Chen, Im afraid the whole of Changan will know you had once married into a merchants family in Linan tomorrow.
Lu Chen said, Its alright. Im not afraid of people talking about it behind my back.
Emperor Huilin said with worry, I dont think Qiao Jinniang seems to be willing to marry into the East Pce, so it will be difficult to put an end to this matter.
Minister Zhou cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, Miss Qiao has announced that she has divorced His Royal Highness and that you have granted her freedom of marriage.
Emperor Huilin: She announced it herself?
Lu Chens face was dark, but he simply said, Father, dont worry about me. I will try hard to make her willingly marry into the East Pce!
Emperor Huilin was full of doubts. When was he worried about this?
The next day, everyone was gossiping about Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince in Changan.
The story of a Dukes long-lost daughter being found back was already dramatic enough.
Now her love story with the Crown Prince was even more dramatic.
Many Pingshu performers made a lot of ys based on their story.
For a time, the tea houses in Changan were booming.
The most widely spread version was that after Qiao Jinniang learned that she was the daughter of a duke, she abandoned her husband and her son and tried to find a new husband from noble families.
Aftering to Changan and being engaged to Li Yun, however, she found out that her ex-husband turned out to be the Crown Prince, but the Crown Prince divorced her.
Qiao Jinniang was invited by Fulu toe to a teahouse to listen to Pingshu.
She didnt expect to hear this.
She fanned with a fan in anger, but instead of calming down, she got even more and more angry.
Fulu grabbed a handful of melon seeds and handed them to Qiao Jinniang. Take it easy. These Pinshu performers described me as a super ugly woman. They said when babies saw me, they were too scared to cry!
Humph, I really want to put them all in jail!
Eating the melon seeds, Qiao Jinniang heard the Pingshu performer on the stage say,
In the royal banquet, Qiao Jinniang saw a handsome man slowly walk over, with fair skin, chiseled features and bright eyes.
Only then did she know that her ex-husband who was despised by her was the Crown Prince! At this time, Qiao Jinniang quickly knelt down and begged tearfully. Honey, I know I was wrong.
Then the Pinshu performer knelt on the ground and kowtowed to beg for mercy in imitation of a woman.
The people below burst intoughter, pping their hands and apuding
Qiao Jinniang lunged to her feet in rage and said angrily, Was this Pinshu performer bought off by Lu Chen?
Chapter 83 - Can You Really Guarantee That You Will Not Take Any Concubines?
Chapter 83: Can You Really Guarantee That You Will Not Take Any Concubines?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Fulu said, I dont know if my imperial cousin bribed him but you can do it.
As long as you give them enough money, these Pinshu performers can say anything you want to hear.
Qiao Jinniang was so angry that she kept drinking the tea to quench her anger. Im afraid not. Even if I pay them, would they dare to speak ill of the Crown Prince?
Fulu:
This was true. Although they made stories about members of the royal family from time to time, if it were the Crown Prince, they would not dare to cross the red line.
Qiao Jinniang was not interested in listening to the Pinshu performers smearing her, so she went to the street.
Tomorrow was the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the streets were already full ofnterns.
Fulu looked at thenterns and said, It should be the first time for you to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Changan.
Tomorrow night, people will write their wishes on waternterns and float waternterns beside the moat to honor the moon god.
After the imperial pce banquet is over, you can alsoe and have a look.
The imperial pce banquet on the Mid-Autumn Festival would end early. It was so that the nobles and ministers could go back home to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and enjoy the full moon with their families.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay.
Is she that woman? Tsk, shame on her. How could she be so stupid as to abandon the Crown Prince, who is such a perfect man?
But she is very lucky. She turned from a merchant girl to a dukes daughter, and even became the mother of the imperial grandson.
Bah, shes just a snob. The Pinshu performer probably didnt name all the bad things she had done.
Ill just wait to see Qiao Jinniang kneel to His Royal Highness in tears and beg for his forgiveness tomorrow!
A few women in their forties gossiped about her behind her back. If Qiao Jinniang argued with them, she would be lowering herself.
But if she didnt, she really couldnt swallow it.
Back to the Duke Mansion.
When she entered the Jin Garden, she saw Lu Chen pushing Tuaner on the swing in her courtyard.
When Tuaner saw Qiao Jinniang, he reached out for her arms.
Mother, Daddy wants a rabbit doll too. Can you make one for him too?
Qiao Jinniang picked up Tuaner and looked at Lu Chen suspiciously.
How old are you, Your Royal Highness? Youre already 20 years old. A rabbit doll?
Lu Chen said to the imperial maid beside him. Take Tuaner to y with the young master of the Qiao family.
The imperial maid nodded and left the Jin Garden with Tuaner.
This was the first time that Lu Chen hade to the Jin Garden openly. He looked at the courtyard and said,
You still miss Linan. Theyout here is very simr to the courtyard in Linan.
Why are you here, Your Royal Highness? Didnt you say that Im not a fairy and I shouldnt shamelessly nder you for being interested in me?
Sensing the irony and the anger in Jinniangs words, Lu Chen said helplessly, I didnt mean that.
Do you know that in the previous dynasty, the old distinguished families monopolized the opportunity to be an official and young men not from those families had no chance at all? Long had themon people suffered from the ills of this unfair system!
My ancestors and yours founded the Tang Dynasty for themon people, and created the imperial examination system, giving themon people a chance to serve the court and creating this prosperous world.
The imperial examination system is the most important foundation of the country. I was angry because you said that I manipted the imperial examination. I didnt mean to humiliate you. Dont misunderstand me!
Qiao Jinniang bit her lip and said, Since I misunderstood you, why did youe here?
Lu Chen tentatively shook her hand and said, Now, everyone in Changan knows that you are my wife, and from the attitude of the Li family, you should know that no one in Changan dares to marry you except me
Then Ill remain unmarried for the rest of my life. At worst, I have money and I can buy myself a house.
Seeing that she hadnt shaken off her hand, Lu Chen held it even more tightly, For the sake of Xier, please dont be angry with me
Tomorrow, my father will confer Xier as my heir. If you dont want to be my crown princess and let some other woman be it, she may torture Xier.
I know it was wrong for me to think of demoting you from my wife to my concubine. I shouldnt have thought that you were not qualified to be my crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang looked up at Lu Chen and said, I can forgive the fact that you wanted to demote me from your wife to your concubine, and the divorce letter is also fine.
But I cant ept that I have to share my husband with many women. I dont want to be like my mother. She couldnt even protect her daughter from a concubine!
Look at His Majestys harem, arge group of women are fighting with each other and trying to kill each others children.
How many girls had Prince Mediocre harmed for the throne? Ruofeng almost died in the river.
Lu Chen sighed. Jiner As the Crown Prince, the future ruler of the world, if I only have one woman in my harem
Qiao Jinniang said, I know! But its written in the novel I just read that Emperor Yang of the previous dynasty had only one woman in his life, who was his queen.
Lu Chen: So the previous dynasty was destroyed, because they only had an absurd son who caused the national subjugation.
Qiao Jinniang was angry. Are you saying that Xier will be absurd in the future?
Lu Chen shook his head and said, Jiner, just because your foster parents didnt have a son, your rtives all coveted Myriad Taste, and the royal family owns the entire world. If we dont have a good descendant
Im still young. I can give birth to a lot of children! Qiao Jinniang retorted, Besides, in the previous dynasty, there were some emperors who had countless concubines but were childless! Some had many children, but these children killed each other, so they still ended up being childless.
So this is just an excuse you men made to take concubines! Even if I end up like Miss Jian today, I will still call you Jerk!
Lu Chen was a little stunned at her words. Since he was a child, he had been told that as a man should have as many children as possible to carry on the family.
Therefore, men took concubines not for themselves but for their families.
Especially Junior Duke Rong had even more excuses
After listening to Qiao Jinniangs words today, however, he suddenly realized that this was just an excuse men made to have more women.
Now that his position was stable and Qiao Jinniangs father was Duke Anyuan who had powerful military power.
He didnt need to find a powerful wife from a powerful family like Prince Mediocre, nor did he need to bnce the rtionship between different powers like his father.
Although his father said that if he married Qiao Jinniang, he couldnt exin to the ministers.
His father was very healthy and could act as the emperor for at least 20 to 30 years. He could rely on his father.
If the ministers tried to stop him, he could let Xier take a few concubines.
Qiao Jinniang wanted to take back her hand when she heard Lu Chen say,
I can promise you that Ill never take any concubines. Then, are you willing to continue to be my wife?
Qiao Jinniang reached out and touched Lu Chens forehead. Your Royal Highness, are you possessed?
Lu Chen put his hand around Qiao Jinniangs waist. You wanted to marry Li Yun just because he promised not to take any concubines, right? I can do it too. If you agree, go with me. Ill ask my father to write the imperial decree!
Qiao Jinniang said, Didnt you say that I wasnt that attractive? Are you willing to give up all the beautiful women in the world?
I dont want any other woman except you.
Lu Chen really disliked his fathers concubines.
It was troublesome enough to handle Qiao Jinniang. If there were a group of Qiao Jinniang, he was afraid that his lifespan would be much shorter.
Qiao Jinniangs lips curled slightly. Can you really guarantee that you wont take any concubines?
Chapter 84 - You Don’t Take Concubines Because You’re Impotent, Right?
Chapter 84: You Dont Take Concubines Because Youre Impotent, Right?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang was very shocked. What was Lu Chens identity? How could he make such a promise?
Lu Chen whispered into Qiao Jinniangs ear. Yes, I promise.
With that, he bit Qiao Jinniangs earlobe with his teeth
Qiao Jinniang shivered, frowned slightly, and pushed Lu Chen away. Did you say that just to do that to me? When I marry into the East Pce, what can I do even if you take a concubine? Im not that stupid.
Lu Chen said, I can swear.
Qiao Jinniang didnt believe him. I had a good friend, and her husband swore that he would never fail her and that if he did, he would be beheaded.
But after she gave birth to five daughters in a row, he divorced her.
And now that man is living happily. He sold his daughters and used the money to get a new wife. In February this year, he had a healthy son and happily held a celebration banquet.
You know that woman too. She is Mrs. Qian of the Qian family.
Shes only five years older than me, but she looks like in her forties, so oaths are useless.
Lu Chen remembered that woman. He chuckled. I remember that when she was three-month pregnant, you tried to persuade her to have an abortion and divorce her husband, and in the end, didnt she beat you hard and drive you out?
At that time, he and Qiao Jinniang hadnt married yet. After Qiao Jinniang was beaten, her face was bruised, and she didnt dare to let her parents see her face
So she was secretly rubbing her bruised face with an egg in front of his room to subside the swelling, but he had to listen to her scolding that man for a long time.
At that time, Qiao Jinniang was only fifteen years old.
Qiao Jinniang said, Why are youughing? I didnt do anything wrong, okay? She was pregnant only less than a month after the birth of herst daughter. The doctor said she was very likely to have a difficult birth
Lu Chen said, Oaths are not useless. If that man really sold his daughter, I will order the new prefect of Linan to severely punish him to fulfill his oath. You see, oaths are not useless, right?
Lu Chen lowered his head and asked softly, Now, are you willing to marry me as my crown princess?
Jinniang still shook her head.
Lu Chens face turned dark. When he was a child, he had seen how his uncle pacified his aunt and how his father pacified his mother, it seemed easy, especially his mother, who always easily forgave his father. But he had been trying to make up with Jinniang for half a year, and he even gave up his bottomline for her
Qiao Jinniang said, Give me a little more time. Last time I entered the imperial pce to thank His Majesty, I was forced to learn a lot of etiquette.
If I be the crown princess, it will be exhausting to master all the etiquette
It is very pleasing to me when my hairpin clinks as I walk, but the women in the imperial pce cant let even their hairpin make the slightest sound. If I have to obey so many rules, what is the difference from imprisonment?
Lu Chen finally breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, it was not because of him that she didnt want to be the crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang asked weakly, Is it worthwhile to tolerate so much just for you?
Lu Chen was almost lost for words. Do you know what I have to pay for refusing to take any concubines? And you dont even want to learn some etiquette just for me?
Seeing the disappointment in his eyes, Qiao Jinniang clenched the handkerchief in her hands and said, Its not that I dont want to, but I havent had a good time in Changan yet because I was in a bad mood.
If I marry into the imperial pce, I am afraid I wont have any chance to have fun outside. Cant you wait for me to have enough fun?
Last time I saw His Majesty and Her Majesty went out to have fun, they only had time for one meal before they had to go back in a hurry. When I be the crown princess, itll be like being in a big cage of gold and silver, which only allows me toe out for some fresh air asionally.
Although women werent confined like before, how could women of the royal familye out easily?
I havent learned to ride a horse yet. When I was a child, my foster parents dared not let me learn it. Sometimes I was really envious when I saw Fulu wearing a riding suit and riding a horse on the street.
I heard that there is a famous street in Changan called Chunfeng Street, but I havent been there. I havent experienced enough of the prosperity of Changan.
Listening to her, Lu Chen actually felt that it made some sense.
His mother also always wanted to go out of the imperial pce to hunt, but hunting was at most held twice a year. After all, his father had so many state affairs to deal with. As for going out of the imperial pce to have fun, it was at most once every few months.
If they were recognized and this news was passed into the ears of the four imperial concubines, they would rat on her to the Empress Dowager.
Lu Chen said, Okay, but you have to tell me how long you need. You cant keep saying that you havent had enough fun, right?
Qiao Jinniang thought about it for a while. To this Lantern Festival,okay? I can start learning imperial etiquette from the Lantern Festival.
Lu Chen frowned. Its too long. Changan is not that big. It wont take you so long to travel all across Changan.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Do you have the heart to stop me from spending a Spring Festival with my biological parents? Ive never spent a Spring Festival with them.
Lu Chen said, There is a pce banquet on New Years Eve and the first day of the new year, and your parents wille, but in the Qiao family, you may not be able to see them.
Besides, do you have the heart to see me sleep all lonely and cold these days?
Lu Chen sounded very seductive when he said sleep all lonely and cold.
Qiao Jinniang understood what she was implying at once, and she was annoyed.
Bah, why do you think about this all day long? The novels you sent me are all these bad things. As the Crown Prince, cant you think about decent things?
Are you pacifing me so humbly just for sex?
Think about what you said to me, okay? It just serves you right to sleep lonely and cold for a full year.
Lu Chen:
Qiao Jinniang continued. You havent fully recovered from your injuries. You should take a good rest and restore your kidney.
Lu Chen: What kind of stupid novels did you read??
Qiao Jinniang snorted softly. You sent those novels to me. Why are you saying they are stupid?
Dont worry. Since you promised me not to take any concubines, I wont despise you! Is it because you are afraid that other women will find out that you are impotent so you promised me that?
Qiao Jinniang felt that she might have discovered the truth?
With a dark face, Lu Chen pushed Qiao Jinniang against the osmanthus tree, and the osmanthus flower fell on their heads with the wind.
Lu Chen gritted his teeth. Im impotent? If I were not afraid of hurting you, I could do it seven times a night. Would you like to try it?
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly shook her head. This is in the Duke Mansion, and its broad daylight. Let go of me. If someonees in
Lu Chen said, They know Im here. No one wille in.
As he said that, his eyes fell on Qiao Jinniangs red lips painted with lipstick, and just as he was about to kiss, the courtyard door was pushed open by Tuaner
Tuaner walked in, holding Qiao Lis hand, and said, Mother, Little Uncle also wants a rabbit doll.
Qiao Li looked at Qiao Jinniang shyly and timidly, not daring to speak to her.
Lu Chen red at Tuaner. It seemed that he also had to arrange for Tuaner to copy the Historical Records
Chapter 85 - Qiao Ruoshuis First Night
Chapter 85: Qiao Ruoshuis First Night
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang stroked the head of her youngest brother, Ah Li. Does Ah Li also want a rabbit?
Qiao Li flinched in fear, and then looked at the doll rabbit in Tuaners hand again, hesitating but not daring to speak.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know why her youngest brother was so afraid of her, so she could only say, I will make one for you tomorrow.
Tuaner tugged at Qiao Jinniangs sleeve and said, Make one for Daddy too. His eyes look so fierce.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen.
Lu Chen said to Tuaner, No need, your mother has already given me a big rabbit.
Hearing Lu Chens ambiguous remarks, Qiao Jinniang gave him a warning look. How can you talk about that in front of children?
Lu Chen said, I just told the truth.
It was getting dark and an eunuch came to urge Lu Chen to leave. Lu Chen whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Come to the East Pce early tomorrow.
Okay, Qiao Jinniang responded.
In the main hall of the Duke Mansion.
The Duchess directed the servants to sort out the birthday gifts from yesterdays birthday banquet and put them into storage, and then she checked the list of the Mid-Autumn Festival gifts that would be sent to the imperial pce tomorrow.
Then she returned to her courtyard, only to see the Duke looking very worried, she asked, Whats the matter?
Duke Anyuan sighed and said, Its because of Jinniang! His Royal Highness put aside his dignity to please Jinniang many times, but Jinniang still didnt show him any respect.
Not only did she insist on marrying Li Yun, but she also wronged His Royal Highness for Li Yun, which really annoyed His Royal Highness!
Ah? The Duchess said in surprise, I had thought His Royal Highness still loves Jinniang.
The Duke sighed and said, That day, Jinniang even med His Royal Highness for manipting the Imperial Examination and setting up Li Yun. How could the Crown {rince not be angered by her?
Now you have to restrain everyone in the Duke Mansion and make sure no one gossips about the Crown Prince.
And no one shall mention that Jinniang is going to marry into the East Pce. I dont think His Majesty and Her Majesty will allow it.
The Duke had pondered about this matter for a whole night yesterday. He said, They said that Jinniang could marry another man freely, which showed clearly that they didnt want Jinniang to marry the Crown Prince!
The Duchesss tears fell. My poor daughter, even if it is the Crown Prince, I dont think His Majesty will treat Jinniang like this, after taking into ount Duke Anyuan Mansion and Earl Zheng Mansions contribution to the country!
The Duke said, Earl Zheng Mansion is nothing in His Majestys eyes. The Zheng family has been running amok over the years. Thats why they were demoted from the Duke Zheng Mansion to the Earl Zheng Mansion.
Then what about our family? Will we just sit and watch Jinniang beingughed at?
The Duke said helplessly, Jinniang really doesnt want to marry His Royal Highness. If not, she would not have offended him.
His Royal Highness was really angry in the East Pce that day.
I should be grateful that His Majesty put me in such an important position. If I use my military power to threaten His Majesty to give Jinniang a good position, it will only make him suspicious of me.
From now on, you must restrain everyone in our family from discussing this matter.
When the Duchess heard this, she began to cry again. Why is my girls life so tragic?
Prince Mediocres mansion.
Only then did Qiao Ruoshui hear the news from her mammy. What? Qiao Jinniang is actually the biological mother of the imperial grandson?
How could she be worthy of that? That ve-raised b*tch!
The mammy said, Yes, Qiao Jinniang is really cold-blooded. She knew about this but she still let you make a fool of yourself and annoy the Duke and the Duchess.
Qiao Ruoshui smashed the teapot on the floor. Qiao Jinniang! How could she do that to me?!
Now she had be a joke.
No wonder she felt ufortable whenever she saw Qiao Jinniang. It turned out that they were born to be enemies.
Qiao Jinniang, she is really calcting, pretending to be weak in front of my mother and making me lose my mothers love. I will never spare her!
The mammy poured a cup of tea for Qiao Ruoshui and said, Miss, please calm down. Although Qiao Jinniang is the biological mother of the imperial grandson, now everyone isughing at her for dumping His Royal Highness
Qiao Ruoshui frowned and said, Thats not true. I heard from my mother that Qiao Jinniang was abandoned by the Crown Prince
The mammy said, Isnt it great? If the Crown Prince wants Qiao Jinniang to marry into the East Pce, she would have long been in the East Pce. Why would he wait until now? Even though Qiao Jinniang is the mother of the imperial grandson, she will never be able to marry the Crown Prince.
Mammy, Consort, good news! His Highness hase.
Qiao Ruoshui hurriedly asked the maids to clean up the broken pieces of porcin on the floor, and went out to greet Prince Mediocre.
Prince Mediocre looked at the woman under thentern. To be honest, although Qiao Ruoshui was a stupid nuisance, she was really a beauty.
Even in Changan, she could be said to be one of the most beautiful women.
More importantly, she looked like Qiao Jinniang very much!
He wanted to make Qiao Jinniang his concubine previously, but it turned out that she was the Crown Princes woman!
This made him look like a fool!
When the rumor about him and Qiao Jinniang was widespread in Changan, he had thought that the Crown Prince defended Qiao Jinniang to win her fathers support.
Now it turned out that he just didnt want to be cuckolded by him.
However, yesterday the Duchess said that the Crown Prince had divorced Qiao Jinniang in Linan.
Although the Duke was very perfunctory about Qiao Ruoshuis wedding, he was just being angry. Qiao Ruoshui was still his daughter after all!
The Duke might have been trying to distance himself from him before, but now that the Crown Prince had no intention of marrying Qiao Jinniang
The Duke was definitely annoyed! And if Qiao Ruoshui could win his favor, maybe the Duke would change his mind and turn to help him.
Qiao Ruoshui was very nervous. This was her first night after all
The mammy walked outside. Hearing the swaying sound of the wooden bed inside, she smiled.
Facing the round moon, she folded her hands together. Moon God, please bless Miss with an imperial heir soon.
As soon as she finished speaking, the mammy heard the sound stop. She was stunned for a while. It hadnt even been three minutes
She remembered the teapot mouth rumor. She had thought it was fabricated by Imperial Consort Zhou.
But now when she thought about it carefully, she didnt think so. Consort Zhou would not dare to fabricate it!
Consort Zhou had lost her natal family. If she ndered the prince, how could His Majesty tolerate her?
No matter how much His Majesty disliked Prince Mediocre, he was still his son!
So the teapot mouth rumor must be true!
In the room, Qiao Ruoshui didnt expect that her first night would pass so easily.
When taking a bath, Qiao Ruoshui thought proudly, now she had won the favor of Prince Mediocre
As for Qiao Jinniang, she was just a woman abandoned by the Crown Prince, and she would have plenty of chances to torture her in the future!
The next day, the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Qiao Jinniang was woken up by Hongling early in the morning to dress up.
Nuomi took out a set of gold silk headwear iid with top-quality pearls from the makeup niche, Miss, this was sent by His Royal Highness yesterday, do you want to wear this?
Qiao Jinniang reached out and touched the gorgeous headwear. What woman would not love such superb headwear?
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, Ill wear it today. Its Xiers birthday today. I cant embarrass my son.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, there would be a banquet for the ministers in the evening, while the birthday banquet of the imperial grandson would be held at noon. Only the royal family members could attend it.
Qiao Jinniang went to the East Pce early in the morning. When she arrived, Lu Chen happened toe back from the imperial pce.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen couldnt take his eyes off her. Today, she was wearing a red wide-sleeved skirt with a circle of top-quality pearls embroidered on the cuffs. Inside was a thin chest-length skirt, on which a white lotus flower was embroidered with pearls. Her hair was tied into a high cloud bun, which was then decorated with a top-quality gold filigree iid pearl headwear.
He had never seen Qiao Jinniang dressed up like this, not even at their wedding. Although the Qiao family was rich at that time, they still couldnt afford such an expensive set of clothes.
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Lu Chen, raised her chin and asked, Do I look like an immortal descended to Earth today?
Chapter 86 - Keep the Crown Princes Secret
Chapter 86: Keep the Crown Princes Secret
Trantor: Henyee Trantions
Editor: Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen shook his head.
Qjao Jinniang was a little annoyed. She had looked at herself in the mirror this
morning and was very satisfied with her makeup today, but Lu Chen didnt
even praise her beauty?
Lu Chen took her hand and said, Youre even more beautiful than an immortal
descended to Earth. With you in the mortal world, even immortals wouldnt
dare to go down to the mortal world.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. Are you saying this so that Ill keep that secret for
you?
Lu Chen tightened his grip on her hand. Qiao Jinniang, if you dare to say Im
potent again, Ill prove to you that Im not right now!
Qjao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, it took me nearly two hours to do
my makeup today. I even woke up before dawn for this. You cant mess it up.
Lu Chen said, So, youd better not read so many novels.
Jinniang said in a small voice, You gave those novels to me, okay? I have never
read this kind of novel before, but I have read all the ones you sent me. Are
there anymore
Lu Chen: .. No, you are not allowed to read those again!
They entered Tuaners room. He had just got up and was wearing a bright
yellow round-neck robe today.
Jinniang couldnt help but say, Why dont you let him wear the little red robel
made for him? I specially wore a red skirt today just to match that robe.
Lu Chen whispered in Jinniangs ear. Did you forget that my father will
announce Tuaner to be my heir today? So he should be wearing a bright yellow
robe. If you want to wear the same color as Tuaner, be my crown
princess.
Qjao Jinniang said, Forget it then.
Lu Chen said, Those attending todays banquet will be my eight brothers and
sisters, three aunts and their children, and the rest are the cousins of my
fathers side, as well as the people of Duke Wu Mansion and Earl Cheng
Manson.
Qjao Jinniang said softly, The royal family already has so many members, but
you still use the heir as an excuse
Lu Chen quickly changed the subject and said, With my mother and me at the
banquet, whoever bullies you, you can just scold back and dont have to save
him any face.
But the Empress Dowager is my senior, so youll have to show her respect and
bear with her.
Will the Empress Dowagere today? Qjao Jinniang asked, I heard that the
Empress Dowager doesnt seem to like the Queen and you?
Lu Chen nodded and said, Yes, but you dont have to worry too much. You are
from the Qiao family, so the Empress Dowager wont be too harsh to you.
Qjao Jinniang followed Lu Chen and Tuaner into the Chengxi Pce where the
imperial banquet would be held.
The pce was already full of people, and everyone was talking andughing
so it was very lively.
Hearing the eunuch announce that the Crown Prince and the imperial
grandson had arrived, there was an instant silence in the pce.
Everyone stood up to salute the two.
Qjao Jinniang was a little nervous. After all, the people here were all the royal
family members who were previously out of her reach.
Li Lingling red at Qiao Jinniang with hatred. If she knew it was her, she
should not have destroyed that chess piece, Qjao Ruoshui.
Lu Chen took Qao Jinniang to the seat above, and there were several seats
above them. She guessed that it should be for the Emperor, the Empress
Dowager and the imperial concubines.
Prince Qis wife, Consort Qi whispered to her husband, Why is Tuaner wearing
bright yellow clothes today? Isnt there a rumor that Qiao Jinniang is disliked
by the Crown Prince? Look at what she is wearing today, if she is in bright
yellow to0, she will be dressed just like a crown princess.
Prince Qi motioned to Consort Qi to keep it down. Although Qiao Jinniang v
not brought up by the Duchess, her appearance and family background are not
bad. The Crown Prince is not stupid.
Consort Qi nced over, only to see the Crown Prince and Qiao Jinniang
holding hands undermeath the table, looking so affectionate.
Tuaner, who was supposed to sit between them, could only sit aside with the
rabbit doll in his arms as he yed with the little ears of the rabbit doll.
Not long after, an eunuch came to ask Lu Chen to go to the Hall of Diligent
Governance, and Lu Chen said into Qiao Jinniangs ear, Tll be back soon.
Qjao Jinniang nodded.
Only after Lu Chen left did people dare to look Qjao Jinniang up and down
openly.
Fulu walked over to Qiao Jinniang regardless of the etiquette and said, Have
you made up with my imperial cousin?
Qjao Jinniang nodded. Yes
Fulu smiled and said, Great, then I can visit you in the East Pce more often
from now on. Last time I ate the acacia honey you made, I heard from your
maid that you can also make sweet- scented osmanthus honey?
Qjao Jinniang said, Yes, the sweet-scented osmanthus in my courtyard is
blooming well. Ive ordered my maids to collect all the sweet-scented
osmanthus, and I will send you a bottle of sweet-scented osmanthus honey
when I make it.
Fulu said, Thats great. Do you know the people here?
Qjao Jinniang shook her head.
Fulu said, Those sitting next to my mother are the three sisters of His
Majesty, the aunts of the Crown Prince, and next to them are the three sister
of the Crown Prince. You should know Jinghua, right?
The other two princesses are very arrogant. They both think theyre the most
beautiful women in Changan and hate women more beautiful than them. And
youre so beautiful today, so be careful of them.
The young men sitting on the left are Prince Chu, Prince Qi, Prince Lu, Prince
Mediocre and Prince Su. They are the Crowm Princes brothers.
Only Prince Qi and Prince Chu already have wives. Prince Lu has no wife just
yet, and Prince Mediocre and Prince Su already have fiances, so the women
sitting beside them are all their concubines.
Qjao Jinniang remembered carefully. The one sitting beside Prince Mediocre
was not Qiao Ruoshui but a gentle- looking woman, who must be Concubine
Jian.
She tried to remember these royal family members when she suddenly heard
sound of Tuaner falling to the ground.
Tuaner was feeding his rabbit doll water with a little spoon, but was bumped
hard by a fat dark-skinned child, and the spoon fell to the ground.
After that, the ck-skinned kid snatched the rabbit doll from Tua
pushed him to the ground.
The child didnt speak clearly. Bunny, give it to me.
Just when Qiao Jinniang was nervous and distressed, Tuaner suddenly got up
and punched the child to the ground.
Then Tuaner sat on him and bit the fat childs arm. Seeing his arm bleed, the
fat child cried out in pain. Mother, it hurts.
Seeing this, Tuaner took the opportunity to take the doll rabbit back.
Consort Qi immediately got up and hurriedly hugged her child.
Baoer, you ill-bred brat, what is so valuable that you need to snatch it? Only a
merchant-raised child would regard it as a treasure. Dont get your hands
dirty!
Qjao Jinniang knew that Consort Qi was obliquely scolding Tuaner although
she seemed to be scolding her son.
Merchant-raised, could it be more obvious?
At this time, an eunuch announced that the Empress Dowager came with a few
imperial concubines.
After everyone saluted, Prince Qs mother, Imperial Concubine Wan, saw her
grandsons arm bleeding and was immediately angry. Who did this?
Junior Prince Bao pointed at Tuaner crying. Boohoo, it hurts!
Tuaner hugged the doll rabbit and said, Yes, I bit you, so what?!
Imperial Concubine Wan red at Tuaner. Little Highness, isnt there no
brotherhood in the countryside?
Just when Qjao Jinniang was about to speak...
She heard Tuaner say in his childish voice, ording to the Historical
Records, brotherhood means that the elder brother is kind to the younger
brother, and the younger brother is respectful to the elder brother.
But he, as my elder brother, snatched my doll and was not friendly to me at
all. If he wants my dol1, he can ask me for it, and I can ask my mother to make
one for him, but he didnt say anything and just pushed me to the ground. Why
couldnt I bite him? I didnt do anything wrong! Humph!
The entire hall instantly fell silent, you could even heara pin drop.
After all, it was incredible for a three-year-old boy to quote the Historical
Records.
The Empress Dowager said angrily, How dare you bite your brother! As the
grandson of the Emperor, how can you bite your brother like a dog? Come, hit
all his maids, mammies and eunuchs thirty times with a cane.
Qiao Jinniang said, Your Grace, hold on.
Chapter 87 - Crown Prince’s Heir
Chapter 87: Crown Princes Heir
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing Qiao Jinniangs sound, the Empress Dowager turned her eyes to her, and immediately she thought that it was no wonder that Prince Mediocre chose her over Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruoshui. She was quite pretty.
The Empress Dowager said, Who are you? How dare you tell me what to do?
Qiao Jinniang knelt down and didnt dare to look up at the Empress Dowager.
After all, even Lu Chen warned her to respect the Empress Dowager. She was the biological mother of the Emperor and the most honorable woman in the world.
Even the Queen and the Crown Prince could only bear with her. But Jinning thought that if she didnte out today to defend Tuaners servants and let the Empress Dowager punish them
Would there still be anyone loyal to Tuaner?
Human hearts were all flesh, and although servants could be punished, they were still human.
Besides, if she let the Empress Dowager convict Tuaner, there might be imperial censors impeaching Lu Chen for not educating Tuaner well.
Therefore, Qiao Jinniang could only bite the bullet and say,
Your Grace, Im Duke Anyuans daughter, Qiao Jinning and the biological mother of Tuaner. I dont think its wrong for Tuaner to bite Junior Duke Bao.
After all, Junior Duke Bao snatched Tuaners doll first. If Tuaner just let him do that, then it would be his fault.
The Empress Dowager snapped, What are you talking about?! Theyre both children. Its normal for children to fight and quarrel. But Tuaner shouldnt bite his brother. If he wants his doll back, he should have turned to adults for help. We will certainly help him.
But he said nothing and just bit his brother? Isnt this ridiculous? Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and said, Yes, thats right, but as a boy and His Majestys grandson, Tuaner was born with the responsibility of defending his family and his country. How can he just cowardly turn to adults for help after someone snatched his doll? When Tuaner grows up and fights on the battlefield to defend our country, if the barbarians seize our countrys territory, should he just swallow it and turn to others for help?
Consort Qi cut in. How can these bepared? My son is not a barbarian!
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands and said, Barbarians are called barbarians because they are poor andck resources, so they covet the fertilend and materials of our country and continuously wage wars to seize ournd and resources.
Junior Duke Bao wanted Tuaners doll and directly pushed Tuaner to the ground to snatch his doll. What was the difference between his behavior and the barbarians?
Consort Qi said angrily, County Mistress Jin, are you serious?! My poor Baoer is still so young. He liked the doll, so he grabbed it. He means no harm. Why are you smearing him like that?
The Empress Dowager was also furious. Baoer is a Junior Duke. You have no right to judge him!
Qiao Jinniang kowtowed to the Empress Dowager and said, Your Grace, I just want to exin why I dont think Tuaner did anything wrong. I dont mean that Junior Duke Bao is a barbarian.
Fulu walked up to the Empress Dowager and said, Grandmother, I think what Jinniang said is right. Tuaner is His Majestys grandson. If he cant even guard his doll, he is useless! Imperial Concubine Wan sneered. He hasnt gone to the battlefield to kill enemies yet but his mother has already called my Baoer a barbarian!
As soon as she said so, the Emperor came in with the Queen and Lu Chen.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang kneeling on the ground, Lu Chen hurried over. Grandmother, Jinniang is from the grassroots and doesnt know the court etiquettes. If she offended you, Im willing to be punished in her ce.
ncing at Baofer, who was crying bitterly, and then looking at Tuaner, who was holding the doll rabbit and looked unconvinced, Emperor Huilin asked, What happened?
Fulu said, Junior Duke Bao pushed Tuaner and snatched his rabbit doll, and Tuaner bit him and took the rabbit doll back. Grandmother thought that Tuaner shouldnt bite his brother and wanted to punish his servants.
But I think what Jinniang said makes sense. If Tuaner cant even guard his doll, how can he defend the country when he grows up? So Tuaner should not be punished.
Consort Qi cried aggrievedly. But his mother shouldnt call Bacer a barbarian. Baoer is His Majestys grandson too. Father, please uphold justice for Baoer!
Imperial Concubine Wan also cried. County Mistress Jiaan kept talking about going to the battlefield and defending the country, but they are still kids
Baoer is wrong in this matter, but Tuaner shouldnt bite him! Its wrong to bite!
Imperial Concubine Xian also said, Look how pitiful and aggrieve Baoer is while Tuaner is showing no hints of regrets. Your Majesty, please be fair
Tuaner raised his little face and ran to the Emperor.
Grandpa, I didnt do anything wrong. It was you who taught me to pay back in kind.
Baoer pushed me, and he even snatched the doll my mother made for me Why is it my fault that I fought back?
Tuaner sounded very aggrieved.
Emperor Huilin saw Tuaner pull up his sleeves, showing bruises on his arms.
When Qiao Jinniang saw the bruises, she almost wanted to kill.
When they were in Linan, Tuaner had never been treated like this, but when he was in the imperial pce, he had to suffer such humiliation?
Emperor Huilin red at Baoer who was still crying and said, I have already granted Lu Xito be the Crown Princes heir. Baoer is just a Junior Duke. How dare he push the future emperor?
If his family doesnt know how to educate him, I will let Baoer go to the fief in advance.
Everyone in the hall was shocked.
The Empress Dowager clenched her hands. Your Majesty, youre still very healthy. Isnt it too early to decide the Crown Princes heir?
Emperor Huilin replied. But sooner orter, it has to be decided. It will save trouble to decide it earlier.
The Queen nced at Imperial Concubine Wan and said, Imperial Concubine Wan, do you have anything to say?
Junior Duke Bao is just a junior duke after all. If he dares to snatch the doll of the Crown Princes heir in front of his elders today, wouldnt he dare to snatch Tuaner throne in the future?
Imperial Concubine Wan hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Majesty, we dare not have such thoughts.
Prince Qi and Consort Qi also quickly pulled Baoer to kneel.
But Baoer cried harder. Rabbit, doll, Baoer wants it.
Seeing this, the Emperor became even more annoyed. Baoer is half a year older than Tuaner. I remember neither of them could speak fluently in thest spring hunt.
But now Tuaner can speak fluently. Why is Baoer still having trouble speaking? Prince Qi hurriedly said, This must be because the imperial grandson is very talented, and Bao Geer cant match him.
After the Emperor and the Queen were seated, Qiao Jinniang also returned to her seat and asked Tuaner worriedly, You are injured. Why didnt you tell Mommy?
Tuaner is a man, so I wont cry!
Qiao Jinniang touched Tuaners head. Good boy.
Imperial Concubine Wan, Prince Qi and his wife were still kneeling on the ground, and when they heard what Tuaner said, they didnt dare to vent their anger even if they were angry. Imperial Concubine Wan made the fuss just now because she wanted to convict Tuaner and punish his servants while the Emperor and the Queen were absent.
Now that the Emperor and the Queen hade, they didnt even dare to show a look of resentment.
Baoer was still crying and asking for the rabbit doll. He was so spoiled that he even began to roll on the floor when he couldnt get the rabbit doll
Seeing this, Emperor Huilin felt even more that he had made the right choice.
Not only did Tuaner look like the Queen, but he was also very smart..
Li Lingling suppressed her jealousy and said to Qiao Jinniang with a fake gentle smile. Baoer is a child after all. Since he is crying so hard, County Mistress of Jin, why dont you make him a rabbit doll?
Chapter 88 - Why Do You Care So Much About Ruoshui?
Chapter 88: Why Do You Care So Much About Ruoshui?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said, Miss Li, youre wrong. Its just a countryside child toy. How can I get Junior Duke Baos hands dirty with it?
When Baoer heard this, he cried even harder.
Li Lingling smiled and said, County Mistress, dont be angry with a three-year-old child. People will think youre too narrow-minded.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Li Lingling. Her intentions were so undisguised that everyone knew that she was hostile to her because of Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang didnt bother with Li Lingling and turned her eyes to Lu Chen.
Lu Chen said in a low voice, Today is the third birthday of my heir. Why does Baoer keep crying?
Hearing this, Prince Qi quickly covered Baoers mouth to stop him from crying.
Why was his wife so stupid just now? What made her think she could mock Qiao Jinniang while the Emperor and the Queen were around?
Seeing that the Crown Prince was so protective of Qjao Jinniang, Li Lingling
felt sullen, but she had to give up.
Not long after the banquet started, children of the royal family came to give
gifts to Tuaner one after another
Qjao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Tuaner were getting
along very well with his cousins.
When the banquet was about to end, Tuaner came with five or six children and
said, Mother, they all want rabbit dolls.
Qjao Jinniang: ..
It was not easy to make this doll. In order to make it look like a little rabbit, she
made it with real rabbit fur, so it was very soft.
But if the doll could help Tuaner make friends, she didnt mind being tired.
Lu Chen said to Qjao Jinniang, Just teach the maids how to make the rabbit
dolls and let them make it for you. You dont have to make them yourself.
Qjao Jinniang nodded. But can I tell the maids that this rabbit doll must not be
given to the son of Prince QP
That child bullied Tuaner, and she was not that broad-minded.
Lu Chen said, Of course you can.
After the banquet was over, no one left the imperial pce.
The princes whose mothers were still alive went to their mothers pces, and
those whose mothers had died went back to their previous pce in the
imperial pce.
Some royal family members stayed in the Chengxi Pce because there would
still be a dinner party in the evening
Qjao Jinniang followed Lu Chen to the East Pce, but before they arrived.
Fulu and Junior Duke Rong came with arge bag of osmanthus.
Her eyes sparkled with supplication.
Qjao Jinniang smiled and said, Tt happens that I have nothing to do this
afternoon, so I will make osmanthus honey and osmanthus cake.
There was a kitchen in the East Pce, so she didnt need to go to the imperial
kitchen.
In Imperial Concubine Wans pce, she angrily smashed two vases but she
still couldnt relieve her anger.
She poked at Baoers forehead. You useless thing! You are half a year older
than Tuaner but all you know is to eat, drink and y. Tuaner can even
memorize the Historical Records. How about you?
Consort Q was very angry to see this but dared not say anything to Imperial
Concubine Wan, but she also hated Tuaner.
The two children were both the Emperors grandsons. Her son grew up in
Prince Qj Mansion. So why was he inferior to a countryside child who grew up
in a merchants family and liked to bite others?
After Imperial Concubine Wan finished educating her grandson, she said,
Rumor has it that the Crown Prince will not keep Qjao Jinniang
However, it seems that he is very protective of Qjao Jinniang. She is lucky to be
able to return to the Duke Mansion. Im afraid her position will not be low in
the East Pce
Consort Qi was a bit disdainful of Qjao Jinniang.
After all, Qjao Jinniang wouldnt be the crown princess. Although she gave
birth to Tuaner, she could be the Crown Princes first concubine at most. As
long as the Crown Prince didnt be the Emperor, Qjao Jininang was
inferior to her in status.
She would definitely retaliate for the humiliation that Baoer suffered today.
The real lively part of the Mid-autumn Pce Banquet was in the evening,
when nobles and ministers and their families entered the pce one after
another.
The nobledies went to meet the Queen.
As soon as Duchess Anyuan carme out of the Queens Pce, she was
surrounded by a group of nobledies who kept fawning on her.
Listening to their tteries, the Duchess just smiled awkwardly.
Congrattions, Duchess. Now the little imperial grandson has be the
Crown Princes heir. Your family is really trusted by His Majesty!
The Duchess said, This is the grace of His Majesty, and a blessing for our
family.
Seeing her sister- in-w surrounded by people in the center, Mrs. Zheng
sneered silently. T heard everyone say that Qjao Jinniang abandoned her
husband and her son and was hated by the Crown Prince. Why are these people
still fawning on her?
Unfortunately, she couldnt see Ruoshui today
It was not only the Duchess who was surrounded by people, but also Qjao
Ruoyi
Qjao Ruoyi had been famous for her talent in literature, but those who took
themselves as nobledies disdained to have any dealings with a
concubine-born girl.
But today they were all apple-polishing her but they were all implicitly
inquiring about Qjao Jinniang.
Qjao Ruoyi nced at them and knew that these people all wanted to marry
into the East Pce as concubines.
So she praised, My second sister has a beautiful appearance and a good heart,
and more importantly, she can really cook.
Hearing this, these noble girls immediately began to think about how to learn
to cook
Perhaps the Crown Prince liked delicious food
The Duchess walked to Qjao Ruoyis side and whispered, Dont becent.
Jinniang is still far from bing the crown princess, and now His Royal
Highness still hates her!
The Duchess sighed, but Mrs. Zheng was very happy when she heard her
words.
Mrs. Zheng said, Sister-inw, since you know this, why dont you try to
persuade the Duke?
Now Ruoshui is very favored by Prince Mediocre, while His Royal Highness
grandfather is Duke Wu
Even if the Duke tries his best to please His Royal Highness, he might not be
able to make the Crown Prince trust him more than Duke Wu.
But its a different situation for Prince Mediocre. After all, Earl Chengen is not
so reliable.
If the Duke could help him, it would be like adding wings to a tiger! If Prince
Mediocre seeds, hell certainly pay you back.
The Duchess frowned. Sister- in Cw, we shouldnt talk about the state affairs
Walls have ears!
Mrs. Zheng said, Sister, I am saying this for your own good. Ruoshui is also
your daughter after all. She can only count on you.
She has just won the favor of Prince Mediocre, which shows that Prince
Mediocre is in need of the Dukes support. If the Duke can help Prince
Mediocre, your family will be even more prosperous.
When the Duchess heard this, she felt suspicious and asked, How did you
know Ruoshui is favored by Prince Mediocre?
Youre just Ruoshuis aunt. Why do you care so much about her?
The Duchess felt very suspicious. Why did Mrs. Zheng bother to inquire about
how Ruoshui was doing in Prince Mediocre Mansion? It wouldnt be easy to do
that.
Mrs. Zheng said awkwardly, I did it for your own good, OK? Only when your
family is doing well can our Zheng family be doing well.
Mrs. Zheng was quite a snob. The Duchess thought that maybe she wanted to
establish a rtionship with Prince Mediocre through Qjao Ruoshui.
She could only advise her, If you want the Zheng family to do well, dont get
involved in the fight for the throne.
The Duke is only loyal to His Majesty. Since the Crown Prince is His Majestys
heir, he must be loyal to the Crown Prince too.
Mrs. Zheng was a little annoyed.
Come on, how can you be so stupid?
Do you really think your daughter can be the crown princess?
She doesnt allow her husband to take any concubines, so how could the
Crown Prince possibly ept her? If youre smart, you should help Ruoshui.
After all, Ruoshui grew up in front of you, while Qjao Jinniang may not regard
the Duke Mansion as her own home
Chapter 89 - Lu Chen’s Maternal Grandmother
Chapter 89: Lu Chens Maternal Grandmother
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing her ridiculous words, Qjao Ruoyi couldnt help retorting Auntie, your
words are funny.
Fourth Sister disregarded the fact that Father is the Grand Mentor of the
Crown Prince, befriended Imperial Concubine Xian and became the concubine
of Prince Mediocre. Had she ever thought whether Father would beughed at
by the courtiers? Moreover, she also failed Mother although she was personally
brought up by Mother.
But has Second Sister ever done anything to let Mother down?
Mrs. Zheng said, You are just a concubine-born daughter. What makes you
think you can.
The Duchess who was worried that Jinniang had offended the Crown Prince
was annoyed by her words and said impatiently, Even if she was born by a
concubine, she is still the Dukes daughter. Sister-inw, if you dare to scold
the Dukes daughter again, dont me the Duke for not helping the Zheng
family in the future.
Mrs. Zheng shivered. She didnt dare to piss off the Duchess.
In the small kitchen in the East Pce, Qjao Jinniang ordered the servants to
open the food steamer and take out the sweet-scented osmanthus cake that
had just been steamed.
Putting some sweet-scented osmanthus nectar in a small jar on the side, she
took a look at the sky outside and said, The banquet is about to start. If you eat
it now, you wont be able to eat anything at the pce banquet. Shall I packit
for you?
Fulu said, I can eat it at the pce banquet.
Qjao Jinniang nodded and ced the osmanthus cakes on the te. The golden
osmanthus looked like spots of gold foil.
Junior Duke Rong said, Can you make the crab-stuffed orange I atest time?
There were hairy crabs from Taihu Lake at todays pce banquet, but they
were cold and smelled fishy.
Seeing that there was still time, Qjao Jinniang asked the servants to fetch somne
crabs and oranges from the imperial kitchen.
There are only crabs, but no oranges, so crab-stuffed oranges cant be made.
Let me make some crab-roe soup dumplings instead.
Oranges were not for sale in Changan at this time of year, so there werent
even oranges in the imperial pce.
The oranges in Tasty Pavilion were all shipped from Ganzhou.
Fulu nodded quickly. Its all right. We like both.
The pce banquet had already started, and Qiao Jinniang, Fulu, and Junior
Duke Rong entered the Chengxi Pce.
The banquet was held in the open space outside the pce, opposite of the
lotus pond and the water pavilion where singers and dancers were performing
As the banquet was going on, they secretly sneaked in and took their seats
respectively.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the table of the Duke Mansion, the duchess
asked worriedly, Why did youe sote?
Princess Fulu and Junior Duke Rong wanted to eat crab-roe soup dumplings. I
made some dishes for them, so Imte. Mother, I brought some for you.
Qjao Jinniang took the sweet-scented osmanthus cake and crab-roe soup
dumplings from her maid, ced a spoonful of sweet-scented osmanthus
nectar into the tea cup, and brewed it for the Duchess.
The duchess had long heard that Qjao Jinniangs cooking skills were good, but
she hadnt had a chance to taste the dishes she made. How could they bully
you like this? You are not a cook
Qjao Jinniang said, No, they didnt bully me. I like cooking. Have a try,
Mother.
The Duchess tasted the sweet-scented osmanthus cake. The aroma of
sweet-scented osmanthus slowly entered her nose. The cake was soft and
glutinous, but not sticky. When she took a bite, sweet-scented osmanthus
honey flowed out of it, which tasted sweet but not too cloying. Yummy.
It was made by her daughter, so it tasted even better.
Qjao Jinniang gave Qjao Ruoyi a portion.
old Madam Zhou, who was sitting beside them, smelled the fragrance and
jested, Oh, thats unfair. Why dont we have this?
The Duchess hurriedly said, old Madam Zhou, this is made by my daughter,
Jiner. Jinniang, give some to Old Madam Zhou to taste.
Qjao Jinniang grabbed a new te from the maid, ced two pieces of
sweet-scented osmanthus cakes and two soup dumplings on it, brewed two
cups of tea with sweet-scented osmanthus honey, and handed them to Old Madam Zhou and Duchess Wu.
Madam Zhou, Duchess, please have a taste.
Old Madam Zhou didnte to the banquet at noon, so Duchess Wu said,
Mother, this is the biological mother of Tuaner, the lost daughter of Duke
Anyuan.
Old Madam Zhou looked at Qjao Jinniang and said, Youre so beautiful. No
wonder Chener loves you so much.
Qjao Jinniang just smiled.
Duchess Wu wrapped the sweet-scented osmanthus cake with rice paper and
took a bite, and the sweet-scented osmanthus honey filling flowed out. This is
so much better than mooncakes.
Old Madam Zhou said, The fresh meat mooncakes that Sisi brought home this
year were delicious too.
However, I heard that each person can only buy five mooncakes and the
customers have to get a number in advance. I had my maid buy it early this
moning, but all the numbers had already been taken.
Qjao Jinniang said, Tf Old Madam Zhou likes it, I will have my servants send
some fresh meat mooncakes to your home.
I really didnt expect the fresh meat mooncakes to sell so well Today, the
production had been expanded, but it was still sold out.
old Madam Zhou nodded, It turns out that you made the mooncakes, now I
really want to taste your craftsmanship.
old Madam Zhou tasted a piece of sweet-scented osmanthus cake, took a sip of
sweet-scented osmanthus honey tea, and said with a smile, Chener is lucky!
Then she took off a bracelet from her wrist, held Qjao Jinniangs hand, and put
it on Qjao Jinniangs wrist.
This is the first time I saw you, and rd like to give you this bracelet as a gift. It
was handed down from the ancestors of the Zhou family.
Qjao Jinniang hurriedly said, No, this is too precious, Old Madam.
Old Madam Zhou patted Qjao Jinniangs hand and said, Chener is my only
grandson, and this is for my granddaughter-inw. Please keep it.
Zhou Siming also said, Miss Qjao, just ept it. My grandmother loves His
Royal Highness the most.
old Madam Zhou snorted softly. Then get a wife. Dont worry, if you get a wife,
I will treat her very well too.
When Qjao Jinniang heard that it was for Lu Chens wife, she epted it.
Old Madam Zhou said to Qjao Jinniang, By the way, I heard that the Empress
Dowager bullied you today?
Well, not really. Tuaner yed with Junior Duke Bao and they had a little
fight, and the Empress Dowager felt that Tuaner shouldnt bite Junior Duke
Bao.
Old Madam Zhou snorted. She is now the Empress Dowager, so she has
forgotten how she crazily bit others when she was younger
Dont worry. Ill definitely seek for justice for Tuaner.
Qjao Jinniang said, Thank you, Old Madam.
old Madam Zhou pretended to be unhappy and said, Why do you still call me
old Madam? Are you looking down on our Zhou family? Shouldnt you call me
Grandma?
Qjao Jinniang blushed slightly and called her Grandmother, and Old Madam
Zhou nodded with a smile.
The dancers were dancing gracefully in the water pavilion.
Li Lingling came out, walked to the middle, and saluted. Its the Mid-Autumn
Festival today. Id like to performa dance to congratte the reunion of His
Majesty and His Royal Highness.
Emperor Huilin said, Okay.
Qjao Jinniang returned to the Dulke Mansions table from the Zhou familys
side.
Qjao Ruoyi whispered to Qjao Jinniang, Li Lingling is famous for dancing. Im
afraid shes here today for His Royal Highness.
Qjao Jinniang said, I dont get it. Imperial Concubine Xian came from Earl
Chengen Mansion that is on Prince Mediocres side.
But why does Li Lingling want to marry the Crown Prince instead of Prince
Mediocre?
Qjao Ruoyi smiled and said, Earl Chengen doesnt want to put all their eggs in
one basket while Imperial Concubine Xian can only rely on him.
His Majesty has to call Earl Chengen Uncle, so Earl Chengen is also His Royal
Highness elder.
If Li Lingling can marry His Royal Highness, it is equivalent to giving Earl
Chengen extra insurance!
Although arl Chengen seems to be helping Prince Mediocre, in fact, he has
been preparing for two oues.
If the Crown Prince had not disappeared back then, Li Lingling would have
already married into the East Pce.
Li Lingling changed into a set of dance clothes and danced gracefully in the
water pavilion.
The Empress Dowager smiled and said, Linger is bing more and more
beautiful. She is such a good girl, I really cant bear to let her marry and leave
me.
Your Majesty, do you think its a good idea to let Linger marry her cousin as a
concubine
Chapter 90 - The Empress Dowager Wants to Give the Crown Prince A Concubi
Chapter 90: The Empress Dowager Wants to Give the Crown Prince A Concubine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Empress Dowagers voice was not low. She obviously wanted everyone to hear this.
The nobles and ministers who were sitting on the front heard the Empress Dowagers words, and many of them set their eyes on Qiao Jinniang to watch the show.
ording to thew, a prince could have two concubines at most.
However, the other five princes all had already had two concubines except for the Crown Prince.
So the Empress Dowager obviously wanted to marry Li Lingling to the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang drank a ss of fruit wine sullenly. She should not have believed Lu Chen.
Since the Empress Dowager had said this, could Lu Chen refuse?
Lu Chen said, Grandmother, youre right. It just so happens that my eldest brother had been guarding the tomb for Imperial Concubine Li for the past three years. He must be very lonely.
If you grant Cousin to my eldest brother, he will no longer be lonely, and Cousin can also apany Imperial Concubine Li who was very fond of her when she was alive.
Hearing this, the Empress Dowager said angrily, Your eldest brother made a huge mistake and caused you to disappear for three years.
How could he be worthy of Linger? I think she is more suitable for you. Youre only in your twenties but you havent had a woman around to take care of you.
And Linger is smart and beautiful. She is worthy of
Lu Chen interrupted the Empress Dowagers words and said, When Imperial Concubine Li was still alive, she always wanted Cousin to marry my eldest brother.
Now she has passed away. I think Cousin must be willing to grant herst wish.
But the position of concubine is a little low for her. Father, please grant County Mistress Li from Earl Chengen Mansion as my eldest brothers wife.
When the people from Earl Chengen Mansion heard this, they all turned pale.
Emperor Huilin sighed and said, My son is so kind-hearted. Your eldest brother treats you like that but you are still worried about him.
Since this is Imperial Concubine Lisst wish, then I will grant Li Lingling to be the wife of my eldest son. The Ministry of Rites shall choose a good day, on which they will marry in the imperial mausoleum.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief and asked Qiao Ruoyi in a low voice, Is this eldest princes mother also from the Earl Chengen Mansion?
Qiao Ruoyi nodded. The Eldest Prince is the real grandson of Earl Chengen, and his mother, Imperial Concubine Li, is Earl Chengens daughter and His Majestys cousin.
Imperial Concubine Xian is also His Majestys cousin, but she is the daughter of Earl Chengens sister. Since her mother died early, she grew up in the Earl Chengen Mansion.
More than three years ago, the Eldest Prince was involved in the case of the disappearance of the Crown Prince. The evidence that the Eldest Prince harmed the Crown Prince was conclusive, so His Majesty took away his title and wanted to sentence him to death.
But for some unknown reason, the Queen interceded on behalf of the Eldest Prince, so His Majesty forgave the Eldest Princes death penalty.
Not long after, Imperial Concubine Li died abruptly, and the Eldest Prince went to guard her tomb.
But in fact, he was banished to the imperial mausoleum and wasnt allowed to enter Changan again.
Qiao Jinniang listened, feeling that it was really not easy to be the crown prince.
Although Lu Chen was favored by His Majesty, all his brothers hated him to their guts.
The kinship among the royal family members was really fragile.
Before they could offer sacrifices to the moon, the Empress Dowager said she felt ill and left Chengxi Pce, apparently angry with the Emperor.
Tomorrow, there would inevitably be imperial censorsining about this.
After the banquet, it was already dark, and the round and big bright moon hung high in the sky.
The Emperor and the Queen led the ministers and their families to worship the moon, and after that, the pce banquet was over.
Qiao Jinniang was going back with her family. When she arrived at the gate of the imperial pce, she was about to get on the carriage.
Lu Chen came over, held her hand, and said to Duke Anyuan and his wife who were very surprised to see this,
Duke, Duchess, I want to take Jinniang to float the riverntern. Dont worry. Ill send her home after floating the riverntern.
How dare Duke Anyuan refuse. He quickly said, No problem, Your Royal Highness.
The Duchess felt that women should be more reserved, but since the two of them had even had a child, she shouldnt stop Jinniang.
She could only say, Jinniang, dont annoy Your Royal Highness. Come home early.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
After watching the couple leave, the Duchess asked Duke Anyuan,
Didnt you say that His Royal Highness hated Jinniang? But he didnt seem to hate Jinniang at all just now.
Manydies came to ask me about the pearls on Jinniangs head. Those pearls are all of the highest quality. Were they given by His Royal Highness?
Duke Anyuan frowned and was confused too. Thats strange. Jinniang insulted His Royal Highness so terriblyst time, but he didnt mind it at all?
It didnt look like that His Royal Highness did this to win over him.
Lu Chen brought Qiao Jinniang all the way to the upper reaches of the moat.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Where is Tuaner?
He didnt sleep this afternoon, so he has fallen asleep now.
Qiao Jinniang said angrily, That Junior Duke Bao is such a bully, yet those people in the imperial pce were all partial to him.
Lcan guess how they bully Tuaner when you are not around!
Just this afternoon, I saw a big bruise on his arm.
Lu Chen said, Tuaner is not a pushover. He had bitten Baoer hard. Baoer is just a kid after all.
He is a kid, but his parents arent. They failed to educate their son well.
Qiao Jinniang snorted to Lu Chen. You, the Crown Prince, cant even protect your own son! Isnt it sad? It seems that youre not only impotent
Lu Chen covered Qiao Jinniangs mouth. How dare you talk nonsense in public?
When did I say I would not take revenge on Prince Qi and his wife?
But I am the Crown Prince after all. I cant do it openly.
Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chens hand away and said, And the Empress Dowager. You refused to marry Li Lingling with Imperial Concubine Li as the excuse.
But what if the Empress Dowager directly issues a decree and gives you a concubine?
Thinking of this, Qiao Jinniang felt like a fishbone stuck in her throat.
After all, the Empress Dowager was the Emperors biological mother, Lu Chens grandmother. It was normal for her to give a concubine to her grandson.
Besides, she was the Empress Dowager. It waspletely justifiable for her to bestow a concubine to the Crown Prince.
After all, it did not interfere in the selection of the crown princess, and she didnt need to discuss with the Emperor and the Queen to give Lu Chen a concubine.
Qiao Jinniang took off the jade bracelet on her wrist and gave it to Lu Chen. Old Madam Zhou gave this to me. Take it back.
Lu Chen said, Since Ive promised you I wont take any concubines, Ill keep my word.
If the Empress Dowager could do that, she would have done it much earlier. And my father wont let her force me. You can be rest assured. Just keep this bracelet.
Qiao Jinniang still didnt believe Lu Chen. Filial piety was advocated nowadays. Could Lu Chen keep saying no to the Empress Dowager?
Even if you can refuse the Empress Dowager, what if your father wants you to marry a concubine in the future?
Or what if your mother wants you to marry one? They are your parents and the most honorable people in the world. Can you disrespect their orders?
Qiao Jinniang didnt take back the bracelet. She said dully, Im really afraid of the harem fight. Lu Chen, I grew up in Myriad Taste.
although Myriad Taste is not a paradise, the troubles there are just trivial matters.
But if I am just slightest careless in the harem fight, I may fall into an abyss.
Im really scared.. Please let me go
Chapter 91 - Lu Chen Ruined Their Engagement
Chapter 91: Lu Chen Ruined Their Engagement
Trantor: Henyee Trantions?Editor:Fsite?Henyee Trantions
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang in his arms, wiped her tears with his hands, and said,
Jiner, why cant you trust me?
My father and mother will not force me to marry a concubine. If they do, I would rather not be the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang looked up at Lu Chen. Didnt you say earlier that giving up the crown for a woman was just the stuff of fiction?
At this time, there were more and more people on the street.
Seeing that it was not far from Tasty Pavilion here, Lu Chen brought Qiao Jinniang to Tasty Pavilion.
They entered a room.
Lu Chen ordered the secret guards to guard outside and then said to Qiao Jinniang, Jiner, although everyone says that there is no kinship in the royal family, my father is just an ordinary father in my eyes just like your parents to you.
Will your parents force you to do something you dont like?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. Neither her foster parents nor her biological parents had ever forced her.
Lu Chen said, If one day, my father forces me to take a concubine, I will definitely be greatly disappointed in him.
At that time, it would still be impossible for me to give up the throne. After all, no matter which of my brothers bes the emperor, he wont spare my life.
But even if I have to force my father to abdicate to me, I will not vite my oath.
Qiao Jinniang quickly covered Lu Chens mouth. Dont say these ridiculous words to me! I dont want to die!
It turned out this was what he meant.
Lu Chen smiled and said, Then why didnt you fear death when you offended me earlier?
Qiao Jinniang snorted softly. Who said I wasnt afraid? That day in the East Pce, you made me kneel for a full half an hour, and my knees were bruised.
Lu Chen smiled. Not that long, okay? I only counted to thirty.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. But you still made me kneel. Forget it. There are rivernterns for sale. Ill get even with youter. Lets float some rivernterns first
There was a river in front of Tasty Pavilion, and it was already full of rivernterns.
When the two reached the upper reaches of the moat, a bridgerge enough to amodate hundreds of people was full of men and women, and there were hawkers on both sides under the bridge.
Qiao Jinniang bought a skyntern from a hawker and wrote her wish on thentern.
Lu Chen craned his neck to look. What did you write?
Qiao Jinniang covered the written words. No peeping. The wish will note true if you know it.
Lu Chen also bought antern from the hawker and wrote down his wish too.
Qiao Jinniang took a look and frowned.
She shouldnt have made that wish! She wrote that she wished she and Lu Chen could live happily forever.
But he wrote May Datang be prosperous and the people of Datang be at peace!
Seeing Qiao Jinniang unhappy, Lu Chen said, Is my wish not good?
Good, its very good.
Qiao Jinniang gritted her teeth and cked out the wish she had just written, and wrote another one. May everyone in the world be at peace!
Lu Chen prayed only for the people of Datang, while she wished everyone in the world would be at peace, which showed that she was broader-minded than him.
The skynterns were released one after another and the sky with the bright moon was decorated by spots of light.
Inan instant, the entire Changan was as bright as day. Looking at the scene, Qiao Jinniang thought to herself that she would never forget this scene in her life.
Ina gaily-painted boat on the moat, Li Yun looked at the Crown Prince and Jinniang who were talking andughing in the distance, and his head hurt slightly.
The new champion of the Imperial Examination called Li Yun a few times. Brother Li, what are you looking at?
Today, some examinees that had passed the Imperial Examination were invited to write poems and draw paintings on the gaily-painted boat.
Li Yun replied, Nothing.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were a perfect match, and when the two of them were walking on the street, they attracted a lot of attention.
Qiao Jinniang looked quite at ease in front of Lu Chen and lookedpletely different from when she was with him.
Although Li Yuns heart ached, he knew he was not qualified to be jealous.
He would never have a chance to own Qiao Jinniang.
If his father hadnt known the rtionship between Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince, there might still be a chance.
Li Yun remembered when his father and Duke Anyuan saw the two in the Crown Princes study a few days ago
Qiao Jinniang didnt see the three of them but the Crown Prince did. But he didnt try to conceal anything. Instead, he admitted his real rtionship with Qiao Jinniang.
Also, Li Yun knew that his literary talent was good, and he was confident he could pass the Imperial Examination.
After all, it was not easy to beat so manypetitors to pass the Imperial Examination.
But Li Yun had never thought that he could make it to the top three.
Although he was first ce in the provincial examination, there were more than 30 people like him in the whole country. And he guessed that his ranking should be about 20th.
This was already an excellent ranking.
Although many people performed poorly because of the stale food, he would rank at most in the top ten!
He had seen the articles of the first ce and the second ce winners of the Imperial Examination, which were both better than his, but instead he got first ce?
His Royal Highness said that Qiao Jinniang was not worthy of him manipting the imperial examination?
His Royal Highness must have deliberately ced him in first ce.
But in the pce examination, His Royal Highness gave him a ranking that he deserved.
So Qiao Jinniang would mistakenly think that His Royal Highness manipted the results of the pce exam.
Then he would have to exin to Qiao Jinniang for the Crown Prince, and Qiao Jinniang would definitely feel guilty because of this.
And on that day, they were invited to the study by the Crown Prince, so it was Lu Chen who wanted the three of them to be there.
Lu Chen arranged everything so that both the Duke and his father would know that Jinniang was his wife.
Lu Chen also pretended to be angry at Jinniangs usation.
In front of the Crown Princes anger, the Duke was very cautious and his father was timid. If the Crown Prince hadnt acted angry, there would still be a slight possibility of him marrying Jinniang.
But seeing the Crown Prince so angry, his father would never dare to talk about the marriage again!
After figuring everything out, Li Yun had to say that the Crown Prince was really good at calcting.
And after everything that happened, his father and he still had to be very grateful to the Crown Prince.
With such a smart crown prince, the current prosperity in this country could definitely be continued!
However, he didnt know if it was a blessing or curse for Jinniang to have such a husband.
Once the Crown Prince no longer loved her, what would happen to Jinniang?
No, he had to tell Qiao Jinniang about it lest she was kept in the dark.
When Li Yun was about to go over, he saw that Qiao Jinniang had hurriedly left the crowd.
Miss, Miss, I finally found you. Something bad happened at Tasty Pavilion.
Nuomi hurriedly ran over to Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang let Nuomi take a break and said, Calm down. Tell me slowly. What happened?
She and Lu Chen had juste out of Tasty Pavilion, and Tasty Pavilion was about to close today. In such a short period of time, what could happen?
Nuomi said, It was because of fresh meat mooncakes that a concubine of the eldest son of Earl Chengen and Mrs. Zheng quarreled.
On the Mid-Autumn Festival, most nobles would hold a banquet at home after the pce banquet was over, which wouldnt end until 1 am. Now there were still two hours until 1 am.
Therefore, Tasty Pavilion would sell fresh meat mooncakeste into the night. When Qiao Jinniang left Tasty Pavilion just now, she still saw a lot of people buying the fresh meat mooncakes.
Unexpectedly, someone would quarrel over mooncakes.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Till go back and have a look. Its gettingte. Youd better go back to the East Pce first.
Lu Chen followed Qiao Jinniang and said, I told my father-inw and mother-inw that I would send you home. If I dont send you back to the Duke Mansion, they wont allow me to take you out next time.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Theyre not your father-inw and mother-inw!
Lu Chen smiled. Its just a matter of time.
When Qiao Jinniang arrived at Tasty Pavilion, she could hear the quarrel from far away.
Open your dogs eyes and take a look, this is the beloved concubine of Young Master Li who is His Majestys cousin. Its a blessing for you that our madam came to eat your fresh meat mooncakes!
Mrs. Zheng said, So what? My niece is the concubine of Prince Mediocre!
And this restaurant belongs to another niece of mine. I dont care who you are You have to give the mooncakes to me first!
Chapter 92 - Teaching Aunt Zheng A Lesson
Chapter 92: Teaching Aunt Zheng A Lesson
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen to wait for her in the restaurant. She didnt want Lu Chen to be bothered by the quarrel of shrews.
Huixiang hurriedly exined when she saw Qiao Jinniange over. Miss, the mooncakes should be ordered in advance, but there was a lot of pork and dough left in the kitchen, so we sold them, and everyone was only allowed to buy five.
Now, there are only ten mooncakes left, but the two of them insisted on buying all ten, so they fought here.
Since the opening of Tasty Pavilion, customers would fight for private rooms or seats from time to time, but most customers were wealthy businessmen and officials in Changan, so they usually wouldnt make a scene and would make peace in the end.
Even if some of them were unwilling to yield, they would not cause trouble so as not to offend the Qiao Family.
But today, the two were actually kicking up a fuss here.
Seeing Qiao Jinniange over, Mrs. Zheng said, Jinniang, Im your aunt. You wont ruin my face for a lowly concubine, right?
Concubine Li said, Mrs. Zheng, Im afraid you dont know that the Empress Dowager granted my father the surname Li!
although Im just a concubine, I used to be a third-rank female official serving the Empress Dowager. Im afraid my status is not inferior to yours.
Besides, I came to buy the mooncakes as ordered by Countess Chengen, who is His Majestys aunt, while you are only the aunt of a mere restaurant shopkeeper.
Mrs. Zheng was very annoyed and said, Im also the aunt of Prince Mediocres concubine!
Concubine Li smiled. Youre just her aunt. Why do you speak as if youre her mother?
Mrs. Zhengs eyes dodged slightly and she said, Nonsense! Jinniang and Ruoshui look so simr that everyone can tell they are sisters! Qiao Jinniang, why dont you say anything? Tell me, who are buying these mooncakes?
Qiao Jinniang asked Huixiang, Are these thest ten?
Huixiang nodded and said, Yes, we have bought all the pork left in Changan today, and only some poor quality pork are left. The pork dealer said that the pork will be avable earliest by tomorrow morning.
Concubine Li said arrogantly to Qiao Jinniang, Country Mistress Jiaan, let me remind you, if you dont give the mooncakes to me, you are disrespecting the Empress Dowager!
Mrs. Zheng said, Qiao Jinniang, if you dont give me the mooncakes and help a concubine instead, I may lose face, but youll beughed at harder.
They both threatened her.
Qiao Jinniang said slowly, ording to the rules of our restaurant, no matter who you are, you can only buy five mooncakes at most.
If you two insist on buying ten, then bid for it. The one with the highest bid will get them.
Qiao Jinniang said to the onlookers, If any of you wants to buy the mooncakes, you can join the bid too. The money sold for these ten mooncakes will be donated to the foundling hall, and the starting bid price is ten taels of silver.
Mrs. Zheng said angrily, Im your aunt.
Qiao Jinniang said, Auntie, the restaurant has its rules. If you ask me for ten tables of dishes for free, should I agree to that too?
Mrs. Zheng gritted her teeth and said, Alright, Ill pay 11 taels of silver.
Concubine Li sneered. Oh, right, in order to get your son out of jail, the Zheng family must not have much money left. I will pay fifty taels.
How could Mrs. Zheng admit defeat by a concubine? She could only say, Fifty-five taels of silver.
Concubine Li said lightly, One hundred taels!
Mrs. Zheng frowned. Are you crazy?
One hundred taels of silver were enough to buy two pigs, or a whole house of ordinary mooncakes.
Although she was the mistress of the Zheng family, her monthly sry was only 10 taels of silver.
These mooncakes alone would cost her a years worth of sry!
Mrs. Zheng did not dare to bid again.
Concubine Li said to Qiao Jinniang, Since you said that the one who bids the highest price will get the mooncakes, they are mine.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Huixiang to pack the mooncakes for Concubine Li while thinking that Earl Chengen Mansion really had money to bum. They actually bought ten mooncakes for one hundred taels of silver!
Getting the fresh meat mooncakes, Concubine Li leftcently.
The onlookers in front of the restaurant also dispersed.
Mrs. Zheng red at Qiao Jinniang angrily. You really dont take me seriously at all.
You stupid ve-raised b*tch! How could you fawn over a lowly concubine but bully me, your aunt?!
Qiao Jinniang gave Nuomi a look.
Nuomi rushed over and pped Mrs. Zheng severely in the face.
Before Mrs. Zheng realized what happened, all her maids and mammies had been pushed into Tasty Pavilion by servants of the Tasty Pavilion.
The door was then closed.
Mrs. Zheng, who was luxuriantly dressed, fell to the ground, You, you, I am your aunt!
So what? Since you said I bullied you, I should really do it, shouldnt I?
Qiao Jinniang said, My unscrupulous rtives in Linan were much more disgusting than you.
Initially, I dont feel like bothering with your shrews, but you shouldnt insult my foster parents!
It was not the first time that the servants of the Tasty Pavilion had followed Qiao Jinniang to do this.
They had long been used to it, and they proficiently tied up all the maids and mammies.
Mrs. Zheng had never been humiliated like this.
Qiao Jinniang, are you not afraid that I will publicize what you have done to me today? Ill sue you for beating me. If your parents know that you are so disrespectful to me, they would definitely send you to the countryside!
Qiao Jinniang snorted. You can do it if you like if you dont mind others knowing that you, a countess, were humiliated like this by a group of restaurant servants.
And go ahead andin to my mother. My foster parents brought me up and treated me like their own daughter. If I just let others insult them and do nothing, am I still a human?
Bajiao, bring over my foster parents spirit tablets.
After a while, Bajiao carefully brought the spirit tablets over.
Qiao Jinniang said to Mrs. Zheng, I want you to kneel and apologize to my parents!
No way! I wont apologize to the two servants, Mrs. Zheng stubbornly said.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. You look down on me because I didnt grow up in a noble family, but you should know that a person like me has more guts than a nobledy like you. You dont want to apologize? Fine, Ill make you apologize!
Signaled by Qiao Jinniang, Nuomi came over and pped Mrs. Zheng again.
Mrs. Zheng was pped several times in a row before she finally submitted.
She looked at Qiao Jinniang full of fear. Most of the nobledies in Changan would scheme against their enemies behind their backs, but Qiao Jinniang dared to directly beat her!
L apologize, I apologize.
Mrs. Zheng hurriedly kowtowed to the spirit tablets.
Only then did Qiao Jinniang let go of her servants, Mrs. Zheng stumbled and almost crawled out of Tasty Pavilion.
Lu Chen came out from behind the screen on the side and tapped Qiao Jinniangs head with his finger. Do you forget that you promised me on our wedding day that you will never bring your servants to fight someone again?
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, I really cant stand her anymore. She scolded my foster parents during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Lu Chen said helplessly, I just dont want to see you get in trouble. Fortunately, she only brought some maids and mammies with her today. What if she brought guards with her?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. But she only brought some maids and mammies today. Besides, she started it first. Cant I teach her a lesson?
Lu Chen said, Its not that you cant teach her a lesson, but you can do that in a better way.
Qiao Jinniang raised her head and asked, What way?
Lu Chen: If you be the crown princess, you can even make her guard your parents tomb.
Chapter 93 - Father Qiao’s Title of Nobility
Chapter 93: Father Qiaos Title of Nobility
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said with a sarcastic smile. Dont lie to me. If I be a princess, I will be constrained everywhere.
Perhaps those imperial censors will be very d to have the chance to scold me for not respecting my elders.
Lu Chen said, How could that be? The crime of insulting the adoptive father of the crown princess will be enough for her to be put into jail.
Qiao Jinniang stared at Lu Chen and said, Even if Im not the crown princess, my father saved your life, right?
You said that you would never forget my fathers life-saving grace.
Now you are the crown prince, but you have done anything to pay him back.
What an ingrate, humph!
Lu Chen pinched Qiao Jinniangs cheek. You ndered me again. Ive never forgotten it.
That day, along with the imperial decree that would be granting you to be my second concubine, there was also another decree that confers the posthumous title of General Shundong to your father.
But my men couldnt find you, so the imperial decrees were not issued.
And you didnt want others to know what happened between us in Linan, so the imperial decrees have been dyed.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. How dare you mention the imperial decree that will demote me to your second concubine again? If I had received that imperial decree, the first thing I would have done when I entered Changan would be to beat the sky drum, bring an action against you to His Majesty and let the
people all over the world uphold justice for me.
Seeing that she was annoyed again, Lu Chen hurriedly said, I know I was wrong, okay?
Qiao Jinniang approached Lu Chen and said, Since you know you were wrong, shouldnt you make up for it? Dont you think the title of General Shundong is a little too low?
Lu Chen:
Qiao Jinniang smiled ingratiatingly and said, I know only the nobility titles would only be awarded to the founders of the country.
But you are the Crown Prince. If you had died, then the other six princes would have surely fought for the throne, which would have caused a lot of chaos. Looking at it in this way, my father indirectly maintained the stability of the country. Doesnt he deserve a higher title?
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Then what title do you think is suitable?
Qiao Jinniang asked, Can you really let me pick?
Lu Chen whispered to Qiao Jinniang. After you be the crown princess, you can choose as you like.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Stingy.
After Lu Chen sent Qiao Jinniang back to the Duke Mansion, he did not leave immediately, but went to Duke Anyuan.
Seeing the Crown Princee, Duke Anyuan hurriedly had tea and pastries ced in a pavilion. Your Royal Highness, please have some snacks.
After Lu Chen sat down, he said, Please take a seat.
Duke Anyuan sat down carefully and said, What can I do for you, Your Royal Highness?
Lu Chen held the jade pendant on his waist and said, When I went to the South to deal with the flood four years ago, I was set up by a traitor and fell into a river. If it werent for Qiao Yu and Jinniang who saved me, Im afraid I wouldnt have been able to talk to you here today.
Duke Anyuan said, Thats because Your Royal Highness is blessed by God.
Lu Chen chuckled. Anyway, Qiao Yu saved my life. Thats why I can enjoy this Mid~Autumn Festival.
I think I should repay him. Although Qiao Yu was a servant of the Duke Mansion twenty years ago, he had long since bought back his freedom.
and now that I want to make Jinniang my crown princess, Qiao Yus status cant be too low.
Therefore, Id like to ask you to recognize Qiao Yu as your sworn brother. With the merits of the Qiao familys ancestors, coupled with his life-saving grace to me, I can ask my father to grant him the posthumous title of Earl.
Then it would be more justified to give Jinniang the title of crown princess.
Duke Anyuan was surprised. He had never expected that. After all, Jinniangs background was not good enough.
Unexpectedly, His Royal Highness was willing to give Jinniang the position of crown princess, and nned the future for Jinniang like this
Duke Anyuan had never imagined the Crown Prince would treat his daughter so well.
He said, To be honest, Jinniang had proposed this matter to me before.
Tve sent my men to Linan to handle this matter, but they said Qiao Yus nsmen were very difficult people.
Lu Chen knew how disgusting those people were. Even after he married Jinniang, they still often came to make trouble.
Those people would do anything to squeeze money out of them.
Over the years, they had never stopped coveting Myriad Taste.
It was impossible to reason with these unscrupulous people.
Lu Chen said, Your Excellency, I know youre gentle and kind, but you dont need to treat those people with benevolence. The newly appointed prefect of Linan is my man. You can ask him for help if you face any trouble.
Duke Anyuan was relieved to hear his words and said, Yes, Your Royal Highness.
Lu Chen got up and said, Okay, its gettingte, so I wont disturb the reunion of your family.
Duke Anyuan quickly got up and escorted Lu Chen out of the Duke Mansion. When Lu Chens figure receded, Duke Anyuan felt his feet go soft.
He had never thought that Jinniang could be the crown princess.
With his family already in its heyday, they didnt need a daughter to be a crown princess to add glory to the family.
But which family wouldnt want it if their daughter could be the crown princess?
Although this might arouse His Majestys suspicion on the Qiao family, if he could prove his loyalty to His Majesty, nothing but good things woulde out of it!
In the backyard of the Duke Mansion, the Dukes second and third brothers and their families also attended the banquet today.
During the family banquet, Qiao Ruoyi took the lead to make a poem, and the brothers and sisters followed to make poems with the moon as the theme, and at the end of it all, Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Lus poems were crowned the best.
Qiao Ruowan chuckled and said, Everyone in Changan knows that Sister Ruoyi and Brother Lu are very talented in literature.
How can wepete with them in making poems? Lets y Touhu game, okay?
Qiao Jinniang went to take off the heavy headwear, changed into a casual suit, and came over to y Touhu with her brothers and sisters.
The others wanted to pretend to be weak and let Qiao Jinniang win, but to their surprise, she was very good at ying the game.
Qiao Ruoyi walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Sister, youre really good at Touhu.
It was Lu Chen who taught Qiao Jinniang how to y this game that was very popr among nobles. If you want to throw the wood piece into the wood canister urately, you have to precisely control the strength your wrist exerts.
Come, let me teach you.
After Qiao Jinniang taught Qiao Ruoyi how to y this game, she saw her little brother Ah Li throw a few times but missed them all.
Qiao Jinniang squatted down and asked Ah Li, Do you want Sister to teach you?
However, Ah Li was so frightened that he ran behind Qiao Lu.
Qiao Jinniang was confused. Was she so scary?
Qiao Lu said to Jinniang, Ah Li is too shy. Dont mind it, Sister.
Qiao Jinniang frowned slightly. When they first met, Ah Li was affectionate towards her, but why was he so afraid of her now?
There must be a reason for this, she thought.
Ruoyi, can you do me a favor?
Yes?
Jinniang nced at Ah Li and said, Can you help me ask Ah Li why he is so afraid of me?
Qiao Ruoyi said awkwardly, Sister, Im afraid I cant help you. He doesnt like me either. He often calls me a concubine-born woman in private and says that I dont deserve to be called Sister by him.
Jinniang frowned. Isnt this a younger-version of Qiao Ruoshui? He is just a little kid. There must be someone deliberately misleading him!
Jinniang had never seen the Duchess treat Qiao Ruoyi poorly, so Ah Li must not have learned this from the Duchess. There must be someone deliberately instigating him..
Chapter 94 - Uncle Came to Make Trouble
Chapter 94: Uncle Came to Make Trouble
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang thought she should find time to have a good talk with her mother.
Qiao Li was different from Qiao Ruoshui. No matter how arrogant and willful Qiao Ruoshui was, she couldnt harm the foundation of the Duke Mansion.
But if Qiao Li wasnt educated properly, he might cause a disaster for the Qiao family once he grew up and became an official.
While the brothers and sisters were frolicking, a rough voice came from outside.
Dont stop me. I just want to ask my sister and brother-inw how can a niece treat her own aunt like that? She hasnt be the concubine of the Crown Prince but she already dares to be so unfilial!
It was Earl Zheng who came, ignoring the obstruction of the guards of the Duke Mansion and barging in.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Earl Zheng, she didnt doubt that he was her mothers biological brother. Although he looked a bit old, she could vaguely see the simrities in facial features between him and the Duchess.
Brother, what are you talking about? What made you break into the Duke Mansion at night?
Duke Anyuan sounded annoyed.
Although Earl Zheng was his brother-inw, Duke Anyuan Mansion was not a ce that people could break in at will.
The Duchess stood up and asked, Brother, what happened?
Earl Zhengs eldest son, Zheng Bo, used, Your good daughter humiliated my mother to please a concubine in Earl Cheng Mansion.
My mother just said that she shouldnt have done that, but she ordered her servants to drag my mother into Tasty Pavilion and tortured her.
When my mother returned home, she couldnt afford the humiliation and tried tomit suicide several times. If the maids hadnt found out about it, she would have hanged herself.
Earl Zheng gnashed his teeth and said resentfully, Sister, Brother-inw, if you dont punish Qiao Jinniang. Boers mother wont be able to live!
The Duchess looked at her delicate daughter in shock and asked in disbelief, Jinniang, did you really do that?
Qiao Jinniang said frankly, Yes.
The Duke and the Duchess looked at each other, but they didnt me Qiao Jinniang.
The Duchess knew her sister-inws temperament too well.
If it werent for their kinship, she would definitely ignore such a disgusting snob, but she was her rtive so.
Brother, if Jinniang has offended you, I apologize for her. the Duke said, Brother, please have a cup of tea first.
Qiao Jinniang said, Lord Zheng, I hit Madam Zheng for the sake of your Zheng family. After all, His Royal Highness also kowtowed to my foster parents and called them Mother and Father back then.
However, Madam Zheng said that my foster parents were vulgar stupid ves. Then what was His Royal Highness who knelt down to them?
Besides, my foster father had saved His Royal Highness life, and he was also the father-inw of the future duchess of Duke Qin Mansion.
But Mrs. Zheng insulted my foster parents so terribly. If this is known by the Crown Prince and Duke Qin, she wouldnt have just been beaten!
Zheng Bo lookedsciviously at Qiao Jinniang. This woman was really beautiful, and her eloquence was very seductive to him too.
His mother forbade him to touch Qiao Ruoshui, but another cousin who was more beautiful than Qiao Ruoshui had returned to the Qiao family. With in this mind, he said flirtatiously,
Are you still using His Royal Highness as an excuse? Its a pity that His Royal Highness doesnt take you seriously at all! But if you call me Dear Cousin, Ill
Seeing this, the Duke got angrier. Qiao Yu is my sworn brother. There is nothing wrong with Jinniang defending his reputation.
Zheng Bo said, Uncle, are you serious? Do you think there arent enough jokes in your family yet? Recognize a merchant as your swom brother? If so, forgive me for not being able to marry Ruoyi as my concubine. I am afraid of losing face!
Qiao Ruoyi:
Qiao Ruoyis mother lost her breath and fainted. Mom!
The Duke red at the Duchess. Howe I dont know that Ruoyi will marry Zheng Bo as a concubine?
The Duchess hurriedly had someone to call the doctor over and said aggrievedly, My mother and sister-inw have mentioned this matter to me, but I rejected them.
Seeing that Ruoyis mom faint, the Zheng family were afraid of being held ountable, so they cursed and left.
Sister, Brother-inw, if you dont give us an exnation, then dont me us for being rude. Well expose Qiao Jinniangs true face to everyone in Changan!
The Duchess couldnt believe what they said, then she said, I would rather I never had such rtives!
Then she wouldnt have to tolerate so much for the Zheng family.
Seeing this farce had finallye to an end, Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, It can be seen how important it is for a family to properly educate their offspring. The Zheng family was so prosperous when your grandfather and grandmother were still alive. Unfortunately, it has been only two generations,
and it has already declined to this point, s.
When Qiao Ruoyis mother woke up, she kowtowed to the Duchess and pleaded, Madam, Ruoyi grew up in front of you. Please dont make her a concubine.
The Duchess helped her up and said, If I do that, how can I still have the face to go out? You can be rest assured that I will find a good husband for Ruoyi.
After worshiping the moon, the crowd dispersed.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Jin Garden, Yuyan gave Qiao Jinniang a letter. Miss, the concierge said this letter was from Mr. Li Yun.
Qiao Jinniang opened the letter and read the three-page letter.
Jinniang, to sum up, His Royal Highness must have manipted the Imperial Examination.
In addition, after Ruyu left, I investigated Ruyu and found that she was very close to the two imperial maids His Royal Highness gave me.
although Ruyu was instigated by Prince Mediocre to ruin your reputation, it was actually His Royal Highness who made Prince Mediocre notice Ruyu.
Then, the two maids His Royal Highness gave me coerced and coaxed Ruyu into obeying Prince Mediocre. They said that if she didnt, disaster would befall me.
As for the matter of Ruyu, Prince Mediocre was seventy percent responsible, with His Royal Highness taking the remaining thirty percent.
After Qiao Jinniang read the letter, she crumpled it into a ball. Lu Chen said that he never set her up?!
She stupidly thought that she had misunderstood Lu Chen because of Li Yun and felt guilty toward him.
She must be such a fool in his heart.
Miss, itste at night. Its time for you to sleep, Hongling came over and said.
Qiao Jinniang burned the letter on the candle and said, Okay, Im going to sleep.
It was sote and she couldnt settle ounts with him now, so she could only go into her dreams and beat Lu Chen to relieve her anger.
August 17th.
Earl Zheng had a familiar censor to write a memorial, and before the morning court was held, he arrogantly showed this memorial to Duke Anyuan.
Brother-inw, have you thought of how you shouldpensate us? This is a memorial written by Censor Yang. If you dont care about our kinship, then dont me me for showing this memorial to everyone.
However, Duke Anyuan didnt even give Earl Zheng a look.
When the court was held, the Crown Prince took the lead and said,
Father, Duke Anyuans sworn brother, Qiao Yu, saved me when I was in Linan. Now that Mr. Qiao Yufus death anniversary is approaching, I implore Father to grant him the posthumous title of Earl Linan.
Officials of the Ministry of Rites:
His Royal Highness really posed a difficult problem to them. His Majesty wanted to give Qiao Yu the title of General, but they all felt this title was too high and rejected.
Besides, the posthumous title proposed by His Royal Highness, Earl Linan, contained the Lin in His Majestys name, Huilin.
Emperor Huilin nced at Lu Chen. Just when everyone thought that His Majesty would not indulge Lu Chen this time, they heard the Emperor say, Okay.
Earl Zheng hurriedly took back the memorial he was about to hand over.
In Prince Mediocre Mansion.
Qiao Ruoshui looked at the scars on her aunts face and listened to her tearful and bitterints.
She said with pity, Aunt, dont worry. I will definitely ask the prince to uphold justice for you, so you wont be hit in vain..
Chapter 95 - Lu Chen Admitted It
Chapter 95: Lu Chen Admitted It
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
With that, Qiao Ruoshui went straight to Prince Mediocre who had juste back from the imperial pce.
Seeing Prince Mediocre, Qiao Ruoshui blushed and said, Your Highness, this is my aunt. She had a dispute with the concubine of Earl Chengens eldest son over mooncake yesterday.
That concubine was really rude, and she is just a mere concubine!
Prince Mediocre frowned and asked, Are you talking about Concubine Li?
Qiao Ruoshui nodded. Exactly, Your Highness, Mrs. Zheng is my aunt but was bullied by a concubine
Prince Mediocre said coldly, Concubine Lis father is very important to the Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager is very picky about food, and only the food made by Chef Li is to her taste.
Murs. Zheng? How can shepare with the Empress Dowagers favorite chef?
Qiao Ruoshui no longer dared to say anything about that concubine and began toin about Qiao Jinniang.
Even so, my aunt just said a few words about Qiao Jinniangs adoptive father, but Qiao Jinniang ordered her servants to torture my aunt. Please uphold justice for my aunt, Your Highness!
Prince Mediocre snapped, Stay away from the Zheng family from now on!
My father has already granted Qiao Jinniangs adoptive father the posthumous title of Earl Linan, which is already greater than the title of Earl Zheng.
You have to be careful with your words and deeds in the future. As for your uncle and aunt, dont have any more dealings with them.
Zheng Bo was disliked by his father because he was involved in the illicit salt dealings, so his father punished him without regard for his great-grandfathers face.
Thus, the Zheng family was useless for his great cause, and such rtives would only be his burden.
Qiao Ruoshui returned to her courtyard alone.
Seeing her back, Mrs. Zheng asked Qiao Ruoshui happily, Has the prince promised to punish that little bitch Qiao Jinniang?
Qiao Ruoshui said, Mrs. Zheng, lets not meet again in the future.
When Mrs. Zheng heard Qiao Ruoshuis words, her heart shivered. What do you mean?
Qiao Ruoshui said arrogantly, My mother has been helping your Zheng family for all these years, and I dont think its right.
Now that the prince doesnt like you, I dont think you shoulde here anymore!
Mrs. Zheng was annoyed by her words. Ruoshui, I am your your aunt. Ive been very kind to you since you were a child!
Qiao Ruoshui sneered. So what? Youre just my aunt.
The imperial decree that granted Qiao Yu a posthumous title was issued in two copies.
One copy was sent to Linan, and the other was given to Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyun.
Lu Chen brought the officials of the Ministry of Rites to the Duke Mansion to issue the imperial decree to Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyun.
When Qiao Jinniang heard the title, she was shocked, especially by the title of Earl Linan.
Although Linan was a ce name, His Majestys era name was Huilin.
How could the word Lin be randomly used in a title? Even the nobles would avoid using this word Lin.
Although the title of Earl was not high in Changan, the word Linan was extremely distinguished.
After thanking the Emperor, Qiao Ruoyun held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Thank you, Sister.
Qiao Jinniang said, This is what I should do as a daughter. With this imperial decree, you dont have to feel inferior anymore.
After Qiao Ruoyun left, Lu Chen entered Jinniangs room.
When he camest time, he didnt look at her room carefully, but now he found that it looked exactly the same as their room in the South.
Since it was already autumn, the curtain made of the precious yarn had been reced by autumn leaf-colored satin.
Lu Chen sat at the table and motioned for Nuomi to close the door.
Nuomi nced at Qiao Jinniang, and went out to close the door after Qiao Jinniang nodded.
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang who was holding the imperial decree and said, Now that youve already gotten the title of nobility you wanted, how will you thank me?
Qiao Jinniang carefully ced the imperial decree on whatnot.
She nned to ce the imperial decree in front of her adoptive parents spirit tablets when she sent their spirit tablets to a temple for enshrinement.
Hearing Lu Chens words, Qiao Jinniang walked up to him and said, Then how do you want me to thank you?
Lu Chen put his arm around Qiao Jinniangs waist, let her sit on hisp, and touched her red rouged lips. Guess.
In the afternoon of an autumn day, the sun shone through the window, filling the room full of an ambiguous aura.
Qiao Jinniang approached Lu Chens lips and called softly, Honey.
How could Lu Chen bear this? He hadpletely forgotten that it was in the daytime and that he was in the Duke Mansion. After all, she was his own wife. He didnt want to suppress his desire anymore!
Lu Chen picked up Jinniang, strode over to the wooden couch, and put down the bed curtain, which blocked the dazzling autumn sun outside
Lu Chen hadnt had sex in more than half year, and today Qiao Jinniang was even more captivating than when she was in the South
Jiner.
However, Qiao Jinniang had just shown her shoulders when she said, Honey, Im in my period.
Seeing her smile, Lu Chen said with a dark face. Then why did you seduce me?
There was a tacit understanding between the two. She only called him Honey in bed.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Although you got my father a title of nobility and I should thank you, you fooled me. Are you secretlyughing how stupid I am?
Why did you say that? Lu Chen put his hand on her lower abdomen.
Qiao Jinniang said, You dont know why? Okay, let me ask you, do you have anything to do with the matter of Ruyu?
Lu Chen said, No.
But the two maids you gave to Li Yun instigated Ruyu toe to me!
Lu Chen was just gently warming her belly and said, I didnt tell them to do that. They wanted to do it themselves.
Qiao Jinniang: Would they have done it if you hadnt hinted at it?
Regardless of the matter of Ruyu, who said that I wasnt that stunningly beautiful enough to make you manipte the Imperial Examination? But Li Yun said that he could only rank tenth at best, so why did you make him first ce?
Lu Chen: I just liked his article.
The gap between the top ten is small in the first ce. Was it a mistake for me to give him the first position?
Qiao Jinniang said, Do you dare to swear that you didnt trick me? You know that I will definitely misunderstand you, so you had already nned everything in advance, didnt you?
Lu Chen admitted it, Yes, I did it.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. You actually admitted it?
Lu Chen clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Yes, I admit it. It was also a show for the Duke that I was mad at you that day.
But you refused to listen to my exnation and refused to give me time to get you the position of crown princess and insisted on marrying another man!
Qiao Jinniang sensed a trace of grievance in Lu Chens words, but she was even more aggrieved.
Tm more aggrieved than you, okay? I will never ever be a concubine. I had been separated from my biological parents for 18 years because of a concubine!
You could take concubines, and I could marry a man who wont take any concubines. Was I wrong?
Lu Chen tried to pacify her. Alright, alright, since this matter is already over, neither of us shall mention it again. Lets forget about the matter about Li Yun, okay?
Qiao Jinniang said, You have to promise that you wont trick me again.
Lu Chen readily promised and asked, Can I apany you to take a nap?
Qiao Jinniang hummed andy down.
Seeing that she was about to fall asleep, Lu Chen suddenly remembered something and said,
Tremember your period is normally at the end of the month, right? Now its in the middle of the month. Shall I have an imperial doctor examine you?
Sleepy, Qiao Jinniang said with thest hint of sobriety, You tricked me. Why cant I trick you? I wont sleep with you this year. Just endure it, humph..
Chapter 96 - Tasty Pavilion’s Business Plummeted
Chapter 96: Tasty Pavilions Business Plummeted
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
After hearing that the Crown Prince had stayed in Qiao Jinniangs room for an hour before leaving, the Duchess was somewhat worried.
When Qiao Jinniang came to the main courtyard, the Duchess saw that her face looked rosy and asked,
Jinniang, did the Crown Prince say when he would take you into the East Pce?
You are young so you dont know how seriously the royal family takes their descendants. If you get pregnant outside the East Pce
Qiao Jinniangs face flushed. Mother, we didnt do that. I know what Im doing.
The Duchess was even more worried. I heard that the Crown Prince doesnt even have a concubine maid. He is a young man. How could he endure not touching you when he was alone with you for an hour? Is he really healthy?
Qiao Jinniang was really embarrassed to talk to the Duchess about this, so she changed the topic.
Mother, I came to talk with you about Ah Li. He is six years old and already a big boy. He shouldnt be disrespectful to Ruoyi, who is his sister.
The duchess took a sip of tea and asked, Disrespectful to Ruoyi? Why dont I know about it? Ruoyi has never talked to me about it before.
Ruoyi was not born by you. How dare shein to you about Ah Li?
The Duchess said, I see. I will teach Ah Li a good lesson.
After the Mid-Autumn Festival, restaurants were doing much better than in summer.
However, Tasty Pavilions business was plummeting.
The newlyunched Whole Crab Banquet was not popr at all.
Qiao Jinniang could only put it down to the fact that people in Changan didnt like eating crabs and thought that maybe she should hire a local chef.
Qiao Jinniang was checking ounts in Tasty Pavilion, and found that the restaurant was barely breaking even.
Mr. Tian, the ountant of Tasty Pavilion, said to Qiao Jinniang,
Boss, all the ingredients we use are top quality. Now those officials and wealthy businessmen dont visit our restaurant, but the ingredients shipped from the South are very expensive
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while and said, When Xie Yun recovers, I will go and talk to him. Their Xie family has special canal transport means. If we can cooperate with the Xie family, the cost will be reduced a lot.
Phew, isnt this Tasty Pavilion, a restaurant where many people couldnt even get a table a while ago? Why is it so deserted today?
The owner of the Guest Weing Building walked to the door of Tasty Pavilion and unted.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the owner and said, Scumbags are not allowed to enter Tasty Pavilion. If you walk through the door, I will order someone to chop your feet!
The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building took two steps back, baring his yellow teeth. Oh, County Mistress Jiaan is angry?
As a noblewoman, why do you have to be a merchant? Dont you think you are lowly?
Why dont you sell Tasty Pavilion to me? I can offer you a good price.
Nuomi scolded, Bah, you traitor of Tasty Pavilion. You want to seize Tasty Pavilion? In your dreams!
The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building was not in a hurry. The cost of running such arge restaurant must be huge. Once he snatched all the business from it, Tasty Pavilion could only be sold at a low price.
Ina room on the second floor, Qiao Jinniang looked at the Guest Weing Building not far away. The business of the Guest Weing Building was surprisingly good.
Tables were set up even at its gate with a long queue in front of it.
Thats strange.
Qiao Jinniang was confused. Since she was a child, Myriad Tastes business had always been booming.
When there were tea fairs and book fairs in Linan, there would also be long queues at the gate of Myriad Taste.
But if the queue was too long, people would go to other restaurants.
Now that Tasty Pavilion was not busy, why didnt theye to Tasty Pavilion? She didnt think the food here was terrible.
Why did the customers go to the Guest Weing Building?
Only some time ago, when the business of Tasty Pavilion was good and couldnt receive so many customers, many of the diners would go to the Guest Weing Building.
The more Qiao Jinniang thought about it, the more she felt it was strange.
Mom.
Hearing Tuaners voice, Qiao Jinniang looked back, and saw Lu Chene over with Tuaner in his arms.
Lu Chen asked, What were you thinking about? Xier called you several times before you heard him.
Jinniang took over Tuaner and said, I was wondering if Tasty Pavilions dishes are really so terrible?
Lu Chen smiled and said, Even my father likes the dishes at Tasty Pavilion very much, and often had the dishes packed back to the imperial pce. How can they be terrible?
Then look, why is there such a long queue outside the Guest Weing Building?
Qiao Jinniang looked down only to see Junior Duke Rong, Lin Mo, Fulu and her girlfriends entering the Guest Weing Building.
How unptable is the food at Tasty Pavilion that Fulu would rather go to the Guest Weing Building than eat the free dishes here?
Lu Chen said, Perhaps they just want to have a change in diet.
Tl have my secret guards pack a few signature dishes of the Guest Weing Building for you to try, okay?
The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building, after all, got the true inheritance of Tasty Pavilion. Before you came to Changan, their business was very good.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, dont bother. Ive already earned a lot, so I can still make ends meet, but its a pity that those big fat crabs will be wasted.
Lu Chen said, If the crabs dont sell, you can give them to me, and I can grant them to my subjects.
OK
Qiao Jinniang didnt want the crabs transported all the way from Taihu Lake to be wasted.
Tuaner said cutely, Can you give me a few crabs, Mommy? I want to give it to my teacher. Ill go to school tomorrow.
Seeing that Tuaner was so happy to go to school, Qiao Jinniang said happily, Okay, Ill make some roast jerky for you, and you can give it to your teacher along with the crabs.
Lu Chen said, Theres no need to be so troublesome. His teacher was my teacher when I was a child. He is called Elder Chen, and he doesnt like taking gifts from his students.
Qiao Jinniang said, He is Xiers enlightenment mentor anyway. I should give him some gifts. Time flies. Even the little Xier is going to learn to read and write.
Inte August, there was another event in Changan, which was the wedding of Prince Mediocre and his consort.
The wedding ceremony was veryplicated. Even if Emperor Huilin ordered the Ministry of Rites to streamline the wedding, it still took two months to prepare for the wedding.
On the day of the wedding, Qiao Jinniang was surprised to learn that Qiao Ruoyi and Consort Mediocre used to be good friends. Thus, Ruoyi decided to go to the Lin family to give her wedding gifts.
Knowing this, the Duchess asked Jinniang to go with Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao Jinniang didnt now this Miss Lin, but as her mother said, they would be sisters-inw in the future, so she wanted to see this Consort Mediocre.
On the carriage.
Qiao Ruoyi said, I never thought that Qiaopan would be Consort Mediocre. She is already neen this year.
Thad thought that she refused to get married because of the Crown Prince.
After all, she fell madly in love with the Crown Prince four years ago. I never thought that she would be Consort Mediocre.
Qiao Jinniang said, The Empress Dowager wanted her to marry Prince Mediocre, so she couldnt refuse it, could she?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Yes, I am afraid that the Lin family may not be satisfied with this marriage.
After all, Prime Minister Lin is a civil official, and if he wants to keep his power, he has to marry his daughter into the royal family.
However, His Majesty has never taken any concubines since he has had the Queen, so Lin Qiaopan has been trained since she was a child.
Although she is only Prime Minister Lins niece, she was raised like Prime Minister Lins own daughter.. However, she didnt be the crown princess as she wished and just became a princes wife.
Chapter 97 - Deliver A Letters for A Love Rival
Chapter 97: Deliver A Letters for A Love Rival
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Literati elegance pervaded the courtyard of the Lin Mansion, especially the rockery and bamboo forest.
When Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi arrived at the Lin Mansion, Consort Qi happened toe out with Baoer in her arms.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang, Consort Qi came over and said respectfully, County Mistress, are you also here to give Miss Lin wedding gifts?
Qiao Jinniang was really not used to Consort Qis fawning smile.
Not seemingly embarrassed at all, Consort Qi held Qiao Jinniangs hand affectionately and keptplimenting her as if not noticing how embarrassed Jinniang was. She even lowered her body to help Jinniang tidy up the tassels on her shoes despite her status as a princes consort.
This humble attitude made Qiao Jinniang doubt if Consort Qi was possessed by a ghost like how it was written in a novel she once read
After Consort Qi left, Qiao Ruoyi whispered to Qiao Jinniang,
Theard that when Imperial Concubine Wan was demoted, so was Consort is father.
I didnt expect that Consort Qi, who was always arrogant, after experiencing the fickleness of the world, would be willing to fawn on you.
Not many people knew about what happened at the pce banquet.
Qiao Jinniang had no sympathy for Consort Qi.
However, since Consort Qi could judge the situation ande to pursue peace with her, Qiao Jinniang wouldnt bother with giving her a hard time.
After entering Lin Qiaopans courtyard, Qiao Jinniang saw many acquaintances.
Among the people who came today, there were many royal family members.
After seeing Qiao Jinniang, Fulu looked a bit ashamed and avoided eye contact with her.
Princess Jinghua stood up to greet Qiao Jinniang. Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi saluted Princess Jinghua and Fulu together.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Fulu up and down and said, I havent seen you for three days. You have lost a lot of weight, Princess.
Princess Fulu touched her face. Did I really lose weight? I have been eating a lot recently because I get really anxious when I dont eat. I thought I must have gained weight. I didnt expect I would lose weight instead.
Princess Jinghua asked, Is the food in the Guest Weing Building really so delicious? Lin Mo went to the Guest Weing Building at midnightst night to eat their dishes.
Fulu breathed a sigh of relief. I thought I was the only one who was crazy about the dishes they made. Lin Mo made them cook for him at midnight? I should have done that too. I missed the dishes they made so much that I couldnt fall asleepst night.
There are a lot of people going to the Guest Weing Building at night.
Princess Jinghua was a little unhappy when she said it.
My cook is from the imperial pce. How is it possible that the food he made is notparable to amon restaurant? Does he have to go to the Guest Weing Building at midnight to eat the dishes they made?
Fulu said, Thats because the dishes in the Guest Weing Building are really delicious, especially the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup. After drinking it, I felt like I was on cloud nine.
Qiao Jinniang felt that something was not right. No matter how delicious a dish was, it wouldnt make people feel like on cloud nine, right?
Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi walked to the door of Lin Qiaopans courtyard and waited for the maid to report to Lin Qiaopan, and soon the maid came out to invite them in.
When Qiao Jinniang entered, she saw a simple but elegantly-decorated house, and an oppressing yet dignified sensation overwhelmed her.
Lin Qiaopan, who was wearing an ornate golden headdress, walked over gracefully. Her legs seemed barely to move under her skirt when she walked
Lin Qiaopan saluted Qiao Jinniang. Nice to meet you, County Mistress.
Jinniang said, Dont be too polite. These are the wedding gifts Duke Anyuan Mansion prepared for you. I hope youll like it, Miss Lin.
Lin Qiaopan had her maid take it, and she said, Thank you, County Mistress.
With that, Lin Qiaopan sized up Qiao Jinniang with the corner of her eye.
This wasnt the first time Lin Qiaopan had seen Qiao Jinniang. She had seen her at banquets.
At that time, she secretly eximed that bloodline mattered.
Although Qiao Jinniang grew up as amoner, with her bearing, she looked exactly like a real dukes daughter.
But a few days ago, she learned that she was Lu Chens wife when he was in Linan.
After that, Lin Qiaopan became picky about Qiao Jinniang. When she saw her today, she felt that Qiao Jinniang was not dignified enough and her makeup was too coquettish.
She was already His Royal Highness woman, how could she not behave herself? How could women in the royal family wear such coquettish makeup?
She was not dignified at all.
Qiao Jinniang didnt know what Lin Qiaopan was thinking. Even if she knew, she would justugh it away.
She didnt have much to talk with Lin Qiaopan anyway, so she just listened to her and Ruoyi chats.
Qiao Ruoyi said to Lin Qiaopan,
Sister Qiaopan, as you know, my fourth elder sister is very willful, please be careful of her mammies.
Over the years, my mother had been busy fighting with Concubine Qian and had been negligent in the education of her children. She blindly trusted the mammies from the Zheng family. My fourth sisters petnce was due inrge part to the instigation of her mammy from the Zheng family.
Lin Qiaopan said, I dont want Prince Mediocres love, so I wontpete with Qiao Ruoshui for his favor.
Ruoyi, you know my heart. Although I cant disobey the imperial decree, my heart still belongs to His Royal Highness.
Lwill pry and deliver useful information for His Royal Highness in Prince Mediocre Mansion.
Even if I cant marry His Royal Highness in this life, Ill make him remember me forever.
Qiao Jinniang coughed and choked on water.
Lin Qiaopan handed a letter to Qiao Jinniang. County Mistress, neither you nor Ruoyi are outsiders, so I dont have to hide my real thoughts from you.
Here is a letter I wrote to His Royal Highness. Can you pass it on to His Royal Highness for me?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister Qiaopan, its not appropriate. Didnt you hear that His Royal Highness hates my second sister?
Lin Qiaopan said, Those are just stupid stories made up by stupidmoners. His Royal Highness asked His Majesty to confer the posthumous title of Earl Linan to Country Mistress adoptive father, which shows that the rtionship between the County Mistress and His Royal Highness is not as
rumored by the outsiders.
Can you deliver this letter for me, County Mistress?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No.
Lin Qiaopan was stunned for a moment, not expecting Qiao Jinniang to refuse her so bluntly.
Dont get me wrong, County Mistress. I can assure you no word in the letter will annoy the Crown Prince.
I just want to tell His Royal Highness that even after I be Consort Mediocre, I will still miss him. Ill be his eyes in the Prince Mediocre Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, Im sorry I cant help you, Miss Lin, because Im a jealous woman!
Although I cant stop you from liking my husband, I cant help you convey your feelings to him.
By the way, Miss Lin, youd better give up on the idea of bing my husbands spy. My husband doesnt take Prince Mediocre seriously at all.
So he doesnt need you to pry and deliver useful information for him. And I hope that Miss Lin can live your life and be your husbands good wife.
Hearing Jinniang keep calling Lu Chen my husband, Lin Qiaopan was stunned
Qiao Jinniang nced outside and said, Miss Lin, your wedding is tomorrow. I better not disturb you any longer. Ruoyi, lets go.
Qiao Ruoyi, who was dumbfounded, came back to her senses and quickly kept up with Qiao Jinniang. Was she too young to understand Lin Qiaopans thoughts?
She was going to be married tomorrow, but today she asked Jinniang to deliver a letter to His Royal Highness for her to tell him how much she loved him. If this news spread, she would only beughed at by others.. If this was known by Prince Mediocre, wouldnt she have a hard time once she was
married?
Chapter 98 - Kick Zheng Bo Hard
Chapter 98: Kick Zheng Bo Hard
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Even if Prince Mediocre was not favored by His Majesty, he was still a prince.
In the early morning, many people waited on both sides of the main street to watch the grand wedding.
Duke Anyuan and his family were also invited to attend the wedding, but none of them attended it.
Qiao Ruoshui was waiting at the gate of her courtyard, but none of her family came. She felt sad. It had been almost a month. Why did her parents still not forgive her?
It must be Qiao Jinniang who sowed discord between Father, Mother and I. They loved me so much before.
Her mammy echoed, How can Madam y favoritism like this?! Why doesnt she think about how difficult your life is in the Prince Mansion?
Qiao Ruoshui said, Whats so good about that bitch? Shes just coveting the wealth and power of the Duke Mansion. Father and Mother are really stupid!
Qiao Jinniang was in a private room of Tasty Pavilion, and in front of her was the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup that Lu Chen had his secret guard buy.
The Guest Weing Building and Tasty Pavilion were not far apart, so the soup was still steaming.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip and almost spat it out, This soup is so sour and bitter. How can it be the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup that everyone raves about how delicious it is?
Lu Chen also scooped a spoonful of the soup and tasted it. Sour and bitter? I cant taste the sourness or bitterness in it. But there seems to be a lot of pepper in the soup. A tael of pepper is even more expensive than gold. No wonder the soup is so expensive.
Qiao Jinniang said, They seem to be trying to cover up something with the smell of pepper.
Qiao Jinniang picked up some mutton in the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup, and when she took a bite, it was so tough that she doubted if her sense of taste had gone awry.
In Myriad Taste, such tough mutton could only be fed to dogs, even beggars at the door didnt like to eat it.
If my restaurants business is bleak because of my cooking skills, I have nothing toin about, but I really cant ept that its because of this terrible soup.
Qiao Jinniang turned her eyes to a small brown fruit in the soup. She picked it up and looked at it carefully. Huixiang, go call Chef Yang over.
Chef Yang was a senior chef in Myriad Taste, and he and his whole family followed her to Changan.
Uncle Yang, look at this thing. I dont think its ordinary ck cardamom.
When stewing mutton, adding ck cardamom can remove the smell of mutton, but this fruit didnt look like ck cardamom.
Chef Yang came over and took a look, and then asked in surprise, Boss, where did you get this thing?
Qiao Jinniang asked, Whats wrong?
Chef Yang said, These are poppy seeds that only the merchants from the Western Regions sell. Its also called Minanghua Fruit.
This stuff is more addictive than Five Minerals Powder, the drug that was popr among nobles in the previous dynasty.
When Datang was founded, Minanghua Fruit used to be very popr. However, the founding emperor had this nt wiped out in the country and forbade people from nting it.
More than ten years ago, a businessman from the Southwest came to Linan to buy some tea, and he gave the shopkeeper a few Minanghua Fruit to stew soup.
He told the shopkeeper about the origins of the Minanghua Fruit and that it is now nted among the tribes in the Southwest.
People in those tribes would put one or two of this fruit into their soup every time they cooked.
But if you ate too much of it, you would get addicted to it and be weak, sickly, and haggard. And it would be extremely difficult to quit it.
Hearing this, the shopkeeper was scared and threw those fruits away. He then specially told us to carefully distinguish the difference between ck cardamom and Minanghua Fruit. If they were mixed up, the consequence would be dire.
After all, how can such harmful fruit be used in cooking?
Qiao Jinniang had already suspected there was something fishy about the Guest Weing Building in the first ce. Initially, she suspected that they used Five Minerals Powder.
However, Five Minerals Powder had already been banned. She didnt think the shopkeeper of Guest Weing Building dared to use it in Changan.
But it tured out to be Minanghua Fruit.
Hearing this, Lu Chen said, Im going to have the Ministry of Penalty investigate this matter. If its really Minanghua Fruit, the Guest Weing Building hasmitted a heinous crime!
Qiao Jinniang said with worry, Five Minerals Powder is very harmful to ones health, and it seems that Minanghua Fruit is even more harmful. I wonder if those addicts can quit it.
Theard from Fulu yesterday that she and Lin Mo went to the Guest Weing Building at midnight just for the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup. Im afraid they are already addicted.
Lu Chen said, It was not easy to quit eating Five Minerals Powder either, but in the end, the addicts all quitted it.
Fortunately, it has only been half a month since the Guest Weing Buildingunched the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup. Even if the diners are already addicted, it may not be impossible to quit.
Lu Chen had his guards escort Qiao Jinniang back to the Duke Mansion, and he went to the Ministry of Penalty to lead soldiers to go to the Guest Weing Building.
The soldiers surrounded the Guest Weing Building and went to the kitchen, where they soon found a few sacks of Minanghua Fruit seeds.
The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building hurriedly said, My lords, whats wrong with this stuff? This is just seasoning, the same as ck cardamom.
The Deputy Minister of Penalty angrily rebuked, These are clearly poppy seeds that were banned by the founding emperor of our country as recorded in the historical materials. Come, tie up this shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building and bring him back to the Ministry of Penalty for examination!
Seeing the Guest Weing Building surrounded by soldiers, the diners in it all ran away one after another.
However, unable to drink the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup, they became very anxious and irritable.
Some people even made a scene at Prince Mediocres wedding banquet.
Although no one from the Duke Anyuan Mansion appeared at the wedding banquet, the whole Zheng family had the cheek toe.
Zheng Bo felt very ufortable because he couldnt eat the dishes from the Guest Weing Building at noon.
Even worse was that the Zheng family was arranged to sit at thest table, which were the worst seats.
Therefore, the maids in Prince Mediocre Mansion didnt serve them with care.
A maid poured the wine for Zheng Bo a little slower, which prompted Zheng Bo to p her fiercely.
Are you blind? Im Concubine Qiaos cousin! How dare you show the cold-shoulder?
Although Mrs. Zheng was still annoyed that Qiao Ruoshui wanted to cut herself off from them, she still said to Zheng Bo.
calm down. Your sisters life is not easy in the Prince Mansion. Today, Prince Mediocre is marrying his wife, so your sister must be very sad. Dont disgrace your sister.
Zheng Bo was very annoyed. Sister? She was just his cousin, not to mention the fact that this cousin looked down on him ever since she was a child.
It was really stuffy to stay at thisst table, so Zheng Bo got up to get some fresh air.
On the edge of a rockery, he met Fulu who came out to get some fresh air too.
Looking at Fulu who was in a sassy red riding suit, Zheng Bo couldnt help smilingsciviously and came up to her. Princess.
Fulu looked at the man in front of her and felt disgusted.
Seeing that Fulu was alone, Zheng Bo flirted, Princess, in front of the beautiful flowers, under the beautiful moon, Im so lucky to meet a beauty like you. Why dont we spend a beautiful night together here
Fulu really wanted to eat the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup of the Guest Weing Building today.
However, the Guest Weing Building was sealed up by the government, so she felt very ufortable now. To make things worse, she met Zheng Bo, this disgusting pervert.
In rage, she kicked Zheng Bo hard.
Who the hell do you think you are? How dare you molest me?!
Zheng Bo let out a scream like a dying pig, which attracted the crowd over.
Zheng Bo kept wailing. Luckily, there was an imperial doctor at the wedding banquet.
After examining Zheng Bo, the imperial doctor said unabashedly, Mrs. Zheng, Im afraid Mr. Zhengs reproductive organ has lost its function.
Hearing this, Mrs. Zheng almost fainted.
Junior Duke Rong came over and pulled Fulu behind him. Whats going on?
Fulu said, He molested me.
Even if he molested you, you shouldnt make him a eunuch!
Fulu said aggrieved, I dont know whats wrong with me. I couldnt drink the Sorrow-Forgetting Soup today, so I was very irritable, and he just came to provoke me!
When Qiao Jinniang heard this news, it was already the afternoon of the next day, and Old Madam Zheng came to the Duke Mansion crying and cursing.
How pitiful your nephew is! Fulu has ruined him. He hasnt even married yet! Now which woman in Changan would be willing to marry him?
Now, we dont mind that Qiao Ruoyi was born by a concubine. Just let Qiao Ruoyi and your nephew get married as soon as possible!2
Chapter 99 - I Owe the Zheng Family A Life
Chapter 99: I Owe the Zheng Family A Life
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Outside the Duchesss courtyard, Qiao Jinniang heard this shameless request from Old Madam Zheng.
Qiao Ruoyi happened toe over, and when she heard this, she clenched her handkerchief tightly.
Jinniang said to Qiao Ruoyi, Dont worry, Mother wont agree.
Qiao Ruoyi tried to force a smile but failed. The Duchess wouldnt have the heart to refuse the Zheng family. Besides, the Zheng family still had a trump card.
Second Sister, its okay. I know about Mothers difficulties. Fortunately, Zheng Bo is already a waste.
Even if I marry him, he wont touch me. Besides, the Zheng family still wants to use me to get benefits from our family. *
In the room, Old Madam Zheng continued to cry. Jinniang beat her aunt the other day, but our Zheng family is broad-minded and we can forgive her.
Qiao Jinniang entered the room and said, Old Madam, you are wrong. I did your family a favor by hitting Mrs. Zheng.
If the imperial censors find out that Mrs. Zheng had insulted the Crown Princes savior, Earl Linan, Im afraid that Mr. Zhengs will even lose his featherbed job in the court, right?
Old Madam Zheng was very angry but couldnt refute her. She could only change the subject and said, Princess Fulu has always been on good terms with you. Everyone knows that you are friends. This time Princess Fulu seriously injured your cousin. This must have something to do with you!
Qiao Jinniang said, Do you mean I asked Zheng Bo to molest the princess?
The Duchess sighed. Mother, your usation is too much. Fulu is a princess. How is it possible for Jinniang to order her?
Besides, this ident happened because Zheng Bo molested Fulu. She is the Empress Dowagers favorite granddaughter, and the Empress Dowager dotes on her even more than her own granddaughter.
Its also because Boer lost the reproductive function that Princess Fulu didnt punish him. If he was charged with molesting a princess, the whole Zheng family might suffer.
Old Madam Zheng said to the Duchess sadly, You werent brought up by me, so you are not filial to me, but I dont me you.
But Boer is the lifeblood of the Zheng family. Even his name was given by your grandfather!
Do you have the heart to leave him disabled without a wife?
Ruoyi was born by a concubine after all. Its her blessing to have the chance to marry a future ear! as his wife!
Qiao Jinniang reminded her. Old Madam, let me remind you, Zheng Bo cant inherit the title of nobility from his father. His father is thest Earl Zheng.
However, Old Madam Zheng had some inexplicable self-confidence. Now Qiao Ruoshui is quite favored by Prince Mediocre. If she can intercede for us, maybe our nobility title will return!
Qiao Jinniang really admired this olddy. She was still daydreaming at the moment.
Old Madam Zheng said, Although Qiao Ruoshui is famous for her talent in literature in Changan, she should be grateful to be able to marry Boer as his wife! Besides, do you have the heart to see your nephew live lonely through his life?
The Duchess said awkwardly, Mother, although Ruoyi was not born by me, she calls me Mother. She is a very sweet girl and has been very sensible since she was a child.
Old Madam Zheng snapped angrily, If she is really sensible, she shouldnt have made herself such a name and outshone Ruoshui!
She is just a lowly concubine-born girl. Are you going to ignore my grief just for her?
If you dont agree to this marriage today, I will kill myself here, and let everyone in Changan see what a good daughter I have given birth to! *
Saying that, Mrs. Zheng was about to bang her head against a pir.
The Duchess hurriedly stopped her. Her voice was a little tired. Mother, if I marry Ruoyi to Boer, who everyone in Changan knows is a waste now, how will people think of me?
Is your reputation or your nephews life more important? Old Madam Zheng said.
Now that little b*tch Concubine Qian has died, you dont need us anymore, right?
when she was alive, if you didnt have the help of our Zheng family, how could you have the status you have today?
If [hadnt forced Concubine Qian to drink the sterilization soup, would you have been able to keep your position as the Dukes wife?
And when you almost died at home, who was there to take care of you day and night?
Now that you have secured your position as the Duchess, you have be so ungrateful!
Do you still remember that in order to take care of you, your sister-inw lost her little daughter who had just been born for half a year! Can you return your little nieces life?
The Duchess closed her eyes, her hands shaking, Mother, I can help Boer find a good wife. There are always some poor girls who are willing to marry him..
Lonly want a daughter of the Qiao family! Old Madam Zheng said, If you think Qiao Ruoyi is not suitable to marry Zheng Bo, let Qiao Jinniang marry him!
Qiao Jinniang: *.
The Duchess said, Mother, I need to discuss with the Duke about Ruoyis choice of husband.
You are the mistress of the Duke Mansion, but you cant even decide who a concubine-born daughter will marry? Old Madam Zheng said.
Just tell me if you agree or not! If your poor niece who died so early because of you had known that her aunt is so ungrateful, she must have felt very sad. Your sister-inw sacrificed her daughters life to take care of you, but you still care about your reputation?
The Duchess closed her eyes and said, Mother, stop it. I agree, okay? You can ask a matchmaker toe to propose marriage.
With that, Old Madam Zheng left happily.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, you are literally pushing Sister Ruoyi into a fire pit. Today, Old Madam Zheng forced you to sacrifice Sister Ruoyi, and another day she will use this excuse to force you to do something else you dont want to. Are you still going to say yes?
Tears flowed out of the Duchesss eyes. Jiner, go back.
Mother
The Duchess slumped on the stool, wiping the tears from her face with a handkerchief.
Qiao Jinniang walked out to the gate of the courtyard and said guiltily to Qiao Ruoyi, The matchmaker hasnte yet. There must be a way to solve this.
Qiao Ruoyi said calmly, Sister, dont me Mother. Ever since Old Madam Zheng had turned her eyes on me, I knew that I couldnt escape. Now that Zheng Bo has lost his reproductive function, its a good thing for me.
After all, the Zheng family not only gave birth and raised Mother, but Mother also owes thema life.
Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, Owes them a life?
Qiao Ruoyi asked Jinniang to follow her to a pavilion in another yard and ordered her maid to guard outside before she lowered her voice and said, Didnt I tell youst time? Brother and Qiao Ruoshui were born in the Zheng Mansion when Brother and Mother almost died.
Back then, Mother couldnt move, so she had to recuperate in the Zheng Mansion. Grandmother and Second Aunt couldnt go to the Zheng Mansion to take care of her, so it was Mrs. Zheng, who had just given birth to a child, took care of Mother.
Mrs. Zheng took care of Mother and her twins day and night, but neglected her own daughter, so her daughter who was born half a year ago died due to her negligence. *
For this reason, Mother felt a deep sense of guilt towards Mrs. Zheng. Every time the Zheng family demands something, Mother will alwayspromise as long as they mention this matter.
Qiao Jinniang asked in doubt, Its not like the Zheng family has no maids or mammies. Even if it was not convenient for Grandmother to go to the Zheng Mansion to take care of Mother, she could send mammies over. Why
Qiao Ruoyi said, At that time, the Zheng family said that the mothers premature birth was caused by Concubine Qian, so they didnt trust the people sent over by the Qiao family. Only when I was about to be born did the Zheng family send Mother and her twins back.
Qiao Jinniang somehow felt that something was not right about this matter, but she couldnt find what it was..7
Chapter 100 - The Place Where Her Daughter Was Buried
Chapter 100: The ce Where Her Daughter Was Buried
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
After dinner, Duke Anyuan said to the Duchess, Zheng Bo is really stupid. Does he think he can mess with anyone?
He should thank God that Fulu kicked him. Otherwise, he would have ended up much more miserably.
The Duchess sorted out the official robe Duke Anyuan took off and said, Boer has learned his lesson. Fortunately, he has already had children. Today, my mother came to propose to Ruoyi on Boers behalf, and I agreed.
The Duke was shocked and angry to hear that. You agreed? Dont you know what kind of a person your nephew is? Ruoyi called you Mother for fifteen years. She has always treated you as her biological mother and her mom is seriously ill. But you agreed to marry her to Zheng Bo? Do you want to kill her and
her mother?
The Duchess said solemnly, Dont let her mom know it for now.
Twill never allow this.
The Duchess hung up the Dukes official robe and said coldly, If you dont allowt, just divorce me.
Duke Anyuan said coldly, You are really unreasonable. Do you think I dare not divorce you? What did Ruoyi do to offend you?
She has been very well-behaved and sensible since she was a child, and her mom has never done anything wrong. Why do you have to bully them like this?
Twill never allow this marriage. Saying that, Duke Anyuan put on a random robe and said, Today I will sleep in the front yard.
Seeing Duke Anyuan walking away, Mammy An looked at the Duchess with worry and said, Madam.
The Duchess said to Mammy An, Mammy, Im tired. You can leave now.
Jinniang pondered for a long time in her room and decided to have a talk with her mother. She could make up for the Zheng family with something else but not Qiao Ruoyis future.
She went to her mothers courtyard only to bump into Mammy An who brought her back to the Duke Mansion from Linan back then.
Mammy An saluted Jinniang and said, Miss, why did youe here sote?
Mammy, I still want to persuade my mother not to marry Ruoyi to Zhengbo. Ruoyi is innocent.
Mammy An sighed. s, Miss, Madams life is not easy either. Miss Zhengs death is a knot in Madams heart. Although Miss Ruoyi is innocent, we cant just let Old Madam Zheng force your mother to death.
Jinniang said, No, I just think that Mother shouldnt indulge the Zheng family. This is not the only way to make up for them!
This will only allow them to push Mother harder and harder. Their desire is like a bottomless pit that is impossible to fill.
Didnt you hear that Old Madam Zheng has nned to ask Qiao Ruoshui to have Prince Mediocre restore the nobility title to them?
What if they force Mother to have me ask His Royal Highness to restore their nobility title after I marry into the East Pce? Should my mother say yes or no?*
Hearing the voice outside, the Duchess asked Jinniang in.
Jinniang entered the room and said, Mother, although my words may sound selfish, Tuaner is already the heir to the Crown Prince. Its very likely that the Zheng family will run amok in Tuaners name.
The Duchess clenched her fist and said, I will never allow the Zheng family to hurt you and Tuaner.
But why did you allow them to hurt Ruoyi?*
And Mother, Ive been thinking about it for a long time, but I really cant figure it out.
Since Mrs. Zheng would rather neglect her own daughter to take care of you back then, why is she not considerate to you now?
The Duchess sighed. Your aunt took care of me, not out of affection for me.
She just didnt want me and Luer to die in the Zheng family. After all, the Zheng family had already begun to decline and needed your fathers help. Without your brother and I, the Zheng family would not have been able to get any support from the Qiao family.
Qiao Jinniang still felt suspicious. Even if they didnt want to offend the Duke Mansion, they didnt have to neglect their own daughter, right? After all, there are so many servants in the Zheng Mansion.
Jinniang, dont say that. The Duchess said with guilt, I didnt even see my little niece, but she died because of me.
Tknow you and Ruoyi are on good terms, but Jinniang, if I dont agree to this matter, people will gossip that I forced my own mother to die in the Duke Mansion!
Qiao Jinniang held the Duchesss hand and said, Mother, think about it. Will you push me so hard for my brother in the future?
The Duchess shook her head and said, Of course not. You are my daughter.
Qiao Jinniang said, So Old Madam Zheng who pushed you so hard doesnt treat you as her daughter at all.
Does she really dare to kill herself in the Duke Mansion? She just said that to frighten you.
T saw too much of this kind of drama. In Linan, my adoptive fathers nsmen would put on such a show every three to five days.
The Duchess sighed. But they are just your nsmen but this is my mother.
Helpless, Qiao Jinniang stopped persuading the Duchess. She would think of other ways, and at worst, she could help Qiao Ruoyi escape to Linan.
Back to her room.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chen, she was stunned and asked, When did youe?
Lu Chen: Just now. The source of the Minanghua Fruits in the Guest Weing Building has been identified. They were mixed with ck cardamom and sent to Changan by Southwestern merchants. But the shopkeeper insisted that they just mistook the Minanghua Fruits as ck cardamom.
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont believe him. The ck cardamom has no strange taste while the sour taste of Minanghua Fruit needs to be covered up with a lot of pepper. It must be intentional.
Lu Chen nodded. The Ministry of Public Security has already taken over this case. You should go out less frequently.
After those diners were cut off from the supply of Minanghua Fruits, most of them became irritable and even crazy, and there have been several incidents caused by them.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Was Fulu so irritable that day because she couldnt get the taste of Minanghua Fruit? s!
Whats the matter? Lu Chen noticed that she was in a bad mood today.
Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen about Old Madam Zhengs coercion against the Duchess.
T feel closer to Ruoyi than to Qiao Ruoshui, although the former was not born by my mother. I cant just sit and watch her jump into a fire pit.
By the way, can you help me find out where Mrs. Zhengs deceased daughter was buried and where her spirit tablet is enshrined?
For children who die prematurely under one year old, their spirit tablets couldnt be ced at home, and they couldnt be buried in the ancestral graveyard. Most of them would instead be buried in temples.
She could ask the Duchess about this, but Qiao Jinniang didnt want to arouse her guilt.
Lu Chen called over a secret guard and ordered them to investigate. Why do you want to know this?
feel it is strange. How is it possible for a mother to ignore her own daughter in order to take care of others?
And how could that baby suddenly die? Maybe its not because of neglect, but a congenital disease or something, if that is the case, this cant be med on my mother.
Do you want to take a bone for an autopsy? Lu Chen asked.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, even if there are only dry bones left, it can be detected.
Lu Chen chuckled and said, Are you inspired by some novels again? What can be detected from the bones of a child less than one year old?
Why not have a try?
Qiao Jinniang just wanted to try her luck.
One of the regr customers of Myriad Taste was a coroner. He once said that a criminal case was solved because they found some evidence from the victims bones although the victim died twenty years ago.
This baby died only sixteen or seventeen years ago, so it might not be difficult to find some evidence from her bones.
The secret guard was extremely fast, and came to report to Qiao Jinniang early the next morning.
Maam, the Zheng family just threw the babys corpse to an old groom who once served your great-grandfather before bing blind.
1
The Zheng family told him to throw the corpse in a mass grave without even erecting a tombstone for her.
The blind old groom who was grateful to your great-grandfather chose a bamboo forest on the mountain to bury that baby. *
Hearing it, Qiao Jinniang had a bold guess in her heart. How is it possible?
Ifher conjecture was true, the Zheng family was simply shameless.
Please find a coroner to go to the babys grave with me..
Chapter 101 - Qiao Ruoshui Is the Daughter of the Zheng Family
Chapter 101: Qiao Ruoshui Is the Daughter of the Zheng Family
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
The bamboo forest was on a small hill to the west of Changan, with a dpidated thatched cottage beside it.
When Qiao Jinniang arrived, she saw that the thatched cottage was full of dust. It turned out that the old groom who buried the baby had died more than ten years ago.
There were very few vigers here, and after inquiring about it, she finally found the ce where the child was buried.
Qiao Jinniang saw a small raised mound, and on top of the small mound, there was a trumpet creeper.
Nuomi handed her the prepared joss sticks.
Qiao Jinniang took the joss sticks and bowed to the small grave.
Sister, if you can hear me in the underworld, I think you can understand, right? After all, you dont want to see someone using your name for evil deeds, right? Although I have to dig your bones out of your grave for an investigation, I will properly re-bury your bones, give you a good funeral and make you a
memorial tablet.
After Qiao Jinniang offered the joss sticks, the lean coroner said to her, County Mistress, please go to the side in case the bones scare you.
Qiao Jinniang said, No matter what, she is my younger sister. I dont need to shy away from it.
When the secret guard dug out the corpse, there was still ayer of rotten swaddle on it, but the phoenix embroidered with gold thread on the swaddle could still be vaguely seen.
The coroner opened the swaddle, revealing the white rotten bones inside.
When Qiao Jinniang sawit, she asked coroner, Master Coroner, do you think this corpse is a half-year-old child, or a child only one month old?
The coroner said, Judging from the size of the corpse, it is a baby about one month old. A half-year-old child should have already had deciduous teeth, so this corpse is a child only one month old.
Qiao Jinniang felt unspeakable sadness. Her guess was right!
It wasnt Mrs. Zhengs daughter who died, but her biological sister!
The girl of the twins!
How dare the Zheng family swap the children so boldly?
And her mother didnt even find out that neither of her daughters were her real daughters?!
Qiao Jinniang asked again, Can you see the cause of this childs death?
She didnt think that the Zheng family would deliberately murder her sister so as to swap her with their own daughter.
After all, although the Zheng family had gradually declined at that time, they still had the title of a duke, so there was no need for them to take such a risk.
The coroner checked the little skeleton carefully, and when he saw the broken bones in the back of the body, he said, It seems that this child was killed by a fall.
Qiao Jinniang gave the coroner a silver note and said, Please help me put the corpse in the coffin and find a temple to store the corpse.
County Mistress, you can rest assured. I will definitely handle this matter with care.
Qiao Jinniang said, I hope you keep this matter a secret, and dont reveal it to anyone.
This is a family scandal. No matter how bold Qiao Jinniang was, she dared not to publicize this matter, disregarding the opinions of her elders.
Besides, her conjecture was really unbelievable, and it was not easy to make the Zheng family confess guilt just with a corpse.
Back at the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang went to her grandmothers courtyard.
Qiao Ruofeng was about to get married, so she had been staying with Old Madam Qiao recently. After the matter of Prince Mediocre, she seemed to have grown up overnight.
Seeing Jinniang, Old Madam Qiao said, Jinniang, we are talking about the matter of the Guest Weing Building. I heard from maids that this matter was discovered by your Tasty Pavilion?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, our Chef Yang has seen Minanghua Fruit before. The business of Guest Weing Building suddenly bes so weirdly booming, so I guessed there must be a reason.
After Old Madam Qiao asked Qiao Ruofeng to leave, she said to Qiao Jinniang,
Actually, Minanghua Fruits appeared in Changan a long time ago.
The Empress Dowager has had a different taste from ordinary people since she was a child, and she is very picky about food.
Her husband, thest emperor, once invited chefs from all over the country and held a culinarypetition in Changan for her.
However, she lost her sense of taste after she was out of favor with her husband.
After His Majesty ascended the throne, the Empress Dowager wasted away day by day.
His Majesty is quite filial, and he had also invited chefs all over the country, but no chef could satisfy the Empress Dowager.
Then a chef who came from the Southwest appeared, who is the father of that Concubine Li from Earl Chengen Mansion.
The Empress Dowager then conferred on him the surname Li and only loved to eat the dishes he made. The status of Chef Li became unparalleled.
Old Madam Qiao took a sip of water and continued. That day, on the Empress Dowagers birthday banquet, I found the Minanghua Fruit.
When I was young, I lived in the Southwest with your grandfather for a period of time, so I knew Minanghua Fruit. I reminded the Empress Dowager but it tuned out that she knew about it all along.
Tam afraid that the Guest Weing Building will not be punished this time. In the end, His Majesty wont do anything to them for the sake of the Empress Dowager. So, dont dig any deeper into the matter, OK?
Qiao Jinniang said, But the Empress Dowager seems quite healthy? She doesnt look like she is addicted to Minanghua Fruit at all.
Old Madam Qiao said, Carefully control the amount and you wont be addicted to Minanghua Fruit.
Qiao Jinniang sat beside Old Madam Qiao and said, The matter of the Guest Weing Building will be handled by the Ministry of Public Security. I am not afraid that the Guest Weing Building will steal away my restaurants business, so I wont bother with them.
But there is something that I have to get to the bottom of.
Old Madam Qiao asked with a little doubt, What is it?
Qiao Jinniang said firmly, Im sure Qiao Ruoshui is not my mothers biological child, but Mrs. Zhengs daughter.
And the girl of the twins, my own sister, has long since died.
Old Madam Qiao pped the Buddha beads on the table angrily. Jinniang, even if Ruoshui is not on good terms with you, you shouldnt say that she is not your mothers daughter.
Qiao Jinniang said, If Concubine Qian hadnt spoken out that Ruoyun was not Mothers daughter, would you believe that a merchant girl in the small town of Linan is your own granddaughter?
Grandma, if you think I nder Qiao Ruoshui because Im at odds with her, then I have nothing to say.
But then I will have to report this matter to the Ministry of Public Security to seek justice for my dead sister.
Old Madam Qiao looked at the frank eyes of Qiao Jinniang and said, But Ruoshui looks so much like you. How much alike are you two!
Qiao Jinniang said, Earl Zheng and Mother look very much alike too. If she is Earl Zhengs daughter, we are cousins. Many cousins look alike.
Besides, Grandmother, why does Brother not look like Qiao Ruoshui at all? They are twins!
Old Madam Qiao really didnt want to believe it. None of the two daughters of Duke Anyuan was their own flesh and blood?
The matter concerning Qiao Ruoyun had already been secretlyughed at by everyone in Changan, and if this happened again, the Qiao family would definitely be a joke in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang told Old Madam Qiao about the corpse she saw today.
Grandma, although only a corpse cant be the irond proof, there must be something unusual about that matter.
After all, the corpse is a one-month-old child but the Zheng familys daughter was already half a year old when she died. Im sure we can find many clues.
A normal child would already have deciduous teeth when he is half a year old, can walk at one year old, and can speak at two years old..
Old Madam Qiao said helplessly, At that time, your mother gave birth to the twins at the Zheng family. When she gave birth to your brother, she had metrorrhagia. She didnt wake up until a monthter, and the imperial physician said shed better not move and better recuperate where she was.
I went to the Zheng family to visit your mother and your brother, and their lives were hanging by a thread.
Iwas so worried about them that I didnt pay much attention to the baby girl.
By the time your mother came back with your brother, the twins were already a year old.
At that time, Ruoshui was stronger than your brother and spoke earlier
But I just thought that it was because your brother almost died when he was born. *
When I look back on this matter now, there were really a lot of strange things about it..
Chapter 102 - The Zheng Family’s Plots
Chapter 102: The Zheng Familys Plots
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Although the Duchess and Qiao Lu were dying, Qiao Ruoshui was healthy, and Old Madam Qiao asked to take her granddaughter back first.
However, the Zheng family said that in case the Duchess would have an emergency, it would be better for her baby girl to stay with her.
At that time, Old Madam Qiao felt very guilty for her daughter-inw, so she agreed.
Old Madam Qiao felt a terrible headache when she recalled this, and pressed her temples with her fingers.
Tf you want to find evidence for this, you have to start with the mammies who served Ruoshui in the Zheng family, but its been 16 years, and Im afraid it will be difficult to find any evidence.
Qiao Jinniang said, No matter how difficult it is, I wont give up. If the daughter of the Zheng family reces my younger sister who died early to be the daughter of a duke, then how can we just let the Zheng family make Mother suffer in guilt for the rest of her life?
Mammy Ans panicking shouts suddenly rang outside. Madam, Madam, wake up!
Qiao Jinniang went out, only to see the Duchess, who had fainted.
She had nned to tell the Duchess euphemistically after obtaining solid evidence, but unexpectedly she had heard it now.
Old Madam Qiao ran the Buddhist beads through her fingers and sighed. s.
In the main courtyard.
After taking the Duchesss pulse, the imperial physician said to Qiao Jinniang, County Mistress, your mother fainted because of sudden rage and agitation. After I gave her acupuncture treatment, she has already woken up. Remember not to stimte her anymore.
Qiao Jinniang paid the imperial physician and said, Thank you.
Youre wee.
After the imperial physician left, Qiao Jinniang entered the room.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand tightly and said, Is what you just told your grandmother true? Qiao Ruoshui is your aunts daughter, not mine?
Qiao Jinniang said, Its true, I wanted to tell you after I get conclusive evidence. Mother, you must believe me.
The Duchess said bitterly, I believe you. Now all my doubts have been answered.
After giving birth, I was very weak, and it took me three months to recuperate before I could barely get out of bed. I wanted to hug Ruoshui, but my sister-inw refused me with the excuse of my poor health.
Tcould only take a look at her from a distance.
My sister-inws attitude towards Ruoyun and Ruoshui has always been very different. I wondered why my always snobby sister-inw fawned on Ruoshui instead of Ruoyun who was my eldest daughter and was treated more carefully by them.
Two years ago, Zheng Bo molested Ruoshui, but was scolded hard by my sister-inw. She warned him that he shall never touch Ruoshui.
Zheng Bo said that since my sister-inw liked Ruoshui, he could marry Ruoshui, but no one expected that my sister-inw would tly refuse it and say that he could not marry Ruoshui.
My sister-inw was originally reluctant to let Zheng Bo leave her to work out of the capital, but not long after that, she begged me to find a job for Zheng Bo in Shu topletely separate Zheng Bo from Ruoshui
Looking back on it now, I just feel Im too stupid to guess that Qiao Ruoshui is her biological daughter! And I even feel guilty for her for 16 years!
Qiao Jinniangforted her. Dont me yourself, Mother. After all, who would have thought that your mother and your sister-inw would trick you like this!
Thinking of her poor little daughter who died early, the Duchess just felt that she didnt deserve to be a mother. She let others ruin the lives of both of her daughters!
Where is your sisters corpse?
Qiao Jinniang said, Ive entrusted the corpse to a temple to enshrine it. Mother, do you want to announce Sisters real identity and give her a proper funeral or keep this family scandal a secret?
The Duchess asked Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, what do you think?
Qiao Jinniang only said, Although its said that family scandals should not be made public, it depends. We are the victims. Even if peopleugh at us, its not our fault.
But if this matter is known to everyone, Qiao Ruoshuis life will be even more difficult.
Qiao Jinniang didnt have any sympathy for Qiao Ruoshui. Although Qiao Ruoshui didnt know about the matter, there was nothing innocent about what she did.
But she was afraid that the Duchess still cared about Qiao Ruoshui for the sake of the 16 years of their mother-daughter bonding
The Duchess clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, If I still think of her, how can I face your deceased sister and you?
She is different from Ruoyun. Ruoyun ispletely innocent, and her biological parents are very kind to you.
But the Zheng family is not. I cant just conceal this matter for the sake of Ruoshui. I want them to give me an exnation!
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief and said, Youre right, Mom. If you keep this a secret, itll bemitting the crime of deceiving the Emperor. I want to go to the government to sue the Zheng family tomorrow.
The Duchess closed her eyes and said, Okay.
When Qiao Ruoyun heard that the Duchess fainted, she hurriedly came back to visit her.
She walked in and said worriedly, Whats wrong with you, Mother? What did the imperial doctor say?
The Duchess said, Its nothing. Are you alright in the Qin family? Does your husbands grandmother still bully you?
Qiao Ruoyun said, No, since my biological father was conferred with the title of Earl Linan, no one in the Qin family dares to bully me anymore, but Mammy Mei offended my husband and was driven to a manor. I begged him to let her return but he refused.
Mammy Mei has been serving you since you were three years old. Why does your husband refuse to let her back? the Duchess asked.
Qiao Ruoyun said in a low voice, Mammy Mei asked me to choose some concubines for my husband, so I found a few suitable concubines for him, but he rejected. Mammy Mei went to persuade my husband to ept the concubines and annoyed him.
Qiao Jinniang felt it very strange and said, Since she is your mammy, why did she ask you to choose concubines for your husband? I felt she was very strange thest time I went to the Qin Family to visit you.
As your mammy, she let a mere concubine maid bully you. You almost died but she didnt seem worried at all!
Now she tried to persuade you to take concubines for your husband and imed it was for your own good? I think your husband has done a good job! This kind of ill-intentioned person deserves to be driven away.
The young couple was in love with each other, but this old woman tried to persuade Ruoyun to take concubines for her husband? Qiao Ruoyun was simply too good-tempered!
The Duchess said to Qiao Ruoyun, Its all my fault. I trust the Zheng family too much and thought that the mammy your grandmother prepared for you was controlled by Concubine Qian, so I gave you a mammy arranged by the Zheng family.
What I couldnt figure out before, Ive figured it out now.
Mrs. Zheng must have been nning the future of her biological daughter long ago. She was afraid that Ruoyun would have a better life than Qiao Ruoshui, so she arranged Ruoyun a stupid and irresponsible mammy.
On the other hand, Qiao Ruoshuis mammy used to be Mrs. Zhengs trusted maid, who was very capable.
The Duchess really regretted it very much. What did she have topete with Concubine Qian for?
Now she realized that her biggest enemy was her most trusted family.
Maam, not good. The Duke came back with a girl who looks like Concubine Qian, and ordered the housekeeper to arrange a courtyard for her
A little maid hurried in to report.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she felt so disgusted that she wanted to vomit. Duke Anyuan was really loyal to his lover, Concubine Qian, but had he ever thought of her and her mothers feelings?
Despite the fact that he was separated from his own flesh and blood for so many years due to Concubine Qian, he soon took a woman who looked like Concubine Qian to the Duke Mansion? Is he still missing that concubine?
Qiao Ruoyun said angrily, How can Daddy do this!
In the Duchesss eyes, Qiao Jinniang could not see the slightest loss and sadness, and only heard her say,
I thought I had won, but it turns out Im the one who haspletely lost!
Chapter 103 - Mrs. Zheng Admitted It
Chapter 103: Mrs. Zheng Admitted It
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Although Mrs. Zheng didnt feel a concubine-born girl was not worthy of her son.
Her son had lost his reproductive function due to Princess Fulu, so Qiao Ruoyi was suitable to be his wife now.
Early in the moming, Mrs. Zheng brought a matchmaker to the Duke Mansion with a mingy betrothal gift.
When she came to the gate, she was stopped by the guards of the Duke Mansion. Mrs. Zheng, Madam has ordered us not to allow you to set foot in the Duke Mansion again. Please leave!
Mrs. Zheng was puzzled and said, Why? Im her sister-inw!
Qiao Jinniang chuckled at Mrs. Zheng at the gate and said, So what? The Zheng family murdered my sister and swapped her with your own daughter. We dont wee a murderer.
1m going to sue you to the Changan Prefect. You Zheng family must take responsibility for murdering my sister.
Mrs. Zheng avoided eye contact with her and said, Nonsense! I dont know what youre talking about.
Qiao Jinniang said, What is done by night appears by day. You know what you have done. My mother had always tried her best to help her natal family, but how did you pay her back?
Mrs. Zheng snapped, Qiao Jinniang, where did you hear such nonsense? Ruoshui looks so much like you. How could she not be your sister?
Qiao Jinniang said, But I think Qiao Ruoshuis demeanor is more like yours. Lets hand over this matter to the government for investigation. Find all the maids who had witnessed this matter. Once we do this, evidence can definitely be found.
Madam Zheng panicked. She hurriedly said to Qiao Jinniang, Ruoshui is the daughter of the duke. I know that Ruoshui has offended you before. I apologize to you for her. She is truly your sister!
However, Qiao Jinniang walked out of the Duke Mansion, ignoring her. Mrs. Zheng hurriedly followed and suddenly got on her knees towards Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, I was wrong. I shouldnt have insulted your adoptive parents, but Ruoshui is truly your sister. Youre connected by blood. How do you have
the heart to make her beughed at by everyone in Changan?
You can beat me and scold me again, but you cant report this to the government!
[ didnt murder your sister
Qiao Jinniang was not moved at all. What are you doing, Mrs. Zheng? Im helping you reunite with your daughter! I heard that youre not allowed to go to Prince Mediocre Mansion to visit Qiao Ruoshui now? How can I sit still and watch you separate from your daughter?
Mrs. Zheng kowtowed to Qiao Jinniang in panic. Jinniang, Jinniang, it wont do your and our families any good if you report this matter to the government! If your father knows about it, he may get angry with your mother and divorce her!
Lbeg you. Please dont report this matter to the government. I didnt kill your sister.
That was just a mistake, and I didnt want to be separated from my daughter either!
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect Madam Zheng to admit it so quickly. She had thought it would take some work.
It could be seen how aware Mrs. Zheng was of the appalling things she had done.
Mrs. Zheng grabbed Qiao Jinniangs sleeve and cried bitterly, That day, a mammy put your sister on the table and wanted to change her diaper, but no one expected her to roll down.
No one would have thought that a one-month-old child would turn over herself. And after she fell, she didnt wake up no matter what.
Your grandmother and I were afraid that the Qiao family would hold grudges, so we had to swap Ruoshui with that child. That child really fell to her death by herself.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, If it were your own child, would you put her on the table without anyone watching?
How did you know she couldnt be saved? Why didnt you seek medical treatment from an imperial physician?
But you threw her to a blind servant to bury her overnight, afraid that my sister would wake up and destroy the path you paved for your daughter, right?
Even if what you said is true that my sister did fall by herself and you were forced to sacrifice your daughter to avoid trouble,
How can you exin about the mammy the Zheng family arranged for Qiao Ruoyun?
How can you exin the fact that you make use of the death of that child to arouse my mothers guilt for you and push her to meet your unreasonable demands?
Your daughter is living happily in the Qiao family. How can you be so shameless to y victim and seek benefits?
And why didnt you even set up a memorial tablet for my sister?
It only shows that you have no regrets and no shame at all!
You are begging me just because you are afraid that your daughter will be aughing stock and be abandoned by Prince Mediocre. But have you ever thought of my mother? She didnt even know that her daughter had already died!
Mrs. Zheng slumped on the ground and said, I was wrong. I do know I was wrong, but Ruoshui is your cousin after all!
But my own sister died lonely and miserably in the bamboo forest sixteen years ago, but no one knows it and no one has ever gone to see her! Qiao Jinniang sneered. If you want to apologize, you should go to the underworld and apologize to her yourself.
With that, ignoring Mrs. Zhengs pleas, Qiao Jinniang went to the Changan Prefect to file a suit.
Although it was the busy farming season of the year, there were many leisure people in Changan who didnt do agricultural work and idled around.
Seeing the gorgeously dressed Qiao Jinniang entering, many people said, That girl is so beautiful. She looks like a fairy, and the golden hairpin on her head is so beautiful.
You dont know her? She is Qiao Jinniang, the famous long-lost daughter of Duke Anyuan who was swapped when she was born!
Oh, you mean that woman who abandoned her husband and son to find a richer husband?
Yes, is she here today to sue the Pinshu performers?
Hearing that County Mistress Jiaan came, Changan Prefect hurriedly came out and said, County Mistress Jiaan, who do you want to sue? Do you have a int?
Hongling handed the int to Changan Prefect.
Qiao Jinniang said, My lord, I want to sue the Zheng family for murdering my one-month-old biological sister and swapped her with Mrs. Zhengs half-year-old daughter, who is Prince Mediocres concubine, Qiao Ruoshui! The Zheng family hasmitted the crime of deceiving the Emperor.
Qiao Ruoshui is now Prince Mediocres concubine. The Zheng family concealed Qiao Ruoshuis true identity and deceived the royal family.
As Prince Mediocres concubine, Qiao Ruoshui has been recorded in the royal familys genealogy, so the Zheng family has even deceived the ancestors of the royal family.
Hearing that, Mrs. Zheng, who had caught up, passed out.
Changan Prefect was shocked and said, Have both of Duchess Anyuans daughters been reced?
Thats ridiculous! How can the Duke Mansion be so careless about their offspring?
The onlookers all pushed forward for fear of missing any single word they said. Even people who wanted to go to the bathroom tried to hold back for fear of missing this shocking news.
Changan Prefect had the coffin containing the baby girls corpse brought over. He looked at the golden thread-embroidered swaddle wrapped on the corpse and said, This golden thread embroidery is not something an ordinary family can afford, and this looks like a baby girl about one month old indeed.
Come, go to Earl Zheng Mansion and bring over Earl Zheng, Mrs. Zheng, and Old Madam Zheng! Then go to Prince Mediocre Mansion and invite Concubine Qiao over.
An ordinary prefect couldnt interrogate an earl, but Changan Prefect could.
Qiao Jinniang could have filed the suit to the Ministry of Public Security, but she didnt think the Zheng family was worthy of being trialed there, nor were they worthy of staying in the prison of the Ministry of Public Security.
When the police went to bring the Zheng family over, the onlookers all went to call for their neighbors and acquaintances toe over and watch the fun.
When the Zheng family arrived, there was already a densely packed crowd of people outside.
Mrs. Zheng was sent back to the Zheng family after she passed out, but soon the police arrived and she was carried to Changan Yamen again while she was still fainted.
Changan Prefect ordered someone to pour adle of ice water on her face, and she woke up slowly.
Old Madam Zheng sneered coldly. How dare you be so rude to us?! I have a first-ss honorary title conferred by His Majesty, and I am the grandmother of Prince Mediocres first concubine. How dare you take me here?
Changan Prefect patted the table with the gavel and said, County Mistress Jiaan sued the Zheng family for murdering her sister, swapping her with Mrs. Zhengs daughter, andmitting the crime of deceiving the emperor. Do you plead guilty?
Madam Zheng was startled and red at Madam Zheng. Of course not.
Qiao Jinniang said, Old Madam, I advise you to admit what youve done as soon as possible. If not, I am afraid it is not only the crime of deceiving the Emperor, but also the crime of despising the court.
Earl Zheng scolded Qiao Jinniang angrily. This is your biological grandmother. How can you say such unfilial words?
Qiao Ruoshui was invited to Changan Yamen and was confused. When she saw Qiao Jinniang here and heard the words of Earl Zheng, she saidcently,
Qiao Jinniang, I knew it! Sooner orter, your true color will be exposed! Being unfilial is a serious crime. Youll be thrown in jail!
Lord Prefect, just punish Qiao Jinniang ording tow. I wont stop you..
Chapter 104 - Not Her Biological Granddaughter
Chapter 104: Not Her Biological Granddaughter
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang really admired Qiao Ruoshuis confidence. She said, Lord Prefect, Mrs. Zheng has already confessed to her crime of swapping my sister with her own daughter just now at the gate of Duke Anyuan Mansion.
Okay. Changan Prefect ordered someone to ce the bones and the rotten swaddle in front of the Zheng family.
After conducting an investigation, this corpse is indeed the baby you ordered your old groom at your home to dispose of.
But this baby is not Mrs. Zhengs half-year-old daughter, but a baby girl who had just turned one month.
Heres the physical evidence. The sinner, Zheng Wang Shi, confess to your crime of murdering this baby girl!
Qiao Ruoshui was confused but still confidently said, swapped? Like I said, you are not worthy of being the daughter of the Qiao family.
It turns out that you were swapped. You are not my sister at all!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Of course Im not your sister.
Qiao Ruoshui was triumphant. She thought to herself, Id like to see what Mother has to say. She treats me like this for Qiao Jinniang. She must feel so regretful now.
Jinniang asked the coroner, Mrs. Zheng said that my sister fell off the table and died. Please check the cause of my sisters death again
Jinniang didnt believe that a one-month-old child could turn over, nor did she believe anyone would fall to their death from the height of a table.
A table was at most half the height of a person. Sometimes, people who didnt hold their babies well would drop their baby to the ground, but none of the babies would die.
The coroner checked the corpse carefully and said, Judging from the bone fractures, Im afraid she fell more than once. Its more like that she was deliberately mmed to the ground several times and died.
Qiao Jinniang asked Mrs. Zheng resentfully, You are still not telling the truth? Your family hasmitted a crime worthy of being beheaded!
Mrs. Zheng cried in fright. I didnt kill her. That day, a mammy put her on the table to change diapers and identally knocked over the candlestick, which fell on your sisters face.
Seeing that half of the baby girls face and her eye were burned by themp oil on the table, Mother was afraid that the Duke Mansion would me us, so she came up with the idea to swap the two children.
She was afraid that the baby girl would be a scourge when she grew up, so she simply mmed her to death.
Qiao Jinniang was so furious that she felt chill all over. Old Madam Zheng, she is your biological granddaughter! How can you be so cruel?
Old Madam Zheng red at Mrs. Zheng angrily. What are you talking about? My lord, this woman has been beaten crazy by Qiao Jinniang. What she said is nothing but nonsense.
Earl Zheng looked at his mother and his wife darkly. So Ruoshui is not my niece, but my daughter?
and my niece was killed by you long ago?
Old Madam Zheng said, No! How could I have killed my own granddaughter?!
Qiao Ruoshui finally figured out what they were talking about. She rushed to Qiao Jinniang, raised her hand to p her and yelled, You b*tch, nothing good has happened since you came back, and now youre ndering me for not being Father and Mothers biological daughter?
Qiao Jinniang grabbed Qiao Ruoshuis hand and pped her back. I advise you to keep quiet. Otherwise, I will treat you the same way your mother treated my sister!
Earl Zheng angrily scolded Old Madam Zheng. Of course you wont kill your own granddaughter, because you are not the biological mother of my sister and I!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Earl Zheng. What do you mean?
Earl Zheng said angrily, Your grandmother, my mother also has a twin sister.
That aunt married a lieutenant a few years ago, but he died on the battlefield at a young age.
After she became a widow, she seduced her brother-inw, pretended to be her own sister and became Duchess Dingyuan. Mother, no, Aunt, do you agree with what I said?
Old Madam Zheng said in horror, You actually know this? How is it possible?
Earl Zheng gnashed his teeth and said, Because I was in front of my mother before she died. She was secretly sent back to her natal home after she gave birth to my sister! And you reced her!
although I was only six years old, I knew what had happened!
Listening on the side, Qiao Jinniang couldnt believe that both of her mothers daughters were not her real daughters. This was simply the biggest joke in the world!
And it turned out that even her mothers mother was not her own!
There was indeed a reason for the decline of the Zheng family.
Earl Zheng continued, Grandmother had already discovered the truth, but you and Father all insisted that she was wrong, so she had no choice but to raise my sister in person.
Over the years, like my mother had asked me to do before she died, I took you as my own mother and have been filial to you.
although I knew that this woman was your daughter from your first marriage, I still married her as my wife and loved her as you demanded.
But I never expected you two to do such a terrible thing.
Mrs. Zheng looked at Earl Zheng in horror. What did you say? Mother-inw, is my mother? How could it be possible? My mother is Mrs. Wang of the Wang family in the Northwest!
Earl Zheng retorted. No, Mrs. Wang is your aunt.
After your father died in battle, your mother abandoned you and returned to her natal family in Changan!
Your aunt pitied you and raised you as her daughter.
Only then did Mrs. Zheng understand why her mother-inw treated her so well Among Old Madam Zhengs daughters-inw, she was the only one who hadnt been tortured by her.
The onlookers outside were in an uproar. It turns out that Old Madam Zheng has already been used to swapping. She is quite skilled!
Why didnt Earl Zheng remind his sister since he knew the truth?
Poor Madam Qiao, not only both of her daughters, but also her mother are not her own.
This is even more unbelievable than novels! The younger sister of the twins reced her elder sister and became a duchess. Many yearster, she murdered her sisters granddaughter and swapped her with her own granddaughter so that thetter could have a better life!
She is simply shameless!
Filled with righteous indignation, the onlookers kept throwing rotten eggs and rotten vegetables at Old Madam Zheng.
Changan Prefect seemed to have long been ustomed to this scene and had his staff put an umbre for him to block the thrown trash before he patted the table with the gavel again.
Dont throw trash anymore. Its troublesome to clean the hall. Anyone throwing trash again will be put into jail!
That old b*tch is so evil. I have to throw trash at her even if Ill be put into jail!
Exactly. Since she had stolen her sisters identity, she should have treated her sisters children well, but she actually mmed her nieces daughter to death!
Qiao Jinniang had never seen such a scene before. Fortunately, a policeman held an umbre to block the trash for her. Country Mistress Jiaan, the people in Changan are imbued with a sense of justice. You will get used to it in the future.
Qiao Jinniang:
If she had known this, she would have note in person. Although the trash didnt hit her, it smelled really bad.
Although Qiao Ruoshui hadnt figured out what had happened, she was very angry that she was smashed by stinky trash, so she yelled angrily,
Stop it, all of you! Im the first concubine of Prince Mediocre! How dare you lowlifes throw trash at me?!
Before she finished speaking, more trash was thrown at her.
Changan Prefect let out a long sigh. It was no wonder that his predecessor told him to prepare more clothes and always keep hot water on the stove.
After the people were finally tired, Changan Prefect said, This matter is of great importance with severe implications. These people havemitted the crime of deceiving the Emperor. Come, put Old Madam Zheng, Earl Zheng and Zheng Wang Shi into prison.. Ill decide the punishment for them after
reporting this case to His Majesty!
Chapter 105 - The Duke’s Concubine Serves Tea
Chapter 105: The Dukes Concubine Serves Tea
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang took a bath three times and used incense and flower lotion before the stinky smell of rotten eggs that was lingering on the tip of her nose was finally eliminated.
Qiao Ruoyi came in and asked Qiao Jinniang, Sister, is the rumor wide-spreading outside true?
When I first heard it, I couldnt even figure out theplicated rtionship. It turned out that Old Madam Zheng is not our grandmother but our great-aunt, and she was Qiao Ruoshuis biological grandmother!
Qiao Jinniang said, Its true.
Ruoyi smacked her tongue in surprise. Everyone in Changan thinks this is too unbelievable. Now everyone isughing at Mother
Qiao Jinniang sighed helplessly. She didnt know how to tell the Duchess about this, but the Duchess probably had heard about it by now.
She followed Qiao Ruoyi to the main courtyard.
The Duchess had already got up from the bed, and kneeling in front of her was an elegantly-dressed woman, who looked gentle and fragile.
Madam, please drink the tea.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw the woman kneeling on the ground, she was shocked. Qian Shi!
Qiao Jinniang asked, Whats wrong?
Qiao Ruoyi whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear. Although this woman doesnt look very much like Qian Shi, her seemingly vulnerable demeanor exactly resembles hers.
The Duchess did not take the womans tea but said, The Duke Mansion has our own rules. No matter what, the Qiao family will never ept an official prostitute as a concubine. Keep this cup of tea for yourself!
Qiao Jinniang entered the door and said, Mother.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Sorry, I shouldnt have let you go to Yamen and get yourself caught in public scrutiny.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the Duchess worriedly and said, Mother, if you are sad, just cry out.
May I take you to y outside the city? I havent had an outing since I returned to Changan, and its autumn now. Lets go climbing.
The Duchess said with guilt, Its my fault. Its been almost half a year, but I havent taken you out to have fun.
We have an orchard on Tianyi Slope. The jujubes there are probably ripe now, so I will take your sisters to pick jujubes in the orchard in a few days.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, I can make jujube mud cakes for you.
After Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, she nced at the woman kneeling on the ground. In terms of appearance, she was not as beautiful as her mother, and her temperament was not as dignified as her mothers either.
The Duke must be blind! 1
Aftering out of the main courtyard, Yuyan came to report to her, Miss, His Royal Highness had someonee to tell you that he is waiting for you outside the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and went out. Seeing Lu Chen sitting in the carriage, she got on the carriage. Why didnt you bring Xier out?
Lu Chen said, Since he already has a teacher, he should study hard, and shouldnt y around all the time.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. He just turned three years old. Why cant he leave the East Pce for a while to see his mother? I dont want him to live an exhausting life.
Lu Chen said, Dont worry. Hes ying with his ymate in the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang suspected that Lu Chen deliberately did not bring Xier out of the East Pce so that she could enter the East Pce earlier.
Why did youe to me? Do you want to ask about the Zheng family? I had never thought that Old Madam Zheng was not my mothers biological mother.
If I were my mother, Im afraid I wouldnt be able to live.
If you were your mother, you wouldnt have been so foolish as not to find out the truth until now, Lu Chen said.
The Zheng family hasmitted the crime of deceiving the Emperor and provoked a public outrage. Old Madam Zheng and Mrs. Zheng will be exiled at the very least. Your sister can be avenged.
s! Qiao Jinniang sighed. My mother is so pitiful. Duke Anyuan brought back a woman who looked very much like his dead concubine yesterday.
When I went to my mothers courtyard just now, she was serving tea to my mother!
Lu Chen didnt want to get involved in this matter. If he said something wrong, she would have a fight with him again.
Didnt you say you hadnt been to Chunfeng Street? Ill take you to Chunfeng Street to y today.
Chunfeng Street was the most prosperous money-squandering den in Changan. It was only two quarters of an hour from Tasty Pavilion by carriage, but Qiao Jinniang had never been there.
There were many brothels in Chunfeng Street, and there were also ces for women to have fun. Jinniang was afraid that it might be dangerous to go alone if not apanied by a man.
In the evening, Chunfeng Street gradually became lively, and pleasant-sounding music came from the serried gaily-painted pleasure-boats on the river.
On the cruise ships, beautiful dancers danced adeptly on the bow.
Entering a cruise boat, Qiao Jinniang saw Xie Yun, who she had not seen for a long time. Today, Xie Yun was wearing a jade-white loose robe, looking quite elegant and noble.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Xie Yun and Lu Chen standing together, she couldnt help thinking of the words of Fulu that Xie Yun, who was wearing mens clothes, was handsome and elegant, while Lu Chen was masculine and domineering like a king.
The two of them standing together were indeed pleasing to the eye and well matched.
She felt that she shouldnt disturb the two of them.
Jinniang, why do you keep looking at me?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Young Master Xie, you look so handsome in mens clothes, even more beautiful than in womens clothes.
Xie Yun nced at Lu Chens face and said, Whos more handsome, His Royal Highness or me?
Lu Chen also looked at Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Well, I need Young Master Xie to do me a favor, so I can only say that Young Master Xie is more handsome.
Lu Chens face was all dark, and he said crossly, What do you need him to do for you? Why dont you turn to me for help?
Qiao Jinniang said, The ingredients of Tasty Pavilion are all shipped from all over the country, and the freight is a huge expense.
Along the way, there are many checkpoints and I need to pay a lot of taxes and charges.
So I want to cooperate with the Xie family. There are not many ingredients Tasty Pavilion needs, so can you please make room in the Xie familys ships for me?
Xie Yun said, No problem.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and negotiated with Xie Yun about freight and shipping taxes, etc
It was only after Xie Yun was called away by his subordinates that she noticed Lu Chens dark face.
Lu Chen emptied a ss of wine sullenly, stared at Qiao Jinniang and said, Isnt it more convenient to ask me for help than to cooperate with Xie Yun?
Qiao Jinniang said, I cant use your power to seek personal gain. If I asked you for help, wouldnt it give Prince Mediocre him something to use against you?
d to hear that she was worried about him, Lu Chen asked, Then tell me, who is more handsome, me or Xie Yun?
Qiao Jinniang said very sweetly at this moment, Of course my honey is the most handsome man in the world. Thats why I married you.1
Lu Chen, a little tipsy, whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Dont call me Honey again. You set the fire but refuse to put it out.
1
Having said that, Lu Chen kissed Qiao Jinniang on the cheek. Perhaps considering that the people on the shore could see the scene inside the boat, he only kissed her face gently.
Seeing this scene from the shore, Xie Yun felt slightly sour.
If he had known that Jinniang would marry Lu Chen, he would have not been afraid of disturbing Jinniangs peaceful life and would have confessed his love for her.
1
Now he could only bury this love deep in his heart.
Master, Second Young Master came to Changan for two purposes. Firstly, to check out if you are still alive, and secondly, to propose to Princess Jinghua so as to seek support from the royal family.
Xie Yun said in a cool voice, Marry Princess Jinghua? In his dreams!
Chapter 106 - Pregnant
Chapter 106: Pregnant
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
It was veryte when Qiao Jinniang went back to the Duke Mansion.
Seeing her, Hongling immediately said,
Congrattions, Miss. The imperial physician came to examine Madam today only to find that she was pregnant! But she has been pregnant for only about a month.
It was not easy for the doctor to find it out because the Duchess had only been pregnant for a month.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly went to the main courtyard. Old Madam Qiao was telling the Duchess to take a good rest, fearing what happened to the Duchess recently would affect this child.
The Duchess said, Mother, Im pregnant, so Im afraid I wont have the time and energy to manage the affairs of the Duke Mansion. I want to hand over the management power to Ruoyi so that she can learn how to manage a big family.
Old Madam Qiao said, Ruoyi is not suitable. Let Jinniang do it. After all, she will marry into the East Pce soon.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Grandmother, please spare me. I just want to live a leisurely life. I cant manage the huge Duke Mansion.
Old Madam Qiao said, Let me be frank, youll have to manage the harem. Why dont you start getting some experiences now?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, His Royal Highness has promised me that he wont take any concubines. So I dont have to worry about this.
Old Madam Qiao was shocked. Are you serious?
Yes.
Old Madam Qiao almost couldnt breathe. What are you talking about, Jinniang? If your husband is amon man, he can say that.
But he is the Crown Prince! If he doesnt take concubines, can you bear the usations of the entire world?
Qiao Jinniang said weakly, He has promised me anyway.
The Duchess smiled with relief. It seems that His Royal Highness is a man worthy of marrying.
Old Madam Qiao said worriedly, Perhaps His Royal Highness is afraid that his position is not that secure after he was away from Changan for three years, so he promised that just to get the support of our Qiao family!
The Duchess said, But I think His Royal Highness is sincere to Jinniang.
Old Madam Qiao looked at her innocent daughter-inw and could only shake her head helplessly.
s, forget it. Just take good care of your baby. Youre not young anymore.
You had hemorrhage when you gave birth to Luer, so youd better be careful this time.
Qiao Jinniang thought to herself, The Duchess is already thirty-five.
It was very dangerous for women to give birth, even for young women.
But at this time, the Duke brought a prostitute home and wanted to take her as a concubine? This was simply disgusting.
After Qiao Jinniang went out, she asked the maid at the door, only to hear that the Duke hadnt even returned to the Duke Mansion.
The maid said to Qiao Jinniang in a low voice, Since Concubine Qian passed away, the Duke has rarely returned to the Duke Mansion but lives in the house that he had purchased for Concubine Qian in the past
Qiao Jinniang really felt sorry for her mother. She looked at the cold moon in the sky and sighed.
In the Imperial Pce.
Emperor Huilin sighed, and the Queen handed Emperor Huilin a cup of tea. The Xie family wants to marry a princess. Why do you keep sighing?
As for the internal strife of the Xie family, I originally thought that Xie Yun had a greater chance to win.
But now his uncle is in control of the Xie family and his uncles son is proposing to a princess to express their loyalty to the royal family. I think I can agree, but Jinghua may not want to marry into the Xie family.
The Queen frowned and said, You have more than one daughter. Why must Jinghua? You know she and Lin Mo are in love with each other.
Its impossible for Lin Mo to marry a princess. Emperor Huilin said, And the Xie familys son only wants to marry Jinghua.
The Queen said, Now that the Qian family in Linan is loyal to you, why do you have to worry about the Xie family? Why ruin Jinghuas life?
Why not grant them a County Mistress or a Prefecture Mistress?
Emperor Huilin said, The Xie family is the leader of the literati, and they are very powerful in the South. How can I just ignore them?
If only Xie Yun could be the crown princess.
Xie Yun is just a woman. If she marries Chener, wouldnt it be a cinch to win over the Xie family?
Its a pity that Chener is too stupid. He just wants Qiao Jinniang and even promises her that he will not take any concubines!
Have I allowed that? As soon as Qiao Jinniang enters the East Pce, I will grant Chener seventeen to eighteen concubines. I dont believe that she dares to defy an imperial decree!
The Queen snorted. Dont ever do that! Didnt Chener tell you that if you force him to take concubines, he will rather not be the crown prince?
Emperor Huilin blurted out, Does he think he can threaten me with that? I have plenty of sons who want this position.
The Queen stood up calmly and said to Eunuch Quan, Today, His Majesty will sleep in the Hall of Diligent Governance.
Emperor Huilin:
The punishment on the Zheng family was decided in early September.
Old Madam Zheng murdered a baby and deserved to be executed, but for the sake of her old age, she was sentenced to exile to the frontier.
Although Earl Zheng did not participate in the murder of the child, he failed to manage his family well and indulged his family in evil, so he was dismissed from his official position and his title of earl was withdrawn.
Mrs. Zhengmitted the crime of deceiving the Emperor and failed to educate her son well, but for the sake of her fathers contribution to the country, she was exempted from the death penalty and also exiled to the frontier.
In Prince Mediocre Mansion, Qiao Ruoshui had waited for many days, hoping that His Majesty would uphold justice for her, but the result was aplete disappointment.
Mammy, what should I do? Qiao Jinniang has deceived so many people. How could I not be the daughter of the Qiao family?!
She couldnt be the daughter of the Zheng family that she had always despised.
The mammy, who had long known the truth, didnt know how tofort Qiao Ruoshui. She just said, Consort, dont worry. Although you are not the Duchesss biological daughter, you are her own niece after all. And you lived together for sixteen years
Qiao Ruoshui suddenly screamed, No, it must be Qiao Jinniangs trick! I will find some evidence and prove my identity!
She simply could not ept that she was not the daughter of the Duke!
When Qiao Jinniang heard the news from Yuyan, she said, So the Zheng family will be exiled to the frontier. Old Madam Zheng is used to thefortable and luxurious life. I dont think she can make it to the frontier alive.
In Jinniangs opinion, His Majestys punishment on the Zheng family was mild.
Qiao Jinniang went to the main courtyard, and when she walked in, she saw Qiao Ruoyun and her mother-inw talking with the Duchess.
Mrs. Qin said proudly, My naughty daughter has been fighting with County Mistress Fulu and cant find a suitable husband. Everyone said its because our requirements are too high, but which parent doesnt want their daughter to have a better life?
Fortunately, weve just found a very excellent young man for her, who is Lin Mo, the son of Prime Minister Lin.
Qiao Jinniang was stunned. Was this a good choice for Qin Miaomiao? Although she hadnt inquired about it, she could sense that the rtionship between Princess Jinghua and Lin Mo must be unusual.
A maid hurried to the Duchess and reported, Madam, the one in the Furong Garden was found to be more than three months pregnant, and she suddenly bled just now.
The one in the Furong Garden? That young fragile-looking woman?
Chapter 107 - Business of the Restaurant
Chapter 107: Business of the Restaurant
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing the words, Mrs. Qin said with a smile: Congrattions, Duchess. The Duke has two children at the same time! You must be very happy, arent you?
Qiao Jinniang saw the undisguised gloating on the face of Mrs. Qin.
Very annoyed, she asked coldly, Mrs. Qin, do you know Princess Jinghua?
Lin Mo never concealed his rtionship with Princess Jinghua.
The Qin family had definitely known about Lin Mos affair with Jinghua.
Sure enough, after hearing this, Mrs. Qin smiled awkwardly and said, Yes?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Oh, its nothing, I just think that we should put ourselves into other peoples positions and not do what you dont want others to do to you. Mrs. Qin, dont you think so?
Mrs. Qin forced a smile and said, Yes, youre right. Oh, one of my husbands concubines is not feeling well. I must go now.
Qiao Ruoyun saluted and followed her away.
The Duchess looked a bit gaunt, even her lips were pale. She said, Mrs. Qins mother-inw likes to give her son concubines, and those women gave birth to a lot of children for her husband. Her life is not easy.
It is only recently that her son has gained the favor of the Emperor that her life has be easier. Although she has a poisonous tongue, she is not a bad person.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I know, but since shes been through all this, why should she make fun of you? You are also a victim!
Whats more annoying is Father. His guilt is only a word.
The Duchesss face paled. Jinniang, its all my fault. Im too useless.
Qiao Jinniang said, Do you want to divorce him?
The Duchess shook her head and said, Jinniang, if I divorced your father, hell have a new wife soon. He never likes me anyway. Plus, if he marries a woman from a powerful family, what will happen to Luer and Ah Li?
And you, you havent entered the East Pce yet. With the Duke Mansion behind you, your life would be much easier in the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang said, Luer has been recognized as the heir to Father by His Majesty, and he is already sixteen years old, and you can take Ah Li away with you because he is still a child and cant leave his mother.
Mother, if you worry about your future life after divorce, I have some savings, which should be enough for you and Ah Li to livefortably for a lifetime, unless you are reluctant to leave Duke Anyuan.
The Duchess said with a sarcastic smile, How could I be reluctant to part with him? I endured so much just for the sake of my children and the Zheng family. Now that the Zheng family is gone, I am just worried about you and your brothers.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I dont need you to sacrifice yourself for me. As for my brothers, I dont think they want you to continue to suffer.
The Duchess sighed and said, Let me think about it
There was a great uproar in Furong Garden, but none of the masters of the Duke Mansion gave any response, so the maid could only hire a doctor herself to take the pulse of Qiangian.
Yuyan came back after inquiring about the news. The doctor said that Qiangians baby is safe, but she needs to take a good rest and keep a good mood.
Miss Qiangians mammy went to kneel at the door of Madams courtyard, begging Madam to drink Miss Qiangians tea to ept her as the Dukes concubine, so that Miss Qiangian could take care of her and her baby in peace.1
Qiao Jinniang snorted coldly. Wheres the Duke?
He is busy with work. Its said that a small tribe in the Southwest rebelled recently After the Duke brought Miss Qiangian back to the Duke Mansion, he never came back.
Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen Duke Anyuan for a long time. Even when the Zheng familys matter was floating about, Duke Anyuan didnt return to the Duke Mansion.
The Guest Weing Building was still closed, so the business of Tasty Pavilion was ridiculously good.
There was a long queue in front of its gate, and the pastries were sold out as soon as they came out of the oven.
Expectedly, the diners scrambled to buy the pastries and had a fight.
Receiving a message from Bajiao in the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang went to Tasty Pavilion.
What she saw was a crowd gathering around the door of Tasty Pavilion, trying to push themselves inside.
Bajiao almost cried at the door. Customers, customers, were truly sorry, but weve run out of ingredients. Its not that we dont want to entertain you!
Cant we bring our own ingredients?
1
Exactly, Tasty Pavilion is just a restaurant. Why do you not allow us to enter? Youll cry if your customers are all gone!
Qiao Jinniang came up and said, Customers, I am the owner of Tasty Pavilion.
Please listen to me, our business was not good a few days ago, so we didnt prepare enough ingredients. But in the past two days, weve elerated the purchase of ingredients in Changan.
Of course you can bring your own ingredients, but you came to the restaurant for the most delicious dishes, didnt you? So the ingredients we use are all first-ss.
Many kinds of meat cant be used for cooking before they are specially processed. Please understand us, dear customers. Although I want to make money, I cant serve you with substandard food.
The diners mored, Not only are you out of meat, you dont even supply pastries. There are only a few sweet-scented osmanthus cakes with egg yolk filling served every day.
Theres never a shortage of pastries in other restaurants, but what about your restaurant? Your pastries are not only expensive, but there are so few portions!
Why are the fresh meat mooncakes not for sale after the Mid-Autumn Festival?! Why is magnolia tofu not for sale too?! What kind of restaurant is this?!
Qiao Jinniang:
The Mid-Autumn Festival has passed. Why should we continue to sell mooncakes? And magnolia tofu is a summer snack. Eating it in autumn will give you diarrhea.
Surrounded by these diners, Qiao Jinniang was quite helpless.
Sometimes, being too popr could be an annoyance too.
All of a sudden, the diners who wereining dispersed. Qiao Jinniang looked back and found that it was Lu Chen.
She pretended toin, You scared all my guests away.
Lu Chen said, They are just here to make trouble. You didnt add Minanghua Fruit in the pastries. How could they be so idle as to make a fuss about mere pastries?
Qiao Jinniang said, No, they are all regr customers, and what they said is true. My restaurant always runs out of ingredients indeed.
When Qiao Jinniang was young, Myriad Tastes customers were mostlymon people, so it used all kinds of ingredients.
And gradually it had more merchants and officials as customers, so they began to use better ingredients.
And after the death of her adoptive parents, Qiao Jinniang simply used the best ingredients.
Whether it were vegetables or meat, she always used the best ingredients, never cheating on workmanship and materials.
In this way, the food in her restaurant would always be very delicious but the supply was always low.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, I want to open another Myriad Taste in Changan, which will specialize in ordinary dishes without using those first-ss and expensive ingredients.
But Tasty Pavilion will still supply those delicate and expensive dishes. In this way, the diners dont have to all crowd to Tasty Pavilion. What do you think?
Lu Chen said, It doesnt matter to me. Youll live in the East Pce anyway.
If you run a restaurant outside, you cant manage it yourself. Even if you entrust it to others, they may not manage it as you want, and your enemies may use it to cause trouble for you.
One Tasty Pavilion is enough. Its enough to give Huixiang, Bajia and the others a ce to settle down.
Chapter 108 - Miserable Qiao Ruoshui
Chapter 108: Miserable Qiao Ruoshui
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang thought about it and sighed. Why are you the Crown Prince?
She knew from a young age that she was just a small shopkeeper of a restaurant.
When she was studying in school, some girls from dignitary families would make fun of her for being just a restaurant shopkeeper in the future.
But Qiao Jinniang never felt that there was anything wrong with being a restaurant shopkeeper. She could eat a lot of delicious food and meet a lot of interesting people.
Now, for Lu Chens sake, she couldnt even be a restaurant shopkeeper?
Lu Chen noticed her sadness and immediately said,
Its okay if you want to open a restaurant. Ill have my men help you.
Qiao Jinniang raised her eyes and asked Lu Chen, By the way, what about Xier? Why didnt you bring him out? I havent seen him for a long time.
Lu Chen said, If you want to see him, you cane and see him in the East Pce.
Jinniang said, Under what name shall I enter the East Pce now? What if I cante out once I enter it?
Can I buy a house in Changan? It just so happens that I dont want to live in the Duke Mansion anymore, and you can let Xiere to live in my house.
Did someone in the Duke Mansion bully you? Lu Chen hurriedly asked, How dare they?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, I went back to the Duke Mansion in order to live with my biological parents, but they are different from my parents anyway.
Lu Chen knew that the parents that Qiao Jinniang spoke of were her adoptive parents in Linan.
Although he didnt have much contact with them, he knew how much they loved Jinniang.
Everyone in Changan said that the Duke and the Duchess doted on Jinniang, but they were not as good to her as her adoptive parents were.
Qiao Jinniang said gloomily, The Duke kept saying that he feels guilty about me, and everyone says that he was very good to me, but I really cant feel it.
If he is really good to me, how could he have a child with a woman who looked like that concubine so soon?
I dont think I can bear to call their child brother or sister and hear that child call me sister. Thats too disgusting.
Its best if my mother is willing to divorce with him, but if she isnt, I dont want to stay in the Duke Mansion either.
Lu Chen tried to persuade her. Duke Anyuan can be counted as a good man. He only has a wife and a concubine now.
Whenever he returns to the Duke Mansion, the Duchess cold-shoulders him, so there is nothing wrong with him finding a woman outside.
Its not worth it for you to leave the Duke Mansion for this.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. There is nothing wrong? Not worth it? So you think what the Duke did is right?
Lu Chen said, No, but if you leave the Duke Mansion because of this, everyone will say youre stupid.
Jinniang, you should know that this is Changan, not Linan.
Besides, your father is Duke Anyuan, who is in charge of the military of the country. If he shows no interest in women, the first one who cant sleep will be my father.
Qiao Jinniang murmured in a low voice, Yes, this is Changan. Its not the Duke who made a mistake, but me. I just dont fit in here.
Now that you think the Duke has done nothing wrong, will you think that its a matter of course to take a concubine since you are the Crown Prince?
Besides, everyone will be on the mens side.
Lu Chen clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, I wont. Im not Duke Anyuan.
Qiao Jinniang said, If my mother cant be the exception, why can I be the exception?
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang into a room and said, What are you talking about? I didnt even have a concubine and you almost wanted to kill me. Do I still dare to take a concubine?
Tm not Duke Anyuan, and youre not your mother. After my father met my mother, he has been devoted to her.
Qiao Jinniang said, If His Majesty is really wholehearted with the Queen, how are there Imperial Concubine Xian and the other imperial concubines?
You know how much the Queen yearns for life outside the imperial pce. She is willing topromise because she loves His Majesty, but I
She liked Lu Chen, and in Linan, everyone envied her for having a husband who was as handsome as a banished immortal.
When they went out, everyone would praise Lu Chen for being so handsome.
But she didnt think she loved him like the poem described be your love to me as strong as the rocks and be my love to you as tough as the creeping vine.
She was not a creeping vine, and Lu Chen was not a rock.
Lu Chen abruptly lowered his head and blocked her mouth with his lips. He didnt want to hear those words he didnt want to hear from her mouth.
The door was suddenly pushed open.
Princess Fulu looked at the two of them. Im sorry, Im sorry to disturb you!
Qiao Jinniang blushed red and red at Lu Chen, saying to Fulu, Princess, wait a minute. I havent seen you for a long time.
Fulu chuckled and said, Please continue. Dont mind me.
Qiao Jinniang awkwardly changed the subject. Princess, I happen to have something to ask you.
Lwant to open another restaurant in Changan, but I dont know where to open it. I dont want it to be too close or too far away from Tasty Pavilion.
Do you have any suggestions?
If it was too far away from Tasty Pavilion, it would be inconvenient for her to go to the restaurants to check the ount, and she wouldnt be able to arrive in time in case of any emergency.
Fulu said, Its easy. Junior Duke Rongs casino is closed.
His casino is at an intersection with a lot of traffic, there is a market nearby, and there are many merchants from outside Changan, so its a suitable ce to run a restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you, Princess. Ill talk to the Junior Duke about the transfer of the shop right away.
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs hand. Why talk to him? That shop belongs to me.
Qiao Jinniangughed. It turns out that the shop is mine. Ill have the carpenters refurnish it now. Its best to open the restaurant by the end of September.
Princess Fulu wondered. Isnt that shop owned by my imperial cousin? How did it be yours?
Even he is mine. Qiao Jinniang said, Of course his shop is mine too!
Fulu snorted. I remember someone still called him a jerk not long ago.
But now youre ying lovey-dovey with him! Women are really unpredictable.
Qiao Jinniang was not annoyed at all. Princess, youve lost a lot of weight. What would you like to eat? Ill make something for you.
Fulu said angrily, The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building is simply a b*stard! I cant fall asleep, and I dont have any appetite these days.
Why hasnt he been convicted yet? He deserves to be executed!
Lu Chen said, The Ministry of Public Security will tend to this matter. Jinniang, just let the cook cook for her. You dont have to cook.
Qiao Jinniang said, Id like to thank the Princess for kicking Zheng Bo.
If it werent for that kick, I wouldnt have known my sister had died long ago.
Fulu said, I didnt know about your sister until today. I cant imagine there is such an evil person in this world!
Qiao Ruoshui always puts on a high air, acting more like a princess than me.
Its a pity that she is locked in Prince Mediocre Mansion, so I cant see how miserable she is now.
But I hate Prince Mediocre. Otherwise I would have gone to Prince Mediocre Mansion to visit her!
Qiao Jinniang smiled, Prince Mediocre cherishes his reputation, so he may not abandon Qiao Ruoshui now.
But now Qiao Ruoshui is of no value to him. Im afraid her life in Prince Mediocre Mansion wont be easy.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, Yuyan hurried over and said, Miss! Concubine Qiao, no, Concubine Zheng murdered Concubine Jians unborn child and was given a ss of poisonous wine by His Highness Prince Mediocre!
Chapter 109 - Not the Duke’s Child
Chapter 109: Not the Dukes Child
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang handed Yuyan a ss of water. Drink a ss of water and speak slowly.
Yuyan took a sip of water and said, But Concubine Zheng refused to drink the poisonous wine and knocked it over.
With the help of her mammy, she got out of Prince Mediocre Mansion from the doghole and escaped all the way to the Duke Mansion.
She then cried to Madam that she didnt kill Concubine Jians child, and that this was a framed usation. After Sister Hongling heard it, she asked me to find you.
Fulu listened with relish and urged Qiao Jinniang. Come, lets go to your home to watch this good show.
Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen:
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect that Qiao Ruoshui would dare to escape back to the Duke Mansion.
As soon as she and Fulu arrived at the Duke Mansion, they heard Qiao Ruoshui crying bitterly.
Mother, save me, save me. I was framed by Qiao Jinniang. I am your daughter.
I didnt kill Concubine Jians child. How dare I do that!
It must be Qiao Jinniang! She saw that His Highness didnt abandon me because of the rumors, so she framed me again!
Qiao Jinniang:
Fulu said sarcastically, Oh, Jinniang, I dont know youre so powerful! You can even manipte Prince Mediocre! Youre really awesome!
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Indeed, I am so powerful that I could even have Old Madam Zheng and Mrs. Zheng rece my sister with someone else as early as sixteen years ago!
Hearing Qiao Jinniangs taunting words, Qiao Ruoshui yelled, Qiao Jinniang, it must be you.
The Duchess said angrily to Qiao Ruoshui, How could it be Jinniang? Are you so stupid that you havent figured it out even now?
Prince Mediocre just wants to make use of you. Concubine Jian and you have no value for him now, so he certainly cant let you two still upy the positions of his concubines.
Now that youre used of killing Concubine Jians unborn baby and Concubine Jian failed to protect her child, he can get rid of both of you in one fell swoop!
Qiao Ruoshui shook her head desperately and said, No, I dont believe it. How could His Highness have the heart to kill his own child?
Qiao Jinniang said, Because that child is a disgrace to Prince Mediocre.
Besides, that child hasnt been born yet. Why doesnt he have the heart to kill it?
Qiao Ruoshui pointed at Qiao Jinniang and said, You fabricated the matter of the Zheng family! I am Mothers daughter. You fabricated it to make His Highness dislike me.
Qiao Jinniang was speechless. Mother, the murdered baby is Prince Mediocres child. It would be inappropriate for us to protect Qiao Ruoshui. Why dont you send her back to Prince Mediocre Mansion?
Qiao Ruoshui said repeatedly, No, no, I will die if I go back!
The Duchess suddenly felt a huge pain in her lower abdomen. She gritted her teeth and said, Come here, send Concubine Zheng back to Prince Mediocre Mansion.
Qiao Ruoshui said desperately, Aunt, even if you are not my mother, youre still my aunt. How can you have the heart to send me to death? I really didnt kill that child.
Qiao Jinniang noticed that something was wrong with the Duchess, and hurriedly had someone call over an imperial physician.
Blood, blood
Amaid eximed.
Mammy An supported the Duchess, only to see that her hem of skirt was already dyed red with blood.
Your Excellency.
His Excellency is back.
As the voices of the maids came from the door, Duke Anyuan stepped inside and saw Qiao Ruoshui who was kneeling on the ground and crying desperately and the Duchess who had passed out.
Duke Anyuan strode forward, picked up the Duchess into his arms, walked into her room, and kept calling her, Xiaoer, Xiaoer
Qiao Jinniang nced coldly at Qiao Ruoshui on the ground and instructed the maids,
Lock her in the woodshed. If Prince Mediocre sends anyone for her, tell them we didnt see her.
Although Qiao Jinniang didnt like Qiao Ruoshui, she didnt think she deserved to die. Even if she died, it could not damage the reputation of the Qiao family.
As Qiao Jinniang walked into the Duchess room, she heard Duke Anyuan ask angrily, Why did no one report to me that Madam is pregnant?
Mammy An said, Your Excellency, its our fault.
Duke Anyuan said anxiously, Wheres the imperial physician? Why hasnt an imperial physiciane yet?
Here I am. Here I am. An imperial physician hurried in from the door and checked the Duchess pulse.
After a pause, he said with a frown, Your Excellency, Madam has suffered too many blows in the past few days, and she is not very healthy to start with.
although the child is safe, shes in pretty bad shape, and she needs a good rest.
The Duchess slowly woke up, and when she heard the doctors words, she thought she had a miscarriage, so she closed her eyes and said,
Your Excellency, lets divorce. If I had known it woulde to this, I wouldnt have married you in the first ce.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. Her mother finally made up her mind. She whispered to Fulu at the door,
Princess, please help me find a house, preferably one that we can move in right away, closer to the East Pce, and costing less than 100,000 taels of silver.
Fulu asked in a low voice, One hundred thousand taels of silver? You can buy my Princess Mansion with so much money! I can sell my Princess Mansion to you.
Its right next to my mothers Princess Mansion, and its also close to the East Pce.
Thank you, Princess.
Inside the room, Duke Anyuan said to the Duchess, Divorce? Now that the Zheng family is gone, where can you go after divorcing me? If you leave the Duke Mansion, you wont even have a ce to live.
Qiao Jinniang entered and said to Duke Anyuan, Although Mothers natal family is gone, she has me! Mother, I just bought a big house. Let me take you out of the Duke Mansion right away. Mammy An, please pack up!
Duke Anyuan looked at Qiao Jinniang, You, you, have you heard that it is better to tear down ten temples than destroy one marriage? How can you try to persuade your mother to divorce your father?
The Duchess said, Its I who wants to divorce you, and it has nothing to do with Jinniang. You already ruined her life. Dont ruin her reputation.
have my own house. My grandmother gave me a very generous dowry. There is always a ce for me to go.
Duke Anyuan was anxious. You are not young anymore, and you even have your grandson. Divorce me? Arent you afraid of beingughed at?
Whatever. I cant stay in the Duke Mansion anymore.
The Duchess looked at Duke Anyuan with tears in her eyes. I should have agreed when you climbed over the wall of my home and came to force me to annul our engagement twenty years ago.
Then she wouldnt have been living as a joke for twenty years.
Mammy An was always quick in her job, but now she was very slowly packing up.
Old Madam Qiao hurried in while being supported by maids. Running the Buddha beads through her fingers, she angrily scolded Duke Anyuan, How can you treat Xiaoer like this? Dont you feel guilty for her grandfather?!
Duke Anyuan said helplessly, Mother, its she who wants to divorce.
Old Madam Qiao asked angrily, Who is that Qiangian in Furong Garden? If it werent for her, Xiaoer wouldnt have been so angry!
Duke Anyuan was stunned for a while before remembering there was such a person. Xiaoer said earlier that she would marry Ruoyi to Zheng Bo, so I just wanted to show my dissatisfaction to her. Later, I was busy with business, so I forgot about this matter.
Qiao Jinniang said, But Qiangian is three months pregnant.
Duke Anyuan frowned. Do you think the child is mine?
The women in the room all looked at him silently as if saying Of course! with their eyes.
Jinniang said, She has admitted that the child is yours..
Chapter 110 - Be Qiao Jinniang’s Sister-in-law
Chapter 110: Be Qiao Jinniangs Sister-inw
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
The Duke frowned and went straight to Furong Garden.
In the Furong Garden, Mu Qiangian was gently rouging her lips with a piece of lipstick paper.
The mammy on the side said, Madam, the Duke is back. You said that this child is his. How can he acknowledge this child as his?
Mu Qiangian said, He will.
When the Duke entered the room, he saw Mu Qiangian who was very thin.
Mu Qiangian was from Yunzhou in the Southwest. Her father was involved in the illicit salt dealings not long ago. All the men in her family were executed and all the women in her family were demoted to official prostitutes.
Mu Qiangians elder brother was the Dukes friend, so when he saw his sister became an official prostitute in Changan, he helped redeem her.1
It happened that the Duchess wanted to marry Ruoyi to Zheng Bo, so the Duke wanted to use Mu Qiangian to show his dissatisfaction to the Duchess.
But he had never touched her, so how could she be pregnant with his child?
Concerning the time, Mu Qiangian should have already been pregnant when she was still in the Mu family, so this child had nothing to do with him.
Seeing Duke Anyuan, Mu Qiangian saluted and said, Your Excellency, please forgive me for being rude. My unbor child is the only offspring of the Mu family. Since you and my brother are sworn brothers, please acknowledge this child as yours for the sake of my brother!
Duke Anyuan coldly nced at Mu Qiangians lower abdomen and said, Miss Mu, I redeemed you just because I cant bear to see my friends sister be driven to prostitution, but you shouldnt have gone to provoke my wife. Do you know my wife almost had a miscarriage because of you?
Mu Qiangian was a bit stunned. Was the information she got about the Duke wrong?
His Highness said that the Duke didnt like the Duchess and only loved his Concubine Qian.
1
So when Mu Qiangian saw Duke Anyuan, she deliberately imitated Concubine Qian. She had thought the Duke liked her. Otherwise, he would not have brought her to the Duke Mansion.
Duke Anyuan said, No matter who is the childs father, you cant stay in the Duke Mansion anymore. Ive redeemed you, so youre free now. Its up to you whether you want to go back to the Southwest or stay in Changan.
With that, he ordered mammies to pack up Mu Qiangians belongings.
Mu Qiangian panicked. Why didnt the Duke fall for her? Why was it different from what she expected?
Now how would she exin to His Highness?
Qiao Jinniang was a little helpless when she heard that Duke Anyuan ordered Miss Qianqian to leave the Duke Mansion.
Because her mother would definitely hesitate again.
Yuyan said, I heard the Dukes servant exining to Madam that the Duke had never touched Miss Qianqian.
He was just angry that Madam had wanted to marry Miss Ruoyi to Zheng Bo.
Qiao Jinniang snorted coldly. So he used Mu Qiangian to piss Mom off?
Mom is wrong about Ruoyis matter indeed, but how could Father deliberately infuriate Mother with another woman?
Honglingbed Qiao Jinniangs hair and said, Miss, you may not know but thats the way the Duke and Madam get along.
Their rtionship is not as bad as rumored.
Whenever the two of them had a fight, the Duke would go to Concubine Qian, and Madam would be more disappointed with the Duke, thinking that Concubine Qian was his true love.
However, the Zheng family would persuade Madam to regain the favor of the Duke, and Madam could only surrender reluctantly.
As this process repeated over and over again, the misunderstanding between the two deepened, and their rtionship worsened.
In fact, if the Duke didnt like Madam, why would he enter her yard?
Moreover, since Miss Ruoyis mother gave birth to her, the Duke had never set foot in her yard again.
Qiao Jinniang chose a gem ne to put on and said, Thats sick. If Father really loves Mom, how could he use another woman to deliberately piss her off and even ask the Zheng family to force Mom to submit to him?
If Lu Chen dared to do this to her, she would never forgive him.
Fulu, who was sitting on the side and waiting for Qiao Jinniang to dress up, said, Exactly, my father will never do this to my mother. When they have a fight, they will just vent their anger on me, s!
1
Qiao Jinniang got up and said, Okay, Princess, lets go to see the house.
Even if the Duchess didnt divorce, Qiao Jinniang still wanted to have her own house in Changan.
It would be better if she could dig a tunnel from her house straight to the East Pce, but Lu Chen probably would not agree.
Fulus Princess Mansion was located opposite the Mansion of Princess Shouan, which was very close to the imperial pce. Several Princess Mansions were located here, and each was more luxurious than the other.
Fulu said, This mansion was built when I was a child.
However, I have been living in my mothers Princess Mansion, so I just use this Princess Mansion to entertain guests asionally.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the huge mansion and asked Fulu, Are you willing to sell it to me?
Fulu said, Yes, after I sell it to you, I can ask my imperial uncle for a better one.
Qiao Jinniang:
The Princess Mansion was well-furnished and had a very beautiful view, and the yard was simply huge.
And it wasrge enough to amodate Huixiang and the others.
Although they could live in the restaurant, it was too crowded.
After receiving the silver note, Fulu enthusiastically invited Qiao Jinniang to be a guest in her mothers Princess Mansion.
This was the first time Qiao Jinniang came to Princess Shouans Mansion.
As Princess Shouan was His Majestys biological sister, her mansion was even no worse than the East Pce.
When they entered the mansion, they saw a couple embracing each other by theke. The woman was beautiful, and the man looked a bit like Fulu.
Father, Mother.
Qiao Jinniang went over and saluted. Princess, Prince Consort.
Princess Shouan said, Arise. We will be family soon. Just call me Auntie.
Qiao Jinniang blushed slightly and said, Auntie.
Fulu said, Mother, I sold my unsble Princess Mansion next door to Jinniang for a total of 100,000 taels of silver!
Princess Shouan tapped Fulus head. Hand over the silver note. As a child, you cant have so much money with you.
Fulu snorted. Im not a child. Qin Miaomiao is about to get married, and Jinniang is only two years older than me, but her son has already been able to recite Historical Records.
Why do you always treat me as a child? Jinniang can spend 100,000 taels of silver at will, why cant I?
Princess Shouan said, If you are as smart as Qin Miaomiao and Jinniang, you can take as much money as you like.
Ljust dont want you to waste your money. Dont worry, this will be your dowry in the future.
The Prince Consort asked, Miaomiao is about to get married, but you dont even have a young man to propose to you, s!
Princess Shouan also looked distressed and said, There are many good young men in Changan. Why are none of them interested in Fulu?
Fulu snorted. Thats because they know they are not good enough for me, so they dare note to propose to me.
When Qiao Jinniang saw the three of the family talking happily, she was really envious.
Princess is so cute. She will definitely find a good husband.
Fulu said, Exactly. If no man proposes to me, Ill be Jinniangs sister-inw!
Princess Shouan said, Oh,e on, spare Qiao Lu. Hell be the next Duke Anyuan.
But Ima princess. Am I not worthy of him? Its not bad to be Jinniangs sister-inw. Mother-inw is soft-tempered, Father-inw is powerful, and Brother-inw is still young, so dont have to deal with Brother-inws wife
And Qiao Lu is only one year younger than me..
Chapter 111 - Qiao Ruoshui Died
Chapter 111: Qiao Ruoshui Died
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang thought that it would be good for Fulu to be her sister-inw.
But in the end, it was up to her brother. Besides, in her eyes, Qiao Lu was still a child.
The Prince Consort said to Fulu, Thats not what a girl should say. I told you not to fool around.
Now you know how difficult it is to find a husband? Might as well behave yourself and whitewash your reputation.
Fulu hummed, I didnt fool around. Qin Miaomiao demeaned you in front of me first, so I started a fight with her.
You were supposed to be Duke Qin. If you hadnt surrendered this position to your second uncle, how could Qin Miaomiao be the miss of Duke Qin Mansion today?!
Prince Consort Qin said, Shut up. Its all in the past. I always think its worthwhile to give up the position of Duke Qin and marry your mother.
Princess Shouan looked at his husband tenderly.
Fulu whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Do you have a toothache because of their cloying words?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, she did feel a little sore in her teeth.
After returning to Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang was called to the main courtyard by the Duchess.
Jinniang, what are you going to do with Ruoshui? She has been locked in the woodshed for a day.
Qiao Jinniang covered her mouth with a handkerchief and said, Oh, I forgot about her.
The Duchess said, Ruoshui has never been respectful to you. Although she is my niece, I wont pity her. Its just that she doesnt deserve to die.
She is rude, stupid, and willful, but she hasnt done anythingwless.
Qiao Jinniang hummed. Qiao Ruoshui doesnt deserve to die, but since Prince Mediocre dares to frame her, he must have been fully prepared.
Even if we ask the Ministry of Public Security to check the Prince Mediocre Mansion, nothing may be found out.
I think we can im that Qiao Ruoshui is already dead and send her to the frontier to reunite with the Zheng family.
Prince Mediocres purpose is to make Qiao Ruoshui vacate the position of his concubine, so he wont care whether she is truly dead.
The Duchess held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, My daughter, youre really kind-hearted. You still want to send her to reunite with her family.
However, Qiao Jinniang knew that for Qiao Ruoshui, she would rather die than be sent to the frontier with the Zheng family!
The Zheng family had just left Changan for two days, and they walked extremely slowly.
When the guards of the Duke Mansion sent Qiao Ruoshui to the Zheng family, Mrs. Zheng hurriedly shouted, Ruoshui, Ruoshui.
Are you here to save me? I dont want to go to the frontier!
Qiao Ruoshui snapped, You are not my mother. You are not worthy of my mother. You are just a bitch like Qiao Jinniang!
If youre really my mother, you would have kept this secret with your life.
Why did you speak out? You should have kept this secret even if you were to die!
Uncle Zheng pped Qiao Ruoshui in the face. She is your mother. How could you talk to your mother like that?
Qiao Ruoshui said, I am Consort Mediocre. How dare you hit me?
A guard of the Qiao family dismounted and said to Uncle Zheng, Mr. Zheng, Prince Mediocre intends to get rid of Concubine Zheng, and the Qiao family told Prince Mediocre that Concubine Qiao is already dead.
And our Madam and Miss sent her to reunite with you.
Uncle Zheng cupped his hands to the guard. Thank you.
Qiao Ruoshui said, Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Jinniang wants to frame me! I am clearly wronged. She didnt help me prove my innocence, but tried to send me to the frontier. She is up to no good! Im going back to ask her why she did this to me!
Uncle Zheng grabbed Qiao Ruoshuis arm. Are you out of your mind? If you go back to Changan, youll lose your life. Qiao Jinniang is saving you!
I dont believe she is saving me! I want to go back!
Qiao Ruoshui broke free from Uncle Zhengs grasp.
Mrs. Zheng was crying bitterly. If she had known that her daughter would point at her and scold her B*tch, she would not have swapped her daughter with that baby.
But just when Qiao Ruoshui was walking back, an arrow pierced her heart abruptly.
She fell to the ground with her eyes wide open.
Mrs. Zheng hurriedly ran over and screamed, Daughter, my daughter!
Then came the arrows one after another.
Uncle Zheng gnashed his teeth and stared at the man who came on horseback. Prince Mediocre, my daughter has been married to you. How can you be so cruel to her?
The man on the horse looked at Qiao Ruoshui, who had not closed her eyes yet.
A worthless idiot. She will only be a scourge if she lives.
Prince Mediocre turned around and coldly instructed his guards, Get rid of them. Leave no survivors!
Yes!
When the news that the Zheng family encountered robbers and were all killed on the way, no one in the Duke Mansion dared to tell the news to the Duchess.
When Qiao Jinniang heard the news from Yuyan, she froze.
She didnt think it was done by robbers. Which robbers were stupid enough to rob people to be exiled to the frontier?
Those people had no money left.
Besides, this was openly opposing the imperial court. Did the robbers think that their lives were too long?
After Qiao Jinniang learned the news, she went to the East Pce to find Lu Chen.
Seeing Qiao Jinnianging, Lu Chen asked, Are you here for the Zheng family?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Do you know who killed them?
Lu Chen said, Who else can it be except the person you think?
Prince Mediocre has always been self-willed and ruthless. How could he allow Qiao Ruoshui toe back alive to ruin his n?
When she saw the Right Prime Ministers home searched and his property confiscated, Qiao Jinniang felt the majesty of imperial power for the first time.
Then this time learning that the entire Zheng family died miserably, Qiao Jinniang felt the cruelty of the imperial power.
Lu Chen took her into his arms. Are you sacred? Dont worry. You have my secret guards protecting you. Youre safe.
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips. If my husband in Linan was Prince Mediocre, maybe Xier and I would have died by now.
Lu Chen frowned. Dont think too much. Your husband in this life can only be me.
Qiao Jinniang said, You must not surrender the position of crown prince to Prince Mediocre.
Since you know that it was he who set you up, cant you get rid of him?
He killed Qiao Ruoshui today. No one knows who he will kill tomorrow!
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, I was away from Changan for three years, so I need to make a lot of redeployment.
If I rashly attack Prince Mediocre and fail to defeat him in one fell swoop, Ill beshed by the ministers.
Although my father favors me, Prince Mediocre is still his son. No father likes to watch his sons kill each other.
However, Prince Mediocre is just a grasshopper after autumn to me. Just watch him jumping around blindly. It wontst long.
Qiao Jinniang said, I only know that this autumn grasshopper can still kill.
To you, he is indeed a mayfly and cannot shake you, a big tree, but to others, he is that big tree.
Qiao Jinniangs style of doing things had always been simple and straight. She only knew an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.
[ dont care if he is your brother or not. I just want to see him dead.
Lu Chen rubbed Qiao Jinniangs bun. Since you cant tolerate him anymore, its not that he cant be disposed of as soon as possible..
Chapter 112 - Not Worthy of Marrying into the East Palace
Chapter 112: Not Worthy of Marrying into the East Pce
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said, Is there anything I can do?
Prince Mediocre was considered a good person in the minds of folk literati. Otherwise, he would not have been able to deceive Qiao Ruofeng and other women.
He was probably not so easy to deal with.
Lu Chen touched her earlobe and said, Yes, do I have to wait until after the Lantern Festival?
Mommy. Tuaner stumbled into the study and threw himself into Qiao Jinniangs arms. I miss you so much.
Qiao Jinniang quickly stood up, picked up Tuaner and kissed him on the face. I miss you too. I bought a house not far from the East Pce. You can go to the house to y with me when you are free.
Tuaner said happily, Okay, Il go y with Mommy.
Being interrupted by Tuaner again, Lu Chen felt that he really should make Tuaner copy the Historical Records now.
Xer, go out first. I have something to do with your mother.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen and said. You promised to wait until the Lantern Festival. You should keep your word.
Lu Chen counted the time. When he found that the Lantern Festival was still about 100 days away, he sighed.
If he had known this, he shouldnt have said anything about making her his concubine. Now it was he who suffered.
Lu Chen and Tuaner sent Qiao Jinniang home together.
Arriving at the Duke Mansion, Tuaner was still reluctant to let go of Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Qiao Jinniang said, Can I sleep with Xier tonight? Ill send him back tomorrow morning, okay?
Looking at Tuaners expectant eyes, Lu Chen didnt refuse. Okay, Ill pick him up after the levee tomorrow.
When Qiao Jinniang entered the Jin Garden, Hongling hurriedly came up and said,
Miss, Madam heard about what happened to the Zheng family and fainted several times from grief.
And after she calmed down a bit, the Duke brought her out of the city to handle the funeral of the Zheng family.
Old Madam has gone to the temple to pray for Madams deceased child.
But Miss Ruoyis mother is seriously ill, and the imperial physician said that she might not be able to survive today. No master is home now, and Fifth Miss is still young
The Duchess was the only survivor of the Zheng family, so only she could handle the Zheng familys funeral.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but have a headache. Was her grandmother forcing her to manage the Duke Mansion?
Did she really trust her so much?
Qiao Jinniang went to Qiao Ruoyis yard. Her mother had been seriously ill for a long time.
Although the ginseng Qiao Jinniang gavest time made herst for some time, she couldntst any longer.
Second Miss, cough, Im so worried about Ruoyi I hope you can find her a good husband for the sake of your sisterhood, cough. She is a very good child, but unfortunately, she was born from me.
Mom, no. Iam lucky to be your daughter, and you will get better, Qiao Ruoyi said with tears.
Lying on the bed, Ruoyis mother stretched out her hand and slowly stroked Qiao Ruoys face. Dont disobey your father and mother in the future, and donte to a concubines belly in your next life.
After Ruoyis mother finished speaking, her hand slowly drooped.
Mother! Qiao Ruoyi shouted loudly.
A mammy wanted to remind Qiao Ruoyi that she shouldnt call a concubine her mother, but was stopped by Qiao Jinniang. Her mother had died. Why couldnt she call her Mother for thest time?
sister, Im sorry for your loss.
Qiao Ruoyi cried out of breath. Its my fault. If I had discovered what Concubine Qian did to my mom earlier, she wouldnt have died so early.
Qian Shi hated that Madam made her drink a sterilization drug, and hated that my mother, who she despised, could have a child, so she poisoned my mother.
She died too early, and she died too easily! I shouldnt have exposed what she had done so early! I should have let her die slowly and painfully.
From Qiao Ruoyis words, Qiao Jinniang could tell that the downfall of Qian Shi was because of Qiao Ruoyi.
No wonder. After all, the Duchess had fought her for eighteen years to no avail.
The funeral of a concubine was usually not grand.
Besides, the Duchess was pregnant, but since the Duchess and the Duke were not in the Duke Mansion, there was no such taboo.
Qiao Jinniang went to invite Second Madam and Third Madam over to discuss how to conduct the funeral.
Although a concubine was not important, this concubine gave birth to a daughter, and she had been serving the Duke since she was a child, so giving her face was equivalent to giving Qiao Ruoyi face.
Qiao Jinniang didnt have any feelings for the concubine, but she thought that giving Ruoyis mother a grand funeral would be good for Ruoyi in the future.
Second Madam was busy with Qiao Ruofengs marriage, so she said, Jinniang, she is just a concubine.
If the news is released, people who are interested will naturallye to attend her funeral, but if the funeral is too grand, people willugh at our family for valuing a concubine too much.
Third Madam also said, Yeah, Jinniang, normally, when a concubine dies, its already kind enough to hire a Taoist priest to perform a ritual for her. It would be inappropriate to hold arge funeral for a mere concubine.
Qiao Jinniang stroked the tea cup and said, The funeral wont be too grand. Now that my parents and grandmothers are not home, it would be too impersonal to give Ruoyis mom a perfunctory funeral.
Well just deliver the obituaries to the rtives and friends of the Qiao family. Its up to them who they will send to pay homage.
Anyway, Sister Ruoyi is a grown-up. She should be given some face, and we should also invite the rtives of Ruoyis mom.
Thavent held any banquets, so I hope you can help me, aunts.
Second Madam and Third Madam were reluctant, but they didnt dare to say anything.
Since Ruoyis mom was only a concubine, there was no need to hang white silk in the Duke Mansion, but thenterns in the Duke Mansion were reced with white ones.
Qiao Jinniang studied the funeral customs in Changan overnight.
The banquet at the funeral was also very important.
Qiao Jinniang wasnt familiar with the Duke Mansions kitchen, so she simply transferred two chefs over from Tasty Pavilion.
By the time she returned to the Jin Garden, Tuaner had fallen asleep.
Nuomi was dozing off at the bedside. Seeing her, she said, Miss, Tuaner is already asleep. Why did youe back sote?
Qiao Jinniang yawned and said, Go to sleep. There will be many guests tomorrow, and well be busy.
Okay.
Qiao Jinniangy beside the little boy and slowly fell asleep.
Not long after falling asleep, she was awakened by the sound of the Taoist priest performing a ritual.
Qiao Jinniang got up slowly, and Tuaner also woke up, moring for Qiao Jinniang to hug him.
Qiao Jinniang hugged him and said, Be good. Mommy has something to do.
Tuaner lowered his head and said, Okay, Mommye hug me again when youre free.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled and rubbed Tuaners little face.
She went to the courtyard where Ruoyis moms body was ced. Many family members of the Dukes subordinates hade to pay their respects early in the morning.
Those who came were mostly the daughters-inw of the family, or favored concubines, but few mistresses came.
When Qiao Jinniang came over, she heard some peopleugh at her.
The Duchess actually allowed the ve-raised Qiao Jinniang manage the Duke Mansion. Its simply a joke.
She actually issued an obituary for a concubine. My mother-inw scoffed at it.
Twonder how she could give birth to the Crown Princes heir. She is really lucky.
Tf Qiao Jinniang was aware of the rules, howe His Majesty still hasnt let her stay in the East Pce?
Exactly, since she has given birth to the Imperial Grandson, she should at least be the Crown Princes second concubine. It can be seen that she is not weed by the royal family.
And she even held a funeral for her fathers concubine who was out of her fathers favor. What a disgrace for nobles!
Thats right, shes not worthy of marrying into the East Pce at all.. When has a decent noble girl held a funeral for her fathers concubine?
Chapter 113 - Chrysanthemum Tofu
Chapter 113: Chrysanthemum Tofu
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
The people who wereughing at Qiao Jinniang were embarrassed when they saw Qiao Jinnianging.
Someone said sarcastically, Miss Qiao, youre really kind-hearted. Its unprecedented in Changan for a noble girl to hold a funeral for her fathers concubine!
A generals daughter came out and said, Qiao Jinniang, didnt you im that your future husband is not allowed to take a concubine?
But why are you holding a funeral for a concubine? Dont me us forughing at you. No family will hold a funeral for a concubine who was out of favor in Changan!
Qiao Ruoyi who was wearing a pure-white mourning dress came over and said with red eyes, I begged my sister to hold the funeral.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the women and said, I heard that when Duke Qins favored concubine passed away, mistresses of noble families all came to offer condolences, and what you emphasized is just the word out of favor.
If it were the funeral of a favored concubine of the Duke Mansion, Im afraid that all your mistresses would havee. Since you look down on Ruoyis mom, why are you here?
Although I hate men who take concubines, I dont resent the women who are forced to be concubines.
Is there any woman in the world who would like to be a concubine? Until her death, she cant hear her own children calling her mother, and she has to watch her outstanding daughter suffer because of her.
The root cause for the fight between wives and concubines is men. Women are just left with no choice. If my husband takes a concubine, I will hate my husband, not that woman. A wife and a concubine fight for a man who doesnt love either of them is the most ridiculous thing in the world.
You said that I didnt know the rules because I held a funeral for a concubine, but if I hadnt given her a proper funeral, you would have called me cold-blooded and ruthless.
Life is not easy for women anyway. Id rather give my sisters mom a decent funeral for the sake of our sisterhood.
With that, Qiao Jinniang went to the mourning hall.
The noble women and concubines were left looking at each other in shock. In Changan, no woman had ever dared to say this publicly.
How dare Qiao Jinniang say these words? With such ridiculous thoughts, she is very unlikely to be allowed to marry into the East Pce.
But she seems to be a kind-hearted person, and what she said makes sense.
Make sense? I think its all absurd thoughts ofmoners. Common men have no ability, so they only have wives and no concubines. Which capable men dont have concubines? Hate her husband? Id like to see if her future husband will tolerate her.
Exactly, only those ipetent men will yield to their wives.
Qiao Jinniang didnt care what they thought. She only knew whether she held this funeral or not, people could always find fault. With this in mind, she just held the funeral for Ruoyi.
If she didnt hold the funeral today, Ruoyi might not me her, but there would always be a thorn in her heart.
During lunch, Qiao Jinniang prepared about five tables of dishes in the yard, and reserved an extra table. There were no elders in the Duke Mansion, so everyone was waiting to see Qiao Jinniang make a scene of herself.
It was not easy to hold a funeral banquet. The dishes couldnt be toovish or too simple. If the dishes were too simple, it would be a disgrace for the Duke Mansion, but this was just the funeral for a concubine, so the dishes couldnt be toovish.
Preparing a five-table banquet was not easy even in ordinary times, not to mention this was the first time for Qiao Jinniang to handle a funeral.
Qin Miaomiao had been engaged but her wedding day hadnt been decided, so she came over today. She sat on the main table and said, Jinniang, although the dishes are not veryvish today, I have never seen these dishes before.
Qiao Jinniang said, Today, the banquet today is themed with chrysanthemums. This is Hangbai chrysanthemum tea, which is refreshing and good for your throat to drink in autumn. The cold dishes are chrysanthemum shortcake, chrysanthemum fish sashimi, and chrysanthemum sd chicken shreds.
The hot dish is chrysanthemum hotpot. It is best to eat pork belly pot in autumn. With chrysanthemum in it, it wont feel too greasy. This is a Northern dish.
And this chrysanthemum wolfberry ck chicken soup can nourish skin. This wild chrysanthemum stewed turtledove can cure headaches, and the chrysanthemum sweet and sour fish is the most delicious.
Qiao Jinniang said, There is always tofu at the funeral banquets held in the South, so todays main dish is this chrysanthemum tofu, which is a Luoyang dish. Making this dish requires very good cutting techniques. Today, there are less than ten people who can make chrysanthemum tofu.
Seeing that the main dish was tofu, many peopleughed. A square piece of tofu was ced on the te. These noble women rarely ate tofu.
The main dish is just a square tofu, which is ridiculous.
Qiao Jinniang ordered a maid to carry a pot of chrysanthemum broth and gently pour it into the soup bowl. After that, everyone saw the tofu in the middle of the te slowly blooming like a chrysanthemum.
Each strand of this chrysanthemum tofu was as thin as a hair. and the tofu looked really like a chrysanthemum. The fragrance of the broth and chrysanthemums assailed their nostrils. This dish was so beautiful that people didnt want to ruin it but cant help but try it.
Qin Miaomiao gracefully scooped a spoonful of tofu and soup and tasted it. Then she eximed in surprise, Is this really tofu? Its so delicious!
Qiao Jinniang said, Our restaurant has improved the soup for this dish. We use half a ham, a chicken, an old duck, and pork bones to cook the soup overnight. It is naturally delicious.
This table of dishes was not luxurious, but was in line with the style that the Duke Mansion should have, and the taste was very delicious.
The most important thing for noble families to hold a banquet was to make no mistakes, so sometimes the dishes looked beautiful but were actually tasteless. But today, when the banquet was over, everyone was ashamed to find that there was not even a soup left on the table.
The dessert that was servedst, sweet-scented chrysanthemum fermented rice balls, was also all eaten up.
After this banquet, many people even wondered when the Duke Mansion would hold another funeral.
When Ruoyis moms burial was over, the Duke and the Duchess had note back yet. It was only then did Qiao Jinniang know that the Zheng family was from Kaifeng, so they had to hold the funeral in Kaifeng.
Qiao Jinniang should have gone to attend the funeral too, but she didnt want to attend the funeral of those disgusting people, so she simply refused to go in the name of being busy managing the Duke Mansion.
Miss, Miss, the Empress Dowager has ordered you to enter the imperial pce!
Yuyan hurried into the Jin Garden to report.
Qiao Jinniang was confused. Why did the Empress Dowager summon her? She called Lu Chens secret guards and asked them to report to Lu Chen before she changed into a formal suit and went to the Wufeng Hall where the Empress Dowager lived.
Entering the pce, Qiao Jinniang smelled a faint scent of chrysanthemum tea.
She saluted. Qiao Jinniang hase to meet Your Grace.
The Empress Dowager nced at Qiao Jinniang and asked, I heard that you held a chrysanthemum banquet for your fathers concubine a few days ago?
Qiao Jinniang replied, Yes, chrysanthemum are in full bloom now.
When the Empress Dowager heard this, she suddenly smashed the cup beside her hand at Qiao Jinniangs skirt.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Grace, please dont be angry, but may I ask what I did wrong?
Were you making fun of me? The Empress Dowager snapped. Because I love chrysanthemums, thete emperor had once held a chrysanthemum pce banquet for me, and the chrysanthemum tofu on the banquet amazed everyone.
After that, I banned allmoners from having chrysanthemum tofu, but you served chrysanthemum tofu at the funeral of a concubine. Were you mocking me?
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, I really didnt know about this.
Even Lu Chen was already in his twenties. How could the cooks far away in the South know about this order that the Empress Dowager issued when she was young?
If Qiao Jinniang had known about this order, she would have never used chrysanthemum tofu at the banquet..
Chapter 114 - Lu Chen’s Cousin, A “Pigeon Demon”
Chapter 114: Lu Chens Cousin, A Pigeon Demon
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
The Empress Dowager nced at Qiao Jinniang fiercely and said, You didnt know? You mean you are exonerated just because you said you didnt know?
No cook in Changan dares to cook this dish, but you dare to use this dish as the main dish of a funeral banquet! I must not spare you!
Grandmother, Jinniang really didnt know about this. Lu Chen strode from outside the door, bowed to the Empress Dowager, and helped Qiao Jinniang up.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Besides, Grandmother, you just bannedmoners from making this dish, but Jinniang is my wife, so she is a member of the royal family. Her making chrysanthemum tofu should not be regarded as disobeying your order.
The Empress Dowager looked at their sped hands and said, Your wife? Are you willing to make this salve-raised rude woman your crown princess?
Lu Chen said, Jinniang and I have already married. She is my wife.
The Empress Dowager snorted coldly and said, Even if she is your wife, she shouldnt hold the well-known chrysanthemum feast for a concubines funeral. Has she had any respect for me?
Qiao Jinniang said sincerely, Your Grace, I grew up in a small town and really didnt know about the chrysanthemum feast.
I think instead of enjoying the chrysanthemum tofu alone, why dont you poprize the chrysanthemum feast to let themon people admire thete emperors deep affection and favor for you?
Additionally, there are many literati who love chrysanthemums. A chrysanthemum feast will inspire them to make many beautiful poems. In this way, themoners will not only know the deep love between thete emperor and Your Grace, but will also know your noble character that is just like
chrysanthemum.
The Empress Dowagers face softened a lot.
Qiao Jinniang broke free from Lu Chens hand and went over to pour another cup of tea for the Empress Dowager.
Lhave a new name for chrysanthemum tofu, which is Outshining All Beauties. It means that thete emperor loved Your Grace so much that he wouldnt pay attention to any other woman.
After all, in front of this chrysanthemum tofu, all other dishes will be outshone, just like the beauty of Your Grace.
Please give me a chance to make up for it and let me promote this dish to the people.
The Empress Dowager took the cup in Qiao Jinniangs hand and the corner of her lips slightly hooked. Okay.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief before she saluted and left.
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniangs wet skirt and asked, Did that cup hit you?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. Although the Empress Dowager is angry, she has her manners. How could she really smash the cup at me like a shrew? Only some water sshed over me.
Qiao Jinniangined, Why didnt you remind me about the Empress Dowagers taboo?
Lu Chen said, I didnt know about this either, but if she summons you again, you can turn to my mother for help.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Im not a child. I dont need Her Majesty to rescue me.
Lhave tons of ways to deal with an olddy like the Empress Dowager. Old people are like children. Its easy to make them happy.
Plus, going against her wont do me any good. After all, our country advocates filial piety.
When Qiao Jinniang noticed that Lu Chen was staring at her, she waved her hand in front of Lu Chens eyes. Whats the matter? You cant take your eyes away from me because you find me so gorgeous?
Lu Chen responded. Um, you are getting more and more beautiful.
Lu Chen didnt dare to speak his mind.
He chose not to tell Qiao Jinniang the truth after he regained his memory because he was afraid that she couldnt adapt to the court life and would offend the Empress Dowager and Imperial Concubine Xian.
Even his mother was struggling to get along with the Empress Dowager, let alone her?
But whether it wasst time she protected Xier, or today, Qiao Jinniang was different from what he thought. She could handle the Empress Dowager with ease and even make her very happy.
Lu Chen regretted extremely in his heart. If only he had told her about his identity in the first ce! Then at least he wouldnt have to endure it until the Lantern Festival.
You donte to the imperial pce much. Lets go to my mothers pce for dinner today?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, I dont want to cook for His Majesty.
She liked to cook, but it was too troublesome to cook for the Emperor.
Oh, my father offended my mother, so he hasnt been allowed to go to my mothers pce for dinner recently. You can be rest assured.
Qiao Jinniang somehow sensed a trace of gloating from Lu Chens words. Are you happy that your parents are in a cold war?
Lu Chen said, Yes, Im jealous of them. Why am I always alone?
Qiao Jinniang:
In the Queens pce, as soon as Qiao Jinniang entered, she saw the Queen and a girl carving a piece of wood.
When the girl saw Lu Chen, she saluted and said cutely, Brother, you came just in time. Aunt and I are sculpting you. Does this sculpture look like you?
Lu Chen gave her a doting smile. Yes.
The Queen came over and said, Hi, Jinniang. This is my niece Zhou Sisi. She had a serious illness when she was a child, causing her to be only able to act like a child. Her hobby is carving.
Qiao Jinniang remembered Zhou Sisi, the girl who bribed Fulu to select her as the first ce in the melon carving contest at the Qixi Festival.
The Queen said to the girl, Sisi, this is your cousin-inw.
Zhou Sisi pouted and said, Aunt, in operas, only cousins can be a couple. Why do I have a cousin-inw?
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she red at Lu Chen.
Lu Chen whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, Just treat her as a six or seven-year-old child. Dont mind her words
Qiao Jinniang looked at Zhou Sisi. She looked fifteen or sixteen years old. How could she treat her as a six or seven-year-old child?
And she didnt think a six or seven-year-old child would bribe with money.
It could be seen that she had bad moral standards.
The Queen smiled at Zhou Sisi and said, You have so many cousins. Can you marry all of them?
Zhou Sisi stomped her feet and said, But Brother is the best looking one!
The Queen smiled again. Be good, I will find you a better-looking man in the future.
The Queen exined to Qiao Jinniang, Sisi is just a child. Dont take her words seriously. Chener just takes her as his sister.
Qiao Jinniang said, Your Majesty, I see.
The Queen looked at Qiao Jinniangs face full of jealousy and secretly smiled.
At lunch, Qiao Jinniang really regretted agreeing to Lu Chen toe to the Queens pce for dinner.
ording to table manners, no one should speak at dinner, but her ears were full of Zhou Sisis voice.
Brother, this soup is delicious!
Brother, eat this meat. Its delicious.
Brother
Qiao Jinniang was really upset. Brother, Brother, are you a pigeon demon? He is not your brother. Why not just call him Cousin? (Brother in Chinese sounds like cooing of a pigeon)
Qiao Jinniang really wanted to pluck out all Zhou Sisis feathers and make her into a roasted pigeon so that she didnt have to hear her cooing!
Lu Chen put a piece of mutton into Qiao Jinniangs bowl and said to Zhou Sisi, Sisi, dont call me Brother anymore. Call me Your Royal Highness:
The Queen nced at Lu Chen and said, Why is this?
Lu Chen said, Because I have only one sister.
The Queen wondered. When did you have a sister? Fulu? I dont think you take her as your sister.
Qiao Jinniang got what Lu Chen meant and pinched his waist, not allowing him to talk nonsense.
But Lu Chen still said to the Queen, Not Fulu, but the one right in front of your eyes..
Chapter 115 - Settle Old Accounts
Chapter 115: Settle Old ounts
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
The Queen shook her head and chuckled. I dont understand you young people. Sisi, be good. Dont call him Brother anymore. Just call him Your Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang didnt say anything. Since both Lu Chen and the Queen had agreed, she really didnt want to hear the pigeon cooing again.
Zhou Sisi said with red eyes. But Ive been calling you Brother since I was a child
The Queen said softly, If you call Chener Brother, wouldnt you mix him up with your own brother? Just call him Your Royal Highness in the future.
Zhou Sisi burst into tears as if she had suffered great grievances.
The Queen warned her. If you continue to cry, I wont allow you toe to the imperial pce again!
Only then did Zhou Sisi aggrievedly stop her tears, but she still pursed her lips pitifully.
After lunch, Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang to the East Pce.
Seeing that Lu Chen took her into his bedroom instead of the pce where Xier studied, she looked at Lu Chen vigntly and said, Arent you going to take me to see Xier?
Hes studying. Dont distract him. I will apany you to take a nap and then send you home.
Qiao Jinniang clutched her own neckline. I dont believe you. Im in charge of the Duke Mansion now, so I have to go.
Lu Chen said, Am Ia lecher in your eyes?
Arent you? Qiao Jinniang said, When you were in Linan
Qiao Jinniang was too shy to continue to speak.
Lu Chen touched his nose and said, If you dont agree, I will definitely not touch you.
Qiao Jinniang was relieved to hear that and said, Are you so idle? Didnt you say you were going to deal with Prince Mediocre? Do you still have time to apany me for a nap?
Lu Chen hummed. I can work at night.
His father couldnt enter his mothers pce, so he became his fathers punching bag. He had to apany his father to handle political affairste into the night every day, so it was fine for him to make some time to apany her during the day.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Is Zhou Sisis mental age really only six or seven years old?
Qiao Jinniang didnt think Zhou Sisis behavior was like that of a six- or seven-year-old child.
Maybe she was precocious?
Lu Chen said, After she fell into the water when she was a child, the imperial physician said that her intelligence would stay at the age of six or seven forever, and her behavior had always been like a childs.
If you mind it, I wont allow her to call me Brother anymore. Only you can call me Brother. (Brother can also mean Darling in Chinese)
Qiao Jinniang: Bah, who wants to call you Brother? I have my own elder brother.
When do you have an elder brother? Lu Chen asked Qiao Jinniang, Dont tell me your so-called cousin is your elder brother.
Qiao Jinniang: Li Yun is my second aunts nephew, so he can be counted as my elder brother.
Lu Chen said angrily, You mention him again!
Qiao Jinniang said fearlessly, Why cant I? I havent settled with you yet!
Lu Chen wondered. Why? Havent I forbidden Zhou Sisi from calling me Brother?
Qiao Jinniang said, Not because of that pigeon demon.
Let me ask you, why didnt you tell me your real identity after you regained your memory?
Since you said that you did not write the divorce letter, why didnt you tell me your real identity?
Lu Chen:
Qiao Jinniang snorted. When you want toin about me, look at your own actions first. Even if I have seventeen or eighteen brothers today, you can me no one but yourself!
Send me back to the Duke Mansion. I have to tend to the affairs of the Duke Mansion.
Lu Chen said to Jinniang, Im sorry, Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said, Although I promise you to enter the East Pce after the Lantern Festival, its not a sure thing. If you want to me me for mentioning Li Yun, lets settle all the old ounts first and then I can find another man to marry.
Lu Chen said, I really dont care about Li Yun
Qiao Jinniang: You dont even care that I want to marry someone else?
Lu Chen:
Whatever he said was wrong.
He knew that Qiao Jinniang was doing it on purpose, so he simply didnt exin it. Anyway, no matter how he exined, she could find fault.
He could only say fawningly, There are a lot of treasures in the warehouse of the East Pce. Now that youvee here, pick some. Managing the big Duke Mansion must be tiring. Remember to take rests. After your parentse back, Ill take you to climb mountains outside Changan, okay?
Qiao Jinniang hummed softly. Not bad.
Qiao Jinniang never thought that the Duchess and the Duke would be away for more than half a month, and Old Madam Qiao also spent more than half a month on the mountain before going back home.
The Duchess looked much better than when she left, while the Duke looked a lot more haggard.
When the Duchess learned that Qiao Ruoyis mom was gone, she said guiltily to Qiao Ruoyi, Its all my fault. If I hadnt agreed to the Zheng family to marry you off to Zheng Bo, she wouldnt have gone so fast.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Mother, I dont me you. I know it was Qian Shi who killed my mom
Qiao Ruoyi turned her eyes to Duke Anyuan. Qiao Jinniang was right. The only one who benefited from the fight between the wife and concubines was the husband.
Without Duke Anyuans support, Qian Shi could not have done so much evil.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Mother, you saidst time that you want to divorce. If you divorce, please take me with you.
Duke Anyuan frowned. Why were both of his daughters inciting their mother to divorce him? Qiao Jinniang did so, but why did Qiao Ruoyi also do so?
The Duchess said to Duke Anyuan, Ruoyi reminded me. Duke, lets divorce!
Duke Anyuan hurriedly exined, Mu Qiangian has nothing to do with me. I have never even touched her. I redeemed her just because her brother is my friend!
The Duchess listened and said, I dont care about Mu Qiangian at all. I just think Im too stupid.
For my beast-like family, I had been fighting with a concubine for your meaningless love and living a ridiculous life in the Duke Mansion, and ended up with both of my daughters not being my own.
Now that the truth hase out and I have finally found my daughter back. I dont want to be the Duchess anymore. I just want to be Zheng Xiao.
Qiao Jinniang was relieved to hear her mothers words. This time, her mother was finally not weak anymore.
The Duke said, Are you serious? You are still pregnant with my child. Why should we divorce at this time? Ive already exined to you about Mu Qiangian. I was just angry that you wanted to marry Ruoyi to Zheng Bo.
Zheng Xiao clenched her hands and said, Isnt this exactly what you want? After all, from the very beginning, you never wanted to marry me!
If [hadnt married you, my daughter wouldnt have been separated from me for 18 years, nor would I know that the other daughter of mine had died 16 years ago!
Qiao Ruoyi added on the side. Mother, Ive never med you for agreeing to marry me off to Zheng Bo. After all, if it werent for Qian Shi, you wouldnt have been forced to give birth in the Zheng family, and you wouldnt have felt guilty for them. But after you had a difficultbor and almost died, Father
still doted on Qian Shi.
Zheng Xiao shed a line of tears. Duke, even Ruoyi can see it clearly.. Lets just divorce!
Chapter 116 - The Duchess and the Duke Divorced
Chapter 116: The Duchess and the Duke Divorced
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Duke Anyuan was annoyed. Xiaoer, why do you have to rake up grievances that are more than ten years old? And you, Ruoyi, do you hate your mother? Why are you trying to persuade her to divorce?
If she divorces, shell lose her nobility title and be no longer the mistress of a duke mansion.
Moreover, the Zheng family is gone, and if she divorces, she will fall into dust from a nobledy respected by everyone in Changan, and everyone will be able to bully her.
Zheng Xiao said, The old grievances still exist, so why cant I rake them up? I had thought that at least my children were living a happy life, but it tus out that my little daughter had died! Old Madam Zheng is at fault, but what about you? Youre the one who caused all this!
Jiner has been separated from me for 18 years, and thats your fault too!
If I dont divorce you, I will be buried in your Qiao familys graveyard after I die. Then how can I face my poor daughter in the underworld?
If youre willing to divorce, thatll be great, but if you arent, I wont stay in the Qiao family anyway!
The Duke was angry. Okay, lets divorce! I can marry whoever I want after divorcing you, but you will only be an abandoned woman who everyone can bully!
Lbet you will regret divorcing me!
Okay, lets go to handle the procedures now, Zheng Xiao said.
Old Madam Qiao was helped over by the maids. She red at Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi before saying to the Duke and the Duchess,
Come on, neither of you are young, and your grandchildren are almost grown up. Why are you still fooling around?
Xiaoer, for the sake of me, a dying old woman, stay in the Qiao family.
Ah Li is only six years old, not to mention your unborn child. It is not easy to give birth at your age. Youd better stay at the Duke Mansion so that there will be more people to take care of you!
Zheng Xiao said, Mother, I will remember your kindness to me, but I really cant stay in the Duke Mansion anymore. Staying here will only make me feel I am a joke.
L know that Luer is about to get married and I can enjoy my retirement, but I really dont want to be the Duchess anymore.
Lendured for most of my life for the position of the Duchess, but in the end, even my daughter is gone. Whats the point?
Duke Anyuan said to Old Madam Qiao, Mother, dont try to persuade her. Since she wants to divorce me, Ill just let her. One day, she wille back on her knees and beg me to take her back.
Qiao Jinniang sneered and said, Mom, lets go. My house has been tidied up.
Zheng Xiao said, I cant live in your house. There is a house in my dowry. Ill live there. Lets go.
Qiao Ruoyi held Zheng Xiaos sleeve and said, Mother, can you take me away with you?
Zheng Xiao nodded. Go and pack your things. Duke, lets go to the government.
Zheng Xiao and Duke Anyuan went to the government to sign the divorce letter, which made Madam Qiao so angry that she simply took Ah Li to the temple again.
Old Madam Qiao couldnt control the grown-ups in the Qiao family, but at least she could keep her little grandson by her side.
Her son was really annoying. She just hoped that her son wouldnt lose all his children.
After Qiao Lu returned to Changan, he went directly to school, so he didnt know what happened at home for the time being.
Qiao Lu didnt know it, but as soon as the Duke and Zheng Xiao walked out of the government, the news had spread all over Changan.
Duke Anyuan was a marshal, the highest-ranking military attach in the country, and the Minister of Defense. He was His Majestys most trusted minister although he was only 36.
Although he was not young, he was in his prime. Many women envied the Duchess who was respected by the Duke, and among her children, only Qiao Ruoyi was not born by her and she still respected her very much.
Although it was said that the Duke once had a very favored concubine, a concubine was a concubine after all.
But now the Duke and the Duchess were divorced?!
No one believed that Zheng Xiao was willing to divorce the Duke.
Ina teahouse, people were gossiping. Did you mishear it? Duchess Anyuan divorced Duke Anyuan? Her natal family is gone. Where can she go after the divorce?
I think its the Duke who wants to divorce the Duchess. After all, the Zheng family has done a lot of evil. Perhaps the Duchess had known that her youngest daughter was swapped in the first ce!
The Duke and the Duchess were originally at odds with each other. The Duchess must have been abandoned by the Duke!
But I heard that it was the Duchess who wanted to divorce, and a servant of the Duke Mansion said that the Duchess is pregnant! Even if the Duke wants to dump the Duchess, he shouldnt have done it at this time. Besides, there is Qiao Jinniang!
Yes, after the divorce, Qiao Jinniang must stay at the Duke Mansion. After all, if she wants to marry into the East Pce, she has to be the daughter of Duke Anyuan.
The news I heard is that Qiao Jinniang left the Duke Mansion with her mother. By the way, the Dukes other daughter who is famous for literary talent also left with the Duchess too.
Are they stupid?
When Zheng Xiao got married, the Zheng family was still rich.
Although she gave a small half of her dowry to Qiao Ruoyun when she married, she was still rich.
Zheng Xiaos mansion was located in the south of Changan, which was full of officials and rich people. Although it was not like the area where the Duke Mansion was located, which was full of nobles, it was also a very good ce.
Mammy An quickly renovated the house and arranged the maids and mammies.
Qiao Jinniang was making childrens clothes with her mother. Mother, there will inevitably be some gossip mongers outside. Dont tolerate them.
Duke Anyuan said something right. Now her mother was not the Duchess, there might be some snobbish people who woulde to bully her.
Zheng Xiao said, I know.
Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyis courtyards were on opposite sides. She returned to her new courtyard, which was much smaller than the Jin Garden, but it was well furnished and decorated.
Qiao Ruoyi came over and said, Second Sister, will you me me for encouraging Mother to leave?
Of course not. Qiao Jinniang said, Duke Anyuan is really irritating. He even said that Mother is an abandoned woman and he is waiting for Mother to beg him on her knees. Humph, in his dreams!
Qiao Ruoyi chuckled. Second Sister, youre right, but Im afraid the Duke Mansion wont help you to enter the East Pce now.
Qiao Jinniang said, If I have to enter the East Pce at the expense of my mother, I would rather not enter it.
The next day, Qiao Jinniang held a housewarming banquet and invited Ruoyun and his husband, as well as Fulu and others.
Qiao Jinniang had heard the rumors from the maids, and she didnt want anyone to pity her mother, so she decided to hold a good housewarming banquet for her mother.
Fulu even brought her father and mother.
Princess Shouan had already known Zheng Xiao, and she walked up to Zheng Xiao and said, I rarely admire your courage. Im d the Zheng family still has someone who resembles thete Prime Minister Zheng.
Princess, Im ttered. Im just too disappointed with my ex-husband. Zheng Xiao smiled. However, let bygones be bygones, and Ill live my life from now on.
Princess Shouan said, Yes, I wish you a bright future. After you give birth to this child, you can find a gigolo. They might even be more handsome than the Duke.
Prince Consort Qin angrily nced at Fulu. What did this dam girl teach her mother?
Zheng Xiao smiled. Okay.
Grandma! A cute little boy trotted over.
There was a eunuch behind him, sweating profusely. Little Ancestor, run slowly. Dont fall.
Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen Tuaner for a long time. She picked up Tuaner and said, Why are you here?
Tuaner touched his head and said, Dad said that grandmother has a housewarming dinner, but he cante, so he allowed me toe..
Chapter 117 - The Seventeen-Year-Old Woman At Duke Anyuan’s Side
Chapter 117: The Seventeen-Year-Old Woman At Duke Anyuans Side
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
In Duke Anyuan Mansion.
Duke Anyuan was off today. Working in the study, he felt very upset.
Hearing the reply from the spy he put at Zheng Xiaos side, he realized that they were happily holding a housewarming banquet.
Hearing the Imperial Grandson, Princess Shouan, and others had all attended the banquet, Duke Anyuan was very depressed.
However, a man of no sense appeared.
Your Excellency, my daughter is seventeen this year. Since she was a child, she has been proficient in zither, calligraphy, chess, and painting. She is also good at needlework. More importantly, she is very beautiful. Would you
Before he could finish speaking, Duke Anyuan frowned and said, Were talking about official affairs. Why do you mention your daughter?
The subordinate said, Your Excellency, such arge Duke mansion needs a mistress!
Duke Anyuan frowned. I can even manage the Ministry of Defence. Cant I even manage a Duke Mansion? Besides, the Duke Mansion still has other women!
What made him angry was that Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Jinniang left with Zheng Xiao, as well as many maids and mammies.
As for those who did not follow Zheng Xiao away, they all followed Old Madam Qiao to the temple, so there were almost no women in the Duke Mansion now.
The subordinate continued. But Your Excellency, youre still young. You need a wife
If you dont talk about the official affairs, leave!
However, Duke Anyuan seemed to think of something and said, Wait
1
At the housewarming banquet, Qiao Ruoyun didnt know Fulu hade over and brought Qin Miaomiao with her.
Whenever Fulu and Qin Miaomiao were together, they would quarrel, but with Prince Consort Qin here today, they both restrained their temper a lot.
Qin Miaomiao seemed to be more restrained.
Fulu said to Qin Miaomiao, You never surrendered to me before, but why are you so quiet today?
Qin Miaomiao said, Im going to get married after the spring. Who would quarrel with you, a child? I will marry ahead of you anyway.
Fulu snorted. Whats so good about marrying a man, especially marrying a man who has someone else in his heart.
The Duchess is a living example!
Qin Miaomiao said proudly, What matters between husband and wife is to respect each other. It doesnt matter if he loves me or not. I just need my husband to respect me.
Hearing Qin Miaomiaos words, Zheng Xiao recalled the past.
When she had just turned fifteen, her grandmother said that the Qiao family hade to propose marriage to her.
The young Zheng Xiao met the Junior Duke of the Qiao family.
He held the military power at a young age, but everyone said that His Majesty was going to get rid of the Qiao family to take back military power
And that the Qiao family might decline soon.
But it was that year that the Junior Duke defeated the barbarians in the Northwest and uplifted the national prestige of the Datang Dynasty.
Everyone said that the Junior Duke would be able to restore the glory of his ancestors.
At that time, the sixteen-year-old Junior Duke desperately needed a wife who could support the Qiao family.
After careful selection, Old Madam Qiao thought that Prime Minister Zhengs granddaughter was the most suitable.
Firstly, Prime Minister Zheng was a man of moral integrity and wouldnt look down on their Qiao familys orphans and widowed mother. Secondly, Zheng Xiao was very pretty. Although she was a bit soft-tempered, she was brought up by Prime Minister Zhengs wife.
On the day of the engagement, Zheng Xiao, as a young girl, also yearned for her future husband.
But that night, he rudely broke into her boudoir and told her that he didnt like her as his wife and that he wanted to marry his cousin.
Zheng Xiao told what he said to her grandmother the next day, but her grandmother said the same as Qin Miaomiao said today,
Xiaoer, what matters most between husband and wife is to respect each other. Itll be enough if he respects you.
Even if aman and a woman who love each other get married, the marriage may notst long.
Your mother-inw is a good person, and the Junior Dukes cousin is only fourteen years old. After you marry him, his cousin can only be a concubine.
At that time, Zheng Xiao obeyed her grandmother and married the Duke. Later, the Duke made one outstanding achievement after another, and gradually became the youngest Minister of Defense.
When he was only twenty-seven years old, the Duke became a marshal, and she became a marshals wife respected by everyone.
Although she suffered in the fight for favor with Qian Shi, she felt that her grandmother was right.
But when she found out that one of her daughters had been separated from her for 18 years and her other daughter had been dead, she knew that her grandmother was wrong.
Looking back on her memory, Zheng Xiao sighed and said, Miaomiao, Im afraid you will regret it in the future.
Qin Miaomiao said, Madam, unlike you, I have no choice. I dont want a mediocre man to be my husband.
No man in the world will be loyal to only one woman, so I might as well find a man who can win me a nobility title.
Fulu taunted, Oh, you are really sober.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she thought what Qin Miaomian said somewhat made sense, but it was just her personal choice, and she wouldnt say anything about it.
A mammy hurried in and said, Madam, the Duke has brought a girl here. He said that since you are hosting a housewarming banquet, he has toe to give gifts. The girl looks about seventeen years ol
Zheng Xiao said to the mammy, Tell him I already have nothing to do with him and I dont want him to appear in front of my eyes. If he wants to show off that he has got a young beauty to apany him the very day after our divorce, he doesnt have toe.
As soon as she said so, Duke Anyuan hade over with that young girl. He saluted Princess Shouan and her husband first. Your Highness.
The Princess nced at the woman beside Duke Anyuan and said, Your Excellency, if I were you, I wouldnt have brought such a lousy woman with me and made a fool of myself.
Duke Anyuan just wanted to show off his attractiveness. Implying that without the Duchess, there were still tons of women throwing themselves on him.
However, quality was more important than quantity. Although the Duchess was already thirty-five years old, she was still beautiful and graceful. Although this girl was young, her appearance was notparable to the Duchess at all.
Duke Anyuan was a little embarrassed. He just wanted to see Zheng Xiaos reaction, but Zheng Xiao didnt even blink an eye, without the slightest bit of anger.
This made Duke Anyuan extremely annoyed.
Qiao Jinniang watched from the side and couldnt help sighing. It was obvious that Duke Anyuan had her mother in his heart, but why did he treat her mother like that?
1
At this time, he didnt kneel down and beg for her mothers forgiveness, instead he went to find another woman to provoke her mother?
Qiao Jinniang really wanted to see how much water was in Duke Anyuans head. He didnt even know that her mother had long since fallen out of love with him, so she wouldnt care if he had another woman or not!
Zheng Xiao said to Duke Anyuan, Your Excellency, we are already divorced, and I hope you wonte to me and disturb my peace.
Treally dont care how many women you have. I didnt even care about Qian Shi. I fought with her just to defend my position as the Duchess.
Duke Anyuan took a deep breath. Very good, Ill wait to see how youll look when you regret it!
Everyone:
Lu Chen, who had juste in, heard what Duke Anyuan said and mourned for his father-inw in his heart. He couldnt help but doubt if such a Minister of Defense could really defend against foreign enemies for Datang?1
Seeing Lu Chen arrive, everyone stood up and saluted.
Lu Chen said, Its just a family banquet. Dont bother.
Saying that, Lu Chen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and had a maid put a chair beside Qiao Jinniang for him. Mother-inw, this is a gift for you.
Zheng Xiao was a bit surprised to hear the Crown Prince calling her Mother-inw, but when she saw Qiao Jinniang not take it seriously, she just treated him the same as Qin Shu.
Watching this scene of harmony and happiness on the side, Duke Anyuan felt like a joke..
Chapter 118 - Lu Chen Teaches Jinniang to Ride A Horse
Chapter 118: Lu Chen Teaches Jinniang to Ride A Horse
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
After the banquet, Lu Chen went to Qiao Jinniangs new courtyard.
Sitting on the couch in the house, he asked her, Didnt you buy Fulus Princess Mansion? Why are you living in such a small courtyard?
Mother doesnt want to go there. Its pretty good here. Its not far from the newly opened Myriad Taste, Qiao Jinniang said.
Lu Chen said helplessly, I had had my men dig a tunnel there so that it will be easier for you to leave the East Pce to have fun in the future.
Qiao Jinniang said in surprise, Did you really dig a tunnel? I thought you wouldnt agree! I didnt expect you to think the same as me!
How could Lu Chen not agree? But he couldnt let anyone discover the tunnel, not even his father.
Besides you and me, dont tell anyone about the tunnel, not even Xier.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay.
Lu Chen gently tapped his fingers on the table and said, I took a big risk to dig the tunnel for you. Cant you pay me back a little?
Like making the deadline shorter?
No way. Qiao Jinniang said, You have to wait until the Lantern Festival. Not a day less.
Lu Chen sighed and stopped teasing her, asking, When are you going to return to the Duke Mansion?
Return to the Duke Mansion? Qiao Jinniang wondered, Do you think my parents divorce is fake? Of course we wont go back.
Didnt you see what Duke Anyuan did to my mother? He brought a seventeen-year-old woman from nowhere with him to show off the day after their divorce.
Lu Chen said, Does Mother-inw think the same?
Yes! Qiao Jinniang said, A woman has divorced at all costs. Do you think she will go back to the old days?
Lu Chen breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, he didnt take a concubine or what before meeting Qiao Jinniang again.
Otherwise, from what he knew of Qiao Jinniang, she might never forgive him for the rest of her life.
Lu Chen said, Are you free the day after tomorrow? Didnt you say you never learned to ride a horsest time?
Tt just so happened that a few Ferghana horses were sent to Longhua Mountain by the Wan Kingdom as tribute. Shall I take you to learn how to ride?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Im free.
Lu Chen continued, There will be winter hunting next month, and you will be able to hunt on horseback at that time.
Thest time I went hunting, I didnt see you. You must have been bored during thest hunt.
Qiao Jinniang didnt even want to recall thest spring hunt. Fortunately, she couldnt hunt and ride horses at that time.
If she could, she might have shot him to death with an arrow when she saw him!
Then she might have been executed too.
In September, the autumn wind was rustling and the weather was refreshing. It was a good time to climb a mountain.
The stable on Longhua Mountain was divided into several parts, one of which was reserved for nobles and officials to y polo.
From time to time, nobledies woulde here to y polo.
Todays polo match was held by several princesses.
Therefore, almost all the young masters and noble girls in Changan hade.
Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi were not in the Duke Mansion any longer, so they didnt receive the invitation.
When Qiao Jinniang arrived at the Longhua Mountain stable, she saw many acquaintances heading for the racecourse.
At the gate of the racecourse, she met a few noble girls.
County Mistress Jiaan, are you here to y polo too?
Can you ride horses, County Mistress Jiaan? Duke Anyuan is a marshal. As his daughter, you must be very skilled at riding.
Qiao Jinniang simply said, I dont know how to ride a horse, so I came to leam it. Are you here to learn how to ride a horse too?
One of the noble girls said, Didnt you receive the invitation from the princesses? Today is a polo event held by the princesses. Almost all nobles in Changan are here.
Oh, Im afraid you forgot that now County Mistress Jiaan is no longer Duke Anyuans daughter, so its not surprising that you didnt receive an invitation, right?
Titer, County Mistress, I didnt mean tough at you. Its just that without the invitation, you cant enter the Longhua Mountain racecourse today.
Although this racecourse was open to the public, it has been block-booked today and only nobles are allowed in.
If random people can enter and leave at will, it will disturb the nobles inside, so you must have an invitation to enter.
These noble girls had long been jealous of Qiao Jinniang, who was nothing but a countryside girl but somehow became the daughter of Duke Anyuan, forcing them to have topliment her.
Now they finally didnt have topliment her anymore, so they certainly would take the chance to make fun of her.
County Mistress, please go back. After all, you cant go inside, and theres no fun outside.
If too many peopleeter, I am afraid that you wont even be able to go down the mountain.
Itll be pathetic to watch longingly from the door.
Qiao Jinniang clenched the handkerchief in her hand. Im sorry to let you down, but I can assure you that I wont watch longingly from the door.
Not long after, the official of the stable hurried over and saluted Qiao Jinniang.
Tm sorry I amte, County Mistress. I didnt know that you came to ride horses today. The tribute horses are all ready. You can pick a horse you like.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its alright. I came too early.
Lu Chen hadnt finished todays levee yet, and Qiao Jinniang had never ridden a horse before, so she was very excited to have a chance to learn to ride a horse.
She was so excited that she got up early in the morning and simply came to the stable by herself.
The noble girls who wereughing at Qiao Jinniang were very puzzled.
Didnt Qiao Jinniang leave the Duke Mansion with Zheng Shi? Why is the official so respectful to her?
Although she has left the Duke Mansion, she is still the Dukes daughter. Dont go too far.
These noble girls regretted it a little. If they had known this, they wouldnt have taunted Qiao Jinniang so meanly.
Qiao Jinniang entered the stable and saw several mighty horses in the manger.
The white horse among them was taller than her and was quite majestic. It must feel good to ride on this horse.
Can I ride this horse?
The official only dared to let Qiao Jinniang pick a horse, but didnt dare to let Qiao Jinniang mount the horse before the Crown Prince came.
Qiao Jinniang was rather bored. If she had known this, she should have waited for Lu Chen at home.
She was in a position where she could see the polo field on the gentle slope in the distance.
The first polo match had already begun, and from a distance, the teams could only be distinguished from the color of their armor.
After watching a match, Lu Chen arrived. I had something urgent to tend to after the levee. Sorry to make you wait.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its fun to watch them y polo here.
Lu Chen: When you learn to ride a horse, I will take you to y polo.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, Thats fine, but Im afraid it wont be easy for me to learn to ride a horse. Lets learn to ride first.
Lhave already selected a horse, the big white horse.
Lu Chen looked over and smiled. You have sharp eyes. This horse is the king of the tribute horses.
A Ferghana horse will only have one owner in its life. I am afraid this horse is not suitable for beginners.
Ride my horse first, and then ride this white horse when youve learned how to ride a horse.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chens jujube red horse and said, But your horse doesnt look good.
Lu Chen:
Lu Chens treasure horse:
In the polo field, a nobledy turned her eyes to the distant stable that specialized in training tribute horses, which only royal family members could enter.
Why was there a woman there?
And it looked like Qiao Jinniang who they had just taunted at the door?
Chapter 119 - Subordinates’ Wives Tried to Persuade Her
Chapter 119: Subordinates Wives Tried to Persuade Her
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Cousin, what are you looking at? Zhou Sisi asked while sitting down beside Tong Xuan.
Tong Xuan pointed to the racecourse in the distance and asked, Do you think the woman over there looks like Qiao Jinniang?
Zhou Sisi looked over and shouted excitedly, Brother! Brother Royal Highness!
Tong Xuan certainly knew that her retarded sister was calling the Crown Prince, but now she knew why the official of the stable was so respectful to Qiao Jinniang just now.
She didnt know if Qiao Jinniang knew her. She probably didnt know her.
Cousin, lets go find Brother Royal Highness! Zhou Sisi tugged at Tong Xuans arm excitedly.
How dare Tong Xuan do that? She even wished that she would never appear in front of Qiao Jinniang again.
Although Qiao Jinniang felt that Lu Chens horse was not as handsome as the white horse, it was not uglypared to other horses, so she got on the horse with Lu Chens help.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Look straight ahead. Dont look at the horse. Ill lead you to run ap slowly first.
The official on the side came up and said, Your Royal Highness, allow me to lead the horse for County Mistress.
How can His Royal Highness lead a horse for a woman?
Lu Chen nced at the official sullenly. No wonder he was only a horse official at such an old age. He really had no sense. No need, you can all leave.
Seeing that the horse began to trot, Qiao Jinniang clenched the reins in fright. Lu Chen, dont be so fast. Slow down.
Lu Chen was walking as slowly as possible while holding the reins, Hearing this, he raised his head and said to Qiao Jinniang, Dont panic. Xiaohong is very gentle. Although you said its ugly, it will never throw you off its back.
Your horses name is Xiaohong? Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Why is such a tall and mighty horse called Xiaohong?
Lu Chen said, Xier gave it this name. Dontugh. Sit tight.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and rode slowly for twops.
Lu Chen let go of the pulling rope and let Qiao Jinniang slowly control the horse by herself.
Qiao Jinniang was a quick learner, and when she felt she could control the horse, she sped up.
The pasture was big enough, and she was the only one riding here, so she became more courageous and rode faster and faster.
It wasnt until she stopped that she felt a burning pain in her thigh.
There was also a touch of blood on the light-colored round-neck robe.
Lu Chen, I seem to be injured.
Lu Chen helped Qiao Jinniang to get off the horse, lifted her robe and saw the blood on her trousers, and said, Perhaps the skin of your thigh was rubbed off. Its inevitable for beginners. I brought some medicine. Let me apply the medicine for you in that room.
Qiao Jinniang felt pain when she moved, Ouch.
Lu Chen picked up Qiao Jinniang and strode to the small yard on the side.
The courtyard here was used by nobles to change clothes.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chen lift up her robe to untie her belt, she hurriedly held Lu Chens hand and said, Go out. Ill apply the medicine myself.
Lu Chen said, What kind of person do you think I am? You are injured. Im not such a beast.
Qiao Jinniang snorted but obediently let Lu Chen apply medicine to her thigh. Her thigh skin was already frayed. No wonder it hurt so much.
After taking the medicine, Qiao Jinniang no longer rode.
Instead, she sat on the racecourse and watched the polo game. There was no such polo event in Linan, but there was Cuju.
Polo was simr to Cuju.
The red and blue teams were fighting, She couldnt see clearly at this distance, but she saw that the ball was hit to the air, and soon after, a person in red armor was hit by the ball and fell off the horse.
Then Qiao Jinniang saw that everyone on the polo field ran over.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Did you see that? The ball didnt hit that person. She fell off the horse purposely.
Lu Chens eyesight was better than Qiao Jinniangs and he said, Intrigue ismon among the nobles in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang looked down from a distance, and the person who just hit the ball seemed to be med by everyone. s, I dont know which unlucky person was wronged.
Lu Chen said, Dont get involved in their affairs.
Qiao Jinniang said crossly, I cant stand seeing others being bullied. Its fine if I dont see it. But I saw it clearly just now. How can I ignore i
If she was tricked by others and had no way of proving her innocence, she would definitely feel extremely upset.
But because her legs hurt, she couldnt even walk, let alone ride a horse. Helpless, she could only turn her eyes to Lu Chen. Can you take me there?
Lu Chen said, The one who fell off the horse should be my sister, Jinghua, and the one who was wronged is Qin Miaomiao. Are you sure you want to uphold the injustice?
Well, forget it.
Qiao Jinniang flinched. Chivalry was not as important as her life.
That was a princess. Even if she was not quite favored by the Rmperor, she was still one of the few daughters of the Emperor. Why should she seek trouble?
Zheng Xiao was not in a good mood today. Early in the morning, the wives of Duke Anyuans subordinates all came to persuade her.
Madam, why are you surrendering the Duke to those little sluts? The daughter of the Yu family has been so pompous these days and ims to be the future mistress of the Duke Mansion.
Madam, you should think about your sons and Jinniang. Did you know that Jinniang was not invited to the polo game held by the princesses today? She wasnt even allowed to enter the racecourse and was ridiculed by many people!
Zheng Xiao listened to their words and said, Why should I care about the ridicule of those snobs?
Madam, please dont think that way. If you were still Duchess Anyuan, you would have still been one of the most distinguished nobledies in Changan, but if you let the daughter of the Yu family be the duchess, youll be nothing.
Zheng Xiaodao: You dont have to try to persuade me. I have already considered the worst consequences before I divorced. It has nothing to do with me if the Duke wants to marry someone else!
Madam, look at Duke Qin, Duke Wu and the others, every noble man has at least four or five concubines, and Duke Anyuan has been the best in this aspect.
You are no longer young. People willugh at you for divorcing for the matter of concubine.
Zheng Xiao said, Dont waste your time.
Thesedies sighed and left in disappointment. s, they failed toplete the task given to them by the Duke.1
When Duke Anyuan saw theming out sighing, he simply climbed over the wall and entered Zheng Xiaos room.
Zheng Xiao snorted coldly. It has been twenty years but you have never changed. Anyone here?!
Duke Anyuan walked forward and covered her mouth. Dont call others over! I know I was wrong about Qian Shis matter, but Ive punished her, and you shouldnt me me anymore.
Back then, my mother had found a husband for her, but your family forced her to drink sterilization medicine soup for no reason
Qian Shi is my cousin who grew up with me, but she was forcibly sterilized! What could I do? Sit by and do nothing? No, I could only take her as my concubine!
Chapter 120 - Qin Miaomiao Was Wronged
Chapter 120: Qin Miaomiao Was Wronged
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Zheng Xiao was annoyed and said angrily, Although that old woman did do a lot of evil things, how could it be the Zheng familys fault to give Qian Shi sterilization medicine?
Before I got married, I was ready to ept Qian as your concubine!
But you shouldnt have secretly had sex with her without even telling me!
Since you didnt treat me as your wife, why couldnt I give her sterilization medicine?
Did I give sterilization medicine to Ruoyis mom? I knew Qian Shis existence before I married you. Even if you took her as your concubine the day after our marriage, I wouldnt say anything, let alone give her sterilization medicine.
No, I took her as my concubine because you made her drink sterilization medicine! Duke Anyuan said, Before I saw you, I already liked her, but that was just childhood affections not love.
wanted to marry her because I thought Qian Shi would be my wife since I was a child.
But things changed. I couldnt cancel the marriage contract between you and me, but how would I let Qian Shi be my concubine? That would be humiliating to her.
After I got married to you, I realized that I just treated her as my sister. At that time, my mother also found a good husband for her, but when she was about to get married, the Zheng family made her drink the medicine!
Zheng Xiao snorted. Bah, nonsense! When I was pregnant with Jinniang for seven months, she ran to me crying and said that you took her virginity, so she couldnt marry someone else and begged me to drink her tea and ept her as your concubine.
After I drank it, the Zheng family made her drink sterilization medicine! If she werent your concubine, how could I have the guts to make your cousin drink sterilization medicine?
Duke Anyuan shouted, That was not true! At that time, she had agreed to marry another man, and she even went for an outing with her fianc. How was it possible for her to say that she was my woman? And how could I be so beastly to take her virginity given the fact that she is my cousin and was not
yet of age?
Qiao Ruoyi, who was eavesdropping outside the window, thought that Duke Anyuan really deserved it!
After Zheng Xiao figured it out, sheughed. No wonder you have always felt guilty for her and doted on her. She made you believe that she was forced to drink sterilization medicine by me when she was about to marry another man so she had no choice but to be your concubine? What a joke!
If she hadnte to provoke me, saying that you two had long since had sex, how could the Zheng family made her drink that medicine to defend my status as your wife?
Even if I was jealous of her, why would I bother to do that to her when she was about to marry someone else?
Duke Anyuan had finally figured it out too. It turned out that it was all Qian Shis trick to make him always feel guilty toward her and make him want to make up for her.
On one side, she told him that she was going to marry another man, yet on the other side, she went to provoke Zheng Xiao and said that they had already had sex
Xiaoer, I didnt know Qian Shi had started to trick me at that time.
Zheng Xiao said, Your Excellency, its meaningless to talk about this now! Weve already divorced. Even if you exin everything clearly, it will only make me think why I hadnt divorced earlier.
Duke Anyuan didnt feel any guilt for Qian Shi now. Its my fault. I shouldnt have trusted her so much! But Ive only had you in my heart
Zheng Xiao covered her mouth and threw up. Cough, Your Excellency, dont you disgust me. Arent you afraid of being punished by God and struck by lightning when you say this?
Twenty years ago, you entered my boudoir like this, iming that youve already had someone you loved and that you wanted to marry your cousin!
Oh! Zheng Xiao vomited even harder.
Qiao Ruoyi hurriedly came in and said, Father, hearing what you said, even I want tough. If you really only have Mother in your heart, then how can you exin about Qian Shis matter? Now that Qian Shi is dead, you think you can cook up stories as you like?
When Qiao Jinniang came in, she happened to see Zheng Xiao vomiting. She was so worried that she hurriedly got off Lu Chens back. Mother, are you okay?
Zheng Xiao nced at Duke Anyuan and said, Why are you still not leaving? Are you waiting to see me vomit to death?
Duke Anyuan sighed and left, but he still remembered to call an imperial physician over.
The imperial physician came to diagnose Zheng Xiao, only to find that it was just morning sickness.
However, Qiao Jinniang still med Duke Anyuan for that. She returned to her courtyard, and Qiao Ruoyi told her what happened just now.
Jinniang smiled sarcastically. Its always like this for men. Just like in novels, a man always wants two women at the same time. One is as soft as moonlight, and the other is as passionate as mes.
Duke Anyuan said that he only had Mother in his heart, but why didnt he feel disgusted when he went to Qian Shis courtyard? Before he found out about Qian Shis true colors, he truly loved her.
Qiao Ruoyi nodded and said, Second Sister, youre right!
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while and said, Duke Anyuan is really disgusting. Although this yard is good, it cant guard Mother against him. I must persuade Mother to move to my house, where the neighbors are all nobles. Id like to see if Duke Anyuan still dares to climb over the wall!
In the end, Zheng Xiao didnt want to be disturbed by Duke Anyuans subordinates wife, nor did she want to be harassed by Duke Anyuan again, so she moved to Qiao Jinniangs house.
The housewarming banquet had already been held, so they didnt hold another banquet this time.
But when Qiao Ruoyun heard about it, she came over with gifts to celebrate with them.
You gave me a housewarming giftst time. Howe you brought me a gift this time again? Dont waste your money. Zheng Xiao smiled.
Qiao Ruoyun said, No, it doesnt cost much money. Wish you good luck, Mother. I have something to tend to at home. I have to go now.
Zheng Xiao said, I heard what happened to Miaomiao. She was never such a petty person. How could she possibly hit the Princess? Thats a princess after all!
Qiao Ruoyun sighed and said, Yes. The mistress of the Lin family hase several times, demanding to annul the marriage contract, but Miaomiao insisted that she didnt hit the Princess.
But the Princess broke her leg when she fell off the horse. My mother-inw has been sending gifts to the Princess mansion every day for fear that His Majesty would punish Miaomiao.
My father-inw med my mother-inw for not disciplining her daughter well and even nned to make his concubines daughter marry Lin Mo in ce of Miaomiao s.
Moreover, this involves a princess, so my husband cant intervene although he wants to help his sister. I have to go back and keep an eye on Miaomiao in case she does stupid things.
Qiao Jinniang frowned when she heard this. Sister, Qin Miaomiao didnt hit Princess Jinghua. His Royal Highness and I both saw it. That ball didnt hit the Princess. She fell off the horse purposely!
Qiao Ruoyun: Really?
Qiao Jinniang said, I saw it on a gentle slope, where I could see more clearly than on the polo field. The ball didnt hit Princess Jinghua.
I think the people around the princess should have seen it too, but no one is telling the truth.
Zheng Xiao sighed. Even if we know that Miaomiao is innocent, so what? After all, Jinghua is a princess!
If she said she was hit, then she was hit.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands and said, Mother, I thought the same thing at first, but Qin Miaomiao is innocent, and she shouldnt be despised by everyone in Changan for this! You have been wronged for 20 years, and I dont want Qin Miaomiao to suffer like you did.
Chapter 121 - Xie Family’s Internal Strife
Chapter 121: Xie Familys Internal Strife
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Telling the truth would definitely offend Princess Jinghua, and even Emperor Huilin.
Princess Jinghua deliberately framed Qin Miaomiao. If this news was spread, it would be a disgrace to the royal family.
But if the truth wasnt exposed, Qin Miaomiaos life would be ruined. Why should she suffer such humiliation if she was innocent?
Just like her mother, she would live in grievances for the rest of her life.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Jinniang, if you dont testify about this matter in person, I am afraid that no one will believe Miaomiao is innocent.
Struggling internally, Qiao Jinniang thought of Lu Chen and said, Just tell people that Lu Chen saw it.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Qiao Jinniang even more in shock. But Princess Jinghua is His Royal Highnesss sister. How could His Royal Highness possibly help an outsider against her own sister?
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while and said, But I cant just sit by and watch Qin Miaomiao kill herself for this, right?
The news about Qiao Miaomiao making Princess Jinghua fall off her horse was widespread.
Everyone said that Qin Miaomiao was jealous that Princess Jinghua and Lin Mo were close, so she did it on purpose.
Until someone from the Qin family said that His Royal Highness witnessed that Qin Miaomiao was wronged.
The ball didnt hit the princess at all, and rumors were spread even more widely.
But this involved a princess, so no one dared to gossip about it openly, which mademoners even more curious.
After this was known to an imperial censor, he handed over a memorial in the levee.
Your Majesty, Princess Jinghua deliberately framed the daughter of a high-ranking official, and used power to oppress others. She is not worthy of being a princess. Please punish her!
Emperor Huilin had been used to receiving memorials impeaching princesses, but he didnt expect that Jinghua, who had never caused trouble for him, would be impeached!
And for such an outrageous matter.
Emperor Huilin angrily summoned everyone on the polo field that day, but many noble girls shied away, saying that they didnt see it clearly.
However, when they heard that the Crown Prince had already testified for Qin Miaomiao, they all told the truth
Miss Qins ball didnt hit the princess. The princess deliberately fell off the horse herself.
We thought we saw it wrongly.
Emperor Huilin was extremely annoyed. In the past, the princesses were usually impeached for keeping gigolos or what, but this was the first time a princess did something that could be considered a disgrace to the royal family.
Emperor Huilin directly forfeited Princess Jinghua half a year of wages and demoted her one notch in honorary title.
Since he didnt have many daughters, he doted on princesses a lot.
Although Princess Jinghua didnt seem to lose anything, she kinda fell out of favor with the Emperor.
Once Qiao Jinniang heard from Yuyan that Qin Miaomiao was cleared of her grievances, she breathed a sigh of relief.
She began to be busy with the opening of Myriad Taste. She wanted to transport the old sign of Myriad Taste from Linan to Changan, but it would be too troublesome.
She wanted to write the sign herself, but she was not good at drawing or calligraphy.
The old sign of Myriad Taste was written by Lu Chen, which was very beautiful and impressive.
Qiao Jinniang went to ask Lu Chen to write the words Myriad Taste for her. This was the first time she walked through the tunnel and it was really dark.
When she was about to reach the exit, she heard two people discussing outside.
Your sister was too anxious, wasnt she? His Majesty has not agreed yet. Even if he agrees to marry her to the Second Young Master of the Xie family, she doesnt have to ruin her reputation, right?
Lu Chen said, My sister has already been married to a faraway ce once, so she doesnt want to experience it again. Even if her reputation is damaged, its better than being married off far away to the South.
Another male voice said, Jiners temper has never changed.
Fortunately, this time, the result was exactly what Princess Jinghua wanted.
Otherwise, Jiner might be in trouble.
s Changan is not suitable for Jiner!
Lu Chen was annoyed. Xie Yun, do you think its proper for you to still call her Jiner?
But Ive been calling her this since we were children. Even if you dont like it, this is a fact! Xie Yun said, She is too chivalrous, so she doesnt fit in a ce like Changan where it is full of snobs.
Lu Chen looked straight into Xie Yuns eyes and said, Whether she fits in here or not, she is my wife and will only stay in Changan.
Xie Yun lowered his eyes. Then please take good care of her, Your Royal Highness.
I dont need you to tell me that.
Qiao Jinniang didnt go out of the tunnel. She pursed her lips. Why didnt Lu Chen exin to her about Princess Jinghuas n in advance?
Did he feel that she didnt deserve to know these affairs?
If she hadnt made him her scapegoat, wouldnt she have caused His Majestys dislike and Princesss grudge?
Myriad Taste would be opened in early October. Qiao Jinniang wrote the sign herself and had someone carve it.
However, before Myriad Taste opened, the shopkeeper of Guest Weing Building was acquitted because he imed that he didnt know the fruit he used was Minanghua Fruit.
Thus, the Guest Weing Building was still open, but not many people dared to patronize it again.
Qiao Jinniang was in Myriad Taste, checking theyout inside.
Huixiang said indignantly, The shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building victimized so many people. How could he be acquitted?
Qiao Jinniang had already known the reason from Old Madam Qiao, so she was not surprised.
Your Majesty was filial. If he severely punished the shopkeeper of the Guest Weing Building, it would be known tomoners that the Empress Dowager had been consuming Minanghua Fruits, by then it would be hard to determine the punishment on the shopkeeper.
s, this is Changan. He has a backstage. Qiao Jinniang sighed.
Huixiang said to Qiao Jinniang, But Miss, your husband is the Crown Prince.
Qiao Jinniang said, He is not my husband. He is now the dignified Crown Prince and looks down on stupid people like us
Lu Chen happened toe. Hearing Qiao Jinniangs words, he said, How dare I look down on you? Besides, youre not stupid at all.
You are smart enough to make me your scapegoat.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Come with me.
Myriad Taste was not only a restaurant but also an inn, and there were rooms for amodation upstairs.
Lu Chen followed Qiao Jinniang into a room and said, Why are you angry again?
Qiao Jinniang asked bluntly,
Twalked through the tunnel you dug the day before yesterday, and I heard what you said to Xie Yun.
You knew it was Princess Jinghuas scheme, so why didnt you tell me about it earlier?
You just watched me self-righteously expose this matter like a fool.
Thad been struggling internally whether I should help Qiao Miaomiao, but it turned out it was a trap from the beginning!
Lu Chen said, The matter was tooplicated, so I didnt exin it to you.
I thought you wouldnt get involved, so I didnt tell you. If you want to know, I can exin it to you.
Qiao Jinniang poured herself a cup of water.
Lu Chen reached out to pick it up, but Qiao Jinniang emptied the cup herself.
Lu Chen chuckled and said, Tll make this long story short, Xie Yuns father and his second uncle have been fighting for control of the Xie family. His father only has one son and after his father died, Xie Yun disguised as a woman to protect himself.
And with the excuse of poor health, he went to the manor in Linan alone to recuperate.
The head of the Xie family is more inclined to Xie Yun, but his second uncle has a lot of sons, and many hands provide great strength. Although the old distinguished families are declining, the Xie family is still quite prestigious among the civil officials, and it is very powerful in the South.
My father always wanted to take down the Xie family. He originally wanted to choose Xie Yun. After all, Xie Yun is just a woman. If Xie Yun became the crown princess, the Xie family would be controlled by the royal family.
But after Xie Yuns second uncle learned about my fathers n, he promised my father that he would be loyal to the royal family, as long as he could seize power in the Xie family, and to show his loyalty, he asked my father to marry my sister Jinghua to his son.
Thus, my father is still considering whether to choose Xie Yun or his second uncle.
If he chooses thetter, he will have to marry a princess off to the Xie family. And somehow my sister learned about this n, so she came up with another n. Anyway, the Xie family will definitely not marry a princess who has lost her reputation.
You are close to Xie Yun, Cant you convince your father to help Xie Yun? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Lu Chen smiled. Xie Yun is useful to me, so is his cousin.
Moreover, his cousin is more stupid and more easily manipted than him. If he is really willing to submit to the royal family, why should I help Xie Yun?
Xie Yun thought that he had hidden his feelings for Qiao Jinniang very well.
But back when Lu Chen was in Linan, he had found out about Xie Yuns crush on Qiao Jinniang when he first met Xie Yun! As aman, he could tell it.
Lu Chen wasnt so broad-minded as to help his rival-in-love win the control of the Xie family..
Chapter 122 - This Gigolo Is the Crown Prince
Chapter 122: This Gigolo Is the Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang said, But when you went to investigate those illicit salt dealings, didnt Xie Yun block a knife for you? He saved your life.
Lu Chen said, It was fake. He did it to see what his cousin would do. If he saved the Crown Princes life, his cousin would definitely not be able to sit still.
At that time, when I was investigating the illicit salt dealings, the merchants under Xie Yun could provide some key evidence, so I made a transaction with Xie Yun.
Lput on an act with him, and he provided me with evidence to help me check the ounts.
Lu Chen pinched Qiao Jinniangs nose. But you werent worried about me at all, asking about him and scolding me in the letter!
Qiao Jinniang sensed a trace of grievance in Lu Chens words, and shook off his hand. Thats because you didnt tell me anything. You were not like this when we were in Linan.
Lu Chen was helpless, I want to tell you, but you have to give me a chance.
You are not in the East Pce, so how often can I see you every day? How do I have the time to say this?
If you are in the East Pce and are always by my side, I will not hide anything from you if you want to know.
Qiao Jinniang listened to his exnation and asked, Isnt Xie Yun in great danger?
Once its exposed that he is actually a man, I am afraid that His Majesty will definitely not choose Xie Yun, who is very scheming, and choose his cousin.
Lu Chen nodded. Princess Jinghua thinks so too. She also knows that Xie Yun is a man, so she came up with this n.
Qiao Jinniang had a childhood friendship with Xie Yun, but she wouldnt try to persuade Lu Chen to help Xie Yun.
She knew that politics should not involve personal emotions.
Xie Yun is right. I really dont fit in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang sighed.
Lu Chen clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, No, you will be the crown princess. You can just be yourself.
Its true that people in Changan are mostly snobbish, but you dont need to cater to them.
Because in the future, no one will be higher than you in status except my father and mother!
You dont have to cater to anyone, but everyone has to cater to you.
Besides, you have me standing in front of you, dont you
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. I took the me for you, but you dont even have the confidence to be my crown princess?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, I do. I just got emotional.
You dont want to let me go, so you can only make me, this out-of-cemoner woman, your crown princess!
And youll have to be my scapegoat from time to time!
Lu Chen said in an ambiguous tone, Then can the crown princess enter the East Pce earlier?
Its almost October, and its only three months away. Dont think about those kinds of things whenever you see me, okay?
Lu Chen blinked at her. No, there are still three months. I dont want to bear it for a single day.
Ahh!
Caught off guard, Qiao Jinniang was suddenly picked up by Lu Chen, and she quickly put her hand around his neck.
Lu Chen gently ced her on the wooden couch and kissed her red lips.
Qiao Jinniang finally broke free from his embrace andined tenderly,
Are you crazy? This is in the daytime Besides, were still in the restaurant, and there are many people downstairs!
They know that you and I are here and will note upstairs.
In the end, Qiao Jinniang didnt refuse Lu Chen Although Lu Chen was not as capable in bed as those heroes described in novels, he made her.
Its here. The sign reads Myriad Taste!
Qiao Jinniang, is Qiao Jinniang here?
Is the rumor true that Qiao Jinniang has be the daughter of Duke Anyuan?
How can she be so ungrateful as to forget us, her uncles and aunts?
Qiao Jinniang,e out!
Hearing the familiar voices downstairs, Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chen. Dont, listen to the voices downstairs
Hearing the scolding voices below, Lu Chen paused and helplessly helped Qiao Jinniang fasten the belt that he had just taken off.
Qiao Jinniang said, They sound like my adoptive fathers n members. They havee all the way to Changan?!
When she left Linan, she didnt want to waste her time with those nsmen. Anyway, she would not returm to Linan, so she simply ignored them.
But she didnt expect that they dared toe to her!
Lu Chen listened and said, Yes.
The people downstairs were the people of the Qiao family in Linan, headed by the current Qiao family patriarch, Qiao Yus elder brother, Qiao Ergou!
Qiao Ergou and the others didnt know that Qiao Jinniang had actually returned to the Duke Mansion until the order that Qiao Yu was conferred to the title of Earl Linan was announced in Linan. They had thought it was a y that Qiao Jinniang hired a group of people to perform.
After all, it was incredible for her to change from the daughter of a shopkeeper to the daughter of a duke.
After Qiao Jinniang left, they kept smearing Qiao Jinniangs reputation in Linan, and someone like an official came to look for Qiao Jinniang. They were afraid of causing trouble and said that she eloped with a man.
Later, someone came to check on Qiao Yu, but they still didnt believe that Qiao Jinniang was actually a dukes daughter.
It wasnt until the imperial decree that Qiao Yu was conferred the title of Earl Linan arrived that they realized that everything was true. No wonder she was willing to give up Myriad Taste.
They went through a lot of hardship and finally reached Changan, but they couldnt find Qiao Jinniang. Fortunately, before they could find Duke Anyuan Mansion, they happened to see the sign of Myriad Taste sent to this restaurant.
Qiao Ergous son-inw was literate, so they followed the sign all the way to Myriad Taste.
Qiao Jinniang straightened the bead hairpins in her hair, and helped Lu Chen wipe the rouge on his lips before going downstairs.
There were about twenty members of the Qiao family standing at the door and shouted, Qiao Jinniang, you ingrate! Did you forget how we helped you after your parents died? Now you be rich and want to ignore us?
We had thought that you had no brothers, so we wanted to inherit Myriad Taste. Now that youre not even the daughter of Qiao Yu, quickly spit out the money you earned from Myriad Taste over the years, and hand over thend deed of Myriad Taste!
Qiao Jinniang opened the door and looked at everyone at the door. Hi, long time no see.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was dressed much more luxurious than before, and her husband beside her even wearing a python robe, they hesitated.
Qiao Jinniang said to them, Do you think that its Linan here? Do you think you can still bully me? Since you know that I am the daughter of Duke Anyuan, how dare youe to Changan?
These people had never seen a duke, and the highest-ranking official they had ever seen was just a prefect.
Hearing what Qiao Jinniang said, they were indeed a little scared.
Qiao Ergous son-inw Xiucai Li said, Qiao Jinniang, even if you are the daughter of a duke, you cant just ignore your poor rtives!
And since youre not Qiao Yus daughter, then Myriad Taste shouldnt be yours. You cant refuse if we want to take it back!
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang with a dark face, Dont waste time on them. Ill have my guards turn them over to the government.
Qiao Ergou said, You lowly gigolo, do you have the right to speak here?
1
Qiao Ergou hated this man the most. If it werent for this man, they would have already obtained Myriad Taste!
Qiao Jinniang smiled Uncle, do you know that this gigolo is the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty?
Chapter 123 - The Truth of the Divorce Letter
Chapter 123 The Truth of the Divorce Letter
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Ergou widened his eyes. Qiao Jinniang, are you kidding me? If this gigolo is the crown prince,m the emperor!
Lu Chen said coldly, No one in this world has the courage to pretend to be me. Do you know what the crime is to pretend to be the crown prince?
Qiao Ergou knelt on the ground with a thud. Your Royal Highn
we, we dont know that you are the Crown Prin
but even if you are the Crown Prince, you have to be r
Qiao Yu is a member of our Qiao family, and Myriad Taste is the property of the Qiao family. How can it be given to an outsider?
Besides, Qiao Jinniang is rich now and she simply ignored us. Its not justified, right? Since you are the Crown Prince, you should at least make me a prefect, right?
Qiao Jinniang was disgusted by these people.
Lu Chen said to one of his secret guards, Put them in jail and interrogate them about that divorce letter!
Lu Chen had found out that the divorce letter didnte from Changan, so it could only be written by someone from Linan. Only the disgusting Qiao family members might do this.
You pretended to be me, which is a felony. Youd better confess quickly if you dont want to be beheaded!
Qiao Ergou was stunned and looked at his son-inw, who had already fainted in fright.
Qiao Ergou knelt down and said, Your Royal Highness, we didnt know that you were the Crown Prince at the time. The divorce letter was written by my son-inw imitating your handwriting, We just wanted to get back the Myriad Taste that we deserve.
Qiao Jinniang:
It turned out that the origin of the divorce letter was so simple, but she suffered a lot and had been angry about the divorce letter.
Lu Chen whispered in her ear. Now you believe me? How could | possibly divorce you?
Qiao Jinniang coughed and said to Qiao Ergou, ording to Daddysst words, Myriad
ste shall never be handed over to you. How did Myriad Taste be yours
Qiao Ergou said, But you are not your fathers biological daughter!
Qiao Jinniang s
id, My fathers biological daughter is the wife of the next Duke Qin. Do you dare to snatch Myriad Taste from her?
Aunt Qiao said to Qiao Ergou, Cousin, Qiao Jinniang has never obeyed us ever since she was a child. It is a waste of time to argue with her here. Why dont we go to Qiao Yus biological daughter?
We are all her blood rtiv
1c has to give us some benefit
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she sneered. You guys have a good n indeed, but unfortunately you will be punished severely for imitating the Crown Princ:
handwriting. You want to see my sister? Nice try! But if were you, I would hurry back and escape to Linan!
Qiao Ergou and the others came all the way here for benefits. They were certainly unwilling to leave before they got what they wanted.
It was my son-inw who imitated Your Royal Highnes!
handwriting, and it has nothing to do with our Qiao family. If you dont want us to be homeless on the streets and ruin your reputation as a daughter of a duke, give us money obediently, as well as the Myriad Taste in Linan!
Qiao Jinniangughed. I didnt even care about my reputation when I was in Linan, let alone now! Besides, in terms of reputation, | can invite my neighbors in Linan City toe to tell the truth.
Qiao Ergous youngest daughter said to him, Dad, forget it. Now that Sister is the daughter of a duke, it will get us nowhere to go against he
Qiao Ergou said, No way! We havee all the way to Changan ina cargo ship. How can we just leave without getting any benefits?!
Qiao Yuner said, Father, just listen to me.
What benefits could they get to make trouble now? Qiao Jinniang was a dukes daughter now and her husband was the Crown Prince. Their old tricks wouldnt work here.
However, having seen the prosperity of Changan, Qiao Yuner was certainly not willing to leave like this.
She had to work out a good way!
Then, Qiao Ergou and his party left, ignoring his son-inw who had fainted in fright. After a while, Xiucai Li woke up with wetted pants.
Lu Chen then ordered his secret guards to drag Xiucai Li into Myriad Taste. He sat on a wooden chair and asked Xiucai Li who was kneeling on the ground, How did you imitate my handwriting to write that divorce letter?
Xiucai Li kowtowed and said, Your Royal Highness, | didnt want to write it.
But the prefects son forced me to write it. I worked as his staff, so I had no choice but to do so!
You were away from Linan for almost three months, so | thought maybe you were killed on the way or in Changan, so | imitated your handwriting to write a divorce letter as ordered by the prefects son.
L just wanted to take Myriad Taste back. It was for Sister Jinniangs own good. Wouldnt it be a better choice for her to marry the prefects son as a concubine? It was much better than being the shopkeeper of a restaurant.
If | had known that you are the Crown Prince, I wouldnt have dared to do that no matter what!
Qiao Jinniang took a deep breath. For my own good? Dont be so disgusting.
Lu Chen said to his secret guard, Hand him over to the Governor of Changan, imprison him for three yea
He wont be allowed to participate in the imperial examinations in this life.
After Xiucai Li was taken away, Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang. Now you know you have mistaken me?
L wronged you about the divorce letter, but not about the fact that you want to demote me from your wife to a concubine. Qiao Jinniang snorted. At most, were even now.
Qiao Jinniang was so angry at the time that she didnt even notice that the divorce letter was very suspicious. Immediately after the divorce letter reached her, the Qiao family and the prefects son hade.
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang in his arms and said, Can you trust me more in the future? You and I have been married for three years. How could I be willing to divorce you?
Qiao Jinniang whispered to him ina voice as weak as a mosquitos
Lu Chen smiled. It was not easy to make Qiao Jinniang bow her head and say sorry!
In the Qin mansion, Qin Miaomiao looked at the gifts that filled the yard and realized how fickle human nature could be.
Duchess Qin looked at the gifts in the yard, held Qin Miaomiaos hand and said happily, Miaomiao, youre really Mothers good daughter. Now Id like to see what your concubine-born sisters can do!
phe Lin family has repeatedly asked to break off the marriage contract. We should have agreed But His Royal Highness chose to go against his own sister to prove your innocence. He must have a crush on you!
Qin Miaomiao frowned and said, Mother, dont talk nonsen:
Its not nonsense! Its said that the Crown Prince t
stified for you. If it werent for him, you would have still been suffering all the grievances! It can be seen how much he loves you
st Pce.
Now that he doesnt have a crown princess yet. Its not impossible for you to marry into the
Listening on the side, Qiao Ruoyun wanted to exin but she didnt know how. In the end, she didnt dare to tell that Qiao Jinniang testified for Qin Miaomiao in the name of the Crown Prince.
But hearing Duchess Qins words, she was a bit angry. Qiao Jinniang risked offending the royal family to help Qin Miaomiao, but Duchess Qin coveted Jinniangs husband?
This was disgusting!
Qiao Jinniang had heard the rumors about Qin Miaomiao and the Crown Prince too, and at that moment she felt like she had lifted a rock only to drop it on her own feet
Chapter 124 - Treatment for the Crown Princess
Chapter 124 Treatment for the Crown Princess
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
After the levee, even Duke Qin proudly said to Duke Anyuan, Your Excellency, can you do me a favor?
Duke Anyuan said, Yes?
Duke Qin smiled and said, Have you heard that His Royal Highness testified for my daughter?
My daughter is really lucky, and I want to thank His Royal Highness.
This is a purse that my daughter made with her own hands. Can you pass it on to His Royal Highness?
How could Duke Anyuan not understand what Duke Qin meant? This old b*stard just wanted to show off.
Many officials who passed by also congratted Duke Qin.
Duke Anyuan threw the purse back to Duke Qin. You can give it to him yourself
This old bstard wanted to steal his son-inw, and even came to show off to him! He was being polite not to cut the purse open!
In the Hall of Diligent Governance, Emperor Huilin said to Lu Chen, You finally figured it out. Thats right. Although Qin Miaomiao is not as good as Xie Yun, she is a decent nobledy. Now that the Lin family has annulled the marriage contract with the Qin family, its okay if you want Qin Miaomiao as your crown prince:
Lu Chen said, Father, how can you believe the rumors?
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, Then why did you make your sister lose face for Qin Miaomiao?
Lu Chen said, I just wanted to right the wrongs. | have already promised Jinniang to make her my crown princess and never take a concubine.
Emperor Huilin took a deep breath. Its early in the morning. Do you want to piss me off to death so that you can be enthroned?
Cherer, you are not Qiao Jinniangs husband in Linan now. You are the Crown Prince of Datang!
Lu Chen said, Father, Ive decided and I will never change my mind.
As Lu Chens father, Emperor Huilin knew very well that once his son had decided on something, no one could make him change his mind.
Forget it. Then let her enter the East Pce as soon as possible.
When Qiao Jinniang entered the East Pce, at least he would be able to get a feast for his appetite every day.
Lu Chen said, I want it, but she said there were too many court etiquettes for her to study. Well, can she be allowed not to learn those rules
Emperor Huilin red at Lu Chen. Now all you think about is your wife and have forgotten about your old father! Everyone has to learn those rul
Duchess Qin happily held a banquet in autumn. Since Qiao Jinniang held a chrysanthemum banquetst time, flower banquets were the most popr in Changan.
Because holding chrysanthemum banquets could please the Empress Dowager, many people liked to hold chrysanthemum banquets.
Duchess Qin held this chrysanthemum banquet today, firstly, to remove the bad luck from Qin Miaomiao, and s
condly, she wanted to show off to Qiao Jinniang.
Failing to dissuade her mother from doing this, Miaomiao was annoyed.
Although Qiao Ruoyun didnt speak out, she could tell it. Why would His Royal Highness meddle in such a trivial matter?
Only after Qiao Ruoyun went to Qiao Jinniangs house did she dare to rify for her in the name of the Crown Prince.
Qin Miaomiao certainly knew who the person who helped her was, but she couldnt tell it to her mother.
Qiao Jinniang rified for her in the Crown Princes name, so she must not want others to know that she helped her.
At this time, Qiao Jinniang wanted to take stock of the ingredients in Myriad Taste, which was prepared for the opening tomorrow.
As soona
he went out, she bumped into Fulu.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang huffily and said, How can you let Qin Miaomiao win? No, I must not let you be beaten by Qin Miaomiao!
If Qin Miaomiao bes the crown princess, Ill be angered to death!
Come, help County Mistress Jiaan wear better makeup. I must show the Crown Prince that Qin Miaomiao is not as good as Qiao Jinniang!
Qiao Jinniang said, My dear prin
., my restaurant will open tomorrow, so please spare me.
She also heard about the Qin familys chrysanthemum banquet today, and the Qin family didnt invite her.
Even if they did, the restaurant was about to open tomorrow, and she didnt have time to go.
Nheless, Fulu still took Qiao Jinniang to the Princess Mansion, and ordered her mothers maids to put on makeup and change clothes for Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said helplessly, Princess, | have many things to tend to in Myriad Taste
Its no big deal. Il serve as a waitress at Myriad Taste tomorrow, okay? Fulu asked Qiao Jinniang to sit in front of the mirror and picked up the rouge to rub it against Qiao Jinniangs lips.
Fulu had always been running amok in the Qin family, so she took Qiao Jinniang straight in without waiting for the servants to report to Duchess Qin.
Duchess Qin wanted to scold Fulu for being rude, but she didnt dare, so she could only mutter angrily in secret.
On the surface, she still saluted. Wee, Princess, but the banquet today is held to thank His Royal Highness. Later, His Royal Highness wille. You may disturb him by barging in like this.
Fulu said, Oh? Wheres Your Royal Highne:
Duchess Qin was choked.
The nobledies whispered to each other, Well have a good show to watch. Qiao Jinniang hasnt entered the
However, she is the biological mother of the Crown Princes heir. She must havee to make trouble.
What can she do? Who let her leave the Duke Mansion so stupidly? If she is still Duke Anyuans daughter, she might be able to marry into the East Pce.
:But she followed her mother out of the Duke Mansion, which was really stupid.
phere hasnt been any imperial decree allowing her to enter the East Pce yet, so Qiao Jinniang probably wont be allowed to enter the imperial pce.
There must be a good show when the Crown Princeestet
Qiao Ruoyun stepped forward and said, Sister, | heard that your restaurant is going to open tomorrow. I thought you must be busy, so I didnt invite you.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the cocky Fulu helplessly and said, Yes, Myriad Taste is of great significance to me. Please go to the opening ceremony tomorrow with Brother-inw, $
Qiao Ruoyun smiled. Sure. When the Crown Prince arrives, the banquet will start. Sister, please take a seat.
Qiao Ruoyun took Qiao Jinniang to the table of honor, but before Qiao Jinniang sat down, Duchess Qin said, County Mistress Jiaan, youre not the daughter of Duke Anyuan now, so | am afraid that you cant sit at the table of honor.
Why dont you just sit by the lotus pond. The scenery there is also good.
Qin Miaomiao helplessly tugged at the sleeve of her mother and said, Mother!
Duchess Qin red at Qin Miaomiao. Her nobility title was one level higher than Zheng Xiao, but people always respected Zheng Xiao more than her.
Now that her daughter beat Zheng Xiaos daughter, how could she not avenge herself?
Qin Miaomiao was very embarrassed. Her mother al:
Fulu said, Jinniang is a distinguished guest brought by me. Why cant she sit beside me, but has to sit by the lotus pond
Qiao Jinniang said to Fulu, Princess, the withered lotus has a special beauty. ll just sit by the lotus pond.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to make things difficult for Qiao Ruoyun.
Just when everyone was seated, it was reported that His Royal Highness and Junior Duke Rong had arrived.
Lu Chen came today, just to give fa
to his future brother-inw, Qin Shu.
He didnt know the Qin family was holding a grand banquet for him until he arrived. He wanted to leave, only to see Qiao Jinniang sitting by the windy lotus pond alone.
He strode over and sarcastically said to Qin Shu, Your family is so polite as to make your sister-inw, who is a County Mistress, sit by the lotus pond? It has really opened my eyes.
It was very windy by the lotus pond, and Qiao Jinniang was wearing very thin clothes today.
Lu Chen took off his cloak and put it on Qiao Jinniang. You have been sick twice since you came to Changan. How dare you sit in the wind wearing such thin clothes?
As soon as he said so, everyone was shocked, and even forgot to salute Lu Chen.
The rumor had it that Qiao Jinniang was disliked by the Crown Prince, but now it seemed that it wasnt true at all!
Qiao Jinniangs clothes were not thin, okay?
And the Crown Prince just put his cloak embroidered with four-wed golden pythons on Qiao Jinniang?
Even the crown princess wouldnt receive such a treatment!.
Chapter 125 - Winter Had Set In
Chapter 125 Winter Had Set In
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang smiled indifferently and said, I sat here because of the special beauty of the withered lotus here.
Lu Chen frowned and said, You still need to be careful. Changans winter is colder than Linans. Now itste autumn, so you should wear more clothes.
Qiao Jinniang said helplessly, Im not that delicate.
Seeing this scene, Duchess Qin was quite puzzled. She hurriedly brought Qin Miaomiao forward and said, Your Royal Highness, thank you for rifying for Miaomiao. Otherwise, Miaomiao will have been greatly
wronged.
Lu Chen said, Dont mention it. Earl Linan had a life-saving grace for me, so I helped your family for the sake of her biological daughter.
Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly knelt down and thanked Lu Chen, and now everyone knew that the Crown Prince wasnt interested in Qin Miaomiao at all!
It was funny that Duchess Qin treated Qiao Jinniang like that just now.
Duchess Qin was full of remorse, so she could only force a smile and ask Lu Chen to sit on the seat of honor.
Lu Chenyan said, No need. Ill just sit next to County Mistress.
The other guests didnt dare to sit anymore and left the table one after another.
As for Duchess Qin, she had to stand by and serve the Crown Prince and Qiao Jinniang.
Fulu smiled smugly at Qin Miaomiao, came over and said to the Crown Prince, Imperial Cousin, when are you going to let Jinniang enter the East Pce? You know, some blind people think Jinniang is not worthy of
you!
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, If she agrees, she can enter the East Pce tomorrow.
Hearing it, everyone turned their eyes to Qiao Jinniang, and there was only one thought in their hearts. Is the Crown Prince joking?
The Crown Prince was waiting for Qiao Jinniang to agree to enter the East Pce?
And Qiao Jinniang refused?!
Everyone was full of doubts, guessing that perhaps Qiao Jinniang was dissatisfied with the position given by His Royal Highness? But she was the biological mother of the Imperial Grandson after all. As long as she
entered the East Pce, she would definitely live a veryfortable life.
Qiao Jinniang didnt respond, but gracefully ate the dishes in front of her. She lost her appetite after just one bite. The chrysanthemum tofu was cold and had a beany smell.
So she just ate some cold dishes to be polite.
It wasnt until Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen left did everyone dare to discuss in twos and threes
Its the first time I saw His Royal Highness, who was so handsome and unreachable, took such care of a woman!
The Crown Prince has never been so gentle and humble to a woman. Qiao Jinniang is so lucky! She was raised bymoners but she could still return to the Duke Mansion and now she can even be cared for by the
Crown Prince!
Didnt you make fun of Qiao Jinniang in the racecourse that day? I told you not to do it. Now what are you going to do?!
Those nobledies remembered what happened at the racecourse, regretted the big mistake they made, and were now all thinking how to make amends.
It was said that Qiao Jinniangs Myriad Taste would be opening tomorrow, so they decided to attend the opening ceremony tomorrow.
Early the next morning, Qiao Jinniang went to Myriad Taste. The band she hired had already started to y music, and at the doors of Myriad Taste, candies and pastries were distributed to passersby.
When the sign was hung, there were already quite a few familiar nobledies around the door, and as soon as the firecrackers went off, people went in one after another.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Qiao Ruoyuning over, she asked, Sister, did you invite these people over?
Qiao Ruoyun shook her head with a smile. No, yesterday, His Royal Highness showed everyone how much he cared for you. And seeing how you are so favored by the Crown Prince, how dare these people note to
tter you?
Qiao Jinniang had been worried that business might not be good. Now it seemed that she had worried in vain. There was not only a queue at the door of Tasty Pavilion, but there was also a long queue outside Myriad
Taste.
Fortunately, there were plenty of ingredients in Myriad Taste. Even if there were many customers, the ingredients were enough.
But there was a shoring for Myriad Taste. Next to Tasty Pavilion were silk shops, jewelry stores, bookstores and other shops. As for Myriad Taste, however, although there was a fair here, there were very few fancy
shops, and the nobledies who came to Myriad Taste had no ce to go shopping.
Moreover, there were manymoners at the fair, so nobledies wouldnt set foot in such a ce.
Qiao Jinniang wanted to buy the shops on both sides, thinking that she could also open stores selling silk, jewelry, and rough here.
Although the jewelry in Changans jewelry stores was beautiful, she had to wait for a long time if she wanted to customize the jewelry she liked in those stores because they were too busy.
Besides, the masters in her jewelry shop in the South had mastered hard gold craftsmanship, which was not avable in Changan yet.
During the lunch break, Qiao Jinniang went to the two shops next door and asked to buy the shops. The shopkeepers of those two shops knew Qiao Jinniang and saw that Qiao Jinniang was young, so they demanded an
exorbitant price.
Unexpectedly, Qiao Jinniang took out the silver note readily and asked them to go to the government with her and handle the procedures.
The two shopkeepers regretted that they didnt demand an even higher price to rip Qiao Jinniang off more.
Qiao Jinniang believed in her own judgment. Now the nobledies usually went to the street beside Tasty Pavilion for shopping, and very few of them came here.
But as Myriad Taste and her pastry shop opened, this street would surely prosper.
There was a fair nearby. Those foreign merchants woulde here to trade if they wanted to bring the popr rouge and jewelry in Changan back to their hometowns.
So although the two shopkeepers demanded very high prices, it could save unnecessary trouble.
If they found their old shops business was booming in the future, they might be jealous and make trouble, which Qiao Jinniang wanted to avoid.
After Qiao Jinniang bought the shops, she wrote to Linan and asked if the masters were willing toe to Changan. If they werent, they could send their apprentices over.
It would take at least a month to get a reply. Thus, Qiao Jinniang simply found a few craftsmen first. She could not draw but she was good at carving. She carved the jewelry style she wanted with radish and gave it to
the craftsmen, ordering them to make it.
After she had been busy for more than half a month, the winter hunt wasing.
She didnt realize it at all.
Inte October, Changan began to snow.
It snowed in Linan sometimes too, but it wouldnt snow so early and heavily in Linan. Nuomi went into Qiao Jinniangs room holding a handful of white feather-like snow. Miss, this is the first time I have seen such
heavy snow.
Hongling chuckled. The snow in Changan has always been this heavy. I just hope it will not be as cold asst year. By the way, Miss, there are rules for the use of charcoal fire in Changan.
In the past, the Duke could get the best Silver Fment Charcoal from the imperial pce, but now we can only buy ordinary charcoal, which will produce more smoke than Silver Fment Charcoal.
Although we have an under-floor heating system, its getting colder. I am afraid that an under-floor heating system wont be enough, and we may still have to use a charcoal brazier..
Chapter 126 - You Don’t Have Me in Your heart
Chapter 126 You Dont Have Me in Your heart
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang rarely used charcoal fire in Linan. After all, there were only a few days when it was really cold, and charcoal fire was easy to get people poisoned, so most people didnt use it.
She hadnt thought of this.
Cant we buy it even if you have money? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Hongling nodded and said, There was a cold disaster in Changan in the early years, and the price of charcoal fire skyrocketed. Many people didnt even have firewood for the winter, and many people froze to death.
Seeing this, the imperial court immediately regted the sale of charcoal fire.
The best Silver Fment Charcoal can only be distributed by the imperial pce to officials.
Ordinary charcoal can only be purchased from ces specified by the court. Although it is also divided into upper, middle and lower grades, its not as good as Silver Fment Charcoal.
Qiao Jinniang didnt mind it, but now that her mother was pregnant, they couldnt use poor charcoal.
Yuyan came in from outside the door, shook off the snow kes on her body and said, Miss, today a servant of the Duke Anyuan Mansion sent over two baskets of Silver Fment Charcoal and said it was the Dukes
order.
Qiao Jinniang said, Give mother and Ruoyi a basket each.
There was no reason to reject the Silver Fment Charcoal delivered to the door.
But Qiao Jinniang was more concerned about the charcoal fire in the Myriad Taste and the Tasty Pavilion. Unlike ice cubes in summer, charcoal fire couldnt be bought even if you had money, so the heating in the Tasty
Pavilion would be a problem.
She couldnt sell such expensive dishes and use poor charcoal fire for customers.
Only then did Qiao Jinniang think of Lu Chen, whom she hadnt seen in a while. After she ordered the maids to leave, she opened the entrance of the tunnel, only to see Lu Chening out of the tunnel.
After Lu Chen came out of the tunnel, he held her in his arms and said, Although I didnte to you these days, why dont youe to see me?
Im busy. Qiao Jinniang said, I bought a few shops next to Myriad Taste in Changan to open a jewelry shop, a silk and satin shop, and a rouge shop.
It is extremely difficult to customize jewelry in the jewelry store on the main street, and it usually takes several months. Some jewelry is already out of date when you finally get it. So, | want to open my own shop,
which can not only make me money, but also make jewelry | like.
Lu Chen smiled helplessly and said, Did you know that there is the Shanggong Bureau in the imperial pce? You can ask the Shanggong Bureau to make whatever jewelry you want. Their craftsmanship is much better
than the jewelry shops outside the imperial pce. You dont need to open a jewelry store yourself.
Qiao Jinniang said, Although the craftsmanship in the Shanggong Bureau is good, its not as convenient as making my own jewelry myself, and the most important thing is to make money.
You know, many customers of Myriad Taste are all nobledies. If | open these shops next to Myriad Taste, | will definitely make a lot of money.
By the way, can you do me a favor? I want some Silver Fment Charcoal to be used in the Tasty Pavilion. There are only you and Tuaner in the East Pce. The excess Silver Fment Charcoal is not used. It is better
to give it to me instead of wasting it, right?
Lu Chen sighed and said, Jiner, when you be the crown princess, youll have as much money as you want. Why do you have to be so busy earning money yourself? And if you open so many shops now, what would
happen when you enter the East Pce
Qiao Jinniang frowned. I thoughtst time you had allowed me to open a restaurant and do business.
Lu Chen said, I know that Myriad Taste means a lot to you, and Huixiang and Bajia should have a ce to settle.
But now your business is getting bigger and bigger, and you even want to open a rouge shop, a silk shop and a jewelry shop. You wont have so much energy to manage them.
Qiao Jinniang left Lu Chens arms, sat on the wooden couch, poured herself a cup of tea and said, But I dont want to rely on you all the time. Being the crown princess is good, but once I leave you, Ill be nothing.
If I have my own shops and money, even if I leave the imperial pce, I can still live a good life.
Just like my mother, she dared to divorce because she had her dowry, which included manors and shops.
Lu Chens face also darkened. Im so humble to you. Do you want me to kneel down and beg you?
But you still think about leaving the East Pce one day? You are already thinking of leaving it before you even enter it?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Who knows if you will regret it one day and feel that I am not worthy of being your wife?
I have to find a way out for myself.
Lu Chen was annoyed. You dont trust me?
You are not as reliable as money.
Qiao Jinniang said, I recited the famous poem when | was three years old, We vowed to grow old together, but before we became old, you fell in love with someone else! A surging river has its bank, and a wide marsh
always has an end. Now I recall how happy we were in the past and your vows of eternal love for me are still ringing in my ears, but youve broken your vows.
My father and mother only had each other in their lives, and when I married you, I thought we could be like them.
Since you had thought that I was not worthy of being your crown princess.
And Ive seen too many men in Changan betray their wives. It is better to believe in money than in you!
Lu Chen took a deep breath. Jiner, can you put yourself in my shoes
Then why dont you put yourself in my shoes? Qiao Jinniang said, Youre right, if you didnt promise never to take a concubine and be humble to me, I wouldnt even have forgiven you right now.
But you have once hurt me, so I want to leave a retreat for myself. You cant even allow this?
Lu Chen let out a long sigh. Were not doing business. There shouldnt be something like a retreat between us.
Im annoyed because you have never put me in your heart. If you have me in your heart, how can you mention leaving so easily? How can you think of a retreat?
Qiao Jinniang held back her tears and said, How can you say that I dont have you in my heart? You are my husband and the person closest to me, but after you came to Changan, you walked out of my heart.
Now you are ming me for not having you in my heart. If you have me in your heart, you will never think of demoting me from your wife into your concubine!
Lu Chen sat next to Qiao Jinniang, took out a handkerchief and wiped her tears. Havent we agreed to let bygones be bygones? Why did you mention it again?
Okay, I will allow you to do business and give you as much Silver Fment Charcoal as you want. Ill reserve some for Xier, and if its still not enough, I will send Xier to my mother.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Why do I need your permission to do business? Even if you dont agree, I will do business.
After I came to Changan, I realized how important money is, at least its more useful than a man.
Lu Chen was silent. When will Qiao Jinniang know that power was much more useful than money?
By the way, do you remember the winter hunt I told you aboutst time? Well be going to the paddock in a few days. I also ordered the Shanggong Bureau to make you riding clothes and jewelry. Do you want to go to
the racecourse to practice riding first?
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh, I forgot about this. The winter hunt is imminent, and the nobledies in Changan will need new jewelry.
| happen to open a jewelry store at this time, and the new styles will definitely make a lot of money.
Lu Chen smiled helplessly. It seemed that she only had money in her eyes now..
Chapter 127 - Jinniang Was Impeached by An Imperial Censor
Chapter 127 Jinniang Was Impeached by An Imperial Censor
Trantor: Henyee TrantionsEditor: Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang didnt tell anyone she opened a jewelry shop except for Lu Chen.
Myriad Taste had been doing very well these days, and many noble girls came to check out what clothes and jewelry their peers would wear for the winter hunt.
On these hunting grounds, hunting was important, but for women, what clothes and jewelry they wore was important too.
As soon as the news of the winter hunt was spread, the satin shops and jewelry shops frequented by nobledies became overcrowded.
Huh? There is a new jewelry store here! There was no such shop yesterday!
Lets go in and take a look.
As soon as the girls entered, they were attracted by a novel golden tuinga in the shop. The golden tuinga was iid with red gems, and there were golden flowers at the bottom, decorated with small and shiny pearls.
A lifelike butterfly made of gold filigree was situated on this tuinga. It was as if it was smelling the fragrance of the flower, which looked very chic.
How much is this golden tuinga?
The shop assistant said, Ladies, this Flower Butterfly Tuinga has been ordered by County Mistress Jiaan. If you want it, you will have to wait for half a month. The price is 10,000 taels of silver.
What? How much is it?!
10,000 taels. The shop assistant said, This tuinga is not something that ordinary craftsmen can make, especially the gold filigree butterfly, which is very tiring to make.
10,000 taels is a robbery! a noble woman eximed, Even in the best jewelry store in Changan, the most expensive tuinga is only 1,000 taels. Whats so special about this tuinga?
Yes, County Mistress Jiaan owns two restaurants and has money to burn, so she dare to waste money like this!
She is quite favored by His Royal Highness, so she can certainly buy a tuinga worth 10,000 taels of silver without blinking an eye!
Exactly. How can His Royal Highness not afford a tuinga? But he indulges Qiao Jinniang too much.
He not only put his python robe on Qiao Jinniang, but also bought her jewelry worth 10,000 taels?
In Changan, the dowry of a nobledy was usually around 20,000 to 30,000 taels of silver.
This tuinga cost half a normal dowry, so no one could buy it no matter how beautiful it was
Do I have to wait for half a month? I want it now.
Miss Ren, are you crazy? Why are you wasting money like this? With 10,000 taels of silver, you can hire craftsmen and make one hundred golden gold tuingaas!
Miss Ren said, I will get married next year, and this Flower Butterfly Tuinga symbolizes having a lot of children and grandchildren, which is very auspicious. Besides, | will be married only once in my life. I want to
wear this beautiful tuinga for my wedding.
Several nobledies who were going to get married at the end of the year nodded silently. They couldnt afford this tuinga, but they could still walk around to see if there was other jewelry they liked.
However, even the cheapest auspicious cloud-shaped jewelry costs nearly 1,000 taels of silver, not to mention other jewelry.
Although the jewelry was expensive, the novel styles made their eyes glued to the jewelry.
Currently, Qiao Jinniang was inside the store, and seeing that only one person bought a piece of jewelry, she wondered if the prices were set too high?
But there were already enough jewelry shops in Changan. If she copied the other jewelry shops, her shop might not be able to make money.
Thus, she passed a note to the shop assistant outside.
After the shop assistant got the note, he said to the girls, Ladies, for each style of jewelry in our shop, well only sell it to three people. After selling it to three people, this style of jewelry wont be sold again.
If another craftsman imitates our stores jewelry, we will sue him.
There is only one Flower Butterfly Tuinga avable now. No one will have the same tuinga with you if you order it, except for County Mistress Jiaan and Miss Ren.
Thedies who were still hesitating if they could hire craftsmen to copy this tuinga all stopped and ced their orders.
Each style of jewelry would only be sold to three people, making it very exquisite and precious. They would gain face if they wore it.
After thedies left, the shop assistant walked up to Qiao Jinniang and ced the recorded orders in front of Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang took the small gold abacus decorated with pearls on the side, and she was stunned after she calcted the sum of the orders. One hundred thousand taels of silver?
Even if deducting the cost by one-third, it meant that she earned 60,000 taels a day
Besides, the cost was not as high as one-third
60,000 taels of silver was almost equivalent to a months tax in a wealthy town
Qiao Jinniang said to the shop assistant, No matter whoes to inquire about your boss, you must not tell them anything about me!
Qiao Jinniang wanted to keep a low profile. Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste had already made many people jealous, not to mention such a profitable jewelry store.
The shop assistant responded repeatedly, Boss, you can rest assured that Ill never tell anyone my boss is you.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea and said, Serve guests with care. By the way, tell the customers that well renew and repair any jewelry they buy in our shop for a lifetime. If the beads fall off or the gold thread is broken,
we can fix it for them.
The shop assistant saluted. Yes, Boss.
For two days in a row, the ledger sent from the jewelry store really made Qiao Jinniangs heart skip a beat, and she couldnt help but exim that women in Changan were really rich.
She carved novel jewelry styles out of radish and sent it to the jewelry store.
Yuyan trotted in and panted. Miss, not good, an imperial censor has impeached you today.
Impeach me? Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, Im not an official, and now Im not the daughter of Duke Anyuan. Why did he impeach me?
The censor said that you were extravagant and wasteful, and that you didnt care about family affection, and causing your poor rtives in Linan to live on the streets and be beggars, but you used Silver Fment
Charcoal in the lobby of Tasty Pavilion.
And that you spent 10,000 taels of silver to buy a Flower Butterfly Tuinga, setting a bad example for the nobledies in Changan!
Qiao Jinniang asked, Havent those people left Changan? As for the tuinga, I bought it with my own money. What does it have to do with that censor?
At this moment, Hongling also hurried in and said, Miss, an eunuch came from the imperial pce and said that Her Majesty summoned you.
Qiao Jinniang:
Qiao Jinniang changed into a rtively low-key pce dress, and only wore some in jewelry to enter the imperial pce.
After entering the imperial pce, she was led into the Queens pce by the eunuch.
When Qiao Jinniang entered the pce, she saluted the Queen and said, Your Majesty.
Arise. The Queen said to Qiao Jinniang, I summoned you because I want to see what kind of tuinga would cost 10,000 taels of silver.
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, I know I was wrong, and I must abide by diligence and thrift in the future
No, Im not like Censor Tong who only set his eyes on womens tuinga. Im just curious.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. If Your Majesty wants to see it, I will bring the Flower Butterfly Tuinga over next time Ie.
The Queen smiled and said, Okay, but Censor Tong is a censor after all. Since he has impeached you, Ill have to punish you. You can donate some money.
Also, give some money to the Qiao family and make them return to Linan so that it wont affect your reputation. Otherwise, if you enter the East Pce in the future, those n rtives will bring you trouble..
Chapter 128 - Relief Workshop
Chapter 128: Relief Workshop
Trantor: Henyee Trantions??Editor:?Henyee Trantions
Qiao Jinniang lowered her eyes and said, Your Majesty, the Qiao family is insatiable. If I give them some benefits, they will only demand more.
If I give them money and ask them to return home, maybe tomorrow they will run amuck in the name of my sister and mine in Linan.
Moreover, if they use up the money, they will definitelye to Changan again. I will never be able to satisfy them!
Empress Zhou sighed. It is indeed unlucky to have such rtives, but they are your former rtives anyway. If you just sit by and watch them be beggars, I am afraid that your reputation will be affected.
Changan is not Linan. After all, it is necessary for you to maintain a good reputation.
They cant cause you any serious trouble anyway. If you dont want to give them money, Ill give them some money and send them away.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly said, Your Majesty, its not about money. You can rest assured that I will handle this matter properly. Even if I cant handle it, Ill bear the consequences alone and will not implicate His Royal
Highness.
Empress Zhou chuckled and said, But he is your husband. Why did Censor Tong impeach you today? Isnt it because you are the biological mother of the imperial grandson and the future crown princess?
You dont want to implicate Chener, but its not possible. Since you and Chener got married, you two have been tied to the same boat.
Qiao Jinniang said, But I havent entered the East Pce yet. I can cut off all connections with His Royal Highness and bear the bad reputation alone.
Empress Zhou said helplessly, Jinniang, after Chener returned, he has repeatedly angered his father who loves him the most for you. His Majesty is the Emperor after all. Although he is Cheners father, he is also the Emperor of the country. He has disobeyed His Majesty for you many times, but what about you?
You want to cut off all connections with him just because of a few irrelevant nsmen? You said it was for the good of Chener, but can you abandon Chener so easily?
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips. Your Majesty, I dont want to abandon His Royal Highness, but I think maybe Im not worthy of being the crown princess.
Censor Tong is the elder brother of Your Majestys sister-inw and Your Excellency Duke Wus brother-inw, so he is certainly on His Royal Highness side.
He has impeached me because I am the mother of the imperial grandson, but wasnt it also to protect His Royal Highness?
Empress Zhou looked at Qiao Jinniang in surprise. I didnt expect you to know theplicated rtions among the nobles and officials in Changan?
Qiao Jinniang said, After all, I dont want to be blind. Your Majesty, I also want to be His Royal Highness good wife, but I know why I, an insignificant woman, was targeted.
Censor Tong must be trying to strike first, for fear that other imperial censors will impeach His Royal Highness for condoning my extravagance and ignoring poor rtives.
Or maybe he didnt think I deserve to be favored by His Royal Highness.
In any case, this impeachment is aimed at His Royal Highness. If His Royal Highness cant properly handle the officials, why should he me me for giving up so easily?
Queen Zhou looked at Qiao Jinniang, took a sip of tea and said, If you have any idea, then try it first. Qiao Jinniang nodded.
After leaving the Queens pce, Qiao Jinniang went to the Relief Workshop in the west Of Changan.
The Relief Workshop was in the west side of Changan, an area where there were poor childless elderly, abandoned children, and some crazy people who had been driven out by their families and had nowhere to
go.
In the Relief Workshop, there was a ce called Jingci Garden, which amodated old people who could no longer work. Additionally, there was a ce called Disability Hall for disabled people, and Foundling Home.
In the Foundling Home were all children under the age of 12, and for most of the children, once they were 12 years old, they would go out to work as servants, maids,borers or embroiderers.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Foundling Home. The chief of the Foundling Home was a 40-year-old lean woman. She said to Qiao Jinniang, Nice to meet you, County Mistress. The one hundred taels of silver you donated really helped us out, thank you!
Qiao Jinniang said, Its getting colder and colder. I came to donate some charcoal fire, and do you need books here?
Thedy said, For the children here, its just too much to hope for food and clothing. They dare not dream
to learn how to read and write. Let me call the children out to thank you, County Mistress.
The chief came out with the children, and Qiao Jinniang found that they were all girls. Why are they all girls?
The chief said, These are times of peace and most ordinary people live well. Even if there are orphans, their nsmen can take care of them.
But if some girls whose parents own some property but dont have any brothers, after their parents died, their nsmen would drive them out or abuse them to death so as to take possession of their parents properties.
Fortunately, well-intentioned people would send them to the Foundling Home. There are also some people who had many daughters but still wanted to have a boy. In the end, they couldnt afford their daughters but didnt want to be scolded for selling their daughters, so they sent their daughters here.
Some were adulterous children and had nowhere to go. Some were the daughters of official prostitutes who didnt want their daughters to be official prostitutes as well, so they sent them here.
Qiao Jinniang saw only five boys, and most of the girls were skinny.
Although the Foundling Home had subsidies from the government and donations, it was far from enough.
Qiao Jinniang was a mother. Seeing the girls about the same age as Xier dressed in tatters, she felt ufortable. She thought that if she had a daughter, she would never let her dress in such thin and tattered clothes.
Wow, Sister, are you a princess? Your dress is so beautiful!
And the hairpin on your head is also very beautiful.
Can I be as beautiful as you when I grow up?
Surrounded and praised for being beautiful by a group of girls, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but smile happily. She rubbed one of the girls cheeks and said, You dont have to wait to grow up. When the tailor makes your clothes, you will surely be beautiful.
The chief said to Qiao Jinniang, This will cost you too much money. Besides, they are children, and they dont need to be dressed well. Its enough for them to wear some old cotton-padded clothes of the maids in rich families.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Girls should dress beautifully. Ill make a dress for each of them.
The chief sighed. Thank you for your kindness, County Mistress, but its really unnecessary. The money and charcoal fire you donated earlier are already enough.
Good and evil people mix around here. If the girls are dressed too beautifully, there may be some b*stards who...WeII, it would be better for them to dress in tatters.
Qiao Jinniang didnt get what she meant. What do you mean? Will those people steal their clothes and sell
them?
The chief said, No, if these girls dress too beautifully, those beasts may harass them, and there are some old b*stards in Jingci Garden.
There are many kinds of people living next to Relief Workshop, and some seriously ill jerks realized that they are going to die soon, so they... s!
Hearing her words, Qiao Jinniang felt sad. I still want to make them clothes. Ill give you more money. You can buy some strong mammies to protect these girls.
Chapter 129 - Set Up A School
Chapter 129: Set Up A School
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Qiao Jinniang went back home, her mind was still full of those poor children. Just as the chief said, those children were really pitiful.
If it was a time of war and turmoil, everyone was in danger, and they could only me bad luck.
But these children were born in times of peace but ended up with such a tragic fate. Just wearing new clothes could even bring them disasters.
What are you thinking about? Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniang and asked, Why are you ignoring me? It is rumored that I gave you 10,000 taels of silver to buy a golden tuinga. I heard that Censor Tong impeached you today, but you dont have to take it seriously. Ill donate some money to the Foundling Home in your name.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. I went to the Foundling Home to donate some money to repair my reputation, but after I saw those poor children, I felt really sad.
Lu Chen said, There are always some poor people in this world. Even in times of peace, it is inevitable. Now that the government has allocated money to the Foundling Home, they should be able to be fed and clothed.
Qiao Jinniang whispered, I think of Ruyi. Do you still remember her?
Lu Chen said, I dont remember any other woman
Qiao Jinniang said, Ruyi is my childhood friend. We yed together until my parents sent me to school when I was four years old.
She wanted to go to school too, but she couldnt afford pens and paper, so she could only ask me to teach her to read and write. At that time, I was too young and didnt want to touch pens when I got home, so I just asked her to y with me.
Andter, she and I grew distant from each other. And because she was illiterate, she was tricked by a man into signing a contract to sell herself, and she had to serve as a maid.
If she werent illiterate, she wouldnt have ended up as a poor maid. Maybe literacy is not a big deal, but it can at least save her from a disaster.
I remember this matter. The prefect punished that man severelyter, right? Lu Chen asked.
Qiao Jinniang said, Yeah, but she was once a servant after all, so it was very difficult for her to find a husband. I think it would be nice if I could set up a school for the children in the Foundling Home.
It will cost at least 50,000 taels of silver to set up a school, and after its set up, it will still cost more than 10,000 taels of silver every year.
I can afford this money, but I wonder if its worth it Wouldnt it be bad if they still be ves and maids after they learn how to read and write?
Lu Chen said, Even if they be servants and maids, it will be easier to be higher-ranking ones if they are literate.
Besides, the school can teach not only reading and writing, but also chess, calligraphy, painting and embroidery etc But if you want to run the school for the long term, it will be moreborious, and this is not something that can be solved just by spending money.
You have to consider the teachers and so many childrens food, clothing and shelter. If anything bad happens in the school, the reputation of the entire school may also be ruined.
Qiao Jinniang said, Youre right. By the way, I heard that after female officials and mammies leave the imperial pce, they will be hired by nobles and wealthy families to teach their daughters. Is it true?
Lu Chen said, Yes.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Arent they ready-made teachers? Those noble and wealthy families only hire them for a period of time, but if I set up a school, those female officials and mammies can live in the school even after their retirement.
Since they can be female officials in the imperial pce, they must be very good teachers. In terms of their sry, I think I can afford hiring them.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang so enthusiastic about this, Lu Chen smiled. Where did you get so much money?
Now the daily ie of Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion is about a thousand taels of silver, and tens of thousands taels for Jewelry Pavilion. I cant spend so much money alone. Just as mentioned in the novels, the rich should help the poor!
Lu Chen was startled. How long has your Jewelry Pavilion been open? Tens of thousands of taels of silver a day?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, if you dont believe me, you can check the ledger..
Lu Chen flipped through the ledger and clenched his hands, saying angrily, The daughter of a mere Deputy Minister of Revenue can spend 5,000 taels of silver to buy jewelry> How can it be possible if her father isnt corrupt?
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh, you are not allowed to read the ledger anymore. Do you want to confiscate all my customers properties and put them in jail?
Lu Chen took the ount book from Qiao Jinniangs hand, held her in his arms and said. Think about it. If I arrest these corrupt officials, you can still earn the money, and the jewelry will be charged to the state treasury. Isnt the jewelry still all yours?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. But those jewelry have to be picked by the people in the imperial pce first.
Lu Chen smiled. Dont worry. I will intercept all the jewelry from my fathers side. Qiao Jinniang whispered, Why do I think its not good to do this? Its a bit like fraud. Lu Chen smiled and said, In your ount book, most of your customers are from aristocratic families. I will only catch a few big corrupt officials. It will definitely not damage the reputation of your Jewelry Pavilion.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats good.
After deciding to set up a school, she went to the outskirts of Changan to find a manor, which was suitable to build a school.
After Qiao Jinniang bought the manor, she went to find the chief in the Foundling Home and told her about the school.
The chiefs eyes turned red. County Mistress running a school will cost a lot. Its not something that can be done overnight. Even if you spend hundreds of thousands of taels of silver, you may not get anything in return.
Qiao Jinniang said,?Il?l dont want anything in return. I just want to help those poor children. Besides, Im not short of money. I want to ask you to be the principal of the school, and I will hire many teachers to teach the children to read, write, cook and embroider and other skills.
There are fish ponds, fruit forests and several acres of fields in the manor, and the children can also cultivate by themselves.
If you want to give me something in return, after some of them learn how to cook and make pastries, you can ask them to work in my Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion.
The chief knelt down to Qiao Jinniang and said, County Mistress, thank you for your grace! I dont know how these children should repay you!
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly helped the chief up and said, We are all women. Even in times of peace, womens lives are still difficult. Since I can help, I must help them as much as I can.
The chief called over all the children in the Foundling Home and had them kowtow to Qiao Jinniang. County Mistress, thank you.
Qiao Jinniang said, Get up quickly. If you really want to thank me, then you should study skills well so that you can have a better future.
The winter hunt was imminent, and the small jewelry shop named Jewelry Pavilion opposite the Myriad Taste almost saw its threshold stepped t by customers.
Fulu pulled Qiao Jinniang inside and said, Why didnt you tell me about the Jewelry Pavilion when you bought the tuinga? Do you know well lose face if we dont wear the jewelry from the Jewelry Pavilion during the winter hunt?!
Qiao Jinniang chuckled and said, Princess, you can wear jewelry made by the Shanggong Bureau in the imperial pce, which is better than the jewelry made in the Jewelry Pavilion.
Although the jewelry made by the Shanggong Bureau is exquisite, its not as chic and novel as that in the Jewelry Pavilion! Fulu said, Do you know now everyone is trying to find out who is the Jewelry Pavilions boss and wants to establish a rtionship with him!
As soon as Princess Fulu said so, a sarcastic voice was heard.
County Mistress, I cant believe youre still in the mood to shop in the Jewelry Pavilion. Cant you see that your former rtives are about to freeze to death by the roadside! Im really disgusted by you!
A woman Qiao Jinniang had never seen before walked up to her and said.
Tong Xuan, who was beside that woman, suddenly pped the woman in the face. How dare you speak to County Mistress Jiaan like that?!
Chapter 130 - You Should Return Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste to the Qiao Clan
Chapter 130 You Should Return Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste to the Qiao n
pped in the face, the woman still said loftily, Behind the vermilion gates, meat and wine go to waste while out on the road lie the bones of the frozen. Qiao Jinniang, how can you treat your rtives like this? Youre get retribution sooner orter!
Tong Xuan said in a hurry and anger, If you want to court death, dont implicate me!
Qiao Jinniang knew Tong Xuan. She was the daughter of Censor Tong, who impeached her two days ago, and the niece of Mrs. Zhou, the Queens sister-inw.
In the racecourse that day, Tong Xuan also satirized her, but when Myriad Taste opened, she came to attend the opening ceremony and presented gifts.
Tong Yingying said, Sister, youre too timid! She has not entered the East Pce yet, and even if she has, why cant I scold her for being extravagant and wasteful? Thete Imperial Censor Wei once scolded Emperor Taizongs harem for extravagance, and Emperor Taizong felt extremely ashamed, but what about Qiao Jinniang?
After being impeached by my father, she is still shamelessly extravagant, ignores her rtives, and is extremely cold blooded!
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. Did I spend your Tong familys money? I opened a restaurant by myself and earned money by myself. Why cant I buy jewelry I like?
e are
You keep mentioning frozen bones. Where are they? Miss Tong, if youre so benevolent, why dont you take off your clothes for the beggars to wear?
You said there are still frozen bones on the roadside in Changan. Are you saying that the courtiers are ipetent?
I spent the money I earned. Who the heck are you? Oh, sorry, what makes you think you are entitled to preach to me?!
l are
Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen such an unreasonable woman for a long time. If Qiao Ruoshui was just stupid and ignorant, this woman was purely disgusting.
She took the moral high ground and used Qiao Jinniang of being extravagant. This was not the first time Qiao Jinniang had seen this kind of woman.
In Linan, she also met some goody two-shoes, who advised her to reconcile with the Qiao n. After all, she had so much money, so why not give out a little?
But why would she give her money to those disgusting people?!
Fulu chuckled, Qiao Jinniang, this is the first time I heard you scolding someone Good
job!
Tong Xuan was so frightened that she almost knelt down, but thinking that Qiao Jinniang was not yet the crown princess, she said to Tong Yingying, Dont make a scene of yourself.
Tong Yingying snorted. Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Yu has no son, so that restaurant should be given to the Qiao n. Besides, you are not even Qiao Yus daughter!
Qiao Jinniang frowned. But I have a husband who married into my family, so I have the right to inherit the restaurant.
Tong Yingying said with a condescending demeanor, But your so-called husband is His Royal Highness. How could he possibly marry into your family? And how can the imperial grandson be surnamed Qiao?
Since the imperial grandson is not surnamed Qiao, you should return Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion that you bought with the money you earned from Myriad Taste to the Qiao n. This has been our tradition since ancient times!
Qiao Jinniang was disgusted and said, Yes, its our tradition, but now Qiao Yu is the sworn brother of Duke Anyuan, so he belongs to the Qiao n from the Southwest, so what does he have to do with the Qiao n in Linan?
Tong Yingying said, Thats what you did after Qiao Yus death, and he didnt know about it. Qiao Jinniang, you dont put your n rtives in your eyes at all. You are unkind, unrighteous and unfilial. You make me sick!
Fulu was extremely annoyed. Qiao Jinniang, what should I do? I want to scold her, but I think what she said makes sense.
Qiao Jinniang sarcastically said in a soft voice, When my father was a child, his nsmen bullied him and made him homeless. In the end, he had to sell himself as a ve in Changan. After learning his cooking skills, he returned to Linan and opened a restaurant. Hisst words were that the restaurant must not be given to the Qiao n.
If I give the restaurant to those people, Ill be truly unfilial! Datang governs with filial piety. Whats wrong with me for abiding by filial piety?
Tong Yingying said, No, you are wrong again. As the saying goes, there are three forms of unfilial conduct, of which the worst is to have no descendants. Qiao Yu has no son, so he is not filial to begin with, and refusing to recognize his nsmen is also not filial to his ancestors. Your father is not filial, but you should admonish him to follow filial piety again.
Besides, not to mention the n rules, now you are the daughter of Duke Anyuan. Even if you leave the Duke Mansion with your mother, you are rich now. How can you sit by and watch your nsman struggle in poverty?
You should return Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion to the Qiao n!
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands. If this were in Linan, she would have already beaten this bit*h. She said coldly, Youre the one who is wrong. You mentioned the first part there are three forms of unfilial conduct, of which the worst is to have no descendants, but do you forget thetter part of it But Ancient Emperor Shun married without even telling his family, because his family doesnt deserve it, so he shouldnt be considered unfilial no matter if he has descendants or not?
Youre just making a deliberate misinterpretation out of scripture.
Miss Tong, you have such a glib tongue, but you dont even know the most basic meaning of scriptures? How dare youe to preach to me?
My fathers nsmen almost forced my father to death, but you want my father to avenge his grievances with virtue and surrender his lifelong hard work to his enemy? You must be kidding! Tong Yingying said arrogantly, I only know that you are cold-blooded and disregard kinship, and you are not worthy of being a human being!
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Yes, you are human. No, you should be a living Bodhisattva. Then please, this Bodhisattva, quickly take out all your jewelry and money to help the Qiao family!
Tong Yingying said, Why should I? Those people have nothing to do with me. I only know that you are ruthless and inhuman. Even beasts know how to feed back, and you are even worse than beasts.
Everyone in the Jewelry Pavilion fell silent.
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Tong Yingying and said, Then what is the imperial grandson I gave birth to? What is Duke Anyuan who gave birth to me?
Tong Xuan knelt on the ground with a thud.
Tong Yingying said to Tong Xuan, Sister, arent you always arrogant at home? Why do you kneel down? She is not the crown princess yet. My father and I will never allow such a person to be the crown princess!
Qiao Jinniang said, Is Censor Tong so powerful as to be able to decide who can be the crown princess?
Tong Yingying raised her chin high and said, Of course, my father is an imperial censor and has the responsibility of supervising the royal family. If you dont return Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion to the Qiao n, my father will keep impeaching you!
Tong Xuan almost cried. She was already frightened because of what she said to Qiao Jinniang in the racecourse, but her father and sister implicated her in this matter again.
Qiao Jinniang said, Then tell him to impeach me as he pleases. If I disobey my fathersst words, Ill be the most unfilial person in the world!
Tong Yingying said, Your father asked you to find a husband to marry into your family and help you give birth to a son in hisst words, didnt he? But if you enter the East Pce, how can you do that? You cant just turn the properties of the Qiao n to the Lu familys, can you?
Qiao Jinniang said, Why cant I? All thisnd under heaven belongs to the Emperor, and all the people are the Emperors servants! Miss Tong, everything in this world belongs to the Lu family. Do you dare to say Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste arent the properties of the Lu family?
Fulu pointed at Tong Yingying and said, How dare you, Tong Yingying? Do you want to rebel with the Qiao n?
Chapter 131 - What Tong Yingying Said Makes Sense
Chapter 131: What Tong Yingying Said Makes Sense
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Tong Yingying said, I dont dare to think of rebellion, but n inheritance is the eternal truth of China for thousands of years. If there is no n, it is equivalent to a tree without roots. No matter how big the tree is, it will quickly fall to the ground!
There will be chaos among the people, and the people will not be able to live in peace.
Qiao Jinniang, if you covet the money Myriad Taste can bring to you and ignore the n rites, you aremitting a serious crime. His Majesty is a wise monarch, and he will definitely punish you!
Qin Miaomiao came over and said, Oh, County Mistress, youre here. I went to the Foundling Home and they said that all the children in the Foundling Home had been moved to the school you opened in a manor on the outskirts of Changan, so I came to discuss with you about money donation.
Such arge school must cost a lot of silver taels.
Princess Fulu asked curiously, School? What school?
Qiao Jinniang said, Some people think that its extravagant and cold-blooded for me to purchase a golden tuinga, so I donated some money to the Foundling Home, and spent tens of thousands of taels of silver to set up a womens school.
Upon hearing this, Princess Fulu said, Qiao Jinniang, you are not donating, you are harming those girls. Which girl would like to read those boring scriptures? Going to school was the most annoying thing for me when I was a child.
Qiao Jinniang said, Going to school can make them literate and sensible. Princess, youre of noble birth, and even your maids are literate, but some women are born in poor families, and if they are illiterate, their lives can be even more difficult.
Moreover, there are all kinds of people in the Relief Workshop, including many bad people, so its not a good ce for the girls to live.
Qin Miaomiao nodded and said, Thats true. I always wanted to help them but Ick the power, but its really benevolent of you to donate 50,000 taels of silver to set up a school for them, County Mistress. 50,000 taels!
Amitabha, 50,000 taels? Ive never even seen so much money!
Fulu frowned and looked at Qiao Jinniang. You just spent 100,000 taels to buy my mansion. Where did you get so much money to run a school?
Dont worry. I earned the money myself, and Ive paid taxes. Qiao Jinniang said, Ladies, if you want to help those poor girls, you can donate some money to them. If you dont have money, itll be great to provide some books youve read, and the brush and ink you dont need anymore.
Pen, ink, paper and inkstone were extremely expensive. Many people couldnt go to school not because they couldnt afford the tuition fee but because they could afford the pen, ink, paper and inkstone.
Especially books.
The novels Qiao Jinniang were reading were not cheap either, some of which cost several taels, but they were not serious books.
Those serious books for imperial examinations were even more expensive. Some poor schrs could only go to bookstores to transcribe them.
The noble girls in the Jewelry Pavilion all agreed to provide some books. They all had a few books at home.
Tong Yingying said, County Mistress, since you have opened a womens school to earn yourself a good reputation, you should set an example for women!
Dont take the money that does not belong to you to live an extravagant life and earn a good reputation.
Tong Xuan angrily ordered someone to cover Tong Yingyings mouth and dragged her out of the Jewelry Pavilion, fearing that she would really offend Qiao Jinniang and implicate her.
Tong Yingyingpletely ruined everyones mood, and Fulu had lost interest in continuing to select jewelry. She said to Qin Miaomiao, Isnt Tong Yingying your good friend? Why did you allow her to scold your sister-inws sister like this?
Qin Miaomiao said, I broke up with her a long time ago.
Qiao Jinniang asked Fulu, Who is that woman?
Fulu said, Oh, she is very famous. When she was only ten years old, she dared to preach to the Empress at a pce banquet that she should not be a jealous woman, and women should make their husbands happy.
When she was twelve years old, she pointed at my aunt, Princess Shouyangs nose and scolded her for keeping a gigolo and even fighting with her sisters for that gigolo, which was a disgrace to women,
Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, Then why didnt His Majesty punish her?
Fulu said, She has alwayspared His Majesty to Emperor Taizong of Tang Dynasty andpared herself to the famous censor, Wei Zheng. My imperial uncle wanted the reputation as a wise monarch, so he certainly couldnt punish a little girl.
Tong Yingying dared to do this because her father was an imperial censor. If His Majesty really punished her, he would leave a reputation in the history books that he could not tolerate a little girl.
Besides, although Tong Yingying is sometimes irritating, what she says is all justified. And this Miss Qin also introduced her to literati, so Tong Yingying became famous and many peoplepared her to your sister Qiao Ruoyi, because they were both born by a concubine.
In the past two years, Qiao Ruoyi became more famous than Tong Yingying, but before that, the literati who went to the Tong family to propose marriage to Tong Yingying almost trod their houses threshold t.
Qin Miaomiao said to Qiao Jinniang, Tong Yingying has always been like this. She is not deliberately targeting you. Whenever she sees something that she thinks is going against ethics, she will always condemn it.
When I was young, I thought she was daring and righteous, but then I gradually felt that she was just trying to build herself a good reputation, never considering others difficulties.
Gradually, I got distant from her. In fact, what Tong Yingying said about the Qiao n was the currently prevailing code of ethics.
You dont have a husband who married into your family now, nor does my sister-inw, so in others eyes, Myriad Taste should be inherited by the Qiao nsmen.
Qiao Jinniang bit her lip. She knew it, but what Tong Yingying said was really annoying.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, s, Jinniang, why dont you just return Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion to them?
After all, even me
my mother dies, everything in this princess mansion will no longer belong to me, but if I am a man, I can inherit the princess mansion.
This is the rule.
Qiao Jinniang said, But you dont know how many disgusting things those people have done. My father was forced to sell himself into a ve because they seized hisnd by force and he had nowhere to go, but when he came back with his cooking skills and opened a restaurant, they came to greedily seize benefits from my father again.
When I was four years old, Myriad Tastes business was just picking up, and they came to demand to act as the purchaser of ingredients for Myriad Taste, but the ingredients they bought were all rotten.
Some nsmen forced my father to hire them as cashiers, but they often charged more money from the guests and kept the overcharge for themselves.
There was even an aunt, who collected the leftovers from guests and served it to other guests on the pretext of saving money, but it turned out?tihat she packed the newly made dishes for her son to eat.
There are countless things like this, and my father was finally disappointed with those people although he certainly didnt want to fall out with his nsmen.
Butter what the nsmen did was even worse, especially when my adoptive parents were seriously ill. My third aunt even wanted her lecherous nephew to marry me so as to seize Myriad Taste.
I will certainly help them if theyre not so disgusting. And when my dad was seriously ill, his greatest fear was that his nsmen would ruin Myriad Taste..
Chapter 132 - Give the Qiao Clansmen Money
Chapter 132 Give the Qiao nsmen Money
Perhaps this kind of trivial matter amongmoners was too far away from Fulu and Qin Miaomiao, so they didnt know how tofort her.
Qin Miaomiao said to Qiao Jinniang, The rule is the rule. If you dont handle this matter properly, there will be many people impeaching you. Then I am afraid even Your Majesty will have topromise.
Qiao Jinniang clenched her hands and said, Id rather die than surrender. If you force me to give Myriad Taste to them, Id rather die with Myriad Taste.
Fulu hurriedly said, Dont. Its okay if you die, but if Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion are gone, where can I go to eat delicious food!
Qiao Jinniang:
Was their sisterhood so fragile?
Qin Miaomiao said, Fulu, what are you talking about? Jinniangs cooking skills are better than those of those cooks. If she dies, we cant eat a lot of delicious food.
Fulu felt that her words made sense. Yes, yes, then dont die, Jinniang. There is always a way. You can ask my imperial cousin to marry into the Qiao family, or ask Qiao Ruoyun to divorce her husband and find another man to marry into the Qiao family!
Qin Miaomiao red at Fulu, Stop talking nonsense!
n on
Anyway, your family always looks down on Qiao Ruoyun. Wouldnt this have it both ways? Fulu said to Qiao Jinniang, If Qiao Ruoyun finds a man to marry into the Qiao family, the Qiao nsmen will have nothing to say.
Qin Miaomiao was very annoyed, Dont you try to instigate my sister-inw to divorce my brother. My sister-inw and my brother love each other very much. Why do you do this?
Fulu said, I knew it. You just want to persuade Qiao Jinniang to give up on my imperial cousin so that you can marry into the East Pce.
Qin Miaomiao said, Dont talk nonsense. It was you who were desperate to marry His Royal Highness!
Seeing they were starting to quarrel again, Qiao Jinniang said, Alright, alright, stop arguing
Neither of these two would surrender to the other.
Qiao Jinniang simply followed her maids out of the Jewelry Pavilion and told Nuomi, Tell the shop assistant to keep an eye on Fulu and Qin Miaomiao. If they smash any jewelry in their quarrel, ask them topensate.
After all, correct ountability kept good friendships.
After Qiao Jinniang went out, she went to Duke Qin Mansion. Due to what happenedst time, although Qiao Jinniang didnt send a visiting card in advance, Duchess Qin still opened the front door to greet Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang was ufortable with her enthusiasm and went straight to Qiao Ruoyun. In Qiao Ruoyuns room, there happened to be an imperial doctor who was diagnosing her pulse, and Qin Shu was at the side.
The imperial doctor stroked his goatee beard and said, She doesnt seem to be pregnant. Dont worry. Take it easy. Besides, she has just had a miscarriage, so she should recuperate well first.
Qiao Ruoyun lowered her head with a hint of shame on her face. Its all my fault.
Qin Shu went to see the imperial doctor out, and Qiao Jinniang walked up to Qiao Ruoyun and said, Why do you say that, Sister?
Qiao Ruoyun said, s, if only I had kept that child! I have been married for three years but still havent got a child. My husband needs a child
Qiao Jinniang wanted to persuade Qiao Ruoyun to make one of her children inherit the Qiao family, which could be counted as Qiao Yus grandson, but now she held it back.
In Linan, she had also seen many women who didnt have a son. She had Tuaner soon after she was married, so she had never experienced such difficulties, but she could understand their feelings.
Sister, rx, you and Brother-inw are in love. Im sure there will be good news soon. Qiao Jinniang said.
Qiao Ruoyun pursed her lips. I hope so. I heard that those people of the Qiao family in Linan came to Changan, and because of them, you were impeached? I havent been in good health for the past two days, so I didnt go to see you, but Ive already got my maid to take some money from my dowry to give it to them.
Dont! Qiao Jinniang hurriedly said, Once you give them silver taels, they will be as hard to get rid of as gangrene attached to the bones. They will be blood sucking worms that cling to you! Qiao Ruoyun said, Sister, I know, but after all, they are my rtives. If I dont help them, Im afraid that it will affect my husbands reputation
Anyway, we are not short of silver taels. We just spend silver to buy peace. I think they will return to Linan as long as they get money.
Qiao Jinniang sighed.
When Qin Shu returned, he said to Qiao Ruoyun, Since County Mistress is here, you can have a good talk with her and stop thinking about the matter of children. We are still young, so dont worry. But Qiao Ruoyun still looked anxious. After Qin Shu left, she asked Qiao Jinniang, Sister, youre from the South. Have you heard of Yangzhou Thin Horses (note: pretty girls for sale)? Qiao Jinniang nodded. Those Thin Horses are poor women, most of them are poor people.
Qiao Ruoyun asked in a low voice, Do you know where I can buy some Yangzhou Thin Horses?
I havent been able to give birth to a child for my husband, and I have to prepare early.
Sister, have you forgotten about Yuzhui, that concubine maid?! Qiao Jinniang said angrily, And now you want to buy Yangzhou Thin Horses for your husband as concubines?
Jinniang, I know you hate men taking concubines.
But there are very few men in this world who dont take concubines.
My husband will take concubines in the future anyway. Rather than someone like Yuzhui, I might as well find a few that I can handle.
Originally, I wanted to select concubines for my husband from his maids and my maids.
But he refused. I think maybe he wants prettier women. I heard that Yangzhou Thin Horses are well-educated and very beautiful Maybe hell like them.
Qiao Jinniang sighed heavily. I dont know any thin or fat horses. If you want to buy thin horses, you can ask ve traders. Seeing Qiao Jinniangs expression, Qiao Ruoyun knew that she was asking the wrong person and stopped asking.
The Qiao nsmen temporarily stayed in a deserted temple.
Qiao Ergou counted the silver notes and said, There are actually one thousand taels of silver. Wow, Qiao Ruoyun is really generous! Then Second Brother, are we going back to Linan?
Other nsmen were a bit afraid of Qiao Jinniang. After all, she was a noble now, and they were onlymoners.
If they shared the thousand taels equally, they would be able to live a good life in Linan.
Qiao Yuner sneered and said, She thinks she can send us away with just a thousand taels of silver? Impossible! Qiao Jinniang spent ten thousand taels of silver to buy a golden tuinga. It shows how much money Myriad Taste can earn!
That Censor Tong I found is an imperial censor and the elder brother of the Queens sister-inw. Since he has promised to help us, we can surely take back Myriad Taste.
Qiao Ergou patted his thigh and said, Yes! Myriad Taste must be taken back, and the Tasty Pavilion in Changan was opened by Qiao Jinniang with the money she earned from Myriad Taste. It should also belong to us.
Qiao Yuner smiled and said, I heard that the customers of Tasty Pavilion are all high-ranking officials and nobles. If Dad owns Tasty Pavilion, you can definitely select good husbands for my sisters and me from them!
The other Qiao nsmen who had nned to return to Linan with the money all changed their minds when they heard this.
If their daughters married officials, they might help their sons!
Qiao Yuner looked at the silver note. The fact that Qiao Ruoyun is willing to give us money shows that she cares about her reputation. Id like to see how long Qiao Jinniang can hold on!
Chapter 133 - His Majesty Ordered to Give Myriad Taste to the Qiao Clansmen
Chapter 133 His Majesty Ordered to Give Myriad Taste to the Qiao nsmen
The weather was getting colder, and there were fewer peopleing and going on the main street than usual.
The northwest wind was howling, but the business of those lively teahouses was booming
Tong Yingying, the daughter of Censor Tong, had not been as famous as Qiao Ruoyi in the past two years, but she had a good reputation among literati.
Today, she wrote an essay on filial piety, which was widely circted among literati.
In the article, Tong Yingying praised the n system
At the end of the article, she criticized Qiao Jinniang for ignoring her nsmen for money and scolded other imperial censors for not impeaching Qiao Jinniang for fear of offending her.
In the end, she questioned that if there were no n system, what was the difference between Datang and the barbarians?
If there were no nsmen, there wouldnt even be an ancestral temple, and no one would worship you after your death.
When literati read this article, they felt it was thought-provoking and all wrote poems and essays to criticize Qiao Jinniang for ignoring her nsmen.
No matter how powerful Duke Anyuan was, he was a military officer, not a civil one.
These literati always took maintaining feudal ethical code as their duty. Qiao Jinniang disobeyed the feudal ethical code, and they certainly wouldnt allow it.
Even Prefect Changan received a lot ofints about Qiao Jinniang. This matter had caused the rage of literati. Even if Emperor Huilin wanted to help his son cover up for his future daughter-inw, he couldnt do anything about it.
In the levee, he proimed a decree: ording to the ethical code, n has existed since ancient times, and women shall not inherit her parents property. Now listen
I ordered County Mistress Jiaan to return the Myriad Taste in Linan, which was left by her adoptive parents, to the Qiao n and it shall be handed over to the adoptive son of Qiao Yu!
Lu Chen frowned but he didnt stop it. After all, this was a rule that had been left down from the ancestors.
However, he also knew what Myriad Taste meant to Qiao Jinniang.
He remembered that one day after they got married, she had just read a novel about a man penciling his wifes eyebrows. Because he didnt paint her eyebrows for her, sheined that if it werent for Myriad Taste, she would definitely not marry an oblivious wood like him.
At that time, although Lu Chen was annoyed, he knew that Qiao Jinniang had always longed to marry a man who she loved. Instead of a man like him, who she only knew a few days ago but had to marry to defend Myriad Taste.
Qiao Jinniang could even sacrifice her marriage for Myriad Taste
Now that his father had issued an oral order, Qiao Jinniang must be extremely sad.
But the rules that had been passed down for thousands of years couldnt be broken at will! At least for now, when the n system was still entrenched deep in everyones hearts, it couldnt be broken.
Otherwise, women who had no brothers wouldnt even be able to find a man to marry into her family so as to inherit her parents properties after her parents death. Moreover, the parents might be directly murdered by her nsmen.
When Qiao Jinniang received the emperors oral decree, she felt as if she had fallen into an ice cer, and she couldnte back to herself for a long time.
Zheng Xiaoforted her. Jiner, just return the Myriad Taste in Linan to those people, so that they can go back to Linan as soon as possible, and wont be such an eyesore to you.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, No, Mother, you dont understand what Myriad Taste means to me. I will never allow them to ruin Myriad Taste!
Im going to talk to Lu Chen. Id rather find a new husband who is willing to marry into my family. Ill never allow those people to get Myriad Taste!
The Crown Prince, who happened toe:
After seeing Lu Chen, Qiao Jinniang said with red eyes. Why are you the Crown Prince? If only you were not!
I will not give them my adoptive parents Myriad Taste. I am my parents adopted daughter. Theirst wish was to give me the Myriad Taste. As long as I find a man to marry into my family, I will definitely be able to take back Myriad Taste.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Find a man to marry into your family? Do you think its easy? What if that man doesnt treat you well? Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, Then cant Xier continue to be the Xier of the Qiao family?
Lu Chen: If you were Xier, are you willing to be my heir or a little shopkeeper of a restaurant in the South?
Qiao Jinniang was a mother, and she certainly wanted Xier to be an imperial grandson who could stay away from the fight for the throne.
But now that he was already the Crown Princes heir, how could she let Xier be the shopkeeper of a small restaurant?
Qiao Jinniang looked up at Lu Chen and said, Can we have another child? And let that child be surnamed Qiao and let him inherit Myriad Taste?
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Im afraid that wont work either.
But dont be anxious. Think about it, can those Qiao nsmen run Myriad Taste well?
All they want is to make quick money. When they cant make ends meet, you can buy Myriad Taste back, right?
Qiao Jinniang said, You dont understand them at all. They will never do this. They will definitely threaten me with Myriad Taste, and threaten me to fill that bottomless pit! It was not that Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen something like this before. The same thing happened to one of her neighbors.
Her neighbor married a silk merchant, and her adoptive brother was not able to manage the family business well, so he often forced his sister to use her husbands money to subsidize him.
There were many such examples. When the Qiao nsmen got Myriad Taste in their hands, they could do whatever they wanted. How could they be willing to sell it?
Qiao Jinniangined about Lu Chen. Id rather you were not the Crown Prince. Being the Crown Prince, you are subject to a lot of restraints and have to be extremely careful about everything.
Does those literati have nothing to do? Why dont they pay attention to political affairs? Why do they keep picking on me?!
Lu Chen said, Do you know why this matter has caused so much attention?
Its not because you didnt just touch the interests of the Qiao nsmen.
If you could inherit your parents properties as a woman, what if the other women in the world follow suit?
You have to know that although there arent many women who have no brothers in this world, there arent few.
Besides, even if a woman has brothers, if her brothers are ipent while she is capable enough, she may be able to inherit the family business.
If those women follow your example, or the parents prefer their daughters and give their properties to their daughters, what will the brothers think?
This is not just a dispute between you and the Qiao nsmen. Most literati are men, and they certainly would fight for their own interests.
After listening to Lu Chens words, Qiao Jinniang gradually calmed down. Changan was not Linan, and she was no longer amoner. She sneered.
If the nsmen are capable, who would covet an orphan girls properties? They should help her instead!
They are nothing but a group of ipetent waste who shamelessly snatch others properties in the excuse of the ethical code that was passed down from their ancestors! Its ridiculous.
And His Majesty always ims to be a sage emperor, but hes actually stu Before she could finish speaking, Lu Chen hurriedly covered her mouth. Lu Chen always felt that his father had put his men beside him, perhaps his father was afraid that what happened back then would repeat itself
But who knew if these words would reach his fathers ears.
Lu Chen whispered to Qiao Jinniang, I know youre angry, but its not that there is no other way. Even if they wont sell Myriad Taste, there are so many Qiao nsmen, and they are not necessarily united. Did you forget how badly they fought to make their own sons to be your fathers adoptive son back then?
Qiao Jinniang shook Lu Chens hand away, blinked and said, Yes, if I tell them that I want to personally choose my adoptive fathers heir, they will definitely have an internal strife first.
Chapter 134 - Determining the Heir to Qiao Yu
Chapter 134 Determining the Heir to Qiao Yu
After hearing about the Emperors oral decree, without a moments dy, the Qiao nsmen went to the Tasty Pavilion and entered with the air of masters.
Most of the people in Tasty Pavilion knew them.
Qiao Ergou said sternly, Bajiao, Huixiang, werent you ferocious to us in Linan before?
Now, His Majesty has said that Myriad Taste belongs to our Qiao n. Qiao Jinniang bought this Tasty Pavilion with the money she earned from Myriad Taste, so it should also belong to us!
If youre smart, kneel down and call me Grandpa Ergou, and I will let you stay in Tasty Pavilion. Otherwise, leave Tasty Pavilion now!
It was almost noon, and many customers were already here.
Bajiao ordered a newly recruited servant to notify Qiao Jinniang.
But Qiao Ergou and the others have already pushed their way into Tasty Pavilion When Qiao Jinniang received the news and went to Tasty Pavilion, she saw that the Qiao nsmen were no longer in tatters but wore fine silk clothes.
In particr, Qiao Yuner had a gold hairpin on her head.
It must have been bought with the money given by Qiao Ruoyun.
Seeing the Qiao nsmen greeting customers, Qiao Jinniang stepped forward and said, His Majestys order is to give Myriad Taste in Linan to the heir to my adoptive father, who will be selected from the Qiao n. What does Tasty Pavilion have to do with you?
Qiao Ergou said arrogantly, Hmph, weve all checked it out. Its been almost four years since your father and mother died. In the past four years, Myriad Taste must have earned you a lot of silver taels!
Since this Tasty Pavilion was bought with the silver taels earned from Myriad Taste, it should also belong to our Qiao n!
Qiao Jinniang snorted, If Myriad Taste was handed over to you four years ago, how could it earn any money?
His Majesty ordered Myriad Taste to be given to the heir of my adoptive father. As his adopted daughter, I have the right to choose a suitable heir for him. First determine the heir, and then Ill hand over the Tasty Pavilion to him!
There were about twenty people brought by Qiao Ergou. Qiao Ergou had four daughters and one son. He certainly was reluctant to let his only son be Qiao Yus heir.
Hearing this, Qiao Yuner couldnt help but panic and said, My father is the patriarch. It should be up to him who the heir will be.
Qiao Jinniang said, I have discussed this with the Crown Prince. Because my adoptive father saved the Crown Prince, His Majesty conferred him the title of Earl Linan. Although the title cant be inherited, it is still a nobility title.
So my adoptive fathers heir cannot be chosen randomly. He should be worthy of bing an earls son!
When the old patriarch was still alive, he wanted Sixth Brother to be the heir, but he had bad conduct and was not worthy of being the heir.
Now I must choose a good heir for my adoptive father. Ive thought about it. The Qiao ns men in my generation are mostly already married, so they are inappropriate to be the heir. Its better to choose from the next generation.
This heir should recognize Qiao Ruoyun as his mother, and his surname should be Qiao, so you can bring your children over and let me pick one from them.
Qiao Ergou was annoyed. Why choose from the next generation? Qiao Jinniang said, Because I know what kinds of people my cousins are.
Since you forced me to hand over Myriad Taste to the n, thats fine, Ill hand it over, but I should choose the heir. What do you have to say now?
It was a pity that Qiao Ergou had only two granddaughters and no grandson.
In this case, there was no chance for him to get Myriad Taste.
Qiao Jinniang turned her eyes to the daughter-inw of Qiao Laosi. Qiao Laosi was his fathers cousin and was rtively honest among the Qiao nsmen, but his wife was a very stingy shrew.
Back then, her adoptive mother pitied her and let her work in the restaurant, but she stole a lot of money from the restaurant.
Fourth Aunt, I remember when I came to Changan, your daughter-inw was pregnant, right? Its been a few months. Is it a boy or a
girl?
When Qiao Laosis wife heard this, she felt as if she had been hit by a pie falling from the sky. Its a boy. And that child is not even a month old yet, so my son and daughter-inw are taking care of him in Linan!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Then please write a letter back and ask them to bring the child to Changan. If this child can be my fathers heir, I will definitely regard him as my own nephew.
Fourth Aunt, Liu Cuihua, folded her hands and recited Amitabha, and kept ttering Qiao Jinniang with beautiful words.
Qiao Ergou and Qiao Yuner looked very angry. They had calcted for so long but got no benefit. How could they see this happen? Qiao Jinniang said to them all, This heir has not yet been decided. So, if you guyse to make trouble again, Ill sue you!
With that said, the Qiao nsmen did not dare to stay any longer.
Walking out of Tasty Pavilion, Liu Cuihua was extremelycent. Buddha finally blessed our family, and such a huge pie fell from the sky. Qiao Yuner said, Fourth Aunt, dont forget who helped your grandson get Myriad Taste. You cant forget the Qiao n!
Bah, you are just a girl. The Qiao familys properties have nothing to do with you. Liu Cuihua snorted.
Qiao Yuner was very annoyed.
Qiao Jinniang went to Liu Cuihua and her husband in the afternoon, and arranged for a house for them. Although the house was not big, it was much better than their house in the countryside of Linan.
Liu Cuihua said to Qiao Jinniang with shining eyes, Jinniang, is this for us? Qiao Jinniang sat in the seat of honor and said with a smile, Yes, the foundation of Myriad Taste is in Linan, but Ruoyun and I are both in Changan. If your grandson really bes my adoptive fathers heir, my nephew, I will definitely take good care of him.
So I dont want others to covet what should belong to my nephew. My nephew is your biological grandson. I guess you dont want your grandsons things to be touched by others either, right?
Of course Liu Cuihua thought so, but Qiao Laosi said, But Brother Ergou is the new patriarch.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Have you forgotten how many benefits they got from Myriad Taste?
Liu Cuihua said, Yeah, Qiao Laosi, do you want to give your own grandsons property to others?
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of the tea handed by Nuomi and said, Not just Myriad Taste. After your grandson bes my nephew, Ill certainly give him a lot more benefits. I think Fourth Aunt knows whether you should listen to Qiao Ergou, the patriarch, or me, right?
Liu Cuihua said, Of course Ill listen to you, Jinniang. I didnt know you were such a kind-hearted person before. I took you wrong. I will definitely pray to the Bodhisattva and ask him to bless you!
Qiao Jinniang put down the teacup and said, Theres no need for this. Fourth Aunt,e, write the letter!
Chapter 135 - Internal Strife
Chapter 135 Internal Strife
When Qiao Jinniang left, she did not forget to tell Liu Cuihua, Fourth Aunt, you must be careful of them. Your grandson is only a month old. Dont let them kill him on the road.
Otherwise, I can only choose the grandson of Fifth Uncle. Although that child is a little older, he is quite smart!
Liu Cuihua was indeed a little flustered when she heard this.
Qiao Ergou and other Qiao nsmen were certainly unwilling to put the issue to rest when they saw that they would get no benefits.
But Liu Cuihua certainly wouldnt flinch. Her father-inw was the previous patriarch of the Qiao n. He purposely chose Liu Cuihua as his daughter-inw because he thought Liu Cuihua was a good choice for his timid son.
Aunt Qiao, Qiao Yuner and other women of the Qiao family came to Qiao Laosis house, only to be scolded by Liu Cuihua.
My dear Yuner, why are you and your ill-intentioned family keep staring at the Qiao familys properties? Even Qiao Jinniang cant get Myriad Taste. What makes you think you can?
Your useless brother slept with so many women, but only had two daughters. If he dies, your family will be extinct just like Qiao Yus! And you, Qiao Guixiang, youve been married for more than 20 years. What do the Qiao familys matters have anything to do with you? You were no longer a member of the Qiao family since a long time ago!
Qiao Yuner trembled with anger and blurted out, Liu Cuihua, lets see how long you can be happy! Its not certain whether your grandson can arrive at Changan safely or not! Liu Cuihua was startled, What are you going to do? If you dare to take action against my grandson, I will not spare you! Liu Cuihua and Qiao Laosi hurried back to Linan, fearing that Qiao Yuner would do something to their grandson. And Qiao Jinniang seemed to be quite satisfied with Qiao Laowus grandson. What if Qiao Jinniang chose that child instead of her grandson
No, she had to find a way to get rid of Qiao Laowus grandson to avoid future troubles.
The heir to Qiao Yu hadnte to Changan yet.
The mighty royal hunt had begun. It was already winter, and many beasts were hibernating.
However, the beasts in the paddock were specially kept for the nobles to hunt. Otherwise, if the animals all hibernated, the hunt would be meaningless.
Zheng Xiao was resting at home, and Qiao Ruoyi stayed to take care of Zheng Xiao. She had no interest in hunting.
Qiao Jinniang went to the paddock with Fulu. Unlike the spring hunt when she was full of aggrievance and hatred, now she was riding on the wide official road with Fulu and others freely and happily.
Fulu caught up with Qiao Jinniang and said, You cheated. Your white horse is a new tribute horse. How can our horsespare to yours?
Qiao Jinniang said, But I just learned to ride a horse.
Fulu asked Qiao Jinniang, I saw you worrying about Myriad Taste a while ago. Why dont you care now?
Qiao Jinniang said, Im still worried about Myriad Taste, but worrying about it isnt going to solve anything, so I might as well be hunting here. This is my first time hunting.
County Mistress, His Royal Highness asks you to go to his carriage.
An eunuch said to Qiao Jinniang. She hadnt seen Xier for a long time. She missed him so much, so she went straight to Lu Chens carriage. Lu Chens carriage was very spacious. It was covered with a white cashmere nket, and a charcoal brazier was burning under the small tea table in the middle.
It was warm inside the carriage.
When Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniange in, he took her hands and said, You just recovered from a disease. How dare you ride a horse outside on such a cold day?
Qiao Jinniang said, Its not cold to ride a horse. Im wearing a mink fur cloak! Wheres Xier? Why didnt Xiere?
I didnt bring him over this time.
Qiao Jinniang wondered. Why, isnt it pitiful for him to be alone in the East Pce? If I knew he didnte, I wouldnte either.
Lu Chen was warming Qiao Jinniangs hands with his own and said, This time the hunt is at the royal hot spring vi, and next door is the imperial mausoleum. Youined that Prince Mediocres existence dirty your eyes. Then lets get rid of him so that we can have a clean Spring Festival. More importantly, although he and Qiao Jinniang were married, he wanted to give Qiao Jinniang a real wedding.
In their wedding, although he was the Crown Prince, he would still have to call Prince Mediocre Fifth Brother and salute him with Qiao Jinniang, which was really disgusting. Qiao Jinniang said, Wont it be very dangerous?
Lu Chen asked, Are you scared?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, the wicked should get their retribution.
Just as the case with the Qiao nsmen who coveted her properties, although she didnt want to hurt innocent children, her scheme wouldnt work if the Qiao nsmen were not evil.
But she knew the Qiao nsmen too well. They would never let her scheme go to waste.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im afraid that Xier will be bored in the East Pce alone.
Lu Chen approached Qiao Jinniang and said, Yes, he is too bored alone. We can give birth to a little boy or girl to apany him.
Hmph, thats not what you said a year ago.
Qiao Jinniang remembered that in the autumn ofst year, her period didnte and she thought she was pregnant again.
But it turned out she wasnt, and she couldnt help but feel a little disappointed.
After giving birth to Xier, she and Lu Chen were extremely careful, so it was almost impossible for her to get pregnant again. But she still wanted to have more children. However, Lu Chen said that Xier was still young and needed the love of his parents.
And he said that they shouldnt give birth to another child until Xier was five or six years old. At that time, Qiao Jinniang thought it made sense, but now when she thought about it, she realized that he was just afraid that if she was pregnant, he would be unable to touch her for about a year!
Now he wanted to tempt her to enter the East Pce as soon as possible with this excuse. Hmph, in his dreams!
This time, the paddock was in the royal manor, and the pce was much better than that in the spring hunt. Thete emperor often came to soak in the hot spring here in winter.
wa
Qiao Jinniang encountered a troublesome matter. The manor of the Zheng family here was granted to the Zheng family by the Emperor. Since the Zheng family was exiled, the manor was taken back. Duke Anyuan Mansion had a manor here, but Qiao Jinniang had left the Duke Mansion with Zheng Xiao, so she couldnt live there.
Qiao Ruoyun had no say in the Qin family, so she couldnt lend her a house.
Qiao Jinniang wanted to buy a house nearby, but no house was for sale here.
Fulu had several courtyards here but she refused to lend her a house.
Fulu said, Jinniang, I dont dare to offend my imperial cousin. You are husband and wife, and its not against the rules for you two to live together. Even those annoying imperial censors wont say anything about it.
If the imperial censors impeached them for this, maybe the Crown Prince will immediately ask the Emperor to make Qiao Jinniang the crown princess, which neither the Crown Princes hostile faction nor the Crown Prince faction would want to see.
After all, the hostile faction was afraid that Duke Anyuan would get close to the Crown Prince, while the Crown Prince faction was afraid that the Crown Prince would give Qiao Jinniang the position of crown princess.
Fulu said, There is a separate hot spring pool in the Crown Princes residence in the pce. I wanted to marry my imperial cousin, and that hot spring pool was the biggest reason.
Qiao Jinniang: Sure enough, Lu Chen couldnt evenpare to a hot spring.
Fulu said, You have been husband and wife for so many years. Why are you still so shy? That hot spring is rumored to be very big.
Qiao Jinniang was not shy. She was just afraid that she wouldnt be able to resist Lu Chens temptation and would break the promise of making him wait until the Lantern Festival. Last time, if it werent for the Qiao nsmen, Lu Chen would have already got what he wanted.
If she couldnt restrain Lu Chen even now, wouldnt she bepletely defenseless to Lu Chen in the future?
Chapter 136 - 6 If You Want A Wife, Marry Tong Yingying
Chapter 136 If You Want A Wife, Marry Tong Yingying
Qiao Jinniang reluctantly lived in Lu Chens Longquan Hall for the sake of the hot spring.
They rested today, and the hunt would start tomorrow.
However, some noble girls went to enjoy the hot spring in groups of twos and threes. Although this was a royal hot spring manor, there were hot spring pools open to the dignitaries.
Like hot spring hotels outside, men and women were separated.
There wererge pools and several small pools.
Tong Xuan and Fulu were soaking in a big pool, and Tong Xuan said, My concubine-born sister is really annoying, but my father praised her, saying that if only I was like her! Im really annoyed. As a woman, she took sides with a bunch of robbers instead of women, but was actually praised for this. Thats ridiculous!
Another girl said, Do you know that your concubine-born sister has a reputation among literati now, which is that if you want a wife, marry Tong Yingying. Marry her? Shes in-looking and full of absurd crap. Those men are blind. Tong Xuan said angrily, She seemed to have to quiet down in the past two years and stop fishing for fame, so I thought she had changed. Who knew she was actually getting worse and worse.
Fulu said, Are you stupid? If I were your concubine-born sister, I would not dare to be famous in the past two years either!
At that time, my imperial cousin was lost, and Prince Mediocre seemed very likely to rece him. If Tong Yingying became famous, what if Prince Mediocre wanted to marry her?
Thats right. Tong Xuan suddenly understood. No wonder my concubine-born sister attended thest crown princess selection banquet although she was already 19 years old, but my father didnt let me attend it. It turns out that my father wanted to marry her off to His Royal Highness!
Hehe, I wanted to attend it. However, my father said that Zhou Sisi was very favored by the Queen, and she would definitely be able to marry into the East Pce in the future, so it was inappropriate for me to marry into the East Pce too! Its inappropriate for me to marry into the East Pce, but its okay for my concubine-born sister to do that?
Fulu rolled her eyes at Tong Xuan. Otherwise, why doesnt your concubine-born sister get married at her age?
In Changan, although many girls werent married at the age of 18, most of them already had fiancs.
Those who werent married at the age of 18 or 19 must want to marry into the royal family.
Tong Xuan couldnt figure out such a simple truth? She should interact less with Tong Xuan in case she would be silly.
Qiao Jinniang lived in the main hall of Longquan Hall. This time she only brought three maids, Hongling, Yuyan and Nuomi, but there were imperial maids in the pce.
She hardly had to move by herself, and was served everywhere she went.
She had to admit that the service of imperial maids was very good. When she was soaking in the hot springs, there were sliced fruits, delicate pastries, and warm scented tea.
Soaking in the hot springs, eating fruit, and reading a novel, she felt like in a fairnd on earth.
Your Royal Highness.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chening, she put down the novel in her hand. What are you doing here?
Lu Chen waved the maids to retreat, undressed and entered the hot spring pool. Of course I came to soak in the hot spring.
Qiao Jinniang picked up the novel and continued to read it. Didnt you say you went to deal with the person who dirtied my eyes? Why do you still have the time to soak in the hot spring? Lu Chen said, He is not as important as my honey. When Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chen approaching her shamelessly, she hurriedly took the book to block Lu Chen, so Lu Chen could see clearly what the novel was about.
This book didnt use gorgeous rhetoric but simple and easy-to-understand vernacr, so Lu Chen never liked Qiao Jinniang reading this kind of book.
Mr. Zhou turned around only to see his cousin who he hadnt seen in more than three years, and his cousin was still so handsome and attractive. He hurriedly ran up to his cousin and clenched his cousins hands with tearful eyes. Cousin. Cousin. His cousins eyes were full of love and expectation The bed curtain was slowly lowered, and the two
Qiao Jinniang, what the hell are you reading?! Lu Chens forehead burst with blue veins, How can there be such a disgusting book in this world?
Qiao Jinniang quickly took back her book. Dont let it get wet. Mens love was somon in the previous dynasties. How could you say its disgusting? Besides, I heard from Fulu that there are quite a few handsome young men in Changans brothels who specially serve men!
Lu Chen pointed to the book and said, Did you know that my cousin is also surnamed Zhou?
Qiao Jinniang touched her nose and put the book aside. Mr. Zhou hadnt seen his cousin for three years. What a coincidence!
This book must be alluding to you.
Lu Chen thought so too. This kind of forbidden book was widely circted in the market. If many people read it, it would inevitably make people think of him.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen up and down and said, Honey, do you really love men as written in the novel?
I dont love men. I only love Jinniang.
With that, Lu Chen picked her up, wrapped her with a nket and went into the bedroom not far away. The bedroom was warm, and before Qiao Jinniang could say something, she was pressed by Lu Chen on the bed
Before the veil on the bed fell, Yuyan shouted outside the door, Miss, not good! The Qiao nsmen surrounded the Qin familys manor, demanding Miss Ruoyun to give them justice.
Qiao Jinniang was about to get up, but Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Dont bother with them.
This was already the second time. If Lu Chen didnt care about his fathers reputation, he really wanted to directly execute those people to save trouble.
Qiao Jinniang said, Ruoyun wont be able to handle them.
Old Madam Qin, the Duchess and Qin Shu are there too! Qiao Jinniang said, You promised me to wait until the Lantern Festival
Lu Chen let out a long sigh and bit Qiao Jinniangs neck fiercely. Then why did you call me Honey?
Qiao Jinniang covered her neck. If you bite again, youll have to wait longer.
Only then did Lu Chen let go of her and put on the clothes that the imperial maids had prepared for him.
Qiao Jinniang put on clothes and a purple fox cloak, and went to the Qin familys manor.
The Qiao nsmen who were causing trouble had already been invited into the manor by the Qin family.
When Qiao Jinniang went in, she heard Qiao Laowu, Aunt Qiao and others saying, Ruoyun, we are rtives after all. You have houses everywhere, but we are homeless. Qiao Ruoyun said, Didnt I give you one thousand taels of silver? Its enough for you to return to Linan.
Aunt Qiao said, You gave the money to Ergou. We are all your rtives. You should give 1,000 taels to each of us!
Qiao Ruoyun was annoyed. What are you talking about? For an ordinary peasant family, 10 taels of silver is enough for a family of five to live very well for a year!
Aunt Qiao snorted coldly, I dont care. Since we cant get any benefits from Myriad Taste, you have to give us money. Today, if you dont give us money, we will simply stay at the door and let the people whoe and go see how cold-blooded your Qin family is.
Qiao Ruoyun was so anxious that his eyes were
red.
Old Madam Qin said angrily, When did you be our rtives?
Aunt Qiao said, We are rted to Ruoyun by blood. She cant deny that, right? If you give each of us a thousand taels today, youll no longer be bothered, and we can stay in Changan and find a ce to live.
Chapter 137 - Hunt Rabbits
Chapter 137 Hunt Rabbits
Old Madam Qin red at Qiao Ruoyun and said, Are they your rtives? My granddaughter-inw is the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan. If you admit theyre your rtives, dont be my granddaughter-inw!
Old Madam Qin didnt like Qiao Ruoyun at all because she didnt think Qiao Ruoyun was suitable to be Qin Shus wife, but her grandson seemed to be fascinated by her and insisted on not divorcing her!
Aunt Qiao only said to Qiao Ruoyun, Hmph! I thought you were a good person, but I didnt expect you to be less conscious than Qiao Jinniang! You want to send us away without giving us money? No way! Qiao Ruoyun sobbed helplessly.
Qin Shuforted Qiao Ruoyun. Its fine. Its not a big deal. Just give them money. Then he called his servants. Come on, give them two thousand taels of silver. After that, he said to the Qiao nsmen. This is thest time we give you money. Not again! Qiao Laowu smiled fawningly and hurriedly saluted. The Duke Qin Mansion is conscientious, unlike that shameless iron rooster who wont even fluck a single feather. His Majesty has issued an imperial decree, but she still doesnt take it seriously! Qiao Jinniang took a deep breath. Knowing that he was referring to her, she was not annoyed and simply said, Fifth Uncle, you really let me down. I had thought that if Fourth Uncles grandson is not suitable, I would pick your grandson, Yuaner, to be my adoptive fathers heir. Yuaner is so lively and cute, but hes a little older
When Qiao Laowu heard this, he was moved. Yuaner was his third grandson ,and he had two elder brothers.
If his grandson could be Qiao Yus heir, wouldnt the Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion be his?
He must not let Qiao Laosi and Liu Cuihua get their wish.
It seemed that he should go and discuss it with Qiao Ergou. If Qiao Ergou could help him, he would have a higher chance to get Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion.
Jinniang, I was just joking. When Qiao Laowu and his wife saw the silver taels brought out by the butler of the Qin family, they grinned from ear to ear and kept ttering the Qin family. After seeing them leave, Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ruoyun, Theyll never stop. Sister, you shouldnt have given them money from the beginning.
Qin Shu said, Unlike you, Ruoyun cares about the words of others. She has her own difficulties.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, Do you mean Im being nosy? Fine, Im not going to meddle in this matter again.
Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly stepped forward and said to Qiao Jinniang, Sister, I know you want to protect me, but I still have to maintain the Qin familys reputation. Im sorry, Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said, My adoptive parents already didnt treat them as rtives before they died. Why should you recognize these blood-sucking leeches as rtives? But no matter what, youve given them money again. What can I say? From now on, I wont meddle in the matter between the Qiao nsmen and you, Sister!
After Qiao Jinniang finished speaking, she left the manor.
Qiao Ruoyunined to Qin Shu in a small voice, Why did you say that to my sister? She is saying that for my good.
I know, but she is not in a position to preach to you. She is alone and doesnt care about her reputation, but you are different from her! Qiao Ruoyun sighed heavily, s.
Early the next morning, the ceremonial music band blew the horn.
When Qiao Jinniang woke up, Lu Chen was long gone. She got up and looked at the sky. It looked like dawn had almost passed.
No wonder the horns and the sound of horses hooves stomping had already sounded outside. The hunt had already begun.
Qiao Jinniang dressed up and went to the paddock in a red riding suit and a white ferret fur cloak.
In the hot spring vi, men and women were not separated. When Qiao Jinniang arrived, Lu Chen was still waiting for her.
Why didnt you wake me up? Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen.
Lu Chen said, Dont worry. Youve just learned to ride horses and your archery skills are not good. You can get hit by a stray arrow in the paddock, so IIll apany you so that youll be safer.
Qiao Jinniang could ride horses, but was really bad at archery. Although cooking was tiring andborious, thoseborious tasks were done by servants.
She might not even be able to pull the bowstring.
Into the depths of the forest, there were many dead trees. Lu Chen said in a low voice, Youd better not leave my sight in these next few days, and dont get involved in others affairs.
Qiao Jinniang had heard about the cruelty of royal family members fight for the throne, and she didnt want to die in vain, so she obediently followed Lu Chens side.
She saw a little gray hare in the distance.
In this hunt, Lu Chen did not prohibit the hunting of hares. After all, in winter, there wouldnt be much prey if hares were not allowed to be hunted
Although Qiao Jinniang was born in the Year of the Rabbit, she didnt have this taboo. Besides, it was her first time hunting, and she wanted to hunt rabbits more than to protect the life of the rabbits.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen to teach her how to draw a bow.
Lu Chen sat on Qiao Jinniangs horse, helped her to draw the bow, and aimed the arrow feather at a hares leg, Release!
The arrow feather flew out at once. When Qiao Jinniang saw that the hare was shot, she was very happy. It was shot!
Qiao Jinniang got off the horse and picked up the little hare. The arrow feather hit the little hares leg, and Qiao Jinniang was just about to pull the arrow off its leg.
Then she saw Zhou Sisie over surrounded by a group of nobledies.
Zhou Sisi dismounted and said, Bunny, the bunny I shot!
Lu Chen came over on horseback, and when thedies saw Lu Chen, they all saluted him.
Qiao Jinniang pointed to the arrow feather on the rabbit and said, I shot this rabbit. My name is written on the arrow feather.
In the paddock, in case someone intentionally wounded people with arrows, names were written on the arrows.
Tong Yingying next to Zhou Sisi said, County Mistress, why are you so mean to a girl who is no different from a six-year-old child? Isnt this like bullying a child?
Lu Chen said coldly, Did your father tell you that you can snatch other peoples things at will just because youre younger?
Tong Yingying hurriedly said, Your Royal Highness, this is not what I mean, but I just think that instead of killing and eating the poor little hare, County Mistress might as well give it to Miss Zhou and save a living creature.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. If Miss Tong is so kind-hearted, why are you here hunting? Dont your family eat meat and fish? Saving lives in a hunt? How ridiculous! Tong Yingying looked at Lu Chen and said, His Royal Highness is kind-hearted. He once said that rabbits are pitiful and weak and that we should not hunt them. Im just following His Royal Highness words.
Lu Chen put his hand on Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, I didnt allow you to hunt rabbits in spring because Jinniang was born in the Year of the Rabbit. But since she doesnt care about rabbits being hunted, why should I care?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. It turned out that the reason Lu Chen didnt allow rabbits to be hunted at that time was because of her
Tong Yingying, who was also born in the Year of the Rabbit, felt that this scene was quite upsetting!
During the noon break, Qiao Jinniang smelled roasted meat. Junior Duke Rong and Lin Mo hunted a sika deer and made a venison pot.
Junior Duke Rong said to Qiao Jinniang, Try our venison pot. It is no worse than the food you make.
Chapter 138 - Prince Mediocre Is Paralyzed In An Accident
Chapter 138 Prince Mediocre Is Paralyzed In An ident
Roasted venison was a rare delicacy when sprinkled with salt, and Junior Duke Rong had cumin from the Yi people in the Northwest. When sprinkled with cumin, the venison became even more fragrant.
The pce was filled with the aroma of venison.
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to eat it until Lu Chen ate some. It tasted really good.
It took me a lot of energy to hunt this deer. Venison is a little firmer than beef. Roasted like this, the venison is very juicy and is not worse than the dishes in your Tasty Pavilion, right?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Indeed.
She thought that she could add roasted venison to the menu of Tasty Pavilion. This venison was quite simple to cook. I smelled the fragrance from your side from a mile away. Zhou Siming came with Zhou Sisi and said, Why didnt you call me over?
Junior Duke Rong nced at Zhou Sisi who was following Zhou Siming and winked.
Zhou Sisi burst into tears and said, Brother, this little deers eyes are so cute. How can you eat venison? The little deer is so pitiful!
Junior Duke Rong put down his chopsticks and said, Zhou Siming, why did you bring a fool here?
Zhou Siming clenched his fists angrily. Junior Duke, please respect yourself!
Junior Duke Rong snorted. We are eating venison happily, but she came and ruined our mood.
Zhou Sisi cried even harder, walked to Lu Chens side, held Lu Chens sleeve with both hands and shook it gently. Brother, dont let them eat little deer. You
ce said that Sisis eyes are as beautiful as a little deers.
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect that Lu Chen would praise another woman like this.
Lu Chen had long since forgotten when he had praised Zhou Sisi. He hurriedly pulled out his sleeve and said seriously, I remembered I had warned you not to call me Brother again.
Zhou Sisi sobbed, But Brother
Qiao Jinniang put down the chopsticks in her hand and said, Its a pity that pigeons are not allowed to be hunted. When I return to Changan, I must buy a few more pigeons to make pigeon soup and roast pigeons!
Junior Duke Rong said, It turns out that you like to eat pigeons. It happens that I keep a lot of pigeons in my family. You can pick at will.
Qiao Jinniang sarcastically said, Its not that I like to eat pigeons, but some pigeons keep cooing and are very annoying. Its better to make her into pigeon soup. Junior Duke Rong couldnt help tittering. Zhou Siming touched his nose, pulled his little sister over and said, Call Your Royal Highness in the future.
Zhou Sisi snorted and said angrily, Brother is bad. Ill go to my mother.
Zhou Siming said to Qiao Jinniang, County Mistress, please dont mind it. We have no intentions to let Sisi marry into the East Pce. She has been calling His Royal Highness Brother since childhood.
Lu Chen said, Although Sisi only has the intelligence of a child, she is not a child. Between the sexes, there should be a prudent reserve.
Zhou Siming grunted in response.
In the afternoon, Qiao Jinniang went to the real hunting ground with Lu Chen. There were many prey in it. As evening approached, they even hunted a fox with pure snow-white fur.
After seeing the fox, Qiao Jinniang said, We can make a fox fur cloak for Xier with this fox. Changan is so cold. This is his first winter in Changan so he must be cold.
Lu Chen responded, Okay.
The sky was getting dark, but there was a sudden exmation not far away, and many soldiers in armor rushed past on horseback.
Lu Chen clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, No matter what happenster, dont be afraid.
Back at the main hall of the pce, it was supposed to be a happy banquet, but at this moment it was filled with the cries of Imperial Concubine Xian.
Your Majesty, even if you dont like me, you should uphold justice for me. I only have this son. Although His Royal Highness was missing for three years, it was not done by my son.
My son was named with the humiliating word Mediocre and forced to stay in the freezing Northwest for the past three years. He has never coveted the position of the crown prince. Why does His Royal Highness have to get rid of my son?!
Qiao Jinniang entered with Lu Chen, and when she heard the cry, she looked at Lu Chen with worry. Lu Chen said that he wanted to get rid of Prince Mediocre, but he wouldnt do it so straightforwardly, would he?
Emperor Huilin angrily scolded Imperial Concubine Xian, Prince Mediocre was bitten by a poisonous snake. Perhaps it was an ident. There is no evidence. Why do you use the Crown Prince of doing it?
Imperial Concubine Xian said, Because I found a drug on my son that can attract snakes, and since its winter, snakes are hibernating. If someone didnt deliberately wake them up, how could this happen?
Apart from His Royal Highness, who else would hate my son so much? The snake venom caused my son to be paralyzed, and the imperial doctor said that he wouldnt be able to stand up again!
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang to take a seat on the side and said, Imperial Concubine Xians words are really funny. Since Prince Mediocre has never coveted the position of the crown prince, why do I have to do anything to him? Imperial Concubine Xian said, You know that all the literati in the world feel indignant for my son.
Some time ago, the literati united again tosh out at Qiao Jinniang.
You were afraid that your reputation among the literati would get worse and worse, so you wanted to murder my son!
Emperor Huilin said angrily to Imperial Concubine Xian, Shut up, there is no conclusion on the matter. I will hand over this case to the Ministry of Public Security for an investigation in order to get to the bottom of
it!
Imperial Concubine Xian grieved in tears.
A minister who was close to Prince Mediocre came out and said, Your Majesty, the Minister of Public Security is His Royal Highness uncle, so I am afraid that he wont be fair in this case! Prince Mediocre is obviously being set up by others!
Prince Mediocre, who had just woken up, after realizing that he was paralyzed in his lower limbs, ordered someone to carry him into the pce in a stretcher.
Prince Mediocre whispered, Father, no matter how much you dont like me, Im also your child. Dont you have the slightest fatherly affection for me? The Crown Prince has made me paralyzed. Do you still want to cover up for him?
Emperor Huilin said coldly, There is no conclusion on this matter. Why do your mother and you insist that it was Chener who did this?
The ministers bowed their heads and dared not speak, thinking that His Majesty was too partial to the Crown Prince.
The Emperor ordered the Ministry of Public Security to investigate this matter. Even if it was found out that it was done by the Crown Prince, the Emperor would probably not punish the Crown Prince.
No one dared toe out and say anything.
Even the so-called Prince Mediocre Party was silent. Prince Mediocre had already lost his legs, and would never have a chance to ascend the throne. Wouldnt it stupid if they still stood up for Prince Mediocre?
But there was a fool who stood up. Tong Yingying cupped her hands and said, Your Majesty, I have something to say. A clean hand wants no washing. If His Royal Highness is innocent, he wont be afraid of any investigation.
I implore Your Majesty to let His Highness Prince Mediocre send someone to investigate this case to prove His Royal Highness innocence!
Almost everyone present looked at Tong Yingying. Some peopleughed at her stupidity in their hearts. Now she had offended both Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince.
But in the hearts of some men, they felt that Tong Yingying was even more courageous than a man and couldnt help admiring her. Emperor Huilin nced at Lu Chen, and when he saw Lu Chen nodded lightly, he said, Then let Prince Mediocres men investigate this case!
Before this case gets investigated clearly, the Hot Spring Vi will be under martialw, and no one will be allowed to leave the Hot Spring Vi!
Chapter 139 - Lu Chen and Consort Mediocre Corresponded privately
Chapter 139 Lu Chen and Consort Mediocre Corresponded privately
The pce banquet continued, but no one had any appetite.
Prince Mediocre was paralyzed by snake venom, and it concerned the fight over the throne, which was closely rted to all the officials present. Those who still had an appetite must not be ordinary people.
The Queen was not worried at all though. She hadnt said a word today, eating the roasted meat that Zhou Sisi put on her te happily.
Duke Wu and his family were calm too.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen in a low voice curiously, Arent you afraid you will get caught by Prince Mediocre?
Im not as stupid as him. Lu Chen put a piece of freshly roasted venison onto Qiao Jinniangs te.
Qiao Jinniang also ate happily.
In less than an hour, the staff under Prince Mediocre found the little official in the paddock who released the poisonous snake.
The little official in the paddock cried out. Your Majesty, please spare my life! His Royal Highness ordered me to release this poisonous snake. He said I just needed to release the poisonous snake, and he will have someone else put the sachet that attracted the poisonous snake on His Highness Prince Mediocre.
The staff under Prince Mediocre added, The sachet on His Highness Prince Mediocre was made by Consort Mediocre, Lin Qiaopan, with her own hands. Prince Mediocre cherished it very much, but he didnt know that His Royal Highness had colluded with his wife. That sachet was used to attract snakes.
These are the letters that Lin Qiaopan wrote to His Royal Highness. Please read, Your Majesty.
Imperial Concubine Xian took the letters and took a look, and then said sternly, Come, bring that b*tch Lin Qiaopan over!
Qiao Jinniang remembered Lin Qiaopan. On her wedding day, she asked Qiao Jinniang to deliver a letter to Lu Chen, but Qiao Jinniang refused
Did Lu Chen receive that letter and use Lin Qiaopan?
Qiao Jinniang broke free from Lu Chens hand.
Lu Chen held her hand back. Im your husband. Why cant you trust me a bit?
Qiao Jinniang was a little relieved. After all, Lu Chen shouldnt be as stupid as Prince Mediocre.
When Lin Qiaopan was brought up, there were still purple marks on her neck, looking as though she had tried to hang herself. She knelt down and admitted, The fault is all mine. I made Prince Mediocre get bitten by the poisonous snake. It has nothing to do with His Royal Highness! Lin Mo and Prime Minister Lin both frowned, and Prime Minister Lin came out and got on his knees, admitting his mistake. I failed to educate my niece well. Please punish me, Your Majesty!
Imperial Concubine Xian threw a letter in front of Lin Qiaopan and scolded,
You pair of adulterer and adulteress!
You and the Crown Prince have been exchanging letters since the day you married my son.
Look what was written in the first letter you wrote to him.
Im willing to be a sword to get rid of Prince Mediocre for you. As long as you dont forget me in this life, Im willing to die. Oh, it seems that you really love the Crown Prince!
Imperial Concubine Xian gave the letter to Lu Chen and asked, Crown Prince, how do you exin this letter!
There was an uproar among the courtiers. Lin Qiaopan admitted that she had harmed Prince Mediocre because she wanted to protect the Crown Prince!
Everyone looked at Lu Chen with a strange look.
Seeing this, Qiao Jinniang said, Is it so easy to imitate the Crown Princes handwriting? Your Royal Highness, cant you change your handwriting? This is the second time someone imitated your handwriting!
Imperial Concubine Xian said, The Crown Princes handwriting is unique. Who can imitate it? Besides, if the letter is fake, why did she admit it?
Lin Qiaopan suddenly stood up like crazy and said, I imitated his handwriting. I hate Prince Mediocre. I dont like him at all, but he forced me to be his consort.
I wanted to scapegoat the Crown Prince, but I didnt want to get the Lin family involved. It was me who nned all this. Im willing to die!
Having said that, Lin Qiaopan was about to hit the pir with her head.
Imperial Concubine Xian hurriedly asked the guards to stop Lin Qiaopan. Then she knelt down in front of Emperor Huilin and cried bitterly. Your Majesty, you have seen how desperate this b*tch is trying to protect the Crown {rince. Why dont you give her a piece of paper and ask her to write in the Crown Princes handwriting? She must not be able to write it!
Lin Qiaopan, you are very affectionate to the Crown Prince, but he is not even willing to say a word for you at this moment! Lu Chen said coldly, Why should I speak for a brainless, stupid and shameless woman? Queen Zhou finally spoke, Chener, a gentleman shouldnt speak like that. Miss Lin is so in love with you. Why are you scolding her like that? As the Crown Prince of Datang, you shouldnt be so mean to a woman.
Lu Chen replied, Yes, Mother. Imperial Concubine Xian looked at Queen Zhou. Queen, the Crown Prince wants to kill my son but what you care about is that he is mean to a woman?
Queen Zhou smiled coldly and said, Is there any evidence?
Prince Mediocre said weakly, Mother, my men have put the evidence in front of you. The Crown Prince and my consort conspired to kill me. Father, please give me justice.
Lin Qiaopan made the sachet, and the Crown Prince ordered that official to release that poisonous snake, which is already solid evidence!
Father, I am also your son Over the years, I have been longing for you to praise me. I have always wanted to get closer to you. Please deal with this matter fairly!
Prince Mediocres remarks made the other princes present sigh.
But Lu Chen said, Are you ming Father for being partial?
But your so-called solid evidence simply wont stand up to scrutiny. How can Father give you justice?
Firstly, lets talk about this small paddock official. If I wanted him to release a poisonous snake, why should I talk to him personally and give him the poisonous snake with my own hands?
Wont I be afraid of being bitten by the poisonous snake?
And since you had already had the sachet on you, why did I bother to find a small official to release the poisonous snake?
Wouldnt it be easier to directly ask my guard to release the snake?
Why should I bother to bribe a small official to do that?
Prince Mediocre said, Perhaps you want to use this as an excuse to refute the charges against
you?
Besides, how can you exin the letters between you and Lin Qiaopan?! You cant deny these letters, can you?
Lin Qiaopan shook her head, weeping pitifully, and said, This matter really has nothing to do with His Royal Highness. Its done by me alone!
Lu Chen said coldly, Shut up. You are being used as a knife against me but you think you sacrificed yourself for me. You only moved yourself. Its not wrong at all to call you brainless and stupid.
Prince Mediocre sneered and said, Lin Qiaopan, look, this is the Crown {rince you have been trying to defend. The Crown {rince you love doesnt want your love at all!
Lin Qiaopan had a look of loss, and she called lovingly, Your Royal Highness.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she had already figured it out. She looked at the letter in front of her. The ink in this letter has a faint scent of sweet-scented osmanthus. It must be sweet-scented osmanthus ink, but Lu Chen never uses flower ink. Hearing Qiao Jinniangs words, Prince Mediocre said to Lu Chen, You are so lucky that women are all trying to defend you! Perhaps the Crown Prince purposely used osmanthus ink to cover it up!
Lu Chen ordered someone to bring up a wooden box and poured out all the letters in it. Im not as lucky as you, Fifth Imperial Brother. In Changan, there are more than 20 noble girls who have privately corresponded with you.
Can you recognize these letters? Can you smell the fragrance of sweet-scented osmanthus ink in these letters?
In order to avoid damage to the reputation of these women, Ive covered up the noble girls names. Father, Courtiers, please take a look!
Although the handwriting can be imitated, it cannot be imitated exactly. Although you tried to imitate my handwriting, it was difficult to cover up some of your writing habits!
The Ministry of Punishment has a calligraphy expert. We can ask him toe and identify the handwriting.
Chapter 140 - Prince Mediocre Was Demoted to A Commoner
Chapter 140 Prince Mediocre Was Demoted to A Commoner
When Prince Mediocre saw the letters that Lu Chen took out, he shook his head and said, You imitated my handwriting and wrote these letters. You are trying to frame me!
Fifth Brother, youre lying. A thin and short man came slowly and knelt down to the Emperor. Long live my father and mother.
The man made a solemn kneeling salute.
When Emperor Huilin saw his eldest son, he just sighed. What are you doing here?
I came to plead guilty. That poisonous snake was kept beside the hot spring by me to treat diseases. I never expected that Fifth Brother woulde to my ce and take the poisonous snake away
Hearing what the Eldest Prince said, Prince Mediocre angrily said, It was not me. It was the Crown Prince!
The Eldest Prince said, His Royal Highness has nevere to my ce. How could he have taken the snake Prince Mediocre froze all over. Only then did he realize that he had fallen for the trick designed by the Eldest Prince and the Crown Prince together! But how could the Eldest Prince be willing to cooperate with the Crown Prince?
Prince Mediocre said, Do you mean I took away the poisonous snake and made myself paralyzed?!
The Eldest Prince said, Thats because the venom of the poisonous snake has an antidote.
I also told you about the sachet that could lure snakes, and it was meant to let you avoid these spices. I never thought that you would use this to frame the Crown Prince
Lu Zheng! You are framing me! Prince Mediocre red at the eldest prince, You helped me forge those letters! You imitated the Crown Princes handwriting and wrote those letters!
Prince Lu can testify for me!
Since the incident with the Right Prime Minister, Prince Lu had kept a low profile and never caused any trouble. Suddenly being mentioned, he came out and said, How could those letters be written by the eldest brother?
I only saw that you went to the eldest brothers ce and got a poisonous snake, and judging from the writing in these letters, these letters were clearly written by you!
Prince Mediocre realized that he was framed by the Eldest Prince, the Crown Prince and Prince Lu together. He said repeatedly, Father, I am being framed by them.
Prince Lu gave the letter from Consort Mediocre to me. The plot of using the poisonous snake to set up the Crown Prince was also plotted by Prince Lu and the Eldest Prince together with me.
It turns out that the Eldest Prince and Prince Lus target is actually me!
Prince Mediocre cried bitterly.
Emperor Huilin said with a headache, I named you Mediocre to warn you to have some self-knowledge, but you, after staying in the Northwest for so many years, still dont stop making trouble. You med me for being partial, but youre always fond of ying these stupid tricks since you were a child. I tried to educate you, but you just thought that I was being harsh to you! Youre my son after all. For the sake of the Empress Dowager, I have forgiven you over and over again over the years, but you have been going further and further astray. This time, I cant forgive you anymore! Pass down my oral decree that from today onwards: Prince Mediocre shall be demoted to amoner, and Imperial Concubine Xian shall be deprived of her title and be put into the Cold Pce!
Prince Mediocre crawled down from the stretcher and said, Father, I am being framed by the Eldest Prince and Prince Lu. Father you cant demote me into amoner!
Prince Lu also knelt down and said, Father, I did encourage Prince Mediocre and even plotted with him, but this has nothing to do with the Eldest Prince!
I did this because Prince Mediocre killed my cousin, his concubine, Concubine Jian!
Imperial Concubine Jian also knelt down and said, Your Majesty, Concubine Jian was pregnant but was murdered by Prince Mediocre. He scapegoated Qiao Ruoshui and killed her cruelly outside Changan, iming that she was killed by robbers. Your Majesty, please investigate this case!
The Zheng family had already been exiled. Even if they were murdered by a prince, Emperor Huilin would not necessarily investigate their death.
Even if there was real evidence, this matter was not important, but now that it had been revealed, it had to be tended to.
Im willing to testify! Disregarding Second Madams obstruction, Qiao Ruofeng came out and knelt down. I had been in correspondence with Prince Mediocre for two years.
Prince Mediocre implied that he was in love with me in his letters, and it almost led me to ruin my cousins reputation out of jealousy, but then he told me that he didnt love me at all and all he wanted was just the support of Duke Anyuan. I have always wanted to speak out about this matter, but Im afraid that my reputation will be ruined if I speak about it, but I didnt know until today that it was not only me, but also many other poor girls!
Even if I would be despised by my fiance and have my reputation ruined, I have to speak out about the evil thingsmitted by Prince Mediocre! If what I said is false, Ill be struck by lightning! Qin Miaomiao took a deep breath and came out too. She got on her knees and said, Your Majesty, in the letters that Concubine Jian took outst time, there was my name, so I wasughed at by many people. That letter is true. I also corresponded with Prince Mediocre two years ago. Prince Mediocre vowed to love me forever, but then I found that one of my girlfriends also received the same letter from Prince Mediocre, so I broke up with him.
Seeing Qin Miaomiaoe out, some other girls came out to testify too.
Although there werent as many as 20 girls to testify against Prince Mediocre, there were already eight witnesses including Imperial Concubine Jian and Qiao Ruofeng.
Emperor Huilin hadnt been so angry for a long time. As a prince, if Prince Mediocre was justscivious, it didnt matter, but the women Prince Mediocre was in correspondence with were all from powerful families in Changan.
He was trying to form his own clique to vie for the throne!
Even when he was in the northwest, he still didnt forget to tempt and cheat the noble girls in Changan. Emperor Huilin felt so ashamed. This was such a disgrace for the royal family!
From now on, Prince Mediocre shall be demoted to amoner and be exiled to the northwest frontier, and he can never return to Changan!
Imperial Concubine Xian instantly fainted. She dreamed of being the next Empress Dowager for three years, but now her beautiful dream was shattered
Prince Mediocre red at Lu Chen andined to Emperor Huilin, Father, since you love Lu Chen so much, why did you give birth to me? I have been smarter than Lu Chen since childhood. When we were children, every time we recited the Book of Rites, hegged behind me. I am more suitable to be the crown prince than him!
I am the model in the mind of the literati, but what about Lu Chen? He is inferior to me in every aspect!
He was just lucky and was born by the Queen. If he hadnt been born by the Queen, how could he be the crown prince?!
The corners of Lu Chens lips curled slightly. Luck always matters. Besides, I dont think you are smarter than me.
Igged behind you just because I didnt want you to be scolded by Imperial Concubine Xian if you lost to me, so I pretended not to remember it. I didnt expect you to remember this matter for fifteen years. Besides, you were ten years old at that time and I was only five. Even if you memorized the Book of Rites before me, so what? I cant believe you remember this trivial matter for fifteen years.
Qiao Jinniang believed what Lu Chen said. Lu Chen always had an excellent memory. After a single nce, he could memorize the contents of those ount books and recite the details.
Therefore, when checking ounts books, Qiao Jinniang would sometimes let Lu Chen read the ount books first, so she didnt have to go through them.
When Prince Mediocre heard Lu Chens words, he didnt believe it, but whats the point of continuing to argue? Just as Lu Chen said, he was five years older
He only knew that he was doomed!
Chapter 141 - The Eldest Prince
Chapter 141 The Eldest Prince
After the matter with Prince Mediocre was settled, Lu Chen was called by Emperor Huilin to the main hall of the pce.
Emperor Huilin looked at Lu Chen and said, Chener, are you behind this matter too?
Lu Chen didnt hide it. Yes, but if Fifth Brother didnt take the bait, my schemes wouldnt have worked. And Father, you should know who set me up in the South back then
Emperor Huilin said, Are you still ming me for not punishing him for that matter? But think about it, the Empress Dowager was seriously ill at that time, and all the evidence was pointing to your eldest brother. What could I do?
How could I punish him without evidence? He is also my son. If there was no sufficient evidence, how could I punish him? Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, I dont dare to me you, Father. He said he didnt dare, which meant that he was still ming him, but he just didnt dare to show it.
Emperor Huilin let out a deep sigh. You will understand me in the future. The courtiers are not stupid. They can definitely guess who is behind the matter today! Lu Chen said, I didnt want to hide it from the courtiers. Prince Mediocre just got what he deserved.
Besides, I was away from Changan only for three years but the courtiers have forgotten what kind of person I am and think that I am a pushover. As for the matter with those literati picking on Jinniang, although I cant destroy the rules that had passed for thousands of years, Ill get even with them. They should know that Im not someone they can bully.
Prince Mediocre had an excellent reputation among the literati, and he must be in correspondence with those people. Those well-known schrs whoshed out on Jinniang must have a connection with Prince Mediocre.
Although I wont punish them, they will inevitably be scared for a period of time. If they reallymit any crime, they will be severely punished. Emperor Huilin said to Lu Chen, Have youpletely forgotten all my teachings? As a king, dont you even have the slightest tolerance?
The Founding Emperor once said that the people are like the water, and the emperor is like a boat. While water can carry a boat, it can also overturn it!
You cant me that the literati wanted justice for the Qiao nsmen. After all, the rules cannot be vited.
Lu Chen only said, Father, Ill remember your teachings, but I wont allow others to humiliate me and bully my wife.
Emperor Huilin looked at his stubborn son and shook his head helplessly. Forget it, what do you think about your eldest brother?
Lu Chen said, My eldest brother is also your son. I dont dare to say ill about him. Ill take my leave.
Lu Chen saluted, left the pce and returned to the Longquan Pce. It was already after 1 am, but many people in the Hot Spring Vi couldnt sleep.
Qiao Jinniang hadnt slept yet. Seeing Lu Chene in, she said, Did His Majesty scold you?
After all, Prince Mediocre was also His Majestys child. Lu Chens n was not perfect. Perhaps Emperor Huilin could find out Lu Chen was behind this matter.
Lu Chen said, No, you can rest easy. From tomorrow, he wont appear in front of your eyes anymore.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. I didnt expect Qiao Ruofeng and Qin Miaomiao to testify so boldly today.
Lu Chen said, Qin Miaomiaos name was in the letters Concubine Jian took outst time. Its better to admit it frankly. Its just letters.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Is that thin man today your eldest brother? He doesnt look like you and your brothers.
There was no need to say much about Lu Chens appearance, and the other members of the royal family were also quite handsome, except for Lu Chens eldest brother, who was in and sickly. Lu Chen said, Yes, he is. Prince Mediocre has been demoted to amoner, so Earl Chengen Mansion may turn to support him, but he is not as disgusting and stupid as Prince Mediocre, so I just need to be careful of him in the future.
There were still a few days left for the hunt, but with the drama concerning Prince Mediocre, everyone was dispirited, and Emperor Huilin went back to the imperial pce early.
However, some aristocratic girls and young men holding no official positions still stayed in the hot spring vi and continued to have fun.
Lu Chen apanied Qiao Jinniang to stay in the Longquan Pce and nned to return to Changan a few dayster. After all, this might be theirst outing out of Changan before the Spring Festival.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Is it okay if you dont go back to the pce? Dont you have memorials to process?
Lu Chen said, My father will tend to them. You havent had fun since you came to Changan. Lets have a good time this time.
Unfortunately, it snowed the next day.
Although there was a hot spring, it was still very cold. Except for the edge of the hot spring, there was thick snow everywhere.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt get out of the Longquan Pce, so she began to research new cakes in the hall.
Watching her make cakes, Lu Chen was unhappy. He stayed to have fun with her, but she was preupied with making cakes.
However, the cakes tasted really good.
In a hut outside the imperial mausoleum.
Li Lingling looked at the Eldest Prince and sneered. You thought that if you helped His Royal Highness, he would let you go back to Changan? But sadly, His Majesty has no intention of letting you go back!
The Eldest Prince suddenly pinched Li Linglings neck. Shut up!
Li Lingling coughed andughed. You junk, even Prince Mediocre wants to be the next emperor. Your mother is a noble imperial concubine, and youre the Emperors eldest son, but you are willing to be Lu Chens knife. How ridiculous!
There was a dark look in the eyes of the Eldest Prince.
A maid came said at the door, Eldest Prince, His Royal Highness said that County Mistress Jiaan made some cakes, so he sent some for you and your consort to taste.
When Li Lingling heard your consort, her eyes were full of ridicule. She had always wanted to be the crown princess. Even when Lu Chen was missing, she believed that he would definitelye back.
But after returning, Lu Chen actually made Qiao Jinniang, a cook, his crown princess.
She must return this shame to Lu Chen.
The Eldest Prince opened the door and took the cakes handed by the maid. The cakes were small and very delicate. They smelled of chestnuts.
This chestnut cake melted as soon as it was put into the mouth, sweet but not cloying. It was very delicious.
Li Lingling pushed all the cakes to the ground. Have some self-respect, okay? You are His Majestys eldest son, and you are more suitable for the throne than Prince Mediocre.
The Eldest Prince looked at the cakes on the ground. He then suddenly picked them up and stuffed them into Li Linglings mouth. Shut up!
In Changan, there were different opinions on the matter of letting the Eldest Prince return to Changan. In the end, the Empress Dowager said that she had dreamed of Noble Imperial Concubine Li who told her that it was Prince Mediocre who framed the Crown Prince in the South.
With that, the Eldest Prince was conferred the title of Prince Huai again and was allowed to return to Changan.
This could be regarded as a major event in Changan. After all, Prince Huai was His Majestys eldest son. As soon as he returned to Changan, many people went to give gifts.
In the Duke Anyuan Mansion, Duke Anyuan was having a headache. Although none of his family was in the Duke Mansion, there were still many servants in the Duke Mansion. When it was time to issue the monthly sry, he was baffled.
Not to mention this kind of social activity.
But how could Duke Anyuan Mansion not give a gift to Prince Huai. However, when he wanted to select a gift, he couldnt even find the key to the warehouse!
The butler had the key to the warehouse, but he didnt know how to select the gift. After all, these trivial matters had always been handled by Zheng Xiao.
Now that the Old Madam took her little grandson to the temple for meditation, Duke Anyuan didnt even have anyone to ask, and he couldnt help but have a headache.
When handling official business, he was also med by His Majesty several times.
Faced with this matter, Duke Anyuan had to break into Zheng Xiaos courtyard while Qiao Jinniang was not around.
When he entered Zheng Xiaos courtyard, he saw a man chatting with Zheng Xiao. It was already sote but the man was still in Zheng Xiaos courtyard, and he did not look young.
Duke Anyuan walked over and clenched Zheng Xiaos hand. Who is he?
Chapter 142 - Duke Anyuan Occupied Her Mother’s Courtyard
Chapter 142 Duke Anyuan upied Her Mothers Courtyard
Zheng Xiao saw Duke Anyuan who suddenly appeared. She frowned and said, Your Excellency, be more self-respecting. Is this a ce you can break into at will? Its my own daughters house. Why cant I enter? Duke Anyuan red at the man in front of him.
The man hurriedly cupped his hands and said, Your Excellency, Im an imperial physician. County Mistress was worried about Ms. Zhengs fetus, so she asked me to examine her every three days. Ms. Zhengs fetus is very healthy. Please rest assured. Duke Anyuan breathed a sigh of relief. His daughter wasnt even afraid of the Crown Prince and wanted to marry another man. He hoped that she wouldnt persuade Zheng Xiao to marry another man.
So, he should coax Zheng Xiao back home while Qiao Jinniang was not in Changan.
Honey.
Zheng Xiao shook off Duke Anyuans hand and said, I am no longer your wife.
Duke Anyuan said, Havent we already cleared up the misunderstanding? Youve already taught me a lesson. For the sake of your unborn child, go back to the Duke Mansion, okay?
I heard from the Deputy Minister of Rites today in the pce that they were already preparing the Crown Princes wedding. Jinniang may get married after the Spring Festival.
If she marries into the East Pce from the Duke Mansion, it would be better than from this mansion.
Zheng Xiao said, Dont use Jinniang as an excuse. Jinniang has said, she doesnt care about this.
Duke Anyuan said, She doesnt know the difference, but you do, dont you?
Do you mean that if she doesnt marry from the Duke Mansion, you wont acknowledge her as your daughter? Zheng Xiao sneered, Dont forget you owe her! Duke Anyuan said, Qian Shi has died. Let bygones be bygones. Its been so many days and you should move on. If you dont go back, the Duke Mansion will really be in chaos!
In a blink of an eye, our son will be seventeen after this Spring Festival, and its time to find a fiancee for him
The Duke Mansion cant do without a mistress!
Zheng Xiao said, Arent there a lot of women who want to marry you? Didnt you bring a woman to my housewarming banquet? How easy it is for Duke Anyuan to find a new wife! You can easily find a 15 or 16-year-old girl to marry!
Duke Anyuan said, I just wanted to make you jealous. I dont have anything to do with her
For the sake of Jinniang,e back.
She is living with His Royal Highness in the royal paddock this time. She is probably going to get married soon, so the Duke Mansion should start to prepare for her wedding.
Zheng Xiao said coldly, Your Excellency, Im not trying to make things difficult for you. Jinniangs son is three years old, and we are already grandfather and grandmother, but whenever I think of my life in the Duke Mansion, I feel like a joke.
Where were you when I was almost killed by Qian Shi and was forced to go to the Zheng family to give birth to my children? Where were you when our daughter was killed?
Duke Anyuan sighed. Time cant be reversed. Xiaoer, believe it or not, I regretted it as soon as I said those words to you that day. I regretted that I shouldnt have told you that I only loved my cousin.
Only after we got married did I learn what love between a man and a woman was and realize that I only took Qian Shi as my sister. If it werent for the misunderstandings between us, I would definitely not take her as my concubine.
I went to her courtyard every time I quarreled with you just to make you jealous because only in this way would youe to make peace with me.
Zheng Xiao really thought it was ridiculous. Its gettingte. If you want to recall the past, please dont do it here. Im going to sleep.
Duke Anyuan followed Zheng Xiao closely. Since this is my daughters house, I can also rest here. Ill have the servants bring my belongings over tomorrow. I dont believe Jinniang will drive her father away.
Zheng Xiao said coldly, Dont be shameless.
However, Duke Anyuan still followed Zheng Xiao into her room. Zheng Xiao was really annoyed but Mammy An didnt help her drive Duke Anyuan out.
Zheng Xiao didnt want to get angry for the sake of the child in her belly, so she could only pretend not to see Duke Anyuan at all. But at night, while he was sleeping soundly, she kicked him hard to the ground to vent her anger.
When the snow stopped, Qiao Jinniang hunted two rabbits before returning to Changan. Back in her house, she nned to take her prey to Zheng Xiao first, but when she entered Zheng Xiaos courtyard, Qiao Jinniang saw a tform practicing martial arts and many things used by men. Mother, did you find a stepfather for me? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Zheng Xiao chuckled. Dont talk nonsense. Its your ex-father.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. She was just out for five to six days but Duke Anyuan had already upied her mothers courtyard? No wonder when she came in just now, the concierge at the door looked like a servant from the Duke Mansion
Jinniang is back? Duke Anyuan came in wearing an official uniform, His Royal Highness said that you hunted two rabbits. Not bad for your first hunt!
Qiao Jinniang saluted. Father.
Duke Anyuan smiled and said, You found a good house. Its closer to the imperial pce, so its much more convenient for me to go to the imperial pce and my office if I live here, and I can also spend more time with your mother.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Zheng Xiao. Her mother yielded so quickly? And how did her house be the new Duke Mansion?
Perhaps everyone knew that Duke Anyuan had changed his residence, or perhaps they learned that Qiao Jinniang had lived in the Longquan Pce in the paddock this time, so the invitations that had disappeared for a while were sent to Qiao Jinniangs house ceaselessly.
Qiao Jinniang felt rather helpless.
Something she felt even more helpless about was her brother Qiao Lu. Qiao Lu would participate in the Imperial Examination next spring. Although as the eldest son of Duke Anyuan, he could enter the officialdom even if he didnt take the Imperial Examination. However, civil officials would have more chances in the times of peace.
Qiao Lu had always wanted to take the road of Imperial Examinations.
Therefore, he had been studying in seclusion in school, and it was not until more than a month after his parents divorced that he learned of it. He rushed back to the Duke Mansion, knocked on the door for a long time but no one answered, and the guards at the door were also gone.
If it werent for the fact that the door was not sealed, he would have thought that Duke Mansion had been raided. Qiao Lu said to his servant, Kick the door.
After kicking the door open, the doorman who was dozing inside asked, Who is it?!
When he opened his eyes and saw that it was Qiao Lu, he kept kowtowing in fear. Young Master, you are back? The Duke and Madam are now living in the courtyard opposite Princess Shons mansion. No one lives in this mansion.
Qiao Lu:
As the heir to Duke Anyuan, he didnt even know that the Duke Mansion had moved? Was he still his fathers son?
He rode towards the new house. Qiao Lu knew that the street was full of Princess Mansions, and he had heard about the outrageous deeds of the princesses from a young age.
For example, Princess Shon snatched her husband and forced him to marry her.
Helpless, Prince Consort Shon had to give his nobility title to others.
Although Qiao Lu was still young, as far as he knew, princesses didnt mind age at all.
Therefore, at the intersection, Qiao Lu changed into womens clothes.
He was afraid that the princesses would snatch him away. After all, he was so handsome.
He wanted to be a powerful minister like his father, and he never wanted to serve a princess and be a prince consort.
When he reached the entrance of the new house, he looked up at the house, but just as he was about to enter, he was stopped by the doorman. Where did youe from? How dare you trespass in the Duke Mansion?
At this moment, Fulu happened to go out and spotted a very beautiful girl at the door opposite of her, who looked familiar to her, but she couldnt remember where she had seen her before.
Qiao Lu had been in school, so she hadnt seen Qiao Lu much.
Seeing such a beautiful girl, Fulu had only one thought, that is, this girl must not be Qin Miaomiaos friend.
So she took the initiative to greet her. Hi, who are you?
Chapter 143 - Gems
Chapter 143 Gems
Fulu didnt recognize Qiao Lu, who was dressed as a woman, but Qiao Lu knew this princess, who had always been known as a dandy.
Her mother snatched her father away and forced him to marry her!
Im Young Master Qiao Lus maid. Qiao Lu said, imitating a womans voice
Fulu said, Gee, what a pity. Youre so good-looking. You shouldnt be a maid. If you have nowhere to go,e to my home! Look at the clothes you wear, theyre about to be out of fashion.
There is a new tailor shop next door to Myriad Taste. The clothes the shop sells are novel in style. Let me take you to pick some new clothes.
Qiao Lu saluted and said, Thank you, Princess, Im here to deliver a message of our young master to Duchess Anyuan.
Duke Anyuan and his wife have already divorced. There is no Duchess Anyuan now. Come, lets go pick some clothes. It wont dy your errand.
There were very few beautiful girls among Fulus friends, and they were not as good at dressing up as Qin Miaomiaos friends.
Every time they went to a jewelry store, a rouge shop, or a tailor shop, Fulu and her friends were always eclipsed by Qin Miaomiao and her party. So after finally encountering a fragile girl who was delicate, sweet and beautiful, she must take her with her to give a blow to Qin Miaomiao and her friends self-confidence.
Princess, but
Fulu took Qiao Lus hand and took a closer look. You are so pretty, but why are your hands so calloused? Qiao Lu should have treated you better!
Even Qiao Lus ears turned red. He looked at Fulu shyly, trying to withdraw his hand.
Princess.
Fulu smiled and said, What are you shy about? I have some Jade Muscle Cream that I got from the imperial pce. It is guaranteed to restore your hands to their former smoothness.
Qiao Jinniang was sitting in the Jewelry Pavilion and checking the jade and gemstones delivered by merchants from the Northwest.
She wore a thick veil, revealing only a pair of eyes.
This northwestern merchants name was Yelu Tu, the son of the patriarch of a famous tribe of the Yi ethnic group in the Northern desert, and his mother was a native of Datang.
Although it was the time of peace now, border disputes had never ceased. Therefore, although the two countries had intermarriage, Datang women were not wee in those tribes. After Yelu Tus mother fled back to Datang, she set up her own trade caravan, and Yelu Tu took over his mothers business when he grew up.
He dug jade and gemstones from the Northern desert, Xiliang and other ces and shipped them to Changan for sale.
Most of the jewelry in Changan were made of gold, silver, pearl and jade, and there werent many jewelry made of various colored gemstones.
But how could women resist these transparent and exquisite gems?
Yelu Tu put the gemstones in front of Qiao Jinniang and said, These gemstones are extremely rare, especially this red gemstone, which is free of impurities. If it is embedded on a golden crown, it will be very beautiful.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the gemstones and said, Your jade and gemstones are of good quality, but the price is too high. Yelu Tu smiled. A gem is like a womans beautiful face, unique and priceless, and a dazzling gem canst for a long time. The gems in my mines are unique in the world. In ancient times, He Shi Jade was priceless because it was rare. As the saying goes, gold and silver have a price but jade is priceless. There are quite a few women who love gems nowadays.
Qiao Jinniang said, My Jewelry Pavilion is only a small business, and it really doesnt make much profit.
The corners of Yelu Tus mouth twitched, although he couldnt see the womans face, but from her voice, she must be young. He couldnt believe how she could utter this nonsense!
If the Jewelry Pavilion was a small business, there would be no big business in the world.
Qiao Jinniang continued, Id like to have a long-term cooperation with you, but the price you offer is a bit inted. If you want me to give you this price, youll have to sign a contract with me.
For the next three years, the gems from your mine can only be sold to me, no matter how good or bad the quality is. If I am satisfied with the price you want, I will buy them, and only when we cannot reach an agreement on the price can you sell them to others.
And you cant sell them to someone else at a lower price than you sell them to me, okay?
It was not easy for Yelu Tu to travel to and from Changan, so he certainly wanted to find a long-term customer. With this agreement, every time he had gems for sale, Qiao Jinniang would only have the preemptive right to pick and buy the gems, which he could totally ept.
After all, gems were not very popr in Changan now. If he sold them to other jewelry shops, he might not be able to get a good price and the price of these gems was usually cut extremely low.
Okay, then lets sign a contract.
Qiao Jinniang took out nearly 30,000 taels of silver and bought a pile of stones. Her heart was bleeding, but after Yelu Tu left, she looked at these stones of excellent quality and her eyes were shining.
Not many women in this world could resist the temptation of these gorgeous jewels.
After that, Qiao Jinniang called the manager of the Jewelry Pavilion, Manager Lin, over.
Manager Lin, lock these gems in a wooden box. Only show them to customers from distinguished families or the royal family.
If they pick any of these gems, ask them what kind of jewelry they want to make with the gem, for example, a ne or a hairpin.
By the way, have you talked to the mammies who retired from the Shanggong Bureau? Have they agreed to work for me?
Manager Lin said, Yes, there are three mammies who are willing to work for us. Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Then if the customers choose the gem they like and decide whether to make a hairpin or a ne, let those mammies design the style, and then make it once the customers are satisfied with the style. I will hire some guards for the Jewelry Pavilion. These gems are precious, so I will send someone to specifically guard them. You should be careful when you show them to customers.
Manager Lin nodded. Ill ask the shop assistants to be careful.
Qiao Jinniang took off her veil and said, I heard that the business of the tailors shop is not bad. Let me go and take a look.
The fabrics in Qiao Jinniangs newly opened tailor shop were all shipped from the South, and the patterns of the fabrics were also the most fashionable.
Because she had a fabric shop in the South, her fabrics were sent over faster than other tailor shops in Changan.
The Spring Festival was only about a month away, and then there would be many banquets. Even ordinary people would prepare two or three sets of new clothes, not to mention aristocratic girls.
All the tailor shops in Changan were doing well, but the business of this newly opened tailor shop was even better.
When the noble girls who went out shopping in twos and threes were tired of walking around, they could eat something in the Myriad Taste next door.
Princess, Miss Qin, we only have this piece of cloth left, well
Fulu said, I saw the cloth first. This red cloth is the most suitable for um, you havent told me what your name is?. Fulu looked at the woman who was slightly taller than her.
Qiao Lu:
Qin Miaomiao looked up and down at the girl Fulu found from nowhere, and somehow felt a little familiar with the girl in front of her. Where did you find this girl? Little girl, dont let her lead you astray. Qiao Lu broke free from Fulus hand, walked up to Qin Miaomiao and said, Sister Qin, I am Young Master Qiaos maid When Qin Miaomiao heard this, she finally recognized Qiao Lu. Isnt this the eldest son of the Qiao family? Why was he brought here by Fulu in womens clothes?
Fulu was immediately annoyed. Humph, I brought you here, but you defected to Qin Miaomiao!
Chapter 144 - Qiao Lu Is Missing
Chapter 144 Qiao Lu Is Missing
Qiao Jinniang walked to the door and saw that Fulu and Qin Miaomiao were both there. And when she turned to leave, she was stopped by Qiao Lu.
Sister!
Qiao Lu walked to Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang didnt recognize the woman in front of her all of a sudden. After all, when she came back to Changan, she had met Qiao Lu less than five times.
Fulu grabbed Qiao Lus hand and said, Hey, you! Whats wrong with me? Why do you want to choose Qin Miaomiao?
Qiao Lu tugged at Qiao Jinniangs sleeve and said, Sister, save me.
Qiao Jinniang gently pulled away Qiao Lus hand and smiled. Youngdy, I dont know you.
Qiao Lu:
Qin Miaomiao said to Fulu, Dont bully her. She is Young Master Qiaos maid. Fulu snorted. So what? Jinniang has promised to let me be her sister-inw. If I marry Young Master Qiao, she will be my maid too. Dear sister, I advise you to figure out who is your master.
Qiao Lu blushed and said, Young Master Qiao wont marry you! Qiao Jinniang, how can you, how can you decide your brothers future wife at will?!
Qiao Jinniang said to Fulu with an innocent face, Its up to my parents. I dont have any say about this
Fulu said, I dont care. Ive decided that Qiao Lu will be my future husband.
Qiao Lu said anxiously, You are shameless.
Seeing the blushed and embarrassed face of the little girl, Fulu was amused. She was only joking when she said she wanted to marry Qiao
Lu.
As the only daughter of Princess Shon, she waspletely qualified to marry the son of Duke Anyuan.
But she clearly understood that the next Duchess Anyuan had to be as dignified and graceful as Qin Miaomiao, who could well manage the future Duke Anyuan. Not someone like her who would fool around all day long. But it was so much fun to tease this little girl.
Fulu put two fingers under Qiao Lus chin.
Sister, Im really angry that you betrayed me and defected to Qin Miaomiao. Just because of you, I must be your young masters wife!
Qiao Lu almost cried. He even disguised himself as a woman! Why was he still snatched by a princess?!
When Qiao Jinniang returned to her house, she saw Zheng Xiao waiting at the door. She went over and asked, Mother, why are you standing at the door on such a cold day?
The concierge of the Duke Mansion came to report that Luer hase back, but he hasnte over yet.
When he was young, every time he didnt behave himself, I would frighten him that princesses would snatch him away. Does he not dare toe over because many princesses are living on this street?
Qiao Jinniang tittered. Mother, Luer will be the next Duke Anyuan, and he is almost seventeen years old. How can he be afraid of princesses?
Zheng Xiao said in a low voice, In previous dynasties, it was true that princesses would forcibly take home any good-looking men they saw.
dra
So when children are not well behaved, the people of Changan will say that the princesses will take them away in order to frighten them into obedience.
Qiao Jinniang:
Did Xiers aunts know that they had this function?
Zheng Xiao stuck her head out and looked outside. Qiao Lu hadnte back yet, and she quickly became anxious. When Qiao Lus servant said that he didnt see Qiao Lu either, she began to panic.
Qiao Jinniang tried to pacify Zheng Xiao. I heard that Luer knows some martial arts, and many people know that he is Fathers son, so Im sure nothing will happen to him in a bustling ce like Changan.
Perhaps he went to visit his friends. Lets just send a few servants to look for him.
Mother, lets get inside the house.
Zheng Xiao sighed and entered the room.
Qiao Jinniang ordered her servants to look for Qiao Lu. Qiao Lu was not a child anymore, so she was not worried at all.
Even if he didnt dare toe here, he should be able to go back to the Duke Mansion. Maybe he was somewhere ying.
However, at night, even after Duke Anyuan returned from his office, Qiao Lu still wasnt found, so the entire Qiao family became anxious.
Zheng Xiao couldnt help scolding Duke Anyuan, Its all your fault. When Luer went to school, I said he should take a few more servants. The servant he took this time is simply useless! Duke Anyuan didnt refute. Luer is good at martial arts, and he grew up in the military. Hes not a physically weak schr.
Dont worry too much. Take care of the child in your belly.
In the end, Duke Anyuan turned to Imperial Guards for help, asking them to help find Qiao Lu.
Qiao Jinniang remembered the maid she had seen in the tailor shop and said, Oh, the maid next to Fulu probably knows the whereabouts of Brother.
Maid? Luler didnt take any maids with him. Zheng Xiao said.
The rules of Qiao Lus school were very strict. Each student was only allowed to take a servant and not allowed to take any maids.
Qiao Lu had been studying outside for three years and barely returned to the Duke Mansion, so his maids in the Duke Mansion had been transferred to other courtyards.
Qiao Jinniang said, That maid looks pretty. She has a red mole between her eyebrows.
Zheng Xiao said, I have never seen a maid with a red mole between her eyebrows in the Duke Mansion, but your brother has a red mole between his eyebrows. He is afraid that others willugh at him, so he often uses paint to cover up the red mole. Qiao Lu was young and good-looking. If people found he had a red mole between his eyebrows, he might beughed at in the military.
Although his father was a duke, people would only say that he was just lucky to have a good dad andugh at his feminine appearance.
Qiao Jinniang suddenly remembered that the maid called her Sister and asked for her help. After thinking about this, she immediately went to Princess Shons mansion on the opposite side.
In the Princess Mansion.
Qiao Lu looked at the Qiao Mansion just a short distance away and sighed.
Princess Shon tapped Fulus head. Why did you bring back Young Master Qiaos maid?
Dont mess around with him, okay? His father is Duke Anyuan, and his sister is going to be the crown princess.
Fulu pouted in displeasure. Mother, am I that bad in your eyes?
Princess Shon said, My daughter is certainly not bad, but he is not suitable for you.
Most importantly, although it is peaceful now, if there is a border dispute or something, the Qiao family will be the first to go to the battlefield. The men of the Qiao family all died on the battlefield, and Old Madam Qiao was widowed when she was only thirty!
I only wish you and your husband to have a safe and happy life.
Qiao Lu:
Should he be happy or angry at Princess Shouans words?
He didnt want to marry Fulu. Why did Princess Shouan curse him to die on the battlefield?
Humph!
Fulu was immediately scared. Then I dont want to marry Qiao Lu. I dont want to be a widow.
Qiao Lu snorted in his heart: Didnt you just say that you only want to marry me? You changed your mind really quickly, humph!
Qiao Jinniang came in a hurry, saluted Princess Shouan and said, Princess.
Princess Shon said, No need to be too polite.
Qiao Jinniang grabbed Qiao Lus sleeve and said, I just forgot to bring back my brothers maid in the tailors shop. Sorry for disturbing
you.
Fulu said, This little sister is quite fun. I wonder if Young Master Qiao is willing to sell her to me? Just name the price.
Qiao Jinniang said, This is my brothers maid. Ill have to ask my brother if he wants to sell her.
Qiao Lu snorted. Young Master will not sell me to you!
Qiao Jinniang red at Qiao Lu, took him back to the Qiao Mansion, closed the door and asked, Brother, is it fun to disguise as a woman?
Chapter 145 - Find A Concubine Maid for Qiao Lu
Chapter 145 Find A Concubine Maid for Qiao Lu
When Zheng Xiao saw Qiao Lu came back in womens clothes, she was half worried and half annoyed. Luer, why are you wearing womens clothes? Why did you pretend to be your own maid?
Qiao Lu said, I am afraid that I will be taken away by the princesses.
Everyone:
Duke Anyuan coughed and said, Dont worry. The princesses wont do it again. They no longer dare to tantly snatch good-looking men in the street after being impeached several times by the imperial censors.
Qiao Lu went to his courtyard, washed up and changed before he went to the hall for dinner.
Qiao Lu walked up to Zheng Xiao and said, Mother, why did you and Father divorce? Did Father do something wrong to you again?
You left with my sisters, and Grandmother left with Ah Li. Then what about me?
Zheng Xiaodao: Luer, youre your fathers heir, so you have to stay in the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Lu looked dispirited.
Duke Anyuan said helplessly, Why the look? Is it a torture to be my heir?
Qiao Lu red angrily at Duke Anyuan and said, You must have broken Mothers heart. Thats why she insisted on divorcing you!
As her son, if I cant protect her, whats the use of being your heir?
Duke Anyuan:
Zheng Xiao didnt want her son to quarrel with Duke Anyuan, so she said, Luer, since we have divorced, from now on, I dont have anything to do with him. Dont me your father.
Duke Anyuan said, Dont have anything to do with me?
Then who massaged your legs all night? How can you say I have nothing to do with you
Zheng Xiao blushed. What are you talking about?! The children are listening! Qiao Jinniang was embarrassed, so she said to Qiao Lu, Princess Fulu was just kidding. You dont have to take her words to heart.
Zheng Xiao asked, Kidding about what?
Princess Fulu said that she wanted to marry Brother, but it was just a joke. Qiao Jinniang said.
Zheng Xiao pondered. Your grandmother is right. Its time for Luer to have a fiance. If he passed the Imperial Examination next spring
Duke Anyuan was still angry with his son who didnt even try to persuade Zheng Xiao to return to the Duke Mansion. He wont even reach seventeen next spring. He may be able to pass the Imperial Examination on martial arts, but not the Imperial Examination on civil service.
Qiao Lu: Just because you couldnt pass it doesnt mean I cant either! Qiao Jinniang knew there are many capable people in this world, and it would be extremely difficult for Qiao Lu to pass the Imperial Examination on civil service.
However, with Qiao Lus background, even if he failed in the exam, he could still work in the Department of Defence when he came of age.
Qiao Lu said, If I pass the Imperial Examination next spring, you, Mother and Sister have to promise me that I can choose my wife myself.
I dont want my wife to live a miserable life like Mother, who was bullied and cold-shouldered by you all her life. At first, Zheng Xiao didnt want to agree, but after hearing what he said, she nodded. Okay, I promise you.
Duke Anyuan said to Zheng Xiao, Why did you promise him that? What I am most grateful for my mother is that she forced me to marry you
Zheng Xiao nced coldly at Duke Anyuan, speechless.
Qiao Jinniang asked Qiao Lu, Do you already have a woman you love?
Qiao Lu said, Yes, there is a girl I want to marry.
Although she said that she didnt want to marry him and be a widow.
Today they held hands for so long. So as a man, he should take his responsibility.
And she was the first girl who said in public that she wanted to marry him
Qiao Jinniang didnt ask who that girl was. Perhaps it was a woman Qiao Lu knew in school.
Early the next morning.
Yuyan ran in and said to Hongling. Today
e dawn, Young Master went to draw water from the well and washed his bedding in such cold weather.
The mammies tried to stop him but it turned out that he had wet his bedst night.
Hongling hurriedly stopped her. What are you talking about? How can you gossip about Young Master? If this matter spreads out, youll be severely punished.
Hongling was older than Yuyan. She used to be Qiao Lus maid. When she served Qiao Lu, mammies often told her to pay attention to the bedding of Young Master.
At that time, she understood what that meant.
Qiao Jinniang heard Yuyans words and said, Yuyan, youre still a little girl. You dont understand these things. Dont talk about it anymore. Is Luer gone? He returned to school early in the morning.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Hongling to warn the servants not to spread this matter.
When she went to Zheng Xiao, Zheng Xiao was very happy after Mammy An told her about this matter.
It seems that after the Imperial Examination next spring, I should find a concubine maid for Luer. He is already a grown-up man. If Hongling werent your maid, she would have bern a suitable choice
Qiao Ruoyi was silent on the side, and after hearing the word concubine maid, her face was a little gloomy.
Qiao Jinniang said to Zheng Xiao, Mother, didnt Brother say that he already has a girl he likes? Why dont you just let them get married as soon as possible? Why ruin an innocent maids life?
Zheng Xiao said, Its a blessing to be the next Duke Anyuans concubine maid. Why do you say it will ruin her life?
Qiao Jinniang said softly to Zheng Xiao, As the saying goes, dont do to others what you dont want others to do to you. You can understand me for not wanting my husband to have any concubines. Then why do you arrange a concubine for Brother?
If Brother and his wife love each other, a concubine maid between them will ruin their rtionship. Zheng Xiao said, But if he doesnt have any experience about sex, his wife may not be satisifed with him
But seeing that Qiao Ruoyi was here, Zheng Xiao didnt continue.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt have this scruple. Mother, themon men dont have any concubine maids, and most of them dont have this kind of problem. Besides, Brother can learn from porn paintings.
I never hear a woman needing a concubine servant to teach her about sex.
Zheng Xiao said awkwardly, Dont talk nonsense, but what you said makes sense. Luer can learn about this kind of matter from porn paintings.
Qiao Ruoyi didnt understand what they were talking about, and she didnt want to understand it either.
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ruoyi, There are a few new shops next to Myriad Taste. Sister, you can go shopping there and report my name.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister, I dont like clothes and jewelry, but I heard that there is a new book market in the East Market. Can I go shopping there?
Qiao Jinniang said, Then Ill go with you. I want to buy some books.
She wanted to buy some books for the school she founded. Although many people in Changan had donated books, it was not enough.
The book market was next to the Imperial College, and there literati and schrs came and went. So, as soon as Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi got off their carriage, they saw Li Yun.
Li Yun had already put on the official robe of Hanlin Academy. He came to see if there were some books he liked in this book market.
Qiao Jinniang and Li Yun nodded at each other as a greeting
At this time, Tong Yingyings voice suddenly rang. How can a person who doesnt care about etiquette and morality and doesnt respect her ne to this clean ce?! It will only pollute this ce!
Qiao Ruoyi, I had thought that you were a talented girl, but now it seems that you are nothing but an apple polisher.
Chapter 146 - Her Conquest
Chapter 146 Her Conquest
Qiao Jinniang was really upset to see Tong Yingying.
Behind Tong Yingying, there were several young schrs who supported her, and they all said, Yingying, why do you bother to pay attention to an illiterate woman?
Qiao Ruoyi is born by a concubine after all, so she has to live at her sisters mercy.
Tong Yingying sneered coldly. My mother is a concubine too, but even so, we should strive for a bright future for ourselves, instead of trying to please mistress-born sisters like she does.
A schrplimented her, Although Miss Tong is a woman, she has an unyielding resolve equal to that of a man. As the saying goes, a gentleman should constantly strive to be strong just like the evolution of the universe. I admire her very much.
Qiao Jinniang really couldnt stand Tong Yingyings self-righteous air, and said with a cold smile,
A gentleman should constantly strive to be strong just like the evolution of the universe? But thetter part is that a gentleman should generously cultivate to be tolerant just like the earth bears everything on it.
What makes you think you can judge other people? Are you worthy of being called a gentleman?
Tong Yingying knows nothing about sisterhood but calls it apple-polishing. Just because she doesnt get along with her sisters doesnt mean that she has an unyielding resolve equal to that of a man. Dont insult this old saying!
All the schrs thought that Qiao Jinniang was illiterate and never thought that she had actually read a lot of books.
Hongling, Luhe, note down the schrs names and remember their appearances.
Qiao Jinniang instructed her maids. The schrs asked, Why do you want to note down our names? Thats because I want to give your names to His Royal Highness. Gossip mongers are not worthy of being officials!
Qiao Jinniang said.
Tong Yingying said, The harem is not allowed to interfere in politics, and you havent entered the East Pce yet!
Qiao Jinniang said, Have I interfered in politics? Im just telling the truth. When those schrs heard this, they hurriedly covered their faces. They didnt pass thest Imperial Examination. If they failed in the Imperial Examination next spring, they would have to wait for three more years before they could take the next Imperial Examination.
Seeing them disperse, Tong Yingying said angrily, Spineless, humph! Qiao Jinniang sneered. As a woman, Tong Yingying never cared about other women but held mens oppression rules on women as canons.
Not far away, Li Yuns colleague said to Li Yun, Why is Miss Tong doing this? In the hot spring vi, Qiao Jinniang lived with the Crown Prince and she is also the biological mother of the Crown Princes heir.
I heard someone from the Ministry of Rites say that they have started to prepare for the Crown Princes wedding, and the crown princess is probably Qiao Jinniang.
What good is Miss Tong doing offending her?
The Ministry of Rites hasnt been so busy for a long time.
There was no expression on Li Yuns face. He knew that if he showed that he cared about her at this moment, it would only ruin Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang bought a lot of books, and when she returned to her room, she smelled the fragrance of ambergris.
She went in, and as expected, she saw Lu Chen sitting beside her bed, reading one of her novels.
Remembering that it was a romance novel, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly went over to take back the novel, Dont read my novels!
Did you go to a book market with Li Yun today?
Qiao Jinniang closed the book and said slightly crossly, I didnt even say a word to Li Yun. Why did you say I went to the book market with him?
Lu Chen chuckled and said, Im just asking. Dont be angry. I just came to tell you that the brocade fabric with which your wedding dress will be made has been done. Dont put on weight in case you cant fit into the dress.
Qiao Jinniang asked knowingly, Hadnt we already had a wedding? Why do it again?
Lu Chen didnt want to recall theirst wedding because she was really hateful at that time.
Qiao Jinning thought of something and said, Lu Chen, will you retaliate against me at this wedding for what I did to you in ourst wedding?
If you dare, I wont marry you!
Lu Chen pinched Qiao Jinniangs nose gently. How dare you mention ourst wedding!
Qiao Jinniang said, I apologized to youter, didnt I? You were unwilling to marry into my family, and I didnt know you well back then, so I wanted to show you I was not a weakling you could bully.
Lu Chen recalled theirst wedding. Qiao Jinniangs adoptive parents really doted on Qiao Jinniang. Although they were seriously ill back then, they still managed to hold a grand wedding for them with very limited preparation time.
They held banquets for three days and three nights in Myriad Taste.
On the day of their marriage, Qiao Jinniang forced him to go to her house in a sedan chair. When he entered the door, she hung her skirt on the door and forced him to walk through under her skirt, saying that it symbolized that he was her conquest. At that time, Lu Chen was so angry that he wanted to leave directly. If he werent afraid that Qiao Jinniangs dying adoptive mother would die if he left, he wouldnt have tolerated it.
Plus, he had already nned to leave the next day.
But Qiao Jinniang forced him to kneel down and wash her feet. Although Lu Chen lost his memory back then, he knew this was a big insult to him
When he was about to leave, he suddenly saw Qiao Jinniang burst into tears. Although the little girl in the red wedding dress was hateful, she was also pitiful.
After all, he owed her a life-saving grace, so he nned to give her a son before he left so that she wouldnt be disturbed by her nsmen.
But after spending a night with her, he could no longer forget her and didnt want to leave anymore.
Even if she called him her conquest, he could only admit that he had already been a prisoner of love.
Seeing that he ignored her, Qiao Jinniang said, Im sorry I shouldnt have done that to you. I was told that if I didnt do those things to you, you would bully me. I had nned to make you crawl through under my skirt, but my parents scolded me
Lu Chen smiled and said, Fortunately, you didnt do that. Otherwise, I would have left at that time.
Thest wedding doesnt count. This one will be our real wedding.
There will be a total of five sets of dresses for you at the wedding. The dresses are already being made and should be ready by early spring next year. Qiao Jinniang eximed, Five dresses? So many? The crown princess will have to offer sacrifices to the heavens, gods and ancestors at the wedding, so the procedures will be veryplicated. Im afraid you will be very busy that day. Lu Chen took out a ruler from the embroidery basket on the side, Come here, let me take your measurements. Qiao Jinniang asked, Are you so idle? Do you need to do this yourself?
Lu Chen said, You dont want to learn the court etiquette quickly, so you cant let the people from the imperial pcee to take your measurements, but I want you to enter the East Pce as soon as possible, so I can only do it myself.
Qiao Jinniang patted Lu Chens hand gently. You can take my measurements, but dont do anything else. Maybe someone will suddenlye in again.
As soon as she finished speaking, Yuyan hurried in and said, Miss, not good, Huixiang from Myriad Taste came to you, saying that a lot of people died on a cargo ship from the South. Someone recognized that the dead people were Qiao Laosi and his family.
Qiao Jinniang froze all over. Although she knew the Qiao nsmen would have an internal strife, she did not expect that they would kill.
In Changan government office.
Prefect Changan finally had a day off, and he was listening to his concubine singing for him at home.
His subordinate suddenly rushed in and reported, Sir, a lot of people died on a boat that has just arrived at Changan Wharf, and the youngest was only a month old! Prefect Changan:
He finally had a day off. Couldnt they submit this case to the Ministry of Justice?
Chapter 147 - Dog Eats Dog
Chapter 147 Dog Eats Dog
The next day, Qiao Jinniang went to Tasty Pavilion to check the ounts.
Before dinner time, Qiao Ergous voice sounded at the door.
Qiao Jinniang, the heir you picked died on the boat. Its almost New Years Eve, so you should give the restaurants to our n as soon as possible, and the n will choose your adoptive fathers heir!
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ergou as if she didnt know what happened, Oh, how did he die? Do you know who the murderer is? Qiao Ergou said, The case is still being investigated by the government. Your fifth uncles grandson, Yuaner is the smartest child in the n. Its better to let him be the heir.
Qiao Laowu held Yuaner over, who had just been picked up from Linan, and said, Yes, Qiao Jinniang, you have to keep your word! Now that Qiao Laosi and his family are gone, my Yuaner is the most suitable to inherit Myriad Taste.
Looking at Qiao Ergou and Qiao Laowu, Qiao Jinniang felt extremely chilled.
No matter Liu Cuihua or Qiao Laowu, they were all snobbish people. Myriad Taste made so much money, so they might go to extreme lengths to seize it.
But she never thought that they would simply kill Qiao Laosi and his family.
Was kinship worth nothingpared to the restaurant?
Its really not easy to find you. Prefect Changan came over with his men and said, Come, arrest Qiao Laowu.
Qiao Laowu shouted in a panic, Master, I didnt do anything wrong. Why do you want to arrest me?
Prefect Changan said, The evidence is conclusive that you poisoned and killed Qiao Laosi and his family on the boat. The boatman saw you put poison in their food. He was afraid of being killed by you, so he didnt dare to tell it until he came to me.
Qiao Laowu shook his head and said, I didnt, I didnt do that!
Prefect Changan said, We will find out whether you did it or not. Qiao Laosi and his family were killed on the boat, but you and your family are still all alive, which is very suspicious, so you go to the yamen for an investigation first.
Qiao Laowu looked at Qiao Ergou and said, Second Brother, I really did not do that. I just did what you told me. You have to save me!
Qiao Ergou heard the threat in Qiao Laowus words, and said, So you bought arsenic in Changan when you returned to Linan just to poison Laosi?
Then Qiao Ergou went over and whispered into Qiao Laowus ear, Just plead guilty, and I can let Yuaner inherit the restaurant.
After hearing that, Qiao Laowu said to Prefect Changan, So what if I killed him? If I hadnt rushed back to Linan early, Qiao Laosi and Liu Cuihua would have killed my Yuaner!
Even if I hadnt killed them on the boat, they would have killed me sooner orter. I just did it first!
Qiao Jinniang said, Fifth Uncle, how can I hand over the restaurant to a murderers grandson? If you admit to the murder, Yuaner wont be able to be the heir. Ill find someone else
Qiao Laowu looked at Qiao Ergou anxiously and said,
Second Brother, you promised me that Yuaner would be the heir. You had a part in Qiao Laosis death too! You cant deny it.
Qiao Ergou was angry, thinking Qiao Laowu was really stupid. It was you who killed Qiao Laosi. Why dare you nder me?
I didnt nder you. I have evidence to prove that you had a part in it. Im not stupid! Qiao Laowu said.
Qiao Jinniang was expressionless when she was watching this expected dog-eats-dog scene.
Qiao Yuner was not stupid after all. She pointed at Qiao Jinniang and said,
Its you! Its you who deliberately said that you wanted Fourth Uncles grandson to be the heir, and also expressed your satisfaction with Yuaner, to make them kill each other.
Qiao Jinniang, how can you be so vicious?!
After thinking about it carefully, Qiao Yuner figured out everything. Qiao Jinniang never thought about finding any heirs.
She showed she was satisfied with both Fourth Uncles grandson and Yuaner just to make them fight against each other.
She didnt care about the lives of these innocent children at all.
Qiao Jinniang was amused and said, Im vicious? Did I make you kill? Did I put the knife in your hands? The murderer mes others for being vicious. What a joke.
Qiao Yuner pointed at Qiao Jinniang and said, Arent you afraid that those ghosts will haunt
you?
Qiao Jinniang said candidly, No debts without creditors,no hatred without cause. Even if there are ghosts, they wont haunt me. Even if they haunt me, I wont be afraid!
Qiao Laosi and his family were killed on a boat, even the children were not spared.
This news spread quickly because there had been no murders in Changan for a long time.
Fortunately, Prefect Changan cracked this case very quickly. The murderer was indeed Qiao Laowu and Qiao Ergou who conspired to kill just to get the restaurant.
But because this case involved the oral decree of His Majesty, Prefect Changan had to report this case to the Emperor.
When Emperor Huilin heard this, he was annoyed and said, I cant believe such an appalling crime happened in Changan!
Just for a restaurant, they murdered their own nsmen even including innocent children. The so-called nsmen are even worse than beasts!
Imperial Censor Tong stood up and said, Your Majesty, this is because Qiao Jinniang refused to hand over the restaurant.
If it was up to the head of the Qiao n to select the heir, no one would have died.
Lu Chen stood up too and said, Father, I think even then the result would have been the same. Theyre always willing to kill for benefits.
Imperial Censor Tong said, Your Majesty, please order Qiao Jinniang to select the heir as soon as possible!
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Father, to avoid the trouble, I suggest let Xier be Earl Linans heir.
When Earl Linan was still alive, Jinniang was already pregnant with Xier, and Earl Linan had recognized Xier as his heir when he was alive.
When Xier has a daughter in the future, let Xiers daughter find a husband and inherit the Qiao family.
The ministers wanted to object, but they found that they had no reason to object. After all, what His Royal Highness said was not his daughter. The little imperial grandson was only three years old now, and when his daughter grew up, they all must have died
Emperor Huilin said, Indeed, to avoid any more disputes, I agree to your proposal. Thats all for today!
Imperial Censor Tong frowned and still wanted to speak, but was stopped by Duke Wu.
Brother-inw, His Majesty has already decided it, and so many people have died. Why bother?
Imperial Censor Tong said, I didnt expect that the Qiao family would have such a vicious daughter.
Brother-inw, if Qiao Jinniang bes the crown princess, Sisi wont be able to survive!
Duke Wu said, We never n to let Sisi marry the Crown Prince!
Most of the Qiao nsmen were implicated. In prison, Qiao Laowu confessed to many evil things that the Qiao nsmen did, even including the petty theft they did in Linan.
Some timid Qiao nsmen went back to Linan with the money given by Qiao Ruoyun.
But Aunt Qiao and her family were fascinated by the prosperity of Changan and stayed. But at this moment, they didnt dare to make trouble, which finally gave Qiao Jinning peace.
However, Second Madam came to Zheng Xiao every day, crying and scolding Qiao Ruofeng for being stupid, and cursing Qiao Ruofengs fiance b*stard.
Old Madam Qiao was practicing in the temple and refused to see any visitors, so Second Madam could onlye to beg Zheng Xiao.
Although they were separated from the Duke Mansion, they were still rtives.
Although theyre a merchant family, I didnt look down upon them, but they said Ruofeng was not clean and annulled the engagement! Everyone knows that Prince Mediocres thing is as small as a teapot mouth, so Ruofeng is still a virgin!
How dare they annul the engagement? If Ruofeng is despised by a businessman, which decent young man is willing to marry her? Sister-inw, you have to give Ruofeng justice!
Chapter 148 - Prince Huai Returned
Chapter 148 Prince Huai Returned
Zheng Xiao said helplessly: Im not your sister-inw anymore. You can turn to Old Madam for help.
Old Madam is in seclusion in a temple, and we are not allowed to see her. s, its just our retribution. We have no one to me. Second Madam looked at Qiao Jinniang who was on the side and asked, Jinniang do you still me your sister and me for our offense to you?
Qiao Jinniang said, Second Aunt, what happened in the past is over and done with. Sister Ruofeng is still young. You dont have to hurry to marry her off.
After Grandmotheres back, she will definitely find a good husband for Ruofeng.
Second Madam sighed and said sadly, My poor daughter!
Why did she admit that she was in correspondence with Prince Mediocre!
Qiao Jinniang said, Its better to say it now than to say it after marriage and then get divorced by her husband.
Second Madam thought her words made sense and felt a bit better. Then she thought of Qiao Ruoyun and said,
By the way, Sister-inw, do you know that Ruoyun is looking for a Yangzhou Thin horse for her husband?
She is really stupid.
Young Master Qin treated her so well, yet she kept pushing her man to other women!
You have to remind her about this. She has been dull and weak since she was a child.
If she really finds her husband a concubine who can win her husbands favor, how can she still maintain her status as the mistress?
Zheng Xiao sighed. Ruoyun has been married for almost three years but still has no children yet, so she is very anxious. Her mother-inw is not harsh to her, but her grandmother-inw who despises her background keeps nagging her about children every day.
So finding a concubine for her husband might get that old woman to shut up.
Second Madam empathized. Her mother-inw was nice to her, and even though her husband had several concubines, he still didnt get a son.
Second Master Qiao was so disappointed and simply gave up. Second Madam sighed. s, when can women in the world be freed of the shackle of having to give birth to a son?
When Qiao Jinniang heard the words, she said, Sister Ruoyun has just had a miscarriage less than a year ago, but now she has to find her husband a concubine under the pressure of public opinion. s, why cant she live an easier life?
If she were Qiao Ruoyun, if the Qin family forced her to find her husband a concubine, she would definitely choose to divorce and return to her parents home.
She was brought up with care and love. Why did she have to bear such humiliation?
But Qiao Ruoyun was not her. Since she chose to surrender, Qiao Jinniang was not in a position to say anything about it.
If she went to persuade Qiao Ruoyun to divorce, thetter might me her.
Second Madamplimented Qiao Jinniang. Jinniang is really a lucky girl.
I heard that the Ministry of Rites is already preparing for the Crown Princes wedding. It wont take long before you can marry into the East Pce as the crown princess.
This whole Changan is looking forward to you marrying into the East Pce as soon as possible.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Do people hate me so much that you want to lock me up in the East Pce as soon as possible?
Second Madam said, Of course not, now that the crown princess has already been chosen, the crown princes first, second and third concubines will also be chosen soon. So the whole of Changan is looking forward to it!
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea. Then Im afraid they will be disappointed. Second Madam asked in confusion, Why?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Because I wont allow my husband to take any concubines!
Second Madam tentatively put her hand on Qiao Jinniangs forehead. You dont have a fever, but why are you raving?.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Im not raving. I wont allow my husband to take any concubines. If the Crown Prince bes my husband, hell have to ept it too.
Prince Huai had returned to Changan, and his mansion was built.
After entering the mansion, Consort Huai held a grand banquet.
Consort Huai was from the Empress Dowagers natal family and had a lot of connections in Changan.
Almost every powerful family in Changan had received invitations to the banquet.
The Duke Mansion was no exception, and Consort Huai was even considerate enough to send the invitation to Qiao Jinniangs house, not to the Duke Mansion. Qiao Jinniang was very impressed with Li Lingling who was the first scheming woman Qiao Jinniang had seen since she came to Changan.
Not to mention that Li Lingling had always wanted to marry into the East Pce.
Although Zheng Xiao didnt want to attend to the Duke Mansions affairs, begged by Duke Anyuan, she still helped Duke Anyuan prepare the gift.
Since Prince Huai had returned to Changan and had his own mansion, all the nobles in Changan would attend this banquet.
Therefore, early this morning, the gates of Prince Huai Mansion were crowded with people and vehicles. Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi were in the same carriage with Fulu.
Fulu said to Qiao Jinniang, My eldest cousin has always been gentle and nice, but Li Lingling, as you know, is not easy to deal with. Im really upset when I think that Ill have to see her at every pce banquet in the future. She is such a nuisance!
As soon as Prince Huai returned, Li Lingling held such a grand banquet. It seems like she is really afraid that people in Changan will forget
her.
Qiao Ruoyi said to Fulu, No, she should be afraid that people in Changan will forget Prince Huai.
Prince Huais reputation nine years ago was no worse than that of Prince Mediocre a while
ago!
Fulu remembered, Yes, when the Crown Prince was still a child, Prince Huai had already been famous for his wisdom in governing the country.
But then Prince Mediocre gradually made his name, and my eldest cousin gradually became a prince who only liked painting and calligraphy. My parents said my eldest cousin was trying to avoid suspicion
Qiao Ruoyi said, Exactly, the Eldest Prince is a smart person. Nine years ago, he was already in his twenties.
But His Royal Highness was only an eleven-year-old boy.
The Eldest Prince was already in his prime, and if he still had the talent to run the country, people would inevitably think he was more suitable to be the crown prince.
His Majesty would have been unhappy if he heard those words, so the Eldest Prince pretended to only like calligraphy and painting and looked to be uninterested in politics.
And in exchange, the Queen protected his life when he was abandoned by Earl Chengen Mansion.
He is actually quite smart.
Now he is still the respected Prince Huai.
But Prince Mediocre who prided himself on the talent of running the country and wanted to seize the throne has be amoner.
Qiao Jinniang disagreed with Qiao Ruoyis opinion.
She thought if Prince Huai really had no intention topete with the Crown {rince for the throne
Why did he have to purposely avoid suspicion?
Was he hiding what he really wanted in his heart?
When they arrived at the gates of Prince Huai Mansion, Li Lingling was greeting the guests at the front door. Looking at this, who wouldnt praise Prince Huai for having a good consort?
And who wouldnt exim about the impermanent fate!
They had thought that Li Lingling was over since she was married off to the Eldest Prince and sent to the Imperial Mausoleum, but she had be Consort Huai and returned to Changan.
Now Prince Mediocre had been demoted to amoner, and the Eldest Prince had be Prince Huai, everyone suddenly remembered that Prince Huai was very outstanding ten years ago.
More importantly, Prince Huai was the Emperors eldest son!
His mother was His Majestys cousin. In terms of bloodline, he was not much worse than His Royal Highness.
The nobledies gossiped in twos and threes.
I heard that Li Lingling was raised by the standard of the future crown princess. This banquet is held almost perfectly.
I wonder if His Royal Highness regrets giving Li Lingling to Prince Huai?
Shh! Arent you afraid of losing your head?
Mrs. Tong, Im telling the truth, can Qiao Jinniang manage the entire East Pce?
Mrs. Tong smiled and said, Only when she cant handle it and doesnt have the ability of Li Lingling can our daughters have an easier life in the East Pce!
Ady beside her echoed, Mrs. Tongs words are very true. If the crown princess is very capable, the Crown Princes concubines will have a hard time. If Qiao Jinniang doesnt know how to manage the East Pce, perhaps our daughters will gain the right to manage the East Pce, right?
Chapter 149 - Shocked Everyone With Her Performance
Chapter 149 Shocked Everyone With Her Performance
Mrs. Tong thought that Tong Yingying might gain the power to manage the East Pce. Although Tong Yingying was not born by her, she was way smarter than Tong Xuan. After marrying into the East Pce, with the support of Duke Wu Mansion, Tong Yingying might be able to gain the Queens favor.
Even if the crown princess doesnt manage the East Pce well, Im afraid it wont be up to your daughters to manage it. Duchess Wu came over and said helplessly, Brother is already unwise, and Sister-inw, you are even sillier than him.
Mrs. Tong obviously wanted to make use of Zhou Sisi from Duke Wu Mansion who was mentally deficient But how could she just make it so clear? Although Zhou Sisi was a bit retarded, the Zhou family would definitely not allow the Tong family to use Zhou Sisi as a springboard for Tong Yingying to marry into the East Pce! Mrs. Tong hurriedly assured, Sister-inw, youre right. Our Tong family dares not make use of Duke Wu Mansion.
Earl Chengen Mansion was Li Linglings natal family, but the one who came today was not Li Linglings mother, but Concubine Li of Earl Chengens heir, whose father was very favored by the Empress Dowager.
When Fulu heard about this, she said, What is my uncle doing? How could he send a concubine to this banquet? Although Li Lingling is not a good person, its too much to have a concubine attend this kind of a banquet
A generals daughter said, I heard that todays banquet was cooked by Concubine Lis father, Imperial Chef Li, who was very favored by the Empress Dowager. Mrs. Zheng, who offended Concubine List time, has turned into soil now.
Everyone in Earl Chengen Mansion is very respectful to Concubine Li. She is almost more important than the wife of Earl Chengens heir.
Qiao Jinniang looked over. Li Lingling didnt have any disdain for Concubine Li, but treated her as a distinguished guest, which was really confusing
Mommy! Tuaner trotted over and threw himself into Qiao Jinniangs arms.
The people on the side all saluted.
Qiao Jinniang picked up little Lu Xi and kissed him on his soft little face. Dear baby, do you miss Mom?
Little Lu Xi snuggled into Qiao Jinniangs arms and said, Yes, I miss you a lot! When can you live with Daddy?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Its almost time.
Today, Lu Chen and his brothers also came to attend the banquet, but Princess Jinghua didnte because she hadnt recovered yet.
During the banquet, Consort Huai Li Lingling offered to perform a beautiful dance for the guests.
Li Lingling was very good at dancing, but seeing her wearing a thin dance dress in such a cold winter, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but shiver.
After Li Lingling finished dancing, she looked at Qiao Jinniang. I have heard that Miss Qiao is from the South where it is famous for its beautiful songs. I wonder if I will be lucky enough to listen to Miss Qiao sing. I will also personally dance to your song.
Qiao Jinniang:
She liked to listen to Southern songs, and there were singers in her restaurants, but she wasnt good at singing.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not good at singing, but I can y zither. If you dont mind, I will y a song together with Consort Huai.
Nowadays, noblemen would learn the Six Arts, while noble girls would learn zither, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, singing and dancing
Qiao Jinniang was poor at painting, but was not that bad at other arts.
Now that Consort Huai had performed her dance, if she rejected performing, she might be despised. Moreover, since she had already decided to marry into the East Pce, there was no need to hide her talent.
Li Lingling swept her gaze to Tong Yingying and said, Speaking of zither, Miss Tong is the best at it. The beautiful High Mountain and Flowing Water she performed at hering-of-age ceremony four years ago stunned everyone. Why dont you two have a littlepetition?
Tong Yingying got up and said, Miss Qiaos ancestors are all military generals. How about ying Da Mian today?
Da Mian was the song depicting the famous General Lanling in the Southern and Northern Dynasties killing the enemies on the battlefield. Lanling was too handsome to intimidate his enemy so he always wore a mask on the battlefield.
After this matter waspiled into a song, few people yed it, but in the past ten years this song became very popr. Da Mian was also called Lanling on the Battlefield.
Qiao Jinniang felt fortunate. She might not know other songs, but she was very familiar with this song, so she replied, Okay. Tong Yingying smiled and said, This song cant be done without a dance. Please allow me to invite His Royal Highness to dance.
What Tong Yingying thought was that for the sake of his father, Imperial Censor Tong, the Crown Prince would not reject her today.
However, Lu Chen didnt even give her a look or even a response. Obviously, he didnt take Tong Yingying seriously, and just pretended that he didnt hear her.
Qiao Jinniang stood up and said, If we y it well, why do we need a dancer? Id like to y this song with Miss Tong!
Tong Yingying looked at Qiao Jinniang with contempt. She had been practicing zither since she was four years old, and very few people in Changan couldpete with her in zither.
Qiao Jinniang, who came from the small town, Linan, might only be able to y some vulgar folk songs. What made her think she couldpete with her in zither?!
Li Lingling ordered people to bring up two zithers.
Qiao Jinniang tried it out. These zithers were of very good quality. And themon plot in novels where her zither would be secretly damaged didnt happen here.
Li Lingling had thought about doing something to the zither, but since Qiao Jinniang stupidly said that she wanted topete with Tong Yingying in zither, she felt that it was unnecessary. Qiao Jinniang might have learned zither for a few days, but Tong Yingying had been practicing it for two hours a day ever since she was a child.
Ordinary people had no chance to beat her in zither.
Fulu asked Qiao Ruoyi curiously, Have you ever seen Qiao Jinniang y a zither at home? Everyone knows that I am her friend. If she is defeated by Tong Yingying, wouldnt I lose face?
Qiao Ruoyun also looked at Qiao Ruoyi worriedly.
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister only likes reading books, counting money, and asionally carving radishes and making cakes and delicacies. I have never seen her y a zither.
Fulu was worried. Zither ying required practicing every day, not to mention Da Mian which was extremely difficult to y.
Qiao Jinniang sat in front of the zither and tuned it for a while. After all, she hadnt yed the zither for more than half a year. Watching Qiao Jinniang tuning the zither, Tong Yingying was amused and asked, Can you really y the zither, Miss Qiao? If she could y the zither, why was she tuning the zither like a four-year-old?
Qiao Jinniang sat upright and said, Okay, Im ready.
Tong Yingying also took a seat, and Qiao Jinniang and Tong Yingying sat opposite each other in the pavilion, one in red and the other in white.
Qiao Jinniang put her hands on the zither, closed her eyes and ced her fingertips on the strings.
Once they started to y, Tong Yingying on the opposite side almost couldnt keep up. After she managed to stabilize, she found it too difficult for her to keep up with Qiao Jinniang.
She had no choice but to give up, because she was unable to keep up with Qiao Jinniangs pace. If she forcibly kept up, she would seem ipetent in ying this tune. When the crowd heard Qiao Jinniang y, they envisioned that in a majestic mountain, Warrior Lanling, wearing armor and a mask, was fighting bravely to kill the enemy. The tune was solemn, deep and magnificent.
The guests seemed to be witnessing the heroic scenes on the battlefield where soldiers were fighting and horses were galloping.
When the song was over, everyone was silent.
Tong Yingying waited for Qiao Jinniang to finish ying before saying, What you yed is not Da Mian!
Chapter 150 - One-Trick Pony
Chapter 150 One-Trick Pony
After Qiao Jinniang opened her eyes, she looked at Tong Yingying suspiciously and said, Isnt Da Mian Lanling the tune Lanling on the Battlefield? Is there another Da Mian?
Lu Chen apuded slowly and said, The popr tune Lanling on the Battlefield has been adapted by thete emperor in Changan and is softer than the original one, and the dancers who perform the tune are mostly women, different from the brave and valiant Warrior Lanling in legend. Miss Qiao yed it very well. Her performance is superb.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. This was the only tune she was proficient in.
The zither teacher in school liked this tune the most, so Qiao Jinniang only learned this tune.
If she yed any other songs, she might not be able to y them well. She was so familiar with this tune since she was a child that she could y it even with her eyes closed.
Everyone echoed the Crown Princes sentiment and began to tter Qiao Jinniang.
Hearing the ttery, Qiao Jinniang felt a bit embarrassed.
How could Tong Yingying be reconciled? But the Lanling on the Battlefield adapted by thete emperor was too soft. Even if she yed it again, she couldnt beat Qiao Jinniang.
She would only lose face even if she yed it again.
But she didnt want to admit defeat just like this!
If Qiao Jinniang was really proficient in zither, why did she need to tune the zither just now?
Fulu smiled and said to Qiao Jinniang, I didnt know you can y a zither! Youre really out of our league.
Qin Miaomiao said on the side, Its good you know that.
Fulu snorted. Im just being polite, okay? I remember you were defeated by Tong Yingying, and Tong Yingying cant evenpare with Jinniang. Doesnt it mean that you are beaten by her?!
Completely speechless at the two of them, Qiao Jinniang went to Qiao Ruoyis table with Little Lu Xi.
Since Consort Huai had performed a dance, many men and women performed after that, most of whom were unmarried. Qiao Jinniang had to exim that Changan was really full of talents. There were not a few women with excellent dancing skills like Consort Huai, especially the daughter of the sixth-rank Deputy Minister of Penalty whose Zheyao Dance amazed everyone.
Her waist was so tender and slender
Noticing Qiao Jinniangs amazed look, Fulu said, Hey, why the look? She has performed this Zheyao Dance countless times, and she can only do this dance.
Many peopleughed at her behind her back!
Qiao Jinniang, who could only y Da Mian:
It seemed that she still needed to take time to learn some more tunes, at least to be proficient in two more tunes. Otherwise, she would beughed at too.
While the people of Duke Wu Mansion werent paying attention, Zhou Sisi went up to the stage and said, Let, let me perform a show for
you.
Zhou Siming hurriedly said, Be good, Sisi. Come down quickly.
Zhou Sisi took out a knife and a piece of wood from her arms. Id like to perform a carving for you.
There were regrets in everyones eyes. In terms of appearance and family background, Zhou Sisi was definitely one of the tops among the noble girls in Changan, but sadly, she was mentally disabled.
Zhou Sisi had a knife in her hand, so no one dared to touch her.
Everyone was looking at her carving the piece of wood. No one could deny that the scene of a gorgeous young girl carving a piece of wood was extremely beautiful.
When the banquet was about to end, Zhou Sisi handed the piece of wood in her hand to Lu Chen. Brother, Sisi carved you.
Zhou Siming looked at Lu Chen pleadingly, so Lu Chen took the piece of wood in the end.
After epting it, he walked to Qiao Jinniang and gave the wood carving to Qiao Jinniang. When you miss me, take it out and take a look.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the wood figurine that wasnt carved very well, and then looked at the little pigeon demon who was about to cry.
She returned the figurine to Lu Chen and said, It wont be long before I can see you every day. Why do I need this piece of wood? Just keep it yourself!
The little pigeon demon carved this piece of wood for nearly half an hour. If she really cried, it would be embarrassing.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was not angry, Lu Chen kept the carving.
After the banquet, the guests went to the street in twos and threes in the afternoon, and someone suggested going to the Jewelry Pavilion.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Jewelry Pavilion with Little Lu Xi.
The Jewelry Pavilion had expanded, so it was not crowded with more than 20 nobledies in
it.
The manager took out the gems that Qiao Jinniang had just bought not long ago. As Qiao Jinniang guessed, there were many women who loved gems. When they heard that they could customize jewelry with the gems, they became more interested.
Those who were doted on at home directly ced an order without asking their family.
Many noble girls even hurriedly went home to invite their mothers over.
Passing by the door, Tong Yingying said to a few schrs who were following andplimenting her, These girls only know how to have fun, and the money they spend on a hairpin is enough to sustain a poor family for a lifetime, s
Miss Tong, youre so benevolent. These superficial girls are iparable to you.
Being touted by the men, Tong Yingying looked at the beautiful hairpin in Tong Xuans hand and suppressed the desire to get it. Wisdom in hold, elegance in mold. His Royal Highness would definitely not like superficial women.
He epted Qiao Jinniang just because of responsibility and the power of Duke Anyuan.
He would definitely not like Qiao Jinniang, a woman who spent money like water!
And she, Tong Yingying, would not be as superficial as these women who only knew jewelry and beautiful clothes.
Even if they wore the most fashionable dresses, they couldnt match the temperament she built up with wisdom.
Little Lu Xi picked out a crystal-clear red gemstone and handed it to Qiao Jinniang. Mommy, this one is beautiful. Xier will buy it for you!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and rubbed the little bun on Lu Xis head. Where did you get the money?
Little Lu Xi said cutely, I secretly keep the money given by Grandpa and Grandma. I wont give the money to Daddy. Ill just use it to buy rouge and jewelry for Mommy.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang with her cheeks cupped in her hands. Your son is really interesting. Little Lu Xi held Qiao Jinniangs hand and looked up at Qiao Jinniang pitifully. Mommy, Ill give you my money. Can you not abandon me?
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and hugged Little Lu Xi in her arms, saying,
Okay, if your father fails me in the future, I will take you with me when I leave.
After everyone had left, Qiao Jinniang calcted todays earnings of the jewelry store, which far exceeded her expectations.
It seemed that by just relying on the Jewelry Pavilion, it was just around the corner for her to be the richest woman in Changan.
Manager Lin came in and said, Boss, a girl surnamed Mu hase frequently, saying that her hometown is abounded with green jade, and she wanted to talk to you in person.
Surnamed Mu?
Hearing that a girl was doing business, Qiao Jinniang wanted to help. Did she leave any samples?
Manager Lin shook his head and said, Miss Mu is pregnant. It is not easy for her to do business while pregnant. Qiao Jinniang said, Then next time shees, you can make an appointment with her, and I will talk to her.
Yes, Boss.
In Prince Huais mansion, which had been lively for a day, Mu Qianqian, wearing a ck cloak, entered the study of Prince Huai from a secret passage. Taking off her cloak, she went to hug Prince Huai and said, Your Highness. Prince Huai frowned, but thinking of the child in Mu Qianqians belly, he simply said, Qianqian, you really disappointed me. I asked you to enter Duke Anyuan Mansion to gain Duke Anyuans favor and serve as my spy, but you were driven out of the mansion by Duke Anyuan.
Then I asked you to investigate who the boss of Jewelry Pavilion is. It has been so long. Have you got any information?
Chapter 151 - Preserved Food
Chapter 151 Preserved Food
Mu Qianqian bowed her head guiltily. I got the wrong information. The information that Duke Anyuan loved Qian Shi is not true. Thats why I was kicked out of Duke Anyuans mansion.
Your Highness, please rest assured. I will definitely seize Jewelry Pavilion for your use.
Prince Huai had interrogated the previous owner of the shop, and he said that Qiao Jinniang bought his store. But Prince Huai didnt believe that Jewelry Pavilion was run by Qiao Jinniang who was only a woman and he also didnt believe it would be the property of Duke Anyuan either.
Although Duke Anyuan had some shops, with his military power, if he opened a store like Jewelry Pavilion that could make so much money, was he not afraid of being suspected by the Emperor?
When he went to inquire about it, it turned out that Jewelry Pavilion was rented to Manager Lin by Qiao Jinniang.
The illicit salt dealing in the Southwest had beenpletely destroyed, and that waste, Prince Mediocre, had also been useless.
However, he still had to keep a low profile and hide his ambition, and didnt dare to reveal any of his real thoughts even to Li Lingling.
Otherwise, how could he hide from the Queen and the Crown Prince?
Jewelry Pavilion was literally a cash cow. If he could take Jewelry Pavilion as his own, he would have more capital to strive for the throne.
Mu Qianqian touched her lower abdomen. Your Highness, our child kicked me again today!
Prince Huai touched Mu Qianqians belly. This was his only heir. In order not to be suspected by his father, he had this child when he was nearly thirty. And the Crown Prince, who just turned 20, already had a three-year-old son.
Qiao Jinniang disguised herself and met the so-called Miss Mu in Jewelry Pavilion, but she didnt expect her to be an acquaintance.
Wasnt Miss Mu the woman her father brought back to the Duke Mansion that day?
She looked as fragile as Qian Shi before. But today, the cowardice on her had all gone and she became the kind of self-reliant woman that Qiao Jinniang liked. Judging from the size of her belly, it seemed that she was about to give birth soon.
vne
I didnt expect the owner of Jewelry Pavilion to be a girl. What should I call you? Mu Qianqian said graciously. Qiao Jinniang changed her voice and said, My surname is Jing.
Miss Jing, it must not be very convenient for you, a girl, to do business in Changan, right? Especially since there are more and more dignitaries and noblesing to patronize your store. If you dont have a big tree to rely on, Im afraid your business cantst long in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang said, What do you want to say, Miss Mu?
Mu Qian smiled and said, My brother and Duke Anyuan have been friends for many years, so I want to make a deal with Miss Jing.
You might as well sell this shop to me for 100,000 taels of silver. Duke Anyuan will definitely be d if he knows it!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Duke Anyuan? Are you serious?
Duke Anyuan was in the belief that it was Mu Qianqian who caused Zheng Xiao divorced him, so he didnt even allow anyone to mention the word Mu in the Duke Mansion. He regretted bringing Mu Qianqian to the Duke Mansion very much, so how could he possibly help Mu Qianqian?
J
So why did Mu Qianqian say this?
If she wanted to marry Duke Anyuan for money and status and deliberately imitated Concubine Qian, then why didnt she have an abortion to get rid of the child before entering the Duke Mansion?
Moreover, the daughter of a convicted official from the Southwest came all the way to Changan and became an official prostitute, which was suspicious.
Even if she was kicked out of the Duke Mansion, she didnt have an abortion?
Besides, as an official prostitute, where did she get the 100,000 taels of silver?
It turns out that Miss Mu knows Duke Anyuan. Qiao Jinniang continued, But this Jewelry Pavilion is like my baby, so I dont want to sell it.
But I can let your master be a shareholder. Can I talk to your master?
Mu Qian smiled and said, Miss Jing, didnt I say it? My brother and Duke Anyuan are good friends. You know who my master is.
Mu Qianqian emphasized Duke Anyuan, trying to imply that Duke Anyuan was behind her.
n
V
Qiao Jinniang said, Miss Mu, to be frank, since I can run this shop in Changan, Ive got some big names to rely on too.
To be honest, I also have a master behind me.
I came from the South, and my masters family is very powerful in the South.
But his influence is mainly in the South, and this is Changan here.
So you dont need to hide your background from me. I know about it.
Its not easy for a convicted officials daughter toe up with 100,000 taels of silver, isnt it? And I know Duke Anyuan has already driven you out of the Duke Mansion
Mu Qianqian pondered what Qiao Jinniang meant.
Then she suddenly thought, was she talking about the Xie family in the South?
His Highness happened to want to make friends with the Xie family. This was a good opportunity She immediately replied. Then Ill go back and ask my master. After Mu Qianqian left, Qiao Jinniang ordered one of Lu Chens secret guards to follow her.
The secret guard saw that Mu Qianqian entered a small house and didnte out again.
Qiao Jinniang thought of a secret passage. It seemed that Mu Qianqian really had secrets.
However, after waiting for Mu Qianqian for many days, she didnt see Mu Qianqianing again, so Qiao Jinniang didnt take the matter to heart.
It was the Laba Festival, and Qiao Jinniang cooked a lot of Laba porridge at home.
She had the kitchen buy a lot of chickens, ducks and geese, and also collected all the chickens, ducks and geese raised in the manors.
The whole yard was full of preserved chickens and ducks drying in the sun.
The aroma of the preserved chickens and ducks wafted from Qiao Jinniangs courtyard to the Princess Mansion across the street.
Unable to resist the aroma, Princess Shon ordered Fulu to visit Qiao Jinniang and bring some chickens and ducks back along the way.
Fulu walked into the Qiao Mansion opposite and eximed,
Qiao Jinniang, Im afraid that all the chickens, ducks, fish and geese in Changan are in your courtyard, right? How can you get so many of them here?
Qiao Jinniang replied. There are too many peopleing and going in the backyards of Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste.
In Linan, the preserved chickens being dried in the sun in the backyard of my restaurant was once poisoned by someone. After that, I just sun-dried them in my own house.
Fortunately, this house isrge and there are few people living here, so I can sun-dry a lot of them here.
Its just a pity that the sandstorm in Changan is too big, so I ask the maids to cover the chickens and ducks with gauze when the sandstorm is too big.
Fulu said, Arent you afraid that you will smell like a preserved chicken?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, especially at mid-night, I always want to eat preserved goods when I smell it.
Therefore, I always gain some weight at this time of the year. I dare not eat so much preserved food this year. She didnt want to go to the Shanggong Bureau to change the size of her wedding dresses, which would be very shameful.
Besides, which woman didnt want to be slimmer at her wedding?
Fulu smiled. Then can I take two away?
Qiao Jinniang said, Sure. Theyll be done tomorrow after being exposed to the sun for another day. When that timees, I will order someone to send two to your home.
In the Hall of Diligent Governance, Emperor Huilin was busy with the ratings of officials who returned to Changan to report on their work during the Chinese New Year.
Smelling the smell on Duke Anyuan, Emperor Huilin asked, Duke, what is that smell on
you?
Duke Anyuan cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, my daughter has opened two restaurants, and now its the time when the preserved goods areunched to the market.
She is afraid that the preserved goods will be poisoned if she sun-dries them in her restaurants, so the house is full of the preserved goods
Lu Chen said to Emperor Huilin, Father, do you want to have a taste of it? The seasoning was made from a secret recipe of Myriad Taste, and only Jinniang knows the recipe.
When I was in Linan, almost hundreds of preserved ducks and preserved geese were sold every day during the twelfth lunar month.
Chapter 152 - 2 The Princess’ Gigolos
Chapter 152 The Princess Gigolos
The corners of Duke Anyuans lips twitched slightly. He thought that there were already enough chickens and ducks in the house now.
If hundreds of chicken and ducks were sold every day, didnt that mean that he would have to endure this smell every day?
Emperor Huilin was a little tempted, but he held it back and said, I dont like to eat chickens and ducks. Its not good for your health to eat too much duck in winter, so you should eat less.
Lu Chen replied, Im afraid the preserved ducks Jinniang made will be in short supply and I cant get any.
Qiao Jinniang had been busy making sauces recently, and all the maids in the Qiao Mansion were ordered to pluck chickens, ducks and geese.
For a time, the gate of Qiao Mansion was full of merchants who came to collect feathers.
Their street was full of princess mansions. Qiao Jinniang was afraid to disturb the princesses, so she went to visit them and give them a lot of gifts.
She gave each of them a set of jewelry from Jewelry Pavilion, and two preserved chickens, two preserved ducks and two preserved geese.
The princesses were all very happy to receive her gifts. When she went to Princess Jinghuas mansion, thetter hadnt recovered, so Qiao Jinniang could only go to Princess Jinghuas room to see her. Far away, she heard the sound of music.
She entered, only to see that in the gorgeous pce, several handsome men were only wearing white long-sleeve Confucian robes, looking very graceful and quaint. Surrounded by the handsome men, Princess Jinghua was being fed fresh grapes by one of them.
Fresh grapes were extremely rare at this time, so these grapes must have been preserved in the ice cer sincest summer.
It could be seen how extravagant Princess Jinghuas life was
Jinghua smiled and said, I still have some difficulty walking. Sorry for not greeting you at the door.
Qiao Jinniang said, I made some preserved foods at home. The noises made by the hawkers who came to deliver chickens and ducks and collect chicken and duck feathers might have disturbed you, so I came to apologize.
Although they were all on the same street, each mansion covered an area of hundreds of acres, and it was probably Princess Shouans mansion on the opposite side that was the most affected.
But the other princesses might smell the chickens and ducks and be disturbed by the hawkers when they passed by the Qiao Mansion.
If they were distrubed, Qiao Jinniang might be in trouble. Princess Jinghua said, County Mistress, youre too polite. I have been missing the dishes in Tasty Pavilion when Im recuperating at home. Its so nice of you to bring delicious food to me in person. Come here, cook these preserved ducks.
After Jinghua ordered, a gigolo on the side took the preserved ducks from Qiao Jinniangs hand, looking a little disgusted, but still went down to cook them obediently.
Jinghua said, County Mistress, this is the first time you came to my home. Please stay for a meal.
I heard that not long ago, you performed Da Mian in my eldest brothers mansion, which amazed everyone.
My new gigolo happens to be good at ying Da Mian. Would you mind giving him some tips on how to y it? Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to reject Princess Jinghuas invitation, so she could only agree.
Jinghuas leg was injured, so she couldnt walk now.
A burly, handsome man picked her up like a child and put her in front of the table.
After sitting down, another handsome man handed over a bowl of tea.
ce
There was also a handsome young man beside Qiao Jinniang, with an inexplicable fragrance on his body. He put the tea in front of her and leaned close to her. Sister County Master, please drink tea.
Then he blinked at Qiao Jinniang flirtatiously.
Qiao Jinniang:
Jinghua said, Little Eight, dont mess around. This is the future crown princess. Be careful with your life!
Little Eight shrank his head, not daring to approach Qiao Jinniang any more.
When the food was served, the gigolos rushed to feed Princess Jinghua. Every mouthful Jinghua took, they would praise her. Qiao Jinniang thought, did Princess Jinghua hurt her hands too?
Suddenly, the sound of a pipa came. A thin handsome man was ying the pipa, and two other handsome men with masks were performing a sword dance.
After the sword dance, the two took off their masks.
Seeing their faces, Qiao Jinniang gasped. Although Lu Chen could be said to be stunningly handsome, she had looked at him too much and was already numb to his handsome face. Now seeing the twins with charming phoenix eyes, she was amazed by their handsomeness.
Your Highness, who is this elder sister?.
Nonsense, shes clearly a younger sister. She is almost as gorgeous as the princess.
Jinghua chuckled. Little Seventeen, Little Eighteen, this is County Mistress Jiaan.
Nice to meet you, County Mistress.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly waved her hands. No need to be too polite.
Jinghua said, These two are still young, only sixteen years old. If you like them, you can take them away and keep them by your side as servants.
One of the twins walked up to singhua, took Jinghuas hand and said, Your Highness, youre so cruel. You promised to wait for me to grow up. I will always belong to you even in my next life
Jinghua patted his head with a smile. Its just a joke. County Mistress Jiaan is going to marry into the East Pce. I dont want my Little Eighteen to be an eunuch, and I dont want to part with Little Eighteen! Qiao Jinniang:
So it was just a joke?
She was seriously thinking about keeping the twins by her side. Looking at their handsome faces, she could probably eat a few more bowls of rice every meal.
Having seen such handsome men, Qiao Jinniang thought that the following shows would not be very interesting, but it turned out that she was wrong. A man who had aparatively average appearance but was still much more handsome than ordinary men came from behind and danced to the beat of the drums.
But as he danced, his clothes fell to the ground one piece after another.
The beautiful muscles on his body
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help swallowing, and after this man came a man who was very good at painting, and he outlined Qiao Jinniangs appearance with just a few strokes.
After the banquet, more than 20 handsome men with different talents stood beside the princess
Qiao Jinniang suddenly understood why those men were so lecherous, and why emperors would keep such arge harem.
Princess Jinghua smiled and said to Qiao Jinniang, County Mistress Jiaan, which of them do you think is the most handsome?
Qiao Jinniang looked at these men one by one and was about to pick one when she suddenly saw a man with an extraordinary aura who was much more handsome than the others She immediately walked over with a little guilt and took Lu Chens hand. Of course my honey is the most handsome.
Lu Chen turned to Princess Jinghua with a dark face. Is this how you treat guests, Sister Jinghua?
Jinghua smiled. I always entertain my distinguished guests with the best things.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. He should never have let Qiao Jinniange here. She always had the idea of keeping gigolos
If she learned from his sisters, that would be a big disgrace for him.
Seeing that Lu Chen was angry, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly said, I didnt even touch their hands.
Your hands didnt touch them, but I still want to dig out your eyes. Are these men so good-looking? Can they bepared to me? You almost couldnt look away from them just now!
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats because the princess asked me to choose the most handsome one among them. They are definitely not as good-looking as you!
Plus, where did Princess Jinghua get so many talented handsome men? No wonder she doesnt want to marry to the South. In such a fairnd, who would want to marry?
Chapter 153 - The Birthday of Old Madam Zhou
Chapter 153 The Birthday of Old Madam Zhou
Lu Chen grabbed Qiao Jinniangs chin and said, You yearn for it? No, no, all those men added up are not one ten-thousandth as good as you, Qiao Jinniang said.
Only then did Lu Chen let go of Qiao Jinniang. Those gigolos have no heart. They just like the princess money.
Qiao Jinniang said, But didnt you marry into my family for money too back then?
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang back to her home and said, What are you talking about? At that time, I epted you because I heard you crying so miserably.
It was not so much about the money as it was about your beauty.
Qiao Jinniang clutched her coat strips. Stop it. I still have hundreds of chickens and ducks to marinate. I just started to sell them yesterday, but three hundred of them have been sold by today.
You can imagine how busy I have been recently. Lu Chen said, I came right for this. You can still marinate the chickens and ducks yourself for now, but what about next year? After marrying into the East Pce, are you going to do it in the East Pce?
Why not give the secret recipe to a person you trust so that you dont have to do it yourself. Qiao Jinniang said, Secret recipes cant be leaked.
Lu Chen said, Do you really want to kill ducks and chickens in the East Pce every day and make the whole East Pce smell bad after you be the crown princess?
Qiao Jinniang sighed heavily. Smell bad? But you neverined about the smell when you ate it. I dont want to think about next year right now. I can still marinate them myself this year anyway.
Unable to persuade Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen could only help her marinate the chickens and ducks together, which he was quite familiar with.
The twelfth lunar month was the busiest time for restaurants. They always had to work untilte at night.
Marinating chickens and ducks was an important task.
Qiao Jinniang sighed and said, Many of our neighbors in the South had been eating the preserved chickens and ducks I made for more than ten years. Now Myriad Taste has been closed in the South, they cant eat them anymore.
I want to make more, deliver them to the South and sell them in Myriad Taste in the South.
Compared with Jewelry Pavilion, preserved chickens and ducks were indeed not that profitable.
But preserved chickens and ducks were Myriad Tastes signature dishes.
Qiao Jinniang dared to say that the preserved chickens and ducks she made were the most delicious in the world.
When she was a child, she could eat two preserved duck legs every day.
Sometimes before dinner, she would cooperate with Nuomi to climb up to the stove, steal the preserved duck legs, and eat them.
After catching her, her adoptive parents would always scare her with sticks, but they would never actually beat her.
Now when she recalled it, she felt like it was a lifetime away.
Duke Anyuan heard that the Crown Prince came to the Qiao Mansion.
He hurriedly came to the Crown Prince with his colleagues, only to see the Crown Prince who was wearing a python robe had his cuffs rolled up and was brushing sauce on the plucked chickens with his daughter.
Seeing this, the officials rubbed their eyes in shock, unable to believe that this person was their Crown Prince.
After seeing them, Lu Chen wiped his hands with a handkerchief and said to Qiao Jinniang, I have something to discuss with His Excellency, and I wille back to help youter.
Qiao Jinniang hummed and continued to marinate the chickens and ducks.
Then she said to the officials, Lords, if you want to have a taste, you can go to Tasty Pavilion. These are not done yet.
The officials:
They werent so gluttonous. They were just curious why the daughter of Duke Anyuan could skin a duck so neatly. They watched Qiao Jinniang run a stick straight through a duck, rubbing and dressing it as if not smelling the bad smell at all.
Why did Duke Anyuan allow his daughter to do this?!
Wasnt he afraid that others wouldugh at his daughter for doing this menial job?
Which nobledy in Changan would marinate ducks like this, and marinate a whole yard of them at that?!
Even Duke Anyuans study would smell like sauce. When they were talking about business, all they could smell was sauce.
This caused many of the officials to go straight to Tasty Pavilion as soon as they left the Duke Mansion. They couldnt wait to taste the preserved ducks they smelled the whole afternoon.
Sadly, they were already sold out when they arrived, but they quickly rushed to Myriad Taste, and fortunately, there were still a few left. They ate the preserved ducks and drank yellow rice wine. The preserved duck flesh was red in color, aromatic, tender and juicy, and they couldnt get enough of it. Even the duck bones were so delicious that they almost swallowed them.
In Myriad Taste, there were also uncooked preserved ducks for sale. The customers could bring them home and cook them themselves with the seasonings provided by the restaurant.
As preserved foods became popr in Changan, the Spring Festival was approaching, and Qiao Jinniang received more and more invitations.
Some invitations could be shied away, but some couldnt.
With no choice, she had to tell the recipe to Huixiang and Bajiao and ask them to make the preserved ducks as Lu Chen suggested. After two days, when Qiao Jinniang found that they handled this job quite well, she was relieved.
The 60th birthday banquet of the Old Madam of the Duke Wu Mansion was a banquet she had to attend.
This was the birthday banquet of the Queens mother, so even the Emperor would go to the Duke Wu Mansion with the Queen to celebrate the Old Madams birthday.
There was no precedent for this. Although there were Queens who returned to her natal family to visit her family, it was very rare.
Most women who had married into the imperial pce were not allowed to leave the imperial pce except for major festivals or hunts.
This time, the Emperor insisted on taking the Queen to visit the Duke Wu Mansion, and many imperial censors submitted memorials, trying to stop the Emperor from doing this, but failed.
It had only been half a month since the Duke Wu Mansion received this news, but as one of the most powerful families, the people in the Duke Wu Mansion were quite calm.
Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi followed Zheng Xiao on the carriage, and Qiao Ruoyi sighed. His Majesty really dotes on Her Majesty. For over 20 years, His Majesty only loved Her Majesty. This time, he even ignored the opinions of those imperial censors and brought Her Majesty back to the Duke Wu Mansion. His Majesty has devoted his life to bing a wise emperor, but Im afraid what he did today will be recorded in history, and future generations might say His Majesty put a woman before his country. Zheng Xiao red at Qiao Ruoyi. Dont learn from your sister! How dare you say this?
Qiao Jinniang said, Isnt it great that the Emperor and the Queen love each other?
Zheng Xiao said, Do you know why Duke Wu is a marshal, but military power is in your fathers hands?
Qiao Jinniang could guess why. If a Queens family is given too much power, it will threaten the Emperor, right? Yes, the more a queen is favored by an emperor, the more difficult it will be for her family, and the more they will be suppressed.
Qiao Jinniang said, Then if I marry into the East Pce, will it affect the career of Father and Brother?
Zheng Xiao shook her head and said, The difference between the Qiao family and their Zhou family is that the Qiao family was one of the founders of this dynasty. Almost all men of our family died on the battlefield and everyone knows how loyal the Qiao family is to the Emperor.
When your father was young, he led the army to fight the barbarians back and his fame spread far and wide, so we are different from the Zhou family.
Zheng Xiao continued, The Zhou family got the nobility title of a duke because of thete emperors Imperial Concubine Zhou, Queen Zhous aunt, who was very favored by thete emperor.
Thete emperor conferred Imperial Concubine Zhous father the title of Duke Wu. Imperial Concubine Zhou then manipted power for personal use and almost ruined the country. Only after His Majesty ascended the throne did he suppress Imperial Concubine Zhou.
But under the protection of the powerful Zhou family, Imperial Concubine Zhou survived and died until she was terminally ill.
After Imperial Concubine Zhou died, His Majesty suddenly wanted to make her niece the queen. At that time, many ministers desperately tried to stop His Majesty from doing it.
Facing the rejection, the Queens brother decided to hand over the military power in his hands in exchange for his sister to be the queen.
Chapter 154 - An Old Clam Producing A Pearl
Chapter 154 An Old m Producing A Pearl
Qiao Jinniang nodded. I had thought that the Empress Dowager didnt like the Queen, because His Majesty only loves the Queen, so the girls of the Li family cant gain his favor.
So it turns out that its because of Imperial Concubine Zhou. Were Imperial Concubine Zhou and the Empress Dowager mortal enemies?
Zheng Xiao nodded and said, When I was still young, I heard from my grandmother that before Imperial Concubine Zhou appeared, thete emperors favor for the Empress Dowager was unprecedented. However, after Imperial Concubine Zhou appeared, thete emperors love for the Empress Dowagerpletely disappeared.
SS
When you marry into the East Pce, you must be careful of the Empress Dowager. Although the Crown Prince is the Empress Dowagers own grandson, his mother is from the Zhou family that the Empress Dowager hates deeply.
D
Qiao Jinniang nodded, I see. Zheng Xiaodao said, What Ruoyi said just now is not wrong. But Ruoyi, you have to remember not to say these words again.
Qiao Ruoyi nodded obediently. Yes, Mother.
The gate of Duke Wu Mansion was heavily guarded by Imperial Guards. No matter who you were, you had to walk in. Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Ruoyi carefully supported Zheng Xiao.
And they happened to meet the Qin family.
After seeing Zheng Xiao, Old Madam Qin snorted.It must be hard for you to carry such a big belly at your age. Even an old m can produce a pearl, but why cant a young m?!
Mrs. Qin tugged at Old Madam Qins sleeve. How could her mother-inw make fun of Zheng Xiao like this? Although she divorced Duke Anyuan, they still lived together.
An old m producing a pearl was used tough at women who were pregnant at an old age in Changan.
Duke Anyuans two sons and one daughter were born by Zheng Xiao. Qiao Ruoyi, who was born by a concubine, respected Zheng Xiao very much, not to mention Ruoyun, who was raised by Zheng Xiao. Even though they divorced, Zheng Xiao was never a pitiful abandoned woman.
How could her mother-inw despise Zheng Xiao like this?
The women of the Tong family happened to pass by, and Mrs. Tongughed when she heard the words.
Zheng Xiao looked at Qiao Ruoyun worriedly.
Qiao Jinniang felt that Mrs. Qin was really rude, so she said coldly, Old Madam Qin, since you hold a string of Buddha beads in your hand, you must be a believer in Buddhism, so I think you should know karma.
When my sister was pregnant, who insisted on marrying off that concubine maid Yuzhui to my sisters husband?
That almost killed my sister and her baby!
But because you are my sisters elder, for the sake of my sisters peace in the Qin family, our Qiao family forgave you. But now what are you doing? At the door of someone elses home, making fun of my mother and my sister? Just because my grandmother is not here doesnt mean you can bully our Qiao family!
My mother is not someone you canugh at in public. Please apologize.
If Qiao Jinniang didnt fight back.
Tomorrow, the people in Changan would definitelyugh at her mother and her sister, calling them old m and young m.
Zheng Xiao was not young anymore.
But it wasnt umon even for a thirty-five-year-old woman to give birth to a child nowadays.
Old Madam Qin frowned and said, In terms of age, I am your mothers elder. You want me to apologize to her?!
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, I want you to apologize to my mother.
Old Madam Qin snorted. Bah, I have lived for so many years, and this is the first time I see such a rude junior like you.
In terms of seniority, I am your mothers elder.
In terms of status, I am a duchess dowager, but your mother was only a duchess even before her divorce!
Not to mention that she has divorced Duke Anyuan.
Yes, Iughed at your mother because she got pregnant at such an old age just to win back Duke Anyuans heart but still ended up being divorced.
Yes, I scolded Qiao Ruoyun for not being able to give birth to a child. But so what?
Your family married a ves daughter into our Qin family and made our Qin family lose all our face.
Now I cant even say that my granddaughter-inw cant give birth to a child?
Tong Yingying smiled and said, County Mistress Qiao, Old Madam Qin is your elder. How can you say that to her?
Besides, what she said makes sense. Its a bit too much for you to ask her to apologize, isnt it?
Tong Xuan tugged at Tong Yingyings arm. Its none of your business. Stop making trouble, okay?
But Mrs. Tong pulled Tong Xuan away. Your sister is right. I have long heard of the rudeness of County Mistress Jiaan.
But here is Changan, not Linan. You can trick your nsmen into killing each other with your vicious scheme, but you cant force Old Madam Qin to apologize to your mother!
Zheng Xiao also said to Qiao Jinniang. Forget it, if they want tough at me, just let them. I dont care.
Qiao Ruoyun also cried and said, Jinniang, just forget it. I
You dont care either?
Qiao Jinniang said, This old witch killed your baby, and you almost died because of her.
If I hadnt arrived in time, you would have died.
She humiliated Mother and you in public. How can you just swallow it?
For the first time, Old Madam Qin was called an old witch. She was shaking with anger. How dare you scold me? Is there anyw left? Mrs. Tong, your husband is an imperial censor. You have to testify for me!
Qin Miaomiao had a terrible headache. She really couldnt understand her grandmother. Many people in Changan had indeedughed at Zheng Xiao for being pregnant at such an old age.
But they all did it in private. No one did it in Zheng Xiaos face like her grandmother!
Knowing Qiao Jinniangs temper, Qin Miaomiao walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Jinniang, for the sake of my sister-inw, forgive my grandmother this time, okay? Shes old. If you fall out with her, Sister-inw will have a hard time.
My brother has never med Sister-inw for not being able to give birth to a child, but if you embarrass my grandmother, Sister-inw may have a hard time in the Qin family. Qiao Jinniang took a deep breath.
Mrs.Tong said to Mrs. Qin. Dont worry, Old Madam Qin. Our Tong family will take care of this matter!
Qiao Jinniang, as the biological mother of the Crown Orinces heir, how could you scold a duchess dowager as an old witch? Are you not afraid of implicating your son?
Ill report this matter to His Majesty and Her Majesty. You must give an exnation to Old Madam Qin!
When she finished speaking, some servants of the Duke Wu Mansion carried out a soft sedan chair. Today, the Emperor and the Queen woulde, so all carriages and sedan chairs could only go to the street entrance, and it would take more than a quarter of an hour to walk into the Duke Wu Mansion.
Therefore, for some old nobledies, the Duke Wu Mansion would pick them up with soft sedan chairs.
Seeing this soft sedan chair, Mrs. Tong and Old Madam Qin both thought it was to pick them up. Old Madam Qin thought that her title was the highest here and she was also the oldest here. So this soft sedan chair was definitely for her.
However, Mrs. Tong felt that she was Duchess Wus sister-inw. She had just asked and the servants said the soft sedan chairs were only for royal family members.
If there was an extra soft sedan chair, it would definitely be for her because she was Duchess Wus sister-inw
When Mrs. Tong and Old Madam Qin both came forward.
The mammy carrying the soft sedan chair walked up to Zheng Xiao and said, Mrs. Zheng, our Duchess said that you are pregnant, and the ground is slippery in winter, so she specially ordered us to carry you inside. Please sit inside.
Chapter 155 - Old Madam Zhou Defended Qiao Jinniang
Chapter 155 Old Madam Zhou Defended Qiao Jinniang
Zheng Xiao thanked softly, Thank you, its so kind of the Duchess.
Mrs. Tong was very annoyed. Was her sister stupid? Why did she treat Zheng Xiao so well? Old Madam Qin shook off Duchess Qins hand and said angrily, Ive never been humiliated like today in my life! Someone scolded me as an old witch and now even a woman with no nobility title is more respected than me!
After saying that, Old Madam Qin looked like she was about to faint.
Duchess Qin had a headache. She knew what kind of a person her mother-inw was.
Zheng Xiao said to the two mammies helplessly, Mammies, Old Madam Qin is not feeling well. Let her take this soft sedan chair
Qiao Jinniang helped Zheng Xiao to sit on the soft sedan chair, and said to Old Madam Qin who was pretending to faint,
Old Madam, youd better know what day it is today. His Majesty and Her Majesty wille to the Duke Wu Mansion to celebrate Old Madam Zhous birthday. If you faint here today
Old Madam Qin got up in an instant, no longer pretending to be dizzy.
She still couldnt just swallow it but she didnt dare to offend the Duke Wu Mansion.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang entered, Little Lu Xi ran up to her. He was wearing a bright red round-neck robe and an exquisite gem ne. Instead of having two buns as usual, his hair was pulled into a bun on top of his head today, making him look like a noble child.
After seeing Zheng Xiao, he came over and bowed to Zheng Xiao respectfully. Grandmother.
How could Zheng Xiao dare to be greeted by the imperial grandson?. She quickly saluted back.
Qiao Jinniang picked up little Lu Xi. Mother, hes your grandson. You dont need to salute. Zheng Xiao said, Well, hes the imperial grandson. I should be respectful to him.
Little Lu Xi looked at Zheng Xiaos belly curiously. Mother, why is Grandmothers belly so big?
Because there is your little aunt inside! Qiao Jinniang said. Whether it was Zheng Xiao or Duke Anyuan, they both hoped that the child was a girl.
Little Lu Xi asked innocently, Then why did my little aunt go to my grandmothers belly?
Qiao Jinniang answered patiently, Because your little aunt is going toe out of your grandmothers belly just like you came out of my belly.
Then are my younger brothers and sisters alsoing out of your belly? Daddy said that there will be younger brothers and sisters to y with me soon, so are there any younger brothers and sisters in your belly, Mommy?
Qiao Jinniang pinched his little face. What are you talking about? There are no younger brothers and sisters.
But Daddy said there would be next year. Little Lu Xi said, Everyone else has younger brothers and sisters.
Others have younger brothers and sisters, but you have a little aunt, which no one else has! Qiao Jinniang said.
Old Madam Qin still wanted to rush up to scold Qiao Jinniang for revenge but was stopped by Qin Miaomiao. Grandma, calm down. After all, she is the biological mother of the imperial grandson.
If she really has the ability to marry into the East Pce, why is there no imperial decree yet? Old Madam Qin said, Even if His Royal Highness said that as long as Qiao Jinniang agrees, she can marry into the East Pce, but if this is the case, why should she not? I think that even if His Royal Highness pities her, His Majesty and Her Majesty will not allow a merchants daughter to be the crown princess.
The imperial grandson called her Mommy, but it doesnt mean she can be the Crown Princes wife!
Qin Miaomiao was speechless. As a junior, she couldnt stop her grandmother, so she simply let her.
Her grandmothers life was too easy, so she asked for trouble. Old Madam Qin went in, congratted Old Madam Zhou, and suddenly said, Old Madam Zhou, youre so lucky to have filial her daughters, sons, and daughters-inw. Im not as lucky as you. Look, at such an age, I was still scolded by a vige woman as old witch!
Mrs. Tong echoed, County Mistress Jiaan is such a bully!
Tong Yingying, who was on the side, also said, Old Madam Qin, you probably dont know how glib-tongued County Mistress Jiaan was. She wanted to force Old Madam Qin to apologize to Mrs. Zheng Old Madam Qin is her elder, not to mention that she has an honorary title conferred by His Majesty. Qiao Jinniang really went too far!
Old Madam Zhou was the Crown Princes maternal grandmother, and he respected her very much. If Old Madam Zhou disliked Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Jinniang would definitely not be able to marry into the East Pce!
Old Madam Zhou asked Duchess Wu, who was beside her, Where is Jinniang? Why didnt shee in?
Zheng Xiao quickly said, Old Madam, please forgive her. The imperial grandson and Jinniang havent seen each other for a long time, so they are ying together. The whole thing started because of me. Im pregnant at such an old age, so Old Madam Qinughed at me,paring me to an old m producing a pearl. Jinniang was just trying to protect me.
Qiao Jinniang entered with Little Lu Xi in her arms, and happened to hear Zheng Xiaos words. After saluting Old Madam Zhou, she said, Old Madam Zhou, may you have infinite longevity. I was angry not only because Old Madam Qin mocked my mother in public.
Its also because of my sister, Ruoyun. She had a miscarriage a few months ago because Old Madam Qin forcibly gave her husband a troublemaking concubine maid.
Its only been half a year, but Old Madam Qin publicly ridiculed my mother and my sister Ruoyun. I really cant endure it anymore.
Old Madam Zhou asked Qiao Jinniang to sit beside her and said, Ive long heard of Old Madam Qins reputation. Isnt it great for Mrs. Zheng to be pregnant at this age? Why are youughing at her?
Your son is over forty-five years old, but his concubines still keep giving birth to children for him. Why dont you ridicule your son? Why should we interfere with young peoples lives?
You keep giving concubines to your son, and now you start to meddle in your grandson and his wifes life? Are you out of your mind?
Old Madam Qin was very embarrassed, not because Old Madam Zhou pointed out the fact that she kept giving concubines to her son and her grandson, but because she was scolded again.
But she didnt dare to say anything and even forced a smile at Old Madam Zhou.
Tong Yingying was surprised that Old Madam Zhou defended Qiao Jinniang, but then she thought that the Zhou family wanted Zhou Sisi to marry into the East Pce. Maybe Old Madam Zhou thought that Qiao Jinniang would treat Zhou Sisi kindly if she could please Qiao Jinniang?
But that shouldnt be the case. Shouldnt Zhou Sisi find a familiar girl to marry into the East Pce together with her?
Young Master is back. a maid reported at the
door.
Zhou Siming entered in a hurry, knelt down and saluted Old Madam Zhou, saying, Grandmother, please forgive me. Im almostte. May your fortune be as boundless as the East Sea and may you live a long and happy life.
As soon as Zhou Siming came in, Qiao Jinniang noticed that many youngdies in the room became shy.
However, Zhou Siming was the Crown Princes cousin and the next Duke Wu, so it was reasonable for him to attract so many noble girls.
Old Madam Zhou smiled and said, I know you were on an errand for His Majesty. Being loyal to His Majesty and serving the country well is your greatest filial piety for me.
Duchess Wu said, If you can marry a wife and give birth to a child early, youre even more filial. Xier is three years old. Look how adorable he is.
Lin Mo was going to marry Miss Qin, but you s! I dont know when I can hug my grandson!
Old Madam Zhou said, Yes, your mother is right. Cant you find a girl you like in Changan?
Chapter 156 - A Shame
Chapter 156 A Shame
Before Zhou Siming could answer, there was a sound of ritual music from outside. The Emperor had arrived. Zhou Siming breathed a sigh of relief.
He looked at Qin Miaomiao who was on the side, then withdrew his gaze and went out to greet the royal family members.
The Emperor and the Queen arrived at the Duke Qin Mansion together, and the Zhou family and all the guests saluted them. The Queen stepped forward and held Old Madam Zhous hand, Mother.
Old Madam Zhou couldnt see her daughter often, so now her eyes were red. Come on in, the dishes are already served. You came all the way here from the imperial pce. Dont get a cold.
The Emperor and the Queen sat on the table of honor and Old Madam Zhou sat beside the Queen. Most of the people present were envious of Old Madam Zhou for having a queen as her daughter.
There were very few people in the world whose birthday the Emperor would personally congratte.
At the banquet, several cold dishes attracted much attention.
Was this the preserved duck bought from Myriad Taste? If you want to buy one, youll have to queue up early in the morning. If you are a little bitte, it will be sold out. Wow, this preserved duck is really delicious. I can even take it as a snack. Yesterday morning, I sent my servant to buy some preserved ducks but only three were left, which were finished in just one meal.
Consort Huai Li Lingling heard the words and said, I went to visit Princess Jinghua a few days ago, and when I passed by the Qiao Mansion, it was full of the stench of poultry at their door.
It turned out that more than 20 vendors were collecting chicken feathers, duck feathers, goose feathers, and duck blood at the door. The Princess Mansions air waspletely polluted. Fortunately, its in winter. If it is summer, I cant imagine how terrible it would smell.
Consort Qi eximed, Why were there so many chickens and ducks in the Qiao Mansion?
Li Lingling said, I heard that the preserved ducks and chickens were marinated and dried by Qiao Jinniang herself. I dont mean to criticize her, but since Qiao Jinniang is already a nobledy in Changan, she really shouldnt do those menial jobs that only countryside business women will do anymore.
Its fine she isughed at, but what if the vendors disturb the princesses?
Hearing Li Linglings words, manydies and girls looked at Qiao Jinniang in shock.
Was Qiao Jinniang stupid? As a nobledy, why did she process these poultry and livestock by herself?
Li Lingling covered her nose and said with disgust, Ew, I still cant forget that stench.
Qiao Jinniang sat on the same table with Li Lingling, so she heard her words and said, I have already sent apology gifts to the princesses, and in order not to disturb them, Ive asked those vendors toe before dawn.
If Consort Huai didnt go to Princess Jinghuas mansion before dawn, Im afraid you wouldnt be able to meet them.
Li Lingling smiled and said, I said this out of kindness. Miss Qiao, youre no longer a businesswoman. Its a shame for you to do these menial jobs for a few taels of silver, isnt
it?
Qiao Jinniang said indifferently, A shame? Why? Food is the paramount necessity of the people and farming is the most important thing for the people. Why are preserved ducks and chickens only avable during the Spring Festival?
This is because people cant afford eating it every day. They also cant afford eating chicken or duck in one day. the South is not as dry as in Changan. If the chickens or ducks are not dried, they will go bad very soon even in winter.
Thats why there are preserved ducks and chickens, which can store chickens and ducks for a longer period of time.
It would have been a shame that I had forgotten the paramount necessity of the people just because I am rich now. Besides, I have paid taxes. And considering the people, I sell these preserved ducks and chickens at a low price and can hardly make any money.
The money I can make from the preserved ducks and chickens shipped to the South is even less than those I can earn from a single dish in Tasty Pavilion. Plus with the customs duties on the road, Im actually selling them at a loss. I didnt do this for money. Its just a tradition to celebrate the Spring Festival.
Everyone here is very wealthy and has never suffered from starvation. Even a cabbage you eat will be matched with four or five chickens and ducks, so you certainly dont know how difficult ordinary peoples lives are. Many farmers can have a bite of meat only during the Spring Festival.
Tong Yingying sneered coldly. Since County Mistress Jiaan pities ordinary people so much, why did you spend more than 10,000 taels of silver to buy a golden tuinga? Do you know how much meat the people can eat with 10,000 taels of silver?
Qiao Jinniang said, Youre so funny, I earned 10,000 taels of silver myself. Why should I use it to buy meat for unrted people?
Isnt it the duty of imperial censors to think why themon people cant even afford a bite of meat?
Tong Yingying was extremely annoyed, You
Duke Anyuan closed his eyes. Gosh, their Qiao family was going to lose their Absolution Token!
Emperor Huilin asked coldly, Is it true that ordinary people cant even afford a bite of meat?
Qiao Jinniang saluted and said, To be exact, they usually keep chickens and ducks toy eggs. so they will only kill and eat them during the Spring Festival.
Life today is already very good for many people, but it is still impossible for them to eat meat every day. Old Madam Zhou said to Duke Wu, Tell our manors not to deliver anything to us during the Spring Festival and just distribute the crops and poultry to the tenants. Duke Wu said, Yes, mother.
Qiao Jinniang realized that there was something wrong with what she said to refute Li Lingling, so she said, Now its a time of peace and prosperity, and the peoples life will get better and better. Making preserved ducks and chickens is just a tradition passed down from ancient times to celebrate Spring Festival.
Emperor Huilin took a piece of preserved duck and said, Howe its not salty? I remember that preserved duck is very salty.
Qiao Jinniang answered, Although salt is a good thing, its not good to eat it too much. Except for soldiers and peasants who work hard and sweat a lot, salt should be eaten less, so I didnt put in much salt.
Duke Anyuan ttered the Emperor. Your Majesty, the people dont have to work day and night, so they sweat less and dont need so much salt, which shows how sessful your rule has been. And the preserved ducks and chickens that only ordinary people would eat in the past are now served on the nobles dining table. It can be seen how united the officials and the people are under your reign
Qiao Jinniang really admired Duke Anyuan. He could always find a ce to tter the Emperor.
All the other officials followed Duke Anyuan and ttered the Emperor.
Li Lingling said, That being said, County Mistress is the biological mother of the imperial grandson. Its beneath her dignity to do these things.
Queen Zhou snorted. Beneath her dignity? Queen Dugu of the founding emperor often personally farmed. Isnt itmendable for County Mistress Jiaan not to forget the essentials of the country?
The first Duke Anyuan donated 1,000 mu of fertilend inherited from his ancestors during the famine that urred three years after our country was founded to alleviate the food shortage.
Now Jinniang, as his descendant, still bore the people in mind and made preserved ducks and chickens for themon people. But Consort Huai, what about you? Do you still think this is a shame?
Li Lingling couldnt believe that Queen Zhou would defend Qiao Jinniang like this, so she hurriedly said, I know I was wrong. Im sorry, Your Majesty.
Chapter 157 - Choose Your Concubines with Your Crown Princess
Chapter 157 Choose Your Concubines with Your Crown Princess
After this episode, everyones attitude towards Qiao Jinniang was more respectful than before.
Even Old Madam Qin who still wanted toin to the Emperor and the Queen about Qiao Jinniang could only give up. It turned out that it was not only Old Madam Zhou, but Queen Zhou would also defend Qiao Jinniang.
What was so good about Qiao Jinniang? Why did even Queen Zhou defend her?!
After the banquet, the Duke Wu Mansion arranged an opera at the waterside garden, which was The Fairy Offered the Longevity Peach, and everyone was watching the opera.
The woman disguised as the fairy slowly walked to Old Madam Zhou with a big peach in her hands. At the order of Goddess Queen Mother, I came here to present a longevity peach to Old Madam Zhou, and I wish you longevity and health.
Old Madam Zhouughed happily. Good, reward her!
Suddenly Zhou Sisi who was disguised as a little peach spirit jumped out of the big peach, snuggled up to Old Madam Zhou and said, Grandmother, Im the longevity peach. Come on, take a bite of me and youll have infinite longevity. Old Madam Zhou was amused by Zhou Sisi andughed out loud.
Zhou Sisi walked up to Lu Chen and said, Brother, take a bite of me. Sisi wants you to have infinite longevity too.
The smile disappeared from Qiao Jinniangs face.
Lu Chen said, No, I dont want infinite longevity.
Zhou Sisi tilted her head, and Emperor Huilin also frowned and looked at Lu Chen and said, What are you talking about? Who doesnt want infinite longevity?
Lu Chen said, I just want to live as long as Jinniang.
The crowd who was amused by Zhou Sisi didnt expect Lu Chen to suddenly y lovey-dovey with Qiao Jinniang in front of
them
Were these words really said by the Crown Prince? Which high-ranking person didnt want infinite longevity?
Very satisfied with Lu Chens performance, Qiao Jinniang smiled and said,
Miss Zhou, I wonder if I can take a bite of you too? In this way, Ill have infinite longevity, and so will your brother.
Zhou Sisi snorted. Humph, no way!
Everyone knew that Zhou Sisis intelligence was like a childs, so her words just caused a burst ofughter from the crowd.
Fulu walked to Qiao Jinniang and said, I still remember how you called the Crown Prince jerk back then. Now that you two love each other so much, why dont you marry into the East Pce yet?
Qiao Jinniang said, I wont be so free if I enter the East Pce.
Fulu whispered to Qiao Jinniang, I know several dog holes in the imperial pce. Shh, dont tell others. If you miss me after entering the East Pce, you can sneak out of the dog holes to y with me
Qiao Jinniang:
She didnt want to sneak out of the imperial pce from a dog hole.
And she didnt really want to y with Fulu.
If she had to sneak out of a dog hole, she would rather stay in the East Pce.
After Zhou Sisi finished her performance, the guests offered birthday gifts to Old Madam Zhou. The Qiao family presented three gifts, one of which was Old Madam Qiaos gift that was brought over from the temple.
One was from the Duke Mansion, and the other was from Zheng Xiao and Qiao Jinniang and her sisters, each of which was not too high-profile yet expensive.
Among the gifts, the most ingenious one was Tong Yingyings gift, which was a scroll consisting of hundred forms of the character Longevity she wrote, and all the characters formed a huge character Longevity.
This was very thoughtful and must have taken a lot of effort, so everyone was amazed at it.
Mrs. Tong proudly enjoyed everyones praise.
Old Madam Zhou said, This scroll must have cost Yingying a lot of time and effort. Good, very good.
Tong Yingying lowered her head and said shyly, Im d you like it, Grandma Zhou. Old Madam, this is the birthday gift from me. Little Lu Xi held the doll rabbit that Qiao Jinniang made for him and handed it to Old Madam Zhou. Although I like this rabbit very much, I want to give you the best thing.
When Old Madam Zhou saw the little rabbit, her hand trembled slightly. Which, which maid made this?
Duchess Wu asked her in a small voice from the side, Mother, whats wrong? This is made by Jinniang for the little imperial grandson. I heard that on the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Prince Qis son, Baoer had fought with the imperial grandson for this little rabbit!
It was not a secret that little Lu Xi held this little rabbit wherever he went.
Old Madam Zhou asked, Jinniang, who taught you to sew this rabbit?
Qiao Jinniang walked over and said, My teacher in Linan City taught me. No, to be exact, there was a rabbit like this at her home, and I happened to be born in the year of the rabbit, so I made a copy of that rabbit
Old Madam Zhou asked, Is that rabbit hairless and made of a piece of pink silk cloth?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes!
Is she still in Linan?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, she left Linan when I was twelve years old. She was the best teacher in our school.
Old Madam Zhou sighed heavily.
Queen Zhou said to Old Madam Zhou, Mother, Sister is determined to travel around the world, and she probably wont stay in one ce for a long time. Chener is going to be married, and everyone knows the news. Maybe Sister wille back to Changan after she learns the news.
Qiao Jinniang said to Old Madam Zhou, So Ms. Zhou is your daughter?
Old Madam Zhou looked at the rabbit and sighed. Her thoughts were different from others ever since she was a child, and she did a lot of shocking things.
Queen Zhou tittered and said, No wonder Jinniangn is so bold. If Sister is her teacher, it makes sense.
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to say anything. She was not that bold, and Ms. Zhou didnt teach her anything but kept selling them novels.
Most of the novels Qiao Jinniang liked to read were sold to her by Ms. Zhou.
She didnt teach them boring scriptures all day long like other teachers, but just told them women should rely on themselves.
In ss, Ms. Zhou would just let them read whatever books they liked, and woulde to Myriad Taste every day to eat and drink without paying any money The news that her eldest daughter used to be a teacher in Linan was the best birthday present for Old Madam Zhou. This was the first time in nearly 20 years that she had heard the news of her eldest daughter.
The Longevity Scroll that Tong Yingying had been preparing for a month seemed to be outshone by the news.
In hatred, Tong Yingying almost vomited a mouthful of blood. Qiao Jinniang, youre pushing me too far!
An old consort asked the Queen, Your Majesty, you just said that His Royal Highness is going to be married? Howe I havent heard the news?
Queen Zhou said, The Crown Princes wedding is a major event for the entire country, so the imperial decree has not been issued yet.
The old consort smiled and said, Chener was not in Changan for three years, and many girls in Changan waited for him for three years.
Chener dyed his selection of concubines because he went to investigate the illicite salt dealings. After having a crown princess, he can choose concubines with his crown princess.
Queen Zhou gave Qiao Jinniang a reassuring look before she said, Its inappropriate to choose him concubines as soon as he marries his crown princess. He is not in a hurry.
Even Queen Zhou didnt dare to say anything about not selecting any concubines for the Crown Prince, which would go against the feudal ethical code.
Chapter 158 - A “Good Friend” from the South
Chapter 158 A Good Friend from the South
With the Spring Festival approaching, crowded with people who were busy purchasing necessities for the Spring Festival, and officials from all over the country who came to Changan to report on their work, the streets were very lively.
The business of Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion was booming.
While Qiao Jinniang was checking ounts with abacus in the yard, Yuyan came in. Miss, the third daughter-inw of the the South provincial governor asked to visit you.
Qiao Jinniang didnt remember knowing such a person, but when she saw the name card, she remembered it was her former ssmate, Qiu Su.
They used to secretly read novels together in school. Qiu Sus family ran pharmacies, and most of the pharmacies in the South were owned by her family.
When she married Lu Chen, she sent an invitation to Qiu Su, but Qiu Su didnte to her wedding, so they gradually lost contact.
It was not easy to see her old friends in Changan, so Qiao Jinniang granted the request.
Qiu Su came to the Qiao Mansion in the afternoon.
Qiu Su came with a beautiful girl, and she said to Qiao Jinniang, Jiner, I havent seen you for a long time. I never expected you to be the daughter of a duke and obtain the title County Mistress Jiaan, let alone that your husband turned out to be His Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, I didnt expect it myself.
Qiu Su smiled. When we were in school, you had the best grades among us, and we always thought that you would marry a champion of the Imperial Examination. No one would expect you to be so lucky as to marry the Crown Prince! This is my husbands sister, Zhong Wuer.
Qiao Jinniang said, What a beautiful girl. Im afraid a lot of young men in Changan will be fascinated by you.
Qiu Su said all smiles, You are about to be the crown princess. Dont tease this little sister. Oh, why are there so many preserved ducks and chickens in your yard? I was just worried that I couldnt get these foods in Changan this year!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. If you like, I will have my maids pack two for you. Entering the room, Qiu Su looked at the plush furnishings in Qiao Jinniangs room. There were two charcoal braziers on the ground burning with the best Silver Fment Charcoal, showing how luxurious the life of the room owner was.
However, Qiao Jinniang had always had afortable life. Although Myriad Taste was only a small restaurant, her parents were very generous to her.
At that time, when the students knew that Qiao Jinniangs father was only the shopkeeper of a restaurant, many of them looked down on her.
But Qiao Jinniang always had the most beautiful clothes and hair essories, and even her maids were smarter than others.
And although she was the most naughty, she was always the favorite student of the teachers. Except for painting, her academic grades were quite good.
She was also generous and often gave the students pastries of her familys restaurant.
When Qiu Su was married, she invited all her former ssmates except for Qiao Jinniang.
It was because she didnt think Qiao Jinniang, a merchant girl, was worthy to attend the wedding ceremony of her, the provincial governors third daughter-inw.
Later Qiu Su heard that Qiao Jinniang got married and had a handsome husband and a cute son.
Qiu Su felt that her life and Qiao Jinniangs life waspletely different. Her husband was the son of a provincial governor and she would be the wife of a high-ranking official, while Qiao Jinniang would be a mere shopkeeper of a restaurant forever.
At the beginning of the year, she heard that Qiao Jinniang was divorced by her husband. Qiu Su pitied her and even wanted to give her a hand, but soon she heard that she had left the South.
Later she learned that Qiao Jinniang was actually the daughter of a duke, and she thought that since Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen her biological parents for 18 years, there couldnt be any affections among them, so Qiao Jinniangs life in Changan might not be easy.
The real nobles in Changan would never take a merchant woman from the South seriously.
But before she came to Changan, her mother-inw asked her if she knew Qiao Jinniang, asking her to go to Changan to resume connections with Qiao Jinniang and try to help her husbands younger sister be Qiao Jinniangs good friend.
Qiu Su learned from her husband that her mother-inw intended to marry her husbands younger sister Wuer into the East Pce as the Crown Princes concubine.
A maid served Qiu Su and Zhong Wuer tea, and Qiu Su said, Why is there an abacus on your desk? Are you still doing business?
Qiao Jinniang said, Exactly, I dont feel easy about entrusting Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion to others, so I simply manage them myself.
What Zhong Wuer despised about Qiu Su the most was her mercantile vulgarity. Hearing Qiao Jinniangs words, she said,
I heard Her Majesty said not long ago that His Royal Highness is going to get married. Is he going to marry you?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Zhong Wuer and said, Why do you ask that?
Zhong Wuer said in contempt, Businessmen are inherently menial. All merchants try their best to change their status as merchants, but youre still holding your abacus although you are going to be the crown princess. What a joke
Qiao Jinniang snorted coldly. Businessmen are inherently menial? Then why did your brother marry Qiu Su?
Qiu Su was so embarrassed that she tugged at Zhong Wulers arm and whispered to her, Did you forget what Mother said to you when we came?
Hearing it, Zhong Wuer said reluctantly, Sister Qiao, I am just kindly advising you for the sake of fellow vigers affection.
You and I are both from Linan and are both going to marry into the East Pce. If you dont correct your bad habits, you will beughed at by His Royal Highness other concubines.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, Marry into the East Pce? How did your parents educate you? How do you have the nerve to say this tantly?
Qiu Su hurriedly said to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, youll need help in the East Pce. Although my sister-inw is too straightforward in speech, she means no harm.
re
Everyone thinks that businessmen are menial. Why dont you dare to face this truth?
As Wuer said, although the other noble girls dare notugh at you in your face, they will definitely do it behind your back.
Qiao Jinniang only said, Qiu Su, you had been a merchant for more than ten years, but now you think merchants are menial just because you married an officials son?
Did you forget how you persuaded the other ssmates to apologize to me when theyughed at me for being a merchants daughter when we were in school? But now you stoop so much as to think you yourself as menial?
Qiu Su said, Jinniang, I am not as lucky as you, but Wuer has no bad intentions. If she marries into the East Pce, she will be your good helping hand.
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, Although I havent decided on the maid Ill take to the East Pce, Im sure I wont use a maid like Miss Zhong!
Zhong Wuer frowned and said, Although you are the daughter of a duke, my father is the provincial governor in the South and all the officials in the South have to obey my fathers orders. How dare you insult me like this?
Qiao Jinniang hummed. Your father has governed the South well because there are so many merchants in the South, who contributed a lot of taxes.
Miss Zhong, youre wearing the silk sold by merchants, and with the taxes the merchants paid can your father have his achievements in governance.
How dare you say that merchants are menial?
Hongling, see them off.
Qiu Su hurriedly said, Jinniang, you are rich now, so you just ignore your old friends? We were ssmates for ten years. How precious this friendship is! How can you just throw it away?
Chapter 159 - Sneak into the East Palace on New Year’s Eve
Chapter 159 Sneak into the East Pce on New Years Eve
Qiao Jinniang said with a scornful smile, Precious? Then why did no ssmatee to my wedding? How many invitations did I send you at that time?
Being my ssmate for ten years, you should know what kind of a person I am. Itll be a big mistake if you think Im stupid.
Qiu Su didnt dare to say anymore and could only leave with Hongling.
18.
Nuomi said to Qiao Jinniang, Miss Qiu used to hate those girls from officials families who said that merchants were menial. Why did she agree with them after she got married?
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully. Perhaps deep in Qiu Sus heart, she thought merchants were menial.
It was just that at that time, she was also a merchant, so she stood with her.
After leaving the Qiao Mansion, Qiu Su became angrier the more she thought about it.
Zhong Wuer said to Qiu Su, Third Sister-inw, it seems that your friend doesnt take you as a friend at all!
They went back to the Zhong familys small house in Changan.
Zhong Wuer felt that this house was too small. It was only asrge as Qiao Jinniangs courtyard. Mrs. Zhong quickly asked Zhong Wuer, Did you see Qiao Jinniang? Did you talk with her?
Mother, that menial businesswoman is really rude. I kindly advised her not to stoop to do business, but she said that I could only be her maid if I wanted to enter the East Pce. Bah!
And Sister-inw ispletely useless. Mother, although Third Brother was born by Fathers concubine, you shouldnt have found a businesswoman as his wife. It was because of her that I was so humiliated!
Mrs. Zhong stared at Qiu Su. Didnt you say that you and Qiao Jinniang grew up together in school? So thats the friendship you said?
She came from the South, having no good friends or power to support her in the East Pce. If youre really good friends, how can she not curry favor with Wuer?
If Wuer is unable to marry into the East Pce because of you, I wont let you off!
Qiu Su didnt dare to defend herself and could only cry silently, thinking of the time in school
When they first met Qiao Jinniang, she was only five years old, but when she was mocked and bullied by others, she dared to take a broom and hit those people.
The teachers came to scold her, but she quoted scriptures to defend herself.
Later, when the students got familiar with each other, no oneughed at them anymore.
Whenever they had quarrels with the students in other sses, Qiao Jinniang would always bravely fight back together with other ssmates.
At that time in the school, no one dared to bully the girls in their ss
After she got married, however, everything changed. She had to deal with her difficult sister-inw and mother-inw who looked down on her.
If she had married a man of her own ss, maybe she wouldnt have had to tolerate all this.
Hearing that Qiao Jinniangs ssmate hade from the South, Zheng Xiao came to see her, only to see Qiao Jinniang ying with an abacus in anger. Jinniang, where is your ssmate?
Qiao Jinniang said, Shes gone. Shes not here to reminisce about the old days with me, but to help her husbands sister marry into the East Pce.
Zheng Xiao sighed. Snobbery is the nature of many people. Dont mind it. This year, many officials who came to Changan to report on their work took their daughters with them, and everybody knows why they did this.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont worry, Mother. Since Lu Chen has promised me that he will never take a concubine, if he dares to betray me, I will never forgive him!
Zheng Xiao:
She didnt mean that. She actually wanted to persuade Qiao Jinniang not to be so obsessed with concubines.
New Years Eve was approaching.
Old Madam Qiao also took Qiao Li back to the Duke Mansion from the temple, and Duke Anyuan had to shuttle between the Qiao Mansion and the Duke Mansion every day.
Qiao Jinniang was busy dealing with the affairs in Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste all day long. Time flew. Now the Lantern Festival was only 15 days away. This year had gone by both slowly and quickly for Qiao Jinniang.
This year was the most bizarre year for her in the past neen years of her life. What happened this year made her feel like a dream.
On New Years Eve, there was a banquet in the imperial pce.
The banquet ended early, and there was also a family banquet in the Duke Anyuan Mansion.
Zheng Xiao didnt want to go back to the Duke Mansion, so the entire Qiao family came to the Qiao Mansion to celebrate the New Year.
The family banquet was very lively, and two young sons of Qiao Jinniangs third uncle were setting off firecrackers in the yard, and it was full of their happy moring voices in the house.
Qiao Jinniang was a little lonely. She had never missed Xier so much.
So she found an excuse to go back to her room early and had Nuomi guard outside and disallowed anyone from entering her room.
She entered the secret passage, and it took her more than half an hour to travel to the other end of the passage.
When she finally arrived at the East Pce, she couldnt help but feel a little disappointed when she saw that the lights in Lu Chen and Xiers pces were off, and there was no one in the study.
She simply waited in Lu Chens study for Lu Chen and Xier to return.
There were several memorials scattered on Lu Chens desk. Qiao Jinniang opened them and found that they were the appointments of several governors, and hurriedly closed them.
No matter how daring she was, she dared not interfere in politics. When Lu Chen came back from the Queens Pce with Lu Xi in his arms, it was already after midnight.
Although Lu Chen thought about sneaking out of the imperial pce to find Qiao Jinniang, today was New Years Eve.
He hadnt spent New Years Eve with his parents for three years, so he couldnt leave.
When he returned to the East Pce, he saw that there were candles lit in the study, so he handed Lu Xi, who was about to fall asleep, to a maid and went to the study.
There was no one else who dared to break into his study except Qiao Jinniang. Lu Chen pushed open the door and saw Qiao Jinniang reading a novel in boredom.
Qiao Jinniang took the novel and said, Great! You dont allow me to read novels, but youre reading these dirty novels! Lu Chen:
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly asked, Has Xiere back? Ive been missing him all night long. But due to etiquette, I couldnt go up to hug him at the pce banquet today.
The pce banquet on New Years Eve was much more important than normal pce banquets, so everybody had to strictly abide by etiquette.
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang in his arms and said, You only missed him, not me?
Qiao Jinniang said, This is the first time I havent been with him during the Spring Festival. Let me go. I want to see him.
Lu Chen looked down at Qiao Jinniangs red lips and said, Ive never seen you miss me this much. Say you miss me, and Ill take you to see him.
Qiao Jinniang raised her eyes, and her red lips moved slightly. I miss you too, satisfied?
Lu Chen lowered his head and pressed Qiao Jinniang on the desk. What should I do? I cant wait for fifteen days.
Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chen. Hey, keep your word. Now take me to Xier.
Lu Chen picked up Qiao Jinniang and strode back to his bedroom. Xier is already asleep now. You might as well stay with me.
I havent touched you for a year. Have some pity on me.
It hasnt been a year, okay? Qiao Jinniang snorted. It will be a year fifteen dayster!
Lu Chen didnt care. She was his wife, and he wanted to spend the New Year with her!
Qiao Jinniang was lying on Lu Chens bed and smelled the fragrance of nanmu. Only then did she notice how big the bed was and how exquisite the nanmu was.
Even the embroidery threads of the quilt were as smooth as silk.
Lu Chen was angry to see that although she didnt think about Xier anymore, she began to study his quilt, so he bit her red lips as a punishment. Concentrate.
Qiao Jinniang finally retracted her gaze from the quilt and put her hands around Lu Chens neck.
You are so horny. Have you ever thought of turning to an imperial maid for help?
How dare I? If I really do it, Im afraid youll kill me
Qiao Jinniang snorted. So you dont dare, not that you dont want to.
Lu Chen untied Qiao Jinniangs clothes and said, I dont want to either. Their faces are not as beautiful as yours, and their figures are not as sexy as yours. And Im sure they wont call me Brother as seductively as you if theyre bullied into tears by me in bed
Chapter 160 - Poor Xie Yun
Chapter 160 Poor Xie Yun
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, So if there were someone who has a more beautiful face and a nicer voice than me, you would choose her over me?
Lu Chen whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear. No, youre the most beautiful woman in my heart.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Humph, liar.
Lu Chen said, No, I didnt lie to you. Youre as beautiful as an immortal who descended to Earth.
Qiao Jinniang was amused. Seeing that the candlelight was still on, she said to Lu Chen, Candle, candlelight But just when Lu Chen was about to turn off the lights, he suddenly heard Lu Xi knocking on the door. Daddy, we havent set off firecrackers yet. You and Mommy promised me that I could y with firecrackers todayst year!
Hearing ths, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly put on her clothes, and was about to go out when Lu Chen held her hand.
Lu Chen whispered to her, Why dont we just pretend to be asleep. If we go out now, he will definitely force us to apany him to y with firecrackers. Do you dare let him y with firecrackers?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, I dont, but I can hold him in my arms and watch you y!
Qiao Jinniang went out, hugged little Lu Xi in her arms, and kissed his little face. Xier!
Lu Xi rubbed his eyes,y on Qiao Jinniangs shoulder and shouted, Mommy!
Lu Chen took a deep breath, deciding that as soon as Qiao Jinniang married into the East Pce, he would make this kid start copying the Historical Records.
When Lu Xi saw Qiao Jinniang, he hadpletely forgotten ying with firecrackers and just kept talking to Qiao Jinniang
He was telling her the story of the Spring Festival he just heard today.
The whole pce was filled with Little Lu Xis voice. As he talked, he got tired and gradually fell asleep.
Qiao Jinniang held little Lu Xi in her arms and slowly closed her eyes too.
Lu Chen had no choice but to take a shower and then go back to his bedroom. He had nned to have another child with Qiao Jinniang, but now it seemed that he didnt need to be in a hurry.
He couldnt even handle Lu Xi!
Qiao Jinniang returned to her yard from the secret passage early the next morning.
On the first day of the first lunar month, many people came to pay New Years greetings. Because Duke Anyuan and his family were all here, there was an endless stream of nobles, officials and their familiesing to pay New Years greetings.
It was also a good time to receive gifts during the Spring Festival.
ording to the Qiao familys tradition, when they received a gift, they would give a gift of the same value in return. Otherwise, people would say they were greedy.
Although their ancestors donated a lot of fields and silver taels, the Qiao family was an old distinguished family with a history of thousands of years and still had many properties. They didnt have to ruin the familys future merely for some New Year gifts.
From the first to the third day of the new year, everyone was busy visiting rtives and friends and feasting with guests.
Dukes and princes whose fiefs were outside Changan had also entered Changan from all over the country.
For a time, the business of Jewelry Pavilion was booming, which made Prince Huai coveted it even more.
was
The Prince Huai Mansion was not that lively Although Li Lingling was very good at social activities, there were still very few officialsing to visit Prince Huai.
Mu Qianqiany in Prince Huais arms and said, Why did you give up on Jewelry Pavilion? Wouldnt it be good to cooperate with Xie Yun?
Prince Huai said, Xie Yun, who was even willing to sacrifice her own life to save the Crown Prince, will inevitably expose me if I cooperate with her.
Mu Qian said, But now everyone knows that it is Qiao Jinniang who is about to be the crown princess, not Xie Yun.
Although Xie Yun almost died in order to save the Crown Prince, dont underestimate a womans jealousy.
How could she be willing to watch the man who she risked her own life to save marry another woman?
Prince Huai thought about it carefully. If he could get the support of the Xie family, it would be great.
But would the Xie family support him?
Mu Qianqian smiled and said, Your Highness, why dont you use my idea of spreading the news that the Crown Prince was ungrateful to Xie Yun.
No matter how much Xie Yun loves the Crown Prince, she wont be able to tolerate the ridicule of everyone, and her love for the Crown Prince will inevitably be hatred!
And if the Crown Prince chooses Xie Yun, he will definitely lose the support of Duke Anyuan.
At that time, you can persuade Duke Anyuan to support you on the condition that you will support the little imperial grandson. Isnt this killing two birds with one stone?
Since Xie Yun came to Changan, she had been reclusive.
After the news that Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince had gotten married in Linan and Qiao Jinniang was about to be the crown princess was spread, no one talked about Xie Yun anymore.
After all, for the nobles and officials who wanted to marry their daughters into the East Pce, it was better to let Qiao Jinniang be the crown princess than Xie Yun.
Xie Yun, this woman was not simple.
On the second day of the new year, a maid of Xie Xuns second cousin told others that Xie Yun became so skinny that she didnt even celebrate the New Year with her second uncle.
It was because Xie Yun was so sad when she heard that the Crown Prince was going to marry Qiao Jinniang, and she was currently suffering from the recurrence of her old injury from saving the Crown Prince.
Everyone began to talk about the old news that Xie Yun was almost killed in order to save the Crown Prince.
Because of therge number of banquets during the Spring Festival, the whole Changan suddenly sympathized with the reclusive girl, Xie Yun, who almost sacrificed her life for love.
On the second day of the first year, Qiao Ruoyun and Qin Shu went to visit the Qiao family, so the Qiao family was quite lively today.
Knowing that the Qin family woulde to Qiao Mansion today, Fulu, who was living next door, purposely came to give a hard time to Qin Miaomiao.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Qiao Jinniang worriedly and said, Jinniang, Miss Xie seemed to be very nice to you, but I never expected her toe up with this trick during the New Year. Moreover, His Majesty hasnt issued an imperial decree to make you the crown princess yet. Im afraid there will be a lot of imperial censors who will want to uphold justice for her!
Qiao Jinniang didnt suspect Xie Yun, but there must be someone behind this matter. She just didnt know whether the person behind this was targeting her and Lu Chen or Xie Yun.
Fulu said, To be fair, Xie Yun is really pitiful! Her life was hanging by a thread but my imperial cousin still abandoned her. Men have no heart.
Qiao Lu, who silently listened to her brother-inws teaching, murmured in a low voice. I have a heart.
Qin Shu frowned. What are you talking about? The Imperial Examination will be held in mid-March. You should take it seriously.
Although some people have already been selected in thest Imperial Examination, there will still be many people who will participate in the Imperial Examination for the first time. And this is your first time participating in the Imperial Examination
Yes, Brother-inw.
Qiao Lu cupped his hands and said yes, but his eyes were glued to Fulu.
Qiao Jinniang received an invitation from Xie Yun in the afternoon, inviting her to visit the New Years market in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang agreed and didnt forget to take Fulu with her in case she would quarrel with Qin Miaomiao which would make things difficult for Zheng Xiao.
Sister, Ill go with you. Qiao Lu walked to Qiao Jinniang and said,
Qiao Jinniang said, Alright, the Imperial Examination ising soon, you need to rx anyway.
Fulu asked Qiao Lu, Wheres the maid next to youst time? She was an interesting and pretty girl.
Qiao Lu said, She went home.
Fulu said, Thats a pity. She didnt take the jewelry and clothes that I bought for herst time. I still wanted to ask her to go shopping with me!
At the New Years market, there were all kinds of goods, as well as acrobatics troupes. Many nobledies came out for shopping or walking to help digestion after lunch.
There was still unmelted white snow on the roadsides, and the street was crowded with people, making it very lively.
Little Jiner. Xie Yun got off the carriage and walked to Qiao Jinniang. The rumors outside were spread by my cousins maid. Dont worry about it. His Royal Highness and I will handle it properly!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Im not worried.
Seeing her smile, Xie Yun felt a little pain in his heart. I heard from His Royal Highness that after the Lantern Festival, His Royal Highness will decree that you will be the crown princess, so you should cherish thesest rxing days.
Qiao Jinniang sighed slightly. Yeah, I will lose freedom soon.
Xie Yun said, If you want freedom, I can help you. As long as you are willing, I can take you away from Changan, conceal our identities and live a peaceful life.
Qiao Jinniang said, I never want to conceal my identity.
Chapter 161 - Myriad Taste Tries to Murder the Crown Prince
Chapter 161 Myriad Taste Tries to Murder the Crown Prince
By concealing her identity, maybe she could keep away from the life in Changan that was full of intrigues and live a peaceful life.
But she didnt want that. Qiao Jinniang was Qiao Jinniang, and she never wanted to conceal her identity.
Xie Yun said, If you have any difficulties after entering the East Pce or if you regret it, you cane to me.
Qiao Lu looked at Xie Yun with a frown and said, His Royal Highness loves my sister very much. Dont you think you can sow discord between them!
Qiao Jinniang scolded Qiao Lu softly, Brother, dont be rude.
Qiao Lu hurriedly said, Sister, dont believe her words. The Qiao family can protect you. Now in Changan, there are a lot of rumors about the three of you. Maybe she is behind this.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its not her. I have known her since childhood, and I can trust her.
Lu Chen knew Xie Yun was a man, so why would Xie Yun bother to make this ridiculous rumor?
Xie Yun walked to the stall on the side, looked at the silver hairpin on the stall, and said, This silver hairpin looks familiar.
When Qiao Jinniang saw the silver hairpin, she recognized at a nce that it was the hairpin that had apanied her for three
years.
She heard Nuomi say that she had exchanged it for food, so she didnt expect to see it again.
This was a gift from Lu Chen to me for mying-of-age ceremony.
Of course Xie Yun remembered this silver hairpin. For his beloved womansing-of-age ceremony, he carved a jade hairpin himself, but Qiao Jinniang always wore a silver hairpin of poor quality and workmanship.
He didnt know if Qiao Jinniang still remembers that jade hairpin. Perhaps she had forgotten about it long ago.
Xie Yun paid for the silver hairpin and said, This is a New Years gift from me. This time you were implicated by me.
After Xie Yun paid the money, he put the silver hairpin on Qiao Jinniangs head. When the others saw this scene, they just thought the two were good girlfriends.
With that, the rumors about Xie Yun were busted.
Xie Yun was a good friend of Qiao Jinniang! And she wasnt sad and gaunt at all.
In the East Pce, when Lu Chen heard Xie Yun put a silver hairpin on Qiao Jinniang on the street, his face became all dark, and he wished the imperial decree could be issued today.
Before the sixteenth of the first lunar month, Xier didnt have to go to school, so Lu Chen ordered someone to send Xier to Qiao Jinniang.
This was so that Qiao Jinniang wouldnt have the time to go shopping with Xie Yun alone.
Qiao Jinniang took Xier to banquets and to y all over Changan. She hoped that she could stay on this day forever and ever.
Instead of being locked in that pce for the rest of her life.
On the thirteenth day of the first lunar month, Qiao Jinniang held a banquet in Tasty Pavilion, and personally cooked three tables of dishes for the employees of Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste and their families.
This was a tradition in Myriad Taste. Many employees in Myriad Taste were single and would spend the New Years Eve together in Myriad Taste.
But this year she was dyed for a while.
Qiao Jinniang knew that this might be thest time in her life that she would have a banquet with them on an equal footing.
After she married into the East Pce, she had to abide by the rules. Otherwise, it would only implicate them.
Last year, you came to Changan from Linan with me and left your hometown. Thank you for your hard work.
Boss, dont say that! We were all taken in by Myriad Taste. We will be where you are.
Yes, Boss, you have treated us very well.
Qiao Jinniang raised the cup and said, Once the imperial decree is issued the day after tomorrow, Im afraid we wont be able to drink together like this anymore. Today lets get hammered! Myriad Taste still needs your support.
Huixiang said with tears, Master, please bring me into the imperial pce. I dont mind being an eunuch. If His Royal Highness bullies you in the imperial pce, I can be your thug!
Bajiao also cried and said, Yes, Master, I dont even know who my parents are, and I dont need to have children. As long as you can ept it, Im willing to follow you into the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Xiao Fang and Xiao Lian came to Changan because of you. If you all be eunuchs, what would they do? Dont worry. His Royal Highness wont dare to bully me.
Bajiao sneakily took out a few grasses and whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Master, this is Mang Grass that looks very simr to anise but is poisonous. When you marry into the East Pce, take a few with you. If His Royal Highness doesnt treat you well, use this to poison him!
Huixiang also took out a bag of mushrooms. Master, these are all poisonous mushrooms, delicious but highly poisonous. People may be paralyzed or even killed if they eat them.
Chef Liu took out a scrawled recipe and said, Jinniang, this is a recipe of the foods that cant be eaten together. If His Royal Highness bullies you, send him to hell with this recipe.
Miss Yang, whose job was to sing in Tasty Pavilion, also gave Qiao Jinniang some ginkgo fruits, I heard from the old man that if one eats raw ginkgo, even gods wont be able to save him.
You can bring these ginkgo fruits into the imperial pce and nt them. If the Crown Prince fails you, feed him raw ginkgo fruits.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. It takes a hundred years for a ginkgo tree to bear fruit. How can it be so quick? But I appreciate your kindness. Come on, lets drink.
In the East Pce, Lu Chen, who was busy with official business, sneezed twice, and he wondered if he got a cold or not.
The Lantern Festival wasing, and he couldnt catch a cold. Plus, there were so many charcoal braziers in the room, but why did he feel a chill down his spine?
In the imperial pce, the Queen and Emperor Huilin listened to the report from the secret guards, and Emperor Huilins face became uglier and uglier.
I had thought that Qiao Jinniang was daring. Now I know that her men were even more daring. How dare they instigate Qiao Jinniang to murder the Crown Prince? Im gonna cut off their heads!
Queen Zhouughed. Im afraid you wont cut off their heads. Dont think I cant taste it. The dishes you had Eunuch Quan buy from outside the imperial pce are all from Tasty Pavilion.
Emperor Huilin: How could I ignore Chener for a few dishes?
Queen Zhou snorted. If Chener doesnt bully Qiao Jinniang, those things will not be used on him.
He promised that he wouldnt take any concubines. If he breaks his word, he would have to ept his punishment.
Qiao Jinniang got drunk and didnt wake up until noon the next day.
Then she heard someone crying outside. She asked a maid and she told her that it was Second Madam crying.
Second Madam and Qiao Ruofeng went to visit Second Madams natal family two days ago, only to be ridiculed by her sister-inw.
So she came to the Duke Mansion toin.
Hongling handed Qiao Jinniang a bowl of sobering soup and said, Nuomi should have stopped you. How could she just watch you get drunk?
Qiao Jinniang said, I told her not to stop
me.
Hongling knew the position of Nuomi in Qiao Jinniangs heart, so she didnt say anymore.
Qiao Jinniang got out of bed and walked outside, only to hear Second Madam crying more and more loudly. Old Madam Qiao said, Now you know you were wrong? Its you who got Ruofeng in this trouble. Ruofeng is my granddaughter, and I will certainly help her, but she has just annulled her engagement with her former fiance. You dont have to be in such a hurry to find her a new one.
Although people havent forgotten about the matter of her and Prince Mediocre, the family of the other girls Prince Mediocre seduced arent as desperate and loud as you. After two or three years, who would still remember this matter?
Qiao Ruofeng said, Mother, our Qiao family is so rich. Even if I stay single for life, so what?
Ive already made a mistake once. Why should you push me into a fire pit again?!
Chapter 162 - Lantern Festival in Chang’an
Chapter 162 Lantern Festival in Changan
Second Madam said in tears, If only you had a brother! Sadly, you dont have any brothers. If you cant find a good husband, what will happen to you after your father and I die?
Then she said to Old Madam Qiao, Mother, although we have been separated from the Duke Mansion, we are still family, and I wish to adopt a son of Third Brother-inw
Old Madam Qiao had such a n for a long time, but the Dukes third brother was not born by her but by a concubine. Although he respected her as her nominal mother, she couldnt just order him to give one of his sons to her second son.
When Jinniang gets married, Third Brother-inw will return from the Southwest, at that time you can talk to him about this, Mother. Second Madam said to Old Madam Qiao.
Old Madam Qiao said, We will discuss this matterter.
Second Madam didnt say anything more about it. When she saw Qiao Jinnianging over, she said, Jinniang, this is the first time you will celebrate the Spring Festival in Changan. I suggest you go to thentern show in Changan tomorrow. Its very beautiful.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay.
It was New Years Eve again.
Early in the morning, Qiao Jinniang made wine and fermentedntern dumplings, and then she madenterns and preparedntern riddles.
When she went out in the afternoon, she found that the trees on both sides and the bridge were covered with all kinds ofnterns, and all kinds of candles were ced beside the steps of the stone bridge.
At the entrance of the main street, there were hugemp wheels,mp trees,mp posts, etc. All made by rich families. These were all to be ced at the gate of the imperial pce for nobles to view and admire.
And countless people could alsoe to watch.
Envoys from various vassal states would greet the Emperor on the main street today.
Todays pce banquet would be more interesting than usual. At least it wouldnt be as solemn as the one on New Years Eve. On both sides of the pce, there were pcenterns made by noble girls and childen.
If you solved the riddle written at the bottom of antern, you could take thentern away.
Generally, if there were unmarried couples, other people wouldnt obliviously take away thenterns belonging to them.
The young noble girls and children all came out to admire thentern show.
Holding Lu Xi in her arms, Qiao Jinniang tried to solve thentern riddles one by one, and when she came to the third one, she saw Lu Chening toward her with a rabbitntern.
Lu Chen gave the rabbitntern to Qiao Jinniang and whispered into her ear: Oh, its finally the Lantern Festival.
Seeing that everyone was looking at them, Qiao Jinniang took a step back. What are you talking about? Xier is here.
Lu Chen took over Xier, handed the rabbitntern to Qiao Jinniang, smiled at her, and said.
After the pce banquet is over,e to me, and I will take you to enjoy the most beautiful Lantern Festival in Changan!
Lu Xi said, I want to go too, Daddy.
Lu Chen: You promised Daddy that you wont disturb Mommy and Daddy at the Lantern Festival, right? After today, you can go out of the imperial pce to y with your mother for a few days.
Little Lu Xi snorted and said pitifully to Qiao Jinniang, I want to be with you, Mommy.
Qiao Jinniang seldom refused Little Lu Xi. Okay.
At this moment, Lu Chen really wanted to stuff little Lu Xi back into Qiao Jinniangs belly.
Zhou Siming, thentern you took just now belongs to Miss Qin.
Junior Duke Rong tapped Zhou Siming on the shoulder and said.
Im afraid you dont know that the Lin family and the Qin family have even set the date for Lin Mo and Qin Miaomiaos wedding, which will be in the autumn of next year. So why did you take theirntern?
Zhou Siming gave thentern in his hand to Junior Duke Rong and said, I mistakenly took it.
Junior Duke Rong touched his head in bewilderment. I never saw you being interested in this kind of stuff before. Okay, Ill give it to Lin Mo.
Qiao Lu searched for a long time, but couldnt find Fulusntern. When he asked around, he was told that Fulusntern had been taken by someone long ago.
Although Fulu didnt have a good reputation, her identity was quite noble.
She was Princess Shouans only daughter. Marrying her was a very tempting short cut to wealth and power for those men from poor families.
Hearing this, Qiao Lu couldnt help being a little dispirited. She said that she wanted to marry him, but why didnt shee to him after he came back from his academy?
During the pce banquet, many young people were absent-minded.
Knowing what they were thinking of, Emperor Huilin allowed them to leave when it was just dark.
Emperor Huilin would take the Queen to the highest tower in the imperial pce to admire thentern show on the main street tonight.
Just before he left, however, his dragon robe was grabbed by a small hand, and Little Lu Xi smiled at him and said.
Grandpa, Daddy said that beautiful fireworks could be seen on the highest tower in the imperial pce, but only you can go there. Is that true?
Queen Zhou waved to Little Lu Xi. Xier wants to go?
Yes! Little Lu Xi blinked his beautiful phoenix eyes.
Emperor Huilin looked around, only to find that Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang had long disappeared.
He couldnt help but get angry. How could there be such irresponsible parents!
After leaving the imperial pce, Qiao Jinniang was still a little worried about Xier. What if His Majesty doesnt take Xier with him?
Dont worry. My mother will take care of him, Lu Chen said.
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang dropped the little burden in her heart and followed Lu Chen onto his little red horses.
Where are you taking me? Isnt it said that the scenery on the main street is the most beautiful? Qiao Jinniang asked, I just saw many people on the imperial pce walls.
Lu Chen said, The tallest building in Changan is the Wild Goose Pagoda in Cilen Temple. If you look down from there, you can see the fiery trees and silver flowers in the entire Changan.
Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen up the Wild Goose Pagoda, and when she reached the fifth floor, she felt a bit tired.
Seeing this, Lu Chen put her on his back and walked to the top of the tower. Looking down from the top of the tower, everything on the ground looked tiny. Here, they had a panoramic view of the entire Changan.
With the glitteringnterns all over Changan, it was as beautiful as in a fairnd.
By the river, there were gradually people puttingnterns in the river and letting them float away to pray for blessings. Under the round moon, the river glittered with golden light, like the Milky Way in the sky. And there were brilliant fireworks in front of the gates of the imperial pce.
Qiao Jinniang leaned on the railing and looked down. Easterlies of the night call to bloom blossoms of a thousand trees, as if blowing adrift stars that drizzle like rain. I didnt know the meaning of this poem before, but today I know how beautiful this scene is!
In Qiao Jinniangs memory, the Lantern Festival was lively. There were always peopleing and going on the street, and there were all kinds ofnterns, but it was the first time she saw such a grand scene.
Lu Chen put his arm around Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, No matter how beautiful the scenery is, its no match for you.
Qiao Jinniang looked back at Lu Chen and said, Humph, honey-lipped. If you really think so, you wouldnt have left without telling me your identityst year.
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang and said, I know I was wrong. But I am fortunate that I can still spend the Lantern Festival with you.
Qiao Jinniang turned back and said, Okay, Ill forgive you for the sake of the beautiful scenery today.
The fireworks were blooming, all kinds of hugentern trees were lit, and the craftsmanship of thentern wheels was amazing
On the main street, there were even fire dragons and fire phoenixes dancing
On such a good day, looking at such a beautiful sight, Qiao Jinniang didnt want to mention the unhappy past.
Lu Chen lowered his head and kissed Qiao Jinniangs lips.
Qiao Jinniang closed her eyes, and wrapped her arms around Lu Chens waist, letting himunch a fierce offensive on her
The two kissed for an unknown amount of time until they heard the sound of the bells ringing in the temple.
Only then did Lu Chen leave her lips and said, This is in a temple after all. Ill take you to my courtyard here.
Qiao Jinniang said, If I dont go back home, Im afraid my parents will be worried.
Ill have my secret guards tell them where you are.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen went to Lu Chens courtyard in the south of Changan and asked in a quiet tone to him, Since you have endured for so long, cant you endure until we get married?
Lu Chen lowered his voice and said, Do you know that the wedding date is at the end of March? Do you want me to wait for almost another hundred days?.
Chapter 163 - Grant Qiao’s Jinniang to be the Crown Prince’s Second Concubine
Chapter 163 Grant Qiaos Jinniang to be the Crown Princes Second Concubine
The wedding date is so soon? Qiao Jinniang asked in surprise, I thought it would be in autumn.
Pushing the door open, Qiao Jinniang saw a lot of rabbitnterns hanging on the trees of the courtyard.
Under the eaves of the corridor, and on the ground, there were also all kinds of little rabbitnterns, which showed how much thought Lu Chen had put into it.
Lu Chen pulled Qiao Jinniang into the room.
There is also a little rabbit zed-ssmp beside the bed. Its not easy to make. I dont know how many were destroyed before I finally got a good one.
zed ss was rare, somps made of zed ss were extremely expensive.
Qiao Jinniang entered the room only to see that the candlelight in the zed-ssmp reflected onto the bed, which looked like a rainbow.
The sixteenth of the first lunar month.
Lu Chen said to her with a happy smile, Get up quickly. Maybe the imperial decree has already arrived at the Qiao Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the sky outside, only to realize that it was almost noon. She rolled her eyes at Lu Chen. Its all your fault that I got up sote
Lu Chen chuckled but Qiao Jinniang was very anxious.
It would be a big sin to keep the eunuch who came to deliver the imperial decree waiting.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly searched for her clothes among the clothes scattered all over the ground and became even more annoyed at Lu Chen.
Get me a set of clean clothes from my home. Now!
Lu Chen stopped teasing her and said, Dont worry. My father will not issue an imperial decree before I return to the imperial pce, and I have already prepared the clothes for
you.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief when she heard his words.
Qiao Jinniang didnt return homest night and didnt take any maids. Zheng Xiao was very worried about her.
As soon as she heard the news of Jinniangs return, she rushed to her courtyard.
Seeing the mottled marks on Jinniangs neck, Zheng Xiao said, His Royal Highness should have been gentler to you.
Even when Qiao Jinniang faced her mother, she was still a little ashamed.
But hearing her words, she immediately echoed.
Exactly. Hes like a piece of wood and doesnt know how to treat ady at all.
Zheng Xiao said, Jinniang, although you were husband and wife before, like I told you, the royal family attaches great importance to ethical code. Since you are going to get married again, you should persuade His Royal Highness to observe the rules.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, we know what we shouldnt do.
Zheng Xiao looked at Qiao Jinniangs clothes, which were obviously made by the Shanggong Bureau in the imperial pce.
It seemed that the Crown Prince treated her very well, except that he wasnt gentle enough to her in bed.
After lunch, Qiao Jinniang heard a noise from outside.
She walked out of the courtyard only to know that an imperial decree was delivered to her.
Today, the imperial decree was dered with great solemnity. The officials who came to proim the imperial decree were from the Ministry of Rites, even apanied by a historiographer.
The official read aloud, The only daughter of the Qiao family in Linan is pretty and virtuous,
The Qiao family were all surprised to hear this. The only daughter of the Qiao family in Linan?
The official panicked too. Although he was reading the imperial decree word by word, he could see thetter part of the imperial decree.
After he saw thest two words, his first thought was if the imperial edict was wrong.
But he received it from the Ministry of Rites. How could it be wrong?
He could only bite the bullet and read on.
She has performed meritorious service in raising the imperial grandson, so I hereby allow Qiao Jinniang to be the second concubine of the Crown Prince.
Even Duke Anyuan who was in awe of imperial power and never hesitated to apple-polish the Emperor didnt immediately receive the imperial decree. Instead, he cupped his hands and asked, Sir, are you sure this is the right imperial decree?
If it was just an imperial decree for the Crown Princes second concubine, why did they have to proim it so grandly and even take a historiographer with them?
The official wiped the sweat from his forehead. Your Excellency, please wait a moment. Let me go back and check it.
Qiao Jinniang remembered that Lu Chen had once said that His Majesty had already issued an imperial decree to make her his second concubine.
Once the imperial decree was issued, it wouldnt be destroyed and would be archived in the Ministry of Rites.
The two imperial edicts were both for her.
The officials of the Ministry of Rites must have mixed up the two imperial decrees.
There were many servants and mammies from other families who waited at the door of Qiao Mansion and surreptitiously inquired about news.
After hearing that Qiao Jinniang would only be the Crown Princes second concubine, they all rushed back home.
In the house of Governor Zhong.
When Qiu Su heard the news from her mammy, she couldnt tell whether she was happy or felt indignant for her former ssmate.
Qiu Sudao: I thought that she would be the crown princess, but she turns out only to be the second concubine of the Crown Prince
Zhong Wuer was very happy. Even if she is a dukes daughter, she used to be a merchant, and she still doesnt give up the menial merchant jobs. She should be thankful to be able to be the Crown Princes second concubine.
In the Qin Duke Mansion.
When Old Madam Qin heard the news, sheughed out loud. Shes just the second concubine of the Crown Prince. How dare she run amuck like that?!
Qin Miaomiao covered her ears and said angrily. But she is still the second concubine of the Crown Prince, and youll have to salute her when you meet her in the future.
Miaomiao, how can you talk to me like that? Im your grandmother! Old Madam Qin said, Come, call Qiao Ruoyun over, and lets go to the Qiao Mansion to watch the show.
Qin Miaomiao:
In the Imperial Censor Tongs mansion.
Tong Yingying smiled confidently when she heard the news.
Qiao Jinniang doesnt even deserve to be the second concubine. If I were His Majesty, I would have made her the lowest-rank concubine of the Crown Prince.
His maidughed. Its actually not bad to be the Crown Princes second concubine, but Qiao Jinniang acted as if she was going to be the crown princess. What a joke.
Many people went to the Qiao Mansion to congratte Qiao Jinniang. Miss, are you going too?
Tong Yingying said, Im not a snob. Although Qiao Jinniang is not a good person, I dont have to ridicule her at this moment. Otherwise, my own reputation will be damaged.
Before the officials of the Ministry of Rites came to the Qiao Mansion from the imperial pce, many people hade at the gate of Qiao Mansion to congratte Qiao Jinniang.
Most peoples congrattions were sincere, but some just came tough at Qiao Jinniang.
Old Madam Qin said to Old Madam Qiao sarcastically,
My old inws, congrattions! Being the second concubine of the Crown Prince is so glorious. No wonder County Mistress pointed at my nose and scolded me that day.
Old Madam Qiao simply said, Our familys daughter will never be a concubine, not even a royal concubine.
Old Madam Qiao could ept Jinniang to be the second concubine of the Crown Prince.
But His Royal Highness and Her Majesty had both assured her that Jinniang would be the crown princess, but now she was only a second concubine. If the Qiao family just swallowed it, they would be the butt of jokes in Changan.
In Changan, there were many people like Old Madam Qin who liked to watch jokes of the Qiao family.
Old Madam Qin said, Old inws, its a serious sin to disobey the imperial decree.
If your Qiao family wants to disobey the imperial decree, take Qiao Ruoyun back first. Otherwise, our family may be implicated by you. 1
Chapter 164 - Bestow Jinniang as the Crown Princess
Chapter 164 Bestow Jinniang as the Crown Princess
Qin Miaomiao really wished she was not from the Qin family. Even if Qiao Jinniang would only be the Crown Princes second concubine, she was not someone that the Qin family could mess with.
Besides, Qiao Ruoyun was her brothers wife. If they forced her brother to divorce Qiao Ruoyun for no reason, what would others think of the Qin family?
There was faint scorn in the eyes of Prime Minister Lins wife on the side.
Old Madam Qiao said angrily, Dont worry. We wont implicate you in the serious crime wemit.
Qiu Sus mother-inw, Mrs. Zhong, stepped forward with a smile and said, Old Madam Qiao, how can you defy His Majestys order, not to mention Qiao Jinniang was just a merchant girl.
Being the Crown Princes second concubine is not bad for her. It is a blessing for the South.
After all, we cant think too highly of ourselves, can we?
Although Mrs. Zhong looked down on Qiao Jinniang from the bottom of her heart, she knew that if she could win over Qiao Jinniang, it would be very beneficial to her daughter after her daughter got married into the East Pce in the future.
Who are you? Old Madam Qiao nced at her coldly.
In the South, as the governors wife, Mrs. Zhong was fawned upon by almost everyone, but here, she could only answer with a smile,
Old Madam, I am the wife of the governor of the South
My daughter-inw and Qiao Jinniang were ssmates before, and they had studied together in a womens school.
Old Madam Qin sneered. How dare a mere governors wife say that about the Crown Princes second concubine?
When she said second concubine, her tone was full of ridicule.
Zhong Wuer jumped and said, Why dont we dare? Qiao Jinniang is nothing but a vulgar merchant, Mother
Mrs. Zhong red at Zhong Wuer.
Li Linglings voice came from the door. Oh, why are there so many people at the gates of the Duke Mansion at noon? I thought that Miss Qiao would be my sister-inw, but unexpectedly she will only be the Crown Princes second concubine However, I would still like to congratte her.
Li Lingling knew that for the sake of Prince Huais reputation, she should not havee here, but she couldnt help it.
She had nned so much to be the crown princess, but in the end, it was Qiao Jinning who appeared out of nowhere that would be the crown princess.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang in distress, how could she notugh at her? So Li Lingling took Consort Qi and other princes wives toe.
Consort Qi was terrified of Qiao Jinniang from the bottom of her heart, so she hid herself in a corner so that she would not be seen by Qiao Jinniang.
Li Lingling, although Jinniang will only be the Crown Princes second concubine, you cant even be his concubine! Fulu came over from across the street and said.
Li Lingling saidcently, But Im still much better than someone who imed she would be the crown princess but ended up as the second concubine.
Old Madam Qin and the others all chuckled.
Qiu Su looked at Qiao Jinniang with sympathy and said, Jinniang, you have always been eager to excel since you were a child, so dont say things you are not sure about too early anymore. Otherwise, youll make a joke of yourself.
Qiao Jinniang said to Li Lingling, When did I say I would be the crown princess?
Li Lingling chuckled and said, No matter what, His Majesty has granted you to be the Crown Princes second concubine. Why dont you ept the imperial decree?
In the imperial pce, all the officials of the Ministry of Rites knelt in front of the Hall of Diligent Governance.
The Minister of Rites kept kowtowing. Your Majesty, my subordinate was too nervous when he took the imperial decree, so he took the wrong one. Please forgive us!
Emperor Huilin was extremely annoyed. How could you mistakenly take the wrong imperial edict on such an important matter?
The Minister of Rites felt very helpless. The imperial decree was supposed to be announced early this morning, but someone from the East Pce told them to postpone it to the afternoon.
And the official who went to proim the imperial decree was newly appointed to the job and didnt know there was an old imperial decree that granted Qiao Jinniang to be the Crown Princes second concubine.
Being urged by his superiors, he took the wrong imperial decree in a hurry.
The Minister of Rites kowtowed again and said, Your Majesty, we know we made a big mistake and deserve to die, but since the imperial decree has been issued. Why not let County Mistress marry into the East Pce first, and then issue the imperial decree to confer her the title of crown princess?
No!
Lu Chen strode in and red at these officials. These idiots! How could they make such a ridiculous mistake?!
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Father, although the imperial decree has already been issued, it is not impossible to issue another imperial decree. Please allow me to go to the Qiao family to issue another imperial decree.
Emperor Huilin had a headache. How could there be a matter of issuing two imperial decrees in a row within a day? The second concubine became the crown princess. It would be like him pping himself in the face.
However, the Crown Princes wedding had already been prepared.
If Qiao Jinniang became the second concubine, the wedding would have to be canceled.
As Lu Chens father, Emperor Huilin wanted to witness Lu Chens wedding with his own eyes.
Forget it, for his son, he didnt mind losing face.
Emperor Huilin said to the officials of the Ministry of Rites, Okay, you go to the Qiao family again!
Lu Chen saluted and said, Father, can you let me dere the imperial decree? I really cant trust these idiots!
The officials of the Ministry of Rites:
Emperor Huilin said, How can the Crown Prince announce an imperial decree himself? Its against the rules!
Lu Chen hurriedly said, Father, what if they dere the wrong imperial edict again? The rules are set by people. Please allow me to proim the imperial decree myself!
Emperor Huilin sighed. Okay, do it yourself.
He wasnt sure if these idiots officials of the Ministry of Rites would make mistakes again.
Since they had already known that Qiao Jinniang would be the crown princess, why did they still read that wrong imperial decree? At the very least, the official should have pretended to faint, but he just bit the bullet and read it out.
Lu Chen took the order, went to the Ministry of Rites to get the imperial edict, rode on his jujube red horse, and rushed to the Qiao Mansion.
When he arrived, he happened to hear Li Lingling taunting Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Jinniang, I advise you to ept the imperial edict obediently. Dont make a joke of yourself!
After all, you are not worthy of bing the crown princess! Be careful, or you wont even be able to be the Crown Princes second concubine!
Lu Chen dismounted, and when the crowd at the door saw hime with an imperial edict in his hand, they all knelt down and saluted.
There was something wrong with Old Madam Qins legs and feet, and when she knelt down, her kneecap was painful.
Relieved to see that Qiao Jinniang wasnt angry, Lu Chen said, This imperial decree is for County Mistress Jiaan.
Under everyones gaze, Qiao Jinniang slowly stepped forward and knelt down.
Duke Anyuans daughter, County Mistress Jiaan, is virtuous, intelligent, benevolent and outstanding in appearance. She hasnt been married, and the crown prince, Lu Chen, is at the right age to marry and needs to choose a virtuous wife. The two of them are a perfect match for each other, so I hereby confer the title of crown princess to Qiao Jinniang, and the wedding will held on March 28.
Everyone was shocked to hear the imperial decree.
Old Madam Qin, Li Lingling, Mrs. Zhong, and the others turned pale and livid, which looked very funny!
Qiao Jinniang raised her hands above her head to receive the imperial decree and said, I hereby take the imperial decree.
Lu Chen put the imperial decree in Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Qiao Jinniang put the imperial decree on the incense burner table. After everyone in the Qiao family kowtowed to the imperial decree, Qiao Jinniang put it into the Qiao family ancestral hall and worshiped it with incense.
Walking out of the door, Qiao Jinniang saw Old Madam Qin and the others still kneeling at the door, and asked curiously, Why are you all still kneeling here?
Old Madam Qin forced a smile awkwardly, feeling a burning pain on her face. She wanted to stand up, but would she dare?
Lu Chen, who was sitting at the door, picked his tea cup and slowly took a sip of tea. Since theyvee here, it would be rude to leave without greeting the crown princess.
The butler beside Duke Anyuan hurriedly took a chair, ced it beside Lu Chen, and asked Qiao Jinniang to sit down.
Lu Chen nced at the people kneeling on the ground and said, Consort Huai is of the highest rank here. Let her do it first.
Chapter 165 - Kowtowed and Saluted
Chapter 165: Kowtowed and Saluted
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Qiao Jinniang was seated, she whispered into Lu Chens ear, After all, she is your sister-inw and a princes consort. It is not appropriate for her to kneel to me, right?
Lu Chen said, You are the crown princess. Even if she is your sister-inw, there is nothing inappropriate for her to kneel to you.
Li Lingling looked extremely embarrassed. She never imagined that His Majesty would ignore his own face and issue two imperial decrees in a row.
If it werent for the wrong imperial decree, she wouldnt havee to the Qiao Mansion tough at Qiao Jinniang.
At this moment, Li Lingling could only kneel in front of Qiao Jinniang, bow her head and kowtow, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness.
After a long time, Li Lingling heard Qiao Jinniang say, Arise.
Li Lingling was almost suffocated with the rage that suddenly burst out of her heart.
Qiao Jinniang didnt ask her to arise until she kowtowed to her!
Li Lingling got up and stared at Qiao Jinniang, and there seemed to be countless sharp knives in her eyes.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt care.
After Li Lingling, the other consorts came to salute her one after another.
Qiao Jinniang didnt have any grievances against them. Although she had a quarrel with Consort Qi, thetter had apologized to her.
Qiao Jinniang asked them to arise before they kowtowed.
As for Fulu and others, Qiao Jinniang didnt even let them salute her.
Old Madam Qiao held her breath. At her age, if she knelt down to salute Qiao Jinniang, it would be a disgrace.
When Old Madam Qin stepped forward to salute, she only saluted towards Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang took the tea handed over by a maid and said slowly, Old Madam Qiao, are you too old to see clearly where I am?
Mrs. Qin gnashed her teeth. She was an elder after all. Even the Queen would not let her kowtow to her. How dare Qiao Jinniang?
Duchess Qin tugged at Qiao Ruoyuns clothes, signaling her to plead for Old Madam Qin.
Qiao Ruoyun understood what Duchess Qin meant, and just when she wanted to speak.
She caught Qiao Jinniangs gaze. Then Qiao Ruoyun simply lowered her head, pretending not to understand her mother-inw.
Old Madam Qiao could only kowtow to Qiao Jinniang.
Your Royal Highness, Your Highness.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt ask her to get up for a long time. Old Madam Qiaos knee hurt badly, and her heart was full of anger!
Qiao Jinniang put the tea cup aside and said, Old Madam Qin, you have the first-ss honorary title conferred by His Majesty and you are also an elder, so I, as a junior, shouldnt have judged you.
But you should set an example for the other nobledies in Da Tang.
With the first-ss honorary title, you behave like an ignorant vige gossipmonger.
You made your family a mess, and even indulged a concubine maid into almost murdering your granddaughter-inw.
Your Royal Highness, the evidence on this matter is conclusive. For the sake of the two families rtionship, I didnt hold you responsible.
But Old Madam Qin insulted my mother and me over and over again. I cant just ignore it.
Lu Chen said, If this is true, after returning to the imperial pce, I will report it to my father and cancel the honorary title for Old Madam Qin.
Old Madam Qin closed her eyes and almost fainted, and everyone in the Qin family knelt down and pleaded for mercy.
But Qin Miaomiao said, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, this is a wise decision.
After that, Qiao Jinniang spared almost everyone from kowtowing to her.
Mrs. Thong and Thong Wuer thought they would be spared from kowtowing too.
But after they knelt down and saluted, Qiao Jinniang didnt say a word.
Qiao Jinniang rubbed her temples. Your Royal Highness, Miss Thong is so daring. She kept saying that you were vulgar just now!
This was the first time Thong Wuer saw the Crown Prince. At thest imperial pce banquet, she was too far away from Lu Chen to see his face clearly.
Seeing his appearance clearly now, she instantly fell head over heels for him.
She had never seen such a handsome man, but seeing that he was so protective of Qiao Jinniang, her heart was sore.
Hearing Qiao Jinniangs words, she raised her head pitifully and looked at the Crown Prince, saymg,
Your Royal Highness, I have never said that!
Qiao Jinniang said, You said that merchants were vulgar, but His Royal Highness had been a merchant for three years.
Thong Wuer quickly said, Your Royal Highness, dont listen to Qiao Jinniangs nonsense!
Lu Chen said in a cold voice, How dare you call the Crown Princess by name? Governor Thongs performance has been the poorest in annual assessment for three years, and obviously he also fails in properly educating his daughter. I think he shouldnt be a governor anymore.
In the South, there are merchants everywhere. Governor Thong is the governor of the South, but his daughter despises merchants so much. He should quit the job!
Mrs. Thong copsed on the ground. She really regretted it. She came to fawn on Qiao Jinniang, but why did things end up like this?
Qiu Su kept kowtowing to Qiao Jinniang. Jinniang, we had been ssmates for ten years! For the sake of our old friendship, please plead for us!
Qiao Jinniang felt a bit ufortable to see Qiu Su like this, and said, Qiu Su, its the time of peace now and the peoples lives are getting better and better, and the merchants y a very important role in peoples life.
If merchants pay taxes and dont vite thew, they should not be considered vulgar.
If I dont punish the Thong family, I cant exin to all the merchants in the world.
In the previous dynasties, aristocratic families looked down on merchants who were just as wealthy as they were.
And in times of war, if everyone was engaged in business, no one would do farming, which was not good for the development of the country.
So business was relegated to an abject profession.
But since thete emperor, the government had been encouraging the people to do business to mobilize the cirction of money in the country.
Although in the eyes of some high-ranking officials and nobles, merchants were still menial, their status was much higher than that of the previous dynasties.
The imperial court needed merchants to pay taxes and mobilize consumptions of themon people.
Qiao Jinniang understood this truth when she was a child, so she never felt that doing business was menial.
Governor Thong was the governor of the South, but his daughter despised merchants to this point. He was not wronged at all to be demoted.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was so cold-hearted, Qiu Su said hatefully,
Your Royal Highness, do you know why none of Qiao Jinniangs ssmates attended your wedding banquet?
Because Qiao Jinniang seduced the son of the prefect of Linan when she was in school.
The son of the prefect of Linan always wanted to take Qiao Jinniang as his concubine!
We were afraid to offend the son of the prefect, so we didnt dare to go to her wedding banquet, which was why she med us.
When the crowd heard this, there was an uproar, and they couldnt help but secretly exim that Qiu Su was really bold.
Lu Chen said coldly, If Qiao Jinniang really seduced the son of the prefect, then why did she need to find a man to marry into her family?
If she became the concubine of the son of the prefect, would those Qiao nsmen dare to snatch Myriad Taste?
It is true that you didnt want to offend the son of the prefect, but Jinniang never seduced the son of the prefect. You ndered the Crown Princess out of malicious intent. You must be punished.
Come on, take her to the governor of Changan!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Qiu Su and said, Susu, you kept saying that we had been ssmates for ten years. Yes, ten years, what have I done to you?
Why do you hate me so much that you would even risk your own life to nder me?!
Qiu Su suddenly lunged to her feet and shouted crazily out loud, Qiao Jinniang, do you know what I hate most about you?
You are the one who told me that merchants are not humble!
But when I left school and returned home, every time I attended a banquet, everyone, including my parents, looked down on me as a businesswoman!
Your family was poorer than mine, but why were you always dressed better than me in school ?!
You were the most mischievous student in school, but why did every teacher like you the most?!
When I heard the son of the prefect wanted to marry you, did you know how jealous I was?!
1 tried so hard but still couldnt marry an officials son, but you rejected the son of the prefect just because he had too many concubines!
Afterwards, I tried my best to marry a governors son although he was born by the governors concubine, trying to get rid of my identity as a businesswoman.
But you didnt need to do anything but still became a dukes daughter. And you continue to do business and even be the crown princess.. Why, why is your life always better than mine?!
Chapter 166 - A Mammy from the Imperial Palace
Chapter 166 A Mammy from the Imperial Pce
Qiao Jinniang frowned. She didnt even know that Qiu Su had been hating her since they were in school.
Qiao Jinniang said softly, People should love and respect themselves. You look down on yourself. Why do you me me?
Qiu Suughed crazily and said, Haha, Qiao Jinniang, you rejected the son of the prefect because he had too many concubines.
But His Royal Highness will definitely have many concubines in the future. I will wait and see how you end up!
A smelly sock was stuffed into Qiu Sus mouth and she was dragged down.
No one dared to say a word. For Qiao Jinniangs sake, Lu Chen withdrew Old Madam Qiaos honorary title and demoted Governor Zhong. Who would dare to mess with her again at this moment?
ness
Seeing the sleepy look on Qiao Jinniangs face, Lu Chen said to her, You didnt have a good restst night. Go take a nap.
Qiao Jinniang sleptte at night and had the habit of taking a nap at noon.
Back in the courtyard, she closed her eyes and slept.
When she was woken up by Nuomi, it was an hourter.
Nuomi whispered to Qiao Jinniang, Miss, Miss Qiu Sumitted suicide in jail.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and her sleepiness was instantly gone. Qiu Su would be locked up for three years at most.
Even if she couldnt stay in Changan anymore, she could go to other ces.
Back in Linan, who would care if she had offended the crown princess!
Why did shemit suicide?
Nuomi said, The Zhong family didnt go to collect her body. Her maid Xian came to beg me, and I gave her 10 taels of silver to collect Miss Qius body.
Xian said that Miss Qiu had been instructed by her parents to marry an officials son since her childhood.
Miss Qiu originally wanted to marry the son of the prefect although he looked like a fat pig but unfortunately, the son of the prefect didnt like her.
Later, she married Governor Zhongs son who was born by his concubine. I heard that the betrothal gift was only 2,000 taels of silver, but her family gave a full 100,000 taels to the Zhong family!
But after she was married, her mother-inw didnt like her, and her husband raised a lot of concubines outside with her money.
Nuomi said indignantly.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, No wonder she resented me so much.
When Qiu Su knew that Qiao Jinniang would be the Crown Princes second concubine, her sympathy for her didnt seem to be fake, but when she found out that Qiao Jinniang would be the crown princess, her mentality waspletely distorted.
Why was she so stupid?
Qiao Jinniang said, Give one hundred taels of silver to her maid, so that she can return to Linan and be buried at her hometown.
Nuomi said, Yes.
After Qiao Jinniang got up and walked out of the courtyard, she saw Lu Chening. She looked at Lu Chen and said, Why are you still here? I had thought you were gone.
Lu Chen said, I was waiting for you to wake up to take you into the imperial pce and choose two mammies to teach you court etiquette, and to pick some imperial maids by the way.
Nuomi is not suitable to be brought into the imperial pce. You should find some imperial maids and eunuchs first.
Hearing him mention mammies who were to teach her court etiquette, Qiao Jinniang sighed in horror.
Lu Chenughed. You dont have to learn etiquette very well. Dont worry.
Qiao Jinniang was thinking about the maids she would bring into the East Pce. She had five close maids now.
Hongling is the same age as me. She is already neen and her character is suitable for her to stay in the imperial pce.
Although Yuyan is too outgoing, she is good at snooping information, and there is no gossip that she does not know.
Luhe is diligent and good at housework. I want to keep her with me.
Yingtao doesnt talk much, but she can manage the little maids well, and she is also a very good hairdresser.
It seems that only Nuomi is not suitable for the imperial pce, but she grew up with me. If she is left outside alone, I will be worried about her.
Nuomi was two years younger than Qiao Jinniang.
Jinniang remembered very clearly that when she was six years old, after a big storm, the whole Yin County was flooded.
Many refugees from Yin County came to Linan, and Nuomi, Huixiang, Bajiao and the others all came to Myriad Taste at this time.
They didnt know if their families were still alive, and they had nowhere to go.
Little Nuomi didnt even know her own name. At that time, although she was a child, she ate five big sticky rice balls alone.
So Qiao Jinniangs adoptive mother called her little Nuomi (means sticky rice in Chinese).
Later, she took them back to Yin County to look for their families, but little Nuomi couldnt remember where her home was, and because of the flood, few people survived in Yin County.
In the end, they simply let Nuomi and the others stay in Myriad Taste and be their maids and servants.
Later, Nuomi also went to Yin County to look for her family herself, but failed.
Knowing that Nuomi and Qiao Jinniang had deep affections, Lu Chen said,
You can bring Nuomi into the East Pce. Just tell her not to leave the East Pce. After all, you are the only master in the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, let her stay outside the imperial pce.
Nuomi loves freedom by nature. It would be better for her to live a care-free life outside the imperial pce.
Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen onto the carriage and asked Lu Chen, By the way, isnt it inappropriate for me to choose the mammies and imperial maids by myself?
Lu Chen said, Theres nothing wrong with it, only those you choose can be your confidants.
Also, although my mother is in charge of the imperial pce, its difficult to guess the minds of the people in the imperial pce.
Instead of letting others y tricks in the choice of the mammies who are to teach you court etiquette, its better to weed out those who have ulterior motives in the first ce.
After seeing all kinds of people when she was running the restaurant, Qiao Jinniang was a good judge of character.
More importantly, if she chose the mammies herself, she could directly send them back to the imperial pce if there was something wrong with them.
And she wouldnt have to consider many other elements.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Why did you say you wanted to weed out those who have ulterior motives in the first ce?
Lu Chen said, The Empress Dowager didnt like my mother, so before my mother married into the imperial pce, she sent some mammies to give my mother a hard time in the name of teaching her court etiquette. Because of the requirement on filial piety, my mother could only endure the abuse of those mammies.
Qiao Jinniang understood. She sighed and looked at the majestic pce in front of her.
Bing a crown princess was probably much harder than being the shopkeeper of Myriad Taste.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Afraid? Even if youre afraid, you cant regret it anymore.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. How could I be afraid?
Lu Chen smiled.
After Qiao Jinniang entered the imperial pce, she went to the Queens pce and saluted the Queen. Your Majesty.
The corner of Queen Zhous lips curled slightly. Why do you still call me Your Majesty? You should call me Mother now.
Qiao Jinniang lowered her head and said shyly, Mother.
Queen Zhou said to her, The officials of the Ministry of Rites have been punished.
I dont have a suitable mammy, so the mammies were picked from the Shanggong Bureau.
In case someone makes use of this matter to sow discord between us, I told Chener to let you pick mammies yourself.
Only then did Qiao Jinniang know that this was arranged by Queen Zhou. She was really the best mother-inw in the world.
Empress Dowager arrives!
A eunuchs voice came from outside the pce.
Lu Chen sped Qiao Jinniangs hand tightly and frowned slightly.
I heard that the Crown Princess came to choose mammies to teach her court etiquette today, so I specially brought Mammy Bai over. Mammy Bai has been in the imperial pce for more than 40 years, and will certainly teach the Crown Princess rules well!
Chapter 167 - Punish Mammy Bai
Chapter 167 Punish Mammy Bai
Before the Empress Dowager arrived, her voice arrived.
Entering the pce, the Empress Dowager was followed by Li Lingling.
Li Lingling looked at Qiao Jinniang gloatingly. Mammy Bai knows court etiquette best among Grandmothers mammies, and she has taught many women in the imperial pce the rules. Its your blessing that Grandmother let Mammy Bai teach you the rules!
Qiao Jinniang followed the Queen to salute the Empress Dowager. She lowered her head and said, Mammy Bai is the Empress Dowagers mammy. How can I trouble Mammy Bai?
The Empress Dowager said, Youre wrong. Mammy Bai is just a maid after all. You are her master. How can you trouble her?
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, I see, Your Grace. Thank you for your generous reward.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang ept Mammy Bai so easily, Li Linglingughed secretly at her stupidity in her heart.
Qiao Jinniang probably didnt know how difficult Mammy Bai was to deal with!
Queen Zhou said, Since there is already Mammy Bai, you can choose another mammy, Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and chose a young aunt who seemed to be in her early thirties among the people in the Shanggong Bureau.
Nice to meet you, Your Highness. My name is Qingmo.
Aunt Qingmo, please get up. Qiao Jinniang said, I will need you and Mammy Bai to give me advice on etiquette in future.
Qingmo bowed her head and said, Ill try my best to give you advice on etiquette, Your Highness.
Leaving Mammy Bai here, the Empress Dowager went back to her pce with Li Lingling. She sneered, I thought that His Majesty loved Lu Chen, but he actually allowed Lu Chen to marry a woman who was raised by ves as the crown princess.
Li Lingling supported the Empress Dowagers hand and said, Grandmother, you dont know how overbearing Qiao Jinniang was! She even forced me to kneel and kowtow to her in public! You must avenge me!
The Empress Dowager ordered her maids and eunuchs to leave before she said to Li Lingling: Changeable in prosperity and decline capricious in rise and fall. Lets just wait and see.
What Qiao Jinniang relies on is only Lu Chen. If Prince Huai gains power, let alone Qiao Jinniang, even Lu Chen will have to kowtow to you!
Li Lingling said angrily, But Cousin Huai has no interest in the throne at all!
The Empress Dowager looked into the distance and said, How could a prince not be interested in the throne? Its just that those who achieve great things need to be patient and cant be like that idiot Prince Mediocre, who was easily defeated by Lu Chen! Li Lingling saluted. I see. Lu Chen took her love for him like dirt, and Qiao Jinniang, that lowly b*tch, humiliated her. She would just wait until Prince Huai seized power.
Then she would definitely get even with them.
The wedding was only two months away, so the Anyuan Mansion had to prepare for the wedding now.
The news of the Crown Princes wedding was announced to the world, and many vassal countries and neighboring countries would send envoys to attend the wedding.
This was the most important event of the royal family in the past twenty years.
Manymon people in Changan bought new clothes, not wanting to lose face in front of the people from foreign countries.
Qiao Jinniang was locked in the yard in order to learn court etiquette. With exception to painting, she had always been a quicker learner ever since she was a child.
As long as she was willing to learn, she would definitely be able to make rapid progress.
Moreover, she had learned many of the rules in school. It was just that the rules of the royal family were moreplicated.
On the second day when Mammy Bai came to the Qiao Mansion, she couldnt find a chance to torture Qiao Jinniang.
She only needed to demonstrate a rule once, and Qiao Jinniang could exactly do it, giving her no chance to find fault with her.
Aunt Qingmo said from the side, Your Highness, did you learn etiquette before?
I had learnt it in school. And after I returned to the Duke Mansion, my mother had had two mammies teach me some rules, Qiao Jinniang said.
Aunt Qingmo smiled and said, Your Highness, you have already learnt the rules well.
However, there areplicated rules for events like ancestor worship ceremonies and weddings, and these rules are the most difficult to master.
But its gettingte today, and its time for dinner. Lets continue to learn the rules tomorrow, okay?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay.
However, Mammy Bai said to Qiao Jinniang,
Excuse me, Your Highness. I havent checked your table manners, which are very important in the imperial pce. Why not learn it now?
If you make any mistakes on table manners, dont me me for being rude.
There were many rules for dining, even a princess who grew up in the imperial pce might not be able to fully learn them.
If Mammy Bai wanted to pick on Qiao Jinniang, she could always find faults with her on this.
As ordered by the Empress Dowager, Mammy Bai was determined to teach Qiao Jinniang a good lesson.
Now she finally found a good opportunity to torture her.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Mammy Bai indifferently. Okay, Hongling, serve the dishes.
Qiao Jinniang had been conferred the title of crown princess, and although the canonization ceremony hadnt been held, she couldnt dine with her parents anymore.
So she had dinner in her own room.
Qiao Jinniang sat down. After rinsing her mouth, she picked up the chopsticks when she was suddenly hit hard on the wrist by Mammy Bai.
Your Highness, its wrong! Before you pick up chopsticks, you have to ask the maid to pick the food you like and put it in your bowl.
Qiao Jinniang put the chopsticks aside heavily. Mammy Bai, when the Empress Dowager gave you to me, she said that you were just my servant.
Even if I make a mistake in table manners, youre not in a position to hit my wrist and take the chopsticks off my hand!
Yuyan said on the side, Yes, what makes you think you, an old maid, can hit Miss, well, no, Her Highness?
Unable to find a chance to torture Qiao Jinniang in thest two days, Mammy Bai was so anxious that she hit Qiao Jinniang as soon as she saw her finally make a mistake.
Hearing what Qiao Jinniang said, Mammy Bai didnt panic at all but said slowly,
I was ordered by the Empress Dowager to teach Your Highness the rules. You made a mistake just now. I was eager to teach you the rules well so I hit you. But I just followed the order of the Empress Dowager! I didnt do anything wrong!
Qiao Jinniang snorted coldly. Followed the order of the Empress Dowager? Did she order you to hit my hand?
Dont even think of taking the Empress Dowager as an excuse. She said that you were nothing but a servant.
Can a servant hit her masters hand? Can you tell me what kind of rule this is?
Mammy Bai had thought that teaching Qiao Jinniang was an easy task.
She and another mammy had been sent to teach Queen Zhou the rules before, and Queen Zhou was tortured terribly by them.
Even Queen Zhou couldnt do anything to her, let alone a ved-raised little girl!
But she didnt expect Qiao Jinniang to be so difficult to deal with.
Mammy Bai said solemnly, I just did what the Empress Dowager ordered me to. If Your Highness makes a mistake, I can hit you
What I am asking you is what kind of a rule it is that a servant can hit her master?!
Qiao Jinniangs voice was not loud, but it was cold and sharp.
Mammy Bai suddenly felt a little scared and had to kneel down and say,
Your Highness, I am here to teach you the rules. You shouldnt have taken the chopsticks at that time, so I, I
Qiao Jinniang said coldly, Although I dont know what kind of a rule it is that a servant can hit her master, I know the rules of Da
Tang.
The Empress Dowagers kindness to me was twisted by you. I will not spare you easily.
Come, lock Mammy Bai in the firewood room, send her back to the imperial pce tomorrow, and hand her over to the Empress Dowager for punishment!
Hearing about this matter in her yard, Zheng Xiao hurried over and said to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, Mammy Bai was given to you by the Empress Dowager. Im afraid its inappropriate to do this, is it not?
Chapter 168 - Send Mammy Bai Back to the Imperial Palace
Chapter 168 Send Mammy Bai Back to the Imperial Pce
Zheng Xiao said to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, although Mammy Bai is only a mammy, she was given to you by the Empress Dowager. If you lock her in the firewood room, the imperial censors may impeach you again for not being filial to the Empress Dowager.
Qiao Jinniang knew what Zheng Xiao worried about. Mother, although Mammy Bai is the Empress Dowagers mammy, when the Empress Dowager gave her to me, she said that she was just a maid.
Punishing her doesnt mean Im not filial to the Empress Dowager. Besides, look at my wrist
Qiao Jinniang rolled up the sleeve on her wrist.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniangs wrist was all red and swollen, Zheng Xiao burst into tears. How dare she! Dont worry. Even if the Empress Dowager mes you, I will protect you!
Qiao Jinniang put down her sleeve and said, Thank you, Mother. Dont worry. It doesnt hurt.
Zheng Xiao didnt believe her. Qiao Jinniangs wrist was all red. How could it not hurt? She said,
Ill enter the imperial pce with your grandmother early tomorrow to seek justice from the Empress Dowager.
Qiao Jinniang handed a handkerchief to Zheng Xiao to wipe her tears.
Hearing a noise from the secret tunnel, she sent Zheng Xiao back to her yard.
When she returned to her room, Lu Chen was already waiting for her in the room.
Lu Chen smiled and said, I had thought you could endure Mammy Bai for three days.
Seeing him smiling, Qiao Jinniang was slightly annoyed. Humph, how dare you gloat at me?
Lu Chen said in a low voice, How dare I? Come on, let me see if she hurt you.
Qiao Jinniang extended her wrist to Lu Chen. Lu Chen rubbed at it only to find his fingers were stained red. This is too fake. You cant fool anyone. There is a strange flower and if it leaves a stain, the stain wont go away until six or seven dayster. Ill have someone bring it to you.
Qiao Jinniang said, I just showed this to my grandmother and my mother.
Qiao Jinniang knew very well what Mammy Bai was up to.
Although Mammy Bai actually didnt hit her wrists hard today, she wouldnt let her stay. Who knew if she would go further in the future? Thus, she could only take the initiative to send her away!
Qiao Jinniang yawned and said, Its time for you to go back. Ive learned the rules for a whole day. Im so tired.
Lu Chen was certainly not willing to go. I will sleep with you tonight and leave early tomorrow.
Qiao Jinniang didnt reject him. She called the maids over to help her wash up and then went to bed. Hongling and other maids were surprised to see Lu Chen here, but they didnt dare to say anything.
Hongling said, I didnt know that His Royal Highness was here. Should I go get another set of washing utensils?
No need. Ill just use your misss.
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. Didnt he mind that there was rouge and face powder left on the towels she used?
Although the Spring Festival had passed, it was still very cold. Yingtao put several hot-water bags in Qiao Jinniangs bed to warm the bed.
After the maids went out, Lu Chen took the hot-water bags out.
Qiao Jinniang said, Why did you take them out? Although there is a charcoal brazier in the room, its still cold inside the quilt.
Lu Chen said, Why did I never see you use hot-water bags in Linan?
Who said I didnt use it in Linan? Qiao Jinniang whispered, I just didnt use it after marrying you.
Because when Lu Chen was by her side, even if she didnt use a hot-water bag, the bed was always warm. He was an XL-size hot-water bag.
Lu Chen smiled and said, Then you dont need it tonight.
The north wind blew all night, and heavy snow fell again in Changan.
Early in the morning, Old Madam Qiao took Mammy Bai to the imperial pce to see the Empress Dowager despite the heavy snow. The Empress Dowager had to give some face to the widow of a deceased hero, so she could only say that she would punish Mammy Bai.
After Old Madam Qiao left, the Empress Dowager looked angrily at Mammy Bai. You are an experienced mammy and have been in the imperial pce for so many years. How could you be so reckless?
Mammy Bai cried and shouted, Your Grace, I was wronged. I just hit the crown princesss wrist gently. It was impossible for her wrist to be red and swollen like that! Qiao Jinniang set me up!
Before I could do anything to her, she had set me up!
When the Empress Dowager heard her words, she got angrier. If Qiao Jinniang were really hit that bad, it would be worthwhile.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt suffer any loss but sent her mammy back to the imperial pce!
She simply had no respect for her at all! When she marries into the East Pce, she must teach her a good lesson!
When Qiao Jinniang woke up, Lu Chen was gone. She called the maids in, only to see Nuomis eyes were red.
Master, are you not going to take me to the East Pce with you?
Qiao Jinniang sat in front of the bronze mirror and let Luhe dress her up. She sighed and said, Nuomi, there are many rules in the East Pce. I know you like freedom by nature. I dont want you to be confined in the imperial pce.
But Master, if you dont bring me into the imperial pce with you, if someone bullies you, there will be no one to fight with you, Nuomi said, holding back her tears.
Qiao Jinniangughed. When I enter the imperial pce, I am the Crown Princess, and no one can bully me except the Emperor, the Queen and the Empress Dowager.
I wont need to fight like in Linan.
Nuomi got on her knees and said, Ive been with you since my childhood, Master. Please dont drive me away!
Qiao Jinniang said, I wont drive you away, but to let you stay outside the imperial pce.
All your acquaintances are in Tasty Pavilion, so you can live a free life. If you miss me, you cane to the East Pce to see me.
Nuomi shook her head and said, No, Master, I just want to be by your side.
Qiao Jinniang sighed and said, This matter has been decided, and the list of the maids I will take to the imperial pce has been submitted.
Nuomi sniffled gently and ran out in tears.
Hongling said, Miss, Nuomi
She cant ept it for now. Give her some time.
The royal familys ancestor worship ceremony had veryplicated procedures and rules. Even Qiao Jinniang had difficulty in learning the rules.
Even though the imperial decree had been issued, every single procedure before the wedding had to be meticulously performed.
Therefore, Zheng Xiao followed Duke Anyuan back to the Duke Mansion to finish the procedures.
After worshiping the ancestors, it would be the title conferring ceremony. Although the imperial decree was issued, the seal of the crown princess would be issued on the title conferring day.
Qiao Jinniang got up early in the morning and waited for the arrival of the ceremonial personnel at the gates.
Officials from the Ministry of Rites went in and out in an orderly manner, bringing the wedding dress, jewelry, carriage and guards of honor specially for the Crown Princess.
After Qiao Jinniang put on the wedding dress and jewelry, she rode the special carriage for her to the hall.
After listening to a long imperial ode for about half an hour, she knelt down and kowtowed to the imperial ode for nine times before she was given her seal.
After the ceremony waspleted, Qiao Jinniang felt that she had lost half her life.
Back in the room, although Aunt Qingmo was here, she still copsed onto the couch.
Why do so many women in Changan want to be the crown princess? The title conferring ceremony is already so exhausting. Im afraid the wedding ceremony will kill me. Qing Mo smiled and said, No, Your Highness. You have the title conferring ceremony because His Majesty and His Royal Highness value you. Since the founding of the Tang Dynasty, there has never been a crown princess who had the title conferring ceremony. Youre the first!
Qiao Jinniang sat up straight and said, So the title conferring ceremony could have been skipped?
Chapter 169 - inniang Cuckolded the Crown Prince at the Duke Mansion
Chapter 169 Jinniang Cuckolded the Crown Prince at the Duke Mansion
Aunt Qingmo said, Yeah, ording to the rules, normally there isnt a title conferring ceremony for a crown princess.
It is because His Royal Highness loves you very much that he asked from His Majesty for
Highness, you dont know how many girls envy you!
Qiao Jinniang:
It turned out that she had to learn the rules so hard just because Lu Chen loved her?
After the title conferring ceremony, Qiao Jinniang finally got some leisure time.
Firstly, she had learned the rules, and secondly, the wedding wasing up soon, so she wasnt allowed to deal with the restaurant business. Therefore, she was quite idle.
It finally warmed up in early March.
The dead trees in the courtyard sprouted.
Her maids told her that Changan had been very lively recently, and Qiao Jinniang wanted to go out to have a look, but she couldnt.
The Duke Mansion was also very lively because many rtives of the Duke in the Southwest came.
Qiao Ruoyin, a cousin Qiao Jinniang had never met, was not able toe because she was about to give birth, but her parents-inw and husband came.
And the Dukes third brother, Third Master, also returned with his concubines.
Duke Anyuans cousins and their families also came from the Southwest, and they all came to greet Qiao Jinniang outside her courtyard.
Although Qiao Ruoyin didnte back, her first son did, which made Old Madam Qiao happy.
The Dukes second brother had no son, so he was very happy too to see his grandson.
But Second Madam was very upset and mentioned her adoption n again.
Mother, Jinniang is going to be married, and then we will have to open the ancestral hall and record this matter on the genealogy.
Why not take advantage of this opportunity to let us adopt a son of Third Brother? Old Madam Qiao red at Second Madam and said, Dont even think of making use of Jinniangs wedding. No one can mess with her wedding!
Second Madam pursed her lips in disappointment and could only say, Okay.
The Crown Princes wedding was approaching, and all the neighboring countries came to celebrate it. As the Crown Prince, Lu Chen was very busy.
However, he still came to Qiao Jinniangs boudoir in the Duke Mansion over the window every now and then.
But today, Qiao Jinniang simply put a nail board in front of her window.
When Lu Chen saw the nail board, he hurriedly retracted his feet, looked at Qiao Jinniang and asked, What is this?
Qiao Jinniang said, Your Royal Highness, the wedding is approaching. We better not meet secretly.
Lu Chen frowned. Why?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Why? I only learned yesterday that a crown princess actually doesnt need a title conferring ceremony. It was a gift you got for me!
Lu Chen said with a smile, You dont want it?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen. Of course not!
Lu Chen leaped over the nail board andnded in front of Qiao Jinniang, saying,
The wedding will be tiring anyway. With a title conferring ceremony, those idiots will not dare to impeach you for being too jealous and ask for the abolition of the crown princess.
Qiao Jinniang said, Why would they do that?
Lu Chen said, Its hard to guarantee those old fogeys wont do that, but if you have a title conferring ceremony, itll be harder for them to do that.
Lu Chen put his arm around Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, I know you dont like unnecessary and overborate formalities, but trust me, you are not the most tired one.
At our wedding, the officials and their wives have to get up earlier than you and worship ancestors together with you.
At that time, you can ride a chariot while they can only walk. No matter what they think in their hearts, at our wedding, they have to respect you very much, especially given the fact that you were granted a title conferring ceremony.
Qiao Jinniang: You did all these just to make them bow their heads to me and respect me?
She couldnt help but feel moved.
Lu Chen shook his head and said, Most importantly, Im worried that my willful crown princess may want to divorce me
But with a title conferring ceremony, you can only be my woman in this life.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. As long as you dont fail me, I certainly wont ask for divorce for nothing!
Lu Chen, I want you to remember that you can only be my man in this life too!
Lu Chen picked her up, walked to the bed, and said huskily,
I promise you. If I break my promise, you can poison me with those poisonous mushrooms and grass.
Qiao Jinniang said, ording to the novels I read, those who say such words will all break their promises in the end.
I will not.
The gauze curtain on the edge of the bed slowly fell, blocking the scene that would make people blush.
The maids guarding the door were already used to this and went to prepare hot water for them with blushing faces.
But unfortunately, Old Madam Qiao happened toe to the Jin Garden to ask Qiao Jinniang for her opinion on the adoption matter at this time.
When she walked to the door of the room, she was stopped by Hongling with a blushing face. Old Madam, the Crown Princess has already slept.
At this time, it was still early in the day. Old Madam Qiao thought maybe Qiao Jinniang was tired today, so she said, Okay, take good care of her. Ille again tomorrow.
When Old Madam Qiao was about to leave, she suddenly heard from the room groans and chuckles that were deliberately lowered, and she immediately frowned.
Noma
Then she heard that in the room, a woman was calling Honey in a sweet and seductive voice.
Old Madam Qiaos eyes widened. She clenched her hands and her mind was racing. Although this voice was soft, she could tell it was Qiao Jinniangs voice!
Jinniang, how daring you are!
She had already been given the title of crown princess, and the wedding date was only less than a month away, but now she was dating a man in the Duke Mansion?!
This must not be known by outsiders. Otherwise, the Duke Mansion would be doomed.
Old Madam Qiao gritted her teeth and said, Qiner, call some reliable mommies and guards over, surround this yard, and let no one leave!
Catch all the maids in the Jin Garden and gag them, and then ask the Duke and Madam toe over.
Hongling thought that Old Madam Qiao must not know the man inside was actually the Crown Prince.
Just as she was about to speak, a mammy gagged her and Hongling struggled.
But the mammy thought she was going to shout loudly, so she bound her up even more tightly, making it impossible for her to break free
When Duke Anyuan and Zheng Xiao came, seeing the mess in the courtyard, Zheng Xiao hurriedly asked, Mother, what happened?
Madam Qiao ran the Buddha beads through her fingers to suppress her inner panic and said, Our Duke Mansion is doomed, Jinniang, Jinniang, she
Old Madam Qiao was too ashamed to tell what happened, and after quite a while, she said,
She is dating a man in her boudoir, and that man is still inside!
Fortunately, the imperial maids are not in the Jin Garden at night!
Zheng Xiao was shocked. Although Jinniang is bold, I dont think she dares to do this!
Duke Anyuan also said, Mother, did you hear it wrong?
Old Madam Qiao red at him and said, Im not deaf!
None of these maids in Jin Garden can be spared.
However, Luer is going to take the imperial examination and Xiaoer is going to give birth to a child, so we shouldnt kill at this time. Poison them mute and lock them up in a manor!
The adulterer is still in the room. When hees out, cut him into pieces!
Most importantly, this matter must not be leaked.
Duke Anyuan frowned and said, Mother, if Jinniang reallymitted this heinous crime, shouldnt we confess it to His Royal Highness and ask for punishment?
How can we conceal it for Jinniang and indulge her in cuckolding the Crown Prince?
Zheng Xiao nced at Duke Anyuan displeasedly. Do you want Jinniang to die? Compared to Jinniangs life, cuckolding the Crown Prince is not a big deal!
Duke Anyuan:
Chapter 170 - Qiao Jinniang Committed Adultery
Chapter 170 Qiao Jinniang Committed Adultery
Old Madam Qiao turned the Buddha beads in her hand and said, If the news spreads out, it may implicate the imperial grandson. This matter must be concealed. About half an hourter, the voice of Qiao Jinniang calling for Hongling finally sounded in the room.
Old Madam Qiao said sharply at the door. Hongling has been tied up. Jinniang,e out quickly.
When Qiao Jinniang heard her grandmothers voice, she blushed red and nced at Lu Chen. Damn!
Lu Chen had been practicing martial arts, so he had very acute hearing. He had long heard the noises outside.
He also heard the Qiao family nning how to hide from him the fact that Jinniang had cuckolded him
Lu Chen: What are you afraid of? You are notmitting adultery anyway.
Qiao Jinniang pinched the flesh on Lu Chens waist. My reputation haspletely been ruined by you.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and chuckled. We are a legitimate husband and wife. Why are you afraid of your grandmother?
Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chen away, picked up the clothes that scattered on the bed, and put them on, but without the help of maids, she couldnt put her hair in a decent bun, so she could only open the door with a loose bun.
As soon as she opened the door, she saw the dark-faced Duke Anyuan, Old Madam Qiao who was clenching a string of Buddhist beads tightly, and Zheng Xiao who looked quite worried about her.
Qiao Jinniang was so ashamed that she just wished she could find a hole on the ground to hide in
Old Madam Qiao huffily wanted to enter the room, but was blocked by Qiao Jinniang at the door.
Qiao Jinniang begged, Please, Grandmother, save me some face.
Duke Anyuan took a deep breath and said, Jinniang, get out of the way. Your wedding is imminent, and the adulterers life cannot be spared!
Old Madam Qiao rushed in only to see Lu Chen, who was now dressed properly. Just as she was about to scold, her legs softened and she had to lean against a mammy beside her.
Feeling a little relieved, she hurriedly saluted. Your Royal Highness, we didnt know you arrived and didnte to greet you. Please forgive us.
There was a touch ofint in her words.
She was almost scared to death today. She never imagined that the dignified Crown Prince would climb over the wall to date his fiancee right before their wedding!
Lu Chen certainly could tell what Old Madam Qiao meant. He coughed awkwardly and said, Grandmother, you dont need to be so polite. Dont me Jinniang. The fault is all mine.
Old Madam Qiao slowly got up with the help of a mammy.
The Duke and Zheng Xiao entered from the outside and looked extremely embarrassed too.
Especially Duke Anyuan, he never imagined that the wise and genteel Crown Prince would break into his daughters boudoir at night like a burr!
And where had the guards of the Duke Mansion gone? How could they let the Crown Prince enter the Jin Gardenpletely unhindered?
Lu Chen was a bit embarrassed and said, I came to discuss the wedding with Jinniang. It was toote and I didnt want to disturb you, so I rudely climbed over the wall. Please forgive me.
Duke Anyuan certainly didnt dare to me him, and hurriedly said, No, Your Royal Highness, I should apologize. Please forgive me for my offense. Lu Chen said, Well, I shouldnt have broken in, sorry.
Seeing them apologizing to each other awkwardly and looking at the poor maids who were still tied up, Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Its time for you to go back to the imperial pce. The door will be locked soon.
Lu Chen nodded slightly and was about to climb over the wall as usual when he realized that he didnt need to do it and could go out from the front door.
After Lu Chen left, Old Madam Qiao ordered to untie Hongling and other maids and said to Qiao Jinniang, You, you
Old Madam Qiao wanted to me Jinniang but on second thought, she said, Forget it. You are both young and husband and wife, so I dont me you.
But the wedding date is approaching. To avoid trouble, behave yourselves before the wedding, okay? Even if your husband is the Crown Prince, you two cant ignore the rules, and you better not meet before the wedding!
Qiao Jinniang didnt hesitate to pass the buck to Lu Chen. Grandma, I was unwilling to vite the rules, but he is the Crown Prince after all. I couldnt disobey him. I promise I wont do this again.
Old Madam Qiao didnt say anything more.
Because Old Madam Qiao blocked the news, the rtives of the Qiao family didnt know what happened in the Jin Garden.
One of Third Masters concubines, Huaishan, held a baby in her arms. The baby didnt sleep at night, and Huaishan gently patted him and crooned him to sleep.
He was the fourth child of Third Master and the sixth grandson of Old Madam Qiao. He was born in the Southwestst summer. This was the first time he hade to Changan.
Huaishan used to be a maid of the Qiao family. Like Qiao Ruoyis mother, she had been serving Third Master since she was a child. However, Third Master was born by a concubine, so the maids preferred to serve Duke Anyuan and Second Master.
But Huaishan chose to follow Third Master in the end, so Third Master treated her well.
After Third Madam married into the Duke Mansion, she was sent to serve Third Madam. Later, Third Master went to the southwest border to lead troops, and she followed him to the Southwest and became his concubine.
It had been almost ten years, and she finally had a child when she was in her thirties. She cherished this child very much.
Huaishans sister-inw said to her with joy, Huaishan, I heard from a maid of Second Madam that Second Madam has mentioned to Old Madam more than once that she wanted to adopt a son of Third Master. She wanted to take the chance of the Crown Princess wedding to do it.
Third Masters eldest son and second son were both born by his wife and cant be adopted. His third son is frail and sickly, so Second Madam doesnt like him. I heard that they want to adopt your son!
Huaishan hugged the child tightly in her arms. No, I dont want it. I finally have a child at this age. How could I give him to Second Madam and let him recognize Second Madam as his mother?
Huaishans sister-inw said, Dont be stupid. If you keep this child, he will only be a concubine-born son of Third Master, but if Second Master adopts him, he will be Second Masters only heir.
The baby in Huaishans arms held the sleeve of Huaishan with his small fist. Huaishan said firmly, No, whoever wants to give her son to Second Madam can just do it. Ill never give my son to anyone.
Even if you keep him, he can never call you Mother!
Huaishans sister-inw, Aunt Liu, rolled her eyes at Huaishan. Huaishan was not young anymore. There was a good chance for her to gain a bright future but she declined it. Wasnt that stupid?
Thinking of the money Second Madam gave to her, Aunt Liu continued to persuade Huaishan. Huaishan, you have to think about whether your son will me you or not in the future! He could have be Second Masters heir, but you made him a concubine-born son.
Besides, although Third Master is leading the troops in the Southwest on behalf of the Duke, he was not born to the same mother as the Duke, but Second Master is different.
When the Crown Princess marries into the East Pce, she must be more willing to help her second uncles only heir instead of a concubine-born son of Third Master!
Huaishan held her son and said, I only want my child to live a peaceful and happy life. I dont want any wealth or power.
Unable to persuade her to change her mind, Aunt Liu was annoyed. She returned to her hut and scolded her husband, Old Liu. You are useless, and your whole family is useless.
After staying in the Southwest for ten years, Huaishan has be even more stupid. A good chance to gain money and power was ced in front of her, but she declined it.
Back then, Qiao Yu was only a cook, while your father was the butler, but now, he is Earl Linan. What about you? Why did I choose to marry you, a useless waste?
Old Liu said, Cut the crap, alright?
Aunt Liu asked Old Liu, What happened in the Jin Garden just now? I heard that someonemitted adultery or something?
Shh, if you dont want to lose your head, dont talk about it.
Aunt Liu curled her lips. She heard that it seemed that Qiao Jinniangmitted adultery.
Sure enough, Qiao Jinniang, who was raised by that slutty bitch, Yuniang, was a slut too!
Chapter 171 - 1 Commit Adultery In Her Courtyard
Chapter 171 Commit Adultery In Her Courtyard
Early the next morning, not long after Qiao Jinniang woke up, Qiao Ruofeng came to see her.
ee
This time when Qiao Ruofeng saw the furnishings in Qiao Jinniangs room, she had no envy at all.
Qiao Ruofeng said slowly, Second Sister, I almost diedst time. Only after Prince Mediocre got the punishment he deserved did I realize how stupid I was.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im d you figured it out. You are still young, less than sixteen years old, and you still have your whole life ahead of you as long as you can correct mistakes and make change.
Qiao Ruofeng suddenly knelt in front of Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang frowned slightly, only to hear Qiao Ruofeng say,
After going through so many things, I finally understand that there are not many reliable men in this world.
I grew up in the Duke Mansion, and even though my family has moved out of the Duke Mansion, I am still the daughter of a high-ranking official. I dont want my mother to grovel to others, trying to find me a good husband for me, let alone trying to snatch someone elses son.
If Third Uncle is willing to let my parents adopt his son, he would have agreed to it long ago. Besides, Sixth Cousin is not yet a year old. Let me be honest, even if Third Uncle is willing to give Sixth Cousin to my mother, he will be more of a burden than a help to Ruowan and I.
Qiao Jinniang said, What you said makes sense. Sixth Cousin is still a baby. When he bes an official, Im afraid that you will be middle-aged.
Qiao Ruofeng said, Yeah, instead of letting my parents forcibly take someone elses son, I would like to find a husband to marry into my family.
I told my parents about this, but they both thought I was messing around. Second Sister, please help me!
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Ruofeng, Finding a husband to marry into your family is not as easy as you think. If it werent for the fact that Lu Chen lost his memory and had nowhere to go, and that I had saved his life he would not have been willing to marry into my family.
Which decent man in the world would be willing to abandon his family and marry into his wifes family? Among the men who married into their wives families, eighty or even ny percent of them are not desirable husbands. It will be very difficult for a woman to find a man to marry into her family
Qiao Ruofeng said, I know. I dont expect to find a man as good as the Crown Prince. I just want to have a child. When I get a child, I wont care about him anymore!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Get up. Ill talk with Second Aunt and Grandmother about this matter, but I cant guarantee that they will agree. Qiao Ruofeng smiled happily. Thank you very much, Second Sister. Qiao Jinniang went to Old Madam Qiaos courtyard in the afternoon, called over Second Madam and Second Master, and mentioned this matter.
Old Madam Qiao said, Ruofeng is my favorite granddaughter. Im worried that if she doesnt find a proper man, it would be like inviting a wolf into the house.
Qiao Jinniang said, Grandmother, you can rest assured. With our Qiao family behind Ruofeng, if her husband dares to bully her, Brother Lu will definitelye out to defend her.
Second Madam didnt dare to offend Qiao Jinniang again, and Second Master desperately wanted an heir.
He didnt mind who would be his heir, whether it was his third brothers son or Qiao Ruofengs son. He just wanted an heir.
With Qiao Jinniangs guarantee, Second Master and Second Madam wouldnt be afraid that Qiao Ruofengs husband would bully her.
Compared with forcibly adopting Third Masters son and falling out with Third Master, this was a good choice.
But Second Madam still said in a small voice, But which decent man is willing to marry into his wifes family?
Old Madam Qiao sighed. s. Qiao Jinniang joked, Ruofeng, if you find an unmarried man you like, you can just knock him out, make him lose his memory, then tell him you saved his life, and force him to marry into your family.
The results of the Imperial Examination this spring are going to be released. You can pick one as your husband from the examinees who pass the Imperial Examination.
Old Madam Qiaos eyes widened.
Second Madam said in a trembling voice, Jin, Jinniang, you didnt do this to the Crown Prince, did you?
Qiao Jinniangughed. No, he lost his memory himself and I really saved him, but what I said is an option you can consider.
Aunt Liu tried every possible means and even forced Huaishans mother to persuade Huaishan, and finally persuaded Huaishan to agree to give her son to Second Madam.
Aunt Liu went to see Second Madam full of joy, while guessing how much money Second Madam would pay her.
Besides, if Huaishans son became Second Masters heir, her status in the Duke Mansion could be improved too.
However, a maid of Second Madam said,
Aunt Liu, this is the reward our madam gave you, but our master doesnt need to adopt a son anymore.
Aunt Liu asked in shock, Does Second Master have a concubine pregnant?
The maid said, No. Today, the Crown Princess persuaded our master and madam to agree to find Miss Ruofeng a husband to marry into our family and Miss Ruofengs child will be our masters heir
Hearing this, Aunt Liu was disappointed and angry. Her ns werepletely ruined!
Second Madam only gave her a penny as a reward! If she adopted Huaishans son, how could she possibly give her such a small amount of money?
The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. After returning to the Duke Mansion, she spat in the direction of the Jin Garden.
Yuniang, you b*tch, you seduced my man back then, and now your f*cking daughter made me lose money, bah!
Crown princess? Bah, she is just a b*tch who has good luck! Shemitted adultery in her yard even when she is going to marry the Crown Prince!
Mammy, what are you muttering about?
A young woman in a light-yellow skirt asked Aunt Liu.
Aunt Liu trembled with fright when she saw the girl in front of her who was obviously an imperial maid.
How could she just blurt out that?!
If what she said was known by Qiao Jinniang, her whole family, including all her children, would be finished!
The young imperial maid took out two taels of silver and said, Dont be afraid, Mammy. This is for you. You just need to tell me what happened in the Jin Gardenst night.
Greedy for money and having an old grudge with Qiao Jinniangs adoptive mother, Aunt Liu immediately said,
as
Well, Qiao Jinniang wasitting adultery in the Jin Gardenst night There was such a great uproarst night in the Jin Garden because Old Madam and the Duke went to catch her adulterer.
The imperial maid gasped. How dare the Crown Princess do this?! She said to Aunt Liu, Mammy, dont tell anyone that you told me about this. After all, its a scandal. If it is spread, you may lose your head.
Aunt Liu hurriedly nodded. Yes, yes, dont say that I told you.
After the imperial maid got the news, she immediately passed it to her master.
In the Imperial Pce.
Standing beside the Empress Dowager, Li Lingling said when she heard the news, Is it true? Qiao Jinning is stupid enough tomit adultery in the Duke Mansion, which was even known by a mammy in the Duke Mansion?!
Her wedding was only about half a month away, and now the envoys of foreign countries had alle to Changan.
If this scandal was spread, the entire Duke Anyuan Mansion would be doomed!
This was an uneptable disgrace for the Crown Prince of Datang!
Qiao Jinniang would have to die, and even the Crown Prince would be implicated. God was helping her!
The Empress Dowager chuckled and ordered an imperial maid beside her, Find some people to spread the news as widely as possible. Whether its true or not, since it was true that the Jin Gardens gate was blockedst night, and a mammy of the Duke Mansion can testify to it, itll be enough to ruin Qiao Jinniangs reputation.
If the crown prince is still willing to marry Qiao Jinniang, he will beughed at by the entire world.
But if he cancels the marriage, Duke Anyuan will inevitably break ties with him.
Chapter 172 - 2 You Two Can’t Meet before Your Wedding
Chapter 172 You Two Cant Meet before Your Wedding
As night fell, Lu Chen came to a courtyard wall of the Duke Mansion and jumped up over the high wall easily. Beforending, he heard several dogs barking below.
In the dark night, the dogs eyes were glowing green, which looked very scary!
The guards of the Duke Mansion all ran over withnterns in their hands, saluted and said to Lu Chen,
Your Royal Highness, the Duke said that climbing the wall might hurt your body, so pleasee in through the gate.
Lu Chen:
Duke Anyuan Mansion was heavily guarded. It was because of the help of his secret guards that Lu Chen could easily jump in from the wall in the past.
However, after Duke Anyuan learned that Lu Chen would break into his daughters boudoir at night, he strengthened the security of the Duke Mansion, and now even the secret guards couldnt find a chance to break in.
Besides, these secret guards could not expose their existence, so they had to be very careful. After all, it was really inappropriate for the Crown Prince to send his secret guards to a courtiers home.
Lu Chen had no choice but to turn back from the wall and enter through the gate.
Duke Anyuan hurriedly came to greet him. Your Royal Highness, what can I do for
you?
Lu Chen said, I just came to see Jinniang.
Duke Anyuan cupped his hands and said, Your Royal Highness, this is against the rules. Your wedding is imminent, and it would be ominous if you meet before your wedding.
Lu Chen red at Duke Anyuan.
But Duke Anyuan, who had always been humble in front of him, was very decisive this time. Your Royal Highness, you two cannot meet before your wedding.
If this spread out, the Duke Mansions reputation would be ruined!
Duke Anyuan saluted and said, Your Royal Highness, your wedding is only about half a month away. This time is fleeting, so please dont make things difficult for me.
Lu Chen:
When Yuyan learned what happened at the gate, she came back and reported it to Qiao Jinniang. Wow, His Royal Highness face is all dark. Its the first time that our master act so tough in front of His Royal Highness!
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. Lu Chen deserved it.
However, Lu Chens birthday was two days after the wedding
Qiao Jinniang had to prepare some birthday gifts for him.
He had been coveting Xiers doll, so Qiao Jinniang nned to make him a dog doll Early in the morning of the next day, Fulu, who Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen for a long time, came to visit her. She said,
You have been cooped up in the Duke Mansion for a long time. Its spring now. Its a pity not to go out and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at Fulu and said, I want to go out, but now I cant go out at will.
The imperial decree had been issued and she was already the Crown Princess. As the Crown Princess, she couldnt easily go out now.
Fulu suddenly began to take off her clothes
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly closed her eyes. Princess Fulu, Im not a lesbian!
Fulu took off a suit of mens clothes that she wore below her dress and handed it to Qiao Jinniang
What are you talking about? Although you are taller than me, my robes are loose. You can put on the mens clothes and go out with
me.
Qiao Jinniang didnt want to cause trouble when the wedding was approaching, even if she really wanted to go out to have fun.
She refused. No, thanks.
Fulu said, You will regret it if you dont go out today. Its the Flower God Festival today, and it will be very lively.
All the women in Changan will be dressed as flower fairies and go out to admire flowers today, but you can only stay alone at home. I really feel pity for you.
Qiao Jinniang said, Shouldnt the Flower God Festival be on February 2? Dont bluff me.
Seeing that she couldnt fool Qiao Jinniang, Fulu said, Forget it. Let me tell the truth, its my imperial cousin who wants to see you, but he cante in, so he asked me to take you
out.
Qiao Jinniang:
However, although there is no Flower God Celebration, the peonies in Changan are all in full bloom.
The Crown Prince is getting married, and all foreign countries have sent envoys to celebrate it. The streets are very lively, and there are many new things that we have never seen before!
Qiao Jinniang asked Fulu, What reward will Lu Chen give you for doing this? Fulu smiled, not embarrassed at all. One hundred taels of silver.
Qiao Jinniang said, One hundred? Youve gotta give me fifty taels.
But youre already so rich. Your Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste are making thousands of taels a day. How many people envy you in Changan? And you still want fifty taels from me?!
Fulu clenched her purse.
Qiao Jinniangughed. But my husband is a spendthrift. He just paid you a hundred taels, didnt he?
Princess Fulu said to Qiao Jinniang, Just quickly change your clothes!
Qiao Jinniang put on the mans robe brought by Fulu and said,
Even if I am in mens clothes, the maids and guards can still recognize me. How can I get
out?
Fulu said, Its not difficult!
Fulu took out an oiled paper bag, punctured the oiled paper, and dripped blood onto herp.
Ouch, my leg is hurt. Hongling, go let my carriagee into the yard.
But Qiao Lu came faster than Fulus carriage.
The Imperial Examination this spring would be held in the middle of March, which was only a few days away, so Qiao Lu had been preparing for the exam at home.
Seeing him barge in, even Qiao Jinniang was stunned. Brother, whats the matter with
you?
Qiao Lu didnt even notice Qiao Jinniang was in mens clothes, and the only thing he noticed was that Fulus legs were covered in blood, and he anxiously asked,
Come, call an imperial doctor over. No, itll be too slow. Princess, please forgive me for being rude!
Before Fulu could react.
She was carried on Qiao Lus shoulder like a sack, and Qiao Lu was running as fast as lightning. Qiao Jinniang:
Fulu froze, only feeling her stomach churning.
Gosh, this one hundred taels of silver was really hard to earn.
Young Master Qiao, put me down. My leg is fine!
Qiao Lu said nervously, How can it be fine? Its bleeding!
Fulu could only watch helplessly as Qiao Lu carried her all the way into the Imperial Hospital.
When the imperial doctors saw Fulus clothes were stained with blood, they hurriedly came up to treat her.
Fulu could only say repeatedly, Its okay. Im really okay.
Qiao Lu held her hand nervously. But you bleed a lot!
Im on my period, alright?! Fulu snorted.
Qiao Lu didnt know what period meant.
The imperial physicians were so embarrassed to hear that, and one of them kindly exined to Qiao Lu what a period was.
Qiao Lu awkwardly looked at the blood stain on his robe, and the tips of his ears were as red as blood.
What are you waiting for? Send me back. My belly hurts!
Being carried all the way here, Fulu felt very ufortable now because her stomach was pressed against Qiao Lus shoulder just now.
The imperial doctor said that menstruation could cause abdominal pain.
So Qiao Lu thought that Fulu was suffering from abdominal pain due to menstruation. He then thought drinking hot sugar water might relieve some of her pain.
With this in mind, he put Fulu on his shoulder again, nning to return to the Duke Mansion to boil some hot sugar water for her to relieve the pain.
Fulu, who was carried like a sack again, really wanted to scold Qiao Lu to death
But her mother and father had told her that the ancestors of the Qiao family were the great heroes of Datang.
Forget it. She would forgive Qiao Lu for the sake of the 100 taels of silver his brother-inw paid her.
When Fulu returned to Qiao Jinniangs courtyard, she stuffed Qiao Jinniang into the carriage and ordered the coachman to quickly drive away. She must earn the hundred taels of silver! No one could stop her!
Hongling and other maids:
Qiao Lu, who went to a kitchen for the first time in his life, came over with the sugar water he boiled, only to find that Fulu was gone, and he felt a faint loss.
Back in his study, he noticed his blood-stained robe
He was very embarrassed, but still took off the robe and locked it in a wooden box, not noticing at all that there were some fine chicken feathers on the blood.
Chapter 173 - Punishing the Servants
Chapter 173 Punishing the Servants
The carriage drove past a tea house, and outside the carriage, it was full of people watching the fun.
Qiao Jinniang overheard that they seemed to be talking about her, so she asked the coachman to stop the carriage.
A storyteller was speaking loudly in the teahouse, Its absolutely true! Its true that the Crown Princess is dating a man in the Duke Mansion! I dont dare to risk being beheaded to nder the Crown Princess!
I only have one head. How dare I nder her and offend Duke Anyuan?
This matter was said by a servant of the Duke Mansion, and her sister-inw is a concubine of Third Master of the Duke
The people didnt believe it. How could the Crown Princess be so stupid?! In order to attract business, you are not even afraid of being beheaded?
The storyteller snorted. You can choose to believe or not. There are some rtives of the Qiao family who came from afar living in the Duke Mansion and they all know that the Jin Gardens gate was blocked that night.
Walls have ears. If Qiao Jinniang hadnt done such a thing, how dare that servant of the Duke Mansion make up such a story?.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang in surprise in the carriage.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Except for the masters of the Duke Mansion, only servants and guards of the Duke Mansion were in the Jin Garden that night.
This rumor could only be leaked by them.
But they all knew that her adulter was actually Lu Chen.
As for the Aunt Liu the storyteller mentioned, Qiao Jinniang didnt know her, nor had she seen her before.
At this critical moment, this rumor could ruin her reputation.
Fulu asked curiously, Jinniang, did you really cuckold my imperial cousin?
Qiao Jinniang: That man is the Crown Prince.
The rumor was spreading more and more widely.
On the carriage, Qiao Jinniang could hear the people hotly dicussing this rumor along the way.
The carriage stopped at one of Lu Chens houses outside the imperial pce.
Qiao Jinniang entered the house, and when she saw Lu Chen, sheined, Its all your fault. Do you know how the people are talking about us now?
When Lu Chen left the imperial pce, he hadnt heard of the rumor yet, so he asked Qiao Jinniang, Are there any rumors about us again?
Qiao Jinniang said, Now, everyone says that I was dating a man at home!
Lu Chen chuckled. Dont worry. I trust you.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Im afraid this matter is not so simple. Now everyone is talking about this rumor.
A storyteller in a teahouse said that it was said by a mammy in the Duke Mansion. I dont think a mammy would be so daring. There must be someone behind her!
That mammy was a servant of the Duke Mansion. If this matter spread outside, it wouldnt do any good to that mammy.
Moreover, Qiao Jinniang and that mammy never knew each other. Even if the mammy hated her, she shouldnt have to risk her own life to spread this rumor.
At this time, Lu Chen received a secret signal from one of his secret guards, and he called the secret guard in.
The secret guard came in and reported, Your Royal Highness, it was the Empress Dowager who had her men spread the rumor about the Crown Princess!
Lu Chen sneered. I got it. You can leave.
When Qiao Jinniang heard that it was the Empress Dowager, she said, It turns out to be the Empress Dowager? But you are her grandson. Why does she hate you so much?
In order to ruin your reputation, she doesnt even mind disgracing Datang when the envoys of so many foreign countries are in Changan.
Hearing that the person behind was the Empress Dowager, Qiao Jinniang understood that this matter was targeted at Lu Chen.
If it were true that shemitted adultery in the Duke Mansion, Lu Chen would be aughing stock of the whole world
Lu Chen said, I wont let her ruin your reputation with this matter, but my birthday ising soon. Have you prepared a birthday gift for me?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Yes, bute on, no one will ask others for a birthday gift!
Lu Chen pinched her nose. I just dont want you to forget me.
Qiao Jinniang took Lu Chens hand and said, Since this rumor came from a servant of the Duke Mansion, she deserves to die a thousand times, but Im afraid the outsiders will believe her words.
Lu Chen entwined his fingers with her fingers and said, I dont want to hide this from others. I can just tell them that it was me who went to your room that night!
I dont think everyone is as superstitious as Duke Anyuan. You and I are already married, so it doesnt matter if we meet.
He could finally hold the beauty in his arms, and he didnt want to wait for another half a month.
Qiao Jinniang said, But ording to the rules, we really shouldnt meet before our wedding. Besides, these few days will pass soon.
You called me out today just for your birthday gift?
Lu Chen: Yes, prepare a good one, okay?
Qiao Jinniang said, You can rest assured. I bet you wont be disappointed.
Qiao Jinniang thought she could reallye out to get some air.
But rumors about her could be heard everywhere, so she couldnt show up in public and could only stay in this house to enjoy the scenery outside the Duke Mansion.
Seeing the many flowers that were blooming in the courtyard, she said to Lu Chen, Its been a long time since I made flower cakes. Ill make flower cakes for you.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Its not easy for me to see you before the wedding. Im not in a hurry to eat flower cakes.
Qiao Jinniang expected to get some fresh air, but ended up being locked up with Lu Chen in this house.
Back at the Duke Mansion, Qiao Jinniang changed back to her own clothes and ordered someone to bring Aunt Liu over.
When Aunt Liu saw Qiao Jinniang, she was a little flustered. She knelt down and said, Your Highness.
Qiao Jinniang stared coldly at Aunt Liu and said, I heard that your parents and mother-inw are all servants of the Duke Mansion?
Aunt Liu said, Yes.
Qiao Jinniang said in an icy voice, The Duke Mansion treats your family very well and appointed your husband as the gardening supervisor of the Duke Mansion. You and your family are living a life even morefortable than ordinary wealthy businessmen, arent
you?
Aunt Liu hurriedly kowtowed and said, This is all thanks to Your Highness and the Duke!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. So you still remember that yourfortable lifees from the Duke Mansion? But you ignored the reputation of the Duke Mansion and spread rumors about me
Hearing this, Aunt Liu copsed on the ground, begging for mercy. Your Highness, I will never do it again. Please spare my life!
I didnt say this to anyone outside. I only told this to an imperial maid!
Qiao Jinniang said, You dont have to beg me to spare your life. Im a soft-hearted person and wont kill.
Hearing this, Aunt Liu breathed a sigh of relief. Yuniang was a pushover when she was young. Even if others bullied her terribly, she would just tolerate it.
Sure enough, just like Yuniang, Qiao Jinniang, who was raised by Yuniang, was a pushover too.
Looking at this old womans contemptuous eyes, Qiao Jinniang continued,
Although I dont want to kill, I dont want to see you anymore.
Hongling, find a few human traffickers and ask them to sell Aunt Liu, her husband, Old Liu, and their children out of Changan. Remember to sell them to different ces.
Before selling them, carefully check how much money they have embezzled from the Duke Mansion. Dont let them take a penny with them.
Aunt Liu was shocked when she heard this. To sell them to different ces?! If that were to happen, she and her family would never be reunited!
Her son and daughter had already been allowed to leave the Duke Mansion.
But now they would be reduced to ves again. Aunt Liu pleaded hurriedly, Your Highness, Your Highness, the fault is all mine. Please only punish me!
Chapter 174 - Young Master Qiao Won First Place
Chapter 174 Young Master Qiao Won First ce
Qiao Jinniang sneered coldly. Because of your nonsense, the reputation of the Duke Mansion that has been well-maintained for more than a hundred years was almost ruined. Do you think your cheap life canpensate for this transgression?
Hongling, drag her away. Remember to sell her as far away from her children as possible.
Hongling nodded and ordered someone to drag Aunt Liu away.
This matter soon reached the ears of Zheng Xiao and Old Madam Qiao.
Huaishan hurriedly carried her newly born baby to Old Madam to intercede for her family, and Zheng Xiao happened to be there too.
Huaishan kept kowtowing and said, Madam, Old Madam, please show mercy. My sister-inw deserves to die a thousand times.
But my nephew and niece are innocent, especially my niece. She is now engaged with an imperial examination examinee, and they will be married after the Imperial Examination this spring!
Selling her away will ruin her!
Zheng Xiao took a sip of tea and said, Huaishan, if we forgive them, wouldnt everyone be able to nder the Crown Princess without being punished? If that were to happen, wouldnt everything be a mess? Besides, the Crown Princess is already kind-hearted enough to spare their lives and just sell them away. You know she is justified to behead your whole family!
Huaishan hugged the baby in her arms and cried bitterly. Then just behead my sister-inw. My niece has already been engaged, and she shouldnt be implicated. Old Madam, Madam, please help my niece!
The Liu family was finally going to have a son-inw who was an official and her niece was going to be a nobledy.
But now it was all over!
Old Madam Qiao said, Huaishan, we cant help you. Were already kind enough to spare the lives of your brother and his family!
Huaishan thought to herself, it would be better if they were all killed. Now that the family members were separated from each other and sold to different ces, they were already finished.
Being sold this way, it was almost impossible for them to have a good master. Her little niece was so pitiful!
Liu Chunxian, the daughter of Aunt Liu, was only sixteen years old.
She was tied up and dragged out of the three-yard house that the Liu family bought in Changan, crying and struggling.
Seeing her fianc from a distance, she begged, Brother Wen, Brother Wen, help me, help me. I have never served anyone as a maid since I was a child. I dont want to be a ve!
Her fiance hurriedly came over and scolded the human trafficker, How can you do this to her?! She is my fiancee!
The human trafficker raised his eyes and said casually, Your fiance hasnt been married to you, so she is still a ve of the Qiao family. Now her master has sold her to me. If she wants to me someone, me her mother. She offended the Crown Princess!
Wu Wen frowned when he heard this. Its her again!
The Crown Princess had no respect for her n and tricked her own nsmen into killing each other. The Crown Prince was stupid to marry such a woman, which ruined his prestige among literati.
Now Qiao Jinniang, this cruel woman, sold an innocent woman away as a ve.
Wu Wen clenched his fist tightly. The Imperial Examination was imminent, so he could only endure it now, but he must take revenge on her!
In mid-March, the Imperial Examination began.
Because many examinees had diarrhea in thest Imperial Examination, this time, the imperial court specially prepared the champion cake made by Myriad Taste for the examinees.
Although Qiao Jinniang was in the Jin Garden, she could feel the servants in the Duke Mansion were getting busier and busier.
Red silks had been hung everywhere in the Duke Mansion, and the paper-cut character Happiness was pasted on the doors and windows.
Arge number of peony flowers that were about to bloom had been moved to the Duke Mansion, and rednterns were hung almost all over the Duke Mansion.
It was the first time that Qiao Lu participated in the Imperial Examination, but even his parents did not take it seriously.
After all, he was too young, and it was almost impossible for him to pass the Imperial Examination.
Moreover, although the Imperial Examination was very important, it was not so important for children of the aristocratic family.
Even if Qiao Lu failed in the Imperial Examination, he would still be the next Duke Anyuan and a powerful minister in the future.
Thus, Duke Anyuan and Zheng Xiao were busy with Qiao Jinniangs wedding and had no time to pay attention to Qiao Lu.
Staying in the examination hall for five days and five nights, Qiao Lu finally came out but only a servant came to pick him up.
Qiao Lu couldnt help but wonder, was he really a biological son of Duke Anyuan?
Young Master Qiao! Spotting Qiao Lu from a distance, Junior Duke Rong came over and greeted him. Why are you here? Are you here to ask for some champion cake?
The champion cake your sister made is really delicious, but its a pity that she is the crown princess now, so I wont have a chance to taste it anymore!
Qiao Lu felt a bit lost. He was very confident about the Imperial Examination this time, and he was sure that he could win first ce.
But apart from the servant who was ttering him, no one else cared about himing to take the Imperial Examination.
Fulu came over and said, Junior Duke Rong, didnt youe to help me find a handsome young man to take to my home to be my husband?. Why are you chatting with him?
Remembering that she was carried by Qiao Lu like a sack a few days ago, she gnashed her teeth at Qiao Lu.
When Qiao Lu saw Fulu, his eyes lit up, Princess!
Junior Duke Rong said to Fulu, Dont ruin the talents of our country!
Fulu snorted. My imperial uncle dotes on me so much. If I ask him to give me the champion of this Imperial Examination as my husband, he certainly wont refuse me!
Junior Duke Rong said, Yes, in your dreams!
Humph, let me tell you, I must marry a champion of the Imperial Examination. Fulu said, At least my husband cant be worse than Qin Miaomiaos!
Junior Duke Rong said, Then you can only choose Zhou Siming, but he doesnt seem to be interested in you.
Qiao Lu looked at Fulu. Didnt she say she wanted to marry him? Why did she forget it?!
Depressed and with his head hanging low, Qiao Lu went back to the Duke Mansion.
Seeing Qiao Lu came back with his head drooping, Duke Anyuan and Zheng Xiao thought that he must have failed in the Imperial Examination. After all, it was the first time that he took the Imperial Examination.
Qiao Lu was still so young, so he shouldnt be med for not doing well in the Imperial Examination.
Hearing from Yuyan that Qiao Lu was back, Qiao Jinniang had someone send the flower cake she made to Qiao Lu. The Imperial Examination was not easy to take. After staying in the examination hall for five days and five nights, Qiao Lu needed some nourishing food.
The results of the Imperial Examination were released on March 20th.
The wedding date was getting closer and closer, and the Duke Mansion had already started to prepare the utensils to be used in the wedding, so everyone was very busy. Zheng Xiao didnt think that Qiao Lu would be able to pass the exam, so she didnt even send a servant to see the results.
Qiao Jinniang was also busy reciting the family tree of the royal family, trying to remember all the rtives of the royal family, so she also didnt notice that the results of the Imperial Examination had been released.
The examinees were looking for their own names in front of the roll.
Brother Wu, you are only second ce? I thought you would be first ce, but there is still the imperial pce exam. I believe you will definitely be the champion after the imperial pce exam!
First ce, Qiao Lu from Changan. Who is this guy? Ive never heard of this name? Have any of you met him?
Qiao Lu, Ive never heard this name before, and I have no impression of him. He is from Changan? But when has there been such a person in Changan?
Dont worry. Tomorrow is the imperial pce exam. We can see him in the imperial pce!
Although Brother Wu is in second ce, its still a great achievement. He will surely have a bright future!
Wu Wen clenched his hands. He had been determined to be the prime minister in the future, and then he would no longer be so useless as to not even be able to protect his fiance. At that time, he would be able to stomp the Qiao family and Qiao Jinniang into the mud!
Chapter 175 - He Won Second Place Because of the crown princess
Chapter 175 He Won Second ce Because of the crown princess
On the day of the imperial pce exam.
On Duke Anyuans way to the Taiji Pce, many officials praised Qiao Lu and said congrattions to him.
Duke Anyuan thought that theyplimented him just because of Qiao Jinniang.
But when he entered the Taiji Pce, he saw Qiao Lu standing at the head of the examinees.
Only then did Duke Anyuan remember that his eldest son seemed to have participated in the Imperial Examination this spring, but he never expected him to win first ce! So this kid was not blindly confident.
Lu Chen had already known that Qiao Lu was the youngest examinee who won first ce in the history of Imperial Examinations.
From the article Qiao Lu wrote, it was hard to imagine that he was the son of a duke who grew up privileged.
The number of examinees this time was quite a lot, and the Taiji Pce was almost full of examinees.
The pce exam was more challenging than the written exam, and it would be held over the course of the whole afternoon.
Eight examiners would mark the papers, and the results would not be released until tomorrow afternoon at the earliest.
After the examinees left the pce gate, Qiao Lu was surrounded by other examinees.
In the face of this, Qiao Lu was gracious and generous, and he invited the other examinees to dinner at Tasty Pavilion.
However, several examinees scoffed at Tasty Pavilion.
Wu Wen said, The owner of Tasty Pavilion is a person of no morality, a small te of flower cakes there costs a farmer as much as he and his family spends in a year.
How can we be so extravagant, not to mention that Tasty Pavilion was obtained by squeezing the blood of the Qiao nsmen in Linan.
The examinees who were friends with Wu Wen had once followed Tong Yingying to scold Qiao Jinniang for disrespecting the n behind her back!
But now, they were only one step away from bing an official, and they dared not scold Tasty Pavilion again in case they would be deprived of the chance of bing an official.
Qiao Lu frowned and said, What are you talking about? Why are you scolding my sister?
The examinees asked curiously, Your sister? Is the owner of Tasty Pavilion your sister?
Qiao Lu nodded and said, Yes, my sister is the Crown Princess.
Wu Wen narrowed his eyes. No wonder you could win first ce the first time you took the Imperial Examination and at such a young age as well. It turns out that youre the brother-inw of His Royal Highness, hehe
He implied that Qiao Lu won first ce because of the help of the Crown Prince.
Qiao Lu frowned and said, I could take first ce because Im more talented than you. As a young schr, you dont concentrate on study but only know how to help the n oppress a weak woman!
Wu Wen said sarcastically,
Yeah, you are the heir to a duke and the younger brother of the Crown Princess. How dare Ipete with you for first ce? The other examinees meditated and said to Qiao Lu, Young Master, its gettingte. Lets just go to the restaurant.
Yeah, dont take Wu Wens words seriously. His fiancee has just been sold as a ve, and he has suffered from poverty since childhood. Dont mind his words.
Seeing his friends who had surrounded him in the past all fawning on Qiao Lu, Wu Wen angrily cursed them of being spineless and not worthy of bing literati.
On the day the results of the imperial pce exam were released, the golden roll was covered with a red cloth, and many people came to see the results.
There are also some wealthy businessmen who wanted to take the chance to choose a good husband from the examinees who had passed the Imperial Examination for their daughters.
Qiao Lu, who got first ce in the written exam, is just under seventeen. He is so young!
Qiao Lu is the younger brother of the Crown Princess. Even if you want to take him home and make him your son-inw, you wont have the guts.
I think Wu Wen is a good choice. He failed in thest Imperial Examination because he had diarrhea, but this time, he won second ce!
Duke Anyuan and Zheng Xiao finally took some time out of their busy schedules to apany Qiao Lu to see the results.
Seeing Qiao Lu nervous, Zheng Xiao said, You are the first in the written exam, so you will definitely be in the top three in the imperial pce exam.
As the golden roll was opened, Qiao Lu closed his eyes, not daring to look at it.
Youre in the top three, youre in the top three! Overjoyed, Zheng Xiao held Qiao Lus wrist and recited, Amitabha, thanks to Bodhisattvas blessing.
Duke Anyuan couldnt hide his joy. Thanks to our ancestors blessing! Jinniang became the Crown Princess, and Luer can actually win second ce in the Imperial Examination!
Seeing that he was ranked second, Qiao Lus face turned pale, Why am I not the champion?!
Duke Anyuan coughed. Luer, although Ive been teaching you to strive to be the best since you were a child, its already very good for you to win second ce at this age.
Qiao Lu sighed heavily. But Fulu only wanted to marry the champion.
Fortunately, the champion was over thirty-five years old. Fulu certainly wouldnt marry a man so much older than her.
But he was still not the champion.
Qiao Lu returned to the Duke Mansion gloomily.
An official came to the Duke Mansion to congratte Qiao Lu, only to see Qiao Lu crestfallen.
Young Master Qiao, congrattions. His Highness and the chief examiners originally thought that you should be the champion.
But the examinee in second ce is nearly forty years old, so His Majesty appointed him as the champion and you as the runner-up!
Qiao Lu heard his words. Why?
Well, the second ce of the Imperial Examination is always handsome and talented, so they have theudatory title of Flower-Picking Childe. You are much more handsome than the first ce, so youre more worthy of this title.
For the first time, Qiao Lu hated himself for being too good-looking. If he was uglier, could he be the champion?
Hearing that Qiao Lu had won second ce in the Imperial Examination this year, Qiao Jinniang was very surprised.
Hes just under seventeen but hes already a Flower-Picking Childe. How many people will envy him!
When she was in Linan, she had seen many schrs who passed the Imperial Examination when they were already over thirty.
Even Li Yun only gained tenth ce in the Imperial Examination, which showed how difficult it was to be a Flower-Picking Childe.
Honglingplimented Qiao Jinniang. Young Master is so talented. There must be a lot of matchmakersing to the Duke Mansion for him.
Qiao Jinniang remembered Qiao Lus betst time, and said with a smile, He already has a girl he loves, but I dont know who the girl is. Now that he has be a Flower-Picking Childe, it might be easier for the girl to agree to marry him.
Yuyan smiled and said, Even if Young Master werent the Flower-Picking Childe, there arent many women in Changan who dont want to marry him!
Qiao Lu was the younger brother of the Crown Princess and the future Duke Anyuan, and was very handsome.
Except for the fact that his parents had once divorced, Qiao Lu was almost perfect.
Luhe said, But there are people outside who are gossiping about Young Master, saying that he gained the title of Flower-Picking Childepletely because of your help, Your Highness!
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Those are just jealous clowns.
The day after the results of the Imperial Examination was released, the top three would parade through the streets, and the Changan that was heavily guarded and soldiers could be seen everywhere.
On the streets, the stores were all offering discounts, celebrating the Crown Princes wedding
Tasty Pavilion and Myriad Taste were distributing free happy cakes and happy eggs every day.
Amidst the joyous atmosphere, the wedding day had finally arrived.
Today was Qiao Jinniangsst day in the Duke Mansion. In the afternoon, she put on the crown princess pce dress and went to the ancestral hall of Duke Mansion to worship the ancestors.
After that, she went back to her room and waited for the arrival of tomorrow.
Although the wedding ceremony would be held in the evening, the ancestor worship ceremony would be in the early morning. Therefore, tomorrow Qiao Jinniang had to get up before dawn, dress up and put on formal clothes to go to the ancestral temple of the royal family to worship the ancestors of the royal family.
However, although Qiao Jinniang knew she had to get up early tomorrow, she couldnt fall asleep.
Chapter 176 - The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess Didn’t Sleep Together on the Wedding Night
Chapter 176 The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess Didnt Sleep Together on the Wedding Night
March 28, the spring breeze was gentle, and it was an auspicious day for marriage.
Qiao Jinniang got up before dawn.
The women who came to dress her up today were all female officials from the Shanggong Bureau, and those who apanied her were also old consorts and female officials in the imperial pce. When Qiao Jinniang left the Duke Mansion, it was very dark and silent on the road.
When they arrived at the ancestral temple of the royal family, it was just dawn, but the officials, the female members of the royal family and wives of high-ranking officials were already standing neatly on both sides.
Old Madam Qiao and Old Madam Zhou were at the front, and behind them stood hundreds of women. Further forward, the princesses and consorts were also standing respectfully and motionless.
A sense of solemnity arose spontaneously.
When Qiao Jinniang walked to the steps, Lu Chen came to her. Today, he was wearing a python robe. He held Qiao Jinniangs hand and walked up the steps of the ancestral temple step by step together with her.
Qiao Jinniang could only hear the voice of the ceremonial officer on the side. She did what the ceremonial officer asked her to do, saluting and kowtowing.
When she bowed down, the golden phoenix hairpin on her head was trembling slightly.
After kneeling and toasting, they walked outside and saluted Emperor Huilin.
Emperor Huilin said, Go, take your wifes hand, take care of the family together with her, and help her be a good wife.
Lu Chen nodded and said, I respectfully follow your order, Father.
After that, after Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen kneeled down and saluted on the steps again, they both went to change clothes, and then went to salute Emperor Huilin and Queen Zhou in front of all the ministers.
The ceremonial officer recited the imperial decree, and Queen Zhou handed Qiao Jinniang her seal again.
After the ceremony, Qiao Jinniang almost couldnt stand up in the seven or eightyers of clothes she had on. Luckily, Lu Chen noticed it and reached out to support her.
The two turned to face the ministers, and everyone down below knelt down and recited, May Your Royal Highness live a thousand years, and may Your Highness live a thousand years.
All the ministers knelt at their feet, shouting Long Live Your Royal Highness and Your Highness.
This scene was extremely shocking for Qiao Jinniang.
But soon she got on the chariot and went back to the Duke Mansion, waiting for Lu Chen toe to pick her up.
She didnt sleep well yesterday, so she was a bit drowsy.
Fortunately, the ceremonial officer followed by her side, and she only needed to do what he told her to do.
When Lu Chens chariot arrived, the honks of a wild goose rang out at the door of the room, and when Qiao Jinniang walked out covering her face with a fan, she felt a bit sad to leave her natal home.
When she walked out of the Jin Garden, Nuomi trotted over and shouted, Master.
Nuomi held back her tears and said, Master, if you are wronged, dont bear it. We will always be waiting for you outside the imperial pce.
Lu Chen frowned and red at Nuomi.
Qiao Jinniang said, Silly Nuomi, you have to take good care of yourself in the future. If you miss me, you can send a post to the East Pce.
When going out of the gate, Qiao Jinniang saw Zheng Xiao standing on the steps supported by Mammy An, with a smile on her lips, but tears in her eyes.
Duke Anyuan stood aside and said, Do remember, respect your husband, abide by your husband, and dont disobey him.
Zheng Xiaos words were filled with joy, but Qiao Jinniang could sense a touch of sadness in her words. Do remember, respect your husband, abide by your husband, and dont disobey him.
Qiao Jinniang saluted and went out the door.
What awaited her outside was not a sedan chair but a chariot of eight horses.
Qiao Jinniang got into the chariot and didnt want to put down the curtain. Although she hadnt lived in the Duke Mansion for long, she felt very sad when she left it.
When the procession passed through the main street, the people on the street all knelt down on both sides and saluted, shouting Long Live Your Royal Highness and Your Highness.
They were all here to watch the grand wedding of the Crown Prince.
Seeing the boxes of dowries that almost extended ten miles, everyone was amazed. There were a total of 188 boxes of dowries.
For ordinary people, no matter how rich the brides family was, ording to the rules, the number of dowry boxes couldnt be more than 180.
After entering the East Pce, they had the Tono ceremony.
After finishing all the ceremonies, Qiao Jinniang finally entered her bedroom and could take a rest.
Everything in the bedroom was new and luxurious. Qiao Jinniang took off her bright red wedding dress and put on a pce dress after bathing.
She counted it carefully, and there were a total of twelve pieces from the inside to the outside, each of which was very delicate.
After putting on makeup again, she followed Lu Chen to the Taiji Pce to meet Emperor Huilin and the Queen and then returned to the East Pce.
When she left the Taiji Pce, she saw the ministers and their wives entering the imperial pce. They must havee to the imperial pce to attend the wedding banquet.
Back in the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang took off the golden crown on her head. Civil weddings were already tiring enough, but royal weddings were probably a hundred times more tiring than civil weddings.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt remember how many sets of clothes she had changed today. She only remembered that each set of clothes had at least tenyers.
Fortunately, it was cool at the end of March. An imperial maid from the Shanggong Bureau was whispering in Qiao Jinniangs ear about the rules of the bed.
wa
Qiao Jinniang tried to perk up to listen to her, but she could hardly keep her eyes open.
Lu Chen didnt stay at the pce banquet for long and came back early.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was struggling to keep her eyes open, he almostughed. Lu Chen said to the female officials, You all leave now!
A female official saluted. Your Royal Highness, you havent drunk the cross-cupped wine and the hair-tying ceremony hasnt been done
Lu Chen said, These are unnecessary. Just leave.
They had already held the hair-tying ceremony and had drunk the cross-cupped wine in Linan.
When they were drinking the cross-cupped wine, ording to the rules, the mans cup had to be ced upside down after the drink was finished, symbolizing the yin and the yang were in harmony and the husband would dominate.
Qiao Jinniang was not a good drinker, but she tried to finish the drink one step ahead of him so that she could ce her cup upside down, which only led to getting herself drunk in the end.
After the female officials and imperial maids all left, Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniang and said, If you are sleepy, go to sleep. No, I want Xier. I havent seen him for a long time. This is my first day in the East Pce. How can I not see him! Seeing her already exhausted, Lu Chen didnt want to touch her today. If Xier is here, you wont be able to go to sleep!
Qiao Jinniang said sleepily, I dont mind. Lu Chen had an imperial maid bring Lu Xi over. When Little Lu Xi saw Qiao Jinniang, he threw himself into her arms. Mommy, can I see you every day in the future? Qiao Jinniang smiled and hugged Lu Xi tightly. Yes, Mommy can apany Xier every day from now on.
Lu Xi rubbed Qiao Jinniangs neck and said, Great!
After seeing Xier, Qiao Jinniang could no longer hold on and finally closed her eyes
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang and sighed heavily. The wedding had finally been held, but he still couldnt touch his dear wife. If he was in the same bed with Qiao Jinniang tonight, he wouldnt be able to hold it back.
But she was so exhausted and he didnt want to disturb her, so he went back to his own bedroom.
At the door, seeing the Crown Prince leave, the female officials and imperial maids all frowned.
A new imperial maid whispered to a female official, There were rumors some time ago that the Crown Princess was dating a man in the Duke Mansion. The Crown Prince didnt drink the cross-cupped wine or hold the hair-tying ceremony with the Crown Princess today. And now he isnt even sleeping in the same room with the Crown Princess. Is it because he dislikes the Crown Princess?
If you dont want to die, keep your mouth shut, the female official said sternly.
But it was really inappropriate for the Crown Prince not to sleep in the same room with the Crown Princess on the wedding night!
Chapter 177 - The Crown Princess Is Not Favored by the Crown Prince?
Chapter 177 The Crown Princess Is Not Favored by the Crown Prince?
It had only been a year since Lu Chen had returned to the East Pce. For the wedding, many eunuchs and imperial maids were transferred to the East Pce.
Tonight, the news that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess didnt sleep together had immediately been spread out by the snoops of different powers.
Soon almost everyone in Changan knew that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess didnt sleep together on their wedding night.
Li Lingling got the news early in the morning. Then, she hurriedly asked a maid to fetch the gold hairpin that she had just bought from Jewelry Pavilion at a high price and went to the imperial pce to watch the fun.
Qiao Jinniang woke up in the morning, refreshed.
Little Lu Xi on her side woke up early and was ying with a Luban lock.
Imperial maids came in one after another to wait on Qiao Jinniang.
The day after her wedding, ording to the rules, she should go to salute the Queen and all the imperial concubines.
Qiao Jinniang had to put on the clothes that were about twelveyers again.
At this time, Lu Chen came in and said, Fortunately, you are thin.
Qiao Jinniang was used to it, and said to Lu Chen, Are you going to see Her Majesty with
me?!
ording to the rules, Lu Chen didnt have to go with her.
But since Qiao Jinniang had asked him, he didnt mind going with her.
Although he had a fifteen-day holiday for his wedding, at this time, the Emperor asked someone to call over Lu Chen, and he could only go to the Taiji Pce.
Qiao Jinniang took Little Lu Xis hand and went to the Queens pce together with him. She had thought that she came early.
However, the pce was already full of imperial concubines, as well as the princes consorts.
When Qiao Jinniang entered, she saluted the Queen. Mother.
The Queen smiled and said, Jinniang, you must have been tired yesterday. Come, take a seat.
Li Lingling raised her eyebrows slightly and said, The Crown Princess didnt have to serve His Royal Highnessst night. Why did she still get up sote?
For a while, Qiao Jinniang didnt realize that Li Lingling wasughing at her because Lu Chen didnt sleep with herst night.
She just thought that Li Lingling was mocking her for being toote.
So Qiao Jinniang said, I was making breakfast for Mother, so I amte. Please forgive me, Mother.
The maids behind her took out the breakfast she made one by one and ced them in front of the imperial concubines and the Queen.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at the consorts and said, Sisters-inw, I didnt expect you toe so early, so I didnt prepare breakfast for you. Sorry.
She didnte toote. It was just that the consorts came too early. They came as soon as the gate of the imperial pce opened.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang neither nervous nor annoyed, Li Lingling said to the Queen,
Mother, now His Royal Highness has been married, but he refused to sleep with the Crown Princess even at their wedding night. This is not good for the continuation of our royal family.
Its a beautiful spring day today, and all the flowers in the imperial pce are in full bloom.
Tomorrow is His Royal Highness birthday. Why dont we invite the daughters of a few ministers to enjoy the flowers and celebrate his birthday?
Qiao Jinniang smiled.
Li Lingling asked Qiao Jinniang, What are youughing at?
She just said to the Queen, Mother, I thought of a folk joke, but its a little vulgar, so I wont sully your ears.
The Queen said, Its okay for you to say it. We want to listen to folk jokes.
Qiao Jinniang nced meaningfully at Li Lingling and said,
There was once a schr in Yangzhou who was old enough to get married. The schr lost his mother when he was a child.
So his elder sister-inw found him a wife and handled his wedding for him.
The schrs sister-inw paid a whole tael of silver as the dowry gift, so she was very distressed.
On the wedding night, the schrs sister-inw took the schrs elder brother to eavesdrop outside the schrs room.
But their neighbors saw them and reprimanded them for being shameless, but the schrs sister-inw said loudly, I spent a whole tael of silver to get him this wife! Even a copper coin falls to the ground, and I can at least hear the sound.
I cant spend the money for nothing! Not only I, but my whole family also has to hear the sound!
The crowd burst intoughter, and Imperial Concubine Jian covered her lips with a handkerchief and said, That schrs sister-inw is really ridiculous.
Qiao Jinniang said, Your Highness, she is not ridiculous. After all, someone didnt even pay a penny for her brother-inws wedding but still pries into the sexual life of her brother-inw!
This kind of deed would be despised even bymoners. Eldest Sister-inw, youre from Earl Chengen Mansion. How can you act like a countryside woman? Dont disgrace the Empress Dowager!
Hearing her words, the Queen said to Li Lingling, Consort Huai, you really went a bit too far. How can you pry into and direct the affairs of the East Pce? As a punishment, I order you to transcript the Buddhist scripture a hundred times. Do you ept it?
Not daring to disobey the Queen, Li Lingling could only salute and ept the punishment. Anyway, she could have her maids transcript the Buddhist scripture for her.
However, Qiao Jinniang tried so hard and finally married into the East Pce, but the Crown Prince didnt even sleep with her on their wedding night. How pathetic she was!
After Qiao Jinniang returned to the East Pce, Lu Chen hadnt returned from the Taiji Pce yet.
She ordered someone to call over Gu Ming, the chief butler of the East Pce and other officials of the East Pce.
Gu Ming was Lu Chens close servant and the chief butler of the East Pce.
The East Pce was divided into five bureaus, namely, the Dianshan Bureau, the Yaocang Bureau, the Neizhi Bureau, the Dianshe Bureau and the Guanmen Bureau.
They respectively corresponded to the Shangshi Bureau, Shangyao Bureau, Shangyi Bureau, Shangshe Bureau, and Chengmen Lang in the imperial pce.
However, unlike the bureaus in the imperial pce where there were many female officials, most members of the bureaus in the East Pce were eunuchs and imperial maids.
There were nine hundred eunuchs and imperial maids in the East Pce in total.
With the officials, counselors, soldiers and secret guards, there were as many as 1,200 plus people in the entire East Pce.
Before Qiao Jinniang got married, she had heard from Qingmo about the various official positions in the East Pce.
With so many people in the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang would be exhausted if she tried to manage the East Pce meticulously like managing a restaurant.
Thus, she could only keep an eye on those officials of rank.
Gu Ming came to visit Qiao Jinniang together with the directors who were respectively in charge of the Dianshan Bureau, the Yaocang Bureau, the Neizhi Bureau, the Dianshe Bureau and the Guanmen Bureau.
Gu Ming knelt on the ground but Qiao Jinniang didnt let him get up for a long time, and beads of sweat fell down from his forehead one after another.
He had been serving the Crown Prince since he was a child, except for the few years when the Crown Prince disappeared. Normally, even the high-ranking nobledies were very polite to him.
Unexpectedly, the Crown Princess dealt him a head-on blow at their first encounter.
Qiao Jinniang said slowly and solemnly, Is this the way you manage the East Pce? Why did the whole Changan know what happened in the East Pcest night?
Ill give you half a month. If there is still anyone who pries into and delivers information for others in the East Pce half a monthter, all of you will be reced.
Gu Ming hurriedly kowtowed. Yes, Your Highness. After they left, the director of the Dianshe Bureau whispered into Gu Mings ear,
This Crown Princess is really an ignorant countryside woman.
Eunuch Gu, no matter where you go, youre respected by everyone. How could the Crown Princess look down on you!
Fortunately, she is not favored by His Royal Highness. Otherwise, I cant imagine how arrogant she will be!
Gu Ming sneered. The Crown Princess is not favored by His Royal Highness?
Chapter 178 - Wu Wen Beat the Heavenly Drum to Sue the Crown Princess
Chapter 178 Wu Wen Beat the Heavenly Drum to Sue the Crown Princess
The director of the Dianshe Bureau said, Of course not. If the Crown Prince really likes her, why did he ask us to re-arrange his bedroom and return to his bedroom to sleepst night?
Gu Ming suddenly kicked him on the chest.
If you want to court death, dont implicate me! No wonder this morning even those consorts knew that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess didnt sleep togetherst night. It turns out to be you bastard who leaked the news!
The Dianshe Bureau was in charge of bathing, cleaning and bed-making, so outsiders were more likely to pry into information from the Dianshe Bureau.
The stupid director of the Dianshe Bureau looked down upon the Crown Princess from the beginning
Gu Ming said, Come, cane him a hundred times and send him to the imperial jail for disposal!
Interrogate and torture the people of the Dianshe Bureau. If any of them is found out to leak information about the East Pce, severely punish them!
For those who refuse to confess, the penalty is doubled!
The director of the Dianshe Bureau hurriedly said, Eunuch Gu, is it necessary for you to do this for a crown princess who is unfavored by the Crown Prince?
Eunuch Gu gave a cold snort. If the crown prince didnt like her, why would he rack his brains to think how to drug the wolf dogs of the Duke Mansion so that he could secretly date the Crown Princess?
In the pce, Little Lu Xi tilted his head to look at Qiao Jinniang and said, Mommy, are you angry?
Qiao Jinniang smiled softly at Little Lu Xi and said, No, Mommy is not angry, but the servants and maids are not well behaved. If Mommy didnt pretend to be angry, they wouldnt do their jobs properly.
Little Lu Xi said to Qiao Jinniang, Whoever bullies my mother, I will tell my father and he will beat them. And when I grow up, I will beat them for you too!
Qiao Jinniang rubbed little Lu Xis face. Good
boy.
In Imperial Censor Tongs mansion, Tong Yingying was full of jealousy when she saw the invitation to the Crown Princes birthday banquet in Tong Xuans hands.
The Crown Prince didnt invite the ministers, but invited the officials in the East Pce and some nobles to his birthday banquet.
Tong Xuan got an invitation because of the Zhou family.
Noticing the look in Tong Yingyings eyes, Mrs. Tong said to Tong Xuan, Give your invitation to your sister!
Tong Xuan said, But Aunt gave this to me.
Mrs. Tong said, Since the Crown Prince is already married, its time for him to select concubines. Your sister is more suitable for marrying into the East Pce than you no matter in terms of talent or appearance.
Tong Xuan snorted and threw the invitation to Tong Yingying. Was I really born by you?
Tong Yingying took the invitation and said to Mrs. Tong, I will definitely not let you down, Mother.
Mrs. Tong smiled and said, Before the wedding, everyone said that the Crown Princess is loved the Crown Prince very much.
But on their wedding night, the Crown Prince didnt even sleep with the Crown Princess. It can be seen that the Crown Prince just pretended to love Qiao Jinniang for the sake of Duke Anyuans power.
Tong Yingying also smiled. His Royal Highness knows what he truly wants.
ording to the news from the East Pce, the director of the Dianshe Bureau of the East Pce was caned a hundred times today, and the entire East Pce is searching for moles.
Qiao Jinniang, that pathetic vige woman, knows nothing about the rules in the imperial pce. She thought she could control the people in the East Pce by doing this. But she offended the eunuchs the day after her wedding. They will definitely make things hard for her in the future.
If I marry into the East Pce, I will definitely be able to hold the heart of everyone in the East Pce.
Mrs. Tong nodded in appreciation to Tong Yingying. What a pity that Tong Yingying was born by a concubine.
In the Taiji Pce, Emperor Huilin and Lu Chen discussed tomorrows birthday ceremony.
Since almost every country had sent envoys toe to celebrate Lu Chens wedding, the Tang Dynasty should host a banquet to entertain the envoys.
Although there was a wedding banquet yesterday, the wedding banquet was too solemn and had countless rules.
Therefore, Emperor Huilin nned to entertain the envoys of foreign countries on the Crown Princes birthday.
The Tang Dynasty had several vassal states, including Nanzhao, Nanyue, Liuli and other small states.
There were also small countries that had repeatedly had disputes with the Tang Dynasty, including Beimo bordering the northwest of Datang and Xiliang to the southwest.
The national strength of these two countries was far worse than that of Datang, but their people were very bellicose and good at fighting, so they had been having frequent conflicts with Datang since the founding of Datang. There were countless casualties in the war between the army of Datang, Beimo and Xiliang, and in that war, themander of Datangs army was Duke Anyuan.
Later, the current Duke Anyuan beheaded the monarch of Xiliang on the battlefield. Because of that battle, Beimo and Xiliang had never dared to invade Datang again for nearly 20 years.
Emperor Huilin said, The envoys from Xiliang are their Third Prince and Third Princess. Xiliang and the Qiao family have a great feud, so there is no guarantee that they will not cause trouble tomorrow.
Lu Chen said, I dont think they can cause us any trouble in Changan.
Emperor Huilin nced at the sky and said, Its almost noon. This is the first day the Crown Princess spent in the imperial pce. Shouldnt she personally make some dishes for her parents-inw to show her respect to
us?
Lu Chen:
Emperor Huilin coughed. You know, after the folk women marry, most of them have to cook.
Lu Chen said, The oily smoke in the kitchen is not good for her skin. Jinniang didnt marry me to be a cook. Father, if you dont mind, let me cook for you, okay?
Emperor Huilin hurriedly said, Well, Id rather eat the dishes made by the imperial chefs.
In the afternoon, after Qiao Jinniang coaxed little Lu Xi to sleep, she gently put him on the bed.
Lu Chen entered, walked up to her and said, Im sorry. I fail to restrain the servants well. You were wronged on your first day in the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont feel wronged. I am just disgusted that those people outside the East Pce are watching my every move!
Should I hold you a birthday banquet in the East Pce tomorrow?
Lu Chen said, There will be a big birthday banquet in the imperial pce tomorrow, and all the envoys will be invited to attend it.
The envoys from Xiliang that have a deep grudge with your father wille too, and they may make trouble for you tomorrow.
Qiao Jinniang didnt take it to heart and said, Its just a small barbarian country.
If Xiliang and Beimo had the ability, they wouldnt have stayed in that barrennd and suffered from famine every year.
Lu Chen smiled. Like father, like daughter.
Qiao Jinniang leaned on the couch and nced at Lu Chen. I heard that the ministers daughters wille to celebrate your birthday tomorrow too?
No, only the women of the royal family wille. Lu Chen scratched Qiao Jinniangs nose. Dont be jealous.
Xier is already asleep. Shall we go to the bedroom next door?
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, I dont want to beughed at by the servants. And Im on my period. Her period always came at the end of the month.
Lu Chen:
Why didnt he take this into consideration when he set the wedding date?
Yuyan walked in, and when she saw Lu Chen, she quickly saluted.
Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, Wu Wen, the second runner-up of the Imperial Examination this year is kneeling outside the imperial pce, iming that Young Master was able to win the second ce because His Royal Highness leaked the exam questions to
him.
Wu Wen has beaten the Heavenly Drum and said he wanted to sue you
The Imperial Examination was the foundation of the country, and cheating in the Imperial Examination would shake the foundation of the country.
Qiao Jinniang had known about this matter before she got married. At that time, she thought it was some clown who was not reconciled.
But she didnt expect that there would be an examinee who was bold enough to nder the Crown Prince without evidence.
She was impeached on the first day when she became the crown princess?
To beat the Heavenly Drum, one had to roll three times on a nailed te, which would definitely lead to heavy injuries, so there were only a few people who had beaten the Heavenly Drum for these past hundreds of years.
This was the first time that a schr had beaten the Heavenly Drum to sue the crown princess.
For a time, the main street of Changan was even more lively than yesterday!
Chapter 179 - Imperial Censor Tong Dismissed from Office
Chapter 179: Imperial Censor Tong Dismissed from Office
The Heavenly Drum could directly reach the Emperor, so every time the Heavenly Drum was beaten, there must have been something big that had caused bloodshed.
As the second runner-up of the Imperial Examination, Wu Wen could see the Emperor and didnt have to beat the Heavenly Drum.
But he still beat the Heavenly Drum to attract as much attention as possible.
Wu Wen had just learned that his fiance had been sold to a brothel in Yangzhou, so why should Qiao Jinniang still be the crown princess, living a luxurious life?
The envoys from foreign countries were all in the Imperial Pce today, and beating the Heavenly Drum would not only make him famous, but would also make his image of integrity be known to the world, and his name might even be recorded in history!
Wu Wen was aching terribly all over because he had just rolled on the nailed te.
In the Taiji Pce, all the ministers arrived.
Wu Wen knelt down and said, Your Majesty, I want to sue the Crown Princess for forcing a young girl of a good family into prostitution and helping her brother cheat in the Imperial Examination.
Duke Anyuan came out and said, What a joke. As my heir, why does my son have to cheat in the Imperial Examination that is just icing on the cake to him? And my son is only seventeen years old. Why would he be so desperate to pass the first Imperial Examination he took?
Wu Wen kowtowed and said, After all, literati all value fame. If Young Master Qiao wins in the first Imperial Examination he takes, he will definitely rise to fame, but this is really unfair to those poor examinees who have studied hard for ten years or more!
Moreover, someone can prove that Young Master Qiao knew the exam questions in advance!
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, If you have a witness, call him over. Then he turned to a eunuch. Come, invite the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess over.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen had been waiting outside the pce. Hearing Emperor Huilins words, they came in together and bowed to Emperor Huilin. Father.
Emperor Huilin said, Wu Wen beat the Heavenly Drum to sue you for forcing his fiancee to be a prostitute. Do you admit it?
Updates by
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Qiao Jinniang bowed her head and said, Father, I grew up amongmoners and know the hardships of women. How could I force a girl into prostitution?
Wu Wen said to Qiao Jinniang, My fiance is Liu Chunxian. Her parents were servants of Duke Anyuan Mansion. She was sold to a brothel in Yangzhou. How dare the Crown Princess say she didnt do that?
Although Qiao Jinniang didnt know who Liu Chunxian was, she guessed this girl must be Aunt Lius daughter. She remembered that Huaishan had said that her niece was going to marry an examinee of the Imperial Examination, and that examinee must have been Wu Wen.
Qiao Jinniang said, Her mother made a terrible mistake, falsely using me ofmitting adultery. I certainly could not spare her, so I sold her and her family.
Besides, I just asked the human trafficker to sell her out of Changan, but I have never asked him to sell her to a brothel.
Dont nt what the human trafficker did on me.
Imperial Censor Tong came out and said, Your Majesty, the Crown Princess dated a man before her wedding, which is known to almost everyone in Changan, but in fright of Duke Anyuans power, the people in Changan were forced to shut up.
If this is true, the servants of Duke Anyuan Mansion may be unfaithful to her master.
But she was just trying to defend the reputation of the royal family and prevent His Royal Highness from being deceived, so the Liu family didnt do anything wrong.
Wu Wen angrily pointed his finger at Qiao Jinniang and snapped, Qiao Jinniang, you dated a man at home, and the Liu family just told the truth, but you sold them and forced them to be separated from each other forever. You are really vicious!
All the ministers secretly admired Imperial Censor Tong and Wu Wen for their boldness.
Qiao Jinniang said, An imperial censors responsibility is to supervise the officials for His Majesty, but you should perform your duty based on solid evidence instead of random false usations.
Imperial Censor Tong, you used me with some ridiculous rumors. Are you still worthy of being an imperial censor?
Father, Im innocent. I can ignore the nderous rumors against me among themoners, but now even a high-ranking official dares to nder me at will. Please uphold justice for me!
Imperial Censor Tong remembered Tong Yingyings suggestion, so he said, Everyone in Changan has known about this matter and it has been confirmed by the servants of the Duke Mansion. How could it be false?
Lu Chen nced coldly at Imperial Censor Tong and said, I should have exined this earlier. That night, I went to Jinniang to discuss our wedding with her, and the Old Madam of the Duke Mansion didnt know it was me.
All the servants and guards present can testify for me. That Aunt Liu wasnt even in the Jin Garden that night but made up a story to nder Jinniang!
The rumor has long since disappeared among themoners. Imperial Censor Tong, why did you mention it again? Whats your purpose?
Hearing that the Crown Prince admitting in public that he had sneaked to the Duke Mansion to date his crown princess before their wedding, the ministers were all surprised.
Emperor Huilin was a little embarrassed at his sons behavior, and said, The Crown Prince shouldnt have gone to the Duke Mansion at night to meet the Crown Princess before the wedding, but since the imperial decree has been issued, his behavior was not against the rules.
Emperor Huilin continued. But that servant spread such malicious rumors about her master. It is reasonable to sell her whole family. Besides, her daughter is still the Duke Mansions ve, so the Duke Mansion has the right to sell her. As for where the human trafficker sold her to, what does it have to do with the Crown Princess?
Wu Wen, even though youve rolled the nailed te, if you falsely use the Crown Princess, you stillmitted a felony!
Wu Wens face turned pale when he listened to Emperor Huilins words. He had heard that the Crown Prince didnt sleep with the Crown Princess on the night of their wedding.
He thought that the Crown Prince must have done this because Qiao Jinniangmitted adultery, but it turned out that he was wrong.
Imperial Censor Tong pleaded for Wu Wen. Your Majesty, Wu Wen is a talented person. He was just too eager to protect his fiancee.
Qiao Jinniang said casually, Eager to protect his fiancee? I only ordered the human trafficker to sell that girl out of Changan. If he really loves her, why didnt he follow that human trafficker out of Changan to buy Liu Chunxian?
Besides, Imperial Censor Tong has ndered the Duke Anyuan Mansion and me for no reason. If he isnt punished for this, doesnt it mean that all the imperial censors can do the same to me?
Father, please uphold justice for me!
Qiao Jinniang knelt on the ground.
Duke Anyuan got on his knees too and said, Your Majesty, please uphold justice for us. We never dared to forget our ancestors teaching that we must be loyal to the royal family forever. How could we possibly do such a ridiculous thing?
Emperor Huilin said, What the Crown Princess and Duke Anyuan said is reasonable. Pass on my order that Tong Lei is hereby dismissed from office, which is a warning to all officials!
Imperial Censor Tong copsed to the ground and set his pleading gaze to Duke Wu, but thetter simply ignored him, his elder brother-inw.
He narrowly beat the Crown Princessst time on the matter of the Qiao nsmen, but he didnt stop and offended the Crown Princess over and over again. Now he just got what he deserved.
Emperor Huilin was always partial to Lu Chen. Qiao Jinniang was Lu Chens wife. How could he allow a mere official to bully his beloved sons wife?
Wu Wen hurriedly said, Even if I didnt find out the truth about Liu Chunxians matter, its absolutely true that Qiao Lu knew the exam questions in advance. The witness is already waiting outside the pce.
Emperor Huilin said, Bring him in!
From the outside, a petite and thin young man came in. His face was a bit feminine and he looked a little like Lu Chen.
When Emperor Huilin saw this young man, he almost thought that this was the Queens stray son.
He looked exactly the same as the Queen when she was dressed as a man when she was young.
Wu Wen said, This young schr can testify for me!
Chapter 180 - The Tong Familys Hopes Are All on Tong Yingying Now
Chapter 180: The Tong Familys Hopes Are All on Tong Yingying Now
The young schr snorted. What are you talking about? I just made up a story that I answered the Imperial Exam questions for Qiao Lu, and you came to beat the Heavenly Drum?
Senior Brother Qiao is the most talented student in Qingming Academy. Even the renowned schr, Mr. Xie, is very appreciative of his talent. Just because my Senior Brother is low-key doesnt mean a jealous, wicked person like you can nder him!
Wu Wen red at the young schr. What are you talking about? How dare you lie to me! How can a student of Qingming Academy lie?
The eunuch who led the young schr in said to the young schr, How dare you not salute His Majesty?
The young schr knelt down awkwardly and said, Your Majesty, my name is Zhou Shihui. Im actually a woman.
Emperor Huilin asked, A woman?
Zhou Shihui undid her bun and let her hair fall down. Your Majesty, I disguised myself as a man because the best school in the world, Qingming Academy, only admits men but I really wanted to study in it.
A few days ago, I heard that Senior Brother Qiao Lu won second ce in the Imperial Examination and my mother said that I had a cousin who was going to get married, so I came to Changan from the academy.
But when my mother came to Changan, she said that she wasnt ustomed to the climate of Changan and left, leaving me a letter and money.
Then I heard Wu Wen ndering Senior Brother Qiao Lu in the inn, saying that Senior Brother got second ce by cheating.
I was so annoyed so I resorted to a little trick. I told him I was a student of Qingming Academy and that I answered the exam questions for Senior Brother, and suggested he roll over the nailed te to sue the Crown Princess!
But I didnt expect him, the second runner-up of the Imperial Examination, to be stupid enough to believe this.
Wu Wen red angrily at this woman who was nearly ten years younger than him, and felt more pain all over!
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Zhou Shihui continued, Who is Duke Wu? I suggested he roll over the nailed board also because I wanted to find Duke Wu among the ministers.
I went to Duke Wu Mansion many times, but the concierge didnt let me in. My mother has a letter for Duke Wu!
This girl was lively and adorable. It was the first time she came to the imperial pce and faced the Emperor, but she wasnt scared at all.
Everyone was looking at Duke Wu meaningfully. Duke Wu and his wife were a model couple in Changan.
But this girl of fifteen or sixteen years of age was looking for Duke Wu, saying her mother left Duke Wu a letter, and her surname was also Zhou
Perhaps she was Duke Wus illegitimate daughter.
It was against thew to have an illegitimate daughter, and Duke Wus reputation was going to be ruined.
Under the meaningful gazes of other ministers, Duke Wu walked up to Zhou Shihui. Little girl, watch your tongue. I dont even know you.
Zhou Shihui handed a letter to Duke Wu. This is the letter my mother asked me to give you. It should have been given to you two days ago. Im afraid Ive missed my cousins wedding
After Duke Wu read the letter, he was overjoyed and said to Emperor Huilin with joy, Your Majesty, this is the daughter of my eldest sister who has been traveling outside, and this girl bears her mothers surname.
Emperor Huilin said, No wonder. This child looks very like the Queen.
Zhou Shihui looked at Duke Wu in surprise. So, you are my uncle, and the Crown Prince who got married yesterday is my cousin?
Duke Wu nodded and said, Yes, if your grandmother sees you, she will be very happy. Follow me back to the Duke Wu Mansionter, okay?
Wu Wen almost vomited out a mouthful of blood. He had nned to put the me on this girl.
But she turned out to be Duke Wus niece!
Perhaps because he was extremely annoyed, or because he lost too much blood from rolling over the nailed te, or because his future had beenpletely ruined, Wu Wen passed out.
Emperor Huilin pitied him for fainting on the spot and being tricked by Zhou Shihui, so he only deprived Wu Wen of his runner-up position in the Imperial Examination, and banned him from taking the Imperial Examination again.
But for Wu Wen, who was born in a poor family, this meant that his future had been ruined.
...
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen returned to the East Pce.
Lu Chens secret guards had already gained all the information about Zhou Shihui.
Your Royal Highness, Zhou Shihui is now sixteen years old. Her mother is Duke Wus sister, and his father is a literati from Yin County. When she was a child, she lost her father due to a disastrous floor in Yin County and was separated from Miss Zhou.
Miss Zhou traveled around and earned her living by teaching, while also looking for her daughter.
Miss Zhou met Zhou Shihui in Yangzhou four years ago, recognized her as her daughter, and sent her to the famous Qingming Academy.
When Qiao Jinniang heard about Zhou Sihuis origin, she felt it was somewhat familiar, and said to Lu Chen,
Nuomi was also separated from her parents because of a flood when she was a child. She went to Yin County to find her parents several times, but got no clue. I hope her family is also looking for her.
Lu Chen said, Ill ask the officials in Yin County to pay attention and try to find the families of those people in Myriad Taste.
Qiao Jinniang said gratefully, Thank you.
Why do you say thank you to me? It seems that my new cousin falls for your brother? Lu Chen said, Perhaps, they can make a good couple.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Qiao Lu said he already has a girl he likes, but I dont know if it was her? That girl was very lively and chatty. Im afraid it will be more lively with her than with Fulu.
Wu Wen is really stupid. How could he believe a strange young schr so easily?
Lu Chen said, The students of Qingming Academy are not ordinary schrs. The president of the academy is Mr. Xie, the most renowned schr in the world.
Qingming is the best academy in Datang, and the students of Qingming are very popr in Changan.
At the triennial academypetition, Qingming Academy wins every year.
Only talented students can enter Qingming Academy, regardless of their family background. Its even said that entering Qingming Academy isparable to passing the Imperial Examination because as long as students of Qingming Academye to take the Imperial Examination, they always win the top spots.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, No wonder Wu Wen believed in Zhou Shihui, but
Qiao Jinniang thought for a while and reminded Lu Chen. But Qingming Academy is so powerful. What if its president is not loyal to the royal family, Im afraid
Lu Chen smiled and said, Its students are all true talents, and they advocate Confucianism, so they wont be disloyal to the emperor.
...
Tong family.
Tong Lei took off his official uniform and staggered home soullessly. Since he became the imperial censor, he restrained himself everywhere and followed the example of the famous Prime Minister Wei of the founding emperor.
But he ended up losing everything. If Tong Yingying hadnt persuaded him to seek justice for Wu Wen, how could this happen?
When Mrs. Tong heard the news of her husbands dismissal, she rushed out to greet Tong Lei. Master, someone said that you were dismissed from office by His Majesty. How is this possible? Didnt Duke Wu help you?
Tong Yingying came out and said, Dad, you dont have to be sad. History books will definitely record that you were brave enough to uphold justice for a poor young schr, thus offended the Emperor and was dismissed from office. Those officials who were dismissed for bravely admonishing emperors will be remembered by the people forever.
The Qiao family are all crafty sycophants. When I marry into the East Pce, I will definitely expose their true colors and persuade His Royal Highness to restore your office.
Although Tong Lei hated Tong Yingying, this daughter was hisst hope.
He looked at Tong Yingying and said, Our Tong familys hope is all on you now.
Watching this scene, Tong Xuan rolled her eyes in anger. Shed better think about how to please Qiao Jinniang more. She didnt want to be implicated by her parents and sister!
...
The next day was Lu Chens 21st birthday.
Early this morning, the imperial pce had begun to prepare for his birthday banquet.
Qiao Jinniang gave Lu Chen the birthday present she had prepared early in the morning. Look at this. It took me a lot of time to make it.
Seeing it was a little tiger doll, Lu Chen smiled. Jiner, do you think Im a kid?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. You were born in the year of the tiger, right? I originally wanted to make a wolf dog doll for you after those wolf dogs in the Duke Mansion.
But then I decided to make a little tiger for you, so that you wont grab the dolls of Xier!
Lu Chen said, What I want to grab from him is not his dolls.
Qiao Jinniang took the little tiger doll and said, If you dont like it, Ill give it to Xier.
It happened that Lu Xi came in, and Lu Chen quickly hid the little tiger for fear of being seen by Xier.
Seeing this, Qiao Jinniang smiled softly, Childish.
Lu Xi walked up to Lu Chen and took out a small purse. Dad, this is your birthday present!
Chapter 181 - The Old Grievance between Fulu and Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 181: The Old Grievance between Fulu and Qin Miaomiao
Gratified, Lu Chen opened his purse only to see a small green-haired turtle in it. Lu Xi said, Daddy, this turtle can live a very long life. Xier wishes Daddy a longer life than the turtle.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. Xier is really filial.
Little Lu Xi took out another purse and gave it to Qiao Jinniang. This is for you, Mommy. If Daddy has one, Mommy must have one too.
Qiao Jinniang opened her purse, and there was also a green-haired turtle in it.
Lu Chen handed the two green-haired turtles to the imperial maids and said, Keep these two turtles in the lotus pond.
Yes, Your Royal Highness.
The three of them were all wearing clothes with the same pattern and color today, and Qiao Jinniang didnt forget to wear jewelry from Jewelry Pavilion. Although she had married into the East Pce, she still had to earn money.
Before the banquet, Fulu came to the East Pce for Qiao Jinniang. She happily came in and said to Qiao Jinniang,
Yesterday, a female student from Qingming Academy called Zhou Shihui came to Changan. You have to help me win her over. We must not let Qin Miaomiao take her into her gang.
Qiao Jinniang said, But Qin Miaomiao doesnt want to fight with you anymore. What kind of grudge do you have against each other? Why do you hate her so much? Dont scare that little girl.
Fulu sat in front of Qiao Jinniang and said, Actually, Qin Miaomiao and I are cousins. Her grandfather and my grandfather are brothers.
At that time, my father had to give up the military power of the Qin family because he wanted to marry my mother.
So my father chose my mother over the position of Duke Qin and gave up this position to his uncle, Qin Miaomiaos grandfather.
When we were young, Qin Miaomiao and I were good friends, but one day, she actually said that my father was unfilial and cowardly to give up the nobility title left by the ancestors of the Qin family.
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And she said that a man was supposed to defend his family and his country and make meritorious deeds, not to please a woman humbly.
How dare she scold my father? If my father hadnt given up the position of Duke Qin to her grandfather, Qin Miaomiao would not have been able to be the daughter of a duke! Humph!
Qiao Jinniang said, How old was Qin Miaomiao when she said this?
Qin Miaomiao didnt seem to be such a big-mouthed person.
Fulu said, Eight years old. After that, we became mortal enemies!
Qiao Jinniang:
Wow, that was really a huge debt of blood, which started when they were only eight.
Fulu added. I suspect that Qin Miaomiao was engaged to Lin Mo to show me that no man in the world would give up power and fortune to marry a princess.
Otherwise, since the Lin family was so mean to her, why did she still want to resume the engagement with Lin Mo?
There are so many good men in the world. Why does she insist on marrying Lin Mo who everyone knows has an affair with Princess Jinghua?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, I dont think she wants to offend Princess Jinghua and ruin her own life just to anger you. Almost every girl in Changan wants to marry Lin Mo.
Then what about Zhou Siming? Fulu said, There are also many unmarried men in the royal family, and Lin Mo doesnt even have a nobility title.
Although she and Lin Mo seem to be a good match, Lin Mo has no nobility title. How can Lin Mopare to Zhou Siming?
Yuyan entered and said, Your Highness, Madam, Miss Ruoyun, and Miss Qin are asking to see you.
Qiao Jinniang quickly let them in. Seeing that Zheng Xiao was about to salute her, she stepped forward to support Zheng Xiao and said, Mother, you dont have to salute me.
Fulu walked to Qin Miaomiao and said, Dont even think about taking Zhou Shihui into your gang, okay?
Qin Miaomiao said, Im about to get married. Who would y this kids game with you again? Although you mocked my mother, I have forgiven you.
Fulu was annoyed. When did I mock your mother? It was you who scolded my father!
Qin Miaomiao retorted. If you hadnt ridiculed my father for having too many concubines and hadnt shown off how much your parents loved each other to me, how could I say your father didnt deserve to be a man?
Fulu said, I just didnt understand why you have so many brothers and sisters who were not born by your mother. I didnt mean to mock anyone or show off!
I just envied you for having many brothers and sisters. Humph, youre really small-minded!
Qin Miaomiao said, You didnt mean to show off? I didnt want to hear how much your parents loved each other but you kept talking to me about that every day.
Fulu: I was not showing off. I didnt know you didnt like it. You never spoke your mind. Why didnt you just directly tell me you didnt want to hear that?
Qin Miaomiao sneered coldly. I have my dignity. How could I tell you about the fights and quarrels between my parents?
If you really took me as your friend, what if you told me? You never took me as your friend!
Fulu and Qin Miaomiao began to quarrel again like what they did every time they met.
Qiao Jinniang quickly said, Okay, stop it. If you want to quarrel, leave the East Pce.
Fulu immediately shut up, and Qin Miaomiao didnt say anymore either, but there was less tension between the two of them.
Zheng Xiao held Qiao Jinniangs hand and asked, I heard rumors from outside that the Crown Prince didnt enter your pce for two consecutive days. Is it true?
But before your wedding, you were
Qiao Jinniang said shyly, Fulu and Miaomiao havent been married, Mother. Dont say this kind of thing in front of them
Zheng Xiao said, You dont have to be shy. If His Royal Highness really married you for your fathers power, you have to n for yourself. Those vows before marriage should not be taken seriously.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont worry, Mother. His Royal Highness treats me very well.
Zheng Xiao said, Dont eat humble pie like Ruoyun. Fortunately, Old Madam Qin has been sent to a manor by Duke Qin to recuperate.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Mother, I wont. Dont believe those rumors. Youre going to give birth. Dont think too much. We can take care of ourselves.
Qiao Ruoyun responded absentmindedly. Yes, Mother.
Qiao Ruoyun looked listless, and the big dark circles on her face looked a bit scary.
Qiao Jinniang asked Qiao Ruoyun, Sister, whats the matter with you? Look at your dark circles that cant even be covered with makeup. Did Brother-inw bully you?
Qiao Ruoyun forced a smile and said, Im fine.
Qiao Jinniang summoned an imperial doctor to check Quoyuns health.
The imperial doctor examined her pulse and asked, Madam, may I ask how often do you have sex with your husband? How many times did you have sex in one night?
Qiao Ruoyun was too shy to answer his questions, but they were not allowed to take their servants into the imperial pce, so she didnt have a maid answering the questions for her.
Qiao Ruoyun had no choice but to bite the bullet and said, My husband and I really want to have a child, so except when I am on my period, we slept together every day, and we had sex four to five times in a night.
Fulu took a deep breath. Wow, Qin Shu is quite strong!
Qin Miaomiao stepped on Fulus foot. The two of them hadnt been married! Shouldnt she pretend that she didnt understand what they were talking about?
Fulu shouted in pain, Stop pretending! Who gave me those dirty novels back then?!
Qin Miaomiao stepped on her foot even harder!
Chapter 182 - Princess Xiliang Wished the Crown Prince A Happy Birthday
Chapter 182: Princess Xiliang Wished the Crown Prince A Happy Birthday
The old imperial doctor said solemnly, May I ask which imperial doctor is conditioning your body?
Zheng Xiao replied, Its Imperial Doctor Wu who specializes in gynecology. The medicine he prescribed has helped many women be pregnant.
The old imperial doctor said to Zheng Xiao, Madam, as the saying goes, medicine can also be poisonous. Mrs. Qin should rx instead of taking unnecessary medicines. Continuing this will eventually hurt her own body.
Mrs. Qin, youre still so young. You shouldnt take so much medicine. Even if you get a child with the help of medicine, the child wont be healthy.
And you should reduce the times of sexual intercourse. If it is too frequent, you cant get pregnant easily. Three times per ten days is the best.
Qiao Ruoyun blushed and nodded.
Zheng Xiao said to the old doctor, Please also examine the Crown Princess. Is the Crown Princess body suitable for getting pregnant?
The old doctor examined Qiao Jinniangs pulse and said, Her Highness is very healthy. Her body must have been well conditioned after she gave birth to the imperial grandson. It is not difficult for her to have a child again.
Zheng Xiao said in a low voice, But the imperial grandson is already three years old. Is His Royal Highness
Zheng Xiao didnt dare to say the word impotent.
Qiao Jinniang quickly said, Mother, His Royal Highness and I are both in good health. We havent had a second child because we both think Xier is still too young, and we want to wait until Xier is older.
After the old doctor left, Zheng Xiao asked Qiao Ruoyun to take Qin Miaomiao and Fulu into the imperial pce first.
The mother and daughter were talking in whispers.
Zheng Xiao said to Qiao Jinniang, Time has changed. Jinniang, the greatest support for women now in the imperial pce is their children.
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I told your sister not to worry because the Qin family doesnt dare to offend us.
In the worst case, your sister cant give birth to any child. Even if Qin Shu has ten or eight sons that are born by his concubines, he still doesnt dare to disrespect your sister, and his sons still have to recognize your sister as their mother!
But you are different. After all, the favor of men of the royal family is unreliable, let alone the vows before marriage. The only thing you can rely on is your children.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt think so. Mother, its not like this. If Lu Chen fails me, I still have money. I dont want to use my child to gain favor.
Just like what Grandmother once said, everyone said that if the man loves the child you had with him, he will love you, but this is not true. The truth is that if the man loves you, he will love the child he has with you.
Mother, I dont want to have a child just to win my husbands favor. Before the child is born, use him to keep my husband around me? Isnt that pathetic?
...
The birthday banquet was held in the Yangjiang Garden in the imperial pce.
It was spring, and the banquet was held in an open-air garden. Thousands of flowers were in full bloom, and bright colors were seen everywhere. Even more beautiful than the flowers were the young girls wearing bright-colored dresses and delicate makeup in the garden.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen entered the garden together. After Qiao Jinniang was seated, she nced around and felt that the garden was exceptionally beautiful today.
Lu Chen only sent invitations to the nobles for fear that there would be too many girls and Qiao Jinniang would be jealous.
But he didnt expect that many girls from the officials families would alsoe today, using the invitations their aristocratic rtives or friends got.
Lu Chen nced sideways at Qiao Jinniangs expression, only to see that she was looking happily at those girls, so he asked, Why are you so happy?
Qiao Jinniang: Look at the girls. They are all dressed up and look even more beautiful than flowers. Seeing so many beauties, Im in a very good mood.
Lu Chen didnt know for a while whether she was telling the truth or mocking.
But he smartly exined, I didnt give an invitation to these girls families, and I didnt know they woulde over today. Dont be angry.
When Qiao Jinniang was on her period, no one could mess around with her.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not angry. Im very happy!
Do you see the jewelry theyre wearing, which are all from Jewelry Pavilion. They are all my customers. How can I be angry at them? I cant wait to have more banquets like this!
Lu Chen: So making money is more important than me?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. Of course not, Honey. After all, you are way richer than me. If I surrender you to them, your money will be theirs. I am not that stupid.
Lu Chen:
When the Emperor and his harem came out, everyone saluted.
The Queen looked at the girls and said, The jewelry you are wearing today is quite chic.
Imperial Concubine De said, Your Highness, there is a new jewelry shop in Changan called Jewelry Pavilion, and the jewelry it sells all costs thousands of taels of silver, or even tens of thousands of taels.
Although the prices are high, the products are very exquisite, so every time they have a new release, itll be sold out soon. I heard that many jewelry shops from other ces specially came to Changan to buy the jewelry from Jewelry Pavilion.
The Queen said, I see.
After the banquet, all the princes, consorts and princesses came to toast Lu Chen one after another. Of course, Lu Chen would not drink everyones toast.
When his five brothers came to toast, he toasted them too.
Although the princes wanted him to drink all their toasts, they didnt dare force him to do that.
After the royal family members finished toasting Lu Chen, it was the turn of the envoys.
Some small vessel countries almost took preparing the Crown Prince a birthday present as a national undertaking because they needed Datangs protection.
But the envoys from countries like Xiliang and Beimo wouldnt be so polite.
The princess of Xiliang, Samoer, stood up and said, Xiliang wishes Your Royal Highness a long life and a happy birthday. We in Xiliang have prepared a national treasure and hope to befriend Datang.
However, in order to get our national treasure, you need topete with me three times. If Datang wins, Xiliang is willing to present the national treasure with both hands. If you lose, it proves that Datang has no ability to take our national treasure!
Samoer had been wearing a veil since entering Changan, and her eyes that were exposed were full of arrogance and contempt.
The people of Datang present all secretly despised these barbarians from Xiliang for being rude and ignorant of etiquettes.
But if they didnt agree topete with Samoer, it would seem that they were ipetent.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you, princess, but we dont need your national treasure. What do you want topete with us in? Were d to ept your challenge!
Samoer said confidently, I heard that you people call us barbarians and prided yourselves for being talented and knowledgeable.
When I came to Changan, I heard of your Imperial Examination. The first thing we want topete with you is intelligence. I heard that the Crown Princess younger brother won second ce in the Imperial Examination this time, so why not let himpete with me?
Qiao Lu nced at Duke Anyuan, and when he saw his father nodding, he stood up and said, Princess Xiliang, Im Qiao Lu. Im honored topete with you!
Samoer ordered the three ministers behind her to step forward, respectively holding three locked boxes in their hands.
Samoer said, The national treasure that is to be given to the Crown Prince of Datang is in one of the boxes. Only one of the three officials is telling the truth, and the other two are lying. Young Master Qiao, please pick the box that contains the national treasure.
The Xiliang official holding the iron box said, The national treasure is not in my box.
The official holding the wooden box said, The national treasure is in the iron box.
The official holding the jade box said, The national treasure is not in my box.
Samoer blinked slightly and said to Qiao Lu, You only have half an hour. If you cant pick the right box, Datang will lose and you wont get the national treasure!
Chapter 183 - Tong Yingying Came up with A Way to Solve the Problem
Chapter 183: Tong Yingying Came up with A Way to Solve the Problem
When Tong Yingying heard Princess Xiliangs question, she thought to herself, if Qiao Lu couldnt solve it but she could, this would be a great merit.
It was just that the problem was really a bit tricky.
Ms. Tong, youve been known as talented. Do you know the answer? A noble girl asked Tong Yingying, This problem is too difficult to solve, isnt it?
Yeah, how can it be solved within half an hour? Miss Tong, do you know the answer?
Tong Yingying said, It should be in a wooden box.
The people of Xiliang were foxy. They probably thought that the people of Datang would think that their national treasure would be put in a jade box, so they would do exactly the opposite and put it in the wooden box instead.
After Qiao Lu listened to Princess Xiliangs question, he frowned and said crossly, Xiliang Barbarians, even if we have a blood feud, you dont have to insult me ??like this!
Your Majesty, its too humiliating. In our Datang, even a three-year-old child would disdain answering this kind of question, but they are using such a simple question to humiliate us!
Qiao Lu often went to the military camp before he was twelve.
Those veterans often mentioned to him the tragic scenes of his grandfather, granduncles and uncles ??dying on the battlefield and told him that Datang and Xiliang must not exist under the same sky!
Seeing Samoer asking such a simple question, he thought that Xiliang was humiliating and provoking Datang.
Samoer said, Young Master Qiao, if you cant answer it, just admit it. You still have half an hour to think about it slowly. You dont have to be so flustered!
Tong Yingying also echoed in the crowd. Young Master Qiao, Ive already got the answer. If you cant answer it, dont worry, Let me answer it.
Zhou Shihui, who was sitting at the table of Duke Wu Mansion, snorted. Shut up! My senior brother can answer it!
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Qiao Lu said, Flustered? Are you kidding me? Isnt it hidden in the jade box? I could answer this kind of question when I turned three!
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao Lu, Brother, this must be a big challenge for the ministers of Xiliang to answer this question. You should understand them.
Samoer clenched her hands in anger and said, Three years old? Young Master Qiao, did you guess the answer? A three-year-old child cant even speak!
Little Lu Xi said cutely, If Uncle Iron Box is telling the truth, then the national treasure is in the jade box. But Uncle Wooden Box also lied, so only Uncle Iron Box spoke the truth, and the other two uncles lied. Im only three years old!
As he spoke, he extended three little fingers.
Then he turned to look at Qiao Jinniang. Mommy, am I right?
Qiao Jinniang touched the little bun on Little Lu Xis head. Xier is amazing.
When Tong Yingying heard the words of the imperial grandson, she realized that her answer was wrong and felt a bit embarrassed, but then she couldnt help but admire the imperial grandson.
If she had a child with the Crown Prince in the future, the imperial grandson must be a big obstacle for her child!
Samoer clenched her hands and said, Fine, you won on the first question. I heard there are many delicious foods in the Tang Dynasty, and the Crown Princess used to be a restaurant shopkeeper.
I have two ducks here. May I ask if you can make a delicious dish with the ducks but there cant be any skin, meat, bones or internal organs in the dish?
The envoys of Xiliang took two ducks over, which were still quacking loudly.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its not difficult to make the dishes requested by the princess, but it will take about two hours. This dish will be served to all the distinguished guests at dinner.
Samoer looked at Qiao Jinniang confidently. There was no way Qiao Jinniang could solve this problem.
Okay, theres still thest question. Ill keep it until dinner time!
The lunch hadnt been over yet, but everyone was thinking about this problem.
Tong Yingying racked her brains but still couldnt work out an answer. No meat, no skin, no bones, and no internal organs? Then what would be left in a duck?
Could duck feathers be made into a dish? But duck feathers couldnt be eaten!
As this concerned the dignity of Datang, even Prince Huai temporarily put aside his schemes against the Crown Prince and began to think about the answer, but there seemed to be no answer. Even on a duck head and duck feet, there were skins and meat.
Even when the lunch was over, everyone was still thinking about the answer.
Qiao Jinniang was not anxious at all. She let the imperial maids take the two ducks back to the East Pce, went to the kitchen, and ordered the imperial maids to boil hot water.
Still wearing a wide-sleeved long dress, she began to sharpen the kitchen knife.
After Fulu came in, she shouted, No! Even if you cant answer this question, you dont have to self-harm!
Qiao Jinniang, however, after cleaning the knife, ordered someone to prepare a soup bowl with warm water, and put a little shochu and a little salt in it.
She raised the knife and chopped the duck in the neck, and the duck, who was still quacking, died instantly.
Qiao Jinniang let the duck blood drip into a bowl.
Fulu was so frightened that she froze for quite a while before she suddenly let out a scream, Ahhh!
You, you, you...
Qiao Jinniang said to Fulu, Since you are here, serve as my assistant for now.
Fulu timidly took over the dead duck whose blood had been drained from Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Qiao Jinniang said, The duck cant be wasted. Go, pluck out the duck with the imperial maids.
Fulu was speechless. Why did she, a dignified princess, have to pluck out a duck? Could it be the retribution for her stealing Qiao Jinniangs preserved ducks from her yard during thest Spring Festival?
The supervisor of the kitchen walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Your Highness, please let us do the menial work of processing ducks
Qiao Jinniang said, You drain the ducks blood only to make duck meat more delicious, but there are skills for draining ducks blood. With carelessness, the small feathers of the duck may fall into the blood when the duck is struggling. Now, watch how I do it.
Qiao Jinniang began to teach the eunuchs and imperial maids working in the kitchen how to kill ducks.
...
In the Queens pce.
Zhou Shihui racked her brains for a long time. Aunt, what should we do? How is it possible to make such a dish? No meat, no skin, no bones, no internal organs there is nothing left on the duck then!
Duchess Wu also sighed. Princess Xiliang obviously means to humiliate our Datang. Yingying, you are smart. Have you worked out a solution?
Tong Yingying said, I heard that somemoners would eat duck eggs that are still in the belly of female ducks, saying that duck eggs are the most nourishing.
Duchess Wus eyes lit up and said, Yes! The duck eggs that are still in the belly of female ducks should not be regarded as internal organs, right?
However, Zhou Shihui disagreed. Why are they not internal organs? Since duck eggs are still in the ducks belly, they are internal organs.
Besides, I nced at the ducks that the Xiliang Kingdom gave us just now. There seems to be two male ducks. Even if they are female ducks, we dont know if there are any eggs in them!
Tong Yingying said, Then do you have a better solution? Can you just sit by and watch Datangs dignity being stepped on by Xiliang? Ill go to the East Pce to see if there are any eggs in those two ducks!
Chapter 184 - Tong Yingying Got Slapped
Chapter 184: Tong Yingying Got pped
While waiting for the duck blood to solidify, Qiao Jinniang taught the cooks how to stew ham and duck soup.
This was the second dish that Qiao Jinniang prepared if the people of Xiliang insisted that duck blood was also an internal organ.
The ham and duck soup needed to be simmered for two or three hours with a small fire.
Fulu watched on the side and said, Isnt this dish the signature dish of your Tasty Pavilion? You actually told these chefs how to make it?
The royal chefs all bowed to Qiao Jinniang. Thank you for teaching us, Your Highness.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Get up. I like to cook, but because of my status, I cant cook every day, so I teach you how to make this dish so that I can eat it when I want to.
To be honest, the dishes in the imperial pce were all tasteless.
Qiao Jinniang didnt think the chefs were perfunctory about their work.
The royal chefs did have cooking skills, but they could only make nd dishes, and even when they made chicken and duck, they could only boil them with water.
She only told them how to make the dishes she liked so that she could eat better in the future.
Yuyan entered the kitchen and said, Your Highness, Duchess Wu brought the two youngdies of the Zhou family and Miss Tong to see you.
When Qiao Jinniang saw that the soup had already been stewed, she instructed the royal chefs to keep an eye on the fire and not let it go out.
After sorting her clothes, she followed Fulu to the main hall.
After Duchess Wu and her party saluted Qiao Jinniang and Fulu, Qiao Jinniang said, Aunt, Cousins, please get up.
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.
Tong Yingying quickly said, Crown Princess, I have already figured out how to solve the problem raised by Princess Xiliang, Come on, give me those two ducks!
Tong Yingying was eager to win honor. If she solved this problem, she would be a heroine who defended Datangs dignity.
Maybe her father could even be reinstated, and maybe the Emperor would even let her marry into the East Pce.
Hongling snapped, How dare you?! Tong Yingying, your father has been dismissed from office and you are amoner now. Her Highness didnt ask you anything. How dare you speak in front of Her Highness without permission? Come on, p her!
Qiao Jinniang didnt stop Hongling. She had long wanted to p Tong Yingying.
Tong Yingying looked at Duchess Wu and said, Auntie.
Duchess Wu said, You have been taught etiquette and rules since you were young. How can you even forget this? Quickly apologize to Her Highness!
Luhe and Yingtao were pping Tong Yingying as hard as they could.
As early as that day in Jewelry Pavilion, they had wanted to beat this stupid woman.
But at that time she was the daughter of an imperial censor, so they couldnt do anything to her.
After all, imperial censors had a special status. Although they were not high-ranking officials, no one dared to offend them.
Seeing Tong Yingying shed tears after being pped, Zhou Sisi threw herself on Tong Yingying and said, Dont hit Sister Yingying. Bad women! You bad women!
Luhe and Yingtao didnt dare to touch Zhou Sisi and both retracted their hands.
Zhou Shihui originally thought that Tong Yingyings solution was unreliable, but since there was no solution, they could only have a try.
But at this moment, seeing Tong Yingying being pped just for speaking without permission, she felt obliged to uphold justice for Tong Yingying.
Although Qiao Jinniang was the elder sister of her senior brother, she was raised by ves after all. Just because she was in power now didnt mean she could bully a girl like this!
Zhou Shihui said indignantly, Your Highness, Miss Tong was eager to defend our countrys dignity so she spoke to you before you allowed her. Why do you make such a fuss about it? If the problem cant be solved at dinner time, this will be a big disgrace for Datang.
How could you punish her for such a trivial matter? Do you forget that youre from the Qiao family? Xiliang killed so many ancestors of the Qiao family. If Datang is defeated by Xiliang today, how can you exin to the ancestors of your Qiao family?!
Miss Tong kindly wanted to help you out, but you repaid her by bullying her! This is really too much!
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea to suppress her anger. Since I have taken the two ducks and told Princess Xiliang that I can give her an answer at dinner time, it means I have a way to solve the problem. Why do I need her to help me out?
Zhou Shihui said, Didnt you just say that to buy time?
Qiao Jinniang said, Of course not. Duchess Wu, where is Tong Xuan? Seeing you bring your niece into the imperial pce, I thought Tong Xuan hade too, but I didnt see her just now.
Since when is a concubine-born daughter more distinguished than a wife-born daughter in Changan?
Duchess Wu noticed that Qiao Jinniang didnt even call her Aunt now and hurriedly said, The invitation is for Xuaner, but my brother was dismissed from office yesterday and Xuaner was so worried about her father that she fell ill, so her sister had to attend the banquet in her ce.
So a daughter was so worried about her father that she even fell ill, but the other daughter happily came to the imperial pce to attend a banquet!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. I heard that Imperial Censor Tong has always been partial to his eldest daughter, but I didnt expect his eldest daughter to be so unfilial! Tong Yingying, is this your filial piety that you always lecture others about?
Tong Yingying knelt on the ground and looked at Qiao Jinniang unyieldingly, but couldnt retort.
At this time, an eunuch reported at the gate that His Royal Highness had arrived, and Tong Yingyings eyes lit up.
Brother! As soon as Zhou Sisi saw Lu Chen, she got up and walked to him.
Lu Chen said to Duchess Wu, Auntie, I would like you to teach Miss Zhou the right way to address me. Although her brain is damaged, she can still recognize people. If she calls me Brother again, dont me me for being cold-hearted!
Duchess Wu quickly said, Yes.
Tong Yingying raised her head and said to the Crown Prince, Your Royal Highness, I have a way to solve the problem raised by Princess Xiliang.
I was in a hurry to tell Her Highness the solution, so I spoke to her before she allowed me, but the maids of Her Highness scolded me for that and even pped me!
I just want to defend my countrys dignity, but the Crown Princess trampled on my loyalty to Datang! Your Royal Highness, please give me justice.
Lu Chen said slowly, How dare you disrespect the Crown Princess? Come, throw her out of the imperial pce.
Imperial Censor Tong was dismissed from office yesterday for ndering the Crown Princess, and today, the Duke Wu Mansion brought his daughter to the Crown Princess. Duchess Wu, what do you mean by doing this?
Seeing that Lu Chen was annoyed, Duchess Wu hurriedly knelt down and said, I made a big mistake. Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, please forgive me.
Watching this scene, Zhou Shihui frowned. Why did the Senior Brother Qiao that she liked have such a narrow-minded sister?
And how could the Crown Prince, who was admired by many students in the academy, be so unreasonable?
When Tong Yingying was being carried away, she still shouted, Your Royal Highness, if you dont use my solution, Xiliang will win. How can you watch Datang be humiliated?
Your Royal Highness
Tong Yingying kept shouting, and even when she was thrown to the gate of the imperial pce, her eyes were still unyielding.
If Qiao Jinniang wanted to win, she had to use her solution, and she would still be the heroine of Datang!
She was going to talk to the literati she was familiar with and let them publicize her contribution.
The next morning, they would go to the teahouses in Changan to tell everyone how clever Miss Tong was to work out this marvelous solution.
Moreover, she had to get them to stress how jealous Qiao Jinniang was of her, to the point of having her maids p her.
With this in mind, Tong Yingying straightened up and went to find those literati!
Chapter 185 - Competing with the Qiao Familys Daughters in Martial Arts
Chapter 185: Competing with the Qiao Familys Daughters in Martial Arts
The banquet was still held in the Yangjiang Garden.
The garden, which was full ofnterns, was as bright as day. There was no moon in the sky, but the sky was covered with stars, which were reflected in the river, making it look like a dazzling river of stars.
As soon as the banquet started, Princess Xiliang got up and said, Your Highness, have you prepared your dish for the second problem? Remember, no internal organs, nor skin, flesh or bones are allowed.
Qiao Jinniang ordered the maids and eunuchs in the East Pce to ce a soup and a dish in front of the envoys.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its done. These two delicacies can both meet your requirements, no internal organs, bones, flesh or meat. One is called Lucky Strike, and the other is ham and duck soup.
Princess Xiliang nced at the soup and said, The duck meat cant be used. Although no duck meat can be seen in this bowl of duck soup, it is made with duck meat, so it shouldnt be considered eligible.
Qiao Jinniang said, Theres still another one. Why dont you show the dish you made to the envoys, Princess?
Samoer pped her hands, and then ministers of Xiliang ced a small cup in front of each guest.
Qiao Jinniang opened the small cup and saw a boiled egg.
Samoer said, This is an egg from a ducks belly that hasnt hatched. It is steamed at high temperature and seasoned with a special sauce from Xiliang. Its very delicious and has no skin, meat or bones.
Zhou Shihui pursed her lips. If she had known this, she should have asked the Queen to have the royal chefs prepare this dish. Tong Yingying was right!
Zhou Sisi pouted angrily. Cousin Yingying also came up with this answer.
Fulu frowned and said, But you just gave us two drakes! How can drakes have eggs in their bellies? Besides, its not easy to find a female duck with eggs in her belly. Your answer is problematic!
Qiao Jinniang yed with the egg in her hand and said, I didnt expect this dish to be popr in Xiliang. I had thought only some small ces in the South would eat this thing.
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Qiao Jinniang slowly peeled the egg and said, Have you tried this egg, Princess? This egg contains an unhatched duckling.
Although an egg is not bone or meat, the duckling in this egg has flesh, bones and skin
In Shanyin City, a small city neighboring Linan, some people like to eat this. Some would eat the eggs that havent hatched, while others would eat the eggs that have been hatched for fifteen to sixteen days.
Qiao Jinniang continued, In the eyes of some old people, this egg isparable to a panacea. They dont need to use any special sauce of Xiliang but just use ordinary soy sauce to season it.
Although this dish is extremely delicious, it doesnt meet the conditions.
After Qiao Jinniang peeled the steamed duck egg, there was indeed a small duckling inside.
Many of the guests felt disgusted and dared not eat it.
This trick was offered by the advisors of Xiliang, so Princess Xiliang had never tasted the dish. She frowned. Fine, this dish doesnt count, but your soup doesnt count either, so we have a draw on the second problem.
Qiao Jinniang said, I wont admit defeat. The Lucky Strike is made from duck blood. The coagted duck blood is tender and smooth, and it is fried with cooking wine, onion and ginger to remove the bloody smell. It is a delicious food to nourish the body. All the guests can have a taste.
Princess Xiliang couldnt believe that duck blood was edible, so she scooped some of it with a spoon, and when the duck blood entered her mouth, the taste buds on the tip of her tongue were dancing.
How could the barren Xiliang have such a delicacy?
The envoys all praised this dish, and even the envoy of Beimo, who were loggerheads with Datang, couldnt deny that the food was delicious.
Zhou Shihui pursed her lips. She seemed to have misunderstood Qiao Jinniang. She was not as stupid as she thought.
Zhou Sisi snorted. I wont eat this dish. It stinks.
Duchess Wu hurriedly covered her daughters mouth. How dare you say that?
Samoer put down the spoon in her hand and said to Qiao Jinniang, Okay, even if you win this time, there is still the third problem. I have always heard that your Tang Dynasty advocated both intelligence and martial power.
The Qiao family that the Crown Princess is from is a family of military generals. I think the Qiao familys children must be excellent in martial arts. So in this thirdpetition, Id like topete with the Qiao familys women in martial arts!
Qiao Ruoyi, Qiao Ruofeng and Ruowan looked at each other in astonishment.
Among the girls of the Qiao family, only Qiao Ruoshui learned a little bit of martial arts, but she was dead.
Qiao Ruoyi had only loved reading since she was a child, and in Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruowans formative years, the women in Changan took gentle and quiet women as models.
Qiao Ruoyun and Qiao Ruoyin, who were married far away, were introverted and didnt like to fight. So at this moment, no girl of the Qiao family could stand up topete with Princess Xiliang!
The daughter of a military general stood up and said, No need to bother thedies of the Qiao family. I can defeat you!
Samoer said, So the daughters of the Qiao family are too timid and ipetent toe out? Oh, the reputation of the Qiao familys ancestors is ruined!
Qiao Jinniang stood up and said, Samoer, you are not qualified to mention our Qiao familys ancestors! Isnt it just a martial artspetition? I willpete with you, but no one is allowed to use a weapon. Lets fight with bare hands!
Samoer smiled contemptuously. She had specifically investigated it. Qiao Jinniang didnt even know how to ride before. How could she know martial arts?
Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruowan looked at Qiao Ruoyi and asked, So Second Sister knows martial arts?
Qiao Ruoyi shook her head. I dont know.
Fulu also looked at Qiao Jinniang curiously, stood up, walked to her side and asked, When did you learn martial arts?
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont know martial arts, but isnt martial artspetition just fighting?
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Stop it. You may get hurt.
Lu Chen said to the envoys of Xiliang, How can you be so rude? You provoke our Datang over and over again. Datang doesnt mind fighting Xiliang to the end.
In fact, the envoys of Xiliang didnt want to pick a fight. If Xiliang had a war with Datang again, thend and cities bordering Beimo would definitely be lost.
The war between Datang and Xiliang 20 years ago had made Xiliang lose a lot ofnd, and it was not yet the time for them to start a war with Datang now.
Datangs power was growing stronger and stronger, so now was not the time!
Samoer said, Your Royal Highness, you are wrong. Since we in Xiliang are willing to dedicate our national treasure, it means we put the pursuit of peace first.
This time, I just want to see the martial strength of the girls of the Duke Anyuan Mansion that is so famous in the frontier!
Qiao Jinniang said confidently to Lu Chen, With bare hands, I may not lose. You can rest assured.
The worry in Lu Chens eyes could not be concealed.
Zheng Xiao was so nervous that she had a pain in her lower abdomen. Jinniang doesnt know Kung Fu!
Duke Anyuan clenched her hand and said, Dont be afraid. If the princess dares to hurt Jinniang, I wille out and help Jinniang.
Chapter 186 - Xiliangs National Treasure
Chapter 186: Xiliangs National Treasure
Qiao Jinniang left and changed into a round-neck robe that Lu Chen wore when he was a teenager. It fit her figure very well.
Samoer also changed into a set of clothes, but still wore the veil.
Queen Zhou hadnt been so nervous for a long time, but Emperor Huilin on her side said, What are you nervous about? She could even beat up Chener so badly. How is it possible for her to lose to a barbarian princess?
That was because Chener let her.
Queen Zhou looked at the two girls in the arena, and Qiao Jinniang obviously didnt know any martial arts.
As the ceremonial music and drums sounded, Samoer had her long hair scattered on her shoulder and neatly and gracefully made a set of martial arts movements.
On the other hand, Qiao Jinniang wore her long hair in a high bun and fixed it with a jade tuinga.
Qiao Jinniang suddenly rushed in front of Samoer, and under everyones worried and shocked gazes, she grabbed Samoers long hair and pulled it, pulling it really hard!
Samoers hair was pulled hard and it really hurt. Just when she was about to use a martial arts move against Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Jinniang was pulling her hair even harder.
Samoer had to save her hair with a hand, and although Qiao Jinniang didnt know Kung Fu, she had great strength.
Samoer was no match for Qiao Jinniang in strength, so she suddenly kicked Qiao Jinniangs legs, but Qiao Jinniang exerted a greater force on her hands, and Samoer didnt dare to move again, for fear that her hair would be pulled out.
After quite a while, when Qiao Jinniang didnt pay attention, Samoer suddenly pushed her to the ground, pressing her whole body on top of Qiao Jinniang.
However, Qiao Jinniang lifted off Samoer veil with a hand and put her long nails dyed red on Samoer face.
Princess, you turn out to be so beautiful, but if you dont admit defeat, Ill swipe my nails across your face hard. If my nails scratch your face, your face will be ruined.
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Samoer hurriedly withdrew her hand holding her own hair to hold Qiao Jinniangs hand. Dont you dare!
Qiao Jinniang shook her nails menacingly and said, Why not?
Samoer gritted her teeth, not daring to imagine how many hideous scars would be left on her face if Qiao Jinniangs long nails shed across her cheeks.
Samoer quickly said, I admit defeat!
Only then did Qiao Jinniang hold back her hands, get up from the ground and cup her hands. Thank you for letting me win!
Qiao Jinniang returned to her seat next to Lu Chen and said to him, I told you I will not lose. Ive been good at fighting since I was a kid.
The most important thing in a fight between women is to pull hair and scratch face. Martial arts moves wont work. She even had her long hair scattered!
When Samoers face was revealed, everyone was shocked. No wonder she cherished her appearance so much, if they had such an appearance, they would cherish it too.
Fulu took a deep breath and said, I actually saw a girl even more beautiful than Xie Yun!
Samoer walked slowly to Emperor Huilin and said, I admit defeat. Since Xiliang has lost thepetitions, we are willing to present our national treasure.
Samoer walked slowly to the jade box, opened it with a key, and took out the contents inside.
Samoer stepped forward and presented the contents to Emperor Huilin, saying, This is a letter written by my father, and he hopes that I can marry the crown prince of Datang to establish a good rtionship and maintain peaceful exchanges between the two countries.
Qiao Jinniang:
So she tried so hard only to win her husband a concubine?
Junior Duke Rong eximed, Wow, Seventh Brother is so lucky!
Lu Chen said coldly, Do you want this luck?
Sure!
Junior Duke Rong looked at Samoer face, blushed.
There were all kinds of beautiful girls in Changan, but no one was as beautiful as Samoer. Her beauty was as brilliant as the sun and the moon and was simply unparalleled.
Queen Zhou said, Xiliangs national treasure is well-deserved. Princess, you have such a beautiful face. Its a pity for you to be my sons concubine. Its better for you to choose an excellent young man in the royal family to marry.
Samoer looked at Lu Chen, but thetter was only looking at Qiao Jinniang.
She was not so silly as to insist on marrying a man who already had a woman he loves.
Her father asked her to marry into the Tang Dynasty so that they would note to attack Xiliang.
She designed three questions to gain face for Xiliang. If Datang couldnt answer the three questions, it would boost Xiliangs reputation. And if Datang attacked Xiliang because of that, people wouldugh at Datang for being unable to afford to lose.
But in the end, she lost, so she had no choice but to marry a man from Datang, and it didnt matter who she would marry.
Emperor Huilin looked around at the men in the royal family. His gaze fell on Junior Duke Rong but soon moved away.
Junior Duke Rong hurriedly got up and said, Your Majesty, Ive fallen in love with Princess Xiliang at first sight. Im willing to marry Princess Xiliang as my wife.
Emperor Huilin stroked his beard and said, Princess Xiliang hase from afar. I cant let her be wronged, you
Junior Duke Rong was very disappointed. He blinked his eyes pitifully. Imperial Uncle, did you forget all those gifts I gave you?
Whenever he got anything delicious or fun, he never forgot to prepare a portion for his imperial uncle.
Perhaps Emperor Huilin finally remembered his nephews filial piety to him, and said, Junior Duke Rong is proficient in both civil and martial arts, and he is a very excellent young man of the royal family. He is a good match for Princess Xiliang.
Samoer nced up and down at Junior Duke Rong. She couldnt believe the emperor of Datang would tell such a bare-faced lie!
Junior Duke Rong hurriedly stepped forward and kowtowed. Thank you, Imperial Uncle!
Princess Xiliang said, Thank you, Your Majesty.
Then she snorted at Junior Duke Rong, picked up her veil, and returned to her seat.
The envoys of Beimo all frowned. They had thought that Xiliang wanted to provoke Datang.
They didnt expect that Xiliang would be so spineless as to surrender their princess to Datang. Now they had to n ahead.
After the banquet, Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen to walk back to the East Pce. She looked at Lu Chen and asked, Your luck has been given to Junior Duke Rong. Do you regret it?
Qiao Jinniang used to be confident about her appearance, but after seeing Samoer, she had to admit that she was not as beautiful as Samoer.
Lu Chen said, Isnt my luck right next to me?
Smart answer. Qiao Jinniang chuckled. I had thought Xiliang wanted to provoke us, but it turns out they want to surrender their princess.
Lu Chen said, The current emperor of Xiliang is ipetent. He became the emperor just because thest emperor was killed on the battlefield.
Xiliang is being controlled by powerful ministers. And in order to keep his throne, Xiliangs emperor had to sell his daughter to get peace. As for those three questions, I am afraid it was Samoers idea.
Qiao Jinniang said, Fortunately, Datang is strong enough and our princesses dont have to marry into other countries and can live a care-free life.
Thats not true.
When Qiao Jinniang heard Jinghuas voiceing from her side, she greeted. Sister Jinghua.
Princess Jinghua sneered. Everyone says that Datangs princesses live an extravagant and dissipated life, but they dont know what we have sacrificed.
Then Princess Jinghua left.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen and asked, I heard that Sister Jinghua and the second master of the Xie Familys marriage was canceled because she fell off the horse. Is it true?
Lu Chen said, Sister Jinghua married the military governor of Longxi a few years ago.
But prince consorts are not allowed to be officials. Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, The military governor of Longxi holds the military power. How could he marry a princess?
Chapter 187 - Miss Tong Is Unparalleled In Wisdom
Chapter 187: Miss Tong Is Unparalleled In Wisdom
Lu Chen said, The ancestors of the Lu family originally came from Longxi. After the founding of the country, Longxi was inherited by another line of the Lu family, and their family master was canonized as King Longxi.
When I was missing, there were floods all over the South. The Eldest Prince and the Fifth Prince were both demoted, and everyone in the court was in panic, so rebellious thoughts developed in King Longxi.
My father needed to contain King Longxi, and didnt want to kill his own nsmen, so he married off Sister Jinghua to the military governor of Longxi.
A yearter, when my father killed King Longxi, Sister Jinghua divorced the military governor of Longxi and returned to Changan.
King Longxi didnt rebel with much fanfare, so you dont know about it. I only learned about it after I returned to the imperial pce.
Qiao Jinniang said, Is the military governor of Longxi still alive? Why did Sister Jinghua divorce him?
Lu Chen said, King Longxi is gone, and the military governor of Longxi, as a prince consort, couldnt hold military power. Sister Jinghua divorced him for his own good.
Qiao Jinniang said, Everyone envies the princess for keeping so many gigolos, but now I know thats just because princesses have no choice.
Fortunately, she was not a princess. The princesses seemed to be living a luxurious and carefree life, but they were actually living in a big cage.
Unless there was a man who was willing to give up everything like Fulus father, but there were very few men in the world who could do this.
Qiao Jinniang was worried. Our daughter will not be like this in the future, right? If my daughter cant marry the man she loves, I would rather not have a daughter.
Lu Chen smiled and said, How could I let our daughter suffer, but we dont have a daughter yet. When will you give me one?
...
After the people of the Qiao family left the imperial pce.
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Qiao Ruofeng had been absent-minded, and Ruowan asked, Sister, whats the matter with you?
Qiao Ruofeng ran to Duke Anyuan and said, Uncle, I want to join the womens army of the Duke Anyuan Mansion. Today, Princess Xiliang challenged us, but I could do nothing but watch. If it werent for Second Sister who narrowly beat her, the reputation of the Qiao familys women would have been ruined.
I heard that there are also womens troops in the Qiao family army. I am willing to go to the Southwest and join the womens army, starting as a soldier.
Second Madam shouted loudly, You are crazy! Ruofeng, even if you lose your reputation, you dont have to abandon yourself to go to the military!
Qiao Ruowan also came up, saluting and saying, Uncle, I am willing to apany my sister. Our parents have no son, so our sisters are supposed to support our family. My sister and I are willing to go to the Southwest to join the womens army.
Second Madam almost fainted. You, you, are you trying to kill me?!
Old Madam Qiao nodded appreciatively. Good, this is what the daughters of the Qiao family should do. It just so happens that your brother-inw and Xu Mingwei are going back to the Southwest, so let them escort you to the Southwest to join the womens army!
Second Madam said to Old Madam Qiao, Mother, how can you let them?
Old Madam Qiao said, We Qiao family people are famous for being loyal and valiant to defend the country, and they are the Qiao familys worthy daughters. Im so proud of you two.
Second Madam was crying bitterly, and Zheng Xiaoforted her. Its a good thing that Ruofeng and Ruowan have ambitions.
...
Early the next morning, all the guests from the Southwest were about to leave Changan.
Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruowan left a letter while Second Madam was still sleeping, and went to the Southwest with them.
When the teahouse opened early in the morning, it was full of guests, and many literati were publicizing Tong Yingyings meritorious deeds.
Yesterday, the princess of the small barbarian kingdom Xiliang challenged our Datang with three tricky questions, intending to humiliate our country. Thanks to Miss Tong, the reputation of Datang was defended. She is worthy of the title of the most talented girl in Changan!
Oh? What are the questions?
A literati said, The first question is which box the national treasure of Xiliang was in, even the new Flower Picking Childe is stumped by this question. Fortunately, Tong Yingying secretly delivered him a note and helped him out.
Listening to the vivid descriptions of the literati, the people in the teahouse who didnt know what exactly happened all believed him. Miss Tong is so smart.
She is really our countrys heroine. Without her, the new Flower Picking Childe would have lost all his face.
A literati continued. But there is an ingrate. After Miss Tong helped Young Master Qiao out, Princess Xiliang raised another question. She took out two ducks, and asked us to make a delicious dish without the skin, flesh, bones and internal organs with the ducks.
In order to buy some time, the Crown Princess said that she would serve the dish in the evening. Miss Tong kindly offered advice for the Crown Princess, which was to use the egg in the duck belly to make the dish.
But the Crown Princess berated Miss Tong for not abiding by the etiquette and speaking before being allowed by her, and even had her maids p Miss Tong hard.
She also had Miss Tong thrown out of the imperial pce. I wonder if the Crown Princess ruined our countrys dignity at the pce banquet because of her own jealousy?
The audience didnt dare to curse the Crown Princess, but they all felt indignant for Tong Yingying.
Tong Yingying is really pitiful. Datang wont forget what she has done for our country!
Tong Yingying is so smart and sessfully defended Datangs dignity, but her father, Imperial Censor Tong was dismissed because he wrongly trusted Wu Wen. Miss Tong is really pitiful!
A schr who loved to follow Tong Yingying to fish for fame said, Miss Tong has done such a meritorious deed for the country and the people ,but that woman in the East Pce was jealous of Miss Tong and even persecuted her!
The audience all echoed him.
Today, Tong Yingying deliberately went out to the teahouse for a walk. The small vendors she met along the way all refused to take her money, and somemoners even gave Tong Yingying the good things they had.
They admired and worshiped Tong Yingying as if she was a brave female general who had returned from the battlefield.
Tong Yingying hurriedly said, I am a member of Datang, so Im obliged to defend Datangs dignity. Please stop praising me. Im so ttered.
But the people said, Miss Tong is really noble in character and indifferent to fame.
Its a great blessing for Changan to have a person like Miss Tong.
Miss Tong is truly unparalleled in wisdom. She is the most intelligent person in Changan!
Tong Yingying looked modest and casual, but she wasughing happily inside. Look how much she was loved by the people
If the Crown Prince wanted to gain the support of the literati and the people, he had to marry her. She would definitely be a great help to him!
In the Taiji Pce, Emperor Huilin was arranging for the Ministry of Rites to prepare for the wedding of Junior Duke Rong and Princess Xiliang.
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Father, its a good thing that Princess Xiliang is going to marry Junior Duke Rong.
However, since we beat her in the three questions she posed yesterday, we should publicize among the people how intelligent the Crown Princess is, to boost up morale.
Emperor Huilin didnt expose Lu Chens real purpose, which was that he just wanted to please and show off his beloved wife.
He simply said, What you said makes sense. It should be publicized indeed!
Lu Chen briefly introduced the questions Princess Xiliang raised yesterday, and how Qiao Lu and Qiao Jinniang solved them one by one.
When he was introducing the fight between Qiao Jinniang and Princess Xiliang, he embellished a little and described Qiao Jinniangs shrew-life fighting style as a unique martial art of the Qiao family.
Then he said to the ministers, I hope you can spread the great news out to boost the peoples pride in our country.
Among the ministers, an official came out and said shivering, Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, before the levee, I heard in the steamed bun shop on the main street that everyone was saying that yesterday it was...
Chapter 188 - Tasty Pavilion Was Smashed
Chapter 188: Tasty Pavilion Was Smashed
The ministers werent invited to yesterdays feast, so the officials didnt know what exactly happened yesterday, but what he heard on the way waspletely different from what the Crown Prince just said.
Emperor Huilin said: Dont equivocate. Just say it!
The official hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Majesty, everyone is saying that the one who solved the three questions raised by Princess Xiliang yesterday was Miss Tong, the daughter of Imperial Censor Tong, saying that she helped the Flower Picking Childe out and came up with the idea of ??using duck eggs to make the dish
As for the part that the Crown Princess rudely drove Tong Yingying out, the official didnt dare to mention it.
Although he just ryed the hearsay, he still didnt dare to mention it.
Duke Anyuan frowned. There were not only the guests of our country, but also the envoys from foreign countries present yesterday. This rumor is ridiculous!
The official said, This rumor seems to be spread by the literati in the teahouses in Changan, Your Majesty.
...
In the past, there was no such a custom for the Crown Princess to return to her natal home three days after the wedding.
However, this custom was popr among the folks. Lu Chen had already mentioned this matter with the Ministry of Rites. After obtaining the permission of Emperor Huilin, the Ministry of Rites had prepared early for this matter.
Qiao Jinniang got up early in the morning, put on the formal suit of the crown princess, and then waited for Lu Chen to return to the Qiao family together with her.
The carriage of the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess were very luxurious, and the four horses rode side by side on the main street. It was right in spring, and little Lu Xi stuck his head out of the small window of the carriage, enjoying the scenery outside.
In order to celebrate Miss Tong beating the Xiliang Kingdom, buy one steamed bun and get one free today!
In order to celebrate Xiliangs defeat, anyone buying meat and praising Miss Tong will get free bones today!
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Miss Tong is iparably clever. Buy a female duck with duck eggs in its belly and get a free drake today. Oh, no, the female ducks with eggs in their belly have been sold out!
Listening to the vendors hawking outside, Qiao Jinniang frowned slightly. Why does this have to do with Tong Yingying?
Lu Chen told Qiao Jinniang what the official said in the levee, and Qiao Jinniang was speechless. Thats really ridiculous!
When their carriage passed Tasty Pavilion, Qiao Jinniang saw a group of people surrounding the gate of Tasty Pavilion, indignantly throwing rotten vegetables and rotten eggs at Tasty Pavilion.
Someone was even pouring ck dogs blood towards Tasty Pavilion and the stench was overwhelming.
Seeing this scene, the officials in the front of the procession had a headache.
Qiao Jinniang was very angry. Ignoring the obstruction of the officials on the side, she got out of the carriage.
The officials of the Ministry of Rites all knelt down in front of Qiao Jinniang and said. Your Highness, you may get hurt by the mob. Please go back to the carriage. Let the soldiers deal with this trivial matter!
Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniangs side and said, Get out of the way.
The officials dared not to disobey Lu Chens orders, but they didnt dare to disperse, so they stood guard around Qiao Jinniang.
Seeing the officers and soldiersing, many people who were throwing rotten vegetables fled, but were stopped by the soldiers.
Qiao Jinniang stood on the steps of Tasty Pavilion, and there was a mess underneath. At this time, someone smashed a rotten egg at her.
Lu Chen hurriedly stopped in front of Qiao Jinniang and a secret guard blocked the rotten eggs. Another secret guard came into the crowd and brought the schr who threw the rotten egg to Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang looked down at the schr and felt that he looked a little familiar. She seemed to have seen him following close behind Tong Yingying in the book market that day.
An official of the Ministry of Rites snapped. How dare you throw a rotten egg at Her Highness? You and your entire family will be executed!
The schr said unyieldingly, His Majestys name of benevolence and kindness spreads all over the world, and I threw a rotten egg at the Crown Princess because she disrespected Miss Tong who defended our countrys dignity. Miss Tong passed a note to help her brother out of embarrassment and came up with the idea of making the dish with the egg in the ducks belly.
But what about the Crown Princess? She did nothing but find fault with Miss Tong and humiliate her! Even if you kill all my family, I am not afraid! The people of Datang will remember me forever!
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Remember you? Why? There were so many people at the banquet yesterday, including dozens of foreign envoys. How could Tong Yingying pass a note under so many eyes?
Yes, I sat at the same table with Tong Yingying yesterday at the banquet. She did say an answer to the first question, but her answer was wrong. She insisted that the national treasure was in the wooden box. When did she pass a note to Senior Brother?
Zhou Shihui happened to pass by and she came out to rify, My senior brother is so smart. He doesnt need Tong Yingying to pass him a note to tell him what to do, okay? Who spread such a ridiculous rumor?
Qiao Jinniang continued, And the matter with the duck egg is sheer nonsense. Everyone who was at the banquet yesterday knows that it was Princess Xiliang that used this method, and this solution was wrong.
Its hard to decide whether duck eggs are internal organs or not, let alone eggs that had bones and flesh in them.
Tong Yingying was disrespectful to me and I couldnt even punish her? Who spread this rumor?!
The people looked at each other awkwardly, and the officials of the Ministry of Rites vividly told the people what happened at the banquet yesterday.
Her Highness was smart and skilled in cooking. The duck blood she made amazed the guests at home and abroad. And Her Highness was proficient in martial arts and defeated Princess Xiliang to her knees. She then had her beg for mercy and admit defeat. All this happened in full view of so many people, and even the foreign envoys of Beimo were present. How can you believe such a groundless rumor?
The people all knelt down and kowtowed to admit their mistakes. Your Highness, sorry, we shouldnt have believed the rumors.
Its these schrs. They said in the teahouse that it was Miss Tong who defeated Princess Xiliang!
Yeah, they instigated us toe and avenge Miss Tong!
The schr who was pinned to the ground was stunned. We heard it from Tong Yingying. She said that to us this morning!
From a distance came the voices of several schrs.
Miss Tong, its over there. Although we cant go to the East Pce to beat up the Crown Princess to avenge you, we can smash her Tasty Pavilion.
We have encouraged a lot of people to throw rotten eggs at Tasty Pavilion. After all, thew cant punish the public. And His Majesty is benevolent to his people, and even the Crown Princess cant do anything to us!
Tong Yingying smiled and said in a low voice, Thank you for upholding justice for me, but Im really worried that you may get implicated by me and be retaliated against by the Crown Princess.
The schrs all eximed, Miss Tong, youre really kind-hearted!
Ms. Tong has just rendered a great contribution to our country. His Majesty will definitely punish the Crown Princess. How will he allow the Crown Princess to persecute us?
Thats right! Now everyone is outraged at the injustice youve received. The Crown Princess has aroused public indignation. Im afraid that Qiao Jinniang will lose her position as crown princess soon!
Listening to thepliments from the schrs, Tong Yingying tried her best to conceal her smile. Oh, I feel uneasy to get you involved in this matter. And its not a big deal toe up with the answers to those questions!
Chapter 189 - Tong Yingying Was Despised by Everyone
Chapter 189: Tong Yingying Was Despised by Everyone
Tong Yingying and the schrs approached and realized that something was wrong. Why was this Tasty Pavilion surrounded byyers of soldiers?
Emperor Huilin had always been benevolent and cared about the feelings of the people. For her transgression, he would most likely only punish Qiao Jinniang. Why did the soldiers surround those people?
When Tong Yingying was still wondering why, arge bunch of rotten vegetable leaves and rotten eggs were thrown at her.
Passed a note? Duck eggs? You shameless b*tch. How dare you steal the credit of Flower Picking Childe and the Crown Princess? How dare you make use of us?!
You shameless illegitimate daughter of the Tong family! Bah!
Before Tong Yingying could react to what was happening, she was smashed in the face by the rotten vegetables and eggs.
The soldiers who were stopping the people retreated aside, and Tong Yingying was surrounded by a mob of people.
Hearing everyone cursing Tong Yingying as an illegitimate daughter, Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Why are they calling her an illegitimate daughter? Wasnt she born by a concubine of Imperial Censor Tong?
An official of the Ministry of Rites saluted and replied, When her mother gave birth to her, she was not Tong Leis concubine yet. When she was young, she was a very famous prostitute in Chunfeng Street, who was crazily chased by many schrs, including Tong Lei.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. If a child was born before their mother was married or taken as a concubine, they were an illegitimate child, and their status would be very low.
She asked again curiously, Then why could Tong Lei still be an imperial censor given the fact that he has an illegitimate daughter?
The official exined, Tong Lei had taken Tong Yingyings mother as his concubine before he became an imperial censor, and his brother-inw was Duke Wu, so no one dares to mention the illegitimate daughter thing again, but in everyones heart, Tong Yingying is still an illegitimate daughter, and forever an illegitimate daughter!
Tong Yingying didnt grow up in the Tong family but by her mothers side, who was very famous in Changan, so not many people called her an illegitimate daughter.
After entering the Tong Mansion, she was the daughter of Imperial Censor Tong, and was very famous for her talent, so no one dared to call her that again.
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But she didnt expect that the mob would call her an illegitimate daughter again today, and many people even spat at her.
Tong Yingying was extremely annoyed, and seeing that the tide had turned against them, the schrs surrounding her all scurried off like frightened rats.
In just two hours, Tong Yingying went from being praised by everyone to being despised and spat at by everyone, looking extremely pitiful.
Seeing her shaking all over and looking so pitiful, the people stopped.
Tong Yingying clenched her hand tightly. She must return the humiliation she suffered today to them one day!
Qiao Jinniang gave Nuomi and the others a look. She never believed in such a thing as returning evil with good. Rather, she preferred the phrase an eye for an eye. Tong Yingying deserved no sympathy.
Receiving Qiao Jinniangs signal, Nuomi walked up to Tong Yingying and said, You instigated the people to smash Tasty Pavilion, so you have topensate us.
Our restaurant has been smashed into such a state that we cant operate for at least three days. Our restaurant earns 1,000 taels of silver per day, so you should at leastpensate 5,000 taels. Come, hand over the money or we will send you to jail!
For the sake of his reputation, Imperial Censor Tong didnt indulge in corruption at all. He didnt even take the ice cube subsidy in summer and the charcoal subsidy in winter provided by the imperial court to fish for fame.
The Tong family actually lived on Mrs. Tongs dowry.
Tong Yingying has always had a bad rtionship with Mrs. Tong. Although thetter seemed to be partial towards her, she just wanted to marry her into a wealthy family and earn a fat betrothal gift. Now she had to pay more than 5,000 taels of silver. Even if she sold herself, she couldnt get so much money!
An official of the Minister of Rites said, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, its gettingte. The Duke and the Duchess have been waiting for a long time
Only then did Qiao Jinniang get on the carriage agan, and Little Lu Xi threw himself into Qiao Jinniangs arms and said, Mommy, whats going on outside?
Qiao Jinniang said, Nothing, Xier, remember, dont be self-righteous.
Tong Yingying just got what she deserved.
Tong Yingying couldnt be considered vicious, but she overestimated herself, which made her act stupidly. Maybe because of thepliments of the schrs around her, she thought she was superior to other women.
When they arrived at the Duke Mansion, everyone was greeting them at the door. When Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen came out of the carriage, everyone saluted and kowtowed to them. Qiao Jinniang hurriedly asked them to arise.
But Qiao Jinniang didnt see Zheng Xiao. Where are Mother and Ruoyi?
Duke Anyuan said awkwardly, They went back to the Qiao Mansion.
Old Madam Qiao red at her son. This useless man still couldnt make Zheng Xiao forgive him, although thetter lived in the Duke Mansion for more than two months for Jinniangs wedding! She simply said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, pleasee in.
Old Madam Qiao was really afraid that Qiao Jinniang would turn around and go to the Qiao Mansion. If so, the Duke Anyuan Mansion would be a big joke.
Qiao Jinniang, for the sake of her old grandmother, still stayed in the Duke Mansion. Seeing that even Ruofeng and Ruowan were gone, she asked, Where are Ruofeng and Ruowan?
Old Madam Qiao replied, They went to the Southwest to join the womens army. Princess Xiliangs provocation sounded the rm for our family. Even if Ruofeng stayed in Changan, she couldnt go out, so she might as well go to the Southwest, which is an entirely new world for her..
Qiao Jinniang also had a yearning for the Southwest. It would be great if one day she could go to the Southwest to enjoy the scenery there.
She didnt stay in the Duke Mansion for a long time before she left the Duke Mansion, and secretly went to the Qiao Mansion with Lu Chen and Xier.
The Qiao Mansion was very lively. Zheng Xiao and Princess Shouan lived opposite each other and were close in age, so they soon became friends.
When they were young, their temperaments were very different, but now they chatted about clothes and jewelry and yed cards together.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chening over, Zheng Xiao hurriedly saluted. Greetings, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness.
Mother, please get up. Qiao Jinniang took Zheng Xiaos hand. Are you ying cards?
Zheng Xiao said, Yes, the princess let me win a lot of money.
Princess Shouan said, You keep winning not because I let you win but because you have the Midas touch!
The other two nobledies also praised Zheng Xiao. One of them said, Mrs. Zheng, were really envious of you. Both your daughter and your son are so outstanding.
I came today as a matchmaker. A girl fell for your son, and it just so happens that the Crown Princess is also here today.
Princess Shouan asked, Oh? Which girl is it? Young Master Qiao is top-notch in appearance, bearing and family background. If the girl is not good enough, dont mention it.
Thedy smiled and said, I dont dare toe if the girl is not good enough. She is very excellent, and I bet youll be satisfied with her!
Zheng Xiao asked, Which girl is it?
Thedy said, Its the niece of Duke Wu who returned to Changan several days ago.
She and Young Master Qiao were ssmates in the academy, and she was back only two days ago. I heard that she was literally the apple of Old Madam Zhous eye!
When Lu Chen heard it, he left and went to look for Qiao Lu in the study in the front yard.
Hearing it was Zhou Shihui, Zheng Xiao hesitated. The Duke Wu Mansion was the Queens natal family after all.
Although Zhou Shihui grew up among the folks, the Zhou family doted on her very much and treated her no worse than the biological daughter of Duke Wu.
Qiao Jinniang asked thedy, Why did they ask you to be the matchmaker?
Thedy smiled and said, Old Madam Zhou asked me to mention this matter to you first so as not to make things difficult for the Qiao family, and Miss Zhou likes Young Master Qiao very much. She even said that she doesnt want anything. She just wants to marry Young Master Qiao.
Chapter 190 - Qiao Lu’s Marriage
Chapter 190: Qiao Lus Marriage
Listening to what thedy said, Qiao Jinniang said, Madam, to tell the truth, my parents had promised my brother before the Imperial Examination that if he passed the Imperial Examination, he could choose his wife himself. So, Madam, wait a moment, let me ask my brother.
Qiao Jinniang left.
Thedy said confidently, Young Master Qiao had been in the academy before, and was surrounded by men.
Miss Zhou was the only woman he could see! He must have had a thing for the only girl in the school. Im going to tell the Zhou family the great news.
Thedy couldnt wait to tell the news to the Duke Wu Mansion to make them owe her a favor, so she left before Qiao Jinniang returned.
Zheng Xiao thought so too. There werent many women around his son. Now that he said that he already had a girl he liked, he must have met that girl in school.
So she didnt stop thatdy.
In the study in the front yard, Qiao Lu was looking at a painting.
Although he won the title of Flower Picking Childe, he was too young and was the heir of Duke Anyuan, so Emperor Huilin had not found a suitable position for him for now.
Being idle at home, Qiao Lu either went out to have fun with his friends or wandered on the street, hoping toe across Fulu.
But for some reason, Fulu seemed to dislike him, and every time she saw him, she gave hima cold shoulder.
But she had taken his hand and said that she was going to marry him. As a princess, how could she break her word?
Looking at the portrait he had drawn, he was dazed, and didnt even notice that Lu Chen and Lu Xi had walked to his side.
Little Lu Xi said, Its Aunt Fulu. Uncle, why did you draw Aunt Fulu?
When Qiao Lu saw Lu Chen, his face flushed all red and he hurriedly saluted.
Were family. You dont need to be so polite. Lu Chen chuckled and jested, Your painting skills are thousands of times better than your sisters.
Qiao Lu equivocated awkwardly, trying to exin.
Qiao Jinniang also came in. Seeing the paintings Qiao Lu drew, she asked curiously, Why did you draw Fulus portrait?
Qiao Lu blushed and said, Sister, the girl I said I wanted to marryst time is Princess Fulu.
Qiao Jinniang: Shes a year older than you!
Qiao Lu: Its only one year old. I dont mind it.
Then he sighed. Its a pity that she likes the champion of the Imperial Examination. I just won second ce, so I dare not go to Princess Shouans Mansion to propose a marriage to her, s!
Qiao Jinniang:
It was no wonder that Qiao Lu was not happy at all although he won second ce in the Imperial Examination. She had thought that he was a perfectionist and only wanted to win first ce.
Does Fulu know you like her? Qiao Jinniang asked, I think she doesnt, right?
Qiao Lu shook his head. She ignores me. Whenever I see her, she ignores me except for asking about my maid. But I dont have a maid.
Qiao Jinniang said, Your maid? She only knows the maid you pretended to best time.
Qiao Lu finally figured it out. No wonder. She must have thought that I hid the maid, so she ignored me. Im going to pretend to be that maid again to find her!
Qiao Jinniang: I dont mean that.
Before she could finish, however, Qiao Lu rushed out like a gust of wind.
This seventeen-year-old boy didnt forget toe back and salute Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen before he hurried off like a gust of wind.
Qiao Jinniang was quite helpless. Seeing Lu Chen still smiling, she said, Why are you still smiling? What should I do? The Duke Wu Mansion has proposed marriage to Luer for Zhou Shihui, but the girl in Qiao Lus heart is Fulu.
Lu Chen said, The people of the Zhou family are very considerate. Although my grandmother dotes on my cousin, she still sent thatdy to ask first. She definitely wont make things difficult for the Qiao family. You just need to tell her the truth.
Qiao Jinniang went to the backyard and looked for thatdy, only to hear that thedy had gone to the Duchess Wu, and she froze.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang didnt look right, Zheng Xiao asked, Could it be that the girl Luer likes is not Zhou Shihui? But besides Zhou Shihui, which woman does he know?
Seeing that there were no outsiders here, Qiao Jinniang also wanted to test out Princess Shouans opinion, so he said, My brother is really reckless and rude. He likes Princess Fulu but he hasnt dared to speak it out.
Princess Shouan was shocked and said, Poor child, blind at such a young age.
Qiao Jinniang:
Come on, isnt Fulu your own daughter?
She didnt know what to say for a while.
Blurting out, Princess Shouan was a bit embarrassed. She hurriedly coughed and directly held Zheng Xiaos hand, saying,
Okay, deal! Fulu will marry Qiao Lu. You can give me whatever betrothal presents youd like, and whatever dowry you want, just name it.
At that time, Princess Shouan persuaded Fulu not to marry Qiao Lu, because she was afraid that Qiao Lu would refuse her, so she scared Fulu into giving up the idea to marry Qiao Lu.
If Qiao Lu was willing to marry Fulu, that would be a blessing for Fulu.
She had thought that it would be difficult for her daughter to find a decent man to marry, but she didnt expect to get such a perfect son-inw, who was adept with both the pen and the sword and was the heir to a duke. If Fulu could marry him, she would live a care-free life.
Zheng Xiao: Princess, if my son can marry Princess Fulu, it will also be a blessing for him.
With a daughter-inw like Fulu, her life would definitely be very lively, but since Fulu was the woman that Luer liked, she didnt mind epting her. She didnt want to see her tragedy repeated on her son and daughter-inw.
It was more important than anything else that they loved each other.
Getting Princess Shouans promise, Qiao Jinniang hurried to the Duke Wu Mansion with Lu Chen, but still couldnt catch up with thatdy.
In the hall of the Duke Wu Mansion.
Thedy said, Young Master Qiao had told his parents that he would marry Miss Zhou after he passed the Imperial Examination.
Zhou Shihui smiled. She knew that her senior brother liked her.
Old Madam Zhou smiled and hugged Zhou Shihui in her arms. Thats great! Our Shihui is really lucky to have such a great husband.
Old Madam, Duchess, the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess are here.
Duchess Wu said, The Crown Princess went back to her natal home today. Why did shee here? Come, lets go greet them.
Old Madam Zhou also got up and went to the door of the Duke Wu Mansion, and the front door was opened.
Qiao Jinniang entered, and after sparing them from saluting her, she saluted Old Madam Zhou and said, Greetings, Grandmother.
Old Madam Zhou didnt dare let her salute and supported her. Good girl, arent you in your parents home? Why did youe here?
Qiao Jinniang nced at thedy before entering the hall and said, Our Qiao family is very grateful for Grandmothers favor for my brother, but my father and Prince Consort Qin have already decided on the marriage for Princess Fulu and my brother. My mother and Princess Shouan didnt know about this, so thatdy misunderstood.
Zhou Shihuis face turned pale and she shouted, How could it be possible? Impossible! How can Duke Anyuan Mansion act like this? Madam Zheng forced the Duke to marry her, and now she is forcing Senior Brother to marry a woman he doesnt like?
Qiao Jinniang took the tea handed over by a maid and said, Unfortunately, my brother likes Princess Fulu, so there is no such thing as forcing.
I dont believe it! Zhou Shihui said, How is it possible? I wont believe it unless I hear Senior Brother admit it with my own ears. Are you trying to stop him from marrying me because I defended Tong Yingying yesterday afternoon?!
Chapter 191 - Fulu Discovered Qiao Lu’s Identity
Chapter 191: Fulu Discovered Qiao Lus Identity
Old Madam Zhou immediately snapped, Shut up, and get on your knees! How dare you speak to the Crown Princess like that?
Zhou Shihui pouted and said, My mother is right. There are indeed rules everywhere in Changan. I feel suffocated to stay in Changan!
Old Madam Zhou frowned and said, Someone help her kneel down and admit her mistake!
Qiao Jinniang said to Old Madam Zhou, Grandma, dont be angry. Cousin grew up among the folks, so she doesnt know the rules just like me.
I heard that the Empress Dowagers Mammy Bai is very good at teaching etiquette. Although she was disrespectful to mest time, she must have already realized her mistake. How about I go to ask the Empress Dowager to let Mammy Bai teach her some court rules?
What Zhou Shihui hated most was learning the rules. Before she went to the imperial pce yesterday, she just learned some court rules in a hurry, and she still couldnt even salute properly.
Old Madam Zhou knew the grievances between the Empress Dowager and the Zhou family. If Mammy Bai really came to teach Zhou Shihui the rules, Zhou Shihui would only suffer.
But Qiao Jinniangs suggestion was something the Zhou family couldnt refuse.
Qiao Jinniang was not afraid of offending the Zhou family. From what she knew about Queen Zhou, she wouldnt be annoyed just because Qiao Jinniang offended her mother if Qiao Jinniang was in the right.
Qiao Jinniang was already the crown princess, but Zhou Shihui didnt respect her at all. If she didnt teach her a good lesson, wouldnt everyone be able to bully her in the future?
Thank you, Your Highness. Old Madam Zhou said.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Grandmother, you dont need to be so polite. Miss Zhou is my cousin. Even if she said something improper to me, I will tolerate her. Its gettingte. I have to go back to the East Pce.
Old Madam Zhou, Mrs. Zhou and the others all got up and sent Qiao Jinniang off.
After Qiao Jinniang left, Zhou Shihui began to pack her luggage.
I dont want to stay in Changan anymore. Im going to find my mother. Im going to find my senior brother.
How is it possible for Senior Brother to like Fulu, that notorious dandy girl in Changan?!
Mrs. Zhou tried to stop Zhou Shihui. Your mother is gone. How can you find her?
Just apologize to the Crown Princess. If Young Master Qiao really likes you, he will definitely marry you, because it is impossible for him and Princess Fulu to get married.
Although the Crown Princess said that they have engaged, the two in the imperial pce will definitely not agree to this!
Why? Zhou Shihui asked her aunt.
Mrs. Zhou said, The Qiao family is at its peak now, and even our Zhou family cant bepared to them. Back then, to avoid the royal family from suspecting the Queen, as her natal family, our family volunteered to give our military power to the Qiao family.
But now the Qiao familys daughter is the Crown Princess. Even if theyre known for loyalty for generations, their daughter has be the Crown Princess, so how can it be possible for their son to marry a princess?
Besides, Fulu is the only daughter of Princess Shouan. When thete emperor ascended the throne, there were princesses and county mistresses rebelling. His Majesty certainly doesnt want to see the Qiao family be too powerful after their son marries a princess!
There is also the Empress Dowager. The Crown Princess doesnt get along with the Empress Dowager, and Li Lingling hates Qiao Jinniangs guts. How could the Empress Dowager marry her only granddaughter to the Qiao family?
Hearing this, Zhou Shihui slowly put down the luggage in her hands.
...
It was a good spring day, and Fulu led a group of dandy boys and girls to the Qujiang Banquet held by Junior Duke Rong, which was held for Samoer.
Junior Duke Rong wanted to please the belle with this banquet.
Because of yesterdayspetition, everyone despised Princess Xiliang.
However, Junior Duke Rong had been protecting Samoer, so the dandies didnt dare to do anything to her, which made Samoer change her opinion of Junior Duke Rong a little bit.
Fulu was annoyed to see a man of their Lu family sucking up to Princess Xiliang. Hey, you are a junior duke of Datang. Cant you have some backbones?
Humph, if you meet a foreign prince whose appearance isparable to Samoer, Im afraid you will be more spineless than me.
Fulu said, Do you know how many of our ancestors died fighting against Xiliang? This Princess Xiliang just provoked our country yesterday. How can you still face the Crown Princess and the Qiao family?
Junior Duke Rong retorted, You are not a member of the Qiao family. Youre not in a position to lecture me.
Fulu said, I might be a member of the Qiao family in the future. Even if I am not, I am a princess of Datang. I just cant bear to see you pleasing Princess Xiliang spinelessly!
When Qiao Lu, disguised as a woman, came in with the token of the Duke Anyuan Mansion, he heard Fulus words.
Seeing Qiao Lu from a distance, Fulu came over and said, Is it you? I havent seen you for a long time. Every time I ask your master about your whereabouts, your master refuses to tell me.
Qiao Lu said in a female voice, Thank you, Princess. Please allow me to salute you.
Fulu grabbed Qiao Lus wrist and said, You dont need to salute me. I dont want to stay here anymore. Come, let me take you to have fun in Changan. I bet your master never took you there.
Qiao Lu blushed and nodded. Okay, thank you, Princess.
Fulu nced at Qiao Lus hand and said in surprise, Why is your hand so big? It also seems that you have grown a lot taller?
He was almost a head taller than her, and he was obviously not as tall thest time she saw him.
Spring was good for an outing on horses. Seeing that Qiao Lu could ride a horse, Fulu rode out of Changan with him and went into the wild.
Fulu said to Qiao Lu, There is a sea of ??flowers outside the city. The mountains and fields are covered with flower branches, and there is also a small clearke there. I never took ugly people to that ce lest the beautiful scenery is ruined.
Qiao Lu followed Fulu to a manor outside the city. Looking over, there were indeed all kinds of wild flowers and red attractive wild fruits all over the mountains and fields.
Fulu ran to a small clearke by the sea of ??flowers, took off her shoes and socks, sat by the smallke, and put her snow-white feet into the coolke water.
On her ankle, there was an amulet hanging on a gold chain.
Qiao Lus face turned even redder when he saw it. Women in Changan never exposed their feet. He had been to the Southwest where women might expose their legs and arms, but the only thing that could not be exposed to men was their feet.
This was the first time Qiao Lu had seen a womans feet.
Seeing the girl in front of her stunned, Fulu urged, What are you waiting for? Come beside me and soak your feet in. The water is very cool!
Qiao Lu walked to Fulu and sat down beside her, took off his shoes and socks, and put his feet into theke.
Fuluughed and said, How can a beautiful girl like you have such a big pair of feet? Dont move. Let mepare
Seeing Fulu put her jade-like feet close to his own, Qiao Lu lunged to his feet and cupped his hands, saying, Princess, Im sorry. I deceived you. I shouldnt have looked at your feet. If you mind, I can poke my own eyes.
Fulu was surprised to find that the girl in front of her was speaking in a mans voice that she was familiar with. Wasnt it Qiao Lus voice?
She sshed someke water on Qiao Lus face. The water washed Qiao Lus face clean and his true face was revealed.
The man in front of her had a red mole on his forehead. Wasnt this Qiao Lu, the young master of the Duke Anyuan Mansion?
Chapter 192 - Duke Anyuan Wants Qiao Lu to Marry Zhou Shihui
Chapter 192: Duke Anyuan Wants Qiao Lu to Marry Zhou Shihui
Fulu frowned. No matter how much she acted against the rules usually, she was still a woman.
Although she had said countless times that she was going to raise gigolos, she had never dared put it into action.
At this moment, her bare feet were seen by a man! She was so ashamed that she almost cried.
Fulu pointed at Qiao Lu and said, How could you deceive me like this? You, you b*stard! You pervert
Qiao Lu hurriedly pped himself and said, Its my fault. Princess, dont cry. If you really mind it, I can gouge out my own eyeballs.
How could Fulu dare to let him do that? Why did you deceive me?
Qiao Lu said, I was forced to be dressed as a woman the first time I met you. I didnt mean to deceive you. After that day, I cant stop thinking about you
Pervert! Fulu put on her socks and shoes and stomped her feet.
Qiao Lu walked up to Fulu anxiously and nervously. Im not. I really like you. I would like to marry you. I wonder if you would be willing to marry me.
Fulu said, But Ill be a widow if I marry you.
Qiao Lu said, Its peacetime now. And even if you be a widow, you can marry another man If I go to the battlefield, I will definitely transfer all the properties under my name to you, so you dont have to worry you will not be a pitiful little widow.
Fulu thought about it for a while. It seemed that marrying Qiao Lu was not bad. Besides, he had seen her feet. What else could she do?
She certainly couldnt dig out his eyes, so she was left with no choice but to marry him.
And he was the first man who didnt mind her bad reputation and said he liked her.
Seeing her nodding slowly, Qiao Lu felt his heart almost jump out of his throat. He held her hand. The scenery here is so beautiful. I learned to weave flower crowns in the Southwest when I was a child. May I make one for you?
Fulu nodded and said, Okay.
Qiao Lu picked flowers and, with trembling hands, weaved a flower crown for Fulu to put on.
Fulu looked at Qiao Lu with a bright smile and asked, Does this look good on me?
Yes, very beautiful. Its the most beautiful view Ive ever seen in my life.
Fulu said to Qiao Lu, How can you be so honey-lipped at such a young age?
Dont say Im young. Ill be seventeen in a few days. Qiao Lu hurriedly said, My elder sister had already been born when my father was at this age.
Fulu said, But you are young.
Qiao Lu took Fulus hand, took her into his arms, andpared her height to his own, saying, I am not young.
For the first time, Fulu looked shy. She was the most famous dandy girl in Changan, but why was her heart beating so fast when she was in his arms?
It must be because she was tired from her ride.
...
The two didnt ride back on the same horse to the entrance of Princess Shouan Mansion until it was almost dusk.
At the door, Fulu turned to look back at Qiao Lu with almost every step she took. She didnte back to herself until she walked into the door and saw her mother beamed with smiles.
But Fulu still couldnt hold back her smile.
Princess Shouan said to Fulu, Ive got you a good husband!
Smile disappeared from Fulus face and she frowned. Mother, why did you find me a husband without discussing it with me? Ive already had a man I like!
Prince Consort Qin frowned and said, Which man?
Fulu said, The man I like is the most talented man with the best family background, and he even holds themanding power of 100,000 soldiers
Princess Shouan said, Silly girl, your imperial cousin has already got the Crown Princess. Why do you still miss him? Besides, whats so good about living in the imperial pce?!
Fulu said, No, its not my imperial cousin. The man I like is the new Flower Picking Childe!
Princess Shouan chuckled and said, What a coincidence! The man Im talking about is just him. I had been afraid that you wouldnt like him! Time flies, my little gourd is going to get married.
Mother, you are calling me little gourd again! Princess Fulu hated this nickname the most.
Shouan said a bit sadly, After you are married, there will only be your father and I left at home. Let me call you little gourd when I still can.
Fulu leaned on Princess Shouans arms and said, I will oftene back to see you even if I am married.
...
In the Qiao Mansion next door.
Duke Qiao climbed over the wall and entered Zheng Xiaos room at mid-night again. Did you find Luer a fiancee?
Zheng Xiao said, Yeah, Luer likes Princess Fulu. I cant let my tragedy repeat itself on him, and I wont force him to marry someone he doesnt love.
Duke Qiao frowned helplessly and said, Are you still unwilling to forgive me? I told you that there was a misunderstanding between us.
Can you make up for all the wrong things youve done? Zheng Xiao said, Can my little daughtere to life? I had been separated from Jinniang for so many years. Can you make amends?
Duke Qiao sighed helplessly. Xiaoer, they are my daughters too. Im sad too.
I know I deserve it, but I have as much pain in my heart as you!
Zheng Xiao wept silently. Pain? I didnt think you were in pain when you were ying lovey-dovey with your cousin!
Lord Qiao was silent for a long time before he said, Xiaoer, Im afraid Luer cant marry Princess Fulu!
Zheng Xiao frowned. Why? Do you care about Fulus reputation in Changan? Although she is a bit unruly, she is a good girl, and as the only daughter of Princess Shouan, she is not a bad choice for Luer!
Lord Qiao said slowly, His Majesty is wise and benevolent, but how many emperors can tolerate a minister who is too powerful? Did you forget the fate of thete emperors aunts who rebelled against thete emperor?
And the princess of King Longxi married the military governor of Longnana, obtained the military power of Longnan, and instigated the military governor of Longnan to rebel.
His Majesty treats the princesses so kindly, not because of the scarcity of princesses, but because most of the princesses couldnt marry a decent man, and the royal family would rather them raise gigolos
Think about it, we and the Qin family are inws, and although Prince Consort Qin has severed the rtionship with the Qin family, he was from the Qin family anyway. Jinniang is the Crown Princess now and gave birth to the Crown Princes heir. If Luer marries Princess Shouans only daughter, can His Majesty still be at ease with our Qiao family?
No matter how benevolent the emperor is, I am afraid that he will not tolerate us.
Zheng Xiao said, But
Duke Anyuan said, Zhou Shihui came to me today. She is really a worthy student of Qingming Academy, and she hit the nail on the head with the crisis that our family is in.
She is more suitable for Luer. Firstly, Zhou Shihuis family background is not bad. The Zhou family is the Queens natal family, and we are the Crown Princess natal family. The two families will definitely not collude.
And thanks to the Queen, His Majesty likes the Zhou family very much. The Zhou family is a better choice for us than Princess Shouan Mansion.
Secondly, Zhou Shihui is only Duke Wus niece after all. If Luer marries her, it will be less likely for His Majesty to suspect our family.
So I think Luer should marry Zhou Shihui.
Zheng Xiao said angrily, So it doesnt matter which girl Luer loves?
Hes still so young. How can he know what love is? Duke Anyuan said, I didnt know who I really loved when I was at his age.
Chapter 193 - Qiao Jinniang Made the Empress Dowager Change Her Decision
Chapter 193: Qiao Jinniang Made the Empress Dowager Change Her Decision
Zheng Xiao frowned and said, But I have already made a marriage contract with Princess Shouan. How can I break my word? Besides, Luer wants to marry Fulu.
Duke Qiao said, Why cant you figure this out? You and Princess Shouan only made a verbal engagement. Besides, Princess Shouan doesnt have the final say on whom Princess Fulu will marry because the Empress Dowager will definitely interfere.
...
In the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang tossed and turned at night and couldnt sleep, feeling that something was going to happen.
Thest time she had this feeling, she received a letter of divorce from Lu Chen the next day.
In the imperial pce, women were forbidden to sleep with their husbands when they were on their period.
Qiao Jinniang slept restlessly all night in this strange pce, had some bizarre dreams, and after waking up, she forgot them all.
Early the next morning, Yuyan hurried in and reported, Your Highness, not good, the Empress Dowager issued a decree early this morning, ordering Princess Fulu to marry the second young master of the Xie family!
Qiao Jinniangs drowsiness was instantly gone. How can this be? Isnt Fulu the Empress Dowagers favorite granddaughter? How could she be willing to use Fulu to win over the Xie family?
Come, help me wash up and dress up.
Now that the decree had been issued, Fulu would soon enter the imperial pce to thank the Empress Dowager.
After being dressed up, Qiao Jinniang went to the Empress Dowagers pce.
Halfway through the way, Yuyan hurried over again and handed a letter to Qiao Jinniang. Your Highness, this is a letter from Madam. She asked you to read it as quickly as possible.
Qiao Jinniang opened the envelope and quickly read the letter. She really underestimated Zhou Shihui. She could even persuade Duke Anyuan into agreeing to her marrying Qiao Lu!
...
In the Empress Dowagers pce.
A mammy massaged the Empress Dowager on her temples and said gently, Your Grace, why do you have to do this? Princess Fulu has always been filial to you. She is your only granddaughter, and you have always doted on her the most!
Li Lingling red at the mammy and said, If Fulu is truly filial, she should try her best to relieve her grandmothers worries, instead of going against her grandmother and insisting on marrying Qiao Lu.
Fortunately, I learned the news quickly, so I came early in the morning. Otherwise, Qiao Lu and Fulu might have been engaged!
The Empress Dowager said, s I willpensate Fulu greatly for this, but if she doesnt marry the second young master of the Xie family, how can the Xie family be used by me? Besides, the Qiao family is on the Crown Princes side, how can I allow Fulu to marry the Qiao familys son!
A eunuch recited loudly outside. Princess Shouan and Princess Fulu County arrived.
When Fulu and her mother entered, Qiao Jinniang came too.
After Fulu saluted, she walked up to the Empress Dowager, held the Empress Dowagers arm and said, Grandma, please recall your order! You always treat me the best, dont you?
The Empress Dowager said, Yes, so I have chosen a good husband for you. The Xie family is the head of the old distinguished families in our country and is extremely powerful in the South. If you marry into the Xie family, its the best choice for you!
Grandma, Im already engaged! Fulu said imploringly, I will only marry the man I love.
The Empress Dowager nced at Qiao Jinniang and said, Young Master Qiao is the younger brother of the Crown Princess, and I know he is a very excellent young man, but he is younger than you. Besides, please dont mind it, Crown Princess, Qiao Lus parents areughed at by everyone in Changan. It will be a better choice for you to marry into the Xie family.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, How dare I mind it? Its true that my parents areughed at by the people in Changan and my brother is indeed not worthy of Princess Fulu!
Fulu red at Qiao Jinniang. What do you mean? Do you still take me as your friend?!
Qiao Jinniang said, Consort Huai, you entered the imperial pce so early today? Im afraid you were waiting outside the imperial pce before dawn, right?
Li Lingling frowned and said, What do you mean, Crown Princess? Cant I enter the imperial pce to visit my grandmother?
Qiao Jinniang said, Of course you can, but my mother and Princess Shouan have just agreed to the engagement yesterday, and Her Grace has learned about it today. Im afraid you told her this news, right?
Li Lingling frowned again, Yes, but so what?
Fulu always went against her, so why not give Fulu a hard time?
Fulu red at Li Lingling fiercely. Its all her fault!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Actually, if Consort Huai hadnte to tell Her Grace about this news and asked Her Grace to marry Princess Fulu into the Xie family, I would still be troubled.
Do you know that after my mother and Princess Shouan agreed to the engagement yesterday, Miss Zhou Shihui of the Duke Wu Mansion, the daughter of Her Majestys elder sister, came to me, saying that she wanted to marry my younger brother and would never marry any man else except for my brother. I had been worried that I might offend the Duke Wu Mansion. Now the problem is solved, and Zhou Shihui can marry my brother.
Fulu was originally angry at Qiao Jinniang, but then she realized that Qiao Jinniang was not such a person. Besides, she saw how rude Zhou Shihui was to Qiao Jinniang when she was trying to defend Tong Yingying that day.
How was it possible for Qiao Jinniang to speak for her?
Princess Shouan immediately figured it out. Yesterday, it was obvious that the Duke Wu Mansion proposed marriage first, and Qiao Jinniang must have a purpose in reversing the order.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. I told Zhou Shihui yesterday that my brother and Princess Fulu were in love with each other.
But she confidently said that she had a way to get Princess Shouan to break off the engagement. It turned out that she did this through Consort Huai.
Otherwise, with the Qiao family having not even started the engagement procedures yet, how could Consort Huai know about this news?
The Empress Dowager looked at Li Lingling angrily. Who passed this news to you?
Li Lingling said nervously, I, Im going to check it out!
After about a quarter of an hour, Li Lingling came back, and said that the one who spread the news was indeed a maid of the Duke Wu Mansion.
After Qiao Jinniang heard the answer, she sighed and said, Although I wont offend Her Majesty and the Duke Wu Mansion now, its a pity that a couple of lovers will be separated. Zhou Shihui used such a dirty means to steal my brother from Princess Fulu. My brother is going to marry such a scheming woman, s!
Fortunately, I heard that Zhou Shihui looks very simr to the deceased Imperial Concubine Zhou of thete emperor, the most beautiful woman in the world!
The Empress Dowager angrily smashed her teacup to the ground. The most beautiful woman in the world?! How can that b*tch be worthy of this title?!
Everyone knelt down in fright.
Qiao Jinniang also knelt down and said, In my eyes, Your Grace is the most beautiful woman in the world, but themoners all call her that. Please dont be angry, Your Grace!
The Empress Dowager was furious. How can I let Zhou Shihui snatch the man my granddaughter loves from her? Bring my decree over! The little b*tch of the Zhou family wants to steal Fulus fiance? In her dreams!
Fulu quickly presented the decree.
The Empress Dowagers decree was issued too hurriedly and even the Ministry of Rites didnt know about it, so it could be recalled easily.
The Empress Dowager changed the second young master of the Xie family on the decree to the heir to Duke Anyuan.
Imperial Concubine Zhou of thete emperor stole the favor of thete emperor from her, and Queen Zhou stole the favor of the present emperor from her niece.
And now, Zhou Shihui, this little slut, dared to make use of Li Lingling, intending to steal her granddaughters fiance! How could she let her?!
...
In the Duke Wu Mansion.
Zhou Shihui was relieved to hear the news that her maid had inquired. Auntie was right. The Empress Dowager would not let Princess Fulu marry her senior brother!
Chapter 194 - Small Scones
Chapter 194: Small Scones
After the Empress Dowager changed her decree, she summoned the officials of the Ministry of Rites.
After the decree was filed in the Ministry of Rites, it could no longer be changed.
Qiao Jinniang, Princess Shouan, and Princess Fulu saluted and left satisfactorily.
Li Lingling said, But Grandmother, if Fulu marries Qiao Lu, who is going to marry the second young master of the Xie family? And the Qiao family is on the Crown Princes side!
The Empress Dowager was angered by what Qiao Jinniang said just now and forgot the rtionship between Qiao Lu and the Crown Prince.
After thinking for a while, she said, Fulu is a girl after all. If Qiao Lu is not smart enough and goes against me in the future, I will get rid of him and marry Fulu to another man. Its not a big deal.
No matter what, she would never let the daughter of the Zhou family snatch Fulus husband.
She would never ever let the women of the Zhou family get their way!
...
As soon as Qiao Jinniang came out of the Empress Dowagers pce, she ran into Lu Chen who came in a hurry on the road.
Lu Chen took her hand and said, I just heard from my secret guards about the Empress Dowagers decree. That decree has not been filed in the Ministry of Rites and can be voided, so you dont have to worry. Did she give you a hard time?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said with a smile, No, and the Empress Dowager has already changed her mind and allowed Fulu to marry my brother.
Lu Chen breathed a sigh of relief. If something like this happens in the future, dont go to the Empress Dowager alone. It can be dangerous for you.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and replied, Um, I see.
When the two returned to the East Pce together, Lu Xi had already woken up and was looking for Qiao Jinniang in the bedroom.
Qiao Jinniang held him in her arms and said, Are you going to study with your brothers in the pce school today?
Because of the wedding, not only Lu Chen, but Little Lu Xi also had a holiday, but as of today, his holiday was over.
Little Lu Xi nodded and said, Mommy, wait for me. Ill be back soon!
Qiao Jinniang rubbed little Lu Xis head. Study hard. When youe back, I will make you snacks. What would you like for snacks?
Little Lu Xi thought for a while and said, I want to eat scones!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Okay, Mommy will go to the pce school to pick you up with scones.
Little Lu Xi was led by the imperial maids to wash up. Lu Chen asked Qiao Jinniang, There is no ce to make scones in the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang pointed to an open space behind the pce. The soil here can make an oven. Xiers favorite food is scones. Cooks in Changan probably dont have this skill.
Lu Chen said, You only dote on him. I have never seen you make what I like to eat.
Seeing him jealous, Qiao Jinniang said, What do you like to eat? Ill make it for you too. Come and help move the soil. It takes about two hours to make an oven.
Lu Chen didnt stop Qiao Jinniang. If there was an oven in the East Pce that she made by herself, she might be able to adapt to life here more quickly.
...
The Empress Dowagers decree was sent to the Princess Mansion and the Duke Anyuan Mansion by officials of the Ministry of Rites. They didnt have to pass by the Duke Wu Mansion to begin with, but the Empress Dowager specially ordered the officials to pass by the Duke Wu Mansion.
The masters of the Duke Wu Mansion heard the noise outside.
In Old Madam Zhous courtyard, Zhou Shihui was begging Old Madam Zhou, Grandmother, please let me go out to see my senior brother. I beg you.
Mrs. Zhou hurried in and said to Old Madam Zhou, Mother, its so noisy outside because because
Zhou Shihui nced at Madam Zhou and hurriedly asked, Auntie, what is it?
The Empress Dowager issued a decree, granting the heir to Duke Anyuan to marry Princess Fulu!
Zhou Shihui lunged to her feet and said, How is it possible? My maid said that she heard that the Empress Dowager issued a decree early in the morning to marry Princess Fulu to the second young master of the Xie family.
Mrs. Zhou said, The decree hasnt been filed in the Ministry of Rites yet, so it doesnt count. But now, the officials of the Ministry of Rites are going to the Qiao family to announce the decree.
Zhou Shihui screamed, How can they force my senior brother to marry Princess Fulu? How can Princess Fulu be worthy of my senior brother? A notorious woman like her doesnt deserve to be the mistress of the Duke Anyuan Mansion!
Zhou Shihui couldnt ept this fact at all. She didnt believe her senior brother wanted to marry Princess Fulu.
Old Madam Zhou frowned slightly. Thats a princess you are talking about, not a woman you canment on at will. Mammy Bai will arrive today. You should learn etiquette from her well!
Mrs. Zhou sighed. Qiao Lu is only seventeen and already has a fiance. Although he and Princess Fulu are both young, they will be married within two years, but Siming
Her son was very stubborn, refusing to touch any girl.
When His Royal Highness was missing, he was almost inconsble and searched for Lu Chen all over the world.
Mrs. Zhou almost thought that her son was gay!
Zheng Xiao was seven or eight years younger than her, but she was about to have more inws. She didnt know when she could see her son marry!
...
Dad, please let me out!
Tong Yingying was locked in the firewood room in the Tong Mansion, knocking on the door helplessly.
Tong Xuan said triumphantly at the door, Tong Yingying, you finally get your retribution. You always think that you are high above, but you almost ruined the Tong family. You want toe out? No way!
Tong Yingying shouted loudly, Father, father, I can still marry into the East Pce
Tong Xuan sneered. There are tons of women who are better-looking and have a better family background than you. What makes you think you can marry His Royal Highness!
Because Cousin has a crush on me! He said that he would satisfy all my wishes. Tong Yingying shouted loudly, Father, even if I cant marry into the East Pce, I can marry Cousin. He loves me!
Tong Xuan was confused. Her mothers nephews had always been spurned by Tong Yingying and she never called them Cousin.
The one Tong Yingying was willing to call Cousin must be Zhou Siming from the Duke Wu Mansion.
In your dreams!
Tong Yingying said, If you dont believe me, you can check the token of love Cousin gave me and the love letters he wrote to me in my room!
Tong Xuan:
Cousin Siming, how can you be so blind?!
...
Ah-choo.
Zhou Siming, who was dragged over to work as a coolie by Lu Chen, suddenly sneezed while chopping firewood.
Lu Chen said in disgust, If you have a cold, go back quickly.
Zhou Siming said, Thank you for your concern, Your Royal Highness.
Lu Chen: No, I dont care about you, but Jinniang fell ill twice although she was only in Changan for two years. Dont infect her.
Lin Mo, who was helping to light the fire,ughed.
Qiao Jinniang was kneading a dough and said, I am not that fragile. Thank you for your help, Young Master Zhou and Young Master Lin.
The noble Crown Prince and Crown Princess certainly couldnt dig soil to make an oven in front of the maids and servants, but how to make this oven was Myriad Tastes business secret, so Lu Chen found these two coolies.
Zhou Siming said, Youre too polite, Your Highness. This is what I should do.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang put the pork on the cutting board, take out two knives and easily chop it into minced meat, Lin Mo felt a chill down his spine.
Chapter 195 - Ask Tong Yingying for Compensation
Chapter 195: Ask Tong Yingying for Compensation
But Lu Chen praised his wife without surprise. Your cutting technique has improved a lot.
Qiao Jinniang smiled proudly and said, Of course. After all, at this timest year, I regarded meat as you and practiced my cutting technique!
Both Zhou Siming and Lin Mo were silent. They were surprised at Qiao Jinniangs boldness, and waited for Lu Chen to lose temper. However, to their surprise, Lu Chen said, Dont think about those unhappy things. There arent many peopleing to the rear pce. Why dont we nt fruit and vegetables here?
Qiao Jinniang said, Good idea. Lets nt some spring onion and ginger here. Itll be convenient for cooking.
Zhou Siming and Lin Mo looked at each other and smiled.
Qiao Jinniang seasoned the meat fillings and wrapped them in dough. Seeing that the oven had been built, she ced the small scones in the oven one by one with her hands.
In just a quarter of an hour, the aroma of the small scones wafted out.
Qiao Jinniang used long bamboo chopsticks to take out the golden scones one by one and put them on a te.
The meat-vored scones smelled mouth-watering.
Lin Mo and Zhou Siming both loved delicious food. At this moment, their mouths were almost watering
When Lu Chen went to pick up the freshly baked scones, Qiao Jinniang gently hit his hand. Why do you behave like Xier? These freshly baked scones are very hot. Wait for a while to eat them.
Lin Mo and Zhou Siming looked at each other and withdrew their hands that were about to move.
But Lu Chen took one and said, Its fine. Ill blow it.
He hadnt tasted the food Qiao Jinniang made for a long time, and he hadnt eaten these little scones for more than a year.
The meat was wrapped by a thinyer of golden-yellow dough, and the fragrant oil soup flowed out when one bit into it. After drinking the soup, the meat inside was fragrant but not greasy and was bouncy.
The only downside was that there was no green onion in the small scones because Little Lu Xi didnt like to eat spring onions. If there were green onions in them, the taste would be even better.
When Qiao Jinniang saw that Lu Chen had already cooled off the scone with a blow and took a bite of it, she simply took a bite of the scone that Lu Chen had bitten.
Both Zhou Siming and Lin Mo felt that such behavior didnt ord with etiquette.
But instead of ming Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen helped Qiao Jinniang wipe the corners of her lips.
Only after the two finished eating a small scone did Qiao Jinniang seem to remember Lin Mo and Zhou Siming.
She said, Young Master Zhou, Young Master Lin, please try one. Be careful that the soup inside is a little hot.
Lin Mo and Zhou Siming each took a small scone, and after tasting it, they felt endless bliss.
Zhou Siming asked, Why are there no such small scones for sale in Tasty Pavilion?
Qiao Jinniang said, These are just snacks and cant be regarded as main dishes, so they are not sold in the restaurant, but Xier likes to eat them.
Qiao Jinniang made a lot of small scones and sent three tes of them to the Emperor, the Queen and the Empress Dowager respectively.
In the Hall of Diligent Governance, hearing of the Empress Dowagers decree, Emperor Huilin was a little surprised that the Empress Dowager would allow the Qiao familys son to marry Fulu.
But after hearing that the Empress Dowager had changed her mind after Qiao Jinniang went to her, Emperor Huilin felt that maybe he underestimated Qiao Jinniang before.
Chener was born with a silver spoon. Even though he lost his memory, he shouldnt be willing to marry into a womans family.
But Qiao Jinniang had the ability to make Chener marry into her family.
Emperor Huilin had always looked down on Qiao Jinniang, but now he decided to reexamine her. Although he was not suspicious of the Qiao familys loyalty to him, he had to think about it for Chener.
The queen of the previous dynasty imprisoned her own son and almost became a female emperor.
Eunuch Quan came in with the small scones and said, Your Majesty, this is the small scones sent over by the Crown Princess. They were just out of the oven. Please have a taste.
Emperor Huilin picked up a small scone and took a bite, and then all his suspicion for Qiao Jinniang disappeared.
Seeing the scones were about to be finished, he couldnt help frowning. The East Pce is too stingy. They only gave me two?!
Not to mention the properties of the East Pce, just because of the silver taels allocated to the East Pce by the imperial pce, they shouldnt only send me two pieces of scones, right? Pass on my order, increase the Crown Princes sry.
Eunuch Quansaid, Yes, Your Majesty.
Seeing the small scones brought by the imperial maid, the Queen smiled. Thats very nice of Jinniang, but I dont like to eat this. Take it to His Majesty! Come, take my new phoenix hairpin out of my jewelry case and send it to the Crown Princess.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Qiao Jinniang took Little Lu Xi back to the East Pce, only to see the rewards the Emperor, the Queen and the Empress Dowager gave. It was a very good deal to exchange a few scones for so many rewards.
After lunch, Yuyan came and said that Nuomi asked to see her.
Qiao Jinniang quickly asked Yuyan to call Nuomi in.
Nuomi threw herself into Qiao Jinniangs arms and said, Miss!
Looking at this, Hongling frowned and was about to tell Nuomi this was against the etiquette, but then she saw that Qiao Jinniang was also hugging Nuomi, and she immediately shut up.
Since Nuomi became her maid, Qiao Jinniang had never been separated from her for such a long time. She stayed with Nuomi longer than anyone else.
Nuomi.
Nuomi wiped her tears and said, Miss, does His Royal Highness treat you well? I saw you only for a short while yesterday, and I didnt have the time to ask how you are going. We are all worried about you very much!
Silly Nuomi, whats there to worry about? Im the Crown Princess. Qiao Jinniang said, Did youe today because you miss me?
Um, I miss you so much, and I want to ask you, Miss, should I ask the Tong family forpensation? The eggs smashed by the people yesterday were so stinky that even perfume cant get rid of the smell. So the restaurant will have to be refurbished and the furniture will have to be reced.
If you ask the Tong family forpensation, we are afraid that people will me you for being mean.
Qiao Jinniang had seen the miserable Tasty Pavilion was in yesterday. She said, Tong Yingying has topensate. If not, what if everyone follows suit in the future? Just go to the Tong family to demand forpensation in my name. Dont worry about me.
Nuomi pursed her lips and nodded. Yes, Master.
Qiao Jinniang had no sympathy for Tong Yingying. ttered by others, she had an exaggerated opinion of her abilities and even boasted herself to be the most intelligent and talented girl in Changan.
She couldnt believe Tong Yingying dared to make up stories and spread her great contributions among themoners.
It was not that Qiao Jinniang hadnt seen such conceited women before. She actually didnt mind it as long as it didnt hurt her, but Tong Yingying wanted to make her her stepping-stone. How could she tolerate it?
Besides, she certainly couldnt bear the losses of Tasty Pavilions alone.
...
The Tong family.
Tong Xuan found those letters in Tong Yingyings room. She didnt recognize Cousin Simings handwriting, but the valuable ancient jade had the character Ming engraved on it, which must be Zhou Simings jade pendant.
If such a jade pendant was not given away, but lost, the Duke Wu Mansion would definitely search for it!
This was a priceless ancient jade that could represent Zhou Simings identity. If he lost it, he would definitely know.
Miss, its not good, the former maid of the Crown Princess, Nuomi, came and demanded Eldest Miss topensate for 30,000 taels of silver of damages!
When Tong Xuan heard 30,000 taels, she almost fainted. Even if they sold this house, they couldnt get 30,000 taels.
Chapter 196 - Zhou Siming Compensated for Tong Yingying
Chapter 196: Zhou Siming Compensated for Tong Yingying
Mrs. Tong didnt dare to slight Nuomi, although she was only a former maid of Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang was already the Crown Princess, and Nuomi, as Qiao Jinniangs former maid, was certainly not someone she could mess with.
Miss Nuomi, isnt 30,000 taels of silver too much? Even if we sell everything we have, we cant afford so much money!
And, and, its not our Tong family that threw those rotten eggs
Nuomi said, Although the eggs were not thrown by your Tong family, the whole matter started because of Tong Yingying.
You can refuse topensate, but Tong Yingying falsely took the credit of the Crown Princess and the Flower Picking Childe and tantly spread rumors in Changan. She has to pay a price!
Either pay 30,000 taels, or let Tong Yingying go to jail.
By the way, if Tong Yingying is thrown into jail, Tong Lei wont be able to enter the officialdom again in this life because he failed to properly educate his own daughter.
Mrs. Tong was really annoyed at Tong Yingying. But we really cant take out so much money all at once. Our Tong familys not that rich!
Mother, I just heard from Tong Yingying that Cousin Siming has a crush on her. We can borrow money from Cousin Siming.
Tong Xuan hurried over and said. She didnt want to be implicated by Tong Yingying!
Nuomi widened her eyes curiously. You mean Young Master Zhou?
Yes. Tong Xuan said, Miss Nuomi, please tell the Crown Princess that we will definitely pay her the money.
After sending Nuomi away, Mrs. Tong poked Tong Xuans head with a finger and said, Are you stupid? Why do we have topensate for her? Her reputation has already been ruined. Even if she is thrown into jail, it will have nothing to do with us.
She was not raised by me anyway. As for your father, if he doesnt change his character, there wont be any hope for him to return to office.
Tong Xuan said, But she is my sister after all, and I cant guarantee that my reputation will not be tarnished by her. Besides, even if Tong Yingyings reputation is ruined and she goes to jail, we still have to give this money to the Crown Princess!
Tong Xuan was very afraid of Qiao Jinniang. What she regretted most in her life was to mock Qiao Jinniang at the gate of the racecourse.
If she could change the crown princess bad impression of her with money, why not?
Mrs. Tong said, You dont know the financial condition of our family. In order to build a good reputation, your father has never embezzled any money, so we dont even have 2,000 taels of silver even if we sell all our shops and manors, not to mention 30,000 taels of silver!
Tong Xuan said, Mother, you probably havent read the letters written by Cousin Siming. He said in the letters that he would help Tong Yingying as long as she went to him with his jade pendant.
When Mrs. Tong heard this, she poked Tong Xuans head with her finger again and said, s, Tong Yingying can even seduce Siming. But look at you. Why are you so useless?!
Tong Xuan snorted. Im going to the Zhou family to ask Cousin Siming for money.
When Zhou Siming came back from the East Pce, he heard amotion in the Duke Wu Mansion, and the concierge told him that Zhou Shihui insisted on leaving the Duke Wu Mansion with her luggage and even climbed the wall and crept into a dog hole, trying to leave...
The Duke Wu Mansion was almost overturned, and even Old Madam Zhou was exasperated.
His eldest aunt had been traveling outside all these years and had been refusing toe back home. Now that she had finally sent her daughter back, his grandmother would definitely not let Zhou Shihui leave.
Cousin! Tong Xuan ran to Zhou Siming and showed a jade pendant to him, saying, Cousin, do you still remember this jade pendant?
After seeing the jade pendant, Zhou Siming asked with a dark expression, Why is this jade pendant in your hands?
Tong Xuan hid the jade pendant behind her and said, You told the girl you loved that you would do anything for her if she came to you with this jade pendant, right?
Zhou Siming said, What happened to her?
She had already engaged and probably wished she had never known him. Every time he met her, she shied away. How could she give the jade pendant to Tong Xuan?
He had thought that this jade pendant had already been smashed by her!
She already had such a good fiance and was trying her best to please her future mother-inw. Her wedding was only half a year away How could she let Tong Xuane to him?
Tong Xuan said, She needs 30,000 taels of silver.
As for the stupid things Tong Yingying did, Tong Xuan was too ashamed to tell them to Zhou Siming. Anyway, the first priority was to take the money first to quell the Crown Princess anger.
As the heir to Duke Wu, Zhou Siming had a lot of properties under his name, but he couldnt take out so much money all at once, so he said, Ill give you fifteen thousand taels first, and as for the rest, Ill give it to you in two days.
Okay, thank you, Cousin.
Why does she need so many silver taels? He hadnt heard of any difficulties in her family.
Tong Xuan said, She offended the Crown Princess.
Zhou Siming was confused. She offended the Crown Princess? Could it be that Princess Fulu spoke ill of her in front of the Crown Princess?
Zhou Siming didnt think about it anymore. Since she asked Tong Xuan toe to him, asking for help, she must have been left with no choice.
...
In the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang received an invitation from Qiao Ruoyun early in the morning.
Qiao Ruoyun came with Qin Miaomiao today.
After saluting, Qiao Ruoyun said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, it is a happy event for the Qiao family that the Empress Dowager granted Princess Fulu to marry Luer.
But Luer lives with Mother in the Qiao Mansion, so it will be very inconvenient to prepare for the wedding. Therefore, Father wants you to persuade Mother to go back to the Duke Mansion.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Why should I? Sister, you shouldnt be soft-hearted to Father! He is one of the main culprits who caused you to be separated from your parents.
Qin Miaomiao said, Dont be angry, Your Highness. Its my mother who forced my sister-inw toe to see you.
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont have anything to be angry about. My father and mother have been husband and wife for so many years. If he still doesnt know how to coax my mother back and only hopes others to help him, he deserves to be alone for the rest of his life.
Qiao Ruoyun didnt say anything more. She was also a woman, and she also felt indignant for her mother.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyun was still gaunt, Qiao Jinniang asked, Sister, why are you so pale?
Qiao Ruoyun helplessly nced at her lower abdomen. It had been four years since she married into the Qin family, but she still hadnt had a child yet.
Qiao Jinniang said, Maybe youll have a child soon. Dont worry
Your Highness, Tong Xuan, the daughter of the former Imperial Censor Tong, asks to see you.
Qiao Jinniang remembered Tong Xuan. After she mocked her in the racecourse that day, she was so afraid that she would me her and kept sending her gifts.
Let her in.
After Tong Xuan came in, she rxed a little when she saw Qiao Ruoyun and Qin Miaomiao were there.
She handed the 30,000 taels of silver notes to Qiao Jinniang with both hands.
Your Highness, this is our Tong familys apology.
Qiao Jinniang flipped over the notes and said with a smile, Its only been two days. The Tong family is really rich.
Tong Xuan said, Its not that my family is rich but that my cousin is willing to pay for Tong Yingying. He raised 30,000 taels of silver overnight.
Your cousin? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Tong Xuan said, My cousin is the heir to Duke Wu and also His Royal Highnesss cousin.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help thinking that she should have fed the small scones that she gave to Zhou Siming yesterday to dogs!
Chapter 197 - Lu Chen’s Teacher Asked Qiao Jinniang to Choose Concubines for Lu Chen
Chapter 197: Lu Chens Teacher Asked Qiao Jinniang to Choose Concubines for Lu Chen
Qin Miaomiao said, I heard from Tong Yingying that Young Master Zhou has a huge crush on her, but she looks down on him. Young Master Zhou is really infatuated with her.
Tong Xuan said, Yes, but I think he is probably blind.
After Qiao Jinniang got the money, she didnt care about the real rtionship between Zhou Siming and Tong Yingying. She just needed Tong Yingying to pay the money.
After everyone left, Qiao Jinniang looked at the silver notes. The more she looked, the more familiar they were to her. Werent these silver notes from Huiyuan Bank? And the boss of Huiyuan Bank was Xie Yun.
These silver notes were not from Changan, but from Linan.
Although Huiyuan had a branch in Changan, the branch in Changan was only for withdrawing silver and couldnt provide silver notes. There were very few people who had so many silver notes of Huiyuan in Changan.
Lu Chen came in from outside the door. When he saw Qiao Jinniang counting the silver notes, he said, Last night, Zhou Siming came to borrow 10,000 taels of money from me. He didnt want the Duke Wu Mansion to know about it, so I gave him the silver notes you gave me in Linan.
During the Lantern Festivalst year, Lu Chen regained his memory and wanted to go back to Changan. Qiao Jinniang was worried he might encounter danger on the way, so she gave him over 10,000 taels of silver as traveling expenses.
She had already forgotten about it. If she had remembered, she would have taken back the money at this timest year.
Qiao Jinniang counted the banknotes in her hands and said, No wonder, the more I look at the banknotes, the more familiar they are. So Tong Yingyingpensated me with my own money? I must have Zhou Siming repay the money.
What does this have to do with Tong Yingying? Lu Chen asked curiously.
Qiao Jinniang said, Zhou Siming borrowed such arge sum of money from you, and you didnt even ask him what it is for?
Lu Chen said, Why bother? I believe him. Maybe he has some difficulties that he cant tell Uncle.
Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen about Tong Yingyings matter. Zhou Siming loves Tong Yingying, and hepensated me on behalf of Tong Yingying with these banknotes.
Lu Chen frowned and said, Its impossible. Zhou Simings taste cant be this bad.
Qiao Jinniang put away the silver notes and said, Both Tong Xuan and Qin Miaomiao have confirmed it. How can it be false? If Zhou Siming doesnt like Tong Yingying, why would he be willing to pay 30,000 taels for her?
Thirty thousand taels of silver was a lot of money for anyone.
Even for the heir to Duke Wu, this was a huge amount of money.
Lu Chen couldnt refute it, but he always felt that something was wrong.
...
In the Duke Wu Mansion.
Zhou Shihui had been making trouble for three whole days, still unwilling to learn etiquette and moring to go out to see her senior brother.
Old Madam Zhou had a headache because of this.
Hearing the report of her mammy in her courtyard, Mrs. Zhou frowned and said, Is it really Tong Yingying?
Yes! Young Master even gave Miss Tong his personal jade pendant!
Although Mrs. Zhou was from the Tong family, she certainly cared for her own son more. Tong Yingyings reputation had been ruined now, and she definitely couldnt be her daughter-inw.
There were so many girls in Changan who were willing to marry her son. Why did he choose Tong Yingying?
After all, Tong Yingying was her own niece. It would be inappropriate for her to force them to break up.
Madam, its not good. Miss Zhou wants to hang herself!
Zhou Shihui was locked in her room, but her whole mind was on Qiao Lu outside. She would never sit by and watch her senior brother marry another girl!
Mrs. Zhous head was aching. This girl is just like her mother. They are really
But after all, her mother was Old Madam Zhous daughter who Old Madam Zhou missed the most, so Mrs. Zhou didnt say much but just ordered the servants and maids to hide anything that Zhou Sihui could use to hang herself.
...
In the East Pce, various flowers were in full bloom. Qiao Jinniang had been in the East Pce for ten days, but she still hadnt been able to visit the entire East Pce.
The East Pce upied an area of about a thousand acres. It would take several days to walk around it.
The backyard of the East Pce was empty, and weeds were invading the many courtyards that werent upied.
So many empty courtyards were wasted.
Qiao Jinniang felt it a little pity, but she couldnt think of what to use them for, and she couldnt help but sigh that it was no wonder that a crown prince could have hundreds of concubines.
Even if there were more than a hundred people more, the East Pce couldpletely amodate them.
The Crown Princess has been in the East Pce for ten days. Howe she hasnt started to select concubines for His Royal Highness? After all, His Royal Highness doesnt like the Crown Princess. If we can follow a concubine favored by His Royal Highness, we dont need to pull the weeds here.
Shh, be careful of being heard.
Who can hear us in such a remote corner? Its impossible for the Crown Prince to only have the Crown Princess. He has only had one child until now, and he has to perform his obligation to give birth to as many children as possible for the royal family!
When Qiao Jinniang heard the imperial maids words, she sighed. Even the imperial maids in the East Pce thought so.
She cut a few beautiful flowers from the garden and went to Xiande Hall, where Lu Chen and the officials of the East Pce handled official affairs.
When Qiao Jinniang arrived with the flowers, Gu Ming saw her from afar outside the hall and came up to greet her. Your Highness, are you here to look for His Royal Highness?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes, I picked a lot of flowers in the garden, and I want to put them in Lu Chen His Royal Highnesss study.
Gu Ming said, Your Highness, please wait a moment. Allow me to report.
Qiao Jinniang frowned slightly, but she didnt want to make things difficult for Gu Ming, so she waited outside the hall holding the flowers.
After a while, a white-haired old man came over and saluted Qiao Jinniang. Greetings, Your Highness. He was Lu Chens teacher.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at him and said, Greetings, Your Excellency. Please get up.
The old man was still on his knees and said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, you and His Royal Highness have already been married for ten days. Now His Royal Highness harem is still empty, and he only has one child. I hope that you can consider for him and arrange to choose concubines for him as soon as possible so that the royal family could have more offspring, which will be a meritorious deed.
Qiao Jinniang broke the flower branch in her hand and asked with a smile, Do you have a daughter, Your Excellency?
Your Highness, my daughter is already over forty years old, so she cant marry into the East Pce
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont mean that. I just want to ask you, will you ask her to choose concubines for her husband only ten days after her wedding?
Thats not the same thing. The Crown Prince is not an ordinary man, and giving birth to as many offspring as possible for the royal family is the most important state affair!
The Crown Princes teacher bowed to Qiao Jinniang again and tried to persuade her.
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh, since its so important, why does the East Pce have to keep you and all the other ministers? It would be enough to just have women keep giving birth to children for the Crown Prince, wouldnt it?
The Crown Princes teacher frowned and looked at Qiao Jinniang. Your Highness, please respect your identity.
Qiao Jinniang sneered. If I try to persuade your wife to keep gigolos, Im afraid youll be even more annoyed than me!
The Crown Princes teacher frowned, secretly despising Qiao Jinninag in his heart. Although she was the daughter of Duke Anyuan, she still grew up in the countryside. She was so petty, jealous and not generous and virtuous at all.
Chapter 198 - The East Palace Hosts A Banquet for Concubine Selection
Chapter 198: The East Pce Hosts A Banquet for Concubine Selection
The Crown Princes teacher said, Your Highness, do you want to be recorded in the historical records and reviled byter generations like Daji and Baosi? (note: Daji and Baosi are famous morally-corrupt imperial concubines in Chinese history) I said this out of my loyalty to the royal family and for your own good.
Qiao Jinniang sneered. For her own good? Asking her to choose concubines for her own husband was for her own good?
If this old man werent Lu Chens teacher, she really wanted to scold him to death!
At this moment, Gu Ming came out of the hall and invited Qiao Jinniang to enter.
Qiao Jinniang entered the study in the pce, put the flowers in the vase, and trimmed the branches.
After Lu Chen walked into the study, he said, My teacher is too old to keep a clear mind. Dont take his words to heart. Are you angry?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Why should I be angry? He is your teacher. How can you say behind his back that he is too old to keep a clear mind? Arent you afraid of being impeached by imperial censors?
Lu Chen said, Not at all.
Qiao Jinniang put down the scissors for trimming flowers and said, However, what he said makes sense. Although I dont want you to have any concubine, in order not to be recorded in the history books and reviled byter generations, I should do something.
Lu Chen frowned and said, Are you serious?
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont even think you can have concubines! I just think that instead of arguing with that old man and losing my reputation, its better to do as he hopes. I will hold a concubine selection banquet, but as for the result, I cant guarantee.
Lu Chen said, You are bored in the East Pce anyway. Just do as you like.
Qiao Jinniang picked up the scissors and ruthlessly snipped off the roses that were blooming beautifully, leaving only a red peony flower.
Honey, do my flowers look good? Are they beautiful?
Gu Ming, who was waiting on the side, secretly took a look at the flowers, only to see that in the precious zed ss vase, there only left a bunch of bare green branches and a single beautiful peony flower in the middle.
No matter how he looked at it, it didnt look beautiful.
But Lu Chen smiled. Beautiful, its very beautiful. Very artistic.
The eunuchs and maids in the room:
In Changan, many noble girls who had been determined to marry into the East Pce since childhood stretched their necks and waited for news from the imperial pce after Qiao Jinniang got married.
Among them, there were also some daughters of senior officials from other ces. After the Crown Princes wedding, these girls stayed at their rtives homes in Changan, waiting for the news of the selection of concubines for the Crown Prince.
Sure enough, on the sixth day of the fourth lunar month, which was a beautiful spring day, the Crown Princess invited the daughters of all the officials of the fourth rank and above in Changan to enter the East Pce to enjoy flowers two dayster.
This was obviously meant to choose concubines for the Crown Prince.
For a time, the threshold of the Jewelry Pavilion was almost stepped t.
Tasty Pavilion was still closed, but the business of Myriad Taste was booming. Nuomi had counted her own savings, which were already more than ten thousand taels of silver, not to mention the generous gifts from the daughters of the officials from other ces.
They all came to ask Nuomi about the Crown Princess preferences.
Most of the girls had figured it out.
It would be extremely stupid if they tried to seize the Crown Princess status. After all, she was the mother of the heir to the Crown Prince and her father was the powerful Duke Anyuan.
They might as well please her.
Qiao Jinniang had someone tell Nuomi just keep the money, so Nuomi epted the money happily.
In Myriad Taste, Huixiang frowned and said, Did Master reallypromise after marrying into the East Pce?
Absolutely not! Nuomi said, Master must have other ns.
...
In the Tong Mansion, hearing that Zhou Siming did pay for Tong Yingying, Mrs. Tong released Tong Yingying from the firewood room.
Although Tong Yingying couldnt marry into the East Pce, she still had hope to marry into the Duke Wu Mansion.
Mrs. Zhou refused to help her natal family because she didnt need to rely on her natal family.
But Tong Yingying was not.
If she became the mother-inw of the heir to Duke Wu, she would definitely be able to live in splendor and wealth.
Mrs. Tong said to Tong Yingying, Why didnt you tell me earlier that Young Master Zhou likes you? So many girls in Changan want to marry him!
However, Tong Yingying said, Mother, thats all you want? Although Zhou Siming is the heir to Duke Wu, how can the Duke Wu Mansions power beparable to the East Pce?!
I, the most intelligent and talented woman in Changan, will not marry into the Zhou family that is despised by everyone.
Monopolizing His Majesty from other imperial concubines, Queen Zhou is a disgrace to women, and she has set a bad example for all women in the world!
I am determined to be a role model for all women in the world. How is the mere title of future Duchess Wu worthy of me?
Mrs. Tong was puzzled. Tong Yingying was really confident. She even thought a man like Zhou Siming was not good enough for her?!
But your reputation has been ruined. Do you still want to marry into East Pce?
Tong Yingying said, I have my ways.
Zhou Siming always obeyed her words, but she didnt know why he suddenly changed his attitude two years ago.
But this time he was still willing to pay the money for her, which showed that he still has her in his heart. He must even be willing to die for her, so it would be a breeze to ask him to help her marry into the East Pce!
On the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, it was very crowded outside the East Pce early in the morning. Many noble girls who received the invitations had arrived at the East Pce early, intending to visit the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess.
When they walked to the Crown Princess pce, they heard the imperial maids say that the Crown Princess had not yet got up. Hearing this, they couldnt help but look at the sky, and the sun was already hanging high
Wouldnt the Crown Prince be angry at the Crown Princess?
In her bedroom, Qiao Jinniang had already woken up and was leaning on the bed and reading a novel. Hearing the imperial maids report, she said, Let them wait. Remember to give them a few umbres. Dont let the sun burn their skin. Otherwise, someone would feel distressed for them
Those who came to the East Pce this early must be desperate to marry her husband. Then dont me her for making them suffer a bit.
She had specified in the invitation the start time of the banquet. Why did theye so early?
Lu Chen, who was beside her, took the novel from her hand and said, Who would feel distressed for them? Dont get me involved.
Qiao Jinniang said, I didnt say anything about you. I would feel distressed for them, okay?
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang were reading the novel together. He lost interest after a few nces, and only looked at Qiao Jinniangs earlobe. After he signaled the imperial maids to leave, he gently bit her earlobe.
Qiao Jinniang was preupied with the novel, so she said softly, Stop it.
Lu Chen said, You dont want to go out so early anyway. Instead of reading a novel, why dont we try to make a daughter?
Qiao Jinniang didnt believe Lu Chens nonsense at all. He talked about having a daughter every day, but after their wedding, he had been taking birth control measures. She didnt know if he wanted children or not.
Dont lie to me. Do you really want to have another child? Xier has grown up.
Yes and no. Lu Chen whispered in her ear, If we have one more child, we will have less pressure, but then Ill have to endure for another year
Qiao Jinniang:
Chapter 199 - Concubine Selection Banquet
Chapter 199: Concubine Selection Banquet
After a while, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen came out of the pce together.
The noble girls who had been waiting for a long time hurriedly saluted Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. Although they didnt dare to look around when they saluted, out of the corner of their eye, they saw the hands of the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess sped together.
They had turbulent feelings in their hearts.
The Crown Prince got up sote with the Crown Princess
Qiao Jinniang said, Arise, its spring now, and the flowers in the backyard of the East Pce are all in full bloom, so I invite you toe over and enjoy the flowers together with me.
I just didnt expect you toe so early.
The girls all said their thanks.
After that, Qiao Jinniang asked imperial maids to bring them into the garden.
The garden of the East Pce covered an area of ??about 100 acres, and there were all kinds of flowers, some of which were nted for the Crown Princes wedding and were blooming beautifully.
Walking beside Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen picked a light pink peony flower and put it on Qiao Jinniangs bun. You look really beautiful wearing a peony.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled and asked, So I dont look beautiful when Im not wearing a peony?
Lu Chen smiled. Youre always beautiful. When you dont wear peony flowers, youre as beautiful as Xi Shi, and when wearing peony flowers, you look like a goddess descended from heaven.
Qiao Jinniang stepped on Lu Chens foot. Glib-tongued.
The girls who were close to them all shivered for fear that Lu Chen would be angry when they heard their conversation and saw Qiao Jinniang step on Lu Chens feet.
But Lu Chen said, I really didnt lie to you. If you dont believe me, ask these youngdies if the Crown Princess looks like a goddess descended from heaven?
The girls:
They were not Tong Yingying. Did they dare say no?
They could only rack their brains to praise Qiao Jinniangs beauty!
Among them, some girls had already wanted to back down. The rumor was not true at all that the Crown Prince married the Crown Princess merely for the sake of the Qiao familys power.
Since the two left the pce, their hands had always been sped together except for when the Crown Prince was picking flowers for the Crown Princess.
There was only Qiao Jinniang in the Crown Princes eyes.
This was not the Crown Princes concubine selection banquet, but an asion for the Crown Prince and Crown Princess to y lovey-dovey.
The Queens pce.
Hearing that Duchess Wu and Zhou Sisi came to visit her, the Queen quickly let them in.
Duchess Wu said to the Queen, Your Majesty, we came today because Sisi heard that a banquet would be held in the East Pce today but she didnt receive an invitation, so she wanted to join the fun in the East Pce.
The Queen smiled and said, I suggest you not. You know the Crown Princess doesnt like concubines. How can it be a concubine selection banquet?
With this in mind, Queen Zhou didnt intend to go to the banquet at all.
Duchess Wu asked the Queen, Your Majesty, dont you mind that Her Highness refuses to choose concubines for His Royal Highness?
Why should I mind? Sister-inw, as the saying goes, dont do unto others what you dont want others to do unto you. I dont allow His Majesty to have other women after me. How can I have a different standard for my daughter-inw?
Duchess Wu smiled and said, Thank you, Your Majesty. Your words gave me a sort of epiphany.
Is it about Siming?
Duchess Wu replied, Yes, I only learned a few days ago that Siming likes Tong Yingying, my niece, and I had thought Tong Yingying was not worthy of Siming in family background, but you are right, my mother-inw didnt despise me because of my family background back then, how can I despise my own niece?
Queen Zhou asked in surprise, Is it the concubine-born daughter of that dismissed imperial censor who falsely took the credit of the Crown Princess deeds a few days ago? She is really not worthy of Siming, not just in family background.
Sister-inw, Siming will be the next Duke Wu. No matter what kind of family his wife is from, you have to make sure she is well-conducted.
Duchess Wu entered the imperial pce today because firstly her daughter mored to go to the East Pce to y, and secondly she wanted to hear the Queens opinions on Simings marriage.
If the Queen didnt agree, she had to separate Zhou Siming and Tong Yingying even if she would be hated by her natal family.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Auntie, I want to go to the East Pce to y with Imperial Cousin.
Queen Zhou smiled. Okay, then go ahead.
...
In the East Pce, many noble girls were already uneasy as if there were ants in their pants.
The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess were too much!
The Crown Princess went to pick the thorny roses, and before her finger even bled, the Crown Prince had already put her finger in his mouth to help her stop the bleeding.
And he even called an imperial doctor over. If the imperial doctor came a littlete, the wound might have healed up...
What did they do wrong to be punished like this?
After the imperial doctor bandaged Qiao Jinniangs finger, Qiao Jinniang whispered to Lu Chen, You are acting a little too much.
Lu Chen frowned and looked at Qiao Jinniang, Why do you think Im acting?
He was really worried about her just now, afraid that she would hurt her hand, but she thought he was acting.
Qiao Jinniang caught Lu Chens gaze. She had nned to show off how much Lu Chen loved her at todays banquet.
There were only three types of women who wanted to be Lu Chens concubines. The first type was like the former Consort Mediocre, who had been educated to marry into the imperial pce since she was a child. Marrying into the imperial pce was her life goal.
The second type was like Tong Yingying, who wanted to climb to a high position and make her family look at her with admiration.
The third type was the girls who had a yearning for the East Pce but it would be fine if they couldnt marry into it, just like Fulu used to be.
She and Lu Chen were showing off their affection, which would definitely make most of the girls dispel the idea of ??marrying into the East Pce.
After all, if the Crown Prince loved the Crown Princess this much, why did they have to forcibly step in between them?
For those who still didnt give up, she would think of other ways.
She had thought they were acting in front of these noble girls from the very beginning, but Lu Chen actually said no
Qiao Jinniang withdrew her gaze. Then she heard an eunuch announce that the Queen had arrived, and everyone went to the gate of the garden to greet the Queen.
When some noble girls heard that the Queen arrived, their hearts stirred.
The Queen hade. It seemed that the banquet today was really a concubine selection banquet.
The Queen came in and walked up to Qiao Jinniang. Arise, I heard that your finger is injured? Be careful with the rose thorns.
Thank you for your concern, Mother, Im fine. Qiao Jinniang quickly withdrew her hand, fearing that others would see that her wound had already healed.
The Queen said to the girls. I heard that you are arranging flowers here. Im also very interested in flower arrangement. Lets hold a flower arrangementpetition and select a winner today, okay?
Zhou Sisi said with a smile. Okay, Auntie, I want to join thepetition too!
The girls were thinking, were flower arrangement skills one of the criteria for the concubine selection?
Thus, they all tried their best to win thepetition, arranging flowers in the porcin vase.
There was a flower arrangement style of many colorful flowers and an artistic style of a single flower. All kinds of flower arrangement works were dazzlingly beautiful.
Everyone looked at the flower arrangement work of the Crown Princess and couldnt help but frown. The Crown Princess picked flowers of different colors just now, but why were there only bare branches left now?
Could it be that she never learned flower arrangement in the countryside?
No, the flower arrangements in Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion were very beautiful. Even if they werent done by Qiao Jinniang herself, she shouldnt have arranged the flowers so terribly.
Chapter 200 - Zhou Sisi Will Never Marry into the East Palace
Chapter 200: Zhou Sisi Will Never Marry into the East Pce
In Qiao Jinniangs vase, among the green branches, there was a single blooming peony in the middle.
Although there was no artistic conception that a flower arrangement should have, many daughters had already figured out the meaning of this flower arrangement.
Queen Zhous gaze swept across the vases of the girls and said, Chener, which flower arrangement here do you like most?
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs vase in his hand and admired it. I like the Crown Princess flower arrangement the most.
The peony is of unrivaled beauty. If the other flowers are put together with the peony, they will only be overshone.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled and said, Thank you for yourpliment, Your Royal Highness.
Many girls had understood the meaning of the Crown Princes words. Peony had always been known as the king of flowers.
The Crown Princess only left a peony to warn them that there could only be one flower in the East Pce.
One of the girls who was bolder saluted and asked the Queen, Your Majesty, may I ask which flower arrangement you like most?
Queen Zhou smiled and said,
I think the same as the Crown Prince. The Crown Princesss flower arrangement is the best.
Peony is the most beautiful flower. When the peonyes out, all other flowers be colorless. So a single peony is enough.
The girls all smiled and said yes.
Fortunately, although they didnt achieve their purposes today, the dishes at the banquet were indeed delicious.
After all, the cooks of Tasty Pavilion often came to the East Pce to teach the cooks in the East Pce how to cook when they were free.
With the craftsmanship of the chef of Tasty Pavilion, the dishes here were certainly delicious.
When the girls left the imperial pce, the fourth daughter of the Qin family was surrounded by two girls who had been friends with her since childhood.
One of the girls said, I had thought it was a concubine selection banquet for the Crown Prince, but now it seems that the Crown Prince really loves the Crown Princess. Even if I can marry into the East Pce, Im not going to have an easy time.
Yes, the Crown Princess had already made it pretty clear when she was arranging flowers. All the other flowers were outshone and only the peony flower was left
But Fourth Miss Qin didnt think so. She said, A mans love is unreliable. The Crown Prince can dote on the Crown Princess, so can he dote on someone else. Besides, are we marrying into the East Pce for the favor of the Crown Prince?
The two girls shook their heads.
Exactly, how could a wise woman count on the Crown Princes favor?
They wanted to marry into the East Pce to earn face and the supreme glory for their family.
Fourth Miss Qin turned around and gazed at the majestic East Pce. After Old Madam Qin was sent to a manor, Mrs. Qin was now in charge of the Qin family. Qin Miaomiao was going to be married and was learning how to manage a big family.
Her moms life in the Qin Mansion was not easy, and her father was unreliable and had many concubines, so she was the only one her mom could count on.
Qin Miaomiao had no intention of marrying into the East Pce, so if the Qin family wanted to marry off a daughter into the East Pce, it must be her.
She was confident that she could win this mans favor.
...
In the East Pce, after all the girls left, only Zhou Sisi was unwilling to leave.
She followed Lu Chens side all the time. Wherever Lu Chen went, she was there. There was only Lu Chen in her eyes.
Cousin, would you like to y sculpting with Sisi? You taught Sisi to carve things when you were a child, and Sisi wants Cousin to continue to teach me. Zhou Sisi reached out and tugged at Lu Chens sleeve.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled and said, Sisi, if you want to y carving, I can teach you. Hongling, go fetch some radishes.
Zhou Sisi frowned and snorted. I dont want you to teach me. I want my cousin Lu Chen to teach me!
Lu Chen waved his sleeve to throw off Zhou Sisis hand and said to her, Be good. Your cousin-inws knife skills are unparalleled in the world, and her carving skills are even better than those of old masters.
Qiao Jinniang took a knife for carving and carved on a radish very quickly, and soon a small pigeon was carved.
Zhou Sisi only said one word. Ugly!
Sisi! Duchess Wu was so frightened that she broke into a cold sweat. Dont talk nonsense. Your cousin-inw is so good at carving!
Duchess Wu said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, she is just a child and doesnt know what she is talking about. Please dont take her words to heart.
Qiao Jinniang said, Auntie, since you said so, if I am angry at a child, I would seem too petty.
Duchess Wu had already sensed Qiao Jinniangs displeasure. As a mother, however, she was biased towards her own child. Although Zhou Sisi was really rude, she was a child after all.
Her poor daughters life had already been ruined. No one in Changan would mind what she said, and only Qiao Jinniang would be so petty.
She had thought Qiao Jinninang was a special woman before she married into the East Pce. Now that she had be the Crown Princess, she was so jealous that she couldnt even tolerate this poor little girl?
But Duchess Wu didnt dare to say her true thoughts. She just scolded Zhou Sisi.
Zhou Sisi pouted as if she had been greatly wronged. She walked to Lu Chens side and said, Cousin, I heard from my sister that you are going to choose a concubine. Sisi also wants to live in the East Pce. I want to y with you all the time.
Lu Chen said, No, I already have my wife, and I will only y with my wife.
Hmph! Zhou Sisi snorted. Cousin, you werent like this when you were a child. You promised Sisi that you would love Sisi for the rest of your life. Now with her, you dont y with Sisi anymore.
After saying that, Zhou Sisi burst into tears.
Duchess Wu looked at the Queen beside her in embarrassment and braced herself to say, Your Royal Highness, Sisi is just a child who doesnt know anything except ying around. Please just coax her a little, and she wont take it seriously.
The Queen also nodded and said to Zhou Sisi, Sisi, be good. Your cousin is joking with you. Your cousin is on vacation these days. You cane to the East Pce to y with him and your cousin-inw.
Just as Lu Chen was about to refuse, he was stopped by the queens eyes.
Lu Chen couldnt reject his mother in front of his aunt.
Zhou Sisi looked at Lu Chen with her deer-like eyes and said, Really? Cousin?
Lu Chen could only nod his head.
After Duchess Wu took Zhou Sisi to leave, Lu Chen said, Mother although Zhou Sisi is like an ignorant child, what she said was inappropriate.
Queen Zhou only said to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, dont think that every girl wants to marry into the East Pce. The women of the Zhou family dont want to be a member of someones harem and share their husband with other women. No matter what the outsiders say, the Zhou family has never intended to marry off Sisi into the East Pce.
She is just an innocent child. You can treat her like your sister.
Qiao Jinniang could only respond, Yes, Mother.
With Queen Zhous words, Qiao Jinniang was relieved. Otherwise, with Zhou Sisis identity, if she wanted to marry into the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang would have no chance to stop it.
Queen Zhou said to Qiao Jinniang again, Jinniang, todays banquet cant make the ministers shut up for long. You and Chener have to have another child as soon as possible.
Qiao Jinniang replied, Yes, Mother.
Chapter 201 - Give Prince Huai A Concubine
Chapter 201: Give Prince Huai A Concubine
Early in the morning the next day, Consort Huai, Consort Qi and others came to the East Pce.
Li Lingling had heard that there was a flower viewing banquet in the East Pce yesterday, and came to inquire about how many girls had been selected to marry into the East Pce. Although she had be Consort Huai, she had never let go of her obsession.
She was different from those superficial women. She had fallen in love with her imperial cousin since she was a child.
Although she knew that the Empress Dowager hated the Crown Prince.
Now Li Lingling hated Lu Chen but she still couldnt forget him, and thest thing she wanted to see was that Qiao Jinniang was favored by the Crown Prince.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang got up, she heard the news that Li Lingling had entered the imperial pce.
She couldnt help but say, Why does she enter the imperial pce every single day even before dawn? Prince Huai might as well move his residence to the imperial pce!
Lu Chen smiled. Maybe thats exactly what Prince Huai wants!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Thats true.
She and Lu Chen agreed that Prince Huai was not as indifferent to power as he seemed. Prince Mediocre was too scheming but didnt know how to hide it.
On the other side, Prince Huais real thoughts were difficult to detect, but the only thing that was certain was that, as the first son of the Emperor who had many people supporting him, could he really be willing to be a mere minister?
He kept a low profile when everyone was praising him to be worthy of bing the crown prince. It could be seen that Prince Huais heart was unfathomable!
When Qiao Jinniang walked in, Li Lingling bowed to her reluctantly.
Why did youe so early today, Sister-inw?
Li Lingling smiled and said, I heard that there was a flower viewing banquet in the East Pce yesterday, and I think you may have a few sisters in the East Pce soon, so I came to congratte the Crown Princess for having some sisters aspany.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its no wonder that you enter the imperial pce as soon as the pce door opens every day, Sister-inw. It turns out that you need more sisters to apany you in Prince Huai Mansion. Thats really the fault of the Crown Prince and I. How can we forget that Consort Huai doesnt have enough sisters aspany?
I will ask Mother to choose a few sisters to marry into the Prince Huai Mansion to share your worries!
Li Linglings eyes widened. She didnt care about Prince Huais favor. She only hated that Prince Huai had been holding back and couldnt let her take revenge.
But even though she didnt care about the favor of Prince Huai, it didnt mean that she wanted her husband to have more concubines!
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother must have got up by this time. Lets go to her pce to greet her and report this matter to her by the way. Consort Qi, Consort Lu, do you need more sisters at home as well?
The two consorts hurriedly shook their heads and red at Li Lingling.
If it werent for the fear of offending the Empress Dowager, they wouldnt want to associate with Li Lingling at all!
When they arrived at the Queens pce, Qiao Jinniang reported this matter to the Queen, and Queen Zhou asked Qiao Jinniang, Which girls do you think are suitable to be Prince Huais concubines?
Queen Zhou didnt want to be involved in this matter too much. She was the Queen, but she was also the princes nominal mother.
If the concubines family background was too low, Prince Huai might be angry, but if their family background was very high, their family mightin.
Qiao Jinniang said, I have met the fourth daughter of the Qin family several times. She is a very nice girl and deserves to be the concubine of Brother Huai.
Li Lingling stood up and red at Qiao Jinniang, but thinking that the Empress Dowager was not here, she could only hold back.
How dare she, Qiao Jinniang!
Did she think that their alliance with the Qin family was unshakable because Qin Shus wife was her sister?
How could she be willing to marry off one of the most outstanding daughters of Duke Qin to Prince Huai as his concubine?
Wasnt she afraid that Prince Huai would take the opportunity to win over Duke Qin?
After all, Qiao Jinniang and Qin Shus wife were not rted by blood!
But Fourth Miss Qin was the Qin familys daughter.
What Li Lingling was more worried about was that if Fourth Miss Qin married into the Prince Huai Mansion, she might threaten her status
The Queen said, Oh, Fourth Miss Qin? I remember that her sister is a good girl, so she cant be bad. Okay, pass on my decree.
Li Lingling wanted to rush to the Empress Dowagers pce and beg the Empress Dowager to stop it, but on a second thought, she realized that through this marriage, the Prince Huai Mansion and the Duke Qin Mansion would be connected, and both the Queen and the Crown Princess had agreed to this marriage. The Empress Dowager must be more than willing to agree to it!
When Li Lingling and Qiao Jinniang left the queens pce side by side, Li Lingling removed her disguise and lowered her voice, speaking in a voice that only the two of them could hear, Dont be happy too soon.
Do you think your sister who has no blood rtionship with the Qin family is more important to the Qin family than Fourth Miss Qin?
You let Fourth Miss Qin be the concubine of Prince Huai, which is basically sending the Qin family to be on the same boat with Prince Huai.
Arent you afraid that the Crown Prince will call you stupid?
How could the Crown Prince not me Qiao Jinniang for pushing the Duke Qin Mansion to Prince Huai?
Li Lingling really wanted to go to the East Pce to watch the fun.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Li Lingling in surprise.
Li Lingling smiled and said, Are you scared silly, Crown Princess?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head, still looking extremely panicked.
Li Lingling was even more smug. A woman like you only deserves to manage restaurants. See? Only a few days in the imperial pce, youve made such a disastrous mistake.
Qiao Jinniang said, Sister-inw, His Royal Highness and I had both thought that Brother Huai was innocent and was set up by Prince Mediocre, but you mean that Brother Huai really has ulterior motives?
And you even want to form a party to seize the throne?
I just wanted to find a suitable concubine for Brother Huai, but you actually regard it this way! Ill report this to His Majesty and His Royal Highness!
Now the one in panic became Li Lingling. She anxiously said, Dont you even think about ndering me. Who heard me say that? His Majesty will never believe your false usation.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, As long as His Royal Highness believes me.
I wonder what Brother Huai will do if he learns that he has been holding back for so long but his ambitions were exposed by you so easily?
Li Lingling felt chills all over. Now she just wanted to p herself hard!
...
Back in the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen what happened just now.
Qiao Jinniangughed. You dont know how ugly her expression was just now. I got her a concubine so that she wont be so idle to enter the imperial pce so early every day.
Lu Chenughed too. I will have someone tell Prince Huai the silly words that Li Lingling said. I think she will disappear from your eyes for quite a while.
Qiao Jinniang said, I pushed the Qin family to Prince Huai. Dont you me me?
Lu Chen said, It is nothing but a daydream if Prince Huai wants to rely on the Qin family to win the throne.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. I think so too. Although my parents are not that reliable, my grandmother is very wise. Qin Shu is the husband that my grandmother chose for Sister Ruoyun. He never mes Ruoyun for being unable to have children. Such a man will definitely not stupidly rebel for wealth and power! I think he is a good husband.
How do you know that Qin Shu is a good husband? Fortunately, Concubine Qian exchanged you and Qiao Ruoyun. Otherwise, you would be Qin Shus wife.
Qiao Jinniang smelled jealousy and smiled. Of course hes not as good as you!
Even if we werent exchanged, with my honey in Changan, who is so iparably handsome and intelligent, how can Qin Shu catch my eyes?
If she hadnt been exchanged with Qiao Ruoyun, they might have known each other since childhood
Lu Chen put his arm around her waist, ced her on the couch, and began to kiss her
Imperial Cousin, Sisi is here to y with you.
Chapter 202 - Zhou Sisi Ruined the Birthday Gift from Qiao Jinniang to Lu Chen
Chapter 202: Zhou Sisi Ruined the Birthday Gift from Qiao Jinniang to Lu Chen
The two who were lying on the chaise lounge frowned when they heard the sound from outside the hall.
Lu Chen wanted to ignore the voices outside, but Qiao Jinniang was no longer in the mood. She tidied up her clothes. Lu Chen, if we had known each other since we were children, would you marry me?
Lu Chen said, Yes.
Qiao Jinniang said, Then why didnt you marry Qiao Ruoyun?
Lu Chen: Qiao Ruoyun and Qin Shu were engaged since childhood. Qiao Ruoyun never entered the imperial pce to avoid trouble before getting married, so I didnt even know her before, and even if I knew her, I wouldnt like her character.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. So if I werent swapped with Qiao Ruoyun, you would definitely not have married me.
Who said that? Im the Crown Prince. Even if you had married Qin Shu, I would still have snatched you over.
Qiao Jinniang said, Did you secretly read my novels?
Lu Chen:
At the door, Zhou Sisis voice became louder and louder. Imperial Cousin, Imperial Cousin, Sisi is here. If you still donte out to see Sisi, Sisi will be angry.
Qiao Jinniang walked to the door, opened it and said, Hi, Sisi.
Zhou Sisi trotted up to Lu Chen and stuffed a wood carving she had made into Lu Chens arms. This is for Imperial Cousin.
Qiao Jinniang who was ignored:
Lu Chen returned the wood carving to Zhou Sisi and said, Be good, Sisi. Keep it for yourself. There is no ce for this in the East Pce.
Zhou Sisi blinked her bright eyes, and Lu Chens figure was reflected in her eyes. She said, Imperial Cousin can put it in your study. There is a big space in your study where you can put this wooden figurine.
Lu Chen couldnt refuse and he didnt want Zhou Sisi to stay in the East Pce for a long time, so he agreed with her to put the wooden figurine in his study.
As soon as Zhou Sisi entered Lu Chens study, she picked up the little tiger that Lu Chen had ced on the chair. What a cute little tiger!
Lu Chen said, Sisi, put it down. This is the birthday gift your cousin made for me.
When Zhou Sisi put it down, her sleeves somehow knocked over the cinnabar ink that Lu Chen used to review memorials and the cinnabar ink spilled on the tiger, making it look as if blood stained it.
Lu Chen frowned and said in a low voice, Someone take Miss Zhou to the Queens pce, and dont let her step into the East Pce again.
Zhou Sisi said with teary eyes. Imperial Cousin, I didnt do it on purpose. Sisi can make little tigers too. Sisi will make a little tiger for you.
Lu Chen cherished this birthday gift very much. Although it was the least valuable of all birthday gifts he had received, it was made by Qiao Jinniang with her own hands.
Fearing that Little Lu Xi would spot it and take it away, he deliberately ced it in his study to apany him to work.
Now it was destroyed by Zhou Sisi.
It was stained by cinnabar ink, and he didnt know if it could be washed clean.
Standing at the door of the study and seeing the little tiger doll she made with her own hands was destroyed, Qiao Jinniang said in displeasure, Why does everyone say she is still a child? If she is really a child, she will only like little dolls like this. How could she possibly destroy it?
Where is she?
Lu Chen said, I ordered someone to send her back to my mothers pce.
When Zhou Sisi returned to the Queens pce, the Emperor was apanying the Queen for lunch.
When he heard the imperial decree issued by the Queen today, Emperor Huilinined, You dote on the Crown Princess too much. I had thought that I could at least have many delicious foods to eat after she marries into the imperial pce, but how long has it been since she was married? Except for those meat scones, she cooked nothing else at all!
The Queen chuckled and said, She is the Crown Princess after all. If she stays in the kitchen all day long, you might say that she is not worthy of being the Crown Princess. I heard that she is teaching the cooks in the East Pce how to cook. You can ask her to teach your cooks as well.
Boohoo, Auntie. At this moment, Zhou Sisi trotted in and threw herself into Queen Zhous arms.
Emperor Huilin said, Who is so daring to make Sisi cry?
Zhou Sisi sobbed and said, Auntie, Sisi identally knocked over, boohoo, the ink, and the ink spilled on the little tiger that Cousin-inw made for Imperial Cousin. Boohoo, now Imperial Cousin doesnt allow me to go to the East Pce anymore.
Queen Zhou patted Zhou Sisis back andforted her. You shouldnt have destroyed your cousins doll. Your cousin said that in a fit of anger. You just need to apologize to him and itll be fine.
However, Emperor Huilin said, Why did Chener act like a child? What kind of doll is that? How could he make this child cry so sadly?
Be good, Sisi, let me take you to the East Pce and lets see if he dares to forbid you from entering.
Zhou Sisi wiped away her tears and smiled sweetly. Thank you, Uncle.
In the East Pce, the imperial maids used a lot of soap, trying to wash off the cinnabar ink on the tiger doll, but it couldnt be washed off.
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont wash anymore. Cinnabar is poisonous. Just throw this doll away.
Lu Chen would use cinnabar ink to draw circles when reviewing memorials, and would not touch it, but the cinnabar on the doll would inevitably be touched by his hands.
It didnt matter if Lu Chen touched it, but Qiao Jinniang was afraid that Lu Chen would touch Xier with the hand that had touched the cinnabar, or that Xier might y with the contaminated doll.
It was better to throw it away.
However, it was a pity that her several days of hard work was wasted. After all, she sewed the tiger doll stitch by stitch herself.
It was her birthday gift for Lu Chen, so it was made with meticulous care. She had embroidered the pattern of the little tiger for a long time.
Because of cooking, there were calluses on her hands. She was afraid that her hands might roughen the thread, so every time she touched silk threads, she was very careful, which hurt her eyes very much.
It was a pity to just throw it away, but cinnabar ink was poisonous.
Lu Chen said, Theres no need to throw it away. Ill lock it in a ss box.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its better to throw it away. Cinnabar may have seeped into the cotton inside. If Xier finds it, he might be poisoned.
Lu Chen always had a feeling that if he threw this one away, Qiao Jinniang would not make him a second one.
Then if this one is thrown away, can there be a second one?
Qiao Jinniang pointed to the sun in the sky and said, Its not night yet. Why are you daydreaming?
Lu Chen was really annoyed with Zhou Sisi.
Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, the little Highness is back. Its time for lunch.
When Qiao Jinniang went out, she saw Little Lu Xi plunged into Lu Chens arms and said, Father, Mother, the little tiger!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, The little tiger? Does Xier like the little tiger?
Yes! But since that little tiger belongs to Daddy, I cant take it. Aunt Nuomi said that children cant touch other peoples things!
Little Lu Xi said.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mommy will make a new one for you so that Xier can y with it.
Little Lu Xi leaned over and kissed Qiao Jinniang on the cheek. Thank you, Mom.
His Majesty, Her Majesty, and Miss Zhou are here. The voice of an eunuch came from the door.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen looked at each other and went to the gate of the East Pce to greet them.
Chapter 203 - Help Zhou Shihui Escape Out of the Zhou Family
Chapter 203: Help Zhou Shihui Escape Out of the Zhou Family
Emperor Huilin said in a loud voice, Chener, Sisi is just a child. Whats the big deal of her getting your doll dirty? Just let the Crown Princess make another one for you. Why did you scare her like that? How can you exin this to your grandma and uncle? She is the apple of the eye of the Zhou family!
Lu Chen frowned and said, Father, that doll was made by the Crown Princess with her own hands. It is unique.
Emperor Huilin said, Your child is already in school and you are still ying with a doll? Besides, its just a little doll. It wont take much effort for the Crown Princess to make another one.
Queen Zhou said to Jinniang, Sisi is just a child, and she didnt deliberately get your doll dirty. Sisi, apologize.
Zhou Sisi cried pitifully and said, Im sorry, Cousin, Cousin-inw. Dont hate Sisi. Sisi willpensate you with a doll.
Queen Zhou smiled and said, Okay, thats it. Sisi, you should go back now. Come to y next time.
Zhou Sisi reluctantly was led away by a mammy of the Queen.
Queen Zhou said to Qiao Jinniang, Sisi is just a child. Chener and you are adults. If people hear that you got mad at a child for a doll, they willugh at you, right?
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, I wont bother to be mad at a child.
Perhaps Queen Zhou felt that Qiao Jinniang was aggrieved this time. After returning to her pce, she had someone send over a lot of rewards, which were all very precious.
Some were even priceless treasures.
Qiao Jinniang knew what Queen Zhou meant. She didnt want her to feel wronged, but for the sake of the rtionship with the Duke Wu Mansion and the face of the royal family, she could only scold her.
...
Zhou Sisi returned to the Duke Wu Mansion and sat by theke gloomily.
Hearing the shouts from Zhou Shihuis room, Zhou Sisi went to Zhou Shihuis courtyard.
For the past few days, Zhou Shihui had exhausted all means to escape. She tried to hang herself and went on a hunger strike, but these methods were all useless to Old Madam Zhou.
When she tried to hang herself, the maids got her down at thest moment, and when she was on a hunger strike, Old Madam Zhou had the maids roast mutton everywhere, and the fragrance assailed Zhou Shihuis nostrils. How could Zhou Shihui resist her nature?
Locked in the yard, she could only keep calling out to her grandmother.
Zhou Sisi sneaked into Zhou Shihuis courtyard.
Zhou Shihui looked at the bright and clear eyes of her cousin who was said to be a moron, but she didnt think Zhou Sisi looked stupid at all. Cousin.
Zhou Sisi tilted her head and asked, Do you want to go out?
Yes, Im going out to save my senior brother. My senior brother must have been forced to marry Fulu by the Crown Princess. How could he fall in love with that notorious woman?
Zhou Sisi pointed to Zhou Shihuis clothes and said, Lets exchange clothes. Ill help you out so that the bad woman wont get her way.
Zhou Shihuis eyes lit up. Why didnt she think of this method. Thank you, Cousin. Lets exchange clothes quickly!
Although Zhou Sisi was retarded, the Zhou family didnt confine her. She only needed to be apanied by a maid wherever she wanted to go.
Zhou Sisi called over her maid and said, Bad people want to snatch my sisters senior brother. You, treat her as me!
The maid hurriedly knelt on the ground and said, Miss, you cant do this! If Im not by your side, what if something happens to you?!
Zhou Sisi pretended to be fierce and said, If you dont do what I say, Ill tell my mother that you bullied me.
Her maid, Xiao Ju, kowtowed in fright. Miss, please dont make things difficult for me.
Zhou Shihui said in a cold voice, Hmph, youre just a maid. Do you look down upon your master and I because your master is like a child and I grew up in folk? How dare you disobey your master and I?
Xiao Ju hurriedly said, Miss, I dont mean that, but my master needs someone in herpany. If something happens to her
Zhou Shihui said, She will pretend to be me and stay in my room. She wont go out at all. What would happen to her?
Zhou Sisi also said, Xiao Ju, Im going to tell my mother that you dont take my orders and bully me!
Faced with this predicament, Xiao Ju could only take Zhou Sisis order. As her maid, what choice was she left with?
Zhou Shihui changed into Zhou Sisis clothes and put on a veil. With Xiao Ju walking on her side, she pretended to be Zhou Shihui and walked out of the courtyard.
The guards thought that this was Zhou Sisi and didnt stop her.
Zhou Shihui left the Zhou Mansion and went straight towards the Anyuan Duke Mansion. On the way, she heard that Princess Fulu and Third Miss Qin, Qin Miaomiao, was having apetition in Myriad Taste today, and many people went to watch the fun.
Zhou Shihui followed these people.
Qin Miaomiao really didnt want to fight with Fulu anymore. She was a grown-up and had finally been engaged to Lin Mo. And Mrs. Lin hoped that her future daughter-inw was a gentle and obedient woman.
But Fulu was too much, kept belittling Lin Mo and extolling Qiao Lu in front of her.
It just so happened that Lin Mo and Qiao Lu were both dining in Myriad Taste today.
As soon as Qin Miaomiao and Fulu met in Myriad Taste, they began to quarrel, and in the end, they decided to have their future husbands have apetition in talent in Myriad Taste.
Lin Mo looked at Qiao Lu who was younger than him and really didnt want topete.
After all, if he beat Qiao Lu, he couldnt exin to His Royal Highness.
His Royal Highness pampered his Crown Princess so much. If he made His Royal Highnesss brother-inw lose face, he would never be able to eat the delicious scones made by the Crown Princess.
But if he lost thepetition, it would be a disgrace. After all, Qiao Lu was only a seventeen-year-old boy.
Qiao Lu cupped his hands at Lin Mo and said, Young Master Lin, please enlighten me.
Lin Mo: Young Master Qiao, youre too modest.
Zhou Siming, Junior Duke Rong and Princess Xiliang were all watching on the side. Thepetition was to write poems about flowers, and it could be their poems or someone elses.
Within an hour, whoever wrote the most poems would win!
Samoer watched them writing rapidly and nced at Junior Duke Rong next to her. Can you write poems like them?
Junior Duke Rong touched his nose and quickly changed the subject. Who do you think will win? Come on, everyone, lets bet on who will win! Maybe we can earn some silver taels!
Zhou Simings gaze swept over the two people in front of him. Qiao Lu was worthy of being the new Flower Picking Childe. Both his calligraphy and poetry were excellent.
After two quarters of an hour, the speed of the two slowed down, and all the poems they knew were exhausted, and for some simple poems, Qiao Lu and Lin Mo were disdainful to use them.
Both Lin Mo and Qiao Lu began to write their own poems.
Qin Miaomiao walked up to Lin Mo and whispered a few words to him.
Seeing this, Fulu frowned and said, Qin Miaomiao, you are cheating. How can you help him write poems?
Qin Miaomiao snorted. Did you say I wasnt allowed to help him? You can help Qiao Lu too, but unfortunately, youre illiterate, haha!
Who said that? I still know some characters, okay? Fulu said proudly.
The onlookers:
Junior Duke Rong tugged at Fulus sleeve. You better shut up. Dont ruin our royal familys reputation.
Chapter 204 - Zhou Shihui Was Thrown into Jail
Chapter 204: Zhou Shihui Was Thrown into Jail
When Zhou Shihui came over, she stood on tiptoe to watch and asked the onlookers at the door, What kind of apetition is going on inside?
The people said, Young Master Qiao, the future husband of Princess Fulu, and Mr. Lin Mo, the future husband of Third Miss Qin, are having apetition in writing poems. Within an hour, whoever writes more poems will win.
Young Master Lin has Third Miss Qin to help him, so it seems he is going to win!
Zhou Shihui finally saw her senior brother who she had been missing so much these days. He was writing as fast as he could at the table. Zhou Shihui hurried forward and wanted to ask her senior brothers real thoughts.
But she knew that Senior Brother must not lose to Lin Mo.
Zhou Shihui walked up to Qiao Lu and said to him, Senior Brother, let me help you.
Seeing Zhou Sihui who appeared out of nowhere, Fulu said, Oh, its you. If the Duke Wu Mansion hadnt locked you up at home, I would have settled scores with you earlier!
Why did you so shamelessly try to snatch my fiance? Do you think I will spare you just because youre Duke Wus niece?
My future husband doesnt need your help! Stop being disgusting!
Zhou Siming walked between Fulu and Zhou Shihui, and said to Zhou Shihui, Why did youe out? And why are you wearing Sisis clothes? Xiao Ju, shouldnt you be with Miss? Why are you by my cousins side?
Xiao Ju quickly knelt down and said, Young Master, I
Zhou Shihui said, Cousin, my cousin and I forced Xiao Ju to help me escape. Princess Fulu, why do you want to settle scores with me?
My senior brother doesnt like you at all. How can you so despicably force him to marry you?!
Even if the Crown Princess is my senior brothers elder sister, she cant force him to marry a woman he doesnt like!
Qiao Lu quickly put down his writing brush and said with a frown, Dont talk nonsense. I love Xiangxiang. I wont marry any other woman except for Xiangxiang!
Princess Fulu said with a little shyness, Hey, dont call my name in public!
Qiao Lu sped her hand and said, Okay, Ill only call your name in private. Miss Zhou, please respect yourself!
Its for the sake of the Crown Prince and Duke Wu that we forgave you for making use of Consort Huai to frame our Duke Anyuan Mansion and Princess Shouan Mansion.
If you still dont stop, we wont let you off easily.
Embarrassed, Zhou Siming said to his servants, Tie her up and send her back home!
Zhou Shihui frowned and said, Senior Brother, are you being pressured to say this? Princess Fulu is notorious in Changan, and everyone knows that she has no knowledge or skills
Bah, who do you think you are?! How dare you scold Princess Fulu?!
Exactly, she is just the illegitimate daughter of Duke Wus sister. Where did she get the nerve to scold Princess Fulu?
The people who were looking on were all angry.
Princess Fulu was very generous and often tipped them generously, and she liked to defendmoners against injustices.
Although she often quarreled with Third Miss Qin, she had never done anything bad.
Although she never obeyed the rules imposed on women, she was a good girl in the eyes of themon people. When encountering people living in poverty, she would generously throw her purse to them.
When encountering rogues, she would help themoners drive them away!
The people in Changan literally watched her grow up from a little girl. How could they allow others to insult her?
Zhou Shihui was shocked. She had thought that the people in Changan disliked this notorious woman, but to her surprise, themoners were actually defending her.
Qin Miaomiao also snorted. Although Fulu and I are at odds, who do you think you are? What makes you think you can scold her?
Even Zhou Sisi wouldnt dare to scold a princess, and you are only Duke Wus niece, hmph!
Junior Duke Rong came out and said, Zhou Siming, dont me me for not giving you face. As you can see, this woman is scolding Little Gourd in public!
Zhou Siming didnt intend to protect this cousin who appeared out of nowhere. One was the princess who grew up with him and always followed behind their buttocks when they were children.
The other was his cousin who he had only met for two to three times. Zhou Siming certainly could tell which one was more important to him.
Zhou Shihui, apologize!
Zhou Shihui looked at the people around her. She didnt understand why everyone was on the side of Princess Fulu, that ignorant, unskilled, willful and rude woman.
Why were people in Changan so snobbish? Just because she was a princess?
Lin Mo said, Brother Zhou, if she doesnt want to apologize, thats fine. Fulu doesnt need her apology.
Fulu said, Yes, I dont care about her insincere apology. She insulted a princess and should be punished byw!
Qin Miaomiao said, Last time, Sixth Miss Qiao cursed the Crown Princess who was only a county mistress at that time and ended up in jail for ten days. Zhou Shihui should be imprisoned for at least half a month!
Zhou Siming said to Zhou Shihui in a cold voice, Quickly kneel down and apologize. Do you want Grandmother to worry about you? She is already so old!
But Zhou Shihui stiffened her neck, unwilling to bow his head, saying, I wont apologize. Princess Xiliang, take a good look, this is what nobles andmoners in Changan are like. They just dont know right from wrong.
I just told the truth, but these snobbish people took sides with Princess Fulu and told barefaced lies!
Huge as Changan is, from themoners to the nobles, all are soft-footed wusses. What a disgrace to Changan!
Samoer simply responded indifferently, Oh.
Samoer would certainly not foolishly speak up for Zhou Shihui. In order to help her father keep his throne, she could only marry a royal family member of Datang. Although Princess Fulu was very hostile to her, it was not worthwhile to offend her.
Zhou Shihuisst hope was gone, but she still insisted. If you want to put me in jail, just do it, but the history books and imperial censors will uphold justice for me!
Zhou Siming had a terrible headache. His grandmother must be sad because of Zhou Shihui.
The Minister of Public Security was the second master of the Zhou family. He had a big headache about this too. If he put Zhou Shihui in jail, he was afraid that his mother might faint, but if not, how could he exin to Princess Shouan and the Empress Dowager?
Besides, Princess Fulu was going to marry into the Qiao family.
He couldnt afford to offend the Qiao family either.
He could only put Zhou Shihui in jail in ordance with criminalw.
In prison, Zhou Shihui still couldnt figure out why no one in Changan could know right from wrong!
...
In the Duke Wu Mansion, when Old Madam Zhou heard the news, she was so angry that she almost fainted.
The Zhou family invited an imperial doctor to treat Old Madam Zhou, which was quickly known by the Queen. She was very worried and asked Lu Chen to go to the Duke Wu Mansion to visit Old Madam Zhou.
Old Madam Zhou lying on bed, murmured, Shihui, s, this girl, her character is exactly the same as her mother, s!
Mrs. Zhou said, Mother, dont worry. With her second uncle protecting her, Shihui wont suffer too much in jail. And Ive sent a generous gift to the Princess Shouan Mansion as an apology.
After Lu Chen came in, he said to Old Madam Zhou, Grandmother.
Old Madam Zhou was about to get up to salute but was stopped by Lu Chen. Grandmother, you dont have to get up. My mother is very worried about you but she cant leave the imperial pce, so she asked me to visit you.
Old Madam Zhou said, Im sorry to make your mother worry. s, I just dont know what to do with that girl!
Grandma, grandma, whats wrong with you? Zhou Sisi ran into Old Madam Zhous bedroom.
Chapter 205 - Mrs. Zhou Wants to Let Zhou Sisi Marry into the East Palace
Chapter 205: Mrs. Zhou Wants to Let Zhou Sisi Marry into the East Pce
Mrs. Zhou poked Zhou Sisis forehead and said, Its all your fault. How could you agree to exchanging clothes with your cousin?
Zhou Sisi pouted pitifully and said, Ouch. Sisi only wanted to help Sister defeat the bad woman.
Seeing her daughter crying in pain, Mrs. Zhou couldnt bear to me her anymore. She saw the blood marks on Zhou Sisis hand and frowned. Your hand?
Zhou Sisi held an extremely ugly cotton ball in her other hand, which was also stained with blood, and said, Sisi embroidered a little tiger for Imperial Cousin.
Lu Chen didnt take the little tiger Zhou Sisi handed him.
Mrs. Zhou said, Your Royal Highness, this is Sisis apology. She has been feeling guilty for destroying your little tiger.
Old Madam Zhou nced at Lu Chens displeased face and said to Zhou Sisi,
Sisi, dont make a scene. You have to be punished for todays matter. Your maid, Xiao Ju, cant handle her work. Cane her a hundred times and send her to a manor.
Mrs. Zhou interceded for Xiao Ju: Mother, Im afraid Xiao Ju will lose her life if she is caned a hundred times!
Old Madam Zhou said, This is a warning to other servants. Sisis mind is not clear, so the maid by her side is particrly important. Xiao Ju didnt stop Sisi from doing improper things. Now she just gets what she deserves!
Zhou Sisi forcibly stuffed the blood-stained cotton ball into Lu Chens arms.
Imperial Cousin, Sisi embroidered this little tiger. Sisis hand hurt so badly. This is what Sisipensates you for.
Lu Chen looked at Old Madam Zhou and didnt refuse in the end, for fear that he would cause his grandmother to worry again.
However, when he walked out of Old Madam Zhous courtyard, he threw the cotton ball on the ground and walked over it.
Mrs. Zhou took Zhou Sisi back to her room, looked at Zhou Sisis hand that was scarred from embroidering the little tiger doll, and said with teary eyes. Sisi, you do you like your imperial cousin so much?
Zhou Sisi nodded hard. Yes! Sisi wants to y with Imperial Cousin all the time.
But your cousin has grown up and cant y with Sisi anymore.
Zhou Sisi said, Sisi just wants to be with Imperial Cousin forever. Sisi likes Imperial Cousin, and Sisi wants to give birth to a baby for Imperial Cousin!
Mrs. Zhou stroked Zhou Sisis head. Her silly daughter probably didnt even know what giving birth to a baby meant.
Dont worry. Mother will help you.
Although the Zhou family didnt want their daughters to marry into the imperial pce, Mrs. Zhou would be worried no matter which man Zhou Sisi married, for fear that her daughter would be bullied.
Since she liked the Crown Prince, why not let her marry him?
If Sisi married into the East Pce, with the Queens protection, Qiao Jinniang would not dare to bully Zhou Sisi openly.
In the evening, Mrs. Zhou told Duke Wu what happened today.
Duke Wu frowned and said, Auntiesst words were that the Zhou familys daughters must not marry into the East Pce again. Did you forget it?
Mrs. Zhou said, But didnt your sister marry into the imperial pce and be the Queen? Why cant Sisi?
Why did Sisi get sick? It was because of the Crown Prince!
She is just a child. She just wants to y with the crown prince.
Did you see her hands that were full of scars because she embroidered a doll for the Crown Prince? I really cant bear to see her disappointed!
Duke Wu frowned and said, Even if I agree, the Queen will not!
If you ask the Queen to agree, how can she possibly refuse you?
Mrs. Zhou said, Do you have the heart to see your daughter disappointed?
She just stayed at the age of seven forever. Its not that she doesnt understand anything. She will also be happy and sad! How can you bear to let her be sad all the time?
Duke Wu sighed. Sisi doesnt understand anything, and if she marries into the East Pce, Im afraid she will be bullied by the Crown Princess!
Mrs. Zhou said, The Queen will protect Sisi.
Besides, today I found that His Royal Highness still had some brotherly affections for Sisi.
His Royal Highness is gracious, and Sisi is his cousin who grew up with him. How can he not treat her kindly?
Duke Wu said, We have to think about it carefully. If we let Sisi marry into the East Pce, well have to find a reliable girl to apany Sisi to marry into the East Pce.
And when the girl has a child, the child has to be raised by Sisi.
After all, my sister and we cant protect Sisi forever.
Mrs. Zhou chuckled.
...
Qiao Jinniang heard about what happened in the Duke Wu Mansion today, and when Lu Chen came back, she asked him if Old Madam Zhou was all right, and was relieved to learn that Old Madam Zhou was still healthy.
I didnt expect that Fulu would have such prestige in the eyes of themon people, and they actually stood up to defend her.
Lu Chen smiled and said, Thats because she often spends silver as coins. Whichmon people dont like such a royal family member?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. It seems that I have to tell my brother to earn more money. Otherwise, he might not be able to raise Fulu.
Lu Chen said, Thats not necessary. Princess Shouan is very rich.
Mommy, Mommy! Little Lu Xi trotted in from outside. Mommy, little tiger.
Qiao Jinniang said, It hasnt been made yet. Ill give it to Xier to y with when its done.
Little Lu Xi hugged Qiao Jinniang and said, Mother, Xier wants to sleep with you today.
Lu Chen frowned and said, No way!
Qiao Jinniang hugged little Lu Xi in her arms and said, Hes only three years old, so he shouldnt sleep alone. Xier is sleeping with Mommy tonight.
Lu Chenti picked up little Lu Xi and said, He will wet the bed!
Little Lu Xi blushed and said, Bad daddy.
Qiao Jinniang pinched Xiers little red face and said, Xier is only three years old. Its not a big deal for Xier to wet the bed. Your father still wet the bed when he was seventeen!
Qiao Jinniang! Lu Chen frowned and said, Dont talk nonsense.
Im not talking nonsense. I saw it with my own eyes.
Lu Chen picked up Lu Xi and gave him to the maids who were guarding outside, walked back into the hall and asked Qiao Jinniang,
When did you see me wet the bed when I was seventeen?
The day before you agreed to marry into my family. I watched you go to the well to wash your bedding early in the morning. Your posture was so stiff that it looked like you had never washed it before.
Lu Chen recalled that day, when he heard Qiao Jinniang cry for a long time in front of his room.
At night, he had a dream, and that dream was quite absurd.
It was filled with Qiao Jinniangs cries, but the cries were extremely seductive
Lu Chen said, That was not bedwetting.
Why wasnt it bed-wetting? Qiao Jinniang asked, I saw a piece of the quilt that was obviously stained.
Lu Chen whispered a few words in Qiao Jinniangs ear.
Qiao Jinniang blushed and said, So you had ulterior motives for me before marriage!
Lu Chen said, Yes, with such beauty in front of me, how could I not be tempted?
Qiao Jinniang said, Glib-tongued. No wonder you looked so embarrassed by the well that morning.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, That was my first time. I didnt even know what it was. I just knew it was wrong, so I wanted to destroy the evidence. I didnt know that you had seen it and thought I wet the bed.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Was it really the first time you had a wet dream? You had never dreamed of another woman before?
Lu Chen nodded and said, Ive only dreamed of you. If you dont believe me, you can check the Crown Princes Living Notes.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she kissed Lu Chen on the cheek. You can only have one woman for the rest of your life, me!
She was just so domineering that she couldnt tolerate anyone else sharing her husband with her.
Even if she was recorded in the history books as a demonic woman and reviled byter generations for tens of thousands of years, she wouldnt regret it!
...
Not long after Mrs. Zhou went to visit Zhou Shihui in jail, Mrs. Tong brought Tong Xuan and Tong Yingying to the Duke Wu Mansion.
Mrs. Zhou had been busy with Zhou Shihui recently and had no time to think about Tong Yingying, so she didnt expect she would take the initiative toe to her.
Chapter 206 - Cousin, You’re Not Suitable for Me
Chapter 206: Cousin, Youre Not Suitable for Me
As Queen Zhou had told her not to let Zhou Siming marry Tong Yingying, Mrs. Zhou was determined not to ept Tong Yingying as her daughter-inw even at the expense of her mother-son rtionship with Zhou Siming, so after Tong Yingying came in, she simply ignored her.
Mrs. Tong said with a ttering look. Sister-inw, I heard that Shihui has offended Princess Fulu? Princess Fulu really didnt give any face to the Queen!
Mrs. Zhou said, Zhou Shihui was put in jail because she didnt respect the royal family, and the Queen certainly wouldnt cover up for her. Why did youe today, Sister-inw?
Mrs. Tong said with a smile, I came to thank Siming for helping our Tong family out.
More importantly, she heard a piece of news about the Zhou family.
It was said that Duke Wu had started to look for a suitable girl in the Zhou n to apany Zhou Sisi to marry into the East Pce.
Tong Yingying was obsessed with marrying the Crown Prince, and if the Duke Wu Mansion could help her, it would be a win-win result.
Tong Yingying also said, Auntie, I want to meet Cousin!
Unfortunately, your cousin went to the Qiao Mansion today. Today is Qiao Lus birthday.
Tong Yingying paused. She should have inquired before she came.
However, since today was Qiao Lus birthday, His Royal Highness would definitely go to the Qiao Mansion to attend his birthday banquet.
If she went there to find Zhou Siming, maybe she could see His Royal Highness.
Although Qiao Lu was the young master of the Duke Anyuan Mansion, his birth date hadnt been known to many people.
He and Qiao Ruoshui were born on the same day, and every year on Qiao Ruoshuis birthday, the Duke Mansion would hold a big birthday party for her.
But he would just have a good meal with his friends in the academy or in the military camp on his birthday.
This year was different. He had already passed the Imperial Examination. Even if the Emperor had not assigned him any job, he needed to build connections.
So the Duke Mansion held a big birthday banquet for him.
Zheng Xiao was about to give birth and was resting in her courtyard. Qiao Lus birthday made her think of her poor daughter who passed away so early
Outside, as Qiao Lus sister, Qiao Ruoyun was receiving the guests.
As for Qiao Ruoyi, she was receiving some uninvited young girls.
Most of these girls came with their elder brothers, and the Qiao family certainly couldnt drive them away.
The girls said,
Will the Crown Princee today?
I think he will. After all, Qiao Lu is his brother-inw.
Qiao Ruoyi snorted and said to Qiao Ruoyun, Sister Ruoyun, these women are too much. They said that they came to congratte Brother on his birthday, but they actually came to meet His Royal Highness.
Qiao Ruoyun sighed. Thats human nature.
Qin Shus Fourth Sister was obsessed with marrying into the East Pce.
After bing the concubine of Prince Huai, she turned to try to persuade Qin Shu to take sides with Prince Huai, saying that doing this would lead to a brighter future for the Duke Qin Mansion.
Man struggled upwards. That was human nature.
When Qin Miaomiao got out of the carriage, she happened to meet Zhou Siming, Lin Mo, and Junior Duke Rong, who came together. She saluted. Young Master Zhou, Young Master Lin, Your Highness.
Junior Duke Rong shook his fan, winked at Lin Mo, and pulled Zhou Siming away.
Lin Mo knew that Junior Duke Rong was deliberately making space for him and Qiao Miaomiao, but he didnt need it.
He had known Qin Miaomiao since childhood and had no feelings for her except that he often heard Fulu mention the grudges between her and Qin Miaomiao.
He didnt know why Qin Miaomiao wanted to marry him. With the Qin familys power, she could have married a man of noble title.
But anyway, at his age, he needed a wife, and it seemed that Qin Miaomiao would be the tolerant kind of wife, and that would be enough.
Dragged aside by Junior Duke Rong, Zhou Siming looked back at Qin Miaomiao and asked Junior Duke Rong, Why didnt you bring Princess Xiliang today?
Xiliang and the Qiao family have a bloody feud. Im not stupid, okay? Junior Duke Rong said, Hey, dont keep staring at the two of them. If you really envy them, ask your mother to get you a wife as soon as possible.
Zhou Siming said coldly, No need.
When Tong Yingying rushed to the Qiao Mansion, she happened to see Zhou Siming about to enter the door, and she shouted, Cousin!
Hearing her voice, Zhou Siming frowned and looked back at Tong Yingying. What are you doing here?
Tong Yingying spread the rumors about Qiao Lu just a few days ago. How did she have the face toe here today?
Tong Yingying took out the jade pendant Zhou Siming gave her and said to him, Cousin, do you remember what youve promised me? Now that Sisi also intends to marry into the East Pce, Ill definitely protect her well. Please help me enter the East Pce.
Zhou Siming nced at the jade pendant in Tong Yingyings hand, and then nced at Qin Miaomiao who was beside Lin Mo, and hurriedly said to Tong Yingying, Dont talk nonsense. Sisi is just a child. How is it possible for her to marry into the East Pce?
Tong Yingying said, Cousin, hasnt Aunt told you? Uncle is already looking for a suitable girl from among our rtives to apany Sisi into the East Pce!
Zhou Siming frowned. Whether Sisi marries into the East Pce or not, you have humiliated the Crown Princess, and you still want to marry into the East Pce?
Tong Yingying said to Zhou Siming, Cousin, I know your feelings for me, but Im a well-educated girl, and my goal is to be a role model for all women in the world. Youre a good man, but youre not suitable for me!
Zhou Siming was puzzled. What the heck was she talking about?
What do you mean by my feelings for you? Can you exin? Zhou Siming asked.
Tong Yingying said, Cousin, I know how much you love me, and I also know that you have been staying single for me, but I swore since I was a child that I must marry into the imperial pce and be a role model for all the women in the world
Zhou Siming gaped at her. Who said I love you? Stop talking nonsense!
If it werent for the sake of manners, Zhou Siming would be swearing at this moment!
Tong Yingying handed Zhou Simings jade pendant to him and said, You gave me this heirloom jade pendant back then and wrote to me, saying that if I needed any help in the future, you would try your best to help me. Have you forgotten all of these, Cousin?
Or, you just dont want me to marry the Crown Prince?
Zhou Siming took back the jade pendant. Who told you that those letters and the jade pendant were for you?!
Tong Yingying said to Zhou Siming, Not for me? Cousin, do you want to deny what you have done? Are you just doing this to stop me from marrying another man?
Zhou Siming said coldly, Tong Yingying, youd better take a mirror and take a good look at yourself. For gods sake, look at your face, how can I possibly be in love with you?!
Tong Yingying frowned and said, But the letters and your jade pendant were given to me by your personal servant. I can confront him.
The servant next to Zhou Siming hurriedly came out and exined, Gosh, Miss Tong, didnt I say those things were for Third Miss Qin at the time? How could you misunderstand that they were for you?
Chapter 207 - Zhou Siming and Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 207: Zhou Siming and Qin Miaomiao
Qiao Jinniang went to the Qiao Mansion with Lu Chen early in the morning after gaining Queen Zhous permission.
The Qiao Mansion was not far from the imperial pce, and it was Qiao Lus birthday banquet today, so they didnt have to be impeached by imperial censors.
When Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen got off the carriage, they happened to hear what Zhou Simings servant said.
Of course, Lin Mo and Qin Miaomiao, who were entering the door, also heard it.
In Changan City, there were many girls with the surname Qin, but only Qin Miaomiao was called Third Miss Qin.
Qin Miaomiao widened her eyes and snapped, Arent you Zhou Simings servant? What are you talking about?! Zhou Siming, why are you not admitting it? Who didnt know you fell for Tong Yingying? Dont even think about ndering me!
Although there were fewer restraints on women nowadays, love affairs were still very private and couldnt be exposed.
Zhou Siming red at his servant and said, Miss Qin, you can rest assured. I wont implicate you.
Qin Miaomiao breathed a sigh of relief.
Seeing the Crown Prince and Qiao Jinniang, Tong Yingying hurriedly came up to salute Lu Chen. Greetings, Your Royal Highness.
Qiao Jinniang asked with a smile, Why are you all standing at the door? Its so lively here. It seemed that someone gave his jade pendant to the wrong person?
Tong Yingying said, Three years ago, when I was still young, my cousin asked his servant to send me a letter and his jade pendant, saying that he had a big crush on me. I was too young to fall in love back then, but I didnt want to hurt his heart, so I kept the jade pendant and the letter.
Now I already have a man I love, so I want to return the letter and jade pendant to my cousin, but he doesnt want to admit it.
Hearing this, Zhou Simings servant stomped his feet anxiously and said, Oh, my! I was afraid that Miss Qin would be too shy to ept it.
And I heard that Miss Tong was Miss Qins good friend, so I asked Miss Tong to deliver the letter to Miss Qin. I swore I told her clearly. I really dont know why Miss Tong had such a misunderstanding!
Miss Qin and Miss Tong soundedpletely different.
Was Tong Yingying deaf?
Zhou Siming walked up to Qin Miaomiao and asked, So, you suddenly started to avoid me, refused to see me, and acted as if you wished you had never known me just because you thought I fell in love with Tong Yingying?
Zhou Shizi, please respect yourself. Qin Miaomiao took two steps back. I was very young at that time and didnt understand anything.
At that time, she was still underage. The Crown Prince disappeared and the imperial court was in turmoil. Her brother was outside all day. At that time, her brother just got married, and her sister-inw was too shy to deliver him meals alone, so Qin Miaomiao apanied Qiao Ruoyun to deliver meals to Qin Shu.
So she often met Zhou Siming in the Imperial Guards Office.
After the Crown Prince disappeared, Zhou Siming became haggard, and many people said that the Duke Wu Mansion was over.
Queen Zhou seemed to go mad and didnt allow the Emperor to enter her pce.
At that time, in Changan, everyone seemed to be able to bully the Duke Wu Mansion, and Zhou Siming was having a very difficult time.
Prince Mediocres party began to make trouble, trying to force Emperor Huilin to make Prince Mediocre the crown prince, and Zhou Siming became their target. Qin Miaomiao couldnt bear to see them humiliate Zhou Siming, and said something to defend him.
A few dayster, Queen Zhou made the Emperor give Prince Mediocre the title of Mediocre and banished him to the freezingly cold Northwestern border.
Not only was the Duke Wu Mansion not over, the Emperor even gave Zhou Siming a high-ranking official post, disregarding the obstacles of the ministers, allowing Zhou Siming to enter the East Pce freely and manage the East Pce for the missing Crown Prince.
A year after the Crown Prince disappeared, the court gradually became stable, and banquets increased in Changan.
Apart from the absence of the Crown Prince, Changan didnt seem to have changed much. Qin Miaomiao could often see Zhou Siming at banquets, but every time he appeared, he was very cold.
One day, Qin Miaomiao bumped into Zhou Siming who was drunk, and he said to her, Why havent youe of age?
Qin Miaomiao didnt know what he meant, but her heartstring was touched at that moment.
After that, however, when Tong Yingying came to the Qin Mansion to attend the banquet one day, she brought a letter from Zhou Siming to her, showing off to Qin Miaomiao how much Zhou Siming was head over heels in love with her.
Qin Miaomiao, who had juste of age, was very angry and embarrassed, thinking that she must have misunderstood Zhou Siming. He actually didnt mean anything by asking her that question.
So Qin Miaomiao began to hide far away whenever she met Zhou Siming, not wanting to be misunderstood by Tong Yingying.
In order to avoid suspicion, she even showed Tong Yingying the letters between her and Prince Mediocre. She didnt want to admit that she actually had the idea of marrying Zhou Siming that night.
She was the dignified miss of the Duke Qin Mansion, a well-educated noble girl, and she didnt want Tong Yingying to know that she once had such a ridiculous idea.
Later, after she learned that Prince Mediocre just wanted to make use of her, she wasnt really sad.
She insisted on marrying Lin Mo not because she wanted to prove her charm by snatching a princess man as Fulu guessed.
But because she wanted topletely forget her embarrassment at that time.
Lin Mo and Zhou Siming were good friends. If she married Lin Mo, it proved that she had no special feelings for Zhou Siming, so she wouldnt be embarrassed anymore when she met Zhou Siming.
However, Zhou Simings servant now said that this letter was for her to begin with!
Then who should be responsible for the embarrassment and shame that she felt when she met Zhou Siming during these years?
Qin Miaomiao was already engaged now, and the spur of love that she had at that night had long been reced by embarrassment and shame for so many years. Now she really didnt want to have anything to do with Zhou Siming.
Tong Yingying said, How could the letter and the jade pendant not be for me? Cousin, I know you are taking Third Miss Qin as an excuse because you dont want to damage my reputation! I am obviously much more excellent than Qin Miaomiao! My father is an imperial censor and Duke Qin only has a noble title but no real official post.
The Zhou familys servant:
Everyone who heard her words:
Qiao Jinniang really admired Tong Yingyings self-confidence. Although an imperial censor was a high-ranking official, he was nothingpared to a duke.
After all, the title of duke could be inherited byter generations!
Junior Duke Rong looked at Zhou Siming, then looked at Lin Mo, and coughed. Letse in. The banquet is about to start.
Qin Miaomiao said, Im not feeling well, so Ill leave first.
Zhou Siming hurriedly chased after her, not forgetting to order his servant to take back the letter and the jade pendant from Tong Yingying.
Tong Yingying still didnt believe that the letter was for Qin Miaomiao. She thought her cousin must have said this on purpose because he didnt want to offend the Crown Princess so as not to affect Zhou Sisis future in the East Pce!
Junior Duke Rong said to Lin Mo, Why are you still standing here? Chase after her! Do you really want to be cuckolded?
Lin Mo opened his folding fan, fanned it twice, and said, Ill be cuckolded if I really chase after her!
Junior Duke Rong also shook his fan and said, Zhou Siming really hid his thoughts deeply. If Duchess Wu knew about this, she would have cried to death!
Zhou Siming and Qin Miaomiao were well-matched in family background. If Qin Miaomiao married Zhou Siming as soon as she came of age, their child might have been able to walk by now.
Then Duchess Wu wouldnt have to worry every day that Zhou Siming was reluctant to marry a wife.
Chapter 208 - Queen Zhou Refuses to Let Zhou Sisi Marry into the East Palace
Chapter 208: Queen Zhou Refuses to Let Zhou Sisi Marry into the East Pce
After seeing Zhou Siming leave, Tong Yingying set her eyes on Lu Chen.
Although Zhou Siming was unfaithful to her, Tong Yingying was not sad at all. She didnt think Zhou Siming was good enough for her anyway.
Your Royal Highness
Lu Chen said coldly, Oh, yes, Miss Tong, Brother Siming lent you 30,000 taels of silver. Please return the money as soon as possible!
Come, send Miss Tong back to the Tong Mansion, and by the way, ask Tong Lei to repay the debt for her daughter as soon as possible.
When Tong Yingying heard this, she almost fainted. 30,000 taels! How could the Tong family get so much money?
Tong Yingying still wanted to say something, but Lu Chens bodyguard gagged her mouth and forcibly took her away from the Qiao Mansion.
It was very lively in the Qiao Mansion. When everyone in the garden heard the Crown Prince had arrived, they all sorted out their clothes. When Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen came in, they saw the beautiful scenery in the garden.
Princess Fulu walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Can you leave the imperial pce? I thought you couldnt!
Qiao Jinniang said, Her Majesty let mee out of the imperial pce to spend more time with my family.
What happened outside just now? What was Tong Yingying trying to do again? Fulu asked Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang whispered to Fulu about what happened just now. It happened at the gate and many people passed by, so it would probably spread throughout Changan in several days.
Fulu was stunned. Tong Yingying said she was much more excellent than Qin Miaomiao?! Oh my god, I finally met a woman who is even more confident than me, tsk!
Princess Fulu felt that she was already confident enough, but she didnt expect someone to beat her in this aspect.
Then Qin Miaomiao and Lin Mos engagement will probably be annulled.
Lin Mo certainly wouldnt marry the woman his best friend loved.
Qiao Ruoyun also heard about the matter from her maid. She was soft-tempered and didnt know what to do, so she just looked at Qin Shu.
Qin Shu said to Qiao Ruoyun, Dont worry, the Zhou family and the Lin family are both reasonable people. Miaomiaos thoughts are the most important.
Qiao Ruoyun breathed a sigh of relief. If it werent for Miss Tongs intervention, perhaps Sister-inw would have been married long ago.
...
In the Queens pce.
Duke Wu and Mrs. Zhou entered the pce together.
Queen Zhou asked how Old Madam Zhou was going and was relieved when she heard that her mother was doing well. Brother, you havente to me for a long time. Why did youe today?
Duke Wu said, There is indeed one thing. Sister, I want to let Sisi marry the Crown Prince!
Queen Zhou felt that her cheeks were slightly hot. She had just told Jinniang a few days ago that the Zhou family would not allow any daughter to marry into the imperial pce.
Brother! I will not agree.
Madam Zhou hurriedly said, Your Majesty, are you saying no because shes not healthy? Although this child is retarded, she is simple and innocent. Besides, I dont want her to suffer from the pain of giving birth to a child. As long as she has a ce in the East Pce, it will be enough. It wont affect the royal familys offspring.
Queen Zhou said, Its not because of this.
Duke Wu said, Is it because of Auntiesst words? But Sister, because you want to marry His Majesty, our family surrendered our military power for the sake of you. Im not saying this to push you.
I just hope you can understand that Sisi today is just like you back then. She is in deep love with His Royal Highness. Although her intelligence stays at the age of seven, she is already around sixteen to seventeen years old
In order to sew a puppet tiger for His Royal Highness, her hands were all punctured by needles. I only have one daughter I really cant bear to see her so sad.
Queen Zhou said, Brother, Sisters-inw, let me be honest with you, when Chener proposed to his Crown Princess, he made an oath that he would not take any concubines in this life.
Mrs. Zhou almost dropped the cup in her hand. Your Majesty, how can you just let Her Royal Highness mess around like this?
Queen Zhou said, How can you call it mess around. Are you willing my brother to take a concubine?
Of course Mrs. Zhou was unwilling. For so many years, Duke Wu didnt even have a concubine maid.
Queen Zhou said, The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess are not messing around. Sisi is still a child, and she just takes Chener as her brother. It would be harmful to her instead to let her marry into the East Pce.
Mrs. Zhou frowned. It seemed that her daughter could only be disappointed.
She didnt expect that the Crown Princess would have the ability to make His Royal Highness not take a concubine!
On the way back to the Duke Wu Mansion, Mrs. Zhou and Duke Wu sighed incessantly.
Duke Wu said, No more sighing. Since my sister has refused us, you should persuade Sisi to forget about His Royal Highness. She just wants to y with His Royal Highness too much.
Suddenly, Mrs. Zhou thought of Zhou Sisis hands full of wounds. It didnt seem that Sisi just wanted to y with His Royal Highness.
Master, Madam, something happened at the gate of the Qiao Mansion today. The butler of the Duke Wu Mansion hurriedly came up to greet them.
He told what happened between Tong Yingying and Zhou Siming today and said, Young Master followed her all the way to the Duke Qin Mansion, but he wasnt allowed in.
The corners of Mrs. Zhous lips curled up slightly. Fortunately, fortunately, my son is not blind. What are you waiting for? Hurry up, hire a matchmaker to go to the Duke Qin Mansion to propose marriage.
Duke Wu grabbed Mrs. Zhous hand and said, The Qin family and the Lin family havent canceled their engagement yet!
Mrs. Zhou said, Oh, right. Im going to the Lin family first and ask the Lin family to cancel the engagement first.
There were already many people who knew about this matter. Mrs. Lin cherished her familys reputation very much, and would definitely demand to cancel the engagement.
Duke Wu stopped Mrs. Zhou again. No, it would be rude for you to do that. Even if you want to have a grandson as soon as possible, you dont have to be in such a hurry.
Master, Madam, not good, Miss, Miss fell into the pool!
Mrs. Zhou hurriedly ran over, only to see Zhou Sisi soaking wet, holding a dpidated doll in her hand, her eyes were full of tears, and she was trembling helplessly.
Mother, the little tiger I gave to Imperial Cousin is in the river!
Imperial Cousin must be very anxious to lose the little tiger I gave him. I have to go to Imperial Cousin!
Mrs. Zhou asked the maids what happened to the tiger, and why was it in the pool?
A maid whose job was to sweep the floor came out and knelt down, saying, I saw this piece of rag when I was sweeping the floor two days ago, which had been trampled on, so I thought it was rubbish, but the dustpan couldnt contain it, so I simply threw it into the river!
Zhou Sisi pointed at the maid and said, You lied. You should be caned! Imperial Cousin cherishes the little tiger made by Sisi very much. You stole it!
Im going to give it back to Imperial Cousin. Im going to the East Pce!
Mrs. Zhou quickly held Zhou Sisis hand to stop her. Be good, Sisi. Your clothes are still wet. Why dont you change before going to the East Pce?
Zhou Sisi shook his head and said, No, Imperial Cousin will be sad if he cant find this doll.
Mrs. Zhou had no choice, so she ordered someone to bring a charcoal stove and sent Zhou Sisi to the Qiao Mansion. It was Qiao Lus birthday banquet today, and the Crown Prince would definitely go to the Qiao Mansion.
...
The birthday banquet.
The girls were ying the game of drumming and passing flowers, and the losers of the game would perform for the guests.
But everyone knew their target was Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang nced at the girl who was dancing hard in front of her and then pointed to the fish on the table, saying, Your Royal Highness, I want to eat the fish. Can you help me pick the fishbones?
Then the girl dancing saw the Crown Prince begin to carefully pick fishbones for the Crown Princess.
Seeing the Crown Prince simply turn a blind eye to her waist-folding dance, the girl almost sprained her waist
Chapter 209 - Lu Chen Accepted Zhou Sisi’s Doll
Chapter 209: Lu Chen epted Zhou Sisis Doll
Seeing the girl dancing stumble, Qiao Jinniang reminded her. Be careful. Dont sprain your waist.
The girl awkwardly thanked her and retreated.
The rest of the people stared wide-eyed at the sight of the Crown Prince picking fishbones for the Crown Princess without any hesitation, and their eyes were full of disbelief.
Even the husbands of noble families wouldnt do this for their wives, not to mention the exalted Crown Prince.
But the Crown Princess didnt think there was anything wrong with the Crown Prince feeding her fish meat, and she actually ate the fish meat that the Crown Prince fed her with ease.
The womens eyes were full of envy. Whether or not the Crown Prince was putting on a show for the power of Duke Anyuan, Qiao Jinniang was probably the only woman in this world that could be treated like this by the Crown Prince.
Noticing that everyone was staring at her, Qiao Jinniang was calm. Her husband was feeding her fish meat. Was there anything wrong with it?
Qin Shu also picked up some fish meat with his chopsticks and put it close to Qiao Ruoyuns mouth, but Qiao Ruoyun blushed and was too shy to eat it.
Qin Shu smiled and put the fish meat in Qiao Ruoyuns bowl.
At this moment, an eunuch came in to report, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, Duchess Wu and Miss Zhou are asking to see you.
Lu Chen certainly wouldnt refuse in public to meet them, so he said to the eunuch, Let them in.
When Zhou Sisi came in, her hair was still wet. She was soaking wet, covered with a cloak, and the tip of her nose and face were slightly red.
There were even drops of water on her long eyshes.
Mrs. Zhou brought Zhou Sisi in and saluted Lu Chen. Zhou Sisi walked straight up to Lu Chen with the rag doll in her hand and said, Imperial Cousin, your tiger doll. Sisi jumped into the river and picked it up.
Mrs. Zhou said, Your Royal Highness, Sisi was afraid that you would be anxious not seeing the doll, so she came to deliver you the doll without even changing clothes.
Zhou Sisi sneezed cutely, staring straight at Lu Chen. Ahchoo, Imperial Cousin, here it is!
Lu Chen frowned.
Qiao Jinniang picked up her fan and fanned it gently.
Then she said to Duchess Wu indifferently, Auntie, Sister doesnt know how to take care of herself, but doesnt the Zhou family know how to take care of her? Its still cold. She may get sick wearing the wet clothes!
Mrs. Zhou quickly said, Yes, but Sisi was worried that His Royal Highness would be anxious so
Qiao Jinniang said with a sneer, So the Zhou family doesnt even have any maids? The only daughter of Duke Wu has to deliver a doll to His Royal Highness herself in wet clothes? Is the Duke Wu Mansion so poor? I can give the Zhou family a few maids.
Zheng Xiao was a little worried. The Zhou family was the Queens natal family after all.
It would do no good to Qiao Jinniang to offend the Crown Princes aunt.
Mrs. Zhou was annoyed but she didnt dare to offend Qiao Jinniang in public, so she said, Of course we dontck maids, but Sisi wanted to deliver the doll to His Royal Highness herself. She was afraid maids might damage the doll.
Qiao Jinniang took the wet cotton ball in Zhou Sisis hand, which didnt look like a tiger at all. Just this rag? Are you afraid maids will embezzle it?
Qiao Jinniang threw the wet rag cotton ball to Lu Chen, Your Royal Highness, keep the doll carefully, which your cousin jumped into theke and fished up for you!
Knowing that Qiao Jinniang was angry, Lu Chen only said to Zhou Sisi, Go back and change first.
Zhou Sisi smiled and said, Then please take good care of Sisis doll, Imperial Cousin!
Lu Chen nodded.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chen nod, she really wanted to throw him and the doll together into the lotus pond.
After Zhou Sisi left, everyone looked at each other in surprise.
No one had ever regarded Zhou Sisi as a woman because they all knew that her intelligence only equaled that of a six or seven-year-old, but now it seemed that Zhou Sisi was clearly in love with the Crown Prince.
It was impossible for Zhou Sisi to stay single for the rest of her life. If she wanted to get married, it would be a very good choice to marry into the East Pce.
The Crown Princess warned them with that peony flower, but what about Zhou Sisi?
Before Qiao Jinniang returned to the East Pce, Zheng Xiao called her to her yard alone and said, Jinniang, Changan is not like Linan. The elders in the Duke Wu Mansion are all sensible. You really shouldnt talk to Mrs. Zhou like that today.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, everyone knows what Mrs. Zhou is trying to do!
On my brothers birthday, she brought her daughter in wet clothes to present a gift to His Royal Highness. Can His Royal Highness refuse?
If he didnt ept it, tomorrow in Changan City, everyone would say the Crown Prince is at odds with his uncle because he despised his poor retarded cousin!
I dont know if Zhou Sisi is really retarded or not.
But whether she is retarded or not.
The Zhou family will definitely take sides with her. If I dont show them my opinions on this matter and still fawn over them
What should I do if the Zhou family really gets Zhou Sisi to marry into the East Pce? Continue to fawn on the Zhou family? No way!
Zheng Xiao sighed. But that is the Queens natal family. Dont forget what I told you. If Duke Wu hadnt given up their military power, the Queen couldnt have been the Queen today, and the Crown Prince couldnt have been the Crown Prince today.
His Majesty is still in his prime, and although the other princes dont seem to have the ability topete with the Crown Prince for the throne, if you break with the Duke Wu Mansion, it will be unfavorable for you and the imperial grandson.
Zhou Sisi is like a child anyway. Even if you let her marry into the East Pce, she wont be able to snatch your husbands love.
Mother knows that you dont like to hear these words, but Jinniang, unptable advice benefits conduct. The East Pce is not the small city where you grew up. You shouldnt be so naive to think that the Crown Prince will only have one woman.
Qiao Jinniang knew that Zheng Xiao was saying these words for her own good.
But how could she share her husband, who was supposed to only belong to her, with other women?
She would never ever allow Zhou Sisi to marry into the East Pce. No matter how retarded and innocent she looked, she was also a woman and the Queens niece!
Mother, either that there is only me in the East Pce, or that the Crown Prince and I divorce, and then he can marry as many cousins as he likes. This is what weve agreed before our wedding.
I would rather break with the Duke Wu Mansion than agree to Zhou Sisi marrying into the East Pce!
Qiao Jinniang said resolutely.
Zheng Xiao sighed. With such a temperament, Jinniang was likely to suffer losses.
Lu Chen had been missing for three years after all. How could he give up the support of his mothers natal family?
The Crown Prince would probably choose the Duke Wu Mansion over the Duke Anyuan Mansion. After all, the former was Queen Zhous natal family.
Zheng Xiao was full of worries.
Qiao Jinniangforted Zheng Xiao. Mom, dont worry. I wont wrong myself.
Zheng Xiao sighed. If only your character and Ruoyuns character could be neutralized. One is too soft, while the other is too hard!
Chapter 210 - Vent on Lu Chen
Chapter 210: Vent on Lu Chen
In the carriage back to the East Pce.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniangs face was all dark, Lu Chen threw the rag doll aside, yed with Qiao Jinniangs fingers and said, If you hadnt thrown this rag doll to me, I wouldnt have epted it. Dont be angry, okay?
Qiao Jinniang frowned and said, Couldnt you just throw it away after I gave it to you?
In the situation just now, if you didnt ept it, tomorrow everyone in Changan would say you have no conscience. I kindly help you out and throw this doll to you, but youre ming me?
Lu Chen said, I know you are angry with Zhou Sisi, but dont be angry with me.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Thats because you didnt refuse her. Why did you nod when she asked you to take good care of this doll?
Lu Chen said, If I hadnt, she wouldnt have left. She is a retard anyway. Its better to give her what she wants than to be pestered by her.
Lu Chen whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear. Do you want to go to Tasty Pavilion to see Nuomi, Huixiang and the others?
Qiao Jinniang was still annoyed. No, they will worry about me if they see me so angry.
She knew that Lu Chen was not to be med, but she couldnt control herself and just wanted to vent on Lu Chen.
Lu Chen was very gentle to people, and a lot of women were attracted to him when he was in Linan.
When he smiled at Zhou Sisi, he looked so doting on her. No wonder Zhou Sisi insisted on marrying her Imperial Cousin!
Returning to the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang entered her own pce and locked the door.
Lu Chen was given the cold shoulder by her.
Although her maids felt that this was inappropriate, as the Crown Princess servants, they would only take the Crown Princess orders.
Lu Chen sighed. He had been trying every possible means to make Qiao Jinniangugh along the way in the carriage, but failed.
The Zhou family didnt even say that they would marry Zhou Sisi off into the East Pce, but Qiao Jinniang was already mad at him.
He had done everything he could, but she was still mad at him.
Lu Chen looked up at the white clouds in the sky and simply left Qiao Jinniangs pce, leaving her alone to calm down.
Hongling said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, the Zhou family hasnt asked to marry Miss Zhou into the East Pce yet. Besides, as we all can see, His Royal Highness loves you wholeheartedly.
If you vent on His Royal Highness, youll only push him away. His Royal Highness didnt do anything wrong on this matter.
Qiao Jinniang said, Hongling, you are my maid.
Hongling said, Your Highness, the four of us have been with you for more than a year. Im not Im not defending His Royal Highness, but I think he is probably more aggrieved than you!
Just now in the carriage, His Royal Highness had been trying so hard to make youugh along the way. It is not easy for you to leave the imperial pce, but today, he specially asked the Queen to let you go out of the imperial pce to attend Young Masters birthday banquet.
His Royal Highness really loves you. If you vent on him for no reason, you may hurt his heart.
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully, and it seemed that she shouldnt have vented on Lu Chen indeed.
So she got up, went to the kitchen, and made a few dishes for Lu Chen.
Lu Chen liked to eat fish balls, so Qiao Jinniang made fish balls that were very troublesome to make, and then made several dishes that he liked to eat.
After she finished cooking, it was already dark.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Yuyan to invite Lu Chen toe, but half an hourter, Yuyan came back to report, Your Highness, His Royal Highness left the East Pce soon after he returned to the East Pce. Eunuch Gu didnt know where he was gone and had already sent people to look for him.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not waiting for him. Call Xier over, and Xier and I will eat first.
She just cooked such a table of good dishes for nothing.
...
In the Duke Rong Mansion.
Princess Fuan kept coughing. She heard the noise outside and asked her maid, Why is it so noisy outside today?
His Royal Highness hase. Young Master is apanying His Royal Highness to have a meal. They have invited a few famous opera actors to perform. Would you like to go and have a look, Princess?
Princess Fuan coughed. No, Im just a medicine jar. I may ruin the atmosphere if I go there, cough, cough.
Princess, please dont say that. Didnt the imperial doctor say that as long as you can eat the thousand-year-old Tianshan snow lotus as medicine, your illness will be cured? Princess Xiliang will be your sister-inw soon. It wont be difficult to ask her to give you a thousand-year-old Tianshan snow lotus, which grows in Xiliang.
Lu Pianran, who was known as Princess Fuan, coughed and said, How can it be so easy? How is it possible for Princess Xiliang to be willing to marry my brother?
Junior Duke Rong said angrily, Whats so bad about me? Why did you disdain your own brother so much?
Fuan rolled her eyes at Junior Duke Rong. Cough, cough, Brother, what are you doing here? Arent you supposed to apany His Royal Highness?
Junior Duke Rong said, They are drinking too much. Moer doesnt like me drinking, so I dont want to drink like them.
Fuan smiled. I finally found one good thing about you, Brother.
Dont think that I wont beat you just because you are seriously ill. Junior Duke Rong gave her a fierce look, but when he heard Fuans uncontroble coughing, he said, I will help you get the Tianshan Snow Lotus.
Fuan said, Forget it, the thousand-year-old Tianshan is a well-deserved national treasure in Xiliang and is not so easy to obtain. Dont make things difficult for Sister-inw.
Junior Duke Rong said, No, Moer told me that the Tianshan Snow Lotus was stolen in Marchst year, and that it might be in Changan now.
Princess Fuans eyes brightened. If she could live, she certainly wanted to live!
She wanted to live as happily and carefree as Fulu!
...
Qiao Jinniang had been waiting for Lu Chen in the East Pce, but it was already 11pm, and Lu Chen still hadnt returned to the East Pce.
At this moment, the pce gate had already been locked. Although the East Pce had a separate door, Lu Chen probably wouldnt return today since it was already sote.
Qiao Jinniang flipped through a novel and felt bored.
She was a little worried about Lu Chen.
She called over Gu Ming and was told that Lu Chen was drunk in Duke Rong Mansion, so he would stay there tonight.
Qiao Jinniang frowned.
Then she went to Lu Chens study, opened the secret channel, and aftering out of the Qiao Mansion, she went to the stable.
Old Wang who was in charge of the stable was brought to Changan by her from Linan. Seeing her here, he was surprised but didnt ask anything.
Qiao Jinniang went straight to the Duke Rong Mansion and knocked on the closed door.
When the concierge saw Qiao Jinnianging over, he was stunned. Who are you? How dare you knock on the door of the Duke Rong Mansion at night!
Qiao Jinniang took out the pass of the East Pce and said, I am here to ask His Royal Highness to return to the East Pce on the order of the Crown Princess.
When the concierge saw the pass, he quickly opened the door and asked Qiao Jinniang to enter. Pleasee in.
...
In a courtyard of the Duke Rong Mansion.
Although Lu Chen drank a lot, he was still sober. He didnt go back to the East Pce because he wanted to see if Qiao Jinniang really cared about him.
It was already sote, but Qiao Jinniang hadnt sent anyone to look for him yet.
Your Royal Highness. Two maids entered, their voices very gentle and seducing.
Lu Chen frowned and looked at the two women. Why did Junior Duke Rong arrange such maids for him?
Your Royal Highness, the Duchess sent us two over to serve you to sleep.
The two maids were tall and beautiful, and looked from the side, they even resembled Qiao Jinniang a bit. The Duchess must have purposely sent them over.
Leave. I dont need you to serve me.
Chapter 211 - The Crown Prince Owes Zhou Sisi A Life-saving Grace
Chapter 211: The Crown Prince Owes Zhou Sisi A Life-saving Grace
One of the maids was bolder. She knew that if she could sleep with His Royal Highness, she would live a wealthy life ever after.
So she took the initiative to approach Lu Chen who was tipsy. Your Royal Highness, the Duchess ordered us to serve you well. Please show me mercy and let me serve you!
While speaking, the womans eyes were very seductive.
When Lu Chen heard her words, he called his secret guard and said, Throw the two of them out, and dont allow any women toe in.
The secret guard nodded.
Qiao Jinniang, who came in with the Duke Rong Mansion guards, saw this scene and chuckled.
Your Royal Highness, the Crown Princess has sent a maid over to ask you to return.
Lu Chen smiled. So she still had him in her heart. Let her in.
After Qiao Jinniang entered, she knelt on the ground and said, Greetings, Your Royal Highness.
After Lu Chen heard her voice, he hurriedly closed the door and pulled her up from the ground. Why are you here? How did you get out of the East Pce?
Qiao Jinniang took off her veil and said, I took the secret tunnel.
Qiao Jinniang smelled the smell of alcohol on Lu Chen andined, Why did you drink yourself into this? Just because I was mad at you?
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang and said, I dont know how to keep you from being angry, and Im afraid that you wont let me enter your pce when I go back. If that happens, wouldnt I be a joke in the East Pce?
Qiao Jinniang:
Lu Chen leaned on Qiao Jinniangs shoulder. You came out to look for me in person, which shows that you have me in your heart. Dont be angry, okay?
Tomorrow I will ask my mother to find Zhou Sisi a husband so that she cant bother you anymore.
Shes not Li Lingling or Fourth Miss Qin. We have no say on who she will marry. Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, Im not angry anymore. I made your favorite fish balls for you, but unfortunately you missed them.
Drunk, Lu Chen stretched his arms around Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, My favorite food is not fish balls, but white rabbits
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont mess around. This is in Duke Rong Mansion.
Lu Chen chuckled and said, This is the courtyard prepared for me by the Duke Rong Mansion, no one wille to disturb us.
...
In Duchess Rongs courtyard, she looked at the two useless maids in front of her and said coldly, Okay, I see. You can leave now.
Her mammy whispered to her, Madam, His Royal Highness only loves the Crown Princess. Why did you have to send these two maids to him?
s, I did this for Lianran. Her illness is getting worse. I should have taken better care of her that day!
Madam, you dont have to me yourself. What happened back then wasnt your fault.
Princess Rong recalled when Lu Pianran was eight years old, she was ying with a group of children at a banquet in the East Pce.
At that time, Lu Chen had just turned ten years old and officially moved into the East Pce.
On that day, the Empress Dowager plotted to murder Lu Chen, but her n was overheard by Lu Pianran when she was discussing the n with her confidant.
Although Lu Pianran was young, she understood what the Empress Dowager was trying to do, but it was toote to tell Lu Chen about it.
Seeing the Crown Princes robe on the side, she came up with an idea to put on Lu Chens robe and pretended to be Lu Chen.
Lu Chen was two years older than Lu Pianran, but their heights were about the same back then.
Lu Chens robe fit Lu Pianran well, and it was night, so everyone took Lu Pianran as Lu Chen.
Taken as Lu Chen, Lu Pianran was pushed into the river by an eunuch.
Zhou Sisi, who was six year old at that time, happened to witness this scene.
The murderer was afraid that Zhou Sisi would reveal his identity, so he knocked Zhou Sisi unconscious and pushed her into the river as well.
He wanted to silence her forever!
Duchess Rong was the first to discover that her daughter fell into the water with Zhou Sisi.
When Duchess Rong saw her daughter wearing the bright yellow python robe that only the Crown Prince could wear, she was almost scared out of her wits!
She hurriedly exchanged the clothes of her daughter with Zhou Sisis and then called for help.
She was very scared because in history, many princesses had rebelled.
Lu Pianran was a princess. If it was known by others that she wore the Crown Princes python robe, the Duke Rong Mansion might be in danger.
And when Lu Pianran woke up and told her what had happened, she was afraid of attracting the retaliation of the Empress Dowager.
Duke Rong was not born by the Empress Dowager.
Duchess Rong didnt want her daughter to be involved in the fight for the throne.
So she told Lu Pianran to keep this matter a secret and gave Zhou Sisi all the credit for saving the Crown Prince.
Because of that ident, Lu Pianran became sick and became a famous medicine jar in Changan.
And Zhou Sisi had constant high fever and became retarded ever since.
Zhou Sisi became retarded, so no one knew the truth except Duchess Rong and her confidants. Even the Zhou family thought it was Zhou Sisi who saved the Crown Prince.
Duchess Rong was happy to see it. She didnt want her daughter to owe the Crown Prince a life-saving grace at all.
She was afraid that people would know that Lu Pianran had worn the Crown Princes python robe.
But now Lu Pianrans health was getting worse and worse.
Her health was deteriorating day by day.
Although His Majesty and the Crown Prince promised to help them find Tianshan Snow Lotus, they would definitely not sacrifice the soldiers lives and the peoples peaceful lives to send troops to Xiliang to seize the Tianshan Snow Lotus.
Therefore, Duchess Rong had no choice but toe up with this idea. If Lu Chen fell in love with the women she sent to him, he might send troops to Xiliang to seize the Tianshan Snow Lotus for her.
Unfortunately, her n failed
...
in the Duke Wu Mansion.
Early in the morning, Mrs. Zhou heard the news from the Duke Rong Mansion.
Madam, it is absolutely true that His Royal Highness slept a maid from the East Pce in the Duke Rong Mansion.
Mrs. Zhou chuckled. Sure enough, how could Lu Chen only have one woman? He was the Crown Prince after all!
Mrs. Zhou said to her confidant, Find a few people to spread the news that Sisi put on the Crown Princes python robe to save the Crown Princes life when she was a kid. Remember to do it in secret.
Her Sisi jumped into theke without hesitation just to fish up the doll she made for Lu Chen. How could she let her daughter be disappointed?
Qiao Jinniang was too domineering. Zhou Sisi didnt want to snatch Lu Chens favor from Qiao Jinniang. She was just a kid and just wanted to stay with her beloved imperial cousin, but Qiao Jinniang just didnt let her.
Then she could only use this means to force the royal family to repay her daughters life-saving grace.
After all, Sisi became retarded from saving the Crown Prince!
...
The sun shone straight in from the skylight. When Qiao Jinniang woke up, there was still a strong aroma of wine on her lips, and she was shocked when she got up.
She hurriedly pushed Lu Chen lying next to her. Get up, its already daytime. Gosh, how can I go back to the East Pce?
She sneaked out at night, and it would be difficult for her to return to the East Pce now. At least she couldnt use the secret tunnel in the Qiao Mansion now.
Lu Chen smiled and said, What are you panicking about? Leave this to me.
Qiao Jinniang said, How can I not panic? You came out of the East Pce openly but I sneaked out.
Lu Chen said, Lets go back with my carriage. They wont check my carriage.
Qiao Jinniang thought this was the only way.
Xier will cry if he cant find me when he wakes up. Lets go back soon!
Lu Chen looked at the sun. It was time to go back indeed, so he had the guards drive his carriage into the yard so that no one would find out Qiao Jinniang was here.
Chapter 212 - Chicken Soup Wontons
Chapter 212: Chicken Soup Wontons
Qiao Jinniang was very worried in the carriage, afraid that the secret tunnel would be exposed, but when she smelled the fragrance of wontons outside, she put her worries aside.
I havent tasted such nice wontons for a long time.
Lu Chen ordered the driver to stop the carriage and had someone buy a bowl of wontons. The hawker hurriedly said, Customer, we are a small business, so this bowl cannot be taken away.
Gu Ming threw a tael of silver to the hawker and said, Isnt this enough to buy your bowl?
The hawker said, Master, you really cant take the wontons away. Youd better eat them on the spot. If you take the wantons away, they wont taste good in a short while. If you take it away and the wontons dont taste so good, you may me me for bad cooking skills.
An official of the Ministry of Rites recognized Gu Ming and said, Eunuch Gu, this hawker is very stubborn. He even refuses to deliver his wontons to our office. Even Tasty Pavilion offers delivery services, but he doesnt.
Lu Chen said to the outside, Bring in the wontons and Ill eat them in the carriage.
When the hawker saw this, he finally gave the bowl in his hand to Gu Ming. Hearing the word eunuch and judging from the luxury carriage, the one in the carriage was obviously a royal family member.
No matter how stubborn the hawker was, he didnt dare to offend a royal family member.
In the carriage, Qiao Jinniang was holding the steaming chicken soup wontons with a few spring onions floating on the surface. After she picked all the green onions aside, she gently scooped up a wonton with the spoon and tasted it. The wontons had thin skin, tender meat stuffings and delicious soup. It tasted really good.
Unexpectedly, there was such a small wonton stall in Changan.
After Qiao Jinniang ate two wontons, she handed a wonton with chopped green onion to Lu Chen.
Lu Chen tasted it and said, Its not as delicious as those you made.
Qiao Jinniang smiled, and after eating the wontons, she left all the soup with green onions for Lu Chen.
Lu Chen tasted two mouthfuls, and really felt that it was not as delicious as the wontons made by Qiao Jinniang. Although this soup was delicious, he always felt that it missed something.
Hey, have you heard that? Yesterday at the birthday banquet of Young Master Qiao in Duke Anyuan Mansion, Miss Zhou from the Duke Wu Mansion delivered the Crown Prince a doll while she was dripping wet.
How pitiful. Why is such a beautiful little girl a fool?
Yeah, she has such a noble identity. I heard that she had a high fever because she helped the Crown Prince out of a disaster. She literally saved the Crown Princes life!
The Crown Prince owes Miss Zhou a life-saving grace, so His Majesty treats the Duke Wu Mansion very well!
If Miss Zhou hadnt be an idiot, she would have be a well-known woman in Changan by now. Im afraid that the threshold of the Zhou family might have been stepped t by her suitors.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen in a low voice, So, your good sister saved your life?
Lu Chen frowned and said, Dont listen to those peoples nonsense!
After Lu Chen handed the bowl to Gu Ming, he said to Qiao Jinniang, The Empress Dowager really wanted to kill me back then, but I had already discovered it, and besides, I was surrounded by secret guards, so the Empress Dowager definitely wouldnt have any chance to kill me. What Zhou Sisi did was just unnecessary!
Qiao Jinniang said, Then why is this matter being brought up again among themon people? Its a scandal of the royal family after all. By the way, how dare the Empress Dowager do that to you? Did His Majesty punish her for that?
Lu Chen said, She is the Empress Dowager after all. How can we bring her down without sufficient evidence?
Datang advocates filial piety. Without conclusive evidence, even Father cant do anything to the Empress Dowager.
Lu Chen said to the guards outside, Zhou Sisi fell into the water because she was not careful. Come, arrest these people who ndered the royal family!
Themoners dared to gossip about the royal family because Emperor Huilin never restricted the freedom of speech of the people.
But if they vited the majesty of the royal family, they could be arrested ording tow.
Those who had not had time to spread the rumors fled, afraid of being caught.
Seeing this scene, a mammy of Mrs. Zhou hurriedly went back to the Zhou Mansion.
After returning to the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang pretended that she had stayed in the study all night. In order to make the act look more real, she even med Lu Chen for staying outside all night when he came in.
After returning to her own pce, Qiao Jinniang went to the kitchen to make wontons.
To make wontons delicious, the shrimp in the meat filling was essential. Lu Chen felt that the hawkers wontons were not tasty enough because the hawkers meat filling didnt contain shrimp.
After all, in Changan, shrimp meat was far more expensive than pork.
Yuyan trotted in and whispered into Qiao Jinniangs ear, Your Highness, it has been widely heard from outside thatst night, His Royal Highness slept with a maid from the East Pce who was sent by you to look for His Highness in Duke Rong Mansion! Did you send anyone over therest night?
Qiao Jinniang:
Lu Chen said that no one in the Duke Rong Mansion would know about it, but in such a short while, the rumors had even spread in the imperial pce.
Even Queen Zhou heard about it, and she quickly called Qiao Jinniang over.
Qiao Jinniang put a bowl of chicken soup in the food box and went to the Queens pce.
When she arrived at the Queens pce, there were quite a few imperial concubines in it, as well as Li Lingling, Consort Qi and some others. There was a woman standing beside Li Lingling who looked familiar to Qiao Jinniang. She must be Fourth Miss Qin who was Consort Huais concubine now.
Greetings, Mother. Qiao Jinniang saluted. Unfortunately, I didnt know that there were so many people here, so I only prepared a bowl of chicken soup wontons for Mother.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was calm, Queen Zhou breathed a sigh of relief. She smelled the chicken soup wonton and said, The wontons smell really nice. It smells a bit simr to Uncle Wus wonton on the main street.
A mammy next to her coughed.
Queen Zhou hurriedly tried to make it up. Well, but I havent tasted it for almost 20 years
Consort Qi said, It turns out that Uncle Wus wontons have been around for so long? I remember when I was married, there was no Uncle Wus wonton.
Queen Zhou said, Maybe it was elsewhere before
Queen Zhou tasted two wontons, her eyes lit up. Jinniangs cooking skills are really good. The wontons are even tastier than Uncle Wus.
Thank you, Mother. Qiao Jinniang saluted.
Li Lingling didnt care about the wontons. She smiled and said, Crown Princess, I heard that His Royal Highness favored a maid of yours in the Duke Rong Mansion yesterday. This is really great news for the East Pce. After all, His Royal Highness only has one child...
Li Lingling was not afraid of losing face now. As long as Qiao Jinniang could be embarrassed, she would be willing to do anything.
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh, Sister-inw, did you see it with your own eyes at the door? Yes, His Royal Highness only has one child, but the eldest brother doesnt even have a child! I hope Concubine Qin can give birth to a son as soon as possible.
Li Lingling gnashed her teeth and red at Qiao Jinniang. She didnt believe that Qiao Jinniang really didnt mind it.
It had only been a few days since their wedding, but the Crown Prince had already slept with a woman outside the East Pce. Although Qiao Jinniang sounded calm, she must be very mad.
Chapter 213 - Zhou Sisi Has to Get Married within Three Days
Chapter 213: Zhou Sisi Has to Get Married within Three Days
After the imperial concubines and consorts all left.
Queen Zhou asked the eunuchs and imperial maids to leave and said to Jinniang, The rumor about what happened in the Duke Rong Mansion yesterday is true. After all, it concerns the royal familys offspring, so Duchess Rong could only expose it.
Yesterday, Chener must have been drunk, or maybe he had been tricked by that imperial maid.
Hand over that imperial maid to me. Regardless of whether she is pregnant or not, I will solve it cleanly and she will not affect the rtionship between the two of you.
Queen Zhou continued, Its just that Chener has been the Crown Prince since he was a child and is respected by everyone.
You didnt allow him to enter your pce and didnt give him face. Then how could he establish authority andmand his subordinates in the future?
Chener was wrong in this matter, and you werentpletely innocent. Listen to my advice, just pretend that nothing has happened and Ill solve that imperial maid for you.
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to lie to Queen Zhou, so she confessed in a small voice, Mother, in fact, it was me who sneaked out of the East Pce and went to Duke Rong Mansionst night
Queen Zhou: you two, s!
Queen Zhou didnt know whether to be annoyed or relieved. She had thought Chener had cheated on Qiao Jinniang and was thinking about how to make up for it, but it turned out to be a misunderstanding.
No wonder Qiao Jinniang was so calm and not annoyed at all.
Seeing that the chicken soup wonton had bottomed out, Qiao Jinniang emboldened herself to say, Mother, what you said just now makes sense, and I admit that I was wrong.
But I didnt give face to His Royal Highness yesterday because I was really angry.
What did Auntie mean by bringing Sisi who was dripping wet to the Qiao family?
Mother, you said that Zhou Sisi disdained marrying into the East Pce, but why did she give my husband a doll under the public eye all wet?
To show everyone how much she loved him?
If the Zhou family really wants to marry Zhou Sisi into the East Pce and you think its good too, I can surrender the position to her!
But the Zhou family keeps saying that Zhou Sisi doesnt want to marry into the East Pce, yet indulges or even helps her seduce my husband all the time
Queen Zhou frowned and said, Sisi is just a six or seven-year-old kid. What can she know? Her love for Chener is nothing more than a young sisters affection for her elder brother. How can you call it seduce?
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I dont think Zhou Sisi doesnt understand anything. No matter how childish she seems, she is actually a mature woman. Even if Zhou Sisi doesnt understand the love between men and women, does the Zhou family not?
Qiao Jinniang asked, Mother, dont say that the Zhou family doesnt want it. If they really dont, how could someone deliberately spread the news that Zhou Sisi once saved Lu Chens life among the people!
Queen Zhous expression didnt change, but her eyes suddenly turned sharp. Come, pass on my order, call Duke Wu and his wife over!
Qiao Jinniang sat beside Queen Zhou and it wasnt until half an hourter did Duke Wu and his wife arrive, followed by Zhou Sisi with a sullen expression.
Auntie! Zhou Sisi shouted when she saw Queen Zhou, Where is Imperial Cousin? Ah-choo.
Queen Zhou red at her brother and sister-inw. Sister-inw, youre really simr to Tong Yingyings aunt. The methods you two used are simrly disgusting. How can you try to manipte public opinion?
Why did you spread the news? What do you want?
Let everyone in the world know that the Empress Dowager tried to kill the Crown Prince? That a grandmother wants to kill her grandson? Our country advocates filial piety. Now what should His Majesty do?
It would have been fine if you had solid evidence. But its just our spection, and we cant have the Empress Dowager punished at all. By spreading the news, you would only make the royal family a joke!
Sister-inw, even if you are tired of living, dont implicate the entire Zhou family!
Mrs. Zhou said aggrievedly, But Your Majesty, did you forget that we sacrificed our familys military power to help you to be the Queen?
You are now the respected Queen, and His Majesty dotes on you very much, but our Duke Wu Mansion cant even match the Duke Anyuan Mansion!
I just think Sisi is too pitiful. For His Royal Highness, Sisi even dared to jump into the water that she was always afraid of, even her hands became scarred.
Your Majesty, as a mother, I just want my daughter to be happy! I beg you, for the sake of the sacrifice of the Duke Wu Mansion for you and a mothers love for her daughter, grant her what she wants.
Qiao Jinniang stood by Queen Zhous side and watched Mrs. Zhou speak sincerely and tearfully.
But even though she imed that it was all for Zhou Sisi, the truth was that she was not reconciled that the Duke Anyuan Mansion was more powerful than the Due Wu Mansion.
Queen Zhou snorted coldly. Yes, the Duke Wu Mansion did hand over the military power for me at that time, but if they didnt hand over the military power back then, do you think that the Duke Wu Mansion still exists today?
His Majesty seems to be merciful but can he really tolerate any ministers who are too powerful? Earl Chengen has no real power left now, and the Lu family in Longnan has been wiped out.
The right prime minister and his party have been uprooted. As for the Duke Anyuan Mansion, yes, Duke Anyuan is indeed powerful, but it is his concubine-born second brother who guards the frontier and controls the military power. Why does it have to be his concubine-born brother? You should know that Duke Anyuan has a brother of the same mother.
Duke Anyuan is loyal, but if he is not, his concubine-born brother probably wont listen to him.
And now, the Xie family, the only remaining old distinguished family in the South, is having an internal strife. Do you think whether His Majesty ys a part in it or not?
Indeed, the Duke Wu Mansion had military power back then, but how long do you think the glory of the Duke Wu Mansion couldst if we didnt hand over the military power?
How long could His Majesty tolerate the Duke Wu Mansion that was already overly powerful?
Dont keep emphasizing how much you sacrificed for me!
Back then, Auntie snatched thete emperors favor and was so disrespectful to the Empress Dowager in the imperial pce. If it werent for me, could the Duke Wu Mansion survive the Empress Dowagers retaliation? After all, the Empress Dowager is His Majestys mother!
Brother, Sister-inw, go back home and think about it, did you help me, or did I help you?
Dont think that His Majesty is really tolerant and merciful just because he looks so!
Queen Zhous remarks made Duke Wu look ashen and burst into a cold sweat.
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully and found what the Queen said was true. There were indeed no truly powerful ministers now. Even the big distinguished family like the Xie family had to bow their heads to the Emperor because of their internal strife.
Queen Zhou said, If you want to push me to do something I dont like with the so-called favor I owe you, dont me me for being ruthless!
Ive made it very clear to you that the Crown Prince will not take concubines, but Sister-inw just doesnt give up.
Sisi is different from ordinary girls, and you will worry about her if she is married far away, so pick a man to marry into your family!
My mother is not in good health, and I dont want her to be too tired. Brother, Sister-inw, select a husband for Sisi. In three days, I want to hear the news of Sisis engagement!
Zhou Sisis eyes rolled slightly.
Mrs. Zhou hurriedly knelt down and kowtowed. Your Majesty! She is your niece! I was wrong, I know I was wrong!
I dont dare do it again and I wont spread anything more.
But she saved the Crown Princes life after all. Please dont let her marry someone else.
Queen Zhou said, Saved Chener? What a joke. At that time, Chener was surrounded by secret guards, and the Empress Dowager couldnt hurt him at all!
Moreover, His Majesty didnt punish her for wearing the Crown Princes python robe, which was a kindness to the Duke Wu Mansion. Could the Crown Princes python robe be worn by her?
Qiao Jinniang, who often wore Lu Chens clothes, couldnt help but shiver
Zhou Sisi walked up to Queen Zhou and said, Auntie, dont be angry, dont be angry. Sisi doesnt want to get married. Sisi only wants to y with Imperial Cousin and Auntie!
Chapter 214 - Missing on the Street
Chapter 214: Missing on the Street
Queen Zhou nced at Zhou Sisi and said sarcastically, The cinnabar ink is usually kept carefully, but you just could knock it over and spill it right on the tiger doll. Sisi, youre really smart!
Mrs. Zhou said with tearful eyes. Your Majesty, I already knew that I was wrong, but Sisi is just like a child and doesnt understand anything! If she can have normal intelligence, I would be willing to be a vegetarian for the rest of my life.
Queen Zhou said, Not all children are as pure as nk sheets. You know what I mean. You can leave now!
The three of them could only salute and leave.
Seeing Zhou Sisis dull eyes, Qiao Jinniang asked Queen Zhou, Mother, is she pretending to be stupid?
I dont know. Queen Zhou said.
But why did you mention cinnabar ink just now?
Queen Zhou exined, It doesnt matter if she is pretending to be stupid or not. As long as I think she is pretending to be stupid, Mrs. Zhou wont indulge her anymore. Unlike Tong Yingying, your aunt is not a bad person.
But parents always want their children to live happily. Your aunt just wants to give her daughter a better future. Now that I dislike Zhou Sisi, she will definitely not allow her to marry into the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Mother, youre really amazing.
Queen Zhou said, Well, Ive eaten your delicious wontons. How can I let you be wronged?
Chener should have done something about it. Since he knew that you disliked Zhou Sisi, he should have solved this problem earlier.
Her son was really lucky to be able to have a wife.
Qiao Jinniang felt that what her mother-inw said made sense. Mother, youre right. Do you still want to eat wontons? There are still some in the East Pce. Let me bring them to you.
Queen Zhou smiled. Okay.
After finishing his business, Lu Chen waited for Qiao Jinniangs wontons all morning.
It was not until lunch that he knew that Qiao Jinniang went to the Queens pce for dinner and brought all the wontons there, even including his portion.
In the Queens pce, Queen Zhou hadnt eaten so much for a long time.
Emperor Huilin was very d and rewarded Qiao Jinniang with many good things.
When Lu Chen came in, he saw the three of them dine in without regard for the royal etiquette. He stepped forward and said, Father, Mother, why didnt you call me over to have dinner together?
Queen Zhou said, I thought you would have lunch with the courtiers of the East Pce. You came toote, and the wontons Jinniang made have been all eaten up.
Lu Chen:
He knew that his father loved delicious food, but why did his dignified mother be so childish too?
Seeing that there were a few with chopped green onions in Qiao Jinniangs bowl, Lu Chen said, Its fine. Ill just eat whats left in Jinniangs bowl. She doesnt like green onions.
Emperor Huilin snorted. Hmph, did you forget you are the Crown Prince? How can you eat others leftovers!
But dont think that just making some wontons can please me and your mother.
Block the secret tunnel as early as possible. If its found out by others, I cant save your lives!
Qiao Jinniang:
Lu Chen knew that nothing could be kept from his fathers eyes. After all, he had scouts in the Duke Rong Mansion, so he simply said, Okay, Father.
...
In the Zhou familys carriage.
Duke Wu didnt me Mrs. Zhou but said, Find a good husband for Sisi. It;s best to have a clean family background. He doesnt have to be very talented as long as he treats Sisi well.
Mrs. Zhou pursed her lips and said, Okay.
But Zhou Sisi mored, No, Mother. I want to be Imperial Cousins crown princess. I dont want to marry anyone but Imperial Cousin!
Sisi, your cousin already has a crown princess!
Shes not worthy! Zhou Sisi cried. I dont care. I just want to be the crown princess!
Mrs. Zhou hugged Zhou Sisi in her arms and tried to pacify her. Be good, Zhou Sisi, be good. There is nothing good about being the crown princess. I will definitely find you a husband much better than His Royal Highness.
Zhou Sisi closed her eyes. The more she thought about it, the more annoyed she became.
Her mother was really useless!
Zhou Sisi had always felt that there were two people living in her body.
One was the retarded Little Sisi, and the other was the sober Miss Zhou who could even be called calcting.
Most of the time, it was the retarded little Sisi, and the sober, calcting Miss Zhou could only watch on the sidelines.
Although she was the only daughter of Duke Wu, everyone would bully her secretly, and even the maids would bully her secretly.
Whenever she was seriously humiliated, the sober Zhou Sisi would be able to control the body.
Zhou Sisi remembered that when she was twelve years old, the first time she had her period, there was blood on her skirt, and everyoneughed at her, but her imperial cousin protected her and reprimanded those who bullied her.
After that, both the retarded Sisi and the sober Zhou Sisi fell in love with Lu Chen.
After Lu Chen disappeared, she had been missing him.
After Lu Chen came back, the retarded Sisi and the sober Zhou Sisi were both determined to marry him.
After that, Zhou Sisi finally returned to normal by chance, and the retarded Sisi never came out again.
However, when Imperial Concubine Zhou died, she left thest words that the daughters of the Zhou family shall never marry into the imperial pce.
Zhou Sisi couldnt marry into the East Pce even if she had regained consciousness, so she decided to continue to act as a fool. She believed that her imperial cousin who had been missing for many years would pity her and would not care about her retardness.
Just like in the past, he would protect her and y with her forever.
After Lu Chen came back, this was indeed the case in the beginning. When he met her in the Queens pce, he would still dote on her and y with her, praising her for bing more beautiful
But then, Qiao Jinniang appeared.
Zhou Sisi watched helplessly as her imperial cousin gave all his love to Qiao Jinniang, but she didnt want to just give up her obsession.
But her stupid mother used the same method as Tong Yingying and almost ruined the Zhou family, and now, she would have to be engaged within three days!
No, she couldnt just sit still and await her doom. She couldnt marry someone else.
Mother, I only want Imperial Cousin, not anyone else. I only want Imperial Cousin! Zhou Sisi cried. Imperial Cousin is the best.
Mrs. Zhou was helpless, but how could she not obey the Queens order? Sisi, be good.
Zhou Sisi snorted and suddenly jumped out of the carriage. Mrs. Zhou hurriedly shouted, Sisi!
But Zhou Sisi ran so fast that even Duke Wu, who had been practicing martial arts, couldnt catch up with her
All the guards of the Duke Wu Mansion scattered to look for Zhou Sisi, and the people also searched for Zhou Sisi for the Zhou family.
Mrs. Zhou cried and said, Its all my fault. I shouldnt have been so harsh with her! She is a demented girl. Now that she ran away from home, I cant imagine what will happen to her!
...
In the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen had not yet had their lunch nap when they heard the news of Zhou Sisis disappearance.
She couldnt help feeling surprised. How could the guards of the Duke Wu Mansion let such a living human run away from their eyes on the main street of Changan?
Everyone could tell at the first nce that Zhou Sisi was from a rich family, and many people in Changan knew her. How could she disappear so easily?
At this time, an eunuch reported outside that Duke Wu and Zhou Siming asked to see them.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, You can take a nap first.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Okay.
Chapter 215 - Chang’an under Martial Law
Chapter 215: Changan under Martial Law
When Zhou Siming saw Lu Chen, he hurriedly said, Your Royal Highness, after Sisi jumped off the carriage, she disappeared. I wonder if you can help us to put the entire Changan under martialw to block all the exits of Changan?
Duke Wu knelt down to Lu Chen and said, His Royal Highness, Sisi is not clear in her mind. We cant imagine what terrible things will happen to her. Your grandmother has already been angered into fainting by Zhou Shihuist time. I dont know if she can survive this time if anything happens to Sisi
Lu Chen frowned. His grandmother was an elderly person after all, so he said to Duke Wu, Uncle, it is extremely inappropriate to put Changan under martialw and block all the exits, but Ill order the Imperial Guards to search carefully in Changan.
Lu Chen followed Zhou Siming and Duke Wu out of the East Pce to dispatch the soldiers.
Although Qiao Jinniang was ustomed to taking a nap after lunch, she couldnt sleep because Zhou Sisi disappeared, so she could only wait in the East Pce for news from outside.
Mrs. Zhou cried bitterly outside the pce gate. Why was Qiao Jinniang so mean to Sisi?! And why did Her Majesty set the deadline of three days? If something happens to Sisi, I wont live!
Mrs. Tong and the others tried their best tofort Mrs. Zhou.
But Mrs. Zhou cried more and more loudly.
...
In a vi in Changan, which was decorated in ordance with the Southern style.
The second young master of the Xie family was lying in a pavilion, shaking his fan gently, and seeing the woman who appeared in front of him, he said, Miss Mu, it must be hard for you toe to me with such a big belly. Youre about to give birth, right?
Mu Qianqian said, Second Young Master Xie, my master has already agreed to your conditions and wants to do those big things with you!
The second young master of the Xie family sneered. Although your master was quite famous when he was young, he has just regained his status as Prince Huai. Compared with the Crown Prince, he is nothing.
Mu Qianqian said, Second Master, you can rest assured. My master is His Majestys eldest son. Although the Crown Prince is well praised, my master is no worse than him at all. Besides, my master has a trump card, which is Zhou Sisi.
The second young master of the Xie family said in surprise, Zhou Sisi? Isnt she Duke Wus daughter? How can she be your masters trump card?
Mu Qianqian touched her abdomen and said, Yes, you can think about it carefully. Although Xie Yun has canceled the engagement with the Crown Prince, the two of them are very close. I heard that Xie Yun is secretly doing business with Qiao Jinniang!
The second young master of the Xie family pondered carefully. Although there was only Xie Yun left in his eldest uncles family, Xie Yun could never be taken lightly.
What the second young master of the Xie family wanted was not only the Xie family, but also the dignity of the Xie family as thergest old distinguished family today. Looking at the whole situation, it was better to choose Prince Huai than the Crown Prince.
Miss Mu, let me think about it carefully.
Mu Qianqian said, Second Young Master, do you know that Fourth Miss Qin has be the concubine of Prince Huai. Although everyone says that the Duke Qin Mansion is nothing but an empty husk, Qin Shu is now in a high position, and the Qin family has both military power and a noble title.
Seeing that the second young master of the Xie family hadnt agreed to cooperate, Mu Qianqian showed more trump cards Prince Huai had.
The second young master of the Xie family smiled and said, But I heard that Qin Miaomiao and Lin Mo have been engaged?
Your news is wrong. The heir to Duke Wu fell for Qin Miaomiao.
The second young master of the Xie family said, But Qin Shu is the husband of the Crown Princess sister, and the brother-inw of the Crown Prince. If Qin Miaomiao marries the heir to Duke Wu, the Qin family will not be stupid enough to help the eldest prince!
Mu Qianqian smiled. Then please wait and see, Second Young Master!
...
After Mu Qianqian left the Xie familys vi, she turned and entered the Mu mansion in Changan.
Seeing Zhou Sisi on the ground who was tied up, she took out the rag in Zhou Sisis mouth, but didnt untie the ck cloth blindfolding Zhou Sisis eyes.
Miss Zhou, Im sorry. I just wanted to invite you to have a talk. How could they put a rag in your mouth!
Zhou Sisi frowned and said, Who are you? Let me go!
Mu Qianqian said, Im here to help you be the crown princess. Miss Zhou, Im afraid that youve gradually sobered upst year, right? If it werent for the rumors this morning, I would have believed that Miss Zhou had been retarded!
Who are you? What do you want to do?
Mu Qianqian said, Miss Zhou, you began to take Tianshan Snow Lotusst year. Im afraid that you dont have enough Tianshan Snow Lotus now, right? I still have a few here to keep Miss Zhou sober!
Zhou Sisi frowned and said, What on earth are you going to do? If you want money, the Zhou Family can give it to you!
Mu Qianqian said, I dont want money. I want Miss Zhou to marry into the East Pce and do something for me!
Zhou Sisi shook her head and said, I wont betray Imperial Cousin. Dont even think about using me! Id rather be crazy than help you deal with Imperial Cousin.
Mu Qianqian said, But I heard just now that Queen Zhou has ordered you to find a husband within three days. What if I could help you marry into the East Pce?
Zhou Sisi felt silent. She was a little tempted.
Dont worry. I wont ask you to kill the Crown Prince! Mu Qianqian untied the ropes that bound Zhou Sisis hands. I wonder if Miss Zhou is willing?
Zhou Sisi said, Can you help me marry into the East Pce? How is that possible? Qiao Jinniang doesnt allow Imperial Cousin to take any concubines!
Mu Qianqian was surprised when she heard Zhou Sisis words. Was Qiao Jinniang out of her mind?
Mu Qianqian said, I mean what I said. But after you marry into the East Pce, you have to listen to me!
Zhou Sisi thought that after she married into the East Pce, Mu Qianqian wouldnt be able to force her to do anything she didnt like.
...
Zhou Sisi disappeared, and soldiers were searching for her all over Changan.
The people were all terrified.
After a day of investigation, her whereabouts still were not found, so the soldiers could only search from door to door. All the Imperial Guards had been mobilized, searching every single corner of Changan.
Zhou Sisis disappearance was a big thing and everyone in Changan was jittery.
Qiao Jinniang was teaching Xier characters in the East Pce. To her surprise, he had known a lot of characters.
And Lu Xi could even write some characters.
However, Qiao Jinniang didnt allow Lu Xi to write. He was too young, and writing was not good for his bones. He shouldnt learn to write before he was five years old.
Mommy, why cant I write? My ssmates all started writing when they were three years old.
Qiao Jinniang smiled at Lu Xi and said, Xier, youre still young. Writing at this age is not good for the growth of your hands. You can learn to write in another two years. Now learn to read first.
Lu Xi obediently listened to Qiao Jinniangs words.
Yuyan hurried in and said, Your Highness, His Royal Highness said that he was not returning home tonight.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. She wasnt jealous but was just curious. How could Zhou Sisi just disappear?
What she was more curious about was whether Zhou Sisi was really retarded. If she wasnt, why did she pretend to be retarded for so many years?
If she was really retarded, she wouldnt run away when the Queen asked her to marry another man.
Soon, Luhe came in and said, Your Highness, good news! Miss Zhou has been found. She climbed up to the Wild Goose Pagoda!
Chapter 216 - Threaten with Her Life
Chapter 216: Threaten with Her Life
The Wild Goose Pagoda was the tallest tower in Changan.
It was much higher than the city wall. The soldiers hade to search the Wild Goose Pagoda but didnt find Zhou Sisi.
When a little monk went to ring the bell, he saw Zhou Sisi sitting by a window of the Wild Goose Pagoda, her clothes fluttering in the wind and her legs were dangling in the air.
She looked like a fairy from heaven.
The old abbot came over, and when he saw that it was Zhou Sisi, he hurriedly had other monks go up the tower to rescue Zhou Sisi.
Zhou Sisi said, Donte over. if youe, I will jump from here. I want to see my imperial cousin! Call my imperial cousin over!
The old abbot didnt dare to force Zhou Sisi and quickly ordered people to invite Lu Chen, Zhou Siming and others over.
They quickly entered the tower.
Mrs. Zhou was so frightened that her heart almost jumped to her throat. Sisi, Sisi!
Zhou Sisi looked back and saw Lu Chen standing tall and straight under the light of thentern. He was the most dazzling one in the crowd. Imperial Cousin!
However, Zhou Sisi didnt see the usual gentle smile on Lu Chens face but a cold and stern look.
Imperial Cousin, you have found me. I want to marry you, not anyone else. Auntie wants Sisi to marry someone else, but Sisi doesnt want it. I will only marry Imperial Cousin!
Mrs. Zhou hurriedly said, Okay, okay. Sisi,e down first! Your imperial cousin will promise you!
Most of Zhou Sisis body was already outside the window. It seemed that as long as the wind was stronger, she would fall from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda!
Lu Chen said coldly, I wont agree.
Zhou Siming looked at Lu Chen pleadingly and said, Your Royal Highness, my sister
Zhou Sisi looked down and shouted, I will only marry Imperial Cousin.
Mrs. Zhou knelt down and kowtowed to Lu Chen. Your Royal Highness, Sisi is retarded. Her life is at stake. Arent you even willing to coax her? She is your cousin after all!
Zhou Siming also knelt down and said, Your Royal Highness
However, Lu Chens voice was extremely cold. I dont have a younger sister, so I always treat Sisi as my younger sister, and I dont want to believe that Sisi, who was innocent and cute when she was young, can y tricks, but how can a retarded person know to threaten me with her life?
The usual gentle air disappeared from Lu Chen, and he looked aggressively straight into Zhou Sisis eyes and said,
Where did the daughter of the Zhou family learn to threaten a man with her life? If she wants to marry into the East Pce, just jump down from here and I can allow her ashes to be left in the East Pce.
You! Mrs. Zhou suppressed the anger in her heart. The person in front of her was the Crown Prince. No matter how angry she was, she could only endure it.
Zhou Siming said, Your Royal Highness, do you still remember the time when we went to the Wild Goose Pagoda to y when we were young. At that time, Sisi didnt dare to walk down the steps from the Wild Goose Pagoda and you would carry her downstairs. She is your little sister. Do you have no regard for your childhood sister-brother bond?
Zhou Siming always thought that Lu Chen was still the former Lu Chen.
However, he felt that Lu Chen had changed a lot.
For the sake of Qiao Jinniang, he would rather dump the Zhou family. Was it worth it?
Tears dripped from the corners of Zhou Sisis eyes. Imperial Cousin.
However, Lu Chen said coldly, If I have no regard for our sister-brother bond, I wont search for Zhou Sisi all over Changan. Now everyone in Changan is in panic, but she is here treatening tomit suicide. Since she doesnt want to live, then die!
Your Royal Highness, please listen to me.
Mu Qianqian came out with a big belly and said, Im Mu Qianqian, a good friend of the Qiao family. I lodge temporarily in a hut next to the Wild Goose Pagoda. Hearing the noise here, I came over to have a look.
Your Royal Highness, if Zhou Sisi jumps down today, Im afraid that tomorrow, everyone in Changan will gossip that the Crown Princess drove your cousin to death out of jealousy. This will do no good to the crown princess reputation.
Lu Chen looked at Mu Qianqian, who appeared out of nowhere, and said coldly, How can I let her marry into the East Pce just because she threatens me with her life? I dont just have one cousin sister. If this trick works, every cousin of mine will climb to the pagoda and threaten to jump down!
His Majesty, Her Majesty, and Her Highness arrive.
There was such a big incident here, and the Cien Temple where the Wild Goose Pagoda was located was a royal temple, so the Emperor and the Queen came together.
Seeing Zhou Sisi like this, the Queen was very disappointed. She couldnt believe that her little niece that she had always doted on would do such a thing.
Mrs. Zhou screamed at Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, please show some mercy and save my daughter. You dont want to get blood on your hands, do you?! You dont want to be cursed by everyone for killing a young girl, right?!
Seeing this scene, Qiao Jinniang walked to the window and said with tears, No matter what I do, I will be scolded for not being tolerant enough and forcing Cousin to marry and even forcing her to threaten with her own life.
Even if Cousin marries into the East Pce, my reputation would still be ruined.
In this case, I might as well jump down from here and die! Let the world see how the daughter of Duke Wu would force the Crown Princess to die in order to marry into the East Pce!
Qiao Jinniang didnt move a step, but the imperial maids around her hurriedly stopped her.
Hongling said, Your Highness, please dont. You are the Crown Princess who was weed into the East Pce by His Royal Highness himself. Even though some shameless woman is desperate enough to be a concubine, what does this have to do with you?
The Zhou family was scolded, but they could onlye up to stop Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang certainly would notmit suicide, but it was not Zhou Sisis exclusive right to threaten people with her own life. Even if Zhou Sisi really jumped down today, Qiao Jinniang wouldnt be afraid.
Anyway, she wanted to jump, but the imperial maids stopped her.
She, the formal crown princess, was almost forced tomit suicide by the Zhou family. Shed like to see whether the public opinion supported her or the Zhou family.
Even if Zhou Sisi died, she would not get any benefit.
After Mu Qianqian figured this out, she frowned.
Lu Chen grabbed Qiao Jinniangs wrist and red at the people of the Duke Wu Mansion, asking, Uncle, Aunt, are you forcing the Crown Princess to die?
The Zhou family people hurriedly shook their heads, and at this time, a secret guard sneaked down from the top of the tower and suddenly kicked Zhou Sisi into the tower while she wasnt paying attention.
After Zhou Sisi was surrounded by the guards, Lu Chen ordered, Call over an imperial physician to examine if Miss Zhou is really retarded. If she fakes it, hand her over to the Ministry of Public Security, no, to the Ministry of Penalty!
Zhou Sisi lowered her head and kept muttering, Imperial Cousin, Imperial Cousin
The steps of the Wild Goose Pagoda were steep and narrow, and it was dark at night. Mu Qianqian was about to secretly leave while no one paid attention to her when she missed her footing and rolled all the way to the ground.
A lot of blood flowed out of the lower part of her body.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Mu Qianqian, she frowned. Why was it this woman again? But the baby in her belly was innocent, so Qiao Jinniang called over an imperial physician to deliver Mu Qianqians birth.
In the carriage back to the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang leaned close to Lu Chen and gently kissed his lips
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang. The carriage of my parents is right in front. Even if you want it, you have to endure it a little longer. Well be arriving at the East Pce soon.
Qiao Jinniang blushed and said, What are you talking about? I just gave you a little reward for doing the right thing. When I heard the news that Zhou Sisi was threatening you with her own life, I thought that you would agree to marrying her. After all, she is your younger sister who youve been doting on since childhood.
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniang into his arms and said, When she was threatening me with her life, she was no longer my younger sister. I had suspected that she had been faking being retarded, but I couldnt figure out the reason. Now it turns out that my guess is right.
Chapter 217 - Zhou Sisi Gets Married
Chapter 217: Zhou Sisi Gets Married
Qiao Jinniang didnt understand why Zhou Sisi faked being retarded.
Not long after they returned to the East Pce, the Minister of Penalty came to Lu Chens study and said, Your Royal Highness, the imperial doctor has confirmed that Miss Zhou is indeed still suffering from retardness, so she didntmit the crime of deceiving His Majesty.
Lu Chen shook his hand and allowed the Minister of Penalty to leave
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Lu Chens side and said, How could a retarded woman threaten people with her own life? The Minister of Penalty is too stupid.
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Even if it cant be confirmed that shes faking being retarded, she wont be able toe to the imperial pce to bother you again.
The Minister of Penalty and the imperial physician were not too stupid but too smart.
After all, the Duke Wu Mansion was the Queens natal home, so it would do them no good to expose Zhou Sisi, and ordinary imperial doctors couldnt diagnose retardness.
But Lu Chen knew his mother well. his mother had been thoroughly disgusted by Zhou Sisi.
...
At midnight.
Tong Yingying was dragged straight to a manor by Mrs. Tongs maids. She shouted, Mother, Mother, I still have a way to marry into the East Pce!
Tong Xuan sneered. Are you still daydreaming? The Crown Prince doesnt even give any face to Zhou Sisi, let alone you! You literally ruined our Tong family
But Tong Yingying craned her neck and said, The Crown Prince doesnt want me, but there are still other princes. Dad has offended the Crown Prince and has had no hope of being reinstated. Why dont we pledge loyalty to another prince?
Tong Xuan widened her eyes and said, Tong Yingying, do you want our Tong family to be beheaded?
Tong Yingying stood up and said, Mother, even the only protector of our family, the Duke Wu Mansion, has offended the Crown Prince, which shows how stupid the Crown Prince is! He actually gave up her mothers natal family for a woman!
If we support another prince, its not impossible for us to seed. How many crown princes have been able to sessfully ascend the throne through the ages?
Seeing her parents hesitate after hearing Tong Yingyings words, Tong Xuan shook her head. Crazy, were her parents crazy?
She should marry as early as possible, and as far away as possible. Then even if the Tong family was punished for treason in the future, she would not be implicated!
...
In the Duke Wu Mansion, when Old Madam Zhou learned about what Zhou Sisi did, she was so angry that she almost couldnt breathe. And she immediately ordered Zhou Sisi to be brought to her courtyard.
Sisi, I have been doting on you. Now tell me, are you really retarded or not?!
Zhou Sisi knelt down and said, Grandmother, it hasnt been long since I regained my senses. Last year, after Imperial Cousin came back, I gradually sobered up. I dared not tell you because our family has a rule that the women of the Zhou family shall not marry into the imperial pce.
But I wanted to marry Imperial Cousin, so I kept it a secret. I want to marry into the East Pce, and I want to marry Imperial Cousin. What is wrong with that?
When I was young, my imperial cousin would carry me on his back, take me to y, give me all the fun toys, and teach me to carve hand by hand
But after he disappeared, everything changed when he came back. Its Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang stole him from me!
Old Madam Zhou pped Zhou Sisi angrily. She stole Chener from you? Chener has always been treating you as his sister. Cant you tell? How could a mature man fall in love with a kid?
Zhou Sisi raised her eyes and said, But I only have Imperial Cousin in my heart. If the Zhou family forces me to marry someone else, Id rather die!
Old Madam Zhou narrowed her eyes and said, So you are threatening tomit suicide? Very good, Shihui threatened to kill herself for a man as well, and now you are doing the same thing. How can our familys girls be so spineless?!
Mrs. Zhou said from the side, Mother!
Old Madam Zhou said, If my son hadnt insisted on marrying you, I wouldnt have epted you as my daughter-inw because I despise the style of your Tong family. You are much better than your niece, but you also think too much of yourself.
If you think Im such an eyesore to you, you can divorce my son and leave the Duke Wu Mansion with your daughter!
Duke Wu said, Mother, this is clearly the Crown Princes fault. He has no regard for our kinship for the sake of Qiao Jinniang!
Old Madam Zhou frowned and said, Qiao Jinniang is his wife who has given birth to a child for him. If he doesnt care about the Crown Princess, who should he care about?
Your sister is favored by His Majesty indeed, but with the Empress Dowager, her life in the imperial pce has never been easy!
Now Chener has finally grown up and given birth to a son, but you, as his elders, keep making trouble for him instead of helping him! You might as well cut off the rtionship with Chener. Then everyone will be satisfied.
If you still want to stay in the Duke Wu Mansion, marry Zhou Sisi off by tomorrow. It doesnt matter if she marries a peddler or even a beggar! Just make her stop bothering the Crown Prince!
Mrs. Zhou cried out loud and hugged Zhou Sisi. Mother, Sisi is your granddaughter!
And the Queen is also my daughter. She sacrificed so much for the Duke Wu Mansion. Of all my children, she is the most sensible. How can I let you harm my daughter?!
Old Madam Zhou said solemnly.
...
What really happened yesterday was kept secret, and the news spread that when Zhou Sisi disappeared yesterday, she was rescued by a man.
And in order to repay the mans life-saving grace, the Zhou family married Zhou Sisi off to him, and the wedding date was on the same day.
Weddings of noble girls usually took at least half a year to prepare.
So everyone knew there was something fishy about such a hurried wedding.
Although Zhou Sisi is retarded, she has a good appearance and is the daughter of a duke. That man is really lucky to marry her!
In Zhou Sisis room, she smashed a lot of rouge and gouache.
Why should she marry a man she didnt even know
She didnt want to. She had been determined to marry her imperial cousin since she was a child.
Miss, Old Madam asked you to be obedient. Otherwise, I will tie you up to finish the wedding. After all, you are retarded, arent you?
Zhou Sisi stared at the maid fiercely.
The auspicious time hase. The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess, as well as the princes and their consorts, are all here today to watch the wedding ceremony. Please ask Miss Zhou to quickly change into the wedding dress!
Zhou Sisi frowned. Last time that woman said that she would help her marry into the East Pce, but where was she now?
...
In the Mu Mansion, Mu Qianqian had a hard time bringing the baby out, and after sending the imperial doctor away, she could not help crying with joy when she saw her son who was all ck and blue.
Prince Huai walked to Mu Qianqian and said, I finally have a child.
In order not to be suspected by his father, before Lu Chen grew up, he didnt dare to have children.
Mu Qianqian said feebly, Im sorry, Your Highness. I failed to get Zhou Sisi into the East Pce.
Prince Huai wiped the sweat on Mu Qianqians forehead and said, Its okay. Although Zhou Sisi cant marry into the East Pce, the rtionship between Lu Chen and the Zhou family has reached a freezing point. I want you to do my another favor.
I want you to write a letter to Zhou Sisi, give her medicine, and tell her that if she uses it on Lu Chen, Lu Chen will sleep with her.
Mu Qianqian frowned and said, But Your Highness, wouldnt it be better if the rtionship between the Zhou family and the Crown Prince be torn?
Prince Huai said, Yes, so I want to take the opportunity to win over the Zhou family. Zhou Sisi wants to use the medicine on the Crown Prince, but she will mistakenly use it on me, so I will also be a victim. In this way, I can justifiably marry Zhou Sisi as my concubine!
Mu Qianqian frowned as she looked at her infant son.
She had just given birth to a child, but His Highness wanted to marry one woman after another.
Li Lingling from the Earl Chengen Mansion, Fourth Miss Qin from the Duke Qin Mansion, and now Zhou Sisi from the Duke Wu Mansion
Every one of them loved the Crown Prince. She was the only one who loved Prince Huai, but she couldnt justifiably marry him!
Chapter 218 - Slept with Miss Sisi
Chapter 218: Slept with Miss Sisi
No one cared who Zhou Sisi married, but a lot of people attended the Zhou familys wedding banquet.
It should have been a great honor for the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess toe to watch the ceremony and attend the banquet, but Zhou Sisi was extremely indignant.
Zhou Sisi looked at herself in the mirror, gnashing her teeth. If Lu Chen had never been so kind to her before, she would not have such obsessions. Why did Lu Chen treat her like this after being so kind to her?
At this time, Zhou Sisi heard a strange sound outside. Hearing this, she made an excuse to go to the bathroom, and when she went to the window, she saw a note and a packet of medicine powder.
Seeing the words on the note, Zhou Sisi smiled, burned the note, and threw it into the copper basin!
...
In the Zhou familys backyard, Lu Chen was talking with his brothers, while Qiao Jinniang took Lu Xi and chatted with her sisters-inw about raising children.
Consort Chu smiled and said, Im really worried about my son, Yuner. He is already six years old but he doesnt even memorize scriptures as fast as the imperial grandson. He has been learning to write since he was three years old, but his handwriting is still so poor.
Consort Qi said, Second Sister-inw, dont talk like that. Junior Duke Jun is talented and intelligent and has always been a model student in every teachers eyes. You dont know how irritating my son Baoer is! He cant even memorize the Three Character ssic! s, I forced him to write characters, but he only wrote two and ran away.
Prince Lu hadnt had a consort yet, so today he brought his concubine and the son of the concubine with him. The concubine didnt dare to cut in, so she just praised Lu Xi. My husband said the imperial grandson is gifted with an extraordinary retentive memory and all the teachers like him very much. Its presumably because the Crown Princess has educated him well.
Consort Su hadnt married Prince Su yet, so Prince Su also brought a concubine over. She was also praising Lu Xi.
Being fawned on by them, Qiao Jinniang was not modest at all but praised Lu Xi. Yes, Xier is amazing indeed.
Little Lu Xi held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Mommy, I want to y with my brothers.
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, dont get yourself hurt.
The consorts and concubines continued to talk about how to discipline children and then turned to talk about the descendants of the princes.
The sixth prince, Prince Su, was five years older than Lu Chen, and the other princes were actually not young.
But when Lu Chen disappeared, the princes didnt dare to have children so as not to make Emperor Huilin and the Queen unhappy, so none of them had many children.
Thus, the consorts were all thinking about having more children.
Consort Huai, Li Lingling, had no children and couldnt cut in, so she said provocatively, I heard that His Royal Highness slept with a woman in the Duke Rong Mansion the night before. For the sake of having descendants, Crown Princess, you should take that imperial maid into the East Pce as soon as possible!
The Empress Dowager had been looking forward to the East Pce having more children!
Consort Qi, Consort Chu and the others looked at each other silently. Only Consort Huai dared to say this.
Qiao Jinniang picked up a cup of tea and said, That imperial maid is me, and Mother and Father have already known about it.
Li Lingling frowned. How is that possible? How could you leave the imperial pce at midnight?!
Qiao Jinniang said, His Royal Highness summoned me, and I had gained the consent of Father and Mother. Why couldnt I leave the imperial pce?
Li Lingling stared at Qiao Jinniang resentfully. No wonder Qiao Jinniang wasnt angry at all!
Consort Chu looked at Qiao Jinniang enviously and said, The Crown Prince is really fond of the Crown Princess. He only loves you. How enviable is that!
Thats right. Consort Qi was also very envious. But as the wives of princes, we and our husbands can be so affectionate only when we are newlyweds They will have more and more woman besides us as time goes by.
Consort Chu coughed. What she said was true, but she shouldnt say it in front of Qiao Jinniang.
Consort Qi knew she had said something wrong, but she didnt know how to make up for it.
Qiao Jinniang was not annoyed and said, A man must have the consent of his wife to take a concubine, and we, as the wives of princes, deserve more dignity and respect. Sister-inw, if you dont like your husband taking too many concubines, you can just reject him.
Father and Mother are both wise. If husbands dont respect their wives and indulge in beautiful women, it means that they cant even manage their families properly. Then how can they properly govern the country and bring peace to the world?
They are princes, but you are also consorts recognized by His Majesty. If the princes treat you unfairly and indulge their concubines to disrespect you, Father and Mothers will uphold justice for you!
Consort Chu sighed. But this will cause imperial censors to impeach us for not being a virtuous wife.
Qiao Jinniang said, Being a virtuous wife is just a false reputation. The princesses are impeached by imperial censors every day. Do they ever care? Although we are the wives of princes, we are stillmon women.
The concubines of Prince Lu and Prince Su looked at each other and didnt dare to say anything.
As for Consort Qi and Consort Chu, they were a little tempted by Qiao Jinniangs words.
Li Lingling sneered. A prince is a prince after all. They are high-ranking, so they will inevitably have many women. Do you want the princes all to fall out with their mothers natal families only for the sake of their wives?
Others didnt know, but Consort Qi and Consort Chu were both aware of what happened in the Wild Goose Pagoda yesterday, and they felt that what Li Lingling said made sense.
Although Prince Chu and Prince Qi have no intention ofpeting for the throne.
But as princes, they had their own power and needed to bnce the rtionship among their supporters. Sometimes they needed to marry some concubines as a tool to bnce rtionships.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Only useless men need to rely on the power brought by women. Isnt it better to put their minds on state affairs than on women? Marrying concubines to bnce rtionships is nothing but an excuse.
Besides, Sisters-inw, youre all from powerful families. Why do you have to be so forbearing?
Consort Chu was a little persuaded. What the Crown Princess said made sense. Even the Crown Prince could break with the Zhou family for the sake of the Crown Princess, so why couldnt his husband refuse taking concubines?
Consort Qi was also thinking about Qiao Jinniangs words. Prince Qi simply had no hope of getting the throne, so marrying concubines to win over power was just his excuse.
If Prince Qi wanted to take a concubine again, she would just refuse him. Nothing was more important than having an easier life for herself.
She didnt care if she was regarded as a virtuous wife or not. If Prince Qi wanted to divorce her, she could turn to the Queen for help!
She was in charge of the Prince Qi Mansion and had already had a son. She was not afraid of Prince Qi!
Your Highness, Madam asks you to quickly go to Tianzhen Building. His Royal Highness, His Royal Highness has slept with Miss Sisi in the Zhou Mansion. a maid of the Zhou Mansion hurried over to report.
For a while, Consort Qi and Consort Chu both stared at Qiao Jinniang.
Li Lingling gloated. Congrattions, Crown Princess. You have a good sister now!
Qiao Jinniang pointed to the princes on the other side of theke and said, Are you a maid of the Zhou family? What are you talking about? Open your eyes and see, who is on the other side of theke?
...
Lu Chen and his brothers were talking andughing on the other side of theke.
Suddenly, Prince Chu and Prince Qi both sneezed.
Lu Chen said, Do you have a cold?
Prince Qi shook his head. No, there must be someone talking bad about me behind my back.
Prince Chu somehow felt a little uneasy. Why did it take the eldest brother so long to change clothes?
Just now, a maid identally poured tea on Prince Huais clothes, so he went to change, but it had almost been half an hour but he hadnt gone back.
Chapter 219 - Two Consorts Huai
Chapter 219: Two Consorts Huai
The auspicious hour was approaching, and the maids were relieved when they saw that Zhou Sisi was finally willing to wear the wedding dress. After doing so, Zhou Sisi said that she wanted to calm down in the room alone, so the maids waited outside and didnt dare to go far.
But then they found that Zhou Sisi had disappeared again, but fortunately, she was soon found in a room of the Tianzhen Building.
But when they found Zhou Sisi, Zhou Sisi was with a man.
The maids were too scared to approach and only heard Zhou Sisi calling Imperial Cousin in the room, and they all thought that the man inside was the Crown Prince.
So they hurriedly went to report to Mrs. Zhou, and she didnt go in to check and directly told them to call Qiao Jinniang over.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen met on the way. Qiao Jinniang walked over and asked Lu Chen, What the hell is Zhou Sisi doing again?
Lu Chen didnt know, so he simply said, Lets go and have a look first.
When Prince Qi saw his consort, he somehow felt that the way his consort looked at him was strange.
Prince Chu had the same feeling and felt a chill down his spine. What happened?
Consort Chu smiled gently. Nothing.
Prince Chu somehow panicked. The more gently his consort smiled, the more he was terrified.
Li Lingling didnt see Prince Huai, and frowned slightly.
They entered the Tianzhen Building, and when Mrs. Zhou saw Lu Chen, she was stunned and even stammered. G-Greetings, Y-Your Royal Highness, and Your Highnesses.
Mrs. Zhou kept shaking. If the man inside was not Lu Chen, then who was inside?
It was already a great disgrace for Sisi to get married in such a hurry. If she was found having sex with a man before marriage, her life would bepletely ruined.
Mrs. Zhou propped herself up and pushed open the door. The man inside had already dressed and said coldly, I came to attend the wedding ceremony as a guest, but when I was changing, Miss Zhou drugged me! Mrs. Zhou, you really educated Miss Zhou well!
Li Lingling frowned when she heard the voice inside.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and congratted Li Lingling. Sister-inw, congrattions. It seems that youll have one more sister now.
Li Lingling almost vomited out a mouthful of blood. She rushed in and pointed at Zhou Sisi, snapping, You shameless b*tch, how dare you drug Prince Huai! Mrs. Zhou, you must give us an exnation!
Zhou Sisi, who slowly woke up on the bed, spat out a mouthful of blood!
How could this be?
The one she wanted to drug was Imperial Cousin not this man!
Why did it be Prince Huai?
After all, Zhou Sisi and Prince Huais identities were special, and now Mrs. Zhou didnt know what to do.
Old Madam Zhou was supported over. She frowned and said to Prince Huai, Your Highness, there may be a misunderstanding. The auspicious hour hase, so please let my granddaughter finish the wedding ceremony first.
Mrs. Zhou said to Old Madam, But, Mother, Sisi has already given herself to Prince Huai
Old Madam Zhous scrutinizing gaze swept to Prince Huai and she said, The girls of our family would rather marry a beggar than be a concubine! Therefore, the best choice is to continue the wedding.
Prince Huai cupped his hands and said, Miss Zhou is not clear in the mind after all. I dont know who drugged me, but since I failed to control myself, I should be responsible for what I have done. I am willing to take Miss Zhou as my concubine.
Old Madam Zhou said, The girls of the Zhou family will never be a concubine.
Prince Huai frowned, and Li Lingling turned pale. What did this old woman mean?! Did she want her to surrender her position to Zhou Sisi?
Mrs. Zhou said to Old Madam Zhou, Mother, its not appropriate to continue the wedding now. Lets ask His Majesty and Her Majesty what to do first, okay?
In Mrs. Zhous opinion, Lu Chen was so ruthless towards Sisi. It was not a bad choice for Sisi to marry Prince Huai.
The Queen and the Crown Prince were simply heartless, but Prince Huai was still willing to marry Sisi eventhough he was drugged by Sisi. He was really a good man.
No matter how much Old Madam Zhou insisted, since Prince Huai was involved, it could only be the Emperor who made the decision, so the marriage ceremony was canceled.
...
Not long after Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen returned to the East Pce, they were called by Emperor Huilin to the Taiji Pce.
In the Taiji Pce, Prince Huai and Li Lingling were already there.
After Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen saluted, they sat aside.
Emperor Huilin asked Lu Chen, Zhou Sisi drugged Prince Huai and made him have sex with her. What do you think about this, Chener? Of the two, one is your brother and the other is your cousin.
Logically speaking, to maintain the face of the royal family and the Duke Wu Mansion, it would be best to let Zhou Sisi marry Prince Huai as his concubine.
But Emperor Huilin was partial to Lu Chen. If he let Prince Huai marry Zhou Sisi, wouldnt that mean giving all the power of the Duke Wu Mansion to Prince Huai?
The Duke Wu Mansion was originally on Lu Chens side.
Lu Chen said, Since this matter has happened, I think Eldest Brother should take his responsibility, but the Zhou family doesnt want their daughter to be a concubine, so how about Eldest Brother marrying Cousin as his Equal Wife? Marrying an Equal Wife is popr among the folks.
Emperor Huilin said, Nonsense! Which decent man will marry an Equal Wife? Your brother is a prince after all.
Lu Chen said, But this is a special case, so it deserves special treatment. It is indeed inappropriate to have two Consorts Huai, but there is no other way to solve this matter now.
Li Lingling almost burst with rage. If there were two Consorts Huai, she would be a real joke. She said, Why dont we ask Her Grace if she thinks the idea of Equal Wife is eptable?
The Empress Dowager hated the women of the Zhou family the most, and she would definitely not let Zhou Sisi marry Prince Huai as Consort Huai.
However, to Li Linglings surprise, the Empress Dowager agreed to Lu Chens proposal right away.
Although the Empress Dowager didnt like the girls of the Zhou family, Li Lingling certainly couldnt bring Prince Huai the power Zhou Sisi could.
Besides, this could sow discord between Lu Chen and the Zhou family. Why not?
Regarding the Equal Wife matter, imperial censors kept submitting memorials, trying to stop this ridiculous thing, but Emperor Huilin didnt change his mind.
...
After Qiao Jinniang returned to the East Pce, she went to the kitchen to make a bowl of fish balls for Lu Chen.
Seeing that there were fish balls at dinner, Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang curiously and said, Why are you being so kind to me today?
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont you think its not worth it to fall out with the Zhou family and lose a very valuable supporter for the sake of me?
Lu Chen chuckled and held Qiao Jinniang into his arms. If its not worth it, I wouldnt have done it. Besides, Im the Crown Prince, not someone they can push around.
Qiao Jinniang said, But Mother
Lu Chen smiled. Dont worry about Mother. If you feel guilty, make her more bowls of chicken soup wontons. She likes folk snacks the most.
Qiao Jinniang leaned against Lu Chens chest and looked into his eyes. What about Zhou Siming? Youre as close as brothers for so many years
Lu Chen just hugged Qiao Jinniang tightly and didnt say anything. As Confucius said, do not attempt to work with people whose way is not your way.
Zhou Siming chose Zhou Sisi, while he chose Qiao Jinniang. This was not their fault but fate.
Chapter 220 - Childhood Sweethearts
Chapter 220: Childhood Sweethearts
When Tong Yingying heard about the Equal Wife matter, she was shocked. The Crown Prince was so stupid! How could he push the Zhou family, who was loyal to him, to Prince Huai?!
Tong Yingying didnt think about choosing Prince Huai. Prince Huais mother was already dead. Although he had the Empress Dowager to help him, he was probably the next Prince Mediocre.
Tong Yingying set her sights on Prince Chu. Consort Chu had a soft and weak personality, and Prince Chu was infatuated with art and literature. Tong Yingying would often see Prince Chu in the gatherings of literati.
When Prince Huai married Li Lingling, they didnt have a grand wedding. And this time, because time was too limited, the wedding was also hastily arranged.
The guests had just been to the Zhou Mansion to attend Zhou Sisis wedding, and only a few dayster, they came to the Prince Huai Mansion to attend another wedding of hers.
When Qiao Jinniang met Prince Chu and Prince Qi, she somehow felt that they looked at her in a very strange way.
Lu Chen stood in front of Qiao Jinniang and said, Brothers, do you have any problem with the Crown Princess?
Prince Qi said, How dare I? I just want to thank the Crown Princess for giving very valuable advice to my wife. After listening to her advice, my wife has driven away all my concubines, which saved me a lot of money!
Qiao Jinniang pretended not to understand what he meant. Youre wee. This is what I should do. Only when Brother and Sister-inw are harmonious can our Lu family be prosperous and can our country get better and better.
Prince Qi:
Where did his younger brother find this shameless woman? Couldnt she get that he was mocking her?!
Brother. Lu Chen looked at Prince Qi unhappily.
Prince Qi was frightened. He didnt blurt out what he thought just now, did he? He hurriedly said, What can I do for you, Your Royal Highness?
Youve been looking at the Crown Princess for too long! Lu Chen frowned.
Prince Qi:
In Prince Huais mansion, although the male and female guests were not separated, the female guests stayed in twos and threes.
As the Crown Princess, Qiao Jinniang was surrounded by a lot of people. Qiao Jinniang asked Consort Qi, Sister-inw, did you drive away all Brothers concubines?
Consort Qi said firmly, After listening to your kind advice that day, I felt that what you said made a great deal of sense. Among all the princes, only my husband is the most useless. It must be because he had too many concubines.
So I reported it to Mother, and she also thought those words made sense and allowed me to send away those women.
Prince Qi will not be allowed to take any concubines until he gets on the right path!
In the front yard, Prince Qi in was drunk and cried to Lu Chen, Brother, although I had once coveted the throne, I never did anything about it, and after you came back, I dont even dare to covet it!
Cant I just be a dandy, listening to my concubines singing and dancing all day long? But that tigress, instigated by the Crown Princess, actually drove all my beauties away!
She even forced me to study! I dont want the throne. Why should I learn these things?!
Lu Chen looked with disgust at the snot and tears his brother left on his clothes. Brother, youre a prince after all. You should study something so as to share some of the burden for Father.
Prince Qi said drunkenly, Im not going to learn those things. I havent liked them since I was a child. Only Eldest Brother and Prince Mediocre liked these things. I just want my beauties!
Prince Chu was not drunk. Seeing that Lu Chen was in a good mood, he asked, Your Royal Highness, you really love the Crown Princess! But she wont be the only woman you marry, will she?
The Crown Princess is my sister-inw after all. Its not right for her to instigate Consort Qi and my wife to send away all our concubines, right?
Lu Chen nced at Prince Chu and said, Whats not right? Its been nearly ten years since you and Sister-inw got married.
If you treated Sister-inw kindly, how could she send away all your concubines just because of a few words of Jinniang?
Prince Chu:
Your Highness, there is a young schr asking to meet you outside, saying that she has found the Plum and Snow Painting youve been looking for. A servant reported to Prince Chu.
Hearing this, Prince Chu got up and went outside only to see Tong Yingying who was wearing a loose white robe. Tong Yingying saluted Prince Chu. Greetings, Your Highness.
Prince Chus impression of Tong Yingying was very good, but after she was discovered to have falsely taken others credits, Prince Chu no longer admired Tong Yingying as much as those literati anymore.
However, he didnt want to be too rude to a woman many years younger than him.
Do you have the Plum and Snow Painting?
Tong Yingying presented him a painting drawing a woman partly exposing her shoulders. Then she hurriedly said, Im sorry, Your Highness. I think I took the wrong painting.
Prince Chu was a little tempted. Tong Yingying had been crazily extolled by those literati, and she was literally their goddess.
But now she was obviously seducing him, which made Prince Chu a littlecent.
When Prince Chu was about to look at Tong Yingying in the painting, suddenly the face of the women in the painting seemed to be his consorts.
Consort Chu didnt drive out all his concubines like Consort Qi did, but all his concubines and servants were on her side now.
Now Prince Chu didnt even have the slightest say at home. He threatened to divorce Consort Qi, but she was not afraid at all.
If he took Tong Yingying as his concubine, he would be even more isted at home!
Forget it!
Hell with the goddess Tong Yingying. Marrying her as his concubine would only make his life even harder.
Prince Chu put on a straight face and said coldly, What the hell is this painting?! Take it away. I just want the Plum and Snow Painting!
Tong Yingying looked at Prince Chu in disbelief. She had always been the literatis goddess. Since when did even the artsy Prince Chu look down on her?
...
Li Lingling forced a smile to entertain the guests.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang talking andughing with Consort Qi and Consort Chu, she was instantly annoyed. She was a consort too. Why did she have to ept the appearance of another Consort Huai?
Fulu walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, I heard about what Zhou Sisi has done. Is she really retarded or is she faking it?
I dont know, but she is your sister-inw now. Qiao Jinniang smiled.
Fulu sighed and said, In fact, I kinda understand why she did so many crazy things. Imperial Cousin was very kind to her when he was young. When we were young, every time we were ying together, the boys always doted on her as if she was a real princess, which made me really jealous.
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh? How did he dote on Zhou Sisi?
Fulu said, He would give Zhou Sisi whatever she wanted. If Zhou Sisi was too tired to walk, he would carry her on her back. Everyone knew they were childhood sweethearts. If Zhou Sisi hadnt be retardedter, she would have been the crown princess.
Consort Chu had been winking at Fulu, but she seemed to be blind today.
And Consort Qi also said obliviously, Yes, His Royal Highness was very good to Zhou Sisi when he was young, and whenever he had something he liked to y with or eat, he would save a portion for Zhou Sisi.
If I were Zhou Sisi, I might also want to marry a cousin who treats me so well even if Im retarded.
Chapter 221 - No One Is Willing to Take Sides with the Crown Prince
Chapter 221: No One Is Willing to Take Sides with the Crown Prince
Li Lingling said, Consort Qi, Zhou Sisi is now Consort Huai. What do you mean by saying that?
Although Li Lingling didnt want to make Qiao Jinniang happy, she didnt want to hear this even more.
When Lu Chen was young, he gave all his tenderness to Zhou Sisi. She was also his cousin, but he was only kind to Zhou Sisi.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but feel a little annoyed when she heard this, but then she realized that Lu Chen was kind to Zhou Sisi because he took her as his sister. If she was jealous because of this, she would just be making a fuss.
Anyway, Zhou Sisi was Consort Huai now.
The wedding banquet was very lively. Watching the liveliness of the wedding banquet, Li Lingling recalled how she hastily married into the imperial mausoleum, which made her extremely unreconciled.
Zhou Sisi was angrily smashing everything she could see in the room, making a mess on the ground.
Prince Huai entered, and seeing this scene, he narrowed his eyes and ordered all the maids and the servants to retreat.
After the door was closed, Zhou Sisi yelled angrily, Donte over. You know I dont want to marry you!
Prince Huai grabbed Zhou Sisis neck with one hand and said, But you are marrying me, as ordered by the imperial decree!
Zhou Sisi cried bitterly. Imperial Cousin, I only want Imperial Cousin!
Whats so good about Lu Chen? No matter how well he treated you when he was young, he has chosen Qiao Jinniang over you now!
Forget about him. I can give you the highest status in the Prince Huai Mansion, but Lu Chen doesnt even care about your life.
Do you still want to be obsessed with Lu Chen?
Prince Huai wiped Zhou Sisis tears and said, Although we mistakenly be a couple, I promise you Ill love you as much as I can, and will let you ascend to the highest position, and at that time Ill made Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang kneel at your feet, kowtowing to you and begging for your mercy!
Zhou Sisi looked up at Prince Huai, and in his eyes, she saw the tenderness that Lu Chen had not shown her for a long time.
...
Qiao Jinniang was a little drunk today, so she went back to the carriage of the East Pce and waited for Lu Chen toe back.
When she closed her eyes for a nap in the carriage, she heard some whispers outside.
I really didnt expect that Zhou Sisi would marry the Eldest Prince in the end. I had thought that the Eldest Prince was already finished after being driven to guard the imperial mausoleum.
But after he returned, he married Li Lingling of Earl Chengen Mansion as his wife, Fourth Miss Qin of the Duke Wu Mansion as his concubine, and now the only daughter of Duke Wu as his Equal Wife.
Every dog has its day. Earl Chengen used to take sides with Prince Mediocre, but now Prince Mediocre is amoner, yet the Eldest Prince is more and more powerful.
The Crown Prince is really stupid!
Shh, how dare you say that? Do you want to die?
But Im telling the truth. Although the royal family forbade anyone from talking about what happened in the Wild Goose Pagoda that day, everyone in Changan knows what had happened. If the Crown Prince married Zhou Sisi, he could have secured his connection with the Zhou family, which would have been greatly beneficial for him!
But he was so stupid that he would rather watch his beautiful cousin jump down the pagoda than marry her!
Wasnt that stupid?
Its a pity that Prince Huai is only interested in beautiful sceneries and paintings. I remember that ten years ago, he was very intelligent and capable, and was quite good at handling state affairs.
His mother, Imperial Concubine Li, was also very favored by His Majesty, but unfortunately, he was not born by the Queen!
Im afraid now many courtiers will have to reconsider which side they should be on. Thedy whispered, The Crown Prince is so cold-hearted to his loyal supporters. Which courtier is still willing to support such an unsympathetic man?
In the carriage, Qiao Jinniangs eyshes moved slightly, and after two quarters of an hour, Lu Chen entered the carriage.
As soon as he entered the carriage, Qiao Jinniang hugged him and threw herself into his arms. Im sorry.
Why are you saying sorry? Are you drunk? Lets quickly go back to the East Pce and have the maids make a hangover soup for you. Its better not to drink soup outside.
Qiao Jinniang whispered, Lu Chen, I will make a lot of money for you to buy soldiers and horses and win popr support.
If no one is willing to support you and they are all on the side of Prince Huai, I will buy them back to support you!
Lu Chen chuckled. Youre drunk.
Im not drunk. I mean what I say! The candlelight was reflected in Qiao Jinniangs eyes.
Lu Chen whispered in her ear. Then Ill have to trouble the Crown Princess to earn more money to raise me.
Qiao Jinniang blushed and said, Um, I will make a lot of money.
...
On the second day after Zhou Sisi married, she should enter the imperial pce to thank the Empress Dowager and the Queen ording to the rule.
Qiao Jinniang should have been present, but she was drunkst night and now had a terrible hangover in the morning.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang so ufortable, Lu Chen, who came back from the levee, said, Then dont go there. It doesnt matter.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head and said, After all, Im her sister-inw now.
Yuyan came in and said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, Nuomi sent a letter to you.
Qiao Jinniang opened the envelope and read the letter. And then she couldnt help frowning and said to Lu Chen, Nuomi sent a letter saying that this time, there were a lot less ingredients shipped from the South because it has been raining for nearly two months in all parts of the South.
This letter had just arrived, and it took ten days for the letter to arrive at Changan. A lot of ces were already flooded ten days ago. The river in front of Myriad Taste in the South was almost level with the road, and it was still raining.
Linan is upstream, so it rarely floods. If it is flooded, it must be after a hurricane.
Its not even the rainy season, so there shouldnt be a hurricane. I think the flood situation will get worse when the rainy seasones.
Thest flood was the year when Lu Chen was rescued.
But even in that year, Myriad Taste was not flooded.
Lu Chen took a look at the letter and said, Im going to report this to my father. Its been raining hard in the South but I havent seen any memorial that reports on this matter. If what Nuomi said is true, it would be better to conduct flood control and disaster relief as soon as possible. Im afraid the flood will be more difficult to tackle after the rainy seasones.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes!
After Qiao Jinniang was dressed up, she went to the Queens pce, and Prince Huai and Zhou Sisi were already there, but Li Lingling, who always came first in the past, was absent this time.
Zhou Sisi still pretended to be retarded. After all, she couldnt afford the crime of deceiving the Emperor.
Zhou Sisi was obediently lying beside Queen Zhou as usual, calling her Auntie.
However, Queen Zhous eyes were much colder, and soon she asked Prince Huai and Zhou Sisi to leave but asked Qiao Jinniang to stay.
Qiao Jinniang asked with a smile, Mother, do you want to eat wontons? May I make it for you in the kitchen of your pce?
I kept you because I wanted to tell you not to care about the gossip outside.
Queen Zhou said, Connections made by marriage bonds are a double-edged sword, which can be good and bad. Chener doesnt need to rely on the Duke Wu Mansion, so you dont have to feel guilty about it.
Those who defected to Prince Huai for this reason didnt support Chener sincerely to begin with.
Qiao Jinniang was so moved and looked at Queen Zhou emotionally. Zheng Xiao would probably not have said these words to her.
Zheng Xiao would only persuade her to consider Lu Chen.
Even Qiao Jinniang felt that Lu Chen had sacrificed too much for her, but only her mother-inw told her not to feel guilty. She treated her as well as her adoptive mother in Linan.
Qiao Jinniangs eyes were wet and she said, Thank you, Mother.
Queen Zhou continued, By the way, remember to put more green onions in the wontons.
Qiao Jinniang:
Chapter 222 - Win Over Xie Yun
Chapter 222: Win Over Xie Yun
In the Taiji Pce.
After reading Nuomis letter, Emperor Huilin said, What do you think of this matter?
Lu Chen said, I was in Linan for three years. Although it is rainy in spring and summer, I never saw the river in front of Myriad Taste getting level with the road.
I think we should send someone as an imperial envoy to supervise this matter, and then send officials of the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Revenue over, firstly to check the dams, and secondly, if there is really a serious flood, to help the refugees resettle.
Many of the people in Myriad Taste were separated from their parents when they were young because of a flood and became disced. I think we should be prepared earlier.
Emperor Huilin said, Who do you think is suitable to be the imperial envoy?
Lu Chen said, Im willing to go to the South with the Crown Princess!
Emperor Huilin said with a dark face, No way! I will never let you go to that ce again!
Lu Chen thought for a while and said, The imperial envoy should know the South well and be familiar with the waterways and rivers in the South. We are the most suitable candidates.
No. Emperor Huilin refused tly.
He didnt want to experience the pain from four years ago again.
Lu Chen said helplessly, Father, the lives and safety of the people in the South are more important. Linan is still upstream, and County Yin that is downstream has just recovered a few years ago. If it is flooded again, Im afraid the whole county of people will be disced again.
However, Emperor Huilin said, Its not that there is no one else in the court. Dont think about it anymore!
Your Majesty, the Crown Princess has brought you wontons by the order of Her Majesty.
Emperor Huilin said, Let her in.
When Qiao Jinniang came in, she noticed the dark faces of both Emperor Huilin and Lu Chen, and put the wontons on Emperor Huilins desk.
Walking to Lu Chens side, she asked in a low voice, Whats wrong?
Lu Chen said to Emperor Huilin, Father, Ill take the Crown Princess with me, and I will definitely protect myself and Jinniang well, and Xier will stay in Changan.
Qiao Jinniang really missed Linan, especially at this time, the bayberries on the tree should have turned red.
Myriad Taste in the South was still closed, but she actually had a lot of things to do in Linan.
But Emperor Huilin said, You dont have to think about this matter anymore. You two can leave now!
Qiao Jinniang left the Taiji Pce and asked Lu Chen, Why didnt Father allow you to return to Linan?
Lu Chen said helplessly, I think he was afraid that I would disappear in Linan again.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. I had thought that I could go back and eat bayberries in Linan, but its raining a lot in Linan this year, so the bayberries there are necessarily sweet.
Lu Chen said, But the flood in the South has to be tackled as soon as possible. Do you want to let Qiao Lu go to Linan to gain some experience? When I was his age, I went to a disaster area and gained a lot of experiences that I wouldnt have been able to gain in Changan. I bet this trip will do him a lot of good.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, But I think he cant go there alone. Its better to have someone apany him. I have a good candidate, Xie Yun!
The Xie family was in the South. If the South was flooded, the Xie family would suffer a lot of losses. And Xie Yun knew the South well
But when Lu Chen just returned to the East Pce, a secret guard came to report, Your Royal Highness, after you left, Prince Huai took Consort Huai to see His Majesty, and then volunteered to go to the South to deal with the flood and disaster relief.
Lu Chen asked, Has my father agreed?
The secret guard nodded lightly: Yes!
Qiao Jinniangforted Lu Chen. Disaster relief is not a good job, tiring and dirty. Besides, I dont want to be separated from Xier.
Lu Chen was very curious about why his eldest brother, who had always been forbearing, would volunteer to go to the South to deal with the flood and disaster relief this time?
This was a thankless task. Lu Chen wanted this job not just for the sake of the people, but mainly because Qiao Jinniang and him still have a lot of unfinished things to do in the South.
Besides, now it was the season for bayberries to ripen.
Although Prince Huai didnt know what was so good about the job of flood control and disaster relief, after hearing from the Emperor that Lu Chen wanted this job, he decided to snatch it. Besides, if he could properly solve the flood, he would gain the hearts of the people in the South.
There were many literati in the South. Winning the support of the South was equivalent to winning the hearts of literati. As it happened, he could also take the opportunity to go to the South and help the second young master of the Xie family seize the power of the Xie family.
...
In the afternoon, Lu Chen reviewed memorials in the study, and Qiao Jinniang counted the silver taels beside him. She had a lot of business in Linan, and some of her subordinates were also in the South.
She had to settle them well, and she must be well prepared in case the refugees seize her properties..
She had to write a letter to the South to make arrangements in advance and give her subordinates there enough money.
Your Royal Highness, Miss Xie Yun is here.
When Xie Yun entered, he saw Qiao Jinniang, who was sitting beside Lu Chens desk and absorbed in the abacus. She was still dressed in bright colors but now with a touch of nobleness of a royal family member. She was now a lot different from the little sister he remembered.
That little girl who always came to deliver him cakes and loved to secretly gaze at him was like a lifetime away.
Noticing Xie Yuns gaze, Lu Chen said coldly, Ill dig out your eyes if you look at her again!
Xie Yun retracted his gaze and saluted Lu Chen. Your Royal Highness, have you heard that Prince Huai and my cousin went back to the South together to deal with the flood?
Seeing that Xie Yun and Lu Chen were discussing official businesses, Qiao Jinniang put down the abacus and the ledger and said, Im going to pick up Xier. Ill take my leave first.
After Qiao Jinniang left, Lu Chen warned Xie Yun. If you dare to look at the Crown Princess like that again, I will definitely gouge out your eyes!
Xie Yun said, I treat Jiner as a younger sister.
How could Lu Chen possibly believe in Xie Yuns words? As a man, he could tell what kind of feeling Xie Yun had for Qiao Jinniang.
Xie Yun said, If I really wanted Jinniang, it would have been impossible for Your Royal Highness to marry her. Since I didnt stop you from marrying her, I will never disturb her, unless Your Royal Highness doesnt treat her kindly.
Xie Yun said very sincerely because he didnt want Lu Chen to suspect Qiao Jinniang. She doesnt even know my feelings for her.
When Lu Chen was in the South, he had discovered that Xie Yun had a crush on Qiao Jinniang. Hearing what Xie Yun said, he said, How could I not treat her well?
Xie Yun said, Prince Huai and my cousin have reached a cooperative agreement. What do you think of this matter, Your Royal Highness?
Lu Chen handed Xie Yun a cup of tea and said, I can also cooperate with you, but I want the Xie familys ancestral collection of books.
The Xie familys status in the literati world had been unshakable for all these years because the Xie family had a collection of books that was passed down from thousands of years ago, including precious lost ancient books. Lu Chen saw them when he was in Linan, and many of the books were never lent outside.
Xie Yun frowned and said, This is impossible.
Lu Chen said, Prince Huai is even willing to marry Zhou Sisi and Fourth Miss Qin, so it wont be difficult for him to marry you. Two Consorts Huai are not enough, and three Consorts Huai are the best!
Xie Yun said calmly, Lu Chen, I helped you a lot when you were in Linan.
Each of us just took what we needed. Lu Chen said, Its you who taught me that businessmen never traded at a loss. Now that the imperial power has already represented the general trend, how long can your Xie family resist this trend?
Why not share the Xie familys collection of books with the literati of the world and gain a good name. With your talent and ability, you can be a high-ranking official.
Chapter 223 - The Crown Prince’s Teacher Refuses to Teach Xi’er
Chapter 223: The Crown Princes Teacher Refuses to Teach Xier Anymore
Xie Yun thought about it carefully, and he said, Do you really want me to be a high-ranking official in Changan and stay in front of Jiner all the time?
Lu Chen said, Im not that petty, okay?
Xie Yun recalled what Lu Chen had just said about gouging out his eyes
Then Xie Yun asked, Is the collection of books for the people of the world, not exclusively for the imperial pce?
Of course. Lu Chen said, I wont covet your books. If you want a good name among the literati, I dont mind giving it to you.
Xie Yun pondered for a while and said, Okay, then I will promise you.
...
Qiao Jinniang went to the south study where the junior dukes and princes were having lessons.
When the junior dukes grew older, they would go to the Imperial College or famous academies like Qingming Academy to study. Now the south study only provided primer lessons to the children of the royal family.
In the south study, the Crown Princes teacher frowned and said to Lu Xi, Why dont you copy the calligraphy copybook, Your Highness?
Lu Xi said, My mother said that I shouldnt practice calligraphy until I am five years old!
The Crown Princes teacher was so angry that his white beards shook. Nonsense, calligraphy has to be practiced as early as possible! Although youre the smartest kid among the children of the royal family, your handwriting will be a lot worse than others if you dont start practicing calligraphy now.
Since Im responsible for teaching you by His Majestys orders, Im your teacher, so you should respect me and practice calligraphy hard instead of just ying.
After all, the Crown Princess came from the countryside, so she doesnt understand that calligraphy is the most important among the six arts. Handwriting is like our face. Your Highness, you shouldnt believe the Crown Princess too readily.
Although Lu Xi was young, he knew the Crown Princes teacher was speaking bad of his mother. Hmph, how dare you insult my mother? My mother will never harm me!
Yes! Her Highness is the best and often gives us snacks! Junior Duke Bao, who was sitting beside Lu Xi, touched his bulging belly and said, She gives us delicious food every day.
Junior Duke Yun whispered to Lu Xi, Brother Tuan, my mother said that calligraphy is very important, and when you grow up, others will judge you from your calligraphy, but unfortunately Im too stupid to grasp it although Ive been learning it for years.
The Crown Princes teacher said angrily, Quiet! If you disturb the ss again, I will tell His Majesty that I cant teach you two!
Little Lu Xi said, My mother said that I cant practice calligraphy until Im five, so I wont practice it before Im five!
The Crown Princes teacher snorted contemptuously, and he happened to see the guard of honor of the Crown Princessing, so he said arrogantly,
Your Highness, this is school. Im teaching the children. I hope you mind your own business! And donte here anymore.
Qiao Jinniang remembered this old man. He asked her to be a virtuous wife and select concubines for Lu Chen only a few days after she married Lu Chen.
And what did he say again? Mind her own business?
Qiao Jinniang said crossly, What do you mean? The imperial grandson is my son. You mean I have no right to educate him?
Auntie, whats there to eat today?
The chubby Junior Duke Bao ran to Qiao Jinniangs side.
Hongling opened a box and said, The Dragon Boat Festival is approaching. Today, Her Highness made a summer-snack called mung bean paste cake. This bean paste is cooked by Her Highness herself. It is different from the bean paste outside. It is very soft and sweet.
Junior Duke Bao picked up a piece, tasted it, and said, Yummy, Auntie, can I have one more?
Qiao Jinniang said, This snack is too sweet, so dont eat too much. Its not good for your teeth.
After what happenedst time, Junior Duke Bao was a lot more sensible. He gave up the idea of eating one more mung bean paste cake and said, Auntie, just now Teacher said that you are from the countryside!
Qiao Jinniang looked straight at the Crown Princes teacher and said, Your Excellency, Ive always been polite to you because you are His Royal Highness teacher, but why did you insult me in front of these children?
The Crown Princes teacher said, Your Highness, the imperial grandson is a smart kid, and he has already learned no less than a thousand characters at such a young age. He is a prodigy, but you dont allow such a smart kid to practice calligraphy. Arent you doing him a disservice?
How can I harm my own son? Qiao Jinniang said, Its just that practicing calligraphy before the age of five is not good for the childs hand bones. When I was young, I saw one of my ssmates suffer from hand dyssia because she practiced calligraphy too early.
After that, my academy only admitted students over the age of five, and those under the age of five were never allowed to practice calligraphy.
The Crown Princes teacher said angrily, Nonsense! The Crown Prince started to learn calligraphy when he was three years old, and now his handwriting is praised by everyone in the world. His Majesty also started to learn calligraphy at the age of three, so why cant the imperial grandson?!
If you dont allow the imperial grandson to practice calligraphy, then Im afraid I can no longer teach the children. Please find another teacher to teach them!
Qiao Jinniang said, Okay, thats just what I want!
She was also afraid that this old man would misguide Lu Xi.
Teacher! Teacher, dont go. Auntie, you have gone too far in this matter. A thin child ran out and said to Qiao Jinniang, Teacher is doing this for Brother Tuans own good, but you contradict him so rudely. You should apologize to him!
Qiao Jinniang didnt know the child, so she asked little Lu Xi, Who is he?
Junior Duke Yun, who was busy eating mung bean cake on the side, said, He is Prince Sus concubine-born son, so he doesnt have the title of Junior Duke. He is called Lu Zhen and is five years old. But he should be the eldest grandson of Imperial Grandfather.
Little Lu Zhen saluted Qiao Jinniang and said, Auntie, please apologize to Teacher. After all, respecting teachers is a tradition of Datang.
Qiao Jinniang said to the Crown Princes teacher, Oh, Your Excellency, you have a good student, but I will never allow Xier to practice calligraphy before the age of five because it will do him no good. If you think you cant teach him any longer, I can only find another teacher for Xier.
The Junior Duke Bao hurriedly fawned on Qiao Jinniang. Auntie, I want to have a new teacher too.
Consort Qi, who had juste over, was ashamed. Why did she give birth to such a foodie? He didnt have the air a junior duke should have at all!
After the rabbit thing during the Mid-Autumn Festival, Baoer was very afraid of Qiao Jinniang and didnt even dare to look at her.
But after eating Qiao Jinniangs pastries for a few days, he wouldnt even mind kneeling down and calling Qiao Jinniang Mother!
But seeing Junior Duke Yuns fawning eyes, Consort Qi was a little more psychologically bnced. It seemed that it wasnt just her son who was a foodie, but the children of the Lu family were all foodies.
What happened? Consort Chu came over and asked.
Qiao Jinniang said, Nothing. The Crown Princes teacher asked Xier to practice calligraphy, but I didnt allow it, so His Excellency said that he couldnt teach Xier anymore.
Consort Chu said, Handwriting is very important. The imperial grandson is known as a child prodigy. Why not let him practice calligraphy?
Qiao Jinniang said, Well, when I was young, I had a ssmate who was forced to practice calligraphy by her family when she was only three years old. When she grew up, her hands became so deformed that she could hardly carry things, let alone write..
Although His Majesty and His Royal Highness both started to practice calligraphy at the age of three, as a mother, I dont want my child to take any risks, besides, most of the children start to practice calligraphy at the age of five among the folks.
Chapter 224 - The Imperial Teacher, Ji Wangkui
Chapter 224: The Imperial Teacher, Ji Wangkui
Hearing her words, the Crown Princes teacher said, Then please find a new teacher, Your Highness!
After the Crown Princes teacher left, Consort Chu and Consort Qi tried to persuade Qiao Jinniang.
Your Highness, His Excellency has served three emperors and is the enlightenment teacher of His Royal Highness. He is very respected in the East Pce. Offending him will not do you any good!
Yeah, he was already a Hanlin during the reign of thete emperor. Why bother to fall out with him for such a trivial matter? Among the officials in Changan, he is said to be the most knowledgeable.
Consort Chu nodded and said, If you offend him, Im afraid that no one would dare to teach the imperial grandson because no one would dare to say that they are more knowledgeable than him.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you for your kindness, Sisters-inw. Xier, lets go back to the East Pce.
Lu Xi obediently took Qiao Jinniangs hand and got on the sedan chair with her.
After they returned to the East Pce, Xie Yun had already left.
Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen what happened just now. I know that he is your teacher, and I should not have offended him, but I will never let Xier fall into danger.
Lu Chen said, If my teacher said something like you are from the countryside, he should leave. Just rest assured.
Qiao Jinniang said, I dont care about that, but how to find Xier a new enlightenment teacher? Although he is only three years old, he is the imperial grandson after all.
Xier likes to study, and every day he gets up early to go to school.
Lu Chen thought for a while and said, Would you like to let Xier go to Qingming Academy?
Of course not! Qiao Jinniang said, Qingming Academy is not in Changan and doesnt have many days off. Xier is only three years old!
If Xier was already thirteen years old, then Qiao Jinniang would not dy Xiers studies even if she could not bear separating from him. But he was only three years old. How could she let him go to Qingming Academy alone?
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, There are very few teachers who are more knowledgeable than my teacher. Prime Minister Lin is busy with official business. Besides, he is an excellent official, but isnt necessarily a good teacher.
Qiao Jinniang pondered for a while and said, How about you teach Xier? It wont be difficult for you.
Lu Chen said, No, I cant teach him, but I have an excellent candidate, although Im afraid he wont be willing.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Who is it? Xier is the imperial grandson. How could there be anyone in the world who is reluctant to teach him?
The Imperial Teacher, Ji Wangkui.
Qiao Jinniang had heard of the name even when she was still far away in the South. Ji Wangkui hadpiled the reference books of the Imperial Examination when he was only 20.
During the reign thete emperor, Ji Wangkui was as famous as Mr. Xie was now, who was the president of Qingming Academy.
Lu Chen said, Mr. Ji is my fathers mentor, and I also received his teaching when I was young.
The famous Mr. Qingming from Qingming Academy was his master who only had two disciples, one was him and the other was Mr. Xie.
One taught the princes in the imperial pce, and the other has students all over the world.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mr. Ji should be in his 80s, right? Im afraid he doesnt want to teach Xier at such an old age.
Xier was only three years old, while Mr. Ji was over eighty years old. How could such a knowledgeable old man be willing to teach a child as young as Xier?
Lu Chen said, Lets just have a try.
Qiao Jinniang certainly wanted Mr. Ji to be Xiers teacher.
But she didnt have much hope.
Mr. Ji must be enjoying his retirement now, and serving as the enlightenment teacher of a three-year-old child was simply a waste of his talent.
However, as a mother, she should have a try for her child.
Qiao Jinniang went to tell the Queen about this and asked to go out of the imperial pce to visit Mr. Ji.
Queen Zhou said, Mr. Ji has a quirky temper. It took me a lot of effort to ask him to teach Chener back then.
I went to visit him a few days ago and found that his temper was getting even more weird. If he wanted Xier to practice calligraphy now, what would you do?
Qiao Jinniang said, If so, Ill have to find another teacher.
But I think Mr. Ji, who could teach a wise emperor like Father, must be a very good teacher.
Queen Zhou smiled. Then go, remember not to use your identity as the Crown Princess to push him. He hates that.
Qiao Jinniang replied. Yes, Mother.
...
Lu Chen took a day off and took Lu Xi to visit Mr. Ji with Qiao Jinniang.
The Ji Mansion didnt catch much attention in Changan, and it didnt upy arge area. When they knocked on the door, no concierge came. After a while, a boy of about 15 or 16 years old came to open the door.
This boy obviously knew Lu Chen. He saluted Lu Chen. Greetings, Your Royal Highness. Are you here today to visit my grandfather?
Lu Chen said, Yes.
The boy sighed and said, My grandfather is quarreling with my grandmother. The imperial doctor told Grandfather that he should eat less sweets, so Grandmother forbids him to eat sweets. Now my grandfather is throwing tantrums like a child. You bettere another day, Your Royal Highness.
Lu Chen said, It doesnt matter. Please lead the way.
Qiao Jinniang whispered to Lu Chen, I didnt know that Mr. Ji cant eat sweets and brought a lot of mung bean cakes. Now what should I do?
Lu Chen said, Its not that he cant eat it but that he should eat less. Mr. Ji has a sweet-tooth and is old, and eating those sticky sweets is not good for his teeth, so he is not allowed to eat them. Your mung bean cake easily melts in the mouth with a sweet aftertaste, so its a perfect snack for him.
Qiao Jinniang heaved a sigh of relief.
When they walked into the yard, they saw a white-haired old man pouting from afar, and a servant was persuading him to take his meal, but the old man was moring like a child. I will not eat without maltose!
This was quite a contrast to the Imperial Teacher and leader of the literati in Qiao Jinniangs mind.
Lu Chen smiled and said to Qiao Jinniang, Mr. Ji and you are like father and daughter.
Qiao Jinniang asked in confusion, Huh?
Lu Chen said, You wont take medicine without maltose.
Qiao Jinniang:
Grandfather, the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess came to see you with the little imperial grandson.
Ji Wangkui waved his hand and said, I dont want to see them. Emperor Huilin has promised to let me enjoy my retirement. Why did theye?
Qiao Jinniang took the mung bean cake from Hongling, walked up to Ji Wangkui and said respectfully, Mr. Ji, the Dragon Boat Festival is approaching. I am here to bring you some mung bean cake.
Ji Wangkui stared at the fluffy mung bean cake in Qiao Jinniangs hand with the scent of bean paste, and couldnt help reaching for it.
Qiao Jinniang handed Ji Wangkui a piece of bean paste with less filling.
Ji Wangkui ate it and said, Huh? Does the imperial pce have a new pastry chef? The mung bean cakes sent over from the imperial pce in previous years were not as delicious as this one, and it still has bean paste filling!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Mr. Ji, I made these. If you like it, I will have someone bring you more another day.
Ji Wangkui nced at Qiao Jinniang and said, You and Old Zhengs granddaughter really look alike!
Chapter 225 - Became the Imperial Teacher’s Disciple
Chapter 225: Became the Imperial Teachers Disciple
Mrs. Ji said on the side, They are mother and daughter. Of course they look alike. Then she turned to Qiao Jinniang. Destiny makes fools out of people. I never thought what happened in the ys would happen to you and your mother. Mrs. Zheng must be blessing you in heaven.
It seemed that Ji Wangkui and Zheng Xiaos grandfather were on good terms, so Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, thanks to the blessing of my ancestors. I came rashly to visit you today because I wanted to ask Mr. Ji to teach my son, Xier
Before she even finished speaking, Ji Wangkui stuffed the unfinished mung bean cake into his mouth and took a sip of water. Dont even think about it! What makes you think a mere piece of mung bean cake can bribe me to teach the imperial grandson? I wont be bribed by a piece of mung bean cake.
Qiao Jinniang:
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Mr. Ji, Xier is talented and intelligent. Except you, I really cant find another suitable teacher for this job. Please teach my son. Xier is obedient and sensible and wont trouble you much.
Ji Wangkui said, Everyone likes to brag about their own sons. Thete emperor bragged about His Majesty, His Majesty bragged about you, and now you bragged about your own son, but Im too old to teach.
Find someone else. I heard that Tao Wen is teaching the imperial grandsons, isnt he? Isnt it enough?
Little Lu Xi said, Although my fathers teacher is very knowledgeable, he insulted my mother, so I dont want him to teach me!
Ji Wangkui looked at the adorable little emperors grandson and said, Oh? How did he insult your mother?
He said my mother came from the countryside. Little Lu Xi said.
So you think he was insulting your mother by saying that? Does it mean that you also look down on the countrymen in your heart?
Little Lu Xi shook his head and said, No, the countryside is fun. There, I can catch fish, shrimp and frogs. Only when farmers grow grain diligently can we have good food to eat and can my mother make good food.
Then why do you think it was an insult? Ji Wangkui continued to ask.
Little Lu Xi said, My fathers teacher said that my mother was from the countryside, so she didnt know the Six Arts, but the countrymen also know the Six Arts. My mother didnt let me practice calligraphy just because she didnt want my hands to get hurt!
Ji Wangkui said, If your teacher and your mother contradict on how to teach you, will you listen to your teacher or your mother?
Little Lu Xi said, My mother. My mother is never wrong!
Qiao Jinniang was a bit embarrassed.
Ji Wangkui said, To err is human. How can you say that your mother is never wrong?
Little Lu Xi said, Mother will never harm Xier. Even if my mother is wrong, its still for my own good, so Ill listen to her words!
Ji Wangkui smiled again and asked, If your father and your mother contradict, will you listen to your father or your mother?
Little Lu Xi touched his chin and said, Still my mother, because my father will listen to my mother in the end.
Lu Chen couldnt help clenching Little Lu Xis hand. That was not true! In his sons eyes, he didnt have the majesty of a father at all?!
Qiao Jinniang said to Little Lu Xi with a little anxiety, To err is human, but to correct is divine.
It is inevitable to make mistakes in life, but itll be fine if you are willing to take responsibility for your mistakes, ask for forgiveness, and get back on the right path.
Mother will also make mistakes, but Ill correct them, as should Tuaner.
Lu Xi nodded. But Xier still thinks Mommy will never make mistakes
Qiao Jinniang had given up hope that the Imperial Teacher would ept Xier as his disciple. She picked up little Lu Xi and couldnt help kissing his little face. Good boy, Xier.
Mrs. Ji kept them for lunch, and she was very surprised to see Lu Xi eating alone. Is the imperial grandson already eating by himself at this age?
He has been eating by himself since he was two years old, Qiao Jinniang said.
When they left, Ji Wangkui said to Lu Chen, Bring Lu Xi over in the morning and pick him up in the afternoon every day from tomorrow onwards.
When Qiao Jinniang heard it, she was so overjoyed that she almost knelt down to Ji Wangkui. Thank you, Mr. Ji.
Ji Wangkui said, I didnt promise to teach him knowledge. Its inappropriate for such a little kid to practice calligraphy or learn some hard-to-understand knowledge.
Everyone praises him as a child prodigy, but how many child prodigies can still be famous after they grow up? Most of them fail halfway.
I will only teach him books like the Thousand Character ssic, although he must have already read and memorized them. Hope you wont me me for being too slow in teaching.
Lu Chen said, No, it is Xiers blessing to be taught by the Imperial Teacher.
Little Lu Xi whispered, Mother, If Ie here to study, can I still see Brother Bao and Brother Yun?
Ji Wangkui said, In case the others say that Im still involved in politics at such an old age, let his Brother Bao and Brother Yune along with him.
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang were even more grateful. Thank you, Imperial Teacher.
...
Before returning to the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang ordered Yuyan to inform the Prince Chu Mansion and Prince Qi Mansion of this matter.
Consort Chu and Consort Qi were also very grateful. Ji Wangkui was very famous. It was indeed a blessing to be taught by His Majestys teacher.
Consort Qi was very worried about her Baoer, who was not as excellent as Lu Xi and was only interested in food. She was worried that her son might be despised by the Imperial Teacher.
At this time.
A maid came to report that Prince Qi was having an affair with Tong Yingying in the bookstore today, which immediately infuriated Consort Qi, and she ordered someone to go to the bookstore to bring Prince Qi back.
...
The imperial envoy to go to the South to deal with the flood had been decided.
It was Prince Huai, and Qin Shu was appointed as the general to protect Prince Huai. Qiao Lu also followed Qin Shu to the South to gain experience.
Fulu hadnt been to the South before, so she mored to follow Qiao Lu to the South.
Qiao Ruoyun also wanted to go to the graves of her parents to pay homage, so Fulu and Qiao Ruoyun went to the South too.
When Qiao Jinniang heard that Qiao Ruoyun and Qiao Lu were both gone, she couldnt help but worry about Zheng Xiao. Qiao Ruoyi was still an unmarried girl who was under sixteen.
The secret tunnel had been sealed, so Qiao Jinniang took the excuse of sending Xier to the Imperial Teachers mansion to go to the Qiao Mansion to visit Zheng Xiao.
However, to her surprise, she didnt see Zheng Xiao in the Qiao Mansion.
Qiao Ruoyi said angrily, Yesterday, as soon as Brother and Eldest Sister left, Daddy took Mother away at night
Did Mother leave voluntarily?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Of course not, but she was about to give birth, so she didnt dare to resist.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. Then you should go back to the Duke Mansion too.
Qiao Ruoyi said, No, Sister, Im going to Xishan Academy. There is a shortage of female teachers at Xishan Academy. Since I have some knowledge, I should go to Xishan Academy to teach.
Xishan Academy was the school opened by Qiao Jinniang. A few monthster, the school seemed to be developing well.
Because many famous teachers went there, many women in Changan went to Xishan Academy to study, so itcked female teachers.
Qiao Jinniang said, Its good to go to Xishan, but the conditions there are still poor
Although Qiao Ruoyi was born by a concubine, she was still a dukes daughter, who had been living in affluence since she was born
Chapter 226 - The Crown Princess Was Impeached for Disrespecting Teachers
Chapter 226: The Crown Princess Was Impeached for Disrespecting Teachers
Qiao Ruoyi said, Xishan Academy is not short of silver taels. Todays Xishan Academy is very good. Besides, the president said that if I go there to teach, I can bring my maids with me.
Qiao Jinniang thought about it. She had been giving a lot of silver taels to Xishan Academy in the past few months, so the conditions must have improved a lot.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Okay, if you encounter anything, juste to the East Pce to find me.
Qiao Ruoyi nodded and said, There is just one thing. Recently, a lot of matchmakers havee to propose to me on someones behalf, but I dont want to get married so soon. Please tell Mother about it.
Qiao Jinniangughed. Then if you want to get married, you have to tell me.
Qiao Ruoyi blushed. Okay.
It was inconvenient for Qiao Jinniang to return to the Duke Anyuan Mansion, as it would be too eye-catching, so she asked Nuomi to serve Zheng Xiao, fearing that Zheng Xiao would be wronged in the Duke Mansion.
Nuomi wrote a letter to her, saying that Zheng Xiao was the real master of the Duke Mansion now. If she asked Duke Anyuan to get lost, he would immediately disappear from her eyes, and if she asked Duke Anyuan to serve her, he wouldnt dare to neglect either, which made Qiao Jinniang relieved.
After all, Nuomi would not lie to her.
Qiao Jinniang didnt pick up Xier every day.
But she would make lunch for the Ji Mansion every day.
Of course, she didnt really make the dishes herself, but instructed the royal chefs to do it.
Everyone in the Ji Mansion liked to eat the food she made, so she had people send them dishes every day.
On this day, when she was instructing the chefs to make cakes, Yuyan hurried in and said, Your Highness, an imperial censor impeached you in todays levee!
Qiao Jinniang thought that she hadnt even been out of the East Pce these days. Why did that imperial censor impeach her?
Impeach me for what?
The imperial censor is the father of Prince Sus concubine. He impeached you for disrespecting the Crown Princes teacher, making him so angry that he was bedridden and was unable to teach the children of the royal family, and he also impeached you for interfering in the education of the imperial grandsons!
...
Early in the morning, when Lu Chen heard the impeachment, he said coldly and sarcastically, It hasnt been long since Tong Lei was dismissed from office. Is this the way your imperial censors are doing your jobs?
Prince Su came out and said, Your Royal Highness, you dont need to be angry. Everyone has already known what happened in the south study that day. The Crown Princess forcibly meddled in the studies of the imperial grandson and forbade him from practicing calligraphy, which angered Mr. Tao so much that he is now bedridden.
Now everyone says that the Crown Princess is going too far. Besides, the imperial grandson is talented. She shouldnt bury his talent!
Prince Qi, who hated Qiao Jinniang, also came out and said, Yes, yes, although my Baoer is a bit stupid, he has long since memorized the Thousand Character ssic.
I dont know what kind of teacher the Crown Princess has found for him, who just teaches Baoer the characters Heaven and Earth every day. Baoer said that in addition to eating, they were ying!
Prince Su cupped his hands and said to Emperor Huilin, Father, the Crown Princess drove Mr. Tao away and went to hire amoner who is a worthless teacher. He only teaches the children how to y games every day, which will only make their learning go backwards.
The father of Prince Sus concubine also said, Your Majesty, your eldest grandson has always been iparably intelligent, and he has long been able to write a thousand characters and write essays.
But the teacher that the Crown Princess hired only taught the characters Heaven and Earth. He has been teaching for almost three days but hasnt taught any new knowledge besides those two characters.
Your eldest grandson is very worried about his studies. Please hold justice for Mr. Tao and let him continue to teach the children!
All the courtiers bowed their heads. It was about the imperial grandson and the Crown Princess, so they had better keep their mouths shut.
Prince Chu looked at Prince Su and Prince Qi and said, If you dont want to let the teacher whom the crown princess hired teach your children, go ahead. Just ask Mr. Tao to teach them!
It was not easy to have the Imperial Teacher teach his child. Although Prince Chu knew that he could only be an idle prince in this life, he still wanted his Yuner to make great achievements.
But he also hoped his Yuner would have a good career in the future.
Now that the imperial grandson was studying with so many children, Yuner couldnt stand out.
But if Baoer, Zhener and the others were all gone, his Yuner would be the only ssmate of the imperial grandson, which would be wonderful!
Prince Qi wasnt really stupid. Looking at his second brothers expression, he hurriedly said, No, no, this is the Crown Princess kindness. Baoer will still study with the imperial grandson.
Besides, his wife was very satisfied with the new teacher. Hed better not seek trouble.
But Prince Su said, But Mr. Tao has been sick for a few days after being horribly humiliated by the Crown Princess Even if Zhener wants him to teach him, he cant!
Father, please punish the one who humiliated Mr. Tao and uphold justice for him!
Emperor Huilin said to Lu Chen, Crown Prince, what do you think?
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Teacher is quite old. Since he is ill, he should retire and return to his hometown.
As for Brother Su, if he looks down on the teacher the Crown Princess hired, he can find a teacher for Zhener himself!
Lu Chens words shocked everyone.
The Crown Prince had already offended the Duke Wu Mansion for the Crown Princess, and now he even abandoned his teacher for the Crown Princess?
Was he bewitched by the Crown Princess?
All the ministers turned their eyes to Duke Anyuan.
Lu Chen said firmly, My teacher insulted the Crown Princess, but the Crown Princess chose to pass over his rude remarks.
But now Brother Su demands Father to uphold justice for him? Isnt it ridiculous?
Besides, the teacher the Crown Princess hired is the mentor of Father and I, Mr. Ji Wangkui.
Since Prince Su and Imperial Censor Su felt that even the Imperial Teacher was unworthy to teach Lu Zhen
Then dont send Lu Zhen there. I heard that he has indeed been absent from ss for two days already.
The ministers were all surprised. How could it be Ji Wangkui, the Imperial Teacher?
Ji Wangkui was already in his eighties. How could he still ept such a group of young disciples?
Prince Qis heart was pounding hard. Fortunately, he didnt promise Prince Su just now. Otherwise, his consort would have beaten the hell out of him!
Emperor Huilin looked at Prince Qi, who was weak in the legs, and slightly curled his lips with contempt.
Emperor Huilin said, The imperial grandson has already told me how the Crown Princes teacher disrespected the Crown Princess. The Crown Princess forgave him for the sake of his former teachings for the Crown Prince. Since he is ill, I will allow him to retire and return to his hometown.
Prince Su said, But Father, even if Mr. Tao contradicted the Crown Princess, it was because the Crown Princess didnt allow the imperial grandson to practice calligraphy. How pitiful Mr. Tao is! He wanted the imperial grandson to practice calligraphy just because he wanted to teach him well and cherish his talent
Lu Chen said to Prince Su, The imperial grandson has already exined the reason. Practicing calligraphy too early is not good for his hand bones.
But we all started to practice calligraphy at the age of three!
Prince Su asked, Junior Duke Yun and my Zhener also started to practice calligraphy at the age of three. Whats wrong with that?
Lu Chen said, Although I started to practice calligraphy at three, I didnt copy copybooks, but Mr. Tao asked the imperial grandson to copy a copybook, which is not good for his hands.
The famous calligrapher Mr. Liu once said that nowadays, many people make three-year-old children copy copybooks. Little did they know that this would only do the children more harm than good, and it is best for children to do that when they are five or six years old.
In terms of calligraphy skills, no one in Changan couldpare to Mr. Liu or his sessor, the Crown Prince.
Since he had said so, Prince Su couldnt even find a word to rebut.
...
In a teahouse in Changan, Tong Yingying was sipping her tea casually, waiting for the good news from Prince Su.
Prince Huai was not her choice, neither was Prince Chu. Prince Lu was out of His Majestys favor due to the Jian family. She finally managed to meet Prince Qi a few days ago, but she didnt expect Consort Qi to be so fierce and unreasonable.
However, perhaps God was helping her and let her meet Lu Zhen who was returning to Prince Su Mansion alone so she learned about the fight between the Crown Princes teacher and the Crown Princess.
And Lu Zhens grandfather, Imperial Censor Su, used to be her fathers subordinate, so Tong Yingying could make good use of this matter.
Tong Yingying said to her maid, I used to focus on the princes, but His Majesty is healthy, so maybe I should turn my eyes to the imperial grandsons.
Although Lu Zhen was born by a concubine, he is the eldest grandson of the Emperor. More importantly, he is extremely intelligent and eager to learn. This time, His Majesty will definitely have a very good impression of Lu Zhen.
Chapter 227 - He Is the Imperial Teacher
Chapter 227: He Is the Imperial Teacher
At this moment, Tong Yingying saw Lu Xi and the other children who were flying kites in the garden on the second floor of the teahouse.
Tong Yingying couldnt help sneering. Qiao Jinniang didnt want the knowledgeable Tao Wen to teach her son but handed over the heir to the Crown Prince to amoner for their education.
Could ying kites all day long help the imperial grandson make progress?
It should be known that Lu Zhen, the eldest grandson of the Emperor, could make poems and essays when he was only five years old.
The imperial grandson would be ruined by Qiao Jinniang sooner orter.
There were not a few literati in the teahouse who had the same concern. When they happened to see the guard of honor of the Crown Princess pass by, they began to discuss with each other, and they all felt that Mr. Tao Wen was greatly wronged.
Qiao Jinniang, however, didnt care about the impeachment or rumors. If even the Imperial Teacher was not qualified to teach her son, no one would be qualified in this world.
When they arrived at the Ji Mansion, they heard that Ji Wangkui took the children to fly kites in the fields. When Qiao Jinniang arrived, the children had already taken off their shoes and socks and were stepping on the mud field.
Little Lu Xi even volunteered to grab frogs in the field.
Seeing this scene, Qiao Jinniang shivered. There were many insects and leeches in the fields. Although she grew up in the folk, she never went to the field.
Xier.
Covered all over with dirt, Lu Xi climbed onto Qiao Jinniang. Mommy.
Qiao Jinniang was afraid that Lu Xi would smear the mud on her and hurriedly said, Wait, donte over. Take a bath first!
Ji Wangkui said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, do you feel distressed for the Little Highness?
Qiao Jinniang didnt lie and said, To be frank, Mr. Ji, I do. After all, there are snakes, leeches, and voles in the fields in summer. These kids are very carefully raised, so
Ji Wangkui smiled and said, Your Highness, dont worry. I heard that someone impeached me today for only teaching these children the characters Heaven and Earth. I wonder what you think.
Qiao Jinniang said, If they can learn the two characters well, I am afraid that they will gain endless benefits in their lifetime. Heaven represents the Emperor, and the earth represents the people. They really should learn the two characters well.
Ji Wangkui said, Exactly. These little kids wont understand the meaning of those abstruse scriptures at all at their age.
Its better to let them feel the heaven and the earth. As for the bites of snakes, insects, rats and ants, they all carry realgar powder on their bodies, so you can rest assured.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief, and ordered the imperial maids to take out the dishes for lunch, and ce them on the field ridge.
When I was a child, my family had several acres ofnd in the countryside. Every year when the farming season came, I would follow the servants to the countryside to deliver meals and eat with the farmers on the ridges of the fields. Later, my familys restaurants business was doing better and better, so we simply rented the fields to the farmers, and then I seldom ate on the fields.
The eunuchs and maids all felt that this was not in line with the rules, but they didnt dare to stop the Crown Princess.
However, that didnt mean Tong Yingying and other people watching the fun wouldnt speak.
Tong Yingying saluted Qiao Jinniang and said, Your Highness, as Confucius said, do not speak during dinner or sleep. They are all the grandsons of the Emperor. It would be a disgrace to the royal family for them to eat on the fields like farmers!
Many literati who came to watch the fun echoed her sentiment.
Tong Yingying sneered again and said, I had thought the crown princess had found a good teacher for the imperial grandson, but not only did he only teach the children two characters in two or three days, but now he is even teaching them farming?! Does the heir to the Crown Prince need to farm?
Ji Wangkui was quite old. Thest time he came out was when the Crown Prince was ten years old. So, for the past ten years, he had been reclusive.
So very few people knew him.
People like Tong Yingying were not qualified to know Ji Wangkui.
Mrs. Ji said coldly from the side, Your grandmother was obsessed with fishing for fame when she was young and angered her mother-inw so much that thetter died in anger. Now her granddaughter also ys lofty and talented. But in terms of talent, can you get in the line in Changan?
Hey, old woman, where are you from?! My misss n theory has spread all over the world. Tong Yingyings maid defended Tong Yingying.
Mrs. Jiughed. The n theory is simply bullshit, using gorgeous rhetoric to cover up her absurd theories.
The n is meant for mutual help among the nsmen and not just for the continuation of the n. You dont know the essence of it, but blindly praise its dregs such as snatching other sonless nsmens properties. And you are actually proud of your stupid theory?
You only know to make some empty meaningless poems but boast yourself as the most talented woman in Changan. Isnt it ridiculous?
I suggest you not tarnish the name of a talented girl!
Qiao Jinniang didnt expect Mrs. Ji to be so eloquent. Her words were incisive and poignant. She almost wanted to apud her. She really should learn from her.
Tong Yingyings face turned ashen and she said, How dare you say that to me? Do you mean Im not talented but this old man who only knows to teach two characters is?
Qiao Jinniang said to Tong Yingying, Let me remind you, she is the wife of the Imperial Teacher, Mr. Ji. And this man you despise is Ji Wangkui, the teacher of His Majesty!
Tong Yingyings face turned from pale to red and she felt her face was burning. Her eyes widened in disbelief!
Ji Wangkui?
How could this old man be Ji Wangkui?
As the Imperial Teacher and the most famous schr in the world, how could Ji Wangkui condone the children of the royal family to eat on the field ridge?
And when the literati who followed to watch the fun heard the name Ji Wangkui, they all rushed over to fawn on Ji Wangkui.
Ji Wangkui was very impatient, and said to the children, Lets go back. We cane out to y again when there arent so many annoying people.
Tong Yingying gaped in shock. Ji Wangkui had been her idol since childhood. When Emperor Huilin was in a difficult situation, he took a fancy to Emperor Huilins knowledge and took him as his disciple.
Ji Wangkui, who never bent to power, was actually teaching the imperial grandson for the sake of power now!
It could be seen that Ji Wangkui was nothing but a snob.
Qiao Jinniang reminded Tong Yingying. Remember to pay back the money as soon as possible.
Tong Yingying had to salute and said, Yes, Your Highness.
...
On the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, Changan was very lively. Perhaps because Fulu was not in Changan, it was much less lively than previous years.
After Qiao Jinniang tied a sachet on Lu Chens waist, she went to the observation tform to watch the Dragon Boat Race with him.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen seated together, many courtiers and nobledies remembered that at this timest year, the Crown Prince had already brought Qiao Jinniang in front of everyone.
Duke Anyuan Mansion and Zheng Xiao were both absent, and halfway through the dragon boat race, a maid from the Duke Anyuan Mansion came to report good news. Your Highness, Madam has given birth to a daughter who weighs six catties and eight taels.
Qiao Jinniang smiled happily and rewarded the maid some money. After the dragon boat race, I will go back to visit my mother.
Soon the good news spread all over the viewing tform. Some people came to congratte, but some people were sour.
Congrattions, Your Highness, but being born on the Dragon Boat Festival is not auspicious!
No matter if it is a boy or a girl, being born on the Dragon Boat Festival was not auspicious, so many people would even take oxytocin to avoid giving birth to their children on the Dragon Boat Festival.
When Qiao Jinniang heard it, she said solemnly, She is the daughter of Duke Anyuan and my younger sister. Whats not auspicious about her birth?
Chapter 228 - The Crown Princess’ Sister Was A Jinx
Chapter 228: The Crown Princess Sister Was A Jinx
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand andforted her. Why bother with them? They are just jealous of Mother-inw giving birth to a daughter in her middle ages.
Qiao Jinniang nodded slightly, but she was still worried. Anyway, she couldnt stop people from gossiping about it.
Especially the people of the Earl Chengen Mansion. They were the Empress Dowagers natal family, and there was indeed such a saying among the folks, so she couldnt make them keep their mouths shut.
After the dragon boat race, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen took Xier to the Duke Anyuan Mansion.
If they took their guards of honor, the Duke Mansion would have to receive them withplicated procedures, so they simply disguised themselves and entered the Duke Mansion through the side door.
Hearing that Lu Chen came in through the side door, Duke Anyuan had a big headache and hurriedly knelt down to them and apologized.
Qiao Jinniang said, Father, you dont need to be so polite. If we walk through the front door, youll have to go through tedious procedures. Mother has just given birth and cant stand any toss, so why bother with these red tapes
Before she finished speaking, Duke Anyuan knelt on the ground and said, No, no, how can the etiquette between monarchs and ministers be red tapes?
Duke Anyuan never dared to show any disrespect to the royal family members.
Lu Chen said to Duke Anyuan, Father-inw, I have something to talk to you about. Lets talk in the front yard.
When Qiao Jinniang entered Zheng Xiaos room, she found that Zheng Xiao looked very well even though she had just given birth. The Duke Mansion must have taken a very good care of her.
Second Madam said on the side, Its a pity that this child was born on the day of the Dragon Boat Festival! Those born on such a ominous day are usually jinxes!
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she frowned and said, Second Aunt, what are you talking about? As Fathers daughter and my sister, she must be well-blessed!
Zheng Xiao hugged her little daughter feebly, and when she saw Qiao Jinnianging over, she held her hand and said, Jinniang, Im sorry.
The birth of this daughter reminded Zheng Xiao of what Jinniang looked like when she was just born twenty years ago.
Jinniang was different from other children at birth. She had seen her once, but after Jinniang was swapped, she, as her mother, didnt discover it at all.
Qiao Jinniang also held Zheng Xiaos hand and said, Mother, its all over. In fact, God has been treating me very well. My adoptive mother loved me very much since I was a child. Just when I thought my father and mother were gone, God gave me a new pair of father and mother.
Zheng Xiao shed a drop of tears.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, you cant cry within a month after you gave birth to a child.
Seeing them so affectionate, Second Madam couldnt help thinking of her own daughters, so she simply shut up.
Qiao Jinniang picked up her little sister. She looked more like Duke Anyuan.
Girls are soft and fragrant. Look how beautiful she is. Seeing the little baby open her eyes, Qiao Jinniang smiled gently.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang holding another child, Lu Xi was slightly jealous, but still stood on tiptoe and looked at the baby. Mother, is this my sister?
No, she is your little aunt. Qiao Jinniang smiled.
Little Lu Xi lowered his head and said, What about my sister? Dad told me that as long as I donte to find you at night, Ill have a sister soon!
Qiao Jinniang blushed. How could Lu Chen say these words to a child?!
Zheng Xiao also asked: Jinniang, are you pregnant again?
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, I have only been married to the East Pce for about a month. How can I be pregnant so soon?
Besides, Qiao Jinniang was not in a hurry to have another child, so she said to little Lu Xi, If Xier is more sensible, when your sister sees such a good brother, she will want toe to the world.
Zheng Xiao said, Your eldest sister should have arrived in the South. I dont know what the situation in the South is. Hope she can have a child during this trip to the South.
Qiao Jinniang also hoped that Ruoyun could live an easier life. Her adoptive parents were so nice to her, and she did hope that their biological daughter could live a care-free life.
But just like her adoptive mother, Qiao Ruoyun was too weak and forbearing
Everyone said that Qin Shu was a good husband, and sometimes Qiao Jinniang thought the same.
But if he was really a good husband, why did Qiao Ruoyun always look so unhappy and preupied?
It was a little strange that Prince Huai picked Qin Shu to go to the South with him and protect him. How could Fourth Miss Qin, a concubine-born daughter,pare to Qiao Ruoyun, the next Duke Qins wife?
Qiao Jinniang somehow felt something was wrong, but she didnt tell Zheng Xiao for fear that she would be worried.
...
After returning to the imperial pce, Qiao Jinniang went to the Queens pce first. The Queen heard that Zheng Xiao had given birth to a daughter and gave her a lot of rewards.
My biggest regret in this life is not being able to give birth to a daughter.
Qiao Jinniang said, Mother, youre still young, not a few years older than my mother. If you take good care of yourself, you can also have a daughter.
Queen Zhou chuckled. Silly child, I cant have a baby anymore, so I hope to have a little granddaughter to relieve my boredom. Dont think that you are still young and are not in a hurry to have another child. It is extremely important to grow more branches and leaves for the tree of the royal family.
Qiao Jinniang nodded obediently. It seemed that every mother-inw in the world wanted their daughters-inw to give birth to more children.
Besides, Qiao Jinniang also knew that in order to relieve the pressure of the public opinion, she had to have another child.
...
After the Dragon Boat Festival, there was a rumor in Changan that the floods in the South had flooded many towns.
Fortunately, the court sent rescue in time, although many peoples homes were flooded, the loss of life was notrge.
In a teahouse in Changan, a woman of the Miao nationality from the Southwest said, The flood in the South is due to the arrival of a jinx, and this jinx was born in a distinguished family whose ancestors came from the Southwest.
That jinx is the reincarnation of the witch of the Miao people in the Southwest.
If the jinx is not eliminated, the floods in the South will not stop, and will even spread to Changan. By then, there will be floods all over Datang, and the people will have nowhere to go.
Some people in the teahouse were a little scared. Then what should we do?
To break the flood disaster caused by this jinx, we need to bury the jinx alive under a willow tree The Miao woman said, And then seal it with a magic matrix!
Hearing her words, Junior Duke Rong, who brought Samoer to the teahouse, frowned. Isnt this jinx referring to the Crown Princess little sister who was just born?
Who did this baby offend?
Why was this woman so cruel as to try to murder a baby?
Samoer looked at the Miao woman below and frowned.
Who is she?
The State Preceptor of Xiliang, Samoer said.
Junior Duke Rong immediately figured it out. Xiliang and the Qiao family had a bloody feud! He had to go back and report this matter to His Majesty.
But before he could go downstairs.
He saw the people of Changan catch the woman who was wearing the Miao-style clothes.
One of the olddies hit the Miao woman hard with her cane. If youre really a Miao woman, even if that girl is really the so-called jinx, you wouldnt have been so ungrateful as to say these words!
Twenty years ago, how many Miao people were killed by Xiliang? It was Duke Anyuan who bravely rescued the Miao people and defended the peace in the Southwest! How dare you nder his little daughter ungratefully?
Thats right! Tell us, who sent you over? Do you think we are stupid? Duke Anyuan is a big hero. How can you nder his newborn daughter so viciously?!
Hurry up, lets send her to the Changan Government Office, and let Lord Prefect interrogate her!
Junior Duke Rong:
Why were the people of Changan so smart?
He had thought he finally had a chance to make a contribution for the Crown Princess and ask her for some little scones.
Chapter 229 - This Miao Woman Knows Magic
Chapter 229: This Miao Woman Knows Magic
The rumors about the jinx thing also spread to the imperial pce, and Yuyan came to Qiao Jinniang to report the news.
Qiao Jinniang was very angry. No matter who the person behind this is, no matter how much grievances he has with the Qiao family, he shouldnt be so vicious to a newly born baby!
When Lu Chen entered Qiao Jinniangs pce, seeing her angry face, he knew that she already knew about it.
Lu Chen said, The people have caught the Miao woman who spread the rumors. She is currently being interrogated by Changan Prefect. Dont worry. No one will believe this kind of nonsense.
Qiao Jinniang said indignantly, There had long been signs of floods in the South, but it was only recently known in Changan. Why do they say that its caused by my sister? It doesnt need everyone to believe it. As long as some people believe it, my sister will have to carry the name of a jinx.
Can you get the Miao woman over and interrogate her yourself?
It was not difficult for Lu Chen to personally interrogate the Miao woman.
Imperial Cousin, Cousin-inw, I know who that Miao woman is!
Junior Duke Rong shouted loudly from outside the pce.
Qiao Jinniang ordered to let him in, and Junior Duke Rong cupped his hands to Qiao Jinniang. Samoer told me that the Miao woman is the State Preceptor of Xiliang!
Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, Isnt Samoer the crown princess of Xiliang? Why did she reveal the identity of the State Preceptor of Xiliang?
Lu Chen exined to Qiao Jinniang in a low voice. Samoer father became the emperor of Xiliang because Duke Anyuan executed the former Emperor Xiliang, and the power of Xiliang is actually in the hands of the regent, and this State Preceptor of Xiliang is also on the regents side.
If not, Emperor Xiliang would not have been willing to marry his daughter so far away to Changan. What he wanted was to establish a good rtionship with Datang, so that the regent would not dare to kill him.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. No wonder Samoer didnt do anything against the Qiao family after raising the three problems at Lu Chens birthday banquet.
The execution of Emperor Xiliang by Duke Anyuan might do Samoers family more good than bad.
Qiao Jinniang said, Even if this State Preceptor of Xiliang sneaked into Changan, she should not know so much about Changan, especially the flood in the South. The reply letter of the imperial envoy has just arrived in Changan.
There must be someone in Datang helping her!
Lu Chenforted Qiao Jinniang. Leave this matter to me. You can rest assured. Im going to the Changan Government Office first.
Take me with you. Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen.
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs hand and agreed.
The mammies and guards in the East Pce:
The rule that the Crown Princess must not be allowed to leave the imperial pce seemed not to exist at all, but no one dared to remind them.
...
In the Mu Mansion not far from Prince Huai Mansion, Mu Qianqian struggled to get up from bed and asked, The people of Changan actually sent the State Preceptor to Changan Government Office?
Yes, Master, what should we do now? This State Preceptor is the sweetheart of the regent of Xiliang. We have to save her!
Mu Qianqian originally wanted to use the jinx rumor to provoke the peoples resentment against Duke Anyuan. Then if the Crown Prince helped Duke Anyuan, he would lose the peoples hearts.
But if the Crown Prince helped the people, then Duke Anyuan and Qiao Jinniang would break away from him.
The Crown Prince had already broken away from his teacher and the Duke Wu Mansion, and if he broke away with the Duke Anyuan Mansion too, wouldnt Prince Huai be the most powerful prince in the court?
How could the people of Changan not be tricked?!
What Mu Qianqian was more afraid of now was that she might ruin the n of Prince Huai and the Regent of Xiliang.
If she had known this, she wouldnt have had the State Preceptor of Xiliang to spread the rumors herself.
The Xiliang State Preceptor was really useless.
...
The prefect of Changan hadnt started the interrogation when he heard that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess had arrived, and he hurriedly guided them to the seats of honor.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the woman who was tied up by the people in Changan and felt that her eyes were a bit like Samoers.
But she was not as stunningly beautiful as Samoer.
The prefect of Changan banged his gavel and said, Who is the woman on the ground? How dare you y mysterious and nder the daughter of our countrys hero?!
The woman held her head high and said, I am Si Ru, the Saintess of Miao. I am not ying mysterious. I received the ominous sign shown by gods, so I specially came to Changan to remind His Majesty. Unfortunately I came toote and the jinx was already born. The South is already flooded, and the people there are already struggling to survive!
The prefect of Changan said, How can I believe your one-sided words!
Si Ru said, I am the Saintess of Miao. If you dont believe me, untie me, and I will show you some magic to open the eyes of fools like you people.
Zhou Shihui, who had just been released from prison, heard the noise here and came over to watch.
Although Zhou Shihui hated Qiao Jinniang for forcing her senior brother to marry Fulu, that child was her senior brothers younger sister, so how could she just sit by and ignore it?
After she came, she was disgusted to see Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said to the prefect, Then untie her!
After the prefect ordered to untie Si Ru, Si Ru said, I need a table, three bowls, five beans, and a stick!
The prefect of Changan nced at Lu Chen, who nodded and said, Give them to her.
After setting the table, Si Ru said, Look, there are five beans and three bowls here. There are no beans between my fingers. And these beans are prepared by you.
Si Ru spread out her hands and presented them in front of everyone, so that the people could see that there was nothing in her hands.
As you can see clearly, I put a bean into the first bowl, and put the second bean into the second bowl, then I put the third bean in the second bowl too, so there are two beans in the second bowl, and one bean in the first bowl, right?
After Si Ru put the beans, she asked the people.
The people said, Yes.
But after Si Ru opened the first bowl, there were three beans in it, but there was not a single bean in the second bowl!
Everyone was amazed and said, How is this possible? Just now I clearly saw two beans in the second bowl and one in the first bowl, but why are there three beans in the second bowl now?
Si Ru said, Because I know magic, now can you believe that I am the goddess of Miao to save you people?
Qiao Jinniang smiled. So this is magic?
Si Ru said, Of course, now I order you mortals to bury the jinx of the Qiao family under a willow tree! Hurry up!
Zhou Shihui was once sold into a trick troupe after she got lost when she was a child. She actually could do Si Rus magic too.
Zhou Shihui said to Hongling, Go report to your madam. If she stops forcing my senior brother to marry a woman he doesnt like and lets him marry me, I can go out and expose this Miao womans magic.
Otherwise, having a jinx as a sister is not good for her reputation, isnt it?
Chapter 230 - The Fairy Picks Beans
Chapter 230: The Fairy Picks Beans
When Qiao Jinniang heard the maids report, she just smiled and said, It turns out that if you know these tricks, you can be the Saintess of Miao. Then there must be a lot of Saintesses in our Datang!
Qiao Jinniang got up, walked slowly to Si Ru, took out the beans from the bowl, and ced them on the table one by one.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Everyone, as you can see, I dont have any beans in my hands or between my fingers. There are five beans on the table, and I only need to use two bowls.
Look, I put a bean into the first bowl, cover the bowl, and then put one into the second bowl.
Qiao Jinniang opened the second bowl and let the people look at it. Then she picked up another bean and said, Now this bean is in my hand. I can put this bean into the bowl without opening the bowl cover. Do you believe I can do it?
The people all shook their heads in disbelief.
Qiao Jinniang clenched the bean in her hand and chanted a spell. Put the bean on my left hand.
Then she said Enter! The next moment, the bean on her left hand disappeared out of thin air. After she opened the cover of the second bowl, everyone saw that there were two beans in the second bowl.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, This trick is called Two Dragons ying with A Pearl. Simrly, I cover the bowl, and I pick up a bean and put it on my left hand. Please say Enter!''
The people did as she said. After Qiao Jinniang opened her hand, she lifted the bowl cover. This trick is called Three Immortals Returned to the Abode.
Qiao Jinniang covered the bowl again and said, Now I pick up another bean and put it on my left hand. Enter!
Qiao Jinniang pointed at the small bowl and opened its cover. There were actually four beans in it. This is called Four Seasons Prosperity.
The people were all amazed, Whats going on here? The beans were clearly in her hands. How could she put the beans in the bowl?
Does the Crown Princess also know magic?
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, There is still thest one. There is a bean in the first bowl just now, right? Now I will take this bean out with magic and put it in the second bowl. Okay, now open the second bowl. There are five beans in it, right? This trick is called A Harvest of Five Grains!
The people were all dumbfounded.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Si Ru and said, I dont know who taught you this rough trick, but this is a trick called Fairy Picks Beans that was popr among noble families for thousands of years in Datang.
Nowadays, it is mostly performed for dignitaries and nobles in the imperial music office, but there are many opera troupes in the South that would perform these tricks during the New Year.
It just so happened that when I was a child, an opera troupe manager owed my familys restaurant money, so he taught me some tricks to offset the debt. Im not a good student so thats all I know. The skills of such experts are simply out of this world.
But your technique cant evenpare to an amateur like me!
The barbarians in Xiliang are so shallow and stupid as to try to fool our people with this trick. How ridiculous! How dare you call it magic?
Si Ru said, I am from Miao. Why did you say Im from Xiliang? Stop talking nonsense! Yours is just a trick but mine is real magic. You nder me just to protect your jinx sister.
Lu Chen said, Whether its a magic or a trick, you spread rumors to scare the people and intend to murder an innocent baby, which is a heinous crime. Prefect, if she refuses to confess who is behind the scenes, torture her until she confesses.
The prefect of Changan hurriedly said yes.
Si Ru had never been treated so rudely, and when she heard that she was to be tortured, she cried pitifully.
Qiao Jinniang whispered to Lu Chen, Is she really the State Preceptor of Xiliang? How can the State Preceptor of Xiliang be so spineless? Look at the way she cries!
Lu Chen smiled and said, Her tricks cant fool the people in Changan, but its not difficult to fool the people of Xiliang.
Qiao Jinniang thought what he said made sense. Most of themon people of Xiliang were ignorant, and these tricks might really make them believe Si Ru was a fairy.
When Qiao Jinniang saw this trick for the first time when she was a child, she had also thought she had met a god.
Later, when she learned the secret in the tricks, she realized that these so-called tricks were nothing more than techniques.
After a moment of torture, Si Ru was already on the verge of death. Living a luxurious life since childhood, she had never suffered like this. When she was about to confess, Mu Qianqian came in and knelt down, saying, Greetings, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness. The sinner, Mu Qianqian, came to confess.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Mu Qianqian and said, Its you.
Mu Qianqian said, Your Highness, please spare my life. I just hated that my child was born without a father and I was disced in Changan, but Duchess Anyuan, who was pregnant at the same time as me, was able to give birth to a daughter and was so carefully taken care of.
I was so jealous that I found a woman who learned juggling and asked her to pretend to be the Saintess of Miao.
I just hated Duke Anyuan for ignoring me in disregard of his brotherhood with my brother. I didnt mean to kill his daughter.
I was just too jealous of Duchess Anyuan. Your Highness, please forgive me!
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen looked at each other.
Mu Qianqian looked so feeble. She must have just given birth. She fell from the Wild Goose Pagoda that day, and it was not long before her child was born.
If she was really jealous, how could she risk her own life toe out and save a girl from a troupe?
Besides, as the princess of Xiliang, Samoer didnt have to lie about the identity of the State Preceptor of Xiliang.
Lu Chen said, Duke Anyuan kindly redeemed you from the brothel and gave you a new life, but you hold grudges. We wont execute you but you have to be punished. Since you were a prostitute in the first ce, go back to that brothel.
Mu Qianqian hurriedly kowtowed and a drop of tear fell from the corner of her eye.
It didnt matter. As long as Prince Huai could get the throne, she didnt mind sacrificing herself!
Her son was the eldest son of Prince Huai, and when Prince Huai ascended the throne, her child would be the crown prince.
Besides, if Prince Huai returned to Changan, he would surely save her out of the brothel.
Lu Chen set his eyes on Si Ru. As for her, she is an aplice. Demote her to a prostitute too!
Si Ru opened her eyes wide and screamed, How dare you? I am the State Preceptor of Xiliang!
Qiao Jinniang just took a sip of tea and almost vomited it out. Did Si Ru admit it a little too fast?
Lu Chen sneered. Princess Xiliang has married Junior Duke Rong of Datang, and Emperor Xiliang is friendly with Datang. How is it possible the State Preceptor of Xiliange to Changan to murder the daughter of Duke Anyuan? You lied and pretended to be the State Preceptor of Xiliang, which is unforgivable!
Come, send her and Mu Qianqian to the brothel together! No one can redeem them.
Qiao Jinniang was satisfied with the punishment they received. No matter what Mu Qianqian and Si Ru were up to, how could they try to murder a newly born baby?
But at this moment, Zhou Shihui said loudly, Imperial Cousin, this punishment is absolutely inappropriate. You can punish them in other ways but not this one!
Why make them prostitutes? Crown Princess, arent you a woman yourself?
Bullying two weak women and forcing them to be prostitutes This is really too cruel!
Chapter 231 - It’s Time to Get Rid of Qiao Ruoyun
Chapter 231: Its Time to Get Rid of Qiao Ruoyun
Qiao Jinniang looked puzzled.
Zhou Shihui continued righteously, Crown Princess, as a woman and the future manager of the imperial pce, cant you have some sympathy for women? Why are male criminals only banished to the border, while females have to be prostitutes to serve men?
Several women among the people apuded.
Lu Chen frowned and was about to punish Zhou Shihui when Qiao Jinniang held his hand.
Qiao Jinniang said, This is the first time I saw someone who pleads for murderers. If Mu Qianqian were punished for her familys illicite salt dealing today, I would definitely plead for her, but she wasnt.
This vicious woman wanted to murder my sister. If the people of Changan werent smart enough, what would have happened to my sister? Its already merciful enough to spare her life!
Dont emphasize that they are women. No ordinary women would try to murder a baby. But they worked out such a vicious n to murder an innocent baby!
Thats right, what the Crown Princess said makes sense. Such vicious women deserve to be executed!
Zhou Shihui frowned, but she couldnt refute it.
...
After returning to the East Pce.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were listening to the reporting of a secret guard in the study.
Your Royal Highness, I found out that Mu Qianqian had seen Prince Huai who sneaked out of the imperial tomb when she was still in the Southwest, and Prince Huai went to the Southwest back then to discuss important matters with the regent of Xiliang.
The people behind the illicit trafficking of salt seemed to be Prince Mediocre and the Right Prime Minister, but in fact half of the ie went to the Mu family, which was even more than what Prince Mediocre, Right Prime Minister, and Earl Chengen Mansion received.
A maid of the Mu family who was sold into a brothel in Changan testified that Mu Qianqians position in the Mu family was exceptionally high. Master Mu seemed to trust Miss Mu very much, and would even take her along when talking about business.
Qiao Jinniang listened and said, No wonder Right Prime Minister even risked his own life to protect Prince Mediocre. What he actually wanted was not to protect Prince Mediocre, but to make him a scapegoat for Prince Huai!
Prince Huai and Mu Qianqian were really well-hidden. Maybe the child born by Mu Qianqian is also Prince Huais?
Lu Chen chuckled and said, My eldest brother has been holding back since I was a child. Now his fox tail is finally exposed.
Qiao Jinniang was a little worried. Then why did Mother plead for him back then?
Lu Chen said, Firstly, he hid very well, and secondly, my disappearance really had nothing to do with Prince Huai. Maybe he had yed a part in it, but the culprit was Prince Mediocre.
Besides, his mother, Imperial Concubine Li was willing to exchange her own life for his. She and my father grew up together. Before my mother appeared, Father favored her the most.
Imperial Concubine Li married my father at the age of fifteen, and apanied my father to the throne. Even if Father didnt love her, they were cousins who had grown up together.
After my mother married into the imperial pce, Imperial Concubine Li didnt do anything against her and even helped her manage the imperial pce. She was also very kind to me and was never jealous of my mother.
To my father, she was his younger sister and a confidant.
Although there was no love between men and women between Imperial Concubine Li and my father, my father still had very deep affections for her. Therefore, my mother had to fulfill Imperial Concubine Lisst wish.
Qiao Jinniang frowned and asked, Just like you to Zhou Sisi?
At her wedding, I heard from Fulu and Consort Qi that when you took Zhou Sisi out to y when you were young, you always carried Zhou Sisi on your back. Arent you the so-called childhood sweethearts
Lu Chen motioned for the secret guard to leave, and after the door of the study was closed, he held Qiao Jinniang on hisp. Come on, I was not the only boy who carried Zhou Sisi on the back. I just took her as a younger sister. You even slept with Xie Yun on the same bed when you were young!
Qiao Jinniang said, How old was I then?
I was a kid too when I carried Zhou Sisi on my back. Lu Chen said, And my father is my father, and I am me.
I didnt take my cousins ??into the East Pce as my concubines.
Qiao Jinniang snorted. If you want to do that, I wont stop you. Ill just leave the East Pce.
Lu Chen sped her waist tightly and said, Stop talking nonsense. I dont like to listen to it. I think my father knows the ambition of my eldest brother, but he still feels guilty for Imperial Concubine Li. Lets see what Prince Huai can do. He cant threaten my status anyway.
Qiao Jinniang said, I heard that because of the matters of Duke Wu and your teacher, many officials in the East Pce have already handed in their resignations
Lu Chen smiled and said, It doesnt matter. I was sixteen when I was missing. At that time, many of the courtiers in the East Pce had left, and most of those who remained were from two parties, the Duke Wu Mansion and my teacher.
One year after I returned, the people of the Duke Wu Mansion upied a lot of high positions in the East Pce, and I couldnt fire them because they didnt leave although I was missing for three years, but they are mostly ipetent in their jobs.
These ipetent people left because I refused to marry Zhou Sisi, which is exactly what I want. You dont have to feel guilty
Qiao Jinniang leaned on Lu Chens shoulder. She knew what Lu Chen said was true, but not entirely true.
Originally, these people were absolutely loyal to Lu Chen, but because Lu Chen refused to take Zhou Sisi as his concubine for the sake of her, everyone said he was so fatuous as to choose her over the support of the Duke Wu Mansion.
Lu Chen said casually, Besides, Father is still healthy and strong, so I dont need to keep expanding my power. Its not a problem if there are fewer officials in the East Pce.
Knowing that he wasforting her, Qiao Jinniang said, By the way, do you need silver? The Jewelry Pavilion has made a lot of silver taels recently!
Lu Chenughed. Just keep the money for yourself. I dontck silver taels, nor people. Just feel at ease.
Qiao Jinniang said, But ording to the novels I read, most of the crown princes who are favored by the emperors wont end good, while the princes who have been forbearing for a long time are often able to counterattack and seed as the emperors
Lu Chen: Dont read so many novels, okay?
Qiao Jinniang said, You even gifted me novels before marriage. Now that we are married, you dont allow me to read it? Hmph, thats what men do.
Lu Chen said helplessly, Alright, if you want to read novels, just read them. If you are tired of reading the novels sold in Changan, have someone buy some novels outside Changan.
...
Two tigers couldnt live on the same mountain. In Prince Huai Mansion, the two Consorts Huai were having a silent war.
Li Lingling knew that Zhou Sisi was pretending to be retarded, but she couldnt get any proof. The maids of Zhou Sisi quickly helped her seize the managing power of Prince Huai Mansion, which almost drove Li Lingling to crazy.
And Fourth Miss Qin also got pregnant quietly. No one expected it to be so quick. It seemed that she got pregnant as soon as she married Prince Huai.
But at this moment, the butler of Prince Huai Mansion brought back an infant child, saying that it was the son adopted by Prince Huai.
Hell with the bullshit! Li Lingling knew it must be Prince Huais illegitimate son!
Li Lingling was really mad but she had nowhere to vent her grievances, so she went to make trouble for Zhou Sisi every day. The Prince Huai Mansion was like a battlefield without smoke.
Fourth Miss Qin, who had been keeping out of their battle, sat in the yard casually and asked her maid, Did Master and my brother send a letter back?
Yes, Madam.
Fourth Miss Qin opened the envelope and said, Its time to get rid of Qiao Ruoyun forever.
But Madam, Im afraid Young Master will not agree. He loves Young Madam very much.
Consort Qin sneered coldly. Love her very much? I dont think so!
Chapter 232
Chapter 232: Qiao Ruoyun Was Hunted Down
In Linan, it had been drizzling, and even cloudy days were rare.
With proper flood control, Linan in the upper reaches wasnt flooded.
Qiao Ruoyun had been in the Qiao Mansion in Linan for a whole month. It rained more in a month in Linan than it did in her twenty years in Changan.
Fulu didnt live in her pce but in the Qiao Mansion with Qiao Ruoyun. She said to Qiao Ruoyun, Eldest Sister, Qiao Lu said the rainy season is about to be over, and the flood water in Yin County has receded. Well be back in Changan soon. Also, its your birthday in a few days. Do you have any ns for it?
Qiao Ruoyun said, There are refugees everywhere outside. And my husband and my brother are busy in Yin County, so I dont n to hold any birthday banquet.
Fulu said, Why not? Ive missed Jinniangs birthday banquet in Changan. I cant miss yours too.
Qiao Ruoyun said softly, Yes, the Crown Princess first birthday after marrying into the East Pce must be very lively.
Fulu continued. So, just celebrate your birthday happily. Seeing you so unhappy all day, Im about to be unhappy too.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Im happy.
Fulu frowned. Qiao Ruoyun looked obviously unhappy.
Madam, the Qiao nsmen came to ask for money again.
When Fulu heard the maids report, she said angrily, These shameless people! Didnt they cause enough trouble in Changan? Why dont they dare to ask the Crown Princess for money? They are just bullying you because they think you are weak!
Qiao Ruoyun said to Fulu, Its okay, its okay. They dont ask for too much silver. Besides, it rains every day, and many crops were drowned. Just give them some silver!
Fulu stomped her feet in anger. Why do you have such a temper s!
Qiao Ruoyun said, I know that Im weak and easy to bully, but they are still my rtives, so I cant just ignore them. More importantly, Im afraid that they will spread rumors and destroy the reputation of the Duke Qin Mansion in Linan.
She didnt care about her own reputation, but she didnt want the reputation of the Duke Qin Mansion to be tainted.
Fulu and Qiao Ruoyun werent quite congenial, so she simply nned to leave Linan and go to Yin County to find Qiao Lu. It would take her four or five hours to ride a horse to Yin County from Linan by main roads.
Therefore, Fulu took a shortcut and walked some mountainous vige trails. There were many mountains in Linan. Seeing that it should not rain any more today, Fulu took a rest in a cave for a while.
However, she suddenly heard someone speaking outside, and she hurriedly motioned for her guards and maids to keep quiet.
Brother, are we really going to kill Qiao Ruoyun? She is the daughter of Earl Linan. The Earl Linan couple did a lot of good deeds when they were still alive. We might have died if they hadnt given us that bowl of leftover rice!
Thats one thousand taels of silver! The leftovers they gave us back then were nothing more than the leftovers of the guests in Myriad Taste, which would otherwise have been fed to dogs!
But Qiao Ruoyun is not only the future Duchess Qin, but also the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan, and the elder sister of the Crown Princess!
What are you afraid of? Duke Anyuan just doesnt want to lose face, so they havent abandoned this adopted daughter yet. She is not Duke Anyuans biological daughter. The Crown Princess probably hates this fake sister who stole her identity andfortable life! Why would she care about her life?
After these strong men left, Fulu wanted to go back but was stopped by her maids and guards.
Princess, there are only a few of us. Isnt it courting death to go back now?
Yeah, Princess, why dont we go to Yin County to get reinforcements first? Otherwise, even with the guards in the Qiao Mansion, we wont be those strong mens opponents at all. They seem to be bandits!
Princess Fulu was very anxious. She and Qiao Ruoyun were both jobless, and they didnt think the South was a dangerous ce, so they didnt bring many guards with them.
She said to the guards, Half of you follow me to Yin County to get reinforcements, and other half of you go back to the Qiao Mansion to remind them. Be quick!
Yes! The guards responded in session.
Fulu stopped the guards who were about to go back to the Qiao Mansion and said, Wait, when you find Qiao Ruoyun, take her to the Qian family for refuge. Protect her, and dont let the Qin familys guards follow her!
A maid asked Fulu in a puzzle, Why?
Qiao Ruoyun has never had any feud with anyone. The Qiao nsmen have bullied her so much, but she still gave them money. Who would want to kill her?!
Fulu could only think of the Qin family.
After all, the Qin family almost killed Qiao Ruoyunst time.
Fulu took off her jade pendant and gave it to the guards. The Qian family never meddles in other peoples business. Take my jade pendant and tell them that Qiao Ruoyun is me.
...
After Fulu left, Qiao Ruoyun was making small clothes in her room. She heard that her mother had given birth to a daughter and she wanted to make a small dress for her little sister.
A maid said coldly on the side, Young Madam, why bother? Youve been married into the Qin family for five years, but you still cant give birth to a child. Do you think making a few pieces of clothes can bring you a child?
This maid was given to her by Old Madam Qin, so Qiao Ruoyun never dared to refute her.
Her mammy told her that the maids given by the elders were like elders and must be well respected.
But after what the Zheng family did was exposed, Qiao Ruoyun realized that the mammy was purposely misleading her as instigated by the Zheng family, but she could no longer change her character.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at the Southern-style courtyard and embroidered flowers with peace of mind. She looked at her belly. Everyone said that she was still young and she could have a baby sooner orter, but women at her age had almost all had a child.
In the Qiao Mansion, there were still many toys left by Tuaner.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at them enviously.
Young Madam, Young Madam! There was a hurried burst of knocks on the door.
Qiao Ruoyun put down the small clothes in her hand, and saw that the sky was already dark outside. Realizing that it was the voice of a guard of Fulu, Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly opened the door.
The guard hurriedly said, Young Madam, someone wants to murder you. Run! We are here to protect you, and the guards of the Qin family cant be trusted!
Qiao Ruoyun frowned and said, Why would someone want to kill me? If its for the money, I can give them all the money
Young Madam, please believe me. We are Princess Fulus guards and will not lie to you.
While Qiao Ruoyun was in doubt, the sound of horses hooves came from the door in the dark night. Hearing it, the guards could only carry Qiao Ruoyun up and put her on a horse, saying, Sorry to offend you, Young Madam, but we have no choice!
Brother, someone ran away on horseback!
Chase him. Dont leave anyone alive. Kill everyone inside to silence them!
...
In the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang was awakened by a nightmare not long after she slept.
Lu Chen was also awakened and asked, Whats wrong?
I dreamed that my home was burnt, and the swing you made for me was covered in blood.
Lu Chen ordered the imperial maid who was on duty at night to hand a cup of water to Qiao Jinniang. The Qiao Mansion in Linan doesnt even have a gatekeeper now. The dreams are all fake.
No, there are people there. Qiao Jinniang said in a panic, Ruoyun is there.
Chapter 233 - Saved
Chapter 233: Saved
A spark popped out of the candle me, and Qiao Jinniang couldnt fall asleep. The hut behind the restaurant carried the joy of the first twenty years of her life.
Dreaming of this scene, she felt uneasy.
Lu Chen took the handkerchief from an imperial maid and wiped the sweat on Qiao Jinniangs forehead gently. Dreams are all in reverse, and Qiao Ruoyun has no feud with anyone. I heard that the disaster relief in the South is properly handled, and the court has allocated 200,000 taels of silver. There shouldnt be any refugees rising in revolt.
Qiao Jinniang sighed softly and said, Yes, Qiao Ruoyun has no feud with anyone.
Maybe she missed her hometown too much.
Changan was very good, but Linan was her homnd where she had lived for 18 years.
Lu Chen said, If you really miss the hut in the South, I will have the Ministry of Works construct a hut in the East Pce simr to that one. Dont worry. Qiao Lu and Fulu are both in Linan. Besides, Qin Shu will protect Qiao Ruoyun!
But when Qiao Jinniang heard Qin Shu, she clenched Lu Chens hand and said, Yes, Qin Shu, its Qin Shu!
Thinking that she was startled by the nightmare, Lu Chen ordered someone to boil a bowl of sedative medicine, saying, But everyone knows that Qin Shu is in deep love with Qiao Ruoyun. At Qiao Lus birthday banquetst time, he even picked fish for Qiao Ruoyun in public.
But Qiao Ruoyun doesnt eat fish! Qiao Jinniang said, Fish conflicts with the medicine that Ruoyun is taking!
Lu Chen said, Didnt you say previously that Qin Shu was selected by your grandmother for Qiao Ruoyun and he was a good husband. Besides, when Old Madam Qin was abusing Qiao Ruoyun, Qin Shu was trying to protect her!
Qiao Jinniang said, I thought Qin Shu really loved my sister before. At least, they had been engaged since childhood, and they were childhood sweethearts.
But thinking about it carefully now, his affections for my sister are all fake. If he really cared about her, how could he not even know that she couldnt eat fish?
I only heard my mother mention it once, and I even remembered it. How can he not know? You may say men are careless sometimes, but this concerns Ruoyuns life!
Qiao Jinniang continued, Andst time Ruoyun was tortured by Old Madam Qin and almost died, and this didnt happen overnight. How could Qin Shu not know about it?
Besides, he is the heir to Duke Qin and a high-ranking official.
Even Duke Qin would have to give him face.
Even though Ruoyuns mammy had ulterior motives, if Qin Shu really loves my sister, why did the servant not respect her at all?
Although my sister is soft-tempered, if Qin Shu hadnt given the servants some signals, how dare they treat their mistress like that?
Although that concubine maid, Yuzhui, tortured my sister as ordered by Old Madam Qin, after all, she was Qin Shus concubine maid. Do you believe that Qin Shu had no idea what she did to my sister?
I used to believe what my sister said that Qin Shu treated her very well, but now after I think about it, he didnt treat her well at all.
Qin Shu dared to proim that he would not take any concubines. Im afraid thats just because he didnt dare to! Although the Qin family has a noble title, they dont have the power of my family. If he dares to take concubines at will, can my parents and grandmother tolerate it? Qiao Ruoyun married the Qin family less than three years ago. How can we allow Qin Shu to get a concubine-born son?
I thought he was a good man because he promised not to take any concubines, but now I think I was wrong.
Lu Chen handed Qiao Jinniang a cup of water. If you are worried, I will have my guards go to the South to check.
Okay.
...
The rain that finally stopped at night became heavier again, and Qiao Ruoyun, who was on the horseback, couldnt open her eyes. She really didnt know who she had offended.
Someone wanted to kill her!
The guards who came to protect her held off the viins who were chasing her, and in the dark night, only the smell of blood could be smelled.
Hearing the noise, the people living nearby came out withnterns to check, but when they saw what happened, they hurriedly hid back home.
But they felt the situation was very strange. There were usually patrols at night in Linan. But why did no one appear although these people had been fighting and killing here for so long?
Seeing the Qian Mansion close at hand, the guard who carried Qiao Ruoyun on his horseback hurriedly rode up to the Qian Mansion and knocked hard on the door.
The viins at the back fiercely shed a guard who tried to stop them. From a distance, someone among the pursuers said, Big brother, its the Qian family!
The Qian family has never been nosy! Chase!
The guard who protected Qiao Ruoyun knocked harder on the door, and finally the doorman of the Qian family came to open the door with antern. With the light of thentern, he saw a woman who was soaking wet.
The guard showed the jade pendant to the doorman, This is the only daughter of Princess Shouan, Princess Fulu. She is now being hunted down by bandits. She hopes her old friend can give her a shelter to avoid this disaster.
But at this moment, one of the [pursuers had already shot Qiao Ruoyun with an arrow.
The silver light of the arrow reflected the candlelight, and at the critical moment, Qiao Ruoyun was held in arms by a tall, burly man.
The man opened an ivory fan and blocked the arrow, which then fell to the ground!
Come, arrest all these bandits and put them in my private prison!
As soon as the man said so, many men in ck came out of the dark and captured the bandits one after another.
Before Qiao Ruoyun could see the appearance of the man clearly, she fainted in the arms of the stalwart man, and the guard who protected her all the way also fell into aa due to excessive bleeding from the wound on his back.
Qian Yin looked at the thin woman in his arms, who was soaked all over because of the rain, and her beautiful figure waspletely revealed.
Qian Yin took off his cloak and put it on Qiao Ruoyun before he asked the maids on the side to take her to change and call over a doctor for the guard and her.
Master, this woman is not the princess. Although we havent seen her for ten years, her appearance shouldnt have changed so much. She looks very simr to the wife of Myriad Tastes shopkeeper.
Qian Yin looked at the jade pendant carefully and said, This is the jade pendant I gave to Xiangxiang. Even if she is not Xiangxiang, she should be a woman Xiangxiang wants to protect.
Judging from her clothes and jewelry, she must also be a nobledy. Master, youve always been low-key. Wouldnt it ruin your peaceful life if you intervene rashly?
Qian Yin said, You talk too much. Hurry up to boil some water. I want to take a bath.
Yes.
...
Fulu rushed all the way to Yin County, and after seeing Qiao Lu, she hurriedly said, Qiao Lu, quickly go back and save Sister Ruoyun. Someone wants to kill her!
Qiao Lu, who was digging a canal in the fields, was shocked when he heard this. Really?
Do you think Im kidding? Be quick!
Without saying a word, Qiao Lu got on Fulus horse and Fulu immediately turned the horse around and was riding back.
Qin Shu chased after them and asked Fulu, Whats wrong with Ruoyun? Why would someone want to kill her?
Fulu snorted. Ask yourself! Who will benefit the most from Qiao Ruoyuns death? I feel disgusted to have the same surname as you!
Qin Shu said, Princess, mind your words. Ruoyun and I grew up together and had been engaged since childhood. Im deeply in love with her. Why do you suspect that I am the murderer?
Fulu said, Did I say she died? Why are you so sensitive? Get out of the way, dont waste our time!
Fulu couldnt guarantee that Uncle Qian would protect Qiao Ruoyun. After all, Uncle Qian had been keeping a low profile for more than ten years.
Chapter 234 - Qiao Ruoyun Is Not Worthy of Being Duchess Qin
Chapter 234: Qiao Ruoyun Is Not Worthy of Being Duchess Qin
Qin Shu frowned and insisted on following them on a horse, but his horse couldnt catch up with the ferghana horse that Fulu brought from Changan.
At an intersection, he was stopped by Prince Huai. Prince Huai said to Qin Shu on his horse. Qin Shu, Im afraid its going to rain heavily tonight. Youd better guard here!
Qin Shu cupped his hands and said, Your Highness, my wife is being hunted down
Isnt your wifes death a good thing for your Qin family? Prince Huai ordered his men to leave and said to Qin Shu, If Qiao Ruoyun dies in the South, who would care?
She is not a child of Duke Anyuan. Although Qiao Jinniang doesnt seem to mind, how could she not hate this fake sister who stole her life?!
If she dies, you can justifiably marry a real noble girl instead of a ve-born woman. How can you tolerate the descendants of your family have the blood of a ve?!
Qin Shu said with red eyes. Prince Huai! Ruoyun is my wife.
Prince Huai sneered and said, Stop pretending, okay? Qin Shu, you are a man, and what you have to take care of is the Duke Qin Mansion. If you really dont look down on Qiao Ruoyun, why did you turn a blind eye to what your grandmother did to her?
Qin Shu said, If anything happens to Qiao Ruoyun, Duke Anyuan will not let it go.
Prince Huai chuckled. But they have no evidence. The South is so far away from Changan. Those people are ouws who never hesitate to kill for money. Just kill them after they finish their job.
Qin Shu clenched the reins.
Prince Huai continued. The most important thing for a man is their career. Your fourth sister is already pregnant. I think you dont want to be suppressed by Duke Anyuan for the rest of your life, right? And you certainly dont want your descendants to have a ves blood, right?
Qin Shus eyes were blood-shot. He didnt want to kill Qiao Ruoyun, but he knew it very well that for the sake of the future of the Duke Qin Mansion, he needed a better wife.
Qiao Ruoyun was unworthy of being his wife.
After the Crown Prince married Qiao Jinniang, he was almost deserted by his followers. He broke apart with Duke Wu, made his teacher retire and return to his hometown, and had offended countless people.
How many people in the East Pce were still loyal to the Crown Prince now?
If the Crown Prince had married a real nobledy in Changan instead of that vulgar and unvirtuous Qiao Jinniang, how could he be in this trouble?
Qiao Jinniang pushed all the noble girls to Prince Huai, making Prince Huais power soar!
Originally, his fourth sister, Zhou Sisi and Li Lingling, all fell for the Crown Prince, and marrying them would definitely make the East Pce even more powerful.
How could Prince Huai have a chance in that case?
However, as that vulgar woman, Qiao Jinniang, didnt allow any other women to marry into the East Pce, the officials in the East Pce kept decreasing while Prince Huai had more and more supporters and powerful inws.
Besides, what Prince Huai said was right. He was restricted by Duke Anyuan everywhere. Would he have to be subservient to Qiao Ruoyun for the rest of his life?
How could he let Qiao Ruoyun destroy the Duke Qin Mansion like what Qiao Jinniang did to the East Pce?
Qin Shu clenched his hand hard and said in his heart, Ruoyun, Im sorry.
If Ruoyun didnt die, Prince Huai probably wouldnt trust his loyalty
Qin Shu didnt sleep all night, and his eyes were all bloodshot.
...
When it was dawn, Qian Yin went to the courtyard where Qiao Ruoyun was sleeping. Looking at the beauty under themp, he found that she looked so quiet and beautiful when she was sleeping with her eyes closed.
She shouldnt be Qin Xiangxiang. Xiangxiang was lively and extroverted and even if she was sleeping, she wouldnt look so quiet and gentle. Besides, a persons appearance wouldnt change so much in ten years.
Ah Shu, Ah Shu!
Qiao Ruoyun seemed to be dreaming of something. In her sleep, she frowned, reached out, seemingly trying to grab something, and when she grabbed Qian Yins hand, she held it and rubbed her cheek against it gently. Ah Shu.
For some reason, Qian Yin didnt take his hand back.
Master, Ive checked the pulse of this girl. She has no health problems but she should have had a miscarriage not long ago. Moreover, she has been taking a drug that will not only not help her get pregnant but make her depressed instead.
However, many women in Changan drink this medicine because they believe it can help them get pregnant. Its regarded as a magic medicine in Changan.
This girl is also very frail. She really shouldnt be drinking that drug any more. I think shes been in aa because she has a bad cold after getting wet in the rain.
Qian Yin frowned, gently pulled out the hand tightly held by Qiao Ruoyun, got up and left.
When Qiao Ruoyun slowly woke up, her eyes were full of horror. What she saw was blood and raging fire.
Girl, youre finally awake, it just so happens that our master came to see you just now. Let me tell him youre awake.
Qiao Ruoyun coughed, and soon, she saw a man in purplee over.
She looked at the face of the man in purple and lowered her head shyly. The man in purple seemed to be in his thirties, looking handsome and majestic. He was obviously a man of power.
Qian Yin said, Who are you?
Qiao Ruoyun remembered that yesterday the guard asked her to pretend to be Fulu, but this man saved her life. How could she lie to him, so she said honestly, I am the wife of the Young Master of Duke Qin Mansion.
Qian Yin stared at the womans eyes and said, Why do you have Xiangxiangs jade pendant?
Xiangxiang? Qiao Ruoyun was unfamiliar with this name.
Qian Yin said, Princess Fulu.
Qiao Ruoyun took a tumble and exined, The princess gave me her jade pendant in order to save me. Thank you for saving me yesterday. When I return to Changan, I will definitely repay you.
Qian Yin smiled. Those bandits have confessed that someone had paid them to kill you. If they killed you, they would receive 1,000 taels of silver. Do you think you can return to Changan safe and sound?
Qiao Ruoyun was a little flustered but still said, My husband is a general who came to the South to escort the imperial envoy. He has soldiers under hismand
Qian Yin said, Take a rest first. By the way, my doctor examined you and said that your body is fine, but taking that poisonous medicine will only ruin your health. Dont eat it anymore.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Thank you for your grace. Sorry for troubling you. I think my husband and my younger brother should have returned to Linan, so I should take my leave now.
Qiao Ruoyun struggled to get up. Seeing her unable to walk steadily, Qian Yin stretched out his hand to help her. Be careful.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at the big hand on her arm and was somewhat embarrassed. She saluted and took the chance to take back her arm. Thank you, Sir.
Master, the young master of the Duke Anyuan Mansion is asking to see you.
Qiao Ruoyun said to Qian Yin, It should be my younger brother who came to find me.
Qiao Lu and Fulu came together. Fulu raised her hand when he saw Qian Yin from afar, and said with a smile, Uncle Qian, it has been almost ten years, but you still look so young, much younger than my father.
Qian Yin smiled and said, I havent seen you for ten years, and you have be a beautiful girl, not that little naughty Xiangxiang you used to be.
When Qiao Lu heard him call Fulu so intimately, he hurriedly clenched Fulus hand, dering his sovereignty!
Chapter 235 - Nuomi’s Uncle
Chapter 235: Nuomis Uncle
Qian Yin looked at the little couples hands that were tightly sped and asked, Who is this?
Qiao Lu saluted. Qiao Lu, the fianc of Princess Fulu, greets Your Highness.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at the man beside her in shock. Your Highness?
Qiao Lu said to Qiao Ruoyun, Eldest Sister, this is Prince Wu Qian Yin.
Qiao Ruoyun didnt know much about Prince Wu. It was said that the first Prince Wu supported the founding emperor of Datang to be enthroned, and then was willing to give up the position of Prince Wu, but the founding emperor didnt take back his position to express his gratitude.
Instead, he promised that the Qian family could own the hereditary title of Prince Wu and their fiefdom was the Wu and Yue Region.
Other noble families, like the Duke Qin Mansion and Duke Anyuan Mansion, had to gain the emperors permission before their familys heir could inherit the noble title.
But the Qian family didnt need to do that, and they could even have their own soldiers.
One of the Princes Wu had once revolted. But for some reason, however, theter Prince Wus were all very loyal to the emperor, and gradually faded out of everyones sight.
The people in the South might still know that there was a Prince Wu, but those in Changan had forgotten about Prince Wu.
Qian Yin chuckled and said, Oh, so youre Xiangxiangs fiance. I heard from Prince Consort Qin that Xiangxiang was already engaged. You look like a very excellent young man.
Many thanks to Your Highness for saving my sisters life. The Duke Anyuan Mansion will definitely repay Your Highnesss great kindness!
Seeing that Qian Yin was speaking with the tone of an elder, Qiao Lu saluted him respectfully. Its just that the disaster relief job is not over yet, and the time to go back to Changan has note. More importantly, someone may try to hurt my sister again, so please allow my sister to stay for a few days, Your Highness.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Ah Lu, Ill just go back to my husband. He can definitely protect me.
Fuluughed sarcastically. Dont be silly, okay? Qin Shu protecting you? Maybe its he who wants to kill you!
How is it possible?! Qiao Ruoyun asked in shock.
Fulu said, Is this the first time the Qin family has tried to kill you? Its not that I despise the Qin family, but the Qin family today is full of b*stards.
Qiao Ruoyun shook her head in disbelief. How could it be him?
Fulu snorted. Why not him? If you dont believe it, stay in Uncle Qians mansion and see what he will do!
Qian Yin said to Qiao Ruoyun, Miss Qiao, feel free to stay in my mansion. Please feel at home. If you need anything, just tell the maid.
Qiao Ruoyun was very preupied. And Qiao Lu and Fulu looked exhausted from staying up all night.
Qiao Ruoyun thought that at this moment, perhaps only by staying in the Qian family could she make Qiao Lupletely at ease. As for Qin Shu
She didnt believe that her husband would treat her like this, but yesterday so many people died, and the Qiao family was set on fire. Except for the Qin family, who would want to kill her?
She had never done anything evil
But because of her existence, the Qin family couldnt jump to the boat of Prince Huai.
She was just soft-tempered, not stupid.
Qiao Ruoyun said to Qian Yin, Then please allow me to disturb you for a few days, Your Highness. May I visit and express gratitude to Consort Qian
Fulu yawned and said, By the way, Uncle Qian, why havent I heard any news about your marriage, or did you secretly marry without telling us?
Qian Yin smiled and said, My brother hasnt been found, and my little niece has been missing. How can I be in the mood to get married? Plus, there are no elders in my family, so no one can take care of this kind of matter for me.
Princess Fulu said, Im about to get married, but Uncle Qian, you are still single. How pitiful you are. Ill introduce you to a few girls when I go back to Changan
Qian Yin said helplessly, Youve been yawning. Ill have the maids take you to rest. Do you mind living next door to Miss Qiao?
Fulu said, No, no, Qiao Lu and I still have to put on a show. Sister Yun is missing and the Qiao familys house has been burned down. We need to put on a show in front of the Qin family.
When the Qin family fully believes that Sister Ruoyun is dead, please send her back to Changan, Uncle Qian.
Qian Yin said, Those desperadosst night are locked in my dungeon. If you make them confront the Qin family, thetter will definitely show their slip, so why bother to put on a show for them?
Fulu said, The Qin family are simply a bunch of hypocrites. Im really disgusted with them! It will definitely be fun to kick them down when they are high in the clouds!
Qian Yin nced at Qiao Ruoyuns expression. Fun?
Fulu coughed and said, No no, I just want to avenge Sister Ruoyun.
...
The sixth day of June.
Today was the first birthday of Qiao Jinniang after she married into the East Pce, and it was her twentieth birthday, so the birthday banquet was very grand.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt get any news from the South, and even if she sent people to check, it would take ten days at the fastest, so she could only wait anxiously.
Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniangs side and said, A letter is sent from the South.
Qiao Jinniang quickly stood up and asked Lu Chen, How is Ruoyun?
Lu Chen said, The people we sent out havent returned to Changan yet. The letter came from Prince Wu, Qian Yin. He said that he identally saved Qiao Ruoyun who was being hunted down. In order to find out the one behind it, they are pretending that Qiao Ruoyun is already dead
Qiao Jinniang clenched a hairpin and said hatefully, It turns out to be true! The Qin family deserve to die!
Apart from the Qin family, Qiao Jinniang really couldnt think of anyone else who wanted Qiao Ruoyun to die!
Lu Chen said, She has Prince Wu protect her in Linan. You can rest assured.
Prince Wu? Is there really a Prince Wu in Linan? Why have I never heard of him?
Lu Chen said, Its just because the Prince Wu Mansion has been keeping low-key. Do you remember Mr. Qian who came to Myriad Taste every day for meals?
Yes, he seems to have ulterior motives towards Nuomi!
Lu Chen: I think he should be Prince Wu, Qian Yin. I dont think he had ulterior motives towards Nuomi. He just felt she looked like his niece.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thats a typical trick of human traffickers. He must be a human trafficker.
Besides, Nuomi doesnt have the birthmarks he said his niece had.
Qiao Jinniang remembered Mr. Qian very well because he came to Myriad Taste for dinner every day after he spotted Nuomi on the street one day.
When he said he was Nuomis uncle, Qiao Jinniang was very happy, thinking that she had finally found a family for Nuomi.
However, Nuomi didnt have any of the birthmarks he said his niece had, which made him look like a human trafficker.
Qiao Jinniangs adoptive parents also thought he was a human trafficker, and didnt allow him to enter Myriad Taste anymore.
How do you know he is Prince Wu? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Lu Chen said, I saw him when I was young, and his appearance didnt change much. Maybe I grew up, so he didnt recognize me in Myriad Taste, or maybe he had recognized me in Myriad Taste, but he didnt want to get the Qian family involved in the affairs of the court.
Qiao Jinniang sighed. If he is really Prince Wu, then he is not a human trafficker, but Nuomi doesnt have the birthmarks and moles he mentioned, so he cant be Nuomis uncle, s.
Chapter 236 - The Crown Princess Commits A Heinous Crime and Intends to Revolt
Chapter 236: The Crown Princess Commits A Heinous Crime and Intends to Revolt
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen arrived at the banquet together. Although it was not yet noon, the guests had all arrived, and they saluted them when they saw them arrive.
The two Consorts Huai were standing shoulder to shoulder at the head of the noble women, which meant that they had an equal status.
Zhou Sisi looked at Lu Chen, who was holding hands with Qiao Jinniang. When she saw that he gave all his love to Qiao Jinniang that was supposed to be given to her, the fire of jealousy was about to burn out her sanity.
She pretended to be retarded for more than ten years! Why did he choose another woman in the end?!
Li Lingling noticed Zhou Sisis gaze and said, Sister, today is the Crown Princess birthday. I wonder what gift you have prepared.
Zhou Sisi simply ignored Li Lingling, sat down, and looked at Lu Chen boldly without any intention of hiding it.
Qiao Jinniang gently shook a Ke Silk fan, picked up a cup of wine, and said with a smile, Thank you foring to attend my birthday banquet. Id like to propose a toast to you.
Everyone raised their cups to drink the wine.
Li Lingling looked at the Ke Silk fan in Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, This Ke Silk is only used for the Emperors court clothes. How can the Crown Princess use a Ke Silk fan?
Qiao Jinniang nced at the fan in her hand. It turns out to be Ke Silk. I was so ignorant as to think it was Cloud Brocade. This is a birthday gift from a friend of mine. I like its vivid pattern very much.
Li Lingling said, Cloud Brocade is only for the use of the nobles, while the Ke Silk is only used for the Emperors court clothes. Except for His Majesty, no one can use Ke Silk!
Li Lingling finally had something on Qiao Jinniang, and she felt very triumphant. It would be fine if this Ke Silk was gifted by the Emperor, but Qiao Jinniang said that this was a birthday gift from her friend, which was against thew.
Qiao Jinniang put down the Ke Silk fan gently and said, Is there such a rule in the imperial pce? Does Datang have aw that Ke Silk can only be used by the Emperor? Like the rule that nomoner can wear gold jewelry?
Besides, His Majesty is so kind and magnanimous that he even allows themon people to wear gold jewelry, so how could he forbid others from wearing Ke Silk?
Li Lingling said, Only the Shanggong Bureau in the imperial pce can make Ke Silk, and it is only used by His Majesty! Ke Silk is even more expensive than gold. Where did the Crown Princess friend steal the Ke Silk?
Li Lingling thought that it must be someone from the Shanggong Bureau who stole a piece of Ke Silk and gave it to the East Pce to fawn on the Crown Prince. But Qiao Jinniang was so stupid as to show off the fan made of the Ke Silk publicly at her birthday banquet.
If this was further investigated, Lu Chen might lose the position of the crown prince.
The Emperor would definitely not be able to tolerate the East Pces grant vition of this rule.
Lu Chen said in a cold voice, Princess Huai, do you have any evidence? If you nder the Crown Princess friends without any evidence, shouldnt you be punished?
Li Lingling said confidently, Except for the Shanggong Bureau, no one knows the craftsmanship of Ke Silk! If it wasnt stolen, would it mean that the people of the Shanggong Bureau vited the rule and gave the Ke Silk exclusive to His Majesty to the East Pce?
Saying that, Li Lingling covered her mouth. This is a crime of revolt!
The faces of the guests all changed slightly. One of the crown princes in the previous dynasties was ousted because he had used something that only the emperor could use!
There were also some crown princes who were suspected and killed by the emperors for this reason.
Zhou Shihui taunted in a low voice, Stupid woman, showing off her fan on such an asion. This vicious woman is going to get her retribution and return to her original form now. What a pity. She just became the Crown Princess several months ago, haha!
When Mrs. Zhou heard Zhou Shihuis words, she chuckled by the side.
She was happy to see Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen end up miserably!
That day, Zhou Sisis life was hanging by a thread, and they begged Lu Chen so hard, but Lu Chen was so hard-hearted.
Because of marrying this scourge, Qiao Jinniang, all his followers left him. Now Qiao Jinniang was found to use the Ke Silk that only the Emperor could use, he must be doomed.
Fortunately, the Duke Wu Mansion had abandoned him and pledged loyalty to Prince Huai.
Even if His Majesty wanted to punish the Crown Prince, they would no longer be implicated.
Li Lingling said, I must report this matter to His Majesty. If there are no rules, what is the majesty of imperial power?
With that said, Li Lingling strode in the direction of Taiji Pce.
She thought to herself, today she had made such a great contribution for Prince Huai. Once the Crown Prince was ousted, the Zhou family that was hated by the Empress Dowager would lose its value, so when Prince Huai became the crown prince, she would definitely be the crown princess.
Neither Lu Chen nor Qiao Jinniang stopped Li Lingling, and their mood was not affected at all. They even ordered the opera actors to perform programs to entertain the guests.
Qiao Jinniang picked a conjuring trick. She could only do the Fairy Picks Beans trick, but there were many more interesting tricks, and she hadnt watched them for a long time.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang was still watching the show with relish, Zhou Shihui couldnt help but show disdain. Is she dumb? Doesnt she know she is going to die?!
...
In the South on June 6th, the weather finally cleared up, and every family was drying their bedding and clothes in the sun.
Even wealthy families like the Qian family were no exception.
But what the Qian family was drying in the sun were mostly books.
Qiao Ruoyun had been staying at the Qian Mansion for around five to six days. She heard some noises from the backyard early this morning. It was a woman singing. She asked a maid, Is the woman singing the princes concubine?
The maid said, Our master doesnt have a concubine, and the one who is singing the opera is the former consort, the wife of our masters elder brother, who used to be a singer by the Huai River, and had never been allowed to enter the Prince Wu Mansion by the old consort.
Later, something happened in the Prince Wu Mansion. The old consort passed away, and the previous prince and the little county mistress disappeared in the flood of Yin County.
Only this woman was left, and our master was kind-hearted. Seeing that she was crazy, he took her back and regarded her as his sister-inw!
Qiao Ruoyun said, As a guest, I should visit her.
The maid didnt stop Qiao Ruoyun. After all, their master had told them that as long as Qiao Ruoyun didnt leave the Prince Qian Mansion, she could do whatever shed like.
Qiao Ruoyun went into a small courtyard and saw a neatly-dressed woman holding a pipa and singing opera. The woman was probably around forty, her eyes were ssy, and she looked like a lunatic
Miss Qiao.
Hearing Qian Yins voice, Qiao Ruoyun turned her head and hurriedly lowered her head, saying, As a guest, Id like to visit the consort.
No need. She cant recognize people. Qian Yin said, I heard Fulu said that today is your birthday. Qin Shu, Prince Huai and his party are still in the South. They cant find those bandits, so Im afraid you cant go out yet. Im sorry that you can only have a small birthday banquet.
Qiao Ruoyun said, How can I trouble you for this, Your Highness? You dont have to hold a birthday banquet for me.
How can you miss your birthday? Besides, this is your first birthday in your ancestral home. I held a banquet in Huayue Lake and had the kitchen make longevity noodles. Miss Qiao, please give me a face and attend the banquet.
Qiao Ruoyun was dull and weak but not stupid. She somehow felt that Qian Yin was too nice to her!
Even if it was for Fulu, he should havent been so considerate to her.
Miss Qiao, didnt you say that you will try your best to repay my life-saving grace? Why dont you even want to give me a face and attend the birthday banquet?
Qiao Ruoyun:
Chapter 237 - The Birthday Gift that His Majesty Bestows Is Ke Silk
Chapter 237: The Birthday Gift that His Majesty Bestows Is Ke Silk
Li Lingling excitedly went to the Taiji Pce, but before she could see Emperor Huilin, she noticed that Eunuch Quan was about to the East Pce with the birthday gifts from Emperor Huilin.
Li Lingling said to Eunuch Quan, Eunuch Quan, wait, you dont have to go to the East Pce now. Let me enter and meet Father first!
If Emperor Huilin knew that Qiao Jinniang dared to use a fan made of Ke Silk, the East Pce would be punished severely for rebellion.
Then Emperor Hulin certainly wouldnt give Qiao Jinniang any birthday present!
Eunuch Quan smiled and said, Consort Huai, forgive me for not being able to obey your order. There is Ke Silk among the birthday gifts. The Ke Silk is precious, so I dare not to dy. If the fabric is destroyed, my sin will be great!
Li Lingling opened her eyes wide and asked, Ke Silk? Father actually gave the East Pce Ke Silk as a gift?
Yeah, Shanggong Bureau recruited several Ke Silk craftsmen recently, and there are a lot more of Ke Silk than before, so His Majesty bestowed some of it to the Queen and the East Pce. It happened to be the birthday of the Crown Princess today, so Im going to send this over as a birthday gift!
Li Lingling walked out of the Taiji Pce despondently, clenching her hands. How could His Majesty be so partial?
Only Lu Chen was his good son? Wasnt Prince Huai his son too?
In the East Pce, unlike Qiao Jinniang and the Crown Prince, the others were not in the mood at all to watch the performances of the opera actors.
Although the conjuring tricks were really interesting, a fish tank appeared on the conjurors hand out of thin air, in which there were even a few koi fish swimming
Little Lu Xi and the little junior dukes really enjoyed the show, and they all ran up to see if the fish in the fish tank were real.
Prince Sus concubine and her son, Lu Zhen stood on the side, coldly watching Lu Xi ying happily and sneering in their hearts. Lu Xi was almost four years old, but he had no idea that he was going to be in trouble.
If the East Pce was punished by the Emperor, could he, the heir to the Crown Prince, not be implicated?
Lu Zhen looked at Lu Bao, Lu Yun and the others with disdain. Grandfather must be furious if he knew that the East Pce used Ke Silk, which could only be used by the Emperor!
How could they be so stupid as to still y with Lu Xi? They would definitely be implicated.
Eunuch Quan hase to announce an imperial decree.
Everyone in the banquet hall knelt down. Zhou Sisiughed at Qiao Jinniang in her heart, but then she was thinking, if Lu Chen was implicated, what should she do?
Now, her parents had already pledged loyalty to Prince Huai, what about her?
One was Prince Huai, who treated her so well, and the other was the prince who didnt even care about her life. How should she choose?
Zhou Shihui, Madam Zhou and some people were very d. Eunuch Quan was the personal eunuch of His Majesty. He personally came to announce the imperial decree, which showed that His Majesty must have been furious.
Eunuch Quan walked to the middle of the banquet hall, followed behind by some other eunuchs who carried several big boxes.
Eunuch Quan said, His Majesty said, the Crown Princess performed her duties well in serving the Queen, assisting the Crown Prince and bringing up the imperial grandson since she married into the East Pce, and she keenly found out about the flood disaster in the South so that the imperial court could send an imperial envoy to the South to deal with the flood in time, so I hereby bestow her two bolts of Ke Silk...
Eunuch Quan had announced a long list of rewards, but the only thing everyone heard was two blots of Ke Silk.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen knelt down together to thank the Emperor. Qiao Jinniang held the Ke Silk and said, This pattern is so beautiful. Its even more delicate than Cloud Brocades.
Lu Chen said, If you like it, make some clothes with it. Clothes made of this material are beautiful and cool in summer.
Everyone present:
So what were they worrying about just now? How could they forget that His Majesty had always been partial to His Royal Highness?
When His Royal Highness was three years old, he even slept on His Majestys throne, but His Majesty didnt mind at all.
Now it was just a Ke Silk fan.
Listening to the crowd talking about how much His Majesty favored the Crown Prince, Li Lingling was so ashamed that she didnt want to go back in.
Qiao Ruoyi also breathed a sigh of relief, and one of her friends said to her, Everyone says that the Crown Princes supporters have all left him, but I dont think so. What His Royal Highness relies on is not those East Pce officials, but His Majesty!
Exactly. As long as His Majesty still favors His Royal Highness, countless people will want to serve for him. The Duke Wu Mansion and the Crown Princes teacher think too high of themselves!
The Duke Anyuan Mansion is much more powerful than the Duke Wu Mansion, and they also have great military power. Its not a bad deal for His Royal Highness to choose the former over thetter.
Qiao Ruoyi said proudly, His Royal Highness chose my sister out of his love for her, not for the power of our Qiao family!
I really envy the women of your family. The daughters of your Qiao family are all very well married.
Especially your eldest sister, the wife of Young Master Qin Shu. She has been married for four years and has not yet been pregnant, but Young Master Qin still respects and adores her!
Yeah, Young Madam Qin is really lucky. If she hadnt exchanged identities with the Crown Princess, how could she have married into such a good family and have such a good husband?
Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister Ruoyun is also my fathers daughter. She is from a noble family too.
Qiao Ruoyi really hated to hear some people say that Qiao Ruoyun didnt deserve to marry Qin Shu.
In any case, since the Duke Anyuan Mansion had recognized her as the Dukes eldest daughter, the others shouldnt despise her for her identity.
The eldest daughter of the powerful Duke Anyuan married to the young master of the Duke Qin Mansion that was obviously declining, so who on earth was not worthy of marrying whom?!
After Qiao Jinniang ordered the servants to put the birthday gifts into the warehouse, she was searching for Li Lingling with her eyes. Why did Li Lingling leave in such a hurry? She really wanted to see her embarrassed look.
However, when she spotted Prince Huais concubines, she sneered. Li Linglings life in the Prince Huai Mansion was probably not easy. Why bother with her!
Todays incident is enough for Li Lingling to beughed at for a long time.
Zhou Shihui looked at Qiao Jinniang with disappointment. Why was His Majesty so tolerant of the East Pce?
Because Qiao Jinniang was the Crown Princess, her poor senior brother had to obey Qiao Jinniangs order and marry that vulgar woman, Fulu, who he didnt like at all!
No, she had to write a letter to her mother and ask her toe to Changan to help her.
Although her uncle and aunt took sides with Prince Huai due to Zhou Sisi, her grandmother and Queen Zhou were still on Qiao Jinniangs side.
His Majesty doted on the Crown Prince too much. She didnt know how long she would have to wait for Prince Huai to take the Crown Prince down!
And her mother had always been favored by her grandmother.
And her mother said that she kept away from Changan because the woman His Majesty took a fancy to was actually her, but she didnt want to be locked up in the imperial pce, to be a canary locked in a cage, so she simply left Changan.
When her mother came to Changan, her grandmother would definitely help her marry her senior brother, and Qiao Jinniang, this bad woman, wouldnt be able to upy the position of the Crown Princess anymore.
...
In Huayue Lake, the fragrance of lotus flowers wafted with theke breeze.
Qiao Ruoyun was a bit embarrassed. She had thought that at least there would be servants and maids, only to find that only she and Qian Yin were in the Mid-Lake Pavilion.
She and Qin Shu had been married for four years, but they had never had a meal alone.
Your Highness!
Qian Yin said, Dont call me that. You can just call me by my name.
Chapter 238 - Maybe It Was Not Qin Shu
Chapter 238: Maybe It Was Not Qin Shu
Qiao Ruoyun lowered her eyes and wanted to remind Qian Yin that she was already married.
But she was afraid that maybe Qian Yin was just being polite, and then it would be silly for her to say that to him.
She could only begin to eat the meal in embarrassment. After tasting a few dishes, she heard Qian Yin say, These are the signature dishes of Myriad Taste. This chef used to be your parents apprentice, so his craftsmanship is exactly the same as your parents.
After Qiao Jinniang took charge of the restaurant, the craftsmanship had be more refined and the taste was better, but itcked some of the homely-made taste in the dishes that your parents made.
Qiao Ruoyun tasted the dishes and said, I think the dishes Jinniang made are more delicious.
Qian Yin said, Her dishes are delicious, butck the warmth themoners like. She always uses the best ingredients, so only the rich and noble can afford the dishes she made, but the dishes your parents made are closer to ordinary people.
Especially this longevity noodle, it tastes very simr to the one your mother made.
Qiao Ruoyun tasted the longevity noodles, which she had never tasted before, but she inexplicably shed a tear.
The Duke Mansion treated her very well. Even after her identity was revealed, they still acknowledged her as the Dukes eldest daughter, causing Qiao Jinniang, who was supposed to be the eldest daughter, to relegate herself to the position of second miss. If she kept missing her biological parents, that would be very ungrateful of her.
But every time she heard Qiao Jinniang talk about how much her adoptive parents loved her, Qiao Ruoyun couldnt help but think of her biological parents.
This bowl of longevity noodles was the most delicious longevity noodles she had ever eaten.
Qian Yin picked up his handkerchief and gently wiped away the tears for Qiao Ruoyun.
Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly stood up and took two steps back. Your Highness, Im sorry, I forgot myself. Ill take my leave first.
Seeing that she was avoiding him, Qian Yin didnt push her, but just let her go. At this moment, she was still Qin Shus wife, and he couldnt confess his feelings for her yet.
When Qiao Ruoyun returned to the courtyard, she saw Fulu and Qiao Lu.
Fulu came over with the birthday gift and said, Sister, this is my birthday gift for you.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Why are you here? Qin Shu
Fulu scratched her head and said, Perhaps I wronged Qin Shu. He thought that charred body found in the ruins was you, and hugged that body every day. In just a few days, he has lost a lot of weight, and today he was crying really sadly and burned you a lot of paper money.
There was a hint of joy on Qiao Ruoyuns face, and she said with guilt, Its my fault. How can I doubt Ah Shus love for me? Im going to see him.
For so many years, she hadnt been able to give birth to a child for Qin Shu, but he had never despised her. Instead, he had always defended her, refusing to take concubines.
Qiao Lu said, No rush. Even if its a dog, one will have some feelings for it after raising it for more than ten years. Even if he is the murderer, he will still be sad after losing you.
The Crown Princes secret guards have arrived in the South. And they found that the men of Prince Huai and the Duke Qin Mansion were secretly looking for the viins who hunted you!
So Qin Shu is still a suspect. Sister Ruoyun, dont rush. Lets return to Changan ording to our original n first. After all, the South is not our territory.
Both Prince Huai and the Xie family are behind this matter. That was why the local government turned a blind eye to what happened that night. So many people died and the Qiao mansion was burnt down, but the local government didnt take any action, which shows how powerful the Xie family is in the South.
If they find out that you are still alive, they will only pursue you with more cruel means!
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Fulu and said, But didnt the Princess say that Qin Shu lost a lot of weight?
Yeah. Fulu said, When your body was buried today, he kept holding the charred body in his arms and refused to let go.
Qiao Lu said to Qiao Ruoyun, Sister, believe me, even if Qin Shu is innocent, it wont bete to meet him in Changan. After all, it will be safer in Changan.
After Qiao Lu and Fulu left, Qiao Ruoyun ordered the maid to lock up her courtyard. Even if she misunderstood Qian Yin, she was still a married woman, and she should be at a distance from Qian Yin.
The ck-awning boat drifted down the stream around the vige, passed the small stone bridge, and flowed into a flower islet. Its hard to find such a paradise in the world
Qiao Ruoyun heard the nursery rhymeing from the backyard, which was sung in a Southern dialect. She didnt understand the meaning, but she felt it sounded familiar. It seemed that one of Qiao Jinniangs maids once sang this nursery rhyme to lull the imperial grandson into sleep.
The Southern dialect sounded very gentle and soothing, and she gradually fell asleep.
...
Changan in June was already very hot, so after a few days of discussions, the masters in the imperial pce decided to take a holiday in Luoyang for six months.
Qiao Jinniang had been in the imperial pce for a long time, so she certainly wanted to go outside to get some fresh air. She asked Lu Chen curiously, Stay in Luoyang for half a year? Why so long?
Lu Chen said, This is a rule left over from our ancestors. Changan has arge poption and is also the capital. Every few years, the groundwater will stink, so every two years, we will go to Luoyang to spend a few months.
Most of the nobles in Changan have properties in Luoyang, so most of them will go with their families.
Qiao Jinniang understood. I see, this is my first time to Luoyang. How does Luoyangpare to Changan?
Lu Chen answered Qiao Jinniang, Luoyang is the sub-capital of Datang, so it is also very prosperous. There are many literati from Qingming Academy there, so there are more novels for sale there. As for the scenery, it is about the same as Changan.
Qiao Jinniang thought about it and then said, Wait, if the royal family and the nobles all go to Luoyang, wont the business of Myriad Taste and Tasty Pavilion be much worse?
Thats unavoidable, but if you apply to the Ministry of Revenue, the two restaurants should be able to be exempted from this years tax.
Qiao Jinniang thought that it would be too troublesome. After all, the allocation to the East Pce was from taxes. She said, Can I go to Luoyang a few days in advance? I want to do some market research. Maybe I can open a restaurant and a jewelry store in Luoyang too.
She didnt want to let go of such a good opportunity to make money.
Lu Chen chuckled. I will report to my father tomorrow, asking to take you to Luoyang in advance, but
Qiao Jinniang asked, Whats wrong?
Lu Chen sighed. Im afraid that Emperor Ji is too old to go to Luoyang. If we take Xier along, it will dy his studies, but if we leave him in Changan, I wonder if you can be at ease?
Qiao Jinniang was caught in an inner struggle. Xier was still so young. She couldnt leave him in Changan alone.
Can I not go to Luoyang?
Qiao Jinniang said, As you said, Luoyang and Changan are no different. It will be New Year in half a year. I cant let Xier spend his birthday alone, right?
Lu Chen sighed and said, Hes still young, so I think it wont be a big problem to dy his studies for three months, and we can take the chance to take him to have a look at Qingming Academy.
Qiao Jinniang said, We should discuss it with the imperial teacher. If Mr. Ji thinks it will not affect his studies, we will go to Luoyang together. Otherwise, I will stay with Xier.
Lu Chen looked at her and said, You only have Xier in your heart.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Dont you have Xier in your heart?
Lu Chen said, Of course I do, but I just hope you can think about me more. Xier is young, so it wont be a big problem. Ill go talk to Mr. Ji!
Chapter 239 - Arrive in Luoyang
Chapter 239: Arrive in Luoyang
The Lu familys ancestral temple was in Luoyang, so it was known as the sub-capital of Datang.
Changan was 800 miles away from Luoyang. Normally, it was only a days ride from Changan to Luoyang, but there were many people traveling from Changan to Luoyang, so it would take at least three days.
Luckily, there were a lot of posthouses along the way, so it didnt matter if they moved slowly.
Many officials and nobles sent servants to Luoyang in advance to clean their houses in Luoyang.
Although the Emperor went to Luoyang, there would still be some people left behind to guard Changan. After all, Changan was closer to those barbarian tribes.
Prince Su and Prince Rong stayed in Changan, temporarily taking charge of the military power of Changan.
Changan had been the capital of Datang for a long time.
There had long since been a discussion about moving the capital to Luoyang, even Mr. Ji supported setting the capital in Luoyang. He also thought that it would be fine for Lu Xi to stay in Luoyang for half a year.
In a spacious carriage, Qiao Jinniang lifted the curtain, only to see a mighty army on both sides, looking very majestic.
The procession stopped and moved, and it took three days to reach Purple Forbidden City in the west of Luoyang. There was also an East Pce in the Purple Forbidden City, and the pces inside were extremely luxurious, no different from the one in Changan.
Because the imperial pce had sent people over to clean them in advance, the pces were no different from those in Changan.
Except for the Crown Prince and his family, the others had not yet reached Luoyang.
Like this, Qiao Jinniang gained a little freedom. As soon as she arrived, she wanted to go to the market and buy some shops to do business.
Seeing her anxious look, Lu Chen asked, Are you going to go out in this outfit?
It seems to be inappropriate, but I didnt bring mens clothes.
Lu Chen said, I was only fifteen years old when I came here. You can wear my old clothes.
Qiao Jinniang said, No, I will have someone buy a set of clothes for me. Mother has told me that no one can wear the Crown Princes clothes, as it is a serious crime of rebellion.
Lu Chenughed. Then why were you not afraid ofmitting the crime of rebellion at all when you hit me before? I also have casual clothes that you can wear. Ill take a tour of Luoyang with you together.
Qiao Jinniang went to change into a mans attire. Nowadays it was popr for girls to wear mens clothes.
Therefore, Qiao Jinniang didnt conceal that she was a woman. It would be fine as long as no one found out that she was the Crown Princess.
The local customs of Luoyang were not much different from that of Changan, but many foreigners from all over the world could be seen in Changan, and the folk customs were rougher, while there were more literati in Luoyang and it had more Chinese cultures heritage.
After a day of touring around, Qiao Jinniang had seen a lot of sceneries that she hadnt seen before, and in the end, she found amercial street in Luoyangs Jiuzhou Lane, which was both close to the Purple Forbidden City and the houses of dignitaries.
But then she saw a Guest-weing Building on the street. What a coincidence!
The man and woman who came out of the Guest-weing Building were the shopkeepers of the Guest-weing Building in Changan.
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, I am afraid that they have the same idea as you. If you want to buy all the shops on this street, the price will be too high and it wont be easy.
The business of all the stores here is very good, so the owners had no reason to sell them.
Qiao Jinniang said, This is the most suitable ce for business in Luoyang, and in terms of Fengshui, this is the easiest ce to attract money. I have plenty of money, so I think I can afford the price. But if it doesnt work, Ill turn to elsewhere.
After Qiao Jinniang went to negotiate, she learned that the shops in this entire Jiuzhou Lane belonged to a wealthy businessman. The wealthy businessman wasnt in Luoyang often, and the shops here were only for rent but not for sale.
Unfortunately, the shops that she took a fancy to were all run by the wealthy businessman himself, and no matter how much money Qiao Jinniang offered, the shopkeepers refused to rent the shops to her.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im afraid you wont make much money by selling calligraphy, painting and antiques here. Why dont you rent the shops to me? I promise Ill offer you a satisfactory price.
Sorry, Madam, please dont make things difficult for me. My boss is opening these shops to collect treasures, not for money. He is not short of money, but he likes antiques, calligraphy and paintings.
Hearing the shopkeepers words, Lu Chen asked, Is your boss surnamed Lin?
Yeah, how did you know that, Young Master?
Lu Chen said to Qiao Jinniang, Theres no need to negotiate. Just ask my father for these shops when hees to Luoyang.
Qiao Jinniang said, Could this street be your fathers property?
Lu Chen nodded and said, Yes.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but be amazed, but it was not surprising that the Emperor had some private properties. Although the treasury was abundant because there had been no wars these years, the Emperor couldnt use the silver taels in the treasury at will.
Therefore, it was reasonable that the Emperor had some private properties.
After all, the East Pce also had a lot of private properties. After Qiao Jinniang married into the East Pce, she discovered that Lu Chen had a lot of manors and shops in Changan, so he was not short of money either.
Not to mention, the properties they had in the South.
Five dayster, when the Emperor arrived in Luoyang, the entire Luoyang was lit up the whole night. It was even more lively than during a festival.
In the daytime, when the Emperor and the officials arrived, all the people knelt down to greet them.
After that, the officials and nobles all went to their houses to take a rest.
Zheng Xiao didnte from Changan because she had to take care of her newborn daughter.
Although the Qiao family had been separated, the Duke Anyuan Mansion had too few people now, so Second Master and his family still lived in the Duke Mansion.
Second Madam helped Zheng Xiao manage the Duke Mansion.
Second Madams natal family was in Luoyang. As soon as she arrived in Luoyang, the people of her natal family came to visit her.
Younger Sister.
Sister-inw. Second Madam cried as soon as she saw her family.
Mrs. Fu said, What kind of grievance are you suffering from? I heard that your sister-inw didnte to Luoyang this time. And you are in charge of this huge duke mansion alone. Isnt it great?
Second Madam couldnt help sighing. Its my two daughters. They went to the Southwest without saying a word. I keep writing to ask them toe back, but they never obey me, s.
Mrs. Fu said, Well, Sister, I know you must be busy after just arriving in Luoyang. I really dont want to bother you, but your niece is seventeen this year and has not yet been engaged. I heard that the dignitaries from Changan have alle here. Can you help her introduce some good young men?
Mrs. Qiao frowned. Why the rush? These people will stay in Luoyang for half a year!
Mrs. Fu smiled fawningly and said, I heard that the Crown Princess is from your Qiao family. Do you think its possible for your niece to marry into the East Pce to serve the Crown Princess?
Mrs. Qiao sneered. Sister-inw, I advise you to dispel this thought.
This is the first day we came to Luoyang, and youve already nned to marry your daughter into the East Pce?
As everyone knows, the one condition for the Crown Princess to agree to marry into the East Pce is that the Crown Prince will never take any concubines.
Mrs. Fu was shocked and said, How is this possible? Is the Crown Princess joking? Or you dont want your niece to marry into the East Pce and snatch the favor of the Crown Prince from your Qiao familys daughter?
Mrs. Qiao really scorned her sister-inw. You can go now. Im sorry I cant see you away!
Mrs. Fu said, Every girl in Luoyang wants to marry into the East Pce. Your nieces beautiful and graceful. If you can help her, shell repay you in the future!
Mrs. Qiao spat. Bah, Ill be stupid if I help your daughter marry into the East Pce!
Chapter 240 - The Murderer Is Qiao Jinniang
Chapter 240: The Murderer Is Qiao Jinniang
Second Madam had no idle time since she came to Luoyang.
Not long after she returned to her yard, her cousin came to visit her. After all, most of her rtives were in Luoyang.
Her cousin came with the same thought as Mrs. Fu. She wanted to marry her daughter into the East Pce with the help of the Qiao family.
She was afraid that someone would preempt the chance.
Second Madam was very troubled, but she didnt forget to send a letter to the East Pce, telling Qiao Jinniang to be careful of those local noble women in Luoyang.
Reading Second Madams letter, Qiao Jinniang chuckled and tore the letter to shreds.
Honglingforted Qiao Jinniang. Your Highness, dont be too angry. Its just human nature. When they all learn that you dont allow His Royal Highness to ept any concubines, they will stop.
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not angry. I just feel sorry for Second Aunt. She finally came to Luoyang and had the chance to visit her family she had been missing, but they just wanted to gain some benefits from her.
As for those women in Luoyang, Qiao Jinniang was not worried at all.
After all, if these women annoyed her, werent there still some vacancies in Prince Huais harem?
...
Second Madam finally sent the people of her natal family away, when some noises came from the door again. She went to open the door helplessly, only to see Qiao Lu, who was wearing mourning clothes.
Second Madam was startled. Luer, why are you wearing mourning clothes?
Second Aunt, where is my father? Eldest Sister was killed by some bandits in the South. I heard that Grandmother and my mother were in Changan, so I didnt dare to go back to Changan to let them know this sad news. The Qin familys ancestral tomb is in Luoyang, so her corpse has just been shipped to Luoyang.
Mrs. Qiao didnt like Qiao Ruoyun very much. She always felt that Qiao Ruoyun was too weak and self-abased to be the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan, but after all, she watched this girl grow up. Now hearing this news, she couldnt help but burst into tears.
Your father is inside. Should we report this news to the imperial pce?
Yeah. Qiao Lu nodded.
Prince Huai and his party came back from the disaster relief, and no one was injured. It was supposed to be good news, but then the news came that the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan, the wife of Qin Shu, had died.
Hearing this news, everyone went to the Duke Qin Mansion to offer condolences.
After all, she was supposed to be the next Duchess Qin, and more importantly, she was the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan.
So almost all the officials and nobles went to the Duke Qin Mansion to express their condolences.
In the Duke Qin Mansion, they didnt even prepare a mourning hall. Only after the guests came did they help build a mourning hall.
Qin Miaomiao looked at the charred body in the coffin in disbelief. To her skinny brother, she couldnt stop shaking her head.
Sister-inw couldnt even bear to kill an ant. Everyone says that she has no temper at all. She has no feud with anyone. How could she be killed!
Third Miss, please dont be too sad!
Mrs. Qin even fainted. After she woke up, she cried bitterly. My poor daughter-inw, why is your fate so miserable? How could you leave us at such a young age?
After saying that, Mrs. Qin kept hitting Qin Shu. She followed you to the South, but why did shee back like this? How can I exin it to my inws!
...
In the Tong family.
Tong Yingying begged Mrs. Zhou. Aunt, I really cant get the tens of thousands of taels of silver. Please spare me for the sake of our blood connection!
Prince Su had lost interest in her, so Tong Yingying set her eyes on Qingming Academy in Luoyang.
Zhou Shihui was from Qingming Academy and had always been respected by the literati in Changan. If she became the first female student admitted to Qingming Academy, Prince Su would definitely treat her differently.
Mrs. Zhou took a sip of tea and said, Its not impossible to exempt you from your debt.
Tong Yingying hurriedly kowtowed. Aunt, what do you need me to do?
Mrs. Zhou put down the tea cup and said, The eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan is really a poor person. She didnt mean to upy the position of Qiao Jinniang. It was the fault of Duke Anyuans concubine.
But who would have thought that Qiao Jinniang yed magnanimous on the surface but in fact, when Qiao Ruoyun was in the South, she sent someone to the South and took Qiao Ruoyuns life!
But she is the Crown Princess, and there is no solid evidence, so no one dares to tell the truth. Yingying, I want you to seek justice for Qiao Ruoyun.
Tong Yingying felt curious and said, Aunt, Cousin Sisi is Consort Huai, and Fourth Miss Qin is the concubine of Prince Huai. Even if Qin Miaomiao marries Cousin Siming in the future, Fourth Miss Qin is already pregnant. The Zhou family and the Qin family will be enemies in the future.
Mrs. Zhou said, Well talk about itter. Now I just want to seek justice for my daughter. My daughter saved Lu Chens life, but this ingrate bit the hand that fed him and almost drove my daughter to death.
Its all because of the Duke Wu Mansions sacrifice that the Queen can be the Queen, and Lu Chen can be the Crown Prince.
Now, for the sake of Qiao Jinniang, he even ignored my daughters life. No matter what will happen between the Zhou family and the Qin family in the future, now both of us want Prince Huai to be the next emperor!
Tong Yingying thought about it, and what her aunt said seemed to make sense.
...
In the Duke Qin Mansion, after the mourning hall was set up, more and more people came to offer condolences unsolicited, and the Qin family made a lot of mistakes in etiquette.
The Crown Princess arrives.
Someone reported loudly at the gate.
Everyone saluted.
When Qiao Jinniang entered, she saw everyone of the Qin family crying bitterly. Qin Shu was much thinner than when she saw himst time. From his swollen eyes to his scruffy beard, he looked really like a broken man.
Even Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but wonder if she had wronged Qin Shu.
Perhaps Qin Shu was not the murderer?
Qiao Jinniang didnt say a word, which made the Qin family feel more terrified than being scolded by her.
Young Madam is such a good person, but died mysteriously in the South. There is only one person who hates Young Madam this much! But for Gods sake, it was not Young Madams fault back then!
She was a victim too. Some people pretend to be a good sister on the surface, but in fact, she murdered her! Even if she doesnt want Young Madam to upy her position as the eldest daughter of the Duke, why didnt she speak it out earlier?
A familiar voice appeared in the crowd.
Everyone looked back and saw that it was Tong Yingying. Tong Lei was no longer an official, but the Qin family still let Tong Yingyinge in?
Tong Yingying walked up to the corpse and said, I was good friends with Young Madam before she died. I really cant bear to see her die so miserably. Crown Princess, how can you, the murderer, have the face to stand in front of the corpse of Young Madam?
Qiao Jinniang said in a cold voice, Tong Yingying, I have tolerated you many times because I dont want to bother with an idiot, but now it seems that you are not only an idiot, but also a lunatic!
Tong Yingying said, Since you dare to kill, I would dare to expose you. Even if you kill me, my name will be kept in the history books forever. Sacrificing for justice is the Tong familys precept!
Chapter 241 - Surrounded the Qin Mansion
Chapter 241: Surrounded the Qin Mansion
Qiao Jinniang looked at Tong Yingying. Tong Yingying was an overweening and self-righteous idiot, but she didnt think she would dare to make up this matter.
After all, this would get Tong Yingying killed.
Looking at Tong Yingyings unyielding look, Qiao Jinniang knew that Tong Yingying must truly believe that she was the murderer of Qiao Ruoyun.
Who told you that I killed her?
Tong Yingying said, Young Madam has never had any feud with anyone except you. You are the real daughter, and she is the fake!
You hate her for stealing your position as the eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan, and it just so happened that you were from Linan, so you had your men kill her there!
Qin Shu struggled to get up and said frantically, Crown Princess, Ruoyun treated you like her real sister! How could you do it!
The guards surrounded Qiao Jinniang to protect her.
Qin Miaomiao came out and said, How could it be the Crown Princess? Brother, no matter how sad you are, you cant listen to Tong Yingyings nonsense! Last year, when Sister-inws life was on the line, it was the Crown Princess who saved her!
Qin Shu said, Ruoyun, Ruoyun. Who else could be the murderer except her? Except for Qiao Jinniang, no one has ever had a grudge against Ruoyun! Ask all the guests, except Qiao Jinniang, who hates Ruoyun?!
Mrs. Qin hurriedly said, Qin Shu, are you crazy? Even if youre sad, you cant say this sheer nonsense!
Tong Yingying said to Qiao Jinniang, A life for a life. You cant get away just because you are the Crown Princess.
Qiao Jinniang sighed helplessly. Tong Yingying, it is undeniable that you are talented in literature, but you are too blindly confident.
This time you have been used by others but you dont even know it. Sacrificing for justice? Have you ever thought that you were misled by others?
Our feud started when you felt that I disrespected my n. I know you wanted to make a name with that matter. Yes, in the end, your n theory became known all over the world, and you won.
I know you look down on me, including everyone here. You all think Im vulgar.
Everyone hurriedly knelt down, saying that they didnt dare.
Qiao Jinniang continued, It doesnt matter if you think Im vulgar. After all, its true that I grew up among the folks, so Tong Yingying, I never wanted to deal with you, because its kinda amusing to watch you make a fool of yourself.
If I want to do something to you, I can directly ask the Ministry of Penalty to arrest you for disrespecting me. Then can you still stand here now?
Likewise, if I hate Ruoyun, do I need to kill her? I could have just removed her name from the Qiao family. All I need to do is to issue an oral decree.
Tong Yingying, youd better quickly confess who made youe here to nder me!
Tong Yingying frowned. What Qiao Jinniang said seemed to make sense. She looked down on Qiao Jinniang because she felt that she was not worthy of the position of the crown princess
But it was true that Qiao Jinninang didnt have to kill Qiao Ruoyun. What good would killing Qiao Ruoyun do to her?
Tong Yingying saw Mrs. Zhou in the crowd. No, she couldnt give up. As long as she insisted that Qiao Jinniang was the murderer.
Not only did she not have to pay back the 10,000 taels of silver.
More importantly, she could regain her reputation and wash away all her disgraces.
Tong Yingying said, Qiao Jinniang, cut the crap. You murdered Qiao Ruoyun, so you have to pay back with your own life!
Qiao Jinniang said helplessly, Tong Yingying, Ive given you a chance. Since you dont cherish it, I cant help you. Come, lets go back to the imperial pce.
Yes, Your Highness.
Tong Yingying shouted loudly, Stop, Qiao Jinniang, you murderer! You have to pay back with your own life! Everyone, how can you just let the murderer leave?
Everyone was kneeling on the ground and no one dared to raise their heads.
Tong Yingying nders the Crown Princess. Come, catch her and send her to the Ministry of Public Security. A guard beside Qiao Jinniang said.
Tong Yingying looked at the people kneeling on the ground and struggled hard, trying to break free from the shackles of the guards and screaming, Qiao Jinniang, even if you can put me in jail, you cant hide the fact that you are the murderer. I will wait and see how you die in misery!
At this moment, a maid who was kneeling on the ground suddenly stood up and said, Crown Princess, you killed our young madam. I must avenge her! Go to hell!
The maid held a dagger in her hand, which was obviously prepared in advance, and stabbed towards Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang said casually to the guards surrounding her. Get out of the way.
The guards stepped aside one after another, making way for the maid.
Everyone who watched this scene out of the corner of their eyes:
Was the Crown Princess crazy, or did they see it wrong? Someone wanted to assassinate the Crown Princess, but the Crown Princess actually asked the guards to step aside to make way for the assassin?
But that maid froze halfway
Then she pretended to stumble and the dagger was stabbed towards Tong Yingying.
Qiao Jinniang rushed over and held the maids hand. Dont you want to avenge your young madam? Why do you want to kill Tong Yingying? To make her shut up forever?
So that you can pour the dirty water on me? Qiao Jinniang sneered. The maids who followed your young madam to the South are all dead, but why are you still alive? Let me guess, they keep you alive so that they can use you to imnt the crime on me, right? Smart move.
Qiao Jinniang ordered the guards to take a poison sac from between the maids teeth.
Come, put her and Tong Yingying into jail and surround the Qin Mansion. No one who is present today is allowed to leave.
Mrs. Zhou frowned and said, Qiao Jinniang, you are only the Crown Princess, but Duke Qin is a hereditary duke. Even His Royal Highness wont dare to surround the Qin mansion. What are you doing? Who do you think you are?
Qiao Jinniang said, Just as Tong Yingying said, a life for a life. Whether the murderer of my sister or those who ndered me, none of them can get away.
And who I use today are the people of my Qiao family. Our Qiao family are doing this to uphold justice for a family member!
If Father mes me, I will go to him to receive my punishment!
Everyone knelt on the ground, shivering. The Duke Qin Mansion was surrounded! Something big was going to happen in Luoyang! If they had known this earlier, they would not havee to express their condolences in such a hurry.
Now they were confined in the Duke Qin Mansion, and they didnt know when they could leave.
Qin Miaomiao walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, Your Highness, I believe you are not the murderer, but it is really inappropriate to have troops surround the Qin Mansion. If you dont stop, your life might be in danger!
Inappropriate? Why? Since they dare to bully and even kill my Qiao familys daughter, they should be ready to receive our retaliation! Qiao Jinniang said.
Besides, even if His Majesty is angry, our Qiao family still has the Absolution Token!
With that, Qiao Jinniang turned and left the Qin Mansion.
Tong Yingying was caught by the guards, struggling and shouting that Qiao Jinniang was the murderer.
Mrs. Zhou felt that things seemed to have gone wrong. Maybe Tong Yingying would give her out.
Qiao Jinniang obviously would get to the bottom of this matter. If Tong Yingying confessed everything, she would be finished
Mrs. Zhou noticed that the whole Qin Mansion had been surrounded by troopsyer byyer.
Outside, Zhou Sisi, Prince Huai, Li Lingling, and others were stopped at the door when they tried toe in.
Mrs. Zhou looked at Zhou Sisi and said something to her silently, hoping her daughter could understand what she meant
Zhou Sisi immediately got what her mother meant. She held the wood carving in her hand and suddenly foolishly walked up to Tong Yingying. Cousin, y wood carving!
Tong Yingying was still struggling hard, trying to break free from the guards, so she frowned when she saw Zhou Sisi. No!
Zhou Sisi said to the two guards, Who are you? Why are you grabbing my sister? Let go, let go!
The guards didnt dare to act rashly because she was Consort Huai, but unexpectedly, when they rxed the grip on Tong Yingying, Zhou Sisi suddenly stabbed the carved knife in her hand into Tong Yingyings abdomen.
Tong Yingying looked at her retarded cousin in disbelief!
Was she really stupid or was she faking it
At this moment, Tong Yingying turned around and saw her aunt heave a sigh of relief, and only then did she realize that she was just a pawn for them
She hadnt been able to be a role model for women in the world. She hadnt made a name for her mother. She didnt want to die
Chapter 242 - I Have You in My Heart
Chapter 242: I Have You in My Heart
When Qiao Jinniang boarded the carriage and saw this scene, she didnt ask anyone to rescue Tong Yingying.
Seeing what Zhou Sisi did, she already knew who the person behind was.
She just didnt expect that Zhou Sisi dared pretend to be retarded and killed someone in public.
Since they dared to nder her, she would certainly retaliate.
Qiao Jinniang whispered to Yuyan, Go find that Tong Xuan who often gives me gifts.
Yes, Your Highness.
Tong Yingying looked at Qiao Jinniang and begged for help. Help, help me
However, Qiao Jinniang lowered the curtain of the carriage. She was not so kind-hearted as to rescue Tong Yingying, an idiot who tried to set her up and had offended her more than once.
She had already given Tong Yingying a chance, but she didnt cherish it and even helped others to make false usations against her
The guard of honor of the Crown Princess gradually receded, and Tong Yingying stared at the guard of honor. How she hoped that the person sitting in the sedan chair carried by sixteen people was her
Back in the imperial pce, Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen that she had sent troops to surround the Qin family.
Lu Chen frowned and said, You shouldnt have used the Qiao familys soldiers and horses. Why dont you use the soldiers and horses of the East Pce?
Qiao Jinniang said, If I use the soldiers and horses of the East Pce, imperial censors will definitely impeach you, and the Qiao family still has the Absolution Token anyway, and this is also my father and my brothers opinion.
Although Duke Anyuan didnt want to be suspected by the Emperor, he would definitely not turn a blind eye to his daughters death.
Lu Chen was a little unhappy, but Qiao Jinniang didnt notice it. She fanned her fan and said, The Qin family tried to murder Ruoyun but was still ying innocent today. They even instigated Tong Yingying toe and use me as the murderer!
Only then did Qiao Jinniang notice that Lu Chen purposely ignored her. She said, I have to report this matter to Father. Would you apany me to the Hanliang Pce?
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, You dont turn to me for help until youve done everything. What do you take me for?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen suspiciously. Whats the matter with you? Are you worried that you will be implicated because I rashly had the soldiers surround the Qin family? Dont worry. All the soldiers are our Qiao familys soldiers. If Father wants to punish you, I will take the me alone.
After all, the Qin family had a noble title, and Fourth Miss Qin was the concubine of Prince Huai.
Even if there was evidence that the Qiao family killed Qiao Ruoyun, they would probably hand over a servant as their scapegoat.
Besides, Qiao Ruoyun didnt die. ording to Datangsw, the Duke Qin Mansion probably would not face any punishment.
Therefore, Qiao Jinniang and Qiao Lu had soldiers surround the Qin mansion after much discussion.
If thew of Datang could not punish the Qin family, the Qiao family would avenge their daughter on their own.
Seeing that Lu Chens face was getting darker and darker, Qiao Jinniang said grumpily, If you think Ive caused you trouble, Ill go to Hanliang Pce to ask for punishment. But theyve tried to kill Ruoyun, I cant just let them off.
Lu Chen clenched Qiao Jinniangs hand and asked, What am I in your eyes? Youd rather trust your younger brother whom you have only known for less than a year, rather than trust me?
Youre my wife. Do you think I will be afraid of being implicated by you?
Since you and I have known each other, have I ever disappointed you? But now you would rather discuss with the Qiao family than me?
Youve been prepared for the worst, but you never thought of using the means of the East Pce to deal with the Qin family?
How do you know that I will endure the Qin family? How can I let the Qin family bully you?
Qiao Jinniang, you and I are husband and wife, but you think I will be afraid of being implicated by you? What a joke.
Lu Chens voice grew louder, but when he saw Qiao Jinniangs eyes turn red, he couldnt help sighing and gently wiping her tears. Why are you crying? Dont cry.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen with tears in her eyes and said, What do you mean by I would rather believe in the Qiao family than in you? I just dont want to hear others say all your supporters left you because of me!
Duke Qin is a duke after all. If you, the Crown Prince, have soldiers surround a dukes mansion, what will outsiders think of you?
I didnt want you to get hurt, so I didnt want you to be involved in this matter, but you are yelling at me, saying that I dont trust you!
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang in his arms, and said softly, Sorry, I have mistaken your intentions.
Although he didnt admit that he had yelled at Qiao Jinniang, his experience told him that hed better admit his mistake as soon as possible.
Qiao Jinniang raised her eyes to look at Lu Chen. Like how?
Lu Chen:
I forgot the fact that you and I are husband and wife, so I was afraid of implicating you
Qiao Jinniang could tell Lu Chens irony, and sighed, What if you lose your position as the crown prince because of me? After all, you care so much about your position as the crown prince
Lu Chen lowered his head and said, In my heart, is the position of the crown prince or are you more important? Cant you tell?
Of course the former.
Qiao Jinniang replied without hesitation. After all, even at this timest year, he said that he would not give up the position of crown prince for her.
Lu Chen took a deep breath. If the position of the crown prince is more important, would I have given up the Duke Wu Mansion for you?
Qiao Jinniang said, Dont say that. I cant repay you anything for it If you want the Duke Wu Mansion back, go to Zhou Sisi
Lu Chen looked straight into her eyes and said, Am I so dispensable in your eyes?
Hearing the quarrel inside at the door, Yuyan could only say loudly, Your Royal Highness, Your Highness, His Majesty asked you two to go to the Hanliang Pce.
Hearing this, Lu Chen said with a slight disappointment in his eyes, In Linan, if not me, you could still easily find another man to marry into your family, and after returning to Changan, you could also easily find a husband.
To you, I am nothing. Although we shared the same bed for so many years, Im still not even as important as Qiao Lu who you have only met more than ten times!
Qiao Jinniang felt very aggrieved. Everyone said that Lu Chen lost all his supporters because of her.
Therefore, in the matter of Qiao Ruoyun, she didnt want to involve Lu Chen at all.
She was considering Lu Chen wholeheartedly, but in the end, he thought of her like that!
Qiao Jinniang said huffily, Yes, I could easily find a man to marry into my family in Linan. Without you, there were still a lot of excellent young men waiting for me to pick! I chose you just because you had amnesia and were easier to control.
After returning to Changan, I could also easily find a husband.
Yes, you are not as important as my younger brother who I have only met less than ten times! Satisfied?
Lu Chen pursed his thin lips tightly, and after a long while, he said, Then when will I be the only man in the world that youre willing to marry?
When will you feel that I am more reliable and trustworthy than Qiao Lu?
How long will it take for you to understand that husband and wife are one?
How well do I have to treat you so that you can have me in your heart, and so that you will think that I am more important than Xier?
Forget it, lets go to Hanliang Pce first.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand.
Qiao Jinniang took Lu Chens hand back and said, If I havent had you in my heart, why would I be afraid of implicating you?
I discussed this matter with Qiao Lu because Qiao Ruoyun is also his sister, but Ruoyun has nothing to do with you. Why should I involve you in this matter?
Believe it or not, youre the only man in the world that Im willing to marry now. If you dare to dump me, I will use all the poisons Huixiang and the others gave me on you.
If I didnt care about you, why would I not allow you to take a concubine? Although its because I hate the fights between wives and concubines, whats more important is that I care about you!
If I dont care about you, even if you take a lot of concubines, having the Duke Anyuan Mansion behind me, I wont be afraid of those women!
Lu Chen stopped and looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, But in your heart, Xier will always be more important than me.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Thats for sure. If we have a daughter in the future, she will be more important than you too.
Chapter 243 - Withdraw the Noble Title of Duke Wu
Chapter 243: Withdraw the Noble Title of Duke Wu
In Hanliang Pce.
A group of imperial censors were kneeling on the ground and holding the memorials to impeach the Crown Princess.
Emperor Huilin nced at the sky outside. Why havent theye yet?
Eunuch Quan whispered in the ear of Emperor Huilin, Your Majesty, when I had someone go to the East Pce to summon them just now, it seemed that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess were quarreling And the quarrel seemed to be quite fierce.
Emperor Huilin said, Its understandable. The Crown Princess has gone too far this time.
Hearing this, the imperial censors said one after another, Exactly! Your Majesty, how could the Crown Princess and the Qiao family have soldiers surround the Duke Qin Mansion?! This is rebellion!
Yes, Your Majesty, while the Qin family was mourning the death of their young madam, the Crown Princess actually had soldiers surround the Qin Mansion, and even the guests who were just offering condolences were locked inside. This is disrespectful to the deceased!
Emperor Huilin said, Why didnt she use the soldiers of the East Pce? She is already married. Why did she still use her natal familys soldiers? No wonder Chener is quarreling with her.
The imperial censors:
Shouldnt His Royal Highness be quarreling with the Crown Princess because Qiao Jinniang interfered in the state affairs and even had soldiers surround the Qin family?
Why did His Majesty think that the Crown Prince was quarreling with the Crown Princess because of that ridiculous reason?
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang entered the Hanliang Pce with their fingers interlocked and saluted the Emperor together.
Emperor Huilin looked at the two of them and said, Have you finished quarreling?
Qiao Jinniang bowed her head shyly, and Lu Chen said, Father, we didnt quarrel. We just got dyed on the way. Sorry for keeping you waiting.
Emperor Huilin said to Qiao Jinniang, Why did you send troops to surround the Qin Mansion?
Father, I have proof that the Qin family is behind the death of my eldest sister, so I dont want the murderers to escape! Qiao Jinniang cupped her hands and said.
The imperial censors all said, Your Highness, even if you think the murderer is in the Qin family, it should be handed over to the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Penalty for investigation. After all, it is a dukes mansion. Is it appropriate for you to treat them like that?!
Duke Qin is a hereditary duke! You should show some respect to him.
Qiao Jinniang knelt down and said, Father, although Qiao Ruoyun and I are not blood-rted sisters.
We are even closer than many biological sisters.
My sister is dead, and I must seek justice for her. The Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Penalty cant even tell that Zhou Sisi is pretending to be retarded. How can I trust them?
My sister was murdered, and I was so sad and angry that I could only have soldiers surround the Qin family to stop the murderer from escaping.
Emperor Huilin said, Can you find the murderer by doing that?
Qiao Jinniang said, Although I cant, it is enough to make those who have something to hide panic.
Besides, I already have preliminary evidence. Today, when I went to the Qin Mansion to offer condolences, Tong Yingying, the daughter of the former imperial censor, Tong Lei, ndered me as the murderer. And not long after she said this, a maid tried to assassinate her.
But after I rescued Tong Yingying, to everyones surprise, Tong Yingying was killed by Zhou Sisi, Consort Huai, at the door in front of everyones eyes!
Emperor Huilin said, Tong Yingying ndered you as the murderer? What does it have to do with the evidence?
Qiao Jinniang cupped her hands and said, Father, have you heard that its usually thieves who like to cry Stop thief! Thieves are eager to pass the buck to someone else to clear their suspicion.
So, I think that the person who instructed Tong Yingying to nder me is one of the murderers.
Tong Yingying is dead. Have you found out who is behind the scenes?
Qiao Jinniang said, Its Mrs. Zhou, Tong Shi. Otherwise, why would Zhou Sisi, Consort Huai, kill in public? I have a witness to this matter, who is Tong Xuan, the daughter of the former imperial censor, Tong Lei, and the younger sister of Tong Yingying. She can testify for me.
Summon Tong Xuan, Duchess Wu, and Consort Huai! Emperor Huilin paused and said, Equal Consort Huai!
Lu Chen helped Qiao Jinniang up.
The imperial censors looked at each other in shock, not daring to get up.
The three people arrived at Hanliang Pce in less than two quarters of an hour.
As soon as she saw Mrs. Zhou, Tong Xuan pointed her finger at her and cried in tears, Aunt, my sister had always respected you. Why did you murder her? And Zhou Sisi, you look so innocent on the surface, but are actually so vicious! You killed my sister!
Tong Xuans tears were not entirely fake. Although Tong Yingying always thought too highly of herself and had been speaking ill of her outside, she was still her biological sister after all.
They grew up together. Even though they were not on good terms, Tong Xuan certainly didnt want to see her killed at such a young age
She felt very ufortable and even a bit sad.
Duchess Wu frowned and asked Tong Xuan, What nonsense are you talking about? When did I murder Yingying?
Tong Xuan said, You told her to go to the Qin Mansion to nder the Crown Princess for killing Young Madam Qin.
Mrs. Zhou frowned and said, Nonsense! I didnt!
Aunt, you can deny it, but I heard it with my own ears!
Tong Xuan said, You wanted to set the crown princess up. If not, why did Zhou Sisi have to kill my sister in public?
Didnt kill, looking for Sister, to y with wood carving.
Zhou Sisi smiled innocently. Wood carving is fun.
Lu Chen said, Father, I think that retarded people should also be executed if they kill someone.
Otherwise, if everyone pretends to be retarded or insane and kill at will, where is the authority ofw?
Besides, Tong Yingying is greatly worshiped and touted by literati. If the murderer is not punished, I am afraid that the literati will be disappointed with thew.
Mrs. Zhou hurriedly kowtowed. It was just manughter. Sisi didnt do it on purpose.
Qiao Jinniang said, Oh? Is manughter not killing? Besides, how can there be such a coincidence in the world?
Mrs. Zhou, you had just instigated Tong Yingying to nder me, and on the same day, Tong Yingying was killed by your daughter? Do you think we are all stupid?
Or did Mrs. Zhou and Zhou Sisi think that Zhou Sisi is Consort Huai, while Tong Yingying is just amoner, so you can kill her without being punished?
Emperor Huilin said angrily, Zhou Shi, a witness can testify that you instigated Tong Yingying to nder the Crown Princess, and so many people have witnessed that Zhou Sisi killed Tong Yingying!
Come, pass on my order, withdraw the title of Duke Wu.
Put Zhou Sisi into jail and execute her this autumn. Zhou Shi ndered the Crown Princess andmitted heinous crimes. She is condemned to lifelong exile!
Madam Zhou listened to the Emperors oral decree in disbelief, and kowtowed in despair. Your Majesty, Sisi is insane. She doesnt know anything, and the title of Duke Wu
Her Majesty
Please spare Sisis life. Sisi had dementia from saving His Royal Highness. Your Royal Highness, please save your cousin!
Emperor Huilin said, How dare you mention the Queen? If it werent for the sake of the Queen, how would I have allowed the Zhou family to survive to this day?
But you people have no idea who brought you wealth and honor.
Instead, you tantly formed cliques for private gain and treated the Crown Prince with no respect.
You even spread rumors in Changan that the Crown Prince was deserted by everyone just because you, the Duke Wu Mansion, dumped him.
This time, you even dared to frame the Crown Princess. You peoples crimes are simply unforgivable, and Im being lenient enough to only withdraw the title of Duke Wu!
Chapter 244 - Impenitent
Chapter 244: Impenitent
Mrs. Zhou copsed to the ground when she heard the words, begging bitterly, Your Majesty, Sisi is your daughter-inw. She killed Tong Yingying by mistake because of her own dementia. Please spare Sisis life. Im willing to die in her ce!
Seeing that the Emperor ignored her, Mrs. Zhouy prone in front of Lu Chen and begged, Your Royal Highness, Sisi became retarded because she saved your life
Lu Chen frowned and said, No, the one who saved me was actually not her, but the person didnt want their identity to be revealed. Besides, even if Zhou Sisi saved my life, can she kill at will?
Zhou Sisi looked at Lu Chen. Seeing her mother being so humble, she was extremely sad. Imperial Cousin, so you want to take my life just for Tong Yingying?
You hate me so much that you even want me to die? Then why did you treat me so well when we were young?
Zhou Sisi gave Lu Chen the wood carving in her hand. I still remember, when I was a child, no one wanted to y with me because of my dementia, so you carved these little wooden figurines for me, telling me that they would y with me. But why are you so ruthless to me now?
Qiao Jinniang said softly, Lu Chen didnt y with you, but just gave you wood carvings to y with you
Besides, that was so many years ago. No one can live in the past, okay?
The wooden sculpture in Zhou Sisis hand fell to the ground, and she red at Qiao Jinniang fiercely. Its you. Its all because of you. If it werent for you, my imperial cousin wouldnt have treated me like this.
Lu Chen shielded Qiao Jinniang behind him and said, Sisi, you and I are brother and sister. How could a brother marry his sister? Besides, the Zhou family has never allowed their daughter to marry into the imperial pce. Even without Jinniang, you would never be able to marry me!
Besides, this is not the reason you killed Tong Yingying in public!
Zhou Sisi said with a sneer, It turns out that Im even less significant than Tong Yingying in your heart
Why cant I kill her? If she hadnt been telling me that I should marry you, my obsession wouldnt be so deep!
She wanted to marry into the East Pce herself, so she tried to make use of me! Now she just got what she deserved. I just didnt expect that Your Majesty would not care about Prince Huai at all, nor that the Queen and the Crown Prince would be so cold-hearted!
She was Consort Huai. Even if she killed amoner, so what?
But Lu Chen and Emperor Huilin were unwilling to let her off.
Qiao Jinniang said, Zhou Sisi, how do you have the cheek to say that? Yes, Tong Yingying wanted to make use of you, but werent you willing to be used by her?
Without Mother, the Duke Wu Mansion would never be where it is today, but you broke Mothers heart just because you couldnt force her to agree to you marrying her son. Now youre ming Mother for being cold-hearted?
Youve already returned to normal long ago, but still pretended to be retarded, trying to marry into the East Pce in disregard of your parents and grandmother!
What youve done is simply disgusting!
Up to now, you are still ming others without any repentance at all. As you said, you just got what you deserve.
Lu Chen instructed the guards to quickly pull the mother and daughter down.
Emperor Huilin asked Qiao Jinniang, The person who ndered you has been punished. But just now you said thieves liked crying Stop Thief. Do you mean it was Mrs. Zhou who killed Qiao Ruoyun?
Qiao Jinniang said, No, but Mrs. Zhou must know who the murderer is, so I will have someone tell the people locked up in the Qin Mansion that Mrs. Zhou has been arrested and the Ministry of Penalty is interrogating her into confessing who the murderer is. Then the murderer will not be able to sit still.
Besides, the nobility title of Duke Wu has been withdrawn, which means that the murderer wont be able to get away even if he has a notibility title, so he would definitely try to silence Mrs. Zhou.
In fact, who Qiao Jinniang had been suspecting of was Qin Shu.
However, Qin Shu looked so lifeless and haggard today. If she still insisted the murderer was Qin Shu, everyone would think she was ndering him
Emperor Huilin said to Lu Chen, The Qin family is a noble family after all. If it is found out that the murderer is not from the Qin family, the Crown Princess and the Qiao family will have to be punished severely too.
Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Yes, Father.
Emperor Huilin said to the imperial censors, Just wait for some time. If the murderer is not from the Qin family, I will definitely uphold justice for the Qin family.
Yes, Your Majesty.
The imperial censors didnt dare to say anything more.
No one would expect that the Zhou family would lose their nobility title so easily. But they were really stupid. As the Queens natal family, they were a natural ally of the Crown Prince, but they betrayed the Crown Prince for the sake of their daughter and ended up in misery.
...
Inside the Zhou Mansion.
Receiving the letter from her mother, Zhou Shihui smiled. Her mother was finally willing toe help her.
However, she could not be happy for long when an imperial decree arrived at the Zhou family stating that the nobility title of Duke Wu was withdrawn by the Emperor.
Old Madam Zhou almost fainted. Zhou Siming hurriedly supported her and had servants call a doctor over.
Zhou Siming frowned. He and Lu Chen grew up together, but after Lu Chen returned to Changan, he was less and less able to understand Lu Chen.
He actually didnt care about the affections between him and the Zhou family at all, not even caring about Old Madam Zhou!
Mother! A well-dressed woman walked in and supported Old Madam Zhou.
This woman looked very simr to the Queen, but Zhou Siming could tell she was not the Queen. The Queen seemed more dignified and younger than her.
Seeing this woman, Zhou Shihui immediately cried, Mother, you finally came to see me. Ive suffered a lot of grievances and was even put in prison
Reading the imperial decree, the woman frowned. My sister has been the Queen for twenty years. I am afraid she has forgotten who helped her to take this position back then!
Zhou Siming said, Are you Eldest Aunt?
Yes, Siming, you have grown-up a lot. Dont worry. I can get our nobility title back!
Zhou Siming pursed his lips and said, Eldest Aunt, the nobility title doesnt matter. What matters is that Sisi was sentenced to be executed this autumn. I wonder if you can rescue Sisi.
Zhou Sisi was still so young. Zhou Siming certainly wouldnt let her be executed.
Zhou Qinghe said, Dont worry. I will save her. The most important thing is to heal your grandmother first.
...
In the Empress Dowagers pce.
Hearing the news from Li Lingling, the Empress Dowagerughed crazily. The Zhou family has finally been deprived of the nobility title! This must be my son avenging me!
Li Lingling didnt dare to tell the Empress Dowager that His Majesty withdrew the nobility title of Duke Wu just because the Duke Wu Mansion betrayed the Crown Prince and defected to Prince Huai, and even fought for power for Prince Huai in the court.
Grandmother, Concubine Qin is pregnant. Although Zhou Sisi was sentenced to death, there is still no ce for me in the Prince Huai Mansion!
The Empress Dowager said to Li Lingling, Just be patient. Prince Huai has lost the support from the Duke Wu Mansion, so he cant afford losing the Duke Qin Mansion too.
Li Lingling pursed her lips and said, By the way, Prince Huai doted on his so-called adopted son very much. At first nce, I could tell he was his biological son. I just dont know which b*tch gave birth to him for Prince Huai.
The Empress Dowager said, You can ask to raise that adopted son. Are you afraid of Concubine Qin? Remember, you are Consort Huai, but she is just a concubine.
Just rx. My son is on my side. The Queen and the Crown Princes good times wontst long. Youll be the next queen anyway.
Chapter 245 - Qiao Ruoyun arrived in Luoyang
Chapter 245: Qiao Ruoyun arrived in Luoyang
In the Duke Qin Mansion, everyone was in panic after being surrounded by troops.
At this moment, someone from outside came to report, saying that His Majesty had deprived the Zhou family of their nobility title and military power, gave Consort Huai the death penalty, and exiled the former Duchess Wu.
When Mrs. Qin heard this, she could not help clenching Qin Miaomiaos hand.
Duke Qins concubines all cried in fright. The murderer is not in our Qin family. Why are the soldiers still surrounding our house?
Boohoo, I dont want to die here!
Will the Qin family be deprived of the nobility title just like the Duke Wu Mansion?
Qin Miaomiao scolded the concubines. Shut up. Dont cry. Were still safe and sound, okay?!
Qin Miaomiao walked up to Qin Shu, looked at him and asked, Brother, did you kill Sister-inw?
Mrs. Qin said in shock, Miaomiao, what are you talking about? Cant you see how sad your brother is?! How can you suspect that your brother killed your sister-inw?
Qin Miaomiao said with tears. If Brother isnt the murderer, why did the Crown Princess do this to us? Brother, have you reached some agreement with Fourth Sister?
If you have really colluded with Fourth Sister, go admit your mistake as soon as possible. Dont implicate our whole family!
Mrs. Qin pped Qin Miaomiao angrily. What nonsense are you talking about? How is it possible for your brother to do such a beastly thing? Besides, everyone knows how much your brother loves Ruoyun!
Qin Shu said to Qin Miaomiao, I didnt, I didnt kill Ruoyun. How could I kill her!
Qin Miaomiao said coldly, Alright, Brother, I hope you are really innocent.
Qin Miaomiao walked to the door and said to a guard, Would you please go to Princess Shouans Mansion and ask Princess Fulu toe here?
Third Miss Qin, wait a moment.
...
Fulu hadnt seen her parents for a long time, and she was showing off to her mother the Southern special products she brought back.
After hearing the report from the guard, she went to the Qin Mansion.
Qin Miaomiao ordered the maids in her room to leave and asked Fulu, Tell me, is the murderer of my sister-inw my brother?
How did you know that? Fulu asked Qin Miaomiao.
Qin Miaomiao said, Im not stupid. Since Fourth Sister married Prince Huai as his concubine, she often returned home to discuss with my father and brother, and I guessed that my brother might have cooperated with Fourth Sister.
But I didnt expect him to be so stupid. As a brother-inw of His Royal Highness, the Duke Qin Mansion would definitely be more and more prosperous, but he chose Fourth Sister over his own wife!
Fulu said, But Qin Shu looked so devastated along the way. I think maybe I wronged him, and he might not be the murderer. Do you know that he even slept with that charred body every night!
Qin Miaomiao didnt take it seriously. If his brother was really so affectionate towards her sister-inw, then why did he fail to protect her?
More importantly, Ruoyun never had any feuds with anyone.
...
Inside a wharf in Luoyang.
Qiao Ruoyun came out of the boat with a pale face. She had never traveled such a long waterway, but she had to travel all the way by boat for fear of being discovered.
Along the way, she vomited a lot.
When she got off the pier, she heard the chatter of the people beside her.
The Duke Wu Mansion lost their nobility title the first day they came to Luoyang! Equal Consort Huai was directly sentenced to be executed this autumn. The Duke Wu Mansion is doomed!
The Qin family is surrounded by the soldiers of the Qiao family, but His Majesty doesnt me the Qiao family at all. Is the murderer of Young Madam Qin from the Qiao family?
I heard that Young Master Qin isnt even in the mood to shave and his eyes are swollen like two eggs from crying. How can he be the murderer?
Qian Yin stood by Qiao Ruoyuns side, supported her and said, You are in such a hurry toe to Luoyang. Are you going to meet Duke Anyuan first?
Qiao Ruoyun said feebly, Just now they said that the Qin Mansion is being surrounded by soldiers, I want to see Qin Shu. I dont want him to be so sad anymore. There must be a misunderstanding. Perhaps it was just a robbery?
Qian Yin sneered. Robbery? Then why were they hunting you down? There are so many wealthy businessmen in Linan. Why did they target you? Do you think those bandits are so stupid as to try to rob Duke Anyuans daughter?
Forget it. You came here in such a hurry. Since you want to see Qin Shu, then go see him!
It was already dark. Qiao Ruoyun was so weak, and Qian Yin didnt want to argue with her. Maybe she would just give up after seeing Qin Shu.
The Qin Mansion was surrounded by soldiers and no one could go out, so the amodation and meals for the many guests became a problem.
Then some high-ranking officials became impatient. They didnt dare to scold the Crown Princess, so they could only scold the murderer.
Seeing that Qin Shu couldnt hold on any longer, Mrs. Qin had servants send him into his room to rest.
Qian Yin took Qiao Ruoyun to the Qin Mansion, only to see the soldiers and horses surrounding the houseyer byyer, and they couldnt enter, so he could only order someone to report to the East Pce first.
Hearing that Qiao Ruoyun had arrived in Luoyang, Qiao Jinniang hurriedly summoned her. Seeing her wearing a thick veil, Qiao Jinniang was relieved.
Your Highness.
Qiao Jinniang took Qiao Ruoyuns hand and said, Sister, you are finally back.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, Jinniang, I want to see Qin Shu. I heard that he has be very skinny and haggard.
Maybe it was Concubine Qin or Prince Huai who wanted to kill me in order to break the rtionship between Qin Shu and the Crown Prince, but the murder should have nothing to do with Qin Shu
Qiao Jinniang said, I hope he is innocent too. If you want to see him, I will have someone call him to the East Pce.
Okay. Qiao Ruoyun looked at Qiao Jinniang gratefully, and then said guiltily, Im sorry. I failed to keep your cabin in the South.
Qiao Jinniang said, It doesnt matter. I just want you to be safe.
Qiao Jinniang took Qiao Ruoyun to Lu Chens study, and when she saw Qian Yin, she frowned and said, Master Qian, its been a long time, but unfortunately, Nuomi has already been sent back to the South by me.
Qian Yin bowed to Qiao Jinniang. I have offended you many times in the past. Please forgive me, Your Highness.
Forget it. For the sake of your life-saving grace to my sister, I wont care about it anymore. Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you for taking care of my sister all the way.
Qian Yin said, Youre wee. Its just a small favor.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Sister wants to meet Qin Shu. Can you have your secret guards bring Qin Shu here secretly?
Okay. Lu Chen replied, But are you sure Qin Shu is not the murderer?
Qiao Jinniang said, Im not sure. After all, without the permission of the Qin family, why would Concubine Qin and Prince Huai bother to kill the next Duchess Qin? If the Qin family finds out about this, they will only be Prince Huais enemy!
Lu Chen asked, Then why do you want to bring Qin Shu over? What if he tells others that Qiao Ruoyun is still alive?
Qiao Jinniang nced at Qiao Ruoyun who was so weak, looking as though a gust of wind could blow her away.
Since she wanted to see Qin Shu, just let her. If Qin Shu was really innocent, he would not act rashly and alert the murderer.
But if he leaked the news that Qiao Ruoyun was still alive, then there was no doubt that he was behind this murder.
Chapter 246 - Qin Shu Confessed
Chapter 246: Qin Shu Confessed
In Prince Huai Mansion.
Listening to the information her maid inquired from outside the Qin Mansion, Concubine Qin frowned, and there was a faint pain in her lower abdomen.
Madam, what should we do now? The Duke Qin Mansion has been surrounded by soldiers for an entire day. The Crown Princess obviously wont easily let it go. Even the Duke Wu Mansion and Zhou Sisi have been
Concubine Qin angrily smashed a cup. Why is this happening, why?!
She had thought that even if Qiao Ruoyun died, no one would care. It was not strange that she would be killed by bandits in the South.
But Concubine Qin didnt expect that the Crown Princess would have soldiers surround the entire Qin Mansion.
Didnt the Crown Princess hate Qiao Ruoyun for stealing her identity?
And Duke Anyuan, why was he willing to be suspected by His Majesty for the sake of a fake daughter who had already died?
Prince Huai entered from the door, red at Concubine Qin and said, Its all your fault! How could Fulu find out that you had sent people to kill Qiao Ruoyun?
Concubine Qin covered her lower abdomen and said, I dont know. Then what should we do now?
Prince Huai was furious and couldnt help missing Mu Qianqian. If only Mu Qianqian were here. She was so intelligent and would definitely have a way to help him out.
Unlike Mu Qianqian, Concubine Qin was full of vicious tricks but so ipetent!
Prince Huai took a deep breath. Today, his father deprived the Duke Wu Mansion of their nobility title without any hesitation. Zhou Sisi was still Consort Huai, but his father directly sentenced her to be executed in the autumn.
So, he, Prince Huai, his fathers son, was actually nothing in his fathers eyes.
...
Qin Shu was so tired that he didnt know how long he had been asleep. When he woke up, he found that he was in an unfamiliar courtyard.
There were whitenterns hanging on both sides, and he leaned on the stone table. Although Luoyang was always hot, he actually felt a chill down his spine at this moment.
The wind blew through the tulle in the courtyard, and Qin Shu suddenly saw a womaning. Rubbing his eyes, he fell from the stone bench in shock, pointed his finger at Qiao Ruoyun and stammered, You, you, do note over.
It was the first time Qiao Ruoyun saw Qin Shu look so scared. Qin Shu had been practicing martial arts since childhood, and in her eyes, he was a big hero. He had never been so frightened before.
In the flowers not far away, Qiao Jinniang, who was watching this scene, whispered to Lu Chen next to her. If Qin Shu wasnt the murderer, why would he be so flustered?
Qiao Ruoyun said, Ah Shu, I am Ruoyun
Donte over! Ahh! Theres a ghost here! Qin Shu shouted in a loud voice, Its not me! I didnt know about it until my fourth sister killed you. If you want to take revenge, go to her!
Qiao Ruoyun bit her lip and looked at the skinny Qin Shu. She had thought that Qin Shu became so haggard after she died because he loved her so much.
It turned out that she was totally wrong
Qiao Ruoyun said, Qin Shu, since you knew that your fourth sister killed me, why didnt you avenge me?
Qin Shu panicked. Ruoyun, you shouldnt me me. You should me yourself! Youre the daughter of a ve. Even if the Crown Princess got a nobility title for your father, it cant change your humble bloodline!
Besides, the Duke Qin Mansion needs apetent young madam, but youre so useless that even the Qiao nsman can bully you at will!
Qiao Ruoyun shed a tear. After I knew my identity, I voluntarily offered to divorce But you said that my identity didnt matter!
Qin Shu said, If I divorced you as soon as your identity was exposed, wouldnt I be a joke in Changan? Everyone willugh at me for being such a snob!
Besides, in order to maintain the rtionship with our Qin family, Duke Anyuan still retained your identity as his eldest daughter. How could I divorce you?
Ruoyun, I have affection for you, but you are not worthy of being my wife.
Duke Anyuan humiliated me by making me marry the daughter of a ve. If you were just my concubine, I would definitely not allow them to take your life!
Qiao Ruoyun staggered a few steps and asked Qin Shu, Why did you have to kill me? I cant give birth to a child for you, and for that, you have good reasons to divorce me!
Qin Shu said, With Duke Anyuan, I dont even dare to take a concubine! Divorce you? How is that possible!
It just so happened that my fourth sister became Prince Huais concubine. If I cooperate with Prince Huai, I can bring down Duke Anyuan sooner orter
But my fourth sister didnt trust me, fearing that I would still take sides with the Crown Prince because of you, so she wanted to kill you. All this was done by my fourth sister and my father, and I didnt know anything until Princess Fulu told me that you were in danger.
If you want to take revenge, donte at me! Go to my father and my fourth sister. They conspired to kill you.
Qin Shu shouted loudly.
Qiao Ruoyun was devastated. She thought it was out of his love for her that her husband didnt want to take a concubine, but it turned out that it was just because he was afraid of Duke Anyuan.
But because of this, she had to suffer from the torture of Old Madam Qin and gossip of others all the time. Everyoneughed at her, saying that she was a hen that couldnty eggs which tortured her day and night!
So the medicines you fed me after my miscarriage were actually meant to poison me to death, right?
Qin Shu said, Do you remember what Princess Fulu said at this timest year? She said that all the descendants of the Qin family would have your humble blood in their bodies!
Sorry, Ruoyun, I cant let my son have the bloodline of a ve! I cant let my son beughed at by others!
So every time before we had sex, I would drink a contraceptive decoction. The imperial doctor only diagnosed your pulse and wouldnt find anything wrong with me!
Qiao Ruoyun was trembling all over, Humble bloodline? Bah, its your Qin familys bloodline that is dirty and humble. Fortunately, I am not pregnant with your Qin Shus evil seed!
Qiao Ruoyun was always weak, but this time, she rushed up and pped Qin Shu hard a few times like crazy.
Qin Shu saw Qiao Ruoyuns shadow and frowned, Youre not dead?
Qin Shug grabbed Qiao Ruoyuns wrist, Are you really not dead? You
Qin Shu became more and more flustered, stretching out his hand to cover Qiao Ruoyuns mouth and nose, trying to suffocate her to death when he was suddenly kicked away by a figure in ck.
Qian Yin hugged Qiao Ruoyun by the waist and asked gently, Are you all right?
However, Qiao Ruoyun was overwhelmed with grief and fainted.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly asked the medical girl beside her to treat Qiao Ruoyun and said to Lu Chen, Do you remember what Qin Shu said just now? Write a confession and let him sign it.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Qin Shu with disdain.
Although Qin Shu was capable, it was because of his rtionship with Duke Anyuan that he was able to be themander of the imperial guards.
While despising Qiao Ruoyun, he still wanted to make use of the Duke Anyuan Mansion, which was simply disgusting.
When Qin Shu saw Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang, he realized that this ce should be in the East Pce, and what he said in panic just now was probably all heard by the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess.
Qiao Jinniang spat at Qin Shu. I was almost deceived by you, and I actually believed that you really loved my sister! Youre really disgusting!
Qin Shu knew that he was finished, but he still said, Crown Princess, if no one discovered that you were swapped with Qiao Ruoyun, do you think that you can be the Crown Princess as a ve-born businesswoman?
Writing the confession paper on the side, Lu Chen gave a cold look to Qin Shu.
Qin Shu shouted, Which man in the world is not like this?
I am like this, so is the Crown Prince. How can you say Im disgusting?
Dont forget, when you just returned to Changan, the Crown Prince only wanted you to be his second concubine!
It can be seen that every man in the world cares about the origin and bloodline of their wives!
Chapter 247 - Punish Prince Huai
Chapter 247: Punish Prince Huai
Lu Chen ced the written confession in front of Qin Shu and asked him to sign it, saying coldly,
No matter if it is a first concubine or a second concubine of the crown prince, they are both much more nobler than the position of Duchess Qin!
If I really despised her identity, I wouldnt have given her a chance toe to Changan in the first ce.
Its you who are disgusting, not all other men in the world. In Datang, who canpare to the Lu family in terms of bloodline?
While enjoying the benefits that Qiao Ruoyun brought to you, you despised her bloodline. This is simply disgusting!
Qin Shuhua signed the confession paper and mocked, Yes, youre the most affectionate in the world, losing all your supporters and having your power declining day by day for the sake of a mere woman.
Concubine Qin is already pregnant, and the child in her womb will be the eldest son of Prince Huai. Even if she dies, her son will survive and our Qin family will have aeback one day!
Lu Chen sneered. My good eldest brother is the same person as you. Do you think he will let Concubine Qin give birth to his son and let his son implicate him?
Lu Chen put away the confession paper and gave it to Qian Yin. Itste at night, so Im not leaving the imperial pce. Prince Wu, please go to the Ministry of Penalty and tell them to arrest Concubine Qin of Prince Huai and Duke Qin.
Qian Yin nodded.
When Qiao Jinniang saw that Qian Yin was going to take Qiao Ruoyun away, she said, My sister is not well. Why not let her stay in the East Pce?
Qian Yin said, Your Highness, Im afraid this is inappropriate. I will send Miss Qiao back to the Duke Anyuan Mansion. You can rest assured.
Qiao Jinniang somehow felt that the way Qian Yin looked at Qiao Ruoyun was not right, but the doors of the imperial pce were about to be locked, so it was indeed inappropriate to keep Qiao Ruoyun in the East Pce.
Qin Shu was escorted away.
Remembering how he acted affectionately towards Qiao Ruoyun in the daytime, Qiao Jinniang felt sick and vomited while leaning against the stone table.
Lu Chen supported Qiao Jinniang and said, Are you pregnant?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, I just had my period a few days ago, and the imperial doctor didnt find me pregnant. I am just too disgusted by Qin Shu.
After all, she really believed that Qin Shu didnt take a concubine because he had deep affections for Qiao Ruoyun, which showed how hypocritical a man could be.
Lu Chen said, Dont think about him anymore. Although he is not the murderer, Duke Qin and Concubine Qin are, one killed his daughter-inw and the other killed her sister-inw.
Qin Shu concealed the truth and will definitely lose his official position. The entire Qin family will be sentenced to exile. So they wont be able to appear in front of your eyes again.
But Qin Miaomiao and Mrs. Qin are probably innocent. Qiao Jinniang sighed. Im afraid that Qin Miaomiao really doesnt know anything about it, and Mrs. Qins sadness today didnt seem fake.
Lu Chen said, The marriage contract between Qin Miaomiao and Lin Mo has not been canceled. If Lin Mo is willing to help Qin Miaomiao, she may not be implicated.
Qiao Jinniang remembered that after the misunderstanding between Qin Miaomiao and Zhou Siming was cleared up, Zhou Sisi kept making trouble.
So the Zhou family had no time to take care of the matter between Zhou Siming and Qin Miaomiao.
Mrs. Zhou was too upied in Zhou Sisis affairs.
And the Qin family was also hesitating whether to choose Prince Huai or the Crown Prince. After all, Lin Mo was on the Crown Princes side, while the Duke Wu Mansion was already on Prince Huais side.
And the Lin family certainly wouldnt take the initiative to propose to break off the marriage contract, so this matter was put on hold.
Qiao Jinniang had faith in Qin Miaomiaos ability. Even if she was exiled, she would probably be able to live a good life. Except for the disputes with Fulu, she had always been a smart girl.
Can you really exile the Qin family? After all, Ruoyun didnt really die, and if one kills a junior member of his family, he will usually not be convicted of a felony? Qiao Jinniang was a little worried.
Lu Chen said, The crimemitted by the Qin family was not to kill Qiao Ruoyun, but to form a clique in the court for personal gains.
The Zhou family was deprived of their nobility title not because Zhou Sisi killed Tong Yingying, but also because of this reason.
Prince Huai had been enduring for so many years, and he knew better than anyone what his father hated the most, but his life was too smooth after he came out of the imperial mausoleum, so he forgot about it.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen curiously, Then arent you doing the same thing by marrying me? And arent you forming a clique with Prime Minister Lin by befriending Lin Mo
Lu Chen chuckled. Thats different. I married you because I love you, and Lin Mo and I have been friends since childhood because he was my ssmate.
Besides, Im the Crown Prince. I am allowed to have my own power in the first ce.
So essentially, its because Father favors you. Qiao Jinniang said, No wonder your brothers all hate you. If I were them, I would have hated you too because Father is so partial to you.
Lu Chen blinked. Well, I cant help it. Im just that blissful.
Qiao Jinniang said, If we have a second child, you cant y favorites. You have to treat Xier and the other children equally.
Lu Chen nodded. Sure.
...
The Minister of Penalty, who was locked up in the Qin Mansion for the entire day, was about to fall asleep in a guest room when he was awakened by Qian Yin.
When he was about to throw a tantrum, he recognized it was Qian Yin and hurriedly saluted him.
Your Highness, I didnt know you came to Luoyang. Sorry for not weing you when you came. What can I do for you?
Qian Yin gave the confession paper to the Ministry of Penalty and said, This is Qin Shus confession, which has been signed by him. He confessed that the murderers of Young Madam Qin were Duke Qin and Concubine Qin of Prince Huai. Please try this case overnight and give His Majesty an exnation as soon as possible.
The Ministry of Penalty touched his long gray beard and said in shock, The murderers are Duke Qin and Concubine Qin?! Okay, I will try this case overnight.
Many officials and nobles who were locked up in the Qin Mansion came out to inquire about information when they heard the news.
Then they were told that the Minister of Penalty had began to try this case because the murderers had been found, and when the murderers pled guilty, they would be able to leave the Qin Mansion
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
Seeing that the Ministry of Penalty took Duke Qin away, they were not too surprised when they thought of Qiao Ruoyuns identity.
But they all thought that the Qin family was really too much. Why didnt they just have Qin Shu divorce Qiao Ruoyun?
In Qin Miaomiaos room, Fulu held her hand and said, Dont worry. This is done by your father and brother, and it has nothing to do with you. I will intercede for you. I will not let you be an official prostitute!
Qin Miaomiao spat. What are you talking about? The Qin familys crimes are not so serious.
Fulu replied, Anyway, I will help you!
After the trial overnight, the next morning, the soldiers outside the Qin Mansion all retreated.
All the ministers had to go to the levee without a good rest. They were determined to unite with imperial censor to impeach Qiao Jinniang hard.
But imperial censors didnt seem to have the slightest intention to impeach the Crown Princess.
So the ministers could only give up.
The Ministry of Penalty came out and said, Your Majesty, I tried the case overnight, and found that the ones behind the murder of Qiao Ruoyun were Concubine Qin of Prince Huai and Duke Qin. These are their confession papers!
Emperor Huilin read the confession papers and said with a frown, Duke Qins crime of killing his own daughter-inw is unforgivable, and Concubine Qin is even more outrageous for killing her sister-inw in order to seize power.
All the men in the Duke Qin Mansion are dismissed from their official posts, and the whole family is to be exiled to the frontier as a warning to others!
The title of Duke Qin should have belonged to Prince Consort Qin, and for the sake of the merits of the ancestors of the Qin family, Prince Consort Qin can pick someone to inherit the nobility title, but not from the line of this Qin family.
Concubine Qin is pregnant, so her life is temporarily spared, and she will be punished after giving birth to the child!
Prince Huai failed to properly discipline his concubine, but he has rendered a meritorious service in disaster relief in the South, so he is stripped of all his official posts and banned from serving in the court forever.
Prince Huai knelt on the ground and kowtowed heavily. His father is really partial to Lu Chen to the extreme! The Crown Princess had soldiers surround the Duke Qin Mansion without his permission, but he didnt me Lu Chen for that at all.
But he was banned from serving in the court forever, whichpletely ended his chances of getting the throne!
Prince Huai gnashed his teeth. How could his father be so ruthless to him?!
Chapter 248 - Stole My Identity and Became the Empress
Chapter 248: Stole My Identity and Became the Empress
No one could have imagined that, after the court came to Luoyang for a few days, two dukes were deprived of their nobility titles in a row.
Then, Prince Huais consort and concubine were convicted of capital crimes one after the other.
In the Prince Huai Mansion, after Concubine Qin heard the imperial decree, a sudden huge pain in her lower abdomen suddenly washed over her, and blood flowed. She suddenly thought of the long-forgotten Qiao Ruoshui.
Prince Huai and Prince Mediocre were worthy of being brothers, and even their ways of treating their women were simr.
When she was useless, he would even kill his own child!
Concubine Qin slowly opened her eyes and looked at Prince Huai. Your Highness, why are you so ruthless?! This is your child too!
Prince Huai said coldly, You can me no one but yourself for being so stupid. Im already disliked by my father, and leaving your child alive will only make him dislike me even more.
Concubine Qin bit her lower lip. She really regretted it this time. If she didnt covet high positions, she would have just married an ordinary husband like other ordinary women.
With the Duke Qin Mansion behind her, she would probably live in happiness. How could she have ended up like this? Now she couldnt even save her own child!
Concubine Qin bled to death after a miscarriage She has been convicted of murdering her sister-inw. Wrap her body with a broken straw mat and throw it to a random mass grave.
Suffering from the sharp abdominal pain, Concubine Qin was dying. Your Highness, unlike the Crown Prince, youre really cold-hearted. Its no wonder no matter how hard you try, you just cant be the crown prince! Its because you are not worthy of the title!
When Prince Huai heard these words, he strangled Concubine Qin by the neck with a fierce look. You are courting death!
...
When the news that Prince Huais concubine died of miscarriage spread throughout the imperial pce, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help sighing in the East Pce.
Concubine Qin didnt hesitate to murder her own sister-inw for the sake of power, but in the end, she died in misery. However, Qiao Jinniang had no sympathy for her. She just got what she deserved.
Only a few days ago, Prince Huais party was still aggressive and overbearing, but the Emperor was the Emperor. A few words of Emperor Huiling had brought Prince Huai back to his original form.
This was the cruelty of the imperial power.
Xuanzheng Pce.
After Empress Zhou heard the news, she just shook the fan gently and sighed.
That child just cant be reconciled. If he could have listened to his mothers advice, his child wouldnt have been killed.
Your Highness, there is a woman who ims to be your elder sister asking to see you. She has been making trouble at the gate of the imperial pce
Empress Zhou took the post from the imperial maid and said with joy, Its my sister who is back. Quickly let her in.
Zhou Qinghe entered the Xuanzheng Pce, looked at the woman who was sitting on the seat of honor in the pce, dressed gorgeously and still looked young and beautiful, and said coldly,
My dear sister, youve been the Empress for 20 years, so youve forgotten your natal family? Our familys nobility title has been deprived, and Mother is seriously ill and still ina, but you just sit there and do nothing at all?
How dare you! Why dont you salute Her Majesty?! A mammy scolded.
Empress Zhou raised her hand to stop the mammy, and said to Zhou Qinghe, Sister, dont pretend to be a filial daughter at this time, okay? Youve disappeared for 20 years, during which Mother has been worried about you every day. Now youre ming me?
Besides, Ive given Brother many chances, but he never cherished them. Keeping this nobility title will only bring disaster to the Zhou family!
Zhou Qinghe said, Then what about Sisi? You watched Sisi grow up. She just killed amoner. Does she have to die?
She has been calling you Auntie since she was a child. How can you have the heart to watch her die at such a young age?
Empress Zhou shook the fan in her hand and said, A life for a life. This is thew.
Zhou Qingxiu! Zhou Qinghe frowned. You stole my identity and became the Empress back then! If you dont rescue Sisi, dont me me for telling His Majesty the truth!
Empress Zhou smiled coldly and said, Go ahead.
Zhou Qinghe was very angry. Good, very good! You think you can dump your natal family just because youve been the Empress for twenty years? Ill see how long you can be favored by His Majesty without the support of the Duke Wu Mansion!
Zhou Qinghe flung her sleeves in anger and left the Xuanzheng Pce.
Qiao Jinniang came to Xuanzheng Pce to deliver snacks to the Empress, only to see Zhou Qingheing out of the door huffily.
Her impression on Zhou Qinghe was already vague, but she still recognized her. Ms. Zhou!
Zhou Qinghe nced at Qiao Jinniang and narrowed her eyes. Are you the Crown Princess, the one who helped Princess Fulu steal my daughters fiance? With me here, you cant hurt my daughter!
Qiao Jinniang:
Youre just a mere menial businesswoman. How dare you bully my daughter, bah!
Hongling stepped forward and pped Zhou Qinghe hard in the face. Who do you think you are? How dare you disrespect Her Highness?
Zhou Qinghe covered her face, red at Qiao Jinniang and said in disbelief, Even that ingrate Zhou Qingxiu wont dare to touch me. How dare you hit me?!
Qiao Jinniang said, Why dont I dare?
Zhou Qinghe red at Qiao Jinniang, apparently not recognizing that Qiao Jinniang was her former student. She red at Qiao Jinniang and said, Lets wait and see.
Qiao Jinniang frowned, feeling that Zhou Qinghe was very different from that Ms. Zhou in her memory. Maybe she was wrong. This was what Ms. Zhou was really like but she didnt find out back then.
When they were under a heavy academic pressure, a teacher who allowed them to read novels and didnt urge them to study was certainly a good teacher in their eyes.
But now from the perspective of a mother, Qiao Jinniang realized that her parents spent a lot of money to send her to the school, and a teacher who didnt give lectures and indulge them in ying was actually a bad teacher.
Qiao Jinniang entered the Xuanzheng Pce and found Empress Zhou looking a bit angry.
Empress Zhou smiled when she saw Qiao Jinnianging. I smelled the fragrance from far away. What delicious food did you bring today?
Qiao Jinniang said, Xier was moring to eat ice cream, and it happens that there is lychee sent from Shu as a tribute, so I made lychee ice cream. Would you like to have a try, Mother?
Empress Zhou chuckled and said, Thats great. By the way, is Qiao Ruoyun still alive?
Qiao Jinniang nodded and said, Yes!
Empress Zhou scooped up a spoonful of ice cream and said, Qin Shu looked very affectionate to Ruoyun, but I really didnt expect him to be so vicious. s, many men in the world are cruel to their women.
Qiao Jinniang nodded and didnt forget to tter the Empress, saying, Yes, but Mother, youre so blissful as to wholly own the love of Father, which is really to be envied by all women in the world.
Empress Zhou gently tapped Qiao Jinniangs forehead. Did you learn this from Junior Duke Rong?
Qiao Jinniang said to Empress Zhou, Mother, can you do me a favor? Im interested in a few shops in Jiuzhou Lane, but those shops are neither for sale nor for rental
His Royal Highness said that those shops belong to Father
The Empress smiled and said, If you want those shops, its not difficult. Yuer, go fetch the title deeds for the shops in Jiuzhou Lane.
After the imperial maid brought the title deeds over, the Empress handed them to Qiao Jinniang and said, Im already old and impatient to handle the ledger. Now the shops in Jiuzhou Lane are yours.
Qiao Jinniang said, No, Mother, youre not old at all! You look like my sister. Im not ttering you but telling the truth. You are very young.
The Empress hadnt reached forty yet, and her skin was well-maintained, so she looked even younger than ordinary women in their twenties.
Empress Zhou sighed. Im already a grandmother. How can I not be old? When I saw my elder sister today, I realized how time flies. In the blink of an eye, I havent seen her for more than 20 years.
Chapter 249 - Qin Shu Refused to Sign the Divorce Letter
Chapter 249: Qin Shu Refused to Sign the Divorce Letter
Thinking of the conflict between her and Zhou Qinghe, Qiao Jinniang said to the Empress, Mother, just now Aunt said something rude to me, so my imperial maid helped me teach her a lesson
The Empress said, She has always been unruly and unconstrained. Just treat her ording to the rules. Dont have to treat her specially for the sake of me.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Thank you, Mother.
Qiao Jinniang got the title deeds for the shops and wrote to Nuomi, Huixiang and the others.
She wanted to hand over the restaurant in Luoyang to Huixiang to manage, who was about to get married now. Plus, he was already apetent shop manager now.
Therefore, Qiao Jinniang nned to let Huixiang manage Myriad Taste, which would be opened soon in Luoyang.
...
On the day when the Qin family was exiled, Zhou Siming came to visit Qin Miaomiao.
The misunderstanding between them had just been cleared up, but now he could only watch her be exiled to the frontier and could do nothing about it.
Qin Miaomiao supported Mrs. Qin and said, Mother, dont be sad. I will take good care of you in the frontier, and I will definitely not let you suffer any grievances.
Mrs. Qin took Qin Miaomiaos hand and said in tears, My poor daughter, its your brother who ruined you!
Qin Shu, who had been imprisoned for many days, was released from prison by the Ministry of Penalty because he didnt kill Qiao Ruoyun himself. As soon as he got out of the prison, he went to the Duke Anyuan Mansion.
He was knocking hard on the door of the Duke Anyuan Mansion. Qiao Ruoyun,e out! Youve already avenged yourself. Why are you still hiding?!
Ruoyun, Ruoyun I was wrong. Can you forgive me for the sake of our affections?
Qiao Lu opened the gate of the Duke Mansion, looked at Qin Shu coldly and said, Its toote to admit your mistake now! My sister is dead!
Qin Shu said loudly, No, she is not dead. I know she is still alive! I saw her alive with my own eyes!
The two officials of the Ministry of Penalty who were responsible for sending the Qin family to the frontier stepped forward and said to Qin Shu, Qin Shu, its time for you to set off. Stop making trouble.
Qin Shu knelt on the ground and begged, Ah Lu, let me see your sister, okay?
Please, I beg you.
A maid walked up to Qiao Lu. Qiao Lu frowned slightly and said to the officials of the Ministry of Penalty. Please wait a moment.
Okay, Young Master Qiao.
Qin Shu hurried into the Duke Mansion, rolling and crawling. When he saw Qiao Ruoyun on a small bridge, looking thinner and haggard, he rushed over and said, Ruoyun, I know I was wrong. You dont know how much I love you. I couldnt sleep every night after I thought you died!
Please, give me a chance, okay? Lets live together happily, okay? Ill never mind your bloodline anymore!
Ruoyun, think about how happy we were
Qiao Ruoyun closed her eyes and handed him the paper in her hand. Qin Shu, this is our divorce letter. Sign it!
Qin Shu held the divorce letter and kept shaking his head. No, dont even think about it. I wont divorce you. Ruoyun, how can you be so cruel to me? Did you forget how much I loved you in the past?
Qiao Ruoyun said with difficulty, Loved me? If you really loved me, why did you despise my bloodline so much? I am weak, but I am not stupid!
Qin Shu tore the divorce letter into pieces and threw them to the sky. Dont even think about dumping me. Since you are alive, you are my wife. Now that the Qin family is to be exiled to the frontier, youll have to go with us!
Otherwise, you can only hide for the rest of your life in case others find out that you are still alive.
Qiao Ruoyun was deeply disgusted at Qin Shus words. Her love for him waspletely gone at this moment.
Qiao Lu was also angry. Qin Shu, how can you be so shameless?
Qin Shuughed crazily. For the sake of Qiao Ruoyun, the Crown Princess and the Qiao family ruined our Qin family! How can I let her off?!
Even if I am exiled to the frontier, I have Qiao Ruoyun with me. The Crown Princess will definitely not let Qiao Ruoyun suffer, right?
Qiao Ruoyuns face turned ck with anger. Youre really shameless! Your Qin family wanted to murder me, and now you still want to make use of me?!
Qin Shu said, Ruoyun, you are my wife. Unless you are willing to be a dead person and conceal your identity for the rest of your life, you can only go to the frontier with me!
Qiao Ruoyun frowned.
Qiao Lu was so angry that he punched Qin Shu in the face. B*stard!
Qiao Lu was good at martial arts, so the punch made Qin Shu spit out a tooth, but he stillughed crazily. Ruoyun, dont even think about leaving me in this life. You belong to me, and will always belong to me this life!
Blue veins protruded on the back of Qiao Lus hand, and he grabbed Qin Shus neck.
Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly persuaded Qiao Lu to let go.
Qiao Lu shouted at Qiao Ruoyun, Sister, do you still want to protect this shameless b*stard?!
Qiao Ruoyun choked with tears and said, Ah Lu, this grudge is between us. It has nothing to do with you. Youre still young. Its not worth it.
Qiao Lu looked at Qiao Ruoyun and slowly let go.
Qin Shu sneered at Qiao Ruoyun and said, My dear wife, I will be waiting for you at the frontier.
...
Qiao Jinniang secretly went to the shops with Lu Chen.
Qiao Jinniang drew the drawings and nned to go back to think about how to decorate the shops.
When it was dark, she went back to the Duke Anyuan Mansion to visit Qiao Ruoyun, but as soon as she entered the Duke Mansion, she heard Qiao Ruoyuns sad cries and Duke Anyuans angry scolding.
Everyone got up and saluted Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang when they saw the two of them.
Qiao Jinniang said, Arise. Sister, what happened? Why are you crying? Havent the Qin family been exiled today?
Qiao Lu briefly told Qiao Jinniang what Qin Shu had done today. Qin Shu still wanted to make use of Eldest Sister, and refused to sign the divorce letter.
Qiao Jinniang asked Qiao Ruoyun, Why do you need him to give you a divorce letter?
Thew of Datang has the rule of Yijue that if one of the spouses wants to harm the other, the harmed can directly divorce the other without gaining his or her permission. The Qin family wanted to murder you. You can apply to the government for Yijue!
ording to thew of Datang, there are three types of divorces, the first type is the husband divorcing the wife by giving her a divorce letter, another is a negotiated divorce between the husband and wife.
The third is Yijue. If one of the spouses was abused or tried to murder the other, the victim could apply for Yijue.
Qiao Ruoyun covered her eyes with her handkerchief and said, Im afraid it wont work. Yijue is the privilege of men. Only when the wife abuses or tries to murder her husband, her husband can apply for Yijue, but when the husband wants to kill his wife, Yijue doesnt apply.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen and asked, Really?
Lu Chen nodded. Yes.
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips. Thew is so biased in favor of men. No wonder Qin Shu is so unscrupulous.
I think thew of Yijue should be changed! Otherwise, if a woman is in Sister Ruoyuns situation, she will have no choice but to die!
Lu Chen nodded and said, But even if thew can be revised, it cant be done overnight. It will take at least a year. The most important thing now is to get Qin Shu to sign the divorce letter.
Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Do you have any ways to get him to sign the divorce letter?
Lu Chen smiled and said, Yes, and we dont need to do anything. Gu Ming, go to Prince Wu and tell him what happened today.
Yes, Your Royal Highness.
Chapter 251 - The Disgrace of Qingming Academy
Chapter 251: The Disgrace of Qingming Academy
Among the onlookers, there were many people who felt sympathetic to Zhou Shihui and wanted to uphold injustice for her.
Seeing that Princess Fulu hit a vulnerable woman to the ground, they all scolded Fulu,
I have long heard that those princesses in Changan like bullyingmoners, and now I know its true!
It must hurt for such a delicate girl to be whipped so hard!
Hearing the reprimands from the people, Fulu frowned. Zhou Shihui, dont y weak, okay? What are you crying for? You provoked me first. Do you want to be put into jail again?
Even if you are a princess, you cant bully people like this, right? You almost whipped this poor girls flesh to shreds and you still threaten to put her to jail?
Junior Sister!
Several students of Qingming Academy saw Zhou Shihui and stepped forward to help Zhou Shihui up.
These students all spoke out from a sense of justice. Princess Fulu, Zhou Shihui is a student of our Qingming Academy. She is not the kind of person you can bully at will.
Youve always despised themoners! Qin Shu wanted to kill Qiao Ruoyun just because you said Qiao Ruoyun had the bloodline of ves. Now you want to bully my junior sister? No way!
Luoyang is not Changan. The students in Luoyang wont surrender to power! Dont even think about putting on airs in Luoyang!
Fulu took a few deep breaths and was about to whip Zhou Sihui again when Qiao Jinniang held her hand.
Fulu looked at Qiao Jinniang extremely aggrievedly and said, Are you also going to help her?
Qiao Jinniang said, Of course not, but the more you fight with her, the more you fall for her tricks.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the students who were defending Zhou Shihui and asked, Are you students of Qingming Academy?
The students saluted Qiao Jinniang together.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, His Royal Highness has always said that Qingming Academy is the best academy in Datang, and that even the Imperial Academy is a notch inferior. Since you can be admitted to Qingming Academy, you must be very excellent.
The students hurriedly said, Were ttered.
Qiao Jinniang said, Since you are all sensible people, Id like to ask you the meaning of honesty and credibility in the Book of Rites.
One of the students cupped his hands and said, Confucius said, a man without honesty is capable of nothing. Honesty and credibility are the school mottoes of Qingming Academy.
Qiao Jinniangughed. So you all know that honesty and credibility are your schools mottoes. Then is Zhou Shihui honest and credible by disguising as a man and studying in Qingming Academy with so many men?
Qingming Academy, as the best academy in Datang, not only didnt expel Zhou Shihui from the school, but even recognized her, the disgrace of Qingming Academy, as your junior sister?
It turns out that Qingming Academy actually has no principles!
The students of Qingming Academy all blushed in embarrassment and looked at each other in dismay.
Zhou Shihui said, Its wrong for Qingming Academy not to ept female students. Although I am a woman, I was admitted to the school after going through numerous tests of Qingming Academy. I just dont want to waste my talent. Whats wrong with it?
You are also a woman. As a woman, I had to disguise myself as a man to get the chance to study in the academy, which is the tragedy of all women. But now you are ming me for not being honest and credible instead of speaking out for all women?!
Hongling said, Zhou Shihui, how dare you disrespect the Crown Princess?
Zhou Shihui snorted. You have nothing to say, so you can only suppress me with your position of the Crown Princess? So is that all you can do?
Qiao Jinniang said in a cold voice, Zhou Shihui, you dont have integrity but are still making excuses. You said that you just want to get better education, but the Imperial Academy epts female students, and there are not a few womens academies in the world.
Since Qingming Academy has the rule of not admitting female students, if you feel that it is a waste of your talent not to study in Qingming Academy, you should persuade the teachers of Qingming Academy to ept you with sincerity!
If your literary talent can really surpass the men in Qingming Academy, cant you let Qingming Academy change the rule of not epting female students for you?
But you got yourself into the academy with deceitful means. Thats why I said youre not honest and credible. If Qingming Academy does not punish you, how can they exin it to the world?
A teacher of Qingming Academy hurriedly came out, knelt down and said, Your Highness, what you said makes sense. We will definitely punish Zhou Shihui properly.
Seeing Zhou Shihui turn livid, Qiao Jinniang smiled contemptuously.
Didnt you look so vulnerable and pitiful just now? Why are you suddenly so energetic as if you are going to swallow me? You were whipped by Princess Fulu because you humiliated her first.
I dont want to waste time on you. If you are still in my way, I will punish you with the imperial rules!
Zhou Shihui was pulled aside by her maid. Even if Zhou Shihui didnt want to, she had to bow her head and let the Crown Princess sedan chair pass first.
Fulu followed Qiao Jinniang into her sedan chair and said huffily, I really want to kill her! Who does she think she is?! Ive never suffered such grievances.
If it werent for you today, I would definitely have fallen for her tricks!
How dare she bully me?!
Fulu had never suffered such grievances. What irritated her more was that those onlookers blindly defended Zhou Shihui before Qiao Jinniang appeared.
Im going toin to the Empress Dowager.
Qiao Jinniang stopped Fulu and said, Whats the point of that? ording tow, she will be at most locked in the Heavenly Prison for a few days, and she has been in jail before.
I am afraid she dares to be so presumptuous because of her mother.
I heard that Zhou Shihuis mother was equally unruly and arrogant when she was in Changan. Have you heard of Zhou Qinghe?
Fulu shook her head and said, She had already left in Changan when I was born, and few people would mention her.
Qiao Jinniang shook the fan in her hand and said, If you meet Zhou Shihui again, cry if she cries. You are prettier than her. If both of you cry, the onlookers will definitely help you!
Fulu snorted. I dont want to y weak and shed fake tears like her. I just need Qiao Lu to believe me.
As soon as they arrived at the Qiao Mansion, unlike normal girls who would be shy to see their fiances, Fulu trotted straight to Qiao Lu.
Princess Shouan couldnt help shaking her head when she saw this. Now all her daughter could see was her fiance
Qiao Ruoyun came up to greet Qiao Jinniang. Hi, Jinniang, there you are. Please take a seat.
Qiao Jinniang took Lu Xis hand and asked Qiao Ruoyun in a low voice, Has Prince Wu got you the divorce letter?
Qiao Ruoyun nodded. Yes.
Qiao Jinniang breathed a sigh of relief. It seems that he is quite capable. What do you think of him?
Qiao Ruoyun said, Now I just want to take good care of myself. I dont want to worry about my future. Besides, he is Prince Wu, a prince I dont want to marry a man of high status anymore.
Hey, why do you belittle yourself? Qiao Jinniang said, Dont believe what Qin Shu said. Mom and Dad are nobler than anyone else in my heart. They are not ves.
Qiao Ruoyun said, I dont mean that, but I am a divorced woman, and it is difficult for me to have a child
Qiao Jinniang sighed. She was different from Qiao Ruoyun, so she stopped persuading her.
Chapter 250 - Forcing Qin Shu to Sign the Divorce Letter
Chapter 250: Forcing Qin Shu to Sign the Divorce Letter
Hearing this, Qiao Ruoyun clenched the handkerchief in her hand.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyuns face was pale, Qiao Jinniang asked her to go back to her yard to rest. If the Qin family still bullied Qiao Ruoyun, she wouldnt mind doing something.
Maybe Qin Shu would have some ident on the way to the frontier.
If Qin Shu was dead, Qiao Ruoyun wouldnt be his wife anymore.
Qiao Jinniangforted Qiao Ruoyun. Dont worry. You should take good care of yourself after returning to the Duke Mansion. If my mom and dad know in heaven that I failed to take good care of you, they will be sad.
Qiao Ruoyun hugged Qiao Jinniang and said, No, they must be gratified if they know that I am finally out of the sea of ??misery and youve be the Crown Princess.
Qiao Jinniang wiped Qiao Ruoyuns tears, and said with a gentle smile. Yes, Ruoyun, your life will get better and better in the future.
...
Qian Yin frowned slightly when he received the news from the servants of the Crown Prince.
His confidant said, Master, what does the Crown Prince mean?
Qian Yin said, Bring ten guards and follow me to Qin Shus location.
After the Qin family went on the road, Qin Shu caught up. Mrs. Qin felt distressed when she saw the blood on the corner of her sons mouth. Shuer, your face?
Qin Shu said, Mother, Im fine. Dont worry.
Qin Miaomiao said to Qin Shu, Brother, where have you been? Did you go to the Duke Anyuan Mansion?
Qin Shu ignored Qin Miaomiao. The group of people didnt go very quickly. Mrs. Qin and Qin Miaomiao had been living afortable, luxurious life. They couldnt even stand up after walking a few steps.
Getting the order of Princess Fulu, the escort officers didnt urge Qin Miaomiao.
When the group of people took a break at the bottom of a mountain, there were summer frogs croaking loudly at night. Qin Shu couldnt sleep at all. A cold wind blew, and he saw a man in ck standing in front of him and putting a sword against his neck.
Write a divorce letter!
Qin Shu was not afraid of death at all and said, Even if I die, Qiao Ruoyun will still be my wife. Im not going to write a divorce letter!
Does the Qiao family dare to kill me? I have told my old friends that if I die on the road, it must be Qiao Ruoyun who murdered me, and Ive asked them to spread the news in Luoyang if I die!
I wonder what Qiao Ruoyun and the Qiao family can do at that time!
Qian Yin ordered his men to light thentern and said coldly,
Killing you will get my hands dirty. You can choose not to sign the divorce letter.
But for each day you dont sign it, I will cut off one of your toes.
After all your toes are cut off, Ill start to cut off your fingers, but I wont kill you.
Qin Shu said, How dare you? Even though we are exiled to the frontier, the Qiao family cant do anything to me at will!
The Qiao family wants face, but I dont, and Im not afraid of the governments investigation.
Qin Shu asked, Who are you? What is your rtionship with Qiao Ruoyun?
Qian Yin, from Linan, Qian Yin just said coldly.
Qin Shus face changed slightly. Prince Wu? Why do you want to help Qiao Ruoyun?
Qian Yin said, You dont have to know it. Just sign the divorce letter.
Qin Shu certainly wouldnt sign it. I wont sign it. Even if I be disabled, I must drag Qiao Ruoyun into hell!
Brother, why are you still so stupid?
Qin Miaomiao came over and said angrily, The more you behave like this, the more difficult the situation of our Qin family will be. Sister-inw has always been softhearted, and if you truly repent and ask for her forgiveness, you may still have a chance to make up with her.
The more you push her in such a disgusting manner, the more quickly the love between you two will dissipate.
Just sign the divorce letter. Dont make Mother worry, okay?
Qin Shu snorted. I said Im not going to sign it. Didnt you hear me? Qian Yin, even if you dont tell me, I can guess your rtionship with Qiao Ruoyun. I know what a man wants from a woman, but I will never give Qiao Ruoyun a chance to divorce me and marry another man!
Qian Yin raised the knife and chopped it down, and Qin Shus leather shoe was cut off, one of his toes fell, and blood gushed out.
Qin Miaomiao screamed, Brother, promise him! After all, youre the one in the wrong.
Qin Shu said, Unless I die, Ruoyun can only be my wife!
Qian Yin sneered and said, Fine, Id like to see how long you can hold on. By the way, youre your mothers only son, right? She doesnt even have a grandson yet, right?
Qian Yin pointed the blood-stained sword at the part between Qin Shus legs. You dont mind losing your life, but do you still not mind being a eunuch?
Qin Shu gritted his teeth.
Qian Yin sneered coldly. Just sign the divorce letter. You dont want to live as a eunuch for the rest of your life, right?
...
In Luoyang City, the Qin familys murder of Qiao Ruoyun was written into a story by someone.
All the storytellers in the major tea houses were telling this story.
However, within a few days, news that Qiao Ruoyun was still alive came from the Duke Anyuan Mansion.
It turned out that Qiao Ruoyun was rescued by someone that day and had returned to Luoyang recently.
In order to celebrate Qiao Ruoyuns narrow escape, the Duke Anyuan Mansion held a big banquet, inviting all dignitaries, high-ranking officials, and their rtives and friends.
Even the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess would attend the banquet.
In previous years, after the royal family and the officials arrived in Luoyang, there would be constant banquets.
This year, however, because two dukes were deprived of their titles in a row, no one dared to take the lead to hold a banquet.
The banquet at the Duke Anyuan Mansion was the first banquet this year, so it was very lively.
Many nobledies went out to buy new clothes and jewelry.
They had thought that they could have fun in Luoyang, but no one had expected such a series of incidents to happen. So, after being locked up at home for a long time, they didnt hesitate to buy any beautiful jewelry they saw.
The banquet in the Qiao Mansion had not yet started, but many guests had already arrived.
Friends gathered around in twos and threes, chatting andughing.
Although Qiao Ruoyun survived, Im afraid her life wont be easy in the future.
Why do you say that?
Even if Qiao Ruoyun can divorce Qin Shu, no decent man will be willing to marry her, a divorced woman.
Whats bad about a divorced woman? ady who had divorced and then married another man asked dismissively.
Dont be angry, Maam. Your father is the military governor of Yongzhou, so you can still find a good man to marry. But Qiao Ruoyun is different. Although she is the titr eldest daughter of Duke Anyuan, everyone knows her real background!
s, she is really pitiful!
On the other side of the rockery, Qiao Ruoyun heard the words of these people. She pursed her lips, and her maid said, Miss, dont listen to these people. They are just jealous of you. Prince Wu treats you very well.
Qiao Ruoyun said to the maid indifferently, Dont talk nonsense.
The little maid grimaced naughtily.
Lu Chen happened to have something to tend to, so Qiao Jinniang took Lu Xi to the Qiao Mansion for the banquet.
When people saw the Crown Princess guard of honor on the way, they had to make way for it.
But halfway through, Qiao Jinniang saw the sedan chair stop.
A eunuch trotted over to report, Your Highness, Princess Fulu and Miss Zhou are quarreling at the intersection of the street, and neither of them is willing to make way.
Qiao Jinniang said to little Lu Xi, Xier, stay here. Im going out to have a look.
When she walked to the front, she heard Zhou Shihui say,
Princess Fulu, my senior brother is Flower Picking Childe this year, but you are almost illiterate. Even if you force him to marry you, you will be divorced sooner orter!
You cant even read, let alone talk with my senior brother about literature. Whats the point of forcing him to marry you?
Fulu was so angry that she clenched the whip in her hand and whipped at Zhou Shihui. Humph, I dont know poetry, but I can spar with Qiao Lu about martial arts!
Being whipped by her, Zhou Shihui fell to the ground and tears gradually filled her eyes
Chapter 252 - Zhou Shihui Was Awarded the Title of County Mistress
Chapter 252: Zhou Shihui Was Awarded the Title of County Mistress
Before Zhou Shihui returned to the Zhou family, she was brought back to Qingming Academy.
President Xie of Qingming Academy said in a cold voice, Zhou Shihui, if you dare to im to be a student of Qingming Academy again, Qingming Academy will never let you off. Come, post a bulletin that Zhou Shihui has been expelled from our school.
Since Qingming Academy was founded, no student had been expelled from the school.
Zhou Shihui had always been proud of being a student of Qingming Academy, but now she had be a joke.
After returning to the Zhou family, Zhou Shihui threw herself into Zhou Qinghes arms. Mother, how could they bully me like that? Youve gotta help me!
Ive be a joke in the academy boohoo.
Zhou Qinghe looked at her daughter, who had been separated from her for a long time, in distress. She felt very guilty towards her. She didnt take care of her when she was a child and let her be disced for so many years.
Zhou Sihui was sold into a juggling troupe when she was a child and suffered a lot. Later, she was sold into a brothel and almost became an underage prostitute.
The brothel taught her to read and write, intending to give her to some rich or powerful man in Changan as a gift when she grew up.
After finding her daughter back, Zhou Qinghe had decided to try her best to make up for her.
Huier, Ill avenge you. Zhou Qinghe narrowed her eyes. You can rest assured. Dont cry.
Im going into the imperial pce now, asking His Majesty to make Princess Fulu apologize to you on her knees!
Zhou Shihui smiled through tears. Really?
Zhou Qinghe nodded and said, Sure.
...
In Hanliang Pce.
Lu Chen was discussing the matter of Prince Wu with Emperor Huilin.
Emperor Huilin said to Lu Chen, The Duke Anyuan Mansion must not unite with Prince Wu through marriages. You can dote on your wife, but there should be a limit. Dont surrender the country of our Lu family to the Qiao family!
Lu Chen said, No one says Prince Wu is going to marry Qiao Ruoyun. What are you worried about, Father?
You should know the Qian family is not a normal noble family.
But isnt the current Prince Wu very loyal to you, Father? Lu Chen asked.
Emperor Huilin pondered and said, He has kept a low profile for so many years, and he has not married yet although he is already over 30 years old. But now he suddenly fell in love with Qiao Ruoyun at first sight. Isnt this suspicious?
The Qiao family is too powerful. Arent you afraid that they may rebel against you in the future? You can give the Qiao family honor, but you cant give all the military power to them!
Lu Chen frowned and said, Father, how many martyrs of the Qiao family died on the battlefield for our Lu family? If they know that you suspect them so much, how disappointed they will be!
Emperor Huilin said angrily, I have never suspected the Qiao family, and I know they are loyal to me, but that doesnt mean we can let them have all the military power. Do you understand?
Lu Chen said, Father, Im not Grandfather. I wont allow a woman to mess with state affairs.
Emperor Huilin sighed. Chener, what matters for an emperor is to maintain bnce.
Now you can guarantee the loyalty of Duke Anyuan and Qiao Lu, but what about in the future? What about Qiao Lus children?
Do you want to leave the hidden dangers to Xier?
Lu Chen said, Father, do you think Xier is such a pushover that can be easily manipted as a puppet? Have some faith in him.
Emperor Huilin didnt want to dwell on this topic anymore. Lu Chen always had a lot of facies. By the way, you and Qiao Jinniang have been married for a few months. You should think about taking concubines.
Lu Chen frowned. Father, didnt you agree to me not taking any concubines?
No, I didnt. Emperor Huilin snorted. Thats what you agreed with Qiao Jinniang, but I have never promised you this. Giving as much offspring as possible for the royal family is your duty.
Your Majesty, the eldest miss of the Zhou family, Zhou Qinghe, wants to see you. Eunuch Quan came over and reported.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, Let her in.
After Zhou Qinghe entered, she saluted Emperor Huilin respectfully.
Your Majesty, I havent seen you for a long time. Its been twenty years in the blink of an eye, but youre still so wise and majestic.
Emperor Huilin smiled and said, Get up. Although I didnt understand why you left Changan in spite of your familys dissuasion back then, its good that you are back now.
Zhou Qinghe nced at Lu Chen, who was beside her, and said, In the blink of an eye, Chener has be a grown-up. Your Majesty, have you seen my daughter?
Yes, she looks very like the Empress. Emperor Huilin said, Your daughter is very smart. You must have educated her well so that she could be admitted to Qingming Academy as a girl.
Zhou Qinghe just said, She is a poor kid. When she was three years old, she was separated from me because of the flood. She has suffered from all kinds of hardships, and was abused in a juggling troupe when she was a child. When I found her, she was in a brothel in Yangzhou
s, I had been living a luxurious life when I was a child, but who would have known that my daughter had such a hard life?
Emperor Huilin said, Since youve already found her back, there will be good days for you in the future.
Zhou Qinghe said helplessly, Good days? The Duke Wu Mansion is in decline. My brother is deprived of his nobility title. My sister-inw is exiled to the frontier, and Siming has been decadent all day long.
My sister-inw can at least stay alive, but my poor niece
I never expected that when I finally went back home, my family had broken up. And my poor mother is dying.
Lu Chen moved slightly. Whats wrong with my grandmother?
s, its all my fault. Zhou Qinghe sighed. If I hadnt left Changan and stayed by my mothers side, I wouldnt have caused my daughter to suffer and watched my niece die.
My poor daughter, everyone bullies her and even her fiance was stolen from her!
Today, Shouans daughter whipped her in public and made her covered in blood!
I am really sad for my daughter. If people know that she has been in a juggling troupe before, I cant imagine how cruel those noble girls willugh at her!
Emperor Huilin said, Fulu is spoiled indeed. As her uncle, I apologize in her ce.
As for Shihui, you dont have to worry about others looking down on her. I will issue an imperial decree to confer her with the title of county mistress, which is what she deserves.
Zhou Qinghe hurriedly knelt on the ground and thanked him. Thank you, Your Majesty.
I havent seen you for a long time. Stay and have a few drinks with me today.
Okay. Zhou Qinghe responded.
Lu Chen had thought that his father would call his mother over to drink and chat together as well, but he didnt.
He couldnt help but be a little curious. How was his father, who had never been close to another woman, so close to his aunt?
Besides, why did he give Zhou Shihui the title of county mistress?
In the previous dynasties, an emperor had once conferred his illegitimate daughter who grew up outside the imperial pce to be a county mistress
Lin Mo followed Lu Chen out of the Hanliang Pce and suddenly asked Lu Chen, Is Zhou Shihui your sister, Your Royal Highness?
Lu Chen red at Lin Mo. This shouldnt be the case.
If she was, why didnt his father make her a county mistress until Zhou Qinghe came back?
Chapter 253
Chapter 253: Chapter 253
At the Qiao familys banquet, Qiao Jinniang had been used to beingplimented by everyone.
During the banquet, someone mentioned that the eldest daughter of the Zhou family had returned to Luoyang.
Then the people began to talk about the Zhou sisters, who were very famous in Changan twenty years ago.
Twenty years ago, His Majesty had been on the throne for nearly ten years, but the Zhou family held nearly one-fifth of the military power of the country, which put the royal family on alert.
At that time, the Zhou family was in their heyday. The two daughters of the Zhou family were as beautiful as immortals, and the matchmakers who came to propose marriage almost stepped t the threshold of the Zhou familys door.
But things changed when Imperial Concubine Zhou died of a serious illness.
The Zhou sisters went into the imperial pce to express their condolences and met Emperor Huilin.
Then less than a hundred dayster, His Majesty said that he had found the candidate for his empress.
Since His Majesty ascended the throne, he had been urged by all the ministers to establish an empress, but he didnt for the next ten years.
When His Majesty said that his empress would be the daughter of the Zhou family, everyone was shocked.
What was even more puzzling to everyone was that the eldest daughter of the Zhou family left Changan when her sisters wedding was approaching.
There were rumors back then that Zhou Qinghe left Changan that year because the one His Majesty took a fancy to was actually Zhou Qinghe, and it was Zhou Qinghe whom His Majesty loved and wanted to make his empress.
But she loved freedom and didnt want to be restrained by the rules of the imperial pce, so she left Changan.
The Empress was actually Zhou Qinghes substitute, and received Her Majestys favor in Zhou Qinghes ce.
Now that Zhou Qinghe is back, Im afraid there may be another State Lady!
In the past, there were emperors who conferred their mistresses the title of State Ladies, and their status equaled the empress.
Listening to thedies conversation, Qiao Jinniang remembered that when she met Zhou Qinghe a few days ago, she said that the Empress stole her identity. Was what she said true?
No, ording to Emperor Huilins ability, if he really loved Zhou Qinghe, he would have a hundred means to keep her by his side instead of pathetically using her sister as a substitute.
Qiao Jinniang couldnt figure it out for the time being, and said coldly, Madam, I dont know where you heard this rumor, but youd better not spread rumors!
Thedies didnt expect to be heard by Qiao Jinniang and hurriedly knelt down and kowtowed, begging for mercy.
Qiao Jinniang fined her for copying the scriptures a hundred times as a warning to others.
After the banquet, Yuyan whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, Your Highness, there is news from the pce that Her Majesty granted Zhou Shihui the title of County Mistress Yuquan.
Qiao Jinniang was puzzled. Why was she suddenly granted the title of county mistress?
The Duke Wu Mansion had been deprived of their nobility title, so the title of county mistress must not have been requested by the Empress.
But Zhou Shihui would probably be even more presumptuous with the title of County Mistress Yuquan.
Qiao Jinniang returned to the East Pce and asked Lu Chen about it, Is the title of county mistress so cheap that a random person can get it?
Lu Chen said, I dont know why my father gave her this title, but he said that this was what she deserved
I remember that youve investigated Zhou Shihui, and her father was just a literati from Yinzhou?
Qiao Jinniang said with puzzlement, But I dont think the women of the Zhou family are willing to marry an ordinary schr.
Lu Chen said, Ill have my men investigate it again. By the way, my secret guards have sent a letter from Yinzhou, saying that theyve found Nuomis parents. Do you want them toe to Luoyang?
Qiao Jinniang: Are they in good health? If they cane to Luoyang, let them.
If they were not in good health, it would be impossible for them to travel all the way to Luoyang.
But if possible, Qiao Jinniang wanted to see them in person. Even if they were Nuomis biological parents, she wanted to check if they were good to Nuomi.
If they didnt treat Nuomi well, then she wouldnt let them take Nuomi away.
By the way, can you be sure that they are really Nuomis parents? I dont want to let Nuomi down.
Lu Chen said, They can tell the birthmark on Nuomis body.
Then why didnt they register with the government to look for their missing daughter for so many years?
Lu Chen said, ording to the information found by my secret guards, the couple was rescued after being swept away by the flood. At that time, they could hardly make ends meet and had three other daughters and a son waiting to be fed, so they had no time nor energy to look for their daughter, Xiangxiang.
Their family fled to Lingnan with the refugees. After they established themselves there, they thought about going back to find their daughter.
However, Lingnan was too far away, and they didnt have enough money to go back to Yinzhou.
This time they went back to Yinzhou because their son was about to get married, so they went home to worship their ancestors, and looked for their missing daughter Xiangxiang by the way.
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang said, What kind of parents are they? They coulde back to Yinzhou for their son, but not for their daughter? Its better for Nuomi not to meet them.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang angry, Lu Chenforted her. They must have their difficulties. I think you should ask Nuomi if she wants to meet them. After all, she has been looking for her family for all these years.
Qiao Jinniang said, Then Ill call Nuomi over and ask her if she wants to meet her biological parents.
...
When Fulu heard that Zhou Shihui was County Mistress Yuquan now, she frowned and asked Shouan,
Mother, how could Zhou Shihui be a county mistress? Is she really the illegitimate daughter of Imperial Uncle? Thats what everyone says!
Princess Shouan gently tapped Fulus forehead and said, What nonsense are you talking about? If your uncle heard what you said, he would scold you.
Fulu pouted and said, But now that she is a county mistress, shell be on an equal footing with me. Then she will be able to provoke me every day and wont be put into jail!
Princess Shouan said, You can hide from her in the future.
Fulu snorted. Why should I avoid her? I must y lovey dovey with Qiao Lu right in front of her eyes and make her jealous to death!
Prince Consort Qin and Qian Yin happened toe over together, and theyughed when they heard Fulus childish words.
Fulu snorted. Dad, Im going to be disgusted to death by that woman. Why are you stillughing at me? Now that Zhou Shihui is a county mistress, shes only going to get worse.
Prince Consort Qin said to Fulu, If you feel disgusted, there is a way to prevent you from being disgusted.
While your Uncle Qian is still in Luoyang, hurry up and get married. After you get married, Zhou Shihui can only give up!
Fulu said shyly, Okay, its up to you, Dad.
While Fulu was shy, she didnt forget to wink at Princess Shouan.
Princess Shouan smiled. Alright, alright, Im going to the Qiao family to discuss your wedding date. Then she turned to Qian Yin. Your Highness, do you need me to propose to Qiao Ruoyun for you by the way?
Qian Yin cupped his hands and said, Your Highness, dont make fun of me.
Princess Shouanughed. Although Qiao Ruoyun is a divorced woman, there are many men who want to propose to her.
Qian Yin said, I had sworn to my mother before she died that I wouldnt get married until I found Xiangxiang!
Fulu said, Xiangxiang? Me?
Prince Consort Qin exined, Your Uncle Qian is talking about his niece, his elder brothers daughter, Xiangxiang, who was missing in the flood when she was 3 years old. Your Uncle Qian has searched all over Datang but cant find her.
Qian Yin said, Xiangxiang is a little younger than Fulu. There are so many people in the world that I dont know when I can find her I dont even know if she is still alive
Chapter 254
Chapter 254: His Majestys Illegitimate Daughter
Fulu really wanted to help, so she asked, Then what birthmarks does your niece have, like a mole or something? The world is so big. To find a person is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Why not announce it to the whole world and promise to give a heavy reward if anyone can find your niece for you.
Qian Yin sighed and said, I did, and many girls came to me, iming to be my niece, but it turned out that they were all fakes, so doing that is only a waste of time.
She does have birthmarks. There is a peach flower imprint on her wrist, a red mole between her eyebrows, and a scar on the back of her neck from ying when she was a child.
Fulu said, Since she has so many birthmarks, you will definitely be able to find her, Uncle Qian.
Qian Yin said in a low voice, I hope so.
Luoyang had more literati than Changan, and several famous academies were all located in Luoyang.
The grand Academy Conference was held in Luoyang, inviting schools from all over the world to exchange study or teaching experiences.
The Academy Conference this time also invited court officials and Emperor Huilin, and Emperor Huilin ordered Lu Chen to attend the conference too, so Qiao Jinniang could rarely see Lu Chen in the daytime these days.
In Luoyang, for a time, there arose a trend for poetry among the dignitaries and nobles.
Whenever there was a banquet, people would y a game of poem making, and this trend even spread to the imperial pce.
Various poetry meetings were held one after another, and Qiao Jinniang heard that in the poetry meetings, Zhou Shihui and Zhou Qinghe showed their great talent in poetry.
Several of Zhou Qinghes poems were unprecedentedly good and instantly went viral. For a time, so many people rushed to copy her poems that it even caused a shortage of paper in Luoyang.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Hongling to transcribe a few of her poems and read one of them.
Last night the wind blew hard and the rain was fine, and a sound sleep hasnt ease my hangover yet.
When I asked the maid who was rolling up the curtains, she answered, The crab-apple blossoms look the same.
I cried, Cant you see? Cant you see?
The green leaves are fresh but the red flowers are fading!
This wasnt a neat eight-line poem that was popr today, but it was still a very good poem, and the beauty of rhythm amazed Qiao Jinniang.
Even the most famous schrs of the time might not be able to make such a masterpiece.
Three days before the Qixi Festival, Qiao Jinniang was called by the Empress to Xuanzheng Pce.
Empress Zhou said to Qiao Jinniang, The Qixi Festival ising. This year, you can follow me and learn how to hold the ceremony for the Qixi Festival. Qixi is a festival for girls, so even the imperial maids are looking forward to it.
In the Shanggong Bureau, there will bepetitions among the imperial maids to thread needles, carve melons and fruits, and make Clever Fruits.
There will also be suchpetitions outside the imperial pce. You can select the winners in my ce and then give them some awards.
Qiao Jinniang nodded happily. It was great that she could go out of the imperial pce to have some fun.
Empress Zhou said, This year, many girls in Luoyang wille topete, so you should maintain the bnce between the girls from Changan and those from Luoyang when youre choosing the winners.
Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, Wont it be fraud?
Empress Zhou smiled and said, If the difference is obvious, you should be fair. But if the difference is not obvious and its difficult to choose, remember to maintain the bnce.
Qiao Jinniang nodded.
When she was discussing how to hold the Qixi Festivalpetitions with Empress Zhou, Consort Huai Li Lingling came over to visit the Empress.
Empress Zhou didnt like Li Lingling, but as her titr mother-inw, she could not drive Li Lingling away, so she told the servants to let her in.
Li Lingling walked up to Empress Zhou and saluted. Mother, please uphold justice for me!
Empress Zhou asked, What happened?
Noticing the gloating smile on Li Linglings face, Qiao Jinniang knew this was definitely not Li Linglings real purpose. If she was really wronged, she should go to the Empress Dowager, not the Empress.
Li Lingling said, County Mistress Yuquan is really arrogant at the poetry meetings in Luoyang these days. Today I met her at the Haitang Poetry Meeting, but she made a poem to scold me. Im Consort Huai. How dare she disrespect me like that
Empress Zhou said to Li Lingling, Why are you bothering me with this trivial matter? If she disrespects you, just punish her.
Li Lingling said, But County Mistress Yuquan is quite favored by Father. Rumor has it that County Mistress Yuquan is Fathers illegitimate daughter How dare I punish her
Empress Zhou frowned and said, Who is spreading this rumor? Consort Huai, youre a princes consort and the daughter of Earl Chengen. Why do you believe some gossip you heard?!
Li Lingling secretly smiled smugly. She came toin to the Empress on purpose. Although everyone said that Zhou Shihui was His Majestys illegitimate daughter, no one in the imperial pce dared to talk about it in front of the Empress.
The Crown Prince was favored by the Emperor solely because the Empress was favored by the Emperor. If the Emperor no longer liked the Empress, Lu Chen would definitely lose the position of the Crown Prince.
Besides, the Emperor had a daughter with the Empress own sister! How could Empress Zhou stand such an insult?
So the more harshly Empress Zhou reprimanded her, the happier Li Lingling was. This meant that this rumor was true!
Mother, calm down, I heard it from others.
But others are not consorts. I will punish you for copying the Book of Rites a hundred times. You have to copy it yourself. You cant leave the Prince Huai Mansion until you finish copying it!
Mother!
Li Lingling looked at Empress Zhou aggrievedly. Copy the Book of Rites a hundred times with her own hands?! How long would it take her?!
Empress Zhou said, You can leave now.
Yes, Mother.
Li Lingling left unwillingly. Fine, she would be waiting to see when the Empress would enter the cold pce!
After Li Lingling left, Empress Zhou taught Qiao Jinniang how to award the winners of thepetitions.
Seeing that Empress Zhous mood was not affected at all, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but wonder. Mother, they are all saying Zhou Shihui is Fathers illegitimate daughter. Arent you angry?
Empress Zhou chuckled. So you want to copy the Book of Rites?
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly shook her head and shut up.
Empress Zhou said, I just found out who Zhou Shihuis father is. It concerns the reputation of an old friend of mine and my sister, so I cant speak out, but I can tell you she is not His Majestys illegitimate daughter.
Qiao Jinniang still wanted to ask who that old friend was, but seeing that the Empress didnt want to talk about it, she cleverly shut up.
When she returned to the East Pce, Lu Chen, Lin Mo, and Junior Duke Rong happened to return from outside.
Lu Chen walked over and asked Qiao Jinniang, Didnt youin its too hot? Why did you go out today?
Qiao Jinniang replied. Mother asked me to select the winners of the three majorpetitions of the Qixi Festival. Why did youe back so early today?
Lu Chen took Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, The Academy Conference is over today, so we coulde back earlier.
Junior Duke Rong walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, What delicious food did you make today, Sister-in-Law? Myriad Taste hasnt opened yet, and my taste buds are dying.
Lu Chen said, Its very hot in the kitchen in summer. If you want to eat delicious food, ask your cook to make it.
Junior Duke Rong snorted. If I can eat what they make, why do I have toe to beg Sister-in-Law? Besides, my parents are in a cold war because of Zhou Qinghe these days. s, I dont understand why my father is so stupid. Hes already so old, but he still cant forget his old romance!
Lin Mo said, With Zhou Qinghes talent, if she were twenty years younger, which literati in the world wouldnt be tempted by her? Tong Yingying was like a jokepared to Zhou Qinghe. No wonder Duke Rong is tempted by her.
Chapter 255 - Zhou Qinghe’s Poems
Chapter 255: Zhou Qinghes Poems
Qiao Jinniang alsomended. No matter what Zhou Qinghes character is, her poems are superb, and I like her Partridges in the SkySweet-scented Osmanthus the most.
Faint yellow in color and delicate in shape, Osmanthus blossoms quietly and leaves people with an intoxicating aroma.
Why should it have to be shallow green or dark red like those famous flowers? In my opinion, its the best flower.
Plum blossoms should be envious and chrysanthemums will be shy. In the gorgeous garden in the Mid-autumn Festival, Osmanthus pales all other flowers.
Most people love plum and chrysanthemum, but no one praises the sweet-scented osmanthus in poetry. But the poem read that facing sweet-scented osmanthus, Plum blossoms should be envious and chrysanthemums will be shy. Thats really awesome! How can ordinary people write such wonderful poems?
Lu Chen said, Now there is a bookstore in Luoyangpiling the collection of her poems. If you like it, I will have someone go to the bookstore to order one for you. Now it costs fifty taels of silver for each collection of her poems. You may not be able to get one until after the fall.
Qiao Jinniang was surprised. Fifty taels of silver? It shows how popr Zhou Qinghes poems are!
Junior Duke Rong said, Zhou Qinghe is really a special woman. She left Changan 20 years ago, but when she came back, she became even more famous than before.
Soon it was the Qixi Festival. That night, the entire Luoyang was brightly lit, and girls all went to the streets.
Qiao Jinniang went to Xuanwu Street with three princesses where there were three majorpetitions being held, one was threading needles, another was making Clever Fruits, and the third was carving melonnterns.
There were vendors peddling on both sides of the street.
Fulu and Qiao Lu came to Xuanwu Street to watch the fun. Taking a fancy to a hairpin on a stall, she put it on her head and asked Qiao Lu with a smile, Does this hairpin look good on me?
Qiao Lu nodded and paid the money. Yes, youre so beautiful.
Zhou Qinghe is here!
Dont push me. Let me see Zhou Qinghe. I really like her poem Thoughts in a Boudoir.
I think Thoughts in a Boudoir is too sad. I like that line of her poem Be man of men while youre alive, and soul of souls if youre dead best. How can ordinary peoplee up with such a wonderful poem! Unfortunately, I am not a man. If I were, I would marry Zhou Qinghe.
For a time, all the women on Xuanwu Street rushed to see Zhou Qinghe.
Seeing that even the hawker ran to see Zhou Qinghe, Fulu took off the hairpin on her head in anger and puffed out her cheeks like a squirrel in winter.
She just wrote a few poems. Do they need to extol her like this?
Qiao Lu said, Zhou Qinghes poems are good indeed. Dont get angry. Lets go to my sister?
Fulu nodded and went to the location of the needle threadingpetition.
Thepetition had already started. Whoever thread the most needles in the set time would be the winner. This was the easiest of the threepetitions, so many girls came to participate in it.
However, hearing that Zhou Qinghe was here, many girls put down the needles and threads in their hands and gave up thepetition.
Zhou Qinghe and Zhou Shihui got out of the sedan chair, and Zhou Qinghe said, Please continue yourpetition. Shihui hasnt seen the Qixi Festival in Luoyang before, so I brought her out to have some fun. Dont dy yourpetition because of me.
Princess Jinghua snorted and said to Qiao Jinniang, If she really doesnt want to dy thepetition, why did shee at this time? Although her poems are good, I always feel that something is wrong.
Why? Qiao Jinniang asked.
Princess Jinghua said, This is not the ce to talk about poetry. Are you free tomorrow? How about I go to the East Pce to talk with you about it, Your Highness?
Okay, Im bored in the East Pce anyway, Qiao Jinniang replied.
Thepetition was over half an hourter, and the winner was the fifth daughter of the Wang family, the royal merchant in Luoyang. Qiao Jinniangmended her and awarded her a set of gold needlework tools. Miss Wang kowtowed and thanked her.
Qiao Jinniang also awarded three gold needles to each of the participants, and everyone was very happy. After all, the reward from the imperial pce was precious.
With the three gold needles, their sisters must be very envious of them.
Miss Zhou, youre such a talented poet. Its so lively today. Can you make a poem?
A girl asked.
Zhou Shihui also looked at Zhou Qinghe and said, Mother, its the Qixi Festival today. Why dont you make a poem?
Zhou Qinghe paused for a moment and then blurted out, The crickets in grasses startle the parasol trees into dropping leaves, and an ancient sorrow fills Heaven and Earth, even the steps of clouds are strewn with hurdles on the Moon grounds. Although the boats go searching to and fro, they rarely meet among the stars a single soul. Only once in a year over the vast Starry River, the magpies gather on a bridge for the lovers, the Cowherd with his Weaver Girl, a moment together. The rest of the year theyre apart from each other, as today, an endless struggle like the weather. Nothing stays, rain or wind, sunshine or pleasure
When Qiao Jinniang heard this poem, she couldnt help being amazed by Zhou Qinghes talent again, but she felt that it was not very suitable for the asion. The Qixi Festival came from the legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl.
However, since in Datang, the Qixi Festival had always been a festival for girls, people would only mention the Weaver Girl but not the Cowherd.
Besides, why did she write a poem full of mncholy and sadness when it was such a lively and cheerful festival?
And how did shee up with the line the crickets in grasses startle the parasol trees into dropping leaves on such an asion?
Shouldnt poems be inspired by emotion?
Even if Zhou Qinghe had been separated from her husband for a long time due to the flood and she missed her husband during the Qixi Festival, the poem shouldnt start with the crickets in grasses startle the parasol trees into dropping leaves anyway.
It was not that she couldnt write cheerful poems. Qiao Jinniang still remembered the line of her poem Row the boat, row the boat! Startle a beach of gulls.
Many girls took down the poem Zhou Qinghe just made, silently reading with relish.
Some girls even shed tears when they heard this poem. s, I cried for the beautiful love between Zhou Qinghe and her husband again! I hope the Weaver Girl can bless Zhou Qinghe to reunite with her husband soon.
There is always a man in Zhou Qinghes poems. She must love that man much, but I dont know where the man is gone?
Fulu said angrily, What a stupid poem! Although I dont know how to make poems, I know the crickets in grasses startle the parasol trees into dropping leaves describes the scene in a silent night. But is it silent now?
Its obviously very lively now!
As soon as Fulu said so, she immediately annoyed all the girls.
This is obviously an excellent poem. Your Highness, dontment on something you dont understand.
Zhou Shihui looked at Fulu smugly.
Qiao Lu took Fulus hand and said, Although it is a good poem, it doesnt suit the asion. What Princess Fulu said was not wrong.
Zhou Shihui frowned and said, Senior Brother, with your talent in literature, I think you know how good my mothers poem is. How can you help Princess Fulu and lie through your teeth?
Qiao Lu said, You have been driven out of Qingming Academy. Dont call me senior brother again!
Cold-shouldered by Qiao Lu, Zhou Shihui was very depressed. She remembered how well Senior Brother treated her before.
Senior Brother must have been coerced by Fulu to be so cold to her.
The crowd went to the ce where the Clever Fruitpetition was held. Clever Fruit should not only look good, but should also taste delicious, and although this was the case, there were still many girls who came to participate in it.
Clever Fruit needed to be fried, so there were many oil cauldrons on the arena, which were full of hot bubbling oil.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang arrived here, she heard a scream. It turned out that someone had knocked over a frying cauldron, and the hot oil sprinkled over a girls face.
This was no small matter, and Qiao Jinniang hurriedly asked the apanying imperial doctor to treat the girl.
Thispetition had to be halted.
It was Mr. Xies granddaughter who knocked the frying cauldron over!
Mr. Xie was the president of Qingming College and had students all over the country.
His granddaughter, Xie Xiangxiang, was seventeen years old. With a red mole between her eyebrows, she looked quite pretty.
This was the first time she came to the ceremony of the Qixi Festival. Scared, she kept retreating. When she saw Zhou Shihui, she hurriedly ran to her and took her hand, asking for her help, Sister Shihui, I didnt mean it. I just identally knocked the cauldron over.
Zhou Shihui gently flicked Xie Xiangxiangs hand away. But they all saw that you did it.
Zhou Shihui hated Xie Xiangxiang. She was not even a student of Qingming Academy, but she could y with Qiao Lu all the time.
What annoyed Zhou Shihui even more was that she also had a red mole between the eyebrows just like Qiao Lu.
Seeing this scene, Qian Yin who apanied Princess Shouan and Prince Consort Qin to have fun in Xuanwu Street quickly went over and rolled up her sleeve regardless of etiquette. As expected, he saw a peach blossom-shaped birthmark on her wrist and he eximed, Xiangxiang!
Chapter 256 - Qian Yin’s Niece Is Dead
Chapter 256: Qian Yins Niece Is Dead
When Xie Xiangxiang saw a burly maning over, she shivered with fright. What, what are you going to do?
Zhou Qinghe who was casually watching the fun frowned when she saw Qian Yin. Why was he in Luoyang?
And how could Xiangxiang still be alive?
How did Qian Yin know about Xiangxiang?
How could that b*tchs daughter be alive? She threw that child into thetrine herself!
Zhou Qinghe clenched Zhou Shihuis hand.
Zhou Shihui shouted in pain, Mother!
Only the cry did Zhou Qinghe rx her grip.
Seeing Xie Xiangxiang panic, Qian Yin let go of his hand and exined, Dont be afraid. I am Qian Yin, Prince Wu. The mole between your eyebrows and the mark on your wrist show that you are my niece, Xiangxiang.
Xie Xiangxiang was a little puzzled, and when she was about to exin, adys voice came from the crowd.
Ah, my daughter, who poured oil over my daughter?! My daughter is still so young! My daughter is the Crown Princess cousin.
Qiao Jinniang, who didnt know she had such a cousin:
The Qiao family had many rtives, but she didnt have many cousins. She knew them all, but she had never met this girl, not even thisdy.
Qiao Jinniang said, Who are you?
Thatdy, Mrs. Fu, hurriedly knelt down and said, Your Highness, please uphold justice for your cousin. I am the mistress of the Fu family, the sister-inw of your second aunt.
Qiao Jinniang nodded. I see. Madam, dont worry. Ill order the imperial doctors to do everything in their power to treat your daughter. It was just an ident.
Hearing her words, Mrs. Fu could only take her daughter down to receive treatment.
And the Clever Fruitpetition continued.
Xie Xiangxiang broke free from Qian Yins hands and said, Your Highness, my grandfather is President Xie of Qingming Academy. My parents have died since I was a child, and I have only one adoptive father. I am not your niece.
Yes, you are. I am not mistaken. Im going to Qingming Academy and ask Mr. Xie about your origin. Qian Yin said eagerly.
Zhou Qinghes eyes narrowed. Xie Xiangxiang, Xiangxiang Howe she never thought of it?
Zhou Shihui asked Zhou Qinghe, Mother, whats wrong with you? You look so pale. Shall we go back to rest?
Zhou Qinghe took a deep breath and said, Okay.
After the people dispersed, it was time for the melonnternpetition. Qiao Jinniang made one too. After all,st year, because Qiao Ruofeng jumped into the rivel, thepetition was interrupted.
The melonntern made by the Crown Princess is the best. The Crown Princess should be the winner. Consort Qi hurriedly ttered.
The princesses and judges all echoed.
Only one girl said, In previous years, Zhou Sisi was always the winner of the melonnternpetition. The melonntern the Crown Princess made is just as good as Zhou Sisis.
The other girls all squinted at her, thinking if you dont know how to tter someone, just shut up!
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said, Im not a participant of thepetition. Well still have to choose a winner.
After picking the winner, Qiao Jinniang rewarded her, returned to the East Pce and changed clothes.
Then she went out with Lu Chen again. Finally having a chance to leave the East Pce, she was going to have some fun tonight.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, I just heard that Qian Yin found his niece?
Well, that girl seems to be Mr. Xies granddaughter.
Lu Chen said, There are so many people on the street. Why dont we go to Qingming Academy to take a look?
Qiao Jinniang nodded, Xie Xiangxiang and Nuomi look nothing alike. I wonder why Qian Yin would mistake Nuomi for his niece.
After the two got into the carriage, they heard the conversation of several girls from outside.
Zhou Qinghe poems are all about a womans love for a man. The poems are really touching!
I do think the man is His Majesty. Her Thoughts in a Boudoir read:
In the lonely chambers, a heart of night silencebors the pieces of sorrow to countless strands. Blossoms are hurried to their fates by the rains. I cherish a Spring vanishing with her scents. Wheres our spring joy, my hearts friend? Over and over the rails, till each day ends! Grasses will wither and weave the sky tond before my gaze abandons your roads end. This seems to describe the life of a woman in the imperial pce instead of an ordinary woman!
And her Pride of Fisherman read : The firmament with a wave of cloud went through the fog of the dawn, and the dome of stars are turning as thousands of sails are dancing. Just like my soul went to the heavenly pce. You see, heavenly pce. It must be referring to the imperial pce!
Yes, I have the same feeling. I heard that Zhou Qinghe left Changan back then because she didnt want to share His Majesty with other women, but she actually loved His Majesty!
It is said that His Majesty loves the Empress, but I think the Empress is just Zhou Qinghes substitute. I guess Zhou Qinghe didnt expect that after she left Changan, His Majesty really gave all his love to a woman who is very likely to be her substitute!
The position of the empress should belong to Zhou Qinghe. Now that she is back, her sister should return it to her! The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl have reunited today. I wonder when Zhou Qinghe can reunite with her cowherd.
In the carriage, a smallmp was dimly lit, and Qiao Jinniang saw that Lu Chens face was all dark.
Outside came the sounds of these girls mothers angrily scolding them.
How dare you say such nonsense?! Do you want your father to die because of you? Im gonna beat you to death, you darn girl!
Mother, Im not talking nonsense. Zhou Qinghes poems are full of her affections for His Majesty. Their love story is so beautiful!
Shut up! Im gonna break your leg!
Even if you break my leg, I will still say that His Majesty deprived Duke Wu of his title because he spotted Zhou Shihui, who was the daughter of Zhou Qinghe and him, so he did that to force Zhou Qinghe toe out and see him!
Yes, thats whats written in novels!
I said shut up! Didnt you hear me?!
For a time, the girls on the street all dispersed like startled birds.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen and said, Is what they said true?
Lu Chen said, Thats absolutely impossible.
Since he was a child, he had always seen how humble his wise and majestic father was in front of his mother. How could his mother be another womans substitute?
Besides, his mother would never tolerate that.
Lu Chen knew how proud his mother was.
When they arrived at Qingming Academy, it was already night, but the sound of reciting could still be heard. Many students gathered together and were writing poems about the magnificent scene they saw today.
The moon tonight is like a jade te, and every girl is holding needles and threads. The legend of Qixi is just the beautiful imagination of these women, because Heaven and Earth can notmunicate.
Far, far away, the Cowherd, Fair, fair, the Weaving Maid; Nimbly moves her slender white fingers, click-ck goes her weaving-loom. All day she weaves, yet her web is still not done. And her tears fall like rain.
Brother Cui, your poem is wonderful. Ive got one too. After the evening rain, light fragrance and wet dust remain. Cold turns the dew, and the breeze freshens the courtyard in view. In the water-clear sky, a hooklike moon hangs high.
Hindered for long, the Weaving Maid sighs. Now she may go on a date, driving her winged wheels in flight. As far as she stretches her eyes, she sees fleecy clouds rise over the Silver River bright.
Brother Luo, your poem is excellent too.
When Qiao Jinniang listened to their poems, she felt that their poems suited the asion tonight well.
Zhou Qinghes poem was undeniably excellent, but it was a bit strange.
Qian Yinzheng took Xie Xiangxiang to find Mr. Xie, but when they heard that the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess hade to visit, Mr. Xie quickly invited them in.
When Qiao Jinniang saw Qian Yin, she joked, You had been saying that Nuomi was your niece before, but Nuomi and Xie Xiangxiang dont look alike at all.
Qian Yin said, I was mistaken. Mr. Xie, the birthmark on your granddaughter is exactly the same as that on my niece. She was separated from her parents when she was a child.
Xie Daru sighed and said, Xiangxiang is and is not your niece at the same time.
Qian Yin asked curiously, What do you mean?
Xie Daru said, Your niece was killed by your brothers enemy from the moment she was born, and your sister-inw was so mournful that she wanted to die.
It just so happened that at that time, my son had an illegitimate daughter, who was Xiangxiang. He didnt want his daughter to be an illegitimate daughter, so he gave her to your elder brother and sister-inw as their daughter.
My son lost his life in the Yinzhou flood, and before he died, he wanted Xiangxiang to return to the Xie family.
Your brother and Xiangxiang were separated from your sister-inw, so he first came to Luoyang with my sons corpse and Xiangxiang.
Hearing that your sister-inw had returned to the Qian Mansion and had gone crazy because she lost her daughter, he felt too ashamed to face his wife and parents because it was his fault that his daughter was killed. He thought it would be better if people thought he was dead, so he became a monk on Laojun Mountain
When Qian Yin heard this, he cupped his hands and said, Thank you for telling me the truth. My poor mother was still missing her granddaughter the moment she died. s! The god of destiny really makes fools out of people.
Chapter 257 - Zhou Qinghe Stole Someone Else’s Poems
Chapter 257: Zhou Qinghe Stole Someone Elses Poems
The Zhou Mansion.
Zhou Qinghe returned to her room, tossed off a cup of tea, and clenched her hands.
Zhou Shihui asked Zhou Qinghe in a low voice, Mother, whats the matter with you?
Zhou Qinghe took a deep breath and said, Im fine. Huier, go back and take a rest.
Zhou Shihui kept looking back, somehow feeling that her mother didnt look right. Looking at the crescent moon in the sky, she couldnt help thinking, is Mother missing His Majesty in the imperial pce?
Now everyone said that my mother should be the empress
Then was her father really His Majesty?
Zhou Shihui never believed that her father was that obscure literati from Yin County, but whenever she asked about her fathers whereabouts, her mother didnt answer her.
...
It was July and the sun was scorching. If there were no ice cubes in the imperial pce, everyone would have been soaking in sweat.
Not long after Qiao Jinniang woke up, she heard the imperial maids report that Princess Jinghua hade to visit her. She casually groomed and went outside.
Princess Jinghua said, Its getting hotter and hotter. Luoyang is hotter than Changan. If only there was rain to cool us off.
Qiao Jinniang said, Yes, I didnt know the summer in Luoyang would be so hot. Luckily, I already ordered the imperial maids to make mung bean porridge. Would you want some, Sister Jinghua?
Jinghua took the mung bean porridge handed over by an imperial maid and said to Qiao Jinniang, Your Highness, I guess youve found there is something wrong with Zhou Qinghes poems too, right?
Qiao Jinniang said, Even Fulu has discovered it. Most poems are inspired by emotion and in ordance to the asions the poets were on, but all her poems are sad.
Jinghua said, Exactly. Her poems are good, but full of doubtful points. Have you read her poem Spring In Peach Blossom Land?
Qiao Jinniang nodded. Tired, I wontb my hair, though it iste. Things are the same, but hes no more. Before I speak, how can my tears not pour?
Its said at Twin Creek, spring is not yet gone. In a light boat I long to float thereon. But Im afraid the grief-oeden boat upon Twin Creek cant keep afloat.
The wording is concise and implicit, which shows Zhou Qinghes skill in refining the words and making sentences. The beauty of the poems artistic conception stuns me. Using a boat to carry grief, such an ingenious thought, and such artistic conception is simply amazing.
I can empathize with the sadness of the poet through the beautiful lines.
Its no surprise that her poems are so popr all over the country.
Princess Jinghua said, Yes, its a very beautiful poem, but there has never been a ce called Twin Creek in Luoyang.
Besides, this poem was written by Zhou Qinghe five days ago when it was during the hot summer, but this poem is obviously describing a scene in spring. How could Zhou Qinghe write a poem about spring at the height of summer?
The girls are all enchanted by this line Things are the same, but hes no more. Before I speak, how can my tears not pour and didnt notice the suspicious part about the poem.
And her A Twig Of Mume Blossoms that was very popr among the women in Luoyang was written by her at a poetry meeting three days ago, when the lotus flowers were in full bloom.
But look what she wrote, When autumn chills my mat, the fragrant lotus fades.
Simrly, she wrote Things are the same, but hes no more in the poem Spring In Peach Blossom Land, yet in A Twig Of Mume Blossoms, she wrote I am longing for thee just as thou art for me. So does her lover love her or not?
Let alone the strange part about her Thought in A Boudoir.
Qiao Jinniang felt what Jinghua said made sense. Yes, Sister Huang, but its said that she wrote Things are the same, but hes no more because she was disheartened when she returned to Changan and found His Majesty had fallen in love with her substitute, the Empress.
After she wrote this poem, His Majesty wrote to her, so she wrote the line I am longing for thee just as thou art for me, and the bowers gate in this line When wild geesee, Ill wait at moonlit bowers gate refers to the Ziwei City in the west of Luoyang.
Jinghua said, It may sound reasonable, but there are many inconsistencies in time and scenery. I feel that she may have stolen someone elses poems.
Qiao Jinniang looked straight into Jinghuas eyes and asked, Sister Huang, do you have a grudge with Zhou Qinghe?
Jinghua had never taken the initiative to cause trouble. Thest time she fell from the horse was just to protect herself.
After that ident, Jinghua had been living in seclusion at home.
Fulu even said that even a god wouldnt be able to invite Jinghua to leave her Princess Mansion.
This time, Princess Jinghua came to Luoyang from Changan only after Zhou Qinghe showed up, but Jinghua and Zhou Qinghe shouldnt have any grudges.
After all, when Zhou Qinghe left Changan, Jinghua was probably just a baby.
Jinghua smiled awkwardly. No, I just feel Zhou Qinghes poems seem to be ghostwritten. Thank you for your hospitality, Your Highness. Ill take my leave.
As soon as Jinghua left, Lu Chen came in.
What did Sister Jinghuae to you for? Lu Chen asked.
Qiao Jinniang said, Do you know if there is any grudge between her and Zhou Qinghe? I somehow feel that she seems to hate Zhou Qinghe.
Lu Chen thought for a while and said, Yes, Sister Jinghuas mother was a female official in the Shanggong Bureau, and she died not long after giving birth to Sister Jinghua, because she mistakenly ate the tonic soup that was supposed to be given to Zhou Qinghe at a pce banquet.
Qiao Jinniang said, No wonder. After all, Sister Jinghua has never been nosy.
Lu Chen just said, Stay away from Sister Jinghua. You are not allowed to go to her princess mansion, remember?
Qiao Jinniangughed. Dont worry. Even if I go to her princess mansion, I wont take a second look at her gigolos.
Lu Chen didnt believe Qiao Jinniang at all. He still remembered how her eyes were glued to those gigolosst time.
Qiao Jinniang changed the subject and said, But I think what Sister Jinghua said somewhat makes sense. Zhou Qinghes poems seem to be ghostwritten.
Lu Chen said, If so, why is that person willing to do that? Doesnt he want to be famous himself?
Qiao Jinniang thought what Lu Chen said made sense. Those poems were ssics like the Book of Songs, and should have been able to be passed down for thousands of years.
No one would be willing to surrender such excellent poems to Zhou Qinghe and make Zhou Qinghe famous.
The Luoyang branch of Myriad Taste was finally opened. Firecrackers were set off, all the dignitaries and officials came to attend the opening ceremony, and it was very lively.
Permitted by the Empress, Qiao Jinniang took Lu Xi out of the imperial pce to the Myriad Taste.
When Nuomi saw Qiao Jinniang from afar, she trotted over, and when she saw the guards beside Qiao Jinniang, she respectfully saluted her.
Qiao Jinniang motioned the guards to leave, hugged Nuomi, and patted her head. Thank you for your hard work, little Nuomi.
Aunt Nuomi. Lu Xi raised his head and called Nuomi.
Nuomi said, Tuaner, youve grown a little taller since thest time I saw you.
Aunt Nuomi has be more beautiful and Brother Huixiang has be more handsome since thest time I saw you, Little Lu Xi said sweetly.
In the distance, amidst thepliments of others, Zhou Qinghe and Zhou Shihui came to Myriad Taste to have fun. When Zhou Qinghe saw Nuomi, she frowned nervously.
This girl looked so much like the man who betrayed her!
Chapter 258 - Zhou Qinghe’s Past and Who Zhou Shihui’s Father Was
Chapter 258: Zhou Qinghes Past and Who Zhou Shihuis Father Was
Some nobles who came from Changan were rmending to Zhou Qinghe the delicacies of Myriad Taste.
Zhou Qinghe smiled and said, Ive tasted these dishes before. When I was in the South, I was the Crown Princess teacher, so I could often visit Myriad Taste.
Zhou Qinghe walked up to Qiao Jinniang and said, I didnt remember you thest time, but now seeing Myriad Taste, I remembered you. Is this your maid? Ive never seen her before. Who are her parents, and where is she from?
Qiao Jinniang said, Ms. Zhou, she is Nuomi who was with me back then. It was just that she had hurt her face and had scars on her face back then. Now the scars have been healed but theres still a scar on her forehead.
Zhou Qinghe stared straight at Nuomi, thinking that maybe she thought too much.
After all, Qian Yin had already recognized Xie Xiangxiang as his niece.
Nuomi timidly hid behind Qiao Jinniang. She always remembered Zhou Qinghe.
When she was nine years old, she met a woman on the street, who frantically took her hand and asked her where she came from.
Seeing the murderous intent in her eyes, Nuomi bit the womans hand and ran away only to run into a merchants carriage and hurt her own face.
Later she found that woman was Zhou Qinghe, so whenever she met Zhou Qinghe, she hid as far away as possible. Fortunately, Zhou Qinghe didnt notice her.
The way Zhou Qinghe looked at her back then was exactly the same as how she looked at her today!
Zhou Qinghe withdrew her gaze, thinking to herself, Even if that child survived and didnt die in thetrine, as the daughter of the former Prince Wu, she shouldnt have been a little maid in a restaurant.
Myriad Taste was very busy, and all the tables were upied.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Xi went to the No.1 Private Room, where Fulu, Qiao Lu, Junior Duke Rong, Samoer, and Qiao Ruoyun were already dining.
Seeing Qiao Ruoyun, Qiao Jinniang was a little surprised. Oh, you finally came out of the house, Ruoyun.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Fulu helplessly.
Fulu smiled and said, I brought her out to get some fresh air. Its not good for her to stay in the Duke Anyuan Mansion all the time. Oh, why hasnt Uncle Qiane yet? He knows how to get here, right?
Qiao Ruoyun:
Qiao Jinniang hoped that Qiao Ruoyun could find a good husband. She had some misunderstandings about Qian Yin before, but after knowing that he was really looking for his niece, Qiao Jinniang felt that Qian Yin was a reliable man.
However, if Qiao Ruoyun married Qian Yin, she would have to go back to Linan.
Linan was thousands of miles away, and Qiao Ruoyun was so weak. If she was abused in the Qian Mansion, it would be beyond Qiao Jinniangs reach.
Qian Yin camete and cupped his hand, apologizing, Im sorry Imte.
Fulu stood up and said, Uncle Qian, what were you doing? Sister Ruoyun has been waiting for you for a long time. You should finish three drinks as an apology. Nuomi, pour wine for Uncle Qian.
When Nuomi was pouring wine for Qian Yin, Samoer asked Junior Duke Rong, Are the two of them brothers and sisters? They look really alike.
Junior Duke Rong didnt think so. Alike? Nuomis fair-skinned and delicately-featured, while Qian Yin is dark and burly. They are not alike at all. .
Qian Yin said, Nuomi looks like my brother. The first time I saw Nuomi, I thought she was my niece, but unfortunately, in the end,I found out that she was not.
After Nuomi had finished pouring the wine, she left to entertain other guests.
Qiao Jinniang was thinking about what Samoer said. Indeed, the two of them looked alike, although most people didnt notice it due to the great difference in their figures.
However, Nuomis biological parents had already been found, and they wereing to Luoyang soon. This simrity was probably just a coincidence.
After all, Mr. Xie said that Qian Yins niece had been killed by his brothers enemy long ago.
There were cheers from outside, and Qiao Jinniang guessed Zhou Qinghe must be writing poems again.
Fulu snorted. Why do I meet Zhou Qinghe and Zhou Shihui everywhere? Hmph, I wouldnt havee if I knew they wereing.
Xiao Lu Xi put a piece of duck meat on Fulus bowl and said, Auntie, dont be angry. Eat a piece of duck meat.
Fulu nced at Qiao Lu and said, You are no match for your three-year-old nephew.
Im four years old! Little Lu Xi stretched out four little fingers.
You are only three years old, Fulu said. You will be four in a month.
Little Lu Xi drooped his head and aggrievedly put the duck meat back into his bowl.
Fulu:
Qiao Luughed and said to Fulu, Just ignore Zhou Shihui. There is something wrong with her mind. Were going to be married soon, arent we?
Is the wedding date set? Qiao Jinniang asked curiously, When is it?
In March next year. There are no good days this year, Qiao Lu said, a little regretfully.
Qiao Ruoyun said to Qiao Jinniang, Mom and Dad think its better to hold the wedding banquet in Changan, so the wedding date is set next year.
Listening to the noises outside, Fulu drank a few more cups of wine and took her maid to the restroom.
When she came out of the restroom, she saw Zhou Shihui.
She had been hiding from Zhou Shihui for a few days, but today she was unlucky.
Fulu!
Fulu said to Zhou Shihui, What do you want to do? My wedding date with Qiao Lu has been set, and it will be in March of next year. Qiao Lu and I are already a sure-fire couple!
Zhou Shihui said, Dont you feel ashamed to force Senior Brother to marry you? You should have met Xie Xiangxiang at the Qixi Festival, right? She is the woman Senior Brother loves. Do you think Senior Brother is really referring you when he calls you Xiangxiang? No, hes calling Xie Xiangxiang!
Xie Xiangxiang is her fathers only daughter, so she has to find a man to marry into her family. As the heir to Duke Anyuan, Senior Brother cant marry into her family, so you are just a substitute for Xie Xiangxiang!
Fulu sneered. You finally admit that Qiao Lu doesnt like you!
Zhou Shihui was reluctant to admit it.
But she knew Fulu was a jealous woman. If Fulu messed with Xie Xiangxiang, Both Prince Wu and the entire Qingming Academy would be her enemy.
She just needed to instigate Fulu to provoke Xiangxiang and then she would be able to see how Fulu was taught a lesson by everyone after bullying Xie Xiangxiang.
Qiao Lu came over. When he saw Zhou Shihui standing in front of Fulu, he took Fulu into his arms and said, County Mistress Yuquan, leave my wife alone, okay?
Fulu looked up at Qiao Lu and said, Just now she told me that you like Xie Xiangxiang and call me Xiangxiang because you cant marry Xie Xiangxiang.
Qiao Lu said anxiously, The one I love is you, and I only love you. I dont have any special feelings for Xie Xiangxiang. I only love you.
It was the first time that Zhou Shihui heard Qiao Lu anxiously confess his love for Fulu, which made her unable to deceive herself anymore. She froze in ce.
When Zhou Qinghe saw this scene in the corridor, she couldnt help thinking of what happened eighteen years ago.
Since her childhood, there seemed to be another persons memory in Zhou Qinghes mind. Her parents thought that she was possessed and asked Taoist monks and Buddhist monks to help exorcize the ghosts, but it was all useless.
When she grew up, Zhou Qinghe learned to coexist with the ghost in her mind, and she found out that it was actually the memory of her previous life.
In that memory, she was a student who died suddenly when she stayed upte writing a paper on the famous female poet, Li Qingzhao.
When she woke up, she found she was in an era simr to the Tang Dynasty whose history she had learned in her previous life, but there were some differences.
Since then, Zhou Qinghe felt that she was here to change this era.
Unfortunately, she was only a student of Chinesenguage and literature in her previous life.
The only thing she knew well was Li Qingzhaos poems.
However, she met Emperor Huilin at her aunts funeral and proposed some modern governance methods to Emperor Huilin.
She greatly impressed Emperor Huilin, and Zhou Qinghe thought that just like all the heroines in the transmigration novels, she had gained the love of the Emperor.
Zhou Qinghe fell for Emperor Huilin. She had once asked Emperor Huilin tentatively whether he was willing to love only her in his life.
But Emperor Huilin didnt promise to dismiss his harem for her.
At that time, Zhou Qinghes previous-life memory made her unable to ept sharing her husband with many other women, let alone her husbands harem.
Besides, the Empress Dowager hated her aunt to her guts. Even if she married into the imperial pce, she couldnt be the empress but only an imperial concubine.
That was not what Zhou Qinghe wanted. Fortunately, every time she went to see Emperor Huilin, she pretended to be her sister Zhou Qingxiu and even wore a veil.
Not long after, the Emperor suddenly announced that he was going to marry Zhou Qingxiu as his Empress, which shocked Zhou Qinghe.
She didnt want to ruin her sisters life. Besides, their aunt forbade the girls of the Zhou family to marry into the imperial pce in herst words.
Zhou Qingxiu wouldnt end up well if she married into the imperial pce. After all, she had to face her husbands countless concubines
And the Empress Dowager hated the Zhou family
Besides, the woman the Emperor loved was her, and Zhou Qingxiu was nothing but her substitute.
But she didnt expect that Zhou Qingxiu would be willing to marry into the imperial pce as the Empress!
Their mother, who had always doted on Zhou Qingxiu, was even willing to hand over the military talisman to let Zhou Qingxiu be the Empress.
Zhou Qinghe regretted it so much that, for several times, she wanted to exin to Emperor Huilin that she was the one who was talking with him, not Zhou Qingxiu.
But if she told the truth, Zhou Qingxiu might be executed for deceiving the Emperor, and not long after, Zhou Qingxiu was pregnant.
Zhou Qinghe could only give up and leave Changan, hoping to make a career outside and regain the military power of the Duke Wu Mansion.
Zhou Qinghe toured the scenic spots and enjoyed the beautiful scenery along the way.
Two yearster, in Yinzhou, she met a very handsome man.
He was literally her dreamlover, and he was Qian Yi, Prince Wu at that time.
Learning that Qian Yi, who was the rich and powerful Prince Wu, had not married yet and had no concubines.
Zhou Qinghe had a big crush on him and even slept with him.
However, when she was three months pregnant, she wanted to give Qian Yi a pleasant surprise.
Only then did she know that although Qian Yi didnt get married, he already had a fiance. That woman was a singsong girl at Huai River, so his mother refused to ept her as her daughter-inw. Qian Yi only came to Yinzhou from Linan because he eloped to Yinzhou with that singsong girl!
And that singsong girl was also pregnant and was already about to give birth.
Qian Yi even told Zhou Qinghe that he wanted that singsong girl to give birth to a daughter for him and if she did, he would name that girl Xiangxiang
After that, Zhou Qinghe got news from Changan that Emperor Huilin loved Empress Zhou so much that his harem existed in name only. Zhou Qingxius son was designated as the Crown Prince as soon as he was born. In the following three years, the Emperor did not take any concubines or enter other concubines pces at all.
Zhou Qinghe regretted it and hated Qian Yi, this scumbag, very much, so she forced Qian Yi to choose between her and the singsong girl.
But Qian Yi felt that the singsong girl was vulnerable and helpless, and moreover, she was about to give birth, so he chose that singsong girl over her.
She, the eldest daughter of Duke Wu, lost to a singsong girl!
In order to get revenge on Qian Yi, Zhou Qinghe bribed the midwife of the singsong girl, stole her newborn daughter Xiangxiang, and threw her into atrine!
Qian Yi betrayed her first, so no one could me her!
Later, to cover up the fact that Zhou Shihui was an illegitimate daughter, she found a literati to marry, gave birth to Zhou Shihui, and decided to forget about Qian Yi.
But then there was a flood in Yinzhou, which caused her to be separated from her daughter
Now, eighteen yearster, the scene of her daughter and Fulupeting for Qiao Lu was exactly the same as how she forced Qian Yi to choose between her and that singsong girl.
Back then, Qian Yi chose a singsong girl, and now Qiao Lu chose an illiterate
Chapter 259 - The Empress Dowager Wants Zhou Shihui to Be the Crown Prince’s Concubine
Chapter 259: The Empress Dowager Wants Zhou Shihui to Be the Crown Princes Concubine
With tears in her eyes, Zhou Shihui clenched the handkerchief in her hand and turned to walk out of the restaurant.
Running and sobbing, she said, He really likes Fulu, that illiterate! But she has nothing that can bepared to me!
She was also a county mistress. Why did her senior brother choose Fulu over her? Fulu couldnt even read! How could she bepetent enough to be the next Duchess Anyuan?
In the Guest-weing Building in the distance, Prince Huai looked into the distance and said to Zhou Siming standing next to him,
Ive already tried every possible means to intercede with my father to spare Sisis life.
But you know, my father doesnt like me
Zhou Siming said, Your Highness, Sisi will be executed after the Mid-Autumn Festival. Only you can save her now.
Prince Huai sighed and said, She is my wife, and I love her so much. How can I just sit by and watch her be killed?
I am even willing to die in her ce. If only I can exchange my life for hers.
Zhou Siming pursed his lips, frowned and said, Your Highness.
Prince Huai pointed to Zhou Shihui downstairs and said, Is that your cousin? But now everyone in Luoyang is saying that Shihui is actually my younger sister?
Zhou Siming said, Well, I dont know who my cousins father is.
Prince Huai said, Its said that Zhou Qinghe is quite favored by my father, and Zhou Qinghes poems are very popr in Luoyang, and it will only be a matter of time for her to be famous all over the world.
The Empress doesnt want to help you rescue Zhou Sisi although she is your aunt, but your eldest aunt, Zhou Qinghe, may not be unwilling.
Zhou Siming sighed deeply. Now he could only pin his hopes on his eldest aunt.
...
The Mid-July Day was an important day in Taitang.
On this day, the folk would celebrate the harvest and offer sacrifices to their ancestors.
The royal family would offer sacrifices to their ancestors on Mid-July Day too.
The Lu family had an ancestral temple in both Changan and Luoyang, so they could offer sacrifices to their ancestors in Luoyang.
The sacrificial ceremony would begin before dawn, and the members of the royal family would burn joss sticks one by one ording to their seniority.
Li Lingling, who had always liked to cause trouble, didnt even dare to make trouble on this day.
Although Prince Huai was the Emperors eldest son, he was not born by the Empress, so he was ranked after Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang.
When Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen to burn the joss stick, the ashes of the joss stick fell on Qiao Jinniangs hand, which instantly turned red, causing a blister to be formed.
After Lu Chen saw it, he looked at Qiao Jinniang worriedly.
Qiao Jinniang shook her head with a smile, then hid her scalded hand in her sleeve, and took Lu Chens hand with the other hand, signaling him that she was alright.
Qiao Jinniang never believed in gods because she was burned by the ashes of the joss stick eight times out of ten whenever she offered sacrifices to the gods.
If there were no joss sticks in the joss stick burner, it would be fine, but if it was already full of burning joss sticks, her hand would definitely be scalded.
So she was very reluctant to go to the temple.
Last time when she was offering sacrifices to the ancestors of the royal family on her wedding, there were only Lu Chen and her who were offering joss sticks, so she wasnt scalded.
But today was different. Today, the Emperor and Empress offered the joss sticks first, and then it would be the old uncles and aunts before it was her turn.
When it was Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniangs turn, the joss stick burner was already filled with joss sticks.
Qiao Jinniang was a bit scared, but she certainly couldnt just throw the joss stick in, so she was still scalded although she had been very careful.
When Li Lingling saw this, she immediately shouted, Oh, the Crown Princess hand is scalded. It must be our ancestors punishing her. They dont want to acknowledge this Crown Princess!
Lu Chen nced at her coldly. The Crown Princess has already offered sacrifices to the ancestors of the Lu family at our wedding and nothing abnormal happened. How could you say our ancestors dont want to acknowledge her?
When Empress Zhou heard Li Linglings words, she walked up to Qiao Jinniang, took Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Oh, its all red and swollen. Why didnt you tell us? Imperial doctor, quickly bring the scalding cream.
Qiao Jinniang was relieved that Empress Zhou didnt me her and said, Thank you, Mother.
A female imperial doctor quickly took egg yolk ointment to smear on Qiao Jinniangs wound.
Lu Chen took the egg yolk ointment from the doctor, applied it on Qiao Jinniangs wound, and exined,
Mother, she seldom goes to temples, so she isnt familiar with these rituals. There are so many joss sticks in the joss stick burner so its inevitable that her hand was scalded.
Old Consort Gong came out and said, This joss stick burner is too small, and there are too many joss sticks in it. Its easy to get burned. I was often burned when I was young.
Li Lingling was extremely angry. Why was everyone so tolerant of Qiao Jinniang?
The joss stick ashes burned her hand! ording to folklore, didnt it signify that the ancestors did not want to ept Qiao Jinniang?
Prince Huai cupped his hands and said, Father, Mother, I think this is a message from our ancestors.
The Crown Prince has no son after he got married, but the Crown Princess refused to choose concubines for him and even threatened the suitable candidates to back off, so the ancestors punished her!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Prince Huai with a frown. Why would he care that Lu Chen didnt take any concubines?
What was he up to?
Hearing Prince Huais words, Emperor Huilin, who never took Prince Huais word seriously, said, What you said this time makes some sense.
Empress Zhou frowned and looked at Emperor Huilin in puzzle, but Emperor Huilin looked away.
After the sacrificial ceremony.
Empress Zhou and Emperor Huilin returned to Xuanzheng Pce.
Empress Zhou asked Emperor Huilin, What do you mean by saying that, Your Majesty? Chener has said that he would not take any concubines, hasnt he?
Emperor Huilin said helplessly, Thats very irresponsible for him to say that. How can we just let him?
He said that because Qiao Jinniang would not marry him if he didnt say that, but now Qiao Jinniang is already the Crown Princess. It wont matter even if he takes concubines.
I dont believe Qiao Jinniang dares to divorce the Crown Prince! Even if she dares, the Qiao family will not allow her to do that.
Empress Zhou said angrily, So you think its irresponsible not to take concubines? But you havent taken any concubines after you married me. Arent you irresponsible too?
If you want to make Chener take concubines and sow discord between Chener and his wife, please demote me into the cold pce first so that I wont be troubled by the mess you made!
Emperor Huilin hurriedly begged for mercy. What are you talking about? How can I possibly intend to sow discord between Chener and his wife? But dont you want to have a few more grandchildren?
Empress Zhou said, I dont want a grandchild who was born by a concubine. Your Majesty, you can just choose as many concubines as you want for Chener, but dont step into my pce again. Thats it.
Emperor Huilin: Forget it, I wont meddle in Cheners private affairs anymore. Whether he is willing to take a concubine or not, it has nothing to do with me.
It would not be worth it to lose his own beloved wife for this unfilial little white-eyed wolf who only had his wife in his eyes.
In the East Pce.
Little Lu Xi held Qiao Jinniangs hand and blew at it carefully. Mother, it doesnt hurt.
Qiao Jinniang patted little Lu Xis head. With such an adorable son, why would she need other children?
Lu Chen said with guilt, I am sorry I didnt arrange the joss stick burner in advance. It wont be like this next time.
Your Highness, Consort Qi and Consort Chu came to visit you. Do you want to see them?
Let them in, Qiao Jinniang said.
Lu Chen held Little Lu Xis hand and said to Qiao Jinniang, You entertain them, and I will take Xier to study.
Okay.
Consort Qi sighed and said, Your Highness, His Majesty said that His Royal Highness should take concubines. I wonder if His Majesty has candidates in mind already.
Consort Chu took the tea from an imperial maid and said, I just heard that Prince Huai ordered Li Lingling to ask the Empress Dowager to give Zhou Shihui to the Crown Prince as a concubine!
Hearing her words, Qiao Jinniang almost spat out the tea in her mouth. She swallowed the tea and coughed. Wh, what?
Concubine Qi also said in surprise: Isnt it rumored that Zhou Shihui is the illegitimate daughter of His Majesty?
If she is, how can she be His Royal Highness concubine?
Chapter 260 - You’re His Majesty’s Daughter
Chapter 260: Youre His Majestys Daughter
Hearing what Consort Qi said, Qiao Jinniang finally figured out why Prince Huai wanted Lu Chen to take a concubine.
No matter how widely the rumor was circted, no one in the imperial pce talked about the rumor.
No matter how bold Li Lingling was, she didnt dare to say this to Emperor Huilin when Emperor Huilin had not yet acknowledged Zhou Shihuis identity.
Prince Huai asked Li Lingling to ask the Empress Dowager to give Zhou Shihui to the Crown Prince as a concubine. If Zhou Shihui was really Emperor Huilins daughter, he would definitely tell the truth and admit that Zhou Shihui was his own daughter.
Then the Empress and her sister would inevitably fight against each other.
In the Empress Dowagers pce.
After listening to Li Linglings proposal, the Empress Dowager said, The Empress has never respected me. Now she will have her retribution, which will be brought to her by her own sister. Okay, Ill talk about this to His Majesty.
Li Lingling smiled smugly.
The Empress Dowager arrived at the Hanliang Pce and waited for about half an hour before His Majesty returned from the Xuanzheng Pce.
The Empress Dowager said with a frown, I heard that the Crown Princesss hand was scalded by the joss stick ashes when she was offering joss sticks to the ancestors of the Lu family today?
Emperor Huilin said, The joss stick burner was full of joss sticks, and the Crown Princess was not the only one who was scalded.
The Empress Dowager picked a cup of tea and said, This is not a trivial matter. What Prince Huai said is right. Its inappropriate that the Crown Prince doesnt have any concubines.
Zhou Qinghe is now famous all over the world, and her daughter County Mistress Yuquan inherited her talent. I think its very suitable for County Mistress Yuquan to be the Crown Princes concubine.
Emperor Huilin frowned and said, Mother, you dont have to worry about that. County Mistress Yuquan will not marry into the East Pce.
The Empress Dowager put the teacup on the wooden table angrily. Chener is my grandson. How can I have no say in this matter?
Really? said Emperor Huilin, Which grandmother in the world would try to kill her own grandson over and over again?
I never mention it because I think it was not easy for you to bring me up alone. The Crown Prince is also filial to you and has always been tolerant of what you have done, but as for his private affairs, dont even think about meddling in them.
With her real intentions exposed, the Empress Dowager could only leave the Hanliang Pce huffily.
Waiting outside the Hanliang Pce, Li Lingling came up and asked the Empress Dowager, Grandmother, what did Father say? Has he agreed?
The Empress Dowager said, No, dont bother me with the Crown Princes private affairs anymore!
Li Lingling stood on the spot and pondered. The Emperor refused? Maybe Zhou Shihui was really his daughter?
The Empress fined her to be grounded and copy the Book of Rites a hundred times, and her fingers were about to break.
Now it seemed that it wouldnt take long for the Empress to fall from favor, and then she would make the Empress do the same!
However, she didnt expect Zhou Shihui really to be the Emperors daughter.
Li Lingling thought that since Zhou Shihui hated Fulu and the Crown Princess so much that if she befriended Zhou Shihui, she would be able to use Zhou Shihui against Qiao Jinniang and Fulu.
Besides, Zhou Qinghe only had a daughter and was already unable to have another child at her age.
If she got on good terms with Zhou Shihui, the Emperor would probably look at Prince Huai in a different light because of Zhou Qinghe.
Receiving an invitation from Li Lingling, Zhou Shihui didnt quite want to go to Prince Huai Mansion, but thinking that Li Lingling didnt get along with Fulu, she went to Prince Huai Mansion in the end.
At the door of the Prince Huai Mansion, Li Lingling greeted Zhou Shihui enthusiastically. Sister.
Zhou Shihui saluted. Consort Huai.
Li Lingling patted Zhou Shihuis hand and said, Sister, youre so beautiful, much more beautiful than Fulu. Young Master Qiao must be blind.
Zhou Shihuis eyes were slightly sad.
Li Lingling said purposely, But Qiao Lu has no choice. After all, the Empress Dowager doesnt like the Crown Prince, and Fulu is the Empress Dowagers favorite granddaughter.
The Crown Prince must want to win over the Empress Dowager via Princess Shouan. Qiao Lu definitely married Fulu just to win over Princess Shouan and the Empress Dowager!
Zhou Shihui felt what Li Lingling said made sense. The Crown Princess actually sacrificed her own brothers happiness in order to strengthen the Crown Princes power. Thats too selfish.
Li Lingling chuckled. But the Crown Princess doesnt know that she mistakenly mistook a fisheye for a pearl and a pearl for a fisheye. She doesnt know that youre His Majestys most beloved biological daughter. How can his niece be as important as his daughter?
Zhou Shihui said, Consort Huai, dont kid. Pretending to be a royal family member will only result in you being beheaded.
Li Lingling smiled. Since I call you Sister, it means that Ive already confirmed your identity.
Emperor Huilin had already said on the altar that what Prince Huai said made sense, but when the Empress Dowager wanted to give Zhou Shihui to the Crown Prince as a concubine, he refused.
And given the fact that no one from the imperial pce had ever tried to stop the rumor, it was no doubt that Zhou Shihui was the Emperors daughter.
Zhou Shihui said in shock, So Im really His Majestys daughter? Then my mother
Li Lingling said, Your mother and His Majestys love can be sensed from her poems, which moved a lot of people.
But the Empress stole what was supposed to belong to your mother and threw the Zhou family aside. Zhou Sisi is about to be executed but she hasnt tried to save her at all. If I were you, I would definitely have done something for my mother.
Your parents were separated, and a substitute upied the position of empress that should have belonged to your mother. You should be the only direct descendant of the Emperor, not the Crown Prince!
If it were me, I would never endure it!
The more Zhou Shihui listened, the more annoyed she became. Li Lingling was absolutely right. If her mother could be the empress, she would be a princess.
Then, Fulu would have to salute her whenever she saw her.
Zhou Shihui held Li Linglings hand and said,
Sister-inw, can you help me? If you help me, when my mother bes the empress, I will definitely persuade my mother to help the eldest brother.
Li Lingling smiled and said, You are my sister, so Prince Huai and I will surely help you. Besides, I cant bear to see a pair of lovers be separated.
Getting Li Linglings guarantee, Zhou Shihui left Prince Huai Mansion satisfied.
Li Lingling went to the front yard, only to see that Prince Huai was holding his adopted son in his arms, and she became furious.
Your Highness, Im working hard for you, but you are fondling this bastard child?
Prince Huai really loved this child and didnt even allow her to touch him. He must be a bastard child born by some little slut for him.
Prince Huai gave the child to the wet nurse and said, Have you discussed it with Zhou Shihui?
Li Lingling nodded and said, Not only that, Zhou Shihui also promised me that once her mother became the empress, she would help you be the crown prince.
Lu Chen is so favored by the Emperor all because of the Empress. Once the Empress is evicted to the cold pce, he cant be the Crown Prince anymore.
Prince Huai smiled.
Lu Chen took advantage of his absence to demote his woman, Mu Qianqian, to an official prostitute. He didnt expect Lu Chens retribution toe so quickly!
Chapter 261 - the Empress Dowager’s thoughts
Chapter 261: Chapter 261, the Empress Dowagers thoughts
In the Empress Dowagers pce. After the empress dowager was exposed by Emperor Hui Lin, she could not eat. Her sense of taste had not worked since she was not favored. Once she had something troubling her, it would taste like wax. Ever since Lu Chen was born, the Empress Dowager had not liked the empress. She had even tampered with Empress Zhou several times when she was pregnant. If not for her niece Noble Consort Li protecting the empress everywhere, Lu Chen would not have lived to this day. Many times, the empress dowager had thought that the emperor had not been able to track her down because the emperor could not find out. Hearing what the Hui Lin Emperor had said today, the empress dowager finally understood. It turned out that the Hui Lin Emperor had always known about her tampering, and so did Lu Chen. A confidant at the side said, Empress dowager, the Emperor has always been filial. By saying this, he is not pursuing the past. I think the crown prince is also filial. Why does the empress have to take it to heart? Right now, you are the most honorable woman in all of Datang. You should be more relieved. The empress dowager said, Originally, I just didnt want the bloodline of the Zhou family to be the future emperor. Now, I cant keep the Crown Prince Anymore! Your Highness. The confidant sighed. The empress dowager was already so old. Why was there a need for this? The empress dowager said, How can the crown prince be so filial? Now that His Majesty is suppressing him, what about the future? He may not not hate the AI family. If after he ascends the throne, he bestows that slut, concubine Zhou, as thete empress, I wont be able to live in peace even underground! At the side, imperial chef Li took out the powder made from rice sacks and fruits, lit it, and said, What the Empress Dowager said is reasonable. Your Majesty, at this moment, there are rumors outside that Zhou Shihui is the Emperors daughter. The empress dowager can also use this to let the Emperor and empress contend. Empress dowager, if you help Zhou Qinghe, then in the future, wont Zhou Qinghe also help King Huai when he enters the pce? Hearing this, the empress dowager said, Zhou Qinghe is also that B * Tchs niece. However, on ount of being able to let King Huai seize the throne, I will help her this time! The empress dowager took a puff of the rice sack flower fruit cigarette and instantly felt a little better! .. After Zhou Qing and he became famous, he was always chased by people wherever he went. Now, he was even called into the pce by the Empress Dowager every day. Yu Yan asked for news outside and said to Qiao jinniang, Everyone in the pce said that the Empress Dowager also wants Zhou Qing and him to enter the pce. The reason why she hasnt been rewarded is that His Majesty doesnt want to let Zhou Qing and he down... Nonsense. Lu Chen came from outside the hall and scolded Yu Yan when he heard her bbering. Yu Yan knelt down repeatedly. This servant knows her mistake. Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Why are you scaring my servant girl? You can leave first. Yu Yan and the other pce maids quickly left. Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniangs side and sat down. As the crown princes consort, pce maids are not allowed to stir up trouble in the pce. Yuyan wont gossip. She just told me the rumors outside,Lady Qiao defended Yuyan and said, Stop scaring my pce maids in the future. Lu Chen said, Glutinous Rices parents will arrive this afternoon. Do you want to go out and take a look? Lady Qiaos eyes lit up. Of course I want to take a look. After all, they havente back for years to look for glutinous rice. Its extremely irresponsible for them to note back until their son gets married. Lu Chen took the ointment from the side and gently applied it on the burn on Qiao Jinniangs hand. Then, in a while, change into a set of inner servants clothes and go out with me. Yes.Qiao jinniang nodded and said, Right, Zhou Qing and his father have been going to the empress dowagers ce every day. are mother and father really not going to exin? By now, the entire Luoyang was almost certain that Zhou Shihui was the princess. Lu Chen said, Zhou Shihuis biological fathers identity is a little troublesome, so father allowed the rumors to spread. Qiao Jinniang was even more curious. Who is her biological father? Why would father rather this rumor spread among the people than exin it? Lu Chen said, Curiosity kills the cat. Its better that you dont know. Its rted to the reputation of an important figure in great Tang. Qiao jinniang said, Whose reputation is more important than fathers? Just tell me. I can definitely keep the secret. Other than you, I have no one else to tell. Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen with a deep thirst for knowledge. Lu Chen said, Take a break for lunch first. When you wake up, I will bring you to the outside of the pce. Qiao Jinniang wrapped her hands around Lu Chens shoulders and said, Good brother, just tell me. I swear that I will never tell anyone. Lu Chen said, I dont want to tell you this because I have a guess in my heart. Ill think about whether to tell you after Im sure. Qiao Jinniang became even more curious when she heard this. If you dont tell me, Im afraid I wont even be able to sleep during my lunch break. I beg you. Lu Chen said, Anyway, youll know one day. Go and see Glutinous Rices parents first. Qiao Jinniang snorted, she red at Lu Chen and said, As expected of the high and mighty crown prince. In the past, you told me everything in Lin an, but now youre not willing to tell me anything. I was originally locked in the East Pce, and you still dont allow me to know the secret... After saying that, Qiao Jinniang took the nket from the side and covered her entire head. Lu Chen sighed. Be careful not to suffocate. Then you have to promise that after I tell you, you are not to act Rashly. Okay.Qiao Jinniang sat up and looked at Lu Chen with great interest. Lu Chen said, Zhou Shihuis biological father is Qian Yins brother, Qian Yi. After Qian Yi became a monk on Laojun Mountain, he became the abbot of Laojun Temple. The abbot of Laojun temple has always been the grand tutor of Great Tang. Qiao Jinniang heard this and said, So the niece that Qian Yin is looking for is Zhou Shihui? Thats not right. He has seen Zhou Shihui before, but he didnt recognize her as his niece. Instead, he thinks that Xie Xiangxiang is his niece? Lu Chen said, Qian Yin only knows that Xiangxiang is his niece, but he doesnt know that Zhou Qinghe was also pregnant with his elder brothers child. Back then, Qian Yi fell in love with a singing girl by the Huai River. The old princess didnt agree, so he eloped with the singing girl to Yinzhou. After the singing girl became pregnant, Qian Yi began to have a headache over his identity as an unborn child. Coincidentally, he met Zhou Qing he at that time. Zhou Qing he fell in love with him at first sight and confided in him. He even told him about Zhou Qing hes identity. Qian Yi wanted to marry Zhou Qing and be his wife so that the singing girl could follow him back to the Wu royal residence as a concubine. He did not have to let the child be born without a name and cause ridicule. But who knew that Zhou Qing and the singing girl were unwilling to share a husband with the singing girl, forcing Qian Yi to choose one. Qian Yi naturally couldnt give up on the weak singing girl, abandoning Zhou Qing and... Qiao Jinniang heard this and cursed, This Qian Yi is really a scum. Zhou Qing and have also met a bad person.. No, that day, I went to Qingming Academy with you. I heard Xie Shanchang say that Qian Yi met an enemy and killed his daughter. That enemy was Zhou Qing he? Lu Chen nodded lightly. Yes. Qiao jinniang said, Zhou Qing he met a scumbag man, and he was indeed pitiful. But what enmity did that child have with her? If he wanted revenge, why didnt he go after Qian Yi. Bullying a newborn baby, what kind of ability is that? Qiao Jinniang cursed indignantly. Suddenly, as if she had thought of something, she looked at Lu Chen and said, SA Moer once said that glutinous rice looked simr to Qian Yin. Qian Yin also identified glutinous rice as his niece at a nce. Do you think its possible that the baby didnt die back then? is it glutinous rice?
Chapter 262
Chapter 262: Chapter 262. Glutinous rice was adopted
Lu Chen nodded slightly. This possibility is not small. Qiao jinniang said, If glutinous rice is really the baby that Zhou Qing and he harmed, then what if Zhou Qing and he knew about glutinous Rices identity? Thats not right. If it really is glutinous rice, i definitely wont let Zhou Qing and he off. Zhou Qing and he could have been ruthless back then, let alone now. Knowing that glutinous rice was still alive, how could she not kill him? She had long been in conflict with Zhou Qing because of Zhou Sisi and Zhou Shihui. It was really Zhou Qing and she had to strike first. Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand. I was afraid that you would be impulsive, so I didnt want to tell you about this. These are just our guesses. Qiao Jinniang got up and said, Yes, we have to go and see Glutinous Rices parents first. .. The early autumn sun was as scorching as ever. A group of people dressed like ordinary farmers entered marquis an Yuans manor. The group of people were dumbstruck as if they had entered a fairnd. Qiao Jinniang and glutinous rice were already waiting in the courtyard. Glutinous rice had asked Qiao jinniang several times if her clothes were okay. Qiao jinniang smiled at glutinous rice. You look very good. Xiangxiang!Two old men with white hair staggered over. Trembling, the woman saw the birthmark on the back of glutinous Rices neck and said, Xiangxiang, youre really alive. Thats great, thats Great! Mother, didnt Huang Daxian in the vige say that my younger sister will have good fortune if she doesnt die?A capable young woman said. Mother, dont cry. After glutinous rice looked at Lady Qiao Jin, she went to pay her respects and said, Father, mother, dont cry. Im happy that I can find my biological parents. The peasant woman trembled as she took out a jade pendant from her bosom and said, Xiangxiang, actually, were not your biological parents either. Glutinous rice said in shock, But... Qiao Ruoyun looked at the jade pendant from the side and felt that it was very familiar. The peasant woman said, Back then, when your father and I were working in the fields, your eldest sister went to thetrine pit and heard your cries. When we rushed over, we saw you under thetrine pit and we quickly rescued you. At that time, it was fortunate that someone in the vige had boiled hot water so that you wouldnt freeze to death at that time. Your father and I had never been able to have a man. Huang Daxian in the vige said that we werent lucky enough and let us support you. At that time, we thought that we wouldnt leave you behind even if we had a bite to eat. However, who knew that a disaster would force us to separate. After escaping for our lives, we forgot to give you this jade pendant. This jade pendant was found in your swaddling clothes when we met you. There was a joss word carved on it, so we named You Joss. Glutinous rice held the jade pendant and knelt down. No matter what, you have saved my life. Glutinous rice will definitely repay your kindness. The peasant woman said, Its good that youre alive. Its good that youre alive. As long as youre not inhumane, seeing how you were born at that time, its impossible not to save you. I dont know which God damned person threw you in there. Back then, Li Zheng said that the swaddling clothes on your body were all high-ss Yun Jin. Im afraid that you were thrown away by your family in order to protect your reputation. He advised us not to report it to the government. Later, because of the flood, we were separated from you for so long. I dont know if you can still find your family now! Qiao Jinniang heard that it was glutinous rice that she found in thetrine pit in winter and was extremely angry. She said to glutinous rice, Let me see the Jade Pendant. The glutinous rice handed the jade pendant to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang thought about the ce where the jade pendant had once fallen. She wrapped the jade pendant with a handkerchief before examining it carefully: I seem to have seen a piece of this jade on Fu Lus waist. Qiao Ruoyun said, Thats right. When I was being hunted down that day, Princess Fu Lu gave me her jade pendant. Its simr to this jade pendant. The carvings on the back seem to be the same. Qiao Jin Niang nced at Lu Chen and exchanged nces with him, confirming their suspicions in the Eastern Pce. Qiao Jin Niang returned the jade pendant to glutinous rice and said, Glutinous rice, hide this jade pendant well and keep it a secret. Ill help you find your biological parents. Glutinous rice hid the jade pendant and nodded gently, Yes, Master. Qiao jinniang gave glutinous Rices adoptive parents another sum of silver and promised them arge fishing boat that could go out to sea, telling them not to make a fuss about this matter. Glutinous Rices adoptive mother thanked her profusely. Of course, of course. Although we dont know what happened. But I think that someone who is so crazy as to throw a baby into atrine pit must not be a good person. We will keep glutinous Rices identity a secret from the outside world. Glutinous rice sent the adoptive parents to an inn to rest. Qiao Jinniang clenched her fists in the carriage that was returning to the pce: Zhou Qinghe has gone too far. Throwing a child into thetrine pit in the winter, he wants the child to be drowned alive by the filth and freeze to death! Thinking about it, Qiao Jinniang felt nauseous and wanted to vomit. Glutinous rice was lucky to have met all the kind-hearted vigers. If she was unlucky, no one would have found out that there was a child in thetrine pit. Moreover, not everyone could be selfless enough to jump into thetrine pit to save someone. Lu Chen patted Qiao Jinniang on the back and said, I know youre angry, but dont act rashly on this matter. Zhou Qing and Tong Yingying were different. Tong Yingying was just an empty title. And youve seen how much Zhou Qing and now are admired by the people. The past is too long ago, and you cant testify that the person who threw away sticky rice back then was Zhou Qing and. At this moment, Zhou Qing and is in the limelight. If we take revenge rashly, we might even be backfired by her supporters. Qiao jinniang said, Yes, lets go to mothers side first and tell her about this matter. Zhou Qing he was Empress Zhous biological sister after all. If Empress Zhou really wanted to protect Zhou Qing he, Qiao Jinniang would still take revenge for glutinous rice, but she had to hide it from Empress Zhou. However, Qiao Jinniang thought that Empress Zhou should be able to distinguish between public and private matters. .. In the administrative hall. Zhou Qing he wore this purple pce dress and sat beside Empress Zhou: Sister, the Ministry of Justice has already set a date for the execution of Sisi. Do you really wish for His Majesty to Know the truth of the past rather than to save Sisi? Empress Zhou asked, What truth of the past? Zhou Qing said, You clearly know that His Majesty initially took a liking to my talent and my knowledge! The person his majesty likes to have a sessor is also me. His Majesty only mistook you for me back then. Do you think that if I told his majesty about the past, His Majesty would still favor you? If His Majesty knew that his favor over the past twenty years had been doting on the wrong person, what do you think he would do? Empress Zhou poured a ss of water for Zhou Qing and said, Sister, its not that I didnt save Sisi, but Sisimitted a human life. She had clearly returned to normal, but she still pretended to be dumb and hurt people through stupidity. I saved her this time, but what about in the future? Let her pretend to be stupid and hurt others again? Arent other peoples lives innocent? Zhou Qing and threatened, Then dont me me for not caring about our sisterly rtionship. His Majesty knows that he has been deceived by you for twenty years. I believe you cant keep your position as the empress, right? I dont need you to worry about whether mother can keep her position as the Empress. Lu Chen and Lady Qiao Jin were not allowed to report to the Empress when they entered the pce. As soon as they entered, they did not expect to hear Zhou Qing and his threat, so they spoke out. Zhou Qing said calmly, King Huai is watching from the side like a tiger watching its prey. Sister, Crown Prince, why dont you wake up and save Zhou Sisi? Get Qiao Lui and Fu Lu to break off the engagement and get back together with the Zhou family. Dont me me for not caring about the sisterly rtionship. Empress Zhou sighed. Since sister has said so, its just right. I dont want to care about the sisterly rtionship anymore. Hearing that, Zhou Qinghe angrily rebuked Empress Zhou. Zhou Qingxiu, if you have the guts, Ill just wait and see how you return the life that youve upied for more than twenty years to me!
Chapter 263
Chapter 263: Chapter 263, Fu Lu killed Xie Xiangxiang
After Zhou Qinghe left, Empress Zhou asked Lu Chen and Qiao jinniang, Why did the two of youe to this pce today? where is Xier? Why didnt you bring Xier with you? Qiao Jinniang exined the purpose of her visit to glutinous rice in a few words. After Empress Zhou heard that, she said, So Qian Yis daughter is still alive. It seems that the heavens have pity on her. Qiao Jinniang cupped her hands and said, Mother, Zhou Qing and she were able to do that to glutinous rice back then. If she were to know of glutinous Rices current identity, I believe that she would definitely not let glutinous rice off. The empress said, There is no evidence of what happened back then. It has not been long since I learned of this matter. Qian Yi did not pursue Zhou Qing he face to face because there is no evidence. The midwife that she bribed has long lost her life. When Lady Qiao heard this, she said, Are we going to let her continue to be so carefree? Lu Chen held Lady Qiaos hand and said, Theres always a way to deal with Zhou Qing he. But, mother, just now Zhou Qing said that you reced her life. Whats going on? When father was young, was he really so blind that he could fall in love with her? Empress Zhou reprimanded softly, Chen er, how can you say such things about your father? Lu Chen lowered his head and said, I admit my mistake. Empress Zhou did not want to talk about the past in front of the younger generation. She only said to Qiao jinniang, If you want to take revenge for glutinous rice, you dont have to worry about me. Thank you, mother,Qiao Jinniang bowed and said. .. The date of the autumn clothing was set on the 10th day of the 8th month. The hunting enclosure was in the royal enclosure of Mount Baiyun. There were many ferocious beasts here. Once the date was set, all the princes and princes were in high spirits. The Hui Lin Emperor led the officials of the harem to go hunting. It was very lively at the foot of Mount Baiyun. Many people had nevere to Mount Baiyun before. The first time they came, they were all in high spirits. The enclosure was divided into beast areas and hunting areas for women to y. Lu Chen led the Eastern Pce to deploy the generals to hunt. Qiao Jinniang, Consort Qi, Consort Chu, and the others led Little Lu Xibao and the others to shoot some hedgehogs and rabbits with slingshots. At noon, they found a clean ce and sat on the ground. The pce servants ced some pastries and other things on the big rocks. Princess Qi sat down and said, The scenery on Mount Baiyun is really beautiful. It makes people forget to return. I wonder what kind of beautiful poems Zhou Qing and he can write on such a mountain peak? Princess Chu said, Thats true. Today is such a beautiful scenery. It would be a pity not to have a good poem. Princess consort, its not good.The servant girl beside Princess Fu Lu rushed over and bowed to Qiao Jinniang. Princess consort, Princess Fu Lu and Princess Yuquan entered the ferocious beast zone after a huntingpetition. The Fierce Beast Area Today was a real fierce beast. It was not like Chang an, where there were bears and tigers for the princes and grandchildren to hunt. There were Beast Tamers at the side. Where is Aunt Shou an? Princess Consort, the eldest princess is not feeling well this time, so she and the prince consort did note to the hunting ground. The princess and Princess Yuquan went together. There were no guards with them. Im afraid... Lady Qiaoforted the servant girl, Go back and wait for Fu Lu. I will send guards to inform Ah Lui and the crown prince. I will also send guards to the beast area to look for Fu Lu. In the Beast area, there were fierce tigers and ck bears. If one was not skilled in archery, one would not dare to enter. After all, beasts were inhumane. They would not show mercy when hurting people. Fu Lu did not understand why Zhou Shihui, who did not know martial arts, dared to enter the Beast area with her. However, since they had already entered, she definitely would not admit defeat to Zhou Shihui. Zhou Shihui sat on the horse and pointed at the yellow fur that was revealed in the Green Forest. She said to Fu Lu, Fu Lu, look over there! From Afar, Fu Lu looked at the huge creature with yellow and ck stripes squirming in the distance, like a fierce tiger. Fu Lu drew his bow and nocked an arrow, shooting it out abruptly. Zhou Shihui, who was at the side, smiled slightly as she looked at Fu Lu. Fu Lu felt that something was wrong. He rode his horse forward and saw a familiar-looking woman lying on the ground. She had a tiger skin draped over her body and an arrow had been shot through her heart, causing blood to flow. Zhou Shihui rode his horse closer and shouted loudly, Not good, Princess Fu Lu identally killed Xie Xiangxiang! Fu Lu red at Zhou Shihui. You? You set a trap for me to get in? Zhou shihui said, How do you say that? You shot the Arrow! Princess Fu Lu lowered her body and touched Xie Xiangxiangs breath. She found that she was not breathing. Why would Xie Xiangxiange here for no reason? And why was there a piece of tiger skin on her body? Zhou Shihui had deliberately provoked her and brought her here. There must be something strange. Xie Xiangxiang was about the same age as her. She had lost her life at such a young age. It must be Zhou Shihuis doing! Fu Lu whipped the whip hanging from his waist at Zhou Shihuis body. Very soon, the cries here attracted the attention of others. When everyone rushed over from all directions, they saw Fu Lu holding a whip andshing Zhou shihui fiercely. Zhou Shihui, you are shameless and heartless. You harmed me today, and I Will Never Forgive You! Zhou Shihui also did not expect that Fu Lu would actually disregard everything and beat her like this. She simply did not have the ability to fight back. Zhou Siming went forward and grabbed Fu Lus whip. King Huai hurriedly helped Zhou Shihui up. Zhou siming exerted force, causing Fu Lu to stagger and have no choice but to shake off the whip in his hand. He red angrily at Zhou Shihui. Zhou shihui cried out, Princess Fu Lu killed Xie Xiangxiang, the only granddaughter of great schr Xie! Although it was originally just a mistake, she was actually afraid that the matter would be exposed and implicate the death penalty. She even wanted to kill me to silence me! Zhou Siming red angrily at Princess Fu Lu and said, Fu Lu, how can you be so unreasonable for a man? Its not enough to kill one person, but you still want to kill a second one! Princess Fu Lu said with a dark face, I dont have one! The crown prince of the Cheng en bo mansion walked up to Xie Xiangxiang and pulled out the arrow feather on her heart. This arrow feather has the mark of your Fu Lu on it! Uncle, even you are helping this Zhou Shihui, Dont You Trust Me?Princess Fu Lu felt that she could not defend herself. Qiao lui dismounted from his horse and walked to Fu Lus side. I trust you. You will never kill people casually. Although Xie Xiangxiang was not the daughter of a high-ranking official or noble family, her identity was more troublesome than that of some princess. She was the only granddaughter of great schr Xie. Great schr Xie was already at this age, and his only descendant was gone just like that. If they did not find out the murderer and give great schr Xie An exnation, Qingming Academy would not give up either. Fu Lu hugged Qiao Lui and cried out in grievance. She was wearing a tigers fur. I thought it was a tiger, so I shot her. I had no idea she was Xie Xiangxiang. Qiao Lui, I really did not kill her on purpose. Qiao lui hugged her andforted her. Yes, I know you didnt mean to kill her. Dont be afraid.
Chapter 264
Chapter 264: Chapter 264, seizing the title of Fu Lu
When Qiao Jinniang heard that someone had died in the beast area, she rushed back to the pce with Consort Qi and the others. Xie Xiangxiangs body was covered with ayer of white cloth. A few officials from Qingming Academy knelt on the ground and begged the emperor to deal with her impartially. Zhou Shihui sat on a chair with grievance, as if she was also seriously injured. Qiao Jinniang walked to Lu Chens side and asked softly, Why would Xie Xiangxiang suddenly appear at the Beast Area? She doesnt know martial arts or archery. Lu Chen said, Ive already ordered people to investigate. Your Majesty, the evidence and witnesses of Princess Fu Lus shooting of Miss Xie areplete. I beg the Emperor to deal with it impartially! Zhou Qinghe also stood up and said, Yes, your majesty. Since the prince hasmitted the same crime as themon people, Princess Huai Zhou Sisi was also sentenced to death for identally killing Tong Yingying. Princess Fu Lu kept saying that she had identally killed Tong Yingying, but it was indeed her who had killed Tong Yingying. She even tried to kill my daughter to Silence Tong Yingying. I Beg Your Majesty to punish her impartially. Zhou Qing hes meaning was clearly clear. If your Majesty wanted to show mercy to Fu Lu, then Zhou Sisis death sentence should also be revoked. Marquis an yuan cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, there are no eyes in the encirclement. Princess Fu Lu definitely did not kill Tong Yingying on purpose. Moreover, Xie Xiangxiang has a piece of tiger skin on her body. It is precisely because of the tiger skin that Princess Fu Lu mistook Tong Yingying for a ferocious beast!! Please Forgive me, Your Majesty. Seeing that his subordinates were talking about a heavy death penalty and pleading for mercy at the same time, the Hui Lin Emperor said, Fu Lu, what do you have to say? Fu Lu, who was kneeling on the ground, said, Uncle, I really did not kill Xie Xiangxiang on purpose. It was Zhou Shihui who provoked me and made me go to the ferocious beast area topete with her. This was a trap that she set up for me! Zhou Shihui said softly in pain, I have never had any enmity with Xie Xiangxiang, and you know that Xie Xiangxiang and Qiao Lui had a very good rtionship in the academy in the past. Thats why you were jealous of Xie Xiangxiang and went to shoot her! Princess Fu Lu stood up angrily and wanted to p Zhou Shihuis face. However, before she could get close, she was stopped by Zhou Siming. Fu Lu, are you going to threaten Shihui in front of His Majesty? Zhou Siming, Ive treated you as my elder brother since I was young. Youve watched me grow up. Do you think I would do something so heartless as to harm someones life? Princess Fu Lu said, Killing Xie Xiangxiang wont benefit me at all. Moreover, I want to know that Xie Xiangxiang is my uncle Qians niece. Why would I harm Xie Xiangxiang! Zhou shihui said, Originally, you relied on your status as a princess to force Qiao Lui to marry you. You Were Afraid that Xie Xiangxiang would return to King Wus manor and be King Wus princess. There were so many students from Qingming Academy protecting Xie Xiangxiang, so you took action. Fu Lu could not suppress the anger in his heart. You, you... Qiao Jinniang went forward and pulled Fu Lu back. Zhou Shihui, you said earlier that Fu Lu was killed by mistake, and now youre saying that she did it on purpose. Isnt that contradicting yourself? Zhou Shihui said, Who knows if she really did it on purpose? Maybe she did it on purpose! Anyway, the arrow in Xie Xiangxiangs heart was shot by her, Your Majesty... Zhou Shihui looked at the Hui Lin Emperor. Just now, Fu Lu almost killed me. I Beg Your Majesty to make the decision for me! Li Lingling had said that she was the biological daughter of the Hui Lin Emperor and had attempted to murder the princess. So what if Fu Lu was the only daughter of the eldest princess? Lu Chen stood out and said, Father, I would like to request a coroner to examine Xie Xiangxiangs body. I feel that there is something strange about Xie Xiangxiang wearing tiger fur in the beast area for no reason. The Huilin emperor said, Yes. Soon, a coroner from the Ministry of Justice came over and examined Xie Xiangxiangs body. He said, Your Majesty, the fatal injury of the deceased was on her chest. She did not show any signs of fainting when she was alive. She died from an arrow wound. The Minister of Justice came over and said, Your Majesty, after being tortured and interrogated by the Ministry of Justice, it was confirmed that Miss Xie entered the ferocious beast area on her own. At that time, a small official reminded Miss Xie that there were ferocious tigers inside. She still entered the ferocious beast area with her fur. Qiao Jinniang felt that it was strange and frowned slightly. Not to mention women, even those civil officials would not go to the ferocious beast area when hunting. Xie Xiangxiangs way of doing things was indeed very strange. Zhou Qing he cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, now that the coroner has found out the cause of death, I Beg Your Majesty to stand up for elder Xie and the royal wu manor in Jiangnan! When Qiao Jinniang heard Zhou Qing hes words, a chill rose from her back. She and Lu Chen knew Xie Xiangxiangs identity. But Zhou Qing he did not know! Zhou Qing he thought that Xie Xiangxiang was the child that she threw into thetrine pit. She had already said that the Wu royal residence.. Xie Xiangxiangs death must have something to do with Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter. Moreover, Xie Xiangxiang might have be glutinous Rices scapegoat. Thinking of this, Qiao Jinniang felt that she could not just sit and wait for death. If Zhou Qing he knew glutinous Rices identity, could she protect glutinous rice? Many students from Qingming Academy rushed over when they heard the news. They knelt outside the enclosure and begged the emperor for justice. The Hui Lin Emperor looked at Fu Lu and said, The matter of Princess Fu Lu killing Xie Xiangxiang has all the witnesses and evidence. ording to thew, she should be executed. On the hunting ground, the sword has no eyes. She specially snatched the title of Princess Fu Lu from Qin Xiangxiang and was sent to the border as a lowly official. Uncle, I really did not kill on purpose. How can you be so muddle-headed!Fu Lu knelt on the ground and said. Zhou Shihui looked at Fu Lu smugly. To say that His Majesty was muddle-headed at this time, Fu Lu was probably tired of living. However, Zhou Qinghe still said, Since Qin Xiang killed the youngdy of the Xie family and was only sent to the border, then Princess Huai should not be sentenced to death. Prince Huai also came out and said, I beg father to spare Zhou Sisis life. The Hui Lin Emperor said with a dark face, One thing is another. Zhou Shihui held Zhou Qing hes hand and advised her not to really provoke the Hui Lin Emperors anger. After all, she also wanted her mother and the Hui Lin Emperor to be together. If she regained her rightful identity as a princess, then her marriage with Qiao Lui would be at her fingertips. Why would she let her mother fight over a Zhou Sisi. Qiao Jinniang nced at the tiger skin beside her. She gently stroked the piece of tiger skin and felt that it was a little strange, she softly asked Lu Chen beside her, This tiger skin seems to be different from the tiger skin Ive seen before. The tiger skin Ive seen doesnt have such long fur or such arge piece. Lu Chen said, No wonder you didnt know. This is a tiger from Mount Taibai. Its different from the Tigers of the central ins. There are two pieces of tiger skin from Emperor Wens war against Gaoguoli in the pce. This tiger from Mount Taibai is bigger and more powerful than the Tigers of the central ins. Its extremely difficult for ordinary warriors to hunt a tiger from Mount Taibai. That tiger skin is almost a thousand taels of silver. Very few people have seen it before. Lady Qiao asked, Then where did Xie Xiangxiang get this piece of Tiger Skin? The color of this tiger skin was a little brighter than that of an ordinary tiger of the central ins. More importantly, why would she bring a piece of tiger skin into the fierce beast area for no reason? With the loss of a human life, the hunt would stop halfway. Back in Ziwei City, Princess Shouan and the Prince Consort of Qin went to Hanliang Pce to kneel and beg the Hui Lin Emperor to let Fu Lu off lightly. How could fu Lu withstand such a journey all the way to the border! The Hui Lin Emperor said helplessly, Royal sister, its not that Im ruthless enough to ignore Fu Lu, but this time, the evidence and witnesses are all in ce. The one who died was the only granddaughter of great schr Xie. If I dont deal with her, Im afraid that the hearts of all the schrs in the world will be chilled! Shou ans eyes were red as he said, Royal brother, I only have one daughter. I really cant bear to send her to the border. Moreover, dont you understand Fu Lu? How can she kill people? Manughter is also murder!Hui Lindi said. Shou an said loudly, But she was set up by Zhou Shihui. You Cant let my daughter suffer for your own daughter! What Daughter?Hui Lindi said, How is Zhou Shihui My Daughter?
Chapter 265
Chapter 265: In chapter 265, Fu Lu and Qiao Lui got married in advance
Shou an said, There is a lot of gossip outside. Since Zhou Shihui is not your daughter, how could you bear to let Fu Lu be schemed against and be sent to the border! Hui Lindi said, I only found out in Chang an not long ago that Zhou Shihui is the daughter of Qian Yi, the former king of Wu. The prince consort of Qin looked at Hui Lindi in surprise, Royal brother, Whats going on? Didnt Qian Yin mention that he has a niece who is Zhou Shihui? Qian Yin always thought that his niece is Xie Xiangxiang. How could he have another niece? When the Huilin Emperor heard this, he immediately understood. No Wonder Zhou Qing cared so much about this matter. It turned out that there was such a rtionship.. When he heard that the internal servant came to report to the crown prince, he let Lu Chen in and said, Go to Laojun Mountain and ask Qian Yi toe down. Lu Chen said, I ept your order. The Hui Lin emperor continued, If he is unwilling toe down, you must also make hime down. This is rted to the safety and injustice of Fu Lu. Yes.Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, Can I bring the Crown Princess Along? The Huilin Emperor red at Lu Chen and said, Forget it. As long as you can persuade him toe down from Laojun Mountain, I dont care who you bring with you. .. Qiao Jinniang heard that they were going to Laojun Mountain, so she looked for winter clothes and overcoats in the alley. Instead of bringing Hong Ling and the other pce maids, she brought glutinous rice with her. Glutinous rice said excitedly, I heard that its snowing on Laojun Mountain. Ive never climbed such a high mountain before. Qiao Jinniang saw glutinous Rices happy look and asked Lu Chen to go to the carriage at the side. She said to glutinous rice, Actually, Im taking you to Laojun Mountain this time to find your father. Glutinous rice said happily, Master, you found my biological father so quickly? Qiao Jinniang slowly told glutinous rice about her background. Glutinous rice listened and said, Master, have you been fascinated by some novel? How can I be the daughter of the Royal Highness... You Are the daughter of the Marquis, and I still cant get over it... Qiao Jinniang lightly knocked on Glutinous Rices head. Even if Im entranced, I cant use this kind of thing to coax you. You really are the daughter of the former Wu King. And the person who threw you into thetrine that year was Zhou Qing he! Master, dont say the wordtrine. Ever since you found out that I have to bathe twice a day,glutinous rice said, I even despise myself. Qiao Jinniang chuckled. Silly glutinous rice. Glutinous rice asked slowly, Master, are you really mistaken? Wait until you meet your biological father, then you will know,said Qiao Jinniang. The road to Laojun Mountain was very dangerous. Ordinary carriages could not get there, so they could only walk up. Although it was still very hot at the bottom of the mountain, it was snowing when it was almost the peak. The snow hung on the branches at the top of the mountain. The scenery was hazy and beautiful. When they finally reached the peak, they saw the towering Laojun Taoist temple. The incense in the Taoist temple was very strong. After the young Taoist learned of Lu Chens identity, he went to report to Qian Yi that the crown prince hade. After a while, the young Taoist came over and said with his Daoist name, Your Highness the Crown Prince, the Crown Princess Consort, my master said that he wont see any guests for the time being. Lady Qiao Jin frowned slightly. His Highness is here. is your Taoist priest not going to see him? The young Taoist priest nodded and said, Yes. A few days ago, a king of the Wu Kingdom of Jiangnan came and talked to my master for an hour. After that, my master went into seclusion and no longer saw any guests. .. In the Zhou Manor. Zhou Siming said anxiously to Zhou Qing, Aunt, His Majesty is still not willing to let Sisi off lightly. What should we do? There is not much time left before the execution date. Zhou Qing said, At the mid-autumn Pce banquet, if Zhou Qingxiu is still not willing to plead on Sisis behalf, then I will let Zhou Qingxiu and the crown prince die together with Sisi. It can also be considered to have fulfilled Sisis wish. After all, Zhou Sisi liked Lu Chen so much. Since they could not live together, then they would die together! Zhou siming frowned. He thought that other than relying on Zhou Qing and he, there was probably no other way. Zhou Shihui said to Zhou Qinghe, Mother, Im going to the Heavenly Prison to meet Qin Xiangxiang! Hearing the words Xiangxiang, Zhou Qinghe did not look good. He only said to Zhou shihui, Go Early ande back early! In the heavenly prison. Fu Lu was locked up in the prison. It was the best, with a bed carved with jade pirs and a bed made of smoke and cloud gauze. Qiao lui hugged Fu Lu tightly in the prison and said, Father and I have discussed it. Even if you are sent to the border, I will go to the border to join the army. No matter if I go to Lingnan or the northwest, I will always follow you. Fu Lu said with tears in his eyes, Are you stupid? You are the Crown Prince of Xiang Hua, marquis an Yuan, and the younger brother of the Crown Princess. If you follow me to the border, your whole life will be ruined. Qiao lui said, I am not stupid. Our ancestors led the army at the border. I also went to the border when I was young. How could my life be ruined? Our marriage has been decided. No matter where we go, I will follow you! Fu Lus tears kept falling. No, you cant follow me to the border. Take good care of my parents for me. Your mother is the eldest princess, and your father is the prince consort. You Dont need me to take care of you, but you are different. Zhou Shihui walked out of the prison and heard Qiao Lui and Fu Lus words. She clenched her hands and walked to the prison door. She said to Qiao Lui, Qiao Lui, Fu Lu will only drag you down and your Qiao Manor Down. Im sure the Crown Princess will not let you marry Fu Lu. Qiao lui released Fu Lu slightly and said to Zhou shihui in disgust, Sister and I are not afraid that Fu Lu will drag us down. You still dont understand. Whether I want to marry Fu Lu has nothing to do with whether she is the princess or Not! Zhou shihui frowned and said, Qiao Lui, do you really have to be so stupid? Do you know that I am the Emperors biological daughter? If you marry me, the power of Marquis an Yuans estate will be monstrous. If you marry Fu Lu, it will drag you down! Fu Lu spat, Pui, how can you be uncles biological daughter? Moreover, if you are really uncles biological daughter, then Qiao Lui cant marry you even more. You probably dont know that the Princesss prince consort must only have an idle position and not a title, right? Qiao lui said to Fu Lu, Ignore her. There are only a few days left before you leave Luoyang. Why dont we bring forward the wedding date? At least we can let our rtives and friends witness our happiness. Fu Lu said, Are you stupid? Marrying me into the family at this time is letting your Qiao family suffer the jealousy and hatred of all the schrs in the world. It will implicate your marquis an Yuan Manor! Qiao lui said with a serious expression, Im not afraid. The Qiao family will not be afraid. The Qiao family has always kept their word. The marriage has been arranged. We are a family! Wait for me in prison. Ill go and ask my father to arrange the marriage. Also, write a letter to my mother and ask my mother and grandmother toe to Luoyang. However, we are in a hurry. Im afraid the wedding ceremony will not beplete. Sorry to trouble you. Fu Lu stepped on Qiao Luis forehead and kissed it gently. Im not sorry. Zhou Shihui saw the intimacy between the two of them as if no one was around, and the anger in her heart grew stronger and stronger! Why did Qiao Lui still choose Fu Lu Now? She was just amoner who was about to be sent to the border. In the future, she wouldnt even be able to carry her shoes. Zhou Shihui really couldnt understand how she was worse than Fu Lu. During the mid-autumn Festival, her mother would publicly announce that her aunt had reced her mother and be the empress. She would announce that the emperor liked her mother. Therefore, the day when she would officially be a princess was not far away! When her identity was announced to the world, she wanted to see how regretful the Qiao family would be. She wanted to see if the Qiao family would resent Qiao Jinniang for forcing Qiao Lui to marry a woman who was spurned by the schrs of Qingming Academy.
Chapter 266
Chapter 266: Chapter 266. Qian Yi was not willing to testify against Zhou Qinghe
In a room on Laojun Mountain. Qiao jinniang said, I never thought that priest Wang Chen would not even want to see us. What should we do now? Lu Chen said, Qian Yi felt guilty towards Zhou Qing and Zhou Shihui. After hearing about Zhou Shihui, he begged father to take care of Zhou Shihui and her daughter. If he knew that we were begging him to go down and testify against Zhou Qing and kill his daughter, he might not be willing to go down the mountain with us. Qiao Jinniang looked at glutinous rice at the side. He feels guilty towards Zhou Shihui and her daughter. What about glutinous rice? Xie Xiangxiang? Fu Lu? If he doesnt testify against Zhou Qing and his daughter who killed him back then, Zhou Qing and his daughter will always be atrge and be supported by tens of thousands of people. On the other hand, how much hardship would fu Lu have to endure to be sent to the border at such a young age? Lu chen nodded and said, Dont worry. Ive already asked the young Daoist to pass the jade pendant given by glutinous rices adoptive mother to Qian Yi. Just as you said, if he can feel guilty towards Zhou Shihui and her daughter, then hell probably feel even more guilty towards glutinous rice. As expected, in less than fifteen minutes, eunuch Gu came in to inform that Daoist priest Wang Chen had arrived. Daoist priest Wang Chen was dressed in a ck and Green Daoist robe. Hebed the Daoist priests hair and held a horsetail whisk in his hand. When Qiao Jinniang saw Daoist priest Wang Chens appearance, she could not help but exim in surprise. Wang Chen was already middle-aged, but he was still handsome and handsome. Wearing a Daoist robe, he gave off a fairy-like feeling. He wasnt very simr to Qian Yin, but he was simr to glutinous rice. Qian Yi gave a Daoist name and said, Your Highness, Crown Prince Consort, May I ask where the jade pendant you gave me came from? Qiao Jin called out to glutinous rice, This jade pendant belongs to my servant girl, glutinous rice. When her foster parents picked her up, this jade pendant was on glutinous rice. When glutinous rice entered and saw Qian Yi, she could not help but be stunned for a moment. Qian Yi saw the appearance of the person and gripped the horsetail whisk in his hand tightly as he said, Heavenly venerate boundless. Lu Chen said, Priest Wangchen, Qian Yin does not know what happened in the past. He only heard the maidservant who used to follow you say that she mistook Xie Xiangxiang for his biological niece. Even Zhou Qing he thought so too. But yesterday, Xie Xiangxiang was really in the hunting ground. Qian Yis expression changed, and he gave another Daoist name, Boundless Celestial Venerable. Lu Chen continued, Zhou Qing he is now greatly respected by the world because of her talent in poetry. Priest, please go down the mountain and seek justice for Xie Xiangxiang. Qian Yi sighed deeply and said, This humble priest has already left the six desires and does not care about the affairs of the mortal world. Qiao jinniang said, Since you do not care about the affairs of the mortal world, then why did youe here after seeing the jade pendant? Qian Yi gestured his Daoist name and said, When I was young, I did many wrong things. It was I who let down Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter. Zhou Shihui suffered a lot since he was young. It was not easy for him to have a good day. Now That Your Highness wants me to identify Zhou Qing he, please forgive me for not being able to do anything. Qiao Jinniang said angrily, You indeed let down Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter. Then did you not let down glutinous rice, mother glutinous rice? Now, Zhou Qing and the one who killed Xie Xiangxiang. If she finds out in the future that Xie Xiangxiang is not your daughter but glutinous rice, what do you think will happen to Zhou Qing and he? If not for Zhou Qing and he, glutinous rice would not have be a restaurant maid! Zhou Shihui is pitiful, but so is glutinous rice! Qiao Jinniangughed coldly and said, I get it. You are probably not afraid of letting them down, but afraid that if you tell them about Zhou Qing and the things that he tried to secretly harm your daughter back then, it will cause your reputation to be lost. Now that you are the high and mighty abbot of the Laojun Temple, the most powerful Daoist in the world, and the most respected Daoist in Taoism, priest Wangchen, if you tell them about the past, are you afraid of being mocked as a heartless man? Qian Yi gestured with his Daoist name and said, This penniless priest has never had such thoughts. This penniless priest will settle glutinous rice properly, and will not let her be bullied by Zhou Qing and him again. As for testifying against Zhou Qing and the matter in front of the world, this penniless priest is unable toply. This penniless priest caused Zhou Qing and the daughter of a state duke to wander outside for many years, causing Zhou Shihui to wander between the trickery team and the church. It was not easy for the mother and daughter to have a good life now. If I were to go out and testify, it would be too unkind to them. Qiao jinniang said, So Xie Xiangxiang died in vain? Xie Xiangxiang is your good friends only daughter, and Xie Daru lost his grandson in hister years. How sorrowful would that be? Heavenly venerate immeasurable, everything in the world has its own fate. As long as it has been done, there will always be traces. I will not go and testify against Zhou Qing and his daughter, but I think the Ministry of Justice will definitely be able to find the real culprit. Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniangs livid expression and handed her a cup of tea. Calm down first. Qiao Jinniang poured a cup of tea directly on Qian Yis face: You think you have feelings and intentions, but back then, youmitted an ungrateful act. If you cant bear to part with Zhou Shihui and Zhou Qing and his mother and daughter to suffer because of you, then you should also stand up and plead guilty on their behalf! Regardless of Zhou Qinghes sins, your sins can not be forgiven. That year, glutinous rice was thrown into thetrine pit in the winter. Today, I want you to taste the suffering that glutinous rice suffered that day! Men, tie priest Wang Chen Up and throw him into thetrine pit. Its not toote to save him! The eastern pce guards looked at each other. Lu chen frowned and said, Why didnt you hear what the Crown Princess Said? Hearing Lu Chens words, the guards dared to attack Qian Yi. The young Taoist priests in the Taoist temple saw this scene and came forward one after another. They knelt on the ground and begged for mercy: Crown princess, how can you treat the Taoist priest like this? The Taoist priest is the leader of all Taoist sects in the world. He is an expert in immortal cultivation. Arent you afraid of being med by the gods for doing this? Qiao jinniang said, If there really is a god in the sky, he will reward me when he finds out that I have eliminated evil for the people. Sticky Rice said from the side, Thats right, thats right, my master is the best! Qian Yi really hurt Sticky Rices heart. She thought that she had really found her biological father, but who knew that her biological father would be so unreasonable. In order to protect Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter, he would rather his friends daughter die in vain. Qian Yi was tied up by the guards and walked into the private room. He had a fearless look on his face, but even if he was not in the secr world, when he smelled the smelling from the private room. Qian Yi could not remain calm. Your Highness... This penniless priest is willing to testify! Just as he finished speaking, Qian Yi was thrown into thetrine by the guards. Qiao Jinniang covered her nose and said to Lu Chen, Didnt he just say that hes willing to testify? Quickly get him out! The Eastern Pce Guards:... Lu Chen said, The monthly sry for this month is double. The eastern pce guards went to get Qian Yi. The stench was extremely disgusting, and Qian Yis handsome face became extremely miserable. However, Lady Qiao felt very happy. who asked him to be so hypocritical? He thought that he was a noble cultivator who had left the mortal world, but in reality, he did not have anypassion for the world. He deserved to be tainted by such filth!
Chapter 267
Chapter 267: Chapter 267, Layman Qiuyue
The snow on Laojun Mountain was getting heavier and heavier. It was too dangerous to go down the mountain at night. Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang rested in the side room for a night. There were no empty rooms in the side room of the Taoist temple. The imperial guards and guards who did not need to keep watch went to the houses of the nearby vigers. Gu Ming walked for a while and saw a luxurious and ptial civilian house. It was really strange to have such a luxurious house in the Deep Mountains. Gu Ming knocked on the door. The person who opened the door was a beautiful woman who was dressed like a fairy. Gu Ming said, We followed master to the old gentlemans temple to offer incense. There are no extra rooms in the old gentlemans temple. Is it possible to stay here for a night? We will definitely give you a lot of thanks. Im sorry. My master has a strange personality. He doesnt like to see outsiders. There is a vige not far from here. Many visitors whoe to offer incense are staying here. Why Dont you go to the vige and ask about it? Gu Ming said, Alright, thank you, miss. After the beautiful girl closed the door, Gu Ming instructed the secret guard, Go and investigate the background of this master. It was hard to say if there wasnt something fishy about building such arge mansion deep in the mountains. Perhaps it was some other manor where a prince was discussing matters. .. The next morning. Early in the morning, she was woken up by the sound of the Taoist priests practicing their martial arts. After Qiao Jinniang woke up, she washed up and walked outside to watch the Taoist priests practice. Each of them was only wearing a thin Taoist robe, which made Qiao Jinniang feel a chill. Lu Chen came over and draped his cloak over her body. The road was cut off by the heavy snowst night. The guards have already gone to the snow path. Im afraid well have to leave tomorrow. Qiao jinniang said, Alright. It was inevitable that the mountain would be sealed by the heavy snow. Qiao Jinniang could smell a fragrance from afar that carried a stench, but also a fragrance. She heard that Qian Yi had bathed for an entire night yesterday, but he had probably not been able to wash away the foul stench on his body. He deserved it. Gu Ming hurried over and said to Lu Chen, Your Highness, your subordinate has finally found the person who wrote the forbidden book, Layman Qiuyue. Qiao Jinniang heard recluse Qiuyue say, Where is she? She is skilled in writing, and her books are full of surprises. I must pay her a visit. Lu Chen frowned. Visit her for what? She made up the story that Zhou Siming and I have a romantic rtionship, and she also wrote about men and women. It is forbidden books in the first ce, and it would be too good for her to go to jail. Qiao jinniang said, The books she wrote are harmless. Nowadays, most of them are written by schrs and beautiful women, but her story is very strange. Shes not allowed to go to jail. Lu Chen asked Gu Ming, Where is she? Gu Ming replied, Not far from the old gentlemans temple. Shes hiding in the deep mountains. It turns out that her books were printed in the Deep Mountains by herself. No wonder so many booksellers and officials couldnt find her. In that case, lets go and have a look,said Qiao Jinniang. Its a pity that I didnt bring those books with me. Otherwise, I would have asked Layman Qiuyue to stamp my private seal! Lu Chen said, Dont worry. When shes in prison, there will be plenty of time to stamp your seal. Dont,said Qiao Jinniang. You cant burn the bridge after crossing the river. Didnt you enjoy reading them? Layman Qiuyue didnt write anything about usurping the throne. Lady Qiao Jin and Lu Chen arrived at Autumn Moon House. After knocking on the door, a servant girl came to open it. The servant girl saw Gu Ming and said, Didnt I tell you yesterday that my master is a loner and doesnt receive guests? Lady Qiao Jin went forward and said, I have read every book of Recluse Autumn Moons works. I learned that Recluse Autumn Moon is in this immortal residence, so I came to pay a visit. The servant girl frowned and said, There is no recluse autumn moon here! Just as the servant girl was about to close the door, Lu Chen ordered the guards to open the door, he said, Recluse Autumn Moon wrote more than ten banned books, and in the book, he used me and Zhou Siming as the models to write the good words of Longyang. His crime will not be forgiven. As soon as Lu Chen finished speaking.., a petite woman rushed over and knelt down repeatedly. Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness, please forgive me. Your Highness, my family has both elders and children. I really cant go to jail! Qiao Jinniang looked at the kneeling woman and said, So youre a woman? Qiu Yue nodded and said, Yes, its hard for women to work in this world. Thats why I write these books to earn money. Its hard to get even ten taels of silver for a book, yet you still earn money to survive. The Jade in your courtyard is like a flower, and the coral is like a fake tree. Even fairnd is not so luxurious,Lu Chen said, Men, take her away and seal up those banned books. Qiao jinniang hurriedly advised, Dont. At most, she can donate the money earned from the banned books to those widows and widows. She looks like shes only seventeen or eighteen years old. Qiu Yue repeatedly kowtowed to Qiao Jinniang. Thank you for Your Mercy, Madam. I will definitely repay you well in the future. Lu Chen saw that Qiao Jinniang had the heart to defend her and said, You can not write banned books in the future. Yes, I will. I will definitely let His Highness take a look at the book when I write it in the future. Qiao jinniang said happily, This is a good rtionship. Your book is hard to buy even for ten taels of silver in the ck market. Its a deal. Qiu Yue said repeatedly, Since the two of you havee to my humble abode, pleasee in. I will prepare some thin wine to entertain the two of you and the military lords. Qiao Jinniang felt that it was a bit too much to say that it was a humble abode. She thought that the eastern pce was already considered a luxury, but it was not as good as the luxurious residence of Recluse Qiu Yue. The floor made of jade was covered with gold leaf. Every step she took, her shoes would be stained with ayer of gold powder. The porcin cups used to serve tea were all rare crafts. Even the tea was a rare dragon well in Lin an. Looking out of the window, there was ake in the mountains. Qiao Jinniang said with a smile, Layman Qiuyues life here is better than that of an immortal. Qiu Yue said with a smile, I dont deserve it, I dont deserve it. Qiu Yue poured good wine for Lu Jing and Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang said with a sniff, This wine smells mellow and strong. Its a rare good wine. Qiu Yue said, Its just a small wine. Madam likes to send you a jar when the timees. Qiao Jinniang saw a stack of white paper beside the wine table and said, This is your newly written notebook. May I have a look? Qiu Yue offered it with both hands, her hands shaking nervously. Qiao Jinniang flipped through some of it and saw a poem. Qiu Yue used a pen to draw a line and then changed it. Here, you wrote that things are different. If you want to cry, why do you have to cross it out? Qiu Yue said, I felt that this line of poetry was inappropriate, so I crossed it out. This is a good poem. Its best to use it here. Its such a good quote. Its a pity to cross it out,Qiao Jinniang said. Why dont you use it? Qiu Yue said in a low voice, Absolutely not. Why?Qiao Jinniang asked curiously. Qiu Yue said with a troubled expression, I just cant use it. This isnt a poem I wrote. Naturally, I cant use it. Qiao jinniang said, But you also wrote a lot of poems in your book. Why Cant I use it? Qiu Yue didnt know how to exin and was in a dilemma. Lu Chen nced at Qiu Yue and said, The Crown Princess defended you, but you still want to hide it? It seems that you still want to go to jail? Qiu Yue knelt on the ground with a thud. Your Highness, I, I didnt mean to hide it, I... Qiu Yue was so frightened that she actually fainted. Qiao Jinniang could not help butin to Lu Chen, Why are you scaring her? Qiu Yues servant girl went to invite a Taoist priest in the Taoist temple to give Qiu Yue two injections. Only then did she slowly wake up and see Qiao Jinniang standing by her bed. She said gently, Dont be afraid. The crown prince is just scaring you. Is there anything you have to hide? Why Dont you tell him? Otherwise, His Highness will think that you are hiding something and lock you up in the prison. Qiu Yue said slowly, If I tell the truth, I dont think you and the crown prince will believe me. I believe you. Qiu Yue said, I wonder if the Crown Prince Consort has read that book I wrote about the fate of rebirth. Lady Qiao said, I have read it. That is a womans soul returning to another woman through a corpse. Qiu Yue pursed her lips and said, Although this matter is extremely absurd, it really happened to me. I originally came from a different world. Aftering to this ce, it is somewhat simr to the world I lived in a thousand years ago, but there are also some differences. Some characters from a thousand years ago are here, but some are not here. That sentence just now was written by an ancient person in my previous world who was known as the number one talented woman in a thousand years. I dont know if this talented woman will be born in a few hundred years? But I definitely dont dare to use her poems and take her name. As a writer, I hate it the most when others steal my own blood and sweat. Therefore, I will never steal other peoples blood and sweat.
Chapter 268
Chapter 268: In chapter 268, Zhou Qinghes poems were misappropriated
Qiao Jinniang could not calm down when she heard Qiu Yues words. She was extremely surprised. Are you lost in your writing? Are you spouting nonsense? Where in the world did such a strange thing as strange powers and chaotic godse from? Your Highness, I dont dare to hide anything, but Im not a ghost. If I were a ghost, I wouldnt dare to settle down in front of the Old Lords Taoist temple. I dont dare to deceive the emperor. What I said just now is the truth. Qiao Jinniang felt a little better before she reluctantly believed Qiu Yues words. You said that the poem things are like people, but things dont happenwas written by an ancient person in your previous world? Yes,Qiu Yue replied. Qiao Jinniang Thought for a moment and said, Then did you know that the rain and wind were suddenly sparsest night, and the heavy sleep didnt wear away the wine? When you asked the curtain rollers, they said that the Begonia was still the same? Qiu Yue continued, Do you know if the rest is green, fat, red, and thin! Crown Princess, how did you know this poem? Could it be that you have also transmigrated? Qiao Jinniang suddenly understood. No wonder she and the Jing Hua Society had always felt that Zhou Qing hes poems were strange, but they also felt that no one would be willing to give such a poem that had been passed down through the ages to others to build up their reputation. So it turned out that Zhou Qinghe had stolen the poems of the truly number one talented woman in all of history. That was true. With Zhou Qinghes petty nature, how could he write such ancient famous poems! Qiao jinniang said, Im not from the same world as you, but I think theres someone who might havee from the same world as you. Qiu Yue looked at Qiao Jinniang curiously. Qiao Jinniang wrote down a few of Zhou Qinghes poems from her memory. Qiu Yue said, These few poems are all the words of Li Qingzhao, the number one talented girl in a thousand years. Im not sure about a few of them. Perhaps I havent memorized them before, but there are a few that are hard to forget. I had to memorize this poem when I was young. Qiao jinniang said, Layman Qiu Yue, I would like to trouble you to help me expose Zhou Qinghe and steal his poems. Qiu Yue trembled and said, But if people know that I am not from this world, I am afraid they will burn me to death. Qiao Jinniang Thought for a moment and said, There is no need to tell the truth about you. Just say that talented girl Li... Li Qingzhao. Qiao jinniang said, Right, you only say that Li Qingzhao is your master. It is enough that Zhou Qing and stole your masters poems. Do you still remember the poems about the mid-autumn Festival that Li Qingzhao wrote? Qiao Jinniang thought that at the mid-autumn Pce banquet, Zhou Qing and he would definitely not miss out on the mid-autumn Festival poems. Qiu Yue racked her brains but could not think of a poem about the mid-autumn Festival. No, but when the timees, we should be able to counter each others moves. Did I help you this time so that you wouldnt let me go to jail? Qiao Jinniang nodded and smiled. Yes. Actually, His Highness also likes the books that you wrote. Both the Prince and the Prince of Chang an love your books. Its just that I originally thought that you were a man. I never thought that a woman like you would dare to write seven times in one night. Qiu Yues face turned red. This, this, I... Qiao Jinniang didnt Tease Qiu Yue anymore. This child was too timid. How could Qiu Yue not be timid? She had always heard that the imperial power was supreme in ancient times. This was the high and mighty crown prince and the Crown Princess Consort. The slightest mistake would cost her head. Moreover, that crown prince really wanted her to go to prison. She did not know what had offended that crown prince. Could it be that she had written seven times in one night, but that crown prince did not write, so she became angry out of humiliation? Qiu Yue trembled weakly. In the future, she would definitely not write seven times in one night. .. Unlike the heavy snowfall deep in the mountains, Luoyang city below still had to use a fan. Even when the mid-autumn Festival was approaching, it was still warm. Today, the Marquis an Yuans residence was covered in red silk with the word Happinessstered all over it. At the entrance, many students of Qingming Academy criticized Qiao Lui: Qiao Lui, when you were at Qingming Academy, schr Xie treated you well. Now, you want to make an enemy of Qingming Academy and marry that murderer woman? Yes, Qiao Lui, you saw it too. Today, your marquis an Yuans residence is marrying the wife of the crown prince. How many people are here to congratte you? Marrying Fu Lu is destroying your future! To think that youre still a student of Qingming Academy. Bah, if you marry Princess Fu Lu Today, our qingming academy will be irreconcble with your marquis an Yuans estate in the future! Qiao lui, dressed in red, cupped his fists and said, Senior Brothers, Ive been thinking about how youve taken care of me. However, I believe that Xiang Xiang is innocent. Since we have a marriage contract, I shouldnt let her down! Who said that marquis an Yuan has no guests? Didnt I Come?Young Commandery Prince Rong got down from the sedan and went to the back to help sa Moer out. Sa Moer said to Qiao lui, Although our ancestors had irreconcble feuds, your actions now really make me admire you. If you cant stay in Great Tang anymore, I will write a letter to my father asking you to go to Xiliang. Then forget it,Qiao Lui said with disdain. Lin Mo and Prime Minister Lin also came along. Prime Minister Lin patted Qiao Luis shoulder with appreciation. A tiger father does not have a dog son. It is really good that you are still willing to keep the engagement at this moment. The King of Qi and the couple of the king of Chu also came along with the little princes. There was also a little Lu Xi who asked Qiao lui to hug her after seeing Qiao Lui, Father and mother are trapped on Laojun Mountain, but Xier wille to see uncle and marry aunt. Oh, wait, will you call Aunt Fu Lu as aunt or aunt in the future? Little Lu Xi was caught in a dilemma. Qiao lui said, Just call her aunt. Little County Prince Rong said, Thats wrong. Even if Fu Lu has been usurped as the princess, he is still a member of the royal family. No matter what, he should follow the title of the royal family. In the future, call her aunt Fu Lu and call your uncle Uncle Uncle. Qiao lui did notpete with Young County Prince Rong for these things. Instead, they went to the heavenly prison to get married. This was the first time they had gotten married in the heavenly prison. Long Princess Shou an said with red eyes, Fu Lu, when you be someone elses wife in the future, you have to change from your usual silkpants and be a good person. Fu Lu sniffed and said, Mother, I am a good person. I really did not mean to kill Xie Xiangxiang. Yes, we all believe in you. There had never been so many heavenly nobles in the heavenly prison. Zhou Shihui looked inside from the entrance of the Heavenly Prison and clenched her wrist in anger. What right did Fu Lu have? The King of Qi and the king of Chu were really stupid. Why did she stille to help Princess Fu Lu at this time? Wasnt she afraid of the disgust of the Hui Lin Emperor? What are you hiding here to watch?Eldest Princess Wen Hua said after seeing Zhou shihui, If you want to watch, then go in and watch openly! Your Royal Sister Is Right, Zhou Shihui. If you want to see Fu Lu and Qiao Lui get married, then go in and see how the two of them get married. Princess Jinghua held Zhou Shihuis hand tightly and dragged her into the prison. Zhou shihui said, Would the two sisters rather help a murderer? Sister? Do you think you are qualified to call us sisters?Eldest Princess Wen Hua mocked. Who do you think you are? Bullying the royal princess. Even if Fu Lu is sent to the border, you can forget about having a good life in Luoyang Chang an! Zhou shihui said, The day after tomorrow is the mid-autumn Festival. When that timees, lets see if the two sisters still have the courage to say such words today. They were not the only two princesses. Moreover, the three princesses of the Hui Lin Emperor did not have a very good reputation. They were impeached every few days. Her mother was quite popr among the people. She was still afraid that this Wen Hua and Princess Jing Hua would not be together!
Chapter 269
Chapter 269: Chapter 269, debunking Zhou Shihui
During the mid-autumn Festival, the moon-viewing banquet invited all the lords and the families of the high officials. The royal family also expressed their apology and sent the invitations to a few famous schrs in Qingming Academy. These schrs were quite talented and had quite a status in the literary world. Prince Huai had gone to entertain and rope in quite a few people these two days. After all, marquis an Yuans manor had chosen to marry Princess Fu Lu, which also showed the attitude of the eastern pce. Xie Xiangxiangs corpse was cold. Even when the schrs of the Qing Ming Academy came to the Imperial Pce, they were all dressed in white. The Zhou family no longer had the position of Lord, but in the end, the Zhou familys official position had not been removed. There was the Empressfamily, but it was no longer as high as it used to be. Du Du, Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter were still in high positions. This could not help but cause everyone to be filled with guesses. The Hui Lin Emperor spoke for a long time about the reunion night of the mid-autumn Festival before the mid-autumn Festival banquet began. Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang really did not expect that the Snowy Mountains would not be opened until the morning of the mid-autumn Festival. Qiao Jinniang even missed the afternoon to celebrate Xiers birthday. As soon as they returned to Luoyang, the two of them changed into the formal clothes of the pce banquet in the carriage. When they reached the pce, the banquet had already begun. The two of them arrivedte. Qiao Jinniang was apanied by a youngdy, which made all the officials curious about her identity. When Qiu Yue first came to this pce banquet, she was so scared that her legs went soft. I, Qiu Yue, pay my respects to your Majesty. Qiao jinniang said, Father, mother, this isyman Qiu Yue. Her writings have been widely spread in the world. When I met her, we were like old friends, so I specially brought her to the mid-autumn Pce banquet. All the princes and Sons blushed when they heardyman Qiuyue. They could not believe that the writer of the book was a woman of such a young age. Empress Zhou said, So itsyman Qiuyue. Then lets just get someone to add another position. Nowadays, poetry was the most popr in Luoyang. During such a festival, there were students from Qingming Academy. It was inevitable that they had to do some poetry. Zhou Shihui stood up and said, The Ancients said that it was to throw a brick to attract the jade. A ministers daughter is not talented, so I dare to write a poem first. Miss Zhou is Zhou Qinghes only daughter. I think she must be very talented in poetry. Thats right, thats right. I heard that when Miss Zhou entered Qingming Academy, she wrote that essay on the six kingdoms that even the teachers of the academy could notpare to! Zhou Shihui looked at the Bright Moon in the sky with full confidence and said, When will the bright moon appear? I ask the clear sky with wine. I wonder what year it is in the pce in the sky today. Good, its written very well!The poem was only average, but there were many apuse and cheers from below. When will the bright moon appear? Let the wine ask the clear sky. Such a talented poet is rarely seen in the world. Qiao Jinniang saw the strange expression on Qiu Yues face and asked, Whats Wrong? This mother and daughter are too shameless. This poem is my favorite poets poem. It has been passed down through the ages, and they actually dare to steal it. Qiu Yue whispered back to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang stood up and said, Princess Yuquan, are you sure that you wrote this poem? Zhou shihui said, Of course! But Ive seen this poem in Layman Qiuyues study. It was written by her master. Qiao jinniang said, How did it be your poem without missing a single word? Qiu Yue got up to Zhou Shihui did not finish the poem said out: When there is a bright moon? The wine asked the blue sky. I do not know the pce in the sky, what year is this evening.. I want to ride the wind back, but also afraid of jade buildings, the height of the cold. Dance to make clear the shadow, how like in the Human World? Zhu Pavilion, low qizhu, light sleepless. There should be no hate, why long to say goodbye when the circle? People have joys and sorrows, and the Moon has ups and downs. This matter is difficult toplete in ancient times. I hope that people will be together for a long time, and we will be together for thousands of miles. This poem was written by my ancestor, Su Zizhan, but it has never been spread to the world. How did it be Princess Yuquans poem? Zhou Shihui looked at Zhou Qing and nervously. Zhou Qing and frowned at Qiu Yue. Among them, a schr from Qingming Academy said, It is inevitable that the first sentence of this poem is simr. Why dont we ask Princess Yuquan to continue writing the following lines? Zhou shihui trembled. She did not want to embarrass herself in front of everyone. She forced herself to say, I was the one who wrote the poem thatyman Qiuyue mentioned just now. It was just that when I wrote this poem earlier, someone had heard it. It is difficult to guarantee thatyman Qiuyues ancestors only listened to my poem and copied it. This poem was written by her mother. Her mothers literary talent was so good that she could write so many famous sentences from the ages. It could not be the poems of other ancestors. Qiu Yue said, I have never seen such a shameless person. My ancestors were the most talented people in the world, and the famous sentences they wrote could be passed down for thousands of years. If you say that you wrote it, when did you write this poem? Who Is there to testify? Qiao Jinniang said to Zhou shihui, If someone heard such a good poem, it would definitely be passed down. Why didnt they hear it at first? Zhou Shihui kept looking at Zhou Qing he. Zhou Qing said, This poem was indeed written by My Shihui. It was written in a school in Yangzhou. It was also written by Shihui because he missed his parents. The school was filled with people who did not know how to write, so even if there was such a good poem, it did not spread. The people in the school can testify to this. Qiao jinniang said, Then why dont we let Zhou Shihui write another poem that has never been shown to others? Zhou Shihui remembered the few poems he had read in his mothers study yesterday. He picked one randomly and recited it. The wheel frost shadow turns the courtyard Wu, this Xi Ji man is a one-way couple... Qiu Yue said, Stop, the wheel frost shadow turns the courtyard Wu. How can this Xi Ji Man be a one-way couple? The rhythm doesnt even work. It should be a one-way couple.. Also, Princess Yuquan, what a coincidence. This is a poem by another senior of Mine, Yan Shu.. The correct one should be a one-way couple, a one-way couple.. Its not necessarily that I have no regrets, but the jade toad is cold and the osmanthus flowers are lonely... Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Princess Yuquan, just now I told you to say a poem that you have never shown to others. Why did it collide with Senior Qiuyues poem again? And your rhythm is not right! Zhou Shihui looked at Zhou Qinghe. She had chosen the poems that her mother had written on the desk. She had asked her mother, and her mother had said that she had written them herself. Zhou Shihui did not doubt that he had to believe his mother, but he did not know that his mother had also used someone elses poem? Or was it senioryman Qiuyue who had stolen his mothers poem. Qiao Jinniang gently waved her fan and said, I heard that the students of Qingming Academy praised Princess Yuquans essay just now. To steal someone elses poem like this, isnt it a little too shameful? Eldest princess wen hua added, The crown princess is right. Some people are proud to say that they cant read a single word of Fu Lu, but Fu Lu is rarely sincere, unlike some people who actually take someone elses poems for themselves. Jing hua smiled and said, I wonder if the essay that entered Qingming Academy was also written by someone else? Zhou Shihuis face flushed red. She had never been so ashamed. Her literary talent was not bad. In the end, when she was young, she was discovered by a Yangzhou nanny in an opera troupe and raised as a skinny horse. Her literary talent was not weak, but she was still far from entering Qingming Academy. It was her mother who wrote an article and handed it to her, allowing her to enter Qingming Academy. Her mothers article was not considered a misappropriation. Now that Qiao Jinniang and the two princesses were ridiculing her, Zhou Shihui did not know what to do for a moment!
Chapter 270
Chapter 270: Chapter 270, exposing Zhou Qing he
Zhou Qing he stood up and said, Your Majesty, Please Forgive me for my love for my daughter. In order to prevent my daughter from beingughed at for growing up in a private school, I specially wrote an article to help Shiwei enter Qingming Academy. As for the two poems that Shiwei wrote just now, they were also written by me in order to make my daughter famous. These two poems are now in my daughters study. I dont know if it was taken out by a servant girl in the study and given to an outsider. If His Majesty doesnt believe me, he can send someone to search my daughters study. Lu Chen said, Aunt is really unwilling to give up until she reaches the Yellow River. The snow has sealed the mountain. I and the Crown Princess, Ju Yue, have just left the mountain this morning. When can I get the poems in Aunts study? Zhou Qing said, Your Highness, I didnt mean that. Its just that I did write these poems. When I used the poem emblem, I also used the heart of a loving daughter. This child has suffered too much. Qiao jinniang said, What a good heart of a loving daughter. You stole other peoples poems and made your beloved daughter a thief. Is this the so-called heart of a loving daughter? Zhou Qing red at Qiao Jinniang and said, Crown Prince Consort, Im your elder. What right do you have to say that Im a Thief? Qiao jinniang smiled and said, I havent said aunt yet, why does aunt have to take my ce?? The thief that I am talking about is Zhou Shihui, poetry is a persons talent, how can this talent be used by a mother for her daughter? If it isnt her own talent, isnt it her own talent? Since you are a talented schr, you should know that these poems take a lot of effort, how can you casually make a name for yourself. As a mother, you dont teach your daughter how to improve her talent, but you directly make your daughter a liar who doesnt believe in righteousness. Howughable! Zhou Shihui immediately shed tears of grievance. Qiao Jinniang added, Also, aunt said that those poems were leaked from your study. Coincidentally, in the Autumn Moon House of the Old Lord, Layman Autumn Moon also wrote those poems! Aunt wrote themst night. The heavy snow has cut off the road, and even a messenger pigeon can not fly up. May I ask where those poems came from in the Autumn Moon House? Zhou Qing said amiably, The poems in my study were also written a few years ago. Qiao jinniangughed lightly, Thats just right. Just like what happened just now, aunt will write a poem that has never been known by anyone. What do you think? Zhou Qing said, How can it be so easy to write a poem? With such a thing happening, how can there be any interest in poetry? Qiao Jinniang replied with an Oh, Oh?? But earlier on, the people of Luoyang praised aunt for her talent. Those famous lines from the ancient times came out of nowhere! If aunt doesnt write a poem today, doesnt that mean that your poem belongs to the ancestors of the autumn moon hermit who stole it? Zhou Qinghe, quicklypose a poem and let them see how amazing you are. Yes, yes. Each of your previous poems are extremely amazing. With 30% of your skills, you will be able to restore your innocence. Zhou Qinghe thought for a moment and said, Alright, in that case, I willpose a poem about the setting of the mid-autumn Festival. The sky is filled with dustpans and the earth is filled with numerous strings. The sound of a pot leaking is about to dry up, the mes in the window are already dim... the shadow of a crane crossing a cold pond... Zhou Qing and said more than ten sentences in a row. Qiu Yue then interrupted Zhou Qing he and said, Cold Moon buries the flower soul, Zhou Qing he, do you think that I wont be able to memorize the poems in my senior Cao Gongs words book? Unfortunately, Cao Gong is the originator of the words book. Ive read his stone notes more than ten times. Ill remember all the poems and even the judgments in them. It is a little too despicable of you to steal his poems. Zhou Qing said, What right do you have to say that I stole it? Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Then, after you pass through the shadow of the crane in the cold pond, can you possibly continue with the next sentence? Zhou Qing said, Pass through the shadow of the crane in the Cold Pond, the shadow of the Clear Moon... Qiao Jinniangughed. Zhou Qing and everyone presentughed out loud. Little County Prince Rong said, How can you mother and daughter have the face to say that Fu Lu is a good-for-nothing? I am a good-for-nothing, and we all know that the shadow of the crane and the shadow of the flower are not together, not to mention that the sentence thatyman Qiuyue just received, The Cold Moon buries the Flower Soul, is the best sentence! The schrs in the Qing Ming Academy replied in session, The shadow of the crane and the shadow of the flower, there has never been such an irregr poem. Even those country bumpkins who do not know how to write poems would not have such an irregr poem! Zhou Qing said, I just, I just said it wrong for a moment. I just made more than ten poems at once and made a mistake in a moment of nervousness. How can a talented girl, who is supported by everyone, let go of such a mistake? Qiao jinniang said, Zhou Qing he, the poems that you wrote in Luoyang in the past were all written by the teacher of Ju Shi Qiuyue, Li Qingzhao. Now, do you still want to continue being stubborn? Zhou Qinghe shook his head and said, No, no, you are talking nonsense. Those poems were all written by me. If it was Li Qingzhao who wrote them, how would I know her poems? Why didnt she use these poems to make a name for herself?? If you have the ability, call her out and confront her! Qiao jinniang said, Zhou Qinghe, since you still want to quibble, then continue to write another poem.. This time, as long as your poem is neat, I will believe you. The previous poems were all written by you. The more flustered Zhou Qing he was, the more he wrote a poem, Round Soul on the cold sky, all words are the same in the four seas. Knowing a thousand miles away, is there not rain and wind? She had even forgotten who the author of this poem was. She only remembered that when she was in school, the Professor liked this poem and had given her homework to appreciate it. She did not believe that such a biased poem could be memorized by this so-called Qiu Yue Ju Shi! As expected, she saw the awkwardness on Qiu Yue Ju Shis face. Prime Minister Lins face was extremely dark as he said, This is the poem that my student, the new top scorer Li Qiao, wrote in the Prime Ministers residencest year during the mid-autumn Festival. Although it is not famous, all the students who came to the Prime Ministers residencest year to admire the Moon have heard of this poem. How did this poem be something that Zhou Qing and you can do? Qiao jinniang said, Now, Zhou Qing and you cant be saying that Li Qiao stole your poemst year, right? Over and over again, Zhou Qing and you shouldnt treat us as fools. The Schrs in the Qingming Academy were already furious. The gazes that were looking at Zhou Qing and worship turned to disdain. Bah, so all her poems are really giarized! So all those famous lines from the ages were really written by Ju Shi Qiuyues Master? Why didnt that Li Qingzhaoe out? Qiao jinniang said, Li Qingzhao is a low-profile person. He doesnt like fame and fortune. Who knew that someone would use his bad brain and steal her poems for his own use. Its really disgusting! Zhou Qing and Zhou Shihui felt their faces burning with pain. Zhou Qing he, to think that I still like you so much. So its all fake! Its disgusting. I even spent a hundred taels of silver to buy her poetry collection. Its too disgusting! What number one genius in a thousand years? She stole someone elses poems and is still so stubborn. How can the mother and daughter have the face to be sought after by everyone! Before this, how many people liked Zhou Qing and how many people now hated and despised him from the bottom of their hearts!
Chapter 271
Chapter 271: In chapter 271, Zhou Shihui called out to her father in public
Zhou Qinghes expression became more and more embarrassed. Zhou Shihui was so angry that tears streamed down her face. She said resentfully to Zhou Qinghe, Mother, why didnt you tell me that those poems were stolen by you? If she had known earlier that those poems were stolen, she would not have lost so much face. Zhou Qinghe could not even say a word of exnation after being questioned like this by his daughter. Zhou Shihui was really furious. How could she have be like this step by step? Originally, she thought that after returning to Chang an, she would be the high and mighty youngdy of the High Dukes public house.. Later on, when her mother returned, she had the position of princess, and was on equal footing with Fu Lu. Eventer on, because of Zhou Qing and his talent and fame, she was even envied by the daughters of Luoyang. She was unwilling to be the person she mocked earlier. Thats right, she could force the Hui Lin Emperor to acknowledge her as a princess. As long as she became a princess, her mother could enter the pce legally. With the rtionship between her mother and the Hui Lin Emperor in the past, lets see who would dare to mock her. Zhou shihui said, Mother, actually, I know that you want to make my name known. You want my biological father to acknowledge my daughter! Zhou Qinghe did not quite understand what Zhou Shihui was saying. Before Zhou Qinghe could figure it out. Zhou shihui said, Mother, why are you still hiding something for your biological sister who really stole your life? If it werent for Empress Zhou stealing your life,. I wouldnt have fallen into such a miserable situation in the church! You Dont have to steal other peoples poems just to make your daughter famous and not beughed at! Zhou Shihui pointed at Empress Zhou and said, Empress Zhou, you stole more than 20 years of my mothers life. You took my mothers ce and received my fathers favor. You made my mother pregnant, but you could only live among the people! If you didnt steal my mothers favor, I wouldnt have ended up in the church and suffered so much! Zhou Qinghe opened his eyes wide and said to Zhou shihui, Shut Up! Zhou shihui said, Mother, you care about the sisterhood, but has the Empress ever cared about it? Look at the Martial Dukes public house now, what are you still hiding from father! When Zhou Shihui said this, the entire court was in an uproar. Especially the word father, which caused everyone to be extremely concerned. However, Qiao Jinniang was so embarrassed for Zhou Shihui that she could dig out a garden! Zhou Qing pped Zhou Shihui in the face. Shut up, your father is not the Emperor! Zhou Shihui took the p and pointed at Prince Huai and Princess Huai, Li Lingling. Prince Huai and Princess Huai have said that I am fathers daughter! The Hui Lin Emperor red at the couple and said, Why didnt I know that I have such a daughter outside? Li Lingling was so scared that she knelt on the ground, Father... i. . . The Huilin Emperor also knelt down, his hands clenched into fists. Zhou Qinghe said to the Huilin emperor, Shihui was just bewitched by the couple. Please forgive me, Your Majesty. Moreover, what Shihui said just now was also right. Your Majesty, Actually, the woman who talked about the situation of the world with you in the garden of Ten Thousand Flowers was me, not my sister. It was my sister who took my identity! The Hui Lin Emperor said, I have always known that the woman in the garden of Ten Thousand Flowers was you. I had known the Empress Long before Imperial Consort Zhous funeral. When I saw you, I knew that you were not Zhou Qingxiu. I only did not expose you for the sake of the Empress! Zhou Qinghe copsed to the ground upon hearing that. How could this be? Zhou Qingxiu, you knew long ago. Were you just going to watch me misunderstand? Empress Zhou said, Elder sister, did you listen to my exnation? Twenty years ago, I told elder sister that I was not your substitute. However, elder sister wholeheartedly believed that younger sister could only enter the pce in your ce. There was no point in exining anymore. It was just that she did not expect that even now, elder sister was still stubborn. Back then, when you used my identity to talk to the emperor, I did not me you for stealing my identity. Now, you keep saying that I took your identity. Its simply ridiculous! Empress Zhou no longer wanted to pursue the matter of why Zhou Qing he used her name to talk to the Hui Lin Emperor. However, this had always been a knot in Empress Zhous heart. Back then, Zhou Qing and the Hui Lin Emperor were talking about political matters. A moment of carelessness could result in death. However, Zhou Qing he used her name, Zhou Qingxiu. Upon hearing this, Zhou Qinghe fell to the ground and said, In the end, you still deliberately looked at me as a joke! Zhou Qingxiu, you and I are sisters. Is this how you treat your sister? Empress Zhou snorted coldly. You were the one who said it first, disregarding the feelings of sisters. Seeing the mocking eyes of others, Zhou Shihui shook her head repeatedly. How could it be like this? How could it be like this? Right now, she did not even have thest straw to save her life. The mother and daughter pair would definitely be a joke in Luoyang city in the future. Zhou Simings brows were tightly knitted. If that was the case, hisst hope to save Zhou Shihui had been destroyed. He did not know what to do! Qiao Jinniang saw the expression of Zhou Shihui and her daughter and smiled faintly. Zhou Qinghe, you are not the only one who has stolen her poems. There is also the human life you are carrying!! Zhou qinghe shouted hysterically, Crown princess, stop talking nonsense. What human life? Qiao jinniang said, Eighteen years ago, in the winter, you threw the daughter of the former king of Wu into thetrine pit and attempted to kill her. Eighteen yearster, in the enclosure, you arranged to kill Xie Xiangxiang! Zhou Qing and rebuked angrily, Crown Princess, you dont have to add insult to injury to refute Fu Lu, do you? The evidence of Fu Lu killing Xie Xiangxiang is all here! What a coincidence, I have witnesses too.Qiao Jinniang ordered someone to bring Qian Yi in. When Qian Yi entered, he carried a strong fragrance. He held the horsetail whisk and bowed to the hui lin emperor, This humble one greets your majesty, the Empress. Zhou Qing and saw that Qian Yis appearance had not changed much. He was so angry that he gritted his teeth and said, Youre alive, youre actually still alive! Qian Yi gave a dao name and said, Qing he, it was I who let you down back then. Its just that theres a debt and theres a debtor. Its not enough that you killed my daughter, why did you kill Xie Xiangxiang? Zhou Qing said, I didnt! Qian Yi told the story of his youth in public, and then he told Xie Xiangxiangs mistake, Zhou Qing he, you probably dont know that Xie Xiangxiang is not my daughter. Zhou Qing said, Xie Xiangxiangs death and Your Daughters death have nothing to do with me! Lu Chen said, Does the Zhou family still have the Tai Bai Mountain tiger skin that was given to them by thete Emperor? Lu Chen also wanted to show Qiao Jinniang the Taibai Mountain Tiger Skin in the pce. Only then did he know that thete Emperor had given thergest piece of tiger skin to concubine Zhou. As concubine Zhou was filial, she simply let thete emperor give it to the martial Dukes public house. Zhou Qing hes face turned ck. Second Master Zhou came out and said, That Taibai mountain tiger skin has always been kept in the storeroom. Lu Chen looked at the Minister of justice and said, Second uncle, are you serious? Why Dont you ask someone from the Ministry of Justice to check in the storeroom of the Zhou residence? Second Master Zhous expression changed. Zhou Qing he! Did you take the Taibai Mountain Tiger Skin? Zhou Qing he bit his lip and said, No, the Zhou Manors tiger skin has nothing to do with me! At this moment.., li Yun came out from the side and said, Speaking of the Taibai Mountain Tiger Skin, my cousin, Miss Fu, recently said that she received the Taibai Mountain Tiger Skin bestowed by Princess Yuquan. She even brought the Taibai Mountain Tiger Skin to show off to her rtives...
Chapter 272
Chapter 272: Chapter 272, mother and daughter killing each other
Zhou shihui panicked and said, No, I definitely did not give the tiger skin to miss fu! She had clearly repeatedly warned that fu person not to tell outsiders about the tiger skin, but she did not expect that Fu person to actually show off the tiger skin in front of his rtives. Was she tired of living? Naturally, Miss Fu was not qualified toe to the pce banquet. The Minister of Justice received the order to send someone to the Fu residence to bring miss fu here. There was still a slight burn scar on Miss Fus face, but if one did not pay attention, they would not be able to see it. The minister of justice asked, Miss Fu, didnt you say that Princess Yuquan gave you a piece of Taibai Mountains Tiger Skin? Miss Fu had never seen such a scene. She trembled and said, Yes, Princess Yuquan did give me a piece of tiger skin. That piece of tiger skin is different from ordinary tiger skin. It is rarely seen in the world. Even the pce only has two pieces. Zhou shihui said, You wronged me. Ive never given you a tiger skin! Qiao Jinniang asked miss fu, Then what about your tiger skin? Miss Fus hands trembled as she said, No, its gone. It was stolen. Qiao Jinniang walked up to miss fu and said, Since youre my cousin, if you tell the truth, I can help you plead for mercy and let you off lightly. But if you refuse to tell the truth and want to be tortured, dont me me for not caring about my rtives! Miss Fu was so scared that she couldnt even speak properly. Zhou Shihui had never expected that Fu would be so timid. Qiao jinniang said, Dont rush, speak slowly. Miss fu kowtowed and said, Crown princess, Xie Xiangxiang poured the hot oil from the oil pot onto my face on Chinese Valentines Day. I didnt even dare to leave the house for more than a month. Xie Xiangxiang kepting over to apologize, but I felt that her apology was insincere. I didntck gold, silver, and jewelry. It wasnt until Princess Yuquan came to me and gave me a piece of bright tiger skin. She asked me to bring that piece of tiger skin to Xie Xiangxiang and told Xie Xiangxiang to wear the tiger skin and walk around the beast area. I thought that nothing would happen in the Beast area. It was a good opportunity to scare Xie Xiangxiang and vent my anger. But who knew that she would be shot to death by Princess Fu Lu! Zhou Shihui stood up and said, Clearly, you and Xie Xiangxiang have a grudge. Now, youre saying that I ordered you to do so. Do you have any evidence? Miss fu only said, It was Princess Yuquan who ordered me to do so. We dont even have such high-quality tiger skin in our house! Qiao Jinniang said to Zhou shihui, Tiger Skin from Mount Taibai is rare. Well know once we investigate. Zhou shihui said loudly, Perhaps the one surnamed Fu stole the tiger skin from our Zhou Family? Qiao Jinniang nced at Li Yun and said, If miss fu really stole the tiger skin, how would she dare to show it off in front of her rtives? Miss fu nodded repeatedly. Princess Yuquan gave me the tiger skin. Even if I had twelve guts, I wouldnt dare to steal from the Zhou residence! Qian Yi gave a dao name. Heavenly venerate immeasurable, Zhou Shihui, are you still obstinate? Zhou Qing said in a shrill voice, What right do you have to manage my daughter? What kind of father are you? If it werent for your son, he wouldnt havemitted the felony of murder! Hearing that, Zhou Shihui said in extreme shock, Mother, you were clearly the one who told me about this scheme and told me to contact miss fu. How can you push the crime of murder onto me now? Zhou Qinghe red angrily at Zhou Shihui. She was really too stupid! Zhou Shihui was, after all, Qian Yis daughter. With the bloodline of the Qian family, she would not be sentenced to death. Moreover, Qian Yi would not just watch his own daughter die. The mother and daughter could have escaped unscathed, but Zhou Shihui was actually so impatient! Zhou Shihui said hurriedly, This matter was my mothers scheme. That tiger skin was specially ordered by my mother to be found from the Zhou familys storehouse in Chang an. Originally, she bought a tiger skin in Luoyang. However, the tiger skin was light in color. My mother was afraid that the tiger skin would be useless, so she ordered someone to bring the tiger skin from Mount Taibai from Chang an! Fu Lu was also lured over by my mother. Everything was my mothers n! Zhou Qinghe stood up and gave Zhou Shihui a hard p on the face. Didnt I do this for You? Xie Xiangxiang will take away your position as the princess. After she appeared, your position as the princess will not be justified. Zhou Shihui covered her face in tears and said, It was you who ruined everything for me! The mother and daughter started to me each other in public. Hearing that, the Hui Lindi frowned and said, Men, take them to the prison of the Ministry of Justice and convict them after the mid-autumn Festival.. Although the daughter of the Fu family was an aplice, she did not intend to hurt anyone. It was understandable that her face was ruined, so she was punished to be Xie Xiangxiangs filial son for three years. As for Qin Xiangxiang, she was plotted against by someone and identally killed Xie Xiangxiang. Her original intention was to kill Tigers and beasts. She should be acquitted and be reinstated as a princess. The people of Marquis an Yuans manor came out to express their gratitude. The schrs of Qing Ming Academy also openly apologized to Qiao Lui. They knelt on the ground and begged the emperor to punish Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter severely. Xie Yi knelt on the ground and said, Your Majesty, in the end, it is also because I treated Zhou Qing and the mother and daughter badly back then. I am willing to take a heavy punishment on their behalf! Hui Lindi said, We will discuss their crimes tomorrow! At this mid-autumn Festival, there is no need for these two evil mother and daughter to affect the joy of enjoying the moon and reuniting. All the officials agreed. Hui Lindi looked at the couple who were still kneeling on the ground and sighed heavily. Empress Zhou said to King Huai, The two of you should also get up. In the future, you need to be careful with your words and actions. Dont lose the face of the royal family. Yes, Mother.King Huai stood up and swayed. With Zhou Qing and the mother and daughters crimes, the Zhou residence was truly crippled. What should he do in the future? The students of Qingming Academy that he had spent so much effort to rope in were also crippled! Hui Lindi looked at King Huai with disappointment in his eyes. Little Lu Xi handed a stack of fresh meat mooncakes to Hui Lindi and said, These are the mooncakes uncle fennel made. Theyre very delicious. give them to Grandpa. Grandpa, dont be angry. Hui Lindi hugged Little Lu Xi and said, Xier is the most obedient. The king of Huai looked at Lu Xi fawning over the Hui Lin Emperor from the bottom of his heart with disgust. When Lu Chen was young, he was just like Lu Xi, always fawning over his father. He had no respect for the father and son of the Tian family. After the mid-autumn Banquet, qian Yi went to Hanliang Pce to look for the Hui Lin Emperor and said, Your Majesty, Zhou Shihui, Zhou Qing, and her mother and daughter are in possession of human lives. It is hard to absolve the me for their deaths. However, on ount of Zhou Shihuis childhood hardships, I Beg Your Majesty to spare her life! The Hui Lin Emperor said, I heard that the servant girl beside the Crown Princess is also your daughter. You can only choose between sparing Zhou Shihuis life and bestowing glutinous rice as the princess. There can only be one princess of the Wu King. If Zhou Shihui is the princess, it is not difficult to spare her life. However, if that is the case, glutinous rice can no longer have the title of nobility! Qian Yi knelt on the ground and found it difficult to choose. Both of them were his daughters. One had been homeless since young, while the other had been a servant in a restaurant since young..
Chapter 273
Chapter 273: Chapter 273: Let the Crown Princess consort the Empress Dowager
After returning to the Eastern Pce. Qiao Jinniang went to the kitchen to make long-lived noodles for little Lu Xi. Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, You and Li Yun exchanged a few nces just now. Qiao jinniang frowned and said, Why cant I even look at him? Lu Chen coughed and said, Its not that I cant look at him. I just need to avoid suspicion, so that others wont make a fuss about this matter. Qiao jinniang snorted lightly, Im an open and aboveboard person, why would I be afraid of what others will say? Lu Chen helped her make peace, In the end, Peoples words are worth fearing. Right, since glutinous rice is Qian Yis daughter, I think she will also be conferred the title of Princess and go to Lin an. Havent you always been thinking about Lin ans hundred savory restaurant being left unattended? Why Dont you give it to glutinous rice? Qiao jinniang sighed and said, The Qian residence is less than three Li away from our hundred savory restaurant, but we have only been able to recognize each other until now. Its also a matter of fate. I originally thought that it was already inconceivable for me to go from the restaurants young miss to the Marquisates daughter. I didnt think that glutinous Rices identity would be more powerful. Its good that she has returned to Lin an. At least she can return to a ce that she is familiar with. Lu Chen heard the envy in Qiao Jinniangs words and said, There will always be a chance for her to return to Lin an. Qiao jinniang said, I hope so. Lu Chen said again, Oh right, is that senior Qiu Yues literary talent still alive? Such a talented person has always been unknown. That senior is just like Qiu Yue, keeping a low profile. Lu Chen chuckled, Qiu Yue wrote that kind of erotic speech book, and she still dares to keep a high profile? Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly. It was true. Qiu Yue hid in the deep mountains because she did not want to stir up any trouble. The longevity noodles had just been made when eunuch Gu rushed over and said to Lu Chen, Your Highness, the Empress Dowager has received bad news from the pce. The empress dowager has fainted. The Empress Dowager was almost sixty years old. It was not a small matter for her to pass out at this time. Filial piety was the first priority. Lu Chen and Qiao Jin could only bring Lu Xi along. By then, the Hui Lin Emperor, the empress dowager, and the other imperial concubines would already be in the Empress Dowagers pce. After the imperial physician checked her pulse, he said to the Hui Lin emperor, Your Majesty, the Empress Dowagers pulse is extremely inappropriate. Her internal organs have been exhausted by the rice sack flower. If this continues, she might be a walking corpse. It was not a secret that the empress dowager used the rice sack flower and fruit in the pce. After all, even the people outside the pce knew about this. The Hui Lin Emperor said, Do your best to save mother. The imperial physician repeatedly acknowledged. The Hui Lin Emperor let out a heavy sigh and red angrily at Imperial Chef Li beside him. Imperial chef Li Shivered for a moment. He could clearly see the killing intent in the Hui Lin Emperors eyes. No, he had to help King Huai seize the throne as soon as possible. Otherwise, if the old fogey, the empress dowager, passed away, the Emperor would definitely not allow him to live anymore in order to keep the secret! The Empress Dowager slowly woke up after being injected with needles. Only then could everyone leave the Empress Dowagers pce. Lu Chen carried Lu Xi, who was about to fall asleep, and said to Qiao jinniang, Seeing the empress dowager so thin today, I think she wont be able to live for long. You and Lu Xi have to be more careful of her these few days. Qiao Jinniang was puzzled. Since father knows that the old empress dowager wants to harm you, why didnt father punish the Empress Dowager? The Empress Dowager is, after all, fathers biological mother. Father wants to be a wise ruler all his life. With filial piety in front of him, he naturally wont punish the Empress Dowager. Back in the eastern pce, the longevity noodles were already cold, so Qiao Jinniang did not make another bowl. Instead, Lu Xi was thinking about whether the noodles were swollen or not, but she still ate them. Mothers noodles are the best. Even if its swollen, its still very delicious. Qiao Jinniang kissed Lu Xis little face. Xier is so obedient. Little Lu Xi tugged on Qiao Jinniangs sleeve. Xier wants to sleep with mother, okay? Okay.Qiao Jinniang also knew that he had not seen her for the past few days. He must have missed her very much. Lu Chen said, I think we can let Xier copy the historical records! Lu Xi said, Father, I already know all the historical records by heart. Theres no need to copy them! A good memory is better than a bad pen,Lu Chen said. Qiao Jin held Lu Xis hand and said, Ignore your father. If you want to copy them, let him do it himself. The bright moon shone in the sky. It was a different kind of feeling to admire the moon in the courtyard of the Eastern Pce. After Xier fell asleep, Lu Chen ordered the pce staff to carry her back to his own pce. In the end, Qiao Jinniang still went back on her word. In the wing room of the Taoist temple on Laojun Mountain, the two of them were husband and wife, so they could not get close to each other. It was a beautiful day and the moon was full, so naturally, there was a lot of romance.. Qiao Jinniang could not help but close her eyes when she heard the sound of someone knocking on the door. In her daze, she heard Lu Chen calling for water. She could not get up, so she let Lu Chen help her clean up. During the mid-autumn Festival, there were three days of rest. However, Lu Chen also woke up at 15:00 PM every day and got up on Tiptoe. Not long after, Yu Yan entered and said, Your Highness, there is news from the Empress Dowagers pce that the crown prince and his imperial consort are to go to the empress dowagers ce to treat her illness. It was natural for juniors to treat their elders. Back then, when the Empress had just entered the pce, the Empress Dowager had also used this matter to train the empress. However, at that time, Empress Zhou had mentioned to the empress dowager every day how concubine Zhou was. The empress dowager really detested Empress Zhou and was unwilling to see her, so she gave up. At that time, Lu Chen was unwilling to let Qiao Jinniang serve as the Crown Princes consort because he was afraid that the Empress Dowager would be upset. Later on, the Empress Dowager felt that Qiao Jinniangs status was low and that Qiao Jinniang had a way of ttering her, so she did not train her much. Serving the elders was an extremely tiring thing. Qiao Jinniang heard Yuyans voice and slowly woke up. She took a handkerchief from the side, covered it with it, and yawned. The Empress Dowager wont use the tricks of themon folk to torture me, right? Lu Chen said, Just dont go. Ill tell father that youre not feeling well. Theres no need,Qiao Jinniang said. You cant escape from left and right. Besides, can the Empress Dowager openly deal with me? Lu Chen whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, You go to the Empress Dowagers pce. be careful of the rice sachets. Qiao Jinniang instantly became spirited. She couldnt be contaminated by the rice sachets. Help me pass a message to Fu Lu and Li Lingling. Let them enter the pce together to treat the empress dowagers illness! Qiao Jinniang didnt believe that the Empress Dowager could harm her own granddaughter and favorite niece. After washing up and putting on her makeup, Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chen walking with her and asked, Although its Xiumu today, youve been on Laojun Mountain for many days. The Eastern Pce is busy. Do you still want to go with me? Lu Chen said, The officials in the eastern pce are not to be trifled with. Whats more important is that Im afraid that the empress dowager will do something vicious! Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen went to the Empress Dowagers pce. The Empress Dowager was having breakfast. Qiao Jinniang saw the veins on the empress dowagers hands pop out. It was terrifying. Looking at the ck and blue in her eyes, she no longer looked like a human. It could be seen that the empress dowager was really beyond cure. A nanny at the side lit some white powder for the empress dowager to smell. After the empress dowager smelled the powder, she became spirited and said, Im old. In the future, Ill have to trouble the Crown Princess consort to serve me well. Grandmother, what are you talking about? It is the fortune of a granddaughter-inw to be able to take care of you.Qiao Jinniang did not dare to approach. The white powder lit up a sweet smell. She held her breath and did not dare to breathe. Her instincts told her that there must be something fishy about this white powder!
Chapter 274
Chapter 274: Chapter 274, the Emperors foolish filial piety
Lu Chen said to the empress dowager, I wonder if the imperial grandmother has eaten breakfast. Why dont we have the Empress Dowager Make Breakfast for You? The empress dowager said, Its hard for you to be filial, but I have long lost my sense of taste. Theres no need to eat breakfast. The nanny beside the empress dowager handed a bowl of medicine to Lady Qiao and said, Crown Princess Consort, please feed the Empress Dowager the medicine! Lu Chen also sensed that something was wrong with the powder. He did not dare let Lady Qiao get close to him, so he said to the maidservant, The Crown Princess Consort was busy yesterday. Why Dont you let your grandson feed the medicine to the imperial grandmother? Seeing the empress dowagers sessful intent in her eyes, Lady Qiao understood that the Empress Dowager had no need to deal with her. After all, she was different from Empress Zhou. The more the empress dowager dealt with herself, the more she would only be enemies with marquis an Yuans estate. The Empress Dowagers intentions were clearly not in the wine. Her target was only Lu Chen. The powder the empress dowager was inhaling did not seem to be anything serious. If Lu Chen became addicted to it and hurt his body, the position of crown prince would naturally disappear. Qiao Jinniang rushed forward and took the medicine bowl from Lu Chens hands. As the two argued, the medicine bowl fell to the ground and shattered. The Empress Dowager flew into a rage, The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess consort are already so old, yet they cant even hold the medicine bowl properly? Or do you want me to not be able to take the medicine on time? Qiao jinniang said, Imperial grandmother, please forgive me. Lu Chen no longer had the courtesy he had before and said, Imperial grandmother, I and the Crown Princess consort are clumsy and cant serve you. I will ask Big Brother and sister-inw to take good care of you. The empress dowager angrily rebuked, Lu Chen, how dare you be so unfilial. Arent you afraid that the history books will record your unfilial name today? Lu Chen said to the empress dowager, Imperial grandmother, I have never cared about my own reputation. I only care about how much fathers reputation will tolerate you and do not wish for father to make things difficult for his mother and son. You, as a mother, do not care about your own son, and I, as a son, can not disappoint father! However, some things can be tolerated, but some things, I can not tolerate! As Lu Chen spoke, he held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, I will take my leave with the Crown Princess Consort. As Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen out of the Empress Dowagers pce, she said to him, What should we do? If this matter spreads, outsiders will only me you for being unfilial. Great Tang ruled the country with filial piety. The word filial piety was the foundation of the country. Once it was involved in being unfilial, it would be immoral. The Empress Dowagers move could be said to be killing two birds with one stone. The emperors connivance with the empress dowagers use of rice dumplings would naturally not be spread, so the empress dowagers use of white powder could not be exined. Lu Chen said, Even if you are impeached and removed from the throne, I can not let you fall into danger. Qiao Jinniang smiled at Lu Chen and said, If you are really removed from the throne, my silver can also support you. Lu Chen also smiled at her and said, In the future, donte to the Empress Dowagers ce alone. Go back to the East Pce to rest first. I will make a trip to Hanliang Hall. Qiao Jinniang held Lu Chens hand and said, I will go with you. In Hanliang Hall, the Minister of Law and the Minister of the Supreme Court were discussing the treatment of Zhou Qing and his mother and daughter. The Minister of the Supreme Court was Zhou Qing hes second brother and should have avoided suspicion. However, this matter was really important and the Supreme Court had to intervene. The minister of Justice said, Your Majesty, the murder of Xie Xiangxiang is rted to the Hearts of the students of Qingming Academy. I think that Zhou Qing he is the main culprit and should be beheaded after autumn. His daughter, Zhou Shihui, is an aplice with murderous intent and should be demoted to an official prostitute. The Hui Lin Emperor said, As you say. The eunuch said in front of the Hui Lin Emperor, Your Majesty, the Crown Prince and the crown princess are here. Oh? Its a miracle that they can get up so early. Tell them toe in. As soon as Lu Chen came in, he knelt on the ground and said, Father, I havemitted a great crime of disobedience and unfilial piety. I beg you to punish me. Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen and knelt down. The Hui Lin Emperor frowned and asked the officials of the Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court to leave. He asked Lu Chen, Do you finally know how many crimes of disobedience you havemitted? Get Up! Lu Chen briefly told the Hui Lin Emperor about what had happened in the Empress Dowagers pce. Father, I dont know what that white powder is, but I dont dare to take the risk. I dont think that a harmful thing like the rice sack flower should appear in the pce. The Hui Lin emperor frowned and said, Chen er, the rice sack flower is your grandmothers life-prolonging item. Once the rice sack flower and fruit are investigated in the pce, your grandmother can only die a sad death. Lu Chen said, Father has the intention to protect grandmother. I have nothing to say. The Hui Lin Emperor said, The empress dowager can not continue for a few days. Since I havepiled the filial piety scripture and advocated for the people to abide by the filial piety, I can not go against the filial piety at this time. Qiao jinniang muttered, Its just a stupid filial piety. The Hui Lin Emperor angrily said, Crown Princess consort, do you really think that I wont punish you for your disrespect? Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, Im not wrong. You want to maintain your filial piety, but I cant bear to see my husband get hurt again and again. My husband had to live in fear and trepidation since he was young. His first life was given by you, but he had already returned it to you and his mother when Lin an was harmed. Now, my husbands life is given by me. You cant mistreat my husband because he is filial to you. You are willing to let your stupid filial piety ruin his life, but I am not willing to! Lu Chen shook Qiao Jinniangs hand and told her to stop talking. The Hui Lindi Sighed. How could I want Chen er to suffer? Its just that the empress dowager doesnt have much time left. Cutting her off at this time is tantamount to cutting off her life! Can you all just watch your own mother die because of you? Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, When I came to Chang an from Lin an, I had thought that if my parents werent good parents, I would return to Lin an and leave. I am also a mother. If in the Future I fall into paranoia and do things that make Xier difficult and unreasonable, I would rather xier stand on the side of etiquette than Xier be burdened by filial piety. The Hui Lin Emperor Thought for a moment and said to Lu Chen, Princess Xiliang and Prince Rongs wedding ising up. I, Great Tang, pay attention to etiquette. You will rece Great Tang as an envoy and go to Xiliang Kingdom to propose marriage. At the same time, you will help fu an look for the Tianshan Snow Lotus. The Hui Lin Emperor was in a dilemma and could only send Lu Chen away. Lu Chen cupped his hands and epted the order. Yes, I also want to bring Xier with me. I agree. .. In the mansion of King Huai. Zhou Siming was in King Huais study and found out about the punishment the Ministry of Justice had given Zhou Qing and his mother and daughter. Thest hope of saving Zhou Sisi was gone. Zhou siming frowned and said, King Huai, what should we do now? Sisi she... King Huai tapped his fingers on the table and said, There is still a way. The winner will be the king, and the loser will be the bandit. It depends on whether your Zhou family dares to do it or not. Zhou siming cupped his hands and said, As long as I can save my sisters life, I will not hesitate to rebel. King Huai patted Zhou Simings shoulder and said, Alright. If I can ascend to the throne in the future, the position of Empress will definitely be given to Sisi. The position of the Kings uncle and the position of Duke of the Wu Kingdom will be reserved for you.
Chapter 275
Chapter 275: Chapter 275, Yue Zhan, envoy of Longxi
Qiao Jinniang left the pce gate of Hanliang Pce and asked Lu Chen excitedly, Are we really going to the southwest? She had wanted to go to the southwest for a long time, but she felt that there was no hope for her in this life. She had never thought that she would have the chance to go to the southwest. Lu Chen nodded and said with a faint smile, Yes, prepare more clothes. The climate of Xiliang is changeable. Bring your summer and winter clothes with you. This trip to Xiliang will also let you experience the scenery along the way. Before Qiao Jinniang left, she first went to Marquis an Yuans residence to bid farewell to Marquis an Yuan and Zheng Xiao. Marquis an Yuan wrote a few letters to Qiao Jinniang and asked her to bring them to the rtives of the Qiao family in Yunzhou. Second Madam Qiao also prepared a fewrge boxes of supplies and handed them to Qiao Jinniang. She asked Qiao Jinniang to send them to Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao ruowan. Although Xiliangs territory was notrge, it was bounded by a desert in the north and a northern desert in the north. In the south, it was bounded by a rainforest and the Miaojiang of Great Tang. In the northeast, it was also bounded by Yunzhou. They traveled from Yunzhou to Xiliang, and they had to pass Longxi on the way. Traveling was actually a tiring thing. However, when the crown prince traveled, he lived in the pce along the way. Even if there were no pces, there were ry stations that had prepared food and dances for him. Even the carriage was pulled by four horses, so it was not tiring on the way. Qiao Jinniang looked at the beautiful scenery outside and felt that it was worth it even if it was tiring. Longxi was the original home of the Lu family. Back then, the Lu family of Longxi was also one of the top aristocratic families. The ancestral temples of the Lu family had been moved to Chang an and Luoyang, but the Lu familys house in Longxi was still very well preserved. This time, Lu Chen chose to stay in the Lu family for a short rest in Longxi. As soon as the carriage entered Longxi city, the Longxi Jiedushi and all the officials of Longxi City were already at the city gate to wee them. Qiao Jinniang opened the curtain and got down from the carriage. When she looked over, she saw the Longxi Jiedushi dressed in silver-white armor. He was so handsome that he didnt look like a military official, but more like a civil official. I, Yue Zhan, pay my respects to the crown prince, the Crown Princes concubine, and the emperors great-grandson. No need for formalities.Lu Chen raised his hand. After Yue Zhan stood up, he looked at Lin Mo, who was standing behind the crown prince. His eyes were filled with disdain. Lin Mos hands could not be lifted, and he looked like a weak schr. Jing Hua was blind to protect the innocence of such a man, it was a waste of his sincerity. Lin Mos gaze towards Yue Zhan did not reveal his thoughts. However, in his heart, he looked down on Yue Zhan. He was just a vulgar general. If it wasnt for him not being in Chang an, he would have been too young. He definitely wouldnt have let Jing Hua marry this boorish man. Qiao Jinniang smiled at Lu Chen and said, Do you smell smoke? Lu chen nodded and said, I smell it. When they arrived at the Lu familys main residence, Qiao Jinniang finally understood why the Lu familys heritage was so strong. The gardens in the Lu familys residence in Longxi were no worse than the imperial gardens in the Luoyang Pce in Chang an. There were even many thousand-year-old trees inside. It was the four seasons here, and it was autumn, and the fragrance of cinnabar trees wafted through the air. In the evening, Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang both received invitations to receive them. Yue Zhans mother invited Qiao Jinniang to the Yue familys banquet. No matter what, Qiao Jinniang had to give face to the family of loyal officials, so she dressed up and went to the Yue residence. Old Madam Yue led the family members of the Longxi officials out and knelt down to wee Qiao Jin. Qiao Jin raised her hand and said, Everyone, please dont be so polite. The woman under old madam Yue whispered, Mother, the crown princes wife looks much gentler than the princesssister-inw. I heard that the Crown Princes wife came from Lin an. The women of Jiangnans water viges are indeed gentler. Old Madam Yue berated, What Princesssister-inw? She and your brother have long separated. After Qiao Jinniang sat down at the banquet, thedies on both sides introduced the local delicacies to her, especially themb from Longxi. Qiao Jinniang tasted the Lamb here and felt that it was delicious, Thismb is indeed not smelly or fishy. It would be good if it could be used in my restaurant. I wonder if there is a pasture for raising sheep here? When thedies heard this, they had all sorts of thoughts in their minds. Some of them felt that the crown princess had not forgotten about the restaurant at this time. There were also those with foresight who felt that they could earn money. The Lady of the prefect came out and said, Yes, there is. When we return to the Crown Princess, this lowly concubines family runs a pasture and specializes in raising high-quality mutton. If the Crown Princess wants to use it in a restaurant, that would be the best. Lady Qiao Jin said, Tomorrow afternoon,e to the Lu family to look for me and discuss the matter of buying a sheep. When the other wives saw this, they were all envious of the prefects wife. Old madam Yue said, The crown princess is really out of the ordinary. I have a presumptuous request and would like to ask for your help. Lady Qiao Jin asked, Old Madam, if there is anything you need, just say it. If I can help, I will definitely help. Old madam Yue sighed, Ever since my unfilial son split with eldest Princess Jing Hua, he has no intention of getting married. He doesnt even have a woman by his side. Hes a general, and now hes twenty-eight years old. He doesnt even have a child now, and I wont have the face to meet the Yue familys ancestors in a hundred years. I would like to request the crown prince consort to bestow a marriage on my son, bestow it on anyone, as long as its a woman who can bear children! Qiao Jinniang felt a little awkward when she heard this request. Old Madam, I can help you with other matters, but I cant do anything about this. Marriage is fated by the heavens, it must be because minister Yues marriage hasnt arrived yet. Old madam Yue sighed, This son of mine is silly, hes still foolishly waiting for Princess Jinhua, but Princess Jinhua left Longxi without even turning back... This silly son of mine is also unwilling to marry again for the rest of his life. Qiao Jinforted her, Old Madam, you should rx. This marriage is fated by nature. Human power can not be forced. Although it is not easy for me to arrange a marriage, I will ask His Highness to persuade him. Old Madam Yue thanked her, Thank you, Your Highness. After the banquet ended. Qiao Jin returned to the Lu residence, and Lu Chen returned not long after. He reeked of alcohol. Qiao Jinniang gave Lu Chen the hangover soup that the pce maids had prepared earlier. She then ryed what old madam Yue had asked for to Lu Chen. From what I see, Old Madam Yue is not desperate. She seems to want to show the imperial family Yue Zhans attitude. Is there really no love between royal sister and Yue Zhan? Lu Chen replied, Royal Sister has always only had Lin Mo in her heart. But doesnt Lin Mo have other matters to discuss? Moreover, Lin Mo cant sacrifice his future for imperial sister. Lu Chen said, Simrly, Yue Zhan cant do it either. Most of the Jiedushi are hereditary. Lady Qiao Jin leaned on Lu Chens shoulder and said, Lu Chen, cant we help imperial sister and the others? Imperial sister has many faces. Actually, if you look carefully, you can still see that shes not really happy in her heart. For example, if a girl from a poor family could one day be filled with gold, silver, jewelry, and power, and have all kinds of beautiful men apany her every day, it would truly be a fairnd on Earth. However, imperial sister and the others have been rich and noble for a long time, so its not necessarily impossible for them to be in love with each other. Lu Chen said with a hint of drunkenness, What about you? If you had been the daughter of Marquis an Yuans estate from the beginning, and didnt have to marry a stranger just to get married, would you be in love with each other?
Chapter 276
Chapter 276: Chapter 276, boiling a frog in warm water
Lady Qiao said, It must be. If it werent for my parentsillness, I wouldnt have hastily married myself. Seeing that Lu Chens expression didnt look right, Lady Qiao reached out and hugged his waist. But Im d that after marriage, you and I can still be in love. Lu Chen lowered his head and touched Qiao Jinniangs lips. Theres a reason why the prince consort cant be a high official in the imperial court. After all, there are quite a few princesses and princesses who rebelled. Qiao jinniang said, If they really have the intention to rebel, even if the princess doesnt have the help of the prince consort, its not impossible for her to do it. Secretly colluding with the courtiers is also not impossible.. It would be better toe in an open and magnanimous manner. Back then, Wei Qing was still the uncle of the country, and the prince consort had been loyal to the emperor and the country his whole life. He had left behind a heroic reputation that had been passed down for thousands of years, but the Wei family had not rebelled. It was clear that one could not guard against the intention to rebel. Lu Chen smiled, You dont have to convince me. I dont have any objections to this. I also hope that I can meet the person my royal sister entrusted to her and be with Lin Mo for the rest of her life. However, this rule can not be changed just like that. Qiao jinniang said, In this case, I dont even dare to have a daughter. Lu Chen gently ced his hand on her abdomen. Dont worry. I Wont let our daughter suffer any grievances. Qiao Jinniang gently pped Lu Chens hand. You havent had a daughter yet. But I feel that its a little round and round.Lu Chen asked, Are you pregnant with a child of mutton or a child of wine here? Qiao Jinniang covered Lu Chens mouth. While the two were fighting, Gu Mings voice came from the door. Your Highness, Young Master Lin Mo and Long Xi Jie du are fighting. Lu Chen took a deep breath. They were both worrisome. He said to Qiao Jinniang, You rest first. Ill go and take a look. Okay,Qiao Jinniang said. Lu Chen was not surprised that Lin Mo and Yue Zhan were fighting. The first time they met, they would definitely be jealous of each other. Lu Chen was naturally on Lin Mos side when it came to fighting. There was no reason for him to not help his family. Yue Zhan was extremely angry when he was punished to write down the gifts. He almost broke his pen in the study at night until a letter arrived. He ordered someone to invite the person who sent the letter in. After seeing Zhou Siming, Yue Zhan cupped his hands and said, So its crown prince Zhou. Zhou siming said, Im no longer the crown prince. Ambassador Yue Jiedu, Lu Chen is heartless and heartless. He even gave up the family that protected him since he was young. To be able to ignore the life of his cousin who grew up with him since young, he is really shameless to the extreme! Now, he is siding with Lin Mo. . If envoy Yue Jiedu is willing to be used by me, after my master seeds, I can allow envoy Yue Jiedu to once again be Princess Jinghuas son-inw. When that timees, all the military power in Longxi will belong to envoy Yue Jiedu. When Yue Zhan heard this, he said, Zhou Siming, this envoy remembers that you and the crown prince have been brothers since young. How can I believe the truth in Your Words? If we really want to talk about this, let the master behind youe out. Dont cower and hide! Zhou siming frowned and said, Who grew up together with Lu Chen? When he disregarded my sisters wishes and killed my own sister for a woman, there was no brotherhood left. Yue Zhan said, I wont talk to you. Just ask the master behind you toe out. If you want my troops in Longxi, you cant rely on a small fry like you! .. In the study room of the Lu residence. Lu Chen berated Lin Mo., What are you and Yue Zhan doing? He cant marry the imperial sister, and you cant marry the imperial sister. The two of you are so funny, arguing over a woman who doesnt belong to you! Lin Mo said, He was the one who provoked me first. I Wont make a move in the future. Your Highness, why do you want to stay in Longxi? A martial artist like Yue Zhan is really disgraceful. Waiting for someone. Waiting for Who?Lin Mo asked. Lu Chen said, The empress dowager doesnt have much time left. The entire party of King Huais chengen uncles mansion must be panicking. Its not necessarily that they wont make a move. As for Luoyang, with my father holding the fort, they wont dare to rebel in Luoyang. My Resourcefuleldest brother will definitely set his sights on Chang an. and the closest army to Chang an that he can rope in is the envoy of Longxi. Lin Mo said, King Huai wants to rebel? Hes crazy. What right does he have to rebel? Even if he can rope in Yue Zhan, how can Yue Zhans troops rebel? King Huai did not have any troops in his hands. The Chengen Bo Mansion looked shy on the outside but did not have any real power on the inside. If it were not for the empress dowagers presence, the things that the Chengen Bo Mansion and King Yong had done would have been enough to make them suffer. Lu Chen said, Its nothing more than colluding with the enemy.. Do you still remember the West Liang Imperial preceptor and Mu Qianqian that you caught in Chang an?? Mu Qianqian was King Huais lover on the outside. Mu Qianqian protecting the West Liang Imperial preceptor so much already showed that King Huai had cooperated with West Liang. Lin Mo naturally remembered. But using the power of West Liang to plot rebellion is nothing more than asking for the Tigers skin. No, if we just cooperate with West Liang, how could the northern desert be willing? Lu Chen handed a letter to Lin Mo and said, This is a secret letter intercepted by the Dragon Guards. My good eldest brother, you dont just want to cooperate with Xiliang imperial court. There is also the northern desert. If Xiliang helps him be the monarch of great Tang, he is willing to cede ten cities and the right to use the river channels in the border to the northern desert. Lin Mo held the secret letter and said, Doesnt His Majesty Know About the Dragon Guards? Then His Majesty wont be angry, wont be angry? Lu Chen shook his head and said, Father Doesnt know. Ive locked up the dragon guards who sent the letter. Father will only think that the dragon guards have been sacrificed. Lin Mo was a smart person and immediately understood. If this matter was brought to His Majestys attention, he could naturally convict King Huai. However, the evidence was indeed not sufficient. Just based on this secret letter, it was still not certain that it was written by King Huai. It was also possible that King Huai would cunningly call it Lu Chens deliberate nder. Lin Mo said, There is a trick in the art of war that is to boil a frog in warm water. I think it is just right to use it on King Huai. The frog would always die in the mostfortable environment. Lu Chen said, Indeed. Moreover, father wants the reputation of the Wise ruler of the ages, so he can not kill his own son. However, King Huai is willing to coborate with the enemy for the sake of the throne. It can be seen how insane he is. If we dont get rid of him, we will feel uneasy even if we are alone. Lin Mo cupped his hands and said, Then did I cause trouble for You When I fought with Yue Zhan just now? The troops of Longxi had always been strong. Five years ago, they had even fought with the Longxi King. Once they were roped in by Zhou Siming and King Huai, it would be too disadvantageous for them. Thats Not Right, your highness. If Yue Zhan defected to King Huai, then Longxi is Yue Zhans territory. Then wouldnt your situation with the Crown Princess consort and the Emperors great grandson be very dangerous?Lin Mo cupped his hands and advised Lu Chen, Your Highness, please leave Longxi as soon as possible.
Chapter 277
Chapter 277: Chapter 277 arrived at Yunzhou
Lu Chen said to Lin Mo, The Lu family has many secrets. Moreover, I feel that Yue Zhan is a person that can be used. Lin Mo frowned slightly. Lu Chen said indifferently, After all, he and imperial sister did not get close to women after the divorce. He waspletely devoted to imperial sister. As for you, you have alreadypromised with the family and talked about marriage. Speaking of which, Yue Zhan is more reliable. Lin Mo:... After Qiao Jinniang woke up the next day, she talked about buying sheep with the Longxi Prefects wife and signed an exclusive contract to buy sheep and grass. The prefects wife was grinning from ear to ear. She thought that the crown princess consort would use her power to continuously lower the price, but Qiao Jinniang had bought the right to sell the sheep in her family in the future, and her offer was extremely generous. Each sheep actually gave a much higher price than the local sheep meat. Hong Ling asked Qiao Jinniang, puzzled, Your Highness, isnt the price you gave the prefects wife a little too high? You asked us to inquire about the price of the sheep meat here yesterday, but it is far from this high. Qiao jinniang said, Thats because the people of Luoyang in Chang an dont know the delicious mutton here. If the major restaurants knew the origin of the mutton, they mighte here to buy it, and then the price of the mutton would definitely rise. But those small restaurants probably wont send people to Longxi specifically to buy the mutton. After I ship the mutton back to Chang an in Luoyang, I will sell it for twice the amount of silver. Those restaurants might buy it. Qiao Jinniang had heard from her parents since she was young that doing business in harmony made money. Merchants were not despicable at the beginning. There was no such thing as a profiteer. The original meaning was that when the rice chamber of Commerce sold rice, they would add more rice to their customers like a small hill. It was originally a saying of merchants doing business in good faith. It was only because of the pursuit of profit that many merchants gradually became treacherous and ruined the reputation of the merchants. Qiao Jinniang wanted to earn money, but she wouldnt earn money that was unconscionable. Just as the prefect left, Old Madam Yue came. When Old Madam Yue came, she was still muttering something about asking the crown princess consort to bestow a marriage. When she entered the hall and the door closed, old madam Yue knelt in front of Qiao jinniang and said, Crown Princess consort, I have something important to report. Qiao Jinniang asked, What? Old Madam Yue then recounted the incident yesterday when Zhou Siming came to look for her son, Our Yue family is loyal to his majesty. In order to let the person behind Zhou Siming Slip, my son pretended to befriend Zhou Siming. I hope that the crown princess consort can understand. Zhou siming walked on the path of rebellion, and Qiao Jinniang could only sigh deeply. The person behind him should be King Huai. Qiao Jinniang said to old madam Yue, The Yue familys sincerity, I understand. I will tell the crown prince to be more careful. I just hope that envoy Yue Jiedu can feign civility with them to gather evidence. Yes. Qiao Jinniang did not know how to tell Lu Chen about this. If glutinous rice, who grew up together with her, betrayed her, she would not be able to recover easily. Moreover, Lu Chen and Zhou Siming were cousins who were connected by blood. Qiao Jinniang thought that she could only treat Lu Chen better. She even personally cooked a sumptuous feast for Lu Chen at night. Lu Chen looked at the table full of dishes that looked like Qiao Jins cooking skills and asked, What Day Is it today? Lu Chen could not remember what day it was. Qiao Jin could actually cook such a sumptuous meal for him. Qiao Jin scooped a bowl of radish and mutton soup and gave it to Lu Chen. Its not a day. I specially made it for you. Xier has been waiting for a long time. You should try it. Little Lu XI nodded and said, Daddy, hurry up and eat. Qiao Jinniang was really too gentle with herself today. Although it was just a normal way for a husband and wife to treat each other with respect and respect, it was just a normal way for a wife to take care of her husband. Lu Chen, on the other hand, felt terrified. Jinniang, did you do something wrong? Qiao jinniang said, I pampered you and treated you a little better, but you think I did something wrong? After Qiao Jinniang made all the pce maids and maids leave, she said to Lu Chen, Old madam Yue came to look for me today. She said that Zhou Siming found Yue Zhan and wanted to persuade him to rebel. After all, we are good brothers who grew up together. I was afraid that you would be disappointed, so I specially prepared a table full of dishes for you. Lu Chen wanted to say that it was within his expectations. As the crown prince, he had understood one thing since he was young. At his position, there was no so-called brotherhood. When he was young, the friendship was sincere, but when he grew up, each of them had their own helplessness. Lu Chen had a clear conscience towards Zhou Siming. And Zhou Siming had made an enemy out of him for Zhou Sisi, so Lu Chen was not disappointed. However, it would be great if the disappointment could be treated kindly by Lady Qiao. It is indeed a disappointment. Zhou Siming actually had the intention to rebel. Qiao Jinniang listened to Lu Chens calm tone and handed the fish ball to Lu Xi. Did you already know that Zhou Siming was going to rebel? Lu Chen said truthfully, Zhou Siming would do anything for Zhou Sisi. In his eyes, nothing is more important than his sister. Zhou Sisi is about to be executed, so Im not surprised that he would choose to rebel. Lu Chen told Qiao Jinniang about King Huai and Zhou Simings ns. Qiao jinniang said, Even if Yue Zhan will stand on our side, wouldnt going to Xiliang put us in a dangerous situation? Since Xiliang had already made a deal with King Huai, would Lu Chen still have a chance to survive if he went to Xiliang with her? Why would father send you to Xiliang at this moment? Lu Chen said, Father must have a deeper meaning behind his actions. Qiao jinniang asked, Arent you afraid that your father is afraid of you and wants to take your life through the hands of King Huai and West Liang?? After all, the mostmon person in the book was an emperor in his prime. Seeing that his crown prince was bing more and more outstanding, he couldnt let go of the power in his hands and wanted to take his sons life Lu Chen nodded Qiao Jins head. Dont read those nonsense books. Do you think I will hurt Xier in the future? Qiao Jin shook her head. Isnt that right? Father would never do anything to hurt me. As for why father sent his son to Western Liang at this juncture, Lu Chen still didnt understand. He thought he was simply avoiding the empress dowagers harm. After learning about the letter from King Huai and the northern desert, Lu Chen felt that this matter was not simple. .. After staying in Longxi for ten days, Lu Chen and his group set off on their journey to the southwest. As they got closer and closer to Yunzhou, the weather on the road became hotter and hotter. In thiste autumn, the girls here were still wearing thin clothes. Some of the girlsclothes were actually revealing their arms and legs, and some even revealed their belly buttons. Qiao Jinniang looked outside and said, I think weve arrived at Yunzhou. As soon as they arrived at Yunzhou, Qiao Jinniang saw the family of the governor of Yunzhou standing at the city gate to wee them. The leading young woman was slightly plump, and she was holding an infant in her arms. Qiao Jinniang recognized her at a nce. She should be her third sister whom she had never met before, Qiao Ruoyin of the second branch of the Qiao family.
Chapter 278
Chapter 278: Chapter 278. Lu Chen sweet-talked to other women
Hong Ling helped Qiao Jinniang out of the carriage and said, Your Highness, this is third Miss Qiao Ruoyin. Qiao Ruoyins family knelt on the ground and bowed. Qiao Jinniang also saw Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao ruowan, whom she had not seen for a long time. The two sisters were wearing armor, and their faces were tanned. Qiao Ruofeng used to have an umbre when he went out in the Sun. The Jinniang walked up to Qiao Ruoyin and helped her up. Sister, theres no need to be so formal. This must be the little niece who was just born. Second aunt asked me to bring a gift for the child. This phoenix hairpin is a token of my appreciation. After Qiao Ruoyin received it, she thanked her profusely. The Crown Prince and the crown princess havee from afar. The Xu family has prepared some wine for your highness to wee you. I Hope Your Highness will do me the honor. Qiao jinniang said, Sorry to bother you. Qiao Jinniang took Little Lu Xis hand and went to the Xu family. Qiao Ruoyins first child was also a son. He was one year younger than Lu Xi. The two of them yed together as soon as they met. Qiao Ruoyins child grew up at the border. No one in the family told him about imperial power or anything like that. When he yed with the emperors great-grandson, he was not restrained. Unlike in Chang an, other than the prince of Bao County and the Prince of Yun County, the rest of the children were mostly respectful to Lu XI. Children were children after all. Many of them were still young, so they listened to their family members talk about tolerating Lu XI. Those children didnt understand or understand why they had to suffer this grievance. On the surface, they were respectful, but on the inside, they would resist ying with Lu Xi. Lu Xi was young, but she understood. Now that she had a ymate of a simr age, she was very happy. The Three Sisters of the Qiao familys second house opened the letter from second Madam Qiao one after another. For a moment, their eyes reddened. Qiao ruoyin said, Im really unfilial. Ive been married for four years, but I havent returned to Chang an to visit my elders. Sigh. Qiao Ruofeng said from the side, Second sister, dont say that. Youve been married for four years. Father, mother, and grandmother also know about it. Qiao ruoyin said, Crown Princess, a few days ago, I saw the Qin family in the mine in Yunzhou. I heard from Miaomiao about Chang an. How is eldest sister? Qiao jinniang smiled and said, She is finally free now. She is doing very well in the manor. There are many peopleing to propose marriage. Qiao ruoyin said, It would be good if eldest sister could have a look. The Qiao sisters chatted for a while before a woman in cool clothes came in, exposing her calves and arms. When Qiao Jinniang saw this dress, she felt that it was very novel. I, Xu Mingshuang, pay my respects to the Crown Princess Consort. Qiao jinniang said, No need for formalities. Qiao ruoyin smiled and said to Qiao jinniang, This Xu Mingshuang is my mother-inws niece-inw. You should have met her elder brother, Xu Mingwei. The Xu familys uncle and aunt died young. The two siblings have also grown up in the Xu family since they were young. They are no different from the children of the Xu family. Lady Qiao replied, So she is Xu Mingweis younger sister. Qiao Ruofeng did not feel good when he saw Xu Mingshuang. Xu Mingshuangs gaze had been sizing up Lady Qiao. She was scheming in her heart. In terms of looks, she was inferior to Lady Qiao. She wondered if this crown princess who had risen to be a phoenix would be easy to get along with? If she was not easy to get along with, no matter how sweet Lu Chen was to her, she would not be willing to enter the Eastern Pce. At the weing banquet, as they were all rtives, there were no separate seats for men and women for todays banquet. In the middle of the stage, there were local actors from Yunzhou performing the Yunzhou frontier fortress dance. The frontier fortress dance was mostly performed by people who fought bravely against their enemies. The Actorsdance was majestic. Xu Jiedu sat beside Lu Chen, pouring wine for Lu Chen, and introducing the delicacies and fine wines from Yunzhou. Qiao Jinniang felt that it was strange that the person beside him was not Qiao Ruoyins husband, but Xu Mingwei. Most of the Jiedu of great Tang were hereditary, which meant that the person Lord Xu brought to Lu Chen this time was definitely his future sessor. The imperial court naturally did not like a family upying military power for a long time, but this was a rule that had always been hard to change. Moreover, there was another reason. In order to prevent these people who held military power from rebelling, their military power could be passed down from generation to generation. Their power had always been there, so why would they take the risk of rebelling? Your Highness, I have heard that your highnessswordsmanship is superb. I dare to dance with my sword and would like your highness to give me some pointers. After Xu Mingshuang came out, she bowed to Lu Chen and said. As soon as she finished speaking, she jumped onto the stage in a red dress that exposed her arms and calves. In her hand, she held a sword that shone with a cold light. The light of the candlelight reflected on the surface of the sword. The shadow of the sword imprinted itself on Xu Mingshuangs eyes, revealing her pair of Bright Eyes. Xu Mingshuang waved her hand and made a sword gesture. She stabbed straight at Lu Chen. Qiao Jinniangs heart jumped to her throat when she saw this scene. Lu Chen did not bring any secret guards with him when he came to the Xu Residence. As soon as the sword came, Lu Chen used the wine ss to block the wine. He jumped up and grabbed Xu Mingshuangs arm and wrist in an extremely beautiful and swift motion, snatching the sword in her hand, he ced the sword in front of Xu Mingshuangs neck. Lord Xu and Xu Mingwei knelt down repeatedly and said, Your Highness, please spare my life. The guards stepped forward and suppressed Xu Mingshuang. Lu Chen threw away the sword in his hand and said to Xu Mingshuang, Assassinating the crown prince of the current dynasty is a crime that deserves to be executed. Xu Mingshuang smiled. Your Highness, I Just Want to test your martial arts and see if you are worthy to be my husband. Qiao Jinniang frowned. Husband? Along the way, she had actually met many officials who wanted to offer Lu Chen Beauties. Qiao Jinniang had bumped into them several times. Some of these officials outside could not even see the crown prince. If the beauty offered was taken back to Chang an by the crown prince, it would be good for their promotion in the officialdom. Qiao Jinniang was not very angry. After all, it was only human nature. If she was in the officialdom and saw the crown prince passing by her territory, she would also think of offering beauties. Lu Chen rejected them one by one. Aftering to Yunzhou, Qiao Jinniang did not think that there would be such a thing. After all, Yunzhou was the territory of the Qiao family! It was not to the extent that she did not take her, the crown princes consort, seriously. Xu Mingshuang smiled at Lu Chen and said, Your Highnessmartial arts are actually so good. I admire it. I am willing to marry your highness as a side Consort. Qiao Jinniang asked Qiao ruoyin beside her, Is your husbands cousin not very smart? Even the pampered Qiao Ruoshui was not as direct as Xu Mingshuang. Qiao ruoyin said awkwardly, Crown Princess Consort... Qiao ruofeng said, Not only is she not very smart, she even wants to treat herself as a princess without the princessorders. Lu Chens expression was also very bad as he said, Xu Jun, do you dare to let any crazy woman into the banquet? When did I say that I wanted to marry her as a side consort? Xu Mingshuang said, Your Highness, how can you go back on Your Words? Two days ago, you clearly wrote to me saying that you would let me be a side concubine! The word lettermade Qiao Ruofengs expression change. She recalled the time when King Yong wrote to her. Could it be that the crown princes brother-inw was also a scum like his fifth brother?
Chapter 279
Chapter 279: Chapter 279. The handwriting of the letter was a forgery
Qiao Jinniang sneered. What letter? His Highness doesnt even know you, this Crazy Woman! When Lu Chen had given up the Martial Dukes public house for her, she had already known that she and Lu Chen were telepathically connected. She would not believe that Lu Chen was willing to wash her feetst night and would write letters to other women, saying that he wanted Xu Mingshuang to be a side concubine. Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, Its not worth getting angry over such a person. Xu Mingshuang looked at Lu Chen, whose face was like that of a banished immortal. She frowned and said, Your Highness, have you forgotten what you wrote in the letter? How can you deny it like this? I still kept those letters well. You wrote in the letter that the Crown Princess Consort and Marquis an Yuans manor used military power to force you, the Crown Prince, to betray your family. You took a liking to my brothers loyalty. I heard that I have quite a reputation in the womens army at the border. You want me to be a side consort, so the Crown Princess Consort Cant refuse. You and I have beenmunicating for more than ten days. How can you not keep your word! Xu Mingwei frowned when he heard this. Xu Jiedu, who was at the side, broke out in a cold sweat. After all, Yunzhou was the territory of the Qiao family. What could the troops of their Yunzhou Jiedu bepared to the troops of the Qiao Family? Mingshuang, shut up! Xu Mingshuang said, His Highness is not even willing to acknowledge the letter! Lu Chen frowned and asked Xu Mingshuang, Where is the letter? Xu Mingshuang said, The letter is in My Room, Your Highness... The guard quickly went to Xu Mingshuangs room and found the letter. Lu Chen opened it and looked at it. Qiao Jinniang looked at it and said, This handwriting is indeed yours. Lu Chen said, This handwriting is indeed much better than Xieshus handwriting. However, take a closer look. Lu Chen somewhat regretted learning the Liu familys calligraphy when he was young. Everyone could learn the Liu familys handwriting, and the calligraphy in this bookstore was even moremon. Among the schrs, eight out of ten learned the Liu familys calligraphy. Therefore, Lu Chens handwriting was easier to imitate. However, imitation was imitation after all. Since he was praised by master Liu for being better than him, it meant that it was extremely difficult to be exactly the same as his calligraphy. With a careful look, one could always find some clues. Lady Qiao Jin looked at the two pieces carefully and said, This time, the person who imitated your handwriting is much better than the previous one. who could imitate the handwriting so well? If I didnt carefully read each stroke, I would only think that you wrote it. Lu Chen said, King Huai. King Huai was an expert at imitating other peoples handwriting. This time, he imitated his handwriting tomunicate with Xu Mingshuang, presumably to drive a wedge between him and Qiao Jin. Or perhaps, he wanted Xu Mingshuang to fall into his trap. It was not a secret that ambassador Xu Jiedu wanted his wifes nephew, Xu Mingwei, to take the throne. When Xu Mingwei went to Chang anst year, many wives had gone to inquire about the marriage. Xu Mingshuang was Xu Mingweis sister, just like how Zhou Siming would choose to rebel for Zhou Sisi. When Xu Mingwei learned that his sister had been Abandonedby the crown prince, it was not necessarily that he would not seek refuge with King Huai. Qiao Jinniang also understood at once. Apart from Xu Mingshuang, everyone present was also smart. Qiao Ruoyin and her husband were just unwilling to take over the position of Jiedu envoy, but they were not stupid. They also understood King Huais n. Xu Jiedu envoy and Xu Mingwei kneeled on the ground. Xu Mingwei said, Your Highness, my sister was also deceived by King Huai. I hope that Your Highness will forgive me and forgive my Mingshuang. Dont lower yourself to the level of an ignorant little girl. Xu Mingshuang said, Brother, aunt has alreadypared the handwriting of Your Highness and can prove that these letters were written by Your Highness! What is King Huai deceiving? It must be Lady Qiao Jin who forced Your Highness not to tell lies! Lu Chen said angrily, Calling the crown princess by her name is unforgivable. Men, send her to the border mines. Do not allow her to return without my orders. Yes!The guards responded quickly. Qiao Ruofeng said to Lady Qiao, Finally, someone is treating her. She is only a cousin of the Xu family, but she is almost climbing up to third sister. There is nock of insults in her words to me! If it werent for the disgrace of the family, I would have begged third uncle toe out and deal with her. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Youve changed a lot. After staying in the military camp for a long time, Ive be a little more straightforward.Qiao ruofeng only smiled slightly. Qiao jinniang said, No, its because you know how to distinguish right from wrong. The matter of King Yong can be considered to bepletely over. Aunt, uncle, brother, save me!Xu Mingshuang was being held and shouted. Lu Chen nced at Xu Mingwei and the others. Are you going to plead for mercy for her? Xu Mingwei knelt on the ground and said, Your Highness, my parents died early. Its because I didnt take good care of my sister, causing her to be so arrogant. My sister deserves it, and Im willing to be punished! Xu Mingshuang, who was being dragged by the guards, shouted, Xu Mingwei, you are greedy for wealth. I know you want to marry Qiao Ruofeng. Why did shee to Yunzhou? Isnt it because she lost her reputation in Chang an?? You dont want your own sister because of this woman who lost her reputation? You are greedy for the position of Jiedushi. You will have your retribution sooner orter for treating your sister like this! Aunt, please save me! The Xu Jiedushis wife looked earnestly at Qiao ruoyin. She thought that she and the Crown Princess consort were cousins after all, so she could plead for mercy, but Qiao Ruoyin turned a deaf ear. Qiao Ruoyins husband turned to the Xu Jiedushis wife and said, Mother, cousin has long been spoiled by you. Didnt you think that our Xu familys wealth depends on the Qiao family. I dont even fancy her, yet she still wants to enter the Eastern Pce. Its simply a dream. She doesnt even know that shes being used. Are you going to watch as our Xu family is implicated by her alone? Although Xu Jiedus wife doted on this niece who had lost her parents when she was young, she cared more about her own son, so she could only give up. The Jin Niang looked at everyone present and believed that the rumors were true. Qiao Ruoyin was indeed living a good life in Yunzhou. At the very least, she was able to ignore her mother-inws gaze. How could such an ordinary woman have such ability! Thinking about it, the marriage an yuanhou found for Qiao ruoshui could be considered a good marriage. Xu Mingshuangs interlude did not affect the weing banquet this time. The banquet between men always required more discussion. After Qiao Jin Niang finished her meal, she went to Qiao Ruoyins room and continued to talk about the private conversation between sisters. When she entered, Qiao ruofengined about how Xu Mingshuang bullied a neer like her in the army. Qiao ruoyin smiled faintly and said, This Xu Mingshuang is really stupid. Luckily, Xu Mingwei is someone who knows his ce and doesnt protect his own sister. Qiao ruowan smiled and said, After all, Xu Mingwei likes my sister. Qiao ruofeng gave Qiao Ruowan a gentle punch and said, Stop talking nonsense. Xu Mingwei and I have nothing to do with each other. Qiao ruowan said, Xu Mingwei saved sisters life. Since second sister is here and Xu Mingshuang has been dealt with, why dont we let second sister marry you and Xu Mingwei? Qiao Jinniang:...along the way, she had encountered many requests for marriage.
Chapter 280
Chapter 280: Chapter 280: Zhou Siming was going to take Qin Miaomiao away
Jin Niang picked up a cup of warm tea and asked Qiao ruofeng, What do you think? If you really want to get married, thats fine too. When we return to Chang an, Ill discuss it with second uncle and second aunt, and then Ill get married to you. Qiao ruofeng said shyly, Dont listen to your sisters nonsense. Xu Mingwei only came to teach me martial arts and military tactics every day because he saw that I had the willpower to join the army... Qiao ruofeng said, I also have the will and determination. Why didnt Xu Mingweie to teach me? The brocadedy smiled and said, It seems that the heavens are destined. That year, Xu Mingwei jumped into the river to save your life on the eve of the seventh festival. Maybe it was Lady Zhinu who blessed you with a good marriage. Qiao ruofeng said shyly, Good sister, you also made fun of me like Ruowan? The brocadedy said, Second aunt and grandmother are very worried about you in Luoyang. If you can live well, they will be relieved. Qiao ruofeng said weakly, When mother wanted to be third uncles son, I said that I was going to marry into my Qiao familys second son-inw. Xu Mingwei is Lord Xus choice to be the Jiedushi envoy. He will not follow me to Chang an to marry into the family. Qiao ruofeng said, If I marry into the family, Ill be there too! Sister, if youre worried about this, youre worrying too much. The jinniang nodded and said, Yes, Ruofeng is right. If not, you should have more children. One surname is Qiao and the other is Xu. Qiao Ruofengs face turned even redder. Sister, why are you talking about having children? At this moment, Qiao Ruoyins daughter had just woken up. The wet nurse carried her over to look for Qiao ruoyin. Qiao Jinniang carried the baby in her arms. This child was much older than her younger sister, and she had the appearance of her father. Qiao ruoyin smiled and said, This girl is more delicate than a boy. If she doesnt see me when she wakes up, shell start crying. The wet nurse cant carry her either. Now that youre carrying her, she wont cry. Qiao Jinniang teased the child in her arms and said with a smile, This child probably knows that I am her aunt. Seeing the soft and cuddly girl, Qiao Jinniang wanted her daughter toe as soon as possible. However, she did not know why there was no good news at this moment. .. In the iron mine of Yunzhou. Qin Miao Miao cooked a table full of dishes. Mother Qin said to Qin Miao with heartache, Miao Miao, its been hard on you. You are the daughter of the High Dukes public house. Its all your father and brothers fault. They have harmed you for the rest of your life! Qin Miao said, Mother, Im not suffering. You should eat a little more and wait for the world to pardon you. Perhaps you and I might even have the chance to return to Chang an one day. I know how to write and write. When that timees, Ill go to the Womens Academy in the West Mountains and be a teacher. Ill still be able to let mother have a good life. Mother Qin patted Qin Miaos head and said, Weve implicated you. The marriage contract between the Lin family and you is still there. If you bring the marriage contract back and ask Lin Mo to marry you, he wont go back on his word. Its better than suffering here. Qin Miao said, Mother, dont talk about this anymore. Hurry up and eat. While the mother and daughter were eating, the sound of something being smashed could be heard from inside. Qin Miao knew that her brother was smashing something again. It had been more than half a month since they had arrived at the border. Qin Zhu was still unwilling to admit that he was no longer the heir to the High Dukes public house. He was beaten up by the mine owner every day. When he returned home, he would lose his temper. A mournful female voice came from the side. How dare you! I am a general of the womens Army of the cloud region. Who Dares to kidnap me? My aunt is the wife of Ambassador Xu Jiedu. His Highness the Crown Prince is full of praise for me. Why did you lowly servants let mee here! When I get out, I will take care of you, theckeys of the crown princess consort, one by one! Mother Qin asked, Why is there such a sound outside? Qin miaomiao replied, I heard from the mine that the Crown Princess and the Crown Princess will being to cloud province to propose marriage to the emperor of the Xiliang Kingdom. Mother Qin was overjoyed. Miaomiao, your rtionship with the crown princess has always been very good. If you go and beg her, she will definitely forgive you. Go back to Chang an! Qin Miaomiao put down the chopsticks in his hand and said, Mother, my brother has treated Qiao Ruoyun so disgustingly. How can I have the face to beg for mercy? If I leave, what will you do? Are you willing to go to Chang an with me? Of course not. I Cant be at ease with your brother in this state,said Mother Qin. Qin Miaomiao closed his eyes. After retrieving his tears, he slowly opened them again. Isnt that good? Back then, Fu Lu had said that he would spare me from the punishment of exile. But if I really agree to stay in Chang an, what will you do? With Qin Shus current disgraceful behavior, how could he be expected to take care of his mother? It was already good enough that the other sons and daughters of the Qin family did not hate his mother. Why would theye to take care of his mother. Qin Miaomiao put away the bowls and chopsticks. He looked up at the crescent moon in the sky and wiped the sweat off his face. The climate in Yunzhou was really strange. It was still very hot at this moment. Miaomiao! Qin Miaomiao heard a familiar voice and almost thought she had heard wrong. Zhou Siming? Why are you here? Did youe with the Crown Prince? It couldnt be. Hadnt the Martial Dukes public house already broken off with the Crown Prince? Zhou Siming wouldnte with the crown prince this time. Miaomiao, I finally see you again.Zhou Siming looked at Qin Miaomiao wearing a blue and white cloth and felt extremely ufortable in his heart. She was originally the daughter of the High Dukes public house, and now her hands had calluses. Even an ordinary man in this iron mine could not bear to work, let alone such a weak woman! Qin Miaomiao said to Zhou siming, What are you doing here? Zhou siming said, Im sorry, Miaomiao. When you were in trouble, Sisi was also in trouble, so I did not have time to care about you for a while. I will take you away from here. Qin miaomiao frowned and said, Theres no need. Im engaged to Lin Mo. Please have some self-respect, Young Master Zhou. Zhou Siming was puzzled and said, You know that Lin Mo doesnt have you in his heart. I have never let you go. Why did you choose Lin Mo? If he really had feelings for you, he should have married you instead of watching you fall to such a State! Follow me. I promise you that I will save your fathers life. I will let everyone in the Qin public house regain their positions and take back their titles. When that timees, you will still be the high and mighty miss of the Qin public house. Miaomiao, follow me! Zhou Siming acted as if he wanted to go forward and hold Qin Miaomiaos hand. However, Qin Miaomiao dodged him and said, Zhou Siming, dont tell me these things. My fate is already miserable enough. Dont drag me into the state of Death! My father deserved it. Its only right that our lineage was kicked out of the High Dukes public house! Zhou Siming, since weve known each other for a while, I advise you to repent as soon as possible!! Madam Zhou and Zhou Sisi also deserved it. You shouldnt take the wrong path anymore. At least now you still have a chance to turn back. You grew up with His Highness. If you admit your mistake now, His Highness will still forgive you! Zhou Sisi said, Why should I admit my mistake to an ungrateful person? Mengmeng, trust me. In less than a year, King Huai will be in power. Youre crazy.Qin Mengmeng shook his head in disbelief.
Chapter 281
Chapter 281: Chapter 281, diplomatic mission to Xiliang
Qin Miao looked at Zhou Siming with disappointment and said, Zhou Siming, dont you know how capable King Huai Is? If you are unwilling to repent, please dont drag me down! Zhou siming frowned and said, Miao Miao, you actually dont believe me? At this time, Qin Shus words came from behind Qin Miao. Miao Miao, Crown Prince Zhou is right. The Qiao family and Crown Prince have gone too far. King Huai is the one everyone wants. Qin Miaomiao really wanted to spit, Big Brother! However, Qin Shu said to Zhou siming, Even though our Qin family has been banished to the border, as long as King Huai can use me, I will definitely do my best to help him! He wanted Qiao Ruoyun to regret it. He wanted Qiao Ruoyun to obediently return to his side. .. Xu Mingshuangs interlude had allowed the Xu family to understand King Huais scheme. The next day, they had sent Qiao Ruoyin to visit Qiao Jinniang to express their loyalty to the crown prince. Madam Xu even personally came to propose marriage for Xu Mingwei and Qiao Jinniang. Crown prince consort, if our Xu familys child can marry the Qiao familys daughter, it will really be a climb up thedder. That nephew of mine is not boasting either. Regardless of whether its his literary talent or his military strategy, he is of the upper ss. I am also Miss Ruofeng. I wonder if I can ask the crown prince consort to help bestow the marriage? Xu Mingshuangs actions might have an impact on Xu Mingwei. If Xu Mingwei married the Qiao familys daughter now, it would be enough to put His Highness and the Qiao family at ease. Lady Qiao Jin calmly drank a cup of water and said, Sister Ruo Fengs marriage should be decided by second uncle and second aunt. Both Your Highness and I understand in our hearts whether your Xu family is loyal or not. There is no need for you toe and talk about the marriage just to show your loyalty. Madam Xu quickly said, Crown Princess consort, this is not a matter. I had my eyes on Miss ruofeng from the start. Its just that she has an extremely high status and doesnt have any elders here, so its not convenient for me to speak. Qiao jinniang said, If Ruofeng can find happiness, its also a good thing. Madam Xu, feel free to talk to Ruofengs parents about this matter.. Madam Xu repeatedly agreed, but in her heart, she didnt understand. Why did the Crown Princess consort not want such a good opportunity to rope her in? Did she really think that the Xu family could not bepared to the Qiao Family? On the way back, Madam Xu told Qiao Ruoyin about this matter. Qiao ruoyin only said, Mother, the Crown Princess is the daughter of the Qiao family. If she really wanted to use the marriage between sisters and brothers for her own power, I think His Highness would not favor her alone. Madam Xu nodded and said, Thats true. Its rare for the noble girls of Chang an to be so sincere. After sending Madam Xu and the others away, Qiao Jinniang went to Lu Chens study. Coincidentally, the secret guard reported that Zhou Siming had gone to look for Qin Miaomiao. Lu Chen said to the secret guard, Be careful and keep an eye on him. Dont let him find you. Yes, Your Highness. Seeing the worried look on the Jinniangs face, Lu Chen reached out and pulled her onto hisp. He asked in a low voice, Whats Wrong? Qiao Jin Niang replied, We are going to enter Xiliang in three days. Im a little scared. They knew that King Huai had already cooperated with Xiliang. Entering Xiliang at this time would definitely be fraught with danger. Lu Chen said, If youre scared, then stay in Yunzhou and wait for my return. Qiao Jin raised her eyes to look at Lu Chen. Although Im scared, Im still a member of Marquis an Yuans manor. If I were to cower and hide in Yunzhou city in Xiliang, how would I have the face to meet the people of the world and meet my ancestors in the future! Lu Chen wrapped his arms around Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, Even if the two countries are at war, they would not kill their envoys. King Huai and the Western Liang kingdom do not have the courage to assassinate you and me in the Western Liang territory. Qiao Jinniang thought about it and agreed. If that was the case, even if King Huai ascended the throne, he would have to go to the Western Liang or else it would be difficult to exin to the people of Great Tang. I didnt expect Zhou Siming to be so infatuated with Qin Miao at this time. Lu Chen heard Zhou Simings name and his expression was indifferent. He sighed and said, He knows that this step is something I have never thought of. Qiao jinniang said, Before I got married, I had a few ymates that I grew up with. However, after I got married, there was no contact between us. It can be seen that apart from husband and wife, all other brotherly feelings are fake. Lu Chen smiled and replied, Its good that you understand. Three dayster, the great Tang diplomatic mission had the crown prince and the crown princess as the leaders of the diplomatic mission to Xiliang. The people of Xiliang came one after another to watch the bustle. Sa Moer had returned to Xiliang earlier with Jinniang and the others. The emperor of Xiliang led the officials of Xiliang to wee them outside the capital city. They sang, danced, and sang. The National Beast of Xiliang was an elephant. This time, Xiliang also sent three elephants to wee Lu Chen, Jinniang, and Little Lu Xi. Elephants in Luoyang were rare nowadays. Most of them were only recorded in ancient county records. This was the first time the Jinniang and Lu Xi had seen such a colossus. The Jinniang wore the ceremonial dress of the Crown Princess, which represented the majesty of the Great Tang Dynasty. The procedure wasplicated, so it was not easy to climb onto the elephant. Lu Chen helped Qiao Jinniang up the elephant and let her sit on the side. He held Qiao Jinniangs waist so that she would not be afraid of falling off the elephant. Lu Xi looked at Gu Ming angrily. Gu Ming helped Lu Xi up the elephant as well. The group arrived at the White Hall in Xiliang. The king of Xiliang had already prepared a banquet. After getting off the elephant, Qiao Jinniang saw a man with a malicious gaze standing at the door of the White Hall. He was dressed in fine silk and wore a colorful hat. Lu Chen whispered in the Jinniangs ear, He is the regent of Xiliang. Do you still remember the national master whose tricks were exposed by you? That National Master is the Regents lover. Qiao Jinniang understood. Since the king of Xiliang sent sa Moer to make peace, he naturally wanted to be on good terms with great Tang. Thus, during the banquet, the royal family was extremely enthusiastic, but the ministers and generals were of a different faction. After the banquet, Qiao Jinniang could see that the prince of Xiliang was probably just a puppet of Xiliang, and the power of Xiliang was in the hands of the regent. Xiliang had prepared a temporary pce for Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang next to the Xiliang Pce. After Qiao Jinniang returned to the temporary pce, she said to Lu Chen, No wonder Xiliang sent the princess to form a marriage alliance and cooperated with the Prince of Huai. It turns out that the regent and the Prince of Xiliang have not been on good terms for a long time. Lu Chen replied, Yes, the king of Xiliang gave his daughter to Datang, so the Regent couldnt sit still anymore. He must be the king of Xiliang as soon as possible. However, there are many tribes in Xiliang, so he didnt dare to rebel. If he helped King Huai ascend the throne and King Huai promised him a city to help him take the throne of Xiliang, then he would be able to be the king of Xiliang! Qiao jinniang said, It seems that King Xiliang has already lost his power. It seems that more than half of the officials at the banquet today are following the Regents orders. Lu Chen said, Thats not entirely true. After all, King Xiliang is the rightful king of Xiliang. All the tribes in Xiliang have the SA royal family. Back then, after King Xiliang was killed by his father-inw, it was because of the SA royal family that the Regent did not get the throne. Now it is useless for the court to be the regent. His troops are not as many as the troops of the royal family of the SA family from all over the world!
Chapter 282
Chapter 282: In chapter 282, the people of Yunzhou fled
Lu Chen continued, The other tribes of the SA family might not be loyal to the king of Xiliang. They must have been eyeing the throne of Xiliang for a long time. Its just that they didnt want to be the first to rebel. Thats why the Regent agreed to help the king of Huai take the throne. That way, he can control these troops! Qiao jinniang said, West Liang is actually just a pile of loose sand. Isnt the regent afraid that the troops of West Liang wont be able to reach Chang an and might not even be able to defeat the troops of Yunzhou? Lu Chen said, Thats why the Huai King wants to use Xu Mingshuang. Other than Xu Mingshuang, perhaps he has another chess piece. Even if the troops of West Liang cant defeat the troops of the Qiao family of Yunzhou, they can still hold back the troops of the Qiao family and give the troops of the northern desert a chance to attack Chang an. Jinniang sighed and said, If they really fight, the people will still be injured. King Huai actually colluded with foreign tribes for the sake of the throne. Sigh! The temperature in Western Liang varied greatly between day and night. Qiao Jinniang could not help but feel ayer of coldness. Lu Chen put on a coat for her and said, Great Tangs Army hasnt seen blood for almost 20 years. If Western Liang takes the initiative to attack and just happens toplete what father-inw failed to do back then, this small country of Western Liang will invade again and again. It seems that they will never be honest if we dont let them be vassal states. More than 20 years ago, it was only because father was considerate of the heavy casualties and the birth of the crown prince that they let it go. Qiao jinniang said, Its true. The conditions at the border are so hard because of the chaos in Xiliang and the repeated invasion of our great Tangs border! .. In the Regents mansion. Zhou Siming sent the National Master who had been an official prostitute in Chang an back to the regent. The regent of Xiliang saw his beloved woman dressed like a prostitute and heard that she was already an official prostitute. He was extremely angry and said to Zhou siming, Is this what King Huai promised me? I stole the precious treasure of Xiliang, the thousand-year-old Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus, and gave it to King Huai. King Huai swore that he would seed. Now? I really trusted him wrongly! Zhou siming said, Dont be angry, regent. King Huai has already arranged everything. As long as the regent falsely used Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang of taking the Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus from Xiliang after they left, he can lead his troops to pin down the Qiao familys troops in the southwest. The Qiao familys troops can not rush back to Chang an. King Huai has the troops of the northern desert and Longxi Jiedushi. Naturally, he can conquer the city and go to Chang an to ascend to the throne in Chang an! The regent said, The Emperor of great Tang is not so easy to deal with. He is in Luoyang and can not be killed. King Huais ascension to the throne is also a joke. Zhou siming cupped his hands and replied, You can rest assured. Now, the Empress Dowager has beenpletely controlled by chef Li Yu using rice sachets and fruits. His Majesty will visit the Empress Dowagers pce in the days toe. After King Huai seeds, the muddle-headed Hui Lin Emperor will not have much time left. Then what about your great Tangs crown prince and Crown Princess Consort? Zhou siming said, King Huai originally wanted to use Xu Mingwei, but his n failed. The two of them can not die under your Western Liang Knives. I have already made arrangements! What arrangements?The regent asked, King Huai has never fulfilled any of the things he promised me. How can I trust him? Zhou Siming lowered his voice and said, Princess Fu an was seriously ill because of Lu Chen. Now, she has no medicine and needs to rely on the thousand-year-old snow lotus of the Tianshan Mountains as the medicine. If Little Jun Rong feels that Lu Chen has the snow lotus and refuses to take it out, she will be anxious to save her sister... The regent said, This is a good n. .. Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen strolled around the capital of Xiliang Kingdom. When Qiao Jinniang saw the people here, they all listened to the words of the imperial tutor. The people of Xiliang Kingdom had never seen a magic trick, so they treated the National Masters Magic Trick as an immortal magic trick. The Regent King was more and more loved by the people of Xiliang Kingdom, and it was also because of the National Master. The National Master said that recently, there was a strange phenomenon. The National Treasure of Xiliang Kingdom, the thousand-year-old Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus, was stolen. If this snow lotus doesnt return soon, our Xiliang Kingdom will be destroyed! Ah! A treasure like the thousand-year-old snow lotus of the Tianshan Mountains, how could it be stolen by someone! The Imperial Tutor knows immortal magic and has been in seclusion for so long. Could it be that he cant snatch back the snow lotus of the Tianshan Mountains? The people of Xiliang were all panicking. Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang looked at each other and said, Its better not to stay here for too long. The snow lotus of the Tianshan Mountains was no longer in Xiliang. At this moment, the Regent King and the imperial tutor were deliberately mystifying things, not just to deceive the people. Qiao Jinniang nodded. The two of them went to see the king of Xiliang and exchanged the national letter. They left Xiliang and returned to Yunzhou. The crown prince was going to visit Xiliang, so the army was naturally waiting at the border. Third Master Qiao went forward and said, Its great that the crown prince and the Crown Princessgrandson have returned safely. Lu Chen said to third master qiao, Third Uncle, theres no need to disband the army. Pass down the order. Im afraid theres a tough battle to be fought in Xiliang! Third Master Qiaoughed heartily and said, When Western Liang killed my father and uncle, I was still young. I couldnt take revenge with Big Brother. Weve been waiting for a long time to go to Western Liang! Lu Chen turned to Qiao Jinniang and said, Take Xier and go to the Qiao familys residence first. Third uncle and I will stay at the front line. Qiao jinniang said, The battlefield is dangerous, you... Just as you said, you cant be a coward, let alone an orphan. Be Obedient. Qiao jinniang said, Then Ill go to the back and prepare provisions and clothes for you. The climate in Western Liang is changeable. Although Yunzhou is hot, it will be a cold day in Western Liang in December. You have to wear winter clothes. Third master Qiao said, His Majesty has already ordered people to prepare these provisions. The provisions and military uniforms arrived before you. Originally, he was afraid that the Crown Prince would be in danger in Western Liang, so he has already prepared provisions to attack Western Liang. Qiao Jinniang was relieved. She only said, It is beneficial to be more vignt. Qiao Jinniang and Lu Xi had just arrived at the Yun province Qiao Manor when a messenger came to report: The state preceptor of Western Liang had figured out that the crown prince and his people had stolen the thousand-year-old treasure of the Snowy Lotus of Tianshan. Hence, the king of Western Liang had already given the order to let the Western Liang army attack Yun Province. Great Tang had always been unwilling to take the initiative to attack unless they attacked our borders. When the Western Liang army sent a letter of challenge, Yun Province responded with a letter of challenge. When Qiao Jinniang heard that Xiliang had gathered nearly 200,000 soldiers, and the Qiao family only had 100,000 soldiers in Yunzhou, she could not help but feel a little worried. Moreover, although Xiliang was a barbarian without education, it was extremely fierce in fighting. The people on the border of Yunzhou had not encountered a war for a long time. They all panicked and fled in all directions. Some strong men also began to fight for things. When Qiao Jinniang heard the report from Yu Yan, she frowned and said, Close the gate of Yunzhou. Im going to the city gate of Yunzhou. Your Highness... Its dangerous outside. Those people who are running for their lives might not be able to listen to you.. Qiao jinniang said, I have to go! Qiao Jinniang went to the city gate of Yunzhou. Below her was a group of people crying andining, Why arent you letting us go? We have to run for Our Lives! Why did your Highness steal someone elses national treasure? Thats right, thats right. Yunzhou city hasnt fought a war for so many years. I heard that there are 200,000 soldiers in Xiliang, but we only have 100,000. Thats half of it. How can we win? Locking us in Yunzhou city is taking our lives! Lets rush out!
Chapter 283
Chapter 283: Chapter 283, the Empress has a happy pulse
Everyone, everyone, quiet down and listen to me! Lady Qiao Jin shouted with all her might. However, her voice clearly could not intimidate them. At this moment, Qiao Ruoyin came up and said, Silence! When Lady Qiao Jin heard her family members talk about Qiao ruoyin, they all said that her personality was as weak as Qiao Ruoyuns. However, she did not expect her voice to be so loud. Silence, this is the current crown princess consort. All of you, quiet down first and listen to the Crown PrincessAdmonishment! The crowd quieted down. Some of themoners who were stirring up trouble in the crowd shouted, Rumor has it that the Crown Princess Consort stole the National Treasure of Xiliang for the sake of beautifying her appearance. Thats why Xiliang came to attack our cloud province. For a moment, the crowd became noisy again. Qiao ruoyin shouted loudly, Everyone, silence. If anyone still doesnt listen to the Crown Princess Consort, Kill Without Mercy! The words kill without mercyfinally calmed these people. Qiao Jinniang coughed and said in the loudest voice she had ever heard in her life, People, I didnt steal the Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus, the National Treasure of Xiliang. It was stolen long ago! The National Master of Xiliang was a fraud. The people of Chang an had long seen through his trickery in Chang an. More than 20 years ago, Yunzhou city was destroyed. My grandfather and his brothers died in battle here. What was the reason for the invasion of Xiliang? It was just an excuse for Xiliangs wild ambitions. Today, I came here to ask all the elders of Yunzhou City to stay in Yunzhou city and not to run around. If Yunzhou city was destroyed, even if you escaped to another city, you would still suffer! When I returned to Marquis an Yuans residence, I often heard about the heroic days of my ancestors. I also heard about the people of Yunzhou city when Xiliang ughtered Yunzhou city, it was the people of Yunzhou City who forcefully held on to Yunzhou City without surrendering. Today, the Xiliang Army has yet to set foot in Yunzhou city. If you run away like this, you will only disturb the morale of the army. Also, many of you are military rtives, and many of you are retired border guards. At this juncture, if you run away without protecting your home, you will be worthy of the martyrs who bled here twenty years ago! Crown princess, thats easy for you to say. We dont want to Die! Thats right. We havent lived long enough, so why should we die? Qiao Jinniang listened to the people below, Who isnt afraid of death? Im also afraid of death. If Yunzhou City Falls today and we cant defend it, you have to live. If Yunzhou City Falls, you have to run. If you make the world uneasy, I Wont stop you from running. But now, the army is still 300 miles away. The emperors great-grandson is still in Yunzhou City. What are you hiding from? What are you running from? Apart from disturbing the morale of the army, what benefits do you have! My Sister, Qiao ruowan, is still a month away from reaching marriageable age. She is on the battlefield right now. The crown prince could have returned to Luoyang safe and sound, but he is still on the battlefield. Arent they afraid of death? Arent the 100,000 Generals Afraid of death? Why do they want to seek death? Because they want to protect the people of Yunzhou. Only by living and working in Yunzhou can their morale be greatly boosted. As the people they want to protect, if you dont believe in our great Tangs army, how can the morale of the army be boosted! The soldiers are at war, but some of you go to their homes to rob them. Wont that make their hearts cold? Qiao Jinniangs words made many of the people in the crowd blush. Another man in the crowd said, Crown Princess, arent you saying this to protect the throne of the Lu Family? We dont have to lose our lives for the throne of the Lu family! Qiao jinniang said, Men, tie him up. How can there be aplete egg when the nest is overthrown? His Majesty has worked hard for more than 20 years to create the current era of Great Tang. Now that Xiliang has attacked Great Tang, how can the people of Great Tang have an easy time. Why are you still instigating people here? What are your intentions? Men, tie him up and interrogate him in detail. He is a spy sent by Xiliang to disturb the morale of the army! Also, from today onwards, if there is a man under the age of 15 who is willing to join the army and is under the age of 30, he can go to the JIEDU Envoys residence to receive 50 taels of silver. In the future, his sry will be calcted separately. If the women are physically strong, they can also receive 50 taels of silver to join the army. Many peoples eyes lit up when they heard 50 taels of silver. This was not a small amount of money. Qiao ruoyin asked, Crown Princess Consort, where did you get this silver? Qiao jinniang said, I will pay. I will have to trouble brother-inw to properly register the money. You will pay from your private vault?Qiao Ruoyin asked. I dont think thats appropriate, right? Qiao jinniang said, Its the same for me. Without the golden age, its useless for me to keep so much money.. The northern desert is about to send troops. I think the reinforcements will go to the northern desert first. They wonte to the southwest so soon. Recruiting troops from the cloud state is the fastest and best way. Qiao ruoyin cupped her hands and said, Elder sister is truly admirable. Qiao Jinniang returned to the Qiao residence and saw Little Lu Xi practicing with a tree branch as a sword. When he saw Qiao Jinniang, he went up and said, Mother, when Xier has mastered the sword, she will be able to go to the battlefield to kill the enemy. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Xier is so obedient. Practice your sword well. When youre done, help third maternal grandfather and your father kill the enemy together! Qiao Jinniang returned to her room and felt a little dizzy. She didnt know if it was because she had injured her Dantian by talking loudly just now, but she felt waves of difort in her throat. Lu Chen had left the imperial physicians apanying her in the army to be military doctors. Hong Ling then went to invite the Qiao familys imperial physicians to check Qiao Jinniangs pulse. The imperial physicians checked her pulse and said, I wonder when was thest time the crown princess and Consort had a small life? Hong Ling replied, Its the end of September. It was already November and a half, and the October trip was on the road. Qiao Jin had thought that she had note because she was not used to the environment. Now that she heard the doctor say this, she asked with some joy, Am I pregnant? The Doctor of the Qiao family said, The Empresspulse is already showing signs of a faint pulse. Its just that the time is still short. We still need to wait for a few more days before we can check her pulse. Qiao Jin motioned for Hong Ling to give the Doctor a lot of rewards. She touched her lower abdomen, thinking that it would be great if she was a daughter. It was just enough to form a good character. Qiao Jin wrote a letter about this matter and passed it to Lu Chen, who was on the battlefield three hundred miles away. Lu Chen opened Qiao Jins letter in the tent. Seeing the joy in her words, he could not help but think of the delicate look on her face when she was pregnant with Xier. He called over third master Qiao and the other generals and said, The attack on Xiliang needs to be done quickly. Well just wait for the Imperial Courts order and attack directly. After all, we cant let the Crown Princess give birth to a little princess in Yunzhou. Most of the generals in Yunzhou were soldiers of Marquis an Yuans manor. When they heard this, their morale was greatly boosted. Only third master Qiao asked, Your Highness, a few days ago, the Crown Princessstomach was still t. Can you tell that shes the Little Princess Now? Lu Chen smiled indulgently. She wants a daughter.
Chapter 284
Chapter 284: Chapter 284, impeachment of Lu Chen
In December, every family was busy celebrating the new year in the new capital. In the main hall, King Huai led many imperial censorates to kneel down and impeach Lu Chen. King Huai said, Father, in order to please the Crown Princess, the crown prince took away the most precious treasure of Xiliang. Xiliangs letter of challenge did not reach the imperial court, but he took the initiative to mobilize the troops of the border to fight. This is not putting the lives of our soldiers and civilians in his eyes! The imperial censor also said, Yes, Your Majesty, His Highness The Crown Prince took the initiative to fight without consulting the imperial court. This is a crime of disloyalty! And general Qiao listens to His Highness the Crown Princes orders. We shouldnt let him lead the heavy troops of Xiliang Anymore! The officials of the ministry of war retorted, Xiliang is ambitious. Since the letter of challenge has been issued, our great Tang will beughed at by the world if we dont ept it! The Hui Lin Emperor saw the conflict between the civil officials and generals on both sides, he frowned and said, Silence. Now that the northern desert and Xiliang havee prepared to attack, order Marquis an yuan to lead 200,000 troops outside Chang an to support the northwest army and defend against the Northern Desert Army. Your Majesty, you cant Do That! These 200,000 are the defending troops of Chang an and Luoyang. If these troops go to the northwest, what Will Chang an and Luoyang do then? All the officials tried to dissuade him. The Hui Lin Emperor raised his hand and said, I have made up my mind. Dont say anything more. We ept your orders. After King Huai left the hall, he smiled lightly. Marquis an Yuan going to the northwest would definitely be a fierce battle. At that time, Lu Chen and Lu Xi would lose their lives, so how could marquis an Yuans mansion be arrogant. Even if he had arge number of soldiers in his hands, he would be able to deal with them sooner orter after he ascended the throne. After King Huai returned to the manor, he looked for Zhou siming and said, Why havent we heard of Lu Chens death? There hasnt been any news from the Yun province for a long time. Zhou siming said, Im afraid this little Prince Rong is useless. If we want Lu Chen to die, we can only start with Qiao Jinniang. In the end, Lu Chen was willing to betray his family for Qiao Jinniang. Prince Huai said, Qiao Jinniang almost never leaves the Qiao family. How can we start? Zhou siming said, Didnt we put a few spies in Yunzhou City? Write a letter to them and let Yunzhou city fall into chaos, stirring up the Panic of the people of Yunzhou City! Let the people of Yunzhou cityin that it was Qiao Jinniang who stole the snow lotus of the Tianshan Mountains for the sake of beauty that caused this disaster. When the timees, our spies will be among the people. Its not impossible to kidnap Qiao Jinniang in the Chaos! .. The midwinter of Yunzhou finally felt a little chilly. Qiao Jinniang was sewing some clothes for the unborn child in the house. The patterns she chose were all girlspatterns. She heard the noise outside and opened the door. She saw Lu Chen in silver armor. Qiao Jinniang hurriedly hugged Lu Chen. The armor made her panic and she took a step back. Lu Chen took off his armor and hugged her. Are you okay? Did the little princess make trouble for You? Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No, my daughter is very obedient. Why Are You Back? How is the battlefield? The war had been going on for almost two months, but Qiao Jinniang could not find any news about the battlefield. It was probably Lu Chen who was hiding it. Lu Chen said, The secret guards stopped Zhou Siming and King Huai from sending a letter to Yunzhou city. They were afraid that Yunzhou city would be in trouble, so I was worried about you. I came back to take a look, but I did not expect that Yunzhou city was still peaceful and the people were self-sufficient. Qiao jinniang said, In the beginning, someone instigated the people of Yunzhou City to cause trouble. I caught them all. What letter did Zhou Siming send? Lu Chen showed the letter to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang nced at it and said, The people they want to send the letter to are probably those people I locked in the prison. They are really shameless to the extreme. They colluded with foreign races and even tried to make the citizens of Yunzhou City live a miserable life. Even if King Huai really bes the emperor, he will still be despised by others! Lu Chen said, Dont be angry over those two people. Xiliang has already withdrawn its troops, but I think that if we dont take down Xiliang capital, it will still be a big problem in the future. Therefore, we will keep the war a secret until we rece Xiliang. In order to prevent the imperial court from saying anything, perhaps there will be false news of defeat. Dont be afraid. Most of the officials in the great Tang imperial court would not agree with him taking down Xiliangpletely. He could only execute this matter first and report itter! Qiao jinniang nodded and said, En, I believe in you, but you must also protect yourself and keep your life! Lu Chen reached out and ced his hand on her abdomen. Of course, I want to conquer Xiliang and give my little princess a big gift. How about the title of Princess of Xiliang? Qiao jinniang said, Its best to be careful. If Xiliang was easy to deal with, my grandfather and the others wouldnt have lost their lives like this. Besides, father didnt continue to conquer Xiliang. Lu Chen said, There were many reasons why we didnt conquer Xiliang. The main reason was that the northern desert was watching us like a tiger watching its prey. At that time, the Great Tang army was already greatly weakened. If we continued to attack, we would only benefit the northern desert. But this time, the northern desert has no way out! Qiao Jinniang regained her senses and smiled, Thats right. King Huai has given such generous conditions to the northern desert. The northern desert must have sent all their troops to the northwest to tie down the Northwest Army. By the time the northern desert realizes that Xiliang is already in great Tangs hands, they wont be able to make it back in time! As long as we take down Xiliang and attack the ce where the northern desert meets Xiliang, it will definitely be the ce with the weakest troops. It will also greatly weaken the northern desert. Lu Chen replied softly, Yes, but we can not send the news to King Huai and the people of the northern desert. I have already set up a channel to intercept the message. Regardless of whether it is the northern desert or the imperial court, they will only know what I told them. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, If King Huai knew that his scheme was just a wedding dress for you, he would probably cry himself to death. However, the Xiliang kingdom has quite a number of troops. You only have 120,000 troops... Lu Chen said, Dont forget that ever since the Regent King took power, the Xiliang kingdom has been in a state of disunity. The people have also be mysterious because of the Regent King. They only believe in the Imperial Preceptors immortal spell. Coincidentally, there are also actors in the Army who know how to perform magic tricks. Its more like an immortal spell than the Imperial Preceptors immortal spell. The ignorant people of Xiliang believe that heaven sent great Tang to rule Xiliang. Moreover, they also know that great Tang is more prosperous and doesnt have much of a will to resist. The Peoples hearts are easy to obtain. Conquering Xiliang is not a problem. Qiao jinniang said, I believe in you and hope that you must take care of yourself. Xier and I will wait for your return here. Little Lu Xi ran over and threw herself into Lu Chens arms. Father, mother has hired a teacher for me in the local area. I have already learned the art of war! Once I have mastered the sword, I will help father kill the enemy. Lu Chen hugged him and said, I dont need you to kill the enemy for the time being. Just protect your mother and sister. Little Lu Xi nodded. Mm, Ill definitely protect mother and sister! Lu Chen stayed for a meal that night and left. From then on, most of the news that Lady Qiao Jin heard was bad news. Although the people of Yunzhou were restless, Lu Chen left 10,000 soldiers in Yunzhou and nothing major happened. Winter passed and spring came. The flowers in Yunzhou city bloomed in February. As soon as one opened the window, one could smell the fragrance of the flowers. Your Highness, the pce urgently orders you and the emperor to return to Luoyang.
Chapter 285
Chapter 285: Chapter 285: Cooking for the Empress Dowager
Hearing this, Qiao Jinniang frowned. Seeing that this person was the most trusted eunuch of the Emperor, she was not afraid that he was one of King Huais men. However, she still asked, Eunuch Quan, did something happen in Luoyang? Nothing happened in Luoyang. Its just that the Empress Dowager is on her deathbed. His Highness is out fighting, but the empress and the emperors great-grandson can not disrespect this filial piety. Also, the Emperor and the Empress heard that you are pregnant. They were afraid that it would be inconvenient for you to give birth outside... Qiao jinniang frowned and said, Alright then. They were supposed to return to Chang an after the first month, but because of the war in the northern desert and Western Liang, they did not move the capital. It took them a month to arrive from Yunzhou to Luoyang. It was the Cold Food Festival on the third day of the third month. The princes, nobles, and youngdies of Luoyang were not affected by the war. They still held poetry meetings, took walks, and flew kites. After Qiao Jinniang brought Lu Xi back to the pce, she first went to the Xuanzheng Hall to meet the Empress and the Hui Lin Emperor. The empress said, Get up quickly. Its been almost half a year since Ist saw you. Xier has grown a lot taller. Its been almost five months since I saw your belly, right? Qiao jinniang answered, Yes, its been five months. The empress sighed and said, Chen er is really too much. He still kept such a big matter a secret and didnt allow you to return to Luoyang. It is very dangerous in Yunzhou. Lady Qiao Jin said, I am also worried about your highness. I think that I can be closer to your highness in Yunzhou. The empress said, It is good that you mother and son have returned safely. The Empress Dowager is already dying. Lets go and see the Empress Dowager Together! .. The Empress Dowagers sleeping hall was filled with people. There were rtives of the Grace Imperial Manor, and there were also first-ss wives who came to serve the sick. They said that the most important thing to serve the sick was that if the empress dowager died, they could make preparations early. When Lady Qiao Jin entered, she saw that the empress dowagers eyes were popping out. There was not even any flesh on her face. She looked extremely ugly. The pce maids at the side were feeding the empress dowager porridge, but the empress dowager forcefully shook them off! Slut! Give me all these disgusting things to eat. I am the Emperors favorite concubine! Where is chef Li Yu? where is chef Li Yu! Chef Li Yu was already sweating profusely at the side. The empress dowager could not hold on any longer, and King Huais army had yet to invade Chang an. This brain of his probably could not hold on any longer. Rice sack flower fruit, give me rice sack flower fruit! If you dont give it to me, Ill have my son kill all of you. All of You Are Bitch Zhous Helpers! The Empress Dowager pointed at the pce maids in front of her as if she had returned to her senses. She said to the food bureau, Chef Li, and the others, Today, you cant Cook a dish that Im satisfied with. I want all of you to die with me. Little Lu Xi held onto Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Mother. Princess Shouan stepped forward to hold the empress dowagers hand and said, Mother, dont be angry. Imperial chef Li, why dont you hurry and cook for mother! Even prisoners were said to be beheaded, but the rice sachets and fruits had no effect on the empress dowager these days. She practically spat out whatever she ate. Imperial chef Li knelt on the ground and said, Your Highness, I really dont have any other way! I heard that the Crown Princesscooking skills are superb. Why Dont you let the Crown Princess Cook a few dishes? Perhaps you can let the Empress Dowager Eat a Little? Qiao jinniang rubbed her abdomen, indicating her unwillingness. How could she cook for the Empress Dowager! She had repeatedly harmed Lu Chen. Thest time, she had actually gone crazy and wanted to make her take that white powder as well. Longevity Princess Shou an stepped forward and held Qiao Jinniangs hands with both hands. Jinniang, Jinniang, count it as Im begging you. Just do your grandmother a favor! Aunt, Im pregnant and cant enter the kitchen.Qiao Jinniang pushed away Princess Shou ans hands. Princess Shou an knelt down in front of Qiao Jinniang with a plop. Jinniang, I know that mother has done many wrong things. She has let Chener down, but mother has her reasons too! I remember when I was young, my father doted on Royal Consort Zhou alone. Mother had fallen from being deeply doted on to someone everyone in the pce could bully. From the delicacies of the mountains and seas to the eating of chaff, the pce had always been a ce to eat people. When Imperial Concubine Zhou gained power, my days with my royal brother and mother were extremely difficult. I once had a fever in the middle of the night. Not long ago, my father, who doted on me a lot, was in imperial concubine Zhous pce. Because imperial concubine Zhou had a slight headache, he called all the imperial physicians in the imperial hospital. It was mother who spared no effort to hug me in the cold weather and use ice water to cool me down. That was how she saved my life. Mother hated Imperial Consort Zhou to the bone. Only then would she implicate imperial consort Zhous sister-inw and Chen er. Please, for my sake, help my mother this time! Qiao Jinniang helped longevity Princess Shou an up and said, Aunt, how could i deserve such a kneel from you! Please get up quickly. Fu Lu said with tears, Jinniang, teach me how to cook. Ill Cook for Grandmother! Qiao Jinniang sighed. Empress Zhou said, Jinniang, you can instruct her from the side. Qiao Jinniang could only agree. However, the empress dowager was a person who had lost her sense of taste. Even if there were really delicacies in front of her, how could she taste them. On the way to the imperial kitchen, Qiao Jinniang could not help but think of the Hui Lin Emperors tolerance towards the empress dowager. Hearing the long-lived Princess Shou an talk about the past, Qiao Jinniang could somewhat understand. Back then, the Hui Lin Emperor, Princess Shou An, and the mother and son of the empress dowager lived extremely hard lives. In such an environment, the empress dowager missed the delicacies of the past, but because she could only eat leftovers, she would inevitably feel an imbnce in her heart. The imperial physician had said that the empress dowagers loss of sense of taste was mostly due to a mental illness. Now, she could only rely on heart medicine to cure it. Qiao Jinniang asked the old man in the imperial kitchen and wrote down the recipes of the delicacies of the mountains and seas in thepetition for the divine chef that thete Emperor had convened for the empress dowager. She gathered all the people in the imperial kitchen to recreate the dishes of the past. The dish that the empress dowager liked the most back then was called the Winged Bird in heaven. That dish was roasted using squab. The Empress Dowager loved it very much! Qiao Jin understood. Ill leave the other dishes to you. Ill cook this winged bird! Yes, Princess Consort. Seeing that Fu Lu was staring at her, Qiao Jin asked, Why do you keep looking? Go somewhere else. Fu Lu whispered, No, I want to look at you. Why are you still afraid that Ill poison your grandmother?Qiao Jin asked with a chuckle. Fu Lu said, You wouldnt dare to poison her, but if it were me, I might spit in her mouth. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Aunt has already knelt down to beg me. No matter how much I hate the empress dowager, I wouldnt do such a thing. Compared to this, perhaps in the future, if Imperial Consort Zhou and thete emperor were to be buried together, it would make the empress dowager so angry that she would crawl out of her coffin. Fu Lu:... After a day, only at dusk did she recover the dishes from the culinarypetition that thete Emperor had held for the empress dowager. When the empress dowager saw these dishes in her final moments, a smile finally appeared on her face. However, when she saw the te of dishes that Qiao Jinniang had brought over, she said angrily, Imperial consort, what is This! You are worthy of bringing it up for me to Eat! As the Empress Dowager spoke, she wanted to do it herself, but one of her legs had been crippled from eating too much rice sack flower and fruit powder. She could not stand properly and fell to the ground!
Chapter 286
Chapter 286: In chapter 286, the Empress Dowager passed away and the king of Huai became an independent emperor in Chang an
Princess Li Lingling went up to take a look and said, Shouldnt thisst dish be called the winged bird of heaven? There should be two winged birds, but why is there only one? Theres something else underneath! Qiao jinniang said, Dont worry, grandmother. The name of my dish is not the winged bird. People say that the winged bird has deep feelings. However, I dont think so. Bi-winged birds only have one wing and one eye, so both male and female birds must be together in order to fly. However, if the male bird falls in love with another bird and finds her, will the female bird have to die? No, the female bird can also find another bird to continue flying in the sky. The female bird can fly with the wings of a goshawk or arge eagle. Why would she need to put herself in a desperate situation for a male bird that had changed its heart. Imperial grandmother, you should never have med Lu Chen and Empress Zhou. When you fell out of favor, Empress Zhou wasnt even born yet! You shouldnt me Imperial Consort Zhou the most, but thete emperor who had changed his mind! Jin Niang!Empress Zhou came forward and tugged at Qiao Jin Niangs sleeve. The empress dowager helped Li Lingling up and said, If it werent for that B * Tch from the Zhou family... Lady Qiao said, Imperial grandmother, even without the Zhou family, there would still be the Wang family and the Zhao family. If it werent for the previous Emperors change of heart, what crime would these harem women havemitted? The previous Emperor has passed away, but you have tormented yourself for more than twenty years, causing your own grandson to be in danger time and time again. Dont you understand until now? You are now the most precious woman in the world. Do you even want to think about that person who betrayed you and hate other innocent people? The maidservant beside the Empress Dowager supported the empress dowager and said, Your Highness, the Crown Princess is right. The Li family advised you to hate Noble Consort Zhou and the Zhou family because the Grace Pce wanted power and did not want to be suppressed by the Martial Dukes public house. They wanted to use you to let King Huai Wang Yong achieve great things! Think about it. The chef Li Yu that King Huai found for you is harming you everywhere. And the Crown Princess is still willing to forget about the past and advise you not to leave any regrets. Dont hate the wrong person! Shouans eldest princess cried out, Yes, mother, please think things through. Eat some and go in. A tear fell from the corner of the Empress Dowagers eyes. After tasting it, there was actually a salty taste. She trembled as she picked up her chopsticks and said, The most delicious dish back then should have been this stewed mutton. I havent tasted this mutton for a long time. I heard it was from Longxi. Because at that time, Ai Jia saw that the heavenly wish was a good metaphor for the winged bird, but she missed that Lamb. Ai Jia hated eating the poultry made by the imperial chefs the most, but in order to pair them up as a metaphor, sigh.. Wheres Chen er? Wheres Chen er? Ai Jia let him down the most. When he was young, I always scared him when he came over to call his imperial grandmother. Hes really bold. Hes never been afraid of me. Qiao Jinniang silently wanted to say what kind of grandmother she should be at this time, but a dying mans words were also kind. She could only say, Your Highness is on the battlefield in Yunzhou. If grandmother has anything to say, Ill definitely pass it on to Your Highness. Sigh, Ive let him down. If it werent for me, he wouldnt have married a servant who was raised by me, a woman who was a merchant in a small ce, to be the Crown Princess Consort... Qiao Jinniang:... Princess Shouan said to the empress dowager, Youre Old and muddle-headed. Jinniang is such a good child! The Empress Dowager said in a muddle-headed manner, Muddle-headed, Im not muddle-headed. Im very clear-headed... Before the empress dowager could swallow the mutton in her mouth, she fell straight to the ground. The imperial physician went forward to check her pulse and knelt on the ground. He said to the Hui Lin emperor, Your Majesty, Im sorry for your loss. The Empress Dowager has passed away! The female officials of the Shang Pce all distributed the mourning clothes they had prepared to the crowd. After Qiao Jinniang put on her mourning clothes, she also knelt in front of the empress dowagers spirit. Empress Zhou understood that she was pregnant, so she only let her kneel for a short while before standing up. Qiao Jinniang saw that the women of Uncle Chengs manor were crying miserably. The Empress Dowager was gone, and the pir of Uncle Chengs manor was about to copse. In the mourning hall. Yu Yan was dressed in mourning clothes and ignored the etiquette. She hurriedly walked up to Qiao Jinniang and whispered in her ear, The Crown Princess Consort is in trouble. Yesterday, thedies of Marquis an Yuans manor were all announced into the pce. Only Miss Qiao was left in the manor. But yesterday, she received a letter early in the morning. After hurriedly leaving the house, she never returned to marquis an Yuans manor. It has been two days and one night, and it is already dark. The steward of the Marquis estate was anxious, but because of the death of the empress dowager, all the masters of the estate were in the pce. They did not know what to do, so they told the guards of the eastern pce about this matter. After the death of the empress dowager, all the wives of a high rank had to recite the scriptures for the Empress Dowager and attend the funeral. Unless they were as sick as old matriarch Zhou and could not get out of bed, they had to attend the funeral. Old Madam Qiao and Zheng Xiao and second madam Qiao had to attend the funeral in the Empress Dowagers pce. Furthermore, there were signs of the Empress Dowagers death, so these wives had toe to the pce early to wait for her. It would be a slight slight. When Lady Qiao heard this news, she used the excuse of convenience to return to the Eastern Pce and instructed the secret guards in the Eastern Pce to look for Qiao Ruoyun. She also passed this news to Qian Yin. Lady Qiao was rather uneasy. Qiao Ruoyun was an unattractive person, how could she go missing for no reason? Since she was pregnant, she stayed in the Eastern Pce to rest for four hours before going to the Empress Dowagers pce. As soon as she went, she discovered that the women of the West Chengs grace uncles residence had all been captured. Li Lingling, who had cried the most miserably, was also tied up by the guards. I am Princess Huai. The empress dowager just died. How dare you treat me like this? Qiao Jinniang asked Fu Lu beside her, What happened? Fu Lu said in a low voice, The empress dowager passed away. The prince came, but King Huai did note. The women of the Cheng en Bo Mansion also came because the man had long gone to Chang an with King Huai. It turns out that King Huai has joined forces with the Longxi Army and the Jiangnan King of Wus army to rebel in Chang an and be the emperor himself! Qiao Jinniang was puzzled and asked, Even Qian Yin has rebelled? That cant be, why would his troopse to Chang an? Fu Lu whispered, Didnt the southwest suffer sessive defeats? His Highness the Crown Prince sent a letter to the imperial court asking Qian Yin to dispatch his troops to assist the southwest, and the king of Wus troops just arrived in Chang an! This is too much of a coincidence.Qiao Jinniang didnt know if this was Lu Chens n. Li Lingling said loudly, You cant do this to me. I Am Princess Huai! No, King Huai has established himself as the emperor in Chang an. I will be the empress sooner orter. Even if you lock me up, I will soon be the Empress! Empress Zhou ordered someone to give Li Lingling a hard p on the face. You dont know what you are talking about. Treason is a big crime. Since you know about treason,e and behead me! Li Linglingughed maniacally. Your Majesty, you are still so arrogant!! Father came to the Empress Dowagers pce every day and had already absorbed the poison from the Empress Dowagers body! Even if Qiao Jinniang and Lu Xi were still alive, what was the use! The Qiao family army led by the crown prince waspletely annihted in the Battle of Xiliang. The Army of Xiliang and the northern desert would only send their army south to help King Huai win the throne! Hahaha, if you leave me alive, I can still save father. I Wont let him die in too much pain. The women guarding the funeral frowned when they saw this. King Huai and Princess Huai were too bold. A few loyal wives stood in front of Qiao Jinniang and Lu Xi, afraid that King Huai would harm them! Li Linglingughed wildly. Qiao Jinniang, didnt you forbid the Crown Prince from taking concubines? Then go to the underworld and be your crown prince consort! The crown prince is where he is today because you are unwilling to take a concubine. You can not tolerate the harm Zhou Sisi and I have caused. Hahaha, in the end, I am the rightful empress, and you are a person who is about to die! Before she could finish her words, the maid beside the Empress chopped off Li Linglings head! Fresh blood spurted out and stained the clothes of many wives. Qiao Jinniang hurriedly covered Xiers eyes, and the cowardlydies also began to scream!
Chapter 287
Chapter 287: Chapter 287, missing Lu Chen
The entire hall was silent. Everyone was trembling because of this. They could not believe that Li Lingling, who had always been the head of the nobledies, was beheaded just like that. Empress Zhou said, A treacherous official and a thief, everyone should be punished! Princess Huai was rampant, and she died in her ce! Qiao Jinniang used a handkerchief to wipe away the blood on her face and said loudly, Mother, you are wise. You are right. Li Lingling deserves her punishment. The group of noblewomen also knelt on the ground and praised the empress. On the ground, Li Linglings head, which had not yet closed its eyes, was picked up by the guards with a rag and carried away in their hands. In the mourning hall, although there were Taoist priests reciting scriptures, the kneeling people felt extremely gloomy. Qiao Jinniang followed the empress to the resting ce in the side hall and asked in a low voice, Mother, just now Li Lingling said that she had poisoned fathers body. This... The empress replied, Your father is fine, you can rest assured. Seeing that the empress was not worried, Qiao Jinniang was relieved, Mother, there is one more thing. My eldest sister has gone missing. I think that eldest sisters disappearance may be rted to King Huai. I have already sent the Eastern Pce Secret Guards to investigate, but I am not at ease... Empress Zhou said, You do not need to worry too much about Qiao Ruoyuns disappearance. Since King Huai Needs Qian Yins troops, he will not attack the woman he loves. The Empress Dowagers funeral isplicated. In the next few days, you will follow me to manage the pce affairs and share my worries. Qiao Jinniang agreed immediately. The Empress Dowagers funeral had to be stopped for seven, seven, and forty-nine days. Every day, there were many rituals in the Daoist rite temple. All the women of different ranks had to stand guard in front of her. However, people were not made of iron, so they could not guard at all times. As usual, these women could go home and keep watch for a few hours every day. However, because of the rebellion of the Huai King in Chang an, these women of court officials could not go home and were left in Ziwei City. Fortunately, there were not many masters in the pce and there were not many concubines left. Most of the pces were empty, so these women could live in them. However, with so many wives, they could not wait to eat and drink. The pce still needed to sew the empress dowagers shroud and prepare jewelry and other items for the empress dowager to be buried with. For a time, they were really busy. Qiao Jinniang was a little free, so she went to see Zheng Xiao, old madam Qiao, and the others, second Madam Qiao saw the Jinniang and said, Jinniang, His Majesty has not shown up for five days. Now all the wives are wondering if the emperor has really been poisoned. What should we do? I heard that the war in the southwest is not going well. King Huai has already ascended the throne in Chang an. His army maye to Luoyang at any time. What about you and Xier? What should our Qiao family do? Zheng Xiao also held onto the Brocade Ladys hand and said, Now that the people are unstable, mother has heard the news from outside. Many courtiers are willing to abandon their wives who are locked up in the pce and go to Chang an to join King Huai. You and Xier are in grave danger. Youre still pregnant... but the Qiao family still has hundreds of death warriors in Luoyang. Why dont we let them protect you and Xier and hide in the mountains? Its better to keep you and your Mother Alive! Qiao jinniang asked, Do the Qiao family also have Death Warriors? Then does big sister have the Qiao familys death warriors by her side? Zheng Xiao said, Yes, you wanted to have them by your side. After the Crown Prince Found You, your father found out that you had the secret guards of the Royal Family by your side and dismissed the Qiao familys death warriors. After Ruoyun and Li returned, we sent ten men of Sacrifice to stand by her side. Qiao Jinniang felt more at ease. The Qiao family had thousands of years of history and their men of sacrifice were naturally not ordinary people. Hence, Qiao Ruoyun would probably be fine. Qiao Jinniang said to Zheng Xiao, Mother, Xier is the emperors great-grandson. She will definitely not run away in fear of traitors. You can rest at ease. Second Madam Qiaos eyes reddened as she said, Things havee to this point. How Can We Rest Well? I heard that southwest has suffered repeated defeats. I wonder how my Feng Er and Wan Er are doing? Old Madam Qiao held back her tears and said in a sonorous voice, The Qiao family are all strong-willed men and women. As long as Feng Er and Wan er can persevere until thest moment on the battlefield, their trip to the battlefield will not be in vain! Second Madam Qiao could not help but burst into tears. My child. After a few words of constion, Qiao Jinniang returned to the Mourning Hall. In a corner of the mourning hall where the wives were given a ce to rest and drink, there were people whispering among themselves. When Li Lingling was alive, she said that the emperor had been poisoned. His Majesty has indeed not appeared for five days now. I just heard the news that the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, the Supreme Court minister, and other officials have all gone to Chang an to seek refuge with King Huai. Ah! But isnt their wife still in Luoyang? If they go to Chang an to seek refuge with the king of Huai, there will be nock of wives in their future career! Ptui, what kind of ything can such a traitor be? To say something disrespectful, if His Majesty is in danger in Luoyang, there is still the emperors great-grandson. When the empress dowager stopped her mourning for the 77th and 40th day, the weather had already gradually warmed up. Arge amount of ice had to be used to keep the mourning hall warm. With her pregnancy, Lady Qiao was even more afraid of the heat. At night, she could not sleep peacefully. When she was pregnant with Lu Xi, it was not easy for her. She also had the grief of her parentsrecent deaths. It was just that Lu Chen was by her side at that time. For some reason, she missed Lu Chen very much tonight. It had been so long since theyst met, and he did not know if there was a letter from him. There were many beauties in Xiliang. Would he take advantage of her absence to flirt in Xiliang.. Jin Niang could not fall asleep. Hong Ling brought her a bowl of tranquilizer and said, Your Majesty. After Qiao Jin drank the tranquilizer, she fell asleep in a daze. Halfway through her sleep, she felt her body getting hotter and hotter. She opened her eyes and almost screamed in fear. She was covered with a heavy object, which looked like a ghost pressing down on a bed. It was only by the soft light of the full moon that she could see the man clearly. You scared me to death! Why Are You Back? Lu Chen smiled and said, I heard from Hong Ling that you missed me very much today. Qiao Jin put her arm around Lu Chens neck and said, Im afraid that after you have obtained thend of West Liang, you will be apanied by a beauty. You will be so happy that you wont even want to be the Crown Prince of Great Tang. Lu Chen kissed her forehead and said, The beauty of West Liang is not even one-tenth of the beauty of the Eastern Pce. Qiao jinniang asked, Why did youe to Luoyang? Have you been to Chang an? King Huai has been the emperor of Chang an for more than a month. When do you n to deal with him? Lu Chen said, When the Empress Dowager was alive, she cared about King Huai the most. No matter what, she had to make him apany her in hell before she was buried in the ground... Qiao jinniang said, I thought you were going to say that you would only deal with King Huai after the Empress Dowager was buried in the ground! That old witch has repeatedly harmed me. Before she died, she even tried to scheme against me. How could I let her off so easily? Lu Chen had heard the empress dowagersst words on the road that she looked down on Qiao Jinniang as the Crown Princess Consort. It was clear that this old witch was unwilling to let him spoil Qiao Jinniang alone before her death.
Chapter 288
Chapter 288: Chapter 288 was all an act
Inside Chang an Taiji Pce. King Huai sat high up in the main hall. Below him were his newly conferred courtiers. Zhou Siming had been conferred the title of Duke of the Wu Kingdom, Qin Shu had also be the Duke of the Qin kingdom, and he also had the position of Grand Lieutenant. The rest were officials who hade from Luoyang, and some were officials who had stayed in Chang an to surrender to King Huai. Zhou siming cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, there is new news from the northwest. Marquis an Yuan is seriously injured. I believe that Marquis an Yuans army will not be able to resist the northern desert army for long. Now is a good time to attack Luoyang. If Luoyang was not attacked, then King Huais name would not be justified. However, King Huai said, We can not rush this matter. The envoys from all over the world have not shown their loyalty to me yet. If we rush to Luoyang... Zhou siming gritted his teeth and said, King Huai, Li Lingling is dead. Now second uncle hase to Chang an to follow you. Sisi has no one to protect her in Luoyang. Who knows when she will be beheaded. We have to quickly attack Luoyang and save Sisi! King Huai said, No rush. Father has not shown his face for almost a month after being poisoned. If we rashly act now, we will only be one step short! Your Majesty, you promised me that after you ascend to the throne, you will save Sisi and make her your empress!Zhou Siming said loudly. King Huai pped the Dragon Throne angrily and said loudly, Now, I Am Your Majesty. I have endured for so many years. How can youe and speak loudly in front of me! Qin Shu repeatedly advised Zhou siming, Siming, the wedding date between you and misty is imminent. Its better not to anger your majesty. Zhou Siming cared about the Qin family and could only endure it. Thats right, the southwest army had been defeated and Lu Chens fate was unknown. Now that the Empress Dowager was in mourning, she would probably not kill Sisi. Qin Zhu returned to the Qin manor and heard the servant girl report that Qin miaoming had not eaten anything for a day. Qin Zhu said, They are all spoiling her. If she doesnt eat, they will force her to eat. We cant let her starve to death. At least she will have some use for the marriage alliance with Zhou Siming! In Qin Miaomiaos room, her eyes were filled with tears when she heard the servant girls words. How did brother be such an unloyal and unfilial Beast! The servant girl looked at Qin Miaomiao with extreme disdain. Miss, why are you still pretending to be noble now? Now that King Huai has ascended to the throne and be his majesty, the Crown Prince has be the rightful Duke! Qin Miaomiao teared up and said, What Duke? The Southwest army came so valiantly, but it was all news of defeat. However, did the West Liang army say when they would be able toe to Chang an? The northwest side was fighting with the northern desert, but the northern desert army had once again taken half a step into the territory of Great Tang? Also, Qian Yin had no choice but to use the troops of King Wus mansion to help King Huai because his elder brother had shamelessly imprisoned Qiao Ruoyun! It was like a joke for King Huai to establish himself as the emperor in Chang an. How many of great Tangs diplomatic envoys had submitted to him! Luoyang was the real great Tang royal family. King Huais name was still unjustified! The servant girl said, Young Lady, you just need to get married properly. The Day After Tomorrow is the wedding date! The heir of the Martial Kingdom is deeply in love with you and is willing to marry you. You should be grateful! Ptui, if that day reallyes, I would rather die than marry someone who plotted to usurp the throne and colluded with outsiders to harm the people of Great Tang! Qin Miaomiao swept all the food on the ground. Outside, Yue Zhan, who hade to the Qin manor from Longxi, Heard Qin Miaomiaos words. Qin Shu could only smile apologetically and say, Please dont be angry, envoy Yue. Yue Zhan said, Its just the words of the youngest daughter. After she marries Zhou Siming, she wont think that way. Qin Shu said, Thats right, thats right. Minister Yue, please have some tea over here. Two dayster. The people of Chang an still kept their doors and windows closed and did not go out. Waves of joyful music could be heard from the quiet Chang an street. It was supposed to be full of people on the street to watch the bridal sedan, but because the people had fled, they hid and hid. There was no one on the street. At this juncture, it was especially shocking. It did not seem like festive music, but more like waves of mournful music.. Today was Zhou Simings wedding to Qin Miaomiao. Originally, due to the empress dowagers mourning period, they should not have married during the national mourning period. However, the wedding date had already been set. Furthermore, King Huai intended to separate himself from the Luoyang imperial court, so he had married her today. The Qin residence was filled with red silk. In a small courtyard, Qiao Ruoyun listened to the joyous soundsing from outside, but she could not feel the slightest bit of happiness for Qin Miaomiao. In Qin Miaomiaos room, she threw a tantrum and chased away all the maids. She picked up a red silk and hung it on a beam. The red silk hung down and Qin Miaomiao walked onto a stool and hung herself on the red silk. After starving for a few days, she had no choice but to use this method tomit suicide! However, before she could go up, she heard a voice from outside saying, Not good, not good. The Northern Desert Army has retreated. The Northern Desert King has been captured alive by an Yuanhou! Zhou Siming, who had walked to the door, heard this and frowned, How is that possible? Doesnt the northern desert have so many soldiers and horses? It is very difficult for the northwest to defend the city. Why would they retreat? ! Crown prince, because the crown prince has already taken down Xiliang, the king of Xiliang bowed to the crown prince. Not only did the troops of Yunzhou take down Xiliang, but they also joined forces with Xiliangs troops to attack the border between the northern desert and Xiliang. Xiliangs troops have even taken over two cities in the northern desert. Because the cities have the most important rivers in the northern desert, the troops of the northern desert in the northwest have to retreat one by one. However, marquis an Yuan has not given up. The king of the Northern Desert has scolded Datang for winning unjustly and lying. He will only make the worldugh at him. He wants to confront the emperor of Datang! Zhou siming frowned deeply and said to yue zhan beside him, Envoy Yue Jie, immediately lead your troops to attack Luoyang. As long as the Hui Lin Emperor and the Emperors great grandson are dead, His Majesty still has a chance to turn the tables! However, Yue Zhan pulled out a sword and ced it across Zhou Simings head, Is that so? Zhou Siming said to Yue Zhan, What are you doing? Youve already conspired with us to rebel. Do you think Lu Chen will let you off? Dont forget, Lin Mo by Lu Chens side has cuckolded you! Yue Zhan said, What do I have to be afraid of? Im acting with you on the orders of the crown prince. If I want to marry Princess Jinghua, I will do it openly. Besides, dont think that I dont know that King Huai has yet to take his throne and is already thinking of getting rid of me! Zhou Simings eyes widened and Qin Shu said, You, you are acting! Qian Yin helped Qiao Ruoyun out from the side and said, If we dont act, how will we let those fools in Luoyang give themselves away? How will we know if the envoys of the various regions are colluding with King Huai! The sound of a stool hitting the ground could be heard from within Qin Miaomiaos room. Qiao Ruoyun hurriedly went in. When she saw Qin Miaomiao hanging on the red silk, Zhou siming shouted sternly, Miaomiao! Yue Zhan took out the dagger from his waist and threw it over. The dagger cut through the red silk and pierced into the wall.
Chapter 289
Chapter 289: Chapter 289, the execution of King Huai
In the Taiji Pce. Mu Qian Qian felt uneasy as she stayed beside King Huai. Your Majesty, now that you have ascended the throne, I have no right to stay by your side... King Huai pushed Mu Qian away in disgust. You are a woman who has been an official prostitute. Everyone can toy with you. Do you still want to have a right to be famous? Mu Qianqian looked at King Huai in disbelief and said, Your Highness, you have endured for so many years. It was I who helped you secretly sell private salt and help you earn arge amount of money. For this, I even destroyed our mu family. Are you going to abandon me now? King Huai said, That is only because you wanted to! Mu Qianqian spat, It is no wonder that a person like you, as the first prince, is not the heir to the throne. Even if you really ascend to the throne, you are still a traitor who ns to usurp the throne! Mu Qianqian could not believe that the man she had loved for so many years would be so shameless! King Huaiughed out loud, You can scold me however you want. The person in the Taiji Pce is me! The door of the Taiji Pce was opened and the Huilin Emperor led Lu Chen, king qi, King Lu, King Chu, and a group of officials. King Huai saw the Huilin Emperor, Lu Chen, and the others enter and frowned, Men, men, why did you let them in? Kill them for me! Yue Zhan, why arent you attacking them? Yue Zhan ced Zhou Siming and Qin Shu, who were tied up, in front of King Huai. King Huai, I advise you to repent as soon as possible! King Huai said loudly, Are you with Lu Chen? No, I am the Emperor of Great Tang. I still have hundreds of thousands of troops from Xiliang and a million troops from the northern desert. Even if you are in cahoots, what can you do to me? My dear ministers, as long as you choose me and kill them for me, I will grant you glory, wealth, and the position of Prince! Lu Chen said coldly, Big Brother, the king of Xiliang has signed a letter of surrender and is willing to be a vassal state of great Tang. As for the million troops from the northern desert, they have all withdrawn.. The king of the northern desert scolded us for not keeping our word. It turned out that the reason why Xiliang and the northern desert agreed to attack great Tang this time was because big brother had promised the king of the northern desert the territory and city of Great Tang! When the officials heard this, they all said, Not only did his highness Prince Huai conspire against us, he even colluded with the foreign tribes! He destroyed our great Tangs foundation! It is rumored that His Highness Prince Huai has the talent of a wise ruler. What kind of wise ruler is this! TSK TSK tsk, fortunately, His Highness the crown prince is heroic. In just half a years time, he conquered Xiliang and made Xiliang submit to our great Tang! King Huai shook his head in disbelief and roared at Lu Chen, Youre lying! Youre lying! How could Xiliang be so easily conquered? Im the Emperor! Someone Come and kill them! However, no one in the court listened to King Huais words. Mu Qian, who was at the side, smiled faintly. This was really retribution. This retribution came really quickly. The Hui Lin Emperor walked up to the dragon throne in the great hall of the Taiji Pce. When he saw King Huai below, he was furious and said, King Huai, I thought I treated you well, but you schemed against me and even wanted my life. The Empress Dowager had high hopes for you, but you bribed imperial chef Li to harm the empress dowager. You are so disloyal and unfilial, I can not spare your life! King Huaiughed out loud. Father, you said you treated me well, is that true? You Made Lu Chen the crown prince the moment he was born, how can you make me, the eldest son of the Emperor, lose face? Before Lu Chen was born, all the masters, servants, and pce maids in the pce tried to please me, but after Lu Chen was born, I was only the first prince. He was just an infant, how could he be able to ascend to the position of the Eastern Pce! You are biased to both sides. If you were half as good to me as you are to Lu Chen, why would I do such a wrong thing To both sides, in your eyes, only Lu Chen is your biological son. We are not your children! The Hui Lin emperor scolded angrily, If this is what fifth brother said, I will ept it. He has been scheming since he was young. I think that he is just like Consort Xian and has not liked him since he was young. However, I have never been biased towards you from the start. You are my eldest son. You were born when I was still a prince. After I ascended to the throne, I had my hopes for you. However, your mother was reasonable and said that the Grace Pce was in its prime. For my sake, she advised me not to make you the crown prince first so as to prevent the Grace Pce from bing more ambitious. At that time, the court was unstable and you might be a puppet of the Grace Pce. Later, I heard that you were smart enough to invite famous schrs in the world to be your grand tutor and to teach you well. However, on the day Empress Zhou entered the pce, what did you say to your mother? In my eyes, my good son, who has always been sensible, obedient, and intelligent, was actuallyining about the noble consort. Why was it just the noble consort? She wasining that her background was not the empress that caused you to lose the crown prince position. Your mother plotted for you, but you med her and resented her. From that moment on, I knew that you were not worthy to be the crown prince of my great Tang.. I do have a preference for Chen er, but there are still parents among the people who dote on their youngest son too much. If it were not for the fact that you plotted against Chen er in the empress dowagers womb, I would not have given Chen er the position of crown prince the moment he was born.. When I saw you grow up, you gradually became sensible. I no longer had any thoughts about the position of crown prince. I also wondered if I had mistreated you. After all, you are the eldest son. However, the people I sent out heard that you wereining about your own injustice in Chang an. After that, you saw the ambitions of the virtuous consort and the fifth prince. You might as well let the fifth prince stand out and let the fifth Prince Be Your Shield. After that, you thought that you were good, but in reality, you were getting worse and worse. If you were worried that you had Cheners intelligence, King Chus honesty, king Qis understanding, and King Lus filial piety, as long as there was just one thing.., i would not have cut off your position as the crown prince the moment Chener was born! Eunuch Quan said, King Huai, everyone says that his majesty is biased towards the crown prince. He carried the crown prince up the Dragon Throne and sat on the dragon carriage. But when you were young, His Majesty also treated you like this. Prince Qi muttered, Thats right. Prince Huai looked at the Hui Lin Emperor and said, You said so much, but didnt you still give the throne to Lu Chen? He colluded with marquis an Yuans manor and held great power. Father, arent you afraid of him at all? Why should I be afraid of my own son? You are the only one who has never treated me as a father. If you had treated me as a father!! You had a grudge back then. You could havee to me if you wanted the throne, but you would only me your weak mother! Later, when I saw that you had a good reputation, I also wanted to put you in an important position. However, you chose not to believe me. You thought that I was testing you, and you chose to endure patiently and not use your power openly, You actually dared to do something that would harm the country and the people! Your other brothers, they came to ask me to do something and wanted to serve in the court. Which one of us didnt agree? The King of Qi, the king of Chu, the King of Lu, and the others thought about it carefully. Indeed, it was true. However, they didnt dare to make any excessive requests to the Hui Lin Emperor. The Hui Lin Emperor sighed heavily and said, The father and son of the Tian family always say that the emperor and the minister are in front. However, the father and son are connected by blood. Since Young, the fifth brother was not liked by me and I didnt take his life. However, I cant spare your life! If it were not for the Crown Princes insight and defeating Xiliang, otherwise, if you colluded with the outside world, I, Great Tang, do not know how many more lives will be lost. Even if you die ten thousand times, you will not be able to repay the lives of these living beings. Men, execute King Huai. Zhou Siming and the other men of the Zhou family will be executed, and the women will be brought into the school... Lu Chen knelt down and said, Father, grandmother is old and seriously ill. Zhou Siming is also eager to protect his sister. I beg father to spare their lives first, and we will talk about it after grandmothers birthday.
Chapter 290
Chapter 290: Chapter 290, the army returned to the court
At this moment, Empress Zhous voice came from outside the door, I Beg Your Majesty to punish the Zhou familys traitors impartially. Lu Chen turned to look at Empress Zhou, Mother? Empress Zhou knelt on the ground and said, I have failed to discipline the martial Dukes public house and allowed my family tomit such a mistake. I am willing to be punished. The Hui Lin Emperor walked down from the Dragon Throne and helped Empress Zhou Up. He said, This matter has nothing to do with you. Crown Prince, everyone in the Zhou family deserves to be punished for their treason. I will not let them off lightly! After Qin Shu was sent to the border, he still did not repent. His crime deserves to be punished by a thousand cuts! The Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Revenue has been removed from his position and investigated. His family has been confiscated and investigated... The Hui Lin Emperor had convicted one by one of the parties that had conspired against King Huai. Many of the officials were more or less implicated. For a time, everyone in Chang an was in danger. Those who had been too close to King Huai and Chengen Bo Mansion had all sought out the an yuan marquis mansion. After the funeral of the empress dowager of Luoyang, the Emperor had ordered the removal of the state filial piety. The Empress Dowagers death could be observed for three years or one year, or it could be reced by 7749 days. However, it was also considered the 7749 days after the funeral. The removal of the state funeral right after the funeral. Although the Censorate felt that it was inappropriate, they did not dare to stand out at this time. After all, because of Tong Lei, there were many imperial censor who secretly had dealings with the king of Huai. After Qiao Jinniang returned to Chang an from Luoyang, before she could enter the pce, she saw the women of the Zhou family being rushed to the teaching workshop. She sighed. When she passed by the prison, she saw Lu Chens carriage, so she had people stop the carriage and enter the prison. In the prison, in a dark and damp prison. Zhou Siming was squatting in a corner of the prison with his hair disheveled. Inside, Lu Chen and Lin Mo were sitting in front of Zhou Siming with food and wine. Lu Chen said, Cousin, tomorrow is the day of execution. Today, Lin Mo and I will perform the punishment for you. Zhou Siming looked at Lu Chen and said, I know what I have done wrong, and there is no way for me to survive. I just hope that you can spare Sisi for the sake of being brothers, okay? Lu Chen said, Impossible! In the end, she didnt do anything wrong. She just loves you very much. For that woman, Qiao Jinniang, do you really not care about the slightest bit of affection that you have ever had since you were young? Whats so good about her? Zhou Siming stood up and asked. Lu Chen looked at Zhou siming and said, She is my wife. If I didnt do it for her, who else would I do it for? Dont you understand until now? The Jin family has never been in the wrong. It is your fault for thinking highly of the Martial Dukes public house and that you can not be separated from the martial Dukes public house. Zhou siming said, Back then, the Martial Dukes public house handed over the military power to make the empress be the Empress and make you the crown prince. Now, you havee to repay us with enmity! Lu Chen sighed helplessly and said, Zhou Siming, do you think that if the Martial Dukes public house did not have an empress back then, how long would his majesty tolerate the Martial Dukes public houses arrogance after concubine Zhou passed away? Back then, my grandmother asked the Martial Dukes public house to hand over the military power, not for my mothers sake, but to protect the Zhou family. However, I didnt expect that after more than 20 years, the Martial Dukes public house would still be so arrogant even after losing the military power. The Zhou family can only me the Zhou family for belittling the imperial power! Zhou siming saw a bright yellow skirt outside the prison and said, Todays Zhou family is tomorrows Qiao Family! Lu Chen said, The ancestors of the Qiao family fought together with the founding emperor to conquer the country. They have always been loyal and righteous. If your martial arts public house wants to be on par with the Qiao family, you are not qualified! Different paths lead to different strategies. I have been in Lin an for more than three years. I should have known that we are no longer the same as before. After drinking the practice wine, I hope we will never meet again in the next life! Zhou siming continued, Lin Mo, Qin Miaomiao is innocent. In order to not be in cahoots with us, she almostmitted suicide. She should not have been implicated by the Qin family and be an official prostitute. You are still engaged to her. I beg you to spare her life. Lin Mo said slowly, If Qin Miaomiao had not been in cahoots with us, I would have naturally protected her. Zhou siming cupped his hands and said, Thank you. .. In the East Pce, Qiao Jinniang watched as the pce staff cleaned up and theny down on the imperial consorts couch to rest with her eyes closed. Hearing the announcement outside, she got up and Lu Chen strode over to her and said, Did I wake you up? Qiao Jinniang shook her head and hugged Lu Chen. Youve already done your best in the matter of the Zhou family. If youre really sad, just cry. I Wontugh at you. Lu Chen gently scratched Qiao Jinniangs nose. What are you saying? Zhou siming only deserves his punishment. Im just worried about my grandmother. Shes already so old, and the Zhou family is about to copse. Wont she be upset? Qiao jinniang said, Im even more curious about mother. I didnt expect that not only did she not plead on behalf of the Zhou family, she actually allowed his majesty to punish her impartially when you pleaded for mercy. I dont understand. Empress Zhou did not seem to be someone who would disregard her family for the sake of her virtuous reputation. Empress Zhou was very straightforward in doing things many times. Without Empress Zhous acquiescence, it would be impossible for her to be the only person in the Eastern Pce. Lu Chen said, Perhaps her heart has been broken by the Zhou family. Crown prince consort, Princess Fu Lu requests an audience outside. Although they had already left the country for the funeral, Fu Lu was still wearing a light traditional dress, she walked to Qiao Jinniangs side and said, Jinniang, can you save Qin Miaomiao? She has nothing to do with the Qin familys rebellion. She is also an innocent person. Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen and said, Yes, many women were innocent during the familys extermination. The wife of the Minister of Revenues Assistant Minister was in Luoyang guarding the empress dowagers filial piety. Her husband rebelled, but she was forced into a lowly background to be a ve... Lu Chen replied, Theres no way she would be implicated by her husband. She received benefits when her husband was in glory. As for Qin Miaomiao, she is engaged to Lin Mo and can be considered a married daughter. If the Lin family is willing to protect her, she can also be exempted from punishment. Princess Fu Lu said, Thats good. Without Qin Miaomiao quarreling with me, my life would be meaningless! Jin Niang smiled. You will be the wife of Marquis an Yuan in the future. Is this how you pursue your life? Mother-inw is still young,Princess Fu Lu said. Moreover, grandmother is still around! Marquis an Yuan doesnt need me to be the main pir. This is the benefit of finding a young mother-inw. Fu Lu said, Qiao Lui has been in the northwest for so long and hasnt returned. Im so worried about him! Lu Chen said, The Qiao familys army will return to court in a few days. Qiao lui is fine, but Marquis an Yuan is indeed injured. Qiao jinniang asked, Is it serious? I heard from the imperial physician that its not too serious, but father-inw told the imperial physician to tell the public that it has to be more serious... Qiao Jinniang understood now. Zheng Xiaoke had notpletely forgiven marquis an yuan. This was a ploy by Marquis an yuan. The Qiao familys army had contributed greatly to the attack on Xiliang and the northern desert. When the two armies returned to court, the Huilin emperor led hundreds of officials to the city gates to wee them. Themoners also lined up to watch the army return to court, however, there were also people who said, As the empress, the Zhou family fell just like that. The Qiao familys victory in Xiliang is already a great achievement. After todays glory, Im afraid it will only decline. Yes, yes. The Qiao familys power is too great. Its not like the emperor will not fear the power of the Qiao family and the Crown Prince.
Chapter 291
Chapter 291: Chapter 291: the marriage between Qian Yin and Princess Fu An
When the army returned to Chang an, the Hui Lin Emperor rewarded them for their contributions and even held a pce banquet to reward the three armies. It swept away the haze of the shakedown and beheading of the family. The Qiao family had contributed the most, but the Hui Lin Emperor only rewarded third master Qiao as themander-in-chief of the army. He did not give any other rewards. One could not help but wonder if the Hui Lin Emperor was going to deal with the Qiao family. After all, the grace uncles mansion and the Martial Dukes mansion were both rtives in this rebellion. How could the emperor tolerate the crown princessrtives being the dominant one? Because Qiao Jinniang was almost seven months pregnant, she did not attend the banquet in the pce. After the banquet, Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruowan came to the East Pce to pay their respects to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao ruowan said unhappily, Your Majesty is too biased. This time, our Qiao family has contributed so much. If we dont reward first uncle as the Grand Duke, we will only reward third uncle as the grand marshal of the Army! Qiao Jinniang had more or less heard the outside spections in the East Pce. She said to Qiao ruowan, There is no need to reward marquis an yuan for his meritorious deeds. The people of the world and father will remember it in their hearts. The title of grand marshal is already extremely generous. Third Uncle has military power and is also known as the Grand Marshal... But third uncle is the son of a concubine!Qiao Ruowan said. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Although third uncle is a bastard, isnt he our blood-rted uncle? Marquis an Yuans estate doesnt have an additional position of Duke. Qiao ruofeng said, The Qiao family doesnt ask for anything more. Its just that when His Majesty bestowed the King of Wu today, he actually said that he would give princess fu an to the king of Wu as a princess consort. I heard that the king of Wu clearly has feelings for eldest sister. Princess Fu an has always been a pot of medicine since she was young... Qiao Jinniang red at Qiao ruofeng and said, Dont say that! When we searched the mansion of King Huai, Mu Qian revealed the hiding ce of the Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus. With such a divine medicine, Princess Fu an will be able to recover in no time. However, His Majesty had given princess fu an to Qian Yin as a princess consort, which was also something that Qiao Jinniang had not expected. In the Tai Chi Pce. Qian Yin knelt in front of the Hui Lin Emperor and said, Your Majesty, Please Take Back Your Orders! The Hui Lin Emperor said to Qian Yin, Your elder brother and I have always been on good terms. When your elder brother went to Laojun mountain for closed-door cultivation, he asked me to carefully choose a wife for you to take on the big responsibility of your Qian Estate. You are not young anymore. Although Fu an has been seriously ill for many years, the imperial physician has seen that she can give birth. and the imperial physician who you like said that it would be very difficult for her to have another child after checking her pulse. Qian Yin knelt on the ground and kowtowed. Princess Fu an is extremely good, but I do not have the fortune to do so. I have already found two nieces. In the future, I will have two nieces who can inherit the Qian familys children... At that time, the Hui Lin Emperor had asked Qian Yi to leave Zhou Shihuis life behind and to make glutinous rice the princess. Qian Yi had chosen to leave Zhou Shihuis life behind. Zhou Shihuis reputation waspletely ruined. Qian Yin did not intend to let Zhou Shihui get married. When the time came, he would find her a son-inw in Lin an. As for glutinous rice, the Qian family had already mistreated her a lot. Without the title of princess, Qian Yin naturally had topensate her double. The Hui Lin Emperor looked at Qian Yi and said, I can take back the marriage order, but whether you can marry Qiao Ruoyun or not will depend on your luck! Qian yi said happily, Thank you, Your Majesty. .. After Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao Ruowan returned to the manor, they were rewarded. Perhaps the grace that marquis an Yuans manor had asked for was for them to lead the female guards in Chang an. After the pce banquet, it was the Qiao familys reunion banquet. At the reunion banquet, everyone from the Qiao family did not look too good. The generous Princess Fu Lu looked at everyone who was not in a good mood and was puzzled. Third uncle has been conferred the rank ofmander-in-chief of the army and two younger sisters have taken up seventh-level positions. This is a great good thing! Old Madam Qiao raised her wine cup and said, Princess is right. The grace of the heavens is vast and mighty. Other than the crown princess consort and Ruo Yi, our Qiao family has not been reunited like this for a long time. It is also the first time for Ruo Yin and her two children toe to the manor. We should be happier. Second madam Qiao said, Thats right. Today is the day of wine and today is the day of intoxication. Even if His Majesty really thinks that our Qiao familys meritorious service has shocked the Lord, todays lively reunion is the most important thing! Princess Fu Lu said, Second aunt, my uncle is not so stupid. Why would he be afraid of the Qiao familys power and influence? As long as the Qiao family is loyal to the country and the people, Uncle understands in his heart! Zheng Xiao said, Ruoyi, this child, why hasnt she returned at This Hour? West Mountain Academy shouldnt be so far away from here! An yuanhou snorted lightly. She does have some backbone. She shouldnt havee back to the Hou mansion for the rest of her life. Father is injured, so he doesnt know how toe back to visit. Qiao lui said, Father, why are you saying this to ruoyi? She is now the mountain chieftain of West Mountain Academy. There are many things to do, so she wont be able to rush back in time. Besides, its also right for her to hate you because of Aunt Qian. Hearing the words Aunt Qian, marquis an Yuan quickly changed the topic and Toasted Third Master Qiao. Third brother attacked West Liang this time and took revenge for Father and uncle. Let Me Toast to you. Third master Qiao said, Its all thanks to His Highness the Crown Princes leadership. I didnt expect that his military strategy was also very good. The Imperial Concubine has married an excellent husband. Second master Qiao said, His Highness the crown prince is very good. However, elder brother and sister-inw, you should also advise the Imperial concubine not to monopolize the crown prince alone. Now that the imperial concubine is dominant in the Eastern Pce, it makes His Majesty even more afraid of our Qiao Family! Old Madam Qiao mmed the table and said, Second brother, your elder brother and third brother are all high officials in the imperial court. What about you? The Qiao family has already let down the imperial concubine. As her second uncle, do you even have such thoughts? Second Master Qiao shrunk his head and said, My son is also thinking for the Qiao Family! Old madam Qiao said, Theres no need to say this anymore. His Majesty is a wise ruler. As ministers, its enough for us to do our duty as ministers. Warn the people below, especially the second daughter-inws family, not to do evil to the Qiao family. Once they find out, dont me the Qiao family for destroying our family! Yes,the Qiao family members responded in unison. .. Jin Niang was pregnant and felt even hotter in May. She had been craving for the coolness of the ice since early in the morning. After sending off Little Lu Xi, who had gone to the imperial tutors side for lessons, Qiao Jin Niang went to look for Lu Chen, who had juste out of the imperial court: I havent returned to the Savory Pavilion for a long time. I heard that when King Huai was in chaos in Chang an, the savory pavilion was having a hard time. Octagon and the others always report good news but dont report bad news. They wouldnte to the pce to look for me if nothing happened. I miss them a little. Lu Chen said, Since you miss them, just announce them to the East Pce. Youre already seven months pregnant, how can you still leave the Pce? I can still cook when Xier is seven months old,said Qiao Jinniang. Ill take good care of myself. Lu Chen sighed helplessly. Ill bring you there at night. Qiao Jinniang kissed Lu Chen on the side of his face as a token of appreciation. When night fell, a carriage from the eastern pce arrived in front of the Savory Pavilion. The Savory Pavilion was already closed, but the hall was brightly lit. When Qiao Jinniang entered, she saw that the fennel that was supposed to be in Luoyang was also there. As soon as she entered, octagon smashed the abacus in his hand and said, The Qian family has gone too far, hasnt it? They are the princes, and our master is the crown princes consort. How can the Qian family mistreat our little glutinous rice like this! Thats right. Who Wants to go back to the Qian Family? Its much better to follow the master than the Qian Family! Glutinous rice said in a low voice, But uncle said that if I return to the Qian family, the Wu Royal Mansion will also be a backing for the master. Now everyone says that the Emperor is already afraid of the Qiao family...
Chapter 292
Chapter 292: Chapter 292. Glutinous rice and Zhou Shihui were both young misses of the Qian family
Qiao Jinniang sneered when she heard this. It seems mother didnt beat Qian Yin hard enough back then! Only the Wu royal family wants to be my backer? How did the Qian Family Bully You? When octagon and fennel saw Qiao jinniang, they called her master repeatedly before bowing to Lu Chen at the side. Lu Chen was already used to it and asked them to stand up. Octagon and fennel couldnt help butin to Qiao Jinniang one by one. Qiao jinniang said, Stop talking. Let glutinous rice speak for herself. Glutinous rice lowered her head and said, Master, after I returned to Chang an from Luoyang, Qian Yin asked me to go to his residence and said that he would take me back to see my mother.. Originally, I was also quite happy that I could see my biological mother. However, when I returned, I saw Zhou Shihui beside my courtyard. It turned out that his majesty asked Qian Yi at that time whether he wanted to keep Zhou Shihui alive or grant me the title of Princess. Qian Yi chose to keep Zhou Shihui alive. Zhou Qing and Zhou Sisi were beheaded, but Zhou Shihui was not punished. I heard from Qian Yin that in the future, Zhou Shihui and I are both youngdies of the Qian family. I am the eldest youngdy of the Qian family, and she is the second youngdy of the Qian Family... Glutinous rice pouted and said, Zhou Shihui has done so many wrong things and is still disrespectful to you and Princess Fu Lu. I dont want to be sisters with her! Lady Qiao Jin sneered, The Qian family is really bullying people. Its fine if we dont ept this injustice. If you miss your mother, you can bring her out. I will buy you a big house and a manor in Lin an! Lu Chen said, Wouldnt that be letting Zhou Shihui off? Making Zhou Shihui the only young miss of the Qian Family? Qiao jinniang said indignantly, Thats true. But making glutinous rice and Zhou Shihui both young misses of the Qian family is really disgusting. Glutinous rice couldnt help but nod. Thats right, thats right. Master, why dont you let me follow by your side? I dont want to go back to Lin an! If I go back to Lin an, Ill definitely be bullied to death by the Qian family. Lu Chen said, Zhou Shihui is also part of the Qian familys bloodline. Theres no reason not to let her go back to the Qian family. Qiao Jinniang frowned. Zhou Shihui has a life in her hands. After she goes back to the Qian family, wont her reputation implicate glutinous rice? Also, shes unrepentant and hasnt admitted her mistakes until now... Glutinous rice knelt in front of Qiao jinniang and said, Master, I dont want to go back to the Qian family. Qiao Jinniang Thought for a moment and said, Not going back to the Qian family wont benefit Zhou Shihui. There is a way. What Way?Glutinous rice asked. Its to find a husband for you. Youre not young anymore,Qiao Jinniang said, When the timees, extort money from the Qian Estate for a dowry. You Dont have to go back to the Qian estate every day to be angered by Zhou Shihui. When youre in the mood, you can go back to the inwshouse. Sticky rice blushed and said, Master, sticky rice will get married ording to Master. Qiao jinniang said, Thinking about it, its been two years since I left Lin an. Ive forgotten what kind of good man Lin an has. Xie Yun is going to enter Chang an soon. Ill go ask him if he has any good men from the Xie family. When you marry into the Xie family, no matter how evil Zhou Shihui is, he wont dare to bully you. Lu Chen smiled faintly and said, I think Xie Yun and glutinous rice are a perfect match. At least you know Xie Yun well and hes capable. Why do you have to go so far to find other Xie family men? Qiao Jinniang actually felt that Lu Chens words made a lot of sense. Its just that glutinous Rices nature is simple. The Xie family is in chaos. If glutinous rice marries over, Im afraid... Lu Chen said, The second son of the Xie family is involved with King Huai. Xie Yun eliminated the second son of the Xie family because of righteousness. Now that Xie Yun is the sole ruler of the Xie family, I will help him n the crime of pretending to be a woman to deceive the emperor. You can rest assured that glutinous rice marries over. Qiao Jinniang also felt that Lu Chens suggestion was very good. Glutinous rice said in a low voice, But Im just a little servant girl. How can I be worthy of Xie Yun? Moreover, in my eyes, hes just a big sister. Qiao jinniang patted glutinous Rices shoulder and said, You dont Have to belittle yourself. Youre not a servant girl, but the daughter of the Wu royal family. The Qian and Xie families have always been equally famous. How can you not be worthy of Xie Yun? Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang with a smile in his eyes. What your master said is right. You can just wait to get married. Glutinous rice scratched her head. OH. But she really didnt like Xie Yun, and she felt that Xie Yun probably liked her master.. The crown prince persuaded her master to marry her to Xie Yun because he was afraid that Xie Yun would steal her master away, right? Qiao Jinniang asked octagon about King Huais matters in Chang an. Octagon said, During those days, the people from the reception building across the street came to find trouble every day. We were all shut in. With the protection of the Longxi Army, it wasnt a big deal. Now that chef Lis head has been beheaded and the reception building opened by chef Lis son-inw has closed, the business of the savory pavilion here is even better than before. Qiao Jinniang felt relieved after hearing this. After giving them a few more words, she left the savory pavilion with Lu Chen. In the carriage, amp was slightly lit. Qiao jinniang sighed and said, I thought that Zhou Shihui wouldnt be able to escape the me, but I didnt expect Qian Yi to be so biased. Qian Yin is also a person who doesnt understand. is he the only one who wants to marry Ruoyun? Lu Chen said, Qian Yin has no choice. His mother left a will to find his granddaughter before she died. She died with a grievance. All these years, in order to find his little niece, he didnt even care about his own family and business. The two of them are his nieces. To be fair, Qian Yi has already made his choice. What can he do? Qiao Jinniang touched her belly and said, Sigh, it was not easy for glutinous rice to find her biological parents, but she has let her down! Chang an had a curfew. The night should have been quiet, but a few princes had juste out from Spring Breeze Street. The few of them stumbled and said, Its a pity that Qin Miaomiao was not reduced to an official prostitute. She is so beautiful and noble. ying with her will definitely have a different taste. Speaking of which, its a pity that Zhou Sisi was beheaded. Otherwise, her looks would definitely be extremely beautiful. Zhou Sisis looks cant bepared to the Crown Princess Consort. Otherwise, His Highness the Crown Prince wouldnt have despised her so much! Speaking of the Crown Princess Consort, the Qiao family is now at the peak of their power. If we talk about it, its because his majesty has a taboo against it. That Qiao Ruoyun who has left home will probably have a difficult marriage. If we go and ask for her hand in marriage, we might even be able to address the crown princess consort as Little Sister! When Qiao Jinniang heard those vulgar words outside, she felt disgusted. Lu Chen lifted the curtain and said, Eunuch Gu, capture them all and ce them in the heavenly prison. No one is to be released unless I give the Order. Yes! When those drunken princes and grandchildren were captured, they still shouted without knowing whether they were dead or alive: I dont want to marry Qiao Ruoyun with such good fortune. who dares to touch the Qiao family now? Who knows when the emperor will settle the scores! The Crown Princes wife is pregnant. Sooner orter, the crown prince will take in a new wife. Rather than marrying the daughter of a servant, why not shove his own sister into the Eastern Pce!
Chapter 293
Chapter 293: Chapter 293, the petition for the Crown Prince to take in a consort
Qiao Jinniang nced at Lu Chen and said, The outside world is saying that the Qiao family is the only one in power. His Majesty will one day settle the Qiao family for their outstanding contributions. I originally thought that father shouldnt be like this. However, I heard that father intends to let Qian Yin marry Fu an.. Moreover, in terms of contributions and rewards, father and brothers contribution to defeating the northern desert isnt low. However, father only gave third uncle the position ofmander-in-chief. Do you think father is really afraid of our Qiao Family? Lu Chen said, Marquis an Yuans title was passed down from his ancestors. Although Duke is higher than Marquis, it is the same when ites to titles. Qiao Lu is young and is the son-inw of the princessonly daughter. He is also the younger brother of the Crown Princess. He still has a long way to go in the future. It would be inappropriate for him to be rewarded now. If he is really afraid, the position ofmander-in-chief will not be given to the Qiao family. Qiao Jinniang leaned on Lu Chens shoulder and said, Then are you afraid that Ill have exclusive power over my rtives? The Qiao familys power is at its peak. Are you willing to be suppressed by me? Even without the Qiao familys power, havent I already been suppressed by You? Lu Chen ced his hand on Qiao Jinniangs stomach and said, Dont let your imagination run wild. Qiao jinniang replied, Oh! .. After the reward, those who left Chang an were dealt with one by one. For a time, Chang an returned to its usual lively state. The vassal state of Xiliang, which had surrendered, came to Chang an to pay tribute. The marriage of the Young County Prince Rong was also approaching. For this reason, a group of officials in the imperial court proposed to let the Crown Prince take in an imperial concubine. After all, the empress dowager was not very satisfied with the Crown Princes Imperial Concubine on her deathbed. Moreover, the Crown Princes imperial concubine had been in the Eastern Pce for more than a year. It was too little to say that there was only one crown princes consort in the Eastern Pce. Now that the Crown Princes consort was pregnant, she could legitimately enter the Eastern Pce. The Hui Lin Emperor sent all the official memorials to the Eastern Pce. Lu Chen flipped through one of the memorials to urge his consort to take in a consort. He flipped through another to urge his consort to take in a consort. He closed the memorials. Qiao Jinniang entered the study and saw that Lu Chens expression was extremely bad, she picked up the memorials he threw aside and looked at them. Are these officials too idle? Im still pregnant, so they advised you to take in a concubine... This memorials was actually written by Lin Xiang! Qiao Jinniang ced the memorials on the table and looked at Lu Chen. You wontpromise to take in a concubine, right? Lu Chen smiled. How could I not keep my promise? Dont worry, in a few days, no one will dare toe to this memorials again. Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen curiously, Are you going to take care of these officials? Lin Xiang and the others are also great Tangs pirs... Lu Chen only let Qiao Jinniang rx. A few dayster, Xie Yun came from Jiangnan to report to the Hui Lin Emperor about the collusion between the second branch of the Xie family and the king of Huai. He also came to the Hui Lin Emperor and surrendered, moving all the Xie familys ancient books to Chang an. Most of these ancient books were bamboo slips. When the academies heard about it, they all dared toe to Chang an to see these ancient books. In the diligent administration hall, the Hui Lin Emperor dismissed everyone, leaving only Xie Yun and Lu Chen. Seeing Xie Yun take off her female clothes and change into mens clothes, he said, I should have thought of it long ago. With your ability, you wont be a woman. Xie Yun bowed her head and said, Your Majesty, Please Punish Me formitting the crime of deceiving the Emperor! The Hui Lin Emperor said, Since you are willing to give the Xie familys 1,000-year-old collection of books to the imperial court, I will let this crime go. In the future, you should keep your word. However, you can not continue living as Xie Yun. Xie Yun kowtowed and replied, Yes, your Majesty. After Xie Yun changed into womens clothes and left. The Hui Lin Emperor looked at the books in the Hall of diligent administration and said to Lu Chen, It was not easy for you to persuade the Xie family to bring these ancient books to Chang an. However, Im afraid that these ancient books will not be able to be put down in the imperial pce. Do you have any ideas? Lu Chen cupped his hands and said, I think we can let the Imperial Academypile these ancient books and send them to the bookstore to be printed or copied by the various academies. After that, we can return the rare and rare ancient books to the Xie family. Some of the ancient books are left in the imperial pce. Those that are not rare, why dont we divide them equally among the various academies of Great Tang? What do you think, Father? The Hui Lindi nodded in agreement and said, However, splitting them equally among the great Tang academies is not an easy task. The Imperial College and the Qingming Academy will not be able to determine who will get the first copy. Those ancient books that are not rare will easily cause trouble for whichever academy collects them. You need to consider carefully. Lu Chen cupped his hands in agreement and said, I understand. The Hui Lindi then said to Lu Chen, I heard that you caught a few troublemakers on the street two days ago? Lu Chen replied, Their words were very disrespectful to the imperial concubine. The Hui Lin Emperor stared at Lu Chen and said, Have you seen the memorials I gave you? Prime Minister Lin and the others have all submitted their memorials. The crown princess is pregnant and there are no more concubines in the Eastern Pce. It is indeed very inappropriate... Lu Chen said, I will take care of this matter. Father, rest assured that no one will dare to use memorials to annoy you in the future. The Hui Lin emperor sneered, I am not afraid of being annoyed. You should have been someone elses son-inw back then. Do you think a crown prince is so afraid of the Crown Princess? You are an emperor. Why are you afraid of Mother?Lu Chen retorted. The Hui Lin Emperor:... He really had nothing to say. Lu Chen left the administrative hall and called Xie Yun to the East Pce to discuss matters. At noon, Lu Chen ordered someone to invite Qiao Jinniang. Xie Yun saw Qiao Jinniangs smiling face and knew that she was still living well. She could not tell if she was regretting or rejoicing. Your subject greets the Crown Princess Consort. After Qiao Jinniang sat down, she smiled slowly at Xie Yun and said, Congrattions to young master Xie for holding such great power. I remember that you are a little older than the crown prince. Since you have already established your career, do you have any ns to start a Family? Xie Yun cupped his hands and said, It was once difficult to find a suitable candidate to start a family. Lu Chen frowned. Where did hee from? Qiao jinniang said, I have a suitable candidate for you. She is the eldest daughter of the Wu royal family. She has known you since childhood and you know her character. She is usually quick-witted and lively. When Xie Yun heard this.., her eyes dimmed as she said, It is not that I look down on glutinous rice for being born as a servant girl. It is just that she has a lively personality. She really should not enter the Xie family. There are many rules in the Xie family and it is not something she can stand. Qiao Jinniang did not force her upon hearing this. She only asked, Then, does your Xie family have any good men? It is best if they can protect glutinous rice. Xie Yun said, There is a younger brother in the family. When we return to Lin an, I will discuss the marriage with the king of Wu. Qiao jinniang said, That is possible, but the most important thing is glutinous Rices intentions. Xie Yun replied, That is only natural. Just as you said, I watched glutinous rice grow up. I also treat her like a younger sister.
Chapter 294
Chapter 294: Chapter 294. Xie Yun fell off the cliff and passed away
Lu Chen picked up a piece of fish meat for the Jinniang and said, Since Xie Yun doesnt like lively women, what does she think of Wen Jings character? Princess Fu an... Xie Yun cupped his hands and said to Lu Chen, Princess Fu an is very nice, but I have no intention of marrying a Chang an woman. Xie Yun knew clearly what Lu Chen was thinking. Now that the Jinniang had a second child, she naturally wouldnt have any more thoughts. Moreover, he had given up long ago. However, this didnt mean that his marriage would fall into Lu Chens trap. Yu Yan walked in front of Qiao Jinniang and bowed. Your Majesty, theres news from the pce gate that Miss Ruoyi wants to see you. Qiao jinniang said, I havent seen her for a long time. Let Her in. Thest time Qiao Jinniang saw Qiao Ruoyi wasst year in Luoyang. Qiao ruoyi came in wearing a clean and neat green traditional dress. Her long hair was tied up with a jade hairpin. She came in and bowed to Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. Crown prince, Sister. Qiao jinniang asked, Why are you here today? A few days ago, mother said that you wouldnte back even when she asked you toe to the family banquet. She wanted to go to the west mountain to visit you when my younger sister recovered. Qiao ruoyi said, Its not that I didnt want to go back during the family banquet. Now, there are many more students in the West Mountain Academy. When King Huai took over Chang an, the army of the Chengen Bo Mansion came to the West Mountain to cause trouble. Mr. Liu had spent a lot of energy to deal with them. Later, with the help of General Yue Zhan, our West Mountain Academy was able to have peace. However, Mr. Liu didnt have the energy to manage the academy, so he handed the position of the Academys Mountain Director to me. At this moment, the things in the academy were veryplicated. The things that the students learned were messy and messy. These few days, I just followed the categories of the youngdies of zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting. I followed the categories of the mens studies, as well as the categories of studying arithmetic, there were also the categories of embroidery, making jewelry, and other female crafts, which were divided into the eight categories of heaven, earth, ck, yellow, universe, and destion. There were also five categories of age, which were divided into a, B, C, D, and E, and the female teachers had just been divided into categories. Ive been a little busy these days. Qiao Jinniang listened to Qiao Ruoyis eloquent speech. She did not expect that Qiao ruoyi would really take this matter to heart, even though it was just a moment of kindness. West Mountain Academy doesnt need tuition fees. Fortunately, Sister has given us a lot of silver. Now that our reputation has been built up, there are many women from noble families in Chang an who are willing toe to west mountain to study. Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you for your hard work. Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, If sister really feels that Ive worked hard, can you get the students of West Mountain Academy toe over and copy the Xie familys ancient books and isted copies? I heard that the Xie family has brought over a thousand years of heritage. If it werent for sisters help, it would definitely not be our West Mountain Academys turn... Qiao jinniang said, This is also something that should be done. Originally, West Mountain Academy was also an academy, and the Academy doesnt differentiate between high and low. You can arrange for the students toe over and copy the records together with the Hanlin Academy. Qiao ruoyi was overjoyed and said, Thank you, Sister. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Theres no need to thank me. Its a good thing that you were able to wholeheartedly establish the girlsacademy. Although Zhou Shihui entered Qingming Academy under false pretenses at that time, those top academies nowadays dont recruit girls. Even the Imperial College said that it recruited female students, but in reality, there isnt a single one. Now that theres a girlsacademy that can also study the six schools, its a good thing that its an immeasurable merit for women. Qiao ruoyi heard this and said, I dont hope for immeasurable merit either. Its just that after reading so many books, I always hope that there will be some use. I also hope that one day, a woman can truly be a ruler and a high official! Xie Yunughed and said, The Qiao familys daughters are getting more and more powerful. I heard that there are already two female generals, and now there is a female prime minister. Qiao Ruoyi did not care about Xie Yuns mockery. She also wanted to be a ruler for the government. Not only was she loyal to the country, but she was also working for the people. Her reason wasughable. A man being a ruler for the government could win the imperial decree for his mother. It would be good if she could win the imperial decree for his mother. However, if she couldnt, she also wanted to benefit more people. She wanted her mother to look after her in heaven and feel gratified for her. Qiao Jinniang Protected Qiao ruoyi and said, Dont make fun of ruoyi. Why Cant a woman be an imperial decree? The imperial examinations have said that women can participate. Who knows, in a few years, West Mountain Academy might be able to produce a top schr. Lu Chen said, If West Mountain Academy really produces a female top scorer, then I will act ording to my fathers wishes and get the imperial court to allocate funds to West Mountain Academy. There is no need for you to take out your own money. During the Battle of West Liang, Lu Chen knew that Qiao Jinniang had already lost a lot of silver. He had mentioned to his father that Qiao Jinniang was using her own money to stabilize the situation in Yunzhou, but the empress of Huilin was extremely stingy and turned a deaf ear to it. She even said that the entire family did not care about the money. Qiao jinniang said, Ruoyi, did you hear that? Whether or not the students of West Mountain Academy can live better depends on whether or not they have a female schr. Qiao ruoyi confidently issued a military order. Sister, dont worry. I will strive to have a female schr in the imperial examinations the year after next. Qiao Jinniang:...there was no need to be so quick. When Qiao Ruoyi left, she did not forget to take the two boxes of ancient books that Xie Yun had collected from the pce. She casually took a book from the carriage and looked at it. However, she found a portrait in an ancient book. In the portrait, there should be a young girl, holding a pastry in her hand and smiling with her eyes curved. Qiao ruoyi thought, this person might be Xie Yun when she was young? Xie Yun was so beautiful. She must have been so delicate when she was young. .. Xie Yun entered the pce to present the book. For a moment, many Chang an schrs felt sorry for Xie Yun. Back then, she almost died trying to save the crown prince. Now that she was willing to give the Xie familys collection of books to the imperial court and the world, it showed her righteousness. Such a woman should be the crown princes consort. However, she was not the crown princes consort, and she had a deep friendship with the crown prince. For a moment, there was a discussion in Chang an about making Xie Yun the crown princes side consort. When Qiao Jinniang heard this from Yu Yan in the pce, she frowned and said, If no one spread this news, its impossible. As for who ordered someone to spread this news? Lu Chen peeled a grape and handed it to Qiao Jinniang. I spread it. Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen in surprise. Why did you spread this news? Do you really want to marry Xie Yun? Do you really have the heart of a man? Lu Chen tapped Qiao Jinniangs forehead and said, Dont think too much. In a few days, youll know why I spread this news. Qiao Jinniang ate the grapes he handed over and replied, OH. A few dayster, Qiao Jinniang heard the news that Xie Yun had fallen from the top of the West Mountain of Chang an when he was ying.. This death was a great pity for all the schrs in the world. Hearing this news, Qiao Jinniang was stunned at first, but then she thought about it carefully. Since Xie Yun no longer had any opponents, she should naturally return to her male identity. Xie Yuns identity as a woman had to disappear..
Chapter 295
Chapter 295: Chapter 295: The Crown Prince kills his wife
The Xiliang Kingdom was willing to bow down to the emperor. The emissary brought many tributes to Chang an to meet the emperor of the Heaven Dynasty. The wedding date between Princess Xiliang and Little Prince Rong had also arrived. Princess Xiliang sat on the soft sedan chair and only used a wedding fan to cover her face. Many people stopped to watch the scene. Princess Xiliang is extremely beautiful. The crown prince is really not blessed. Such a beautiful woman actually benefits little Prince Rong! Princess Xiliang is also a smart person. From the start, she didnt keep saying that she wanted to marry the crown prince. Those women who said that they wanted to marry the crown prince didnt even have a good ending! Now that all of them are dead, I think the crown prince is against women! Stop talking nonsense. You Dont want to live anymore. Its not that Im talking nonsense. Now, the rumors are spreading like this. At the start, they were saying that they wanted to marry the crown princes Qiao familys first daughter, Qiao Ruoshui. In the end, what a tragic end. She died without a burial ground!! After that, Li Lingling even had her family confiscated. Zhou Sisis family was also confiscated. Her entire family was wiped out. This was even the Empressmaiden family! There were also the officials who had been preparing to enter the pce recently. Their elder brothers were all arrested. Even their fathers official position was demoted. Oh right, even Xie Yun couldnt avoid it. Initially, everyone said that she was going to enter the eastern pce as a side concubine. However, under everyones watchful eyes, she fell off the cliff. I dont believe that this woman isnt the Crown Princes concubine! Someone asked curiously, How could this be? She should be the concubine of the crown prince who married the crown prince. How could she be the concubine of a woman who wanted to be the crown prince? Who said that the crown princes concubine wasnt restrained? Not long after the crown princes concubine married the Crown Prince in Lin an, her adoptive parents passed away one after another. Isnt this restrained enough? In that case, it makes sense... Now, in the entire Chang an city, who doesnt fear death and dares to think of bing the Crown PrincessConsort? Xie Yuns body isnt even cold yet. Her death can be considered as a warning to all the women in Chang an! .. Rong Xiaojuns Prince got married. Although Qiao Jinniang was pregnant, she also went to join in the fun. It was really boring to stay in the eastern pce to nurse her fetus. She was resting in a pavilion when she heard a few girls talking behind the rockery. My mother told me not to think about marrying the crown prince in the Eastern Pce. The Crown Princes life is too tough. Those girls who want to marry the crown prince wont have a good ending. Thats true. Xie Yun was fine a while ago, but the people just said that she was going to be the crown princes side concubine and fell off a cliff. Its better to stay away from the crown prince in the future! However, throughout Chang an, the crown prince is so brilliant and handsome that even women cantpare to him. He is also very powerful. Are you really willing to give up on bing the crown princes concubine for this unreliable theory of Fate? I want my life more. Besides, the Crown Prince and the Crown Princes concubine are so affectionate. We might not be favored even if we enter the Pce! Thats not necessarily true! The imperial consort is already so old. How can she be as beautiful as us when shes Old? Youre going to die anyway. Dont Drag US along! Tong Yingying, Zhou Sisi has implicated the entire family... If you insist on doing things your way, wed better cut ties as soon as possible! Thats right. If you have the ability, say such words in front of your parents. Lets see if they wont beat you to death. Lady Qiao Jin listened to the words of the fourteen or fifteen-year-old youngdies behind the rockery and smiled gently. She finally understood why Lu Chen wanted Xie Yun to be the crown princes side concubine. Qiao Ruoyun said softly, These youngdies are too rude! Lady Qiao Jin said, Thats right. Im only twenty years old and theyre already saying that Im getting old and my looks are fading. I still think that theyre all little girls! Qiao Ruoyun only smiled gently. Thats right. In terms of looks, no matter how young they are, they cantpare to you. Lady Qiao Jin asked Qiao Ruoyun, Hows the discussion between Qian Yin and you? Qiao Ruoyun lowered her eyes shyly. Marriage matters are governed by father and mother. Lady Qiao Jin spoke sincerely to Qiao Ruoyun, Father may be concerned about the fact that the marriage between the Qiao family and the Wu Imperial residence would attract a lot of attention. However, I will persuade father to agree to this matter. I Wont let you lose your happiness because of this. However, the Qian family still has Zhou Shihui. She may cause trouble. From what Qian Yin has said, she wants to marry into the family. You must let this niece leave the Qian Estate for another time. Otherwise, you wont be a match for her. Also, please take good care of the hundred savory restaurant in Jiangnan, glutinous rice, and glutinous Rices mother. Im in Chang an. Even if I canmunicate, there will be times when I cant make it back. Qiao Ruoyun replied, Dont worry, Ill take good care of glutinous rice. Also, dont pay any attention to those rtives of the Qiao family. The Qian Estate and the Qiao family are not afraid of losing this reputation. Qian Yin doesnt care about your past and is willing to marry you. Naturally, he wont care about those rtives who dont have anything to do with you... Qiao Jinniang remembered that Qiao Ruoyun had paid attention to those rtives of the Qiao family because Qin Shu cared about reputation. Yes.Qiao Ruoyun replied, Lets not talk about this. Theres also a joyous asion in the Qiao family. Grandmother has agreed to Xu Mingweis request to marry Ruo Feng. Shes not considered to be a son-inw. In the future, the first child will be surnamed Qiao and will be the son of the Qiao familys second son. The second child will be surnamed Xu... Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Thats great. Xu Mingwei has made outstanding military achievements. He has contributed greatly to the attack on Western Liang this time. Qiao ruoyun nodded and said, He also has the ambition to not be willing to take over uncles position as the Yun provinces governor-general. Hes willing to be a minor official in the imperial court. Second aunt is very happy. Mother is having a headache over Ruoyis marriage... The jinniang said, Ruoyi told me that shes not in a hurry to get married. Her mind is now on West Mountain Academy. Moreover, shes still young. It Wont be toote to dy it for another two or three years. Zheng Xiao carried his little daughter over and said, Why arent you in a hurry? Jin Niang, dont be too attached to ruoyi. There are very few good men in Chang an... Qiao Jin advised Zheng Xiao, Mother, dont worry. If it really doesnt work out, we can still arrange a marriage for little sister ruoyi. Now that both the Qiao family and sister Ruofeng are getting married, mother will have to bear the burden. Zheng Xiao said, Its good that Ruoyun can be happy. Its just that your father is still afraid... Qiao jinniang said, You tell father not to be afraid. Our Qiao family is sitting upright and upright. It will only appear guilty if we cower and fear the east and the West! Okay,Zheng Xiao replied. In that case, the marriage will have to be put on the agenda. It was not easy for the Xu family toe from the southwest. Qian Yin will have to return to Jiangnan as well. Ill send someone to see when the best days areing... The wedding banquet at King Rongs residence ended. As soon as Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen returned to the East Pce, they saw the Hui Lin Emperor waiting for Lu Chen in the East Pce. When they saw Lu Chen, they immediately berated him, I thought you had some good skills that could stop the courtiers from giving you any more mementos?? The grand crown prince had spread among the people the saying that these strange powers were able to subdue husband and wife! What was even more ridiculous was that he could subdue women before they were even wives and concubines. Why didnt he kneel?
Chapter 296
Chapter 296: Chapter 296, the Qiao familys daughter-inw
When Lu Chen heard this, he knelt down, and Qiao Jinniang followed suit. When the Hui Lin Emperor saw that Qiao Jinniang was about to kneel down with her big belly, he could not help but frown and say, Just let him kneel. Why are you kneeling? Qiao Jinniang still knelt down and said, Father, I was the one who insisted that the crown prince was not allowed to take in concubines. That was why His Highness came up with this idea. If you want to me someone, just me me. Dont me His Highness. The Hui Lin Emperors face turned ashen. The development of the Great Tang royal family is also a matter of great importance to the country and the country. Lu Chen said, Jinniang is already pregnant, and Xier is still around. The more princes there are, the more likely there will be a fight for the position of crown prince. Xier is not a fool. Father, you also have a sessor... the Lu royal family is flourishing... The Hui Lin Emperor said unhappily, You should tell those words to all the officials and people in the world. If you could convince them, it would be fine, but you still used such an unorthodox method to destroy your crown princes prestige. Do you think its a good thing to have the name of hindering women? The Hui Lin Emperor saw that Qiao Jinniangs expression was not good, so he said to them, All of you, get up first. As for hindering women, youd better hurry up and rify it. This is the most inferior method! Qiao Jin did not stand up and said, Father is a wise monarch and the ruler of the world. Your Highness is your son. If as the heir of the world, you cant control your own harem and have to be forced by your subjects to take in other women, then its better not to be the crown prince. The Hui Lin Emperor said in a deep voice, Dont think that just because you have my grandson, I dont dare to punish you. Now that you are the crown princes consort, without the virtue of the crown princes consort, you dare to Talk Back to me? Lu Chen held the Hui Lin Emperors hand tightly and said, Dont do to others what you dont want to do to yourself. Fathers six pces only dote on his mother. If you want to take in a consort, you should take in a consort first. The Hui Lin Emperor pointed at Lu Chen and said, You, you really have married a wife and forgotten about father and mother! You Dont want your reputation, so I wont care about you anymore! The Hui Lin Emperor flicked his sleeves and left. Seeing the Hui Lin Emperors back, the Jin Niang looked at Lu Chen and said, Father left just like that. Will there be anything wrong? Lu Chenforted Qiao Jin. If you really want to punish him, you should punish him on the spot. Itll be fine after he leaves. Dont worry. Qiao Jin sighed and said, But I think fathers words are reasonable. You Cant damage your own reputation just to not take concubines. It would be very inappropriate if you were used one day. Lu Chen put his hand on her shoulder and said, But this is the safest way. Its the best way to make all the ministers give up on the idea, isnt it? It also saves you the trouble of reading those memorials. Qiao Jinniang hugged Lu Chen. She certainly didnt want to be called a Jinx who would harm others. Qiao Jinniang was already satisfied that Lu Chen could make such a sacrifice in order to not take in concubines. She leaned on Lu Chens shoulder and said slowly, Actually, I can understand why father is so angry. Mother did note, so I believe mother will be angry too. My Little Sister was born on the dragon boat festival and was said to be a jinx by the people of Chang an. As a rtive, how could I feelfortable hearing this? Which parent would feelfortable hearing that their son was a jinx. Its enough that I know how you feel about me. I Wont be affected by the opinions of outsiders anymore. Dont make your parents angry. Think of a way to change the public opinion and apologize to your parents. Lu Chen said, Okay. It was easy to change the public opinion. Zhou Sisi, Li Lingling, and all of them deserved their punishment. Moreover, the one who married them was King Huai. The one who killed his wife should have already been beheaded.. The women around King Huai, Mu Qianqian, Li Lingling, and Zhou Sisi, were all convicted of the crime of wiping out their families. The crown prince was the one who was wronged. In the EmpressPce, Lu Chen took a new dish, sour radish and mutton soup, which had just been served in the taste pavilion and went to look for the Hui Lin Emperor. The Hui Lin Emperor looked at the food box in his hand and asked, You want to bribe me with a mere dish? Lu Chen said, The imperial concubine has persuaded me. It is indeed inappropriate for me to think of such a bad idea. It is extremely inappropriate for father to be angry for me.. This sour radish mutton soup was a new dish developed by the Savory Pavilion in the summer to quench the heat and quench thirst to nourish the spleen and stomach. The imperial concubine has speciallye to honor father and mother. Empress Zhou chuckled and said, I have long heard that she has a mutton business with Longxi. These few days, mutton is popr outside the pce. It is hard for her to be filial. Your Majesty, you should not be angry anymore! The Hui Lin Emperor said, For the sake of mutton soup... The Hui Lin Emperor coughed repeatedly and said, For the sake of the Crown Princess consort, I Wont hold it against you! Lu Chen:... Empress Zhou said to Lu Chen, The Jin Niang is about to give birth. Just tell her to be at ease. Your father will not force people to enter the East Pces backyard. Even the talent show is because there will be a batch of pce maids out this year, so we have to recruit pce maids from themon people. Lu Chen agreed. .. The Qiao familys happy events continued. It was not suitable to get married in May, but there were a few good days in June. One was on the 12th of June, and the other was on the 18th of June. Although Qiao Ruoyun married twice, she married King Wu and became King Wus consort. The chosen date was on the 18th of June. This wedding had to be held on a grand scale. Fortunately, the Qiao family had already married the crown princes consort, so marrying a princess consort could be considered very orderly. Qiao Ruofeng and Xu Mingweis wedding was rather low-key. Xu Mingwei was only a minor official now, so Qiao Ruofeng did not expect the wedding ceremony to be Grand. However, even though it was low-key, when it came to the wedding banquet, the crown prince brought the emperors great-grandson to personally attend. No matter how low-key it was, it had be high-key. Even if there was an ancient saying that it was impossible toe without a happy asion, there were still quite a number of Hankiesthat Qiao ruofeng had only seen a few times that came to her wedding banquet, which made Qiao Ruofeng very angry. Perhaps it was because she had stayed on the battlefield for too long, but she did not like these Hankiesat all and chased them out. .. The next day, glutinous rice entered the eastern pce and told Qiao Jinniang about this matter. Qiao jinniang only smiled lightly. After Ruofengs wedding, I believe that Ruoyun will also be getting married. Xie Yun has promised me that he will help you find a marriage and will take good care of you.. I will also give you many maids and guards. If Zhou Shihui Bullies You, you dont have to endure it. Im here. Glutinous rice hugged Qiao jinniang tightly and said, I cant bear to part with master. Master, I want to wait for you to give birth before leaving. Silly glutinous rice, this way, you wont be able to see the wedding between Ruoyun and your uncle in Lin an.Qiao Jinniang rubbed her belly. When the timees, I will tell the Little Princess that theres an aunt called glutinous rice. Glutinous Rice said with tears in her eyes, Master, you muste back to Lin an to see me. You must remember to write to me. I really dont want to be so far away from you... Qiao jinniang rubbed glutinous Rices head. But you have to go home too. Your mother is still waiting for you at home... Glutinous rice reluctantly let go of Qiao Jinniangs embrace. On the 18th of June, Prince Wu was conferred the title of Imperial Consort. It was said that just the dowry alone was enough to fill arge ship. It could be seen how much the marquis an Yuans manor loved this adopted daughter. When Qiao Ruoyun boarded the ship, she only found out after seeing the dowry list that Lady Qiao had given half of the Hundred Savory restaurants property to her. Qiao Ruoyun could not help but have her eyes turn red, wanting to get off the ship.
Chapter 297
Chapter 297: Chapter 297, the grand selection
Glutinous rice said, Aunt, master said that you deserve this. You and she are blood-rted sisters. You Dont care about these things. Qiao Ruoyun was extremely touched. I heard that she had suffered heavy losses during her trip to Yun Province and that she needed to spend money in the pce. She gave these to me... Glutinous rice said, Master was afraid that she wouldnt be able to take care of you in Chang an, so you can keep them. Master will only be at ease if you and I live a good life. Qiao Ruoyun ced the dowry slip on her heart. She was clearly the one who had wronged Lady Qiao. Lady Qiao did not mind that she had stolen her life and had even given herself so much dowry. No wonder glutinous rice and fennel were willing to offend the crown prince for the sake of their master. Lady Qiao truly valued friendship and loyalty. On the dock, looking at the bustling crowd, she said, The daughter of the Qiao family is really blessed. After Qiao Ruoyun and the Qin family split up, I thought that she wouldnt be able to get married. I didnt expect that a marriage would be even more important than a marriage. She has actually be the princess consort of King Wu. Even the Qiao familys first daughter, who was born in the dragon boat festival, is only a little over one year old. There are already quite a number of people who want to arrange a child marriage. Didnt you say that the Qiao family is feared by His Majesty? If they really are feared, how could his majesty allow Qiao Ruoyun to be King Wus consort! Besides, Ive heard that the Crown Prince and the Empress both dote on the crown princes Consort. Doting is just a saying. This time, the pces female talent selection said that she would enter the pce to be a pce maid.. However, there are also many direct daughters of high-ranking officials and nobles entering the pce. I dont believe that the Crown Prince, who is still young and full of vigor, would be able to endure seeing so many young and beautiful women when the Crown Princess is pregnant. Didnt they say that His Highness the crown prince has a weakness for women? Why are there still people who arent afraid of Death? Although the Qiao family used to be like the Sun in the sky, now that there are so many flowers and so much oil, they all have a crown princess. Who wouldnt want to be a family that thrives on their daughters favor. Moreover, the rumors have long been cleared up. The one who hinders women is King Huai, not the crown prince. There were two important matters in the pce. One was that the three-year period of pce maids were about to leave the pce, and the other was the talent selection. Twenty years ago, Great Tang had chosen pce maids or inner wives. Anyone who entered the pce would be the emperors concubine. Regardless of whether they were visited or not, they would be the emperors woman. Once they entered the pce and became pce maids, they could not leave the pce again. After Empress Zhou entered the pce, she changed the rules. After the pce maids entered the pce, they were no longer concubines. They could n their own marriage without the Emperors grace. If they became pce maids, once they reached the age of twenty-five, they could apply to leave the pce and reunite with their families. Every year, they would select young girls from the local people from four to five to eleven years old to enter the pce. They would change the age to ten to fifteen years old. If they had exquisite craftsmanship, they could rx to eighteen years old, which was a general election every three years. The previous yearstalent selection was extremely difficult. The officials all racked their brains and tried to persuade and coerce them to barely gather the number of people. This years talent selection for entering the pce was very simple and easy. After asking around, they found out that the youngdies of the officialsfamilies had all participated in the selection. There were three types of talent selection in the past. One was to select pce maids. The other was to recruit women from all over the world to select concubines. The other was to hold various kinds of flower viewing banquets to select concubines from among the women of high-ranking officials and noble families. The second type had not been seen in almost twenty years. This time, even the pce maids and attendants kept talking about choosing pce maids, but as usual, many of the first-born daughters of the official families were willing toe. The day of Qiao Jins birth was approaching, and she could not sleep well at night. She got up frequently, and her feet were so swollen that it was difficult for her to get off the ground. She said to Lu Chen, Have I be extremely ugly? I didnt look like this when I gave birth to Xier. It seems that Im really old... Youve just passed your 21st birthday, what are you getting old for?Lu Chen gently rubbed her feet and said, Who says youre Old? Even if theyre younger than you, theyre not as young and beautiful as you. You only know how to coax me,said Qiao Jinniang. I heard that many of the daughters of the officials and families in Chang an havee to this talent show. Do you really want them to be pce maids? Although pce maids can also be promoted to female officials, they can directly enter the pce to be female officials. They dont have to start from Pce Maids. Lu Chen said, At worst, they can fail the selection and leave the pce. There are 5,000 women in Datang, and only 500 will be left. Qiao Jinniang was relieved. The next day, she gathered the managers of the jewelry pavilion. She asked the jewelry pavilion and Rouge shop to develop new jewelry and rouge. If 500 girls stayed, it meant that more than 4,000 girls would leave. When they left, they had to take some Chang an specialties with them. The jewelry and clothes in Chang an were popr in Datang, so it was naturally the best time to sell them. Lu Chen helplessly saw Qiao Jinniang discussing this with her subordinates with her big belly. He could only smile and say, Be careful that the little princess in your belly will also be in the eye of money in the future. Thats great,Qiao Jinniang said. Silver is a good thing. The more silver my daughter has, the better. The manager of the jewelry pavilion said, Did the imperial physician see that the owner is the little princess? I think your belly looks like a male fetus. Qiao jinniang said, I havent let the imperial physician see it, but the imperial physician has never denied that it is the young princess. Mothers who wanted a daughter said that it was the youngdy. As expected, she gave birth to a daughter. Qiao Jinniang also thought that she would be so lucky. At the end of June, the beautiful girls entered Chang an. The first checkpoint was to check their age and ce of origin. If their ancestors hadmitted a crime, they were not allowed to enter the pce. Then there was the figure. The figure had already eliminated many people. Being a pce maid did not require one to know how to write, but it required one to know how to read. Those who did not know how to Read had eliminated most of the people. Qiao ruoyi took the opportunity to hand out a flyer for West Mountain Academy at the entrance of the pce. Naturally, the more students the better. Afraid that she would be scolded by her family for not being able to choose a pce maid, the desperate girls entered West Mountain Academy. In the end, after all kinds ofpetitions, five hundred people were left behind. Empress Zhou called Qiao Jinniang to go with her to lecture these beautiful women. Qiao Jinniang sat in a sedan chair and arrived at the Pce of the beautiful women. Five hundred people stood in neat rows. The Shang Pce was lecturing, and after the Shang Pce lectured, it was Qiao Jinniang who lectured. Qiao Jinniang followed the manuscript that Empress Zhou had given him in advance and memorized it before lecturing. Many youngdies curiously sized up Empress Qiaos appearance, and in their hearts, they all hoped that one day they could enter the eastern pce and be the consort of this high and mighty reprimanding. After Empress Qiao finished memorizing the contents, she continued, I still have a few words to remind you. Before you enter the pce, the vast majority of you are the pampered and pampereddies of the family. Just now, Shanggong said that he wanted you to understand the rules and be servants to serve the nobles. I feel that although you enter the pce as Pce Maids, you are not ves for life. The most important word in the pce is rules, but to a woman, the most important word is self-improvement. Mother is kind and specially grants pce maids the right to leave the pce to have children when they reach the age of 10. I hope that you can achieve something in the pce and be self-reliant in the future, and not blindly think of climbing up to the Dragon and Phoenix. Shang Gong looked at Empress Zhous expression and saw that Empress Zhou did not have any ns to not worry or berate Lady Qiao. Among the beautiful women, the daughter of a Shannan Jiedushi came out and said, Crown prince, Imperial concubine, your subject is stupid. I wonder what climbing up to the dragon and Phoenix Means?
Chapter 298
Chapter 298: Chapter 298, the Emperor wants to change the crown prince
Qiao Jinniang thought that she had made it very clear. There were many women in the pce who wanted to enter the Eastern Pce. Since you are stupid, the pce can not keep stupid people!Qiao Jinniang did not give her any face at all. My father is still the Shannan Jiedushi Ambassador, the Crown Princess Consort... Qiao Jinughed lightly and said, Do you want topete with me in terms of Father? When she said this, she felt that she had a bit of the aura of someone who bullied others and pampered the consort in the writings of Layman Autumn Moon. However, this little sister was trulyughable. When the daughter of the Shannan Jiedushi heard this, she wept with grievance. The Crown Princess Consort had used the Qiao familys power to argue in front of the Empress. The Empress would definitely punish the Crown Princess Consort. However, Empress Zhou smiled faintly and said, If you think that your father is no match for her father, you can also fight against your mother. Empress Qiao looked gratefully at Empress Zhou. She regretted saying it out loud just now. She had only said it out loud because she was pregnant, hot, and angry. Fortunately, not only did her mother-inw not me her, but she also found something to make up for it. Otherwise, those schrs and imperial censorates would have been in a book. The group of beautiful women lowered their heads and put away their thoughts. After all, whether it was their family background or looks or the emperors great-grandson, they could notpete with each other. Why bother to provoke the Crown Princessdislike? It was better to be a female official in the pce. Just as the Crown Princess said, a woman who was self-reliant might not necessarily have a bad life after leaving the pce. The eldest daughter of the Shannan Jiedushi was chased out, and the crown princess made a name for herself as a fool. who dared to stir up trouble. Many officials hoped that the crown prince would choose a few people to fill up the crown princes harem. Seeing that it was really a selection of pce maids, the snow-like manuscripts were ced on the emperors desk. The emperor flipped through a book and threw one away. Empress Zhou picked up the manuscripts and said, You should be happy too. These kinds of manuscripts can only mean that great Tang is doing well and that there are no disasters everywhere. Thats why they are all such manuscripts. Hui Lindi said, Why are there no problems? Isnt it a matter for the Xie family topile the memorials? Isnt the newmercialw a matter? Since Xiliang has be a vassal state, it is also a matter for Xiliang to negotiate and issuews.. Also, the officials implicated in the rebellion of King Huai have yet to be reced. There are a lot of matters in the state, and theres even that old fool, Lin Xiang, who said that it was my six pcesfavor that made Chen er not take in a concubine... The empress said, Lin Xiang is right. The Hui Lin Emperor said, I thought that they had stopped for the past few years, but it turns out that they are waiting for Chen er to block me. Look, they even have the chance to impeach Princess Qi, Consort Chu. They are openly and secretly saying that I have a bad example. Just looking at it makes my eyes hurt! The Empress ced the memorials on the Hui Lin Emperors table one by one and said, Chen er has grown up. You have seen it for yourself in these two years. He is also very good at handling memorials. Why dont we let Chen er have a headache now?? Hearing the Jinniang mention the delicacies of the Jiangnan water viges in Lin an, I always wanted to try them myself. Since I am still young, I can still move around. Why Dont you let Chen er rule the country. You and I will go on a trip to the mountains and rivers, dress incognito, and pay a private visit. We will see the beautiful scenery of the Tang empire. Perhaps you will be able to write many poems that will be passed down from generation to generation. Seeing the customs of the local people and serving justice, why are you so distressed? The Hui Lin Emperor said, If you didnt say these words, Im afraid your head would be gone. How did you learn to be so bold like the Jin Niang? You know very well that I... If your Majesty really has the ability, then juste and chop off my head. Your Majestys virtuous reputation is known throughout the world. The history books will already leave your Majesty with the good reputation of the Hui Lin prosperous era. Why do you have to be so obsessed with power and not let go and be trapped here for your entire life? Empress Zhou said, When I entered the pce that year, I envied elder sister for being able to travel around the world. Unlike me, I havent been to many ces. Even the imperial concubine has gone to more ces than me. The Hui Lin Emperor said in a deep voice, Let me think about it for a moment. Chen er has been missing for three years. I dont know if he can shoulder this great responsibility alone. Hes just supervising the country. He cant shoulder this great responsibility. You and I can juste back again. The Hui Lin Emperor said, This little ingrate has married a wife and forgotten about his parents. Its time for him to ept my hard work. In the Eastern Pce, Qiao Jinniang felt that her eyelids had been twitching violently for the past few days. Money is jumping out of her left eye. The Empress is going to be rich,lu he said as she brought some tonic to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao jinniang said, But I am jumping out of my right eye. Yu Yan smiled and said, Then the empress is going to be rich. Qiao jinniang said, Maybe I read too many books written by Qiu Yue Yesterday. How could I be so superstitious? At this time, Hong Ling came in to pass on the news that old madam Qiao hade to see her. Qiao Jinniang repeatedly announced old madam Qiao toe in. When Old Madam Qiao came, she brought a lot of clothes for babies, both male and female. Old Madam Qiao exchanged a few pleasantries before exining her purpose ofing. The Crown Princes wife is about to give birth. She shouldnt havee to disturb you. However, His Majesty has recently summoned the vassal kings, envoys and high officials from all over the world toe to Chang an. He has also invited Prince Laogong, who is one of Luoyangs rtives, back to Chang an. The people of the Xu family received an imperial edict on their way back to Yunzhou and rushed back to Chang an. Im afraid that something big is going to happen in Chang an. I wonder if the consort has heard any news? Qiao Jinniang was relieved these days. She had been waiting to give birth. She had never heard of such a thing happening outside the pce. Old Madam Qiao said, His Majesty did this in secret. I only found out about it after I received a letter from the Xu family. His Majesty passed down Secret Edicts. Qiao Jinniang said, His Majesty summoned them to Chang an. is he going to abdicate? Old Madam Qiao turned pale with fright and said, Jinniang, how dare you say that? Old Madam Qiao swept her gaze over the pce maids at the side and warned them fiercely, not letting them leak any information. Feeling the child kicking herself, the Jinniang said, What else could it be? Could it be that father is going to change the Crown Prince? Old Madam Qiao nodded and said, That is our guess. The Qiao family has always been loyal. Jinniang, grandmother has let you down. She has failed to take care of you when you were growing up, and she cant Help You Protect His Highnesscrown prince position now. However, its not difficult to protect your well-being. You have to advise His Highness not to act Rashly. After all, there is the rtionship between father and son. Thete Emperor was also abandoned when he was crown prince, but in the end, he still became the Emperor. Qiao Jin advised, Grandmother, dont me yourself. His Highness and I will not do anything against you. Then, she was puzzled, Its just that it shouldnt be. He was still fine when he was eating in his mothers pce yesterday. Who can he give the position of crown prince to? Looking at his fathers current princes, which one of them couldpare to Lu Chen? Consort Qi and Consort Qi caused a ruckus in the Princes mansion every day for the sake of taking in concubines. Now, King Chu was busy with Consort Chu and had no interest in public affairs every day. King Lu was so stupid that he rarely participated in pce banquets. King Yong was digging iron mines in the northwest. King Huai had already been beheaded. After thinking about it, only king su had the ability to be the crown prince. However, when the capital was moved to Luoyang, King Su had originally stayed behind to protect Chang an. King Huais troops had not evene, so he had fled to Luoyang with his eldest grandson. Even if he had some talent, it would still be difficult to convince the masses to make him the crown prince by selling the capital in such a hurry!
Chapter 299
Chapter 299: Chapter 299: Zen is located in the crown prince
Old Madam Qiao understood what Qiao Jinniang was thinking and said, His Majesty is at the prime of his life. After abolishing the throne, it may not be necessary to establish the throne. After Qiao Jinniang understood, she sent old madam Qiao away. Coincidentally, Lu Chen returned. Was it grandmother who left just now? Why did she suddenlye into the pce? The Jinniang then told Lu Chen about how the Hui Lin Emperor had summoned all the ministers to Chang an. Grandmother, Im afraid that Father Wants to change the throne, but why do I feel that Father Wont change the throne? Although she and Lu Chen had argued with the emperor two days ago, they had used mutton soup to bribe the Hui Lin Emperorter. However, it must be known that Longxis mutton was hard to find in Chang an now, and she had even given all the new dishes in the savory pavilion to the Hui Lin Emperor. Lu chen frowned and said, It shouldnt be a change of the crown prince. Jin Niang looked at Lu Chen and said, Its not a change of the crown prince, but he summoned all the ministers from all over the world... could it be that, as I guessed, father wants to abdicate the throne? But father is in his prime and has great ambitions. Its not normal for him to hand over power. How could he be willing? Lu Chen said, I cant figure it out either. But you can rest assured. Even if its the abolition of the heir, I still wont let you suffer. Qiao Jin Niang nodded. The weather was getting hotter and hotter, but it couldnt resist the discussions of the Chang an people. The voices of the deposed heir grew louder and louder. It cant be, His Majesty really wants to depose the heir? Yes, His Majesty loves the Crown Prince So Much, why would he depose the heir? I heard that His Majesty wants to show off to the Qiao family. After all, the Qiao family is getting more and more powerful. During the talent show, the Crown Princess even used marquis an Yuans power to look down on the daughter of the Shannan Jiedushi family. She is extremely arrogant and despotic. This time, the crown prince must have been implicated by Qiao Jinniang. The crown prince is really pitiful. In the teahouse, when Princess Fu Lu heard this, she mmed the table and stood up. Nonsense! Princess Jing Hua grabbed Fu Lus sleeve. You are now also the daughter-inw of the Qiao family. Why do you have to be so calctive with thesemoners! Princess Fu Lu said angrily, That day, it was clearly the daughter of the Shannan Jiedushi who provoked the Miss Qiao first. The Miss Qiao just said those words, and what do you mean by changing the position! HMPH! Jing Hua pulled Princess Fu Lu out of the Teahouse, afraid that she would not be able to stop Fu Lu and tear the teahouse apart. After the two left the teahouse, they coincidentally saw Lu Xi and Baojun Wang Yun returning home together after school. Baojun Wangs hands were full of snacks, and so were the manservants. After the three of them saw the emperors eldest grandson, the eldest son of Prince Su, Lu Zhen, they began to quarrel. The prince of Baojun and Lu Zhen also started to fight. Jing Hua and Fu Lu walked over. When they saw Jing Hua and Fu Lu, they bowed and said, Greetings, Aunt Jing Hua and Aunt Fu Lu. Princess Jing Hua med the maidservants and attendants behind them and said, They are all the emperors grandchildren. How could they make a scene in the street? Did you all die? Did you just let the Emperors grandchildren make a scene in Chang an Street? The servants immediately knelt down to beg for forgiveness. Prince Bao pointed at Lu Zhen and said, Aunt Jinghua, it was Lu Zhen whoughed at us for being ck bastards. The children had been following Ji Wangkui in the fields today, and they had indeed suntanned quite a bit. Unlike the white and tender royal grandchildren in the pce, they had all turned into dark-skinned children. Lu Zhen said proudly, You are still ying with Lu Xi. The emperors grandfather is going to abolish the Crown Prince Soon, and Lu Xi is no longer the emperors grandson. You should find another good teacher as soon as possible, instead of following Ji Wangkui to be ck bastards and running to the fields every day. Lu XI snorted lightly, You are the turtle bastard. Uncle Huai Wangs Army hasnt arrived in Chang an yet, and you and uncle Su Wang have already run away with your tails between your legs! Lu Zhen raised her voice and said, Sir said that right now, the emperors grandfather is afraid of the Qiao familys military power and has made great contributions to the emperor. He is also a rtive. After deposing the heir, he will only establish a new emperors great-grandson. After all, the emperors grandfather is still in his prime and has yet to reach fifty! As the imperial grandson, and I am smarter than Lu Bao and Lu Yun, I am very likely to be the imperial grandson. If you dare to call me a tortoise, I will teach you a lesson sooner orter! Lu Xi shook her head lightly. Unfortunately, I am the imperial grandson now... aunt, what is the crime of being disrespectful to the imperial grandson? Fu Lu said, Of course, he will be beaten up. But on ount of his brain is not very good, lets not argue with him! Even king su did not dare to have such thoughts. Lu Zhen was only the eldest son of King Sus concubine, but she was already thinking of bing the emperors grandson. wasnt her brain not good? Lu Zhen stomped her feet in exasperation and said, Sooner orter, all of you will regret it. .. The important ministers from all over the world rushed to Chang an and also had many spections. At present, no one in the Qiao family dared to interact with them, afraid that they would be implicated. Although Qiao Jinniang was not well-informed in the Eastern Pce, she had heard many rumors from Yu Yans ears. There were also some new pce maids who were chattering. It was not until the first day of the seventh month, when a summer rain washed away the heat, that the Huilin Emperor summoned all the ministers from all over the world and Chang an officials to issue a decree on the throne of Zen. Once the decree on the throne of Zen was issued, everyone in the imperial court was shocked. His Majesty was not even fifty years old. Moreover, His Majesty had worked hard to govern. wasnt it too early for him to be the retired emperor? Although the crown prince had conquered Xiliang and made it a Tang empire, he was still young and might not be able to control the entire Tang empire. Marquis an yuan knelt down and begged the Hui Lin Emperor to take back the decree. However, the Hui Lin Emperor said, All these years, I have put in so much effort for government affairs that my body can no longer bear the burden. My Son is brave and good at fighting. With such a good son, it is time for me to abdicate and spend my old age peacefully. Lu Chen said, Father, the dragon body naturally has the blessing of the heavens. I beg father to take back the Order. The Hui Lin Emperor said, I have made up my mind. My Son and all my beloved ministers do not need to persuade me anymore. From now on, I will pass the throne to crown prince Lu Chen as the new national title. Three dayster, it will be a good day for him to ascend the throne. Lu Chen knelt down and epted the decree. Yes, Father. After the Hui Lin Emperor walked down from the throne, he gently patted Lu Chens shoulder and said, In the future, you must be a good emperor. Do not lose my face. Yes, Father. .. In the East Pce, Qiao Jin was in the main hall, looking at the trees full of begonias after the summer rain. When she saw the raindrops falling, she caught them with her hands.. Suddenly, the usually calm Hong Ling barged in and knelt down. Congrattions, Your Highness. His Majesty has given the throne to His Highness the Crown Prince. From now on, His Highness the crown prince will be the emperor... The imperial concubine held the raindrops in her hands and said, OH. She had already guessed it. Now, she was relieved. Hong Ling said happily, His Majestys coronation will be in three days. Qiao Jinniang:... She even suspected that the Huilin Emperor had done it on purpose. The imperial physician said that her delivery date would be in three days, on the fourth day of the seventh month. At that time, she would not be able to witness Lu Chenxings coronation. It would be a pity. Once Lu Chenfu ascended the throne, he was extremely busy. He had to set a new years date and was busy with the coronation ceremony. He could not be idle at all. Even so, he still returned to the eastern pce at night and said to the imperial concubine, Father definitely did it on purpose. He set the date in three days. If you give birth at that time... Qiao Jinniang held Lu Chens hand and said, Its not my first child. With the imperial physician here, dont worry about ascending the throne. But I want to witness the coronation with you and hold the coronation ceremony together.
Chapter 300
Chapter 300: Chapter 300, Lu Chen ascending to the throne
In the pce. Empress Zhouined to the Hui Lin emperor, You have already given the throne to Chen er, and you still have this trick up your sleeve. You are really getting more and more childish as you get older. Be careful of the Jinniang. If anything happens to her, Chen er will be jealous and hate you. The Hui Lin Emperor said, The fourth day of the seventh month chosen by the Imperial Observatory is an extremely good day. I really didnt do it on purpose. Chen er will never believe that you didnt do it on purpose! The ceremony department and the Imperial Observatory had long nned this. The pce director had also been rushing to make a silk dragon robe half a month ago. Now that they had received news that they were rushing to make a phoenix robe, the Ministry of Rites also needed an additional procedure to confer the title of Empress. The Minister of Rites almost turned white. Your Highness, no, isnt the new emperor just fooling around? The Empress is pregnant, how can she be conferred the title of Empress on the same day when she is about to give birth? The assistant minister said from the side, It shows how deep his Majestys love for the Empress is, but its not difficult to have one more procedure. The Minister of Rites had already prepared the cloth for the Phoenix Robe in the pce bureau, so it was not toote for the embroidereddy in the pce bureau to make it. Three days passed very quickly. Before dawn, the people of Chang an had already woken up early. The two sides of the temple were full of officials, and the ceremony began with the ceremonial music ying. When Qiao Jin woke up, she was dressed in a phoenix robe by the pce maids. Because she was too afraid of the heat, her twelve-story gown was cut to six stories and she arrived in front of the Tai Chi Pce. Lu Chen walked to her side and held Qiao Jins hand. If your stomach hurtster, remember to tell me. Qiao Jin nodded slightly. The ceremony of the coronation and the coronation was not any easier than the wedding. It took half a day to worship the ancestors and announce the news to the world. Aftering out of the ancestral temple, Lady Qiao was supposed to be separated from Lu Chen. Lu Chen went to the Taiji Pce to meet the new emperor, while she went to the Changle Pce to meet the wives. However, Lu Chen let her get on his dragon chair. Although it was against the rules, no one dared to point out the rules at this time. The emperor was happy to pamper her. If she came out at this time, wouldnt she be deliberately embarrassing herself. When they arrived at Taiji Pce, both sides were filled with officials from the n. After that, it was the wife of the n. Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen to the side of the Dragon Chair. At a nce, she felt that it was extremely cold up there, tens of thousands of people knelt at their feet. They shouted, Long live the emperor! Long live the Empress!. This was a scene that Qiao Jinniang would never forget. Hiss! All of a sudden, a wave of pain assaulted her, and Lady Qiao sucked in a breath of cold air. After Lu Chen got the ministers to stand up, he hurriedly sent Lady Qiao back to the Eastern Pce. Originally, they should have moved the pce to Changle Pce, but the preparations for childbirth were all in the Eastern Pce. The first time they gave birth, they didnt have such a big lineup. At that time, it was all thanks to a few cooks and aunties to help stabilize them. When Xier was born, Lu Chen was in the delivery room. After the midwife realized what was going on, she chased him out. Fortunately, Xier was sensible and did not torment her for long. Lady Qiao Jin held Lu Chens hand in pain and said, If I have difficulty giving birth, you must treat Xier and your daughter well... Lu chen frowned and said, Dont talk nonsense. Didnt the imperial physician say that your fetal position is very good? Dont let your imagination run wild. Your Majesty, its not suitable for men to be in the delivery room. Please go outside, Your Majesty! Lady Qiao Jin said to Lu Chen with sweat all over her forehead, You can go out. Lu Chen gently kissed her forehead before leaving the hall. After Lu Chen left, the female physician said to Lady Qiao Jin, Your Majesty, Your Majesty is really good to you. The Little Prince will definitely be born safely. Jin nibbled on the handkerchief beside her in pain and did not forget to correct her, Its the Little Princess. Lu Chen waited outside, his palms covered in sweat. Little Lu Xi, who was beside him, also cried when she heard the shouting. She threw herself into Lu Chens arms and said, I dont like my sister anymore. My sister makes mother so ufortable. Lu Chen advised Lu XI, Xier, your mother was also in pain when she gave birth to you. Because she loves you and your sister, she is willing to bear such pain. Little Lu Xis eyes were red. Alright, then I like my sister too. This time, Lady Qiao Jin had given birth for a very long time. There was still no news from her in the evening, and Lu Chens heart was in his throat. The summer sun was full of burning clouds. The pink clouds seemed to have a golden edge, and finally, a loud cry came from inside the house. The doctor came out with the baby in her arms and said, Congrattions, your majesty. Your Majesty has an additional little prince. Little Lu Xi got down from Lu Chens arms and ran over. Isnt it your sister? The doctor smiled and said, Your Highness, its the Little Prince. Lu Chen gently took the baby from the doctors hands and smiled. Reward. Little Lu Xi wanted to go in to see the mistress, but was stopped by a pce servant. Lu Chen said, Dont care so much. Step aside! Since the Emperor had spoken, the pce servants did not dare to really stop her. Qiao Jin, who was lying on the bed, was suffering from a severe loss of blood and Qi. She was sweating profusely. When she saw Lu Chen, she cried. Its not a daughter. Lu Chen held the baby in his arms and said, Dont you like your son? Qiao jinniang said, No, I like him. I just want him to be a daughter more. The clothes made from his name are all for a daughter to wear. Show me quickly... Lu Chen carried the child to Qiao Jinniangs side and said, He is exactly the same as Xier when she was born. Qiao Jinniang reached out and gently stroked the babys little face. She said weakly, Yes, when Xier was born, you and I were all in a mess. Not many people in the Hundred Savory restaurant dared to hold him. When Xier was born, Qiao Jinniang was not even seventeen years old, and Lu Chen was only eighteen. Octagonal fennel, glutinous rice, and the others were all young. Qiao Jinniang was afraid that the soft and soft baby would fall on him. Later, she saw that he grew more and more adorable, so she was not afraid of falling and carrying him all the time. Lu Chen saw that she was really weak and said, Have a good rest. Leave the baby to the wet nurse. Let me look at him a few more times. Maybe I can think of his name in my dream. Lu Chen said, What do you think of Lu Ang? He has an imposing manner, just like his cry... The Brocadedy pondered and said, Ang er, ang er sounds good... As she said that, she closed her eyes tightly. She was indeed tired today. The new emperor ascended the throne and gave birth to a second prince. The whole world was celebrating the amnesty. Many of the officials and their families who were implicated in the past were also granted amnesty. The next day, when they went to court, a minister came up with a memorial. Your Majesty has just ascended the throne, and there is only the empress in the six pces. Your Majesty, Please choose your concubines as soon as possible to fill the six pces and spread the branches for the royal family to stabilize the foundation of our court. For a time, there were many ministers who agreed. Lu Chen nced at the ministers under him and said, When I ascend the throne, I should put the affairs of the State First. Your Majesty, it is also a matter of the state to spread the branches and leaves for the imperial family. Your Majesty only has two sons... It is better to have concubines to fill the children, or else the country will be unstable. Lu Chen turned the jade ring in his hand and said, I have two legitimate sons, so how can the country be unstable? When the country is stable, the people should be happy and not ept concubines. In this life, I will only have the Empress as my wife and will no longer ept concubines.
Chapter 301
Chapter 301: In chapter 301, there would only be one wife, the empress
When all the officials heard this, their gazes swept toward Marquis an yuan! Marquis an Yuan:... Marquis an Yuan had a headache. What did it have to do with him if the emperor did not take in concubines? He was not the king who was so powerful that the emperor could not take in concubines. Your Majesty, this must not be allowed! Your Majesty... For a moment, in the imperial court, the censorate knelt down and advised Lu Chen to take back his order. Lu Chen said, I have already sworn that I will only have the Empress as my wife. Dont try to persuade me again. After the imperial court was dismissed, the civil officials gathered around and condemned marquis an yuan for going too far. Marquis an yuan was really wronged. How Can Your Majesty have no concubines? This is simply the biggest joke in the world. From ancient times until now, it is normal for men to have three wives and four concubines. Thats right. Marquis an Yuans house is too much of a bully. Do you really think that marquis an Yuans house can change his Majestys Mind?Li Yun snorted. The Empress has two legitimate sons. Isnt it a good thing to be in love with His Majesty? What good is it for you to beg His Majesty to take concubines? The civil officials were speechless for a moment. They only said, There has always been a rule that the empress is not the only one. For this matter, we will go to the retired emperor and the empress dowager... When the civil officials were about to go look for the retired emperor, they learned that the retired emperor and the Empress Dowager had boarded a cruise ship to Jiangnan yesterday. In other words, the retired emperor could not interfere in this matter. The officials could only give up first. The Emperor had ascended the throne, and he was so young. Perhaps after he experienced the power of the emperor, he would want another woman! Moreover, there was nock of beauties in the pce. .. The Jin Niang did not wake up until noon. When she woke up, Zheng Xiao and Fu Lu were already there. Fu Lu looked at the little baby and did not dare to hug it. Jin Niang, youre awake. This child is really young. Zheng Xiao repeatedly asked the Jin Niang if there was anything wrong with her. He ordered someone to bring some supplements and carefully reminded her of the things she had to pay attention to during her confinement. For a moment, the Jin Niang was filled with emotion. When she gave birth to Lu Xi, the thing she felt the most sorrowful about was that her mother was not by her side to take care of her during her confinement. It could be seen that the heavens still had mercy on her. Zheng Xiao said, Today, His Majesty promised in front of all the courtiers that you would be the only empress. It can be seen that his majestys feelings for you are extremely deep. Qiao Jin Niang smiled faintly. Mm, let me see Ang Er. Ive slept for so long... The wet nurse carried the little prince over. Qiao Jinniang carried Little Ang er and said, The only w is that shes not a little princess. Fu Lu said, Its better if shes not a little princess. The current princess is in such a miserable situation. Its clear that no girl is willing to reincarnate as a little princess. Qiao Jinniang was puzzled. Whats wrong? But what happened to Aunt Shou an? Fu Lu said, Its not my mother. My mother was lucky to meet my father who was willing to sacrifice his title for her, but the other princesses are not, especially sister Jing Hua. After the Crown Princes cousin ascended to the throne, he made Lin Mo the right prime minister. You know that, right? Yes, both father and son are prime ministers. Recently, its been a good talk in Chang an.Hearing what Yuyan said, she was not surprised. Lin Mo was talented and was Lu Chens studypanion since young. Although he was a little young, if his position was low, he would not be able to be Lu Chens assistant. Fu Lu said, After Lin Mo became the right prime minister, he set a wedding date with Qin Miaomiao next month after the mid-autumn Festival. He and cousin Jinghua have been childhood sweethearts since they were young. When they grew up, they fell in love with each other. Why was it that they were not fated to be together in the end? The world was pardoned. Even if Lin Mo did not marry Qin Miaomiao, Qin Miaomiao would still be innocent. Yet, he chose to marry Qin Miaomiao. What is the difference between cousin Jinghua and him? Zheng Xiao said to Fu Lu, Since the beginning of the dynasty, the rules have been like this. The prince consort is not allowed to have real power. It can be considered a trick of fate. Fu Lu said, Thats why I would rather the Jin Niang did not have a daughter. Even if she is a favored princess, when she meets her beloved and capable man, wouldnt it be a pity to miss him alive? Whats so good about having a hall full of male pets? Qiao jinniang smiled and said, I remember when I was in Chang an, you envied them for having male pets. Fu Lu said, At that time, I didnt meet Ah Lui. Only after meeting Ah Lui did I know that our hearts were connected. How many male pets couldnt make up for their mutual affection? People have feelings.. Especially cousin Jinhua. Although she had the most male pets, she was actually very devoted. I heard that when she was in Longxi, she used her life to force Yue Zhan not to touch a single hair on her head. In order to protect Lin Mos innocence, she did this, but Lin Mo betrayed cousin Jing Hua for the sake of a high position and high sry. When Qiao Jinniang heard Fu Lus words, she deeply agreed with him. The love between a husband and wife was so deep that no matter how many beautiful men hugged each other, they wouldnt be able to exchange for it. Those malepanions of Princess Jinhua might not be sincere. Zheng Xiao said, It cant be considered as a loss. The Lin family is not a noble family. The Lin family is counting on him to take over Lin Xiangs mantle. After all, there is a family behind him. How can he just throw them away just like that? Princess Fu Lu pouted and could not refute. How many men in the world were willing to give up their power for the woman they loved like her father. .. When Lin Mo returned home from the pce, his father called him into the study room and scolded him: Lin Mo, you have been His Majestys studypanion since Young. You are his most trusted right-hand man. How can you not persuade His Majesty and let him do whatever he wants?? The great Tangs harem has no concubines. Is this eptable? Lin Mo said, Father, you know His Majestys temper. He has a close rtionship with the empress. Why should he go and persuade her now? Lin Xiang sighed, Lets forget about this matter and talk about itter. Your wedding date is approaching, so dont go to eldest Princess Jing Huas residence. Now that youre already the right prime minister, dont let others catch you. Yes.Lin Mo bowed and said. .. In eldest Princess Jing Huas residence, singing and dancing were peaceful. The sounds and sounds of sex were like dogs and horses, indulging in indulgence. The male pet at the side advised Jing hua, Princess, dont drink anymore. Drinking will harm your body. Jing hua said angrily, Get lost, all of you get lost! Princess has such a bad temper.Yue Zhan entered through the door. Jing hua narrowed his eyes and said, Why did youe to my residence? Who allowed you toe in? Yue Zhan said, Princess, why do you drink to your health? The eldest Princess Jing Hua that I know is not a woman who gives up on herself like this. If you drink to your health like this, Will Lin Mo Dote on You? If you were willing to follow me back then, I would have been willing to give up the position of Longxi Jiedushi Envoy for you. But he, Lin Mo, really couldnt do it. Now that things havee to this, do you still not understand? Jing Hua said coldly and mockingly, You would be willing? You would only give the position of Longxi Jiedushi Envoy to your younger brother and be your puppet. Donte in front of me and obstruct my eyes. Get lost! Jing Hua took a wine ss and threw it at Yue Zhan. Fu Yue Gongzi, who was at the side, pulled Yue Zhan and said, General Yue, please dont annoy the princess anymore. She is already drunk. There is no need to be too harsh on her. Apart from Jing Huas pce door, Yue Zhan looked at the thin woman inside and could not help but frown. If she drinks like this, how long can she live?? Wine was extremely harmful to ones health. She had drunk so much that her mind was not clear. She was now the Prime Minister of the right, and she was about to get married. How could she still have her in her heart! She has hurt her body and bones for nothing. She is abusing herself!
Chapter 302 - He had never thought of marrying Jing Hua
Chapter 302: Chapter 302. He had never thought of marrying Jing Hua
Young Master Fu Yue said softly, General Yue, you know the Princesss temper. How can we persuade her? Yue Zhan frowned and said, Ill go find Lin Mo. . The new emperor had ascended the throne and the imperial court was busy. Lin Mo was not free. West Liang had to submit to thews of the Western countries. The Lin family was busy marrying Qin Miaomiao again. Red silk was hung in front of the Lin residence. Yue Zhan ignored the guards of the Lin family and rudely barged into the Lin residence. When Lin Xiang saw him, he said unhappily, Envoy Yue Jiedu barged into the residence of an important official. Is he trying to rebel? Yue Zhan frowned and said, Tell Lin Mo to get out. Lin Mo came out from the study and said, General Yue is so impressive. However, the Lin family can not be bullied by General Yue at will. General Yue barged into our Lin residence without an invitation. What does that mean? Yue Zhan said, The eldest princess of Jinghua drank too much for you and got drunk all day long. Yet, your Lin residence is hung high up with red silk. How can you be at ease as your bridegroom? Lin Xiang said, Envoy Yue Jiedu, what does the eldest princessdrinking have to do with my son? Lin Mo clenched his hands, blue veins popping out on his pale hands. He sighed at Yue Zhan and said, I hope envoy Yue Jiedu can take good care of the eldest princess. Yue Zhan stepped forward and raised a fist to hit the side of Lin Mos face. Lin Mo, what kind of man are you! After Lin Mo was pped, the guards of the Lin family rushed forward one after another. The Lin Mansion was suddenly in a mess. In the Tai Chi Pce. Lu Chen nced at Yue Zhan and Lin Mo below and said in a deep voice, One is the famous ambassador of the Long Xi Jiedu, and the other is the right prime minister, the new high official of the dynasty. But they are fighting and causing trouble together. Do you want the people of Chang an tough at the officials of the imperial court for acting like two or three-year-old children? Lin Mo knelt down and said, I know Im wrong. Yue Zhan had to kneel down and said, I shouldnt have damaged my status, but I think Im innocent in hitting Lin Mo! Since he cant respect the princess, why should he provoke the Princess? Lin Mo pursed his lips tightly and didnt say anything. Lu Chen punished the two of them for half a years sry, and then punished them to write down the etiquette once again. This could be considered a minor punishment and a major admonition. In the Changle Pce, when Qiao Jinniang saw that Lu Chen had returned, she heard about this matter and said, I dont think you should punish Yue Zhan. What he said isnt wrong. Also, Lin Mo is your brother who grew up together with you, and Jing Hua is your biological sister. Now that youre the Emperor, cant you bestow a marriage upon the two of them? Lu Chen said helplessly, Just by not taking in concubines, the memorials keeping like snowkes, not to mention giving the princess a marriage gift. Qiao jinniang said, Can you really turn a blind eye? Lin Mo didnt even beg me.Lu Chen took the tonic handed over by a pce maid and said to the jinniang, If Lin Mo asks, I may not ignore it. Its just that he has never thought of marrying the royal sister. Lady Qiao Jin frowned and did not quite understand. As I said before, if you dont want to marry him, why do you have to provoke him... She could not persuade young master Lu Chen to favor Lin Mo, but in her heart, she deeply despised Lin Mo. . The days of confinement were difficult to endure. As soon as Ang er was full, Lady Qiao Jin went to the soup pond to wash off the filth on her body. The second prince was full, and the pce hosted a banquet to invite the rtives to attend. Among the rtives, only King Su and his child, Lu Zhen, did note. Lu Chen granted Lu ang the title of King Pingliang, and gave Yunzhou and Xiliang as Lu Angs fiefdoms. It was clear that he was at ease with the Qiao family. When Marquis an Yuan heard that the fiefdoms were Yunzhou and Xiliang, he felt that it did not matter even if he was targeted by all the officials in the court. It would be great if his son-inw doted on the Qiao family so much. It was a pity that his reputation as a loyal and brave man for the rest of his life might bear the name of a treacherous official who wouldnt allow His Majesty to take in concubines in the future. When Qiao Jinniang appeared at the Pce Banquet with Anger in her arms. Consort Qi and consort Chu bothplimented, The empress is still so slim even after giving birth to two children. She looks like the elder sister of the Prince! Thats right. I dont know how the Empress takes care of herself. Teach us. Lady Qiao Jin knew that they wereplimenting her and said, Its all thanks to Xier and Anger that I dont have to worry so much. Jing hua retracted her gaze from Lu Ang and sat down on her seat to drink a ss of wine. The wine was getting less and less intoxicating these days.. Perhaps it was during the pce banquet, so it was impossible to serve any strong wine. Among the rtives, an old princess said, The Empress has given birth to two sons in session. Congrattions! I think the next child will definitely be a princess. She has both sons and daughters. There were very few princesses in the royal family nowadays. The old imperial consorts words could be considered a good fortune. Lady Qiao Jin said, Thank you for your kind words, great aunt. I also want to have both children. On the other hand, some of the n members who did not have the foresight said, The empress has just given birth. Why Bother? Why Dont we persuade His Majesty to ept the harem? The Empress is the head of the six pces. As long as His Majesty has a princess, the Empress will have both children. Qiao Jin couldnt recognize that rtive. It must be a princess who was newly epted by some county king. None of them were worthy of her attention. Qiao Jin gave a lightugh. Why Bother? If you really think Im tired, why dont you call me motherfirst? Ive also epted you as my goddaughter. Its considered having both sons and daughters. That County Princess kept silent. She didnt think it was a good thing to be the Empresss goddaughter. When Qiao Jinniang withdrew her gaze, she saw Jing Hua drinking hard. It was very ufortable. Perhaps it was because she was not drunk, but the more she drank, the more worried she became. .. After the full moon, it was the mid-autumn Festival soon. This was the first mid-autumn Festival since the new Emperor ascended the throne. It was also the first time Qiao Jinniang, as the Empress, hosted all the officials and their families in Chang an. Before the mid-autumn Festival, many wives hade to see the Jinniang. They were all here to persuade her, as the empress, to be virtuous, to persuade the emperor to take in concubines, and so on.. Qiao Jinniang was annoyed. After punishing a few wives, she could be considered to have had some peace of mind for a while. Until Mrs. Prime Minister Lin came to see her. Qiao Jinniang had met Mrs. Prime Minister Lin once before. She was a demure and well-mannered civil servants wife, and some of them respected men more or less. What impressed Qiao Jinniang the most was that Mrs. Prime Minister Lin walked as if she was floating.., the steps on her head were really able to remain motionless. Prime Minister Lins wife was here to send an invitation card to the Empress for Lin Mos wedding. The Lin family naturally did not expect the empress to be able toe out of the pce to attend the wedding banquet. Even the Empresss younger brother might not be able to get the empress to attend the ceremony. Lady Qiao Jin ordered the Pce Maids to take out a lot of good things from the storeroom and gave them to Prime Minister Lins wife. She said, This is a small token of my appreciation. I wish Lin Mo and Qin Miaomiao a long and loving life together. Lady Lin Xiang said awkwardly, Your Highness, I have another unkind request. Moers marriage is imminent, but on eldest princess Jing Huas side... Lady Qiao Jin asked, What happened on Jing Huas side?
Chapter 303 - don’t make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 303: Chapter 303, dont make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao
Prime Minister Madam Lin lowered her voice and said, Qin Miaomiao was called by eldest Princess Jing Hua to the eldest princessestate and never let Qin Miaomiao out. I wonder how she is doing in the eldest princessestate? Miaomiao and Princess Jing Hua had a grudge because of what happened at the Horse Farm... Prime Minister Madam Lin was also helpless. As a subject, she could not barge into the eldest princessestate without permission. However, there were not many days left until the divorce. She still did not know how Qin Miaomiao was doing in the Grand Princessresidence, so she could onlye and beg the empress. Lady Qiao Jin promised, I will get Hong Ling to go to the Grand Princessresidence and bring Qin Miaomiao out. Madam Lin Xiang repeatedly bowed and thanked her. .. In the Grand Princessresidence. Qin Miaomiao calmly sat below the grand princess and silently watched as Jing Hua took out some old items from the box. Jing Hua took out a chicken shuttlecock and used his hand to smooth the hair on it. This is a small shuttlecock that Lin Mo made for me when we first met. At that time, he thought that I was just a little pce maid and even said that he wanted me to be a pce maid in the Crown Princes pce. At that time, I didnt know that if I was just a pce maid then, it would be better than now. Qin miaomiao said slowly, Princess, you must be joking. You are the most honorable woman in the world. Many people are envious of your Princess Body! Jing Hua took out another hairpin and said, This is the third time Lin Mo and I met. He gave me this silver hairpin. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to wear it... At that time, Lin Mo only thought that she was a pce maid and never thought that she was a princess. As a princess, she could not wear a silver hairpin. However, at that time, Lin Mo thought that she was a pce maid and did not dare to wear a silver hairpin. Qin miaomiao said, Eldest princess, theres no need to be stuck in the past. Even if you tell me about these things, they are all in the past. Jing Hua looked at everything in the box and said, Not long after I was born, my mother-inw died in Zhou Qing hes scheme. Although my adoptive mother was a royal concubine, she never fought for it. Moreover, at that time, my mother-inw was the only favorite in the six pces. Even if she fought for it, she wouldnt be able to win. In order to not be an eyesore to the empress, she almost didnt let me go to my parents and empress. She also never yed with any brothers or sisters. Every time I attended the pce banquet, I was also quiet and quiet. That was why I received the title of Jing Hua. Lin Mo was a rare color in my quiet life. He was the one who let me know of the hustle and bustle of life outside the pce. He let me know that there were still people who remembered me... Qin Miao said, Eldest princess, my wedding date with Lin Mo has already been set. Even if I dont marry Lin Mo, there will be other women... Jing Hua closed the box and said, Thats right. Without You, there will be other women. The only one that cant be mine is me. Qin miaomiao heaved a sigh of relief and said, After I get married, I Wont Stop Lin Mo from looking for you. I will also turn a blind eye, I wont mind... I do mind.Jing Hua walked to the side and took the oilmp. You are willing to share a husband with me, Im Not! Qin Miaomiao saw the oilmp in Jing Huas hand and took a step back. Princess, what are you doing? Jing Hua knocked the oilmp over on the wooden box just now. The wooden box was burning fiercely. She said to Qin Miaomiao, You saw it. Everything between Lin Mo and I in the past will be burned to the ground. In the future, I will have nothing to do with him. You should be his wife and watch him leave his name in the history books... Qin miaomiao promised, Princess, dont worry. I will be a good wife to Lin Mo. I also hope that princess can be free as soon as possible. You Dont have to be stuck in the past. Jing hua said, Okay. Hearing that someone from the Empresspce was looking for Qin Miaomiao, Jing Hua let Qin Miaomiao go out. She also changed into her pce clothes and entered the pce. In the Changle Pce, Lady Qiao Jin ordered someone to serve tea to Jing Hua. If your royal sister is really unwilling to let go, she shouldnt go and make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao. She has no right to speak about this marriage. Jing Hua took a sip of tea and said, I wont make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao. Its better to make things difficult for myself than her.. I came here today to ask you which of my escorts you think is suitable to be your son-inw? Lady Qiao Jin said, Your royal sister, if you want to recruit a son-inw, there are many good men in this world. Its not appropriate to make your escorts your son-inw. Jing hua nced at ang er, who was in the nurses arms, and said, Im more than a year older than his majesty. Although my two royal sisters also have a son-inw, they have both children. When I saw the little prince, I also thought that it was time to have children to apany him. As for the father of the child, naturally, he cant just be a prince-inw. He has to be the princes son-inw... Qiao jinniang said, If I had to choose, I would have almost forgotten their looks. I dont know what their personalities are like. Elder sister has been with them often, so I will definitely know who is more in your favor. Jing hua said, Then why dont we ask the empress to draw a lot for them? Anyway, their names range from two to eighteen, and there are two more this year. Between two and twenty, please choose a number at your discretion. Qiao Jin asked, Imperial sister, how can you be so childish when ites to marriage? Jing hua said softly, I just want to have a child. Qiao Jin didnt know how to persuade Jing Hua. Imperial sister, why dont you think about it carefully? You are still young, so you might not be in a hurry to get pregnant... Jing Hua agreed and left the Changle Pce. She didnt leave the pce immediately, but went to the pce where she had stayed when she was young. After the noble concubine who had adopted her passed away and she left the pce, there had been no one living in this pce for a long time. Fortunately, the pce servants still kept this ce extremely clean. Jing Hua walked to a tree and raised her head to look at the branches The first time she met Lin Mo was here. At that time, Lin Mo was eight and she was seven. Lin Mo, Lu Chen, and the others were flying kites when Lin Mos kite suddenly fell into her pce. At that time, she was also a child who loved to y.. The first time she saw a kite falling from the sky, she sent away the maid of the noble concubines and climbed up the tree to take the kite. She wanted to hide the kite secretly. However, it was easy to climb up the tree, but difficult to get down. She couldnt get down from the tree. After waiting for a long time, she didnt see anyoneing, so she cried in panic.. It was Lin Mo who rushed over to help her get down the tree. Lin Mo asked her for the paper kite. It was Jing Huas first time seeing a paper kite, so she reluctantly returned it to Lin Mo. . Lin Mo heard that she didnt have anything to y with on a daily basis, so he took her to the imperial kitchen. He stole some chicken feathers and made a small shuttlecock for her with copper coins. Your Royal Highness. After Jing Hua heard Lin Mos voice, she turned around and saw that he was wearing a dark red official robe embroidered with white cranes. She asked, What are you doing here? Your Royal Highness, this humble subject is about to get married to Qin Miaomiao. Even if your Royal Highness cant Let Go, pleasee to this humble subject. Dont make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao. Jing Huaughed bitterly. What do you think you are? I am the Grand Princess of Datang. All the men in the world are chosen by this humble subject. Why should this humble subject make things difficult for Qin Miaomiao for you!
Chapter 304 - Lin Mo and Qin Miaomiao get married
Chapter 304: Chapter 304: Lin Mo and Qin Miaomiao get married
The mid-autumn Festival banquet was extremely lively after the new emperor ascended the throne. The day after the mid-autumn Festival, a major event happened in Chang an. Eldest Princess Jing Hua was going to recruit a son-inw. This became the most lively event in Chang an. Everyone was guessing which unlucky person eldest princess Jing Hua would choose as her son-inw? Why was it unlucky? Because the son-inw was going to live separately from the two manors of the princess. Eldest Princess Jing Hua was also famous for her good looks and a lot of good looks. Moreover, the matters between Jinghua and Lin Mo were also known by everyone in Chang an. The wedding date between Lin Mo and Qin Miao was approaching. The eldest princess of Jinghua was recruiting a prince consort at this time topete with Lin Mo. . Lin Mo was the newly rich prime minister. Who would dare topete with Lin Mo over this. In a short time, many young masters of noble families in Chang an had already decided on marriage. There were also a few young profligate sons who were willing to be the prince consort. After bing the prince consort, they are all members of the royal family. The princess can pamper them however she wants, as long as she gives me money to go and have fun. After marrying the eldest princess of Jinghua, they will be the emperors brother-inw! There were also some young masters and Sons of royal merchants who wanted to gain some power and influence, and they were also willing to ask to marry the eldest princess of Jinghua. In the Savoury Pavilion, eldest Princess Jing Hua was sitting in the main hall, chatting andughing with a few young masters from the royal merchant families. She wanted to be the prince consort and listen to the nagging of some old ministers, so she was not as interested as these young masters from the royal merchant families. Your Highness, this is the white jade porcin that my family recently made. Its a rare treasure, and only the princess is worthy of such a treasure. Eldest Princess Jing Hua took over the porcin bottle and looked at it. Its indeed a rare treasure. Its good that your highness likes it. I wonder if your Highness would like to go to the Kiln Factory? When the kiln was just opened, the sound was clear and crisp, like jade beads falling to the ground. It was the sound that even the best reed could not produce. Jing Hua was a little interested and said, Thats good too. Huang Ci was overjoyed when he heard that. His family had made the wrong bet some time ago and ced all their hopes on King Huai. Later on, they were implicated by King Huai. Now, they had sent several batches of porcin to the pce, but the pce did not want them. Now, they could only rely on eldest princess Jing Hua. If he could marry the princess, his familys porcin could be sold to the pce. When Lin Mo and his colleagues came to the taste pavilion for lunch, they saw Jing Hua smiling at Huang Ci. When Jing Hua saw Lin Moe in, he stood up and smiled at Huang Ci. Why dont we go and have a look now? Okay, Princess, Please! Lin Mo and Jing Hua brushed past each other and frowned. The servant at the side told Lin Mo about the origin of Huang Ci: Master, his name is yellow porcin. He is the owner of the West Kiln and a royal merchant. When King Huai upied Chang an, yellow porcin surrendered and was recently implicated by King Huai. The pce didnt want his familys porcin. Thats why he thought of Princess Shang. He had a fiance before. For the sake of Princess Shang, he abandoned his fiance a few days ago. This matter has be quite big. Lin Mo nced at his servant and said, Why are you going to inquire about this? Master, I was afraid that you would be inferior to eldest Princess Jing Huas new son-inw, so I specially went to inquire about it. Lin Mo red at the servant and said, Theres no need to do these things in the future. .. Jing hua followed Huang Ci into the west kiln. The moment they got close to the kiln, a wave of heat rose. Huang Ci introduced some of the outstanding porcin in the West Kiln to Jing Hua, he said, I heard that the pce wants to trade with the small countries around Xiliang. The porcin is on the list. It would be great if the porcin bottles of our west kiln could be sold to those small countries. Jing hua said, Your porcin is not bad. You will definitely have a chance. The two of them walked together. When the kiln was opened, the heat came. Suddenly, a woman with a pale face came over with a pair of scissors in her hand and came toward Jing Hua. Jing Huas guards rushed forward to stop her. However, for some reason, there was a porcin bottle under Jing Huas feet. She could not stand steadily and was about to fall onto the porcin bottle that had juste out of the oven.. This porcin bottle was extremely hot. Once it fell onto the porcin bottle, it would probably have light burns and disfigurement. However, at this moment, Jing Hua felt that she was pulled into an embrace. She saw Huang Ci hugging her and using her arms to block the hot porcin bottle for her. It could be said that he was protecting her with his life. After Jing Hua steadied herself, she saw that Huang Cis arm was red and blisters were popping up on it. She felt goosebumps all over her body and quickly said, Imperial physician, quickly invite the imperial physician! .. In the Changle Pce, Yu Yan and Lady Qiao Jin mentioned the matters outside the pce. Your Highness, now the Chang an market is saying that Huang Ci is a hero who saves the beauty. If it werent for Huang Ci fighting desperately with each other, Im afraid that the eldest princess wouldnt even be able to keep her beautiful face! Now that the eldest princess goes to the west kiln every day to take care of Huang Ci, I think the eldest Princesss marriage ising! Qiao jinniang said, If the royal sister can be happy, its a good thing. But who is that woman who came to the front of the royal sister with scissors? How dare she treat the Royal Sister So Boldly? I heard from Huang Ci that she is a distant cousin of his who wants to marry Huang Ci. But he has always treated her as his younger sister, not his fiance. But his cousin thought that it was because of Princess Jinhua that her cousin changed his heart. Qiao Jinniang thought of Zhou Sisi when she heard Yuyans words. She said, If thats the case, we definitely wont let that distant cousin off easily. However, why do I feel that its a little strange? Huang Ci had only known Jing Hua for a short while, but he was already willing to sacrifice his life to protect her and hurt his arm. It could be said that he had a deep affection for her. However, Jinniang believed in human nature more. They had only met twice, how could she be deeply in love with him and be willing to sacrifice her own life? Hopefully, she was just overthinking it. Although Lin Mo had married Qin Miaomiao, who had already been confiscated, he could not resist the fact that Lin Mo was the right minister of the dynasty and had boundless glory. On the day of their marriage, themon people of Chang an also walked onto the streets to watch the prime minister marry his wife. Jing Hua sat in the carriage and watched the bustle of the wedding from afar. She said to the coachman, Lets go to the Huang family. The Coachman said helplessly to jing hua, Your Highness, it has been raining heavily for two days. The road to the west kiln is extremely muddy. If we take the carriage there, it will be too dangerous. Jing hua closed her eyes and said, Lets go to the Huang family. The Coachman had no choice but to listen to the eldest princessorders. The Lin family was filled with ceremonial music. Both the Emperor and the Empress had given generous rewards, which were quite impressive in the main hall of the Lin family. Yue Zhan looked at the two people in the hall and was furious. In the end, Lin Mo had let down Jing Hua.. Qin Miao held the wedding fan in her hand and felt a little emotional. She had finally married into the Lin family, but she did not know whether this choice was right or wrong. Lin Mo did not have her in his heart, and she did not have Lin Mo in her heart. She thought that Lin Mo had married her probably because he wanted her to not be jealous of Jing Hua and be able to deal with Princess Jing Hua. And she had married Lin Mo probably because Lin Mo could allow her to continue living a wealthy life and be able to be a first-ss wife. As for the love between husband and wife, she had never asked for it. She knew better than anyone that rtionships were not reliable. Jing Hua and Lin Mo had fallen in love, but would itst?
Chapter 305 - tying the bridal knot
Chapter 305: Chapter 305, tying the bridal knot
Qin Miaomiao followed the bride and the others into the bridal chamber. There was a pair of huge dragon and Phoenix candles burning inside. It had been raining frequently in the past few days, and now there was a strong wind blowing and a rare heavy rain. The heavens have mercy on us. Fortunately, it only rained like this after the bride passed through the door. I dont know how I got it recently, but it has been raining heavily... The rtives of the Lin family came into the bridal chamber one after another to look at the bride. There were also juniors who came to pay their respects. Qin miaomiao gave the little silver peanuts that she had prepared earlier to the juniors. Aunt is so pretty. Shes dressed so beautifully. Shes even prettier than the princess. In the eyes of the little girl, the princess was naturally the most beautiful. Little did she know that the word princesswas something that everyone avoided talking about today. The madam at the side quickly covered her daughters mouth. Stop talking nonsense. Quickly take the silver peanuts and y. Qin Miaomiao did not mind. She did not have the right to mind. She was alone now. Although she was already innocent after the new emperor ascended the throne and pardoned the world, her elder brother was still a traitor. When the sky darkened, Qin Miaomiao sat on the wedding bed and listened to the voices calling for the eldest young master outside. She was somewhat uneasy. Lin Mo was dressed in a wedding gown. He was a dragon and a phoenix among men. He was extraordinarily handsome, and the matchmaker was saying auspicious words at the side. He split a bottle of gourd tied with a red rope into two and poured wine into it for the two of them. Lin Mo drank it in one gulp. Qin miaomiao only took a sip. The matchmaker took a pair of scissors and took out a bunch of hair tied in a knot and wrapped it in a red cloth. It implied that they were married. Perhaps it was because she did not look happy even when she saw the bride and groom, but after the matchmaker said some auspicious words, she left in a hurry. In the quiet bridal chamber, only the candlelight was swaying due to the wind and rain outside. After waiting for a long time, Qin Miaomiao stood up and said, Husband, its alreadyte, why dont you rest... Lin Mo looked at Qin Miaomiao and said, Youre a smart person. Zhou Siming asked me to take good care of you when he was alive. Ill take good care of you. In the future, you just have to take good care of my wifes position. Qin Miao bowed and said, Yes. Speaking of which, they had known each other since they were young. Qin Miao was not unfamiliar with Lin Mo, but she had never thought that one day they would really be husband and wife. The storm outside was getting heavier and heavier. When Qin Miao saw Lin Mo sitting upright in front of the table, she did not take the initiative to talk about consummating the marriage. She just sat by the side and silently thought about the past.. She thought about the past with Zhou Siming.. If not for Tong Yingyings misunderstanding, she might have already married Zhou Siming. Perhaps she could have persuaded Zhou Siming not to go down the wrong path, or perhaps she would have been sentenced to death together with him. She could not help but wonder, did she ever have feelings for Zhou Siming in the past? The two of them were in the same room, each with different thoughts. Until Lin Mos servant came in and whispered a few words into Lin Mos ear, Qin Miaomiao saw Lin Mo leave just like that. For some reason, Qin Miaomiao actually heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, Lin Mo had left. Otherwise, she thought that she might not be able to face the consummation of the marriage calmly. .. In the Huang family, Jing Hua looked at the dark night and the heavy rain that could not stop. Her heart was aching. At this time, Qin Miaomiao must have already consummated their marriage with Lin Mo, right? Lin Mo finally got a good wife. Eldest princess, it seems like the rain wont stop for a while. Why Dont you stay in our house for a night? You came here because youre worried about me. I cant feel at ease letting you go back to the Princessresidence in the rain. Huang Cis arm was tied with a bandage as he bowed to Jing Hua. Jing hua nced at Huang Cis arm and said, Are you sure you want me to stay? Although Im a princess, Im still an unmarried woman. Ill stay in your residence... Yes, Your Royal Highness. Ive admired your Grace for a long time... Jing huaughed and said, Youre not worthy! Huang ci frowned and said, Princess. You saved me, so I will naturally reward you. But you abandoned your fiance, which is why Im in this trouble. How dare you mention the word admiration? Huang Ci had thought that it would be easy for him to be the prince consort when Jing Hua came. He did not expect that she would turn against him. Jing hua nced at Huang Ci coldly and got into the carriage. He let the coachman drive the carriage back to the eldest princessmansion. It waste at night and the rain was heavy. It was difficult for the coachman to travel. There was still some distance from the nearest courier station. Jing hua saw a brightly lit hill and said, The rain is too heavy. Lets go there for a while. It was such a heavy rain and the road was muddy. It would not be easy to return to the Princessresidence. When she walked into the brightly lit mountain, she saw a bustle inside. When Jing Hua entered, she saw the four words on the que above her head: West Mountain Academy. The women inside were all wearing the same style of clothes, but the colors were different. They walked in twos and threes with umbres in hand. Some of them were not old. When did Chang an have such a ce?Jing Hua looked curiously at the imperial attendant beside him. The imperial attendant replied, West Mountain Academy has been very famous recently. It is said that the academys Mountain Chief is the Empressstepsister, Qiao Ruoyi, who was once famous in Chang an. Ruoyi pays her respects to the eldest princess. Jing hua smiled and said, So it really is you. Why are there so many female students here? Do they still need to study at thiste hour? Qiao ruoyi replied, Dont they have books from the Xie family recently? The faster they copy, the more books they can have. The weather will get cold soon, and the writing on the mountain will freeze their hands. Why dont we let them copy a few more books now? I see.Jing Hua ordered her personal attendant to take out a silver note and handed it to Qiao Ruoyi. I heard that West Mountain Academy doesnt need silver. This is a token of my appreciation. Qiao ruoyi thanked her profusely. Thank you, Princess. Qiao ruoyi ordered her servants to tidy up her room and let Jing Hua stay there temporarily. Jing Hua was not sleepy at all. She walked to Qiao Ruoyis desk and saw a portrait on it. It looked like the portrait of the Jin Niang when she was young. Qiao Ruoyi really liked her sister. She had brought this portrait with her at all times. .. In the eldest princessresidence. Young Master Fu Yue saw Lin Mo and said hurriedly, Young Master Lin, her Highness went out a long time ago. She said that she was going to the Huang family, but she never came back. Its alreadyte at night, and its raining so heavily... Lin Mo frowned and said, Didnt you guys send someone to look for her? We did. It was the Huang family that said that the princess wasnt there, so we sent someone to pass the news to you.Fu Yue was also troubled. Its hard to find traces of the rain on the road. The princess is sote and theres no news. Could something have happened? That Huang Ci doesnt look like a good person. Perhaps he secretly hid the princess! Lin Mo clenched his hands and said, Ill go look for her. After Lin Mo left, little eighteen asked Fu Yue, Brother, why did you tell Young Master Lin about this? Arent you afraid that His Highness wille back and Punish You?? You clearly know that his highness has been going to the Huang residence to take care of Huang Ci every day these few days so that young master Lin can marry Qin Miaomiao without worry. You want topletely cut ties with young master Lin. Fu Yue opened his fan and said, We are all indebted to her highness the princess for saving us. Even if we are punished, I still want the princess to be happy. But you clearly know that Lin Mo will not marry the princess. To Lin Mo, how can the princess be more important than his family and future?
Chapter 306 - “Let’s drink today and get drunk today.”
Chapter 306: Chapter 306, Lets drink today and get drunk today.
After Huang Ci entered Jing Hua and left, her face was filled with anger. It turned out that Jing Hua had been toying with her these past few days! After the door was knocked on, Huang Ci opened the door and saw Lin Mo, who was wearing a straw raincoat and was drenched all over. Who are you? What are you doing at my house sote at night? Lin Mo asked straightforwardly, Wheres Jing Hua? Huang ci replied, Her Royal Highness the eldest princess has left a long time ago. Your people from the Princessresidence are really annoying! Lin Mo did not believe Huang Ci. He brought his men and barged into the Huang familys house. After searching through the house, he did not find any trace of Jing Hua before leaving. He rode his horse all the way. In the middle of the night, there was no one on the road except for twomps hanging in front of the West Mountain Academy. When Lin Mo got closer, he saw Jing Huas horse carriage. He immediately went forward to enter. However, before he could enter, he was stopped by the experts at the entrance. Prime Minister Lin, this is the West Mountain Womens Academy. There are women inside, and those who have not been informed are not allowed to enter. Lin Mo recognized that this guard used to be from the Eastern Pce. Then Ill have to trouble you to inform the chief of the mountain that Im here to look for eldest Princess Jing Hua. Qiao Ruoyi was about to fall asleep when she heard that Lin Mo had arrived. She had no choice but to put on her clothes and go to report to eldest Princess Jing Hua. When she heard that eldest Princess Jing Hua had allowed Lin Mo to enter, she went to the door to deliver the message. Seeing that Lin Mo was drenched in the clothes of the groom, Qiao Ruoyi suddenly remembered that there was a wedding invitation from the Lin residence a few days ago. She was busy copying the ancient books brought by the Xie family and had actually forgotten about this matter.. Tomorrow, her mother would definitelye to west mountain academy and Nag at her incessantly. Lin Mo entered Jing Huas room. When he saw her long hair, he frowned and said, Your Highness, its gettingte. Please return to the Princessresidence as soon as possible. Dont let the servants worry. Seeing that Lin Mo had not changed out of his wedding clothes, jing hua said, Today is your wedding day. Why did you abandon the bride ande to find me? My reputation is already very bad. I dont want to bear the crime of seducing a married man! Lin Mo closed the door and said, Jing Hua, you know that I need a wife. In the officialdom and in the backyard, I need a wife to take care of my family affairs... from the beginning, I told you that I wouldnt marry you. Jing hua said, I understand. I also let you go and let you marry Qin Miaomiao. In order not to cause any trouble, I am still looking for a new son-inw. If you really want to break it offpletely, why did youe looking for me in the heavy rain today? Lin Mo leaned over and approached Jing Hua. I do want to break it offpletely, but why did the princess ask Fu Yue to send a message to my Lin Residence? You clearly know that Huang Cis nature is not good, but you have a close rtionship with him. Dont you want me to worry about you and make me unable to let go of you, Princess? You Got Your Wish, I really cant let go of You! Lin Mos cold hand grabbed Jing Huas wrist, and jing hua said coldly, Im not that lowly! If I really want you, I can go to father and force you to be the prince consort... Do I need to n this? Dont disgust me, I dont want to serve a man with a woman whos better than you! Lin Mo said, Your Highness the Princess is raising twenty men, and I dont mind, so why should your Highness Mind?? I know that the princess cant let go of me, so why should I be stuck in an empty title? Life is too short, so its better to just muddle along. Jing hua said in disgust, Lin Mo, you really have a good n. What makes you think that I would be so shameless to snatch my husband away from Qin Miaomiao? Lin Mo pointed at Jing Huas heart and said, From the beginning when we were together, we never thought that we would be together for the rest of our lives. In the past when we were together, the princess said that the two of us would live happily ever after. Why Cant we do it now? Qin Miaomiao is just an orphan girl. I Wont mistreat her, and the princess wont let her down in any way. Jing hua frowned, but she did not object.. Just as Lin Mo had said, when she was with Lin Mo, Lin Mo was 18, and she was 17.. The crown prince had gone missing, the Longxi King had rebelled, and the Longxi Jiedushi had asked to marry the princess. She was the only princess of the right age, and she had found Lin Mo before she got married. She had given her best first time to Lin Mo. . At that time, she thought that it was impossible for her to return to Chang an. Perhaps she could only be the Longxi Jiedushi, or perhaps the Longxi Jiedushi was defeated. Even living was a problem for her. On that day, she forgot everything. She only wanted to leave no regrets in her life. Later, after she returned to Chang an, Lin Mo searched everywhere for the crown prince. asionally, when he returned to Chang an for a few days, he woulde to the Princessresidence. When her father wanted to find another prince consort for her. Lin Mo once said, Jing Hua, there is a difference between our Lin family having a prince consort and having another prime minister. And I am not willing to be a prince consort below you. I have never thought of leaving the imperial court.. I like you, but I can not marry you. Jing hua then hugged his waist and said, I dont mind if you dont marry me. You havent married yet, and I dont have a husband. Its better for us to live happily one day at a time. Why should we bother about the future... Jing Hua thought that she wouldnte after this. She also thought that as long as she didnt marry and Lin Mo didnt marry, they would be able to continue lying to themselves. However, she forgot that Lin Mo was the eldest son of the Lin family. How could he not marry and have children? Jing Hua pushed Lin Mo, who was about to take off her clothes, and said, No, its not the same. Qin Miao doesnt mind, but I cant not mind! Lin Mo, youre someone elses husband. To be fair, if I were Qin Miaomiao, its not that I dont mind that my husband has another woman, but its because I dont mind. There are so many men in the world, Ill find someone better than you one day. A man whos willing to be the prince consort, please have a little self-respect, Lin You. Lin Mo was unwilling to let go. After letting go, perhaps he really wouldnt be able to hold her hand anymore. Just now, when Fu Yue sent people to say that Jing Hua was staying at Huang Cis house, he really had the thought of killing Huang Ci! Jing Hua, I will make it up to Qin Miaomiao. The reason why I married her was because she was smart enough. She knows that the marriage between us is just a transaction. I Wont be moved by her. Its the same for her. She is different from you. If she minded your existence, she would not have nned this marriage for herself when she was still the third young miss of the High Dukes public house! All she wanted was to have the power and influence to continue being her noble young Miss! Lin Mo whispered into Jing Huas ear, So, just like in the past, lets drink today and get drunk today, okay? Jing Hua looked at Lin Mo, her eyes filled with relief. She could not truly forget Lin Mo. after more than ten years of love, when she was forgotten by the world, only Lin Mo remembered her.. Her childhood, her youth, were all Lin Mo. how could she bear to let it endpletely?
Chapter 307 - , helping Princess Jinhua
Chapter 307: Chapter 307, helping Princess Jinhua
Qiao Ruoyi handed in the invitation early in the morning and entered the Changle Pce. While Qiao Jinniang was having breakfast, she was only paying attention to Qiao ruoyis scolding. The eldest princess and Lin Mo are too inhuman. Yesterday, Lin Mo got married, and they were actually in my room...Qiao Ruoyi was after all a little girl. Her face was red as she continued to say indignantly, My sage books are all dirty to death! I wish I could burn everything in my room and throw it away. Sister, why do you think all men are so unlucky? Its already pitiful enough that sister Miao Miaos only daughter was implicated by her father and brother. On the day of the wedding, Lin Mo actually bullied her like this and destroyed my sage books in thend of Sages! Qiao Jinniang put down the spoon and said, Jing Huas actions were extremely stupid. She is the grand eldest princess after all. How could she be so self-depraved? What Jing Hua did was too beneath the status of a princess. She was just a man. Now, as the Grand Princess, she was serving the same husband as Qin Miaomiao. She did not even have a status. However, this was not the first time that this had happened to Princess Datang. Thete Emperor had an older sister who had an affair with half of the court officials. The wife of the court officials who had a strong personality even went to Emperor Taizongs ce because of this. The history books described that princess extremely unbearably.. Qiao ruoyi replied, Yes, Princess Jing Hua has gone too far. Qiao Jinniang ordered someone to invite Jing Hua over. Jing hua only rushed into the Changle Pce after two hours. What orders does the empress have for me toe here? Qiao jinniang said, I shouldnt have said anything about elder sisters personal matters. Its just that we are still a family after all. I really cant bear to see elder sister continue to take the wrong path. Sister is a high and mighty princess. Why should she be willing to degenerate into an outer chamber that everyone curses? Jing hua bowed and said, Im clear about the Empressteachings. Its just that the Empress doesnt know that Lin Mo and I have a deep rtionship. If we could be together openly, we wouldnt be like this... What in the world cant be together openly? Speaking of which, there are things that we cant part with! Qiao jinniang said urately, Since there are things that we cant part with, it means that its not the most important thing in each others hearts. Jing hua said, There are indeed some things that we cant part with. Empress, dont be angry. If your daughter falls in love with a man whose entire family depends on him in the future, but cant be together forever, what will you do? Lady Qiao Jin frowned slightly. Jing hua said, It wasnt Lin Mo and I who were at fault. It was the rules of the great Tang dynasty towards the princesses. It was the extreme injustice of this world towards women. Lady Qiao Jin took a sip of tea calmly. Jing hua said, Why did father abdicate the throne to His Majesty? Does the empress know the reason?? Father is still in his prime. Although he has Chen Ji, he might be able to handle the affairs of the country and abdicate the throne. Qiao Jinniang looked at Jing Hua and asked, Do you know the reason? Jing hua said, Before father abdicated the throne, all the officials had been urging his majesty to take in concubines. Even father cant break the rule of the only empress in the six pces, so he might as well give his majesty a headache.. But the Empress felt that how long would his majesty be able tost with the only empress in the six pces? These officials had temporarily stopped. Perhaps in a few days, the old matters would be brought up again. Not to mention that we princesses were destined to sacrifice a happy marriage from birth. The rules of the royal family can not be changed just like that! Its not necessarily that they are destined to sacrifice at birth. Didnt the Qin Prince Consort and Aunt Shou an also have a deep love for each other? Qiao Jinniang asked. Jing hua said, Man Datang only had such a pair. It was also because Aunt Shou an was favored that the Qin prince consort was willing to be Aunt Shou ans ve.. Sometimes, I wonder if Aunt Shou an really loved the prince consort of Qin all those years ago? If she really loved him, why would she be willing to sacrifice her husbands bright future for her? A tear fell from the corner of Jing Huas eyes as she said, I know that I will let Qin Miao down by doing this, but I really have no other choice. Empress, I have liked Lin Mo for a whole fifteen years... How can you give up just like that? Sometimes, Id rather die in Longxi. Its better this way. Qiao jinniang said unhappily, Royal sister, please dont think of such a silly thing. I dont want to me you either. I just feel sorry for you. Just as you said, I also want to have a daughter. What youre experiencing now may also be what my daughter will experience in the future. I want to help you. When Jing Hua heard Qiao Jinniangsst few words, she looked at her in disbelief. Youre really willing to help me? Do you know what that means? How can you change the rules that great-grandfather left behind just because you say so? Qiao jinniang said slowly, Why cant you give it a try? Imperial sister is already willing to be the mistress that everyone wants to beat up. Why Dont you marry Lin Mo in the name of Justice and fulfill your long-cherished wish? Jing hua said, But what can I do? No matter how much His Majesty dotes on you, he might not be able to change the rules set by the great ancestor. Qiao jinniang said, There will always be a way. Although Qiao Jinniang might not be able to guarantee this, she could only think of a way to get out. After all, perhaps it was just as Fu Lu had said, which princess would be willing to reincarnate in such a miserable situation? To help Jing Hua was to help her future daughter, or perhaps her future granddaughter.. Lu Chen left the morning court and went to Changle Pce to deal with political affairs. Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen about what had happenedst night on the West Mountain. Sigh, what can we do to make the royal sister and Lin Mo be together openly, and Lin Mo doesnt have to resign? Lu Chen heard this and said, Jin Niang, this is not a matter between the royal sister and Lin Mo, but a rule from the great ancestor. The great ancestor set this rule because, most importantly, during the previous dynasty, the Princess conspired with the prince consort to rebel with the great ancestor. The Sui dynasty changed the dynasty because the Prince Consort married the princess and sessfully rebelled. Then, although the chaos was reversed, the Sui dynastys fate was already over... It didnt take long for it to be great Tangs world. Qiao jinniang frowned and said, The Royal Highness can also marry a high-ranking princess, why not ban the family background of the princess as well? In the end, its not because hes afraid of the princess rebelling. When the timees, the country will change the surname of another family! Lu Chen replied, When the great ancestor set the decree, he did have this concern. Qiao jinniang sighed and said, But if the rebellion is really sessful, it must be when the emperor is unkind. Only when the people have no means of livelihood can the rebellion seed.. Some time ago, when King Huai conspired against the emperor, it was just a joke in the end. Because the people were happy, only a few people who were greedy for wealth would be king Huais henchmen.. But the crime of treason was med on the princess marrying a powerful prince consort. It was not med on the previous emperor for being unkind. Sigh.
Chapter 308 - Women Can Inherit the family business
Chapter 308: Chapter 308: Women Can Inherit the family business
?Lu Chen pulled Qiao Jinniang into his arms, What you said doesnt make any sense. When I was young, the imperial master once said that because of the fall of the Han dynasty, people in the world had the words Beauty brings disaster. But back then, Emperor Han Cheng was muddle-headed. Everyone didnt me Emperor Han Cheng, but the two sisters Feiyan and Hede. They were the ones who charmed the army. Qiao jinniang said, Since you understand this logic, do you really have no other way? You can only watch helplessly as a lover is not allowed to marry. Lu Chen said, Its not that theres nothing you can do. Its just that what needs to be changed is not only the rule that the prince consort is not allowed to have real power. What needs to be changed is the worldsws regarding the inequality of women. Qiao jinniang nodded and said, Yes, that rule of righteousness needs to be changed. Theres also the rule that the daughter of the deceased must be allowed to inherit the family business... However, if we change these rules, you wont be able to sit on the throne for long, right? Although Qiao Jinniang really wanted to change the rule of a woman inheriting the family business, she knew that it was impossible. Back then, Tong Yingyings n theory was highly sought after by the schrs for this reason. Since the Han Wu period, the position of women had been declining day by day since they deposed the hundred schools of Confucianism. The discussion of ns had been going on for a long time. It would not be easy for Lu Chen to change the rules that had been in ce for thousands of years. Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Thats why I need your help. This matter can not be changed overnight. We can only take things slowly. Qiao jinniang replied, Okay. In the Tai Chi Pce. The current Emperors teacher, Hong Yang, looked at the new imperial edict that Lu Chen had drafted and could not help but frown. Your Majesty, there have been female households for a long time, but most of them are either families where both parents have died or families with no ns or husbands. As long as there is a n, there will naturally be an uncles ount. But now that you have issued the imperial edict, saying that after a woman has established a female household, she can ignore the n and take over the family business of her parents. This is clearly affecting the interests of the men of the ns in the world. If you were to issue this imperial edict.., Im afraid that it will be the subject ofints from the schrs in the world! Also, your Majesty has never been to themon people, so you dont know the sorrow of themon women. There are very few women like the Empress who know how to do business. There are many women who are weak and weak. A woman of a generation is sitting on the wealth of the family. Without the help of the n, it will only attract the covetous eyes of others. Hong Yang looked at the imperial edict and understood. Back then, imperial censor Tong and Tong Yingying used the n theory to force the empress to hand over the Hundred Savory restaurant. Now, His Majesty was giving this imperial edict for the Empress. However, just like that day, retired emperor chose to stand on the side of the n for the stability of the world. Once this imperial edict was given out, it was likely that there would be manyints from themon people. Your Majesty, Please Think Twice and take back the imperial edict! Lu Chen said, I have already thought it over. I have ordered the provinces to announce the edict and send it to all the prefectures. If there are female households, the government will have to take care of them. .. The chrysanthemums in autumn were very good. There were many famous schrs in the previous dynasty who liked elegant chrysanthemums. Now, they also looked at the chrysanthemums. Princess Fuan was very good. Princess Rong wanted to choose a husband for her, so she invited all the famous families in Chang an toe to the residence to admire the chrysanthemums. The women of the noble families gathered together and began to talk about the emperors new imperial edict. In the past, I thought that the retired emperor doted on the empress dowager very much. Im afraid that our new emperor has gone beyond that. The matter of the Qiao family has been settled, and now His Majesty has even given an imperial edict that women can inherit the family business. Speaking of which, His Majesty probably doesnt know the hardships of themon women. If they cant inherit the family business, the family wouldnt kill the orphan girl. They would give the orphan girl a good marriage for the sake of the family business. If he can inherit the family business, some ns would definitely kill her! The beauty is a disaster. His Majestys unwillingness to ept concubines has already made many civil officialsin. Now, he even issued such an imperial edict. Qin Miaomiao listened to the conversation of thedies and said indifferently, I think His Majestys imperial edict is very good. All thedies are pampered daughters of the family. They dont know the sufferings of themon women. To thesedies from noble families, they had been pampered and pampered from a young age. The elders loved them as much as their brothers. Even the dowry when they got married was a lot. They also had to get married before they could understand some of the unfairness of women. If they had given birth to a son after they got married, the only unfairness would probably be the fight between wives and concubines. They would not know that there were some women among the people who had be ves or had to work since they were young in order to support their brotherseducation. They would not even know that the sorrow of the daughter of a lost family was clearly the property of their own parents, but it was going to be someone elses property. Could it be that young madam Lin is nning to set up a female household in the future? After all, the right prime minister has openly entered and left Princess Jing Huas residence! That young madam was originally Fu Lus good friend. She had not been on good terms with Qin Miaomiao since she was young. Madam Lin frowned when she heard this and only said, Is the princess also someone you can make up? Auntie, dont be angry. I was too talkative. Qin Miaomiao looked at the mocking gazes of the crowd and took a deep breath. Seeing that Fu Lu was alone at the side, he went over to Fu Lus side. Why are you alone? Where is your uncle, Qiao Xiaoguo, who is always by your side? Fu Lu snorted. He has official business today. Why Dont You Go Be Your Five Good Wives? Youd better stay away from me. Recently, people from our Qiao Manor have not been weed. Qin miaomiaoughed and said, Marquis an Yuans manor is now the Empresss family. How could it not be weed? Im afraid there are many madams who want to make friends with and curry favor with. Dont tell me you find it annoying? Fu Lu cupped his chin with one hand and said, Im not lying to you. Currently, many officials in Chang an think that the Qiao family is a treacherous official. A demon queen who has seduced the Emperor is not allowed to take in concubines. She even wants women to take over the family business. Im afraid that there will be an imperial edict that forbids all men from taking in concubines in the future.. She treats everyone in the Qiao family as the main culprit who has harmed Great Tangs foundation. Qin miaomiao said, The current emperor is really a good emperor. Whether it is for the empress or not, he is willing to issue such an imperial edict. It is a good thing for manymon women. Princess Fu an came over and said to Qin miaomiao, Lady Xiao Lin is here too. It has been a long time since west met. We even yed together when we were young. Congrattions, Princess. Your Health is safe,Qin Miaomiao said. Fu an sighed and said, I would rather not have my health be safe. I just recovered from this illness not too long ago and managed to survive just long enough to get out of bed. In the end, my childhood friends all got married and some even had children. My mother urged me to find a marriage every day. She thinks that I have been drinking medicine in the royal residence for too long and cant wait for me to get married soon. Qin Miaomiao smiled faintly. The princess loves you more than she can. Im afraid that the marriage of the princess and Princess of the Great Tang dynasty will be a little difficult after someone has snatched away all the good men. Fu an nodded and said, Thats right. If it wasnt for cousin Jing Hua wanting to recruit a son-inw, there would still be many young and talented people who were not engaged. However, they are all gone now. Sigh! Fu Lu stomped on Fu an fiercely from below. This cousin of hers was even better at bringing up the pot than herself!
Chapter 309 - planning a marriage
Chapter 309: Chapter 309, nning a marriage
Fu An took a deep breath and said to Fu Lu, Why are you stepping on my feet? The pearls on my shoes are top quality pearls. One of them is worth a hundred taels! Qin Miaomiao drank a mouthful of water and said, Xiangxiang, I dont mind. When Qin Miaomiao chose Lin Mo, she knew that she would beughed at. She was just annoyed, but she did not care about the eldest Princess Jinghua. When she nned for her marriage, she only wanted to be respected by everyone. At that time, she knew that the Qin public house was already on the decline. What she wanted was to have the glory and wealth of the first half of her life in the future. What she wanted was for even her father to respect her. Therefore, when King Yong sent a letter, she also chose to reply. The reason why Qin Miaomiao chose Lin Mo was because she knew that to Lu Chen, Lin Mo was the person he had trusted the most since he was young. After Lu Chen ascended the throne, Lin Mo would definitely be an extremely powerful official. Most of the other sons of noble families relied on their father and the power of the elders in the n. They might not be able to do anything in the future. As expected, now that she had gotten what she wanted, Lin Mo was the right prime minister who was high and mighty. Thosedies wouldugh at her now, but it was hard to say for sure if they would still need her help in five or ten years. One day, the shadow of the noble families would be lost, and her husband would always be in a position of power. Right now, all she needed to do was to manage the family well and help Mrs. Lin manage her affairs. It would be great if she could have a child without having to consummate the marriage. Princess fu an only realized the rtionship between Qin Miaomiao and eldest Princess Jing Hua after some time. She quickly said, Im sorry, Mrs. Xiao Lin. I didnt do it on purpose. Dont mind me. Qin Miaomiao smiled faintly and said, I really dont mind it. Princess Rong came over and pulled Fu Ans hand. Why are you hiding here? Youre not in a hurry. Mother is in a hurry to hold her grandson! Mother, brother has just married sister-inw. Its toote for you to hold your grandson. Princess Rong said, Are you afraid of having too many children?? The man who showed you today was really not bad. He had made outstanding military achievements. His mother is also easy to get along with. Its a bit far, but it wont be difficult for you toe back to Chang an and stay there for ten days or half a month. Hurry up, hes waiting for you in the pavilion at the center of theke. Fu An was pulled by Princess Rong. She looked at Fu Lu for help and said, Mother, Im afraid its not appropriate for me to go alone. Why Dont you ask Fu Lu to go with me? Princess Rong nced at Fu Lu and then looked at Qin Miaomiao. Is Madam Xiao Lin Free? My Fu An has been bedridden for a long time and is a little afraid of strangers. Why Dont you go with her? Qin miaomiao answered, Yes, Princess. Fu Lu more or less felt that he was being despised. Did this aunt of hers think that her taste was bad? Her husband was a yboy! Fu An had no choice but to go to the pavilion in the center of theke. From Afar, she saw a handsome man in the pavilion. Qin Miaomiao looked over as well. She remembered this man. That day, when she was seeking death, it was this man who hade to save her with a flying knife. If not for his help, she would already be a wisp of soul by now. When Yue Zhan saw fu an, he bowed to him and said, I am Yue Zhan. Greetings, Princess Fu An. Fu an looked at Yue Zhan and shivered. His eyes were filled with fear as he said, Yue Zhan? The Yue Zhan who killed countless people? Yue Zhan frowned slightly. What killing countless people? I am indeed the Yue Zhan. Ah!Fu an fainted on the spot when he heard that. Qin Miao Miao was so frightened that he quickly reached out and hugged fu an. He turned pale with fright and said, Princess, someonee, someonee quickly. General Yue scared the princess unconscious! Yue Zhan:... If he had known this would happen, he would have watched this woman hang herself and die that day! Why did he save her! ! The maidservants at the side quickly came forward. The old woman carried princess fu an back into the room. Once inside, Qin Miao Miao said to princess fu an, Princess, stop acting. Fu an slowly opened his eyes. You know that I was pretending to faint? Qin Miaomiao nodded. When I went to help you just now, I Saw You Move. Wasnt that because I was afraid that you wouldnt be able to help me? Im wearing a new cloud brocade traditional dress. This cloud brocade is rarely seen, and its the first time Im wearing it. If I fall to the ground and get dirty, I cant do it. Qin Miaomiao:...Fu an and Fu Lu were indeed cousins. When Princess Rong heard that princess fu an had fainted, she immediately came over. When Fu an saw this, he closed his eyes again and only slowly woke up when the imperial physician was about to give her an injection. Mother, I dont want to marry that Yue Zhan who kills people like a horse. I heard that hes very cruel. Back then, he was the one who cut off the Longxi Kings head, and he even brought the Longxi Kings head to Chang an. Even sister Jing Hua couldnt stand his cruelty and left him. How could you be so cruel to push your daughter into the Wolf Pit! Princess Rong hugged fu an and said, Okay, okay, okay. I Wont force you to marry. Dont be afraid. Fu an winked at Qin Miaomiao. Qin Miaomiao looked at the deep love between the mother and daughter and left. When he returned to Madam Lins side, he heard all the madams talking about how Yue Zhan scared princess fu an unconscious. Some of them even talked about the past between Yue Zhan and eldest Princess Jing Hua. Madam Lin had a good temper. No matter how they talked about her son, she just smiled at them. .. It was a good time to ascend the throne on a crisp autumn day. It had been a few months since Lady Qiao had left the pce. After dealing with the matters of the six pces, she wanted to go outside the pce for a stroll. Lu Chen had just ascended the throne. After promulgating thew that women could inherit the family business, he also adjusted the business tax of great Tang. For a time, he was so busy that he could not spare time to apany Lady Qiao out of the pce. Seeing Qiao Jinniangs listless look, Lu Chen said, There arent many memorials today. Why dont we take a break in the afternoon? Ill apany you to take a walk on the main street in the afternoon? Qiao Jinniangs eyes immediately lit up, and she said happily, I havent seen octagon and the others for a long time. I wonder how business is in the Hundred Savory restaurant. Glutinous rice still has something to entrust me to them. Seeing Qiao Jinniang so happy, Lu Chen also curved his lips into a smile. The Autumn Air was refreshing, and the fragrance of osmanthus wafted through the air. However, as it happened to be after noon, most of them would rest in the afternoon. At this time, there were not many people on the main street, but the business in the Hundred Savory restaurant was still very good. Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen went to the private room of the Hundred Savory restaurant. Qiao Jinniang took off her veil and let out a breath. I havent been here for a long time. This street is much livelier. There were many female customers in the Hundred Savory restaurant. There were many jewelry stores on this street. The jewelry store that Qiao Jinniang opened was the one with the best business. After lunch, Qiao Jinniang put on her veil and went to the jewelry store. Perhaps there were new products, but it was noon, and many nobledies came to choose. Today, Fu Lu dragged Qin Miao over to the jewelry store. I heard that there is a new style in the jewelry pavilion. I dont know who the owner of this jewelry pavilion is. He can earn so much money. Ah Lus sry is too little, not enough for me to buy a gold crown. Qin miaomiao smiled and said, Its the gold crown that is too expensive. If its just sry, no one can buy the gold crown here every month. Fu Lu looked at the gold crown in front of him and said, Youre right. Fortunately, I have a generous dowry.
Chapter 310 - A Gentleman does not take away what others like
Chapter 310: Chapter 300: A Gentleman does not take away what others like
Qiao Jinniang said to the shopkeeper, Put this golden crown on my ount and give it to Princess Fu Lu! Fu Lu and the shopkeeper both recognized Qiao Jinniangs voice, and the shopkeeper repeatedly agreed. Fu Lu came forward in surprise and asked, Why are you out? Qiao jinniang said, Didnt I hear you say that Ah Luis sry is low? As his elder sister, I came to help him curry favor with madam. Fu Lu lowered his head and said, Aiya, I was just joking. I have plenty of silver. Moreover, this kind of golden crown is enough to buy once in a while. I dont usually have a ce to wear it. Qiao Jinniang looked at Qin Miao and said, Those who see it will have a share. You can also choose one and put it on my ount. Qin Miao bowed and said, Thank you. Qin Miao immediately took a fancy to a camellia hairpin. The Camellia was carved out of thin shells. The petals of the shells were translucent and bright, giving off a faint pearl-like luster. It had the air of an aristocratic family from the previous dynasty. The shopkeeper said to Qin Miao, Unfortunately, this hairpin was decided by eldest Princess Jing Hua. This is the only one. Coincidentally, at this moment, eldest Princess Jing Hua came in with Lin Mo.. Fu Lu looked at Jing Hua and then at Qin Miaomiao. He took two steps back without any sense of loyalty. After all, it was not good to help anyone. Qin Miaomiao did not look embarrassed at all. He walked forward and bowed to Jing Hua. He said, Your Servant Greets Your Royal Highness. Then, he walked to Lin Mos side and acted like an obedient, virtuous, and generous wife. His tall and straight posture made it so that some of the youngdies who wanted to watch the show could not find anything wrong with him. Those who were watching the joke, on the other hand, started to admire Qin Miaos actions. Jing hua smiled faintly and said, Theres no need to be so courteous, Madam Lin. So, Madam Lin also likes this hairpin. In that case, allow me to gift it to Madam Lin. Qin Miao said, Thank you, Princess, for the reward. When Lady Qiao Jin saw the three of them, she more or less felt that this was a little too harmonious. She initially thought that the three of them would be awkward, but she did not expect that the awkward ones would be those who were watching the show. Jing Hua looked at Qiao Jinniang who was wearing a veil. She felt that their figures were somewhat simr, but she did not dare to recognize them. It was not until eunuch Gu came to call Lin mo away that Jing Hua confirmed that she was Qiao Jinniang. Presumably, Lu Chen was not far from her. Qin Miaomiao, there is an old saying that a gentleman does not take away what others like. Since this is the hairpin that the princess has taken a fancy to first, shouldnt you give it to the Princess? The one who said this was the daughter of the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Rites. She had always tried to curry favor with the princess. She had always been giving gifts and currying favor with the few princesses. Jing Hua looked at the girl, she smiled faintly and said, Gentlemens affections are all connected. Is there a saying of snatching? This is something that I have given to Madam Lin. How did it be Madam Lins snatching? Your father is the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Rites, after all. Hes in the Ministry of Rites, but didnt he teach you the rules? The assistant ministers daughters face darkened. She thought that by helping the princess like this, she would gain the princessappreciation. Shouldnt the Princess Hate Qin Miaomiao? Why did the rtionship between the two be so good? Layman Qiuyue is really generous. Not only did she buy the Qin familys house in Chang an, but she actually bought 100,000 taels of jewelry today! 100,000 taels of jewelry! Few families in Chang an can afford 100,000 taels of jewelry at once. Canywoman Qiuyue really earn so much money by writing a story book? Those articles she wrote were full of obscene words. Is she crazy to spend so much money on jewelry? Qiao Jinniang looked over when she heard that and saw Qiu Yueing downstairs. There were many maids behind her holding the jewelry boxes for her. Qiu Yue recognized Qiao Jinniang who was wearing a veil at a nce. Why are you here? I just bought a garden. If you are willing to do me the honor, why dont you go to my manor and take a look? Qiao jinniang replied, Okay. Qiao Jinniang followed Qiu Yue to the manor she had just bought. She had been to the Qin familys manor before, but after Qiu Yue bought it, she had made a lot of trouble. Qiao jinniang asked Qiu Yue, Why did you buy so many pieces of jewelry all at once? Although these pieces of jewelry are expensive, they dontst long. This is called investment...Qiu Yue exined, Its like buying and selling antique paintings, which can preserve their value. No matter how much money you have, its useless. I dont know how to do business. If I buy these exquisite pieces of jewelry, in case i fall in the future, these priceless pieces of jewelry will definitely help me tide over the difficulties. Moreover, as a woman, how can I not like jewelry? Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Thats true. Its just that where did you get so much silver? You Cant earn so much from selling books. Although Qiu Yue Ju Shis book could be sold for ten taels of silver per book, it was not a book that could not be published. It could not be sold so many books either. It was just that there was an exchange between the princes and the nobles. Qiu Yue smiled and said, This is all thanks to the Empress and His Majesty. Although I dont know how to do business, I have helped a lot of poor women to buy shares in business over the years. Its more or less a dividend. Now that the female household can inherit the familysnd and business, the taxes on the female household have been reduced by a lot. Ive received quite a lot of dividends this year. Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Its also because youre kind-hearted. You usually help those women. Qiu Yue said, No matter what kind of world women are in, its always difficult for them. Fortunately, His Majesty has a deep friendship with you. Hes willing to change thew for the empress so that women can inherit the family business and be able to do business. Hes also lowering the taxes for women. This is an extremely good thing for all the women in the world. His Majesty has just ascended the throne not long ago, yet he is able to do so much for women. It can be seen that he is also a wise ruler. Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea and said, You dont know that nowadays, there are a lot of people who are calling his majesty a foolish ruler, saying that I am the demon queen who seduces the ruler and disturbs the imperial court. Eh, the Taste of your tea is strange. Why is it sweet, and has a little milk taste... Qiu Yue said, This is my hometowns tea. If you like it, I will give you the recipe. Okay. Qiu Yue continued, The empress is so beautiful and kind, how could she be the demon queen? ! Those people must be jealous of the Empress. Yu Yan rushed in and said to Qiao jinniang, Not good, the empress. Someone knocked on the heaven-ascending drum and said they want to pay with your life! Lady Qiao frowned slightly. She had only been in Chang an for a short while. In the past, she had heard that no one had rung the heaven-ascending drum for a hundred years. Not long after that, someone had rung the heaven-ascending drum again because of her. Whats going on? Yu Yan said, Its Mrs. Li from Yueyao. She said that you caused Miss Lis death with the heaven-ascending drum. After Lu Chen ascended the throne, after Lady Qiao took over the six pces, she changed the western kiln porcin in the pce to Yueyao porcin. Miss Li was the only daughter of Yue Kiln Master. Some time ago, it was Miss Li who brought Yue kiln porcin to the pce to choose for her. Miss Li was only 15 years old now and was very smart. She was from Jiangnan as well as Qiao Jinniang, so Qiao Jinniang liked her a lot. Every time she came to the pce to visit, Qiao Jinniang would reward her with a lot of jewelry. Who would have thought that she would be gone at such a young age? How could she be killed by herself again?
Chapter 311 - the Empress Meddles in politics
Chapter 311: Chapter 311: the Empress Meddles in politics
In front of the heaven-ascending drum in front of the Imperial Pce of Chang an, a woman in her thirties was wailing as she beat the heaven-ascending drum. The person who beat the heaven-ascending drum had to roll on the board three times first. This Womans skin and flesh were very good. A man in his forties was covered in blood marks. Li Yang beat the heaven-ascending drum and shouted, Empress, the Empress killed my poor daughter! In the crowd, the people were discussing: If the Empress wants to kill someone, she can openly issue a decree to execute her. Where does the saying of harming otherse from? I heard that this is the owner of the Yue Kiln. He just received the favor of the pce and is now taking over the porcin business in the pce. He should be extremely wealthy. Who knew that his daughter would be gone at such a young age! But why would they say that it was the Empress who killed him? The porcin in the pce should only be changed into Yue Kiln because the empress likes it, right? The heaven-ascending drum sounded and someone in the pce brought the owner of the Yue Kiln and Lady Li Yang to meet Lu Chen in the Tai Chi Pce. The owner of the Yue Kiln rolled over the nail board. His body was still full of injuries. When he saw Lu Chen, he gave a big bow and said, Your Majesty, I Beg Your Majesty to Uphold Justice for thismoner! Seek justice for thismoners daughter! Lu Chen was not unfamiliar with Kiln Master Li. When he was in Lin an, Qiao Jinniang was very fond of Yue Kilns porcin. The bowls, tes, cups, wine pots and other porcin used in the Hundred Savory restaurant were all from Yue Kiln. Yue Kilns cdon porcin was as warm as jade, crisp and translucent. When it tasted tea, it could bring out the color of the tea. There was once a poet who wrote a poem praising it for opening the Yue Kiln in the autumn breeze and obtaining the green color of the thousand peaks. It was quite famous in the Jiangnan area of Yue Kilns. Ever since Qiao Jinniang took charge of the six pces, she saw that the western kiln was implicated by King Huai, so she simply changed the porcin in the pce. She even named the Yue Kiln as the most important item for trade with small countries like Xiliang. Lu Chen said, You said that your daughter died because of the Empress? Kiln Master Li looked at his wife, she saw Li Yang wailing loudly. Yes, your majesty. If it wasnt for the Empresswish for my daughter to take over the Li familys business and thew that a daughters family can also inherit the familys business, my daughter wouldnt have been killed by her brother-inw! Qiao Jin returned from the outside and entered the Tai Chi Pce. She frowned and looked at Kiln Master Li, who was kneeling on the ground: Uncle Li, youve watched me grow up. Our Bai Wei brothel has been friends with your yue kiln for more than ten years. Ever since I took charge of the six pces, Ive designated your Yue Kiln as a royal merchant and specially provided porcin to the pce. Ive also included your Yue kiln in the first-ss goods traded with the Western countries. Not only do you not know how to be grateful, why do you have to repay kindness with enmity? Kiln Master Li saw the luxuriously dressed Qiao Jinniang, he said, Our Li family should never forget the great kindness of the Empress. However, if not for the Empress teaching my daughter to take over the family business and repeatedly calling my daughter into the pce to offer the porcin, my daughter would not have been murdered because of the jealousy of her brother-inw! Li Yang also cried out, Yes, if not for the Empress allowing His Majesty to pass down the imperial edict that a woman can also take over the family business, my daughter would not have died an unnatural death because of the greed of her brother-inw... Some of the ministers at the side stood up and cupped their hands. Your Majesty, Please Take Back the imperial edict that a woman can disregard her n and take over the family business. Otherwise, more people will die! Prime Minister Lin also stood up and said, Your Majesty, Please Think Twice and take back the order. The people are alreadyining about this imperial edict. Qiao lui stood up and said, Your Majesty, the murderer is Miss Lis brother. If he murders his sister because of this, then in the future, even if brother Li takes over the family business, will he be kind to his sister? It is inappropriate for a woman to take over the family business! Miss Li still has her parents to make the decisions. There are some women among the people who have lost their parents and ns. They have no one to rely on. Even if they take over the family business, they are unable to protect the family business and have no strength to farm! Your Majesty, Please consider the welfare of the women among the people! The officials were all asking Lu Chen to take back his orders. Qiao Jinniang felt disgusted by their words. If they wanted to protect the right of men to inherit the family business openly, it was fine, but they had to use a good excuse for the women. Qiao Jinniang said, Your Majesty, all the officials also feel sorry for the civilian women. In that case, I have a suggestion. Since it is difficult for the civilian women, why dont we set up a yamen in each county to work for the women. This yamen is in charge of the business of the female households. If the female households encounter local ruffians and hooligans, they can have a special yamen to protect them. The female households are naturally not afraid of being bullied by people with ulterior motives. Hong Yang looked at Qiao Jinniang in fear and said, Your Majesty, the harem is not allowed to interfere in politics... Qiao jinniang said, I am not interfering in politics either. It is just that the mother of the world should naturally do practical things for the women in the world. Your Majesty, there are womens schools in every part of the country. This yamen that is specially set up for women can ept female officials in womens schools... All the officials looked at Lu Chen, afraid that His Majesty would really agree to Qiao Jinniangs suggestion. Lu Chen said, The Empresssuggestion is very good. Let the Ministry of revenue handle this matter. Set up womens offices in all the prefectures, prefectures, and counties to provide assistance to the women who take over the family business or the orphan women. All the officials did not expect that the new emperor would agree to the empressridiculous request. Wouldnt the empress be called a harem official? All of a sudden, all of the officials thought of writing a letter to the retired emperor, but they didnt even know where the retired emperor was. Hong Yang had no choice but to look for prime minister Lin. They discussed that if there was one, there would be two. Today, the Empress was openly meddling in politics, and the Emperor still didnt stop her. Would the empress have to go to court together in the morning in the future? The Qiao family had such great military power. Would the empress have to control the court in the future? As loyal officials, they could not let this matter go on. They had to let His Majesty punish the empress. .. In the Changle Pce. Lu Chen saw that Qiao Jin was upset. He stood beside her and said, She has passed away. Dont be too sad. Qiao Jinniang leaned against Lu Chens chest and shed a tear. If it werent for me, she might not have thought of taking over Yue Kiln. But she is really talented in porcin. Look, this censer was just made by her. The censer was cyan in color and its ze was smooth. It was a top-grade porcin. Lu Chen said, Its not your fault. Its the murderer who should be med. Qiao Jinniang pursed her lips and said, She is really a very good girl. Why Cant God treat her well? You must not let her murderer off easily. I want her brother-inw to be cut into pieces! How could he kill such a flower-like woman for the sake of the Yue kiln! Just a few days ago, Miss Li was still smiling and telling her that she would go back to Jiangnan to get married.. Thats not right!Qiao jinniang said, Miss Li told me that after she came to Chang an this time, she would go back to Jiangnan and get married in the spring next year. It was a marriage arranged since she was a child. Why would her brother do it at this time?
Chapter 312 - The Empress was unkind
Chapter 312: Chapter 312. The Empress was unkind
It was true that Miss Li wanted to inherit the Yue Kiln, but the family she had married to was a ship-maker. It could be considered arge ship-maker in Jiangnan.
Her inws might not allow her to manage her familys property after she got married. Why was her brother-inw in such a hurry to act?
Moreover, what benefit did killing Miss Li at this time have for that brother-inw?
Taking another ten thousand steps back, Miss Li really didnt want to get married. She also wanted to take over her familys business. The Yue Kiln was now a royal business, and she still had to trade with other countries.
The Yue kiln was ultimatelycking people. Her brother-inw couldnt be a head shopkeeper, but at least he could be rich and noble. Killing someone would cost him his life.
The more Qiao Jinniang thought about it, the more she felt that something was wrong. You have to get the Ministry of Justice to properly investigate whether there was anything fishy about Miss Lis death.
Lu Chen said, Of course. Dont be sad anymore.
..
Many women paid their respects in front of Miss Lis mourning hall. They all felt sorry for Miss Li.
During the morning court session, a small portion of the courtiers imed that they were ill and did not attend the morning court session. Although only a small portion of the courtiers were present, left Prime Minister Lin, Hong Yang, and other high-ranking officials did not attend.
Lu Chen calmly touched his jade ring and said, Since these ministers are all ill, let them rest for half a month.
Marquis an Yuan silently frowned. was this cheap son-inw of his too ambitious? These were all great talents of great Tang. Even Prime Minister Lin could not attend the court due to illness, yet Lu Chen allowed them to rest for half a month?
Then wouldnt the court and the World Be in chaos?
If not for the fact that the empress was his daughter, he also felt that the emperor had gone too far. The Empress had really meddled in politics. It was no wonder that the old ministers were so angry that the emperor did not give them a way out!
His son-inw doted on his daughter too much. Even his father-inw was panicking!
The Minister of Revenue was Lu Chens newly promoted official in the Eastern Pce, he came out and handed the draft regtions of the female official department to Lu Chen. Your Majesty, these are some of the regtions of the female official department. There are also somews that are already being discussed with the Ministry of Justice. It will take about half a month.
Lu Chen took the book from the Minister of Revenue and looked at it. Okay.
The Minister of Justice came out and said, Your Majesty, I have sent people to investigate the matter of Miss Lis murder. Her brother-inw has admitted to the crime.
Lu Chen said, Her brother-inw should be executed by a thousand cuts. He should be executed on the day of Miss Lis burial tofort Miss Lis spirit in heaven.
Yes,the Minister of Law replied.
..
Marquis an Yuan returned to the marquisManor and sighed.
Zheng Xiao said, Why are you sighing like this the moment you return?
Its because of the Jinniang. Shes too bold. Yesterday, she interfered in politics at the Taiji Pce, but his Majesty indulged her. His Majesty went against those pirs of power because of her. You Dont even know how many people are calling me a traitor!
Im really wronged!
Zheng Xiao said, You are the Jin Niangs father. Even you arent helping her?
Forget it. A treacherous official is a treacherous official, right? Its just that there arent many colleagues in the imperial court who are willing to pay attention to me now. Sigh.
Zheng Xiao said, Dont sigh too much. Theres a joyous asion in the manor. The princess is pregnant.
This was indeed a joyous asion for marquis an yuan. This could be the eldest grandson of Marquis an Yuans manor!
Princess Fu Lu was pregnant, so Princess Shou an and the prince consort of Qin rushed to the manor and brought a few boxes of things.
Fu Lu looked at the boxes and smiled. Father, mother, you brought so many things. Those who dont know would think that your daughter is being mistreated in the manor.
Shou an nodded at Fu Lus head. Youve been acting like a naughty monkey since you were young. In the Blink of an eye, youre going to be a mother. In the future, youll have to change your good-for-nothing personality...
Fu Lu hugged shou an and said, Mother, does it hurt to give birth to a child? When I saw the empress giving birth to Ang er, it hurt for an entire day... dont tell me Im going to be in pain for an entire day as well?
Shou an said, It really hurts, and its worth it. What mother regrets the most is that she risked her life to give birth to you back then.
When Lady Qiao heard that Fu Lu was pregnant in the pce, she ordered people to bestow many things to Princess Fu Lu.
The marquis an Yuans manor had a legitimate grandson. When this news spread, some people began toin about the injustice in the world.
Miss Lis body has not yet been cold because of the Empressdecree. All the women in the world have suffered a lot because of this decree that can take over the family business!
Exactly. The Li familys parents rolled the board and struck the drum of ascending to the heavens. Not only did the emperor not punish the empress, he actually let the Empress Meddle in politics. Now, many old ministers are so angry that they haveined of illness and are not going to the court!
Who would have thought that the retired emperor would be wise for his entire life and actually choose such a muddle-headed emperor to ascend to the throne.
In the teahouse, discussions were going on.
In a private room, a servant girl said to a youngdy, Miss, did you hear that? The eyes of themoners outside are bright. They are all helping our Lord. This time, the Empress will definitely be punished!
Miss Hong frowned and said, Actually, I feel that the Empresss decree is extremely good! It is said that women are noble, but civilian women have too many restrictions, just like the Dead Miss Li.
If she was a man, how could she be killed by her brother-inw! !
The emperor and the Empress gave this imperial decree to seek the welfare of all the women in the world!
The servant girl said, But...
Father is also old and muddle-headed. This is such a good thing. Now that he is the imperial teacher, yet he instigates left Prime Minister Lin to call himself ill and not go to court. Does he really think that His Majesty is easy to bully?? Since retired emperor has given the throne to his majesty, His Majesty naturally has the ability.
Miss Hong listened as the voices of righteous indignation in the teahouse below grew more and more. There were even some people who had been incited to create trouble.
The schrs wrote poems about the hen, Si Chen, to mock the empress for meddling in politics and the woman taking over the family business.
On the day of Miss Lis funeral, the line to send Miss Li off was extremely long. Most of the people were schrs and there were many daughters of the government. Their father was one of the officials who had been dismissed.
A group of people wearing mourning clothes walked on the main street. White paper money danced in the air, looking extremely deste.
The empress is inhumane, the empress is inhumane!
The demon Empress is the one who should lead the way!
Miss Hong heard her fathersst disciple shout the loudest, she quickly went out and said, How can the empress be inhumane? The Empress seeks the well-being of all the women in the world. His Majesty is a wise ruler. They have done so many things for the women of themon people. What right do you have to say that they are inhumane!
One of the daughters of an official family mocked miss hong and said, Miss Hongs father is a strong-willed and powerful official, but Miss Hong is so submissive! Miss Li was indirectly killed by the empress. You should let His Majesty depose the Empress!
Miss Hong snorted coldly and said, Depose the Empress and let you enter the pce for a talent show? Dont think that I dont know what you girls are thinking. Do you think that this will allow his majesty to depose the Empress?
You!The daughter of an official seemed to have been hit by her thoughts. She stomped her feet and pointed at Miss Hong as she said, Dont talk nonsense!
Chapter 313 - The murderer was not the heir
Chapter 313: Chapter 313. The murderer was not the heir
Themotion outside the pce was so big that Lady Qiao could not pretend that she did not know anything.
Lu Chen only assured Lady Qiao and advised her, Changing thew will affect the interests of too many people. Moreover, those schrs have been studying Confucianism since they were young, and the hens nest is already deeply ingrained.
After the results of thew are out, the officials and the people will see that thew is effective, and they will naturally be able to improve.
They looked down on women, but not all of them had bad intentions. People like Hong Yang and Lin Xiang all felt that they would harm civilian women, that women were helpless and could not do business.
Qiao jinniang said, I understand this logic, but I am now the empress. They are calling me the demon empress and calling me heartless. I can not ignore the peoples will. I want to go out of the pce to send Miss Li off. At least I have a clear conscience!
Lu Chen said, Those who took the lead to call you a demon empress will naturally be dealt with by the Ministry of Justice!
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. Didnt father always say that the mouth of the people is better than the mouth of the river? Banning their mouths is not a long-term solution. Come out of the pce with me!
On the main street, when Miss Lis coffin was halfway there, countless guards came over. Some schrs thought that they were scolding the empress, so the government came out and covered their faces with their sleeves.
However, when they heard that the Emperor had arrived, they could only kneel down and salute.
Lady Qiao Jin said, No need to salute. I am here today to send Miss Li on herst journey. Miss Li is smart and she is a good porcin maker. It is a pity that she is gone at such a young age....
However, I dont think that the Emperors imperial edict is wrong. There are many orphan girls in this world. In the end, many girls were seized by their ns and had to be reduced to the Sick Bay!
If there was a woman who could take over the family business from the start, the Li family would not look for an heir, and there would not be an heir who wouldmit murder!
You should know that the hen si Chens rooster was also born from a hen. Some things should be done by a man, and some things should be done by a woman. There was nothing wrong with that.
However, why couldnt a woman take over the family business? Could it be that the woman was stupid? Were men intelligent?
How many men felt inferior to miss li when it came to porcin? If the heir had the ability, why would he be afraid of Miss Li taking over the family business? Why would he say something like a hen si chen if he was ipetent?
Since you all feel sorry for her death, why did you say the words Hen Si Chenagain?
No, your majesty, no. My young master also made good porcin. He started his business because he saved miss and didnt start making porcin. He and miss have been very close since young. Young Master couldnt have killed miss. He even injured his hand to save Miss!
A young servant girl of the Li family ran up to Lady Qiao and knelt down to kowtow.
Someone in the crowd said, In order to marry the princess, Huang Ci of the west kiln did not hesitate to injure his own hand. He is the heir, so he will naturally risk his life to save his own sister.
The young servant girl of the Li family could not help but shake her head and shed tears. My young master is not such a person. Empress, please understand!
Someone pull her away. The Empress is not a ce where this young servant girl can speak!Madam Li hurriedly reprimanded.
Lu Chen calmly said three words, Let her speak.
The young servant girl said, My young master also said a few days ago that your majesty, once you be rich and noble, you will not forget your old friends. He also said that young miss has the help of a noble. The Wang family, who originally built the boat, still looks down on our young miss. Now that young miss is married, Im afraid the Wang family will hold her in high regard.
He also said to young miss that when the timees, he will personally go out of seclusion to the west to earn arge sum of money ande back. This will make the people of the Wang family not dare to look down on young miss anymore. When the timees, if great grandmother Wang dares to torture young miss, she will make young miss and Lie back home.
The young servant girl could not help but kowtow. Your Majesty, Young Miss and young master grew up together. Young miss learned how to make porcin from Young Master!
Qiao jinniang said, Since brother and sister have such a good rtionship, why did your young master personally admit to killing Miss Li?
The young servant girl bit her lip and said, I dont know either, but my young master was really wronged.
The second uncle of the Li family came out and said to the young servant girl, You can know a persons face but not his heart. Who knew that this little bastard would have such a thing behind his back? Big Brother, it was I who harmed you. I should have let Jian er be your heir. I wouldnt have let that bastard get greedy and harm my niece!
Kiln Lord Li was covered in wounds. When he thought about it, he said in annoyance, Back then, I saw that he had righteousness and good craftsmanship in making porcin. It was me. I was the one who harmed my daughter!
Lady Qiaos gaze fell on second uncle Li and his youngest son Jian er. She exchanged nces with Lu Chen and whispered into his ear, Look at second uncle Lis youngest son.
Lu Chen said to the guard behind him, Go and bring Li Fang here.
Li Fang was that son. When he was brought from the execution ground, his clothes were covered with rotten eggs and rotten vegetables. He looked very pathetic.
The servant girl quickly went forward and said, Young master... Young Master, tell the Empress that you didnt kill the Young Lady!
Li Fang lowered his head and cried bitterly, It was me, it was me who killed my sister.
Lu Chen said to Li Fang, Li Fang, I heard from your servant girl that you and Miss Li have a very close rtionship. Your younger sister passed away, and you covered up for the murderer. How could your elder brother be worthy of Miss Li in the afterlife?
Lady Qiao then said, The Yue kiln is now very famous. Miss Lis wish when she was alive was to make the Yue kiln known to everyone in the world, so that every country in the world could see the beauty of our great Tang Yue Kilns porcin. If you plead guilty now, Miss Lis wish might be over!
Li Yang hurriedly said, Your Majesty, Li Fang has clearly confessed. What else do you want him to say?
Qiao Jin looked at Li Yang indifferently and said, Nothing much. Im just curious why the youngest son of the Li familys second son looks so simr to you...
Li Yangs expression changed greatly. My daughter died because of you. What are you trying to nder me in front of my daughter whose body is not even cold yet?
Lu Chen said, The Empress doesnt care about etiquette and respect, but that doesnt mean you can look down on the empress. Guards, p her mouth.
Li Yang was flustered and kept kowtowing.
Some of the schrs in the crowd were indignant. Miss Li is already dead. As a mother, how could Li Yang care about respect and respect?
Yes, when the Retired Emperor was in power, he never cared about these things.
I miss the 57th day of the Retired Emperor...
Qiao Jinniang said to Li Yang, Why are you so anxious? I only said that it was simr. Li Fang, I dont care what evidence you have in the hands of the real murderer. You have to think it through. is the real murderer worthy of your protection?
Second Uncle Li went over and kicked Li Fang. Hurry up and confess. Your mother is seriously ill in Lin an. She will probably die of anger when she knows you are like this. Also, your sister will never have the face to marry again.
Li Fang knelt on the ground and said, Your Majesty, Your Majesty, I Killed My Sister.
Second Uncle Li and Lady Li Yang both heaved a sigh of relief at the same time..
Chapter 314 - being instigated to deal with the Empress
Chapter 314: Chapter 314, being instigated to deal with the Empress
Lady Qiao Jin sneered, The felony youmitted was death by a thousand cuts. After your death, your mother became seriously ill and died a long time ago. How could she live alone? Your Sister has a brother like you, how could she have a good marriage?
If you hide the truth for them, letting the murderer roam the world is really extremely foolish!
Kiln Master Li heard the Empress mention that his second brothers son and his wife looked simr. Upon closer inspection, there was indeed some resemnce.
Kiln Master Lis entire body was covered with injuries that had been nailed down, he held Li Fangs shoulders with both hands and said, Fang er, uncle has always trusted you the most. Back then, I saw that you had the talent to make porcin, so I specially wanted you to be my heir. Hurry up and tell the truth. Dont let your sister die unjustly!
Li Fang was in so much pain that tears fell down his face. Uncle, I killed her, I killed her.
Lu Chen heard him and said coldly, Since youve confessed, then Ill execute you. But after you die, if I find out that youre hiding something, I wont forgive you for deceiving the Emperor. When that timees, Ill kill all nine families.
Your father, your uncle, and your brother are all capital crimes. Also, your mother and your sister will be reduced to lowly status. The Yue Kiln is thriving day by day. Have you thought about letting the Yue kiln break in your hands?
Li Fang was so frightened that his face turned pale. He knelt down and kowtowed, feeling extremely conflicted.
Until a womans voice came from the crowd, Fang Lang, Fang Lang, how could you kill your sister? How Do You Want Me to live in the future? How do you want our children to live in the future?
Li Fang turned around and saw a womaning over. He asked with a trembling voice, You have a child?
Yes, why are you so muddle-headed? Uncle Li is so good to you, and he has taught you everything he knows about cdon. How can you make decisions like this? How Am I supposed to live?
Nowadays, it was possible for a man and woman to get pregnant before marriage if they got married in the future.
However, the father of her child was such a murderer. It was impossible for him to get married. Her child could only be an illegitimate child. How was she supposed to raise the child?
Her child was already four months old. How could she abort a child that was three months old?
Qiao Jinniang looked at Li Fang and said, You should also think about your child... the child is innocent.
Li Fang was extremely conflicted. In the end, he could only kowtow and say,
The murderer is indeed not me. Its my father and aunt. Twelve years ago, uncle traveled all over Jiangnan to sell cdon. I saw my father and aunt having an affair.
Aunt was pregnant back then. At that time, my uncle had already been away for five months. This pregnancy definitely wasnt my uncles.
Aunt said that she was going back to her mothers house in Jinling, but in reality, she was hiding in a farmhouse in Huiji Mountain. At that time, my father even told the public that my mother was pregnant, but in reality, my mother wasnt pregnant at all.
It was just that my mother was cowardly and listened to my fathers words. She was afraid that my father would hit her, so she had no choice but to admit that she was pregnant.
After giving birth to Jian er, my aunt said that it was my mothers. When I was young, I didnt dare to tell anyone about it. Later, in order to let Jian er inherit the cdon porcin, my aunt refused to give birth to any sons for my uncle, The two male fetuses that my aunt gave birth to were both aborted by her.
Eight years ago, when my uncle chose an heir, my aunt chose Jian er. At that time, I wanted to tell my uncle the truth, but my mother begged me bitterly...
Li Fang said painfully, My mother made me swear on her life that I would not tell the truth. I was really unfilial!
Later, my uncle felt that Jian er was not serious enough to be a crafty and crafty porcin maker, so he chose me to be his heir. At that time, I thought that I must repay my uncle well in the future to get rid of the guilt in my heart.
The kiln was getting better and better. Thanks to the Empressfavor, our cdon came to Chang an from Jiangnan and became a royal merchant. However, who knew that my father and aunt actually killed my sister and framed me.
My father said that if I did not confess to the crime, he would be a murderer, and his adultery with aunt would be known by others. My biological sister would be stabbed in the back and scolded, and Jian er and I would be despised by uncle, At that time, cdon will have no sessor.
My mother will be seriously ill and wont have any money to cure her illness.
Why dont you let me confess to the crime? When Jian er bes the kiln master of Yue Kiln, he will definitely show filial piety to his mother in name. My mothers illness will also be treated. As for my sister, she has a brother who is a royal merchant. Naturally, she will be able to marry into a good family..
And the reputation of Yue Kiln Cdon will not be tarnished!
When Kiln Master Li heard Li Fangs words, he gave Li Yang a vicious p on the face. Slut, Slut!
Second Uncle Li knelt down and said, Big Brother, dont listen to this vile spawn Li Fangs nonsense. Vile Spawn, you still dare to spout nonsense in public! In order to get away with your crimes, you actually ndered your biological father like this!
Li Yang also cried andined, Thats my biological daughter. How could I kill my biological daughter? husband, its not like you dont know how much Ive doted on my daughter since young. How could I kill her?
Li Fang said, In front of the Emperor and the empress, how could I dare to lie? Moreover, didnt the people of the Yang familye to look for aunt? The Empress can order people to go to the inn in the south of the city to look for the people of the Yang family.
The reason why aunt and father killed sister was because they were instigated by the people of the Yang family in Jiangnan. My father even wanted Jian er to be the kiln owner, so he persuaded aunt.
Firstly, they wanted to get the Yue kiln. Secondly, the Yang family wanted the empress to feel ufortable, so they forced Auntie to agree to this matter.
Qiao jinniang asked curiously, Yang Family? Which Yang Family?
Li Fang said, The Yang family of the Jinling Prefect. This Li Yang is the stepsister of the Yang Prefect. The Yang Prefect has a daughter named Yang Qinqing.
So its her.
Qiao Jinniang remembered the name Yang Qinqing. He could be considered a sworn enemy of hers when she was in school. She was in the Heaven ss, and this Miss Yang was in the Huang ss.
Back then, the Yang family prefect was only a judge in the Lin an County office. Now, she was a prefect.
After so many years, it was hard for Yang Qinqing to think of a way to harm her even when she was in Lin an.
It was no wonder that after Li Yangs daughter died, she came knocking on the drum of ascending to the heavens.
Lu Chen asked Qiao jinniang, Who is Yang Qinqing?
An insignificant person.Qiao Jinniang did not need to put her in her eyes anymore.
Qiao jinniang said, Li Yang and second brother Limitted the felony of adultery and murder of a woman. Your Majesty, Please Dont let this adulterous couple off lightly!
Themon people and schrs along the way heard Li Fangs words and only then knew that they had been used by others. They were even more annoyed that this adulterous couple did notmit adultery enough and even killed a woman to seek family wealth. It was truly extremely disgusting.
At this moment, they all knelt down and begged Lu Chen to punish them heavily.
Second Uncle Li scolded Li Fang angrily, Are you happy now? Your biological fathermitted such a felony, and you are not allowed to be an imperial merchant. Our Li family and Yue kiln arepletely finished!
Li Yang cried bitterly as she fell to the ground.
Kiln Master Li was crying to the extreme.
Lu Chen said, Li Yang and second uncle Limitted the heinous crime of murdering his daughter,mitting adultery, andmitting adultery. They were sentenced to death by a thousand cuts. Li Fang knew that he did not report the crime and was guilty of deceiving the emperor. Considering that he was filial to his mother, the death penalty could be avoided, but the punishment could not be escaped. He was sent to Lingnan.
Kiln Master Li did not distinguish between kindness and hatred. He was muddle-headed and was deceived and used by others. He incited the public opinion to be disrespectful to the empress. On ount of your bereavement of your daughter, we will not punish him anymore.
Chapter 315 - shipbuilding
Chapter 315: Chapter 315, shipbuilding
The green cloud above Kiln Master Lis head was so gloomy.
Lu Chen really did not want him to be even more miserable. After all, Cdon was already the first batch of goods to be traded with the Western countries in the western region. He could not let Yue Yao fall.
Kiln Master Li kneeled on the ground and said, Thank you for Your Majestys Mercy. I am guilty. I am truly ashamed to be a royal merchant. I am willing to offer Yue Yao to the imperial court and not let the Li family inherit it!
Who Knew What kind of cuckold that B * Tch had made for him? At his age, offering the Yue Kiln to the imperial court would allow the Yue Kiln tost for thousands of generations.
Li Jian, who was only eleven years old, said, My parents made a mistake, but I didnt. Uncle, you gave the things of the Li family to the imperial court. In the future, the Yue kiln will no longer have the surname Li. Are you worthy of the Li familys ancestors?
Kiln Master Li could not help but shake his head and said, If the ancestors knew that the juniors made such a big joke, Im afraid they would be so angry that they would jump out of the coffin. The Yue kiln surnamed Li and the Wang surnamed Qiao are both good. Now that the Yue Kiln is famous all over the world, the skills of the ancestors are enough to amaze the barbarians in the western regions. Why bother with the surname? Sigh!
Kiln Master Li looked at the coffin behind him and said, Daughter, father will definitely let you achieve your wish... You Watch from the sky, the Yue kiln will get better and better.
..
After returning to the pce.
Lady Qiao Jin was still filled with emotion. All men in this world want to inherit their bloodline and are unwilling to give their family business to their daughter. To be honest, there are many men who dont know whether their son is their son or Not!
Even if my father is marquis an yuan, if it wasnt for the Qian family mocking them on their deathbed and telling the truth, he probably wouldnt have realized that his daughter isnt his.
Lu Chen:...
Qiao Jin noticed Lu Chens odd expression and said, Dont worry, Xier and Anger are both yours.
Lu Chen:...
Qiao Jin sighed. Miss Li was wronged. Yang went against me in the academy. Im already in Chang an, and she even ordered people toe to Chang an to instigate the murder of innocent people. I definitely wont let her off!
Lu Chen asked, The Jinling Prefects performance every year is excellent. After Governor Zhong was demoted, he was the candidate for governor in the future. If it was really his daughters doing, I definitely wont let him off easily!
Qiao jinniang said, Yang Tong, no, Governor Yang is a good person. Back then, I was able to suppress Yang Qinqing because Yang Tong was reasonable and didnt help his wife..
The wife of Governor Yang was also reasonable, but her mind was full of her son, so she could not help but be a little arrogant towards her daughter. But in the past, when she was in school, it was just a small matter. I didnt think that she would hurt someones life now.
Lu Chen said, If the evidence is conclusive, her life will not be spared.
Yue Yaos Li familys daughter was murdered by her mother and second uncle. For a time, it spread to all the restaurants. Layman Qiuyue seized the opportunity to write a story book.
This book was not a book that could only be bought and sold in the ck market.
It was written in in English. It was suitable for men, women, Young and old. It was no longer a book that could only be read in the room.
As soon as this article was published, the bookstore immediately sold out the goods.
This article described a certain member of the Wu family who built a boat. There were four daughters in the family.
Each of the four daughters was outstanding. However, there was a rule that women were not allowed to board a boat before it went into the water.
The family business of shipbuilding could not be left to the women.
The concubines in the family were unable to give birth to sons.
Minister Wu met a woman when he was out in the trade. The womans beauty captured Minister Wus heart.
Not long after, the woman was pregnant and gave birth to a son. Minister Wu was extremely happy, so he abandoned his wife and married the woman who gave birth to the son. However, he found that his body was getting worse and worse.
The woman invited her cousin to help with the business. When Minister Wu was seriously ill, he realized that the son was not his, but the child of the woman and her cousin.
At that time, the woman was pregnant. They had no money and had nowhere else to go. When they met Minister Wu, they schemed against him.
After the womans mother became Mrs. Wu because of her son, she poisoned minister Wu in order to obtain the family business.
Fortunately, each of the four daughters was outstanding and found the trick. Minister Wu finally killed the woman who lied to him and her cousin.
However, he did not give the family business to the four daughters. Instead, he would rather wear the cuckold and call the bastard his son.
The four daughters ignored minister Wu.
After Minister Wu became old, the four daughters started their own families and businesses. They were all famous female shopkeepers. However, his boat shop was getting increasingly depressed. The cheap son had been eating, drinking, and gambling since he was young. Every day, he forced minister Wu to give him silver.
One day, Wu refused to give him silver. The cheap son pushed Wu. Unexpectedly, Wu fell to the ground and became seriously ill.
The cheap son only cared about taking the silver and enjoying himself. Wu thought of his daughter asking her toe back and take care of him.
The four daughters were filial and came back to take care of Wu. They advised Wu not to give the business to that cheap younger brother.
However, after Minister Wus health improved, he scolded the daughters for coveting the property. They were money-losing goods.
The four daughters were disheartened.
Minister Wu nned a good marriage for his cheap son. The cheap son was finally a prodigal son who had returned. The shipbuilding business was not doing well.
However, Minister Wu had a stroke in bed when he was old. That cheap son and daughter-inw did not care about him and were getting thinner and thinner..
Minister Wu used filial piety to force his daughters toe back and take care of him.
His four daughters, who were already the best in the local industry, ignored him. However, they were very filial to their own mothers and aunts.
Those wives and aunts who were ridiculed for not being able to give birth to a son gathered together. They would always listen to the show and y cards.
This book was called The story of shipbuilding.As soon as it came out of the bookstore, it was bought by someone. At the moment, many schrs had picked up the book and sold it for a lot of money.
The storytellers in the teahouse were also talking about the book of shipbuilding.
Fu Lu was pregnant, so he did not stay in the Qiao residence to recuperate. Instead, he invited Qin Miao, Fu An, and other good friends toe to the teahouse to listen to the Book of shipbuilding.
After listening to it for the past few days, Fu Lu was very angry. Today, when he heard that officer Wu had suffered a stroke and copsed on the bed, he finally got hiseuppance.
When the people in the teahouse heard the ending, the men were all furious. Why did the four daughters not care about officer Wu in the end? Big Tang ruled the world with filial piety. Such unfilial behavior deserves to be punished with a felony!
The women were not willing to be outdone and said, Why should we go back to be filial? When we fell to the ground earlier, we already went to take care of it. But Officer Wu scolded his own daughter for coveting the familys wealth. Instead, he treated the vile spawn well.
Thats right. It serves her right that she did not go back to take care of her daughter in the end. A daughter of her own bloodline cant bepared to a son of someone elses Bloodline?
You men are always thinking of having a son. Who knows, it might be just like what is written in the shipbuilding records. Who knows which Wild Man your son was born with?
When that man heard that, he was so angry that he wanted to hit someone.
Fu Lu ordered his guards to go forward and stop the young man. Im still here, and youre already making a move? When you heard that, you became angry out of humiliation? You Dont even have a wife and children. Why do you care so much?
The man thought carefully. Indeed, he didnt have a wife and children yet..
Chapter 316 - It was time to consummate the marriage with Mo’er
Chapter 316: Chapter 316. It was time to consummate the marriage with Moer
As soon as the story of the ship-building was published, all the ces in Chang an where there were people were discussing whether minister Wu and his four daughters were right or wrong.
Minister Wu was alone and miserable until his death.
His cheapskate son had held a funeral for Minister Wu with great fanfare after his death. He had spent a thousand taels of silver to obtain the official name of Ju Xiao Lian.
When a servant girl changed minister Wus Shroud, she saw that Minister Wus Back was rotten.
Most of the men felt that minister Wu was not wrong. It was the four daughters that were too disappointing. No Wonder Minister Wu did not give his family property to his daughters when he was alive.
Most people felt that the daughters were very unfilial.
Qiu Yue hid in the Qiu residence. From time to time, someone would smash vegetables and leaves into her courtyard. Qiu Yue really wanted to cry but had no tears.
This essay was written by the Empress, why was she the one who was smashed?
It seemed that she had to go back to Laojun Mountain to hide.
..
Hong Yang and left Prime Minister Lin left the court majestically because Lu Chen had forced them to rest for 15 days. When they returned to the imperial court, they found that there were many new faces in the imperial court.
Not only was the government affairs not messy, but it was also well-organized.
Hong Yang remembered that when the Hui Lin Emperor was still around, he liked to use young officials. The Hui Lin Emperor was able to leave Chang an without worry, so he must have made ns for the new emperor.
He had thought that he would be criticized by the new emperor, but instead of being criticized, Lu Chen was concerned about their bodies and bones. He had a deep sense of friendship between the emperor and his subjects.
Hong Yang was deeply moved.
After asking about the bodies of these old officials, Lu Chen said, Since there are no other important matters today, I will talk to all my beloved ministers about the well-known shipbuilding record in Chang an.
Yesterday, there was an interesting story in the magistrate of Chang an. An olddy heard the story of the shipbuilding record and actually went to the magistrate toin about the unfilial behavior of officer Wus four daughters. She asked the magistrate to convict officer Wus daughters.
Although it was a joke, it was worth discussing. This daughter abandoned her father in the hospital bed, but she was extremely filial to her stepmother and stepmother. Did shemit the crime of unfilial behavior?
Hong Yang said, Ive seen it in the shipbuilding record. I think its normal for Minister Wu to want a son. His daughter didmit the crime of unfilial piety, but its also extremely unfilial to give away a son. All five children are guilty.
Qiao lui wanted to speak, but was pulled back by Marquis an yuan.
Qiao lui could only say on the spot, Your Majesty, I feel that my daughter is not guilty. Since its said that a married daughter sshes water, why would she look for the sshing water when shes old and has no one to rely on?
Hong Yang said, That is also their biological father! If it werent for Minister Wus upbringing, they wouldnt have grown up. After a woman gets married, her family is also their source of confidence. Many women go to their familys ancestral graves after they get married and die.
Qiao lui said, If thats the case, then why cant a woman inherit the family business? The parents are heartless first, but the daughter has to be filial instead. Isnt this forcing them?
Moreover, they didnt ignore minister Wu from the start. After minister Wu scolded them for coveting the business, they simply didnt return to the Wu Family Anymore!
Lu Chen heard this and said, Dear ministers, after you go back and think about this carefully, write a book. Write down whether you are guilty or not. Count the number of people who write a book.
The courtiers:...
This ship-building story was not a history book. It was so full of vernacr words. Was It Worth writing an excerpt for it?
After Hong Yang returned, heined to his daughters wives.
When Miss Hong heard this, she said, Father, Layman Qiuyue and the Empress are good friends. Many women feel the same way when the ship-building story is written. Many of my younger sisters were inspired by this and started to run their own shops.
The daughters of official families, even if they were not married, when they reached their age, their families would give them a chance to practice in their own shops.
However, most of the shops in the vige were managed by people. It was enough for them to go and look at the books.
Once the story of the ship-building record was published, they really went to look at the shops. Many of the daughters were so excited that they thought they could make a career out of it.
Nowadays, when they held poetry conventions, they would always discuss poetry at half-time and the difficulties of doing business at half-time.
Since His Majesty asked you to write the essays, he must be on the side of the four daughters...
Hong Yang said, But those four daughters have indeedmitted the crime of unfilial piety. Great Tang established the world with filial piety...
Father, you were just an official in charge of criminalw in the Eastern Pce. Why Did His Majesty make you the Imperial Teacher and the third Duke after he ascended the throne? Could it really be because there was no one else in the court??
Before His Majesty ascended the throne, Retired Emperor was already busy with the newws of Great Tang, and a group of officials had been submitting petitions for Retired Emperor and His Majesty to be selected.
Since His Majesty ascended the throne, how manyws had been changed? Great Tang had always ruled the world with filial piety, and filial piety was thew. That was because back then, the Lu family was only an official of the previous dynasty and could not be said to be loyal.
Now that great Tang had been established for more than a hundred years, would a new emperor still need to rule the world with filial piety? What is needed is a neww!
Many of the newws since His Majesty ascended the throne have been for the country and the people. His Majesty has asked your views on this, so perhaps he wants to change thew of filial piety.
Hong Yang said, How can we change thew of filial piety? If filial piety doesnt exist, the world will definitely fall into chaos.
Filial piety can not be foolishly filial either. Just like Li Fang, who hid from uncle for the sake of filial piety, auntmitted adultery with her father and caused the death of people. This is called foolishly filial piety!Miss Hong said, Father, why dont you think about it...
After being enlightened by his daughter, Hong Yang said, His Majesty has established a neww with great determination, but these four daughters have indeedmitted the crime of unfilial piety.
Miss Hong said, Yes, but how should this crime of unfilial piety be punished? Father, do you really think that Minister Wus suffering was not self-inflicted? But since His Majesty did not say anything wrong about Minister Wu, he asked you how to convict him. The important thing is the conviction, and the neww
In the oldw, it is not a crime for parents and grandparents to kill their children and grandchildren. The empress dowager will have a good death, but it does not mean that his majesty has no resentment in his heart!
Hong Yang sighed. If only you were a man!
Miss Hong said, Ruoyi has written to me. She said that His Majesty has given West Mountain Academy ten ces to participate in the imperial examinations. If I am willing, Sister Ruoyi will rmend me to participate in the imperial examinations. If I can pass, perhaps the next year, my daughter will be able to be an official with Father!
Master, Master!
Madam Hong saw that Hong Yang had fainted and shouted repeatedly, You, dont scare your father!
..
In the Lin family.
Qin Miaomiao had also received Qiao Ruoyis letter. She put the letter aside. She did not want to be the top scorer in the imperial examinations. No matter how knowledgeable a woman was, she would not be reading those imperial examinations books.
If she were three years younger, or if she were the daughter of the High Duke of Qins public house, perhaps she would also follow Qiao Ruoyi to cause trouble and go to the examination venue to have a try.
Now that she was married, she could not mess around anymore.
Madam Lin came over and said to Qin Miao, Miao Miao.
Mother.
Madam Lin smiled at Qin Miao and said, Moer entered the study the moment she came back. I heard that His Majesty had a difficult problem today. Go to the study and serve Moer tea.
Qin Miao took the tea and answered, Yes..
Madam Lin said, Moer, this child has wronged you.
Mother doesnt ask for anything else. As long as you can give birth to a son and a half daughter, in the future, mother will treat you as a biological daughter.
You and Moer have been married for many days. Its time to consummate the marriage.
Qin Miaomiaos face did not show any signs of embarrassment. She replied, Yes, mother.
Chapter 317 - When you marry a wife, you should marry Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 317: Chapter 317. When you marry a wife, you should marry Qin Miaomiao
Qin Miaomiao walked to the door of Lin Mos study and took a deep breath. When she entered, she saw Lin Mo inside.
She put down the tea and said, I heard that His Majesty has given all the officials a difficult problem today. You should have a cup of tea to rest first.
Lin Mo picked up the teacup and said, If its a difficult problem, its not really a problem.
Moreover, he knew what Lu Chen was thinking. Lu Chen wanted the officials to discover the ws in the currentw by themselves. The officials would use the book to neutralize the neww.
It would not be like the previousw that let women take over the family business, causing a lot ofints.
Lin Mo said to Qin Miao, His Majesty said that he gave West Mountain Academy ten ces to participate in the imperial examinations in the spring the year after next.
In order to make the womens imperial examinations more eptable, perhaps there will be an examination next year. With your talent, why dont you give it a try?
Qin miaomiao said, Now that Im married to the Qin family, its my responsibility to be the Qin familys wife.
Lin Mo nced at Qin Miaomiao and said, Qin Miaomiao, I...
Qin Miaomiao stood up demurely and said, You dont have to say much. I understand that you dont have me in your heart. Theres only eldest Princess Jing Hua. However, you wont be able to marry eldest Princess Jing Hua in this lifetime unless youre willing to give up your career as a high official like the son-inw of Qin.
You need a wife who wont fight for anything. I also need a husband who can make me respected in Chang an. We can work well together.
Lin Mo didnt say anything in the end. He just felt a warm feeling on his body. When he reacted, he saw that the door of the study had been closed.
Lin Mo red at Qin Miaomiao and said, You drugged the tea?
Qin Miao said calmly, It should be the mothers medicine. She wants a grandson.
Lin Mo wanted to push open the windows on both sides, but the windows were also nailed shut.
He red at Qin Miao and said, Get lost!
Qin Miao shrugged and said, The doors and windows are locked. If you and I, husband and wife, want to cooperate well, we should have a child too.
Lin Mo only felt his heart burn like a raging fire. He only wanted to vent the anger in his body, but this person would not be Qin Miaomiao.
Qin Miaomiao recalled Madam Lins words and thought about how she had nothing left now..
If she had a child, no matter what Lin Mo and Jing Hua did in the future, her position in the Lin residence would be stable.
Qin Miaomiao had never eaten pork, but she had seen pigs run.
She took off her chest-length traditional dress, wearing only a thin traditional dress that was as thin as a veil.
Lin Mo clenched his hands tightly, took out a whistle and blew it. Not long after, the doors and windows of the study were broken.
Lin Mo threw the clothes on the ground to Qin Miaomiao and said, Im sorry.
After saying that, Lin Mo quickly walked into the stable and rode away.
Qin Miaomiao clutched the clothes she had taken off and half-squatted in the study room, crying. She was the daughter of the High Dukes public house, and even when she was mining in the southwest, she had never suffered such humiliation.
But who could she me?
Lin Mo? When she was nning the marriage, she knew that Lin Mo and Jing Hua were in love.
If she wanted to me someone, she could only me herself.
What was there to cry about? She could not cry.
Qin Miaomiao put on her clothes and stood up. She said to the servant girl who was waiting in the study, Prepare Lin Mos change of clothes. Follow me to the eldest princessresidence.
In the tranquil capital, there would definitely be Lin Mos change of clothes. Perhaps there were even more clothes than the Lin familys.
When Qin Miaomiao brought Lin Mos clothes to the door of the eldest princessresidence, countless people were shocked.
Everyone praised Qin Miaomiaos benevolence and magnanimity. For a moment, there was a saying circting in the mens mouths, When you marry a wife, you should marry Qin Miaomiao..
The Qi king and the Chu King, two brothers who were in trouble, could not help but sigh in the manor.
The result was that one was beaten up by Princess Qi, while the other could only stare at the persimmons and crabs in front of her and eat them helplessly.
After all, if they did not eat, they would be hungry at night.
They really missed the time when their father was around.
Now that princess qi and Princess Chu were relying on the empress, they were simply throwing their weight around.
In the Changle Pce.
Qiao Jinniang carried Ang Er to sleep, but she was still reluctant to put her down.
Xier was a little jealous, so Qiao Jinniang gave Ang er to the wet nurse and let Xier into her arms.
She asked gently, What did you learn from Mister Today?
I didnt learn anything today. Mister brought us to the teahouse to listen to the book, The Story of shipbuilding..
Mother, what is a cuckold? What is an adulterer and adulterer? Why do they call people a dog and a woman?
Qiao Jinniang:...
Just as Lu Chen arrived, Qiao Jinniang said to Lu XI, Mothers knowledge is shallow. Go Ask your father.
Lu chen frowned and asked, Why is Emperor Ji bringing such a young child to listen to all this?
Lu Xi scratched her head and continued to ask, Father, what do you mean by a dog and a Woman?
Lu Chen held Lu Xis small hand and said, Xier is still young. She will understand when she grows up. Go back and read your books first.
Xier pouted and left reluctantly.
After Xier left, Lady Qiao Jin asked the wet nurse to carry anger in her arms:
I thought you would exin to him. I didnt expect you to be so perfunctory.
Lu Chen reached out and teased anger who had just fallen asleep. Hes seen a lot outside the pce. Hell understand when he grows up.
Lady Qiao pped Lu Chens hand. Its not easy for him to fall asleep. Hes making a fuss right now, but hes much more obedient than Xier.
When raising Xier, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were inexperienced and flustered. Although they had hired a wet nurse, the two new parents were naturally very concerned. They were deeply afraid of any trouble.
Anger had three wet nurses and arge group of pce servants to serve them. Naturally, they were much easier to take care of than Xier.
Lu Chen said softly, Tomorrow, you go and talk to Aunt Qi and Aunt Chu. Tell them not to go overboard. After all, their husband is also a Royal Highness.
The two royal brothers havee toin to you?Qiao Jinniang asked.
Lu Chen said, They didnt. They just found the censors report to impeach their Princess Consort.
Chu Wangsao did indeed go too far. Only two persimmons and two crabs were left for the royal brother for dinner.
Qiao jinniang said softly, Its not like eating people to death. who asked them to say that they should marry Qin Miao in front of the Princess Consort?
But speaking of which, since we want to help sister and Lin Mo, then Qin Miaomiao is indeed a trouble.
Qiao jinniang sighed and said, Shes also a pitiful person.
Qin Miaomiao had never believed in love since she was young. If Zhou Siming was still around, perhaps she could still have a mutual affection.
However, Qin Miaomiao was too clear-headed. What she wanted was to be high and mighty, and what she wanted was to be respected by everyone.
In the current state of the imperial court, besides Lin Mo, there was no one else.
Although it wasmon for Big Tang to have second marriages and third marriages, that still required her mothers family to be strong.
If Qin Miaomiao divorced Lin Mo, she would not even have her mothers family. After all, the prince consort of Qin was also her cousin, not her mothers family..
Lu Chen said, This matter will give Lin Mo a headache. If he cant deal with the woman properly, then this right prime minister will have been in vain.
Qiao jinniang nodded and replied, Yes.
Chapter 318 - find someone else to give birth to the eldest grandson of the Lin family
Chapter 318: Chapter 318, find someone else to give birth to the eldest grandson of the Lin family
Lu Chen ordered someone to bring the book into the Changle Pce. After the nanny carried Ang er down, he said, All the official books on shipbuilding are here.
Qiao Jinniang did not have the slightest awareness that women in the harem were not allowed to interfere in politics. She flipped through a few books and saw Hong Yangs writings. She could not help but ask,
Is Emperor Hong taking the right medicine?
Lu Chen said, From what he said, many of thews in this book were proposed by his daughter.
Didnt we give West Mountain Academy ten rmendation spots to participate in the imperial examinations? This Miss Hong is also among them. Who knows, perhaps there might really be a female schr.
Qiao jinniang said, Its hard for Hong Yang to listen to his daughters advice. His book is extremely well written.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniang in his arms and said, Youre the smart one. You asked Qiu Yue to write a book about shipbuilding to test the public opinion.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, I didnt think so much. I just wanted to see those who wanted a son, but in the end, they were cuckolded. A son is not his own, and in the end, he ended up with no one to rely on. It was just to vent my anger.
Who knew that there would be a discussion among the people about filial piety.
I didnt expect the response to be so big, and I didnt expect that you would make all the ministers discuss how to convict him...
Lu Chen held a soft jade in his arms and said, No matter what your original intention is, its still a mistake. The credit is yours.
Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chen and said, Dont. I dont want to leave the name of the charming monarch and demon queen in politics in the future.
Lu Chenughed lightly by her ear and said, You are already charming the heart of the monarch...
..
In the eldest Princess Jing Huas residence.
Jing Hua gently nudged Lin Mo who was on her body and said,
Nowadays, both men and women outside sigh about marrying Qin Miaomiao. Right Prime Minister, you are really lucky.
Lin Mo said, Are you jealous? I really havent touched Qin Miaomiao in the slightest.
Jing hua said, Shes your real wife, what right do I have to be jealous? Ive let Qin Miaomiao down in the first ce, but I was wondering how long our rtionship couldst?
Since your mother could think of drugging you, she must have a n. How long can your mother tolerate you?
Jing Hua looked at Lin Mo with reluctance, but she said with iparable rity,
Lin Mo, I really cant bear to part with you. Im greedy for every moment Im with you, but...
Lin Mo pulled Jing Hua into his embrace, his brows slightly furrowed as he said, Jing Hua...
Jing hua nted a kiss on the corner of Lin Mos lips. Lin Mo, you and I are indeed not fated to be together in this life, and Qin Miaomiao is a good woman. In the future, even if you treat her like a guest, please treat her well!
Lin Mo was reluctant to let Jing Hua leave, so he confined her in his arms and said,
There will always be a way. Now that His Majesty has just ascended the throne, he has changed quite a few of the rules of Great Tang. Its not necessarily impossible to change the rule that the princess can not marry a powerful minister!
Jing hua only said, You dont understand at all. Even if you can marry me, what about Qin Miaomiao? After she leaves you, what about her?
Lin Mo was momentarily stumped by Jing Huas question.
Jing hua said, Although the princess of Chang an is unruly and willful, I wouldnt go so far as to put a weak woman in a dire situation. Dont you think so?
Lin Mo said, I will treat her well and treat her as my own sister after the divorce.
If she marries, I will give her the dowry for the marriage of the first daughter of the Lin family. If she doesnt want to marry, I wont let anyone humiliate her.
Although His Majesty doesnt say it, taking care of Qin Miaomiao is Zhou Simingsst wish. His Majesty might take care of Qin Miaomiao. Moreover, Qin Miaomiaos rtionship with the Empress is quite good.
Jing hua said, But you still want a legitimate first son.
I dont know when you will be able to marry me properly..
Perhaps you wont be fated in this lifetime...
Lin Moforted jing hua, There will be a way.
..
In the Lin familys three rivers courtyard.
Qin Miaomiao was sewing a babys clothes. It was made for the child in Fu Lus arms.
Unknowingly, Fu Lu, who had caused a ruckus with him in Chang an, was about to be a mother.
Hearing the servant girl report that Lin Mo had arrived, Qin Miaomiao stopped the sewing in her hands and went out to wee him.
After Lin Mo dismissed the servant girl, he said to Qin Miao Miao, Miao Miao, lets talk.
Qin Miao Miao picked up the teapot and poured Lin Mo a cup of tea.
Lin Mo did not dare to drink any more tea after learning from the past. He only said, Miao Miao, Simingsst wish is for me to take good care of you. Even if we are not husband and wife in this life, you are still my sister. I will treat you as my own sister.
Qin miaomiao said, I will never forget the Lin familys kindness.
Lin Mo said slowly, You also know about me and Jing Hua. She is the only one in my heart. Therefore, I have an unspeakable request.
Qin miaomiao frowned and said, Just say it.
I think you are pregnant with an outsider. Treat him as the eldest son of the Lin Family!
Qin Miao Miao looked at Lin Mo in shock, thinking that Lin Mo had gone mad.
Wasnt this the same as Wu Yuanwai in the ship-building novel, foolishly putting a cuckold on his own head?
Lin Mo, do you know what youre talking about? Arent you afraid that your ancestors will jump out of their coffins??
Lin Mo said, Miao Miao, I know what Im talking about. Since I treat you as my biological sister, Ill naturally treat your child as the Lin familys child. This will also make my mother feel at ease.
With a child by your side, even if you want to leave or continue staying in the Lin residence in the future, you will still have someone to rely on.
Qin Miaomiao looked at Lin Mo and said, You are not deliberately scheming against me. If I were to get pregnant with another man, wouldnt you be able to divorce me openly?
Lin Mo could not help but chuckle and said, I am the right minister of the current dynasty. How could I do such a shameless thing? If you are worried, you and I can sign a contract.
Qin Miao also felt that it made sense. He said again,
But who am I going to get pregnant with?
Which man would be willing to have his bloodline leaked?
Moreover, how could that man with average looks and abilities catch Qin Miaos Eye?
When Lin Mo saw that Qin Miao agreed to his rude request, he said, You can take your time to choose.
After Lin Mo left, Qin Miao thought about it carefully and still felt that it was extremely ridiculous.
But when she thought about it again, the love between Lin Mo and the eldest Princess Jing Hua actually made her a little envious.
Since they were so in love, why did Lin Mo have to be greedy for power? Wouldnt it be better to be the prince consort?
Qin Miaomiao brought the newly sewn baby clothes to the marquis an Yuans manor.
In the manor, Qiao lui was resting today and could be said to bepletely obedient to Fu Lu.
Grapes were rare at this time, but Qiao lui still carefully peeled the grape skins for Fu Lu.
There was clearly a long line of maidservants by his side, but he had to ask his uncle to personally feed Fu Lu the grapes. It was so sour that Qin Miaomiaos teeth hurt.
Fu Lu took the small clothes and said, Ah, your craftsmanship is so good? Its so cute!
Qin miaomiao smiled and said, My craftsmanship is naturally much better than yours. I had wanted to ask you out for a walk. Today, my uncle is going to take a bath, so I Wont disturb your young couples love.
Fu Lu said, Im not such a disloyal person. Today, Ah Lui Xiumu is just right, he can carry our things for us.
I heard that a few daughters have started their own businesses recently, how can I not go and support them?
Qiao lui also obediently became the apanying guard, but he was afraid that someone would bump into Fu Lu.
Just as he entered a newly opened Mian Xiu vige, he heard a daughter jeering, A ck country bumpkin from Longxi is worthy of wearing this dress.
Chapter 319 - the Yue family proposed marriage to Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 319: Chapter 319, the Yue family proposed marriage to Qin Miaomiao
The one who spoke was the daughter of the first uncles mansion. She was only 15 years old now.
The little ck bumpkin who was being ridiculed by her also looked very young.
Yue Zhu stared fiercely at the daughter who was ridiculing her, her eyes filled with a fierce light.
This is Chang an, not Longxi. Your Brother killed people without batting an eye and even scared princess Fuan unconscious. You still have the face to stay in Chang an?
The envoys could not stay in Chang an for long, but Yue Zhan had stayed in Chang an ever since the new emperor ascended the throne.
Firstly, his mother wanted to find him a wife in Chang an, and secondly, Yue Zhan was now highly valued by Lu Chen.
Therefore, even the envoys from Longxi had been staying in Chang an for the past few days.
The daughter of the uncles mansion continued to mock:
No wonder eldest Princess Jing Hua didnt want to stay in Longxi. A wild girl from Longxi. Shes so ck, yet shes still wearing this bright pink. Its so funny.
Qin Miaomiao asked a good friend he knew and found out that this girl with darker skin was Yue Zhans younger sister, Yue Zhu.
She was fourteen this year, and her family pampered her.
In the past few days, Yue Zhu had inherited the title of Fu Lu Shan Cai Ziin Chang an.
Today, she took a fancy to a set of pink traditional dress and bought it for 500 taels of silver.
The daughter of the uncles mansion had also taken a fancy to this set of clothes for a long time. However, not everyone had such boldness when buying a set of clothes for 500 taels of silver.
This material was precious and difficult to take care of. It would probably be ruined after wearing it once.
The wife of the uncles mansion did not agree to buy it. The daughter of the uncles mansion did not have so much private money.
The daughter of the uncles mansion could onlye to the shop every day to take a look.
Who knew that before she could raise the money, the clothes would be bought by Yue Zhu.
Naturally, every word wasced with guns and sticks without any courtesy. This was not rare in Chang an.
Qin Miaomiao saw that Yue Zhus originally dark face was getting darker and darker, so she helped out and said,
Big Tangs orthodox lineage is in Longxi, and His Majestys ancestor was also from Longxi. Miss Chang an is well-educated and well-mannered. You keep making fun of the ck buns in Longxi. Your Uncles mansions upbringing is so, how can you still dare to make fun of others?
The daughter of the uncles mansion folded her arms around her waist and said, Who did I think it was? So its great Tangs good wife, Qin Miaomiao! Being humiliated by her husband, she has lost all her face. She has really lost all the face of our daughters family.
Speaking of which, you and the Yue family bumpkin are quitepatible. After all, the Yue family is Princess Jinghuas ex-husband, while you are the wife of the Lin family. We are both cuckolded people at the ends of the Earth. No wonder you are so protective of her!
Qin miaomiao frowned and said, I have experienced Misss upbringing today. In a while, I will go to the residence and ask the old madam and uncles wife about the uncles upbringing...
Before Qin Miaomiao could finish speaking, the daughter of the uncles residence ran away dejectedly.
She was still hoping that her mother would give her more pocket money.
Fu Lu said to yue zhu, Little sister, why do you have to be so ck?
Yue Zhu smiled and said, I grew up in the army. The Army dislikes those who are fair and clean. It is beautiful to be ck and tall. I am the most beautiful in the army.
Qin miaomiao smiled and said, You are beautiful to begin with. Dont pay attention to the chatterbox of some people in Chang an.
Yue Zhu replied, Yes, my brother made great contributions on the battlefield, but Chang an disliked him for killing so many people. At that time, he was so brave to kill Longxi King..
But now, everyone in Chang an only remembers my brother. Now, all the women in Chang an are afraid of my brother and are not willing to marry him. If My Brothers marriage doesnt work out, I cant go back to Longxi. Sigh.
Qin miaomiao said, Ambassador Yue Jiedu is really a hero.
Do you think my brother is good?
Qin Miaomiao nodded. Yes, if Ambassador Yue Jiedu hadnt killed the Longxi King, Chang an wouldnt have been so good.
When the Crown Prince disappeared that year, the emperor was too sad and seriously ill. The imperial court was in chaos. If Yue Zhan hadnt stopped the war in Longxi, Chang an would have been in chaos.
After Yue Zhu returned to the Yue family in Chang an, she jogged to find her mother and told her about how she had been bullied and how Qin Miaomiao had protected her.
Yue Zhu was a posthumous child. When she was born, her father had been sacrificed to suppress bandits.
Madam Yue doted on her very much. When she heard that she was being bullied, she said,
Mother will get the daughter of the uncles mansion to apologize to you. As for that Qin Miaomiao that you mentioned, is she the one who is rumored to be getting married to Qin Miaomiao in Chang an?
Yue Zhu nodded and said, Yes, she even said that my brother is a peerless hero!
She is actually not afraid of my brother. I like her to be my sister-inw. She is much better than Princess Jinghua. Unfortunately, she is already married.
Old Madam Yue patted her own leg and said, Married? How can she be considered married with such a marriage? Lin Mo goes to Princess Jinghuas residence every day. Its not like she, Qin Miaomiao, cant remarry!
Her son finally agreed to the marriage, but he asked for a noble daughter from Chang an.
However, the noble daughters of Chang an were scared out of their wits because of Princess Fuan. They were all afraid of their son and were unwilling to marry their son.
Wasnt this Qin Miaomiao an excellent candidate? What was the Lin familys daughter-inw afraid of? Even Lin Mo did not treat her as his own daughter-inw and respected her.
They heard that Qin Miaomiao had integrity. Even when he was forced to marry a traitor, he would rather die than surrender in order to protect his own reputation.
After all, the Yue family was an aristocratic family of generals. It would be best if they had Qin Miaomiao, who was educated, courteous, and had integrity. She was also born as a noble daughter.
After patting her legs, Madam Yue went to look for eldest Princess Jing Hua.
Although eldest Princess Jing Hua had parted ways with Yue Zhan, she still respected old madam Yue.
Jing Hua knew that old madam Yue did not like her. To be fair, if she was old madam Yue, she would definitely not like her.
Eldest Princess Jing Hua received old Madam Yue
Old Madam Yue bowed and said, Eldest princess, long time no see.
Today, the old woman came to the Princessresidence because she wanted to trouble the Princess to act as a matchmaker for my son.
Jing hua asked, Which Lady?
Old madam Yue said, From the Lin family.
Jing hua thought about the unmarrieddy of the Lin family. Lin Mo did not have a biological sister.
Other than the cousin who married Queen Yong and followed King Yong to the northwest to mine, the other cousins were still young.
Is it thatdy from the Lin Family?Jing Hua asked.
Its not ady, its Lin Mos wife, Qin Miaomiao.
Even though Jing Hua wanted to maintain the etiquette of a royal princess, she could not help but choke on the tea in her mouth.
Jing hua coughed a few times and said, Qin Miaomiao? Shes Lin Mos wife, how can this matchmaker be made?
Old madam Yue said, Lin Mo doesnt know how to cherish his treasures. It will dy Qin Miaomiaos happiness for the rest of his life. Your Highness, why dont you go to the Lin residence and help our Yue family talk about this marriage?
Jing Huas eldest princess used a handkerchief to wipe the tea at the corner of her lips. Old Madam Yue, I will give it a try. I wonder if Yue Zhan knows about this?
He said that as long as she is a noble daughter of Chang an, he will marry anyone. There is no need to ask for his opinion.
Old madam Yue said slowly, I only want my daughter-inw.
Jing Hua:...
..
In the Lin Estate, after Qin Miaomiao returned to the estate, she was called over by Madam Lin.
Madam Lin held Qin Miaomiaos hand and said, Child, I know that you have been wronged, but the child is more important...
Before she could finish her sentence, a servant girl came to report, Madam, eldest Princess Jing Hua is here.
Madam Lin frowned. Jing Hua had been with her son for so long, but she had never been to the Lin residence before. How did she manage toe here today?
Chapter 320 - , absurd matchmaking
Chapter 320: Chapter 320, absurd matchmaking
Madam Lin hurriedly ordered someone to open the main gate of the Lin residence to wee eldest Princess Jing Hua.
Madam Lin was extremely displeased with eldest Princess Jing Hua.
Back then, before the Emperor had pointed out Jing Hua to Yue Zhan, Lin Mo had gone crazy and wanted to destroy the Lin familys future and marry Jing Hua.
Over the years, the two of them had been entangled until now. People of the same age as Lin Mo already had sons and daughters. However, after Lin Mo got married, he did not consummate the marriage... who knew when he would be able to hold onto a grandchild.
However, no matter how displeased she was, she was the emperors sister, the eldest princess of the imperial court. Madam Lin could only respectfully greet her.
Qin Miaomiao followed behind Madam Lin and went to the door to wee eldest Princess Jing Hua in.
Jing Hua went into the hall and received the tea that Madam Lin personally served. She went straight to the point and told her the purpose of her visit today:
Madam Lin, I am here today because I have been entrusted by someone to act as a matchmaker.
Madam Lin thought about the young masters and youngdies in the residence who were not of the age to be married. She asked in puzzlement, Oh? I wonder who the Princess is here to act as a matchmaker for.
Yue Zhan, the envoy from Longxi. Yue Zhan has made outstanding military achievements. He is from an aristocratic family of martial generals and is now highly valued by his majesty. What do you think of this person, Madam Lin?
Jing Hua took a sip of tea.
Madam Lin frowned. Jing Hua had actuallye to matchmake her ex-husband?
Your highness, Jiedushi Yue is naturally a dragon and Phoenix among men. I only hate that I dont have a daughters life. Otherwise, I would definitely make Jiedushi Yue the son-inw of the Lin family.
Qin Miaomiao pondered over Madam Lins words and only smiled softly in the dark. She did not understand what the eldest princess Jing Hua meant by matchmaking her ex-husband in the home of her current lover?
Jing hua put down her teacup and gestured for Qin Miaomiao toe forward. She held Qin Miaomiaos hand and said, Madam Yue has taken a fancy to Miaomiao and wants me to be the daughter-inw of the Yue family!
Ridiculous!Madam Lin said angrily, Your Highness, even if you are the emperors biological sister, you have to pay attention to etiquette. How can our Lin family be such a ridiculous family?
Initially, she thought that it was ridiculous enough for Jing Hua to be the matchmaker for the Lin familys daughter-inw.
She did not expect that she would actually be a matchmaker for the Lin familys daughter-inw!
Madam Lin would not agree to it. She said with a straight face, Your Royal Highness is a Golden Twig and jade leaf. Our Lin family can not afford to entertain her. Someone, send the guest out!
Jing Hua did not expect that Madam Lin would actually chase her out of the door. The servant girl was a little hesitant, but she did not dare to disobey madam Lin. She asked Jing Hua to leave.
Qin Miaomiao said to madam Lin, Mother, dont be angry. After all, she is the eldest princess. If you act like this... Im afraid you will attract the me of the pce...
Madam Lin was so angry that her face turned ck. She said, Even the emperors sister has to pay attention to etiquette. How can a matchmaker be a matchmaker for another familys daughter-inw?
Qin miaomiaoforted her, Mother, dont be angry. Your Health is more important. I will go to the pce and apologize to the empress for this matter.
Madam Lin Patted Qin Miaomiaos hand and said, Sorry to trouble you.
..
Qin Miaomiao went to the Changle Pce the next day.
Lady Qiao Jin had just summoned all the female officials of the Shang Pce. When she heard that Qin Miaomiao hade to pay her respects, she ordered someone to summon her into the pce.
The matter of Jing Hua going to the forest estate yesterday was not a glorious matter after all. Outsiders did not know much about it.
After Qin Miaomiao bowed, he said, Yesterday, eldest Princess Jing Hua came to the forest estate to matchmake a marriage proposal. My mother was angry at how disrespectful she was to the eldest princess. I hope the Empress can bear with it.
Lady Qiao asked curiously, Propose marriage?
Qin Miaomiao lowered his head and said, Madam Yue asked her highness the eldest princess to propose marriage to me. Since ancient times, no one has gone to the inwshouse to propose marriage to their daughter-inw. My mother was angry yesterday and offended her highness the princess...
Lady Qiao was surprised. Is madam Yue Yue Zhans mother?
Qin Miaomiao nodded.
Qiao Jin:...
No wonder the well-mannered madam Lin was disrespectful to the eldest princess. To propose marriage on behalf of her ex-husband and her lovers current wife, royal sister Jinhua sure is bold.
What do you think?Qiao Jin asked Qin Miaomiao.
Qin miaomiao said, My mother was indeed disrespectful to the princess, but there is a reason for it. Please forgive her.
Lady Qiao Jin smiled slightly and said, Thats not what I meant. I wanted to ask you, what do you think about the matter of Madam Yue proposing to you? Yue Zhan has outstanding military merits and is from a military family. He is also a good husband.
Qin Miaomiao pursed his lips and said, To me, marrying Lin Mo and marrying Yue Zhan are the same. Both of them only have Princess Jing Hua in their hearts. If they stay and be madam Xiao Lin, at least they can enjoy the prosperity of Chang an.
Lady Qiao Jin appreciated Qin Miaomiaos sobriety, but sometimes she felt that she was too clear-headed.
Lady Qiao Jin said, It is indeed inappropriate for the royal sister to act as a matchmaker for Mrs. Yue. There is a reason for Mrs. Lins disrespect. The royal family will not me her for being disrespectful.
Thank you for your consideration, Your Highness.Qin Miaomiao was relieved when he heard that.
..
In the Yue family.
Yue Zhan asked old madam Yue angrily, Your Highness, I know you dont like Jing Hua, but she has been with me for a long time. Why do you still want to deal with her? Let Her go to the Lin family and humiliate her princess?
Old Madam Yue smashed her walking stick on the ground and said, You know that you have been with Li for many years. Not to mention that she never treated you as her husband when you got married, but it has been almost five years now, and you are almost thirty years old..
You still havent gotten married, and I dare not close my eyes!
Yue Zhan frowned and said, Mother, didnt I promise you that I would marry a noble daughter of Chang an? Its just that those noble daughters of Chang an are not willing to marry me.
Old Madam Yue sighed and said, Dont think that I dont know that you deliberately said among those noble daughters of Chang an that you killed without batting an eye, and even said that you scared princess fu an unconscious!
Yue Zhan said, Mother! That was what Qin Miaomiao said. Since my son promised you that he would marry a Chang andy, he naturally kept his word.
It was Qin Miaomiao who told the public in King Rongs residence that his son scared princess fu an unconscious, causing thosedies to not dare to approach me. Yet, you asked Jing Hua to go to the Lin family to propose marriage!
Old madam Yue said, I heard from Zhuer that Miaomiao even said that you were a peerless hero. At that time, she said that you scared princess fu an unconscious. Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding!
Lin Mo stole your wife. Are you willing to be a tortoise? Snatching his wife now wont make peopleugh at you!
Yue Zhan:...
Perhaps snatching his wife would make everyone in Chang anugh at him.
Moreover, he was afraid that a woman like Qin Miaomiao wouldnt be able to enjoy it.
Anyway, you should stay out of my sons marriage in the future. Dont ever go to other peoples houses to ask their daughter-inw for Marriage!
After Yue Zhan left, old madam yue sighed and said, Sigh, how did I give birth to such an ingrate! Whats so good about Jing Hua that he still cant forget about it?
Many people said that Jing Hua was appointed by the Hui Lin Emperor to marry Yue Zhan in order to win him over.
Actually, old madam Yue knew that at that time, Yue Zhan had risked the worlds condemnation.
When she handed over the evidence of the Long Xi Kings Rebellion to the emperor, she did not forget to ask for the eldest princess of Jing Huas hand in marriage.
It was considered as coercion. At that time, the Hui Lin Emperor had some use for Yue Zhan, so how could he not agree to his request to marry her?
Fortunately, the Hui Lin Emperor did not take this coercion to heart. Otherwise, the Yue family would probably suffer a reckoning.
If Jinghua was interested in Yue Zhan, old madam Yue would also rather the Yue family not have military power. She would rather her son and the Qin Fuma be like the little prince consort who lived off his wife, as long as her son was happy.
Unfortunately, Jing Hua had never had a heart for Yue Zhan!
Chapter 321 - , a good wife
Chapter 321: Chapter 321, a good wife
In eldest Princess Jing Huas residence.
Jing Hua saw Lin Mo, who had note for three days, and went up to him. She went into his arms and said, Has the pce been so busy recently?
Lin Mo said, Its not easy to finalize the neww, so Ive been a little busy. I heard that you went to my house a few days ago?
Jing hua nodded and said, Old Madam Yue asked me to propose marriage to Qin Miaomiao. If Qin Miaomiao can be together with Yue Zhan, you can rest assured. Yue Zhan, this person...
Upon hearing Yue Zhan, Lin Mos face darkened. You still have dealings with the Yue Family?
Jing hua said, Old Madam Yue is an elder after all. How can I turn a blind eye when shees to visit? I think we can consider setting Qin Miaomiao up with Yue Zhan. The Yue family is a military family, and Yue Zhan has outstanding military achievements...
When they arrived in Longxi, Qin Miaomiao was the first honorable madam in Longxi. No one under her would dare to bully her and humiliate her.
Lin Mo said, You can decide on this matter.
Outside the Grand Princessresidence.
Yue Zhan looked at the brightly lit main hall inside and could not help but think of the Jing Hua that he had seen when he was young... it was unforgettable at a nce.
Just as he was about to turn around, he saw Qin Miaomiaoing over in a pnquin. The servant girl behind her was holding a scarlet right-hand-shaped official robe embroidered with a white crane in her hands.
Yue Zhan looked through the light of thentern and saw that there was arge word virtuouswritten on Qin Miaomiaos face.
Youre really virtuous!
Qin Miao Miao bowed and said, General Yue, arent you also quite free? That day in King Rongs residence, Princess Fu an fainted and I bumped into general Yue. I hope General Yue will not me me for the Emergency!
Yue Zhan saw her young age and calm expression, so he went forward and said, Now, because of that sentence of yours, Fu an fainted because of me and my marriage was blocked. Now, you just said dont me me and you want me to forgive you?
Then what do you need me to do for general Yue to understand?Qin Miaomiao asked.
Yue Zhan said, Be a good Mrs. Lin, dont think too much, and dont be disrespectful to Jing Hua!
The Princess is His Majestys elder sister. Even if I had ten guts, I wouldnt dare to be disrespectful to the princess.
Yue Zhan said, Then dont waste your effort on this face, and donte to the entrance of the Grand Princessresidence to obstruct Jing Huas eyes.
The reason why Qin Miao Miao came to the entrance of the Grand Princessresidence was to seek a good reputation so that those people who wereughing at her would not be able tough.
Also, it was to make Madam Lin feel a little guilty towards her. Madam Lin felt guilty and would talk less about matters like children.
Qin Miao Miao looked carefully at Yue Zhan through the light of thentern. Yue Zhan had a burly figure but his face was also handsome. He was not much worse off than Lin Mo. .
Since you are so infatuated with the eldest princess, why did you agree to divorce her that day?Qin Miaomiao asked, puzzled.
Even if the prince consort could not be a powerful official and could not have military power, Yue Zhan did marry Jing Hua that day. As long as they did not divorce, no matter what those old officials said, it would be useless.
Moreover, the imperial family would not do such a thing.
Yue Zhan looked inside and said, She doesnt like Longxi. Even if you force her to stay, you wont be able to keep her heart...
Qin Miaomiao pondered over Yue Zhans words, then took her leave and went back to the Lin family.
..
While the people were discussing among themselves, the neww was also announced.
First, the idea of the imperial examination system was abolished. Since the founding of the Tang Empire, the imperial examination system had gradually reduced the number of the imperial examination system, but it was notpletely non-existent.
The cheap son in the story of shipbuilding was held to be held to be a filial piety because of a huge funeral. It was extremely ironic.
The second reason was to make a clear distinction between the support of parents and children. The third reason was that it was a felony for parents to kill their children. In the past, it was not a felony for parents to kill their children because of filial piety.
After the promulgation of the newws of the Tang Empire, the public did not have much of a response. After all, it was the result of the discussions of all the officials. There was also a newmercialw that was released, which eliminated many exorbitant taxes and misceneous taxes. The people cheered in session.
In the blink of an eye, it was the 12th month.
It was the 12th month in Chang an, and snow was flying everywhere. Qiao Jinniang received a letter from glutinous rice.
In glutinous Rices letter, it was written that once Zhou Shihui arrived in Jiangnan, he had looked for Qiao Jinniangs schoolmates and invited them to y in the Qian Estate, the daughter of the Yang family, who hade thousands of miles to scheme against Qiao Jinniang, had also been bewitched by Zhou Shihui.
The imperial edict had demoted the Yang familys daughter to a county official. The daughter of the Yang family had been sentenced to Lingnan punishment for scheming against the empress.
Glutinous rice had even written that her mothers spirits were gradually improving and that she could already recognize her as a daughter.
She had also written that Qiao Ruoyun and Qian Yin were in love. However, Qiao Ruoyun often went to the temple to pray to Buddha to protect her pregnancy.
Jiangnans Hundred Savory restaurant had reopened. Compared to going to the Qian family to be the eldest daughter, glutinous rice preferred to stay in the Hundred Savory restaurant.
As usual, she chatted andughed with the neighbors who came to the restaurant. The neighbors also thought of the Jinniang and Lu Chen.
It was also written that Hui Lindi and Empress Zhou had bought a house next to the Hundred Savory Restaurant..
They traveled around the mountains and rivers every day and were also frequent customers of the Hundred Savory restaurant. However, Hui Lindi said that glutinous Rices preserved chicken and duck were not as delicious as Qiao Jinniangs..
Lu Chen saw a thick stack of letters and said, Its hard for glutinous rice to write so many letters to you.
Qiao jinniang said, The thicker the letters, the happier I am. This means that she is living a good life in Jiangnan. I really envy father and mother. Just like that, they can go to Jiangnan and y every day...
Lu Chen looked at glutinous Rices letters and said, You must not make preserved chicken and duck for them.
Qiao Jinniangughed. Father gave you all of hisnd, but youre so stingy that you dont even want to give them chicken and duck?
Lu Chen looked at glutinous Rices description of his parentscarefree life in Jiangnan and said, That should have been our life.
Lu Chen had never thought that he would ascend the throne so early. If he was still the crown prince, he could have brought Qiao Jinniang to visit a few more ces.
As he thought about this, Lu Chen looked at Lu Xi who was carefully copying. Why was he only five years old..
Little Lu Xi sneezed.
Qiao Jinniang said nervously, Its cold outside now. You have to wear more clothes on the way to Mr. Jis residence. Its very easy to catch a cold when its hot and cold. Ive ordered the Minister of the pce to make a few cloaks for you. You must wear them when you go out.
Little Lu Xi touched her nose and said, Yes, Mother.
Qiao Jinniang stroked the envelope in her hand and looked at the interesting stories written by the glutinous rice and the neighbors. She leaned against Lu Chens arms and said,
I think I cant go back to the normal days in the past. I used to hate the rainy days in Jiangnan, but after being away from Jiangnan for several years, I remember the misty rain in Jiangnan again.
Lu Chen said, When Ang er is older, we should go to Lin an in the spring.
Qiao Jinniang looked southeast. She did not dare to Hope. With their current status, how could they go to Lin an just because they said so?
They would have to spend money andbor on the way.
..
There were many banquets at the end of December. Because the new emperor had ascended to the throne, many officials had to go back to Chang an to report on their duties. Last year, all the nobles in Chang an were in Luoyang, so this years Chang an was especially lively.
As the second minister of the Lin Residence, there was naturally an endless stream of foreign officials who came to visit. The Lin residence was crowded with people.
Qin Miaomiao was busy socializing with the family members of the officials. asionally, he would apany Fu Lu, who was pregnant, to stroll around the Chang an market. He had plenty of time.
However, the imperial edict at the end of the year that made the prince consort of Qin the Duke of Qin made Qin Miaomiao feel a little flustered.
Chapter 322 - Qin Miaomiao’s petition and letter of resignation
Chapter 322: Chapter 322: Qin Miaomiaos petition and letter of resignation
The position of Duke of Qin was originally inherited by the line of the son-inw of Qin Miaomiao because he was the founding father of the country. It was only because the son-inw of Qin Miaomiao became the son-inw that he gave the position of Duke to Qin Miaomiaos grandfather.
After the Qin family rebelled, the Huilin Emperor ordered the son-inw of Qin Miaomiao to look for another line in the n to inherit the title of Duke of Qin Manor.
Later on, the Qin family kept making noise about this matter, and there was no conclusion for a long time.
It was almost the new year, so they had to finalize the dukedom of the Qin family. Qin Miaomiao had never thought that the son-inw of the Qin family would inherit the dukedom of the Qin family.
The son-inw of the Qin family didnt have a son, and he didnt have any descendants to inherit the dukedom.
In the afternoon, another imperial edict came down, bestowing a blessing on Princess Qin Xiangxiang to inherit the property of the Qin family for the daughter of the Dukes family..
If it wasnt for the most reliable servant girl by her side who had heard the news, Qin Miaomiao would have thought that it was her own servant girl who was joking with her. How is that possible? How is that possible?
In the imperial court, a group of old ministers couldnt sit still anymore. They all entered the pce to beg the Emperor to take back the order.
Lu Chen said bitterly, In the past, the ancestor of the Qin family helped my great Tang to establish the country and made great contributions. Now that the title of the High Duke has no sessor because of marrying the daughter of the Lu family, how can I face the martyrs and the ancestors?
Since there are already rules for women to inherit the family business, then it is not necessarily impossible for Qin Xiangxiang to be the daughter of the Dukes public house. I can not disappoint the founding fathers!
The old officials were actually speechless for a moment.
Hong Yang braced himself and said, Your Majesty, now that Marquis an Yuans house is like cooking oil in a fire, if the prince consort of Qin inherits the position of Dukes house, then wouldnt the favor of the Qiao family be too much?
Lu Chen said, Marquis an Yuans manor is loyal to the monarch and loves the country. The men of the ancestors were sacrificed on the battlefield. Why not allow Marquis an Yuans manor to receive my favor?
Hong Yang: Are you loyal to the monarch and loves the country for Marquis an Yuans manor? You are clearly doing it for the Empress!
However, Hong Yang did not dare to say these words.
Within marquis an Yuans manor.
Fu Lu received the imperial edict to be the daughter of the Crown Prince, but she was still baffled. She did not expect that one day, the position of Duke would be returned to her father and she would be the daughter of the crown prince.
Although the position of princess was one level higher than that of the daughter of the crown prince, the daughter of the crown prince sounded very domineering.
The corners of old Madam Qiaos lips curled up slightly. Back then, she had thought so much, but she had only underestimated Lu Chens love for Qiao Jinniang.
It seemed that the Qiao family did not need to worry about making great contributions to shock the master.
Since the princess has the position of crown prince, you must work hard to have more children in the future. The first one will be the grandson of our Qiao family.
Old Madam Qiao said with a smile.
Zheng Xiaoforted old madam qiao, Mother, surnamed Qiao and surnamed Qin are the same. Fu Lu and Luer are both so young. There will be many children in the future. You Dont have to be anxious.
After Qin Miaomiao brought the Lin familys congrattory gifts to Marquis an Yuans estate to congratte them, she entered her small courtyard with Fu Lu.
Qin Miaomiao looked at the contents of the imperial edict word by word, his face deathly pale.
Fu Lu smiled and said, You and I have fought for ten years, but in the end, the High Dukes public house is still in my hands!
After Fu Lu showed off, he saw that Qin Miaomiaos expression was not right and said, Sigh, whats wrong with you? Forget it, forget it, I wontugh at you anymore.
Qin Miaomiao sat on the wooden stool and a drop of tears fell. Xiangxiang, what should I Do?
Princess Fu Lu panicked and asked, Whats wrong with you?
Qin Miaomiao had always been proud. When the Qin family was in trouble, she had never cried. When her brother was sentenced to death, she had never shed a tear.
Qin Miaomiaos tears kept falling as she said, If the son-inw of the Qin family is the High Duke, that also means that the son-inw has military power. What about Lin Mo? Lin Mo is only a civil official. If even the High Duke can be the son-inw, why cant Lin Mo? Do you think I will be divorced?
Princess Fu Lu thought about it carefully. No Wonder I suddenly gave my father the position of High Duke. So it was to pave the way for cousin Jinghua and Lin Mo!
If Lin Mo can be together with Princess Jinghua openly, what right do I have to sit firmly in the position of Lady Xiao Lin?Qin Miaomiao said as tears fell.
Princess Fu Lu advised Qin Miaomiao, You are the main wife that Lin Mo carried the pnquin to marry into the family. If he dares to divorce you, I will be the first to not forgive him! Dont worry, if Lin Mo wants to marry cousin Jinghua, he will have to settle you down first.
Qin Miaomiaos hands were as cold as ice, and he sighed lightly, Sigh.
When he went out, he coincidentally bumped into Qiao Ruoyi who was returning to the Hou mansion. Because it was going to be the New Year for you.
The West Mountain Academy rested for more than half a month before Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Marquismansion.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Qin Miaomiao, she advised her, Sister Miaomiao, I heard that His Majesty has issued two new imperial edicts today. Are you sure you dont want to consider participating in the imperial examinations?
Its better to beg others than to beg yourself. Why Dont you participate in the imperial examinations in the name of the West Mountain Academy? With your literary talent and talent, you might be able to be a schr!
Qin Miaomiao looked at the light in Qiao Ruoyis eyes and thought for a moment before replying, Alright!
..
In the residence of eldest Princess Jing Hua.
Lin Mo informed Jing Hua of the two imperial edicts that had been issued today, The prince consort of Qin has be the Duke once again. Fu Lu is the daughter of the crown prince. Although there are objections in the imperial court, they have all agreed.
Jing Hua looked at Lin Mo and said, Dont be happy too early. Have you thought of a way out for Qin Miaomiao? She is now a helpless woman. You need to take good care of her.
Lin Mo replied, Yes.
Jing Hua looked at the pce. I didnt expect that the Empress would really do it.
Empress?Lin Mo asked Jing hua, Is this rted to the Empress?
Jing hua nodded slightly and said, How could I have such a close rtionship with his majesty? To have him change the rules of the ancestors for me to offend the officials and n this? It was the Empress who agreed to help me.
Lin Mo:...
He actually thought that His Majesty was nning this for him. It seemed like he was overestimating himself.
Jing Hua said to Lin Mo, We owe the empress a huge favor...
Your Royal Highness the eldest Princess, Madam Lin hase to pay her respects. She says that she wants to meet young master Lin.
Jing hua said, Let her in.
Qin Miaomiao walked in and bowed. Her Royal Highness the eldest princess, Right Prime Minister.
Eldest Princess Jing Hua said to Qin miaomiao, Its rare for you toe to my residence. Please take a seat.
Qin Miaomiao did not sit down and said, I came here rashly because right prime minister does not often return to the Lin residence. I want to ask right prime minister to give me a letter to release my wife and Divorce Me.
Lin Mo replied, Okay, but you are only an orphan girl now. After you receive the letter to release your wife, do you have a ce to go?
Eldest princess jing hua said, If you dont mind, you cane to my residence and be a third-grade female official. You can also have a ce to settle down in Chang an. When that timees, you can also slowly find a good marriage.
Qin Miao said, Today, I met Qiao Ruoyi.
Lin Mo did not know who Qiao Ruoyi was.
Jing Hua had heard some things about Qiao Ruoyis reputation. Is she the Empresss stepsister?
Qin Miao replied, Its her. Qiao Ruoyi is two years younger than me. In the past, although she was talented and famous, her eyes were always dull. Today, I saw that she was in high spirits, not because she was the daughter of the Queens sister, an yuanhou, but because she was the mountain chieftain of the West Mountain Academy.
She had been writing to me, inviting me to participate in the imperial examinations and to go to the West Mountain Academy. However, I felt that it would be better to marry a high-ranking official and be courted by everyone in Chang an.
But seeing her today, I realized that I could have such glory by myself.
You Dont have to worry about where I am going. I can settle down in the West Mountain Academy in the future.
Chapter 323 - , bestowing marriage upon Jing Hua and Lin Mo.
Chapter 323: Chapter 323, bestowing marriage upon Jing Hua and Lin Mo.
Jing Hua looked at Qin Miao guiltily. Its good if you want to go to West Mountain Academy. If anyone dares to bully you and gossip about you in Chang an in the future, you cane to me!
Qin Miao smiled and said, Then in the future, Ill have to rely on her highness the eldest princess.
Jing Hua ordered someone to take thend deed and gave it to Qin Miao. This is Chang ans house, right next to your original Qin familys. You can also keep thend deed for these shops.
Jing Hua could afford to raise so many heads, so she naturally did notck money. To Jing Hua, this was just a drop in the bucket.
Qin Miao did not decline and thanked her. Thank you for the reward, Princess.
Lin Mo also took out some of his private property and gave it to Qin Miao. I told you that you are my sister. If you encounter any difficulties in the future, you cane to the Lin residence to look for me.
Qin Miao smiled at Lin Mo. Alright, brother, sister-inw.
After Qin Miao left, Jing Hua said to Lin Mo, Shes an extremely intelligent person.
Taking the initiative to attack had caused her and Lin Mo to feel guilty. If she were to encounter any difficulties in the future, neither she nor Lin Mo could turn a blind eye.
Lin Mo said, Thats right. If she were to enter the officialdom, she would be like a fish in the water and rise to the top. Its just that shes too clear-headed, and shes also a pitiful person.
Does Your Heart Ache?Jing hua raised her phoenix-like eyes and asked Lin Mo. .
Lin Mo smiled and said, Are you still jealous? I just hope that she can be happy. This is also Simingsst wish.
Jing hua said, Shes too smart. Ever since she was young, she saw the pain of her mothers wives and concubines in the High Dukes public house. Shes very good at talking about feelings. Perhaps she had a throbbing feeling towards siming when she was a young girl.
Unfortunately, Siming has passed away. I hope that she can meet someone who cherishes her more than Zhou Siming.
..
Lin Youxiang and his wife parted ways. Many people in Chang an wanted to go and see Qin Miaomiao when they heard this.
Some of the young sisters who grew up together were afraid that Qin Miaomiao would be helpless and had no one to help her. Some were just there to watch a joke..
However, it was as if Qin Miaomiao had disappeared in Chang an. She did not attend banquets or go out on the streets. No one could find where she had gone.
When old madam Yue heard about this, she only said it was a pity.
Before the New Year, two more imperial edicts were issued. One was for Lin Mo and the eldest princess of Jinghua to be married.
The other was for His Majesty to ascend the throne and start the enlistment ceremony at the beginning of March next year.
The first imperial edict naturally caused the censorate to unanimously oppose it. They said that powerful officials were not allowed to marry the eldest princess and so on. It was as if Lin Mo had married the eldest princess of Jinghua and wanted to destroy the country.
However, with the example of the Qin prince consort inheriting the High Dukes public house.
Lin Mos current status was notparable to the position of the High Duke who had military power.
Moreover, what powerful ministers were not allowed to marry the princess did not hold any ground.
Moreover, Prime Minister Lin already had some face among the old ministers. The old ministers caused a few ruckus.
Prime Minister Lins personal visit showed that Lin Mo indeed had deep feelings for the princess. The displeased voices of the old ministers gradually died down.
Within the Lin Manor.
Madam Lin, however, said with a stern face, Master, youre muddle-headed! Jinghuas manor has a total of twenty male pets. If Moer were to marry her, she would be cuckolded every day. Would she be able to call those men her brothers?
Prime minister Lin said, Thats enough! If it wasnt for you threatening Moer with your death back then, perhaps our grandson would be as old as the crown prince. Now that this is His Majestys imperial edict, would our Lin family still be able to disobey it?
Madam Lin said, Without you bringing down your old face, would those imperial censorates be willing to let this go? The eldest princess of Jinghua has 20 male lovers. By then, you wont even know if your grandson is really from our Lin Family!
Prime Minister Lin saw that Madam Lins words were getting more and more outrageous, so he said, You can say it louder. You can say it so that everyone in Chang an knows that youre disrespectful to the Princess!
Madam Lin said tearfully, Isnt my heart aching for My Moer? How can the prince consort be so easy to do?
Jing Hua stood at the entrance of the Lin residence and looked at Lin Mo by the side. She let go of his hand that was holding hers.
She originally wanted to send the Lin family to meet Lin Mos parents, but it turned out that she was such a person in front of Madam Lin.
Lin Mo held Jing Huas hand again and said, I know that youre innocent with those people from the capital.
Jing hua said, Although nothing happened between us, I will not let them leave after we get married. They are willing to stay in the Princessresidence. I will let them stay in the Princessresidence for the rest of their lives.
Lin Mo frowned slightly, but he did not object. As long as you dont touch them, I can tolerate them.
If he really could not tolerate them, he would just wait until they reached the princessresidence before chasing them away one by one.
Madam Lin and Prime Minister Lin were arguing fiercely inside.
Prime Minister Lin was so angry that he went out to meet Jing Hua and Lin Mo. he bowed repeatedly and said, I didnt know that the eldest princess had arrived. Sorry for not weing you.
Madam Lin, who was inside, could only wipe away her tears when she heard this and went out to wee them.
Jing hua said, Theres no need to be so polite. After all, well be a family in a few months.
When Mrs. Lin heard the words family, she felt extremely stifled. She was originally happy to celebrate the New Year, but Mrs. Lin did not have any thoughts at all.
On New Years Eve, there was a family banquet in the pce. After Lu Chen ascended the throne, the concubines of the Hui Lin Emperor did not move. After all, there was only Lady Qiao in the harem now.
However, it was inappropriate for the imperial concubines to stay in those pces all the time.
On New Years Eve, Lady Qiao, dressed in a light pce uniform, summoned all the imperial concubines.
Imperial concubines, today is New Years Eve. I also have something to tell you.
Holding the small heater in her hand,dy jian asked, Is it for the relocation?
Lady Qiao smiled faintly and said, Thats right. I have also asked His Majestys opinion. Im afraid that Father will not return to the pce for the next few years while he is traveling.
One of the imperial concubines alsoughed and said, Your Highness, you must be joking. What difference does it make whether retired emperor is in the pce or not?
Many of the concubines of the Hui Lin Emperor Sighed. How Long Empress Zhou was in the pce, how long they would be alone in the empty boudoir.
Qiao Jinniang felt a little awkward and said, King Lu, King Qi, and King Chu have both written to show their filial piety to the imperial concubines. I wonder if mother Jian and the others are willing to go to the mansions of the Royal Brothers?
The concubines with children were all very happy and agreed.
Who wouldnt be happy if they could share the joy of family with their son?
Qiao Jin continued, There are also beautiful mothers and their nephews who have written a letter to take all the mothers and concubines back to their families. I wonder if all the mothers and concubines would be willing to go back to their families?
The concubines without children looked at each other. They were not young anymore and staying in the pce would only be a waste of time.
If they could go back to their parentshome, they would at least have the title of concubines, and they would be given a share in the pce. When they went back to their parentshome, they would naturally be praised.
This could be considered a good thing.
They all agreed.
Qiao Jinniang never thought that it would be so easy for these concubines to leave the pce.
After the New Years Eve, these concubines ordered people to pack up their things and go to their sonshome, and go back to their parentshome.
In order to show her filial piety to Lu Chen, Qiao Jinniang took a lot of things from the storeroom and gave them gifts.
The King of Qi and the king of Chu almost cried when they saw their mother-inw. Finally, someone came to rule over the female tigers in the manor..
Little did they know that their mother-inw had been neglected in the pce for more than twenty years. Seeing that their daughter-inw did not want to seize power in the manor and was content to y with their grandchildren, wouldnt it be better for the mother-inw and daughter-inw to be harmonious?
Chapter 324 - Return to the Qiao family for New Year’s Eve
Chapter 324: Chapter 324: Return to the Qiao family for New Years Eve
Eldest Princess Jing Hua and Lin Mos wedding date was at the beginning of March. There were still more than three months to go.
However, the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Rites had already started to get busy. They had chosen the address to be the Fumas residence.
When Madam Lin heard that Lin Mo was going to live with his parents after his wedding, she became even more displeased.
On New Years Eve, when Madam Lin entered the pce as her wife to attend the pce banquet, she heard Madam Hong Yang Say:
This time, eldest Princess Jing Hua is able to marry Prime Minister Lin You. The Empress has put in a lot of effort.
When Madam Lin heard this, she clenched her hands tightly and listened to the madams at the side discussing the matter of the princess meeting her husband..
When some sharp-eyed madams saw that Madam Lin had arrived, they all signaled for the madams beside them to keep quiet.
When Madam Lin heard this, she was extremely angry and sat on the position of the head of her wife.
It was unknown which female official had arranged the positions, but above Madam Lins position was the eldest princess of Jinghua.
When madam Lin smelled the decadent fragrance on the eldest princess, her head hurt.
She had thought that it was the emperors idea, but it turned out that it was the Empresss idea.
Could it be that Prime Minister Lin had sent an excerpt some time ago to let the Emperor marry a concubine and offended the Empress?
He had made the Empress spend a lot of effort to find this extremely lousy marriage for Lin Mo!
Yue Zhu had been in Chang an for many days, and she had be good friends with Hong Yangs daughter, Hong Qifeng.
Today, at the pce banquet, the two were close, so they sat together.
Yue Zhu stretched her head and said, Why hasnt his majesty and the Empress Come Yet?
Hong Qifeng smiled lightly and said, Is this your first time seeing the Empress?
Yue Zhu shook her head and said, No, His Majesty and the Empress came to Longxist year, and I saw the Empress in Longxi. The Empress is very beautiful. No Wonder His Majesty is willing to favor the six pces and no longer take concubines for her.
Hong Qifeng smiled and said, The empress is indeed beautiful, but I think His Majesty is even more beautiful.
The two little girls were not the only ones waiting for the empress toe.
There were also some noble girls who did not give up and wanted to enter the pce. They just waited, but when the Empress felt unwell, the pce banquet was canceled today.
In the Changle Pce.
Lady Qiao Jin felt very ufortable in her heart. She wanted to vomit, but she could not.
Hong Ling, who was waiting on the side, guessed, Is the Empress pregnant again?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. It shouldnt be.
Being pregnant in session was harmful to her body. Even if she wanted to have a daughter, she had no intention of having another child before Ang er was three years old.
Moreover, xi er was still young. If another child came, Qiao Jinniang was afraid that she would be overwhelmed and biased against the children.
Lu Chen brought the imperial physician in. He sat beside Lady Qiao and held her hand tightly. Why are your hands so cold?
Lady Qiao said to Lu Chen, Theres a pce banquet in the pce today. Youd better hurry and go.
You havent been going outside and you dont dare to hold a banquet. Well hold the banquet earlier today on New Years Eve and have them return to the manor to reunite.
Lu Chen was worried about Lady Qiao and said, Ive already ordered people to cancel todays pce banquet.
Lu Chen immediately asked the court chief to check Lady Qiaos pulse.
After the court chief checked her pulse, he said slightly, Your Majestys pulse is showing signs of slipping.
Lady Qiao frowned slightly and said, How can that be? We clearly...
In front of the imperial physician, Lady Qiao was embarrassed to talk about the matters in the room.
Lu Chen did not care and said to the imperial physician, After I have sex with the empress, I will try my best not to get pregnant.
Lu Chen remembered that after giving birth to Xier, the midwife had said that it was best not to get pregnant in session.
Furthermore, when Lady Jin gave birth to her first child, she was only sixteen years old. It would be better if she gave birth to another child every two to three years in the future.
The imperial physician said, Other than using medicine, the other methods can not bepletely free of pregnancy.
However, your Majestys pulse is still shallow and we can not confirm it. I wonder if your Majesty still feels ufortable?
Its just that I feel nauseous and want to throw up. I feel like something is falling in my stomach.
Qiao jinniang clutched her lower abdomen, feeling extremely ufortable.
The imperial physician checked Qiao Jinniangs pulse again, and said with a slightly embarrassed expression, What did your Majesty eat for breakfast and lunch today?
Hong Ling answered from the side, Your Majesty wrapped sesame rice balls today, and ate about ten of them. She also ate a bowl of osmanthus wine fermented rice balls...
The imperial physician:...
Lu Chen looked helplessly at Qiao Jinniang. Even if you love eating rice balls, you shouldnt eat so many of them at once.
This wasnt the first time that she felt ufortable eating rice balls.
The imperial physician cupped his hands and said, In that case, the slippery meridian corresponds to dyed eating. I will write a prescription to strengthen the stomach and digest food. After the imperial concubine takes it, she will carefully adjust it.
Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you, imperial physician.
You are wee, Your Highness.
After the imperial physician left, Lu Chen said, Glutinous rice balls are easy to umte food. Why do you eat so much?
Although heined, he still rubbed his thumb for Qiao Jinniang. In the past, when Qiao Jinniang umted food, a doctor had said that pressing this acupuncture point was useful.
Qiao jinniang said, I havent eaten for a long time. Chang an doesnt like to eat this. Today, I finally made some and couldnt hold it in for a while.
Lu Chen stood up with Qiao Jinniang and said, After you take the medicine, Ill take you outside the Pce to digest your food.
Today is New Years Eve. Whats there to see outside the pce?Qiao jinniang said, Every family is reunited.
Lu Chen said, Ill take you back to the Qiao estate to reunite.
Qiao Jinniang had never been reunited with the Qiao family for long.
After getting married, Zheng Xiao could only asionally visit the pce. There were so many things going on in Marquis an Yuans estate, Fu Lu was pregnant, and Zheng Xiao couldnt stay in the pce for long.
Today, it was time for Qiao Jinniang to return to the manor to reunite.
Qiao Jinniangs eyes lit up, and she smiled. Alright!
..
In the manor of Marquis an Yuan, Zheng Xiaos face was filled with worry. The New Years Eve banquet in the pce had never been canceled.
It was unknown what serious illness the Jinniang had contracted that day, and there had been no news from the pce.
It wasnt until the gatekeeper stumbled and rushed into the hall to report that second aunt and second son-inw had returned that the members of the Qiao family still hadnt reacted to this form of address.
When Old Madam Qiao came to her senses, she said, Quick, go to the door to wee them!
After Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen entered, everyone bowed profusely. Qiao Jinniang held Old Madam Qiao and Zheng Xiao and said, Theres no need for formalities.
Zheng Xiao asked worriedly, How is the Empresss Health?
Qiao jinniang replied, Its already much better. Thats why I came out of the pce. Howe I dont see Fu Lu, Ah Lui, and Ruo Yi?
Zheng Xiao said, Fu Lu and Ah Lui have gone back to the eldest princessresidence for dinner. Theyll be back soon.
As for Ruyi, she said that since the date of Enke has been set, shell go back to the West Mountain to study. From the looks of it, shes definitely going to take the female schr exam.
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, Ah Luis heart yearns for the position of female schr. If Ruyi gets it, itll be our Qiao familys ancestors burning incense.
Marquis an Yuan snorted lightly. Its just a girls game! When the fame falls, she will know how to cry.
These words naturally drew the angry stares of Zheng Xiao, Qiao Jinniang, and Old Madam Qiao..
Zheng Xiao held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, I know that you and ruoyi are very close. You should also persuade her. There are not many young talents in Chang an city.
If she wants to observe her aunts filial piety, its fine if she wants to get married in a few years, but it has to be settled...
Qiao Jinniang said to Zheng Xiao, Mother, pay attention first. Ill persuade her the next time I see her.
Chapter 325 - matchmaking Yue and Qin Miaomiao
Chapter 325: Chapter 325: matchmaking Yue and Qin Miaomiao
The Empress was seriously ill and canceled New Years Eve, which attracted a lot of spection.
Some even felt that the empress being seriously ill was a good thing.
As a result, His Majesty would definitely take in a concubine.
However, on the first day of the first month of the next day, Lady Qiao was greeted by all the wives of Chang an.
This made the nobledies who had their thoughts deeply disappointed.
After paying her respects, old madam Yue did not leave the pce and returned to the pce.
Lady Qiao looked at Old Madam Yue and asked, Old Madam, is there anything?
Old Madam Yue sighed and said, Sigh, speaking of which, I did ask the Empress for help in Longxi.
Yue Zhan is not young anymore and I, an old woman, have already stepped into the gates of Hell. I just want him to get married and have someone who knows everything.
Lady Qiao said, The hearts of parents are pitiful. Dont worry, Old Madam Yue. When fate has arrived, envoy Yue Jiedu will naturally have a good marriage.
Old madam Yue said, His heart is filled with the eldest princess Jing Hua. When Jing Hua and Lin Mo failed, he was upset. Now that the two of them are about to get married, he is also upset.
Sigh, I heard that the Empress and Qin Miaomiao used to have a good rtionship in the boudoir. I would like to ask the empress to grant me a marriage.
When Lady Qiao heard the cries of Anger, she hugged anger from the wet nurses hands and said,
If the two of them hate each other, a marriage is not a good thing, but rather, it creates a pair of resentful spouses.
I can help set them up. As for the marriage, forgive me for not being able to do it.
Old madam Yue said, If the Empress is willing to help set them up, that would be the best.
..
In the West Mountain Academy.
Qin Miaomiao received the questions from the previous imperial examinations and the essays written by the people before her. She discussed with Qiao ruoyi about the inadequacies in the essays.
From the previous imperial examinations and the civil examinations, it seems that His Majesty cares about the actual strategy and not the splendid essays. These are the inadequacies of both of us.
Compared to the pile of flowery words, the literary talent of the two of them might not lose to those men.
However, if they were to be honest, one of them was the daughter of the Duke. Although there were great ups and downs in life, they had never experienced the life of themon people.
The other was the daughter of the Dukes manor, and she had never suffered much. Coming to the west mountain was the greatest suffering that Qiao Ruoyi had suffered.
Qiao ruoyi knew that it made sense. Thats right, so you and I need to learn more about the newws. Hong Qifeng guessed that Enke will definitely test the newws this year.
Qin miaomiao said, I heard that you have quite a number of Xie familys sole copies?
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, Thats right.
Qin miaomiao said, Are there books aboutws in there? Why dont we start from thew history books in the previous court?
Qiao Ruoi took out aw book from the previous court and said, At that time, the aristocratic families ruled, so thews were all based on the aristocratic families. You can take a look first.
Qin Miaomiao flipped through it and revealed a small portrait. This portrait looks like the Empress. How can you like your sister so much? Even the bookmark is a portrait of your sister?
Qiao ruoyi said, This is the portrait in Xie Yuns book. I thought this was a portrait of Xie Yun when he was young.
Qin miaomiao smiled and said, This looks like a portrait of the Empress...
Qiao ruoyi said curiously, Thats strange. Why is there a portrait of my sister in Xie Yuns book?.
However, Xie Yun has been dead for so long. Ill have to burn an incense stick for him when its Qingming.
Qin Miao said, When the Qingming Festivales, you wont be able to go to Jiangnan to burn incense for Xie Yuns grave.
Otherwise, wouldnt it be better to set up a memorial tablet for Xie Yun in the West Mountain Academy and receive the teachings of the students every day?
Qiao ruoyi felt that it made sense and ordered someone to get a memorial tablet and ce it in the backyard of the West Mountain Academy.
..
Qiao Jinniang agreed to old Madam Yues suggestion and ordered someone to go to the West Mountain to invite Qin Miao to the pce.
Qiao Jinniang saw Qin Miao dressed in linen clothes and asked, Why are you dressed in linen clothes?
Qin Shu deserved his death and it was inappropriate for Qin Miao to wear linen to show his filial piety.
Only then did Qin Miao realize that he was not dressed properly. He quickly exined,
Today, Xie Yuns memorial tablet entered the West Mountain Academy. Everyone in the Academy wore a mourning robe for Xie Yun for three days. The Empress summoned me so urgently that I forgot.
Qiao jinniang said, This is inappropriate. Its better to remove Xie Yuns memorial tablet.
Qin miaomiao persuaded Qiao Jinniang, Your Majesty, although Xie Yun was the crown princess consort that Retired Emperor took a fancy to back then, she treated you extremely well.
Now that she has passed away, if you cant even ept Xie Yuns memorial tablet, Im afraid that people will talk about it.
Qiao Jin:...
It wasnt that she couldnt ept Xie Yuns memorial tablet, it was that Xie Yun was alive and well, what kind of ranking did she have..
However, this matter was extremely secretive. After all, it was rted to the crime of deceiving the emperor, so the fewer people who knew about it, the better.
Qiao jinniang said, Old Madam Yue came to look for me. Last time, I also asked you about your thoughts. Now that you and Lin Mo have separated, are you willing to marry Yue Zhan?
Qin Miaomiao shook her head and said, No.
Im willing to marry Lin Mo. I know that he has eldest Princess Jing Hua in his heart, but he still has the Lin family and his mother in his heart.
I only treat him as my husband in name. The two parties are only working together.
But Yue Zhan is different. He only has the eldest princess in his heart. If I marry him, he wont respect me like Lin Mo does. Im afraid hes just resentful of me.
Qiao Jinniang saw that Qin Miaomiao was clear-headed, so she said, I heard that youre going to participate in the scientific examination with Ruo Yi. If you can pass the examination, youll be able to stand on your own feet. Itll be much better than marrying someone and serving your mother-inw.
Qin miaomiao nodded and said, Thats right. If I Cant pass the examination, I can also stay in the western mountain.
After all, with Ruoyis talent, Im afraid that she wont be able to stay in the Western Mountain Academy for long.
When Qin Miaomiao left the pce, he happened to bump into Yue Zhan, who had alsoe out from the pce.
Yue Zhan saw that Qin Miaomiao was dressed in hemp clothes and said, You have guts too. You even dared to wear such clothes when you entered the pce. Its a good thing that the Empress doesnt mind.
Qin miaomiao said, This is for Miss Xie Yun to wear sackcloth to show her filial piety. Miss Xie Yun died at such a young age. When she was alive, she gave out so many ancient books and rare books. As the beneficiary, I should be the one to show her filial piety.
Yue Zhan said, You are really loyal.
Sister Miaomiao.
Outside the pce, Yue Zhus little head popped out from the carriage waiting for Yue Zhan.
Sister Miao Miao, where have you been? Ive been trying to find you, but I couldnt find you to y with.
Qin Miao Miao looked at Yue Zhu, who had turned a lot whiter, and said, Enke will be here in two months. Im studying in the West Mountain Academy. Ill y with you after the imperial examinations.
Yue Zhu said, Sister Qifeng also said that she wanted to y with Enke. Since you guys have already yed with Enke, theres no one left to y with.
Yue Zhan said to yue zhu, You only want to y all day long. At your age, you should be at ease in choosing a husband for marriage.
Youre already so old. Why Dont you find me a sister-inw? Youre drunk every day and call out the title of eldest princess, yet you dont even try to snatch it back. And you still have the nerve to scold me!
Yue Zhu retorted weakly, then turned her head to Qin Miaomiao and said,
Sister Miaomiao, you havent been to my house, have you? Ill bring you to my house to y. Thentern festival will be in a few days. There are very beautifulnterns in my house!
Chapter 326 - , visiting the Yue family
Chapter 326: Chapter 326, visiting the Yue family
Qin Miao smiled and said, Im not dressed well today, so Ill definitely visit you some other day.
As soon as she said that, it started to rain heavily.
The road to the west mountain would not be easy to walk once it started to rain heavily. The weather was already cold, so Qin Miao could only stay in Chang an when the heavy rain fell.
Yue Zhan said to Qin Miao, You cant walk on the road to the west mountain once it starts to rain. You can stay in Chang an today. If you dont have a ce to stay, you can squeeze in with Yue Zhu for the night.
It was rare for Yue Zhu to have a big sister that she could y with.
If she could stay in Chang an as a general, Yue Zhus future marriage would also be set in Chang an.
Yue Zhu pulled Qin miaomiao into the carriage vigorously. Okay, okay. Big Sister,e home with me!
Being pulled by Yue Zhu, Qin Miaomiao widened her eyes. She was a few years older than Yue Zhu. In front of Yue Zhus strength, she was as light as a feather. By the time she came back to her senses, she was already in the carriage.
Yue Zhan was originally riding a horse, so he did not wear a straw raincoat, so he entered the carriage.
The Yue familys carriage was not spacious, and Yue Zhan was sitting next to it. Qin Miaomiaos nose was filled with the ambergris that Yue Zhan had gotten from staying in the Tai Chi Pce for a long time.
Qin Miaomiao arrived at the Yue familys door and said, General Yue, Miss Yue, Im wearing mourning clothes today, so I wont go in. If I dont run into your Yue family, Ill just hide from the rain at the door.
Yue Zhu said, The Yue family was born as a general, so they dont believe in such things.
Yue Zhu pulled Qin Miaomiao all the way into the residence. Qin Miaomiao went to visit old madam Yue. Qin Miaomiao had always been a good person, and offending the Yue family at this time wouldnt do her any good.
She repeatedly rejected old madam Yue, afraid that she would make old madam Yue unhappy. Now that she was here, it would be inappropriate for her to leave.
It was not the first time old madam Yue had seen Qin Miaomiao. It was just that she had always looked at her from afar. Today, when she saw her, she praised, So Miss Qin is so beautiful.
Her sons eyes were crippled. Even such a beautifuldy would not be moved!
As the saying goes, a beautiful woman must be filial. Even Old Madam Yue looked at Qin Miaomiao, who was dressed in a white traditional dress, pitifully.
Qin miaomiao said, Old Madam, you tter me. I heard that old madam was beautiful when she was young. I heard that she was the most beautiful woman in Longxi. Looking at Zhuers appearance, I know what kind of role she yed when she was young.
Which woman did not want to be praised for her beauty? When Qin Miaomiao praised someone, he seemed to be very sincere.
This made old madam Yue very happy.
It was lunchtime, and when Qin Miaomiao was having lunch, he also coaxed old madam Yue and Yue Zhu to be happy.
Yue Zhan could not help but look at Qin Miaomiao. She was young and had many changes. He originally thought that Qin Miaomiao would not be willing to abdicate with Li and Jing Hua after getting married to the Lin family.
However, she took the initiative to ask for a divorce. She was so young and clear-minded.
Old Madam Yue held Qin Miaomiaos hand and said, Its hard for you to be so agreeable to me. If you can be my daughter-inw...
Qin miaomiao smiled and said, I also feel that I am fated with Old Madam. Old Madam is the same as my mother. If I can be your goddaughter, it would be the greatest blessing in my life.
The word goddaughtershut old madam Yues mouth.
The old Madam Understood Qin Miaomiaos thoughts and said, Of course. In the future, you can call me godmother.
Yue Zhu happily held Qin Miaomiaos hand and said, Sister Miaomiao, from now on, we will be a family.
The old madam said to Yue Zhan, From now on, we will be your sister. You have to treat her better. Help her out more in Chang an.
Yue Zhan frowned slightly and nodded coldly.
The rain in the afternoon did not stop. Qin Miaomiao had a house in Chang an that was given to her by Jing Hua. Naturally, she would not stay in the Yue family and sleep peacefully.
After dinner, Yue Zhu and old madam Yue looked at Qin Miaomiao reluctantly.
Old Madam Yue saw that the sky outside was already dark. She said to Yue Zhan, Send your sister back to her residence. Its raining at night. I Cant be at ease with her going back alone.
Yue Zhan Xin said that it wasnt like the Yue family didnt have guards, why did he have to personally send her off? But if he didnt send his mother off, he would probably be angry again.
The night was dark, and a smallmp was lit in the carriage.
Yue Zhan nced and saw Qin Mengmengs face under the dim light. For some reason, he thought of a sentence. Looking at the moon in the Mist, the dim light saw Qin Mengmengs face, and only then did he know that she was also a beauty.
Thank you so much for today, Miss Qin. It has been a long time since my mother was this happy.
Qin Meng said lightly, After my mother left, I have not coaxed an elder like this. Old Madam Yue is actually the same as my mother. I can see that old madam Yue really loves General Yue.
Yue Zhan said, There are very few mothers in the world who do not love their children. I am unfilial.
Qin Miao did not say anything else. She returned to the house that the princess had given her. Qin Miao said to Yue Zhan, General Yue, I am here. Thank you for your hospitality today.
Yue Zhan said, Since my mother has acknowledged you as her goddaughter, there is no need to be so polite.
Qin Miao only knew one thing after she got off the carriage. She had taken two of the Lin familys maidservants with her. She had also brought them to the West Mountain Academy. Today, the maidservants were not allowed to enter the pce, so she did not bring her own maidservant over.
This princess had given her the manor and not her servants. In such arge courtyard, there was not even a gatekeeper..
When she pushed open the door, it was pitch ck.
It was raining, and thenterns could not shine far.
Just as Qin Miao was sighing and thinking whether she should go to the inn or look for Xunfu Lu in marquis an Yuans manor to stay for the night, she heard footsteps behind her.
Yue Zhan said, Ill let you stay in the Yue residence. It was a wasted trip.
Qin Miaomiao:...
How did she know that the eldest princess had given her a garden but not a servant.
Yue Zhan said to Qin miaomiao, Its gettingte. Lets go back to the Yue residence.
Qin miaomiao said, Theres no need. Ill just stay here. Im sure theres a ce to rest in the house. General Yue, be careful on the way back.
Qin Miaomiao straightened his back and entered the house while holding thentern in his hand. The house was a little eerie.
This house used to belong to Jian Youxiangs younger brother. After the Jian family was confiscated, it was bought by Jing Hua. Qin Miaomiao forced himself not to be afraid all the way in.
Until a gust of wind blew away the raindrops on the pine tree by the side. The rain coincidentally entered thentern and extinguished the candle light that could bring Qin Miaomiao the only light.
Qin Miaomiao saw thentern go dark and listened to the pitter-patter of rain. In an unfamiliar ce, darkness and the biting cold wind interweaved, and fear constantly attacked Qin Miaomiao..
A child does not speak of strange powers and chaotic gods...
A Bodhisattva who observes freedom, his five reserves are all empty...
Boundless heavenly venerate...
Qin Miaomiao tried to persuade herself that there were no ghosts in this world, but she kept reciting Buddhist scriptures and Daoist names. She squatted under the eaves of the corridor and hugged herself tightly, allowing the wind to pass through the Raindrops and fall on her body.
Chapter 327 - Qin Miaomiao is seriously ill
Chapter 327: Chapter 327: Qin Miaomiao is seriously ill
Yue Zhan did not leave the door. After a long while, he did not see the lights lit up inside. For some reason, he felt a little worried.
Seeing that this little girl had coaxed his mother and sister for a day, Yue Zhan could only wait for another quarter of an hour.
It was already quarter of an hour, but there was no candlelight in the room.
Yue Zhan pushed thentern aside and carried it inside. From Afar, he could hear the little girls soft voice under the corridor, reciting the mantra over and over again..
Ah!
A series of screams rang out as Yue Zhan rushed over with thentern. When he saw that Qin Miaomiaos body was already drenched, he heard the wild cats mournful cry, Meow.
Qin Miaomiao was so scared that she was trembling.
Yue Zhan strode over. Before he could say anything, Qin Miaomiao threw herself into his arms. General, save me!
Yue Zhans entire body trembled as his Adams apple moved slightly. Its just a little ck cat.
Through thentern, Qin Miaomiao saw the Little ck Cat not far away. Her eyes shone with a green light, and she meowed at Qin Miaomiao with great courage.
Qin Miaomiao was so frightened that she did not dare to look again, and even hugged Yue Zhan tightly.
She had been afraid of ck Cats since she was young.
Yue Zhans nephrite was in her arms, and she did not dare to move at all. Seeing that Qin Miaomiaos entire body was cold, she took off her overcoat and covered her with it:
Im afraid of catching a cold in the winter rain. Hurry up and follow me back to the Yue residence.
This courtyard was not a ce for humans to live.
Qin Miaomiao smelled the rich fragrance on the cloak and gradually felt a little dizzy. She fainted in Yue Zhans arms.
Yue Zhan had no choice but to reach out to stop her. The guards at the side brought thenterns forward and back. Yue Zhan carried Qin Miaomiao horizontally. When they were leaving, Qiu Yue came looking for the cat with thentern.
Qiu Yue saw Yue Zhan and qin miaomiao and said, So theres someone in this mansion. My Cat just ran here...
Yue Zhan said, Just go in and look for it..
Qiu Yue looked at Yue Zhans back curiously. She had a feeling that the woman in Yue Zhans arms seemed familiar.
It was as if she had seen her at a banquet. After a long time, she remembered. Wasnt that Lin Mo and his wife, Qin Miaomiao, who had not been away for long?
..
At the Yue residence.
Yue Zhan carried the unconscious Qin Miaomiao and was supposed to go to Yue Zhus courtyard. However, thinking that it was already toote, he was afraid that Mrs. Yue would be worried, so he ced Qin Miaomiao in his courtyard.
He found the imperial physician to check Qin Miaomiaos pulse.
After checking her pulse, the imperial physician said softly, General, Miss Qin is overly frightened and has typhoid fever after being caught in the rain.
Its time for her to shower and change into clean clothes as soon as possible. Ill give her a prescription for heat dissipation.
Yue Zhan found a servant girl to Bathe Qin Miaomiao.
Although Yue Zhu was a few years younger than Qin Miaomiao, she was taller than Qin Miaomiao. Her clothes made Qin Miaomiao look even thinner.
Yue Zhan watched as the servant girl fed Qin Meng Medicine. Qin Meng woke up slightly and her mouth was filled with the bitter smell of medicine.
Qin Meng opened her eyes and asked in a hoarse voice, Where is this ce?
Yue Zhan answered from the side, This is the Yue residence. Why do you have to act Tough?? You are now an orphan girl. If I didnt return today, would you have stayed under the eaves for a night of wind and rain, afraid for a night, and waited for your corpse to rot for someone toe and collect it for you?
Qin Miao Miao said in a small voice, I did not want to put on a brave front either. I originally wanted to go to my room to take a look. If I did not have a bed, I would have gone to the an Yuan Marquis mansion to stay for an entire night.
Who knew that halfway through, there would be no candlelight. I did not even know where to go to that ce where I could not even see my fingers.
Qin Miao Miao might be able to fend for herself, but she was only an eighteen-year-old girl. Without the lights, how would she dare to leave.
Yue Zhan said snappily, Drink the medicine and stay here obediently for the night.
After saying that, Yue Zhan left. Qin Miaomiao looked at the quilt on her body and then at the decorations in the room. She asked the servant girl, Where is this ce?
This is my generals master bedroom.
Qin Miaomiao thought to herself, no wonder this quilt still had the faint scent of ambergris.
She really had a terrible headache, and the bottom of her throat was also hoarse and swollen, so she did not care whether this was Yue Zhans nket or not.
After all, she had also acknowledged her godfather and only treated it as her brothers nket.
The sickness came and went like a mountain, and the sickness was like a thread.
The next day, Qin Miaomiao felt even more ufortable. After drinking the medicine, she vomited..
It had been a long time since she had such a serious illness.
When old madam Yue and Yue Zhu heard the servant girls words, they came to Yue Zhans room early in the morning to visit Qin Miaomiao.
Old madam Yue said, Rest assured and rest well in the Yue residence. Poor Child...
If it was someone else, who had fallen from being the daughter of the High Dukes public house to being an orphan and had to go through a divorce, how could they be as strong as Qin Miaomiao.
Initially, she had hidden the intention of making Lin Mo lose face. Furthermore, Yue Zhu Liked Qin Miaomiao, which was why Old Madam Yue wanted Qin Miaomiao to be her daughter-inw. At this moment, her heart truly ached for her.
The imperial physician had thought of many ways to make it difficult for Qin Miaomiao to use the medicine, so old madam Yue ordered someone to get the imperial physician over.
After the imperial physician arrived, he said to old madam Yue, Miss Qins thoughts are too heavy, and she has been caught in the cold rain and is showing signs of a serious cold. Its better to rest well and use more medicine.
The problem is that her spleen and stomach are severely damaged and she vomited out all the medicine she took...
Old madam Yue said anxiously, How can this be good? If her spleen and stomach are damaged and she cant take the medicine, how can she get better?
The imperial physician said, Why dont we try using the medicinal cuisine? The crown prince in the pce also had a cold and couldnt drink the medicine. The Empress made the medicinal cuisine and let the crown prince drink the medicine.
Old Madam Yue ordered the chefs in the residence to make the medicinal cuisine, but the chefs in the residence were all from Longxi and did not know how to make it.
Old Madam Yue looked at the weakening Qin Miaomiao and sighed.
Yue Zhan returned from the pce and saw the weak Qin Miaomiao. He thought of Jing Hua whom he met in the pce when he was young. At that time, Jing Hua was still young.
Although she was a princess, because of her mothers ipetence, she was not allowed to go to the emperor.
Therefore, even though Jing Hua was a noble princess, the pce maids around her were still sly andzy. They did not follow her at all times.
That day, in order to pick up the shuttlecock that fell into theke, she went into the river and almost died.
When Yue Zhan passed by, he happened to see Jing Hua and saved her.
However, she was full of thoughts on the shuttlecock in theke. When the pce maids around Yue Zhan saw that the princess had fallen into the river, they were scared out of their wits. They advised Jing Hua to quickly return to the pce to change into new clothes.
However, at that time, Jing Hua went down to the river to pick up the shuttlecock without hesitation. This was the first time Yue Zhan had seen such a stubborn woman.
In the end, the shuttlecock was salvaged. However, Jing Hua was punished by her mother to kneel in the small temple hall in the pce.
At that time, Yue Zhan also sneakily went to the small temple hall in the pce because the Hui Lin Emperor liked it.
Seeing that Jing Hua was extremely weak and sleepy, she still held the shuttlecock in her hand.
Later, Yue Zhan found jing hua unconscious in the temple hall and went to invite the imperial physician.
The imperial physician said that it was fortunate that it was in time, otherwise Jing Hua would have been delirious from the fever.
The Emperor and Empress severely reprimanded Jing Huas pce servants and mother-inw.
When Yue Zhan returned to Longxi, he still could not forget Jing Hua and was afraid that she would be bullied. He wrote letters to Jing Hua, but he did not reply to any of them.
When he asked to marry Jing Hua, he half-forced Hui Lindi and sincerely begged Hui Lindi. Seeing that he was sincere to Jing Hua, Hui Lindi agreed to grant him the marriage.
Chapter 328 - Old Madam Yue went to the palace to ask for medicine
Chapter 328: Chapter 328, Old Madam Yue went to the pce to ask for medicine
When Yue Zhan requested the emperor to grant him a marriage, he already knew of Lin Mos existence..
But he also knew that Lin Mos mother was on a hunger strike and forced Lin Mo not to marry Jing Hua.
Then he might as well marry her!
After dealing with the Longxi king, he would rather not have this military rank that had been passed down from generation to generation, and also want to protect Jing Hua.
However, Jinghua kept sending letters back to Chang an, asking for peace. What he received was Jinghua telling him that the shuttlecock that she protected with her life was Lin Mos first gift to her.
At that time, Yue Zhan realized that he was a joke.
Jinghua didnt need his protection at all. This silly princess would rather fall in love with the weak schr Lin Mo than him.
Yue Zhan didnt want to be the person who hurt Jinghua, so he had to let her go and let her go back to Chang an. However, he still couldnt let go of the girl that he had protected for years.
He had been paying attention to Chang an and knew that Lin Mo didnt treat her well. He knew that she had taken in many facemasks, and all of them looked like Lin Mo. .
Yue Zhan, Yue Zhan!
Yue Zhan heard old madam Yues voice and came back to his senses. Mother, whats the matter?
Qin Miao Miao cant go on like this without taking medicine.
Ill go to the pce and ask the empress to tell me how to prepare the medicinal cuisine. You take good care of Miao Miao.
Okay.Yue Zhan agreed.
Old Madam Yue called Yue Zhu over and went into the pce together.
Yue Zhan heard Qin Miaomiaos murmurs and called out for his mother.
Yue Zhan could not help but ovep the pale-faced her with Jing Hua, who was in a daze in the small temple hall at that time.
Thinking back tost night, when she threw herself into his arms, Yue Zhans heart was a little chaotic.
He thought back tost night, the moment she hugged him, he felt his breathing suffocate. This feeling had never appeared on Jing Hua before..
For a moment, he could not tell if he really loved Jing Hua, or if he felt more pity than affection?
..
It was the time to take a break in the Changle Pce.
When Lu Chen was still resting, he had apanied Qiao Jinniang to take a break in the afternoon. However, as he rested, his mood changed..
Qiao jinniang said softly, Youre His Majesty now. Why are you still fooling around in broad daylight like you did in Lin an?
Even though being an emperor means that you cant have a loving couple in the day...
Before Lu Chen could finish his sentence, Yu Yans soft voice came from the door, Your Highness, Old Madam Yue is kneeling at the pce door saying that she has something urgent to see you.
Qiao Jin said, The rain has just stopped outside and the ground is filled with water. Let Her in quickly.
Lu Chen said, Lets Rest first.
Qiao Jin stood up and said, If old madam Yue didnt have something urgent to do, she wouldnt be kneeling at the pce entrance at this time.
Lu Chen frowned and thought that it would be best if old madam Yue really had something urgent to do. If not, no matter what Yue Zhan did, he would still give Yue Zhan a marriage to let old madam Yue have some things to do so that she wouldnt have toe into the pce from time to time.
Lady Qiao received old Madam Yue.
Old Madam Yue knelt down and said, It is not right to disturb the empress. However, Qin Miaomiao was caught in the rainst night. His high fever did not subside and he suffered from a serious cold.
Because of his familys decline, he often suffered from hunger in the southwest, causing his spleen and stomach to be weak.
Right now, he would spit out whatever medicine he drank, and he could not take any medicine. He had been in a daze for a long time.
Hearing from the imperial physician that the Empress knew how to make medicinal cuisine, I dared to ask the Empress for a recipe.
Lu Chen said, There are many high-ranking officials and nobles in Chang an who have cooks who know how to make medicinal cuisine. Are you bothering the empress over such a small matter? Or do you see the Empress as a Cook?
Old Madam Yue repeatedly kowtowed and said, I dare not.
Under her sleeves, Lady Qiao fiercely pinched Lu Chen.
The wealth of the Yue family did notst long. Old Madam Yue was only the daughter of a small family in Longxi. How would she know that the cook of many prestigious families in Chang an knew medicinal cuisine.
Lady Qiao said, Old Madam Yue is just worried about saving people. Please forgive Her Majesty.
Old Madam Yue, you dont have to worry. Ill let Bai Sichen follow you to the Yue family. Bai sichens medicinal cuisine is delicious and protects the stomach.
If you still cant eat it, you cane to the pce to look for me and think of a way.
Old Madam Yue thanked her profusely.
When they left the pce, Yue Zhu whispered to old madam Yue:
Mother, I heard that His Majesty has always been a gentle and refined gentleman. When he was angry just now, it scared me to death. Fortunately, the empress was not angry.
Thinking about it now, old madam Yue also felt that she was impulsive. It was just that she came from a small ce. When she heard the imperial physician say so, she only knew that the empress knew medicinal cuisine.
However, old madam Yue did not regret it. She finally had a way to save Qin Miaomiao.
In the Changle Pce.
Qiao Jin said to Lu Chen unhappily, Old Madam Yue is already so old. Why are you ming her?
She has only met Qin Miaomiao a few times, it is already rare for her to be willing to enter the pce for Qin Miaomiao.
Lu Chen said, Didnt Qin Miaomiao not want to marry Yue Zhan?
If she knew that old madam Yue entered the pce to ask for medicinal cuisine for her and was scolded by me, would she be so moved that she would marry me?
Lu Chen, did you peek at my book again?Qiao Jinniang asked.
Lu Chen said softly, Zhou Simingsst wish was to treat Qin miaomiao well. If she can get this family member, I think Zhou Siming will be able to rest in peace.
..
It was precisely because Bai Sichen was a good cook that he rose to fame in the pce.
He made a bowl of herbal porridge and fed it to Qin Miaomiao. Finally, Qin Miaomiao stopped spitting out the medicine.
Bai Sichen did not return to the pce immediately. Instead, he stayed at the Yue residence to Nurse Qin Miaomiao for three days.
He only returned to the pce to report to the Empress when he had recovered and was able to take the medicine.
Qin Miaomiao was already able to get out of bed. When he delivered Bai sichen, he naturally thanked her profusely:
Thank you, Bai Sichen.
Bai sichen said, Miss Qin, you dont have to be so polite. I was only following the Empressorders. If you want to thank her, you should thank Madam Yue.
Bai sishi then told Qin Miaomiao about how old Madam Yue had entered the pce to ask for medicinal food for Qin Miaomiao and how Lu Chen had reprimanded her.
When Qin Miaomiao heard this, she was extremely touched. She had thought that other than her mother, no one else would treat her like this.
Qin Miaomiao then went to old madam Yues courtyard and knelt down. I will never forget old Madam Yues great kindness to me.
Qin Miaomiao really did not know how to repay old Madam Yues kindness by entering the pce to beg the Empress for an unimportant person.
Old Madam Yue helped Qin miaomiao up and said, Miaomiao, you have yet to recover from your serious illness. There is no need for you to give me such a great gift. I have only done what I should have done.
Silly Child, dont give me such a great gift. Didnt you say that you are my goddaughter? It is only right for godmother to do so.
If you are willing, in a few days, when you have recovered from your illness, we will hold a ceremony to recognize you as my goddaughter. Let thedies and nobles of Chang ane and witness you as my goddaughter. ...
Qin Miaomiao threw herself into old madam Yues embrace and said, Mother.
The moment Yue Zhan entered old madam Yues courtyard, he heard Qin Miaomiao call out mother, and he was shocked!
He wasnt sure what he was thinking, but Qin Miaomiao had already called him mother?
Old Madam Yue saw Yue Zhan enter and said, Tomorrow is thentern festival. The 18th day of the first lunar month is a good day. Why dont we invite the guests on that day....
Before she could finish, Yue Zhan said in shock, The 18th day of the first lunar month is not an auspicious day for marriage. Furthermore, its only a few days. Do you have time to prepare for the wedding?
Chapter 329 - , Lantern Riddle
Chapter 329: Chapter 329, Lantern Riddle
Old Madam Yue asked Yue Zhan in a daze, Marriage? What Marriage?
Yue Zhan said, Didnt you want me to marry Qin Miaomiao on the 18th of the first lunar month?
Old madam Yue snorted lightly, You wish. Im a Godfather. Didnt you not want to marry Miaomiao previously?
You, just continue thinking about your Jing Hua. I Only Want My Miaomiao and Zhuer. Your two sisters will be much more at ease.
Yue Zhan heaved a sigh of relief, but for some reason, he felt a little disappointed.
Since Qin Meng Meng could get out of bed, it was naturally not good for her to stay in Yue Zhans courtyard anymore. In addition, she had added some servants to the residence over the past few days, so she could go back and live there now.
Old Madam Yue said, You are also a servant there, so you might not care about it. Why Dont you stay in our Yue residence for now and wait until after the wedding reception.
Yue Zhu said, Thats right, you can stay in the same courtyard as me.
Qin Miaomiao stayed behind as well.
The next day, there was a banquet at the Lantern Festival Pce. Today, Lady Qiao arrived at the banquet early. After seeing Qin Miaomiao, she even asked about her body.
Qin Miaomiao walked to Lady Qiaos side and said, Im already much better. Thank you for your concern, Lady Qiao. I even invited white sashimi to take care of me.
Lady Qiao Jin said, Its good that youre feeling better.
Todays Lantern Festival banquet was as lively as usual. After the banquet was over.
Lu Chen brought Lady Qiao Jin and Lu Xi up to the city wall of the pce gate to admire thenterns.
On the main street, the pcenterns drove out of the pce gate. In addition, there were alsonterns from various prefectures and noble families. There were all kinds ofnterns, and they were extremely beautiful.
Not far away, fireworks were blooming. The fire trees and silver flowers were blooming, and the full moon was just right. The moonlight shone on the side of Lu Chens face. Qiao Jin looked over and nted a kiss on the side of Lu Chens face.
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jin and used hisrge sleeve to cover up his kiss on her lips.
Among the officials who were admiring thenterns, there were many who were looking at the Empress on the city wall.
Manymoners hade to admire the empresss appearance. Just now, Qiao Jins Kiss had caused many old officials to shake their heads and say that it was immoral.
Seeing the emperor cover his ears with his sleeves and help each other, they shook their heads even more violently.
Little Lu XI tiptoed and said, Mother, I want some incense too.
Lu Chen pushed Little Lu Xi. Go and y with your younger brother.
The youngdies below were all envious of the Empresss deep love.
Hong Yang was about to shake his head when he heard his daughter Hong Qifengs eyes filled with envy:
The rtionship between Her Majesty and the Empress is really good. It would be great if I could find a husband who only has me in his eyes in the future.
Hong Yang said, Since ancient times, it is normal for her majesty to have three pces and six courtyards. Now that the Empress is the only favorite, the power of the rtives is increasing day by day. Sigh...
Hong Qifeng ignored her father and pulled Yue Zhu and Qin Miaomiao to go guess thentern riddles.
Today, there were quite a number of merchants on the streets that hade up with the gimmick of guessing thentern riddles and giving gifts. The streets were crowded with people.
Yue Zhan and the young master of the Hong family followed behind the three women, protecting them.
Yue Zhu could only guess some lightntern riddles. Thenterns that she won along the way were all guessed by Hong Qifeng and Qin Miaomiao.
Young Master Hong, who had been quiet at the beginning, gradually began to chat with Qin Miaomiao. Most of them were romantic poems..
Although Yue Zhan could understand them, he was not interested at all.
Gradually, the original five-person party became Hong Qifeng and Yue Zhu, while Qin Miaomiao and Young Master Hong walked together. Both of them were chatting andughing.
Only Yue Zhan was a little lonely.
The few of them walked to a jewelry stall.
Yue Zhan recognized Jing Hua who was wearing a mask at a nce. He went forward and said, Only You Tonight? Wheres Lin Mo?
Jing hua smiled faintly and said, I didnt eat well at the pce banquet just now. He went to buy some snacks for me. Are you bringing your sister out to y?
Yue Zhan replied. He saw the jasmine flower hairpin in Jing Huas hand and said, This hairpin is a perfect match for you. Ill give it to you as your wedding gift.
At this moment, a peddler at the side said, Young master, this hairpin is not for sale. You have to guess thentern riddle correctly before you can give it away.
There are many people who have guessed thisntern riddle, but there is still no one who can guess it correctly.
Yue Zhu said from the side, Today, along the way, there is nontern riddle that Sister Qifeng and sister Miaomiao cant guess correctly.
The peddler pointed to thentern riddle hanging at the side and said, You guys take your time to guess. If you can guess correctly, this jasmine ze hairpin will be given to you.
Yue Zhu read the note at the bottom of thentern and said, The left side is the mountain, the right side is the mountain, the top is the mountain, the bottom is the mountain, the mountain is connected to the mountain, the mountain is backed by the mountain, the mountain bites the mountain, it is not the mountain.
Yue Zhu smiled and said, I know the answer to this riddle, it is the word.
The vendor shook his head and said, It is not the word. If the left side is also the mountain, the right side is also the mountain, the word is only up and down the mountain.
Hearing this, Yue Zhu racked her brain, but in the end, she still couldnt think of a word. Sister Qifeng, do you know what the word mountainis?
This was also the first time Hong Qifeng had encountered this puzzle. She wrote and wrote in her hand, and she kept feeling that there were some wrong words.
Yue Zhan probed, Could it be a word? This word is notmon.
The peddler shook his head and said, Not really. There should be the mountaincharacter on all sides.
Young Master Hong moved closer to Qin Miaomiaos ear and asked, Do you know the riddle of this character?
Qin Miaomiao thought about it carefully and shook his head.
Jing Hua also thought about it for a long time, but he still could not think of anything. Lin Mo came and let him guess. He is a great expert at guessingntern riddles...
Yue Zhans brows were tightly knitted. Perhaps it was because the people gathered here were all distinguished figures from Chang an, and there were also many people who came forward.
Princess Fu Lu picked up the note. Seeing that she finally had a riddle that she could recognize all the characters, she was eager to participate in thepetition.
After guessing that two words were wrong, Qiao Lui wanted to remind her, but Fu Lu covered his mouth:
Dont remind me. I didnt even get a single riddle right when I came out with you. Its all up to you to guess. If you continue like this, I wonte to the Lantern Festival with you anymore.
Qiao lui was so obedient that he kept quiet.
Qin Miaomiao walked to Yue Zhans side and used herrge sleeve to block her and Yue Zhans hands. She used her cold fingertips to write a word in Yue Zhans palm.
Yue Zhan lowered his eyes and looked at Qin Miaomiao.
Qin Miaomiao nodded lightly at Yue Zhan.
Yue Zhan said, Its the word field, the field of the field.
The peddler smiled and said, You guessed it right. You were the first one to guess thisntern riddle today. Come,e, this jasmine hairpin is for you.
Yue Zhan took the jasmine hairpin and handed it to Jing Hua. He said, Its the wedding gift, you can take it.
After Jing Hua took the hairpin, she said to Qin Miao, Thank you very much.
Yue Zhan said, I guessed it.
Jing Huaughed lightly and did not expose him anymore. She only said to Yue Zhan, You should cherish the person in front of you.
Lin Mo brought over the newly bakedmb pancake. When he saw Yue Zhan, he put his arm around Jing Huas waist and said, So its general Yue.
Princess Fu Lu smelled the fragrance of the pancake and said, The Jin Niang is already the empress. The Lantern Festival in the pce is still as terrible as ever. Im hungry too.
Jing hua helplessly handed the pancake in Lin Mos hand to Fu Lu and said, Lin Mo, lets go back.
Chapter 330 - Qin Miaomiao’s request for a marriage
Chapter 330: Chapter 330: Qin Miaomiaos request for a marriage
Fu Lu took themb pancake in his hand and gave half to Qin Miaomiao.
I havent seen you for a few days, how did you lose so much weight? No wonder many people say that you cried so hard because of the divorce!
Qin miaomiao said, You have two bodies, so I wont fight with you for food. You Can Eat by yourself
I lost a lot of weight because I had an illness these few days, but Im much better now.
Young Master Hong asked with concern, What illness? Have you asked the imperial physician to take a look?
Our Hong residence has a good rtionship with the head of the courtyard. How about I bring you to the head of the courtyards residence to pay a visit?
Hong Qifeng smiled at the side. Brother, if Miss Qins body wasnt that healthy, she wouldnt have been able to y for so long. I finally understand what it means to be worried.
Young Master Hongs face turned red. Qifeng, what nonsense are you talking about? I just...
Young Master Hong had known Qin Miaomiao for a long time. However, at that time, Qin Miaomiao was the daughter of the High Duke. He was only the son of an official in the Eastern Pce and didnt have much social interaction.
However, after strolling around today, Young Master Hong Liked Qin Miaomiao.
He had never seen such a gentle, virtuous, and knowledgeable woman like Qin Miaomiao.
Yue Zhan saw that young master Hong was bashful, and he felt a sense of difort gathering in his heart.
Miaomiao, your body is not in good shape. Its better for you to return to the manor to recuperate. Zhuer has left.
As he spoke, Yue Zhan held Qin Miaomiaos wrist and walked towards the Yue residence.
Young Master Fu Lu, Hong, and the others were left behind.
Fu Lu looked at Qiao lui and said, Did I not see wrongly that Yue Zhan held Qin Miaomiaos hand just now?
He just gave cousin Jing Hua a hairpin, and now hes holding Qin Miaos hand when he turns around?
Qiao lui said, I think so.
Qin Miao followed Yue Zhans strides and almost could not keep up with him. His steps were too big, and he had no choice but to jog to keep up with Yue Zhan.
Slow down, general Yue.
Yue Zhan walked to a bridge and ordered the guards to send Yue Zhu back to the Yue residence first.
There were lights by the bridge today. The willow trees by the side were also covered with papernterns, as bright as day.
Yue Zhan said to Qin Miao unhappily, You have only known young master Hong for a short while, why are you smiling so brightly at him?
Do you think the Hong family will allow the eldest son of the first wife to marry an orphan girl now that they have just obtained the position of Emperors Teacher?
Qin Miao Miaos lips curled slightly. In three days, wont the Yue residence invite the guests to acknowledge me as their goddaughter?
When that timees, I wont be an orphan anymore. The marriage between the Hong and Yue families...
Yue Zhan frowned and said, Dont be shy. Young Master Hong didnt even say he wanted to marry you.
Qin miaomiao said, I know.
Then dont smile so frivolously at others in the future. My Yue familys daughter should have the bearing of a martial generals daughter.
Yue Zhan didnt like Qin Miaomiao smiling at other men like that at all.
Today was the Lantern Festival, and it was also a good day for men and women to date. There were several couples of lovers on the bridge.
Yue Zhan felt a little embarrassed when he saw the intimacy between the men and women, but he forgot that his hand was still holding Qin Miaomiaos wrist, never letting go.
Qin Miaomiao stared at the long and slender hand that was holding a thinyer of cocoon on her wrist, and she felt her heart beat like a drum.
It was as if Yue Zhan had emerged from the darkness that day, dispelling her fear and fear.
For the first time, Qin Miaomiao experienced what Fu Lu had described as the attraction between a man and a woman.
The second round of fireworks in the imperial pce was about to bloom again. Many people stopped and watched, but Qin Miaomiao felt that the zing trees and silver flowers in the sky could not evenpare to the towering figure in front of her.
..
On the 16th day of the first lunar month, the morning court that had been closed for a long time was reopened. For a time, Chang an was busy again.
Qiao Jinniang was free. All the concubines in the six pces had gone out of the pce. The Shang Pce was in charge of the affairs of the Shang Pce, so there was little need for her to take a look.
After all, Qiao Jinniang was the only master of the six pces now. All the tricks and tricks that used to be used in the pce were unnecessary now.
Several shops in Chang an city had also be official. Now, she only needed to study some new dishes.
In the afternoon, she received an invitation from Qin Miaomiao, ordering him to enter the pce.
After entering the pce, Qin Miaomiao first thanked Qiao Jinniang for sending white sashimi to take care of her, and then said,
I would like to ask the empress to give me a marriage decree.
Qiao Jinniang smiled lightly and said: I wonder which Langjun is so blessed?
Qin Miaomiao lowered his head and said: Its Yue Zhan.
Qiao jinniang said: Old Madam Yue has already begged me twice to bestow a marriage upon Yue Zhan. Didnt you not want to marry Yue Zhan previously?
But for old madam Yue to enter the pce because of your serious illness, you are willing to marry Yue Zhan for old madam Yue?
Qin Miao hastily said, No, thats not it. Its because I like him.
Qin Miao did not need to hide anything in front of Qiao Jinniang. He told her the truth:
In the past, I always could not understand the husband and wife rtionship that Jing Hua spoke of. I also could not understand why the prince consort of Qin was willing to give up the position of Duke for the sake of the princess. Now I understand...
Qiao jinniang said, Then what about Yue Zhan? is he willing to marry you?
Qin Miao lowered his head and thought about how Yue Zhan had walked over happily when he saw Jing Hua yesterday. He said softly,
He should not be willing to marry me. He only has eldest Princess Jing Hua in his heart. Its just that the date of eldest Princess Jing Huas marriage has already been set..
Im afraid theres no hope for the two of them...
Lady Qiao took a sip of hot tea and said, I can issue a marriage decree, but its just a small one. Im afraid that if he doesnt like you, you will suffer even more grievance.
Your marriage to Lin Mo is a partnership, but if you are moved, there is another person in your husbands heart. In the future, Im afraid he will only be wronged. My mother is a good example.
Thank you for your advice, Your Highness. I know in my heart that I only wish to be by his side.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Hong Ling to invite the provincial officials and wrote a marriage decree.
..
After Qin Miaomiao returned to the Yue residence, he went to old madam Yues room.
Qin Miaomiao said to old madam Yue, Old Madam, today, I ventured into the pce to request an imperial decree from the Empress.
Old madam Yue asked, What imperial decree?
Qin miaomiao said shyly, Its an imperial decree to bestow a marriage upon me and Yue Zhan. It should be able toe tomorrow.
Old Madam Yue held Qin Miaomiaos hand. She had the same concerns as Lady Qiao:
Silly child, if its to repay your kindness, you dont have to put yourself through this. Yue Zhan only has peace in his heart. Dont put yourself through this.
Qin miaomiao said, Im not putting myself through this. Im really willing to marry Yue Zhan. He has already saved me twice. That day, I killed myself. If it wasnt for him saving my life, I would have died...
Old Madam Yue was naturally happy to have such a daughter-inw. Please bless the ancestors of the Yue family. In the future, when you enter our Yue residence, I will definitely treat you like my own mother.
Qin Miaomiao sat beside Old Madam Yue and threw herself into her embrace. She called out sweetly, Mother.
Old Madam Yue was much better than Madam Lin.
Yue Zhan had been restless in the study. asionally, Qin Miaomiaos figure would appear when he was reading.
He closed his book, closed his eyes, and massaged his temples. He wondered if he was sick?
Perhaps he would not be sick after the banquet on the 18th of the first lunar month. At that time, Qin Miaomiao would be his godsister..
Chapter 331 - The 331st Chapter set the wedding date
Chapter 331: The 331st Chapter set the wedding date
However, on the 18th day of the first lunar month, Yue Zhan did not see any banquet in the manor. After finishing his lunch, the concierge hurriedly came in and said, General, an imperial decree hase from the pce.
Yue Zhan hurriedly went to the main door to wee the imperial decree.
This was the first imperial decree that Lady Qiao Jin had issued to the outside world. Only after hearing thest word did Yue Zhan realize that this was an imperial decree.
He was supposed to resist the imperial decree. It was just an imperial decree.
But for some reason, he still epted it. He thought to himself that if this was an imperial decree, he could find an excuse to resist.
But this was the first time that the Empress had issued an imperial decree. If he disobeyed, the Emperor would definitely not let him off lightly.
For the soldiers of Longxi and for the Yue family, he had better ept this imperial decree.
Qin Miaomiao knelt down and thanked her. Thank you for the Empressreward.
Seeing that her son had epted the imperial edict, Old Madam Yue smiled and said to Qin miaomiao, Good, good. Now I can rest at ease even if I close my eyes.
Mother, what nonsense are you talking about?Qin miaomiao said, You will live to be a hundred years old.
Yue Zhu smiled and said, Thats right, mother. You still have to take care of the children for sister-inw and the others. Dont you want to hold your grandson?
Yue Zhan knocked on Yue Zhus head and said, Whats the point of saying all this at such a young age?
Yue Zhu covered her head and hugged Qin Miaos arm as she said, Sister-inw, my brother is bullying me.
Qin Miao nced at Yue Zhans calm gaze.
She thought that he probably did not like this imperial decree very much. However, it did not matter. She thought that she would be able to make Yue Zhan like her one day.
The imperial edict was given.
The eldest princess of Jinghuas residence and Marquis an Yuans residence all sent their congrattory gifts.
With marquis an Yuans residence taking the lead, the wives of all the ministers of Chang an also sent their congrattory gifts.
It was the most sullen thing for Madam Lin to send her congrattory gifts. It was still unknown how Chang an wouldugh at Lin Mo. .
Her ex-wife and eldest princess of Jinghuas ex-husband had formed a pair.
Madam Lin recalled that this was the Empressimperial edict and felt that the Empress had deliberatelye to oppose her.
By matchmaking Lin Mo and Jing Hua, and then matchmaking Qin Miaomiao and Yue Zhan, the Lin family had lost all face.
Madam Lin.
When Madam Lin went out, she met Hong Yangs wife.
Madam Hong.
Madam Hong said, Madam Lin, do you have time to go to the teahouse for a Chat?
Madam Lin followed Madam Hong to a teahouse. Madam Hong closed the doors and windows and said,
Madam Lin, I have an important matter to discuss with you.
Madam Lin said, What is it?
Madam Hong said awkwardly, I have an elder sister who is married to the Imperial Academy of Medicine and is currently a daughter-inw. Brother-inw is currently in the Imperial Academy of Medicine. He said that His Majesty has recently asked the Imperial Academy of Medicine to prepare a pill for avoiding children.
Madam Lin said in bewilderment, There is only the empress in the pce. Why would she need a pill for avoiding children? Could it be that there is a new person in the pce?
That was really the Empresss retribution. who asked her to keep randomly clicking on the couples chart.
Madam Hong said, If there was someone in the pce, I would not havee to look for you.
It is because His Majesty felt sorry for the Empress who had just given birth to the second prince. He wanted the empress to give birth again in a few years, so he ordered the imperial doctor to make a pill for avoiding children.
Madam Lin sighed and said, This new emperor dotes on his empress even more than the retired emperor. However, it shouldnt be a big deal for the empress to use a pill for avoiding children, right?
Madam Hong said, If the empress were to take it, it would be fine.
However, the imperial hospital said that there was a third part of the poison in the pill. If a woman kept taking the pill for avoiding children, it would harm her body.
Therefore, His Majesty asked the Imperial Hospital to concoct a pill for men to take!
Madam Lin said in shock and anger, How can this be? His Majesty is the most respected person in the world, how can he take such a Pill?
Madam Hong said helplessly, Who says so!
My sister also felt that this matter was inappropriate, so she told me about it. However, as the wives of the officials, we cant easily interfere in His Majestys Affairs!
But we cant just watch His Majesty take care of the Royal Family Like This!
Its not like this man doesnt have a pill, but most of the time, the princesses are the ones who drink it.
What kind of person is his majesty? How can he drink this?
Madam Lin, Prime Minister Lin and His Majesty are fated to grow up together. Why Dont you find Prime Minister Lin and persuade His Majesty?
Hearing this, Madam Lin suddenly thought of the medicine that Lin Mo had been taking these years.
Lin Mo was not sick, what kind of medicine did he take every day?
He had been with Jing Hua for more than four years, but Jing Huas stomach had not moved at all. Madam Lin had thought that there was some secret technique in the pce..
Thinking about it, it was likely that Lin Mo himself was also taking that kind of medicine.
Madam Lin said to Madam Hong, I will talk to Prime Minister about this matter and advise his majesty. Madam Hong, I will take my leave first.
After madam Lin returned to the manor, she told Prime Minister Lin about this matter:
His Majesty is too much of a troublemaker. He allowed the foreign rtives to monopolize the country and the harem to meddle in politics. Now, he is actually drinking the pill to avoid the child. He is His Majesty!
Prime Minister Lin also felt that it was inappropriate, His Majesty is indeed being ridiculous. I will enter the pce to advise His Majesty.
Madam Lin said, Also, the soup that your good son is drinking every day isnt also a pill to avoid the child, right?
Otherwise, why hasnt eldest Princess Jing Huas stomach moved yet?
Prime Minister Lin said, Why are you still worried about Moers matter? Since he and Princess Jing Hua are officially married, he will definitely put his children first. As for his majesty...
Prime Minister Lin Sighed. When he was young, he had thought about when he would enter the court as an official and meet His Majestys lecherous nature. As a loyal subject, how should he advise him?
However, he had never thought that one day, he would have a headache because of his majestys loyalty.
Madam Lin pursed her lips and said, Who knows if Moer can still give birth after drinking so many years of medicine? The marriage of eldest Princess Jing Hua is really...
The imperial edict has been issued. Do you still want the Lin family to resist the imperial edict and kill them?Prime Minister Lin said in annoyance, Stop talking nonsense.
..
In February, all living things were revived and the spring was bright and beautiful. Although there was still some spring chill, it could not be stopped from enjoying the spring.
In February, the two dragons raised their heads and the Empress would go to the imperial manor to personally cultivate and pray for the good weather for Big Tang this year.
In mid-february, Old Madam Yue flipped through the almanac and also set the wedding date to be the day of the wedding between eldest Princess Jing Hua and Lin Mo. .
There was no other way. There was only one auspicious day in the near future.
If she waited any longer, it would have to wait until next year. Old Madam Yue was afraid that her son would be muddled and that the longer it was, the more dangerous it would be. Naturally, she wanted to marry him as soon as possible so that Yue Zhan would be able to give up his heart.
Yue Zhan heard about the wedding date that old madam Yue had set and said, Mother, this wedding date is extremely inappropriate.
There is only one good day recently,old madam Yue said, If we wait for another year, there will be too many changes. The guests whoe to our Yue residence and the guests who go to the Lin residence are not the same.
Moreover, the Lin Residences banquet is at noon. Very few people can attend the night banquet of the Fuma residence.
As for the Yue familys wedding, it was held at night, so there was naturally no need to worry about the guests bumping into each other.
Miaomiao is really a good girl. Just listen to your mother. The wedding date is set on that day, so dont keep thinking about Jing Hua.
Yue Zhan said, Qin Miaomiao is going to participate in the ENKE examination. This wedding date is not long after the Enke examination. Im afraid that she doesnt have the energy...
Old Madam Yue was finally relieved. It seemed that Yue Zhan did not hate Qin Miaomiao in his heart and would still think for her.
Old Madam Yue smiled and said, Since thats the case, there are some misceneous ceremonies that can be simplified. Just Be Considerate.
However, when the Chang an officials received the wedding invitations from the Lin residence and the Yue residence, they were all in a difficult position..
Chapter 332 - avoiding seeds medicine
Chapter 332: Chapter 332, avoiding seeds medicine
The spring in February was just right. All the spring in the pce was revealed, and all the flowers in the changle pce began to bud.
Qiao Jinniang had nothing to do, so she used the flowers in the pce to make flower cakes. In another half a month, it would be clear and bright again. She was a little greedy for green balls to eat, but there was no wormwood in the pce.
So she went to the temple to burn incense and pray for blessings. She made a trip to the Yuan Xi Temple.
There were many wild vegetables and weeds on the mountain of Yuanxi Temple. The people of Chang an did not like to eat green tuber, so no one picked the whole piece of Wormwood.
Qiao Jin dismissed the internal attendants and pce maids. She only took Yuyan and hongling to the mountain behind Yuanxi Temple to pick wormwood.
Today, she was only wearing a green traditional dress. The hairpin on her head was also a low-key silver hairpin. She did not wear any gold jewelry, because she was afraid that people would find it troublesome to recognize her identity.
Have you heard that the Qiao family forced His Majesty to drink pill pills? The Qiao familys rtives have exclusive power, and the Empress is really too much to control the court!
Qiao Jinniang, who was digging wild vegetables with a small hoe, was stunned when she heard this. If she really controlled the court, she would not have the leisure toe here and dig wormwood.
Ye suxin, is this true?
Thats right, suxin. Your grandfather is the chief physician of the imperial hospital, and your father is the imperial physician. You must know about this.
Ye suxin said, Aiya, Im an unmarried woman. My grandfather and father wont tell me much. Dont talk nonsense.
The spring breeze is gentle today, and the sun is just right. Why dont we put the paper kites here?
A group of young girls said, The Empress is also in the Yuanxi Temple. We are flying kites here. Will we disturb herter?
The Empress is in the abbots room. Why would shee to the back of the mountain? Lets put the paper kites here!
Qiao Jinniang picked a small basket of mugwort and felt that it was enough. Just as she was about to leave, a paper kites coincidentally fell under her feet.
Ye suxin rushed over and saw that her paper kite was stepped on by a young woman. She felt her heart ache and said, This paper kite was drawn for me by my grandfather. Why did you step on my paper kite?
Hong Ling berated, How dare you. You Dont even bow when you see the Empress. How dare you loudly me her?
Ye suxin looked up and saw Qiao Jinniangs appearance. She hurriedly knelt down and said, Your servant, your servant greets the Empress.
Lady Qiao said, If paper kites were precious, you shouldnt have taken them out to y with. Get Up.
Ye suxin looked at Lady Qiaos back with some lingering fear. Fortunately, the Empress didnt me her for her rudeness just now. But what was the use of the empress picking so much wormwood back home?
Lady Qiao returned to the pce. Just as she mashed the wormwood leaves into green juice, she heard Consort Qi and Consort Chu asking for an audience.
Qiao Jinniang didnt stop what she was doing and let the two of them in.
Consort Qi said, Your Majesty, there are quite a few madams outside the pce saying that you forced His Majesty to use the pill to avoid the child. That Lady Lin Xiang and Lady Hong even came to look for Consort Tai together...
Consort Chu also followed up, Not only that, the imperial concubines are all looking for the imperial concubines and want to write a letter to impeach you. Lady Lin Xiang also came to me, but I ignored her.
Qiao Jinniang poured the wormwood juice into the glutinous rice flour and rubbed the green glutinous rice flour:
Ha, what medicine does his majesty take? They are very well-informed. I have a good temper. If I dont punish the people in the pce, they will bewless.
Consort Chu advised, Consort, dont be angry. What are you doing? I have never seen it before.
Consort Qiao said, This is the famous green mass of Jiangnan during the Qingming Festival. It has bean paste and sesame paste. If you two are free, please wait for a moment. After ites out of the oven, bring a few back to the imperial residence for your mother and themandery prince to try.
Thank you, Empress.Consort Qi said with a smile, Brother Bao is thinking about the pastries you made. He said that the pastries of the hundred savory restaurant are not as delicious as those personally made by the Empress.
Qiao Jinniang smiled lightly at thispliment. She ced the green blobs into the steamer and steamed them. When they came out of the steamer, the green blobs mixed with the fragrance of Wormwood could not help but stir ones appetite.
Qiao Jinniang packed two boxes and ordered someone to deliver them to marquis an Yuans estate. She also packed two boxes each for consort qi and Consort Chu.
There was not much left, so she took them to the Tai Chi Pce.
It seemed that she had not made pastries for Lu Chen for a long time.
When she arrived at the Tai Chi Pce, she did not need to notify anyone to enter directly. Just as she was about to enter, she heard Hong Yangs voiceing from the main hall.
Your Majesty, the royal familys heir is rted to the country and the state. You Are Really...
Lu Chens voice was calm, and it was hard to see whether he was angry or happy as he said, Men, go and call all the imperial physicians in the Imperial Physician Hospital.
Qiao Jinniang knew that Lu Chen was already extremely angry. She entered the main hall and saw Hong Yang, Lin, and the other high officials, she smiled and said to Lu Chen, Today, I made some green balls. I thought that you havent eaten for a long time. Try It while its still hot.
Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinnianging over and said, Okay.
Qiao Jinniang ordered the pce maids to take the tes down and let Hong Yang and the others try it. The Lords can also try it.
Hong Yang and the others could only reach out and take it. The Empresss reward was even arsenic.
Empress Qiao Jin said, Sirs, you are all the pirs of our great Tang. His Majesty has just ascended the throne and is currently busy with his official duties. Sirs, you dont want to help His Majesty with his administrative matters, but instead, you are staring at the matters between the husband and wife of His Majesty and me. isnt that putting the cart before the horse?
Hong Yang blushed and said, Your Majesty, the matter of the royal heir is rted to the country...
Qiao jinniang said, I have read the history books. There are many childless emperors in history, but his majesty and I already have two sons. His Majesty and several Royal Brothers are also brothers. The royal family is not a poor family.
Before I came to Chang an, I was just an ordinary citizen. In the eyes of themon people, the country and the country are not enough to eat. As long as the officials are well-fed, they will be fine.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of the tea ced in front of Lu Chen and continued,
In fact, to themon people, the descendants of the royal family are not considered the country and the country. Whoever bes the emperor will live the same life. Only when the Emperor dies will he wear in clothes to show his filial piety.
Hong Yang and the others frowned as they looked at Qiao Jinniang. Prime Minister lin trembled and said, Your Majesty, thats not true.
Qiao Jin continued, I was born as amoner. I heard that Prime Minister Lin and Emperor Hong were born poor too. Why Dont you think about what you all thought when you were young?
Among themoners, whenever themoners had enough to eat and wear, they would praise the emperor as a wise ruler.
If the crops in the fields did not grow well this year, they would not say that the emperor was a wise ruler.
The hearts of themoners were very simple. They did not care whether the emperor epted admonitions or how many children he had. As long as he had a good day, he would be a good ruler.
When he suffers a disaster, he will not have a good life. When the mountains are high and the emperor is far away, he will scold the dog Emperor to relieve the depression in his heart.
The imperial censor who was listening at the side immediately said, Your Majesty...
Chapter 333 - , female scholar Enke
Chapter 333: Chapter 333, female schr Enke
Lu Chen gestured for the pce servant to bring a chair for Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao Jinniang sat down and said, There is a saying among the people that a county official is not as important as a county official. Although the county magistrate is a high-ranking official, many farmers will never see the county magistrate in their entire lives. It is better for them to have more power than Li Zheni.
For them, they would only defend their home and country if the northern desert, Xiliang, and other foreign tribes invaded..
As long as there was a rebellion, they would not be loyal to the emperor. To the people, it was the same for the emperor. It could be the Lu family or the Wang family or the Li family.
In times of war, the people would just drift along with the flow. Those who were unlucky would be recruited into the army as soldiers. They did not even know who they were fighting for.
It was clear that the most important thing in the country was the Peoples hearts. It was how to win the hearts of the people in the world.
It is not like the lords are staring at the affairs between the husband and wife of the emperor. If you are not ashamed, I am still ashamed!
The faces of the officials turned red from Qiao Jinniangs words.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, The Empress is right. You are all pirs of talent. Think more about how to make the hearts of the people live better and better. The right path is for our great Tangs national strength to flourish.
Dont keep staring at the matter between me and the Empress. If theres a next time, resign and return home by yourself!
Since Lu Chen had already said this much, what else could the officials say? They only felt that the mugwort stick to their teeth very..
When the people from the imperial hospital came.
Lu Chen said, The imperial hospital is the head of the great Tangs doctors. The few imperial doctors have superb medical skills. The old ye hospital has been in the imperial hospital for many years. When thete Emperor was in the imperial hospital, he was already in the imperial hospital. But now, he doesnt even have the courtesy, justice, and shame of a doctor!
Old Man Ye was already sixty-five years old and his medical skills were superb. He would be leaving the Imperial Academy of Medicine in two years.
Old Man Ye would never have thought that he would be reprimanded by the emperor at this time.
Lu Chen said coldly, From now on, Old Man Ye and imperial physician ye are not allowed to practice medicine in great Tang. Imperial Academy of Medicine will have imperial physician Fu as its new chief.
If in the future, any medicine used by the nobles in the pce is spread outside the pce, then they will be executed ording to the Law!
The officials who still had to plead on behalf of matriarch ye did not dare toe and plead for mercy when they heard the word execution.
Matriarch ye almost fainted when she heard that she could no longer practice medicine. Her son, matriarch ye, was even paler.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of tea calmly, but in her heart, she thought that she deserved it.
Whatever medicine the Emperor took, they would just obediently prescribe it.
But the father and son were like gossips who went outside the pce to say these things. They deserved to no longer practice medicine in Chang an!
In the Hong family.
Hong Qifeng was preparing for the exam when she suddenly heard amotion in the front hall.
A servant girl said, Its great-grandmother ye. The Old Academy and Imperial Physician Ye were both dismissed by the emperor.
The emperor did not allow them to practice medicine in great Tang anymore. The great-grandmother of the Ye family said that it was the madam who caused the ye family to suffer.
She only told the madam that the Emperor was using the pill to avoid children, but after that, everyone in the court knew..
They are currently making a ruckus in the front hall.
Hong qifeng sighed, Close the doors and Windows...
..
At the end of February, before the weather had warmed up, it was the first time that more than ten women had taken part in the ENKE examination.
Most of the teahouses among the people were there to watch the show, and they all felt that these women might not be able to get a good title.
However, when the results of the Enke Pce examination were released, the name of Hong Qifeng, who was among the top three, shocked everyone in the court.
On the ranking of the top schrs, Qiao Ruoyi was also among the top.
At the bottom of the ranking of the top schrs, Qin Miaomiaos name was also on the list. Fifteen women participated in the imperial examinations and three of them won. Two of them were among the top. This made many women feel honored!
For a time, the number of female students in West Mountain Academy increased by quite a bit.
The hundred-year-old Qingming Academy also made the banner of recruiting female students. Even the Imperial College no longer had to be harsh on female students.
Families with daughters who were capable and did not intend to send them to the academy also thought that it would be better to send them to study.
In the Changle Pce.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said to Qiao jinniang, Sister, our West Mountain Academy has really produced a female schr!
His Majesty once said that if West Mountain Academy produced a female top scorer, he would allocate funds to West Mountain Academy. Is that true?
Qiao Jinniang replied with a faint smile, Yes.
After Lu Chen ascended the throne, he had already allocated funds to West Mountain Academy. Nowadays, there were more and more students going to West Mountain Academy. Qiao Jinniang thought that perhaps it would be divided into two schools.
Moreover, West Mountain Academy was remote. It should also open a female academy next to the Imperial College.
Qiao Jinniang said, Hong Yang has raised a good daughter. Hong Qifeng is only fifteen years old now before reaching the marriageable age..
If its another five or ten years, shell be a rising star. If she can be an official in the imperial court, itll be considered a womans blessing.
Qiao ruoyi said, Yes, shes indeed extremely powerful, but Im not bad either.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and rubbed Qiao Ruoyis head. Yes, my sister is also very powerful.
At the Qionglin banquet, it was the first time that there was a female top scorer this year, and it was even livelier than usual.
Hong Qifeng was very young, but she was also very generous. Everyone came over to propose a toast, and she drank them all.
Hong Yang and Young Master Hong helped to stop her, but Hong Qifeng also drank quite a lot.
In the end, she was dizzy.
Qiao Jinniang let Hong Qifeng Rest in a pce. After all, it was still quite cold on a cold spring night. It was not good to drink wine and walk out of the pce door to let the cold wind make the new top scorer fall ill.
Although Qin Miao was at the bottom, she was also a middle-ranking schr. This was considered to be extremely powerful. Moreover, she was about to marry Yue Zhan. After Hong Qifeng left, there were many people who came to toast her.
Qin Miao had never had such a tolerance for wine. However, Qiao Ruoyi was sitting beside the empress. No one dared to toast her. Hong Qifeng had left again, so naturally, they came to Toast Qin Miao.
I really cant drink anymore...
Today, Miss Qin has be an intermediate schr. This wine should be drunk, it should be drunk!
Yue Zhan looked at the new schrs surrounding Qin Miaomiao from afar. He went over and snatched Qin Miaomiaos wine ss. Arent we going to toast? This general will drink with you all. Today, lets drink until were drunk.
When the new schrs who were toasting saw Yue Zhan, they did not dare to toast again.
However, Yue Zhan held them back and drank them all. How could the new recruits not give Yue Zhan face? They could only drink the wine in one gulp.
The Qionglin banquet only ended when it was 11 am.
When Qin Miao left the pce, he was already drunk.
Yue Zhan drank the new recruits to the ground. However, he was also quite drunk. Yue Zhan still retained a bit of consciousness and wanted to send Qin Miao back.
However, upon reaching the carriage, Qin Miao Miao Miao immediately turned her head to lie on Yue Zhansp, muttering, Yue Zhan...
The faint smell of alcohol lingered around Yue Zhans nose. All of a sudden, he felt something on his lips. The carriage was dark, and the only feeling he had was the womans soft lips.
This was the first time Yue Zhan had been kissed away by a woman on his own initiative..
Chapter 334 - , getting married
Chapter 334: Chapter 334, getting married
The sixth day of the third month was a great day for getting married. There were many joyous events in Chang an today, and everywhere one went, one could hear the sounds of joy.
There was also a joyous event in marquis an Yuans manor. A letter from Qiao Ruoyun had arrived from the south of the Yangtze River. Her efforts had paid off, and with the blessing of the heavens, Qiao Ruoyun was finally pregnant.
After Zheng Xiao learned of this, he went into the imperial pce and told Qiao Jinniang about this joyous event.
I originally thought that your sister would not be able to get pregnant so quickly. The heavens have pity on her. She has finally settled a worry in her heart,Zheng Xiao said.
Qiao Jinniang smiled slightly. It can be said that the bitter end hase to the bitter end. This is truly a series of joyous events.
Zheng Xiao said, Thats right. Fu Lu is going to give birth in a few months. If your sister Feng is also pregnant, the Qiao family will have a lot of children. Only that child, Ruo Yi, is left...
I know that she still holds a grudge against the Marquis because of Aunts matter, but she will have to get married eventually. Now that His Majesty has given her a new position in the Ministry of appointments to manage all the female officials in the various regions, the number of men whoe to talk about marriage has suddenly decreased by a lot.
Qiao jinniang advised, Mother, ruoyi also knows in her heart. Moreover, she is not old.
Zheng Xiao said helplessly, Im just afraid that she wont be willing to get married in the future.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Its not that the Qiao family cant afford to support her. Besides, she already has her own sry now.
Zheng Xiao:...
..
The Yue familys wedding banquet guests were not as many as the Fumas residence, but there were still quite a number of them. It was quite lively and lively.
Qin Miaomiao sat in the new house. The handkerchief in her hand was already wet with sweat. It was not her first time getting married, but it was the first time she was so nervous.
Hearing the footsteps from outside, her heart beat even harder.
The door creaked open, and after it opened, Qin Miaomiao took off the wedding fan and looked at Yue Zhan with a smile. Husband.
Yue Zhan walked to Qin Miaomiaos side and did not wait for him to say anything.
Qin Miaomiao stood up and said, Husband, if you still miss the princess, you can go to the eldest princessmansion now...
Before she could finish, Yue Zhan went up and grabbed her wrist. Youre already married to me, and you still want to be a virtuous wife in Chang an? Lin Mo can do it, but I cant do it!
Yue Zhan took a deep breath and said, I liked Jing Hua, and I wanted to protect her for the rest of my life. But she doesnt need me to be with her. If I dont want to marry you, its not impossible to resist the imperial decree!
Although His Majesty will me me for not giving the Empress Face, at worst, I wont be the general. Im not the imperial decree, but Im willing to marry you.
Qin Miao Miao pursed his lips when he heard that. His hands trembled slightly as he said, Then husband, lets Rest...
On the wedding night, the dragon and Phoenix were very happy and the candles were very bright. Old Madam Yue heard the servant girl say that there was water in the main courtyard.
Her heart finally settled down. After circling around for so many years, it was not easy for Yue Zhan to let go of the eldest princess.
Because it was an imperial decree from the Empress, the next day, after Qin Miaomiao served old madam Yue tea, she went to Chang le pce with Yue Zhan to thank him.
Seeing Qin Miaomiaos energetic appearance, Lady Qiao smiled in relief, When I first came to Chang an, only you and Fu Lu treated me very well. Now that you are married, its good.
Ruo Yun is also worried about you. Some time ago, she wrote that because she was pregnant, she could note to Chang an to attend your wedding banquet. Now, she should be at ease.
Sister-inw, Princess Wu is pregnant? Thats Great!
Qin Miaomiao was genuinely happy for his sister-inw. He also thought that if his brother was not muddle-headed, perhaps Qiao Ruoyuns child would also be able to walk. It could only be said that fate was ying tricks on people.
Sister!Qiao ruoyi entered wearing an official uniform. When she saw Qin miaomiao, she said, Sister Miaomiao.
Qin Miaomiao smiled faintly and said, Ruoyi, you look really imposing in a fifth-grade official uniform.
Qiao ruoyi also smiled and said, Its all thanks to big sister for ordering the imperial court to make the official robes for the female officials of the previous dynasty look extremely good.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, You dont have to suck up to me like that.
Ruoyi said, Im not sucking up to you. Qifengs fourth-grade official robe looks even better.
Nowadays, nothing canpare to a female officials official robe. Even His Majesty praised Qifengs official robe in the morning court today.
Ruoyi continued, Sister, I wanted to go to Lin an to offer an incense stick to Miss Xie Yun during the Qingming Festival. Unfortunately, I cant go to Lin an now.
Thinking of this today, I wanted to ask sister to offer an incense stick, but big sister is pregnant. Can you write to glutinous rice and ask her to offer an incense stick to Xie Yun for me?
Qiao jinniang replied calmly, Okay.
..
Hong Qifeng and Qiao Ruoyis official positions were the new ones in the Ministry of appointments. They were in charge of the affairs of the various female official departments and were usually extremely busy.
This official position also required morning court sessions every day.
As the Emperors birthday approached, he would rest for three days.
Only then would Hong Qifeng gather with her younger sisters.
At the gathering, her younger sisters looked at Hong Qifeng enviously:
I heard that on the first day of Your Morning Court, His Majesty even praised your official uniform as extremely beautiful. His Majesty rarely praises women.
Hong Qifeng smiled shyly and said, His Majesty only praised your official uniform.
Yue Zhu tilted her head and said, Sister Qifeng, do you see His Majesty every day? Every time I see his majesty, I dont dare to breathe loudly.
Last time, he severely scolded my mother in the Changle Pce. Now that I think about it, Im still afraid!
Hong Qifeng shook her head and said, His Majesty is not fierce at all. He is a gentleman, gentle and elegant. His every move is extremely easy-going like a big brother. He is not scary at all.
The Little Sisters at the side said, I really envy that Qifeng can see Tian Yan every day, unlike us, who can only see him once in a while at a pce banquet.
In a few days, it will be his majestys first birthday after he ascends the throne. I heard that the neighboring countries wille to congratte his majesty on his birthday. At that time, not only will we be able to see his majesty, but we will also be able to meet the envoys of the various countries.
All the youngdies were looking forward to the arrival of His Majestys Birthday Banquet as soon as possible.
However, Lady Qiao had a slight headache. Although Lu Chens birthday this time was not his entire birthday, but his twenty-third birthday, it was his first birthday banquet after ascending the throne. It had to be grand.
The Ministry of Rites had been preparing for the birthday banquet since the beginning of spring.
However, after the new year, Fu Lu and Lady Qiao hadined. After Lady Qiao became the Empress, the pce banquet was still as terrible as before. It would be a disgrace to the taste pavilions Hundred Savory restaurant.
Therefore, Lady Qiao had the ambition to avenge the shame of the pce banquet at the birthday banquet.
There were still three days before the birthday banquet. Today, she tried a custom-made pce banquet.
After practicing it, she was in a mess.
Only then did she realize that although the original pce banquet was cold and tasted terrible, it was the safest and most exquisite method.
Qiao jinniang gave all the extra dishes to the pce maids and maids of the six pces.
She carefully looked for any mistakes in this.
Seeing that she was fully focused on studying the dishes, Lu Chen took out the paper in her hand:
Why do you care so much about Fu Lus words? The left and right pce banquet wont be that bad. Its just that it cantpare to the delicacies of the Hundred Savory restaurant.
Qiao jinniang said, The pce banquet in the past is fine, but your birthday banquet will be held in a few days. Holding an outstanding longevity banquet can be considered my birthday gift to you.
Lu Chen looked down at Qiao Jinniang and said unhappily, The Birthday gift you gave me is getting more perfunctory year by year. What kind of birthday gift is this?
Qiao jinniang asked, Then what birthday gift do you want?
Chapter 335 - The Birthday Banquet
Chapter 335: Chapter 335, The Birthday Banquet
The world belonged to Lu Chen. Qiao Jinniang really could not think of any good birthday present for Lu Chen.
Lu Chen said, Think about it, what do I Want?
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully and finally thought of one.
Two days ago, she made a doll for Ang er to y with. Lu Chen kept staring at the doll.
The Tiger Doll that she had given to Lu Chen previously had also been dirtied by Zhou Sisi.
She had also never made a new doll for Lu Chen.
However, it was toote to make a tiger doll at this time. She had to stay up all night to embroider it.
Qiao Jinniang pushed Lu Chen and said, Go back and read the brochure first. I guarantee that you will be satisfied with your birthday gift when your birthdayes.
Lu Chen frowned slightly. Fortunately, she had alwaysined that she was unromantic. Lu Chen felt that the one who was most unromantic was Qiao Jinniang.
He deliberately took a three-day break from the imperial court in order to bring Qiao Jinniang out of the pce to go to the birthday of only two people first. He did not have Xier and Anger to do a lot of official business..
However, at this moment, she was either busy with the banquet or the dishes. These were clearly done by the people from the Ministry of Rites and the Pce Bureau. There was no need for her to personally work on them!
..
On the day of the birthday banquet.
All kinds of birthday gifts were sent to the pce one after another.
The civil and military officials and their families also entered the pce to pay their respects, and the music was very lively.
On the stage of the banquet, the actors of the teaching workshop also performed eighteen kinds of dance skills, and their graceful dances and melodies also went around the beam for three days to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty.
Lu Chen did not look very good this morning, and Qiao Jinniang did not know what was wrong with him.
The envoys from the small countries who hade to celebrate the birthday all trembled when they saw the look on his majestys face..
They did not know if their small country had offended his majesty, but they kept doubling the gifts that they had offered.
After the banquet started, a group of pce people filed in and ced the dishes one by one in front of the envoys, ministers, and their families.
Everyone found that the pce banquet today was very different from the usual ones.
Because the pce banquet could not be lost, this kind of pce banquet, which had hundreds of people attending, usually had the dishes prepared early. To maintain the delicacy and not make mistakes, most of the dishes were cold or cold.
Todays dishes were mostly warm, and the dishes were not the kind that would not make mistakes.
After the pce maids served the good dishes, there was a menu at the side, the dishes were exquisite and delicious.
All the madams who had held banquets in the manor knew that it was almost impossible to hold such a banquet.
I Wish Your Majesty a long life, long life, long life.
After the banquet started, Qiao Jinniang stood up first to toast Lu Chen.
Lu Chen took the wine from Qiao Jinniangs hand and drank it all. He said, How many days have you been busy with your birthday gift?
Qiao Jinniang lowered her voice and said, Are you sure you want to give your birthday present here?
Lu Chen raised his eyebrows and said, Why not?
He wanted to see just how unromantic Qiao Jinniang could be.
Qiao Jinniang ordered Hong Ling to fetch the birthday present.
Marquis an Yuan also led the officials to toast Lu Chens birthday. With marquis an Yuan leading the way, they all presented the birthday present.
It was not easy to present a birthday gift to his majesty. Firstly, it could not be too rich, secondly, it could not be too rich. Thirdly, they had to figure out his majestys intentions.
It could be said to be even more difficult. If they presented a good gift, they would be able to make his majesty happy. If they presented a bad gift, they would beughed at. The most important thing was that they would be disliked by his majesty.
Among the officials, there were also many who wanted their daughters to perform. Performing a birthday gift was the safest way.
When it was the Hong familys turn, Hong Qifeng took all kinds of cloth, books, and some wheat.
Lu Chen asked, What are these?
Everyone was curious as to why Hong Qifeng took out so many strange things at His Majestys Birthday Banquet.
Hong Qifeng said, This is my birthday gift to His Majesty. Its also a birthday gift from all the female households who inherited the family business.
This cloth is the first batch of Shu brocade woven by the daughter of the Gan family of Shu brocade after she inherited the family business. As soon as she came to Chang an, it was robbed.
This book is the first batch of shipbuilding records printed by the daughter of the He family of Chang an when she took over the bookstore..
Also, these rice grains were sown by the female households in the countryside of Chang an who had just received relief fields. In a few months, they will be yellow and shiny wheat...
Lu Chen finally revealed his first smile today. Your gift is deeply appreciated by me.
Hong Qifeng also smiled faintly and said, Its good that his majesty likes it.
After all the officials sent the birthday gifts.
Fu Lu looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, What birthday gift did the Empress Give His Majesty? Why didnt she take it out and show it to us?
Qiao Jinniang took the box handed over by Hong Ling and saw that inside was a white jade headband.
Qiao Jinniang took out the white jade headband and said, This is the White Jade headband that I gave to his majesty.
Fortunately, Hong Ling was smart enough not to bring the Tiger Plushie. Otherwise, she would have lost all her face.
Lu Chen saw that the white jade headband was frowning and looking deeply at Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang actually saw the grievance in Lu Chens eyes..
All the officials were discussing in low voices.
Madam Lin said to Madam Hong, His Majesty has been frowning ever since he received the Empressgift. He hasnt smiled today..
On the contrary, he smiled when he saw Qifengs gift just now. Its clear that Qifeng has won his Majestys Heart.
Madam Hong only gave a faint smile. Hong Qifeng quickly said, His Majesty is also happy because the people are having a good time.
Madam Lin Xiang said, His Majesty and the Empress have always been in love, but now his majesty seems to be angry with the Empress...
Second Madam Qiao also whispered to Zheng Xiao that the empress seemed to have quarreled.
Zheng Xiao was worried about Qiao Jin. Qiao Jins gift was indeed somewhat inappropriate.
Even the youngdy of the Hong familys birthday gift was much more thoughtful than Qiao Jins.
Second Lady Qiao said, Sister-inw, you should also advise Lady Qiao not to be petty. After all, she is His Majesty.
Zheng Xiao nned to talk to Lady Qiao after the banquet.
..
After the banquet, in the Changle Pce.
Lady Qiao followed Lu Chen into the pce. She said unhappily, Lu Chen, today is your birthday. I dont want to argue with you, but why have you been acting so weird these past few days?
I gave you a gift, but didnt you even smile when you received it in front of the officials?
When the pce maids heard this, they were so scared that they didnt dare to move. Hong Ling wanted to go up and persuade them, but she didnt dare..
Lu Chen waved his hand to dismiss the pce maids and pce maids. He asked Qiao Jinniang,
So you still know its my birthday? When we were in Lin an, you would solemnly prepare a birthday gift for me, but now? What about the white jade hair and crown? Are you sending beggars away?
I rested for three days. I wanted to bring you out of the pce and spend a day in the hot spring imperial manor to celebrate my birthday early. But what about you? Are you either busy with the dishes at the birthday banquet or avoiding me?
You said you were avoiding me to prepare a birthday gift for me. Is this white jade crown your birthday gift that youve been preparing for many days?
Qiao Jinniang finally understood Lu Chens awkwardness.
Outside the Changle Pce, Zheng Xiao came to seek an audience with Qiao Jinniang. However, he saw that Hong Ling and the others had been chased out by the emperor.
Zheng Xiao went forward to ask Hong Ling. Hong Ling only said that the emperor was very angry. Zheng Xiao was extremely anxious.
Hong Ling could not go in to pass the message either. Zheng Xiao had no choice but to leave the pce first.
Madam Lin saw Zheng Xiaos worried face outside the pce gates and was delighted.
Chapter 336 - . The Empress and the Emperor quarreled
Chapter 336: Chapter 336. The Empress and the Emperor quarreled
In the Changle Pce.
Qiao Jinniang, who had heard Lu Chensint, went forward and wrapped her arms around Lu Chens narrow waist.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Since you want to go out with the two of us, just say it. Why are you sulking if you dont say it directly?
Also, look at my hands. I havent slept well for two days because of your birthday. I dont even know how many times the needles have pierced me!
Lu Chen saw that there were indeed needle holes in Qiao Jins smooth hand, and he couldnt help but feel sorry for her.
Qiao Jin held Lu Chens hand and walked to a box. She handed the Tiger Doll to Lu Chen and said,
You have to put away this birthday gift properly. If someone dirties it again, dont even think about me making it for You Again!
Lu Chen took the tiger doll. Although he was in a hurry to finish the work, the stitching was fine, and the tigers eyes were embroidered lifelike.
Lu Chen said guiltily, Just now, I really thought that you just casually took a white jade hair crown to send me off.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, I really wanted to give you this birthday gift, but youre Shameless, and I still want it! How could I take such a small cloth tiger to the officials.
How could I not take your birthday seriously?
Youre really good. Youre so angry at yourself. Just now, I even made you your favorite dishes, but you didnt touch any of them...
Lu Chen said, Those arent my favorites.
Huh?
I only like steamed rabbit meat and braised rabbit meat...
By the time Qiao Jinniang reacted, she had already been eaten until she was weak.
The Sky was dark. There was still a banquet in the pce, but she didnt have any strength left. She just wanted to have a good sleep.
Lu Chen, on the other hand, changed into a dragon robe and went to the banquet in high spirits.
When everyone saw that there was only his majesty and no empress, they could not help but think that the empress seemed to have provoked his majesty during the lunch banquet just now.
There were even more spections.
Zheng Xiao became even more flustered when he did not see Qiao Jinniang. He ordered people to go to the Changle Pce to send a message asking to see Qiao Jinniang, only to find that Qiao Jinniang had already rested.
It was only dusk at this time, how could she have rested so early?
Princess Fu Lu looked at the sky and said, So early? It Cant be that the rumors about them are true, right?
Did His Majesty and the Empress Quarrel? Thats not right. What could the two of them possibly quarrel about?
Fu Lu had been sick of looking at Princess Shouan and the Prince Consort ever since she was young.
But sometimes, when she went to the Changle Pce and saw Lu Chen and Lady Qiao, she was even more sick of them.
It was not like she and Qiao Lui were newlyweds. They were already an old married couple, yet they were still sick of them.
Zheng Xiao was extremely worried when she heard this.
At this moment, the second Princes wet nurse carried the crying second prince over.
Ang er stuck to Lady Qiao a little at night. She would look for Lady Qiao at night. She slept better, but when she was awake, she had to see Lady Qiao.
After not seeing her for a while, she started to cry.
The wet nurse came forward and said, Your Majesty, the second Prince wants to see the empress, but you said not to go in and disturb the empress... This second prince...
Lu Chen ordered the wet nurse to give Ang er to him. He held Ang er in his arms, and the crying caused the baby to stop crying.
However, this scene attracted a lot of spection.
The second prince could not even see the empress when he was crying. Could it be that his majesty was really going to punish the empress?
..
The next day, the discussion about the quarrel between the Empress and the Emperor became more and more noisy.
When Xie Yun stepped into Chang an, he heard the discussion in a breakfast stall in Chang an.
He said to his trusted servant, Stop the carriage.
Xie Yun got down from the carriage.
The women passing by could not help but look at him.
Such a handsome man was probably rare in the world. His moon-white, wide-sleeved robe made him look extraordinary.
You dont know that His Majesty was already unhappy when the Empress presented her birthday gift yesterday. After that, he was so angry that he did not allow the empress to attend the birthday banquet. Even when the second prince was crying and making a scene, His Majesty forbade the second prince to go and look for the Empress!
This Empresss affection is only so-so. But now that the Qiao family is extremely powerful, I believe His Majesty would not dare to touch the Empress easily.
No matter how powerful the external rtives are, His Majesty is not a vegetarian. Who knows, he might even depose the Empress?
Xie Yun listened with a deep frown and went outside the pce to hand over the invitation.
Everyone at the Pce Gate felt that this mans appearance was somewhat familiar, but they could not remember where they had seen him before.
It was alreadyte in the morning when Qiao Jinniang got up. After she got up, she received Xie Yuns invitation and ordered someone to bring Xie Yun in.
However, Hong Ling returned and said, His Majesty said that young master Xie has not been to Chang an for a long time, so he called young master Xie to Taiji Pce to reminisce about the past.
However, the Marquise and Princess Fu Lu are here.
Qiao jinniang said softly, Let them in.
The moment the Marquise entered, she saw the Haggard Qiao Jinniang, who had not put on any makeup. She could not help but feel sorry for her:
Jinniang, did something happen between you and His Majesty?
Seeing Zheng Xiaos worry, Qiao Jinniang said doubtfully, His Majesty and I are very good. Nothing happened.
Zheng Xiao was afraid that the Jinniang would report the good news but not the bad news, so he added, Jinniang, even though His Majesty bullied you, as his subjects, we cant do anything for you.
However, if you say it out loud, we can let the Qiao family help you think of a solution. You mustnt hold on by yourself.
Zheng Xiao didnt believe that Qiao Jinniang was so Haggard that there was nothing going on. Your eyes are all green and ck...
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, Mother, his majesty and I are really fine. If you dont believe me, I will take you to Taiji Pce to find his majesty.
Zheng Xiao saw that Qiao Jinniangs words put down her worries. Then why didnt you attend the banquetst night? Now the rumors outside the pce have spread...
Qiao Jinniang was also quite helpless. If things did not go well between her and Lu Chens wife, the people outside the pce would know faster than they knew.
She could onlyfort them that the world was peaceful and the weather was good. Only then would the people of Chang an have the time to talk about her.
Qiao Jinniang exined, I was busy for a few days because of the longevity banquet. In the afternoon, I felt tired, so I took an early rest...
Zheng Xiao did not believe her. Really?
Qiao Jinniang was not the kind of person who did not know the big picture. She would not miss such an important banquet because she was tired.
Naturally, Qiao Jinniang could not tell the truth. Thats right. Ill have to trouble mother to exin it to me outside the pce.
..
After Qiao Ruoyi left the main hall, she saw a pale figure standing in front of the Taiji Hall from afar. That figure looked very much like Xie Yun.
Qiao ruoyi walked over and looked at Xie Yun. May I ask this young master, who are you?
Xie Yun said clearly, I am the current head of the Xie family and Xie Yuns elder brother.
Qiao ruoyi said, So Xie Yun has an elder brother?
I am her twin elder brother. I have been sick since I was young, so I dont see many people. After Xie Yun left, my illness slowly improved and I cane out to meet people.
Qiao ruoyi said inly, I see. Head of the Xie family, we have always remembered your sisters donation. Sigh, I didnt expect her to die so young.
I found a portrait of a little girl in a book called Precious historythat she presented. It must be her legacy...
Xie Yun suddenly remembered when he heard about the precious history and the portrait.
When Qiao Jinniang was young, he had drawn a small portrait of Qiao Jinniang and used it as a bookmark. In the end, he put it on the book called Precious History.
However, he had forgotten about it when he was sorting out the books sent to Chang an!
Fortunately, this precious history book was discovered by Qiao Ruoyi. Otherwise, Xie Yun would not have been able to exin why he had hidden a small portrait of the Empress when she was young.
At this moment, the Empress was in conflict and could not allow anyone to make an issue out of this!
Xie Yun asked coldly, Wheres that small portrait? Give it to me quickly!
Chapter 337 - Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun’s families were compatible
Chapter 337: Chapter 337, Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yuns families werepatible
Qiao ruoyi saw the excitement on the face of master xie and said, Leave that small portrait in my study.
Xie Yun lowered her voice and said, You cant tell anyone about that small portrait. No, you have to burn that small portrait quickly.
Qiao ruoyi said, But I think that small portrait is very good, and I think that Miss Xie Yun also cherishes that portrait very much. Now that Miss Xie Yun has passed away, this is her little remaining ink treasure. It would be a pity to burn it.
At this moment, eunuch Gu came over to invite Xie Yun in.
Xie Yun only warned Qiao ruoyi in her ear, If you dont want your sister to be implicated by this portrait, then hurry up and burn that portrait.
Qiao Ruoyi didnt understand what patriarch Xie meant, but she caught a glimpse of the red mole beside his ear. It seemed that Xie Yun also had a red mole.
Even if the two of them were twins, didnt they look too simr?
Xie Yun bowed and said, Greetings, your majesty. I hurried over, but I still couldnt make it in time to give you a birthday gift. The retired emperor and the Empress Dowager entrusted me to bring you a birthday gift.
The Chambein at the side carried the wooden box Xie Yun brought.
Lu Chen opened it and saw that the wooden box was filled with strange things and some sea goods. His parents must have gone to Yinzhou to visit the seaside.
They were in a good mood.
Lu Chen closed the lid of the box and said, Thank you for escorting them all the way to Chang an. Is there anything else important besides celebrating my birthday? Why did you go to the pce to see the Empress so early in the morning?
Xie Yun looked at Lu Chen and remembered what those people at the breakfast stall were talking about. She was afraid that Lu Chen would me Lady Qiao more for this, so she said,
Its nothing important. Its just that the Empress entrusted me to find a marriage for glutinous rice. Theres no one in my Xie family who is fated to marry glutinous rice, so I specially came to the pce to speak to the Empress.
Lu Chen didnt believe that Xie Yun would want to see Lady Qiao for such a small matter. He said, Glutinous Rices marriage will naturally have money to worry about.
Xie Yun then talked about the new business tax and the fact that the Xie family also wanted to go to the western region to do business.
After discussing for about an hour, Xie Yun finally left the pce.
He had a small image in his heart. As soon as he left the pce, he went to the marquis an Yuans residence to look for Qiao ruoyi. Only when he arrived at the marquis an Yuans residence did he find out that Qiao Ruoyi had gone to the yamen of the Ministry of appointments.
Zheng Xiao ordered someone to invite him into the house. Since it was almost lunchtime, Qiao Ruoyi should be back soon.
Xie Yun then waited for Qiao Ruoyi to return in the hall.
This was the first time Zheng Xiao had seen a mane to the manor to look for Qiao Ruoyi. He sized up the man in front of him and actually felt that his looks were not inferior to his majestys. He was as handsome as his majesty.
He looked a little familiar, but for a moment, he could not remember where he had seen him before.
Princess Fu Lu came over and saw Xie Yun. She was shocked and said, Xie Yun, so youre not dead? To think that I cried for you the whole night after I learned of your death. Its great that youre not dead!
Xie Yun lowered her eyes and looked at Fu Lus stomach. In the end, she did not push her away for a moment. She only frowned and took a step back:
Princess, youve mistaken me for someone else. Xie Yun is my sister. Im Xie Yuns twin brother.
Zheng Xiao also smiled lightly and said to Fu Lu, Fu Lu, you have to be careful of the child in your stomach.
He then said to Xie Yun, No wonder you look so familiar. It turns out that youre Xie Yuns twin brother. I wonder when did young master Xie Meet My Ruoyi?
Zheng Xiao saw that Xie Yuns looks were extremely good. She knew Qiao Ruoyi, except that she was a little older..
However, her family background and looks were extremelypatible with Ruoyis. It would be great if they could get married.
Xie Yun said, I didnt know Miss Qiao. Its just that my sister left a relic with Miss Qiao. I want to take it back.
Zheng Xiao was a little disappointed when she heard that. So it was only because of this that they got to know each other. However, it didnt matter. The more she looked at Xie Yun, the more she felt that she looked like a son-inw. She said, Ive never heard Xie Yun mention having a biological brother before.
Xie Yun pursed her lips and took a sip of tea. She said, Ive been weak and sickly since I was young. In order to protect me, my sister never told anyone that she had a sick brother. It wasnt until recently that the Xie familys second son passed away that my illness gradually recovered. Its a pity that my sister has already passed away.
At the mention of Xie Yun, Zheng Xiao could not help but sigh at the poor fate of a beautiful woman. When is the Xie family heads Birthday?
Xie Yun frowned slightly. However, on ount of the fact that she was Lady Qiaos biological mother, she still took out her birth date.
Zheng Xiao smiled slightly and said, So young master Xie is a pig. Good, good, very good!
If it was a sheep, this pig and sheep were the mostpatible among the Zodiacs. Although the difference in age was a little much, older men would dote on people.
Xie Yun did not know what was good about his zodiac sign. When he saw Zheng Xiaos gaze, he actually felt a hint of fear for no reason.
Zheng Xiaos extreme enthusiasm made Fu Lu wonder if her mother-inw had taken a liking to Xie Yuns brother and wanted to be her stepfather-inw? This was not impossible.
Marquis an Yuan was handsome when he was young, but now he was getting older..
Just as Xie Yun was about to give in to Zheng Xiaos warm hospitality, Qiao Ruoyi finally returned.
Qiao ruoyi saw Xie Yun and bowed. Family head Xie.
Xie Yun said to Qiao ruoyi, My Sisters relic. Wheres that small portrait? Did You Burn It?
Qiao ruoyi said, No, I remember now. That small portrait is not in an Yuan Hous mansion, but in West Mountain Academy.
There were many people in the West Mountain Academy, and it was hard to say when someone would enter Qiao Ruoyis room and take that small portrait. Xie Yun was anxious, but he still said calmly on the surface, Lets go, to the West Mountain Academy.
Oh?Qiao ruoyi said, Thats not a rush, right? When I go to the West Mountain Academy in a few days...
Im in a hurry,Xie Yun said to Qiao ruoyi. Thinking of Qiao Ruoyis love of books, he said, Go to West Mountain Academy now. Ill let you choose two of the rare books that His Majesty originally intended to return to the Xie family...
Hearing this, Qiao Ruoyi knew that this was an extremely good deal. The rare books that the Xie family left behind were all priceless, and the Xie family head let her choose two of them. This was a family heirloom.
Qiao ruoyi asked the servant girl to apply for leave from the yamen. After having lunch, she and Xie Yun each took a carriage to West Mountain Academy.
Ever since the girl became a schr, there had been quite a number of girls who came to West Mountain Academy to study.
After Xie Yun followed Qiao Ruoyi to West Mountain, they saw that the mountain peak, which had been abandoned two years ago, was now very lively.
There were also many shops at the foot of the mountain. Vegetables and fruits were also nted in the mountain. At this time, hundreds of flowers were in full bloom on the back of the mountain, and the Azalea and peony flowers were blooming.
Entering Qiao Ruoyis courtyard in the West Mountain Academy, Xie Yuns eyes lit up. Her courtyard was rtively quiet, and the only flowers in it were orchids.
The climate in Chang an was not suitable for raising orchids. Orchids had already bloomed in Jiangnan, but there were not even flower buds here.
Chapter 338 - The portrait of the Empress was about to be destroyed
Chapter 338: Chapter 338. The portrait of the Empress was about to be destroyed
Qiao ruoi pushed the door open and entered, taking out the portrait.
Xie Yun saw the portrait and was about to retrieve it. Qiao ruoi ced the portrait behind her, Family head Xie, since this portrait is Miss Xie Yuns relic, even if its going to be destroyed, we have to go to Xie Yuns memorial tablet and burn it.
Xie Yun frowned and said, This portrait is not suitable for outsiders to know. Xie Yuns memorial tablet is in Jiangnan...
Theres no need for that. Our West Mountain Academy has Miss Xie Yuns memorial tablet, and she is worshipped by the female students of West Mountain Academy every day.
As Qiao Ruoyi spoke, she walked into Xie Yuns memorial hall. Xie Yun entered the ck and White Memorial Hall, and as soon as he entered, he smelled a deep sandalwood fragrance. The one who entered was his own memorial tablet.
When he raised his head again, he saw a golden statue. Xie Yun walked closer to take a look. Is the golden body on this statue real gold?
Qiao ruoyi nodded. Yes.
Xie Yun:...it was difficult for West Mountain Academy to still remember Xie Yun. However, seeing his own memorial tablet, Xie Yun could not help but feel a little unable to ept it.
Qiao ruoyi took out three sticks of sandalwood incense and gave it to Xie Yun. Family head Xie.
Xie Yun took the three sticks of incense from Qiao Ruoyis hands, worshiped her, and ced the incense in the incense burner.
Qiao ruoyi also took three sticks of incense. When she ced the incense in the incense burner, she identally burned her hand with the incense ash.
Xie Yun frowned slightly and said, You and Qiao Jinniang are indeed sisters. You would be hurt by the incense ash even if you were to offer it.
Xie Yun recalled that Qiao Jinniang was only six years old at the time. When her parents went to offer incense, her hand was burned by the incense ash until it had a small blister. At that time, mother Qiao was extremely distressed, so she decided not to bring Qiao Jinniang to the temple anymore.
Qiao ruoi covered her hands and said, Family head Xie, I think this is Miss Xies work. She doesnt want us to burn her painting. This painting has been around for many years. Miss Xies painting shouldnt have been burned.
Xie Yun frowned and looked at Qiao ruoi. No, it has to be burned.
Qiao Ruoi hid the painting in her sleeve and said, Miss Xie Yun has already given me a hint. I shouldnt have burned Miss Xies work.
Xie Yun saw Qiao ruoyi hiding in her sleeve and said, Actually, this painting wasnt painted by Xie Yun, but by me. When I was young, I was seriously ill. When I saw the empress give me a piece of cake, I drew her.
Now your sister is the empress, and now the Emperor and Empress are not on good terms. If this small painting is known by His Majesty or someone with good intentions, Im afraid it will harm your sister.
Qiao ruoyi said, Who said that the Emperor and my sister are not on good terms? How can the emperor be such a petty person? Also, there is clearly a Yun character written at the bottom of this portrait. This was drawn by Xie Yun, not by you.
Even Xie Yuns spirit in heaven did not allow me to burn it. It can be seen that Xie Yun cherishes this painting in her heart.
Xie Yun:...
How could he not know when his spirit had appeared.
Xie Yun said, It seems that fifth Miss Qiao doesnt want the only copy of the famous one?
Qiao ruoi snorted lightly. Mencius once said that wealth can not be indulged in debauchery, poverty can not be moved, power can not be subdued, and two of the only copies of the famous one can not buy me off. Moreover, I am an official of the imperial court, and my two sleeves are clean...
Five copies!Xie Yun made a hand gesture and said, Five of the only copies of the famous one, together with Wang Youjuns snow-time clear invitation, the real work!
Ever since the great ancestor, Wang Youjuns real work had been popr in great Tang. Only during the era of the Hui Lin Emperor did people know about the calligraphy of the Liu family. In fact, the current Liu family was still far inferior to Wang Youjuns.
If Wang Youjuns calligraphy could get a real work, it would be extremely difficult. The real work of the great ancestors right army was already rare.
If it was the real work of the snow-time calligraphy... she was not poor and could not be moved..
Xie Yun gritted his teeth and said, Qiao ruoyi, dont be too greedy!
Qiao ruoyi said, Seeing is believing. The calligraphy of Wang Youjun is powerful and elegant, like a dragon leaping over the heavenly gate and a tiger crouching in a Phoenixs nest. It is a treasure that has been passed down through the generations. Back then, it was difficult to even find an authentic painting. Even the Qiao family might not have an authentic painting. How can I believe you?
Xie Yun said, Back then, Wang Xie was an aristocratic family in thend of Wuyue. Our ancestors even wanted to marry the Wang family. The Xie family has been an aristocratic family for thousands of years. Would they lie to you if they had an authentic painting of Wang Youjun?
Qiao ruo wrapped a handkerchief around her burnt finger and said, No wonder I dont believe it. The real work of Wang Youjun is priceless. Is it worth it for you to ask me to destroy a small portrait drawn by your sister?
If Qiao Ruo obtained the real work of Wang Youjun, no matter how poor she was, she would not sell the real work of Wang Youjun even if she had to eat dirt and grass.
Even if she starved to death, she would let the authentic work of Wang Youjun be buried with her.
Xie Yun said, It just so happens that the authentic work of Wang Youjun is in Chang an Xie mansion. If you dont believe it, you cane to my xie mansion tomorrow to see if its authentic.
Qiao ruoyi replied, Okay, its a deal.
..
After Hong Qifeng returned to the Hong family, she heard a dispute inside.
Mother, I dont want to marry my cousin. Why must I marry my cousin?Young Master Hong asked, puzzled, Old Master Ye and Imperial Physician Ye have offended his majesty. What does it have to do with our Hong Family? And what does it have to do with you? Why did you listen to Aunt and let me marry my cousin!
Be more obedient. Youre willing to marry that orphan girl who got married twice. Whats wrong with your cousin? Whether youre willing or not, you have to marry her. The wedding date has been set for one monthter!
Hong Qifeng entered and said, Mother, why is elder brothers marriage so urgent?
Madam Hong said, After elder Ye was reprimanded by His Majesty, he is seriously ill and will die at any time. Therefore, your cousin ye Suxins marriage has to be put on the agenda.
Young master Hong said, I wont marry her!
Marriage has always been about the orders of parents. ording to the matchmaker, you have to marry her even if you dont want to!
Hong Qifeng advised young master hong, Brother, dont make mother unhappy. Come out with me.
Hong Yinglong had always listened to her sisters words. After she left, she heard Hong Qifeng say.., Brother, the Ye familys decline has something to do with mother. The aunt of the Ye family told mother about His Majestys use of the Pill to avoid children, and mother also told Madam Lin about it. This caused His Majesty to be furious.
But mothers original intention was also for his majestys Sake and to fulfill her duty as a minister. Now that the Ye family has fallen, Sister Suxin and Aunt Ye are difficult to deal with. You should agree to marry cousin suxin.
Hong Yinglong said, Im not going to marry, sister. Doesnt His Majesty think highly of You?? At His Majestys Birthday Banquet Yesterday, the gift you gave made his majesty smile with joy. Why Dont you go to His Majesty and plead on behalf of the Ye Family? The ye family is also thinking about His Majestys Dragon Body.
You cant just watch your own brother marry a girl he doesnt like, right? Ye suxin is unruly and overbearing. If I marry her, there will still be peace in my rear residence. I beg you to save my brothers Life!
Hong Qifeng said helplessly, Then Ill go to His Majesty and try to plead? Even if I cant let uncle and old physician ye resume their duties, I only hope that they can practice medicine in Chang an.
Hong Yinglong smiled and said, Thank you, Sister. His Majesty thinks so highly of you and will definitely agree.
Chapter 339 - the Hong family was going to have a concubine
Chapter 339: Chapter 339, the Hong family was going to have a concubine
The next morning, after the morning court session, Hong Qifeng went to the Changle Pce to look for Lu Chen.
The retired emperors office used to be in the administrative hall. Since Lu Chen ascended to the throne, he had been handling government affairs in the Taiji Pce. However, three out of ten days, he would be working in the Changle Pce.
Usually, the ministers would note to the harem, but Hong Qifeng was a woman, so she did not have such a taboo.
Lady Qiao was by Lu Chens side, grinding the ink for him. asionally, they would look at the memorials. Lady Qiao liked to read the memorials from the Ministry of Justice, most of which were written by the people to determine whether a death sentence was necessary.
The Ministry of Justice had already decided on the crime, and only Lu Chen needed to approve it.
When Hong Qifeng came in, she saw Lady Qiao sitting next to Lu Chen looking at the memorials from the Ministry of Justice. She did not find it strange, but she felt that if her father saw this scene, he would probably spill blood in the Taiji Pce tomorrow.
Your Subject Greets Your Majesty, Your Majesty.
Lu Chen said, No need for formalities. What do you want?
Hong Qifeng cupped his hands and said, Your Majesty, your subject is here to plead on behalf of the Ye family. Old Master Ye has been practicing medicine for his entire life and is an old imperial physician of the three dynasties. He has been practicing medicine all over the world and has been suffering from the gue of Chang an for more than twenty years. Old Master Ye has also gone to treat it without hesitation.
Your subject would like to ask your Majesty to spare the ye family on ount of Old Master Yes practice of medicine and saving lives. Dont let the father and son be unable to practice medicine and break the foundation of their ancestors.
Qiao Jinniang added from the side, Imperial physician Yes mouth is indeed an open mouth. However, Qifeng is right. They practice medicine for their entire lives. Its not good to break their foundation. Let them continue practicing medicine. Its also good to treat themon people. It Wont be to the extent of breaking the familys livelihood.
Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, Then well do as you say.
Hong Qifeng repeatedly thanked, Thank you, Your Majesty, for your Grace.
Hong Qifeng happily returned to the yamen. Seeing that Qiao Ruoyi was about to leave again, he asked, Are you still going to the West Mountain Academy today?
No, Im going to the Xie family. Ill be back soon.
Hong Qifeng said, Okay.
After Qiao Ruoyi left, Hong Qifeng remembered that there was a letter from a ce at Qiao Ruoyis ce. She went into her study to look for it and saw a portrait at the bottom.
Hong Qifeng picked up the portrait and took a look. The portrait should be of a little girl. She looked lively and extremely cute. She looked a little like Qiao ruoshui when she was young..
Hong Qifeng looked at the small characters at the bottom that were written with the word Yun. She ced the portrait on the table. Thinking about it, didnt Qiao Ruoshui look like the Empress?
This small portrait of the Empress when she was young should not be ced here. It would be bad if other men saw it and took it away.
She also hid it in the sleeve of her official robe.
..
The Xie family in Chang an.
Qiao ruoyi saw the snow-covered letter ced in front of her and did not dare to touch it.
After confirming that it was the real one.., qiao ruoyi could not help but sigh and said, This book is mainlyposed of a round brush that hides its edge. It is easy to put away the brush and change the strokes. It is like a jade mountain. Although it does not have a sharp edge, it has a spiritual connotation. It is hidden in the strength of the bones. It is a letter that my descendants can not reach in their entire lives. Are you sure you want to give it to me?
Xie Yun closed the box and asked, Where is the portrait?
Qiao ruoyi touched the inside of the sleeves of the officials robe. After touching it for a long time, she said, Eh, I clearly put it in my sleeve. Did It fall into the yamen of the Ministry of Appointments?
Xie Yun red at Qiao ruoyi coldly and said, Do you want your sister to die faster?
There were many peopleing and going in the yamen of the Ministry of appointments. If this portrait fell into the hands of another man, there would be endless trouble in the future.
Qiao Ruoyi was also anxious. Ill go back to the yamen of the Ministry of appointments to look for it properly.
Xie Yun said coldly, Qiao ruoyi, did you do it on purpose? Youre a concubines daughter. The way you eat, wear, and spend is the style of a legitimate daughter.
After your sister returned to the manor, she also treated you very well. You wanted the only copy of the ancient books, but your sister gave it to you without saying a word. How many academies have said behind her back that the empress is biased.
What about you? Is this how you repay your sister? Yesterday, I let you destroy the portrait, but you didnt destroy it. If this matter implicates the empress, you wont have a good time either!
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were slightly red. She was so wronged that her nose was sore. Its also better than you secretly drawing a portrait of your sister and pretending to be a man to deceive the world.
You are clearly Xie Yun. You are clearly not dead. Are you trying to use my hand to deal with my sister?
Dont even think about it. His Majesty loves my sister very much. He will never let you have your way!
Xie Yun did not understand and asked, What nonsense are you talking about?
Qiao ruoyi pointed at the Red Mole next to Xie Yuns ear and said, Miss Xie has this red mole next to her ear. Moreover, if the twins are like a dragon and a phoenix, there will be some simrities, but it is impossible for them to look the same.
You are clearly not the head of the Xie family, but Xie Yun. Are you pretending to be dead because you are unwilling to let my sister steal your position as the Crown Princes Consort? Are you here in Chang an for your sisters position as the Empress?
You set me up with that portrait, right? Dont even think about it. No matter what tricks you y, I will not let you seed!
Xie Yun said, I am a man, not a woman disguised as a man. That portrait is really important. His Majesty is already unhappy. If this portrait falls into the eyes of someone who has bad intentions for the Jin Niang, fifth Miss Qiao, please quickly find the portrait and destroy it!
When Qiao Ruoyi heard Xie Yuns words, it did not seem to be a lie. It seemed to be true.
Could it be that she had really misunderstood?
Qiao Ruoyi did not dare to dy any further. She hurriedly returned to the yamen of the Ministry of appointments to look for the portrait. She could not ask openly, but after searching through her study in the yamen, she still could not find the portrait.
Qiao ruoyi went back to the carriage to look for it, but she still could not find it.
Xie Yun looked coldly at Qiao Ruoyi under the carriage.
Qiao ruoyi only said, If anything happens to sister, I will bear the responsibility without damaging sisters reputation!
Xie Yun sneered, With just you, a Little Concubines Daughter?
Qiao ruoyi saw the cold disdain in Xie Yuns eyes and jumped down from the carriage, I did lose the portrait, but why did you put my sisters portrait in the book that you want to offer to the imperial court? I, a Little Concubines daughter, also know to bear my responsibility, unlike you.
Qiao ruoi headed straight for the pce. This was her mistake, and no matter how her sister wanted to punish her, she would admit it.
But this matter should be let her sister know.
..
The Hong family had hosted the Ye family today.
Aunt Ye heard that Hong Qifeng had gone to the emperors side to plead for mercy. Although she did not let the Ye family official resume his position, he could still practice medicine again. With the Ye familys reputation as a miracle doctor, it would not be difficult for him to settle down in the future.
Aunt Ye smiled and said to Hong Qifeng, It seems that the rumors that His Majesty thinks highly of you are true. Qifeng, Qifeng, perhaps the Hong family will really produce a Phoenix!
Madam Hong smiled slightly.
Hong Qifeng immediately put on a straight face and said, Aunt, you should be more respectful. The Ye family has just obtained his Majestys understanding. Do you want the Hong family to be implicated as well? You Cant say that!
Aunt ye said, Whats there to say? Outside the pce, everyone is secretly talking about what happened at the longevity banquet. After all, His Majesty treats you differently from other women. His Majesty has never praised women for their good looks in public.
You and Qiao Ruoyi are in the same dynasty. Why Did His Majesty praise your official uniform for being good-looking and not Qiao Ruoyi? It can be seen that the Hong family will also have a Empress!
Chapter 340 - Qiao ruoyi requested an order for her birth mother
Chapter 340: Chapter 340. Qiao ruoyi requested an order for her birth mother
Hong Qifeng saw that his aunt was getting more and more ridiculous, so she put down her chopsticks and said, Aunt! Dont say anymore. You Dont want your life, I still want it. His Majesty has already said that there is only the empress in the harem.
Ye suxinughed and said, Sister has the ability. After bing a high official, you dare to throw your chopsticks in front of the elders just because you are favored by His Majesty?
Hong Qifeng was so angry that she flicked her sleeves and left, hurriedly returning to her own courtyard.
When Hong Qifeng left, the portrait in her sleeves fell to the ground. Aunt Ye picked up the portrait and said, This portrait looks a little like the Empress!
Madam Hong looked at it and said, I think it looks like Qiao ruoshui when she was young.
Aunt ye said, The Empress and Qiao Ruoshui look very simr. Seeing the hair ornaments on the little girls head, she looks like the daughter of amon family. She is not a nobledy from a noble family, so she must be the Empress!
Madam Hong was curious and had a big guess in her heart. Could it be that Qifeng doesnt like the Emperor and likes the Empress? Everyone says that the emperor treats her differently, but she doesnt take it seriously at all...
Madam Hong put away the portrait. This was the portrait of the empress, so naturally, she couldnt easily ept it.
Aunt ye said, Qifeng is still young. Perhaps she doesnt understand the affairs between men and women, but little sister, you really have to give Qifeng some good advice. The emperor always treats her differently. Even if she cant be an empress, she can still be a noble consort!
How could madam Hong not want that.
Looking at the power of the Qiao family now, not to mention Zheng Xiao, who was already more distinguished than them, even the second madam of the Qiao family, who had already split up, and the third madam of the Qiao family were all ttered by everyone.
..
In the Changle Pce.
Qiao Jinniang listened to Qiao Ruoyis story about the portrait andforted her, Its okay. You Dont have to be afraid. Even if this portrait is taken away, its fine. Just say its Qiao Ruoshui.
She looked simr to Qiao ruoshui, and no one in Chang an had seen her when she was young. They only remembered Qiao Ruoshuis appearance when she was young.
Qiao Jinniang then exined to Qiao ruoyi, Xie Yun wouldnt deliberately harm me. He is a man, and because of the persecution of the second branch, he used the identity of a woman to show others. I met him when we were young, and I only knew he was a man when I came to Chang an.
Qiao Ruoyi looked at the Jinniang and asked in a low voice, Then does Xie Yun like you, sister? Otherwise, he wouldnt have kept the portrait he drew for You When you were young until now.
Lu Chen came in from the door. When he heard Qiao Ruoyis words, he stopped in his tracks.
Qiao jinniang chuckled and said, He probably likes me the same way that I like you. He only treats me as a sister, not as a love between a man and a woman.
Qiao Ruoyi was puzzled and said, Really? But I think he likes his sister.
Qiao jinniang said, I like his majesty, so Id rather risk the world and be scolded by those old officials for being unvirtuous. I Wont allow His Majesty to take a concubine.
If Xie Yun really likes me, he definitely wont watch me marry an unknown man.
Qiao Jinniang knew very well that Xie Yuns feelings for her were just a childhood sweethearts affection for the younger sister next door. Xie Yun was able to disguise as a woman and protect the eldest and second sons of the Xie family at such a young age when the Xie family was in decline, how could he be an ordinary person?
If he really loved a woman, how could he let her go so easily?
Unknown origin?Lu Chen opened the curtain and asked.
Qiao Ruoyi was so scared that she shivered. Sister...
She really shouldnt have kept this a secret, but his majesty still found out about it. She didnt know if His Majesty would believe that her sister and Xie Yun were fine.
Qiao Jinniang patted Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, His Majesty knows about my past with Xie Yun. At that time, when we just got married, we did business thanks to Xie Yuns help. You Dont have to worry. His Majesty isnt someone who likes to y tricks and get jealous.
Lu Chen:...
Qiao ruoyi bowed and said, Sister, Ill go back first. About the portrait...
I know. You Dont have to worry. Do your job well and dont lose the face of Marquis an Yuans manor.
Okay.Qiao ruoyi nodded and left.
Lu Chen let the pce maids go down with him. He held Qiao Jinniang in his arms and said, I love to get jealous. What Portrait?
Qiao Jinniang did not hide it from Lu Chen and said, When I was young, Xie Yun drew a small portrait for me. It was not big, and it happened to be used as a bookmark in a book. Qiao ruoyi saw it, and Xie Yun was afraid that she would cause trouble and let her burn it.
But ruoyi thought that Xie Yun hade back from the dead to deal with me, so she did not burn it immediately.
Now that the small portrait is missing, she was worried that someone would use that small portrait to plot against me...
Lu Chen said, What about that little portrait? Ive never seen you when you were young. Give it to me after you find that little portrait.
No, I was chubby when I was young.Qiao Jinniang did not want to show Lu Chen her appearance when she was young.
Lu Chen said, Speaking of which, I havent drawn a portrait of you for a long time. Ill go to the hot spring imperial manor in a few days and draw a portrait of you.
Okay, Ill draw one for you too. Bring Ang er and Xi er along. I havent drawn Ang er yet.
Lu Chen said, You can dispense with that.
He was afraid that Empress Qiaos calligraphy would spread in the world after a hundred years. After a thousand years, the descendants would still think that he looked like the person in Empress Qiaos painting, so there was no need for that.
Qiao Jin said unhappily, You think my painting skills are bad?
Yes.
Qiao Jin replied, Yes?
Lu Chen smiled and said, My words carry weight. I Cant say that it goes against my heart. Your painting skills are really terrible. They cant evenpare to Xiers current painting skills.
Qiao Jin snorted lightly. Then let go of me. Im going to practice my painting skills.
Lu Chen did not let go of her and said, Your painting is excellent. Its extremely beautiful. Its hard toe by in the world...
Lady Qiao Jin smiled gently. She looked into Lu Chens eyes and wrapped her arms around Lu Chens neck. No matter how beautiful my painting is, it cantpare to brothers good looks...
Hong Ling, who was outside, heard the sound of watering from inside and looked at the Bright Sun.
Many pce servants hade to inquire about how the Emperor and the Empress were arguing. were they going to cripple the Empress?
It was impossible for the empress to be crippled. As for whether the Empresswaist would be crippled, she did not know.
..
It was the first day of the Lunar New Year, and the marquis an Yuans family had dinner together.
After the meal, marquis an yuan asked Qiao ruoyi, Did you ask the Hanlin Institute to bestow your aunt with a Title?
Zheng Xiao looked at Qiao Ruoyi in surprise. Ruoyi, why didnt you discuss this with your family?
Marquis an Yuan said to Qiao ruoyi, From ancient times until now, there has been no such thing as giving aunt an order. Your mother is sitting here, and you went to the Imperial Academy to ask for an order for your aunt. This is a p to the face of Marquis an Yuans family, and a p to the face of the Empress of the Pce!
Qiao ruoyi said calmly, In ancient times, if I was an official, I could ask for an order for my birth mother. Since I am also a fifth-grade female official conferred by His Majesty, how could I not ask for an order for my aunt?
Chapter 341 - She didn’t want to stay in the An Yuan Manor
Chapter 341: Chapter 341. She didnt want to stay in the An Yuan Manor
Old madam Qiao said, Ruoyi, you made a huge mistake in this matter. Your Mother has never mistreated you. She treated you well and loved you dearly. When you were young, you felt that the female teachers in the Qiao familys private school werecking in knowledge.
Your mother also hired a great schr who originally taught youw to teach you how to read and write.
The brush, ink, paper, and Inkstone that she gave you are all rare in this world. Other families dont even have such treatment for their legitimate sons, let alone their legitimate daughters. Now that you have requested an order from your biological mother, how will your mother retain her face?
Qiao ruoi said, I will never forget the kindness that mother has shown me, but...
An yuanhou said, Theres no buts. I have already ordered people to suppress the manuscripts from the Imperial Academy. You must not have such thoughts in the future!
Tears welled up in Qiao Ruoyis eyes as she said, How can you do this?
An yuanhou said, Qiao ruoyi, ever since your aunt passed away, youve been disregarding me as your father more and more. Youre now a fifth-rank official, but youre also the daughter of My Qiao Residence!
Zheng Xiao stopped an yuanhou and said, Dont say too much.
Qiao ruoyi snorted coldly. Why are you pretending to have deep feelings for mother now? Back then, when Aunt Qian harmed mother, you still went to have a loving rtionship with Aunt Qian. Have you forgotten?
Qiao ruoyi, do you want to Rebel?Marquis an Yuan mmed the table angrily.
Qiao lui gave Fu Lu a look.
Fu Lu clutched his stomach and said, Aiya, Aiya, my stomach hurts. ruoyi, quickly help me back to the courtyard.
Qiao ruoyi wiped the tears from her eyes with a handkerchief and stood up to help Fu Lu.
Fu Lus acting was too bad. Everyone knew that she did not want to deepen the conflict, so Qiao Lui and Qiao Ruoyi helped Fu Lu back to the courtyard.
On the way, Qiao Lui asked Qiao ruoyi guiltily, Sister, are you still ming mother for letting you marry cousin Zheng at that time, causing aunt to be seriously ill?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head. I never med mother. If my aunt did not have the root of her illness, she would not be like this. Besides, if mother did not find expensive herbs for aunt, aunt would not have been able to hold on for so long.
Brother, I just want my aunt to have a reward. In the future, when people talk about her, she will no longer be a concubine, but a fifth-gradedy. I just want my aunt to get rid of the title of concubine that she doesnt want the most.
Fu Lu touched his belly and looked at Qiao Lui.
Qiao lui patted Qiao Ruoyis shoulder. Be Good, Dont cry. If aunt knew that youve be a fifth-grade female official, she would be happy. She definitely doesnt want you to argue endlessly with your elders over an imperial decree.
Fu Lu handed Qiao ruoyi his handkerchief and sighed. Sigh, its all your mens fault.
Qiao lui said, No, its my fathers fault. Its not all mens fault.
Fu Lu nodded. Yes, its fathers fault. Good Ruoyi, Dont cry anymore. If you cry again, your nephew willugh at your aunt for being a little crybaby.
Qiao ruoyi held back her tears and said, Thank you, brother and sister-inw.
..
Qiao Ruoyi returned to her own courtyard and soon heard Zheng Xiaos voice.
When she saw Zheng Xiao, Qiao Ruoyi went out to greet him,
zheng Xiao also had a guilty look on his face. Ruoyi, I was wrong in your aunts death. If I hadnt forced you...
Mother, Ive told brother about this just now. Ive never resented you. I didnt mean to be disrespectful to you by requesting an order this time. I just wanted to give aunt an order. I didnt think it through. I didnt think it would implicate you and the Empress. I know I was wrong.
Zheng Xiao listened to Qiao Ruoyis words and said, Good child, I have wronged you. But there is no overnight feud between father and daughter. Your father is also very proud of you.
Qiao ruoyi said, Mother, I understand.
Zheng Xiao saw that she did not want to say more, so he did not disturb her anymore. He left her courtyard and Zheng Xiao felt a little depressed. She did not even take care of her two daughters previously.
As a result, she did not put in much effort to take care of her daughter.
When she was young, Qiao Ruoshui loved to bully her stepsister. Qiao ruoyi was sensible and did not mind, so Zheng Xiao had to make up for herck of food and clothing.
Until now, when she had to find Qiao ruoyi a marriage, Zheng Xiao realized that she really knew too little about Qiao ruoyi.
..
Inside the hot spring imperial manor.
It was the time when the azaleas bloomed all over the mountains and ins.
Qiao Jinniang was sitting among the flowers and reading a book. Lu Chen was drawing a portrait of her while Little Lu Xi was also learning from him.
After drawing for about four hours, Qiao Jinniang stood up and moved her muscles and bones. She walked over and first looked at Little Lu Xis drawing. When she looked at Little Lu Xis drawing, Qiao Jinniang couldnt help but be envious. My son is really amazing.
It had not been long since Lu Xi had learned how to draw. It was already not easy for her to draw the outline of a character.
Lu Chen looked down and felt a little relieved. Fortunately, Lu Xi did not inherit qiao Jinniangs Drawing skills.
Qiao Jinniang walked over to Lu Chens side and looked at her. The woman in the Flower Bush had an elegant and educated temperament. Qiao Jinniang was very satisfied. Your drawing is not bad, but Xiers drawing is still better.
Little Lu Xi looked at Lu Chen proudly and raised her eyebrows. Father, mother said that my drawing is better than yours!
Lu Chen did not want to have this kind of meaningless dispute with little Lu XI.
..
In the yamen of the Ministry of appointments.
Hong Qifeng said to Qiao ruoyi, A few days ago, I picked up a portrait of the Empress from you. I just remembered that I wanted to return it to you, but the bag of the official robe was too shallow. I dont know where the portrait in my sleeve fell... is that portrait very important to you?
Qiao ruoyi said, That is not a portrait of the empress, that is a portrait of my sister ruoshui. After all, we grew up together. She died at a young age, so I have always kept her portrait by my side.
Hong Qifeng felt that it was strange. Qiao ruoshui had never treated Qiao ruoyi well when she was alive.
At the banquet, most peopleughed at Qiao Ruoyi for being a concubines daughter and forbade her to interact with the legitimate daughter.
Even though Qiao Ruoyi had always been famous and talented, she could only interact with her concubines daughter because of Qiao ruoshui.
Perhaps it could only be said that sisters did not have any overnight feuds.
Hong Qifeng sighed. So thats the case. Then I dont have to be anxious. Its good that its not a portrait of the Empress.
Qiao Ruoyi looked at Hong Qifeng and said, Ive been sighing when I Saw You recently. Did Something Happen?
Hong Qifeng naturally couldnt tell Qiao ruoyi. The Ye family mother and daughter and Madam Hong often told her that the emperor treated her differently, but she said, My mother has been forcing my elder brother to marry ye suxin. Ive never liked ye suxin.
Qiao ruoyi said, Your elder brother? I dont think Ive heard of him.
My elder brother is Hong Yinglong. He remembers you.
Qiao ruoyi remembered Hong Yinglong. She had seen him at poetry gatherings with some schrs in the past.
Qiao ruoyi remembered that an Yuanhou was still the daughter of the Qiao family. If it werent for Zheng Xiao and Qiao Lui, she definitely wouldnt have wanted to return to the an Yuanhou Manor.
Qifeng, what do you think of me as your sister-inw?
Chapter 342 - Imperial Consort Jian came to the Qiao family to propose marriage
Chapter 342: Chapter 342, Imperial Consort Jian came to the Qiao family to propose marriage
When Hong Qifeng heard Qiao Ruoyis words, he was suddenly shocked. Youre not joking, right? How can our Hong family be worthy of Marquis an Yuans Daughter?
Which one of those who went to matchmake Qiao Ruoyi was not a descendant of a noble family?
After all, Qiao Ruoyi was the Marquisdaughter, the Empressyounger sister, eldest sister, and Princess Wu. Her elder brother and father were all in high positions, and even her sister-inw was the only daughter of Princess Shouan.
Qiao ruoyi said, Lord Hong is now the emperors teacher, and you are my Shangguan. It should be that I am not worthy of you, not to mention that I am an illegitimate child.
Qiao Ruoyi did not want to settle the marriage, but if there was a good man, she might not necessarily not want to get married. Although those who came to the marquisdom to talk about marriage were all nobles.., but without exception, they were all illegitimate children, or those who did not have a noble title, or those who did not have the ability.
If one were to consider the situation, if the cousin of Uncle Zhengs mansion had not been kicked by Princess Fu Lu and injured his penis, with her status, she might not have been able to marry him.
The words of the Zheng family were harsh, but they were also true.
Ever since Qiao Ruoi quarreled with Marquis an Yuan that day, she had been somewhat resentful of marrying him. However, those who came to propose marriage were all interested in the power of Marquis an Yuans mansion.
The Hong family was different. Hong Yang was a staunch and loyal official.
After going to the government office, Hong Qifeng brought Qiao Ruoyi to meet Hong Yinglong in a private room at the Savoury Pavilion.
Hong Yinglong saw Qiao ruoyi and said, So fifth Miss Qiao is also here.
Qiao ruoyi bowed and said, Young Master Hong, I have liked you for a long time.
Hong Qifeng:! ! !
Was the usually quiet Qiao Ruoyi actually so bold? She clearly did not know who her brother was, but it was better for ruoyi to be her sister-inw than ye suxin to be her sister-inw.
Hong Yinglong thought he had misheard. Fifth Miss Qiao...
Qiao ruoyi said, Forgive me for being rash. I have admired Young Master Hong for a long time, and I want to marry him as my wife. I heard that Young Master Hong is troubled by his marriage, and I dont want to leave behind any regrets...
Hong Yinglongs face flushed red. He had known Qiao Ruoyi for a long time and felt a trace of regret for her. She was not like Tong Yingying, who was constantly shouting for her daughter to be bullied.
She had always been aloof and aloof. She did not have the lowly status of a daughter of a concubine nor did she have any arrogance. She did not show off at the poetry meet, but she was not bad either.
Qiao Ruoyi loved books. He had seen Qiao ruoyi take the jewelry given to her by the Marquis Mansion to the bookstore to exchange for books.
She would definitelye to any calligraphy and painting meeting of famous masters.
He had also heard that Qiao Ruoyi had a lot of books in Chang an.
Hong Qifeng touched Hong Yinglongs hand and said, Brother, you can think about what ruoyi said. Ruoyi is much better than ye suxin. If you ask to marry ruoyi, father and mother will definitely agree.
Hong Yinglong blushed and nodded lightly.
..
In the Hong family, Hong Yang was the first one to disagree. Nonsense. I advise His Majesty every day in court not to let the external rtives be the dominant one. Now that our Hong family and the Qiao family are connected by marriage, doesnt that mean that the external rtives of the Qiao family are bing more and more powerful?
Hong qifeng whispered, Father is a direct subject. Rather than letting Qiao ruoyi marry someone else to expand the power of the Qiao family, its better to connect by marriage with our Hong Family!
Hong Yang actually felt that what Hong Qifeng said made a little bit of sense.
Madam Hong objected, No, my long ER can not let go of a good first-wife daughter and not marry a daughter of a concubine!
Mother, not to mention the difference between the Ye family and the Qiao family, how can ye suxinpare to Ruoyi at all? Ruoyi is a female schr. Many men do not have her ability!Hong Qifeng said.
Madam Hong said, If she is so capable, our Hong family will not tolerate her. We might as well not let a concubines daughter enter our Hong family.
Hong Yang also said, It is indeed inappropriate to be a concubines daughter.
Hong Qifeng was extremely angry. Father, mother, with the Qiao familys family background and Qiao Ruoyis looks and bearing, which one of them is not the best among the women? Just because she is a concubines daughter...
Madam Hong said, Yes, just because shes a concubines child, if your second brother wants to marry her, thats fine. Long Er is the legitimate son, and the one he wants to marry is also the legitimate daughter!
Hong Yinglong whispered to Hong Qifeng, Ill have to trouble little sister to apologize on my behalf.
Hong Qifeng was truly extremely disappointed. Qiao Ruoyi was clearly so outstanding, so why did even her own brother dislike her because she was a concubines child?
..
The next day at lunchtime, Hong Qifeng invited Qiao Ruoyi to eat at the Savory Pavilion again. However, the private room was full today, so Qiao Ruoyi brought Hong Qifeng to Princess Fu Lus sky-ss private room.
Hong Qifeng said, Ruoyi, Im really sorry. My parents think that our Hong family is lowly and doesnt match up to your Qiao family...
Qiao ruoyi smiled and poured a cup of tea for Hong Qifeng. Try it. This is tea from Lin an. How can the Hong family not match up to the Qiao Family? They probably think that Im a bastard, right?
Hong Qifeng apologized, Ruoyi, Im sorry. I dont know why my parents are so pedantic. Youre obviously so outstanding. Youre more than enough to match up to My Big Brother.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, Theres no need to apologize. Ive been used to it since I was young. I shouldnt have expected to marry a legitimate son.
Hong Qifeng said, Sister Ruoyi, you have the Empress as your sister. The Empress loves you so much. If you really like my brother, why dont you go and ask the Empress to grant you a Marriage?? Then didnt sister Miao Miao ask the Empress to grant you a marriage? Now shes very affectionate with general Yue!
Qiao ruoyi said, Thats not the same. Sister Miao Miao asked the empress to grant her a marriage because old madam Yue went to ask for it first. Even my mother-inw and father-inw didnt like me when I married her. Whats the point of a marriage?
Hong Qifeng really felt that it wasnt worth it for Qiao Ruoyi. Its my brother whos not blessed. Youll definitely find a very, very good marriage.
..
In the Anyuan Marquis Mansion.
Zheng Xiao saw imperial consort Jian in front of him and saluted repeatedly. Imperial Consort Jian has graced us with her presence. The entire mansion has not weed her. Please forgive us, Imperial Consort Jian.
Imperial consort Jian said, Madam Marquis, there is no need to be so courteous. Today, imperial consort Jian came here to shamelessly tell King Lu about the marriage. When King Lu was young, he did many wrong things. Now, he has already corrected himself. I heard that the fifth young miss in the mansion has yet to settle the marriage...
Zheng Xiao was surprised. Imperial consort Jian actually came to talk about the marriage for King Lu. No matter what, King Lu was still the emperors biological brother. Although he had colluded with King Yong in the matter of private salt, and had dealt with Lu Chen many times before Lu Chen ascended the throne.
However, now that Lu Chen ascended the throne, he did not bother with King Lu and treated this brother equally. If she were to marry him, it would be great to be a princess consort.
However, she was afraid that it would be a side consort.
I would like to ask the Marquise if she is willing to let my daughter be Princess Lu...
Zheng Xiao said, Please forgive me, Princess Consort. This matter is very important. Let me think about it again...
Imperial consort Jian said, Please take your time to think about it, there is no rush.
Just as imperial consort Jian left and Qiao Ruoyi returned, Zheng Xiao asked Qiao ruoyi toe over and tell Qiao ruoyi about this matter.
Princess? !Qiao Ruoyi was also shocked. There must be something strange about this!
Chapter 343 - The marriage was difficult
Chapter 343: Chapter 343. The marriage was difficult
After the Qiao familys banquet, the entire family began to discuss this matter.
Fu Lu said, My cousin King Lu has beencking a brain since he was young. Before His Majesty ascended the throne, he loved to go against his majesty.
At this moment, he must be afraid that His Majesty will take revenge on him. If he marries the Qiao familys daughter, His Majesty will not take revenge on his cousin King Lu for the sake of the Empress.
Fu Lu took a sip of water and said, I dont agree with this marriage. Royal Consort Jian is not an ordinary person. Otherwise, how could she still hold the position of royal consort after the Jian Familys ident?
The six pces have not been favored for many years. The empress dowager is supporting the virtuous consort, while royal consort Jian is not weak in the pce. With such a mother-inw, it may not be easy for her to marry him. Moreover, my cousin King Lu already has illegitimate children...
Old Madam Qiao called Qiao ruoyi into the room and said, Ruoyi, what do you think of this marriage? This may be the best marriage you can find in Chang an.
There is a difference between the legitimate and the illegitimate. If you are like your third sister, ruoyin, who is willing to marry far away, you can also marry a legitimate son of the provincial governor or the son of a jiedushi.
But if you stay in Chang an, you can only marry a legitimate son in a low marriage. It is the best marriage for a family of equal status with the Qiao family.
Qiao ruoyi said, I dont want to marry King Lu.
Why?Old Madam Qiao asked, With your talent, it would be a pity if you only marry the legitimate son of a low-level official. But the illegitimate son of a high-level official might not be good. Those nobles who dont care about your daughters background are all good-for-nothings.
King Lu is still a prince. Your children and grandchildren will be princes in the future...
Qiao ruoyi said, Then lets marry low.
Why cant It Be King Lu?
Qiao ruoyi lowered her eyes and said, Grandmother, Im the same as sister. Sister was deeply harmed by Aunt Qian, and so am I. I only wish for husbands backyard to be clean. How can the backyard of the imperial residence be clean?
The fight for the backyard of the imperial residence was extremely cruel. She had finally be a female official with great difficulty, and she did not want to be stuck in a narrow space.
Old madam Qiao said, Thats fine too. After that, Ill ask your mother to find a man from a low-ss family to discuss marriage for you. Although those who are waiting toe to propose marriage are all from families of equal status, those men are all difficult to exin in a word.
Thank you, Grandmother.
With the current power and influence of Marquis an Yuans estate, it was not a big deal to reject the marriage proposal from the imperial residence of King Lu.
Zheng Xiao had received old madam Qiaos order to find a marriage for ruoyi from a low-ss family. No matter how he looked, he felt that the family background was not good enough for ruoyi. Moreover, it was not easy for him to find an outstanding unmarried man.
However, he did not expect that the son of a low-ranking official in the Imperial Academy would look down on the daughter of the Qiao familys concubine.
Zheng Xiao was so angry that he wished that Marquis an Yuan could take revenge on her personally.
This was the first time Zheng Xiao experienced the hardships of being a concubines daughter. It was also her fault that she had not paid attention to Qiao Ruoyis situation before.
..
It was the dragon boat festival, the birthday of the young miss of Marquis an Yuans residence.
Qiao Jinniang had sent quite a number of birthday gifts to this tiny little sister. Her birthday was not coincidentally coinciding with the dragon boat festival, so she did not hold a big ceremony. However, there were quite a number of guests who came.
Many of them wanted to settle their marriage before they could even speak fluently.
In Qiao Ruoyis courtyard, she looked at the dying orchid in front of her and felt quite regretful. It was another pot of suan that had been raised to death by her.
Fifth young Miss...
Qiao ruoyi looked at the servant girl and asked, Whats Wrong?
Fifth young miss, those distinguished people are really going too far. When ites to you, theyre just pushing away the fact that the marriage has already been settled. When ites to the young miss, even the first-born grandson hase to settle the marriage.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, This is a good thing. It means that the birth of the Dragon Boat Festival did not hinder my little sister in any way.
The servant girl said unjustly on behalf of Qiao ruoyi, But you...
Qiao ruoyi said, Alright, go and throw away the orchid. Why Cant I raise the orchid? Sigh!
When the servant girl heard this, she took out the orchid and threw it away. Then, she heard Madam Hongs voice, You dont know, Qiao Ruoyi is quite capable. She seduced my son and wanted to enter our Hong family to be my long-ers wife. TSK TSK, she really dares to think about it.
Madam Lin Xiang said, Now that Miss Qifeng is highly regarded by his majesty, its reasonable for the Qiao family to want to marry the Hong family. However, the daughter of a concubine might not be ignorant.
The servant girl was so angry that she wanted to go up and argue, but was stopped by Qiao ruoyi.
Miss, fortunately, those people are all first-ss wives. How can they say that about you!
Qiao ruoyi said, Is what they said wrong? Whats the use of you going out to argue??
I am a concubine. If I dont leave Chang an, I can either marry a good-for-nothing son of the first-ss or a son of the first-ss who cant inherit the title of nobility, or I can settle down and marry a concubine son. Or I will find a son of a concubine with a low status.
But the Hong family is considered low status in front of the Qiao family.Qiao Ruoyis maid felt sorry for her young miss.
Qiao ruoyi said lightly, Not low enough.
How could the imperial tutors family be considered low status? The real low status was that they couldnt even enter the Qiao familys banquet.
Just as he was about to leave, he heard Fu Lus voice:
Each and every one of you is a first-ss official. How can your mouth be so broken?
Your Hong Yinglong only treats you as a treasure. Previously, you followed behind Tong Yingyings Butt!
After Tong Yingying died, she followed behind Qin Miaomiaos butt during the Lantern Festival.
Your Hong familys son isnt even worthy of carrying my sisters shoes!
And you, Madam Lin Xiang, arent you tired of crying, bawling, and pretending to be sick every day so that Lin Mo can go back from the Fumas residence to see you? Do you know your limits?
If I be so talkative when I get older in the future, Id rather not get old!
Qin Miao Miao smiled and said, Youre also quite talkative now!
Fu Lu said, If it werent for the fact that Im pregnant and cant whip, all of you, including you, Qin Miao, would have left the an Yuan Marquisresidence.
Qin Miaomiao smiled and supported Fu Lu. Dont be angry. Be careful not to anger my godson intoing out.
The few madams were red in the face from Princess Fu Lus scolding. However, not only was she the daughter-inw of the An Yuan Marquis Mansion, she was also the princess. They could only endure the scolding.
Qiao ruoyi came out and said, Sister-inw, why are you angry over some irrelevant people?
Madam Hong saw Qiao ruoyi and said, Isnt this the fifth Miss Qiao? Tell Princess Fu Lu, did you tell my son that you like my son and seduced him?
Qiao ruoyi said, There are many people that I like. Not only Hong Yinglong, but also Lin Molin, the right minister, the heir of the Marquis of Wu an, the heir of Uncle Le Ling...
When thosedies heard Qiao ruoyi, they all frowned. They wanted to scold her for being shameless, but Fu Lu still couldnt say it out loud, so they had to leave quickly.
Qiao ruoyi and the other twoughed when they saw thedies leave.
Fu Lu said to Qiao ruoyi, What did you endure just now? You Are My Fu Lus sister. If they scold you, its the same as scolding me. But you are the same. If you cant get married, then you cant get married. Your brother and I can support you for the rest of our lives. Why do we need to find a son like Hong Yinglong?
Qiao ruoyi said, Brother and sister-inw and mother are both very nice, but I dont want to stay in the Hou mansion anymore.
Are you still angry that we didnt ask you to give your aunt a title?Fu Lu asked, But you wouldnt marry yourself into a family like the Hong family.
Chapter 344 - a good marriage
Chapter 344: Chapter 344, a good marriage
Qiao ruoyi lowered her head and pursed her lips, not saying a word.
Fu Lu saw her like this and snorted lightly, You didnt treat me as your sister-inw.
Qiao ruoyi repeatedly pulled Fu Lu and said, No, sister-inw, the reason why I dont want to stay in the Qiao family is because of father.
Father had clearlymitted so many mistakes. He had allowed Aunt Qian to harm my aunt, but he had never felt any guilt!
I had indeed not thought of mother when I had requested Aunt Qians order. I knew how good mother had been to me. I would not let mother lose face because of this.
However, father did not say a word. He did not even discuss with me before suppressing my request.
He did not treat me like a daughter at all. I stayed at the Qiao family because everyone was angry. In fathers eyes, I was an unnecessary daughter.
Fu Lu held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Who said youre Extra!
Qin Miao knew that girls at this age were more or less sensitive, especially since Qiao Ruoyis biological aunt had passed away. She did not have anyone she could confide in.
Although Zheng Xiao was good, she was not her biological mother.
Qiao Ruoyi had not returned to the Qiao residence when she was at West Mountain Academy.
Everyone thought that she was really busy at West Mountain Academy, but going to West Mountain Academy was also something she wanted to escape from.
Qin Miaomiao said to Qiao ruoyi, If the Qiao family doesnt feel good staying here, then why dont youe visit our Yue family for a few days? Otherwise, the mansion that the eldest princess gave me is currently unupied...
Fu Lu red at Qin Miaomiao and said, You dont need to be kind to help her find a ce to stay.
Fu Lu pulled qiao ruoyi and said, Ruoyi,e with me. As a child, you can just say that you dont feel good with your parents.
You are the one who has been holding back the pain in your heart. Father wont feel guilty or anything. If you dont tell him about your grievance, he will only think that you are disobedient and UNFILIAL.
Qiao Ruoyi did not expect Fu Lu to be able to walk so quickly even when he was about to give birth. She took three steps and two steps before she followed Fu Lu into an Yuan Hous study.
Father, Ruoyi has something to tell you!
Fu Lu did not pass through the door and entered. He saw that there was not only an yuan hou inside, but also patriarch Xie, Lin Mo, and the others. Perhaps they were discussing an important business matter with the western regions.
An Yuan Hou was mostly angry with Qiao Ruoyi. He directly said to Qiao ruoyi, There are no rules. Cant you see that theres someone in the study? Get Out First!
If Its for your aunt, dont mention it again. The Qiao family can not be theughing stock of Chang an.
Qiao ruoyi nced at Fu Lu helplessly and said to Fu Lu, Sister-inw, lets go.
Fu Lu saw that there were important guests inside, so he could only give up.
Qiao ruoyi walked to the Lakeside and said to Fu Lu, Sister-inw, you saw it too. Father is such an autocratic person. How could he listen to me? Besides, I was going to marry anyway. You Dont have to worry about me.
Fu Lu sighed heavily.
..
A few days after the dragon boat festival.
The olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu came to the Qiao family.
Zheng Xiao heard that she was the olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu. Her words never left Qiao Ruoyis side. She thought of the current heir-son of the Marquis of Jingwu, who was the same age as Ruoyi at seventeen.
This heir-son had lost his mother since he was young and had never had a stepmother.
The Marquis of Jingwus manor now had two concubines and a housekeeper. However, after the heir-son was married, the power of the housekeeper naturally had to be handed back to the wife of the heir-son.
Qiao ruoyi getting married to the Crown Prince of Marquis Jingwu was an extremely good marriage.
When Zheng Xiao heard about this good marriage, he immediately ordered someone to invite Qiao Ruoyi, who had just returned from the yamen.
When Qiao Ruoyi arrived, the old wife of Marquis Jingwu sized her up and continuously praised, The feng shui of your marquis an Yuans manor is really nurturing. The girls you raise are all so intelligent and intelligent.
That granddaughter of mine has always said that she will follow the example of the fifth Miss Qiao and will also enter the schr examination in the future!
When Zheng Xiao heard this praise, he smiled slightly and said, Ruoyi, this child, has always been smart, sensible, and filial since she was young.
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu said, If someone is able to marry the fifth Miss Qiao, I wonder if our Marquis of Jingwus manor will have such good fortune?
Zheng Xiao said with a smile, Its our familys fortune to be able to go to the Marquis of Jingwu Manor.
The Marquis of Jingwu was a second-grade high official in the imperial court. He also had a hereditary title of nobility. He could be considered a match for the Qiao Manor.
The olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu said, Its good that you say so, Madam. Then Ill invite the iceman toe to the manor in a few days to discuss the marriage. Is that okay?
Zheng Xiao didnt expect the olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu to be so eager. Ruoyi and the heir of the Marquis of Jingwu were both young. was there a need to be so anxious about the marriage?
Qiao ruoyi lowered her head bashfully, her ears slightly red.
After the old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu left.., zheng Xiao held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, The Marquis of Jingwu is indeed a family with a hundred years of history. Its not like those families that only value the illegitimate children. When you married, you didnt have a mother-inw. You only had an old grandmother. Your Father-inw is also capable.
Ive seen the heir of the Marquis of Jingwu. Hes a talented person at such a young age, and he has the support of his ancestors. This marriage is very good.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, Its good that mother has decided on the marriage.
Qiao ruoyi had never thought that there would be such a good marriage. She was in a much better mood when she went out.
In addition, today was the first time that she received a sry from the imperial court. In addition, the Marquis Mansion had also issued a new set of regtions. New clothes and new jewelry had arrived.
She thought that she could go to the bookstore and buy the Wei Mo Jie Portrait of Gu Kaizhi that she had long fancied.
Qiao Ruoyi went to the pawnshop and sold her new jewelry and clothes.
The manager of the pawnshop invited Qiao ruoyi into the house. The manager of the pawnshop was already considered an acquaintance of Qiao ruoyi.
At first, the pawnshop didnt dare to ept the things of the daughter of the Marquis. Later, when she went to the marquis an Yuans mansion to ask, she found out that the marquis an Yuans mansion didnt care about Qiao ruoyi taking these clothes and jewelry and dared to ept them.
These are the jewelry in the jewelry pavilion. Its hard to get them with a thousand gold coins. Does the fifth miss want to pawn them too?
Qiao ruoyi nodded. She did not like these jewelry and clothes since she was young. As long as she could have a few sets of them to exchange for at the banquet, it would be good enough. The money from the pawnshop would allow her to buy some ancient books, books, and paintings.
When she was young, she had thought of asking for silver directly if she did not want the clothes and jewelry. However, she was reprimanded by her aunt. There were many sisters in the residence, so she could not change the rules just because of her alone.
Left and right, this pawnshop was quite good. It would never bet silver on her jewelry and clothes.
While Qiao Ruoyi was waiting in the private room for the shopkeeper to calcte the silver, she heard a voice from outside.
That old hag, she just had toe at this time to check the ounts. Fortunately, the marquis an Yuans manor is able to do it. He gave his daughter to the Marquis who is old enough to be a father to fill the room!
Aunt Feng, please keep your voice down.
I cant care about it anymore. When that fifth Miss Qiao marries in, there wont be any way for this old concubine of mine to Live!
The Teacup in Qiao Ruoyis hand trembled and fell to the ground. When the shopkeeper who was counting the ounts saw this, his expression became slightly awkward.
Logically speaking, the Marquis Manor should not be too harsh on this fifth miss. The clothes and jewelry that she pawned every month should be at least a few hundred taels.
How could they let such a beautiful little girl fill up the room?
Qiao Ruoyis voice was iparably calm as she said, Put this broken cup on my ount. Later on, you just need to calcte a little less silver.
The shopkeeper said, Yes, fifth young miss.
Chapter 345 - She had admired Marquis Jingwu for a long time
Chapter 345: Chapter 345. She had admired Marquis Jingwu for a long time
Qiao Ruoyi waited for the people from the Marquis Jingwu Manor to leave before she took the thousand taels of silver from the pawnshop and left.
Qiao Ruoyi had something on her mind, so she did not notice Xie Yun, who had brushed past her.
Xie Yun did see Qiao ruoyi, but he thought that he had seen wrongly. He entered the door and asked the manager of the pawnshop, Was the person who left just now the fifth miss of the Qiao Family?
Yes, Master.
Xie Yun frowned slightly and said, Today, the imperial court has just paid her sry. Why did shee to the pawnshop to pawn?
How could the marquis an Yuans manor let their daughter be short of silver? Why would she need toe to the pawnshop to pawn?
The shopkeeper said, Master, you may not know this, but this fifth young miss has a lot of calligraphy and painting. Therefore, she woulde to the pawnshop to pawn some of the jewelry and clothes given by the manor to exchange for some calligraphy and painting. This fifth young miss is really pitiful.
If she wasnt the daughter of a concubine, with her current status, why would she fill the room for Marquis Jingwu? That Marquis Jingwu is only two years younger than Marquis an Yuanhou.
In the bookstore.
When Qiao Ruoyi arrived, she saw that Gu Kaizhis Weimojie portrait, which had been in the bookstore for a long time, had disappeared.
Fifthdy, Im really sorry. Ive been waiting for you for three months for this painting, but you still cant gather enough silver. Yesterday, the head of the Xie family saw this portrait and bought it for three thousand taels of silver. Im really sorry.
When Qiao Ruoyi heard the shopkeeper say this, she could only say, Its just that I have no fate with the painting.
The shopkeeper said, There are still a few imitations here. Do you want to take a look?
Qiao ruoyi said, Theres no need. After all, the imitations are not authentic.
Qiao ruoyi left the bookstore. The scorching sun in the sky was extremely dazzling. She could not help butugh at herself and said to the servant girl, Go to the Changle Pce and hand over a post.
..
In the Changle Pce, Qiao Jinniang had just rested in the afternoon. When she heard that Qiao Ruoyi had passed her a post, she ordered someone to let her in.
Qiao ruoyi saw Qiao Jinniang putting on her makeup and said sweetly, Sister, even if you dont put on makeup, youre still extremely beautiful.
Qiao Jinniang said to Qiao ruoyi, Why are you here?
Qiao ruoyi said, Sister, today, the old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu came to tell me about the marriage.
Qiao jinniang said, Although the heir apparent of the Marquis of Jingwu is young, he is handsome. He is a good match for you.
Not the heir apparent of the Marquis of Jingwu, but the Marquis of Jingwu,Qiao Ruoyi said, Sister, can I be the wife of the Marquis of Jingwu? Although he is much older than me, he should dote on me. If there is a difference in age, it is inevitable that there will be some bumps and bruises.
Qiao jinniang said in surprise, The Marquis of Jingwu? His age should be about the same as fathers. How could he have the nerve to eat young grass at such an age?
Moreover, he already has a legitimate son and daughter, and also a bastard son and daughter. How tiring it must be for you to marry such a cheap mother. His legitimate daughter is now fourteen years old and is about to discuss the marriage. This marriage is terrible. It would be better to be Princess Lu!
Its not like Chang an really doesnt have any young talents. Even if you look for amoner, it would be better than finding a husband!
Qiao ruoyi said softly, Sister, but low-ss schrs would also look down on me as an illegitimate son and not look down on me. They probably want to get some benefits from marquis an Yuans estate.
I shouldnt be picky. There are many disputes in the backyard of King Lu. Concubine Jian is also extremely powerful. I cant Oppress King Lu.
Although mother-inw is also powerful when I marry Marquis Jing Wu, she still wants to see the power of my family behind me. The legitimate son is already old. I Wont fight with him for the Marquis Manors title.
Even the legitimate daughter and daughter-inw have to rely on me to find a marriage for them. They definitely wont be disrespectful to a stepmother like me.
Qiao jinniang said unhappily, Then what if the heir-son of the Marquis of Jingwu Gets Married? You also said that old Madam Sun is powerful. What if she controls the power of the household and marries the granddaughter-inw all of a sudden?
Ruoyi, there are still many marriages that you can choose...
Qiao ruoyi looked at the Jinniang and said, Are there really many?? Among the families that had been talking about marriage all these years, this marriage was already pretty good. The Marquis of Jingwu was capable and was a second-rank high official. I think he could also guide me in the officialdom.
Sister... I think this marriage is very good.
Qiao ruoyi then said to Qiao jinniang, Mother Doesnt know about this marriage yet. Im afraid that mother wont agree to it. I beg sister to persuade Mother.
The jinniang sighed and said, I cant even convince myself to marry my sister to such an old man.
Qiao ruoyi pulled on Qiao Jinniangs sleeve and said, Sister, this marriage is really very good for me.
Qiao Jinniang said, You go and persuade mother on your own. I wont interfere, but I wont help you persuade father and mother. You are so young and beautiful, why do you look down on yourself?
Qiao ruoyi said, Sister, I am a concubines daughter. I dont mind other things, but when ites to marriage, I still have to put myself in a proper position.
Qiao Jinniang had not seen many fights between heirs and concubines in Lin an. Aftering to Chang an, most of the people who interacted with her were also legitimate daughters. They did not know the difference between heirs and concubines.
It was only when she became the Crown Princess Consort and saw the marriage alliances between the various noble families in Chang an that she realized the difference between heirs and concubines.
Ruoyi, dont belittle yourself too much. which young man do you like? Tell me. I dont believe that they dare to defy my next marriage decree. And they dare to despise you as a legitimate daughter?
Qiao ruoyi said, Im afraid that old man Hong Yang will really spill blood in the main hall and scold sister for being a demon Empress.
Im not afraid of them. ruoyi, Im not joking,Qiao Jinniang said. You might as well be younger. Theres no need to be so anxious.
Qiao ruoyi said, Yes, I know sister is good, but I still think that this marriage is extremely good.
Qiao Jinniang:...
..
Three dayster, the old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu invited the Marquise of Wu An toe as the iceman to ept the marriage proposal.
Zheng Xiao changed into a new set of clothes early in the morning and happily weed the old madam and the Marquise of Wu An. The two live geese at the door croaked.
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu said, Madam Qiao, Im really sorry. The Marquis of Jingwu just received an imperial edict and went to suppress the bandits. Its not good for him toe personally today to propose the marriage.
Zheng Xiao said, Its fine, its fine. Why Cant I See Young Master Sun?
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu said, Madam Qiao, are you referring to my grandson? This father is looking for his stepmother. Its not appropriate for him toe along with his stepson to propose marriage.
Zheng Xiaos face instantly turned ashen. Just as he was about to wave his sleeves and chase them away, he saw Qiao ruoyi gracefully walk over. She bowed to the old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu and said, Auntie, youre here. Pleasee in.
Zheng Xiao smiled apologetically at the two madam marquises and said, The two madam marquises need to rest for a while. Ruoyi and I have something to say.
Zheng Xiao brought Qiao ruoyi to a remote courtyard. He frowned and asked, Did you know that the marriage that the Marquis of Jingwu came to talk about was not for the heir-son of the Marquis of Jingwu, but for the Marquis of Jingwu?
This marriage is extremely inappropriate. The Marquis of Jingwu is only three years younger than your father. He already has all the legitimate children, illegitimate children, and illegitimate children in the manor! If he marries over, he will have to fill up the house. I Wont agree to this marriage.
Qiao ruoyi said, Mother, this marriage is extremely good. I dont want to talk about other marriages anymore. Every time I talk about it, I will be trampled on by others. The illegitimate daughter is the illegitimate daughter. It is already extremely good that I can have this marriage.
Ruoyi, but...
Qiao ruoyi only said, Mother, I have admired Marquis Jingwu for a long time.
Zheng Xiao could only sigh when he heard Qiao Ruoyis sincere expression. Sigh!
Chapter 346 - , fixing the date of the wedding
Chapter 346: Chapter 346, fixing the date of the wedding
After the adoption, it was time to ask for Qiao Ruoyis birth characters. When Zheng Xiao reluctantly handed over Qiao Ruoyis birth characters, she was still sighing.
Even Zheng Xiao found it difficult to bring up this marriage. In the future, it would be somewhat awkward for a man who was three years younger than her to call her mother-inw.
After the closing of the birth characters and other matters were settled, it was time to set the date.
When Zheng Xiao saw that the marriage was set at the end of June, she said to the olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu, who hade to visit, Old Lady, isnt the wedding date a little too early?
The olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu smiled and said, Its not early. After all, the crown prince is going to marry next year. If Ruoyi enters the house earlier, she can also do her best to prepare for the Crown Princes marriage.
Zheng Xiao was so angry that her hands were trembling. If Qiao Ruoyi had not said that she had admired the Marquis of Jingwu for a long time, she really wanted to turn hostile and ruthlessly chase this olddy out.
The old madam of Marquis Jingwu said with a smile, My grandson is married to the eldest daughter of the Marquis of Wu an manor. Its not good to change the arranged marriage. Its not good to get married in winter...
Zheng Xiao was so angry that her heart was aching. No eldest daughter of the Marquis of Wu an manor couldpare to Ruoyi in terms of looks, bearing, and family background. Yet, they used the Marquis of Wu an manor to suppress her!
The Empress has always doted on Ruoyi as her younger sister. I have to enter the pce to discuss the wedding date with the empress before it can be settled.
Jingwu Hou Old Lady is not afraid of Zheng Xiao, said, Tomorrow is the birthday of the Queen, the empress, the pce how has not yet announced the decree of a rank Gao life of the wife into the pce for the Empress Birthday?
In other words, is Qiao jinniang oneself difficult to protect, since the longevity banquet, outside the pce guesses quite a lot, although there is no news out of the pce.
However, after the birthday banquet that day, Empress Qiao did not summon Gao Mings wife once. Everyone spected that she had lost her divine favor. Even tomorrow was Empress Qiaos birthday banquet, the woman outside the pce had not received the order to enter the pce tomorrow to celebrate her birthday.
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu picked up the Teacup and took a sip of tea. She said, Marriage has always been arranged by parents. Why does the madam of the Marquis have to go to the pce to bother the Empress?
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu put down the teacup and said, She is the eldest daughter of the Marquis family of Wu An. Her cousin is the famous Hong Qifeng, the daughter of the Hong family. I heard that Her Majesty appreciates her and often goes to the harem...
Zheng Xiao clenched her hands tightly. How could she not understand the meaning behind old Madam Suns Words? She said openly and secretly that the Empress had fallen out of favor and that the cousin of the Lady of the Marquis of Wu an was going to enter the harem..
How could zheng Xiao endure it any longer!
As for ruoyi, even if she had a deep affection for the Marquis of Jingwu, with such a mother-inw, when her stepson and daughter-inw entered the family, how could she have a good life? It would be better for her to break up the lovebirds. She would be hated by Qiao ruoyi.
Old Madam Sun, this marriage is over. The status of your Marquis Jingwu Manor is too high. Our Qiao Manor can not match up to it!
Madam Qiao, you have all received the betrothal gifts from our Sun Manor...the old madam of Marquis Jingwu said with a frown.
Zheng xiao sneered, Our marquis an Yuan manor will not take those betrothal gifts away. Old Madam, just take the betrothal gifts away.
The MarquisOld Madam was a little anxious. When it came to her sons house-filling, there was no one in Chang an who was more suitable than Qiao ruoyi.
She could only smile apologetically. Madam Qiao, our two Marquisestates are both prestigious people. Its already time for the betrothal. If the marriage doesnt work out, it wont be good for Ruoyis reputation.
Moreover, I really like Ruoyi. If the Qiao family feels that the wedding date is inappropriate, Ill go back and order someone to calcte it.
Zheng Xiao picked up the cup of tea in front of him and ignored the olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu. The olddy of the Marquis of Jingwu could only smile apologetically and say, Then Ill go back and change the date to calcte it. Ille back again to ask for the date.
After the wife of the Marquis of Jingwu left, Zheng Xiao fiercely put down the Teacup.
..
On the fifth day of the sixth month, in the imperial residence of the Northern Mountain Horse Farm, the summer was hot, but the heat swept through the mountain forest.
Lady Qiao and Lu Chen ran around the horse farm and heaved a heavy sigh of relief. Its been a long time since Ive been so rxed.
Lady Qiao got off the horse and held Lu Chens hand, Can Ie to the outside of the pce for my birthday in the future? I dont have to abide by the rules in the pce. Its obviously my birthday, yet I still have to wear that thick and extremely hot phoenix robe to be worshipped by those imperialdies...
Lu Chen smiled faintly and said, Its good if youre willing.
The imperial residence was not deserted. Qiao Lui, Qiao ruoyi, and Fu Lu came to the imperial residence early in the morning to celebrate Lady Qiaos birthday.
In the afternoon, eldest Princess Lin Mo and her husband, as well as Rong County Prince and his wife, arrived one after another.
The Birthday Luncheon the next day was very lively. There was no distinction between ruler and minister. With Rong County Prince and Fu Lu present, the atmosphere was very good.
Everyone presented their birthday gifts one after another. At this time, someone came to inform Xie Yun.
Lu Chen generously let Xie Yun in. He came to celebrate Lady Qiaos birthday, so why would he chase him away? Moreover, Lu Chen knew very well that Xie Yun had long lost interest in Lady Qiao.
Lady Qiao had no feelings for Xie Yun at all.
After Xie Yun entered, he presented a rare night pearl of the East China Sea. It was about an inch big and full of pearl light. When Lady Qiao saw this night Pearl, she knew it was a rare treasure in the world.
Lady Qiao thanked him. Thank you, Master.
Youre wee, My Lady,Xie Yun said.
Lu Chen ordered someone to give Xie Yun a seat. Jing Hua and Lin Mo, Little County Prince Rong and Sa Moer, Fu Lu and Qiao Lui, Yue Zhan and Qin Miaomiao were all husband and wife. Only Qiao Ruoyi was left alone, there was an extra seat beside her seat.
The Chambein felt that it would be troublesome to add more tables and chairs, so he simply gave Xie Yun a set of bowls and chopsticks on the empty seat beside Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi was rather disgusted and moved slightly to the side..
Although it was not obvious, Xie Yun, who was sitting next to her, saw this action clearly.
Little County Prince Rong said, Royal Brother, today is the birthday of royal sister-inw. Why Dont we y a new wine edict?
Lu Chen asked, What Wine Edict?
Little County Prince Rong said, Today, we have thest Imperial Examinations flower inspector, this years Enkes two schrs, and the first schr, Prime Minister Lin You. It would be a pity if we dontpete with these elegant edicts.
Fu Lu said, No, no, general Yue and I dont understand these things.
Yue Zhan said from the side, Its just that you dont understand. I just dont care about these things yed by these romantic and weak schrs.
As he said that, Yue Zhan looked at Lin mo meaningfully.
Fu Lu said, Why dont we y dice? Well y three times. The one with the least points will have to drink three sses of wine.
Qiao jinniang also said, Fu Lus suggestion is very good. Its not easy to rx for a while, so dont make me waste my time and effort topose poems. If all the talented schrs and women want topose poems, then go to another poetry festival. Today, just focus on ying.
Fu Lu took out the dice that he carried with him and said, Im pregnant, so its not good for me to drink. How about this, why dont the women roll the dice at every table, and the men drink?
All the women present responded without exception.
Fu Lu and Qin Miaomiao were both casino veterans, so they naturally had the ability to y dice. There were so many faces in the Grand Princess Jing Huas residence, so they could also roll the dice when they often yed the double continent.
So after a few rounds, neither of them had ever lost.
Chapter 347 - , becoming His Majesty’s woman
Chapter 347: Chapter 347, bing His Majestys woman
Qiao ruoyi said weakly, If I really have the ability to deliberately roll the dice, why wait for the manor to issue an order to buy the Vermilion Statue? Ill just go to the gambling den and win money. You Wont be the first to win.
Xie Yun slightly lowered her phoenix-like eyes, picked up the wine cup in front of her and drank up the strong liquor in one gulp.
The dice were the three dice that Fu Lu took out. Only Qiao Ruoyi kept throwing three ones. It was hard for Xie Yun not to suspect that Qiao Ruoyi did not do it on purpose.
Fu Lu smiled faintly and said, Continue, continue!
This time, ruoyi will throw the dice first!Qiao Jinniang said.
Qiao Ruoyi put the dice into the dice cup, closed her eyes, and whispered, Heaven and earth, Spirit, please show yourself, Grand Lord, not three ones, not three ones.
When the Dice Cup was opened, the bright light lying on the dice cup was three ones.
Qiao Ruoyis face was dark, but Xie Yuns face was even darker.
Fu Lu smiled faintly and said, This, we dont need to continue shaking, right?
Qiao ruoyi still had a trace of hope and said, Maybe you guys are also three ones.
In order to make Qiao ruoyi give up, the internal attendant took the dice and dice cup from Qiao Ruoyis hands and handed them to the princess of Rong County, Sa Moer. When sa Moer went to take the dice, she saw the internal attendant moving in his wide sleeves.
Sa Moer was curious, but she did not say anything.
Several people shook the dice, but none of them had a one.
Xie Yun said to Qiao ruoyi, And you said it was not intentional!
It was harder to make three ones than three sixes.
Qiao ruoyi picked up the wine cup in front of Xie Yun and filled it up for herself. She drank it all in one go and drank two more cups. The strong liquor was extremely spicy when it entered her throat. Qiao ruoyi had never drunk such strong liquor.
After Qiao Ruoyi finished drinking, she put down the wine cup and said, Youre still the head of an aristocratic family. Its just a few cups of liquor, and youre still here to use others.
Qin miaomiao said, Ruoyi has a good tolerance for liquor.
As soon as Qin Miaomiao finished speaking, he saw Qiao Ruoyi lying on the table with a red face.
The liquor used for todays banquet was brought by Qiao Jinniang from Qiu Yue. It was stronger than ordinary good liquor.
Qiao ruoyi knew how to drink, but she only knew how to use fruit wine for the women at the banquet. It was hard not to get drunk after drinking three sses of Qiu Yues distilled wine.
Seeing Qiao ruoyi fall, Qiao Jinniang said, This wine is very strong. Hong Ling, help her to her room to rest first.
Hong Ling epted the order and helped Qiao ruoyi down.
After Qiao Ruoyi went down, the game continued. When Xie Yun received the three dice given by the internal attendant, he frowned. No matter how bad his luck was, he would not be able to throw three one dice every time.
It turned out that the dice had really been tampered with.
Xie Yun looked at Lu Chen in the seat of honor and thought to herself that he was childish. They were both people of the emperor. Was it fun to y such a small trick?
Lu Chen looked at the way Xie Yun looked at him and felt rather puzzled.
Qiao Jinniang saw that the two of them were looking at each other. She turned her body slightly to block Lu Chens line of sight. How dare the two of them look at each other so affectionately in front of her?
After Xie Yun shook the dice, he could not hold his liquor and fell down.
Lady Qiao also asked the pce maids to bring Xie Yun to the imperial manor to rest for a while to sober up.
Lu Chen ordered someone to bring Xie Yuns dice to him and asked the imperial servant, Did you do this?
The imperial servant immediately knelt down and said, Your Majesty, I dont dare. Yes, it was Princess Fu Lu who ordered me to do this.
Lu Chen looked at Fu Lu and said, What grudge does the Xie family head have with you? Are you going to treat him like this?
Fu Lu said softly, Who asked him to lie to me? At that time, I thought he was really dead. I even cried for a long time. Its a pity that a beautiful womans life is short...
Qiao Jinniang took the dice that Lu Chen was ying with and threw it on the table a few times. Most of the times, it was three ones. It was no wonder that Qiao ruoi kept losing just now.
..
Xie Yun was half-drunk and half-awake as he was carried into a courtyard by the pce servants. When the Empress came, all the rooms in the imperial manor were cleaned in advance.
In a small courtyard in the imperial manor.
A little pce maid with heavy makeup did not forget to stick her head out while sweeping the floor. An older pce maid came over and touched the forehead of the pce maid with heavy makeup:
Yuer, stop your thoughts. You are just a pce maid in the Imperial Manor. It is simply a pipe dream for you to serve the Emperor!
There are so many rich and noble daughters in Chang an city who are not liked by the emperor. On what basis do you have?
Tan Yu held the broom tightly and said, Sister, God gave me such a look. Why Cant I Gamble on my wealth? Do I have to stay in this imperial manor for the rest of my life and clean the deserted courtyard every day for those eunuchs to instigate me at will?
Ive had enough of this kind of life. I want to enter the pce and be the Empress of His Majesty!
When Im twenty-one years old, you and I will be able to leave the pce. How can it be for the rest of Our Lives!
Qin Yu sneered, So what if its twenty-one years? When the Li Pce returns home, I will be sold by my parents to be a servant girl in a wealthy family...
The older pce maid said, Now there is a new order. Parents are not allowed to buy and sell their children as ves. If they be ves, they will have to sign a contract. If parents force their children to be ves, it is the same as forcing them to be prostitutes.
After we leave the pce, we can make a small business with our sries these years. Now, the imperial court treats women well in business. Sister Zhizi, who went outst year, has already earned a lot of money by selling buns. She has also found a good marriage, She is married to a constable in the Chang an government.
Qin Yu said, Sister Zhizi has to get up and knead the dough when she is ugly every day. She makes buns and burns firewood. A weak woman still has to go to the stall early. Her hands have be much thicker. Whats so good about marrying a constable!
Is that little sry enough to buy Rouge or silk? Its better to stay in the pce and be a pce maid!
The older pce maid saw that she could not convince her younger sister, so she gave up. She went into the room and looked at the silver in her dressing room.
She wanted to take out some money to give to sister Zhizi and let her open a shop. When she left the pce, she could either help out in the buns or take the dividends. She would not have to sit around and eat nothing.
However, when she opened the dressing room, the silver inside was gone, the pce maid went to look for Qin Yu in exasperation. Did you take the silver in my dressing room? What did you do with it? Did you go to buy Rouge and water powder again? Why did you take all of it?
That is the dowry that I have umted for many years!
Qin Yu said, Sister, isnt it just fifty taels of silver? After i be the imperial consort, I will give you five hundred taels, five thousand taels!
Hearing that, Qin Xue said, I dont want five hundred taels, and I dont want five thousand taels either. Give me back my fifty taels of silver. If you still want to be the imperial consort, you wont even be able to meet His Majesty once!
Qin Yu said, I have already gone to buy things with that silver. Theres not a single cent left.
What did you buy that requires fifty taels of silver?Qin Xue asked in shock.
Qin Yu took out a bag of medicinal powder from his bosom and said, Not only that, I even borrowed fifty taels of silver from eunuch Huang. Just this bag of medicinal powder costs one hundred and twenty taels of silver. However, after the deed is done, I will be able to ascend to the heavens and be His Majestys Woman!
Qin Xue frowned and said, Just by relying on this bag of medicinal powder?
Chapter 348 - , the antidote
Chapter 348: Chapter 348, the antidote
Qin Xue felt that her sister had really gone crazy. You, how can you be so bold? Why Dont you quickly return this medicinal powder!
Sister, this medicinal powder can no longer be returned. Its just that we, the lowly servants, can not enter his majestys body at all. Sister, eunuch Huang from the Imperial Manor has wanted to eat with you for a long time. Can you help me?
Qin Xue pped Qin Yus face in anger. You are simply unreasonable.
Elder sister, I have already spent so much silver. I still owe eunuch Huang fifty silver taels! If I cant return the silver, eunuch Huang, he, he...
Qin Xue took a deep breath and said helplessly, Its absolutely impossible to get close to his majesty. If Im not careful, Ill implicate the entire nine families. How can this messy medicinal powder be used on his majesty? !!
However, the head of the Xie family of the Jiangnan aristocratic family is drunk. He is resting in the courtyard. Later, you will bring him some hangover medicine for me!
Qin Yu thanked her profusely, Thank you, Sister. I will go and get the hangover medicine now.
Qin Yu went into the small kitchen and saw the hangover medicine boiling on the stove. He put a packet of medicinal powder into the hangover medicine and poured a bowl of it before leaving.
Not long after, Hong Ling also entered the kitchen. When she saw that half of the antidote had been poured, she poured the other half into the bowl and gave it to Qiao Ruoyi to drink.
..
Xie Yun had never drunk such strong alcohol before. He was still pretending to be drunk at the banquet just now, but when he went to the room to rest, he was really a little drunk.
When he closed his eyes for a nap, the tip of his nose was surrounded by a strong scent of cosmetics. When he opened his eyes slightly, he saw a face that was as white as a ghost.
Master Xie, this is the antidote I specially brewed for you.
Xie Yun smelled the fragrance of the womans body and felt his head hurt more and more. After drinking the antidote, he said to the pce maid, You go down.
When Qin Yu saw Xie Yun drink the antidote, he deliberately tidied it up slowly. Master Xie...
Xie Yun smelled the fragrance of the pce maid and wanted to vomit. The pce maids in the imperial residence were really unruly.
Qin Yu went forward and said, Master Xie, why is there so much sweat on your forehead? Let this servant wipe it off for you, okay?
Xie Yun said, No need. You can go down!
Not only did Qin Yu not go down, but half of his body was leaning on Xie Yun. Xie Yun felt more and more disgusted. She pushed Qin Yu away and left the courtyard to lock the door.
Qin Yu, who was locked in the house, was extremely shocked.
After Xie Yun went out, he saw Qin Xue and said, Hurry up and find the imperial physician!
It was unknown what the pce maid had given him, but Xie Yun knew in his heart that it was not something good!
How Could Qin Xue Dare to find the imperial physician? If she went to find the imperial physician, wouldnt she expose her sisters scheme? When that time came, neither she nor her sister would have a good ending. Young Master Xie, are you feeling unwell?
Xie Yun saw that this woman also had a disgusting fragrance on her body. When she looked at their simr appearances, she felt even more disgusted. She walked straight out of the courtyard.
Qin Xue stopped Xie Yun and asked, Is there anything ufortable about patriarch Xie?
Xie Yun raised her phoenix-like eyes and said to Qin Xue, If you want to keep your sister alive, dont Stop Me.
Qin Xue quickly made way for Xie Yun.
There were not many pce maids and maids in the imperial residence. Most of them were serving at the banquet in the front courtyard. Xie Yun did not encounter any pce maids along the way. He only felt that his entire body was burning.
When he walked into a courtyard, he saw a clear spring inside and wanted to go in to relieve the heat on his body.
When he entered theke, the heat was finally relieved a little. However, his mind became more and more muddled. He unconsciously felt a cold body wrap around him.
He did not know whether it was a dream or some bold pce maid. He was not willing to endure it anymore. He carried the woman in his arms and went ashore, heading into the house.
At dusk, Lady Qiao and Lu Chen returned to the pce first.
Qiao lui ordered someone to find Qiao ruoyi to see if she had sobered up. It was only after they went to the courtyard that they found out that Qiao Ruoyi had disappeared. The pce maids guarding outside the door did not know when Qiao Ruoyi had disappeared.
They searched the entire imperial manor for Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao lui walked into the room and said, This ce is connected to theke. Could it be that Ruoyi was drunk and jumped into theke? Quickly get someone to go down to theke to take a look.
Fu Lu saw an earring by the bed and said, This earring belongs to ruoyi. She didnt really fall into theke, did she? How did the pce maids serve her at the door? Someone... quickly get in the water!
..
In a courtyard across theke, Qiao Ruoyi slowly opened her eyes when she heard the noise outside. She did not know what had happened just now. She only knew that her body was very hot when she drank the antidote.
When she opened her eyes, there was still a sense of oppression from her body. When she fully woke up, she knew what had happened and raised her hand to p the man on top of her.
Xie Yun was suddenly pped andpletely woke up. Looking at the womans appearance, he only felt that his head hurt even more.
Qiao ruoyi pushed Xie Yun away and picked up the clothes that were scattered all over the ground to put on properly. The clothes on the ground were still a little wet.
She heard a pce servant call her name outside. When she opened the door, she did not forget to turn around and say to Xie Yun, My marriage is imminent. Dont tarnish my reputation. What happened today is between us!
At the moment, she did not care about a womans innocence. However, she could not be so courteous to other men when they were discussing marriage.
When Qiao Ruoyi stumbled out, she realized that she almost lost her bnce.
Qiao lui came over to see Qiao ruoyi and let out a sigh of relief. You scared me to death. I thought you fell into theke drunk!
Qiao ruoyi said, I fell into theke just now, but I came ashore in a daze and fell asleep here.
Hurry back and find a royal doctor to drink some medicine,Qiao Lui said to Qiao ruoyi.
Qiao lui saw that Qiao Ruoyi was a little strange when she walked, but he did not think too much about it.
When Qiao Ruoyi got into the Qiao familys carriage, she closed her eyes and saw the scene of her waking up just now.
She could not help but shed tears. Her Luck was already bad enough, yet she had to encounter such a thing again.
Although it was not important for a woman to be chaste at the moment, she did not want to lose her first time in a muddle-headed manner.
Yet, she could not seek justice for herself. If she were to settle the score with Xie Yun, everyone in Chang an would probably say that she was in the middle of a marriage proposal and even seduced Xie Yun.
This matter could only be kept a secret for now.
..
After Xie Yun put on her clothes, she found out that Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen had returned to the pce.
Xie Yun found eunuch Huang in the imperial residence and dealt with the two sisters, Qin Yu and Qin Xue. She thought of what Qiao Ruoyi had said before she left and rubbed her temples. Since she had already said that this matter was not known to outsiders, she would let it go.
When Xie Yun walked out of the door, the subordinates of the Xie family came up to her. Xie Yun said, Send Gu Kaizhis vermilion cross portrait and Wang Youjuns snow-time sunny invitation to the fifth daughter of the Qiao family. Take it as the Xie familys makeup for her.
Yes, Master.
Chapter 349 - less dowry for Qiao ruoyi
Chapter 349: Chapter 349: less dowry for Qiao ruoyi
After Qiao Ruoyi returned, Zheng Xiao wanted to discuss the marriage with her in the Marquismansion. With the way the old madam of the Marquis was behaving, she really didnt want to get married to the Sun family.
However, when she heard that Qiao Ruoyi was drunk and fell into the water today, she could only give up.
When Qiao Ruoyis servant girl, Xiao Man, was waiting for Qiao Ruoyi to wash up, she saw the spots on Qiao Ruoyis body and sucked in a breath of cold air. Miss, were you hit by someone?
Qiao ruoyi said, Maybe I hit a rock when I fell into the water.
Another servant girl, Yan Yu, entered the room and said, Miss, the Xie family still sent you gu Kaizhis Weimkai statue and the snow-time invitation. Master Xie said that he was doing makeup for you.
Qiao ruoyi pouted and said, I wont ept it. You can return it to the Xie family.
No, wait, I think you should stay!
Qiao ruoyi instantly changed her mind. Go to the ce where I hid the silver and take out all the silver notes to send to the Xie family!
Yes, miss. .
After Qiao Ruoyi took a bath, she sat in front of the window and looked at the crescent moon in the sky. She could not fall asleep for a long time. However, she still had to go to the morning court the next day. She asked Yan Yu to boil a bowl of medicine and relied on drinking the medicine to barely fall asleep.
The matter of Xie Yun being in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor could not be hidden from the Northern Mountain Secret Guards.
After Xie Yun left, the Northern Mountain Secret Guards went to the Tai Chi Pce to report the matter to Lu Chen.
Lu Chen frowned slightly. Dont let the Empress Know about this. Rece eunuch Huang from the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor. Also, change the serving girls in there. In front of them, deal with those two whimsical sisters!
Fortunately, Xie Yun was the one who was affected today. These two pce maids were extremely disgusting.
The Secret Guards left.
Eunuch Gu handed a cup of tea to Lu Chen and said, Your Majesty, why didnt you let the Empress Know About This?
Lu Chen said, Xie Yun doesnt like Qiao ruoyi. If the Empress knew about this, she would inevitably seek justice for her sister.
Eunuch GU said in bewilderment, Qiao Wu is the daughter of Marquis an Yuans estate and is now a fifth-rank official. How could the head of the Xie family not like Qiao Wu?
Lu Chen said indifferently, The difference between the direct line of descent and the concubine in the aristocratic families is like the difference between the clouds and the mud. It is a chasm that can not be crossed.
..
The next day, after Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Qiao family from the Yamen, Zheng Xiao went to find Qiao Ruoyi. Seeing Qiao Ruoyis unpleasant expression, he asked, Ruoyi, whats wrong with you?
Qiao ruoyi forced a smile and said, Perhaps you havent recovered from your drunkenness yesterday. Mother, whats the matter?
Zheng Xiao said, Tell mother that you really like Marquis Jingwu and wont marry anyone other than him?
That old madam sun is really infuriating. Ive asked around these past few days. No wonder shes so anxious to set the wedding date at the end of this month. Not only will the heir-son of Marquis Jingwu be going to the Marquis of Wu an next year to be his first wife.
Also, her granddaughter is fourteen years old this year. When ites to discussing the marriage, when other people hear that theres no first wife, they all stop talking about the marriage.
The Marquise of Jingwu had passed away more than ten years ago. Madam Sun was afraid that the newly married house-fill would bully her grandson and granddaughter. She would dy until the grandson could get married before she wanted to fill the house for her son. With such a disgusting mother-inw, if she married him.., she would be on guard against him.
Ruoyi, listen to your mother. If it werent for the deep affection for the Marquis of Jingwu, we would choose another marriage. I dont believe that all the good men in the world are dead.
Qiao ruoyi listened to Zheng Xiaos advice and said, Mother, whats the difference between a different family? Unless I marry far away and leave Chang an, if I stay in Chang an, which schr family would be willing to marry the daughter of a concubine?
Zheng xiao sighed helplessly, The aristocratic families have been in decline for so long, and they still insist on this rule. Sigh! Its been hard on you.
From hundreds of years ago when the aristocratic families were mentioned, there was a difference between the nobles andmoners. The aristocratic families andmoners were not allowed to intermarry. After the great ancestor ascended to the throne, all the emperors of the Tang Empire were devoted to suppressing the aristocratic families.
Now, if one were to talk about the aristocratic families, there were only the Xie family, Qian family, and the Qiao family in Jiangnan.
However, after the schrs of the Tang Empire who were favored by the imperial court obtained the imperial examinations, not only did they not think about the time when the aristocratic families gained power, schrs like them who were born from humble families would not be able to be officials even if they studied hard for decades.
On the contrary, some of the rules of the aristocratic families were respected now, and gradually, the difference between the legitimate and illegitimate children became greater and greater.
These were the things that only the aristocratic families would care about, and the schrs were quite concerned about these things now.
Some of the important families in Chang an would not be able to have the difference between the legitimate and illegitimate children in the residence. The illegitimate children and illegitimate children were all equal to the young masters and daughters of the residence, so the mistress of the household would not favor one over the other.
However, when it came to marriage matters, the illegitimate children could only be matched with the illegitimate children.
Qiao Ruoyis family background was high, and she was talented. Therefore, some of the illegitimate children who did not inherit the title of nobility were willing to propose marriage.
Qiao Ruoyin was able to marry into the family of the Yun Zhou governor because she was a military general. She did not care about the difference between the legitimate children and concubines that the schrs respected.
Zheng Xiao said to Qiao ruoyi, Fortunately, you still have our Qiao family. You have married into the Sun Manor. If they humiliate you, you must not be like your big sister, reporting the good news without reporting the bad news.
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, Yes, mother. Lets set the wedding date ording to Old Madam Suns wishes.
She was afraid that if the wedding date grew longer, there would be changes.
When Zheng Xiao walked out of Qiao Ruoyis courtyard, he helplessly went to old madam Qiaos side.
Old madam Qiao sighed, The Xie family is the only aristocratic family left. Now, they still have these rules!
Ever since the founding of the Great Tang Empire, His Majesty has fought against the aristocratic families for the sake of themon people. He gathered the imperial power and allowed themon people to live a good life. On the contrary, that group of pedantic schrs still followed the old rules of the aristocratic families!
Everyone thought that they could be an aristocratic family by following the rules. Little did they know that back when the aristocratic families were big, they were not even worthy to carry shoes for the aristocratic families.
If the aristocratic families were really around, they would not even be worthy to marry the servants of our Qiao family. Although the rules of the aristocratic families are that of the legitimate son of the concubine, that is also a marriage alliance between the illegitimate son of the aristocratic family and the illegitimate son of the aristocratic family. These poor schrs are nothing!
Mother, your scolding is reasonable. However, it seems that its just as ruoyi said, only the Sun family is left.Zheng Xiao said, What do you think about setting the wedding at the end of June?
Old madam Qiao said, Sigh, since she has already decided, lets do as she says. However, the wedding date is approaching, so we should not treat her unfairly. Theres also the dowry... you should give her less dowry that can be easily sold.
Zheng Xiao would not go so far as to be harsh on her daughters dowry. He said, Mother, how can this be? This should at least be the same as Ruofengs dowry, right?
Old Madam Qiao said, Its not like you dont know her. If you give her a dowry that can be easily sold, she will definitely sell the dowry in two or three days and buy all the bookstores in Chang an.
Zheng xiao smiled and said, Thats true. Then I will prepare more shops for her that are more profitable than our Qiao familys so that she wont sell the shops to buy famous calligraphy and paintings.
After the marriage was settled, the Hou mansion began to prepare for the wedding.
At the end of June, the weather was extremely hot. The next day, they were going to get married. When Qiao Ruoyi went to her familys temple to worship her ancestors, she was met with a fierce storm, thunder and lightning. It was very frightening.
Chapter 350 - Qiao Ruoyi is pregnant
Chapter 350: Chapter 350: Qiao Ruoyi is pregnant
In the pouring rain, the servant girl beside Princess Fu Lu passed on the news that Princess Fu Lu had already given birth.
Qiao lui looked at Old Madam Qiao and Zheng Xiao and said, Grandmother, mother, Xiang Xiang is about to give birth. Ill go back first.
Old Madam Qiao said, Its windy and rainy on the road. Be careful. Xiaoer, you should go with her. Its the princessfirst time giving birth. Its hard not to be afraid.
Zheng Xiao agreed and rushed back to Fu Lus courtyard with Qiao Lui.
Old Madam Qiao pressed her palms together towards the ancestral tablets and prayed for the safety of Princess Fu Lu and her son.
Qiao ruoi followed the rules set by the n leader at the side. When she was offering incense to her ancestors, she felt extremely uneasy when she heard the sounds of thunder, wind, and rain outside.
The weather was like this again when Princess Fu Lu was about to give birth. After Qiao Ruoi finished offering incense, she rushed to Qiao Luis courtyard.
But who knew that when she stepped over the threshold outside the ancestral hall, because of the puddles on the ground, she slipped and fell to the ground. She felt a great pain in her abdomen, xiao Man, who was at the side, eximed in shock, Blood! Miss, youre injured. Theres so much blood below!
Old Madam Qiao saw this and said anxiously, Someone quickly call the imperial physician.
After a moment of busyness, Qiao Ruoyi was in so much pain that she bit her lip. The women carried a small pnquin and carried Qiao ruoyi back to her small courtyard. Princess Fu Lu was about to give birth, and there were already two imperial physicians in the manor on standby.
When Qiao Ruoyi returned to the courtyard, Fu Lu had already sessfully given birth to a daughter. The two imperial physicians then came to Qiao Ruoyis courtyard.
Old Madam Qiao was very anxious. Shes going to be married tomorrow. If she breaks her leg now, it wont be good.
A younger imperial physician hurriedly went forward to check Qiao Ruoyis pulse. Seeing that her lower body was covered in blood, he was shocked after checking her pulse. Sir, pleasee and take a look. This fifthdy seems to have had a miscarriage. Im afraid she wont be able to keep her child.
After the old imperial physician went forward to check Qiao Ruoyis pulse, he said, Fifthdy, Ive offended you. Ill have to trouble the servant girl to expose yourdys stomach. Ill give her an injection to protect her fetus.
When Old Madam Qiao heard this, her hands kept fiddling with the Buddha beads in her hands.
Xiao Man and Yan Yu looked at each other. However, they still obediently changed Qiao ruoyi into a middle-sized shirt, revealing her t lower abdomen.
The old imperial physician took out a silver needle and pricked Qiao Ruoyis abdomen several times, then ordered the maidservant to fetch the medicine to brew the medicine.
The younger imperial physician said to old madam Qiao, Fifth Miss is lucky. Originally, sir had already retired in Luoyang city. The eldest princess was worried about the princess, so she asked Sir to return to Chang an. If not for Sirs acupuncture skills, fifth miss would definitely not be able to keep the child in her belly today.
The old imperial physician said, Its also because of the girls fate with this child. After so much blood, she was still able to survive. However, she needs to stay in bed for at least a month to recuperate. Lets forget about tomorrows marriage. After all, the child is more important.
After Old Madam Qiao thanked them, she rewarded the two imperial physicians. After Old Madam Qiao sent the two imperial physicians away, she looked at Qiao ruoyi and said sternly, The child in your stomach is not from the Marquis of Jingwu, right?
Qiao Ruoyi was in a daze on the bed. When she heard old madam Qiaos words, she immediately said, Grandmother, this child can not be kept!
Old Madam Qiao was exasperated and fiercely pped Qiao Ruoyi on the face, I heard from the old imperial physician that the child in your belly is less than a month old. Its fine if you dont have a marriage contract, but after having a marriage contract, youre still pregnant with someone else. Where does this put our Qiao familys face?
Qiao Ruoyi said with tears in her eyes, Grandma, I know Im wrong. I Cant keep this child!
Who is the father of the child? He abandoned the child in such a disorderly manner. He knows that you have a marriage contract, but... Its a light punishment to take his life.
Old Madam Qiao was extremely angry. Tomorrow, our Qiaos residence will be the biggest joke in Chang an city!
Qiao ruoyi said, I dont know who the father of the child is. Grandmother, Ill just abort the child. Ill just say that I fell and broke my leg...
Old madam Qiao sneered, How long can we keep this a secret? How can we keep the mouths of the two imperial physicians shut?? The eldest master of the Ye family had a good rtionship with those imperial physicians. The niece of eldest Grandma Ye was going to marry the eldest daughter of Wu Anhou, the heir of the Marquis of Jingwu. How could we keep this a secret?
An yuanhou and Zheng Xiao had heard the news from Qiao Ruoyi. Before they could hug their granddaughter, they rushed over.
An yuanhou entered and said angrily, You did such a shameless thing, and you still want to hide it? Tell me about that adulterer!
Men, arrest Xiao Man and Yan Yu and beat them up!
Qiao ruoyi heard this and said with tears in her eyes, Father, dont beat them up. They dont know.
An yuanhou forced himself to fight Qiao ruoyi, You have no sense of shame to do such a shameful thing to our Qiao family. The maidservants by your side didnt take good care of you. If it werent for the fact that youre afraid of one dead body and two lives, they would have beaten you up as well!!
Who was the adulterer?
Zheng Xiao stepped forward and asked, Ruoyi, who was the man who lied to You? Youre now an official in the imperial court. After such a thing happened, you might not even be able to hold on to your official position. Why are you still hiding it from that man?
If she doesnt want to tell us today, then well kill one corpse and two lives to save our Qiao familys reputation!An yuanhou scolded loudly.
Old Madam Qiao red at an yuanhou unhappily and said, One corpse and two lives, forcing our own girl to die. is letting that man roam free a good reputation? Nonsense!
Zheng Xiao persuaded Qiao ruoyi, Ruoyi, your sister loves you the most. You should also think about your sister in the pce. If your reputation is ruined, how will your sister be able to rule the world as a Mother? Tell us, who is that man?
Qiao ruoyi pursed her lips and said softly, Its Patriarch Xie.
Zheng Xiao frowned. Marquis an Yuan also frowned and asked, Patriarch Xie of Jiangnan?
Yes.Qiao ruoyi told her everything that happened in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor on the day of Jin Niangs birthday. Father, mother, grandmother, I really dont have any sense of shame. I dont know how I got pregnant...
Zheng Xiaonan sighed heavily. Sigh, you child, why didnt you tell your family about such a big matter? What about Patriarch Xie? Patriarch Xie took advantage of you so much, didnt he say anything?
He gave me the real copy of Qingtie when it was almost snowing, just like Gu Kaizhis Wei Mojie.
An yuanhou was even more furious. The real copy of Qingtie when it was almost snowing, and he sent my Qiao familys daughter away? In your dreams!
Old Madam Qiao said to an yuanhou, Isnt family head Xie going to trade with the western regions? Does he want us to help him in Yunzhou? After doing such a thing, he still has the nerve to act as if nothing has happened. Go to the Xie family and ask family head Xie for Justice!
Xiaoer, follow me to the manor of the Marquis of Jingwu and apologize properly. Its fine if youreughed at and scolded by others, but our Qiao family can only swallow the tears of this matter.
Ruoyi, rest well. The child in your belly is more important. Since you can keep it, it means that the fate between the child and you is not shallow. A miscarriage is also extremely tiring.
Chapter 351 - making Qiao Ruoyi a concubine
Chapter 351: Chapter 351, making Qiao Ruoyi a concubine
On a June Day, the childs face cleared up after a thunderstorm, like a rainbow hung in the clear blue sky that had been washed.
When Qiao Jinniang heard that Fu Lu had given birth to a little daughter, she could not help but want to go out of the pce to take a look. She was extremely covetous of a daughter.
Lu Chen brought Qiao Jinniang out of the pce secretly. When they arrived at the Qiao residence, not only did Qiao Jinniang not see the joy of the Hou Manor having a granddaughter, but she also saw the maidservant remove the red silk and the word Happinessthat was used for the wedding the next day.
Qiao Jinniang went to Fu Lus courtyard. Qiao Lu was not there, and neither was Shou ans eldest princess. Only Qin Miaomiao was there.
It was rare for Fu Lu to be weak and quiet. When he saw Qiao jinniang, he said, Youre lying. You said that giving birth is very painful.
Qiao jinniang said, Yes.
Fu Lu said, Its clearly not very painful. Its clearly the kind of pain that can not be wished for life or death!
Qiao Jinniang smiled lightly. It does hurt, but in the future, you will find that no matter how painful it is, its worth it. What about the child? Do you have a name for it?
Qin Miao passed the baby in his hand to Qiao Jinniang and said, It hasnt been given a big name yet, but its nickname is little rainbow. Its rare to see a rainbow today.
Wheres Ah Lui?Qiao Jinniang carried the baby in her arms and asked, Usually, as long as he goes to the yamen, you guys will always be together. Why isnt he here today?
Oh, he went to find Xie Yun to settle the score.
Fu Lu weakly told Qiao Jinniang that Qiao ruoi had Xie Yuns child. Qiao jinniang said in surprise, Theres such a thing? Why did ruoi keep it from us?
Fu Lu whispered, I dont know why she kept it a secret, but tomorrow, our Qiao residence will lose face. If the marriage doesnt work out, there will probably be enmity..
There was also Xie Yun. If Xie Yun wanted to take responsibility, he would have said that he was guilty. However, he never mentioned that he might not marry Ruoyi as his wife.
Qiao Jin said, Ruoyi already has his child. Moreover, ruoyi also suffered an undeserved cmity that day. How can a man like him not take responsibility?
Qin Miao said, In the aristocratic families, the first wife is like the clouds and mud. Moreover, Xie Yun is the eldest grandson of the first wife of the Xie family. Even if Ruoyi is the first wifes daughter, he might not take a fancy to her, let alone a second wifes daughter.
Lady Qiao Jin said coldly, If thats the case, why did he provoke ruoyi that day?
Fu Lu said softly, If I had known earlier, I would not have drunk Xie Yun on purpose that day...
Lady Qiao Jin sighed helplessly. Speaking of which, it was true that Xie Yun did not deliberately make Qiao ruoyi pregnant.
..
In the Xie family of Chang an.
When Marquis an Yuan and Qiao Lu entered, Qiao Lu very impolitely went up and grabbed Xie Yuns cor. Xie Yun was calm, and the Xie family guards on both sides stepped forward.
Xie Yun signaled for the guards to leave with her eyes, she said to Marquis an yuan and Qiao lui, Marquis and uncle of the small country have graced us with their presence. I did not wee you. Uncle of the small country barged into our xie residence and grabbed my cor. What do you mean?
Qiao Lui red at Xie Yun and said, You abandoned my sister. She is pregnant now. You have to give my sister an exnation.
Xie Yun frowned. Pregnant?
An yuanhou said to Qiao lui, Ah Lui, let go. Master Xie, its a foregone conclusion. My Daughter is pregnant. What ns does master Xie have?
Xie Yun said, That day, your daughter and I were schemed against by others. The best way is for the fifth miss to abort the child. The Xie family will make up for it. In the future, things will be peaceful.
An yuanhou said angrily, You want my daughter to abort the child? Do you know how harmful an abortion can be to a woman?
Its fine if you want to keep the child. Its just that fifth Misss marriage is already difficult. If you have a child, Im afraid it will be even more difficult.
Qiao lui stepped forward and punched Xie Yuns face in anger. How can you treat my sister so badly?
Xie Yun did not Dodge. After being punched, she straightened her sleeves and said, What about your Marquisdoms opinion?
Marquis an yuan said, Naturally, its you who married Ruoyi to settle this matter and give birth to a legitimate child.
Xie Yun said, The fifthdy in the residence is a concubine. I can only take her in as a concubine.
Qiao Lui was furious when he heard this. When he was about to attack again, Xie Yun used her fan to block Qiao Luis fist and said,
Master Qiao, uncle of the small kingdom, the fifthdy and I were schemed against at the Imperial Manor that day. If the Qiao familys women arent willing to be concubines, then its better to abort the fetus. Its best if everything goes well in the future.
An yuanhou saw the coldness in Xie Yuns eyes and said angrily, What do you mean everything goes well? If youre so ruthless, dont me our Qiao family for being enemies with your Xie family.
An yuanhou and Qiao Lui left angrily.
After they left, Xie Yun furrowed her brows slightly. When she recalled that day, she really wanted to peel off the skin of the two pce maids who had drugged him.
..
After an yuanhou returned to the manor, he heard that Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang hade and went to pay their respects.
Zheng Xiao and old madam Qiao only returned from the Marquis Jing Wus manor during dinner time.
Other than Fu Lu and Qiao ruoyi, who was resting in bed, the whole family was discussing Ruoyis matter in the hall.
Zheng Xiao said, That old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu has such a sharp mouth. Its not enough that she has to apologize with double the dowry. Its also fortunate that Ruoyi didnt marry into the family.
Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, We are also in the wrong in this matter. What did Patriarch Xie Say?
Qiao lui angrily said Patriarch Xies cold words, He said that he can only take his sister as a concubine and will not marry his sister as a wife.
Qiao jinniang said angrily, He harmed ruoyi and made her a concubine? Why a concubine? Everyone knows that my Qiao familys daughter doesnt want to be a concubine. He isnt willing to marry her, but I have to give him an imperial decree to marry her!
Qiao Jinniang did not expect Xie Yun to be such a irresponsible person.
Lu Chen calmly took a sip of tea and did not say anything.
Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, Your Highness, this matter is inappropriate. Who is patriarch Xie? He is the head of the aristocratic family. Although the aristocratic family is not as good as it used to be.
However, when a hundred feet of worms die, it doesnt freeze. Not only do the schrs in the world yearn for the aristocratic family to have a good time, even the Xie familys power in Jiangnan isnt shallow. Your Majesty has grown up in Jiangnan, so you should be aware of this.
If your Majesty were to force Xie Yun to marry my Qiao familys daughter today, Im afraid those schrs who yearn for the aristocratic family to have a good time tomorrow will have to hand in their memorials one by one...
An yuanhou said, If the Xie family is unwilling to marry her, our Qiao family doesnt care either. Its not like we cant support ruoyi and her child. The children that will be born in the future will have nothing to do with the Xie Family!
Zheng Xiao said, Thats easy for you to say. is the name of having an illegitimate child so nice to hear?
An yuanhou said, Then marry into a husband. I dont believe that there isnt a good man in the world who is willing to marry into a family!
Even if there really isnt a husband, just find a random man and give him arge sum of money. At most, we can divorce after giving birth to a child! The child will be born with a proper name.
Old Madam Qiao said, This is the only way now. Xiaoer, the princess is going to give birth to a child and Ruo is going to stay in bed to take care of the child. You must take good care of her.
Zheng Xiao replied, Yes, mother.
Qiao Jinniang frowned when she heard this.
Chapter 352
Chapter 352: Chapter 352, the difference between the legitimate and illegitimate children
In the carriage back to the pce, Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen unhappily, Is there really no way to make Xie Yun marry Qiao Ruoyi?
Both of them hate each other. Giving a marriage is just creating a pair of resentful spouses. Moreover, there are many rules in the Xie family. The difference between the legitimate and illegitimate children is deeply rooted. The more aristocratic families like theirs care about the legitimate and illegitimate children.
Hearing this, Lady Qiao said, Aristocratic families are already at the end of their rope. They still care about the legitimate and illegitimate. Everyone says that children are important and take in concubines. However, when the illegitimate children of Chang an are talking about marriage, they are greatly affected by the illegitimate children.
What difference between the legitimate and illegitimate children? Men are happy for a moment. Instead, they let their children suffer. If Chang an officials are not allowed to take in concubines, lets see where they get the illegitimate children and where they get the legitimate children.
Lu Chen smiled faintly. Thats true. Except for officials, merchants dont care about the difference between a son and a concubine.
Qiao jinniang asked, Then what if you make an imperial edict not to take concubines?
Lu Chen smiled at her. I still want to be the emperor for a few more years.
Qiao Jinniang:...
Lu Chen looked at the Dankou in her hand and said, However, its okay to let the sons and daughters of the first wife and concubines share the family wealth when they are separated from the family. Do you think that if the sons and daughters of the second wife and concubines gradually be more powerful, would those housewives still be willing to take concubines for their husband?
Qiao Jinniang felt that it made sense. They would definitely not be willing to take concubines. It doesnt matter if they suffer some grievances for their mother, but once the interests of their children are lost, how could they still be willing to take concubines?
Lu Chen said, In this world, if a man wants to take concubines, he needs his wifes permission. If those housewives are not willing to take concubines for their husband, it will gradually be the norm without the imperial edict.
Qiao Jin felt that it made sense. Nowadays, most men took in concubines for the sake of their virtuous reputation or to avoid being called jealous.
In any case, when the children of concubines got married, they would not have much money in the public, and the children of concubines would not have much to share in the family business.
However, if the children of concubines and legitimate children were given the same amount, would those women still be so generous? Would they still be willing to take in a concubine for a man?
..
Qiao ruoyi was resting in bed, so she naturally could not go to the yamen of the Ministry of appointments. Hong Qifeng was even busier now.
The wedding invitations of the Marquis of Jingwus manor had been sent to all the important figures in Chang an. Now that the wedding was not sessful, Qiao Ruoyis pregnancy caused amotion. Many people looked at the Qiao family as a joke, they could not find out who Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant with.
In a teahouse with many women in Chang an city, they were all talking about thew that had just been enacted.
If the family was divided after the death of the parents, the family property would be divided equally between the son and the unmarried daughter, regardless of whether it was the son or the concubine.
In the past, most people divided the family property after the death of the parents, so no one dared to divide the family property when the parents were present.
Now that the son and concubine of the first wife had the same family property, what was the difference between the first wife and the concubine?
The number of officials who objected to this matter was pitifully small.
The schrs and officials ced more importance on marrying the daughter of the first wife and the daughter of the second wife. They did not want the name of the daughter of the first wife to ruin their son.
However, giving the son of the second wife and the son of the second wife and the son of the third wife and the son of the third wife would be considered a matter of the afterlife. Moreover, the son of the second wife and the son of the third wife was also their son. Although the emperors imperial decree was inappropriate, it was not so eptable.
However, the wives of the noble and high-ranking officials were dumbfounded. Their son had lost so much of his family property. Although this was a matter of the afterlife, which woman would not n for her own child?
The young wives had agreed with amon enemy not to take concubines for their husband. Their husband would not be able to take in concubines without their consent.
If they had an outer chamber, then they would have an outer chamber. In any case, the illegitimate son of the outer chamber would not even be able to pass the imperial examination. which woman would be willing to ruin the life of her own child for an outer chamber?
Nowadays, a woman could do business for a female household with the help of the government. Those who did not have the ability to do business could even get the government to act as an embroidered maid and make pastries... if she could support herself, who would be willing to be an outer chamber.
There were also some madams who gave sterilization medicine to their maidservants.
However, there was also an imperial edict that the sterilization medicine was not to be sold in folk pharmacies.
How could his majesty give such a good edict?? My husband was unwilling to give his family business to his brother-inw, but he hugged his son and said that he did not need to worry about him in the future. I was almost angered to death. If he wants to take in concubines in the future, I cant y with him anymore.
Thats right. I will not take in concubines for my husband anymore. If I bear the name of being unvirtuous, I will just admit it. I Cant let my son suffer all the grievances.
By the time many men realized that this imperial decree had caused their wives to no longer agree to take concubines for themselves, it was no longer appropriate to submit a petition to change it.
The first-born granddaughter of Marquis an Yuans manor had a full moon wine, and it was extremely lively. Princess Shou an ordered someone to forge a palm-sized golden calf for her granddaughter.
Even the retired emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou, who were far away in Jiangnan, sent many rewards.
When Hong Qifeng came to the An Yuan Marquis residence as a guest, he did not see Qiao ruoyi, so he suggested to Zheng Xiao that he should go and see Qiao ruoyi.
Zheng Xiao replied, You go.
When Hong Qifeng went, Ye suxin, who was at the side, also followed and said, Where are you going? Are you going to see Qiao Ruoyi? I heard that she is pregnant, but it is really a disgrace. The Empress actually did not punish her!
Hong Qifeng looked helplessly at this person who was about to be his own sons sister-inw. Dont follow me.
Ye Suxin didnt give up and followed after her. She had disliked Qiao ruoyi for a long time. She was obviously the daughter of a concubine, but she was above her in everything.
..
Qiao Ruoyi was basking in the sun under a tree in the courtyard. She gently waved her fan. Not long after, she heard a sound and opened her eyes.
She saw a servant girl beside Xie Yun and gave her a few green oranges.
A few days ago, I heard from the fifthdy that it is acerbic. These are green oranges that were specially picked from the Shunds. One bite and it will be sour.
Qiao ruoyi said to the servant girl beside Xie Yun, Dont bring these to me in the future. Even if you bring them, I will not eat them. Who knows if Xie Yun has poisoned them to harm my child?
Xin Lan, the servant girl of the Xie family, said, This was specially ordered by master. How could he poison them? Master thinks highly of the young master in Your Arms.
Qiao ruoyi sneered. If she thought highly of him, why would she immediately ask her to abort the child.
Lan Xin said, Master knows that you like to raise orchids, so he specially built an orchid garden for you. You can also raise those orchids in Chang an. Do you want to go and take a look?
Qiao ruoyi covered her abdomen and said, Is Xie Yun thinking of forcing me to abort the child after he tricked me into going to the Orchid Garden?
At first, Qiao Ruoyi did not want the child, but she heard the advice of others. The child had lost so much blood, but she still kept it. This meant that the child was fated to be with her. Gradually, she could not bear to give up on the child.
How can that be? Master has never been so kind to a woman. Back in Jiangnan, master doted on the Empress as much as she did. Master just feels that he can not marry you. He has let you down and wants to make it up to you.
Yan Yus voice came from outside, Miss Hong, Miss Ye, why arent the two of you entering the courtyard?
Ye Su was thinking about what she had heard just now. was the Xie Yun that Qiao Ruoyi mentioned the Dead Xie Yun?
That Xie Yun was clearly a woman. How could she have be a man?
Chapter 353
Chapter 353: Chapter 353, the Hong familys scheme
Qiao ruoyi heard Yan Yus voice from outside and got down from the Imperial Consorts bed. She stood up and went to the courtyard door to wee her.
Hong Qifeng came over and said, Sister Ruoyi, are you feeling better? When can you return to the Department of OfficialsYamen? Ive been busy with all the official business for the past month alone and I cant take it anymore.
Qiao ruoyi said, The imperial physician said that the child is already stable and that you just need to be careful on a daily basis. However, Im afraid that if I go out now, Ill attract the ridicule of others.
Although she did not intentionally get pregnant with another man when they were engaged, this matter could not be publicized.
Ye suxin, who was at the side, said, At least you still have some self-awareness. Qifeng, I advise you to not associate with this kind of shameless and immoral woman. Youre about to get married and youre pregnant with another man. TSK TSK!
Hong Qifeng said to Ye suxin with slight annoyance, I believe that Sister Ruoyi is not such a shameless person. On the contrary, you pestered my brother and havent married into our Hong family yet. Yet, you still dare toe to the Qiao familys banquet today.
Its also because the Qiao family wants face. Otherwise, a person like you is not even worthy to enter the Qiao familys main gate.
Ye Su was so angry that she stomped her feet. Your elbow is turning outward!
Qiao ruoyi heard the two cousins arguing and said, Qifeng, lets go to the front yard. It seems that the banquet is about to start.
Hong qifeng nodded and said, Okay.
The Qiao familys Full Moon Banquet was a lively one. There were many guests attending the banquet. The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu didnt minding to the banquet when the marriage was not going to work out. She was really anxious and if she didnt make a wife for her son.., when that time came, it would be difficult to talk about her granddaughters marriage.
Now, there was a neww. The illegitimate sons legitimate son would receive the same amount of property. Her own grandson did not have the help of his mother. The Marquis of Jingwu still had two concubines. She had to quickly find a girl to suppress those two concubines.
While the old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu and the madam of the Marquis of Wu an were conversing, she saw ye suxin, who was beside the madam of the Marquis of Wu an, and said, This girl looks very unfamiliar. I dont think Ive seen her before.
The madam of the Marquis of wu an said, Shes My Sisters daughter. Her ancestors were imperial physicians, an aristocratic family of medicine.
Old Madam Sun looked at Ye Suxins appearance and said, The daughter of the Ye family. Have you talked about marriage?
Ye suxin was about to say that she was already discussing marriage with her cousin of the Hong family when she heard the madam of the Marquis of Wu An, who was also her aunt, say, No.
Old Madam Sun smiled. Shes a good choice.
At the full moon banquet, when Zheng Xiao and the eldest princess came out with the baby in their arms, everyone was envious of the girl in their arms. She was born with dignity.
She was given the title of county head even though it was only the full moon.
Although the Empress did note to congratte her, the members of the Imperial Family and the Crown Prince came to celebrate this little county heads full moon. It was not an exaggeration to say that she was doted on by thousands of people throughout her life.
..
As the mid-autumn Festival approached, there was still no news of the pce banquet from the pce. Usually, the mid-autumn Pce banquet was an extremely important day, not to mention that the mid-autumn Festival was the Little Crown Princes birthday banquet.
In previous years, it was always noon for Lu Xis birthday, and at night, it was the mid-autumn Pce banquet.
Thest time on the Empresss birthday, there was no birthday banquet held in the pce, nor did they let the imperial concubines enter the pce to pay their respects.
There was no news about the mid-autumn Pce banquet either. There were already rumors that the empress and the emperor were not on good terms after the longevity banquet, which made everyone feel that the rumors were true.
In the Hong family.
When Ye Suxin heard the words from the Marquiswife, she shook her head repeatedly and said, Aunt, how can you let me marry the Marquis of Jingwu?
My cousin is going to marry the heir of the Marquis of Jingwu next year. Im her cousin, but Im going to marry the Marquis of Jingwu as his wife and be her mother-inw in the future?
How could old Madam Sun say something like this, which has messed up the rules and ethics? How could you agree to it?
Mother ye also said, Eldest sister, among the three of us sisters, youre the High and Mighty Marquiswife. My younger sister is now the Imperial Teachers wife. Only My Ye family has fallen. But even so, you cant look down on my familys suxin!
The Marquis of Wu ans wife said, Second sister, the position of the Marquiswife is so good. If its not good, Qiao Ruoyi wont be willing to marry it!
Ye suxin sneered, Thats because Qiao Ruoyi is a concubine. How can the daughter of a concubine bepared to a legitimate daughter like me? Moreover, even though shes married into the Marquise of Jing Wu, its still a step-by-step house filling.
A step-by-step house filling is a concubine ceremony in front of the official wifes memorial tablet. Qiao ruoyi, a concubines daughter, is willing to be a concubine. Im Not Willing!
The Marquise of Wu an said, Then how can a step-by-step house be a concubine? Shes also a legitimate wife.
Madam Hong said, Second sister, Su Xin, I think what eldest sister said makes sense. The position of the wife of Marquis Jing Wu is also a first-ss wife. Many youngdies want to marry someone, but old madam sun doesnt like them. Old Madam Suns heart aches for her grandson, so she let Su Xin be the wife of a Marquis.
Ye Su Xin felt extremely disgusted. Little aunt, you havent be the emperors mother-inw yet. Our Ye family is in this state because of you!
I originally thought that if I could marry cousin, I would help cousin enter the pce as a concubine. Now that you and Aunt Look Down on me, Ill let it Go!
Madam Hong asked, You can let Qifeng enter the pce as a concubine? Are you joking?
Ye suxin said, Of course Im not joking. Moreover, I know that the Empress is in cahoots with the man outside. The Empress is already on bad terms with him. Its only ten days before the mid-autumn Festival and theres no news of the pce banquet. It only means that the empress has already fallen out of favor.
However, His Majesty doesnt dare to depose the Empress due to the power of the Qiao family, nor does he dare to take in a concubine into the pce. If I present evidence of the Empress having an affair with the man outside, His Majesty will definitely depose the Empress and allow cousin Qifeng to be his concubine.
Madam Hongs eyes lit up, and the marquiswife asked, Suxin, do you really have evidence?
Ye suxin nodded and said, Of course I have evidence. Its just that both of my aunts want me to marry Marquis Jingwu to fill up the room, so please forgive me for letting this go.
How could ye Suxin not know what the Marquiswife was thinking? She was afraid that her daughter would meet a powerful young step-inw and plead guilty when she married him.
But why did she, Ye suxin, want to be cousins mother-inw from her cousin at such a young age?
Madam Hong said, Xin er, the two of us are only giving you suggestions. Theres no need for you to take it to heart. This marriage between you and Yinglong will be decided by me. Quickly take out that evidence?
Ye suxin smiled and said, Little aunt, the evidence is in your hands. Do you still remember the portrait of the Empress when she was young that fell from cousins sleeve that day? There was a Yun character written on the portrait.
It turned out that the Yun character was Xie Yuns Yun, and Xie Yun was not a woman. He did not die either. It turned out that he was a man, and he was also the head of the Xie family who had be famous in Chang an recently!
Madam Hong asked, Is this true?
I heard from Xie Yuns maidservant that it is absolutely true. The empress and Xie Yun came from Lin an together. After Xie Yun came to Chang an, she has always been deeply in love with the Empress as a woman. She is actually a man!
Ye suxin said, Moreover, the Empress has never been on good terms with him. As long as His Majesty believes in this matter, the Empress will be finished. The Hong family and the Marquis Mansion helped his majesty depose the Empress and punish the Qiao family. In the future, they will definitely be highly valued by his majesty!
Chapter 354
Chapter 354: Chapter 354, miss the second one
Madam Hong and Madam Wu Anhou looked at each other and felt that ye suxins words made sense.
Madam Hong ordered a servant to fetch the portrait and looked at the Yun character at the bottom.
Madam Wu Anhou picked up the portrait and said, Ive seen Xie Yuns post before. This Yun character is Xie Yuns handwriting. As long as wepare it with family head Xies handwriting, well know.
Madam Hong recalled that there was a letter from family head Xie in Hong Yangs study room. She brought over the letter from family head Xie. Although there was no Yun character in it, there was a warm character in it. This warm character was exactly the same as the Yun character.
At this moment, an oral order from the pce came from outside, inviting Madam Hong and the other first-grade imperialdies to attend the mid-autumn Pce banquet.
Madam Hong asked curiously, Didnt his majesty already forbid the empress from managing the six pces? Why is there a mid-autumn Pce banquet now?
The marquiswife said, Perhaps its because the rumors are spreading outside. Moreover, the Qiao family is now the dominant family. His Majesty must at least give the Qiao family and the little crown prince some face.
When the timees for the mid-autumn Pce banquet, well see how his majesty and the Empress Look. Well know.
Ye Su said excitedly, If the mid-autumn Day reveals that the Empress is having an affair with Xie Yun, I think his majesty will directly depose the Empress!
The Marquiswife silently wondered if she had decided on her daughters marriage too early. Her daughter was also the eldest daughter of the Marquisfamily, so she should have been born higher than Hong Qifeng.
If Hong Qifeng could be a concubine in the pce, why couldnt her daughter?
..
After Qiao Ruoyi was able to go out, she returned to the yamen of the Ministry of Appointments. There was a lot of sarcasm behind her back, but Qiao Ruoyi pretended not to hear it.
After leaving the yamen, before she could walk to the front of the carriage, she smelled a faint fragrance of orchid grass.
Qiao Ruoyi looked over. It was Xie Yuns maid, Lan Xin, who brought a basin of iron bone element. Iron bone element was the most precious breed of Jian, especially the orchid fragrance.
Lan Xin said to Qiao ruoyi, Fifth miss, this is the Jian that master ordered to send you. There are still a lot of orchids in the orchid garden. Master also ordered someone to move a stalk of ck orchid from Jiangnan. When it blooms in a few days, he will send it to you.
Qiao ruoyi said, You dont have to send these things over anymore. Even if you do, I wont take them.
Lan Xin said, Just take them. If you dont take them, master will me me.
Qiao ruoyi said coldly, Go back and tell your master that if he feels guilty, theres no need to make up for it. I know clearly in my heart that he was also schemed by others.
The child belongs to the Qiao family. The child belongs to the Qiao family in the future. Theres no need to make up for my guilt. I dont need it either. Orchids grow in the forest, If we insist on keeping it in the courtyard, it will only destroy the orchids.
Lan Xin held a pot of orchids and watched Qiao Ruoyi leave. She turned around and returned to the Xie Residence, rying Qiao Ruoyis words to Xie Yun.
Xie Yun said to Lan Xin, Then you dont have to go to her anymore in the future.
Lan Xin carried the orchids and caressed their leaves. Master, let me say something. Miss Ruoyi is quite good. Since she is pregnant, why are you not willing to marry her?
Miss Ruoyis literary talent and family background are enough to match you. You have already missed the empress. Do you want to miss the second one?
Lan Xin, you talk too much.
Lan Xin said, You clearly liked the empress in the past, but you despised her as a mere merchants daughter. How much did you drink on the night of her wedding? You could have told her not to get married.
If you were willing to marry her, the two elders of the Qiao family would not have let you marry. Even if there were still people from the second branch eyeing you like a tiger, could you really not have protected the empress at that time?
You only looked down on her birth from the bottom of your heart, but she is now the empress. It is useless no matter how much you regret it. If you regret it once, do you still want to regret it a second time?
The emperor and the Empress have been married for seven years. Even the little crown prince, Lu Xi, will be six years old in a few days. As for you, you are still alone..
Now that you finally have a child, you still refuse to acknowledge it. Do you really want to see Miss Ruoyi marry someone else with your child? Do you want to acknowledge someone else as your father?
Lanxin, you talk too much!Xie Yun rebuked. Put down the orchid and go down!
Lanxin pouted and reluctantly retreated.
..
The day before the mid-autumn Festival, Qiao Jinniang gave Little Lu Xi a pony as a birthday present. When Qiao Jinniang went to the North Mountain Racecourse on her birthday, she did not bring Lu Xi and Ang er with her.
At that time, Qiao Jinniang had said that she would give him a pony.
There were few masters in the pce now, so the ce was also spacious. Qiao Jinniang followed Little Lu Xi to train the horse in the pce.
Bao and Yun, who were ying with Little Lu Xi, also wanted to y with the pony when they saw it.
Qiao Jinniang saw that the three children took turns ying with the horse, so she was not worried that they would fall. The little boy did not need to be carefully raised. It was good to fall more often.
Although Consort Qi and Consort Chu were worried, the empress wasnt worried that the little crown prince would fall, so they couldnt be too precious.
While the three of them were ying.
Consort Chu sipped on her osmanthus tea and said, The rumors outside the pce are getting more and more ridiculous. People are saying that the emperor and empress arent on good terms, and there are even rumors that Hong Qifeng is about to enter the harem as a consort.
Lady Qiao said in surprise, The rumors are still spreading outside the pce? I thought the rumors had stopped spreading after a few days of the longevity banquet.
She had not left the pce for a long time. Thest time she left the pce, she had only gone to the Qiao family before returning to the pce. She did not know about the rumors among the people.
Rumors were not allowed to spread in the pce. Therefore, Lady Qiao really did not know that the outside world was still specting about the discord between her and Lu Chen because of the matter at the longevity banquet.
Consort Qi said, The main point is not the rumors outside. The main point is Hong Qifeng. That Marquis Wu ans family has been very rampant recently. The daughter of the Hong family might not even be able to enter the pce as a consort. Its as if the Marquis Wu Ans manor is going to produce a consort.
Even if Hong Qifeng enters the harem as a consort, shes only the niece of the Marquis Wu ans wife!
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Hong Qifeng enters the pce? What a joke.
Its not a joke.The Qi king said to Qiao Jinniang in a low voice, You really have to pay attention to it. I heard that His Majesty praises her every now and then and even allows her to freely enter the harem.
Qiao jinniang said, Freely entering and leaving the harem is because his majesty is working in my pce. Hong Yang had something to do and couldnte here, so he asked Hong Qifeng toe to my pce to spread the word. His Majesty praises her because she is capable and does things well. How can it be that he wants her to enter the pce as a concubine?
Consort Qi said, Men are all the same. His Majesty and King Qi are brothers. which man doesnt cheat? You should be more careful.
Consort Chu fiercely stepped on Consort Qi, consort Qi hugged her feet and said, Why are you stepping on me? Im not wrong. Men are greedy cats. If they arent honest, they will cheat. Moreover, Hong Qifeng is at the age of marriageable, and her looks are really good!
Three ck lines appeared on Consort Chus forehead. She used her eyes to signal consort Qi to stop talking. Her words were even more ridiculous.
Sister-inw, dont worry. Im not a cat, and I dont know how to have an affair.Lu Chen came from behind and walked to consort Qiaos side, On the other hand, sister-inw, youre still a member of the royal family. Its too beneath your dignity to specte about me. Ill punish you to copy the ceremony three times.
Consort Qi agreed repeatedly. She even wanted to die.
Chapter 355
Chapter 355: Chapter 355: the Emperor and Empress are not on good terms
Seeing that Lu Chen had arrived, consort qi and Consort Chu did not dare to stay any longer. They took their leave together with Prince Bao and Prince Yun.
Lu Chen sat beside Lady Qiao and said, Dont listen to the nonsense of Lady Qi.
Lady Qiao said, Yes, Hong Qifeng is the first female official, and also the first female schr. Her existence is to tell all the women in the world that they can study and be officials and achieve fame and fortune.
Therefore, you should treat her better and praise her more. You can also tell the world that being a female official is not necessarily inferior to being a male official.
Moreover, Hong Qifeng is talented to begin with. Its just that I didnt expect the rumors outside the pce to be so outrageous.
This rumor has to be dealt with. Otherwise, in the future, everyone will think that Hong Qifengs current status is because you have feelings for her.
This is clearly because of her outstanding ability. This is a little too unfair to Hong Qifeng.
Lu chen nodded and said, Yes, we will rest tomorrow. When the morning courtes, I will make it clear to the officials that if there is such a rumor that neglects women to do things openly, we will definitely not let them off easily.
Qiao jinniang said, Theres no need for that. If we make it clear, it will only embarrass the Hong family. Tomorrow at the mid-autumn Festival banquet, I will ask Consort Qi to give her a copy of the etiquette book. I will give her a few words of advice and knock on the mountain to shock the Tiger.
Lu Chen replied, Okay.
Mother.Little Ang er stumbled over. Little Ang ER had just turned one year old, and now she dared to learn how to walk.
When she saw Qiao Jinniang from afar, she called out to her mother. Qiao Jinniang went over to pick up little ang er and kissed his little face. Ang er is so obedient.
Lu Chen walked up to Little Ang er and said, Call Me Daddy.
Little Anger called out to her father softly. Then, she saw Lu Xi not far away. She called out to her brother and tried to get out of Qiao Jins arms.
The little man who had just learned how to walk felt that he was walking too slowly. So, he simply crawled over quickly and called out to her brother.
Little Lu Xi carried little anger up from the ground with a look of disgust and helplessness. The ground is dirty. Why are you still crawling?
Qiao Jinniang looked at her two sons from afar and could not help but sigh:
It would be great if we had another daughter. Otherwise, wed better hurry up and have a daughter, right??
I have nothing to do at the moment. The business outside the pce, Fennel and star anise, is doing very well.
If I get pregnant now, I can still y with Fu Lu Ruoyis child when shes born next year.
Lu Chen frowned. Didnt we agree to have another child when Ang er is three years old?
I thought that Ang er would stick to me if she was too young, but as you can see, ever since Ang er got people to stick to her, it was Xier who stuck to her even more. He wouldnt mind having another sister.
Lu Chen said unwillingly, No, the doctor in Lin an said that you cant get pregnant consecutively. Its too tiring for your body.
But the imperial physician said that my body is very strong. Its fine to have another child now.
Qiao jinniang said, Im really craving for Fu Lus daughter. The little skirts that the Shang Gong bureau made for Fu Lus daughter are really interesting.
Lu Chen said, If you really find them interesting, you can also ask the Shang Gong Bureau to make some dresses for young girls to wear.
Qiao Jinniang:? ? ?
In the Changle Pce on the eve of the mid-autumn Festival, the fragrance of Osmanthus assailed the nose, and the red candles swayed.
Qiao Jinniang saw a servant bring a bowl of medicine and poured it into a bonsai.
Lu Chen saw her pour the medicine out and frowned slightly. Jin er?
Qiao jinniang said, I really want a daughter.
Lu Chen said, What if its a daughter? No one can guarantee a daughter. Moreover, princesses are rare in the royal family. Since the great ancestor, the total number of princesses has never exceeded fifteen.
Lu Chen lowered his head and whispered into Qiao Jinniangs ear, Besides, I dont want to be a monk for more than a year soon. Cant I have another two years before I get pregnant?
Qiao Jinniang:...
No wonder he was not in a hurry to have a daughter even though he clearly wanted one. It seemed that he had this thought.
Qiao Jinniang put her hand around Lu Chens neck and said, Isnt that the same as having a child early? Wont it be the same in the future? Besides, when you were pregnant with Xier, you werent vegetarian for the whole year, okay?
Lu Chen said helplessly, If this child is still a prince, it will have to be born again in another three years.
The jinniang replied, Yes.
The next day, the Jinniang only woke up when it was almost noon.
When Hong Ling and Lu he came to help her with her makeup, Qiao Jinniang looked at herself in the mirror and felt that her current life was a little ridiculous.
In the past, when she was in Lin an, she also sleptte, but at least she had a restaurant to manage and had to get up at thetest.
Now that she only woke up at thetest, it was indeed a sin.
Lu Chen walked to her side. Youre finally awake. Many princesses and princesses want to visit you, but youre still sleeping...
Qiao Jinniang pinched Lu Chens hand fiercely:
You still have the nerve to say that. If you hadnt been unrestrainedst night, I wouldnt have woken up at This Hour?
How can I face those princesses and princessester?
The dignified empress, the mother of a country, actually slept until thiste. She didnt want to see outsiders anymore.
Lu Chen picked out a phoenix hairpin and put it on Qiao Jin. He smiled faintly and said,
Didnt you say you wanted to give birth to a princess as soon as possible? I was just trying to fulfill your wish.
Dont worry, youre the Empress. Even if you sleep until noon, they wont dare tough at you.
Lady Qiao Jin was both embarrassed and angry. I wont talk to you anymore. I dont want to speak to you again today.
In the Hanyuan Pce Hall, the guests arrived.
The whispers of the imperial wives and rtives below grew more and more. Everyone also turned to look at the table in Marquis an Yuans manor.
When they went to pay their respects to the empress, the pce maids all said that the empress was still resting.
How could the Empress Be So absurd on this day?
Perhaps it was just as the rumors said, the Empress was not on good terms, so the Empress did not even receive the imperial concubines.
Halfway through the luncheon, although the empress came, the two of them did notmunicate the entire time. It could be seen that the rumors were true.
Outside the pce, in the Hong family, Madam Hong and Hong Qifeng were preparing to enter the pce.
Ye Suxin was not qualified to enter the pce for the banquet, but today, Madam Hong needed to use her to expose Lady Qiao Jin, so she recognized ye suxin as her future daughter-inw.
It was also possible for the emperors unepted daughter-inw to go to the banquet with the Hong family.
Hong Qifeng said unhappily, Mother, why did you bring ye suxin along? Its a pce banquet.
Madam Hong said, Dont worry about it. After tonight, Feng Ers future is limitless...
Hong qifeng frowned and said, Mother, what nonsense are you talking about?
Madam Hong looked at Hong Qifeng who was wearing a red traditional dress and jewelry from the jewelry pavilion. She looked very beautiful.
She did not believe that His Majesty would praise his daughter every day and leave such a beautiful youngdy unmoved
Once the Empress was deposed, Hong Qifengs ability, family background, and looks would be the best candidates to enter the harem.
The Marquise of Wu an hurried over and said, Little sister, great joy, Great Joy!
Consort Su, who entered the pce to attend the luncheon today, told me that today, the Empress did not even receive the greetings of a mistress.
During the luncheon, His Majesty and the Empress did not even say a word!
Chapter 356
Chapter 356: Chapter 356, using the Empress of having an affair with Xie Yun
When Hong Qifeng heard the Marquiswife repeatedly exim in Joy, she was full of doubts and asked, Why is it so joyous?
The Marquiswife held Hong Qifengs wrist and said with a smile, The empress is very happy.
Ever since the longevity banquet, the Empress and the Empress had not been on good terms for a long time. Even at the Empressbirthday banquet and the second Princes anniversary banquet, the Empress did not receive any greetings from the wife of the Empress. It was the same today. It was only at the lunch banquet that she arrivedte, and she was still unhappy with the emperor, she did not say a single word to the emperor.
The Emperor thinks so highly of you and likes you. The empress is declining. If we help his majesty depose the Empress Today, perhaps you will be conferred the title of Imperial Consortter!
Hong Qifeng shook off the hand of the Marquiswife and said, Aunt, what nonsense are you talking about? What do you mean by the Empress and the Empress are at loggerheads after the birthday banquet? Clearly, two days ago, the emperor and the Empress were still very loving. Even when His Majesty read the excerpts, he still needed the empress to apany him!
The reason why the EmpressBirthday Banquet was not heldst time was because the empress and the Emperor went out of the pce in disguise and went to the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor for two days. During those two days, His Majesty even specially rested. Father also knew about this matter.
Also, the second Princes anniversary banquet only invited a few princesses, princes, and the Qiao family. Its not that it wasnt held. Its just that the Empress didnt want some unimportant people to surround the second prince.
Although I dont know why the Empress and His Majesty are unhappy today, they really havent been as unhappy as you think for a long time!
Hearing Hong Qifengs words, madam Hong said, How do you know that His Majesty and the Empress are in love? Everyone outside has said that the Qiao familys rtives have been dominant for a long time...
Hong Qifeng said, In Changle Pce, His Majesty has always shown those important memorials to the empress. When there are many memorials, His Majesty has always asked the empress to write and approve them. Why would he be afraid of the Empress?
Madam Hong said, Qifeng, are you joking? The harem is not allowed to meddle in politics.
Hong Qifeng said helplessly, Mother, aunt, what joke am I joking about? On the contrary, it is you people who are the ones who are joking. You can even say something like letting me enter the pce as a concubine. I advise you to stop!
Madam Wu an marquis said, You are still young. What Do You Know About Love? Moreover, even if it is love, with Ye Suxins evidence, I think there is hope for her to be deposed.
Hong Qifeng asked, What evidence is ye suxin?
Madam Hong said, Qifeng, dont bother about it. Its gettingte. Its time to enter the pce.
Mother, even if you want to seek death, dont harm father and me!
Hong Qifeng flicked her sleeves and left, her face full of anger.
..
The burning clouds in the autumn day were extremely shocking. Thenterns in the courtyard had already lit up. Looking far to the east, therge and round moon already had faint marks on it.
The officials and their families raised their cups to the empress to congratte her on the mid-autumn Festival.
Lu Chen returned the toast and said, On this mid-autumn Festival, when the Moon is full, I also wish all the people of Tang to be able to reunite with their families.
After the banquet started, the ceremonial music sounded and the performers began to dance on the stage. Todays dance included the local songs and dances of Yunzhou. The dance and music were all novel.
Just as everyone was watching the singing and dancing, Ye Suxin stood up and said, Your Majesty, I have something to report.
Lu Chen did not know the woman below. Seeing that she came out from the Hong family, Madam Hong did not stop her and asked, What is it?
Ye suxin took out a small piece of paper from her bosom. On it was a portrait of Lady Qiao Jin when she was young.
Ye suxin knelt on the ground and passed the portrait to the imperial servant at the side, she knelt down and said, Your Majesty, this portrait is the portrait of the Empress when she was young drawn by a man. That man has been pretending to be a woman and pretending to have a close sisterly rtionship with the empress, but in reality, he is having an affair!
The imperial servant handed the portrait to Lu Chen. This was the first time Lu Chen had seen Lady Qiaos face when she was young. When Xie Yun painted it, it was probably when Lady Qiao had just had her teeth changed. She was smiling so brightly that even her missing front teeth were exposed, there were also sweet dimples.
Lady Qiao quickly went forward to snatch the portrait in Lu Chens hands, but she saw Lu Chen put the portrait into his sleeve. It was not appropriate for Lady Qiao to snatch the portrait in Lu Chens sleeve in public.
Hearing this, Qiao Ruoyis face turned pale and she was extremely worried. It turned out that Xie Yuns guess was true. If she really harmed her sister, what would she do?
Hong Qifeng stood up and said, Ye suxin, what nonsense are you talking about? How could this portrait be in your hands?
Ye suxin continued to kneel and said, Your Majesty, you dont have to snatch the portrait and destroy the body. There is also a Yun character written on it. This Yun character matches the handwriting of the head of the Xie family and Xie Yun. It turns out that the head of the Xie family is Xie Yun, and Xie Yun is the head of the Xie family.
Back then, Xie Yun and the Empress were close sisters in Chang an. It turns out that they were secretly having an affair...
Lu Chen said lightly, Xie Yun is a mans affair. I knew about it when I was in Lin an. As for Xie Yun and the empress, they have always been like brother and sister. When the Empress got married, Xie Yun even sent many congrattory gifts to the Empress.
As for the Empress in this painting, she is only about five or six years old. How can there be love between a man and a woman? If she wants to frame the empress based on this painting, does that mean that any man who paints a womans portrait in the future is having an affair?
Hong Yang, who is this person from your family?
Hong Yang came out trembling and answered, This is the daughter of my wifes sister, Ye suxin, the daughter of the Ye family.
Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, That day, you were kind enough to plead for the Ye family, but you didnt want the Ye family to repay kindness with enmity.
Someone, Ye suxin falsely used the empress and randomly arranged the matters between a man and a woman. Someone sent her to the northwest border. The entire ye family was banished from Chang an. For three generations, they were not allowed to take the medical examination.
Madam Hong taught the younger generation poorly. With the exception of her imperial decree as a first-rank wife, they were not allowed to take the imperial decree for life.
Madam Hong kneeled on the ground in panic. The Marquiswife was shocked. She did not dare to say a single word. Fortunately, they had taken advantage of ye suxin. However, werent there rumors outside the pce that the empress was not on good terms with them?
How could the emperor not me the Empress at all after obtaining this portrait? Instead, he had imposed such a heavy punishment on the Empress!
The third generation was not allowed to take the medical examination, and the Ye family waspletely crippled.
Ye Suxin was still young after all, so when she heard these words.., she was so frightened that she fell to the ground and said, Aunt, aunt, save me. It was you who said that you wanted cousin Hong Qifeng to enter the pce as a concubine, so you let me enter the pce to say these words. Aunt, please save me!
Lady Qiao Jins gazended on the Marquiswife. Oh? So this matter was under the orders of the Marquiswife. In that case, I might as well take away her title of first grade Marquiswife.
The Marquiswife had the intention to kill ye suxin. She knelt down and said, Your Majesty, I dont dare to treat you like this.
Zheng Xiao said, What do you have to be afraid of? Old Madam Sun, two months ago when you came to discuss the marriage, you said something about a cousin of the Marquisfamily entering the pce. The Marquisfamily is treating you like a King!
Old Madam Suns old face turned red. That day, she was anxious about the wedding date, so she naturally said something like this. It was indeed true that it was Wu an marquiswife who said this to her.
She could onlye out trembling and kneel down to testify.
Chapter 357
Chapter 357: In Chapter 357, Qiao Ruoyi defended Xie Yun
The old madam of the Marquis of Jingwu hade out to testify, but the madam of the Marquis of Wu an could not quibble. She could only kowtow and beg for mercy from Lady Qiao. Your Majesty, your servant has realized her mistake. I beg for mercy.
Lady Qiao ignored her and asked princess qi, Sister-inw, how is the ceremony record that His Majesty punished you to copy yesterdaying along?
Consort Qi immediately took out the ceremony record that she had copied. Naturally, she did not stay up all night to copy the ceremony record alone. Instead, she instructed the maidservants in the Prince Qis residence to copy it together.
Qiao Jinniang flipped through it a few times and threw the ceremony record on the ground. The handwriting is clearly not the same person. Is His Majestys punishment for you to use perfunctorily?
Consort Qi immediately knelt down and said, I know Im wrong.
Qiao Jinniang said, Hong Qifeng was the first female official in the previous dynasty of Great Tang. She was also the first female schr. His Majesty valued her highly and praised her highly because she was talented. However, he did not expect the outside world to be full of rumors!
As a prince consort, you are also involved in rumors with those people. Yesterday, His Majesty only punished you to copy the notes three times. It seems that it is not enough. Now, go to Hong Qifeng and apologize properly.
Imperial consort Qi felt extremely wronged. As the imperial consort of the prince, she apologized to a little girl, but she didnt dare to disobey Qiao Jinniangs orders.
Qiao Jinniang swept her gaze toward the Marquise of Jingwu and said, Also, Old Madam Sun has also misunderstood Miss Hong. Please also apologize to Miss Hong, Madam Sun. Otherwise, in the future, any female official will tell the emperor to invite her into the pce. What does this mean to the emperor? What does this mean to be a female official?
Madam Sun repeatedly went to Hong Qifeng to apologize. Consort Qi did not dare to feel wronged anymore and repeatedly apologized.
Qiao Jinniang then said to the marquise of Wuan, In Chang an city, most of the rumors about Hong Qifeng came from the Ye family and the Marquis of Wuans mansion. They took away your imperial decree because they told ye suxin to falsely use me. You must not let the matter of the imperial court officials off lightly!!
Your Majesty, What kind of crime do you think she should be charged with?
Lu Chen said, She will be imprisoned for three years to serve as a warning to others. Father once said that the mouth of the people is better than the mouth of the river. Therefore, when the rumors in Chang an were outrageous, the pce did not punish her.
But if it is a rumor about her innocence, she will definitely be severely punished in the future!
When the Marquiswife heard that she would be imprisoned for three years, she felt that it was over.
Madam Jing Wu was extremely regretful. She had already offended Marquis an yuan in order to get married to the Marquis Mansion. Now that Madam Wu Anhou was going to go to jail, how could her daughter be worthy of her own grandson?
Madam Wu Anhou and ye suxin were both pulled down by someone. The pce banquet continued.
Hong Qifeng red fiercely at Madam Hong and said, Mother, now that you are satisfied, I will say that His Majesty and Madam are in love. It is our Hong familys fortune that His Majesty did not punish us today. Dont do such a ridiculous and generous thing in the future.
Hong Yang also felt quite embarrassed, but in the end, it was not the time to quarrel with Madam.
Qiao Jin poured a ss of wine for Lu Chen and said softly, I will ignore you. Return that portrait to me.
She did not want the portrait of her missing teeth when she was young to be held in Lu Chens hands.
Lu Chen took her wine and returned the portrait in his sleeve to Qiao Jin. Qiao Jin conveniently tore the portrait and put it in her sleeve.
Madam Hong looked up and saw the emperor looking at the Empress with a smile in his eyes. She felt extremely regretful. She should not have listened to ye suxin and caused this matter. She should have listened to Hong Qifeng just now.
Hong Qifeng drank a cup of wine and looked at the Emperor and the Empress. She felt extremely guilty. The Empress had even asked Consort Qi to apologize to her for her sake.
But in reality, Hong Qifeng could not lie to herself. She liked the emperor.
Ever since she became an official four months ago, she had lived with the Emperor Day and night. When she saw the majesty of the Emperor when he was on the dragon throne, and when she saw his tenderness toward the empress, as a young girl, it was difficult for her to suppress her feelings.
When she was young, she could not understand why Zhou Sisi was so stupid as to sacrifice the martial Dukes public house for the emperor. Now, she understood.
If she were Zhou Sisi, she would not be willing to have such a good cousin.
However, she was Hong Qifeng, so she could only be willing. The empress was so good to her, and she was always thinking of her. Qiao Ruoyi was her benefactor who was able to enter the imperial court and be an official..
She would always keep her thoughts of the emperor in the bottom of her heart. She would work hard to repay the Emperor and the Empress for her kindness. She would not even think about entering the pce and bing a concubine.
The Empress was so loving, why should she interfere? If that was the case, she would look down on herself.
After the sacrificial moon, the banquet ended.
Lady Qiao Jin gave Princess Qi the fresh meat mooncake that Prince Bao Jun liked to eat tomorrow to show herfort.
In the Changle Pce, Lady Qiao saw Lu Chen looking at the full moon in the sky. She went over and asked, Do you miss father and mother?
Lu Chen nodded, Yes, I wonder when they will be willing to go back to Chang an?
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Mother Doesnt know. Father probably doesnt want to go back to Chang an now, for fear of being hugged by those old officials and crying.
Lu Chen also smiled and said, They are quite carefree. Some time ago when they went to Lingnan, father actually wanted to build a boat and go to Japan to y.
Qiao jinniang said, Lingnan cant go to Japan. Now that there is no hurricane, if they want to go to the sea and find a reliable fisherman, they can also go to the ind to y. Im a bit looking forward to it.
She had only been to the seaside of Yinzhou and had never taken a boat out to sea, so she didnt know if the sea had an end.
Lu Chen said, When Xier grows up in the future, we can also go to y.
..
After the pce banquet, the Qiao family also had their own mid-autumn Festival banquet.
When Zheng Xiao returned to the Qiao family, she said to old madam Qiao, Mother, you didnt see Old Madam Suns expression just now. It was really too satisfying. Theres also the Marquiswife. She cant be considered the Marquiswife anymore. I heard that when Marquis Wu an went out, he gave that woman a letter of divorce.
Old madam Qiao said, Fortunately, there was no marriage with the Marquis Jingwu Manor that day. However, ruoyi, for the sake of the child in your stomach, you should also think about finding a husband to marry.
Whether you want to use it or if you really want to marry, you have to find one to the left and right. Dont let the child have the reputation of having an illegitimate child.
Qiao ruoyi said, Yes, the marriage is solely based on mother and grandmothers instructions.
Marquis an Yuan said, That Xie Yun is really harming people. He even made a portrait of the Empress. Its a good thing that his majesty trusts the Jin Niang. Otherwise, the Jin Niang and our Qiao family will be finished today. In the future, everyone in the Qiao family will beat Xie Yun up every time they see him. Theres no need to be lenient!
Zheng Xiao rarely agreed with marquis an Yuans opinion. Even Old Madam Qiao did not stop him.
Qiao ruoyi said in a low voice, Actually, I was wrong about the portrait this time.
Qiao ruoyi told the whole story of the portrait. Xie Yun originally wanted to destroy the portrait and destroy the evidence. It was my fault... Fortunately, His Majesty trusts sister.
Zheng Xiao did not me her. Instead, he said, In the end, its still Xie Yuns fault!
Fu Lu nodded. Thats right. If he doesnt draw this picture, then nothing will happen. Qiao ruoyi, youre speaking up for Xie Yun, not because you like him, right? You have to wake up. He wants you to be his concubine!
Chapter 358
Chapter 358: Chapter 358. Xie Yun and dogs are not allowed to enter
Qiao ruoyi shook her head repeatedly. No, I dont like him. Im just telling the truth.
Fu Lu asked curiously, In that case, why did Xie Yun keep the portrait of the Jin Niang? Could it be that Xie Yun has always been in love with the Jin Niang?
Thats not right. Since he likes the Jin Niang, why cant he see that he married the Jin Niang back in Lin an and watched helplessly as the Jin Niang married an unknown man?
Fu Lu couldnt figure it out, and no one gave her an answer, so he simply stopped thinking about it.
Qiao ruoyi was also thinking about Fu Lus question in her heart. She thought about it carefully and realized that Xie Yun probably looked down on her sisters family background at that time.
How many men in the world were there like His Majesty who didnt care about their family background?
Zheng Xiao said, Everyone knows that Ruoyi already has a child in her belly. If she wants to find a husband to marry into her family, Im afraid he cant be a schr. She can only find a young general without parents. She doesnt care about the surname. Ruoyi, what do you think?
Qiao ruoyi said softly, Yes, but can you find someone who isnt too fierce?
The next day, the wife of Marquis Jingwu came to the an Yuan manor with a smile on her face. Zheng Xiao felt a little disgusted when he saw the smile on Old Madam Suns face.
Old Madam Sun said, Madam Qiao, it was my fault that day. After I went back, I thought about it and felt that Ruoyi and my son are a perfect match. Why dont we continue the engagement and get married another day?
Zheng Xiao was puzzled, Old Madam Sun, where did the engagemente from? Moreover, My Ruoyi is almost three months pregnant.
Isnt it less than three months?
Old Madam Sun picked up a cup of tea and said, If this child is born, even if the marquisate is willing to take care of it and find a husband for ruoyi, the rumors in the future will harm the child and Ruoyi.
Its better to abort the child and continue the engagement. Ruoyi will not be dragged down by the child. If ruoyi bes the Marquisates wife in the future, no one will dare to mention this matter in front of her..
Zheng Xiao heard this and said, In that case, isnt Your Sun family afraid of losing face?
Old Madam Sun smiled and said, If Ruoyi is willing to abort the child, its not that our marquisate can not recognize the father of the child. With the engagement, its nothing if the two of them have a child.
Its fine as long as Ruoyi is willing to enter our Marquis of Jingwu Manor.
Zheng Xiao said, I want to discuss this matter in detail with mother and ruoyi. Just hold old Madam Sun for a moment.
..
In old madam Qiaos courtyard.
Zheng Xiao told old madam sun what she meant. Mother, what do you think of this matter?
Old Madam Qiao heard this and said, Old Madam Sun is a shrewd person. I just heard a piece of news here. Old Madam Sun went to the Marquis of Wu an manor to cancel the marriage, but the old madam of the Marquis of Wu an manor was unwilling to cancel the marriage.
The Wu an Marquis Manor is also a hereditary Marquis family. The marriage of the eldest daughter of the first wife is not so easy to cancel. If my familys ruoyi were to marry over and old Madam Sun asked Ruoyi to cancel the marriage, do you think the Wu an Marquis Manor would still dare not cancel the marriage?
Zheng Xiao said, Thats true.
Qiao ruoyi covered her abdomen and said, Mother, I would rather marry a beggar than abort the child. He has survived so strongly. I cant kill him.
She had been bedridden for a month. How could she bear to abort the child she had protected?
She did notck any family background or money. There was no need for her to marry into the Sun family and kill her own child.
Zheng Xiao said, Didnt you say that you have a deep affection for Marquis Jingwu? Since the Sun family is willing to take a step back, you can fulfill your infatuation if you abort the child. As for the child, you will have it again in the future.
Lan Xin, who was eavesdropping from old madam Qiaos roof, was extremely shocked when she heard these words. She hurriedly went back to look for Xie Yun.
Qiao ruoyi heard the tiles on the roof move and thought that it was a cat on the roof. She said, Im sorry, Mother. I was the one who lied to you earlier. I dont even know what Marquis Jingwu looks like.
Zheng Xiao helplessly pointed at Qiao Ruoyis forehead. You. What should I say about you? If it wasnt for your deep affection, I wouldnt have been able to stand that old Madam Sun.
Qiao ruoyi said guiltily, Im sorry, Mother.
Zheng Xiao said, Alright, just rest assured and take care of the baby. Ill reject Madam Suns request.
..
In the Xie Manor of Chang an.
Lan Xin rushed into Xie Yuns study. Master, its bad, its bad. Fifth Miss Qiao is going to abort your child and marry Marquis Jingwu! ! !
Xie Yun frowned. Lan Xin, youre tired of living, arent you?
Lan Xin cupped her hands. Master, you can punish me however you want in the future. Ill ept it. However, your child is going to be aborted soon. This is your first child!
Xie Yun said indifferently, Its good that its aborted.
Lan Xin said, Are you serious? Its not easy to keep this child. Youre already so old. This is your first child. It would be a pity if you lost it.
Get Out!Xie Yun said, You are too noisy.
If Lan Xins biological mother was not his wet nurse, he would not have been able to tolerate Lan Xin if it were not for her parents protecting him when the big house fell.
How could she be so talkative at such a young age.
Lan Xin reluctantly left the house.
Xie Yun picked up the ount book in his hand. It was coincidentally the ount book of Chang an pawnshop. From the ount book, it was not difficult to see that Qiao ruoyi was a regr customer of the pawnshop.
Not only would she go to pawn some expensive jewelry and clothes prepared for her by the marquisdom, she would also buy some calligraphy and paintings from the pawnshop.
There was a book with Qiao Ruoyis name in it.
Xie Yun simply closed the ount book and went out. He saw Lan Xin hanging white silk on the crooked tree in his courtyard.
Xie Yun frowned and asked, What are you doing?
Lan Xin said, If I return to Lin an and let my parents know, I will actually watch as masters first child is aborted. My parents wont let me off either. Its better to die first.
Xie Yun said, Youe down first.
I wont unless you go to Marquis an Yuans manor to stop fifth miss from having an abortion!Lan Xin made a gesture and was about to burrow into the white silk.
Xie Yun directly left, ignoring Lan Xin who was burrowing her head into the white silk behind him.
Xie Yun went to the savory pavilion, but before he could enter, he saw octagonal take out the sign that had been taken out by the door of fennel.
However, Lu Chen and dogs were not allowed to enter in the past. Today, Xie Yun and dogs were not allowed to enter.
Xie Yun:...
He could only go to a new restaurant opposite the Savory Pavilion. The business of this restaurant was much worse than the savory pavilion. He did not sit for long when he saw the waitersing towards him with brooms.
The guards beside Xie Yun were all stunned and drew their swords repeatedly.
However, these waiters obviously knew some martial arts.
Moreover, although the brooms could not hit Xie Yun, the dust on the brooms had allnded on Xie Yuns body.
Xie Yun was wearing a light green robe today. He was originally a handsome and suave young master from an aristocratic family, but because of the dust raised by the brooms, his face was covered in dust..
Chapter 359
Chapter 359: Chapter 359. She would not let the child know who her biological father was
Fu Lu brought Qiao Ruoyi to the restaurant she had just bought and said, The waiters in this restaurant are all from the Qiao family Army who are not allowed to go on the battlefield. The wine sold in this restaurant is all high-quality wine. I specially got the recipe from Qiu Yue.
There is also a lot of flower wine and fruit wine. Its a pity that you cant drink wine now, but the smell is also good.
Qiao Ruoyi had just gotten off the pnquin when she saw the dust rising from inside. She quickly covered her nose with a handkerchief and coughed a few times. Amidst the dust, she saw Xie Yune out with a ck face.
After Fu Lu saw Xie Yun, he said, You still dare toe to my restaurant?
Although Xie Yuns face was covered in dust, her bearing did not appear to be in a sorry state. Princess Fu Lu, Miss Qiao Wu.
Fu Lu casually picked up the whip on his waist, but Qiao ruoi firmly held her hand down. Sister-inw, dont. Theres no need for others tough at you.
Only then did fu Lu put down the whip.
Qiao ruoi looked at Xie Yun whose face was covered in dust. This was the first time she and Xie Yun had met since the incident at the Northern Mountain Royal Vige.
Xie Yuns gaze fell on Qiao Ruois t stomach. It was hard to imagine that there would be his flesh and blood in it. And this flesh and blood would soon be lost.
Qiao ruoyi pulled Fu Lu into the tavern.
Xie Yun followed in and said, Fifthdy, I want to have some time alone with you.
Fu Lu said, Talk about what? Is there anything I cant listen to?
Qiao ruoyi said to Fu Lu, Sister-inw, let us talk alone. I also happen to have a few words to say to Patriarch Xie.
Fu Lu said, Im outside the private room. If he wants to bully you, call out to me loudly!
Qiao ruoyi nodded and acknowledged.
The private room in the tavern had a rather quaint atmosphere. Qiao ruoyi knelt before a table and handed her handkerchief to Xie Yun. You can wipe it.
Xie Yun took the handkerchief and said, That day in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor, I let you down. I also let you down about the child. Now That Youre willing to abort the child and marry Marquis Jingwu, its a good thing.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, Who said that Im going to marry the Marquis of Jingwu? When I first learned that I had a child, I wanted to abort it. But now that Im connected to the child by blood, and hes trying so hard to survive, how can I give up on this child?
Qiao ruoyi could not drink alcohol, she poured herself a cup of tea and said, I promised to talk to you alone today because I have a few words to exin to you. Its impossible for me to abort the child. No matter if its a boy or a girl, it will only be my child. It has nothing to do with you.
In the future, when the child grows up, I wont let him know who the father is. You Dont have to be afraid that a child wille out and plot against your family property. The child has nothing to do with you.
You dont have to let Lan Xine to the Qiao residence anymore. There are hidden guards in the Qiao residence. It would be bad if Lan Xin was caught by my father as a spy.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao Ruoyi who wanted nothing to do with him and said, Okay, I hope Miss Qiao will keep her promise.
Qiao ruoyi said, Of course.
After Xie Yun left, Qiao Ruoyi felt a touch in her lower abdomen. She did not know why, but she felt very strange. Perhaps this was the legendary mother and son connection.
..
During the good autumn days, the first hunt since the new emperor ascended the throne was put on the agenda.
Lu Xi was very excited when she heard the news. He had learned to ride a pony, and he also learned to ride and shoot on a horse. He wanted nothing more than to go to the paddock and have a real fight.
It was just that when the royal family was huntingst time, someone had died. This time, the enclosure guards were even more powerful than before.
It was just that the enclosure was guarded against people and forgot that wild ck bears that were not kept in the enclosure had snuck into the beast area. When Qiao Jinniang heard the news, she was shocked.
In the past, when she was young, she would often hear about ck bears eating people. When she was young, she did not dare to go deep into the mountains. She knew how scary ck bears were.
Fortunately, this year, Enkes champion in martial arts had shot a ck bear from afar. He was a first-ss hero and instantly became famous in Chang an.
He had also be a good son-inw in the hearts of many young girls in Chang an.
However, when she asked around, she found out that he had no parents and had grown up with his adoptive father in the Qiao familys military camp. He was only a ninth-grade military official, and his sry was pitifully low.
This ninth-grade military official was awarded the title of champion of martial arts this year.
He was unlucky. When the Emperor conquered Xiliang that year, he did not go to Yunzhou. Instead, he was left in Luoyang. His brothers of the same period had more or less achieved meritorious deeds and fame because of the conquest of Xiliang.
His adoptive parents also had a biological son. When he married this year, he built arge house outside Chang an. This champion of martial arts had given all the money he had saved over the years to his adoptive brother to marry his wife.
Many daughters who came to propose marriage also withdrew when they heard that this martial schrs family background was like this.
Only Zheng Xiao felt that this was the best marriage. This martial schr had no father, no mother, and no one to rely on. He was also capable. He was grateful to others and was filial. When his adoptive brother got married, he was willing to give everything he had to help, it was rare for such a person to be so loyal.
Zheng Xiao told Marquis an yuan about this matter, and marquis an Yuan went to meet the martial schr.
The martial schrs name was Luo Wei. He did not know where his family was from. He was a beggar since he was young. His adoptive father was surprised to see his bones. At that time, his family had no children and raised him as their son.
Although Luo Wei could not read a single word, he was modest, polite, and neither servile nor overbearing. This made marquis an yuan very satisfied.
After drinking a few times and discussing military matters, the two of them had indeed be old friends.
On New Years Eve, everyone in the Qiao family reunited and gave Qiao Ruofengs child a full moon wine.
The second son of the Qiao family had a grandson, which made the second madam Qiao feel quite proud.
However, Qiao Ruofeng and Xu Mingwei were going to take up their positions in Lingnan after the new year. The retired emperor and Empress Dowager went to Lingnan and felt that Lingnan was a good ce.
However, the pirates in Lingnan were rampant. In the past, the imperial court thought that the people in Lingnan were southern barbarians who were not educated and did not pay enough attention to them. As a result, Lingnan had always been poor. In fact, the seafood there was abundant and it was a good ce to live.
This time, Lu Chen sent Xu Mingwei and Qiao Ruofeng to Lingnan because he wanted to promote them. Lingnan had the retired emperor in charge. If they made great achievements, Xu Mingwei and Qiao Ruofengs future would be limitless.
Second madam Qiao said reluctantly, Its not easy for you to stay in Chang an for less than two years, and now youre going to Lingnan. I dont know when youll be back!
Qiao ruofeng said, Mother, dont you still have step-son to apany you? Im not by step-sons side. You have to take good care of him.
Second Madam Qiao hugged her little grandson and said, Of course Ill take good care of him.
Old Madam Qiao said, It is also a good thing that his majesty has put Mingwei in an important position, but Lingnan is also dangerous. The two of you must be extremely careful when you go to Lingnan.
Yes, Grandmother.
Old Madam Qiao coughed twice. Zheng Xiao, who was at the side, brought over arge cloak and draped it over old madam Qiao. Mother, the north wind is too strong this night. You should go back and rest earlier.
Old Madam Qiao said, My body is getting weaker and weaker. Right now, the thing Im most worried about is ruoyi. Shes going to give birth in three to four months. She hasnt gotten married yet...
Zheng xiao smiled, Dont worry. The Marquis has already expressed his intentions to Luo Wei. Luo Wei is also willing to marry ruoyi.
Chapter 360
Chapter 360: Chapter 360: Return to Lin an
The fifth year of Jing Yuan, early spring.
Qiao Jinniang let out a deep sigh. She had wanted to have a girl since three years ago. It wasnt easy for her to have a child half a year ago, but in the end, she couldnt keep it.
It wasnt that she had to have another child. It was just that having a child and not being able to keep it was extremely ufortable.
After recuperating for half a year, she still had not recovered her senses.
Aunt.
Aunt.
Two soft and soft calls came from the door.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and held a little girl with one hand. Neon, neon, why are you two in the pce today?
Qiao neon was the eldest daughter of Qiao Lui and Fu Lu, and neon was Qiao Ruoyis daughter. Although there was a year difference between the two sisters, they were inseparable.
Little Nihong said, Grandmother said that aunty is unwell, where is she unwell? Ill give you a call.
Qiao Jinniang smiled and stroked Little Nihongs head. Nihong was not like Fu Lu. She was like Qiao Lui, obedient and sensible. The Red Mole between her brows was also very outstanding. It was clear that she would be a little beauty in the future.
Little Nihong, who was almost three years old, looked more like Xie Yun. The coldness between her brows and her eyes could be said to be the same as Xie Yun.
Fu Lu followed up and said to Qiao jinniang, His Majesty said that youve been unhappy for a long time, so he asked me to bring Nichang into the pce to apany you. Its rare for a person to be happy. If you continue to be unhappy, mother will also worry about you.
Qiao Jinniang held the stove in her hands and said, Yes.
Its already February. Wei Ziyao and yellow flowers are blooming in Qu Jiang Garden. Why dont we go outside the pce and take a walk?
Qiao Jinniang said in a low voice, No, there are many beautiful peonies in the pce. In the past, I always wanted to see those beautiful peonies in Lin an, but now I miss the flowers and nts in the Lin an family.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang like this, Fu Lu didnt try to persuade her. When he left with the two little girls, Lu Chen happened toe back.
Lu Chen asked Fu Lu, Is Lady Qiao Happier?
Fu Lu shook his head. But she said that she misses the flowers and nts in the Lin an family. She has been in Chang an for almost seven years, right?
Lu Chen nodded. No More, no less. It happens to be seven years.
It turned out that she had been away from Lin an for so long.
Fu Lu said, I heard that glutinous rice will be getting married in two months. Lady Qiao and glutinous rice grew up together. The Sisterhood is even stronger than the master-servant rtionship. Why dont Qiao Lui and I take her back to Lin an? Let her rx.
Little Nichang said, Aunt, Im afraid you want to go to Jiangnan on your own.
Fu Lu:...
Lu Chen entered the Changle Pce and walked to Qiao Jinniangs bedside. Looking at her pale face without makeup, he held her hand and said, Do you want to go back to Lin an?
Qiao Jinniang said, Forget it. The Empresshonor guard trip is tiring, so theres no need.
Lu Chen said, Thats not what I said. If we travel by water, it might not be tiring for the people along the way. Moreover, Jiangnan is rich to begin with. Now that the National Treasury is full, leading the ministers to Lin an can bring business to the Jiangnan merchants.
Ill order the six divisions to prepare this matter so that you can rush back to Lin an before glutinous rice gets married.
Qiao Jinniang threw herself into Lu Chens arms and said, Thank you.
Jin er, weve been married for almost ten years. Why do we need to say this word of thanks between husband and wife?
Qiao Jinniang thought about it carefully and said, Yes, weve been married for ten years... These days pass so quickly. Its also the tenth anniversary of father and mothers death. I really have to go back to Lin an.
Lu Chen hugged qiao Jinniang and said, Be happy. If youe to father and mother in a depressed mood, they might think that I havent treated you well.
Qiao Jin smiled at Lu Chen. Mm.
..
His Majesty was going to tour the Jiangnan region and had set a date for April. The six tribes were extremely busy.
Qiao ruoyi and her husband, Luo Wei, brought their daughter, Little Nichang, along the route and arranged the troops along the way. When they reached Lin an, they informed the local officials that his majesty and the Empress wereing to Lin an for a tour.
Qiao ruoyi arrived at the Jiangnan region and finished discussing the emperors route with the Jiangnan officials. After greeting them, she went to the Qian Estate.
In the Qian Estate, Qiao Ruoyun was already waiting at the door. Beside her was her son.
When Qiao Ruoyi got out of the carriage, she ran to Qiao Ruoyuns side and hugged her, Big Sister.
Qiao Ruoyuns eyes were filled with tears as she said, Little Sister Ruoyi, Ive finally met you.
Qiao ruoyi came out of Qiao Ruoyuns arms and bowed to Qian Yin, Greetings, King Wu.
Qian Yin said, Were all family, theres no need to stand on ceremony. This must be brother-inw, right? Ive long heard of brother-inws reputation for heroically killing bears in the Jiangnan area. I must get drunk today.
Luo Wei cupped his hands and said to Qian Yin, Brother-inw, you tter me.
Qiao Ruoyuns son stared at Qiao Nichang and eximed, Mother, this little sister is so beautiful.
Little Nichang bowed and said, Nichang greets aunt, uncle, cousin.
Qiao Ruoyuns heart almost melted when she saw this. She smiled and said, No wonder the Empress has always wanted to give birth to a daughter. It turns out that the daughter is so obedient. Shes so cute.
Little Nichang bowed and said, Thank you aunt for your praise.
Qiao Ruoyun said, Dont stand outside. Quickly enter.
When they entered, the Qian Estate had already prepared arge table of delicacies. After the few of them took their seats, Qiao ruoyi asked, Why isnt there any glutinous rice?
Qiao Ruoyun sighed helplessly. At this moment, Zhou Shihui came over. When he saw Qiao Ruoyi and Luo Wei, he said, Lady Qiao Wu, General Luo, my aunt has been looking forward to seeing you for a long time.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Zhou Shihui, she almost forgot about her. No wonder glutinous rice was not in the Qian Estate.
Zhou Shihui looked at the little girl next to Qiao Ruoyi and said in surprise, Why does the daughter of the fifth miss of the Qiao family look so much like Xie Yun?
Qiao ruoyis face immediately darkened. Zhou Shihui, What Do You Mean?
Zhou shihui smiled and said, Nothing much. Im just curious. This is simply the appearance of the same mold.
Luo Wei held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said slowly, Miss Qian, there are many simrities between beauties in this world. Nichang is the child of me and ruoyi. She doesnt look like Xie Yun, but more like me and ruoyi.
Zhou Shihui snorted.
After the banquet, Qiao ruoyi and Luo Wei did not stay in the Qian residence. Instead, they went to the house that the Qiao residence had bought. This time, the Qiao family came to Lin an, so they simply bought a house in Lin an.
After Qiao Ruoyi coaxed little nichang to sleep, she handed her over to the wet nurse to take care of and crept back into her room.
Luo Wei was still looking at the troop deployment n. Qiao ruoyi went over and hugged Luo Wei from behind. Its all thanks to you today. That Zhou Shihui is still like this when she came to Jiangnan.
Luo Wei held Qiao Ruoyis hand and smiled faintly. Nichang is our daughter to begin with.
Qiao ruoyi sighed and said, But she looks like Xie Yun. After all, its a troublesome matter. If I had known earlier, I wouldnt have brought her to Jiangnan.
Luo Wei held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, If youre willing to let her go, Im also unwilling to let her stay in Chang an alone. So, you might as well remember that shes my daughter. No matter what others say, she only calls me father.
Qiao ruoyi looked up at Luo Wei and smiled. Okay.
Chapter 361
Chapter 361: Chapter 361: glutinous rice and sweet lotus root given by Uncle Xie
Xie Manor, Xie Yuns study.
Lan Xin hurriedly barged into the study and said, Master, can you guess who I saw on the street?
Xie Yun had no intention of guessing at all.
Lan Xin said, I saw fifth Miss Qiao. She came to Jiangnan to arrange the reception for His Majesty when he came to Jiangnan.
I also saw a three-year-old girl beside her. She looks exactly like you!
Dont you want to meet your own flesh and blood and meet Your Daughter?
Xie Yun said, Get Out!
Master!
Get Out!
Lan Xin stomped her feet and left the room helplessly. Just as she left the study, she saw a woman carrying a bowl of soup. This woman was a guest living in the Xie family. She was the daughter of the Jiang family in Langya. Her ancestors were also considered an aristocratic family, however, she was defeated in her early years.
Now, her father was the envoy of Langxie, and she could be considered a noble daughter. She had been a guest of the Xie family since two years ago.
Lan Xin disliked Jiang Yu very much. She had yet to be the mistress of the Xie family, but she was already acting like the mistress of the Xie family.
When Jiang Yu saw Lan Xin, he did not stand on ceremony. He entered the study room and handed over the chicken soup to Xie Yun. This is the chicken soup that I specially brewed for you. Lan Xin is very hot-tempered. She is bing more and more unruly.
Xie Yun looked at the soup in front of her and said, Thank you very much. You are a guest of the Xie residence. There is no need to make Soup for me in the future.
I simply have nothing to do. Its fine as long as you like it.Jiang Yu put down the soup and chuckled.
After leaving the study room, she received a post from Zhou Shihui. Jiang Yu had been in Jiang an for two years. Some of the local aristocraticdies in Jiangnan did not like to y with her. Moreover, she was already 20 years old.
Most of thedies at this age were already married, and they could not y with her.
Only Zhou Shihui was talented. She was also the second daughter of another big family in Lin an, the Qian family. Her status was simr to hers, so the two of them had a lot of interactions.
Jiang Yu was invited by Zhou Shihui to a restaurant. This restaurant was specially opened by Zhou Shihui to fight with the Hundred Savory restaurant. It was almost losing money every day.
Jiang Yu went to the private room on the second floor of the restaurant and asked Zhou Shihui, Why did you invite me here today?
Zhou shihui said, You probably heard that his majesty and the Empress will being to Lin an for a tour in two months.
Jiang Yu said, Everyone in Lin an city knows about this matter. The temporary pce in Lin an city has already been repaired.
Zhou shihui smiled and said, I treat you as a good friend, so theres something I dont want to hide from you and keep you in the dark.
Jiang Yu asked, What is it?
Zhou Shihui pointed at Qiao Ruoyi, who was wearing an official uniform and shopping at a street stall downstairs. Look at the people below.
Jiang Yu looked over and saw a woman wearing a female official uniform. There were female officials in Jiangnan now, but the official robe she wore seemed to be of high quality.
Looking at the little girl next to her, Jiang Yu was shocked. She, she, why does that little girl look so simr to Xie Yun!
Zhou shihui sighed and said, I only told you this because we are good friends. You are not allowed to tell outsiders.
Jiang Yu raised three fingers and said, I will not tell anyone. If I break this oath, I will be struck by lightning.
Zhou shihui whispered, This female official is the fifth sister of the Empress. Her name is Qiao Ruoyi and she is now a second rank assistant minister of the Ministry of Appointments. Her husband is the current general of the horse cavalry, Luo Wei.
The little girl she is holding is not her husbands, but Xie Yuns child!
When Xie Yun went to Chang an, Qiao ruoyi hooked up with Xie Yun and plotted against her to get pregnant with Xie Yuns child.
However, Xie Yun wasnt schemed against and refused to marry Qiao ruoyi. Qiao ruoyi had no choice but to marry the useless Luo Wei with the child.
After asking around, you found out that Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant with a child of six months and married Luo Wei. As for the child being Xie Yun, very few people know about it. I only found out about it once through the correspondence between my uncle and the Qiao family.
Jiang Yus gaze was fixed on the girl beside Qiao Ruoyi. How could this be? How could this be? What did Qiao ruoyi mean by bringing her to Jiangnan this time?
Zhou shihui replied, What meaning could there be? Although Qiao Ruoyi married Luo Wei, their marriage was a sham. In order to give that bastard a good birth, she wouldnt beughed at as an illegitimate daughter..
Qiao ruoyi came to Jiangnan on business with her daughter. Obviously, she hasnt given up on marrying Xie Yun and bing the mistress of the Xie Family!
Jiang Yu waspletely flustered. She held Zhou Shihuis hand and said, You have to help me. You Cant let that disgusting woman, Qiao Ruoyi, seed in her evil scheme!
She had been in the Xie family for two years and had been ridiculed by countless people. In order to marry Xie Yun, how could she allow Qiao Ruoyi to bring Xie Yuns daughter to ruin her ns?
..
Qiao ruoyi brought her daughter around and went to the hundred savory restaurant to look for glutinous rice.
Glutinous rice was greeting the guests in the Hundred Savory restaurant. When she saw Qiao Ruoyiing over, she said in surprise, Fifth miss.
Glutinous rice, youre going to be a bride soon. Why are you still busy in the Hundred Savory Restaurant?
Glutinous Rice said a little shyly, The dowry is all prepared for me by my aunt. I cant embroider, so I might as well greet her in the Hundred Savory restaurant. When will the empress arrive?
She will arrive in about a month. Dont worry, she will be able to make it in time for your wedding.
Glutinous rice said shyly, Even if I cant make it in time, I will have to change the wedding date.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and brought Nichang to sit at a table by the river. She listened to the singing of the singing girls in the boats on the river, which had a unique charm.
When Xie Yun walked into the Hundred Savory restaurant, he saw this scene. Qiao Ruoyi brought her daughter to sit by the window, and the little girl knelt on the rattan chair.
Not long after, a man approached Qiao Ruoyi. He saw Qiao Ruoyi standing up to wee the man with adoration in her eyes.
The little girl also called out to Luo Wei sweetly, Daddy!
Luo Wei hugged little nichang and said, I heard that the glutinous rice and sugar lotus root is the signature dish in the restaurant in Jiangnan. Little Nichang loves eating glutinous rice and sugar lotus root the most, right?
Little nichang nodded and said, Yes, she loves eating glutinous rice and sugar lotus root.
Qiao ruoyi said to the waiter beside her, Then give me a serving of glutinous rice candy lotus root.
The waiter said, Madam, its really unfortunate. Theres only one serving left today. Patriarch Xie has already ordered it.
Qiao ruoyi looked up and saw Xie Yun not far away.
Luo Wei said, If thats the case, then forget it. Why Dont You Come and eat it tomorrow?
Little Nichang nodded obediently. Okay.
When the dishes were served, the first dish was the glutinous rice and sweet lotus root. The waiter said, Dear guests, the head of the Xie family said that this glutinous rice and sweet lotus root will be given to you.
Qiao ruoyi said, Who asked him to send the dishes out of kindness?
Luo Wei gently shook Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Ruoyi, dont be like this. Nichang, since that uncle has given you your favorite dish, you should go and thank him.
Nichang got down from Luo Weis arms and stumbled to Xie Yun. She said, Thank you, uncle. Thank you for the Sweet Lotus Root.
Chapter 362
Chapter 362: Chapter 362, encountering bandits
Xie Yun looked at the soft and cuddly little girl in front of him and said in a hoarse voice, No need to thank me.
Little Niching ran back to Luo Weis side and called him Daddy Sweetly.
When Xie Yun saw the happy scene of the three of them, his heart skipped a beat. He put down a banknote and left.
The amount of banknote in front of the cuddly little girl far exceeded the amount of food on the table that Xie Yun had eaten.
She chased after them and heard Xie Yun say, You should also pay for the dishes on Qiao Ruoyis table.
Glutinous rice agreed.
Jiang Yu, who had been following Qiao ruoyi and Nichang from afar, saw this scene. She clenched her hands and said, Lowly servant! Qiao ruoyi really wants to take the child ande to the Xie family to take over the family.
Zhou shihui said, If I Were you, I definitely wouldnt be able to endure it. This father and daughter are linked by heart. If we dont get rid of Qiao Ruoyis daughter, who knows when Qiao Ruoyi will be able to marry into the Xie Family?
Originally, there was only a step between the madam of the Xie family and you. Now, are you going to watch helplessly as you miss the position of the madam of the Xie Family?
Jiang Yu shook her head and said, I dont want to. Ill listen to you. I want to get rid of that little bastard!
Zhou Shihui smiled. She had been restrained everywhere in Jiangnan and had been in an for five years. She felt humiliated when she thought of what had happened in Luoyang in Chang an. Her mother had died tragically, but she couldnt even observe filial piety.
She wanted the Qiao family to get their retribution.
If Qiao Ruoi wanted to me someone, she should me Qiao Lui and Qiao Jinniang!
..
Luo Wei had been very busy recently. The troops in Lin an had been deployed. Just five hundred miles away from Lin an were the famous Yandang Mountain Flying Bandits.
In the past, the Yandang Mountain Flying Bandits and the officials did not interfere with each other. The local officials andmon people had already gotten along well with the flying bandits.
But this time, after his majesty led the officials to Lin an, they still had to patrol. The Yandang Mountain Bandits had to be eliminated.
This also gave Jiang Yu and Zhou Shihui a chance to take advantage of.
Zhou Shihui said to Jiang Yu, Luo Weili defeated the Yandang Mountain Bandits. The leader of the bandits will definitely not be satisfied with his escape. Why Dont you bribe the leader of the bandits? Even if the matter is exposed, it will be retribution for Luo Weis suppression of the Bandits.
Jiang Yu thought for a moment, she said, But Lin an city is now under martialw. The people in Lin an city only go out and do not enter. Everyone has to be investigated. Even if we find the leader of the bandits, we might not be able to sneak into Lin an and attack that little bastard.
Zhou shihui smiled and said, How difficult is that? Wouldnt it be enough to trick Qiao ruoyi into leaving Lin an with that little bastard?
..
After Qiao Ruoyi told the local officials about the etiquette of receiving the emperor, she also began to check the local womens offices in the yamen.
The local womens offices were originally there for the consideration of women, but there were quite a number of cases where womens welfare was deliberately taken away.
When Qiao Ruoyi was in Lin ans yamen, there were female workers from he citys silk merchants who came to inform on her. Not far from Lin an, there were some silk merchants in he city who were obviously men who inherited the family business, but they deliberately set up female households in order to pay less taxes.
Not only that, but those merchants also exploited female workers. The local female officials turned a blind eye to this matter.
After Qiao ruoyi received this news, she thought of making a trip to he city.
The Rowei people were at Yandang Mountain. Qiao Ruoyi brought Nichang along and set off for he city.
He city was adjacent to Lin an. From the name of He city, it was known that this was and of fish and rice.
Wu Nongs softnguage was very prosperous. Every household here raised silkworms. When they arrived at he city, they could see the scene of the mulberry girls picking and feeding the silkworms.
It was nichings first time seeing a silkworm baby. She was not afraid at all. On the contrary, Qiao Ruoyi was extremely afraid of white squirming worms.
Niching grabbed a silkworm baby from a mulberry tree to scare Qiao ruoyi. Qiao Ruoyi was so scared that she kept retreating. Unexpectedly, she fell into a persons embrace.
Luo Wei half-hugged qiao ruoyi and said, Niching, youre being naughty again. Stop scaring your mother.
Qiao ruoyi saw Luo Wei and said, How did you get here? Arent you at Yandang Mountain?
Luo Wei said, The bandits of Yandang Mountain have been exterminated. Only the leader of the bandits and his underlings were left behind to escape under the tip-off of the local officials. Today, they are being tracked down in he city.
Youd better bring Nichang back to Lin an as soon as possible. That leader of the bandits is an extremely vicious person!
Qiao ruoyi said, I have some business in he city. Ill return to Lin an as soon as Im done with business. Besides, with you around, what am I afraid of?
Luo Wei smiled faintly.
At night, Qiao Ruoyi and Luo Wei stayed in the magistrate office of He city.
After Qiao Ruoyi coaxed nichang to sleep, she whispered to Luo Wei, When we return to Chang an from Lin an, we should have a child too.
Luo Weis eyes lit up, but he remembered Qiao Ruoyis illness and said, Ruoyi, you dont have to force yourself.
Ever since the two of them got married, although they shared the same bed, they had never been husband and wife. It was because Qiao Ruoyi hated those things. In the past two years, Qiao Ruoyi and Luo Weis rtionship had gradually improved, and there were many intimate moments, but every time it reached the final step, it would make Qiao ruoyi extremely frightened.
Luo Wei did not want to force Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao ruoyi hugged Luo Wei and said, No, I wont force you. After we return to Chang an, well try again.
After two years together, she could be sure that she loved Luo Wei very much.
Luo Wei smiled lightly. Okay, when we return to Chang an, well have a child.
Qiao ruoyi said, Nichang said that she likes younger siblings. One is not enough. We have to have at least two, so that nichang can have enough of an older sister.
Luo Wei nodded and said, Its best if its a son and a daughter.
The next day, Qiao Ruoyi brought Nichang to the biggest silk merchant house in he city to check the ounts. She did not find anything out.
The silk merchant immediately said, Sir Qiao, the owner behind us is the Xie family in Lin an. How would they dare to do such a thing of tax evasion? I dont know which female worker falsely used US behind our backs. This is absolutely not the case.
When Qiao Ruoyi heard this, she casually flipped through a few books and found that there were no problems. There was nothing wrong with the tax collection, the local Ministry of Revenue official who came with Qiao ruoyi said, Sir Qiao, the Xie familys business has never had any problems.
Qiao ruoyi said, Its good that there are no problems.
Qiao ruoyi and Nichang left the silk merchants mansion. In March, it began to rain cats and dogs. It was always raining during the Qingming festival in Jiangnan. It was difficult for the horse carriage to travel on the road.
Qiao ruoyi said to Yan Yu, Theres no need to hurry on with such a heavy rain. Lets find a temple to rest.
Yan Yu agreed.
Coincidentally, there was a temple not far away. Qiao ruoyi had been feeling uneasy in the center of the temple. If the female worker had not been mistreated, why would she speciallye to Lin an to falsely use her?
Thats not right! Lin an has been sealed off for several days. How did the female worker enter Lin an?Qiao ruoyi fiercely hit her own head. Im really stupid to the extreme. Lets Go!
Qiao ruoyi quickly stood up. Xiaoman picked up little nichang and followed Qiao ruoyi outside the temple.
The rain was getting heavier. When they reached the entrance of the temple, they saw a man with scars all over his face and stubble all over his face. He was carrying a knife, Youre Luo Weis woman. Is this Luo Weis daughter? It just so happens that Im going to kill you two today to avenge my brother!
Chapter 363
Chapter 363: Chapter 363: Lowes death
Although Qiao Ruoyi had brought her guards with her today, the guards were powerless.
Even Qiao Ruoyi felt powerless. She was now certain that someone was scheming against her from behind!
When the head of the thiefs de shed towards niching, Xiaoman shielded her beneath her body. Her back was stabbed heavily..
When the sword was pulled out, blood spurted out from Xiaomans back.
Xiaoman!Qiao ruoyi shouted.
Niching cried, Auntie Xiaoman, Auntie Xiaoman.
The bandits raised their swords at niching again. This time, they were struck down by a sword.
Luo Wei rushed over. When he saw this scene, he hated that he did not bring enough soldiers. When the two sides were fighting, Qiao Ruoyi hugged niching tightly in her arms.
She looked at Xiaoman with tears in her eyes.
Xiaoman came to her side when she was six years old.
At that time, when Qiao Ruoshui treated her badly, Xiaoman would imitate Qiao Ruoshuis appearance and fight happily.
Xiaoman, Xiaoman!
Xiaoman, who was lying on the ground, could no longer pay attention to her.
Yan Yu, who was at the side, said to Qiao ruoyi, Miss, lets escape first.
Qiao ruoyi carried Nichang into the carriage with tears in her eyes. Yan Yu said, Miss, can you give me the little miss?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and said, No, Ill carry her.
After getting into the carriage, the bandit behind them chased after them with reluctance. In a bamboo forest where the rain was pouring heavily, the rain of arrows fell one after another and shot into the carriage.
Luo Wei jumped onto the carriage and used his knife to shoot down the hidden arrows around him. Unexpectedly, the bandit leader shot out the hidden weapons in his hands and all of them flew towards Luo Wei.
Even if Luo Weis kung fu was good, he could not dodge the hidden weapons. In a short while, his internal organs were stabbed and he fell off the carriage.
At this moment, the carriage had also fallen apart. When Qiao Ruoyi saw this scene, she shouted repeatedly, Husband, husband!
When the rain of arrows fell again, Qiao ruoyi held her daughter in each others arms. Just when she thought that she did not have long to live, there was no expected pain.
Instead, she saw several men in ck stepping forward to help them act as the rain of arrows.
The leader of the thieves was also subdued by many men in ck. A white horse came over. Xie Yun was riding on the white horse. When he saw this bloody scene, he immediately dismounted and walked towards Qiao ruoyi.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Xie Yun, she gave the daughter in her arms to Xie Yun and walked to Luo Weis side.
She held Luo Wei, who was lying on the ground covered in blood, in her arms and said, Husband, you have to hold on. Ill take you to the Doctor right now.
Luo Wei spat out a mouthful of ck blood and held Qiao Ruoyis hand tightly. He said, Ruoyi, Im sorry. I Cant... I Cant apany you for the rest of your life...
Qiao Ruoyis tears kept falling. Stop talking. You will survive. We agreed that you would have children after returning to Chang an. You have to have two children.
Ruoyi... you have to live well in the future...
Little Nichang struggled desperately to get out of Xie Yuns arms. Seeing that Xie Yun did not let go of her, she bit Xie Yuns wrist hard. Xie Yun felt pain and let go of Little Nichang.
Little Nichang ran over and cried, Daddy, dont You Want Nichang anymore? Daddy, you cant die.
Aunt said that once a person dies, they will leave forever. Nichang doesnt want Daddy to leave.
Luo Wei reached out to touch little Nichangs face and used hisst bit of strength to say, Be good, listen to your mothers words in the future...
After saying that, his hand dropped. Qiao ruoyi knelt on the ground and hugged Luo Wei as she cried miserably, Husband, husband, dont die, ah!
At this moment, Qiao Ruoyi could not care about the etiquette of the Marquisdoms daughter. The rain fell on her face and her tears flowed freely. She could not stop crying.
Yan Yu and the others did not dare to go forward to persuade her. Xie Yun took the umbre from his subordinate. Seeing her crying out bitterly, he could only silently hold the umbre open.
After a long while, Qiao ruoyi cried until she fainted. Xie Yun then said to Yan Yu, This ce is very close to my silk vige. Lets go to the silk vige first.
..
When Qiao Ruoyi woke up, it was already dark. She felt extremely weak and dizzy. When she saw Yan Yu holding themp, she immediately said, Wheres Xiaoman? I Had a dream. I dreamed that Xiaoman and my husband were both dead!
Yan Yu pursed her lips and sobbed, Master, this is not a dream.
Qiao Ruo shed tears and said, Why did this happen? Why? where is this ce? Wheres Nichang? Wheres My Husband?
Yan Yu said, This is the Xie family heads Silk Manor. The young miss was caught in the rain and had a high fever. You also fainted and had a high fever just now, so the Xie family head brought the young miss along. As for the son-inw and Xiao Man, they are now resting in the magistrates office in he city.
Qiao Ruo Yi forced herself out of the bed and said, I want to find ni Shang.
Yan Yu hurriedly supported Qiao Ruo Yi and brought her to the courtyard next door. The courtyard next door was brightly lit, and a few doctors were trembling as they waited for orders.
Xie Yun hugged the little girl who was crying in his arms and could not fall asleep. He was also somewhat at a loss. He did not know if it was because of the blood connection, but he felt extremely distressed.
Qiao ruoyi entered and snatched the crying Nichang from Xie Yuns arms. She forcefully held back her tears and coaxed nichang, Be good, mother is here.
Nichang said softly, Mother, I want father to sing a bad...
Qiao ruoyi patted little nichang gently and sobbed, Nichang, be good. Mother will sing a bad for you, okay?
Little Nichang looked at Qiao ruoyi, but Qiao Ruoyi did not know how to sing a bad. She only knew how to recite poems, but those poems were clearly not something little nichang could understand.
Qiao Ruoyis tears fell. In the past, it was Luo Wei who coaxed little nichang to sing a bad for her.
Let me do it,Xie Yun said. Niching, how about Uncle Xie sing a song for You?
Niching sniffled. Xie Yun hugged the scalding niching and sang softly, The little boat passes the vige entrance. Sister picks Lotus roots. The water horns are as red as fire, and the embroidered lotus roots are as white as silk. Sing a nursery rhyme to celebrate the harvest.
The wind is light and the person is beautiful. After singing sweet songs, it is not heaven. It is not enough to love.
The boat swims in the water. The scenery of my hometown is more beautiful. Dont say that Jiangnan is intoxicating. The water is better than osmanthus wine. Osmanthus wine. The water is better than osmanthus wine. The water is better than osmanthus wine. The water is better than osmanthus wine...
Qiao ruoyi watched as Little Nichang gradually fell asleep. She breathed a sigh of relief and said, Ill have to trouble you to take good care of Nichang. Im going to the government office. Ill definitely tear that thief into pieces and avenge my husbands death!
Xie Yun said, Im sorry. The murderer who nned this is Jiang Yu.
Who is Jiang Yu?Qiao Ruoyi was extremely unfamiliar with the word Jiang Yu.
After Xie Yun put little nichang down, he said to Qiao ruoyi, Lets talk outside.
The spring rain did not stop. Under the eaves of the corridor, Xie Yun slowly said, Jiang Yu is the daughter of the Jiang family in Langya. Her aunt is my aunt. She has been living in the Xie family for two years.
Originally, she and I should be getting married soon.
I dont know how she found out about the existence of you and Ni Shang. It was she who bribed the head of the Yandang Mountain Bandits. She is very familiar with this silk manor. It was also she who gave you false ounts and lured you to he city, She set up an ambush next to the silk manor in he city!
Chapter 364
Chapter 364: Chapter 364-blood for blood
Qiao Ruoyis tears streamed down her face as she sneered, No wonder the leader of the thieves hid himself after he was killed. He was schemed against by someone else!
Why did Jiang Yu do this? Nichang and I never thought about what we wanted from the Xie family. Why did she? Why did she want to kill Xiao Man and my husband!
Qiao ruoyi cried helplessly, Its all your fault! Its all your fault!
Xie Yun said helplessly, Fifth miss, youre in deep pain now. If you want to me me, me me. Ive already controlled Jiang Yu. If You Want Revenge Now, You Can Wait for Her Majesty toe to Lin an to take revenge. Its up to you.
Qiao ruoyi held onto the pir at the edge of the corridor, I cant wait for Her Majesty to Punish Me. I want her to sacrifice my husband in blood. I want those murderers to be buried with my husband.
Xie Yun saw that she was really heartbroken and said, After all, she is the daughter of the consul general of Langye...
Qiao ruoyi said with a sobbing tone, Even if she is a princess, I will make her pay with blood!
Luo Wei was so young and had just be a general. He had a bright future. They did not have a child yet, but he would never wake up again..
Qiao Ruoyis heart ached. Where is Jiang Yu? where is she?
Xie Yun said, At the Xie family in Lin an.
Qiao ruoyi said to Yan Yu, Prepare the horses and return to Lin an.
Xie Yun said, Its raining heavily. Your Fever has not subsided and you have just woken up. If you want to seek revenge on her now, I will find someone to bring her here..
Qiao Ruoyi did not refuse. She still had to hold on. She had to handle Luo Weis funeral matters and take care of Little Nichang.
Qiao Ruoyi went to the He city government office. The backyard of the government office was filled with white silk.
The He city magistrate was dressed in in clothes. When he heard Qiao Ruoyis arrival, he was extremely afraid. A dignified third-grade general had lost his life in the territory under his jurisdiction.
Qiao ruoyi entered dressed in linen clothes. When she saw Luo Wei lying in the Zimu Coffin, tears fell on Luo Weis face. However, he would never get up to wipe his tears again.
The He Cheng Magistrate asked in a low voice, Lord Qiao, how do you want to deal with General Luos funeral?
Qiao ruoyi said, His Majesty and the Empress wille to Jiangnan in half a month. Therefore, my husbands coffin will probably stay in he cheng for a period of time. He will leave when he returns to Chang an. Sorry to bother you.
Lord Qiao, you are too kind. It was my fault that I let the Bandits sneak into the territory.
This has nothing to do with you,Qiao Ruoyi said. You can leave now.
Yes.The He city magistrate wiped the cold sweat off his head and went on.
Qiao ruoyi sat next to Luo Wei. She looked at the evestingmp at the side and listened to the sound of Taoist priests performing rituals outside. Tears could not help but fall again.
In front of her eyes were all the bits and pieces of the past two years with Luo Wei.
Everyone mocked Luo Wei for marrying into the Qiao family for the sake of Fame and fortune. However, Luo Wei never cared. He always honestly advised himself not to bother with them.
Luo Wei valued friendship and loyalty, and was extremely filial to his adoptive parents. Niching was not his biological child, but he had always doted on niching and responded to her requests.
Such a good husband, but he would never wake up again.
In thetter half of the night, Yan Yu advised Qiao Ruoyi to rest first. Qiao ruoyi shook her head and said, Ill stay here. Ill rest well when Im tired. I want to apany him more. This is thest time Ill apany him...
Yan Yu stopped persuading her.
When it was close to dawn, Lan Xin came over with a white fox fur cloak in her hand. She put it on Qiao ruoyi and said, Although its almost summer, its still very cold in the early morning. Dont mind it.
Qiao ruoyi said in an extremely haggard manner, Thank you.
Lan Xin said, Jiang Yu has arrived.
Qiao Ruoyi stood up and saw Jiang Yu kneeling on the ground while being escorted by the Xie familys guards. Qiao Ruoyi went forward and gave Jiang Yu a fierce p.
Jiang Yu looked at Qiao Ruoyi in disbelief and said, You slut, how Dare You Hit Me? Lan Xin, you slut helped this slut treat me like this. Arent you afraid that Xie Yun will punish you?
Qiao ruoyi pped Jiang Yus face again and said, I am a rank two assistant minister of the Ministry of Appointments. You spoke rudely to me. Should I hit you?
Jiang Yu wanted to retaliate, but she was restrained by the guards of the Xie family and knelt on the ground. She could only say as quickly as she could, Ptui, the reason why you are a rank two assistant minister is because of the power of the Qiao familys rtives. A treacherous minister is in Charge!
Just as Qiao ruoyi was about to attack, Xie Yun held her hand.
Jiang Yu saw Xie Yun and shouted, Family head xie, please save me. Lan Xin, this B * TCH, is going to rebel!
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun and said, Are you going to protect her?
Xie Yun said, Let Lan Xin do the pping. How hard can your p be?
Lan Xin stepped forward and pped Jiang Yus face. Jiang Yu immediately spat out a bloody tooth!
Jiang Yu looked at Xie Yun in disbelief.
Qiao Ruoyi stepped forward and pulled Jiang Yus hair. Her swollen eyes were bloodshot from crying, she said fiercely, Jiang Yu, why are you so vicious? You want my husband and childs lives! Today, I want you to pay for my husbands life.
Jiang Yu said, Ptui, what husband? Zhou Shihui told me everything. Back then, you used the vile spawn to force Xie Yun to marry you, but Xie Yun wasnt willing to marry you. That was why you married Luo Wei. After the marriage, the two of you never really consummated your marriage!
It was because you were unwilling to ept it. You wanted to rely on that vile spawn, Qiao Nichang, to continue forcing Xie Yun to marry you! Youre the one who acted shamelessly in the first ce. Luo Wei was killed because of you!
Arent you capable? Your husband had already hooked up with Xie Yun right after he died! Its a pity that he didnt kill you and that vile spawn of yours.
Qiao ruoyi took a knife from the guard beside her and pressed it against Jiang Yus neck. Is it Zhou Shihui who told you that Nichang is Xie Yuns Daughter?
Jiang Yu looked at the knife on her neck and said, Stop trying to scare me. Zhou Shihui and I are not afraid of you. My father is the Consul General of Langye. If you dare to make a move on me, my father will not let you off. His Majesty will not let you off either!
However, Qiao Ruoyi closed her eyes and shed the knife forward, causing blood to spray onto her face.
After the attack, she did not throw the knife away. Instead, she opened her eyes and looked at Jiang Yu who was still staring at the ground. She wanted to step on Jiang Yus disgusting face again.
Qiao ruoyi held the knife in her hand and went to the stables in the government office.
Xie Yun followed beside her and asked, Where are you going?
To seek revenge from Zhou Shihui!Qiao ruoyi said with red eyes, What enmity do I have with her? Why does she have to frame me like this? Let Jiang Yu Harm Nichangs life? Xiao Mans life, my husbands life, I will make her pay with blood!
After Qiao Ruoyi finished speaking, she rode her horse to the Qian Estate. The sky gradually brightened and the rain gradually stopped.
The servants in the Qian Estate had just gotten up to clean when they heard an urgent knock on the door.
Chapter 365
Chapter 365: In chapter 365, there was only one father
White appeared in the sky. The weather was gloomy and rainy. It was very dark during the day. The gatekeeper of the Qian Estate opened the door and saw Qiao Ruoyi standing in front of him. He called out, Lady Qiao Wu.
Qiao Ruoyi went straight in and asked, Where is Zhou Shihui?
Qiao Ruoyun heard the Servant Girls report. She went out and saw Qiao ruoyi dressed in white linen clothes. She asked, Ruoyi, what happened to you? Why are you dressed in mourning clothes?
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were red as she cried, Big sister, Luo Wei left me. It was Zhou Shihui who caused his death!
Qiao Ruoyun said in surprise, Luo Wei is gone? How?
Qiao ruoyi said, I want to kill Zhou Shihui to avenge my husband and Xiao Man!
Xiao Man is gone too?Qiao Ruoyun said in shock.
Xiao Man had grown up in the marquisdom since he was young. He was still so young. He was not even twenty yet, and he had already died?
Qiao ruoyi bit her lip and said, Big Sister, tell me where Zhou Shihui is. where is she?
Are you looking for me?Zhou Shihui came out in a red traditional dress, holding an oil-paper umbre. His face was filled with a proud smile. If you want to me someone, you should me Qiao Lui and Qiao Jinniang. Why are you looking for me to take revenge?
Qiao ruoyi ced a knife stained with blood on Zhou Shihuis neck, scaring Qiao Ruoyun so much that she screamed, Ruoyi!
Zhou Shihui raised his head and looked at Qiao ruoyi, Do You Dare to kill me? This is the Wu Imperial residence, Im the daughter of the Wu Imperial residence. Second Lady, my uncle is the Wu Imperial residence. If you kill me, the Wu Imperial residence will definitely not let you off!
Qian Yin also rushed out. Seeing Qiao Ruoyi in this state, he hurriedly said, Fifth sister, show mercy. I dont know how Zhou Shihui offended you, but our Qian Imperial residence will definitely teach her a good lesson!
Its been five years. Did your Qian family discipline her well! Letting her live for five more years is letting her off easy!Qiao ruoyi closed her eyes and shed the knife forward.
Zhou Shihuis eyes widened as he said, You dare to kill me? Quickly save me, save me!
After Qiao Ruoyi withdrew the knife, she stabbed it into Zhou Shihuis heart again!
Qian Yin went forward to cover Qiao Ruoyuns eyes. Qiao Ruoyun moved Qian Yins hand away and trembled as she went forward to hug Qiao ruoyi. Her eyes were filled with tears. Ruoyi, ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi put down the knife in her hand and fell into Qiao Ruoyuns arms. Big Sister.
Qiao Ruoyun knew very well that Qiao Ruoyi was someone that not even an ant would dare to step on to kill. To be able to kill someone at this moment, it could be seen that she hated him to the extreme..
When Xie Yun entered, he saw Zhou Shihui lying on the ground, he walked up to Qian yin and said, Lord Wu, Zhou Shihui incited Jiang Yu to murder Qiao Ruoyi and Nichang, causing the deaths of General Luo and Lady Xiao Man. Zhou Shihui deserves his punishment!
Qian Yin did not have any feelings for Zhou Shihuis niece. He just felt that it was difficult to exin to his elder brother. After all, it was Ruoyuns younger sister who had killed Zhou Shihui. After hearing Xie Yuns exnation, Qian Yin did not have to worry about not being able to exin himself.
Qian Yin said, I did not know that Zhou Shihui hadmitted such a huge mistake. She deserved to die.
Qiao Ruoyun helped the Crying Qiao ruoyi into her room and made her cry as well. Over the past two years, Qiao Ruoyis letters had mentioned Luo Wei.
Qiao Ruoyun still remembered that when Qiao Ruoyi was young, she was most afraid of marrying a martial artist. In her eyes, martial artists were all rude people. After the two of them got married, Qiao Ruoyun had thought that it was just to let Nichang have a baby, she did not expect that the rtionship between the two of them would be so good.
The male ice had a deep love for each other. In Chang an, people were envious.
However, the heavens were so cruel.
Qiao Ruoyi was tired from crying. She copsed on the table with her eyes closed. There were still tears in her eyes. Qiao Ruoyun ordered the servant girl to change a bed for Qiao Ruoyi to rest in her room.
After leaving, Qian Yin said to Qiao Ruoyun, If I had known that Zhou Shihui would be like this, I wouldnt have kept her because of my brother.
Qiao Ruoyun choked on her sobs and said, Zhou Shihui deserves to die ten thousand deaths for his crimes. But what about ruoyi... ?
Sigh, Xie Yun is really a troublemaker. If it wasnt for him, how could this matter have happened? Jiang Yu is still madam Xie, so she wouldnt be able to tolerate ruoyi and Nichang. If it were another nobledy, how could she not care?
Qian Yin listened to Qiao Ruoyunsints and gestured for him to look at Xie Yun beside him. When Qiao Ruoyun saw that Xie Yun was here, she did not feel awkward. Even in front of Xie Yun, she still had to say this.
Master Xie, you dont like the Qiao family and its fine if you dont like my sister. But why cant you even control your woman? If Miss Jiang and Miss Li were to harm ruoyi and Nichang today, there wouldnt be a second Luo Wei to protect them!
Qian Yin stopped Qiao Ruoyun and said to Xie Yun, My wife is unreasonable, please forgive me, family head Xie.
Xie Yun frowned and said, What Princess Wu said makes sense.
..
In the magistrates Office of he city, the surrounding officials came to pay their respects after receiving the news. There were also quite a number of people who knew that Luo Wei had died because of the bandit leaders revenge. They all came to the magistrates office to pay their respects.
Little Nichang was also dressed in sackcloth. She obediently paid her respects to the people who hade to pay their respects.
It was only at night that she would go to the coffin and ask, Mother, why is father still asleep? Why hasnt he woken up after sleeping for so long?
Qiao Ruoyi hugged Little Nichang and tears fell from her eyes. However, it seemed that she could not shed any more tears.
In the past, she would not believe it when she heard that tears would run out. However, in the past half a month, even her pillow had been wet after she woke up.
Qiao Ruoyun went over to console little nichang. Your father has gone to the heavens. He will protect you well in the heavens. Nichang, be good. Aunt will bring you to bed.
Little Nichang replied, I want to listen to the bad.
Glutinous rice went over to hold little nichangs hand and said, How about aunt glutinous rice singing the bad for You? I used to sing the bad for Your Crown Princes cousin before he fell asleep.
Niching nodded.
Glutinous rice held nichings hand and went to the backyard of the government office to rest. When they reached the door, niching saw Xie Yun and called out, Thank you, Uncle.
Xie Yun raised his hand and wanted to hug niching. He said to glutinous rice, Ill take care of niching.
However, glutinous rice did not hand niching over to Xie Yun. Instead, she brought niching inside.
In the room, little nichang curiously asked glutinous rice, Aunt glutinous rice, I want to thank Uncle Xie. Uncle Xie is just like father. He treats me very well.
Glutinous rice patted little nichangs head and said, No, theres only one father. Hes different from your father. He doesnt deserve to bepared to your father.
Little Nichang obediently acknowledged, Father only has one father.
After coaxing little nichang to sleep, she went out and saw that Xie Yun was still outside the door, glutinous rice said unhappily, Family head Xie, Little Nichang has lost her father and Aunt Xiaoman, who took care of her since she was young. She is already suffering. If you really love her, dont appear in front of her.
Dont let her treat you as her father. What about you? If you want to abandon her again, tell her that because her mother is a daughter of a concubine, the Xie family wont be able to amodate her and her mother?
Since you cant let Nichang be the daughter of Your Xie family, the best thing is that it will be the same as before. We wont have anything to do with each other! Please dont appear in front of Nichang anymore!
Chapter 366
Chapter 366: Chapter 366. Goodbye, Uncle Xie
Xie Yun heard what glutinous rice said, but in the end, he still could not enter. What glutinous rice said made a lot of sense. Since he could not let little nichang stay by his side, why should he treat her well?
At the end of March, Qiao ruoi looked at Luo Wei in front of her. The ice cubes were ced aside, and the entire mourning hall was extremely cold.
At this moment, a middle-aged man in armor barged in from outside. He ignored the obstructions of the he cheng governments bailiffs and barged into the mourning hall, Where is Qiao Ruoyi? How dare she kill My Daughter??
When Qiao Ruoyi heard this, she allowed Qiao Ruoyun to help her out of the door. She met Jiang Yus father, the Lang Ya Constable.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Father Jiang, she said coldly, ording to the Great Tangsw, the constable can not leave his fiefdom without an edict. Constable Jiang has left his fiefdom without an edict. He is guilty of conspiracy. Men, arrest Jiang Jiedu!
When the bailiffs heard Qiao Ruoyis words and were about to go forward to arrest the Jiedushi Jiang.., another middle-aged woman appeared and said, Lets see who dares! Little daughter of the Qiao family, dont do whatever you want just because youre a second grade official. Youve killed the Jiang familys daughter without permission. This is a felony murder!
You still dare to arrest us? We should arrest you.
The jiedushi Jiang also said, This is Jiangnan. This is not a ce where your Qiao family can be arrogant!
Qiao Ruoyun said, This is Jiangnan, and not a ce where a Langya Jiedu can be arrogant. If Jiedu leaves his fiefdom without permission, ording to thew, he is guilty of treason and should be punished with death!
The Jiang familys second madam said, Who am I? So its Madam Qin!
Qiao Ruoyun had been separated from Qin Zhu for six years. This second Madam Qin was really arrogant to the extreme. Qiao Ruoyun heard this and said, My husband is Qian Yin, the king of Jiangnans Wu Kingdom.
The second madam of the Jiang family said, Who cares about the Qian Family? In front of the Xie family, the Qian family is nothing more than a shoestring. Qiao ruoyi, you killed the daughter of the Jiang family and the future mistress of the Xie family. You can forget about living today!
Just then, a clear and cold female voice came from behind them, Just who doesnt want to live? Jiangnan is also the Jiangnan of great Tang. When did it be the Xie Family? My fifth sister is a dignified second-grade official. How can you kill her just like that??
Jiang Jiedu left his fief without permission and came to Jiangnan. He hasmitted treason. Men, tie them up for me.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang finished speaking.
Everyone present knelt down. Greetings, Your Majesty, the Empress, the crown prince, and the Prince of Pingliang.
Qiao Jinniang went forward and helped Qiao ruoi up. Quickly get up.
Jiang Jiedu, who was kneeling on the ground, saw this scene and was so scared that he almost lost his soul. He clearly said that his majesty and the Empress would only arrive in half a month before he dared toe to Jiangnan to take revenge.
Second madam Jiang quickly said, Your Majesty, it is wrong for Jiang Jiedu to leave the fiefdom without permission, but it was also because his beloved daughter was killed by Qiao Ruoyi. As parents in the world, how could they not take revenge for the murder of their daughter? I Beg Your Majesty to make the decision!
Lu Chen said, The whole story of this matter, Xie Yun and he Chengs prefect have already written an excerpt. Jiang Yu and the Flying Bandits of Yandang Mountain conspired to kill the current general and attempted to murder the second rank assistant minister. They deserved to die. Qiao Ruoyi did not do anything wrong by killing Jiang Yu.
However, you guys left Langye without permission. This crime can not be forgiven. Theres no need to quibble anymore!
Qiao Jinniang said to the guards, Drag them away from here. Dont disturb Luo Weis peace.
After entering, Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang took the incense that little nichang handed over. After giving the incense to Luo Wei, Qiao Jinniang looked at Qiao Ruoi whose eyes were swollen and sighed slightly, she hugged her and said, The dead are already dead. The living should be strong. Luo Weis spirit in heaven also hopes that you can live well.
Qiao Ruoyi choked with sobs and said, Second sister, why did he have to die? Luo Wei is so good. Why Cant I Die?
Qiao jinniang said, Luo Wei has protected you with his life. You should live well so that Luo Weis spirit in heaven can rest in peace.
Seeing Qiao Ruoyi cry like this, Qiao Jinniang could feel it too. Her unborn child had left and she still couldnt recover after half a year, let alone Luo Wei who treated Qiao Ruoyi so well.
The He city magistrate heard that His Majesty hade to wee him.
Lu Chen said, When the Empress and I heard the news of General Luos death, we came to he city to pay our respects. Theres no need to make a big fuss. Just treat it as if the empress and I have nevere to he city.
The He city magistrate nodded repeatedly.
The weather in April had already begun to heat up. Even with the presence of ice cubes, it was difficult to suppress the smell of the corpse.
Qiao Ruoyis expression became worse and worse day by day. She could not stand that Luo Weis appearance was gradually changing under her eyes.
Qiao Jinniang then said to Qiao ruoyi, Why dont you bring Luo Wei back to Chang an and bury him in peace?
Qiao ruoyi replied, Yes, okay.
Qiao Jinniang ordered a group of guards to bring Qiao Ruoyi onto a ship.
Afraid that something might happen to Qiao ruoyi, Qiao Lui and Fu Lu, who had rushed over with Qiao Jinniang, sent Qiao Ruoyi onto the ship. Little Nichang also followed Qiao ruoyi back to Chang an.
The day before they left he city, Little Nichang followed Little Nichang and the others around he city.
When niching learned that she was going to leave after rushing to Jiangnan, she was somewhat disappointed. However, she was still very sensible and was willing to leave.
The rain that had been raining for many days finally cleared up. He citys streets were bustling with activity. He city was most famous for its silk. There were many more silk shops here than in Chang an.
Fu Lu and Qiao Lui took the two children to a local restaurant for lunch at noon.
While the two of them were ordering, niching and niching were ying with the bamboo grasshopper they had just bought from the street on a bench. They only needed to move the bamboo stick on their back to make the grasshopper jump forward.
Nichings grasshopper fell to the ground. She climbed down the bench to pick up the grasshopper.
She identally fell to the ground and cried out for her father.
Qiao lui quickly carried niching up. Dont Cry, Dont cry.
When Xie Yun entered, he saw this scene. Seeing niching crying in Qiao Luis arms, he could not bear it. He went forward and said, Niching.
Niching saw Xie Yun and sniffed. Thank you, Uncle.
Why are you crying?
Niching said, The grasshopper is broken.
Xie Yun saw the grasshopper woven from bamboo leaves in little nichangs hand. He took the grasshopper from her hand and knitted it again. He handed it to little nichang and said, The Grasshopper is fine again.
Little Nichang took the grasshopper in surprise and smiled sweetly. Thank you, uncle. Uncle, Im going back to Chang an tomorrow.
Xie Yun asked Qiao lui, Why are you going back to Chang an so soon?
Qiao lui did not speak kindly to Xie Yun, but he was much more mature now. He would not ignore Xie Yun. He said coldly, Nichangs fathers coffin cant hold it anymore. She has to return to Chang an and bury herself in the ground as soon as possible.
Xie Yun asked again, Will nichange to Jiangnan in the future?
Fu Lu said from the side, Of course not. With such a sad thing happening in he city, Ruo Yi probably wonte to Jiangnan for the rest of her life. Let alone Nichang. Nichang, say goodbye to your uncle Xie.
Nichang waved her hand at Xie Yun and said, Uncle Xie, Goodbye.
Chapter 367
Chapter 367: Chapter 367: Uncle Xie Yun is my father
Qiao Ruoyi returned to Chang an first. The ship was covered with white silk, but when she arrived at the dock, she saw that the people from the Luo family had arrived.
When Luo Weis adoptive parents saw Qiao ruoyi, Luo Weis adoptive mother pped her in the face.
You B * Tch!
The guards controlled Luo Weis adoptive parents.
Qiao ruoyi had never expected that Luo Weis adoptive mother would p her in the face directly. Yan Yu, who was at the side, said angrily, This is a dignified second grade assistant minister. How can a wicked woman like you directly hit him?
Fu Lu was also extremely angry. Im still here. How dare you directly hit me!
Luo Weis adoptive mother spat, I hit that B * Tch Qiao ruoyi. Back then, she married my son with a vile child. If it werent for her, my son wouldnt have been killed at such a young age!! Aiyo, my son is gone just like that. How am I going to live in the future!
Luo Weis adoptive brother, Luo Geng, also cried, Two years ago, my brother was the top schr in martial arts. He hunted ck bears on the hunting ground and had a bright future. However, he married a woman who had an affair with someone else before she married him. These two years, youre still unwilling to sleep with my brother. My Brother died a terrible death!
Mother Luo cried, Back then, he definitely wanted to marry you. However, he didnt expect toe to Jiangnan and be harmed by you and your adulterer!
Qiao lui went forward and said, What nonsense are you talking about in front of the children? If you dare to talk nonsense again, dont me me for sending you to the government.
Father and mother Luo cried as theyy on Luo Weis coffin. Mother Luo cried bitterly, Luo Weis body is not even cold yet. Arent you afraid that he wille and take revenge on you for treating Luo Weis rtives like this?
Grandmother, Dont disturb father anymore. Father is already asleep!Little Nichang said coldly.
Luo Weis mother said, You are not worthy of calling my son a bastard.
Qiao ruoyi went forward and pped Luo Weis mother, saying, When Luo Wei was alive, you guys were always causing trouble. On ount of Luo Weis reputation, I have never mistreated you guys. Why are you still causing trouble now?
Mother Luo said, What trouble? You colluded with an adulterer. You wanted to be the wife of the Xie family, so you were schemed against by the Jiang familys daughter and caused my sons death. Someone has long written to us about this matter.
Mother Luo took out a letter from her bosom and said, Take a look. This is a letter written by the daughter of the Wu royal family. I Cant bear to see you disobeying the rules of womanhood. After you get married, you still want to use the vile spawn to be the Xie familys mistress.
Luo Geng also said, Yes, you killed my brother. You must make up for it. Otherwise, our Luo family will not let you go!
Princess Fu Lu was annoyed. If you dont believe that Ruo Yi is your daughter-inw, why do you believe a Zhou Shihui whose reputation in Chang an is full of lies? Your son was killed by Zhou Shihui!
Luo Geng said, Of course your Qiao family said so. Your Qiao family is powerful now, but our Luo family also believes that there is justice in the world!
If your Qiao family doesnt take out 100,000 taels of silver topensate our Luo family, the news of Qiao Ruoyi killing her husband to marry into the Xie family will spread throughout the world in a few days, The history books will also record that great Tangs first female assistant was such a fickle person!
Qiao lui was extremely angry. Fu Lu said, A group of unruly people. Men, arrest them all and throw them into the prison. I Dont care about the history books or the name-calling!
Mother Luo panicked when she heard that. My son, open your eyes when you wake up and see that your good wife is going to arrest your parents. Qiao ruoyi, are you letting Luo Wei down by treating us like this?
Qiao Ruoyi stepped forward and pulled mother Luo away from Luo Weis coffin. Many workers who were loading goods on the dock heard the noise and came over.
Qiao ruoyi, who was dressed in in white, said angrily, You are not worthy of mentioning Luo Wei, let alone touching his coffin!
Ever since Luo Wei and I got married, you used the name of our Qiao family to build a manor in the suburbs of Chang an and epted bribes instead of doing anything.
One by one, I should have convicted you long ago. It was Luo Wei who begged bitterly that you were thest time, saying that you had brought him up. On ount of our rtionship as husband and wife, I tolerated you everywhere, i spent money to help you get out of trouble.
Over the past two years, how much of Luo Weis and my sry has been used on you!
But what about you?
Luo Wei had just died, and you demanded 100,000 taels of silver. What do you think of Luo Wei? Your Money Tree?
Qiao ruoyi clenched her fists tightly. Im not the one whos sorry, Luo Wei. Its all of you.
Luo Geng said anxiously, Qiao Ruoyi, what nonsense are you talking about? Its only right and proper for us to demand money from your Qiao family. You killed my brother, so you have to give an exnation to our Luo family. My Brother Just died, and you want to exterminate our Luo family. My brother has a spirit in the sky. Arent you afraid that he wille looking for you?
Qiao lui said to the guard at the side, Arrest these few unruly people and shut their mouths.
Before her mouth was shut, mother Luo did not forget to shout, Qiao Ruoyi, you gave your daughter the surname of Qiao and did not want to have the surname of Luo. Didnt you want to use your daughters mother and son to enter the Xie family one day?
Unfortunately, the head of the Xie family does not like you, and does not like your daughter who was born with an evil seed!
Nichang tugged at Qiao Ruoyis sleeve and raised her head to look at Qiao Ruoyi. Mother, is what she said true? is uncle Xie Yun my father?
Qiao ruoyi squatted down and said to nichang, Your father only has Luo Wei. Your father is General Luo who has rendered meritorious service in suppressing the bandits. He wont be anyone elses.
Nichang nodded. Yes, my father is a general. A mighty general.
After Qiao Lui controlled all the members of the Luo family, he asked Qiao ruoyi, What should we do? Should we bring them back to Chang an for punishment, or let them stay in the prison in he city for a few years so that they wont talk nonsense again?
Qiao ruoyi looked at the coffin and said, They havemitted many serious crimes in Chang an. Bring them back to Chang an for punishment.
Luo Weis body was not cold yet. Qiao ruoyi really did not want to be enemies with Luo Weis adoptive parents, who had been filial to him all his life. However, they had gone too far.
After Qiao Ruoyi boarded the boat, she looked at the letter Zhou Shihui wrote to Luo Weis adoptive parents and said angrily, Zhou Shihui died too quickly. It was not enough to kill Luo Wei, but he still thought of this trick.
Qiao lui looked at Fu Lu and said, This word doesnt seem to belong to Zhou Shihui.
Fu Lus eyes widened and said, You still know Zhou Shihuis Word? Wheres My Whip?
Qiao lui held Fu Lus hand and said, Dont be angry. This word really doesnt belong to Zhou Shihui. I have a photographic memory for words. This word definitely doesnt belong to Zhou Shihui.
Qiao ruoyi pointed at the seal at the bottom and said, But this Red Seal is clearly Zhou Shihuis seal.
Qiao lui said, The seal is Zhou Shihuis, but the words are not. Moreover, the news of Luo Weis death could not reach Lin an. Zhou Shihui only found out about Luo Weis death when you found the Qian family. He could not write a letter to the Luo familys adoptive parents in such a short time!
Qiao ruoyi listened to Qiao Luis words and also felt that it made sense. But who else would be scheming?
Chapter 368
Chapter 368: Chapter 368, the neighbors of Lin an city
At the gate of Lin an city, a horse carriage slowly drove in.
Little Lu ang lifted the curtain and said to Qiao jinniang, Mother, were in Lin an city!
Qiao Jinniang looked up and felt a little homesick. She had left this ce for a long time, a full seven years, and brother Tuan, who was still babbling in the past, was now almost at her shoulder, he looked like a handsome young man.
When she entered the city gate, her subordinate handed a notice to the city guard, the Lin an prefect.
After entering the city and hearing the familiar local ent, Qiao Jinniang knew that she had reallye back.
After another hour, the carriage finally arrived in front of the Bai Wei building in Lin an city.
Lu Chen got off the carriage first and reached out to help Qiao Jinniang get off the carriage.
The waiters in the Hundred Savory restaurant came forward and helped the coachman to tie the carriage. Langjun, Madam, are you two from other ces? Do you want to eat or stay?
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, We do. Are there any other private rooms?
Yes, theres onest private room.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen each held the hands of a child as they entered the restaurant. Qiao Jinniang saw the appearance of the Hundred Savory Restaurant. It was the same as the memories she had of growing up. There were no changes at all.
On the wooden steps, there were also scratches left by her naughty and Sticky Rice when she was young.
There were many familiar neighbors among the diners.
A painter Bai who was eating in the hall was still shouting loudly after getting drunk. What right do they have to say that my paintings are not good? The Empress is still my student today!
Old Man Bai, youre bragging again. Youve only gone to the academy to teach the students for a few days!
Painter Bai said loudly, Humph, the Empress also has to call me Mister!
Will the Empress still remember you?
Qiao Jinniang saw Tofu Zhang arguing with painter Bai, she smiled and said, Of course I remember Mister Bai. I also remember tofu old uncle Zhang. Ive been missing the salty soybean milk in uncle Zhangs house for the past few years! Chang an doesnt drink salty soybean milk. Some dont drink it well either.
Jin Niang!
Little Jin Niang!
The neighbors who were eating heard the screams of tofu Zhang and painter Bai. They went up to look at Qiao Jin Niang, and one of the young constable knelt down and said, Your Majesty, Your Majesty, Your Majesty.
The other neighbors also reacted and bowed.
Lu Chen said, No.
Qiao Jin went up to help an olddy up and said, Aunt Qian, your legs are not good. Get Up quickly.
Old Lady Qian said with tears in her eyes, Your Highness, you actually remembered that the old womans legs arent well.
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, Of course I remember. That year, when those n uncles of the Qiao family came to the restaurant to look for trouble, it was you who used the crutches to ruthlessly hit those uncles and even broke your crutches.
Only then did the shops waiter know that Qiao Jinniang was the true owner of the Hundred Savory Restaurant.
Seeing that Qiao Jinniang didnt put on airs like an empress and was still treating them like the little shopkeeper of Hundred Savory Restaurant, the neighbors were no longer nervous and were busy reminiscing.
Doufu Zhang stroked his white beard and said, If you want to drink my soy milk, Ill personally grind it first thing tomorrow morning. Ill make sure you drink it to your hearts content. I remember that Brother Tuan loved to drink my soy milk when he was young. Brother Tuan should be very old by now, right?
Lu Xi walked up to doufu Zhang and said, Grandpa Zhang.
Aiyo, Brother Tuan has grown so tall. Your grandparents should rest in peace in heaven. I went to see them just now during the Qingming Festival. I evenmented that they have been gone for ten years.
Bah, Bah, Bah, what are you talking about? Brother Tuan is now the crown prince. How can his grandparents still be old Qiao and the others?
Qiao Jinniang patted Lu Xis head and said, They are also brother Tuans grandparents. All these years, I have nevere back to pay my respects to my parents. Thank you, neighbors, for helping me visit my parents.
They are all from the neighborhood. Its my duty.
Lu Chen smiled faintly and said, Today, the neighborsmeals will be on me and Jinniang. Take your time to eat.
Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen to the private room and ordered a few of the signature dishes of the Bai Wei restaurant. She wanted to try the new chefs taste.
Little Lu ang knelt on the chair in front of the window and looked at the boats passing by the river. Mother, this ce is so beautiful.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, This is the ce where mother grew up. Not only are there many beautiful and fun ces, but also many. Let your brother bring you to y to your hearts content these few days.
The familiar ce did not change in the slightest as she remembered it. The strange thing was that the chefs from Bai Wei restaurant had followed her to Chang an, and the chefs in Bai Wei restaurant were all new recruits, but the taste of the dishes still had the taste of home in Bai Wei restaurant.
Lu Chen said, The Ministry of Works has already repaired the small courtyard that we stayed in before. Do you want to go and take a lookter? Let Xier bring Anger to Cai City to y.
Lu Xi:? ? ?
Why did he want to bring Ang er, this child, to y? He couldnt go back to the courtyard he used to live in when he was young, even though Lu Xi didnt remember much of her childhood memories in Jiangnan.
At that time, she was really too young.
Little Ang er hugged Lu Xis arm and said, Brother, go and y!
Lu Xi:...
After Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen finished their meal, they went downstairs. The neighbors had all finished their meal and left. When Qiao Jinniang walked to the door, she saw a woman wearing a silk dress that had been washed many times but had lost its color.
Qiao Jinniang saw a familiar face. She recognized the person in front of her when she saw that she was carrying a bamboo basket full of bright red bayberries. Sister Qian!
Lady Qian looked at Qiao Jinniang and fell to her knees with a plop. Your Majesty, at that time, I was a dog biting Lu Dongbin and didnt recognize the kindness of others. I even hit you and chased you out of my house. I was really stupid to the extreme!
Lady Qian ced the bamboo basket in her hand on the ground and gave herself a hard p.
This person was a sister of Lady Qiaos neighbor when she was young. She was five years older than her and had married an inhuman man. Her husband had abandoned her and her daughter because she couldnt give birth to a boy. He had even sold her daughter as a ve to get a new wife.
She had told Lu Chen about this when she was in Chang an. Lu Chen had said that he would punish that heartless man, but she didnt know if he would be punished.
Qiao Jinniang helped Lady Qian up and said, Sister Qian, I dont me you.
Lady Qian handed the bamboo basket to Qiao jinniang and said, Do you remember that you loved eating bayberries when you were young? This basket of bayberries was picked from my tree. Thank you for helping me punish that unfaithful man six years ago so that my daughter would not be sold as a ve. Now, my eldest daughter is married, and my second daughter is doing some vegetable and fruit business.
The third daughter and fourth daughter are embroidering in the embroidery room. The youngest daughter loves to read and says that she wants to be a female official like Lord Hong and Lord Qiao!
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Sister Qian, you can be considered to havee to a bitter end. Your days in the future will be better and better.
Lady Qian smiled and said, Yes, you have finallye to a bitter end. Its all thanks to His Majesty and you treating our female household well.
However, Jin Niang, theres something Ive been hiding in my heart for a long time. I Cant say it out loud. I wonder if I can talk to You Alone?
Chapter 369
Chapter 369: Chapter 369, Mei Canruo
Qiao Jinniang said to Lady Qian, Then lets go to my small courtyard and have a talk. When you were young, you often came to my small courtyard.
The small courtyard was not far from hundred savory building. Lady Qian had originally lived opposite her house, but after she got married, the house here was sold.
When Qiao Jinniang entered the small courtyard, she found that nothing had changed. It was rebuilt and repaired. It could be seen that Lu Chen had put in a lot of effort to restore this house.
Qian followed Qiao Jinniang to the hall of the small courtyard and whispered, Jinniang, do you still remember Mei Canruo?
Qiao Jinniang still had quite an impression of Mei canruo. She was quite a maverick in the academy.
It was said that her ancestor was a famous aristocratic family in Jin Ling, the Mei family. The Mei family even had a prime minister in the current dynasty.
During the glorious era of thete emperor, it had once made people feel that the aristocratic family had revived.
However, when Qiao Jinniang met her, the Mei family had already fallen. She remembered that when she was almost eleven years old, Mei Canruo couldnt afford to pay her tuition fees and was almost expelled from the academy.
She heard that Mei Canruos parents had already been killed ording to thew. She relied on a pair of loyal servants who had already left the Mei family to support her and survive. At that time, she heard that it was the loyal servants who sold her daughter as a ve, that was why Mei Canruo had been allowed to continue studying in the academy.
The girls in the academy were somewhat displeased with Mei canruo. It was also because of Mei Canruos bearing as a legitimate daughter of an aristocratic family.
At that time, other than Qiao Jinniang and Qiu Su, who were businesswomen in the Academys Heaven ss, which one of them was not from an official family? They all hated Mei Canruos lofty and lofty bearing.
Qiao Jinniang didnt like Mei canruo either. She didnt make fun of her for being a merchant daughter, but whenever she passed by, she would cover her nose with her faded silk handkerchief.
When others asked her why she covered her nose, she said she couldnt smell the stench of money.
Qiao Jinniang was also young at that time. She loved to wear bright little dresses in front of Mei canruo. She wore the best silk and used the best perfume, which was much more fragrant than Mei Canruos two sets of dresses every year.
However, ever since Mei Canruo had relied on her loyal servants toe to the academy to study, Qiao Jinniang had also be more sensible and was no longer so childish.
Lady Qian said, After you left the academy that year, the women in the Academy did not associate with you. It was because of Mei canruo.
Wasnt it because they were afraid of offending the young master of the Lin an magistrates office at that time?
Qiao Jinniang asked. When her parents were seriously ill, she had no choice but to leave the school. In fact, many of her ssmates who were in the same ss as her had also dropped out of school at that time.
However, they often had banquets. After Qiao Jinniang left the school, her ssmates who had been her ssmates for ten years did not interact with her. Even when she married Lu Chen, no one came to write a letter to them.
It was not until that year when Qiu Su came to Chang an that Qiao Jinniang heard from Qiu Su that she did note to her wedding because she was afraid of offending the young master of the Lin an prefect.
Lady Qian shook her head and said, No. At that time, I was washing clothes for the caretakers of those youngdiesmanors. When I went to their courtyard, I heard Mei canruo gossiping about you behind their backs.
At that time, I did not think to tell you. It was not until a few years ago when something happened to Lord Yang of the Jinling Prefects family that I went to the Yang family to deliver the washed clothes. I heard Lady Yang and Lord Yangin, It turns out that their daughter, Yang Qinqing, caused the death of Miss Li from the Yue Kiln to nder you. It was because of Mei Canruos instigation.
Qiao Jinniang heard this and thought of Miss Li, who had died prematurely. She asked, If Yang Qinqing was wronged, why didnt he file aint?
Madam Qian said, Back then, the Mei family in Jinling and the Xie family in Lin an were both aristocratic families in the Jiangnan area. The ancestors of the two families were inws. I heard Lord Yang say that Mei canruo would be Lord Xies concubine in the future.
He has already been demoted. In the future, if he wants to stay in the Jiangnan officialdom, why should he offend the Xie Family?
Moreover, Mei Canruo did not make a move. He only instigated Yang Qinqing.
Hong Ling served Qian Jin a cup of tea. Qian Jin took the cup of tea and thanked her profusely, Jin Niang, you must be careful of Mei canruo. She is a scheming person.
Qiao jinniang sneered, The concubine of Master Xie? Mei canruo said it herself?
Lady Qian said, This is a secret that will not be spread among the big families in Jiangnan.. This matter has been brooding in my heart for a long time. I wanted to tell it to glutinous rice, but I was afraid that glutinous rice would have a bad temper. Moreover, you are in Chang an, and Mei Canruo is in Lin an. She would not harm you, and her hands would not be so long.
However, since you came back this time, I felt that I should give you some advice first. If you dont believe me, I can invite my former schoolmates to have a gathering.
When you left Lin an and disappeared without a trace, the Qiao family n ndered you for adultery, so after being divorced, they left in shame. Miss Wei, Miss Feng, and the others even spoke up for you...
Qiao Jinniang said, Thank you, Sister Qian, for telling me about this.
Mei canruo... she really thought that Mei canruo was so noble back then. She didnt expect that she had done so many things behind her back. It was really disgusting.
Qiao Jinniang returned to her room and saw Lu Chen sitting by the window. She told Lu Chen what the Qian family had said.
After Lu Chen heard it, he said, Now that you mention it, I remember that there was indeed a youngdy who imed to be from the Mei family in Jin Ling. She came to me and said some nonsense.
What did she say to you?
Lu Chen smiled faintly and said, That was half a month after we got married. She told me that you were unruly and capricious in the academy and that you liked to hit people and disrespected your elders...
She actually came to you behind my back to say this. Why didnt you tell me at that time? How did you answer her back then?Qiao Jinniang asked.
If she had known ten years ago that Mei Canruo had said so many bad things about her behind her back, she would have torn Mei Canruos mouth apart!
Lu Chen said, Youre not allowed to be angry?
Of course not,Qiao Jinniang said. Its already been ten years. Im not such an angry person.
Lu Chen said, When I replied to her back then, not only were you unruly and hot-tempered, you also liked to snore and grind your teeth...
Qiao Jinniang widened her eyes. When did I snore and Grind My Teeth?
Lu Chen said, If I didnt say that, she would still pester me. Its better to let her think that I stayed behind as a son-inw because of your money. Im a man with no ability, so she wont be jealous of you anymore.
Qiao jinniang said, Why didnt you tell me back then?
Lu Chen said, Back then, father and mother were seriously ill. You were in front of father and mothers sickbed every day. If I told you about this, wouldnt it make father and mother even more worried if you went out and caused a ruckus?
Moreover, you and I werent close at that time. If I told you about this, I cant guarantee whether you would believe your ssmate of ten years or me more.
Qiao Jin understood after hearing Lu Chens exnation. I heard that she was the concubine appointed by Patriarch Xie. Im going to ask Xie Yun if its true.
Lu Chen said, What if its true?
Qiao Jin said, If its true, then the death of Luo Wei will have to be investigated. Im quite curious why Zhou Shihui would do this to harm Qiao Ruoyi and Nichangs lives?
Isnt she afraid that she wont be able to keep her life after this matter is exposed? Qian Yin might not be able to protect this niece of his!
He hates our Qiao family. Why is he only targeting these two people?
Unless she has another way out. Its just that she didnt think that Qiao Ruoyi would directly kill her for revenge before she had even revealed her trump card!
Chapter 370
Chapter 370: Chapter 370: Xie Yuns internal concubine
Xie Yun did not return to the Xie familys main residence. Instead, he stayed in his vi.
When Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen went to visit him, they saw that everything inside looked very familiar.
Xie Yun ced some pastries and tea in the weing hall and said, Your Majesty, why did youe to my residence? Do you have any advice?
Qiao Jin asked Xie Yun, Do you know Mei Canruo?
Xie Yun nodded and said, I know her. She is the daughter of My Xie family.
Rumor has it that she is the concubine of the Xie familys head. Is that true?
Xie Yun frowned and nodded. Yes.
Qiao Jin asked curiously, Then why hasnt she entered your Xie residence despite her age?
Qiao Jinniang remembered that Mei Canruo was one year older than her. She was considered the youngest among her peers in the academy, and Mei Canruo was almost twenty-five years old.
Twenty-five was not young.
Xie Yun exined, Five years ago, the Xie familys second son once wanted her to be a concubine, but she wasnt willing. At that time, the Xie familys leader was still undecided. After the decision was made, I didnt marry my first wife, so naturally, I wouldnt take a concubine.
Then you just let her waste her youth like that?Qiao Jinniang raised her eyes and asked, She was actually willing?
Xie Yun said, I never thought of wasting her youth. I already told her that the Xie family would give her a dowry and let her marry someone else as her first wife. I didnt want to waste her youth. Its just that she wasnt willing.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Lu Chen. Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, If you really suspect her, theres no need to look for evidence. Just order someone to capture her and interrogate her.
Qiao jinniang said, Okay!
Xie Yun asked Lu Chen, Did something happen to Mei Canruo?
Lu Chen said, Why have you not taken a wife these few years? Not to mention that you have a daughter in Chang an?
Xie Yun said, The matter of the Xie family heads wife is of great importance. Naturally, we have to look for her slowly. Later, there was Jiang Yu. I thought she could be the wife of the Xie family head, but who knew she would be so crazy!
Qiao jinniang teased, Its harder for you to find a wife than for the crown prince to find the crown princes consort. I really dont understand you. Do you still think that one day, the aristocratic families will be able to stand above the imperial power?
Now that the people and the prosperous era are in their prime, its much better when the people dont have to face the difficulties of the aristocratic families.
Lu Chen followed, Xie Yun, Jinniang is right. We have known each other for ten years. I am very grateful to you for helping me during the three years when I lost my memory. Otherwise, those three years might really have been wasted.
With the trend of the times, so what if you have all the money in the world? The legend of the undefeated aristocratic family should have fallen. The imperial examinations had been filled with talented people for many years, and great Tang has been around for more than a hundred years now. Look at the aristocratic family that was rampant a hundred years ago. Look at what their descendants have be now.
You, the Xie family, can not change great Tang!
When Father abdicated, he told me to get rid of the root of the Xie familys problem.
However, in consideration of your three years of kindness, as well as your contribution to the imperial court, I can not be ruthless towards you.
You are almost 30 years old now, but the Xie family has no sessor. Even the descendants of the fallen aristocratic families can not shoulder the burden. You should follow the trend of the times. With your abilities, giving up the name of the aristocratic families and enlisting the private soldiers of the Xie family into the imperial court, you might be able to rank high in the imperial examinations.
Xie Yun listened to Lu Chens words and believed him. When she helped Lu Chen back then, it was to let the Jin Niang live a good life, butter on, it was also because he admired Lu Chen?
Everyone said that the Hui Lin Emperor was an emperor who only appeared once every thousand years, and the Tang empire had flourished for more than twenty years.
After Lu Chen ascended to the throne, almost everyw was trampled on the bottom line of some schrs. But surprisingly, not only did Lu Chen not let the schrs criticize him, but the market became more and more prosperous.
The days between themon people were far better than when the Hui Lin Emperor was on the throne.
Master, Miss Mei brought you new tea outside!
Let her in,said Lady Qiao, So I dont have to look for her.
Mei canruo gently walked in. When she saw Lady Qiao and Lu Chen, she bowed and said, I, Mei canruo, pay my respects to your Majesty, Your Majesty.
Qiao Jinniang did not say no, and Lu Chen naturally did not say no either.
Mei canruo half bent her legs, not daring to stand up.
Xie Yun asked Qiao jinniang, Did something happen to her?
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen could not ask about Mei canruo for no reason.
Qiao Jinniang said to Xie Yun, Mei canruo, I only know today why I suddenly broke off contact with those young sisters in the academy ten years ago. It turns out that someone is sowing discord behind your back. I wonder if someone is sowing discord between you and me in front of you?
Mei canruo said, At that time, I didnt have a good rtionship with the empress and other ssmates, so naturally, no one came to sow discord.
Qiao jinniang said, But they told me that you were sowing discord behind my back. Oh right, you also said to my husband that I was unruly and willful... is that true?
No...Mei canruo said repeatedly.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. So, youre saying that His Majesty deliberately wronged you? The crime of deceiving the emperor can take your life. Kneel down!
Mei canruo held the handkerchief in her hand tightly and knelt on the ground
Qiao Jinniang looked at the handkerchief in Mei Canruos hand, tSK TSK. I remember that you used this handkerchief ten years ago. Fortunately, Lin ans silk is good and wont break. Its just that theres a w in the beauty. After all, the color has faded too much.
Qiao Jinniang naturally couldnt remember what handkerchief Mei Canruo used ten years ago.
But when Mei canruo heard this, her face flushed red.
Master, outside, fifth Miss Qiao, uncle Qiao Xiaoguo, and Monarch Fu Lu are breaking into our xie residence regardless of the obstruction!
The gatekeeper hurriedly came to report.
The gatekeeper had just arrived when the guards beside Lu Chen brought Qiao Ruoyi and the others over.
Qiao ruoyi saw that Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were also there, so she quickly bowed and said, Your Majesty, Sister, there should be someone else who killed Luo Wei! I met Luo Weis adoptive parents two days ago when I set off from the dock.
They learned that Luo Weis death was said to be a letter from Zhou Shihui to them. However, Zhou Shihui was already dead at that time, so they couldnt write a letter at all!
We returned to Lin an and interrogated the servant girl beside Zhou Shihui. Only then did we learn that Zhou Shihui was only on the surface on good terms with Jiang Yu. In reality, Zhou Shihui often went to a tea mountain to drink tea. In that Tea Mountain lived a woman who imed to be Xie Yuns concubine!
Fu Lu held the portrait of the servant girls confession and looked at the kneeling woman. Jin Niang, its her!
Qiao Jinniang looked at Mei Canruo who was kneeling on the ground and said, There were five horses and ten thousand pieces of corpses that were dismembered after being executed. There were also those who died from exposure to the sun. For the sake of the ten years that we were ssmates, Ill let you choose a way to die!
Mei canruo said, I didnt, I didnt. I dont understand what you guys are saying. Family Head Xie, save me.
Fu Lu said, Your Luck isnt good. Do you remember that when you won first ce in the Jiangnan calligraphy and paintingpetition, your handwriting was copied and disyed in he Cheng Teahouse for people to Admire. My husband has always had a photographic memory for handwriting.
The handwriting on the letter you wrote to the Luo familys adoptive parents is exactly the same as the handwriting on your painting. Are you still pretending to be stupid?
Chapter 371
Chapter 371: Chapter 371 was about ni Shang returning to the Xie family
Mei canruo looked up at Xie Yun and said, I did write that letter, but I dont admit that I murdered General Luo, Lord Qiao, and their daughter. I never wanted to murder them!
As for the letter, I was also entrusted by Zhou Shihui. Zhou Shihui said that if she died and asked me to write this letter and send it to Chang an in broad daylight, how could you use me so casually?
Qiao ruoyi said in a cold voice, Now that Jiang Yu and Zhou Shihui have both died, its naturally up to you to say what you want.
Qiao jinniang slowly said, Mei canruo, even if the matter of Luo Wei has nothing to do with you, how should I say about the rtionship between me and my ssmates and friends that you instigated behind my back?
Mei canruo said in a low voice, I was young back then. If the Empress wanted to use the past ten years to convict me, I would be willing to be punished. However, the Empress is now a high and mighty person, and she wants to argue about the trivial matter of ten years ago with me...
Qiao Jinniang was angered andughed, Back then, you dared to say these things behind my back. Why should I be magnanimous and not argue with you? The crimesmitted by the lowly people of the Shengdou can be avoided because of their lowly status? What kind of logic is this?
Mei canruo said, The Empress is not afraid of beingughed at by the world, as long as she wants to argue with a lowlymoner like me.
Qiao Ruoyi was extremely angry and said, In the letter you wrote to the Luo family, you said that in order to marry into the Xie family, I used my son to plot against my husband. You have already falsely used a second rank official, and should be punished ording to thew!
Mei Canruo asked Qiao ruoyi sarcastically, Didnt you? isnt Luo Weis death just what you wanted? After Luo Wei died, Xie Yun rushed in and out to help you. Do you dare to say that you dont want to marry into the Xie Family?
Qiao ruoyi said coldly, No, I never thought of marrying into the Xie family. My Daughter is only the daughter of me and Luo Wei. It has nothing to do with Xie Yun!
Mei canruo looked at Xie Yun and said, Xie Yun, I have waited for you for ten years. Back then, there were two concubines. I was willing to follow you without a name. But you said that the Xie family is not in your hands and that you will not take a concubine before you get your revenge.
I have waited for you for five years. For five years, you became the head of the Xie family. I waited for you. You said that you would not take a concubine unless you had a wife. But not long after, you had a child with Qiao ruoyi. Why Cant I?
Qiao ruoyi, you dont have to say it so nicely. You said that youve never thought of bing the Xie familys heads wife. Do you dare to swear that youll never marry into the Xie Family?
Qiao ruoyi was about to swear when she was interrupted by Xie Yun. She frowned and said, Mei canruo, you kept saying that youd wait for me for ten years, but Ive never let you wait. I also said that if youre willing, the Xie family will give you a generous dowry to marry off!
Mei canruo said, How can a schr marry off a concubine? My Mei family is a thousand-year-old aristocratic family. I have the bloodline of a woman from an aristocratic family. How can I marry an ordinary person? I would rather be a concubine of an aristocratic family than a concubine of a concubine. Qiao ruoyi, why dont you dare to swear?
Qiao ruoyi said, Why wouldnt I Dare?
Xie Yun only said to Mei canruo, What right do you have to make fifth Miss Qiao swear?
Qiao Jinniang walked up to Mei canruo and said, I understand. Youve been forcing Qiao ruoi to swear because youre afraid that Xie Yun will marry the Qiao familys daughter? Afraid that the aristocratic familysst hope will be to Collude with the Qiao familyand work for the Humble ss?
Mei Canruos eyes widened!
Qiao Jinniang especially remembered that Mei Canruo was most proud of the fact that she had the blood of the aristocratic family flowing in her veins.
Mei canruo might not have any deep feelings for Xie Yun. Her saying that she would rather be a concubine of an aristocratic family than a lowly wife spoke of the feelings in her heart.
Qiao Jinniang looked coldly at Mei canruo who was kneeling on the ground and said, Since you are not afraid of being a concubine, then what does it matter if mistress is Jiang Yu or Qiao Ruoi?
The reason why you care so much and act as a hindrance is because you are extremely afraid that Xie Yun will marry the daughter of our Qiao family, right?
After all, in your eyes, the Qiao family is a traitor among the aristocratic families. You think that after the Lu family seized the throne, they wanted to consolidate the imperial power and eradicate the aristocratic families. You think that our Qiao family is helping the Lu family to Support the evil, Destroying the aristocratic families, right?
Youre afraid that after Xie Yun, the only one who can revive the aristocratic families, marries the Qiao familys daughter, she will surrender to the imperial court andpletely abandon the aristocratic families that youre so proud of, right?
Mei canruo copsed on the ground and said, Qiao Jinniang, dont talk nonsense!
Qiao Jinniangughed coldly and said, Since you dare to call me by my name, it seems that you are dead for sure. If you want to revive an aristocratic family, let me tell you, it is absolutely impossible!
Mei canruos eyes were filled with despair and she simply stood up from the ground, Qiao Jinniang, back then, your Qiao family betrayed the aristocratic family and was disgraced by all the aristocratic families in the world. What kind of Hero is that? It is just that you, the Qiao family, want to be a ve and want a high position.
Back then, when the power of the aristocratic families was above the imperial family, your Qiao family was just a small, insignificant aristocratic family. Naturally, you had to bow down to the Lu family!
Qiao jinniang said, No, why did the Lu family give up the position of the head of the aristocratic families to establish a new imperial court? Why did the Qiao family help the Lu family conquer the world back then??
Even a three-year-old child among the people knew that at that time, because of the separation of the aristocratic families from all over the world, the people did not have a good life. The people of the aristocratic families disregarded the lives of others!
There were even some people who owed the aristocratic families hundreds of taels of silver for a year of hard work. Whether it was the ancestors or my ancestors, they were all worried about the people!
Its a pity that youve wasted so many years of your studies. Youve wasted so many years of your life among the people!
Lu Chen stepped forward and held Qiao Jinniangs hand. Why are you angry with her? Men, arrest her and send her to the Lin an magistrates office. After autumn, she will be executed.
Yes!
When Mei Canruo was caught by the guards, she did not forget to shout, Xie Yun, if you marry Qiao ruoyi, you will be a sinner of the aristocratic families!
Fu Lu stepped forward and untied the belt of a servant of the Xie family. He stuffed it into Mei Canruos mouth. What sinner? You are the sinner that everyone in the world hates!
Mei canruo was stuffed with the belt and could not speak.
After Mei Canruo was taken away, Lu Chen said to Xie Yun, Fu Lu doesnt know literature and ink, so he knows the truth. Think about it carefully. You might be a sinner of a noble family.
But if you are willing to work for the imperial court, hand over your private soldiers, and hand over the Xie familys thousands of years of heritage to the imperial court, you will be the benefactor of all the people in the world. Just like how you presented books, a thousand yearster.., Xie Yuns name in the history books will also be remembered for centuries.
After Lu Chen finished speaking, he brought Qiao Jinniang and was about to leave.
Only to hear Xie Yuns words from behind him, If you want me to hand over the Xie familys private soldiers and hand over all the heritage passed down from my ancestors to the imperial court, thats fine too. Theres only one thing, I want Nichang to return to the Xie Family!
In Your Dreams!Fu Lu and Qiao Jinniang said in unison.
Qiao ruoyi, who should have been angry, was not angry at all at this time. Without thinking, she said, Okay!
Fu Lu frowned at Qiao ruoyi and said, Ruoyi, are you crazy? Giving niching to him? was he the one who abandoned niching back then? Why should our Qiao familys daughter be given to him?
Qiao jinniang said, Yes, ruoyi, if Niching hears what you said, how sad she will be!
Chapter 372
Chapter 372: Chapter 372. Not willing to call him daddy
Qiao Jinniang returned to the small courtyard behind the Hundred Savory restaurant and pulled Qiao Ruoyi into the study:
Are you crazy? You promised Xie Yun to give him Nichang? Back then, he didnt want this daughter. Now that hes given nichang to him, arent you afraid that Nichang will hate you?
Qiao ruoyi said, Sister, the Xie family is the current head of the aristocratic family. There are still some weak aristocratic families with the Xie family as the head. They want the Xie family to restore the glory of the aristocratic family. If Xie Yun dispels the private army of the Xie family, this is a good thing for the country and the people!
Qiao jinniang frowned and said, You should trust Lu Chen. Its not that the imperial court cant get rid of the private army of the Xie family. Its just that back then, when Lu Chen was in Lin an, he received a lot of care from Xie Yun. Lu Chen only cares about rtionships.
Even if you dont agree to give Nichang to Xie Yun, Lu Chen still has a way to make Xie Yun willingly submit to the imperial court. Why should he let you and Nichang suffer such grievances?
Qiao ruoyi said, Sister, its not without conditions that I agree to give nichang to him.
Huh?
If he wants Nichang, he has to promise me that he will never take a wife or a concubine for the rest of his life!Qiao ruoyi said, So many things have happened since we first came to Jiangnan. First it was Jiang Yu, then it was Mei canruo. Not to mention that some of the daughters of the eschatology family all want to be Xie Yuns wife and concubine.
As the saying goes, how can a thief who has been a thief for a Thousand Days Guard against a thief the day before? Rather than guarding against those women who are scheming in the dark, why dont I let Nichang be the fair and aboveboard daughter of the Xie Family? Lets see who else dares to hurt her?
Qiao jinniang said, But ruoyi, if even the Qiao family cant protect Nichang, what about the Xie Family?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and said, The Qiao family can protect Nichang, but its impossible to guard against. And if Xie Yun is willing to stop taking wives and concubines for Nichang, then theres naturally no need to guard against some women in the dark.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyi had made up her mind, Qiao Jinniang could only say that she had a different opinion.
Nichangs third birthday wasing up. Qiao ruoyi first returned to Chang an to deal with Luo Weis funeral and left Nichang in the Xie residence.
Xie Yun nned to hold a birthday banquet when Nichang was three years old and announce to everyone that Nichang was his daughter.
However, what made Xie Yun depressed was that after Qiao ruoyi left, Nichang still refused to change the way she addressed him as Daddy. She only addressed him as Uncle Xie.
Tomorrow was the birthday banquet. Xie Yun specially ordered someone to buy osmanthus and glutinous rice sweet lotus root that both father and daughter loved from the Hundred Savory restaurant. He coaxed nichang to address him as Daddy.
However, nichang pouted and said, Youre not my daddy. My Daddy is Luo Wei. Hes a very powerful general!
Xie Yun touched the little pinch on Nichangs head and said, Youre my daughter!
No, mother said that I only have one father, Luo Wei! You are not my father, you are Uncle Xie!
Xie Yun really wanted to go and find Qiao ruoyi from Chang an. Was this the promise she made to return her daughter to him?
Xie Yun said with a dark expression, I am your father, call me father. Otherwise, you are not allowed to eat this sweet lotus root!
HMPH!Little Nichang walked up to Yan Yu and grabbed her hand. Aunt Yan Yu, I want my mother. I dont want to stay at Uncle Xies house anymore. He is so fierce!
Xie Yun said to Yan Yu, Tell her that I am her father.
Yan Yu could only squat down and say to little nichang, Nichang, he is your father.
Niching tilted her head and said, Is mother going to remarry Uncle Xie? Its like brother Tangs mother remarrying him. He will call Uncle Tang father, right?
No.Yan Yu did not know how to exin to niching. She had always been wise.
Niching frowned and said, Since mother is not remarrying him, he is not my father. When will mothere to pick me up? My Birthday is tomorrow. She promised to give me a birthday gift!
Xie Yun went over to little nichang and said, I am your father.
Father is mothers husband. You are not mothers husband.Little Nichangy in Yan Yus arms and said, Aunt Yan Yu, I dont want to be here. I want mother!
Little Nichang said with a sobbing tone.
Yan Yu said to Xie Yun, Family head Xie, Little Nichang is still a little young. She will understand when she grows up. Dont force her.
Xie Yun looked at the clear and cold tears in Little Nichangs phoenix-like eyes. He had no choice but topromise. Uncle, uncle. Its gettingte. You should rest early. We still have many guests tomorrow.
Little Nichang stretched out her small hand and held Xie Yuns sleeve. Uncle, sing Little Boat.
Xie Yun hugged little nichang and smiled. Okay.
Lan Xin and Yan Yu followed behind Xie Yun. Lan Xin said to Yan Yu, Master has never been so happy.
Yan Yu said, Nichang is no longer by mydys side. I dont know how she will get over the pain of losing her husband. I also dont know how she will cry in Chang an. It was not easy for her to get over the grief of her aunts death. This time, she will not be able to get over it for the rest of her life!
Lan Xin immediately shut her mouth and didnt dare to say anything else.
The next day, at the Xie familys birthday banquet, because the guards of honor and the officials were still on the way, Qiao Jin and Lu Chen naturally didnt want to show their faces at this time. Therefore, the two of them only let little Lu Xi and Little Lu ang go to The Birthday Banquet for their cousin.
Qiao Jin and Lu Chen went to the ancestral hall in Lin an Bo. This ancestral hall was built locally after Qiao Jins parents were conferred the title of Emperor.
When Qiao Jinniang entered and saw the memorial tablet, she knelt down and kowtowed heavily.
Although this didnt make sense, she and Lu Chen were the only ones here who couldnt care so much.
Father, mother, Im unfilial. I only came back to see you after seven years. After this visit, I dont know if Ill have the chance toe to my hometown in Jiangnan in the future...
Lu Chen stood beside Qiao Jinniang and said, Ill definitely have the chance toe back again in the future.
Qiao jinniang continued, Now that I have elder sister to do my filial duty for me, father and mother can rest assured in heaven.
At this time, it was raining profusely in Jiangnan. Just as Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were about to go out, they saw that it was raining heavily. It was useless to hold an oil-paper umbre.
Qiao Jinniang stayed in the ancestral hall and heard whispersing from the side.
I heard that the head of the Xie family just got a daughter!
I went to watch the show just now. That daughter called him Uncle in public.
It should be twomoners who came to the ancestral hall to take shelter from the rain.
Qiao Jinniang sighed when she heard that. Why does Xie Yun have to do this? Back then, he didnt want this daughter. Now, seeing how cute and clever she is, he wants to take her back. And ruoi actually gave her daughter back to him!
Lu Chen said, A man ultimately values his own bloodline. Moreover, she is such a cute and clever daughter. Xie Yuns heart is not made of iron after all.
Back then, if he was willing to marry Qiao Ruo Yi, why would there be so many things? Now, Ruo Yi is deeply in love with Luo Wei. From her tone, Im afraid that she will not get married again in the future..
Now that her only daughter has been given to Xie Yun, could it be that she will have to live a poor life in the future? Shes only in her early twenties.
Chapter 373
Chapter 373: Chapter 373, seeking to marry Qiao ruoyi
When the royal ship was about to reach Lin an, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen returned to the ship.
When they arrived at the Lin an dock, they were kowtowed by all the officials and subjects of Jiangnan. The mighty momentum grew, and the Lin an city was also unprecedentedly lively.
In Chang an, the Qiao residence was covered with white silk. Zheng Xiao and marquis an Yuan did not go with them. They stayed in Chang an to oversee things. After all, the northern desert kingdom on the border of Chang an had been quite stable.
When Luo Weis coffin arrived at the Qiaos residence, marquis an Yuan could not care less about the rule that the elders could not visit the deceased. He let out a deep sigh.
Luo Wei and he were old friends. Back then, he had chosen Luo Wei as his son-inw because of his excellent character. Over the past few years, Luo Wei had lived up to his expectations. With the help of the Qiaos, he had be a great general.
Qiao ruoyi wore linen clothes and brought the coffin into the familiar courtyard. This courtyard had been moved over by her after her marriage.
She had originally nned to move out. She did not have a good rtionship with marquis an yuan, so they would quarrel whenever they met. It was Luo Wei who had persuaded her to stay in Marquis an Yuans manor. Luo Wei was more like a fathers son than she was.
He gave them the courtyard that was second only to Qiao Lui and Fu Lu.
There were traces of Luo Wei in every de of grass and every tree here. Although Qiao ruoyi and Qiao Jinniang were sisters, their preferences were very different.
Qiao Jinniang loved the flourishing and beautiful scenery of flowers. Qiao ruoyi preferred leaves and did not like flowers, so Luo Wei nted all kinds of green nts in the garden that would not bloom.
He also went to the deep mountains of the Qinling mountains and dug up a lot of mountain soil to nt bamboo and orchid grass. There were some red wild fruits on the mountain soil. When Qiao Ruoyi saw themst year, she thought they were weeds.
Luo Wei told her that they were a kind of sour and sweet wild fruit. When he was still young and had not been adopted by the Luo family, he had relied on these wild fruits to feed his stomach. That was why he called them immortal fruits.
Luo Wei said that he would be able to eat them this year.
Now that Qiao Ruoyi saw the red wild fruit growing on the mountain soil in the courtyard, she thought that the dried tears were flowing down again. She went over to pick a red wild fruit and mixed it with her tears and put it into her mouth.
Luo Wei, youre lying. This is clearly not sweet.
Seeing Qiao ruoyi like this, Zheng Xiao felt heartache and heartache. He said to Qiao ruoyi, The courtyard you lived in before your marriage has already been ordered to be cleaned up. Dont live here anymore in the future. It will be sad if you see things and Miss People.
Qiao ruoyi cried, Mother, I miss him so much. I really miss him so much that he can get up and taste the wild fruit that he said was very sweet with me.
Zheng Xiaos throat was extremely sore. He let down his tears and said, Luo Wei must have a spirit in heaven that wants you to be happy.
Thats right. He told me in the end that he wanted me to live well. However, he is no longer by my side. I really cant Live Well.
Qiao ruoyi said with a lump in her throat.
It had already been more than a month. Qiao ruoyi still could not ept this fact.
Madam, fifth miss, the Xie familys head sent a post saying that he wants to meet fifth miss. Master Hou found out about this and took the whip out.
Zheng Xiao said anxiously, Is he afraid that the words of those schrs wont kill him?
Zheng Xiao quickly went out.
An Yuanhous eyes were red. When he saw Xie Yun at the door, he fiercelyshed out with the whip. An yuanhou had been practicing martial arts since he was young. In the past, he had killed countless enemies on the battlefield with this whip.
Now that the whip had hit Xie Yuns tender flesh, it immediately cut through his silk round-cored robe, causing his flesh to split open.
You still have the cheek toe to my Qiao familys door! All of them died because of you, Luo Wei. My daughter and granddaughter almost lost their lives in the hands of bandits!
An yuanhoushed out with his whip again. You even took away ni Shang! Back then, it was you who didnt want to be responsible for Ruo Yi and her daughter. How can you have the face toe to my Qiao family now?
Zheng Xiao came out and held an Yuanhous hand that was raising the whip. Enough. If you continue to beat him, someone will die.
An yuanhou was still unable to vent his anger.
Xie Yuns body was burning from the twoshes, he raised his robe and half-knelt in front of an Yuanhou. Marquis, you are right. I, Xie Yun, can not shirk the responsibility of General Luos death. I am willing to take fifth Miss Qiao as my wife so that General Luo can rest in peace in heaven.
Zheng Xiao let go of marquis an Yuans hand. Marquis, go ahead and Fight!
What did Xie Yun just say?
I did not kill Bo Ren, but Bo Ren died because of me. Although Xie Yun was innocent in Luo Weis death, he did die because of him.
Zheng Xiao, who had a good temper, said angrily, Back then, you looked down on Ruo Yi as a concubines daughter. You said that a concubines daughter was only fit to be a concubine. Back then, Ruo Yi was pregnant and was ridiculed by others. It was Luo Wei who married her and protected her in every way.
Luo Wei helped you raise your daughter. Now, you want to marry Ruo Yi in the name of letting Luo Wei rest in peace. What do you take our daughter of the Qiao family as?
Marquis an Yuan said, Back then, you looked down on the daughter of the Qiao familys concubine. Today, you are not worthy to be the daughter of the Qiao familys concubine. Luo Weis corpse is not even cold yet. You said that you would marry his wife and let him rest in peace. Do you still have any face?
Get lost. Dont appear in front of our Qiao family in the future. Also, hurry up and return Nichang. If she isnt sensible, I wont allow my granddaughter to be someone elses!
Xie Yun frowned and said, Nichang is my daughter.
Bah!Marquis an Yuan said in a bad mood, Nichangs surname is Qiao. Men, chase him away. In the future, dont let hime within five miles of our Qiao family. Once hees near, beat him fiercely!
..
Luo Weis body could not be left unburied anymore. Therefore, he was buried in the middle of April.
Luo Wei was originally a little beggar. He had no parents, and the Luo family did not have any ancestral graves. Therefore, he was buried in the ancestral grave of the Qiao family.
Along the way, Qiao ruoyi cried and fainted countless times in the sedan chair. When she reached the ancestral grave of the Qiao family, she saw the gold-thread nan mu coffin being nailed up and ced into the tomb chamber.
Qiao ruoyi followed him into the tomb chamber andy on the coffin for a long time, unwilling to go out.
After she went out, in order to prevent tomb robbers, the tomb chamber here would bepletely filled withrge stones and soil.
She really could not see Luo Wei again.
Hearing the voice of Little Nichang calling for her mother at the entrance of the tomb chamber, Qiao Ruoyi just went out. After she went out, dozens of people carried arge stone andpletely sealed the tomb chamber.
Qiao Ruoyis heart felt like it was being twisted by a knife when she saw the big rock. It was a magnificent scene in early summer, but it made her feel extremely cold.
Nichang broke free from Xie Yuns hand and ran to Qiao Ruoyis side. She kept calling for her mother, which made Qiao Ruoyie back to her senses.
Qiao ruoyi squatted down and hugged nichang. Nichang.
Little Nichang asked, Mother.
Qiao ruoyi raised her eyes to see Xie Yun and said, When I promised to give Nichang to you, I didnt know that father and mother would be so unwilling. Im afraid I have to go back on my word.
Xie Yun said, Its okay. Shes only willing to call me uncle now. Only if you agree to marry me will nichang be willing to call me father. Once youre willing to marry me, marquis an Yuan and the Marquise naturally cant stop Nichang from entering my xie residence.
Hearing this, Qiao Ruoyi raised her hand and fiercely pped Xie Yuns face. This is in front of my husbands grave, my husband has just been buried!
Chapter 374
Chapter 374: Chapter 374, Qiao Ruoyi was poisoned
Qiao Ruoyi looked fiercely at Xie Yun and said, My husband just died and you said you wanted to marry me. What do you take me for?
Xie Yun said, Luo Weisst words before he died were that he hoped you could live well. Nichang needs a father!
Qiao ruoyi held Nichangs hand and ignored Xie Yun, bringing nichang onto the sedan chair.
Nichang obediently did not say a word as she got onto the sedan chair. However, she still lifted the curtain from time to time to look at Xie Yun behind her. Mother, Uncle Xies wound seems to be torn again. His clothes are covered in blood.
Qiao ruoyi said, He deserves it!
Back when Marquis an Yuan and Qiao Lui went to Xie Yuns residence, Xie Yun only said that he was willing to take her as a concubine. In fact, Qiao Ruoyi could understand. Firstly, she and Xie Yun hated each other. Secondly, she knew her own identity.
Qiao ruoyi never med Xie Yun for not wanting to marry her at that time, but it was impossible for her to not Hate Xie Yun now.
If it wasnt for Jiang Yu wanting to be his wife, Luo Wei wouldnt have died so young.
He still wanted to marry her, it was simply a dream.
..
The Xie family was in Chang ans vi.
Lan Xin applied medicine on Xie Yun and said, Master, marquis an Yuan was too harsh. But if you really want to marry miss ruoyi, you shouldnt say it in such a charitable tone. Miss Ruoyi never wanted to marry you!
Back then, I told you that you would regret it, but you didnt believe me.
Hearing Lan Xins words, Xie Yun frowned.
Lan Xin continued, If you want to marry Miss Ruoyi as your wife, you should show your sincerity. You Shouldnt say that you want to marry Miss Ruoyi as soon as her husband died. Miss Ruoyi and her husband have a deep love for each other. It would be strange if you didnt get angry when you heard that!
After Xie Yun finished applying the medicine, she put on her robe and said, Come with me to the Qiao family.
Lan Xin asked nervously, Arent you afraid that an Yuan Hou will give you a few moreshes?
Xie Yun said, Of course not.
..
Qiao Ruoyi returned to the courtyard before she got married. When she called Xiao Man out of habit, she realized that Xiao Man would never appear in front of her again.
Yan Yu went forward to support Qiao ruoyi and said, Miss, please rest for a while. You havent slept for two days and two nights. If my son-inw sees you like this, he will definitely not be at ease.
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were bloodshot. After she closed her clothes andy down, she seemed to have lost all her strength. Her face was pale as shey on the bed.
That night, she had a high fever. When the imperial physician from the pce came over, he gave Qiao ruoyi a lot of medicine. However, Qiao Ruoyi was so dizzy that she could not even take the medicine.
Zheng Xiao could not help but be anxious. He thought of many ways but could not feed her the medicine.
When Little Nichang saw that Qiao ruoyi had fainted, she saw the imperial physician give Qiao ruoyi a needle. She huddled in Zheng Xiaos arms and said, Grandmother, mothers needle hurts.
Zheng Xiao said, The injection is for your mother to wake up as soon as possible.
Zheng Xiao remembered that after Qiao Ruoyis aunt passed away, she had not been so sad. Perhaps there was a saying that said that grief was no greater than death.
Ever since Qiao Ruoyi returned to Chang an, she had been very haggard. However, the funeral was not over yet, so she had to hold her breath. Now that Xiao Man and Luo Wei had been buried in peace, it was no wonder that Qiao Ruoyi had be so ill.
The imperial physician was anxious. Even needles were useless. Seeing that Qiao Ruoyis fever was getting worse and worse, the medicine did not work. The imperial physicians racked their brains to write down the prescription, but it did not have much effect.
The white silk in the Hou mansion had not been removed. Qiao Ruoyis long hair was still covered with white velvet flowers. Her room was filled with a dead atmosphere.
Zheng Xiao was anxious. He held the hand of an old imperial physician and said, Imperial physician, please save Ruoyi. She is so young...
The imperial physician said helplessly, Miss Qiao doesnt have the energy to live anymore. The Qi in her body has dissipated. Im afraid that she doesnt have much time left...
Zheng Xiao shook his head and said, How could she? Theres still nichang. Her aunts life hasnt been announced yet. How could she bear to die?
Zheng Xiao walked up to Qiao Ruoyi and held Qiao Ruoyis hand. Ruoyi, as long as you wake up, I promise you to give your aunt a life. Nichang is so young. Can you bear to see her without a Mother?
Ruoyi, wake up!
Xie Yun, who was on the roof of Qiao Ruoyis house, frowned when he heard the words from below.
Lan Xin listened to the words from below and asked nervously, Master, what should we do?
Xie Yun said, She will not bear to let go of Nichang.
The imperial physician said that Qiao Ruoyi did not have much time left, so the members of the Qiao family in Chang an all came to visit. Old Lady Qiao wanted to avoid the funeral, but when she heard that Qiao Ruoyi did not have much time left, she ignored her and came over with a warm filial piety.
Old Lady Qiao walked to Qiao Ruoyis side and looked at the pitiful nichang in Zheng Xiaos arms. She sighed and said, Sigh, how could God be so blind? Its not enough that he took Luo Wei away, but he even took ruoyi away!
Zheng Xiao said, Mother, the imperial physician said that Ruoyi doesnt want to live anymore. It can be seen how much pain Luo Wei has caused her after he passed away. Its all because of Xie Yun!
Old Madam Qiao held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Ruoyi, quickly wake up. When you wake up, grandmother will personally go to his majesty and ask for your aunts life. Also, are you willing to let Nichang lose her mother at such a young age?
When she held Qiao Ruoyis hand, old madam Qiao noticed that there was something wrong with Qiao Ruoyis nails.
There were streaks of blood on Qiao Ruoyis nails. Her nails were uneven and shockingly tight.
Old Madam Qiao opened Qiao Ruoyis tightly closed eyelids and looked at Qiao Ruoyis cloudy eyes. She said in shock, Ruoyi is not sick, she must have been poisoned!
Poisoned?Zheng Xiao said in shock, The Miao region has very strict control over gu worms. There are less than five people who know how to use Gu worms now, how could anyone dare to use Gu Worms on ruoyi? Arent they afraid of destroying the entire Miao region?
Old madam Qiao said, I shouldnt be wrong. Its Gu Worms. When I apanied the old marquis in the southwest, I saw the scene after being poisoned. I will write a letter to the chief of the Miao region and ask her toe to Chang an as soon as possible!
Zheng Xiao said, It will take half a month for the Miao region to go back and forth to Chang an, but Im afraid Ruoyi wont be able to hold on much longer!
Qiao Ruoyis breathing was much less and her breathing was much less!
Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, But there is no other way now. We can only send someone to use the thousand-mile horse to bring the chief to Miao. Otherwise, Ruoyi will also die.
Zheng Xiao immediately ordered people to use the thousand-mile horse in the manor and wrote a very urgent letter. He handed it to the guards to go to Miao.
Xie Yun came down from the roof and entered the door, Old Madam, Madam Hou.
Zheng Xiao saw Xie Yun enter and frowned: How dare you trespass into the manor? Where are the guards?
Xie Yun said: Madam Hou, dont be anxious, I have a way to help fifth Miss Qiao remove the Gu, Why dont you let me take a look at the Gu worm on fifth Miss Qiaos body?
Chapter 375
Chapter 375: Chapter 375, the method to remove the GU
Lan Xin followed in and said, My master was also poisoned by the Gu when he was young. If Miss Ruoyis life is hanging by a thread, why not let my master take a look at her?
Old Madam Qiao nodded and said to Zheng Xiao, Now we can only treat it as ast resort.
Xie Yun walked forward and looked at the ck lines on Qiao Ruoyis fingernails. He asked Yan Yu who was beside him, When did the blood lines on your misss fingernails start to appear?
Yan Yu said, Its been four years. At the beginning, it was only superficial and there was only one finger. After seeing the imperial physician, I thought it was because miss was under too much pressure in the imperial court. In these two years, it gradually increased.
There was nothing else, so I used flower juice to dye my fingernails. The Big Red Dan Kou covered the blood lines on my fingernails.
Lan Xin said from the side, Four years ago? Master, could it be that on that day, the GU poison on your body ran into Miss Qiaos body?
Xie Yun frowned. That day, after Qiao Ruoyi got out of the water, there were wounds on her body, and they were so intimate. Perhaps the GU worm had really entered Qiao Ruoyis body at that time.
Xie Yun said to Yan Yu at the side, Go and get a bowl.
Yan Yu ced a white porcin bowl in front of Xie Yun. Xie Yun cut open his own hand and dripped the blood into the bowl. Then, he passed the blood in the bowl to Yan Yu and let Yan Yu serve Qiao Ruoyi to drink it.
After Qiao Ruoyi drank the blood in Xie Yuns hand, she slowly woke up. The imperial physicians at the side were all amazed. A person who was about to die could actually wake up after using the blood.
Old Madam Qiao held her walking stick and asked Xie Yun, Whats going on? If she was poisoned four years ago ording to what you said, why did the poison take effect at this time?
Xie Yun said, The poison I was poisoned with was the ice silkworm Gu, a hundred-year poison gu passed down from the Xie familys ancestors. The second branch, in order to get the Xie familys property, poisoned me when I was young.
Old Madam Qiao had never heard of a Gu like the ice silkworm gu, Isnt this the Miao regions Gu?
Xie Yun slowly exined, In the three hundred years since the founding of the Western Liang Kingdom, the Miao region has been in constant warfare, and the southwest has never settled down. There are many gu worms that have long been lost in the Miao region.
Back then, there was an ancestor who liked gu worms. After collecting some Gu worms that had not died for thousands of years, he ordered people to keep them.
The ice silkworm Gu was a kind of poisonous worm on the Tianshan Mountain. It was extremely precious and only appeared once every ten thousand years. Usually, it needed to be kept in an ice box made of thousand-year-old ice, and its toxicity was very strong.
Back then, after I was poisoned, the medicine stone did not work. I met a Divine Doctor Who gave me the fire lotus grass, which could suppress the ice silkworm gu once every ten thousand years. That was how I was able to suppress the poison of the ice silkworm Gu.
I once asked the Miao Jiang tribe leader to remove the ice silkworm gu left in my body. They said that they had no way to remove the king of the GU that had existed for hundreds of years. However, they probed the GU worm in my body and said that the fire lotus had already fused into my bloodline, The ice silkworm gu was useless even in my body.
They searched through several ancient books and found that if the ice silkworm gu found a new host, the host would coincidentally have a wound on his body. Perhaps he would leave my body by himself. I just didnt think that it would end up in Miss Qiao Wus body.
Old Madam Qiao asked, Then why is the poison acting up now?
Xie Yun said, The ice silkworm Gu has been suppressed by the Fire Lotus in my body for a long time, so its poison is naturally not as strong as before. This time, it is probably because Miss Qiao is too sad and is not feeling well, which caused the ice silkworm gu to act up.
Zheng Xiao asked anxiously, Then is there still a fire lotus?
Xie Yun shook her head and said, I dont know where that fire lotus came from. Moreover, that Holy Doctor said that the fire lotus is a once in a thousand years life, and is specially created to control the ice silkworm gu thates once in a thousand years.
Qiao Ruoyis long hair was draped over her shoulders. She held the quilt tightly and cried, Grandmother, mother, I dont want to die yet. I Cant bear to part with Nichang and the rest of you.
She looked at Xie Yun and said, Why do you want to harm me like this? Its not enough to harm Luo Wei, even I cant live for Long!
Qiao ruoyi thought that she had only been promoted to Assistant Minister of the Ministry of appointments for less than three months, and she still wanted to disy her strength and work for the people. Also, Nichangs birthday was just over three years old..
She was really unwilling to ept this!
Good news.
Fu Lu hurriedly came in from outside. Ah Lu and I were just about to go to the Miaojiang to bring their chief here when the Miaojiang Elder happened toe to Chang an.
The Miaojiang Elder entered and bowed to old madam Qiao and Zheng Xiao. Old Madam, Madam Hou, I came under the Order of the chief to contribute to the imperial court. I didnt expect that His Majesty was not in Chang an. I also heard that the fifth miss of your house was poisoned by a Gu.
Old Madam Qiao said, Yes, I will have to trouble you to take a good look at my granddaughter.
The Miaojiang Elder walked up to Qiao Ruoyi and looked at the blood on her finger, he said, This is the ice silkworm Gu! ording to the ancient records, the only thing that the ice silkworm gu can counter is the fire lotus. However, the fire lotus has already been given to the eldest daughter of the Xie family!
Thats not right. I heard that the Xie familys eldest daughter has already died in Miaojiang. Shouldnt the ice silkworm gu have died along with the Xie familys eldest daughter? How did it end up with fifth miss?
The ice silkworm gu can not be transferred unless the flesh touches the wound for four hours.
Old Madam Qiao continued to ask, Is there no way to save my granddaughter now?
The Miaojiang elder sighed and said, If the Xie familys daughter-inw was still alive and there was still a way to save her, then the Xie familys daughter-inw had consumed the fire lotus. Her blood is the antidote to the ice silkworm Gu. She only needs to take it once every half a month. Unfortunately, the Xie familys daughter-inw has already passed away.
Not many people knew about the incident with Xie Yun back then, and the Elder was far away in Miaojiang and did not know about it either.
After Zheng Xiao sent the elder away, old madam Qiao said to Xie Yun, Xie family head, ruoyi being poisoned by the Gu is also an undeserved disaster.
Xie Yun looked at the thin and frail Qiao ruoyi on the bed and said, Old Madam, dont worry. I will donate blood to Miss Qiao Wu every half a month until I am a hundred years old.
Lan Xin said, Master, your body wouldnt be able to withstand so much blood every half a month! Using such a method, Im afraid that you and Miss Ruoyi wont be able to live for many years!
Xie Yun reprimanded Lan Xin, Noisy.
Fu Lu said from the side, This servant girl of yours doesnt protect master like this. Ruoyi is a Gu worm because of Xie Yun. So what if Xie Yun gives all his blood to Ruoyi?
Lan Xin said slowly, Thats not what I meant. When I was young, I also read the ancient records of the ice silkworm Gu in the Miaojiang. It was recorded that after the ice silkworm gu was transferred, if the person who consumed the fire lotus was a man, his blood essence could suppress the poison of the ice silkworm Gu.
Theres no need to donate blood. Even if we be husband and wife, we can still suppress it...
Qiao ruoyi said, If master Xie is afraid of losing his life and is unwilling to donate blood, I wont force you. I only hope that master Xie can treat nichang well after I pass away. Otherwise, I wont let you off even if I be a ghost!
Xie Yuns phoenix-like eyes slightly twitched. That was what Lanxin said, not what I meant. Dont worry, I will only donate blood to you. I Wont force you to do anything!
Chapter 376
Chapter 376: Chapter 376, ten years ago, beautiful scenery (1)
It was already summer in Jiangnan, but the rain still did not stop. It rained almost the whole month, and the rain continued until the dragon boat festival approached.
It had been several days since they arrived in Lin an, and glutinous rice was getting married.
Glutinous rice was married to a young constable from the Lin an government who often came to eat at the Hundred Savory Restaurant.
She was the same age as glutinous rice, and she often yed with him when she was young.
Later on, glutinous rice followed her to Chang an, and when she returned to Lin an, she became the eldest daughter of the Qian family.
The constable did not dare to y with glutinous rice again. However, when glutinous rice and Qiao Ruoyun reopened the Jiangnan Hundred Savory restaurant, she was schemed against by Zhou Shihui. Glutinous rice went to the constable and recognized her childhood ymate.
The two got along well. The constables family had some savings. Although it was not a wealthy family, it was rare that they had known each other since childhood.
It was much better than glutinous rice marrying a family of equal status.
Moreover, to be able to be a constable at such a young age, ones future was boundless.
On the day of glutinous Rices wedding, Qiao Jinniang went to the Qian Estate. When Qiao Jinniang saw quanfu personbing glutinous rices hair, she said, Let me do it.
Quanfu person respectfully handed theb over to Qiao Jinniang.
Glutinous rice hurriedly stood up and said, Master, how can I let youb my hair!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Youve beenbing my hair for more than ten years. Ill onlyb it for you this time.
Only then did glutinous rice sit down. When Qiao Jinniang wasbing glutinous rices hair.., with a faint smile, she said, After you marry her, dont make yourself feel wronged. If you have any unhappiness, just tell your uncle. If your uncle doesnt want to care, just write to me, understand?
Glutinous rice nodded and said, Yes.
When sending glutinous rice off to get married, Qiao Jinniang was really reluctant. When glutinous Rices groom came to wee the bride and kneel before her, Qiao jinniang said, Treat glutinous rice well in the future. If you dare to make her suffer her duty, I will not forgive you!
Your Majesty, dont worry. I will treat glutinous rice well.
When the groom took the bride away, it was almost dusk. The officials who came to the Qian family for dinner knew that the servant girl of the Qian familys eldest daughter, the empress, was only married to a small constable, so they were all puzzled.
In the evening, in the Qiao familys small house behind the Hundred Savory Restaurant.
Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniang sitting on the swing in the small courtyard and swinging on it. He walked to her side and said, I asked you toe to Jiangnan to hope that you would be happy. Glutinous Rices marriage is a happy event.
Qiao jinniang said, I just remembered the scene when I yed with glutinous rice when I was young, and I was quite moved by it. After glutinous rice got married and died, Im afraid she will leave Lin an in a few days, right?
She would not go back to Chang an first after leaving Lin an. Instead, she would travel around Jiangnan to see the local customs and folk scenes.
Lu Chen said slowly, Theres still a chance toe to Lin an again.
Qiao Jinniang pulled Lu Chen to a acacia tree and said, The fire at that time didnt burn down the acacia tree. Our hair is still under it. Do you want to dig it up and take it to Chang an?
Lu Chen smiled. No need. Lets leave it here. Do you still remember the scene when we buried the knot?
Qiao Jinniang also smiled. Of course I do. Do you still remember when we first met?
Lu Chen nodded.
Qiao Jinniang said, At that time, my father lied to you that you were my son-inw. I didnt expose my father because I thought that you were worthy to be my son-inw with your looks. However, not long after, you exposed me... at that time, you were still unwilling to marry me!
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, If I could go back to ten years ago, I wouldnt have exposed that you were not my son-inw. I would have said that I wanted to marry you when I saw you!
..
Ten years ago.
In Lin an city.
Qiao Jinniang, who was only fifteen years old, sent away a group of guards who came to the restaurant to check on people. She sat in the deserted lobby of the restaurant and sighed with her hands resting on her cheeks,
These guards dont go to the river to save the victims. They onlye to our restaurant to check on people every day. Every time theye to check on people, they ask me to give them money!
Fennel whispered, Little master, I heard from the tofu elder Zhang next door that a noble who came to Chang an for disaster relief has gone missing. These guards have toe and search one batch after another. Maybe they are here to find that noble.
Miss, the Little Langjun who came back with you and the master has woken up!With her hair in a bun, glutinous rice hopped over.
Qiao Jinniang followed glutinous rice to the Qiao familys small courtyard on the back street of Baiwei building with an umbre in hand.
Inside, she saw a man who had changed into a new set of clothes. When she had rescued him from the water yesterday, even though he looked extremely wretched, she could tell that he was a first-ss handsome man.
She had grown up in a restaurant and had seen all sorts of people from all over the world. This was the first time she had seen a man with the appearance of a banished immortal described in a book.
Inside, Father Qiao, who had a weak body, coughed twice and asked the youth in front of him, You dont Remember Your Past?
Lu Chen felt a splitting headache. He could not remember what had happened earlier. He only remembered his birth date and eight characters. He remembered his name, but he could not remember anything else.
Lu Chen shook his head. Where are we now? Who Are You?
Father Qiaos tanned face was slightly red from the smoke. He had always been honest and would not lie. But this time, he had to lie for the sake of the Jin Niang.
Father Qiao coughed twice and said, I am the manager of the Hundred Savory restaurant in Lin an. You are the son-inw of my Qiao family. Yesterday, you yed too much and fell into the water. You fainted for a day and a night. I did not expect you to forget what happened earlier after you woke up.
Son-inw?Although Lu Chen had lost his memory, he subconsciously knew what it meant.
When Qiao Jinniang heard the words son-inw, she quickly went in and said, Father!
Father Qiao held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Well, this is my daughter, also your wife.
Lu Chen looked up at the young girl in front of him. The young girl, Shang Shan, was wearing a white and green color. Her chest-length dress was light pink. The silver butterfly wings on her head moved slightly as she walked, making her look extremely agile.
Qiao Jinniang said to father Qiao, Father, if your body is not well, you should quickly go back and rest. The Doctor said that your illness is not suitable for you to worry about. Your Daughter has already grown up, so you can rest assured. I will definitely not hand over the hundred savory restaurant to the Qiao family.
After Lu Chen sized up Qiao Jinniang, he retracted his gaze. Her voice was soft and soft, but why would he agree to be a childs son-inw?
Thinking about it, Lu Chens head hurt badly.
After Qiao Jin helped Father Qiao out of the guest room where Lu Chen was staying.., she said to father Qiao, Father, why did you choose a man with an unknown background to be my son-inw? He has forgotten about his future. What if he was already engaged in the past?
Father Qiao said, Father also saw that he was handsome. As long as he is worthy of you, those matchmakers would rather listen to the n and find a son-inw.
Chapter 377
Chapter 377: Chapter 372, Beautiful Days (2)
Qiao Jinniang sighed when she heard this. A year ago, her parents had been lingering on the sick bed. In the past few days, her father had been vomiting blood continuously. Even the Doctor said that her parents would not be able tost through the new year.
Her parents had no children, and she was the only daughter. Her daughter could not inherit the family business, and the Qiao family was eyeing her like a tiger watching its prey. In the past year, who knew how many times they hade to cause trouble.
A few days ago, she had heard from the doctor that her parents were seriously ill, and she had even proposed to let Qiao Wei be her parentsson, her brother-inw.
For this reason, her parents had proposed to find a son-inw for her. Most of the men rmended by the matchmaker were either ipetent, ugly, or physically ill.
Now that her days were better, no good man would be willing to marry into a family with many sons in the countryside, as long as they did not starve to death?
The background of the man inside was unknown and no one knew what his character was. However, the only thing that stood out was his good looks. If such a beautiful man was ced in the Hundred Savory restaurant, perhaps the business of the restaurant would be much better.
..
Three days after Lu Chen woke up, he could get out of bed and walk. When he went out, he looked at the dazzling sun and the scene of a flood washing over the vige shed through his mind.
He had a terrible headache and heard the softughtering from the courtyard.
He walked over and saw Lady Qiao picking the lotus seed pod in the small pond in the courtyard. She was standing on a stone and trying to reach the lotus seed pod in the pond.
After removing the lotus seed pod, she smiled and said to the maid, Ive been waiting for this lotus seed pod for a long time. I can finally take it off.
Unexpectedly, she lost her bnce and almost fell into the pond. Lu Chen hurried over and pulled Qiao Jin back to the shore.
Qiao Jin smiled at Lu Chen and said, Thank you. Can you get out of bed now? The Doctor said that youd better stay in bed and rest for a while. Here, have a taste of the lotus seed I nted myself.
Qiao Jin peeled off the lotus seed pod and took out the emerald green lotus seeds. Lu Chen took the lotus seeds and was about to stuff them into his mouth.
Qiao Jinniang quickly reached out and snatched the lotus seed back from Lu Chens hand. I forgot that you lost your memory. This lotus seed needs to be peeled off.
Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniang peel off the skin of the lotus seed with a Dan Kou coated with flower juice, revealing the white flesh of the lotus seed inside.
Qiao Jinniang passed the White and tender flesh of the lotus seed to Lu Chen. Here, you can eat it now.
Lu Chen lowered his head and took a bite of the lotus seed meat in Qiao Jinniangs hand. He only felt that the lotus seed meat had a refreshing sweetness to it. Although he had lost his memory, the lotus seeds he remembered were bitter. He had never thought that the lotus seed would be so sweet.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly used her silk handkerchief to wipe the palm that Lu Chen had touched. She peeled another lotus seed for herself to eat. After eating a few, she turned around and saw the eager eyes of the youth.
Qiao Jinniang quickly hid the lotus seed.
Lu Chen:...
Mother Qiao coughed and came over. She said to Qiao jinniang, Jinniang.
Mother!After seeing mother Qiao, Qiao Jinniang quickly went over and smelled the medicinal smell on her body. She hurriedly said, Why are you out of bed? Didnt the doctor say that you should rest well?
Mother Qiao looked at Lu Chen, and her eyes lit up slightly. This young Langjuns appearance was much better than that of Marquis an yuan, whom she had served when she was young. It was just that she didnt know what his character was like.
Mother is much better now, so I came out of bed to take a walk.
Qiao Jinniang supported mother Qiao and said, It just so happens that the weather is clearing up. Shall I help you walk around the courtyard?
Mother Qiao smiled lightly and patted Qiao Jinniangs hand. Good girl.
Mother Qiaos body had always been in bad shape. After giving birth to her daughter, she had traveled all the way to Jiangnan. When she had just opened the restaurant, she had to do everything.
Father Qiao and her were busy from dawn to dusk. They had to take care of the restaurants business and also take care of their daughter.
After two years, the business of the Hundred Savory restaurant had improved. The restaurant had also be bigger, and there were apprentices and waiters. However, mother Qiao had to worry about her life. She had to work hard from dawn to dusk.
Qiao Jinniang helped mother Qiao admire the lotus flowers on the veranda. She could not help but feel a little ufortable. The saddest thing in the world was that ones son wanted to take care of his family but could not stay with them.
Mother Qiao took a seat under the veranda at the side and said to Qiao jinniang, Your father said that the young Langjun is good-looking and has no one to rely on and nowhere to go. He is the perfect candidate to be your son-inw. What do you think?
Qiao jinniang said shyly, I think its quite good.
Father and mother did not have much time left. It was not easy for them to find a good-looking man with healthy limbs. Although he had forgotten about the past, he did not be a fool. It was extremely suitable for him to be her son-inw.
Mother Qiao smiled gently. Thats good. Mother will give herst breath to hold a wedding for you. I Wont let you down.
Qiao Jinniang snuggled into mother Qiaos arms. Mother, you dont have to worry about it. Ill handle it myself.
The next day, Qiao Jinniang, glutinous rice, and Lu Chen went to the wedding shop in Lin an city. It was full of shops for the wedding.
Qiao Jinniang first went to look for a matchmaker. She was inexperienced, so it was good to have a matchmaker to advise her.
The matchmaker saw Lu Chens appearance. Good boy, Little Jinniang, where did you find this immortal? Ive seen many men in my life, and even those young men among the officials of Chu didnt have such looks!
Qiao jinniang said, This is my son-inw.
Son-inw? If you have a son-inw, why did you ask me to find you a son-inw earlier?
Aunt Wang, didnt I lose him earlier?Qiao Jinniang lied with her eyes wide open.
Walking into the tailors shop, the old tailors eyes also widened when he saw Lu Chen.
He said to Qiao jinniang, Isnt this the youngest daughter of the Qiao Family?? Time really flies. You were already so small when you first came to Lin an. Your parents put you in a restaurant. At that time, I said that this girl was beautiful when she grew up, and in the blink of an eye, she was going to get married.
Qiao jinniang smiled and joked, Uncle Tailor, since you watched me grow up, you have to give me the best material. Dont Bury My Looks!
The tailor said, Haha, of course, of course. Your future husband is so beautiful. This material is Yun Jin, specially for the nobles in Chang an. I asked someone to get one from Chang an, but Lin an is far from Chang an. You can wear this material without any problems.
Qiao Jinniang saw the dragon and Phoenix patterns on Yun Jin and was extremely beautiful. How much silver is this material?
The tailor said, You know that the cloud brocade is very expensive. I asked someone to collect a lot of silver. I originally wanted to sell it to the daughters of the officials, but now Im selling it to you at cost. Two hundred silver, and I wont charge the tailor fees.
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, Then Ill reserve the best seat for Uncle Tailor at the wedding banquet and give you more of the signature dishes of the Hundred Savory restaurant.
Lu Chen followed Qiao Jinniang along the way. He saw that Qiao Jinniang was extremely generous in spending money and had a good rtionship with the shopkeepers in the various shops. It was also very refreshing to set things for the wedding.
In the wedding cake shop, the eldest daughter of the Qiao n Head came to buy things for the wedding. She looked out and saw Qiao Jinniang Pass by the door. She walked to a shop that sold jewelry and stopped.
A beautiful man followed by Qiao Jinniang. The eldest daughter of the Qiao n head repeatedly went over and held her mothers hand. Mother, do you think thats Qiao Jinniang?
Chapter 378
Chapter 378: Chapter 377, Beautiful Days (3)
Qiao ers wife looked out and pped her thigh. Aiya, it really is that little hoof of Qiao Jinniang. Why did shee to this street? The man beside her is so good-looking. Why would she be willing to marry into the family?
Mother, lets hurry back and discuss with father. We cant let Qiao Jinniang really find a son-inw. When that happens, we wont have a share in the Hundred Savory Restaurant!!
Look at the shop that Lady Qiao Jin went into. Its the only shop in Lin an city that sells gold jewelry. If she really marries now, wouldnt she be giving away all our money to someone else?
At the moment, gold jewelry could only be worn by the rtives of noble families, the royal family, or the family members of third-rank officials.
However, since Huilin Emperor ascended to the throne, it was more open-minded. Therefore, themon people gradually began to wear gold jewelry.
However, gold jewelry was expensive. It was not something that an ordinary family could afford. Even in the rich Lin an city, it was the only one.
When dog two heard her daughters words, it was also extremely anxious. It quickly went back to Qiao ergou to discuss the matter.
When Qiao Ergou heard this, he said, That Qiao Yu is also a fool who thinks too highly of himself. Why did he give the old Qiao familys things to his daughter and a son-inw with a foreign surname? !!
Wasnt there no one in Lin an city who was willing to be a son-inw? Didnt that matchmaker Qian say a few days ago that many people wanted to marry Qiao Jinniang? However, all of them wanted to marry her, and none of them were willing to marry into the Qiao family.
Those who were willing to marry into the Qiao family were either crippled or incapable of marrying into the Qiao family. There were also those who were poor and couldnt find a wife in their ugly family. Why would a handsome Langjun suddenly be willing to marry into the Qiao Family? There must be a problem!
Dog two said, I also feel that there must be something fishy going on. Go to the Hundred Savory restaurant and ask around.
Qiao ergou went to the Hundred Savory restaurant the next day. All the employees in the restaurant did not like him.
Qiao Jinniang came to the Hundred Savory restaurant and saw Qiao ergou the moment she entered. She said grumpily, What are you doing here?
Dog Qiao pointed at Qiao Jinniang and said in a louder voice, Is this your attitude when talking to the patriarch? Im your elder!
Qiao Jinniang sneered. What Elder? He was just a vicious dog in human skin. His parents had not even passed away yet, yet he had rushed over to plot against the property of the heiress. It was simply a dream!
Dog Qiao was immediately enraged when he saw Qiao Jinniang, I heard that you are getting married? I heard from Matchmaker Qian that you told matchmaker Wang that you have a son-inw? Howe we rtives dont know that you have a son-inw?
Qiao Jinniang said, Why would I tell you if I have a son-inw? They are just rtives. Hurry up and leave. Dont Disturb Our Hundred Savory Restaurants business.
You!Qiao Ergou was furious. Seeing that more and more people wereing to eat in the neighborhood, he had no choice but to leave first.
He went to the Qiao familys small courtyard and saw Lu Chening out the moment he reached the courtyards entrance.
Lu Chen was already able to get out of bed. Although the doctor had told him to rest in bed, he still wanted toe out and take a walk. Perhaps, he felt thating out and taking a walk would remind him of some past events.
The past events were as nk as a piece of paper. The feeling of not being in control of it made him dislike it.
When Qiao Ergou saw Lu Chens appearance, he immediately knew that he was the handsome son-inw of the Qiao family that his wife had mentioned. He looked like a pretty boy.
When Lu Chen saw Qiao ergou sizing him up, he frowned and said, Who are you? Did you know me before?
You are Qiao Jinniangs son-inw? When did you be the son-inw of the Qiao Family? Whats Your Name and where do you live??
Let me tell you, the son of the County Master in Lin an city wants Qiao Jinniang to be his concubine. If you dare to marry Qiao Jinniang, you will either be cuckolded by the son of the prefect, or you wont have a good ending!
Lu Chen frowned and looked at the shifty-eyed middle-aged man in front of him. Who are you?
Im Qiao Jinniangs uncle. Her family has no conscience at all. They ignored the lives of their rtives and took over the Qiao familys property,said dog Qiao, I advise you not to marry Qiao Jinniang. She has a bad temper. She often hits people with a broom and a rolling pin!
Lu Chen was a little curious. You are her uncle, but you dont know that Qiao Jinniang has a son-inw?
Qiao ergou said, Thats why its so strange. Where did youe from? You Dont sound like a person from Lin an?
Although Qiao Yu and his wife had cooked for the hou men in Chang an when they were young, they had never left Lin an after returning to the city for so long. This son-inw was not a person from Lin an.
Lu Chen said, After I fell into the water, I woke up and forgot about what happened earlier.
Qiao ergou pped his leg and said, Ah, you forgot about what happened in the past. That son-inw must have been lied to by Qiao Yu and Qiao Jinniang, that Little B * TCH. Let me tell you, that Qiao Jinniang is very shrewd!
I havent heard her mention the son-inw for so many years. Previously, she was still worried about finding a son-inw!
Qiao Jinniang returned to the small courtyard from the Hundred Savory restaurant with the ount book. When she saw Qiao ergou talking to Lu Chen at the door, she pulled Lu Chens sleeve and walked in, instructing Butler Zhong to close the door.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, Dont pay attention to Qiao Ergou in the future. What did he say to you just now?
Lu Chen said, He said that the young master of the Lin an prefect wants to take you as a concubine?
Qiao Jinniang snorted. Hes talking nonsense. I, Qiao Jinniang, will never be a concubine even if I die.
Lu Chen followed Qiao Jinniang to the side of the river in the small courtyard. At this time, the lotus flowers were blooming beautifully. Qiao Jinniang picked two flowers from the shore and nned to put them in a porcin bottle in the room.
Lu Chen said slowly, Just now, that person said that you and your father lied to me. Im not your son-inw at all.
Lady Qiaos hand that was picking the lotus flowers paused. I told you not to listen to his nonsense.
Lu Chen stared at Lady Qiao and said, If you say that Im your son-inw, then what do you say my name is? When is my birth date? How Old Am I this year? Where do I Live?
Lady Qiao was stunned by the question. I...
Lu Chen said two words fiercely, Liar!
After saying that, Lu Chen turned around and was about to leave the small courtyard. Qiao Jinniang hurriedly pulled Lu Chens sleeve and said, Wait a minute, father and I didnt mean to deceive you. You havent recovered from your illness yet, and you dont remember what happened before..
Now that the flood in Huizhou is serious and there are refugees everywhere in Jiangnan, and you dont have any silver on you, where are you going by yourself?
Lu Chen said, Its none of your business, You Little Liar!
Qiao Jinniang held tightly onto Lu Chens sleeve and refused to let go, she said, Your Life was saved by me and father, so why cant we take care of you? If it werent for us saving you, you would have died a long time ago. I spent a total of fifty taels of silver treating your illness. If you want to leave, you have to return the fifty taels of Silver First!
In Lu Chens subconscious mind, fifty taels of silver was really not much, so he said, Ill return it.
Qiao jinniang said, The sry of our staff in Hundred Savory Restaurant for a month is one tael of silver for food and lodging. You have to work in the restaurant for three years for this fifty taels of silver.
Chapter 379
Chapter 379: Chapter 379 was left to settle the ounts
Lu Chens face turned slightly pale. One tael of silver per month. After three years, it will be 36 taels of silver. This 50 taels of silver will take at least four years and two months.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Alright, four years then.
Lu Chen:...why did he dig a hole for himself to jump into?
Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Chens unwilling expression and said, You should know that most of the waiters in the restaurants in Lin an city only have a monthly sry of three taels of silver. If you go to Lin an city to look for them, the monthly sry Im giving you is already extremely high.
Lu Chen gritted his teeth and said, Four years it is.
Qiao Jin looked at Lu Chens tender hands and took a look at his hands. Your hands are even more tender than mine.
Qiao Jin usually didnt do any rough work, but she loved to learn cooking skills from her parents, so her hands were somewhat thick. Lu Chens hands were so tender that they were even softer than those of the embroidery girls.
Your hands cant do the work of a waiter, but your arithmetic is excellent. Why Dont you help me settle the score?
Lu Chen kept withdrawing his hands, and his pale face was a little red. Okay, its a deal.
Just as Qiao Jinniang had said, he had nowhere to go now. He vaguely remembered his own name, and only remembered that an extremely gentle girl would call him Chen er, he also vaguely remembered his own birth characters.
Other than that, he knew everything else. He had not recovered from his illness and was penniless. He did not even understand the local dialect. It could be said that he could not move an inch.
..
Qiao Jinniang cooked arge table of medicinal food for her parents and brought it into the room.
When the family was having their meal, Qiao Jinniang said, Father, mother, my marriage with that Little Langjun is not going to happen. Qiao ergou found that Little Langjun and exposed the fact that he is not a childs son-inw.
Father Qiao sighed and said, Forget it. Its not Qiao Ergous fault. Its good that we lied to him and exposed him. Ill go and Beg matchmaker Wang to find you a better son-inw.
Mother Qiao said, Why dont We Sell Hundred Savory Restaurant? While we are still alive, we can give all the silver we have to the Jinniang as dowry..
Wouldnt it be better for a schr like the Jinniang to marry a schr who took the imperial examinations? Why would we need to hire a man who doesnt know what hes doing to make our Jinniang suffer?
Qiao jinniang said, Mother, the Hundred Savory restaurant has been your and fathers hard work for many years. Youve been working hard for it for more than ten years and have fallen seriously ill. How can you sell it just like that? You absolutely cant ruin your hard work!
Mother Qiao sighed. But Jinniang...
Father Qiao said, Ill go and talk to that Little Langjunter.
Lu Chen saw the meal that the housekeeper brought over. The Qiao family did not treat him harshly because he was unwilling to marry into the family. Hearing the coughing soundsing from outside, Lu Chen walked out of the door and saw Father Qiao, who had a hunched back and an extremely pale face.
Father Qiao walked in and said to Lu Chen, This Little Langjun, I was the one who made the decision to lie to you about being a childs son-inw. I really had no choice!
My wife and I have a daughter, and our rtives are no longer able to inherit the family business. Before my wife and I died, they were already eyeing us covetously. We originally wanted to find a husband for the Jinniang, but its hard to find a husband these days
Coincidentally, I saved you that day, so I lied to you. I truly think that your looks are good, and youre a perfect match for my Jinniang.
My Jin Niangs looks and bearing are not inferior to those of the housekeepers daughters. She knows her words and is well-behaved and sensible. She is a good wife that is hard to find even with antern.
Hearing this, Lu Chen said, Benefactor, I will always remember the favor of your Qiao family for saving me. However, I, Lu Chen, am a man, so I absolutely can not marry into your family.
Father Qiao sighed. Alright, then you should take good care of your body.
However, the next day, Lu Chen was driven out of the small courtyard by Qiao Jinniang and lived in the backyard of the restaurant. There was a woodshed next to it. Qiao Jinniang brought over many old debts. Well, these are the debts you have to settle.
Do you still remember your name?
Lu Chen nodded. My name is Lu Chen.
Which Lu, which Chen?Qiao Jinniang asked curiously.
Lu Chen picked up a brush and wrote his name on a piece of white paper.
Qiao Jinniang looked at it and said, Thats strange. This Lu is the surname of the nation. Theres also the word Chen. When your parents gave you your name, werent they afraid that the royal family would know your name and Kill Your Head?
Fortunately, the current emperor is a wise monarch. Otherwise, you wouldnt be able to keep your pretty little head.
Hearing the word His Majesty, Lu Chen felt that it was extremely familiar, but he couldnt remember it. So, he focused on calcting the ount book that Qiao Jinniang had brought over. He needed to pay off the medicine money as soon as possible and save some money so that he could leave this ce.
Qiao Jinniang saw that Lu Chen almost didnt use an abacus to calcte the ounts, so she asked curiously, Why dont you use an abacus?
Lu Chen said, Is this all that you need an abacus for?
Qiao Jinniang was calcting the ounts by the side, and then she saw that Lu Chen actually wrote down the figures without missing a single cent, she smiled and said, It seems that you are born to manage the ounts. Then Ill leave these ounts to you. Im going to go look for my husband.
Lu Chen was focused on calcting the ounts. After Qiao Jinniang left, the faint scent of Jasmine from her body was still left in the room.
He remembered father Qiaos sorrowful words. Qiao Jinniang was indeed a pitiful person.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the three men in a row and couldnt help but sigh. She really didnt understand where this matchmaker found these speechless men.
Back in the restaurant, Lu Chen came out with a stack of ount books and said to Qiao jinniang, The ounts have been calcted and recorded.
Qiao Jinniang flipped through them and answered sadly, Okay, you can leave them here. In the future, you can have dinner with the workers in the restaurant. You can also stay in the restaurant.
Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniangs worried look and said, Did I miscalcte the ounts?
Qiao jinniang said, It has nothing to do with you. I just saw a few disgusting men today. The first man who was over thirty years old entered Chang an to take the exam for ten years and sold out his familysnd..
He even said that he would be an official in the future. Marrying into the family is unfair to him. Whats wrong with his shifty eyes? He even thought of selling the restaurant to apany him to Chang an to take the exam after getting married!
Glutinous Rice said indignantly at the side, If it wasnt for the sake of the restaurant, miss could easily be an officials wife. Why would she marry someone who took the exam for ten years?
Lu Chen said, As long as I didnt miscalcte the ount.
Fennel said sternly, Then how did Wang matchmaker introduce such a person to Master?
Glutinous rice said indignantly, That one is still considered good. The second one is called disgusting. He is as thin as a bamboo pole and has a ring of ck at the moment. He was brought here by his mother. Even when he drank a cup of tea, his mother would take away the tea foam for him...
Not only that, the people from the gambling house who were in the middle of the conversation came. It turned out that the man was originally from a wealthy family. After going to a brothel, he loved to y with women and Gamble. He owed a lot of money and wanted to marry into the Qiao family to pay off his debts.
Miss and I are about to leave. He even said that if he didnt owe a lot of money, he wouldnt have agreed to marry into Misss family. Its so infuriating!
Qiao Jinniang sighed and said helplessly, Sigh, why is it so difficult to find a man to marry into the family?
Chapter 380
Chapter 380: Chapter 380, the son of the Qiao family
Qiao Jinniang knew that her mother often coughed up blood these days. She heard from the woman who took care of her parents that her mother often coughed at night and woke up, so she didnt want to drag this on any longer.
But looking at the men introduced by the matchmakers, she couldnt even find a tall man among the short ones.
After much difficulty, she finally settled on a man who was the son of the second son in the family. His parents were in poverty and were seriously ill.
Sister-inw and brother did not want to take money to cure the illness. The younger brother was still studying in the academy and wanted to obtain a title.
He had no choice but to agree to marry into the Qiao family. His appearance was average, and he was not tall. He could not read a single word, but he was hardworking and willing to work.
Qiao Jinniang happily told her parents about this matter, and the waiters in the Hundred Savory restaurant also heard about it.
Just as the Qiao family came to make a scene, Qiao Jinniang left with the workers of the Hundred Savory restaurant with brooms in hand.
Dog Qiao said, I heard from the matchmaker that you have been looking for a husband for the past few days, but you havent been able to find one. For the sake of being a rtive, I advise you to have some self-awareness!
The family has chosen a son for you. For thousands of years, there hasnt been any mention of a daughter inheriting the family business!
Qiao Jinniang held a rolling pin and said, Theres no need for that. Ive already found a son-inw. If he marries into my Qiao family, he will be a member of my Qiao family. Theres no need for you to meddle in other peoples business. If you dont leave, Ill report it to the authorities.
The Qiao familys rtives left dejectedly. Qiao ergou felt indignant as he walked, so he went to matchmaker Wangs house together.
Matchmaker Wang was a matchmaker for the people of Lin an. She knew many people of all walks of life, so she was naturally not afraid of the Qiao familys rtives. She said in a cold voice,
Qiao Ergou, you are really shameless. You are still alive, yet you want to eat your way out of the family. Bah!
Qiao Ergous family was making a scene. Matchmaker Wangs husband could not stand it any longer, so he told Qiao ergou about Qiao Jinniangs son-inw.
Qiao ergou went to their house to make a scene. When he heard that it was someone whose parents were seriously ill and had to take care of their younger brother, he thought that the money that should belong to the Qiao familys Hundred Savory restaurant would be given to this little bastard.
He also took out the son of the prefect to threaten her. This man was weak to begin with. When he heard that the son of the prefect was interested in Qiao Jinniang, how would he dare to be Qiao Jinniangs son-inw? He immediately went to matchmaker Wang to reject the marriage.
..
In the evening, the restaurant was bustling with activity. Qiao Jinniang hid in Lu Chens house and rolled two eggs.
Lu Chen looked at the red and swollen palm print on Qiao Jinniangs face and looked at her aggrieved eyes. He felt inexplicably ufortable. You really are too much. The husband and wife are fine. How can you persuade a pregnant woman to get a divorce?
Qiao jinniang said aggrievedly, Her child was just born not long ago, and she was pregnant with another one. Her husband either beat or scolded her, ming her for not being able to give birth to a son.
While pregnant, she still had to serve the whole family and eat. She was even beaten and scolded by her husband. So what if he persuaded her to get a divorce? Instead, she beat me up.
Qiao Jinniang rubbed the white egg and said, Dont tell anyone about me hiding here andying eggs, especially the anise, star anise, and glutinous rice. If father and mother find out about it, they will inevitably be worried.
Lu Chen replied, Okay.
He did not say much. He looked at the ount book while Qiao Jinniang rubbed the wound on her face with the egg and looked at the ount book.
Then, the little glutinous Rices voice came from outside. Master, are you inside? Matchmaker Wang came and said that Qiao Ergou and the others went to look for the future son-inw. The future son-inw doesnt want to marry into the family.
Qiao Jinniang opened the door. What?
Besides, Qiao Ergou and the others came back and left Qiao Wei in the small courtyard. The Old Master and Madam are worrying in the small courtyard!
Qiao Jinniang looked in the mirror and saw that the swelling on her face had subsided. She applied lead powder to cover the bruise on her face.
It was the busiest time in the Hundred Savory restaurant. Qiao Jinniang could only bring Lu Chen and a broom to hand to Lu Chen.
Listen to my orderster. If I tell you to fight, fight. Ill give you an extra tael of silver this month!
Lu Chen:...
In the small courtyard of the Qiao family, Qiao Wei, who had triangr eyes and was brightly lit, was sitting in the hall. When he saw Qiao Jinniang, he called her sister.
Qiao jinniang frowned and said, Whos your sister? Go back to where you came from. Our family wont take you in.
Qiao Wei knelt in front of father and mother Qiao and said, Uncle and aunt, you can keep me. If I go back, father and mother will beat me to death.
Father Qiao coughed twice. Seeing Qiao Wei crying miserably, he said, Forget it, forget it. You can stay. But youre not an heir. Just go to the kitchen of the hundred vor restaurant and help out. Ill give you a silver monthly sry every month.
Qiao jinniang said unhappily, Father, why do you want to keep him here?
Father Qiao said to Qiao Wei, Go to the backyard of the Hundred Savory restaurant first and find an empty courtyard to live in.
Qiao Wei left happily. Father Qiao said helplessly, Jinniang, the Doctor said that Father and mother dont have much time left. He has to leave a way out for you. If you really cant find a husband to marry into, you can only rely on Qiao Wei.
Qiao jinniang pouted and said, Who needs her? Just those people. Last year, when the son of the prefect asked me to be a concubine, that Qiao ergou even took arge sum of money.
If it werent for thedy of the Xie family helping me find the prefect, I would have long been sold by Qiao Ergou to the son of the prefect to be the 12th concubine!
Mother Qiao said sorrowfully, Its all my fault. I didnt give birth to a brother to help Jinniang.
Mother, please dont think like that. Your daughter will definitely be more sessful than your son!Mother Qiao said, I will let the world know about the Hundred Savory Restaurant!
Mother Qiaos eyes were filled with worry and tears.
Lu Chen looked at the three of them and felt a little touched..
After Qiao Wei stayed in the Hundred Savory restaurant, he treated himself like a young master. When Lu Chen was collecting the money, Qiao Wei went straight to the drawer of the ounts room to take the silver.
One day, Qiao Jinniang happened to catch him.
How dare you steal the silver from the Hundred Savory restaurant. The Hundred Savory restaurant cant keep people like you. Hurry up and return the silver. Go back to your own house!
Qiao Jinniang was furious when she saw Qiao Wei take a full one tael of silver. She knew very well the character of the Qiao familys rtives. When she was young, those rtives of the Qiao family wanted nothing more than to take everything from the Hundred Savory restaurant.
If the restaurant was given to Qiao Wei and the Qiao family, they might lose it.
Qiao Wei saw that there were more people around and reluctantly put the silver back into the distance. He hummed a tune and returned to the room in the backyard of the restaurant.
Lu Chen was bored at night and strolled around Lin an city. When he returned to the restaurant, he saw Father Qiao.
Benefactor, your body is not good. Why did youe to the restaurant sote?
Chapter 381 - . Lu Chen agreed to marry into the family
Chapter 381: Chapter 381. Lu Chen agreed to marry into the family
Father Qiao looked around the Hundred Savory restaurant by Candlelight. There used to be only one small room in the Hundred Savory restaurant. The Hundred Savory restaurant grew up with the Jin Niang. The Jin Niang was here before she was a year old.
Sigh, its a pity that I really dont have the energy to take care of the Hundred Savory restaurant and protect the Jin Niang.
Lu Chen, even if I beg you, you might as well just be homeless and have no one to rely on. Youve forgotten what happened earlier. You said that you were born in 10 years of Hui Lin. If your birthday was earlier, youd be 17 years old. If it waster, youd only be 16 years old, at this age, Im sure you didnt have a wife before.
Just marry the Brocade Lady. Heavens will has already been decided. That day, the Brocade Lady and I went to the FA Xi Temple to seek marriage. When we came back, we met you on the river. Isnt this Bodhisattvas blessing?
Father Qiaos hands trembled as he held Lu Chens hands. Please help us. If you recover your memory in the future, its fine if you want to separate. Just let the Jin Niang have a son to rely on..
We wont be robbed of the family assets that we risked our lives for her!
Father Qiao trembled as he said and wanted to kneel down. Im begging you. On the ount that we saved your life, will you agree to marry into the Qiao Family?
Lu Chen said, Benefactor, dont be like this. Please get up first. Let me think about it for one night.
Okay, okay.Father Qiao looked exhausted.
..
The next morning, Lu Chen was woken up by the noise outside.
He heard Qiao Jinniangs beautiful voice. It was not as soft and soft as usual. It was the first time Lu Chen knew how sharp Wu Nongs softnguage was.
He could roughly understand the meaning of the dialect.
Qiao Wei, how much silver did you steal from the ount? And you ate the yellow croaker that was just brought from Yinzhou this morning before dawn? Do you know how rare that yellow croaker is?
Qiao Wei was dug out of his bed by Qiao Jinniang and the manservant in the Hundred Savory Restaurant, he said angrily, So what if Im hungry and eat a yellow croaker? I heard that Your Hundred Savory restaurant can earn over a thousand taels of silver a year. I only took two taels of silver. Do you need toe here so early in the morning to cause trouble?
Qiao jinniang said angrily, Even if the hundred savory restaurant earns over a thousand taels of silver, its not yours. Hurry up and return the two taels of silver, or Ill take you to the authorities!
Qiao Wei spat, Qiao Jinniang, youre just a money-losing good. No one is willing to marry into your family!
The Hundred Savory restaurant will be my property sooner orter. So what if I take some of my future money? I heard that youve decided on a wedding dress worth two hundred taels of silver. So what if I take two taels of silver?
Qiao Jinniang was so angry that she was about to burst into mes.
Qiao Wei continued to provoke her, Your parents are terminally ill. They might die tomorrow morning. When that timees, even if you dont want to hand the Hundred Savory restaurant over to the Qiao family, youll have to Scream!
Qiao Jinniang raised the rolling pin in her hand and fiercely knocked Qiao Weis head, with red eyes, she said, Your parents are the ones who are going to die tomorrow. You cursed my parents, and I will beat you until even your own parents dont recognize you! Star anise, fennel, glutinous rice... Go!
The maids and waiters in the Hundred Savory restaurant all took out their weapons and surrounded Qiao Wei, beating him until he let out a series of miserable screams,parable to a butcher ughtering a pig in his house.
Qiao Jinniang beat him up, but she still didnt get over her hatred and said, Strip him of his clothes and throw him to the city gate!
Qiao Wei was stunned by the beating and was thrown out.
Lu Chen opened the door and saw Qiao Wei, who was beyond recognition. He looked at Qiao Jinniang, who had her hair in a bun and her hairpin nted. He did not expect this youngdy to be so hot-tempered at the age of fifteen.
Being a son-inw had already lost the rigidity of a man. He could not bear to marry such a hot-tempered and Willful Tigress.
Lu Chen thought that he should go to Father Qiao now and exin to him that he would repay the favor of saving his life. Even if he could not marry Qiao Jinniang, he would protect Qiao Jinniang.
But at this time, he heard the sound of a woman crying from the opposite room.
He entered and saw Qiao Jinniang sitting pitifully on the doorsill. She saw that he had a pair of bright deer eyes with tears in them. She was clearly crying, but Lu Chen could not see a trace of ugliness.
The Beautys tears were heartbreaking.
Lu Chen handed a handkerchief to Qiao Jinniang. You were clearly the one who beat her up, but youre still crying?
Qiao jinniang whimpered, He cursed my parents, but if I really cant find a husband to marry into my family, perhaps this hundred savory restaurant will really be given to him in the future. Im not convinced!
Whimpered...
Lu Chen squatted down and looked at Qiao Jinniang. Who said I cant find a husband to marry into my family? Dont Cry.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Chen and sniffled. Are you really willing to marry into my family?
Yes, Dont Cry, you poor thing.
Qiao Jinniang wiped her tears with a handkerchief and turned her tears into a smile. Im not a poor thing, youre the poor thing. You Dont even remember your parents!
Lu Chen said, If you say so, Ive changed my mind!
Qiao Jinniang quickly grabbed Lu Chens sleeve and said, Dont. You said you would marry into the family. You Cant go back on your word.
..
After father Qiao heard Lu Chens reply, he was extremely happy. He was afraid that he and mother Qiao wouldnt be able to hold on for long, and he was also afraid that the Qiao family would cause trouble, so the wedding date was set in a hurry.
Ever since they were seriously ill, they had not even held a wedding banquet for Qiao Jinniang.
Even when marrying into a family, they had to follow the six rites. However, the six rites had toe in a hurry. The day of the wedding was the same day as Qiao Jinniangs wedding.
The clothes that Lu Chen was wearing at the beginning, Qiao Jinniang was afraid that she might be infected by the poisonous gas in the water, so she had thrown them away long ago. Fortunately, he still had a jade pendant that was not of such a good quality.
This jade pendant made Lu Chen certain that he was not from a wealthy family. After all, this jade pendant could only be used as five silver coins.
It could only be used to buy a silver hairpin.
On the day of Qiao Jinniangs marriageable birthday, all the good sisters in the neighborhood came to celebrate.
Lu Chen saw the exquisite jade hairpin that Qiao Jinniangs parents had prepared for her.
Mother Qiao said, This jade hairpin was given to me by the old madam when mother was working in marquis an Yuans estate. This was the hairpin that the old madam had brought when she was marriageable.
Upon hearing the words marquis an yuan, something shed through Lu Chens mind. It was extremely quick, but he could not grasp anything.
After the banquet, Lu Chen went to Qiao Jinniangs room and ced the silver hairpin in her hands. Here, its a marriageable gift for you.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Thank you, brother Chen.
Lu Chen listened to her sweetly call him brother Chen and smiled. Shall I put it on you?
Qiao Jinniang gave the silver hairpin to Lu Chen, and Lu Chen gave the hairpin to Qiao Jinniang. It looks good.
Of course I look good.
Lu Chen: Im talking about the hairpin!
Qiao Jinniang closed the door, her shy face burning up.
..
In the Xie family of Jiangnan, Lan Xin walked up to Xie Yun and said, Master, master, that little shopkeeper of the Hundred Savory restaurant is getting married. I saw her future husband at her birthday celebration today, and he looks even better than you!
Chapter 382
Chapter 382: Chapter 382: Lu Chen in the bridal sedan chair
Xie Yun took out the portrait of Qiao Jinniang that she had drawn when she was young. At that time, Qiao Jinniang was just a young little sister.
Now, it was time for her to get married.
Xie Yun could not tell what she felt in her heart. She only felt that a piece of her heart was missing. Not to mention that Qiao Jinniang was not suitable for the struggle for power in the aristocratic families, the Xie family was like a den of wolves and tigers for Qiao Jinniang.
..
In the Qiao familys small courtyard, Qiao Jinniang had written quite a number of invitations. The neighbors had all agreed to it, but her ssmates who had been with her for ten years had all epted the invitations and had not replied to them.
Qiao Jinniang was rather depressed. They had not seen each other for more than half a year, so why was she not willing toe on the day of her wedding?
Sticky Rice was grinding for Qiao Jinniang at the side, Master, youve invited so many people. Arent you going to invite Miss Xie Yun?
Qiao Jinniang Thought for a moment and said, Yes, Ive actually forgotten about her. Its the beginning of the New Year Tomorrow. Ill send her some pastries and personally hand her the wedding invitation.
The next morning, the sun was shining brightly.
Qiao Jinniang entered the Xie residence and saw a beauty enjoying the shade under a tree. She held a bamboo scroll in her hand, looking as otherworldly as in an ancient painting. In front of such a peerless beauty, Qiao Jinniang could only feel ashamed of her inferiority.
Miss Xie, this is a pastry for you. In two days, it will be my wedding day. The Hundred Savory restaurant will be closed for five days to hold the wedding. From the third to the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, they will hold a flowing water banquet in the Hundred Savory Restaurant. I hope Miss Xie will spare some time to attend the banquet.
Xie Yun looked at the pastry that Qiao Jinniang brought over. The pastry in the Hundred Savory restaurant was one of the best in Jiangnan. He slowly asked, Where did your son-inwe from?
Qiao jinniang said honestly, He was rescued on the way. He should be a flood victim from Huizhou who was washed down by the flood.
Xie Yun frowned slightly and said, So its a man of unknown origin. You actually want a man of unknown origin to marry into your family? Arent you afraid that his character is not good?
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, He is very good-looking. I have never seen such a handsome man. More importantly, I have no other choice.
Qiao Jinniang had loved reading books since she was twelve years old. The stories of schrs and beauties falling in love in the books were very moving. She had heard Liang Zhus story countless times since she was young and could not get tired of hearing it.
She also yearned for a man who shared the same mind and loved each other. However, for the sake of the Hundred Savory restaurant, she could not wait any longer.
After Qiao Jinniang left, Xie Yun ordered her subordinates to investigate Lu Chens background. She found out that Lu Chens background was really unknown. There was a vast sea of people, and his sudden appearance in Jiangnan really could not find anything.
Lan Xin advised Xie Yun, Master, you like the little shopkeeper of the Hundred Savory restaurant so much. Are you really going to watch her marry a man who has nothing? That man doesnt even remember the past!
Xie Yun slowly said, Now the second and third uncle are eyeing my big house covetously.
Lan Xin said, Then you can also secretly raise the little shopkeeper of the Qiao family outside. When the timees, you can marry her. With the Xie family protecting her, she will definitely be able to protect the hundred savory restaurant. You Dont have to be in a hurry to marry a man of unknown origin!
Xie Yun frowned and said, Youre talking too much.
Lan Xin sighed helplessly. Little shopkeeper Qiao is really pitiful!
Xie Yun closed the book impatiently. He could not marry Qiao Jinniang. Why not let Qiao Jinniang find a husband for her to marry into!
At that time, he could also help Qiao Jinniangs husband and protect Qiao Jinniang for the rest of her life.
..
With the wedding imminent, Bai Wei building was extremely busy.
The day before the wedding, a good neighbor sister came to help Qiao Jinniang with her makeup.
Qiao Jinniang heard the gossip from tofu elder Zhangs daughter in the room. It turned out that a son-inw in Lin an city had abandoned his wife after he had gained the family business power. He had taken in concubines and killed his first wife, then, he made a fool out of his first wifes son.
When Qiao Jinniang heard this, she was so scared that her face turned pale.
Miss Zhang said in a low voice, When you get married tomorrow, you have to suppress that man. Otherwise, when he sees that you and your family are not helping you, and your parents are seriously ill, how can he bully you and humiliate you?
It cant be. Its said that looks are born from the heart. Lu Chen is so good-looking.
Miss Zhang nodded Qiao Jinniangs head. Youve always liked good-looking things since you were young. Its important to know that one can not tell the heart from the face. Its difficult to paint the bone and paint the skin.
This Hundred Savory restaurant can earn a thousand taels of silver a year. Which one wouldnt think of greed? Youve only known this man for how long? How do you know hes not this kind of person?
Qiao Jinniang felt that Miss Zhangs words made sense. She hurriedly held onto Zhang Jinniangs sisters hand and said, Then what should we do? I dont want to be killed by that time. My Son, who is implicated, will also be made stupid.
Zhangs sister said, When you get married tomorrow, give that son-inw a hard blow. Force him to make the bridal sedan chair and diamond skirt. Hang the skirt on the door and let him walk under your skirt. At night, when you get married, let him wash your feet.
On the first day of marriage, you were so tough. If you suppress him, he will listen to you in the future.
Qiao jinniang said slightly, Isnt that not good?
Whats not good? If he cant marry you, he wont even have a ce to go. You are the little shopkeeper of the Hundred Savory restaurant, but you have to marry him to inherit the family business. If you dont suppress him, he will definitely climb up to you in the future.
After Qiao Jinniang heard Zhang Jijies words, she didnt want to be suppressed by Lu Chen in the future, so she began to n for tomorrows matter.
On the night before the wedding, mother Qiao came over with a pale face and talked to Qiao Jinniang about how to get along with husband and wife. She even gave Qiao Jinniang a fire-proof diagram,
Jinniang, mother really doesnt want you to have a child so early, but I hope you can have a child soon. This way, when your father and I arent around, youll still have a blood-rted rtionship.
Qiao jinniang bowed and replied, Yes, mother.
Mother Qiao hugged Qiao Jinniang reluctantly and said, Unknowingly, My Jinniang is going to have a family and set up a business.
Qiao Jinniang also hugged mother Qiao and snuggled into mother Qiaos arms, unwilling to leave for a long time.
The next morning, before dawn, Lu Chen was called out by a matchmaker in the small courtyard of the Hundred Savory restaurant. By the time the sun rose, he had already changed into Yun Jins clothes.
Yun Jin was warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When it was worn by Lu Chen, it looked even more elegant.
Matchmaker Wang stared at the handsome young man in such a way. She wished that she was ten years younger than him and would snatch this husband away from Qiao Jin today.
Lu Chen said to the matchmaker, Isnt the wedding ceremony at dusk?
Matchmaker Wang said, The young master of the Hundred Savory restaurant in Lin an is very happy, so he naturally has to go around the city. The bridal sedan has already been prepared for you. Please get on the bridal sedan!
When Lu Chen heard this, he asked in confusion, Shouldnt it be Lady Qiao Jin who gets on the bridal sedan? How did it be me who gets on the bridal sedan?
Matchmaker Wang waved the handkerchief with a smile and said, This bride-to-be is naturally a woman sitting in the bridal sedan. As a son-inw, of course its a man sitting in the bridal sedan!
Chapter 383
Chapter 383: Chapter 383, the bridal chamber in Lin an
It was hard for Lu Chen to suffer such injustice.
Just as he was about to say that he would not marry into the brides family, he saw Lady Qiao Jining out in the brides dress. She was wearing a little makeup and bright red lipstick today. She was truly a peerless beauty in the world.
Forget it, lets sit in the bridal sedan chair.
Lady Qiao did not know how to ride a horse. She wore such a beautiful brides wedding dress with a flower crown on her head. She could not ride a horse, so she ordered someone to carry the bridal sedan chair into the river and circle around Lin an city in the river.
The people on both sides of the river saw the bridal sedan and immediately began to discuss.
Why is the bridegroom sitting in the bridal sedan while the bride is standing at the bow of the boat?
You must be from another city, right? This is the wedding of the little shopkeeper of the Hundred Savory restaurant. Her husband was married into the Qiao family, so the bridegroom made the bridal sedan. TSK TSK, this pair is really a perfect match!
Yes, yes, these two peoples looks are really beautiful.
Everyone praised the bridegroom and the brides good looks one after another. After circling around, it was almost quarter past midnight, and the auspicious time had arrived. Everyone got off the wedding boat, and Lu Chen was also carried by the bridal sedan chair to the door of the Qiao family.
At the door of the Qiao family, Lu Chen had just gotten off the bridal sedan chair when he saw a dress of Qiao Jinniang tied to the door.
The dress was hanging in the middle of the doorsill. It was obvious that she wanted Lu Chen to pass under the dress.
Lu Chen asked Lady Qiao in a low voice, What does this dress mean?
Lady Qiao smiled and said, Since you are my son-inw, you naturally have to be my subordinate.
Lu Chen really wanted to leave. How could he, a seven-foot-tall man, endure such an insult?
His mother, the childs mother.
Father Qiao hurriedly supported mother Qiao, who was about to fall down. Today, Father Qiao and mother Qiao were dressed in bright colors, but they could not hide the paleness of their faces. Mother Qiaos face was extremely pale, and she could not help but cough.
Lu Chen was really afraid that if he left at this time and caused the Qiao family to lose face, mother Qiao would lose her life on the spot. Forget it, he would just endure this pain. After the guests hadpletely dispersed, he would definitely leave the Qiao residence immediately.
He was a good man, so he would not be insulted like this.
After the ceremony, the two of them entered the bridal chamber. Matchmaker Wang let them drink the wedding wine, cut off their hair, tied a knot, and put it into the red cloth.
When matchmaker Wang left, it was still very bright on a summer day.
Qiao Jinniang took off her shoes and socks and ced a pair of jade-like feet in front of Lu Chen, her toes, which were smeared with red flower juice, moved slightly and said, In the future, you will be my husband and I will be your wife. You have to help me wash my feet!
Lu Chen frowned and asked Qiao jinniang, Are you serious?
Glutinous rice came in with a basin of foot washing water, ced it in front of Qiao Jinniang, and then went out again.
Lu Chen said angrily, Qiao Jinniang! Thats enough! It was your Qiao family who forced me to marry into your family. I only agreed to marry into your Qiao family because you were really pitiful and helped you solve your urgent problems. You are really good, humiliating me again and again today!
I originally thought that after today, I would wait for the guests to disperse tomorrow before leaving. However, I dont want to stay in your Qiao family for even a quarter of an hour.
Youve gone too far! Wheres the paper and Pen? Well sign the Divorce Papers Now!
Just as Lu Chen could not find the paper and pen and was about to turn around and leave, he heard a sobbing sounding from behind him.
Tears kept falling from Qiao Jinniangs eyes. The tears were like jade beads that fell on Yun Jin, causing a water stain to appear.
Qiao jinniang said softly, I did this because I didnt want you to murder me in the future and make our son look silly. Why was I not born a man? Why did I have to be a woman?
Lu Chen stopped in his tracks and asked, What do you mean by murder you in the future?
Qiao jinniang sniffed and said, Sister Zhang said that there was an official with the surname he in Huzhou. He married into his cousins family in the early years and eventually seized the family property of his cousin. After that, he killed his wife.
The official he even made his son, who had the surname of his wife, stupid. Later on, he took three concubines and gave all the family property to the son of the concubine.
I was afraid that you would do the same to me. Thats why I wanted topletely make you lose face today.
Qiao Jinniang used a handkerchief to wipe away her tears, but she still couldnt help but cry. Youre angry. Cant I apologize to you?
Its fine if you want to divorce me, but please give me a child. and wait for my parents to go before you leave.
My parents cant afford to lose such a person. Those people in the n willugh at my parents to death. They will definitely use this to force my parents to acknowledge an heir.
Qiao Jinniang sobbed as she spoke.
Lu Chen saw her in a red wedding dress with tears streaming down her face, and he couldnt bear it anymore. After hearing the reason she mentioned.., he went over and said, Okay, Dont cry. I Wont leave today. Ill give you a child.
Qiao Jinniang wiped her tears away. The room that was covered with the word Happinesssuddenly became very quiet. The dragon and Phoenix happiness candles were burning brightly.
The sky outside gradually darkened.
Qiao Jinniangs face gradually turned red. Lu Chen sat beside Qiao Jinniang and nced at her. Last night, Father Qiao gave him a fire-proof diagram. Thinking about it now, Lu Chens face also turned red.
The room was so quiet that only the sound of their breathing could be heard.
Just as Qiao Jinniang was trying to embolden herself to be the wifes master, Lu Chens hand touched hers.
Gradually, Lu Chen was getting closer and closer to her.
Qiao Jinniangs heart was beating rapidly. When she was about to speak, her red lips were pressed against her warm lips..
As their fingers interlocked, Qiao Jinniang saw the two hundred taels of her wedding dress fall into the basin of water in front of the bed. The wedding dress was not allowed to touch the water. It waspletely broken.
Her heart ached, and she felt the pain of her life. She Bit Lu Chens shoulder.
Lu Chen took a deep breath. After a while, Lady Qiao and Lu Chen Sat by the bed, staring at each other.
I heard from sister Zhang yesterday that this matter willst for at least fifteen minutes. Have you not fully recovered yet?
Lu Chen frowned. Although he had never experienced this before, he vaguely felt that there was something wrong with his body.
Feeling guilty, Lu Chen washed Qiao Jinniangs feet. When he washed her feet, he felt his body heat up when he looked at her jade-like little toes.
When the curtain of the bed hung down, Qiao Jinniang said, Brother Chen, you...
Behind her, Qiao Jinniang couldnt even finish her sentence. She could only let out a broken whimper..
Qiao Jinniang didnt know when she fell asleep.
Lu Chen saw Qiao Jinniangs sleeping face and looked at the womans Fair and tender face. He didnt think that he would change his mind so soon. He thought that he would never be able to leave Qiao Jinniang in this lifetime.
From now on, she was his woman.
That call of brother Chen was the most pleasant voice he had ever heard.
..
The next morning, when Qiao Jinniang woke up, she felt ufortable.
When she opened her eyes, she found herself in someones arms. She almost did not realize that she was already married.
She raised her head and coincidentally met Lu Chens eyes. She said sweetly, Good morning, brother Chen.
When Lu Chen heard that, his eyes darkened. Seeing that Qiao Jinniang looked even more charming than yesterday, he lowered the curtain of the bed again..
Today, Bai Wei restaurant was still hosting guests, so Qiao Jinniang didnt have to get up early to manage Bai Wei restaurant..
Chapter 384
Chapter 384: Chapter 3840, pregnant
Newly married, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen were inseparable. No matter where they went, they would stick together.
Father Qiao and mother Qiao were very pleased, father Qiao said to mother Qiao, Ahem, I told you that I have good taste. Lu Chen is a reliable and capable child. Look at how good he is at ounting and managing restaurants. You and I can rest assured.
Yes,mother Qiao replied.
When it was mid-autumn, Father Qiao and mother Qiao were really bedridden. Qiao Jinniang was suffering every day.
Lu Chen saw that Qiao Jinniang was suffering, so he went to do business with some merchants from Japan and Changbai Mountains. After helping them earn a lot of money, the Japanese foreign merchant sold two thousand-year-old ginseng to Lu Chen.
With the thousand-year-old ginseng, father Qiao and mother Qiao were just hanging on by a thread.
Qiao Jinniang was reluctant to let them go. No matter how precious the thousand-year-old ginseng was, she was not stingy in wanting her parents to live on.
In the twelfth lunar month, Qiao Jinniangs appetite was not very good. At this moment, her parents were both sick in bed, so she could only cook dried chicken, dried duck, and other dried goods herself. She just prayed that her parents would be able to live through the New Year.
At the end of the twelfth lunar month, Qiao Jinniang could not stop vomiting.
Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang worriedly, Whats wrong? Are you tired from cooking those dried goods? Why Dont you let the chefs in the restaurant do it?
Qiao jinniang said, No, they cant make the taste of my father. The neighbors love to eat my fathers dried goods.
Lu Chen said anxiously, Yourplexion is already so bad, and mother cant even speak. if she sees yourplexion, she wont be able to walk steadily. Ill find a doctor to take a look at you. If youre tired, you wont be able to rest anymore!
After the doctor arrived, he checked Qiao Jinniangs pulse and said, Congrattions, little shopkeeper. Congrattions, little shopkeeper. Youre pregnant!
Im Pregnant?Qiao Jinniang was overjoyed.
Lu Chen curved his lips into a smile and picked up Qiao Jinniang. We have a child!
Qiao Jinniang had asked glutinous rice to pay the doctor a lot of money. She was really looking forward to having a child.
After hearing the news, Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen held hands and went to their parentsroom.
Mother Qiao had aged a lot these days. Qiao Jinniang walked to mother Qiaos bedside and knelt down. Mother, the Doctor said that Im pregnant. Im Pregnant!
Mother Qiao had been unable to speak for a long time, but now she was saying Good Morninga few times. It was obvious that her spirits had improved a lot. Trembling, she took out two small silver bracelets from her bosom.
These are the ones I left for my little grandson. Jinniang, Im sorry. Mother may not be able tost through the new year with you. Lu Chen, take good care of my daughter. Otherwise, I wont let you off even if I be a ghost!
When Qiao Jinniang took the silver bracelet, she saw mother Qiaos hand hanging down. She knelt on the ground and repeatedly shouted, Mother!
Lu Chen knelt beside her.
This new year was the most difficult for Qiao Jinniang. Not long after mother passed away, her father passed away as well.
During the New Year, when other peoples families were busy with the new year, Qiao Jinniang was busy dealing with the funeral.
Even though she had already prepared herself mentally for her parents to leave, she still felt like a bolt from the blue after this incident.
When it came to the Shangyuan Festival, the entire Lin an city was bustling with activity. However, Lady Qiao Jin stayed in the small courtyard of the Qiao family, unwilling to leave her parentshouse.
Lu Chen stood beside Lady Qiao Jin and said, Jin er, the dead should rest in peace. Moreover, you are pregnant. Father and mother definitely dont want you to be so sad.
Qiao Jinniang wiped her tears with her hand and said, Lu Chen, do you remember what we said on our wedding night? You wanted to separate then.
Father and mother have passed away, and I have a child. Why dont we go to the government office tomorrow to separate...
Lu Chen covered Qiao Jinniangs mouth with his hand. What nonsense are you talking about? Who said we wanted to separate? Your child hasnt even been born yet, and you want to separate with me?
Even if you want to chase me away, I Wont leave!
Ill take you outside to see the night scenery of the upper Yuan dynasty in Lin an city. Dont let your imagination run wild.
Qiao Jinniang finally revealed a smile. Then we wont separate, okay?
Lu Chen said, We definitely wont separate.
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang shook hands and went to the Golden Ox Lake in Lin an. The willow trees by the Golden Ox Lake were all hung withnterns. Today, the bright moon shone brightly, making the golden oxke water gurgle.
Lu Chen followed Qiao Jinniang to a riverbank and sat down. The moonlight today is really beautiful.
Qiao jinniang said, In the past, my parents would always bring me out to y during the festival. The restaurants would also close early so that people coulde to the streets to y. This year, the festival seems to be much more depressed.
Lu Chen said, I heard that the Crown Prince of Chang an has gone missing in disaster relief. How could jiangnan officials still dare to organize the festival in such a grand manner?
Many people lost their families because of the flood in Huizhou. Have you ever thought that maybe your parents are still alive? Do you want to go back to Huizhou to look for your parents?
Lu Chen said, Im very unfamiliar with the terms of parents. Maybe its because I didnt have parents before. My Life is pretty good now. Ill stay in the Hundred Savory restaurant peacefully and wait for our child toe out.
Do you think our child is a boy or a girl?
Lu Chen took out a copper coin and said, You throw the copper coin. If its the front, its the son. If its the back, its the daughter.
Qiao Jinniang threw the copper coin high up, but it identally rolled onto the road. Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen repeatedly went to pick up the copper coin.
Xie Yun, who wasing over from the opposite side, had already picked up the copper coin and handed it to Qiao Jinniang. Little Jin er, long time no see.
Lu Chen saw a woman about his height. He was considered tall among men, but this woman was actually only one head shorter than him. She looked beautiful, but she exuded a demonic aura. She was not as beautiful as the Jinniang.
Qiao jinniang said happily, Miss Xie, Im surprised to see you here today. This is my husband, Lu Chen.
Young master Lu.
Lu Chen cupped his hands in return. Miss Xie.
Their eyes met. Xie Yun sized up Lu Chens extraordinary bearing. It would not be an exaggeration to say that his bearing was that of a prince and noble in Chang an. No wonder the Qiao family was willing to let him, who came from an unknown background, be the Jinniangs son-inw.
Qiao Jinniang said to Xie Yun, Are you only bringing your handmaidens out? Why Dont youe with us!
Okay,Xie Yun replied dotingly.
This tone made Lu Chen rather unhappy. He said to Qiao jinniang, Quickly see if its heads or tails. Is it a son or a daughter?
Xie Yun said with some surprise, Little Jin er is pregnant?
Qiao jinniang replied, Yes, shes pregnant.
She looked at the copper coin in her hand and said, Its heads. Its a son.
Lu Chen felt that it was a pity. It would be even better if it were a daughter.
Qiao jinniang said, I think its better if the first child is a son and a younger sister. This way, if the younger sister wants to go out and y, she can have an older brother to protect her. Who knows, we might have a second daughter soon!
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and smiled.
Xie Yun actually felt that Lu Chens smile was a little provocative towards him. He was just a youth with an unknown background!
Chapter 385
Chapter 385: Chapter 341, business plummeted
From Afar, Qiao Jinniang saw a rabbitntern hanging outside a shop. The appearance of the rabbitntern was extremely cute.
She pulled Lu Chens hand and said, Lets go there.
The rabbitntern was only hung out to attract customers. Many tourists came and went, asking how thentern should be sold, but the shopkeeper said that he shook his head and did not sell it.
However, when a new restaurant opened, the diners who entered would give this exquisite rabbitntern.
Most of the people who came out to tour thentern festival had already eaten at home, but this rabbitntern was really exquisite. Some people walked around it and were a little hungry. Seeing that thentern was really beautiful, they entered.
This ce was only two miles away from hundred savory restaurant. Opening a restaurant here might affect hundred savory restaurants business.
However, Qiao Jinniang was not afraid. There were so many restaurants in Lin an, and hundred savory restaurants business had been booming over the past 16 years. Naturally, there was no need to be afraid of the newly opened restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen, Xie Yun, and a few others entered.
The waiter came forward and asked, Dear guests, what would you like to order?? The restaurants signature side dishes were dry-fried bell, braised spring bamboo shoots, fish ball soup, fish in oil tofu vinegar, crab stuffed orange, preserved chicken, preserved duck, preserved white goose, and so on. What would you like to order?
Qiao Jinniang heard that although these dishes were the local dishes of Lin an, they were also the signature dishes of Bai Wei restaurant.
With the intention of exchanging cooking skills with each other, Qiao Jinniang had people serve their signature dishes.
Lu Chen loved eating fish balls. He tasted a fish ball and said, This three-dish soup tastes exactly the same as the fish balls of Bai Wei restaurant.
Lan Xin also picked up a fish ball for Xie Yun and ced it in the bowl in front of Xie Yun. Xie Yun tasted it and said, This skill is almost as good as manager Qiaos.
After a few signature dishes were served one by one, Qiao Jinniang also tasted them and felt that the taste was very familiar.
The same dishes were made with the same ingredients and different chefs made different tastes. The cooking skills of the chefs of the Hundred Savory restaurant were very different from those of the chefs of other restaurants, but this taste was clearly the taste of the Hundred Savory restaurant.
Qiao Jinniangs expression became uglier and uglier. There was no one else besides him who could cook like this.
Qiao Jinniang said to Lu Chen, I want to go back.
Lu Chen nodded and took Qiao Jinniangs hand, giving the waiter three taels of silver. Miss Xie, Jin er and I will take our leave first.
However, before the two of them could walk out of the door, a woman who was six or seven months pregnant rushed forward and returned three taels of silver to Qiao Jinniang, Jinniang, Im really sorry. Its enough that you cane to my restaurant for a meal. I dont need this silver!
When glutinous rice saw this person, she said angrily, Mu Liuliu, how can you have the nerve to return to Lin an? Back then, master Qiao kindly took in your cousins and gave them the ability to look after the house. He regarded them as his beloved disciples.
However, when master was seriously ill, you slipped away, causing miss to have no choice but to leave the academy to take charge of the kitchen in the restaurant!
Mu Liuliu said guiltily, Sister Jin, I know we have let you down, but Feng Lang and I are truly in love. I know that your Qiao family has saved Feng Lang and me, and we will repay you well in the future.
Qiao Jinniang felt extremely disgusted. Lu Chen, lets Go!
After Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang returned to the Qiao familys small courtyard, they saw that Qiao Jinniang was still puffing her cheeks, so they poked her cheeks with their hands. Do you know that you are now very much like the puffed-up little goldfish in the lotus pond outside?
Qiao Jinniang shook off Lu Chens hands and rested her cheeks on her hands. The person who gave us the silver just now came to Lin an with her younger brother six years ago when they were cornered.
My parents saw that they were lonely, so they left them to do odd jobs. Her younger brother, Feng Jie, was a man who loved to make progress. He always sneaked into the kitchen to watch the cooks cook and also wanted to be a cook.
Later, when my father saw that he liked cooking so much, he passed on everything he had learned in his life to him.
At that time, I didnt know that when my father passed on his cooking skills to him, he mentioned that if he didnt have a younger brother by the time I got married in the future, he would marry into the Qiao family
Until two years ago, when my father suddenly fell ill and couldnt go to the kitchen anymore, he mentioned the matter of marrying into the family to Feng Jie. However, Feng Jie took his cousin to Yangzhou overnight. I heard that they got married in Yangzhou...
Qiao jinniang said angrily, At that time, he said in some restaurants in Yangzhou that I forced him to marry in, but he and his cousin fell in love and escaped from Lin an.
Yang Jies small eyes were like green beans. I still hated him. I only found out about my fathers intention after he ran away. If I had known earlier, I would have helped him and his cousin!
Lu Chen gave Qiao Jinniang a cup of hot water and said, Alright, be good. Dont be angry. Now that you and I are married and we have a child, why bother with them?
Qiao jinniang said, If he had told the truth and said that he was having an affair with his cousin, my parents might have helped them arrange the marriage. My father really likes this disciple of his..
After Feng Jie escaped, my fathers body was a lot weaker. There was a chef in the restaurant. At that time, Old Yang injured his hand. I had no choice but toe back from the academy to take charge of the kitchen. They are simply ungrateful!!
Now, the restaurant is located two miles away from our hundred savory restaurant. They are obviously here to snatch business from our hundred savory restaurant. Its extremely disgusting!
They keep saying that they feel guilty. If they really feel guilty, why would they open the restaurant not far from Our Hundred Savory Restaurant?
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, The heavens have eyes. The neighbors are also reasonable. The business will not be stolen. Dont worry.
Qiao Jinniang let out a breath of turbid air under Lu Chensfort. She leaned on Lu Chens shoulder and said, Father and mother just died not long ago, and they came back. This behavior is really disgusting.
Lu Chen said, Its okay. They are so ungrateful. They will surely die if they do more ungrateful things.
However, a few dayster, Qiao Jinniang found that the business of Hundred Savory restaurant was not as good as before. There were even rumors in the neighborhood that after Father Qiao passed away, the taste of Hundred Savory restaurant was no longer as good as before.
As for the newly opened Feng family restaurant, the chef was Father Qiaos eldest disciple, Feng Jie. Only then did he have father Qiaos original skills.
When Feng Jie left that year, Father Qiao and mother Qiao gave him some face. They did not speak ill of Feng Jies ingratitude in the neighborhood.
Fennel brought in the rumors from outside and said to Qiao jinniang, That Feng Jie and Mu are simply Shameless!
Today, Mu Liuliu is still telling the neighbors that you kept asking Feng Jie to marry into the family. Feng Jie was a good man who did not want to marry into the family, so he was chased away by the Hundred Savory Restaurant!
Look, is that what youre saying?
Lu Chen red at fennel and said to Qiao jinniang, Dont be angry. The child in your stomach is more important.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the depressed restaurant. It was much worse than when her parents were there. She could not help but feel a little discouraged. I also said that I wanted to promote the Hundred Savory restaurant, but as soon as my parents left, the business plummeted...
Chapter 386
Chapter 386: Chapter 386, making money
Lu Chen hugged Qiao Jinniang in his arms and asked fennel, Just based on this rumor, the original guests wouldnt have all gone to the Feng family restaurant.
Fennel sighed and said, The Feng family restaurant said that within half a year after the new restaurant opens, the drinks will be free of charge. Every order will be given a free meal. No ones money is earned by the strong wind. Naturally, they will go wherever it is cheap.
Old Yang sighed and said to Qiao jinniang, Young Master, why dont we also waive the drinks and free the food?
Lu Chen said, Its not appropriate. There are still some businesses in the Hundred Savory restaurant that are treated by the wealthy merchants outside the government. There are also officials whoe to eat at noon. Its not appropriate for them toe to eat. Its not appropriate to waive the drinks and free the food.
I think its better for us to give up on doing business in the neighborhood and focus on doing business with those wealthy families..
That Feng family restaurant tastes the same as our restaurant. He used the signboard of not paying for the drinks and delivering the dishes for half a year. Hes deliberately trying to steal the business of the restaurant..
If we follow in with such preferential treatment, even if the customers have returned, it would still be a huge loss if we dont earn money for half a year..
We are all family, and we wont hide it from you. Just the chefs, waiters, and maids in the private rooms of the hundred-taste restaurant would need more than fifty silver for a months sry.
Originally, if business is good and we earn a lot of silver, it would be fine. But if we lose money for half a year and give the profits to the neighbors, we would lose at least three hundred silver. Thats not even including taxes. The silver that we usually give to the government... And the fees for the pots and pans...
Fennel and the others said, If hundred savory restaurant really doesnt make money, we dont need sries, as long as we have food to eat.
Qiao Jinniang sat in the main seat in the lobby, Husband is right. If the drinks are all free and the dishes are bought one for one, we will suffer a heavy loss in a month. The cost must not be reduced. In this way, we wont earn a single cent and will have to pay a lot of silver..
Its about time for Bai Wei restaurant to change. From tomorrow onwards, the ingredients we use will be the best in Lin an city. The price of our dishes will be at least twice that of other restaurants.
BA jiao asked, Then wont there be no familiar neighbors in the future?
Qiao jinniang said, If those familiar neighborse to eat again, give them a discount. Uncle Yang, when you go to Yue Yao, tell master Li that I want their set of high-quality cdon and ask him to make fifteen more sets.
Lu Chen said, Not only do the ingredients and utensils have to be changed, but also the singing girls and so on. Its best to go to Yangzhou and invite a few famous singing girls over. Its also good to make a name for yourself.
Qiao Jinniang reached out and pulled Lu Chens ear. Okay, so thats what youre Thinking?
Lu Chen covered Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, How would I dare? I just think that if you dont make a name for yourself, those rich businessmen whoe to discuss business and see the rising prices of the dishes will not think that the ingredients are better, but will only think that they are too expensive.
If we use famous singers, famous tea leaves, and famous yellow wine as precious ingredients, only then can those rich businessmen and noble familiese one after another.
Qiao Jinniang Thought for a moment and said, Then Ill send someone to invite a few singers over.
Lu Chen said, Also, the tea leaves are also the most important. The price of the first tea of Longjing every year is very high. I heard that the manor head of the Tea Mountain by the Golden Bull Lake is selling the tea mountain recently. Why dont We Go and take it? When the timees, the tea before the Ming dynasty and before the rain will all be used as signboards in the Hundred Savory Restaurant.
Qiao Jinniang Thought for a while and said, If we want to buy that Tea Mountain, the price must be quite high.
Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, But its worth it. I made about two hundred taels of silver from doing business with the Japanese merchants. Ill let you buy that Tea Mountain. Is that okay?
Qiao Jinniang Thought for a while and also felt that Lu Chens suggestion was not bad. It was only a matter of time before the Tea Mountain earned money.
In another two or three months, the price of the first-time tea would be very high.
By March, Qiao Jinniangs stomach was already showing. She and Lu Chen went to the tea mountain by the Golden Ox Lake to pick tea leaves for the first time. When she was young, Qiao Jinniang watched others pick tea leaves.
Lu Chen not only picked tea leaves, but he also had to protect the safety of Qiao Jinniangs feet. It was always raining in the early spring of Jiangnan.
The first batch of Longjing was rarely seen on the market, and the newly-listed Longjing was already in the hundred savory restaurant. Many wealthy businessmen who were entertaining their rtives or business owners from other ces loved to dine at the Hundred Savory Restaurant.
Some even specially came to the Hundred Savory restaurant to collect money and return home.
In April, Lu Chen asked Qiao Jinniang for five hundred taels of silver and said that he wanted to do business. Qiao Jinniang did not know what business he was going to do, but when she heard that he was working with Xie Yun, she generously gave Lu Chen the silver.
Lu Chen remembered every payment clearly.
In June, Qiao Jinniang used a Yue kilns porcin te to hold some refreshments to cool off the heat. All of a sudden, she became popr among all the youngdies in Lin an. For a time, it could be said that it was not an exaggeration to earn money every day.
On this day, Qiao Jinniang watched Lu Chen do the ounting in the Hundred Savory restaurant. She leaned on Lu Chens shoulder and said generously, Brother Chen, youre really amazing. Youve earned back the capital in one go.
Lu Chen said, Its all thanks to Xie Yuns help. He treats you quite well.
Qiao jinniang said, Sister Xie is pretty good, but you cant call her by her name.
Little vinegar.Lu Chen scratched Qiao Jinniangs nose. When they first met, he already knew that Xie Yun should be a man. Only Qiao Jinniang was dumb enough not to know.
With Xie Yun as his backer, Lu Chen was indeed making a lot of money.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the final bnce of silver, then at the banknotes beside her, and said in astonishment, Is this silver really ours? How can there be so much silver?
Qiao Jinniang looked at the banknotes of one hundred taels of silver one after another, so shocked that she could not even close her mouth.
Lu Chen found her money-grubber expression very funny, In the future, we will have more and more silver taels. Our child is about to be born, so we have to give him the best of everything. If you love to wear brocade, you have to wear brocade every day in the future.
Qiao Jinniang wrapped her arms around Lu Chens neck and kissed him on the side of his face. Brother Chen, you are so nice!
Lu Chens eyes darkened slightly. He looked at Qiao Jinniangs pregnant belly and could only sigh helplessly. Jin er, should we change to a bigger house?
Lady Qiao said, No need. I like the small courtyard that I grew up in. That courtyard is big enough for four or five of us to live in!
Lu Chen smiled faintly. Alright, Ill listen to you. But I have a vague feeling that this house is much smaller than what I remember.
You Remember Now?Lady Qiao asked. In fact, she was a little afraid that Lu Chen would remember the past. In just six months, she knew how capable Lu Chen was.
Although it was good to have Xie Yun as a backer, if Lu Chen did not have the ability, he would not have been able to earn back so much silver.
He had opened so many shops, but none of them were at a loss. Tea Mountain had even earned back its capital in two months. He had also earned quite a lot from doing business with those foreign businessmen.
Such a capable Langjun was definitely not just a pond in the past.
Lu Chen shook his head. I havent remembered.
Chapter 387
Chapter 387: Chapter 387, the Lantern Festival falls into the water
Qiao Jinniang was about to give birth. Usually, she would only go to the restaurant for a stroll before returning. She was supposed to give birth on the first day of August, but the child refused toe out.
It was not until August 15th, which happened to be the mid-autumn Festival, that she gave birth to a son.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chenchu were father and mother. They were still young, so they were somewhat cramped.
Qiao Jinniang was not a person who believed in ghosts and gods, but when it came to naming her child, she had no choice but to believe in ghosts and gods. She invited a fortune-teller to read the childs name.
The Fortune-teller said that it was best to give the child a name after the age of three, so Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen named the Child Brother Tuan.
Lu Chen clearly discovered that after Brother Tuan was born, Qiao Jinniang did not even read her favorite speech book every day. She could often look at Brother Tuan in a daze all day long.
She did not forget to pull Lu Chen along to look at Brother Tuan.
The child who had just reached the full moon was very soft and cuddly. As new parents, the two of them could not wait to give everything to the child.
When Brother Tuan made a fuss in February, Qiao Jinniangs most maternal love was still to leave the crying child to the wet nurse to take care of.
Lu Chen was very happy. He could finally monopolize Qiao Jinniang again. It must be known that during this month, Qiao Jinniang was afraid that he would pressure brother Tuan, so she did not allow him to lie down beside her.
After the full moon, Qiao Jinniang went to work in the restaurant while Lu Chen was busy with the new shops in private. Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen did not n to let others know about the new shops, afraid that the Qiao family would cause trouble.
Moreover, they were merchants after all. A big tree attracts the wind, attracting the attention of some people with good intentions. Xie Yun might not be able to protect them.
After closing for the night, Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen, and the employees of the Hundred Savory restaurant ate together.
Glutinous rice smiled and said, Master, something happened today to vent my anger. Outside the Feng family restaurant, there are a lot of merchants and growers who came to ask for money for wine and vegetables.
Qiao jinniang asked, Whats going on?
Glutinous Rice said, The Feng family restaurant is rented. The annual rent is 500 taels of silver. They didnt earn so much silver in Yangzhou these two years, so they reluctantly borrowed money from the people on the street to pay the rent for a year.
How could they afford to buy any vegetables or meat? It was just that the vegetable farmers and meat merchants were willing to give them credit for half a year when they saw that their restaurant was doing well.
However, they put up a sign that they would buy one and get one free. Although their business was good in the first half of the year, they were losing money. How could they pay back the money.
After the buy one and get one free, they raised the price, which was close to the price of our hundred savory restaurants vegetables. However, their dishes were not as exquisite as our hundred savory restaurants, and their ingredients were not as good as our hundred savory restaurants, so their business plummeted, I heard that Feng Jie and Mu Liuliu have been quarreling non-stop!
Qiao Jinniang smiled. What do you mean by self-destruction? This is it. They clearly dont have any capital, yet they still want to fight with the restaurant. They really deserve it.
Qiao Jinniang felt that she had vented a lot of her anger.
Lu Chen said, They also owe the government some taxes. If they go to the magistrates office, they will have to go to jail!
Its better for them to go to jail now. Those people who give out money are not to be trifled with. Some of them are better off as husband and wife.
After Qiao Jinniang said this, she fiercely bit a piece of meat.
Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen, and glutinous rice came out of the Hundred Savory restaurant and went back to the Qiao familys small courtyard. On the way, Qiao Jinniang saw Feng Jie, who was dressed in embroidered clothes,ing over.
Feng Jie was holding antern. Under the light of thentern, his small eyes looked more like a small green bean.
Jinniang, Jinniang, Im your brother Jie! Do you still remember me? I was deceived by that woman Mu Liuliu... back then, master said that I would be his son-inw. Jinniang, Im willing to marry that Mu Liuliu and marry you.
When Qiao Jinniang heard Feng Jies words, she almost vomited the rice she had just eaten.
Lu Chen frowned. Did she think he was dead? Lu Chen stepped forward and punched Feng Jie, causing him to fall to the ground.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Feng Jie on the ground and said, Mu Liuliu lied to you? Did she put a knife to your neck? Shameless? With your green eyes, dont joke around.
Feng Jie knelt down and said, Jinniang, please give me some silver to save my life. Master loved charity before he died.
Charity also depends on the person. You, donte in front of me to disgust people.
Qiao Jinniang held Lu Chens hand and said, Fortunately, I have already given birth to Brother Tuan. Otherwise, if brother Tuan was still in my stomach and saw such an ugly person, Im afraid he wouldnt want toe out.
Lu Chen smiled faintly. Thats true.
After the Feng familys restaurant closed down, the business of the Hundred Savory restaurant was much better than before. In the twelfth lunar month, the neighbors who came to the Hundred Savory restaurant to buy preserved meat were all queuing up.
At night, Lu Chen dreamed of eating duck legs with soy sauce.
When he opened his eyes, the moonlight shone in from the window and he saw Qiao Jinniang looking at him with resentment.
Brother Chen, why are you holding my hand in the middle of the night? Im not a braised duck leg!
Lu Chens stomach growled. At eighteen years old, he was still growing. Even though he had eaten a lot of dinner, he had already digested a lot of the gift from Duke Zhou.
Qiao Jin put on a cloak and said, What Kind of supper do you want to eat? Ill make it for you.
Lu Chen said in a daze, No need. Let the cateringpany make it.
Qiao Jinniang frowned. Who is Dian Shansi? Is it as good as my cooking? You should know that everyone in Lin an city wants to eat my cooking now, but they dont mind adding a tael of silver to each dish. How can you not cherish it?
Lu Chen woke up. He did not know why he blurted out the word cateringpany. He replied, I dont know who it is either. I just remember that if I was hungry in the past, I would always look for the cateringpany. Maybe it was my former chef?
Qiao Jinniang cupped her face and moved closer to Lu Chen. Remember this. In the future, you can only remember Qiao Jinniang!
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang who was moving closer and said, Theres no need to get up at night to move the firewood. Why Dont youe and eat the Little Rabbit?
Qiao Jinniang:...
Not only was she cheated by being treated as a sauce duck leg, but she was also eaten as a sauce rabbit. How Pitiful.
Winter passed and spring came. The businesses that Lu Chen and Xie Yun worked with gradually gained a lot of stable ie.
Lu Chen gave arge amount of silver notes to Qiao Jinniang every month. He did not leave a single cent for himself. Little Tuan would gradually stagger and call out to his mother and father.
Qiao Jinniangs favorite thing was to follow Little Tuan. Lu Chen also took time out to take Qiao Jinniang to y around Lin an.
Before they knew it, another year had passed. It was the Lantern Festival of the previous years.
This yearsntern festival was even livelier than the previous two years. The three of them were wearing masks that they had just bought on the street.
Qiao Jinniang held Tuans hand. Tuan, who had just turned two years old, could not speak clearly, except for the two words Dont speak to me.
There were many people by the Golden Ox Lake. Coincidentally, Feng Jie, who had just been released from prison, saw Qiao Jinniang, who had just opened her mask.
Feng Jie remembered the humiliation he had suffered from Qiao Jinniang that day, and how she had left him to die. He suddenly rushed forward, wanting to take her down with him.
After Lu Chen saw Feng Jie, he pulled him into the Golden Ox Lake. Unexpectedly, he was pulled down as well..
Seeing Lu Chen fall into the water, Qiao jinniang shouted worriedly, Brother Chen! Someone, someone fell into theke!
Chapter 388
Chapter 388: Chapter 388, pregnant again
After Lu Chen fell into theke, the water surrounded him from all directions, and his memory kept going back.
He remembered why he fell into theke at that time. It was the disaster victims of Huizhou who caused trouble. A few men in ck took advantage of the chaos and pushed him into the surging waters when the guards did not dare to attack the civilians.
He was the Crown Prince of Great Tang, the dignified crown prince! He had actually be the son-inw of a small citys merchant daughter in the past few years.
When Lu Chen opened his eyes, he was already in the Qiao familys small courtyard. When he opened his eyes, he saw Qiao Jinniang, who was full of Tears, and brother Tuan, who was softly and softly calling out to his father.
Lu Chen got up and let glutinous rice take brother Tuan away. He said to Qiao jinniang, I remember what happened before. My parents are still alive.
Qiao Jinniang was slightly surprised and said bitterly, This is a good thing. Youve woken up and remembered the past. This is a good thing.
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniangs face under the candlelight. He pulled her into his arms and hugged her reluctantly.
Qiao jinniang asked, Where are my parents? Do you want to send a message to them toe to Lin an?
Qiao Jinniang could not get a reply from Lu Chen for a long time. She looked up at Lu Chen and felt that he seemed to have changed.
Lu Chen kissed Qiao Jinniangs forehead. It was difficult for him to tell Qiao Jinniang his identity right now. He had been living a nd and happy life in Lin an city for the past three years. He did not even know what the situation would be like after he returned to Chang an?
He was in Lin an guarding the business of a small plot ofnd in Lin an and did not care about the situation in Chang an.
He also did not know how his father was now? Although he had never heard of his brothers bing crown princes, if they suddenly returned to Chang an at this time, the Chengen Bo Mansion and the Empress Dowagers party would definitely be eyeing them covetously.
There were too many things that could change in three years. He also did not know whether the power in the Eastern Pce three years ago belonged to him.
It was too dangerous to rashly bring Qiao Jinniang back to Chang an.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniang in his arms and wanted to rub her into his blood. In the future, he would be the high and Mighty Crown Prince of Great Tang, and with Qiao Jinniangs status, she was not even qualified to enter the Eastern Pce.
If he had known earlier, he would not have wanted to recall the past at all. It would have been better to be happy and in in Lin an, but he had already remembered that he had to return to the pce for the sake of his mother.
It was only after midnight.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniang, who had been exhausted by him, and slowly said, Jin er, I was originally from a noble family in Chang an.
Qiao Jinniang leaned against Lu Chens chest and yed with her hair. Ive long guessed that you have an extraordinary background. Shall we go back to Chang an to meet my parents-inw?
Lu Chen said, Jin er, I have many half-brothers in my family. I was killed by my brother and grandmother when I went missing back then. I dont know how powerful they are, so I dont dare to rashly wait for you to go. Ille back to Chang an to find you after Chang an is stable.
Qiao jinniang asked, Is it because you think my status is not good enough for your family?
Lu Chen didnt want to let Qiao Jinniang down, so he said, Jin er, I cant decide my own marriage. But dont worry, Ill definitely give you a title to enter my Lu Family!
No matter what, he had to find a good wife for Qiao Jinniang so that she could take care of Brother Tuan.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Are you going to Chang an? What about the Hundred Savory Restaurant?
Lu Chen said, When the timees, just hire someone to manage the Hundred Savory restaurant. My family is very powerful. When the timees, I dont think the Qiao family will dare toe and cause trouble.
Qiao Jinniang could not bear to hug Lu Chen and said, Alright, Ill wait for you toe back and pick me up.
Lu Chen thought for a moment and said, I want to take brother Tuan away.
Why?Qiao jinniang said, Didnt you say that its dangerous? Wouldnt it be more dangerous for Brother Tuan to follow you?
I have to give brother Tuan a rightful position. If hees to my Lu family in the future, it will be much worse. Dont worry, Ille and pick you up soon!
Lu Chen promised Qiao Jinniang confidently.
Qiao Jinniang also trusted Lu Chen and gave him a lot of her savings over the years, Its said that the poor are rich. Take this money. If the situation in Chang an is bad, you might as well bring brother Tuan back. We wont be poor in Lin an anymore.
Lu Chen took the banknote and said, Wait for me. I wille back to pick you up and let you go back to Chang an envied by everyone.
..
Five years of Jing Yuan.
After Qiao Jinniang suddenly woke up, she realized that she had a nightmare and recalled the years she spent with Lu Chen in Lin an.
Looking at Lu Chen who was lying next to her, she raised her hand and gave him a p.
After Lu Chen woke up, he covered his face and looked at Qiao Jinniang with a frown.
Liar,Qiao Jinniang said, That year, you told me that you woulde back to pick me up, but?
Lu Chen said, Why are you being so calctive about what happened in the past? Alright, Cant I Be Wrong? Im leaving Lin an tomorrow. Why Dont I bring you to Lin an city again today?
Qiao Jinniang agreed, Its been so many years in the blink of an eye. Why didnt you tell me the truth back then and say that youre the Crown Prince?
Lu Chen asked Qiao jinniang, What would you have done if I had told you the truth back then?
Qiao Jinniang didnt dare to think about what choices she would have had back then, but she cherished the present. Lu Chen doted on her like a treasure, and she was the most honorable woman in the world.
On the day she left Chang an, Qiao Jinniang suddenly fainted when she boarded the ship, scaring Lu Chen so much that his face turned pale.
The imperial physician came over to check her pulse and said, Your Majesty, the Empress is pregnant. Perhaps she walked too much yesterday, so she has the symptoms of fainting.
Lu Chen did not dare to take Qiao Jinniang on the road, so he brought her back to the temporary pce in Lin an.
After taking a dose of medicine, Qiao Jinniang slowly woke up. When she found out that she was two months pregnant, she was overjoyed. Im pregnant again? This baby must be a princess.
Lu Chen said, It doesnt matter if this baby is a princess or a prince. If we give birth to another one, we wont give birth to another one.
Qiao Jinniangs body was not bad, but giving birth to a baby was still hurtful.
Qiao Jinniang agreed. Okay, you and your officials will go on a tour of Jiangnan first. It was agreed long ago that it was not suitable to change. Officials and people everywhere want to see the beauty of heaven. I will give birth here. When my fetus is more stable, I will return to Chang an.
Lu Chen said, I will ask Princess Wu and glutinous rice to take care of you. Dont forget to write to me.
Lady Qiao replied with an mm, Dont worry. There are doctors and female doctors here. Its also my hometown. Ill be fine.
Lu Chen led his officials to other cities in Jiangnan.
When Qiao Ruoyun came to the pce to apany Lady Qiao, she asked, Lady Qiao, How Can You Trust His Majesty to go to other cities alone? Especially Yangzhou. Its a city filled with beautiful women. Our colors will grow old, and we wont be as beautiful as those youngdies...
Lady Qiaoughed, Big sister, were only twenty-five, how can our colors grow old? I heard from Qiu Yue that most of the twenty-five women in her hometown have yet to get married.
Glutinous Rice said to qiao ruoyun, Little aunt, are you here to take care of the Empress? Or are you here to make the Empress Worry?
Chapter 389
Chapter 389: Chapter 389. Flowers bloom on the Moshang and slowly return
Qiao ruoyun choked and said, Its my fault, Jin Niang, dont take it to heart. Our Qiao family is so powerful now, arent we afraid that his majesty will be outside...
Glutinous rice could not help but roll her eyes. You can shut up, little aunt!
Qiao Jin Niang smiled. I know your worries, but I believe in Lu Chen.
Back then, when she invited the famous singers from Yangzhou city, the younger ones could not take their eyes off them.
Only Lu Chen talked about the monthly sry with the singers on official business. He did not want to lose any money.
After being married for ten years, she still had some trust in Lu Chen.
Just like how she knew that Hong Qifeng had some ideas about Lu Chen, but she did not mind at all.
Because she knew that the reason why Lu Chen valued female officials was because of her, Empress Qiao.
After all, Lu Chen was great Tangs emperor. If he really wanted another woman, even if the Qiao familys power was monstrous, they wouldnt be able to stop him.
Empress, there are two old friends outside who want to see you.
Empress Qiao said, Old Friends?
Hong Ling said softly, They sound like the Empress Dowager.
Quickly invite them in,Qiao Jinniang said. It had been a long time since she had seen the retired emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou.
The Hui Lin Emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou only removed the curtains after they entered.
Empress Dowager Zhou walked in front of Qiao Jinniang and held her hand. Stop bowing. I heard that you are pregnant again. It would be great if this child was a granddaughter. Even now, your father doesnt have a granddaughter.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Thank you for your kind words, empress dowager. I also think that it would be great if it was a princess.
Qiao Jinniang saw that Empress Dowager Zhou was still young, but perhaps because of the Lingnan sea wind, it was a little dark. However, it was clear that their smiles were genuine.
Qiao Jinniang asked Empress Dowager Zhou, Empress Dowager, Why are you here? His Majesty has just left for Yangzhou. Do you want me to send a message to tell him?
Empress Dowager Zhou replied, Theres no need. We are here to invite the imperial physician.
But father and mother are not feeling well?Qiao Jinniang asked.
Empress Dowager Zhou said, Its your grandmother. After the fall of the Martial Dukes public house, her body and bones have not been well. After following me to Lingnan, she has improved a lot, but in the end, she is old.
Qiao jinniang said, I havent been to Lingnan. How is the scenery there?
Empress Dowager Zhou said, When your body is better, you can go to Lingnan to give birth. The scenery there is great. After you give birth to a princess, your mother can help you take care of her.
Qiao Jinniang:...
She did not want to be separated from her daughter. However, she thought about it carefully. Rather than letting her daughter be trapped in the rules of the pce and be a well-behaved princess, it would be better to spend a childhood in Lingnan.
Mother, when the child grows up, if she is willing, I will let her go to Lingnan.
Okay!Empress Dowager Zhou replied.
Qiao jinniang continued, In fact, His Majesty misses the two of you very much. Every time during the holidays, he will always see him looking at the moon in the sky and thinking of the two of you.
Empress Dowager Zhou said, I miss him too.
The Huilin Emperor snorted. Will this little ingrate miss me?
Empress Dowager Zhou said, Will the Jin Niang Lie? Dont worry, if your grandmother goes, your father and I will return to Chang an during festivals in the future.
After all, Lu Chen had been on the throne for five years, and those old ministers had no choice but to ept it. They should not bother the Hui Lin Emperor anymore.
..
Three monthster.
Qiao Jin was still in Lin an to recuperate, and the team that went south had returned to Chang an.
Although Qiao Jinniang missed Lu Xi and Lu Ang, as well as Lu Chen, who entered her dreams every night, she did not want to go back to Chang an. Everyone in Lin an knew that the empress was here, but many people still treated her the same as before.
In the past, her ssmates all married and had children, some good and some bad. Everyone held a poetry conference and talked about the interesting things that happened when they were young.
Qiao Jinniang recalled the past and was in a good mood. She became very interested in poetry.
The painter of the past was still begging for Qiao Jinniangs calligraphy. Qiao Jinniangs paintings were really shameful, so she treated the paintings that Lu Chen had given her as her own. They were husband and wife.
In an instant, the Empressbeautiful reputation for her superb painting skills spread to Chang an. The people of Chang an also begged for the Empresscalligraphy. The portrait of Lu Chen that Qiao Jinniang had painted was thrown on the ground by Qiao ruoshui.
It was picked up by a servant in the kitchen to be used for the fire. When he learned that the Empresspainting had spread far and wide, he dug it out and sold it for 1000 taels of silver.
The person who bought this painting was none other than Prince Rong, the number one tterer of Da Tang.
Princess sa Moer looked at the painting and said, This painting is worth 1000 taels of silver. Do you think that the money in the imperial residence is too much to use?
Princess Rong said, What do you know? His Majesty has been back in Chang an for a month, and he has been separated from the Empress for three months. He has written many times to the empress to ask her toe back, but the empress is so happy that she doesnt want to go back. This painting can also exin his majestys longing for her!
This painting is presented to his majesty. Perhaps it can help our son fight for the position of a County King!
Sa moer smiled and said, Then you should go quickly.
..
After Qiao Jinniang returned to the pce, she received a letter from Hong Ling. On it was written: The flowers on the moshang have bloomed. They can return slowly.
Qiao Jinniangughed lightly and raised her brush. The flowers on the moshang have already withered.
Qiao Ruoyun looked at Qiao Jinniang as she wrote these words. Jinniang, why havent you returned? Why Did His Majesty write the words The flowers on the moshang have bloomed?
Qiao jinniang said in surprise, You actually dont know this story??
Qian Yins ancestor, the first king of Wu, had conquered the kingdom of Wu and became the ruler of thend of Wu Yue.
His wife, the Dai family, was a filial person. She would go back to her parentshouse to serve them before and after the Qingming festival until the flowers on both sides of the road bloomed.
One year, the Dai family did not return for a long time. The great ruler of the chaotic times wrote this sentence, flowers bloom on the Moshang, but she slowly returned, allowing her beloved wife to enjoy the scenery on both sides of the road and return to Lin an.
He wanted his wife to return, but he was afraid of being urged, so he asked his wife to hurry on her way. Thus, he wrote the word slowly. This shows how deep and profound the Wu Kings love for his wife is. The little girl in Lin an grew up listening to this story.
Lu Chen knew that this story was told to him by Qiao Jinniang. That year, she was the one who went to the manor to look at the ounts. Lu Chen had written a letter to her asking her to return earlier. At that time, she hadined that Lu Chen did not understand romance, even the king of Wu Yue, who was born as a martial artist, knew how to use this phrase.
Qiao Ruoyun said, So thats how it is. It can be seen that the ancestors were very loyal to their wives.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, All the men in the Qian family are infatuated with their wives, except for glutinous Rices father.
Ruoyun also smiled and said, Thats true. However, His Majesty has sent many letters to urge you to return to Chang an. Are you really not going back?
Qiao jinniang said, No.
Hong Ling said, Princess Wu, why wouldnt your Highness Want to go back? Last night, she called His Majestys name in her dreams.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Hong Ling and said, Shut Up!
Chapter 390
Chapter 390: Chapter 390, the Grand Finale (Part One)
Qiao Jinniang did not deliberately not want to go back. It was just that she had dreamed for too long that day, which reminded her of what Lu Chen had said abouting to Lin an to take her to Chang an.
Lu Chen still owed her this promise.
Qiao Jinniang knew that she had asked Lu Chen, the emperor, toe to Lin an again. It was quite excessive, and she did not understand the big picture at all. She might even be called the demon queen, but she wanted to be so willful for once.
He wanted Lu Chen to personallye and take her back to Chang an. This was the promise he had made to her that day.
..
In Chang an, after Lu Chen received Qiao Jins reply, he crumpled the letter into a ball and asked someone to call Lu XI and Lu ang over.
Lu Chen said to Lu ang, Do You Miss Your Mother? Why Dont you write a letter to your mother and tell your mother that you miss her very much?
Lu Ang raised his head and said to Lu Chen, Father, but I cant write yet.
Lu Chen looked at Lu Xi, who could already write. Lu Xi shook her little head helplessly. Father, have you forgotten what you promised mother when you brought me to Chang an?
Lu Chen remembered that he had said at that time that he would go to Lin an to pick up Lady Qiao Jin. In fact, he still owed Lady Qiao Jin this promise.
Lu Chen called Marquis an Yuan and Lin Mo over and ordered them to temporarily manage the matters of the imperial court. He then ordered people to prepare the boat to Lin an.
Marquis an Yuan learned from Lin Mo that the reason why the Emperor had put aside the matters of the imperial court and left Chang an was to pick up Qiao Jinniang and return to Chang an. He could not help but feel that Lu Chens friendship with his daughter was really extraordinary.
All the considerations in the past were unnecessary.
When the officials learned that His Majesty had gone to Lin an to pick up the empress, they were already used to it.
When she left Lin an, the Empress did not follow his majesty. Many officials thought that his majesty would favor others on the way, but none of them did.
Over the past few years, the officials also understood that what his Majesty said about not taking in concubines was true.
They couldnt stop it no matter how much they tried, so what could they do?
They could only praise the emperor and the Empresss deep love for each other.
All of a sudden, all the three-year-old girls in Chang an knew about the emperor and the Empresss deep love for each other. Some schrs from Jiangnan dug out the story of the flowers on the moshang flower returning slowly to set off Lu Chen.
Back then, the emperor of Wu Yue only wrote letters and returned slowly. Our Emperor personally went to pick up the Empress!
When Fu Lu heard the praises of the schrs in the teahouse, he no longer thought that Lady Qiao was the demon Empress. He thought that his ears were broken.
After being scolded for bewitching the Emperor and the demon Empress for so many years, Lady Qiao had done it this time. Even Fu Lu felt that Lady Qiao had gone too far. She could havee back on her own, but Lu Chen had to fetch her.
Lady Qiao was not one of those pampered girls. Why did Lu Chen have to put aside his affairs to fetch her?
Qin Miaomiao, is my ear broken? Im used to people saying that our Qiao family is a treacherous minister in power. Why are they praising the Empressaffection now?
Qin Miaomiao chuckled. Your ears arent broken. Xie Yun oftenes and goes to the Qiao residence. Now that everyone knows that Nichang is his biological daughter, tell me, who dares to oppose your Qiao Family?
In the past, the Qiao family only had generals and no civil officials. Although Ruo Yi was a civil official, she was a woman. Those sour schrs naturally looked down on the Qiao family. The schrs were even more displeased with the Qiao family. But who is Xie Yun? He is the Xie family head who has always been a schr in the world.
Fu Lu,... Xie Yun is notpletely useless.
Qin miaomiao said, Also, His Majesty has been touring Jiangnan for two months and disdained so many peerless beauties. It can be seen that they have already given up. Why must they continue to go against the Qiao family and the Empress? The crown prince is already nine years old. If they still do not know how to adapt to the situation, they will really be stupid from studying.
Qin miaomiao continued, Now, the southwest and northwest are the Qiao familys armies. Qiao Ruoyun married the king of Wu in Jiangnan. Qiao Ruofeng and his wife were highly valued by the retired emperor and have made great achievements in the south of the ridge.
Qiao Ruoyi is the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Appointments. There are also women from the West Mountain Academy who have now entered various professions in Chang an.
The women from the West Mountain Academy are all grateful to the empress. Naturally, the Empresss power and influence can not bepared to the past.
A wise man submits to circumstances. Who would be so blind as to oppose the Queen?
Fu Lu deeply feel reasonable: Yes, I heard that Yesterday Mrs. Lin said a few Jinniang Lin Xiangye to the rest? So Old?
Qin Wu Wu said in a small voice, Princess Jing Hua hasnt been pregnant yet. Its been five years, and Mrs. Lin is very anxious. She felt that Princess Lin Mo Shang was helped by Lady Qiao. So she said a few nasty words to the Empress..
Didnt prime minister Lin propose to divorce her in a moment of desperation?
Fu Lu said, Madam Lin really deserved it. If it werent for her stopping them back then, perhaps cousin Jinhua and Lin Mos children would be even older than Xier.
Yue Zhan and Qiao Lui walked over side by side. Yue Zhan was ten years older than Qiao Lui, but they felt like old friends at first sight. They were now colleagues.
The two of them walked in front of their wives.
Fu Lu saw Qiao Luiing over and pulled Qiao Luis hand, ignoring the presence of outsiders.
Qin Miaomiao also held Yue Zhans hand, but she still had to use her sleeve to cover her face.
Yue Zhan Protected Qin Miaomiaos stomach and said, Did Princess Fu Lu call you out? Donte out and walk around when youre in Labor.
Qiao lui protected Fu Lu and said, Maybe it was madam Yue who asked Fu Lu toe out? Lord Yue, dont me others.
The brotherly love at first sight was so short that it broke up.
Qin Miaomiao and Fu Lu looked at each other and smiled. They had quarreled for so many years. In the end, it was their husbands who quarreled.
They each persuaded their husbands to go back.
..
At the end of July, the little flowers on the Moshang River were still blooming and had not withered.
When Qiao Jinniang had nothing to do, she would go back to the Hundred Savory restaurant. The pce maids stopped her from cooking, and Qiao Jinniang would only settle the ounts in the restaurant.
Those who came were all neighbors. At first, they all bowed to Qiao Jinniang, but as time went on, it seemed that they had returned to ten years ago.
At that time, Qiao Jinniang was the same.
Tofu Zhang brought Qiao jinniang a cup of soybean milk every day. After Qiao Jinniang became pregnant, she changed her taste of salty soybean milk and fell in love with the taste of sweet soybean milk. She became more and more convinced that the one in her arms was her daughter.
She even thought of her daughters nickname, Tian Tian.
Jinniang, do you still remember me?Sister Zhang came over with a bowl of sweet soybean milk and said, I married into Qian City earlier. I came back to visit my parents before the mid-autumn Festival, only to find out that you came back after bing the Empress.
Zhang Jinniang,Qiao Jinniang said.
Zhang Jinniang said, Jin Niang, when I taught you to suppress his majesty, you must not tell his majesty about it. Otherwise, my head will be lost.
Zhang Jinniang was naturally extremely afraid. If she had known Lu Chens identity back then, she would not have given Qiao Jinniang that bad idea no matter what.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. Its over. On the day of our wedding, I told His Majesty that you were the one who instigated me.
Ah!The elder sister of the Zhang family touched her neck and said, Oh No, oh no. Jinniang, you have to save me. I have an eighty-year-old father and a three-year-old child.
Qiao jinniang said, Dont worry. His Majesty is very magnanimous. He will definitely not find trouble with you.
Qiao Jinniang looked outside the door of the Hundred Savory restaurant. It was almost mid-autumn Festival. Did Lu Chen not understand what she meant?
Or perhaps he felt that she was too troublesome, so he did not want toe?
Chapter 391
Chapter 391: Chapter 391, the Grand Finale (middle)
Just as Qiao Jinniang was about to look away, she saw a man wearing a purple robe with a silver mask on his face.
Qiao Jinniang recognized the mask. It was the one Lu Chen was wearing when she, Lu Chen, and brother Tuan were ying on the day of the Lantern Festival.
Lu Chen walked in, took off the mask, and walked to Qiao Jinniang. He said slowly, Jin er, Im here to take you back to Chang an.
Qiao Jinniang came out of the counter and walked to Lu Chen, holding his hand tightly.
Lu Chen looked down at her abdomen. Did the child mess with you?
Qiao Jinniang shook her head. No.
Lu Chen held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Lets go back to Chang an. Ive ordered people to prepare the guards of Honor.
Qiao Jinniang followed Lu Chen Out and saw that the guards of honor outside seemed to be less than the EmpressGuards of honor, like the Guards of honor of the crown princes consort.
Lu Chen whispered in Qiao Jinniangs ear, The Guards of Honor owe you.
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly. So you still remember.
Lu Chen said, Of course I remember.
Little Lu Ang, who hade along, said, It was clearly brother who reminded father.
Qiao Jinniang squatted down slightly and kissed little Lu Angs face. Fortunately, Mother has you and your brother.
Lu Chen helped Qiao Jinniang up with a sour expression. After bringing her into the carriage, he put down the veil and kissed the lips that he had missed for a long time.
The people outside were in a hubbub.
Qiao Jinniang didnt Push Lu Chen away because she was shy. After the kiss, she whispered into his ear, Brother Chen, I miss you so much.
Lu Chen held her in his arms and said, I miss you too. These few days when I opened the memorials, you were everywhere. You Cant be so willful in the future.
Qiao jinniang said, What if I have to be so willful?
Then Ill apany you to be willful!
..
In the first month of the sixth year of Jing Yuan, the little princess, whom everyone had been looking forward to for a long time, was finally born.
When the Little Princess was born, she was given the name Weiyang. Her title was also the same, Princess Weiyang.
The pce in Chang an during the Han dynasty was Weiyang Pce. The word Weiyang was extremely honorable and had the intention to live a long and peaceful life. For a time, everyone in Chang an said that they were reincarnated as Lu Weiyang.
The Empress was overjoyed. She gave the four seas a year of tax exemption and granted amnesty to the whole world. The Empress even opened a new West Mountain Academy in all the prefectures of Datang, which was specially for women.
For a time, all the people in the world were grateful to Princess Weiyang.
Since Lu Weiyang was born, she had been the most honorable princess in Datang Dynasty.
When she was young, her mother, father, and two brothers would give her whatever she wanted.
When Lu Weiyang was six years old, Aunt Jinghua, who had never had a child, finally had a child. She followed her mother out of the pce and went to Aunt Jinghuas residence.
When her mother went to visit Aunt Jinghua, she saw cousin Nihon asking her to go over. Lu Weiyang saw a man who was more beautiful than the other.
Although her father, two older brothers, uncle, and grandfather were all very good-looking, after looking at them for a long time, the men in Aunt Jinghuas residence were also very good-looking.
Qiao Nihong said to Lu Weiyang, My mother said that these are the princesmale pets. Princess da Tang can have dozens of them in the future.
Lu Weiyang took out a small abacus. Raising so many male pets should cost a lot of money, right?
Qiao nihong: You are a princess, why are you still so greedy?
Lu Weiyang calcted that her monthly expenses were not low. If she raised dozens more..
Lu Weiyang shook his head repeatedly. In the future, I only need one son-inw. Its best if I can save some money. I definitely wont raise so many male pets.
Qiao Nihong did not know why Lu Weiyang loved money so much, but after that, Qiao Nihong never saw this princess cousin again.
It was said that she had followed the retired emperor and the Empress Dowager to Lingnan. When she saw that everything in Lingnan was cheaper than Chang an, she followed her grandparents to Lingnan.
When Qiao Jinniang found out that her daughter had gone to Lingnan for this reason, she didnt know whether tough or cry.
After Weiyang decided to stay in Lingnan, when the first letter came back, Lu Chen and Lu Xi didnt dare to let Qiao Jinniang see it. They were afraid that Qiao Jinniang would miss Lu Weiyang.
At night, Qiao Jinniang asked Lu Chen, Did you get Weiyangs letter?
Lu Chen said, Dont read it. Its hard to avoid looking sad and missing her.
Qiao jinniang said, I wont be sad. If I were sad, I wouldnt allow Weiyang to go to her mothers side.
I dont want Weiyang to be stuck in the walls of the pce.
Although she has two brothers who can be an extremely simple little princess in the future, and we can give her endless love and let her be carefree in Chang an, I dont want to be such a mother.
I want my daughter to experience the beauty of this world and the customs of the world, not to be a model of a woman raised by a well-behaved nanny.
Weiyang Pce belongs to Chang an, but our Weiyang should not only be in Chang an.
Lu Chen handed the letter to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang opened it and looked at it. Weiyang no longer praised that things in Lingnan were cheap. Instead, she told her about the vast ocean in Lingnan and even drew a painting for Qiao Jinniang.
Although this painting skill was not inherited from her father, it was just like her painting skill.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Should we invite a painting master for our daughter?
Lu Chen said, Father is an expert in painting. Now that he is old, he can teach Weiyang and enjoy the happiness of family.
Qiao Jinniang saw that there was another letter inside. After opening it, it was actually the Hui Lin Emperor who scolded Lu Chen. He scolded Lu Chen for lying and praising Weiyangs painting skill, causing Weiyang to feel that it was truly a good painting, it was just like what she had drawn.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the letter and chuckled. Qiao Jinniang was relieved that her daughter was able to follow the Hui Lin Emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou.
The Hui Lin Emperor only came to scold Lu Chen. It was clear that he also doted on this granddaughter of his.
Time slowly passed. When it was the 15th year of Jingyuan, Crown Prince Lu Xi was a weak crown prince. At this time, women already ounted for one-third of the Chang an officials.
Xi Shan Academy in Chang an was as famous as Qingming Academy.
The old officials all retired and left the court. The young officials became the mainstay of the current generation of officials. The new generation of officials also gradually emerged.
The younger generation of the Qiao family also began to show their talents. Qiao Ruofeng and Xu Mingweis son became the New South Sea General of Lingnan, repelling the rebellious people from the vassal states of zed tile who came to cause trouble.
Qiao Nihong was well-versed in both literature and martial arts. She was also the future heir to the position of Duke of the Qin family. As soon as she reached marriageable age, she was asked by Duke of Qin to take the examination for achievement and fame.
Qiao Nihong also took the examination for achievement and fame with Qiao Nichang. Qiao Nichang had not reached marriageable age yet, but she was determined to be the top scorer of the Qiao family. She had topete with her cousin.
Qiao Nihong also wanted to fight for her father who was only a yboy back then. She wanted to be the top scorer.
The two cousins spent their days studying.
However, the reality was that the two of them did not even make it onto the roll. They had no choice but to continue fighting for another three years.
After the three of them, the two of them were ranked at the top. One of them was the top scorer and the other was the top scorer. It was a humiliation from the past.
The crown princes two cousins were so capable that Lu Xis marriage was put on the agenda.
Chapter 392
Chapter 392: Chapter 392, a perfect life
In the Changle Pce, Qiao Jinniang was also having a headache over Lu Xis marriage. Back then, she and Lu Chen both had children early on, but when it came to Lu Xi, he did not like any woman.
The officials often mentioned that Lu Xi should marry Qiao Nichang or Qiao Nihong. Qiao Jinniang had considered it.
But to Lu XI, they were just Little Sisters. They might as well get along better with Lu Ang.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Eastern Pce and saw that the soft and cuddly little ball had grown to be a head taller than her. She was extremely gratified.
Xier, today another official suggested that you should choose a consort. What do you think? Do you want mother to hold a flower feast and you can choose properly?
Lu Xi cupped her hands and said, Thank you, mother, but theres no need.
Qiao Jinniang frowned slightly and said, Tell me the truth. Do You Like Men? You dont have to lie to mother. Mother has read many books. Qiu Yue has written many books. There are many good things about long yang. I can take it.
Lu Xi said,... mother, dont let your imagination run wild. I didnt choose a consort because I have long Yangs good things. Its just that I havent met a woman who can make me fall in love with her..
Father and mother have been loving each other for more than twenty years, and Im very envious. If I want to find a woman, I must find one who has the same mind, and not just make do with her.
There will only be one crown prince concubine in the Eastern Pce in the future.
Lady Qiao Jin did not force the two children to not take concubines or have a rtionship in the future.
She just did not ask the Shang Gong bureau to arrange for them to raise pce maids to enlighten the two children.
Although ang er was only eighteen years old, there were already concubines in the backyard of the imperial residence.
However, Lu Xi was already twenty-three years old, and there was not a single woman by her side.
When Qiao Jin returned to Changle Pce, Lu Chen saw that she was feeling uneasy and said, Why are you worrying about all this? Xier just hasnt met the right person yet.
I heard that Fathers health is getting worse, so I thought it would be better for Xier to temporarily take charge of court affairs. Ill go with you to Lingnan to visit father and mother. Its been two years since Ive seen Weiyang. She should be a big girl now.
Qiao jinniang nodded and said, Mm, alright. Forget it. I Wont worry about Xier anymore.
Back then, the Hui Lin Emperor had met his mother when he was over thirty years old. Xier was indeed young now.
This time, when they went to Lingnan, Qiao Jinniang had not expected to say goodbye to the Hui Lin Emperor forever. The Hui Lin Emperor had already passed the age of seventy, which could be considered a long life.
After the death of the retired Imperial Kingdom, Lu Chen imitated the Hui Lin Emperor and gave the throne to Lu Xi. He brought Qiao Jinniang to Lingnan to take care of Empress Dowager Zhou, who was unwilling to return to Chang an.
After the death of Hui Lin Emperor, Empress Dowager Zhou aged a lot. She often stared at the ocean in a daze.
After Qiao Jinniang discussed with Lu Chen, she brought Empress Dowager Zhou back to Lin an. For Qiao Jinniang, Lin an was the ce where she felt most at ease.
When she left that year, she was eighteen years old in her youth. Now that she had returned, she was already thirty-eight years old. The only thing she was d about was that she and Lu Chen were still in their prime.
She could take a look at the boundless scenery of Jiangnan.
Ever since Lu Xi ascended the throne, the prosperous era that hadsted for two dynasties was still as prosperous as ever. The only exception was the six pces without concubines.
The civil and historical officials could already ept that when the time came, there would be only one empress in the six pces, but they could not ept that there would be no one in the pce when the new emperor ascended the throne.
When Qiao Jinniang returned to the Hundred Savory restaurant, Lu Chen did not allow her to return to the kitchen. Qiao Jinniangs parents had both died young because they had stayed in the kitchen for too long. Qiao jinniang only taught her disciples how to cook.
Weiyang only liked to settle ounts and collect money. The guests in the restaurant did not know that she was a princess and only thought that she was a distant rtive of glutinous rice. She hugged the money and smiled all day long.
Qiao Jinniangs disciple was either an outsider or glutinous Rices daughter. She was two years younger than Weiyang and loved to make pastries since she was young. However, after learning from Qiao Jinniang for less than two years and reaching marriageable age, she married into Chang an.
After Qiao Jinniang Losther beloved disciple, Weiyang could not escape from her vicious hands.
For the sake of their mother-daughter love, Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, If you really want to take in disciples, why dont You Teach Me?
Sure.Qiao Jinniang smiled and pulled Lu Chen into the kitchen to study pastries. They were carefree and carefree on a daily basis.
Until two major events that made her want to fly to Chang an immediately and break the legs of her two sons came from Chang an.
First, the concubine in the Angers mansion was pregnant. This was not a big deal. It was not a big deal that the eldest son and daughter of the Prince had a concubine. She was angry because Lu ang refused to give the concubine a title.
Lu Chen had given an imperial edict. It was the same even for royal rtives and nobles. Without a title, an heir was an illegitimate child.
The concubine somehow had the ability to escape from Chang an. Lu ANG mobilized the troops of Chang an. Lu Xi could not help but agree to close the city gates of Chang an and search for his concubine door to door.
Fortunately, the two brothers had been very close since they were young, so there was no misunderstanding that Lu ang was going to rebel.
Secondly, after Lu Xi stole Tang Yuanyuan, the wife of the former top schr and now the concubine of the imperial schr of the Imperial Academy of Han in Chang an, Tang Yuanyuan met Lu Xi on the way to Chang an leading a group of ministers hunting. When she was making a beggars Chicken by the roadside.., lu Xi went to Tang Yuanyuans side under cover of her identity.
It was funny to see a bride in wedding clothes squatting by the roadside, cooking a beggars Chicken.
After tasting the beggars Chicken in her hands, the taste reminded Lu Xi of her mothers cooking skills when she was young.
After asking around, she found out that she was aunt glutinous Rices daughter. In the early years, she had made a marriage contract with her brother, who was next to her, and her neighbors brother stayed in Chang an four years ago after he passed the exam. She was married to Chang an.
Lu Xi had wanted to take care of Tang Yuanyuan for the sake of aunt glutinous rice.
Unexpectedly, after taking care of her, she fell in love with her cooking. On the day she sent Tang Yuanyuan off to get married, he actually brought Tang Yuanyuan back to the pce and announced that the world was going to marry Tang Yuanyuan as their queen!
Lu Chen and Lu Weiyang helped Qiao Jinniang to ease her anger.
Lu Weiyang said, Mother, dont be angry. Its very expensive to take medicine when youre angry!
Qiao Jinniang said,... why do I feel even angrier?
Lu Weiyang said obediently, If youre really angry, Ill help you go to Chang an. Ill give my brothers a few punches and teach them a lesson!
Thats a good girl,Qiao Jinniang said. Im still the most thoughtful daughter.
Lu Chen said to Qiao jinniang, Dont be angry. Xier is already so old. Dont tell me you dont know what hes doing?
The matter of snatching an officials wife will go down in the annals of History!Qiao jinniang said, s, Im still worried about the two of them.?
And Anger. That concubine didnt cherish him when he was around. Now, he has run away and closed the Chang an city gates. He has even searched every house. If I see him, Ill skin him alive!
Lu Chen said, You dont have to make the first move. Ill teach them a lesson. You should just go with the flow. Its not worth it to be angry over those two unfilial sons.
Empress Dowager Zhou smiled faintly and said, I also said the same thing to your father back then. It can be said that the Heavenly Dao is a good reincarnation.
Qiao Jinniang, Lu Chen:...
After they came out of the private room, Lu Weiyang saw an extremely beautiful woman enter the door.
The woman at the door was very thin and weak. She looked like she would be pitied if I saw her. However, her lower abdomen seemed to be about five or six months pregnant.
Lu Weiyang went up to her and asked, Is this elder sister staying in a restaurant or a top-notch one?
The woman said weakly, I want to ask about someone. Have you heard about the Qian family that lives in that alley? Everyone calls her olddy Qian.
Lu Weiyang said, I really dont know about that. Ill go and ask. Xiaolong, pour this female guest a cup of hot tea.
Weiyang went to find Qiao Jinniang to ask about the whereabouts of Old Lady Qian. Qiao jinniang said, Poor Old Lady Qian. She lost her life ten years ago. But her daughters are all promising. Who wille to find her?
Its a beautiful sister.Weiyang took Qiao Jinniangs hand and went over.
Qiao Jinniang walked over. When the beautiful and weak woman saw Qiao Jinniang, she was so scared that her legs went weak and she knelt on the ground. Empress, no, Empress Dowager.
Qiao Jinniang thought about the things in the world. It was really a coincidence. Wasnt this woman the woman who made Lu Ang Go Crazy in Chang an?
You dont have to bow if youre pregnant. Why are you looking for the rich woman?
Shes my aunt...
She passed away ten years ago. But your cousins are doing very well in business now. Do you want me to introduce them to you?
Qingyu hurriedly shook her head and said, I dont dare to trouble the Empress Dowager. Ill take my leave first.
Stop, where do you think youre going with your child? Stay here and have a good rest in the Hundred Savory restaurant. If youre afraid that Ang er will be at ease, I wont tell him about this.
Qingyu repeatedly thanked her. Thank you, Empress Dowager.
Weiyang ordered the servant girls in the restaurant to send Qingyu to the side room to rest. Mother, are you really not going to tell second brother that his concubine is here?
Qiao jinniang said, Yes, I wont tell Ang er, but you two have a deep sibling rtionship. I Wont stop you from snitching.
Weiyang understood and nodded. Ill write a letter to second brother now. 800 Li is quite expensive. When our merchant ship goes to Chang an, we can send the letter along.
Qiao Jinniang didnt care.
On the night of the 15th of July, there was no one on the road. Even the night watchman left in a hurry.
On that night, Qian Qingyu gave birth to a boy who was eight ounces in weight. Such a heavy boy almost killed Qian Qingyu.
Qiao Jinniang held her grandson who had juste out. She made up her mind to give Lu ang a few whips when she saw him.
Weiyang also wanted to hug her nephew, Mother, he looks like me. Second Brother doesnt want a child, can I have this child?
Arent you afraid that raising a child will cost you money?Qiao Jinniang smiled.
Lu Weiyang said, Its worth it to give such a cute child money.
One monthter, the child was full moon and it was the mid-autumn Festival. Qiao Jinniang invited Qiao Ruoyuns family and glutinous Rices family to celebrate the mid-autumn Festival together. Poor glutinous rice still did not know that her daughter had been forced to stay in the pce and be an empress.
She was stillmenting, Its a pity that the little master is not here. Today is his twenty-sixth birthday. I still remember how he looked when he was born, just like this child.
Qian Qingyu had just given birth. Initially, she would not have dared to have dinner with Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang even if she was beaten to death.
However, Wei Yang had threatened her to sink her child into the pond if she did note. Only then did she find out that she was here to celebrate the full moon for her child.
This child really looks like little master.
Qiao Jinniang held the child in her arms and said, How can I not look like Angers Child?
At this time, there was a knock on the door of the Qiao familys small courtyard. It turned out that Lu Xi and Lu Ang hade. When Qiao Jinniang saw the two of them, she wanted to find a broom and a rolling pin.
Wei Yang silently handed the whip in his hand to Qiao Jinniang.
Lu Chen took the lead and threw it to Lu Xi. The two of you, give each other threeshes. Dont let your mother and I fight.
Glutinous Rice said to Qiao jinniang, Master, its a big festival and its Little Masters birthday. Why hit him?
Qiao Jinniang found it difficult to speak. She red at Lu XI and said, Tell me what you did.
Lu Xi walked up to glutinous rice and gave a big bow. Mother-inw.
Glutinous rice looked at it carefully. Brother Tuan, are you calling for me?
Yes, mother-inw. Ive decided to marry Yuan Yuan as my queen. Yuan Yuan also has my child. Ivee to pay my respects to fulfill the six rites.
Glutinous rice:...
Lu Ang saw the whispers on the table and went over in disbelief. Youre actually here? Wheres the child? Do you know how hard Ive searched for you?
Qiao jinniang asked Lu Weiyang, Didnt you give the letter to your second brother?
Lu Weiyang covered his mouth and said, Oh my, the ships boss didnt know my identityst time and insisted that I give him three copper coins to deliver the letter. I didnt want to. I actually forgot about it after that.
Lu Ang red at Lu Weiyang. Three copper coins. If you give me the letter, how can I lose three copper coins?
Thats different. Once youre in my money bag, theres no reason for you to spit it out,Lu Weiyang said proudly. HMPH, you did it yourself. Im the first one to see your son!
Lu Ang was helpless. What else could his sister do? He could only endure it.
Lu ang held Qingyus hand and knelt with her in front of Lu Chen and Lady Qiao Jin. Father, mother, I want to marry Qingyu as the princess consort. In this lifetime, I will definitely not let her down.
Lu Xi also went to the door and brought Tang Yuanyuan over. She said to Lu Chen anddy qiao, Father, mother, inw, father-inw, I want to marry Yuanyuan as the empress. In this lifetime, she will be my only wife.
Lady Qiao said angrily, Dont ask us. The question should be whether Yuanyuan and Qingyu will agree or not?
Tang Yuanyuan lowered her head shyly and said, I am willing.
Qingyu said, I dont dare to be unwilling.
Qiao Ruoyun tried to mediate between them, Alright, Alright. Today is our family gathering, and its the day of the mid-autumn Festival. Lets eat first, and let the servant girl serve two bowls and chopsticks.
The mid-autumn Festival was a full moon, and the gentle moonlight shone on the courtyard of the Qiao familys small courtyard. The fragrance of osmanthus flowers filled the air, and they drank fine wine together.
Qiao Jinniang nced at Lu Chen, who was beside her. Seeing that Lu Chen was also looking back at her, the two of them looked at each other and smiled.
With their children by her side, the rest of their lives were free and dull. Their lives were alsoplete.
The only worry was that the stingy princess Weiyang would not know when she would be able to find a prince consort that she was willing to spend money on..
Chapter 393
Chapter 393: Chapter 393, Qiao Ruoyis past
Qingming festival in the sixth year of Jingyuan.
Qiao ruoyi wore a white mourning dress and went to Luo Weis grave. Luo Weis favorite wine was ced in front of the grave. It had been a year.
This year, when Qiao Ruoyi woke up in the middle of the night, she still remembered that Luo Wei was still by her side.
Little Nichang kneeled in front of the grave and kowtowed obediently. Father, mother and nichang miss you very much.
Qiao ruoyi used a handkerchief to carefully wipe the words on the gravestone for Luo Wei.
Qiao ruoyi thought back to her entire life. Although she was the daughter of the marquisdom when she was young, she knew that her father and mother were unreliable. Her eldest sister was weak, and her third sister Qiao Ruoshui was unruly and looked down on her in every way.
There was Aunt Qian in the residence, and she would act like a demon from time to time. Every time her father and mother were in love, Qiao ruoyi would know that it was her aunts bad luck.
Although Aunt Qian was doted on by her father and was his cousin, she was still an orphan girl. How could she dare to openly deal with the Marquise?
It was even more impossible to spoil a concubine and destroy a wife with old madam Qiao in the manor.
When Aunt Qian dealt with her mother, it was mostly to sow discord between her mother and her father. At most, it was between husband and wife.
Sometimes, when Aunt Qian failed in her n, she would bully the weak and bully the strong to humiliate her aunt.
The year her mother was pregnant with her younger brother, Qiao Ruoyi was already six years old.
At that time, Aunt Qian came to torture her aunt every day. Aunt Qian was already sick, but Aunt Qian still forced aunt Hu to serve Aunt Qian.
Aunt Qian hated that Aunt Hu could have children, but she also hated that Aunt Hu was a servant girl. She was a servant girl that she could order around and bow to since she was young, but now she was on equal footing with Aunt Qian.
Qiao Ruoyi saw that Aunt Hus health was deteriorating, and she was extremely worried. She cried and said that she wanted to tell her stepmother about this to her father.
Aunt Hu stopped Qiao Ruoyi. Aunt Hu told Qiao ruoyi that she was originally a servant girl and had a humble background. Aunt Qian used to be a cousin of the marquisdom, so there was a difference in status.
Aunt Hu did not want to stir up trouble. She only hoped that she could live a peaceful life with Qiao Ruoyi. When Qiao Ruoyi got married, it would be good as long as her life was peaceful and smooth.
Qiao ruoyi secretly told her mother about Aunt Qian torturing her aunt. Her mother was pregnant and came to uphold justice, but Aunt Qian knelt in front of her father and kept saying that it was her mother who had used her aunt to nder her.
She even used her mother of using a child.
Her father back then, however, believed Aunt Qian and fiercely med her mother and aunt Hu, saying that the two of them had no good intentions and even instigated the young child.
Qiao ruoyi felt bad that her mother was implicated. Her mother did not me her, but Qiao ruoshui came over and scolded her.
Sometimes, Qiao Ruoshui was actually quite good. Ever since that incident, she had always been a concubines daughter.
Aunt Hu hugged Qiao Ruoyi and told her that after she got married in the future, she would not have to suffer such grievances. She would marry a good husband and a husband who loved her.
However, Qiao Ruoyi didnt think so. She began to love books and paintings. She only cared about the principles of the sages. The sages would never make mistakes. She wanted to be a genius herself so that the Qian family would not dare to bully aunt Hu again.
However, when she was only twelve years old and her name was widely spread in Chang an, everyone in the Qiao family was honored. Even Aunt Qian, who had always been on bad terms with her, didnt say anything. However, her aunt ignored her for several days.
At that time, Qiao Ruoyi was extremely frightened. Aunt Hu had always cared about rules. If she was angry from a young age, she would not me her.
Because aunt Hu thought that she was a ve and Qiao Ruoyi was the youngdy of the Hou Mansion. However, if Aunt Hu did not agree with Qiao ruoyi, she would only ignore Qiao ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi was extremely scared at that time. It was her eldest sister, Qiao Ruoyun, who saw her crying and helped her to plead with Aunt Hu.
Aunt Hu finally revealed the truth. All the daughters in the Hou Mansion, apart from Qiao Ruoyin, were of a higher status than Qiao ruoyi. She did not even have a reputation outside, it was wrong for a daughter of a concubine to dare to make a name for herself in Chang an.
Qiao ruoyi was really wronged at that time. Later, Zheng Xiao found out about this from Qiao Ruoyun.
Zheng Xiao told Aunt Hu that Qiao Ruoyi was the daughter of the Hou mansion. It was an honor for a sister to be famous. They should not have buried Qiao Ruoyis talent like this.
Aunt Hu also felt that Qiao Ruoyi was wronged. She held Qiao Ruoyi in her arms and kept her safe.
At that time, when Aunt Hu and Qiao ruoyi were in the same room, Aunt Hu told Qiao ruoyi that the most important thing was to find a good husband to marry. Any reputation was a sham.
Now that the world had changed, Qiao Ruoyi could openly refute what aunt Hu said was wrong.
However, she had missed the best husband. In this life, she would never find a better husband than Luo Wei.
After Qiao Ruoyi and Nichang returned to the Qiao residence, she was extremely weak.
In the courtyard, Lan Xin stood beside Qiao Ruoyi with a bowl of blood in her hands. She said, Fifth miss, youre finally back. This blood is about to solidify.
Qiao ruoyi smelled the blood in the bowl and downed the blood in one gulp with a frown. She returned the porcin bowl to Lan Xin and said, Thank you for bringing me the blood.
Lan Xin wanted to say something, but when she saw Nichang beside Qiao ruoyi, she forcefully stopped herself.
Yan Yu saw that Lan Xin wanted to say something but stopped herself, so she left with Nichang.
Lan Xin knelt in front of Qiao ruoyi with her back straight. Fifth miss, my master has been giving you blood every half a month for the past year. His essence is already extremely poor.
If this goes on, my masters life will be in danger. If you dont have the antidote, you wont live long.
Qiao ruoyi said coldly, He owes me the antidote!
Lan Xin said, My master was innocent in that incident. He was just plotted against by the pce maid. He is also a victim!
As for General Luos death, it had nothing to do with my master. I beg you to change the antidote. You Dont want Miss Nichang to lose her parents at such a young age, do you?
Qiao ruoyi ignored Lan Xin and entered the room. She closed the door and shut Lan Xin, who was still begging bitterly, outside.
Qiao ruoyi pressed against the door. She definitely could not ept Xie Yun.
If there really was a day, she would probably choose to let Xie Yun live. Xie Yun was still alive and Nichang still had a blood rtive who loved her dearly.
Although the Qiao family had so many rtives, Nichang was only a cousin after all. Without her parents, she would still be living under someone elses roof.
On the 100th day of Princess Weiyangs birthday, the officials celebrated. When Qiao Ruoyi saw her little niece, she also changed the worries she had for the past year.
At the 100th day banquet, Qiao Ruoyi also saw Xie Yun, who had no blood on his lips. He was now the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Rites, who hade to receive the main guests of the Ministry of Commerce. He had a flourishing trade with foreign merchants, and this position was extremely popr.
The Emperor had given this position to Xie Yun, and all the officials could not understand it.
Todays 100th day banquet was organized by Princess Chu, eldest Princess Jinghua, and the Minister of the Shang Pce. No one knew how it was arranged, but it was actually arranged ording to officials, and the wife was to sit together with the wife, ording to rank.
Qiao ruoyi and Xie Yun, who were also vice ministers of the Ministers Province, were coincidentally arranged to sit at the same table.
Chapter 394
Chapter 394: Chapter 394, marrying brother Ang as the Little Princess Consort
Thest time Qiao ruoyi and Xie Yun sat together, it was in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor.
Ever since Xie Yun agreed to give him the blood antidote, he had been in and out of the MarquisManor many times. The outside world was buzzing with rumors that good things were about to happen between the Xie and Qiao families.
But Qiao Ruoyi had never spoken a word to Xie Yun ever since she found out that she had been poisoned.
asionally, Xie Yun would go to look for Nichang. After Qiao Ruoyi saw him, she would always avoid him. asionally, when the sky turned dark, she would ask Yan Yu to take Nichang away.
In the officialdom, Qiao ruoyi often avoided Xie Yun.
Xie Yun spoke first, You look good.
Qiao ruoyi replied indifferently, Yes.
Xie Yun calmly sipped a ss of wine in front of him and asked Qiao ruoyi, Why didnt I see Nichang today?
Qiao ruoyi slowly replied, She yed with her aunt and Nihon in the second Princes pce. Today, she is also having dinner in the second Princes Pce.
Xie Yun continued, When do you n to let her call me Daddy? I may not hear her call me that many times.
Qiao ruoyi slightly frowned and said, You were the one who didnt want her back then!
After the banquet, a servant girl beside neon came to report that the few youngdies in the residence were having a good time in the second Princes pce. When night came, the pce would send someone to send them back to the Qiao residence.
Today was a day of rest. Qiao Ruoyi had a rare moment of free time and didnt need to bring neon, so she went to the ten thousand book workshop that she hadnt been to for a long time.
The ten thousand book workshop would often sell some famous calligraphy and paintings, as well as rare rare rare rare books.
After Qiao Ruoyi entered, everyone came forward topliment her. Now, everyone knew that this young woman in front of them, who was only a little over 20 years old, was the younger sister of the Empress.
Qiao ruoyi entered and saw an unsigned painting. It was a Buddha statue. Qiao Ruoyi was extremely fond of Buddha statues. Firstly, it was difficult to draw Buddha statues, which tested the skills of the painter. Secondly, Qiao ruoyi believed in Buddha.
This Buddha statue is really good. The brush strokes areparable to the Empressbrush strokes.
Why do I feel that the brush strokes of this Buddha statue are simr to that of the Empress? Could This be a painting by the Empress?
Qiao Ruoyi knew that her second sister knew nothing about Danqing. The paintings that made her famous were all His Majestys. However, this Buddha statue did not seem to be his majestys work.
Although His Majestys paintings were good, he did not paint often. They were better than ordinary painters, but they could notpare to the perfection of this Buddha statue.
Qiao ruoyi saw the painting of the Buddha statue and asked the shopkeeper, Shopkeeper, who painted this painting? How much is it sold for?
The shopkeeper in the ten thousand books workshop said, Aiya, why did I hang this painting? Lord Qiao, this painting is Lord Xie Yuns treasure of ink. He brought it here to be mounted. After I mounted it, I forgot to take it back.
Coincidentally, Xie Yun and Lan Xin entered. Lan Xin saw Qiao ruoyi and said, Fifth miss, coincidentally, you are also here. Master came here to take the painting.
Qiao ruoyi felt that it was a pity. It was a pity that such a superb painting was painted by Xie Yun.
You like this painting?Xie Yun asked Qiao Ruoyi. If you like it, this painting is for you.
Qiao ruoyi replied, Theres no need. I dont ept paintings from nameless people.
Xie Yun frowned, and picked up the framed painting before handing it over to Lan Xin.
..
Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Qiao residence.
Ni Shang, ni Hong, and their little aunt had yet to return.
Qiao ruoyi then returned to her study to read her collection of books. She looked at the few ancient books from the Xie family on the bookshelf and ced them at the bottom.
Yan Yu brought a cup of tea to Qiao ruoyi and said, Miss, theres a letter from the pce saying that Miss and Miss Neon wonte until tomorrow.
Qiao ruoyi said worriedly, How can this be? She didnt even bring a change of clothes.
Yan Yu said, Ive already ordered someone to send it over. Its a good thing that Miss Neon is willing to y with people her age.
Qiao ruoyi said, Thats in the pce after all. Although there are only two masters in the pce, Sister and His Majesty, Im still afraid that something will happen to Neon!
..
Lu Ang was two years older than his two cousins, but Lu Xi disliked his young age and did not like to y with him. She always liked to y with brother Bao, Brother Yun, and the others.
Lu Ang also liked to act as a king among the young children.
Not only was Nichang Nichang Nichang alone in the pce, but there was also the young master and young daughter of the Jing public house.
The daughter of the Jing public house was the same age as Lu ang. She was only six years old this year, but she was very sensible.
The current Old Jing public house did not have a daughter, and he did not want to find another daughter from another branch to enter the pce.
Therefore, when the Jing public house asked the emperor to ept the harem in the past, the old Jing public house was on the side of Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. After all, he did not have a daughter. He only had two granddaughters, the eldest granddaughter was eight years old this year, and the youngest granddaughter was six years old.
If he could please Qiao Jinniang, he could have a future for his two granddaughters in the future.
Xue Xiaoxiao, who was only six years old, had been raised ording to the standards of the princess consort since she was three years old.
Xue Xiaoxiao had a cousin who was Lu Angs studypanion, so she followed her cousin into the pce.
Xue Xiaoxiao, who was six years old, also knew that if she wanted to marry Lu ang in the future, she had to let Lu ang remember her since she was young, and at the same time, she had to clear out all those who might stand in her way.
For example, Qiao Nihong and Qiao Nishang, especially Qiao Nihong.
Qiao Nihongs grandmother was the eldest princess, and her aunt was the queen.
And Qiao Nishang was also the daughter of the Qiao family.
Xue Xiaoxiaos mother had said that the Qiao family was now the exclusive power of the rtives. In at least ten to twenty years, the Crown Prince and the second Prince would marry the daughter of the Qiao family to protect the boundless wealth of the Qiao family.
Xue Xiaoxiao looked at Qiao Nichang, who was painting with Lu Ang, and a hint of jealousy appeared in her eyes. However, no matter how precocious she was, she was still a six-year-old child.
She could not hide her thoughts and walked to the middle of Lu Ang and Qiao Nichang. Xue Xiaoxiao, who was obviously a few days older than Lu ang, shouted, Brother Ang, what are you painting? I want to paint too!
Qiao Nichang and Lu Ang had been drawing for nearly twenty-five minutes. Because of Xue Xiaoxiaos arrival, Qiao Nichangs pen was unstable and there was a ck line on the rice paper.
Qiao Nichangs phoenix-like eyes slightly raised. She was young but she was full of vigor. Xue Xiaoxiao, why did you squeeze over? My painting has been destroyed by you. Apany Me.
Xue Xiaoxiao sobbed and said, I just, I just want to y with you guys. You guys have been ying together...
Qiao Nihon held the shuttlecock in her hand and said, Hmph, I told you to y with the shuttlecock, but you didnt y with it. Does brother Ang have any treasure on him? You keep going up!
Qiao Nihon really thought that Lu ang had some treasure on him, but her words made Xue Xiaoxiao Blush.
Xue Xiaoxiao stomped her feet and said, I just want to take a look, but Qiao Nishang has always been so close to the second prince. Does she want to be the second Princes Little Princess Consort?
Little Nishang tilted her head and asked Qiao Ruohan, the youngest daughter of the Qiao family, Little aunt, what does it mean to be the second Princes Princess Consort?
It means to let you marry brother Ang and be his wife.
Little Nishang said happily and innocently, Thats great. Then I can always y with brother Ang. I want to marry brother Ang and be his little princess consort now.
Chapter 395
Chapter 395: Chapter 395, Nishang met with danger
Late at night.
It was the first time that Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nishang had spent the night in the pce. The wet nurse beside them was not allowed to enter the pce.
This was the first time that there was no wet nurse beside them, so they could only sleep by themselves. The two of them yed until they were almost ugly, but they did not feel sleepy at all.
Qiao Jinniang pushed the door open and entered. Seeing that the two children were still not asleep, she said, Ruohan told me that you are not sleeping at this hour, how can you be unfamiliar with strangers?
Qiao nihong said, Aunt, Im going to sleep now.
Little Nichang also covered her head with the nket and said, Aunt, Im going to sleep too.
Qiao Jinniang smiled gently. Seeing that the two had fallen asleep, she tiptoed away.
As soon as the pce door closed, Qiao Nichang was woken up by the noise. She liked to fall asleep listening to songs. In the past, her father would sing songs for her, and in the past, Uncle Xie would climb over the wall to sing songs for her.
Qiao Nichang called out to her sister softly, but when Qiao Nichang did not wake up, she heard footsteps again. She thought that the empress aunt had returned, so she closed her eyes.
However, children could not pretend to sleep. She simplyy under the nket and covered her head with the nket. She saw a small figureing over.
She walked to their side and pushed thentern rack on the side onto the bed.
Just as the oilmp was about to fall on Qiao Nihong, she quickly got out of bed and supported the fallenntern frame.
After thentern frame was straightened, thentern fell to the ground and started burning.
Sister Xiaoxiao, you cant Sleep and came to y with us? You have to be careful. If thisntern frame falls, it will catch fire!
Xue Xiaoxiao deliberately lured the pce maids away from the door. She sneaked in to destroy the appearance of the two sisters.
Otherwise, if they really became Lu Angs little princess consort, she would be finished in the future.
However, she did not expect Qiao Nishang to see it. Xue Xiaoxiao was not sure whether Qiao Nishang had seen through her scheme or whether she really did not know if she did it on purpose just now. No, she had to strike first!
Someone, someone, Qiao Nishang is going to set fire to Princess Neon Rainbow!
Xue Xiaoxiao screamed loudly.
Qiao Nishang was only four or five years old and was very innocent. However, at this time, she also knew that she had been falsely used. Youre talking nonsense. It was clearly you who bumped into thentern frame!
Xue Xiaoxiao was the first toin loudly. It was you, it was you. It was you who knocked down thentern frame. Quick, someonee!
Xue Xiaoxiao had forgotten that the pce maid had been lured away by her. Hence, she took a smallntern from thentern rack and wanted to throw it at Qiao Nishangs face, she nned to burn Qiao Nishangs face with fire.
However, the design of thentern wasplicated. When Xue Xiaoxiao took it down, she did not remove the chassis from thentern rack. The Candle in thentern fell on Xue Xiaoxiaos head, igniting her hair.
Ah! Help! Help!
The shrill cries were very fierce.
When the pce maids and internal servants rushed over one after another, they saw that Xue Xiaoxiaos long hair had been burned away. Her scalp had turnedpletely burnt red, and the skin on her forehead was covered withrge blisters.
When the pce maids saw this scene, the timid oneslegs went limp and they copsed to the ground.
Xue Xiaoxiao was the direct granddaughter of the Jing public house, and her status was iparably noble. She had been making a fuss in the middle of the night to eat this and that, so the pce maids could only do as she was told. They were afraid that they had treated Xue Xiaoxiao too slowly.
But they had not expected such a thing to happen.
Something Big had happened in the pce. Lanterns were lit up everywhere, as if it was daytime.
When Lady Qiao heard about this, she came over worriedly. She first went to the main hall to take a look at the sleeping anger and then let out a sigh of relief. She ordered someone to take good care of Anger and then went to the side hall.
In the side hall, the imperial physicians were already treating Xue Xiaoxiao. A few imperial physicians looked troubled. When they saw Lady Qiaoe in, they bowed and said, Greetings, your Majesty.
Lady Qiao walked to the side of Little Nichang and held her hand. She asked, How is Miss Xues condition?
Your Majesty, Miss Xues scalp has been severely burned by the fire. In the future, there may be scars on her scalp and not even a single hair will grow out. Moreover, Im afraid that there will be scars on her forehead!
Xue Xiaoxiao, who was already in pain, burst into tears when she heard this. I dont want to be ugly. I dont want to be ugly. Your Majesty, its her. She used thentern to hurt me.
Xue Xiaoxiao stretched out a finger and pointed at little nichang.
Qiao jinniang asked little nichang, Did you hurt this sister?
Little Nichang shook her head. No, aunt. She picked up thentern. The candle fell on her hair and caught fire.
Xue Xiaoxiao said, Nonsense. Why would I hurt myself for no reason? You are a treacherous daughter. You must be jealous of my background and hurt me on purpose so that you can take revenge for me destroying your painting.
Little Nichang looked at Qiao Jinniang in confusion and said, Auntie, mother said that good children are not allowed to lie. Why does sister Xiaoxiao keep lying? Mother said that lying will make you ugly.
Qiao Jinniang looked at themp stand and said to little nichang, Nichang, youre so obedient. Do you want to Go Home?
Little Nichang shook her head and said, I promised brother Ang that I would stay for one night. Ill y with him tomorrow morning.
Qiao jinniang said, Alright, you and sister Nichang sleep together obediently.
Qiao Jinniangs voice was extremely cold as she said, Someone send young master Xue and Miss Xue Back to the Jing public house. In the future, the children of the Xue family are not allowed to enter the pce.
Yes,the pce servants replied.
..
After the pce gates were locked, unless there was a major event, the pce gates would not be opened. When the Xue family heard that someone hade from the pce, they were all worried about what had happened.
When the second young mistress of the Xue family saw her daughter being sent back without any hair and the red and rotten look on her forehead, she was so scared that she nearly fainted.
My son, who was so cruel to hurt you to such a state? Didnt you go into the pce? How could this be? The people in the pce...
The eldest young mistress of the Xue family berated her second brother and sister-inw, Stop talking nonsense.
The eldest young mistress of the Xue family gave a silver ingot to the pce servant and said, Eunuch suffered a great deal and sent my son back. I wonder what happened in the pce? How could he be injured when he was perfectly fine?
The pce servant said, I dont know about that. Its just that the Empress has ordered that the young master of the Xue family and Miss Sun of the Xue family are not allowed to enter the pce again in the future.
The eldest young mistress of the Xue family was dumbfounded. It was not easy for her son to be the second Princes studypanion. It was such a good thing, but if he was not allowed to enter the pce now, wouldnt her sons future be ruined?
After the pce servant left, the eldest young mistress asked Xue Xiaoxiao in a bad mood, What exactly did you do in the Pce?
Xue Xiaoxiao threw herself into the arms of the second young mistress of the Xue family in fear and said, Mother, its Qiao Nichang, that treacherous birth daughter. She knocked over thempstand and wanted to harm Princess Nihon. After I found out, she used a candle to hit me. Mother, you have to make justice for me!
The second young mistress of the Xue family was furious when she heard that. Qiao Ruois Daughter? Shes just like her mother. Back then, she got pregnant out of wedlock. Her daughter is just as Shameless. Xiaoxiao, dont be afraid. Mother will definitely seek justice for you.
Chapter 396
Chapter 396: Chapter 396, the bastard child born from an affair
Eldest Young Madam Xue red at second young madam Xue and said, Sister-inw, be careful of what you say. Qiao Ruoyi is not only the Empresss sister, she is also a second rank official in the imperial court and Second Brothers direct superior!
Speaking of which, this second young Madam Xue became even angrier. Back then, her husband was blessed by his ancestors and relied on the name of the High Dukes public house to enter the Ministry of Appointments. After many years of hard work, he had be an assistant in the Ministry of appointments at such a young age.
This made second young Madam Xue the envy of all her sisters. However, two years ago, Qiao Ruoyi had descended from the Ministry of Appointments and became the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Appointments, suppressing her husband by a head.
Her husband had also beenughed at by everyone and gradually rxed.
By relying on the High Dukes public houses face, other people had given her husband some face. However, her husband was depressed and often went to Spring Breeze Street to drink. She was not willing to take in concubines, so her husband kept those girls from brothels as his concubines.
Seeing that High Duke Xue was already old, if the Old High Duke Xue went, the Xue family would be separated, and she would not even be the second young mistress of the High Dukes public house.
This was all thanks to Qiao ruoyi.
The second young mistress of the Xue family thought of the old and new grudges, and then looked at her daughters appearance. She hugged her daughter tightly and said,
Even if she is ranked as the Third High Duke, she still has to be reasonable. My daughter has been harmed by her daughter to this state. If I wanted her daughter to pay with her life, it would be a light punishment. How can my Xue familys daughter be so easily bullied!
Second Young Madam Xue held her daughters hand and went to kneel outside the pce gate. She kneeled for about four hours.
Officials rushed to the pce gate to attend the court session. Although many officials did not know the second young madam of the Xue family, they knew that she was not an ordinary woman when they saw her well-dressed. Then, they looked at the charred child beside her, whose gender could not be seen, everyone who saw her gasped.
When state Duke Xue saw his daughter-inw, he came forward and asked, Why are you here?
The second young mistress of the Xue family said, Father-inw, you have to make a decision for Xiaoxiao. Qiao Ruoyis illegitimate daughter burned my daughter to this state.
Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Lui happened to pass by. When Qiao Ruoyi heard this, she went forward and asked, What did you say?
The second young mistress of the Xue family stood up, she pointed at Qiao Ruoyis nose and cursed, Qiao ruoyi, that bastard child of yours, who was born unclean before marriage, ruined my daughters appearance in the pce yesterday. Even my daughter has be like this. I Cant live anymore!
Even if I die, I will make that bastard pay with his life!
Before Qiao Ruoyi could make a move, an orchid fragrance came. Lan Xin pped second young Madam Xue twice.
State Duke Xue was furious. Sir Qiao, this is the daughter-inw of our Xue family. How can your maidservant hit her as she pleases?
Xie Yun coughed and said without any energy, State Duke Xue may have made a mistake. This is my maidservant. Qiao Nichang is my biological daughter. Your Xue family has disregarded the face of the Qiao family and insulted my son as a bastard. So what if you p her twice?
Seeing themotion, master Qiao came over and said, Who insulted my Qiao familys granddaughter?
When state Duke Xue saw Master Qiaoing over, he did not dare to stand up for his daughter-inw, he could only exin, Master Qiao, My Xiaoxiao has been destroyed to such a state. My daughter-inw was also careless for a moment. Im here to apologize to Master Qiao.
Second Young Madam Xue frowned and said, Father, why are you apologizing to them? Xiaoxiao has been harmed to this extent. How Can Qiao Nichang be so precious? I cant even say it. What should I do if my daughter has been harmed to this extent?
Qiao ruoyi said, That wont happen. Nichang has always been obedient and innocent. She would never intentionally harm your daughter.
Xue Xiaoxiao cried loudly, She did it on purpose. Yesterday, I couldnt sleep because I was hungry, so I went to their room to y with them. When I pushed the door open and entered, I saw Qiao Nichang pushing thentern frame onto Princess Neon.
I quickly ran over to hold thentern frame. She was afraid that I would tell on her, so she took down anotherntern and smashed it on my face, causing it to catch fire.
Although Qiao Lui was worried about his daughter, he knew very well how close Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nihong were. How could Qiao Nishang use thentern to burn Qiao Nihong?
The bell rang in the pce. It was time for the court session. Everyone did not dy and entered the main hall.
During the morning court session, Lady Qiao was also there. It was the first time the Empress was attending the court session. The schrs and ministers looked at each other, wondering if they shoulde to the main hall and ask the Empress not toe.
It was rare for Lady Qiao to wear heavy makeup today, she said, I came to court today because I heard that the youngdy of the Xue family wants to seek justice for her daughter. Last night, I was here. When I announced them toe in, I will naturally give them justice.
When the mother and daughter kneeling on the ground outside the pce doors heard the Empresss words, the second youngdy of the Xue family was extremely happy.
Qiao ruoyi might be the Empresss younger sister, but she was only her stepsister after all. Even if the Empress was doing it for her own reputation, she would not cover up for her stepsisters daughter.
On the way into the main hall, the second young Madam even instructed her daughter, Xiaoxiao, dont be afraid. Just tell the truthter.
This was the first time Xue Xiaoxiao had seen such a grand scene. She was terrified and sobbed as she recounted what had happenedst night.
Although no one in the imperial court dared to talk about it, they were all thinking that Qiao Ruoyis daughter was too vicious. She had such a vicious heart at such a young age.
Not long after, Qiao Nichang and Ni Hong also arrived at the main hall, along with Lu Ang and the pce maids.
Lady Qiao asked, Such a big thing happened in the guest hall yesterday. Where are the pce maids and pce maids guarding the door?
The pce maids trembled and knelt down to answer, Last night, Miss Xue was hungry. One moment she said she wanted to eat this, the next she said she wanted to eat that. We didnt dare to neglect her.
Yesterday, Miss Xue said that she dropped her earring on the road. It was an extremely precious earring in the jewelry pavilion, so she asked us to look for it withnterns. So we left.
Qiao Jinniang softened her tone and asked little neon, Did you hear anything yesterday?
Qiao neon said, Auntie, I dont know either. I only know that Xue Xiaoxiao is lying. How could neone to harm me!
Xue Xiaoxiao said, Do I need to lie? Ive already be like this. Shes the one who harmed me!
Qiao Nishang was so angry that she put her hands on her hips. Youve wronged me! Youre talking nonsense. Youre lying so you have to be an ugly monster!
Youre the Ugly Monster. Youre the B * Stard that your mother had an affair with before marriage. Even your own father despises you and doesnt want you!Xue Xiaoxiao said without thinking.
Qiao Nishangs eyes were red as she said, Youre talking nonsense. My father is the great hero General Luo Wei who exterminates bandits. My father is very good at leading troops to war!
Second Young Madam Xue knelt on the ground and said, Your Majesty, my daughter will not lie. There is no need for her to be like this just to nder Miss Qiao. I Beg Your Majesty and the empress to handle this matter impartially!
Chapter 397
Chapter 397: Chapter 397-such a vicious child at such a young age
Qiao ruoyi said unhappily, Fair? I want to ask how your Xue family raised a daughter. A six-year-old child is full of adultery and evil children. Is this something a child would say?
If there were no adults to teach them, I dont believe that a six-year-old child would say such words.
Second young madam Xue said, No Matter What, Your Majesty, Please Punish Qiao Nichang severely. She is so vicious at such a young age and lies so much. I dont know how she will harm others when she grows up!
Qiao Nichang was still young after all. Seeing the mother and daughter nder her like this, she did not want to cry in public and be ugly. She could only pout in grievance.
Xie Yun went forward and held Qiao Nishangs small hand. Dont be afraid. His Majesty and the Empress are both reasonable people.
Little Nishang looked at her own hand that was being held and said, Uncle Xie, I believe mother said that those who are innocent are innocent.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Xue Xiaoxiao who was kneeling on the ground and said, Second young Madam Xue is right. She is so vicious at such a young age. This is the first time I have seen her alive. Initially, I did not want to punish her for the sake of my ancestors. It seems that I have no choice but to punish her now.
Second Young Mistress Xue repeatedly kowtowed and said, Thank You, Your Highness, for your impartial punishment.
Qiao ruoyi said anxiously, Second sister, you watched Nichang grow up. She cant be so vicious. She is so young and still doesnt know anything.
Second young mistress Xue said, Assistant Minister Qiao, this is the imperial court. Its not a ce where you can get close to rtives.
Qiao ruoyi walked over and hugged little nichang. Dont be afraid. Mother is here. No matter what punishment you receive, mother will believe that you are innocent.
Qiao Ruoyi believed in her daughter whom she had raised. She also believed that the bloodline of the Qiao family could not be so vicious.
Qiao Jinniang smiled. I did not say that I would punish Nichang. Nichang is so obedient. She has done a good job protecting sister. She should be properly rewarded.
Second Young Madam Xue looked at Qiao Jinniang in disbelief and said to Lu Chen, Your Majesty, Please help my son. I Cant let my son ruin his life without justice just because he doesnt have an aunt queen, can I?
Qiao Jinniang motioned for the pce servant to take thentern from yesterdays Pce. This is thentern from yesterdays Pce. Nichang is only four years old and is a head shorter than Xue Xiaoxiao. She cant even reach thentern on thentern even if she steps on it.
Unless she was climbing on a stool to take it down. But if she were to take thentern, wouldnt you be unable to escape?
Qiao jinniang said, Nichang, go to the side of the shelf and raise your hand!
Nichang stood by the side of the shelf. She stretched her hand so high that she was still unable to hook it onto thentern.
Qiao jinniang said slowly, This evidence is enough to prove that Miss Xue is lying. Moreover, Xue Xiaoxiao, youre so young to know to send away the maids and pce servants at the door. Have you ever thought that there are guards on the roof as well?
The three beloved youngdies of the Qiao family lived in the pce. How could Qiao Jinniang not hold back? Yesterday, she found a secret guard to protect her, and the secret guard witnessed everything.
Yesterday, the secret guard almost showed up, but at the critical moment, Nichang saved neon.
The Secret Guard on dutyst night told everything that happenedst night, not leaving a single word.
When state Duke Xue heard this, he found it hard to believe that his own granddaughter was so vicious. He immediately went forward and gave Xue Xiaoxiao a p.
How dare you harm people so openly, and even lie to the family to seek justice for You?
Xue Xiaoxiao was stunned by her grandfathers p. Second Young Madam Xue looked at her daughter in disbelief and said, Xiaoxiao, you... how can you be so Vicious?
Xue Xiaoxiao burst into tears. It was mother who wanted me to be the second princes consort, but the second Prince said that he wanted to marry neon dress as the Princess Consort. How could Qiao Neon Dress Be Worthy?
Qiao Jinniang sneered coldly. Ang er is so young, you dont even know what a princess consort is.
I saw that you had already received your retributionst night, so I spared you.
I never thought that you would still think of bullying others. Today, I will never forgive you!
Xue Xiaoxiao attempted to harm others first and nder herter. Considering her young age and the fact that she did not raise her godfather, her parents are not allowed to have any fame or glory, and they are not allowed to enjoy the inheritance of the Duke of Xues estate.
Hearing this, second young Madam Xue was so shocked that she fainted.
..
After the morning court session ended, everyone discussed this matter. Many people really did not expect that the youngdy of the Xue family could be so vicious at such a young age.
Qiao Ruoyi had asked for leave after the morning court session. Her daughter was frightened in the pcest night. Today, she was falsely used. People pointed at her nose and called her a bastard.
Qiao ruoyi wanted to spend some time with nichang to dispel her unhappiness.
Qiao ruoyi then brought Nichang to the temple fair at the bottom of the Yuan Xi Temple to y.
Nichang enjoyed herself for the whole afternoon. On the carriage back.., she did not forget to ask Qiao ruoyi, Mother, why did they say that Im a bastard? They even said that my father doesnt want me. Also, Uncle Xie said that Im his daughter. Is that true?
Qiao ruoyi held Little Nichang in her arms and said gently, Little Nichang, actually Xie Yun is indeed your father, but thats only the father who is connected by blood.
Back then, mother and he were schemed against by others to have you. Mother and uncle Xie both like you. Back then, Uncle Xie was also very good to you in Mothers arms. However, mother and uncle Xie did not like each other and could not be together.
Later, mother met Father Luo Wei. Father Luo Wei likes mother and treats you as his own daughter. Little Nichang is very happy. She has two fathers.
Little Nichang nodded her head as if she understood something.
After coaxing little nichang to sleep, Yan Yu said to Qiao ruoyi, Miss has finally thought it through and is willing to ept young master Xie.
Previously, Qiao Ruoyi kept telling Little Nichang that she only had one father, Luo Wei.
Qiao ruoyi stood by the window and looked at the bright moon in the sky. Yan Yu, you and Xiao Man have followed me since young. I Wont hide it from you. Xie Yuns condition is getting worse by the day. Perhaps he wont be able to give me the antidote next month.
Although I cant let go of many things in this world, I dont want Little Nichang to lose her parents. Today, Xue n humiliated Little Nichang, there will definitely be others tomorrow.
Qiao ruoyi said, Xie Yun and I will either die together, or he will live if I die. This gu worm is like this, I can only let Nichang have a biological father.
Yan Yus eyes reddened and said, Miss, dont say that, dont die, if Xie Yun marries another wife after you die, he will not treat Miss Nichang well!
Qiao ruoyi said, But there are still brothers and sisters who will protect Nichang. I only hope that Nichang isnt an orphan..
Yan Yu, after I leave, you have to take good care of Nichang. You have to tell her that I have always loved her. Luo Wei, aunt and I will watch her live well in the sky.
Yan Yu said with tears in her eyes, Miss... Yan Yu will definitely take good care of Miss Nichang!
Chapter 398
Chapter 398: Chapter 398, another way to make the antidote
Yan Yu said reluctantly, Miss, didnt Lan Xin say that there was another way? As long as you have a good rtionship with master xie, using blood essence to make the antidote is the same as donating blood...
Qiao ruoyi heard this and said, I would rather die than betray Luo Wei. Also, Lan Xin will return the blood. Tell her that theres no need to send any more.
Yan Yu replied, Yes!
..
It was the first day of the Lunar New Year again. It was the time for Xie Yun to donate blood to Qiao Ruoyi.
When Xie Yun arrived at the Qiao family, he was not only thin and weak, but also very weak. When he cut his veins and let out the blood.
The imperial physician at the side said with extreme disapproval, Family head xie, if you continue to let out the blood, Im afraid that you wont have much time to live.
Compared to a year ago, Xie Yun was visibly much weaker.
Fu Lu sat at the side and sighed, Xie Yun, why didnt you eat the pig liver that I sent you?
Thank you for your good intentions, Princess.
Fu Lu sighed, It doesnt matter if you die, but if you die, Ruo Yi will also die. Sigh, you should eat more pig liver to replenish your blood. You have to Live!
Xie Yun:...it was obvious that Princess Fu Lu did not have such a kind heart.
Xie Yun had finished draining the blood. This time, he had personally taken it for Qiao Ruo Yi because when Lan Xin came to deliver the blood medicine half a month ago, Qiao Ruo Yi had not drunk it.
When Xie Yun entered, he saw that Qiao Ruo Yi was drawing. Qiao Ruo Yis drawing skills were not low, but she was much better than her sister.
Qiao ruoyi saw Xie Yun and said: Lan Xin did not tell youst time, you dont have to bring the blood medicine, I will not drink it anymore.
Xie Yun frowned: You will die if you dont drink it, that ice silkworm Gu is the ten thousand year Frost Gu, thest time it acted up, it was not that strong, if it really acted up, you will have to suffer the pain of not being able to live and not be able to die!
Qiao ruo yi said: If that day reallyes, I will kill myself, I have hated you and med you, but I will not make you pay for my death, you have to live and take good care of Ni Shang for me!
Xie Yun went forward and ced the blood in front of Qiao Ruo Yis mouth, Drink it.
Qiao Ruo Yi threw the bowl of blood on the ground, I dont want to drink it, I told Lan Xinst time, you dont have to bring any more blood.
Blood sttered everywhere, like blossoming wintersweet on the stone road.
Xie Yuns face darkened when he saw this. Ive already let out the blood. Even if you want me to live, I Wont give it to you next time. What do you mean by throwing it away now?
Qiao ruoyi said, Your blood makes me sick. Since Ive made up my mind, I dont need to drink it again!
Xie Yun clenched his hands tightly. Alright, Qiao ruoyi, dont Expect Me to save you the next time you have a seizure!
Qiao ruoyi said, Of course I wont trouble you, Sir Xie.
..
In the Tai Chi Pce.
Lu Chen and Xie Yun were ying chess.
Lu Chen ced a stone and asked when he saw Xie Yuns extremely pale blood, The imperial physician came to report that you can only donate three more rounds of blood to Qiao Ruoyi at most. Have you thought about how to dispose of the inheritance? Theres not a single person in the Qiao family who does business and cant control the huge wealth of your Xie family.
Xie Yun immediately put down a ck stone and said, Ive disappointed you. Qiao ruoyi doesnt need me to give her the antidote anymore. She would rather die by herself. I will manage my family business myself.
Lu Chen held a white stone in his hand and said, Youre already in a desperate situation. Why do you still care about other things? Qiao ruoyi lost her husband because of you. If you just watch her die, how will you face Nichang in the future?
What was more important was that Qiao Ruoyi and Qiao Jinniang were very close. Jinniang was a person who valued rtionships. If her younger sister died at a young age, she would probably be sad for a long time.
Lu Chen ced the white chess piece on the chessboard, and all the ck Chess Pieces lost. Your expression looks terrifying, lets stop here! Qiao Ruoyi is dead, and I still have to worry about who will take her ce.
Xie Yun looked at the chessboard and said, Your Majesty, if I can let Qiao ruoyi live, what if the Qiao familyes to your Majesty to ask for an exnation and punish me?
Lu Chen said slowly, If you hand over the Xie familys transportation to me, I promise that I will not punish you on behalf of the Qiao family.
Then if its Jin er...before Xie Yun could finish his words, he saw Lu Chens eyes that wanted to kill him. What if the Qiao family begged the Empress?
Lu Chen said, I guarantee that they wont be able to see the Empress.
Xie Yun left the pce and saw Lan Xin rushing over.
When Lan Xin saw Xie Yun, she hurriedly said, Not good, master. The Gu poison in the Qiao familys fifth young Misss body is acting up again!
Xie Yun rushed back to the Qiao residence. The main door of Qiao ruoyis courtyard was tightly shut. Yan Yu was biting her lips in Qiao Ruoyis boudoir, not daring to cry out loud.
The young miss had instructed her not to say anything before she died. She was afraid that the Qiao family would ask for Xie Yuns blood.
Xie Yun climbed over the wall and entered Qiao Ruoyis courtyard. He pushed open the door and entered. He saw Qiao Ruoyi lying on the bed, shivering. Xie Yun came forward and touched Qiao Ruoyis forehead. It was boiling hot.
Qiao ruoyi seemed to have lost all meaning. She only spoke coldly. Her brows were tightly knitted as if she was feeling a bone-piercing pain.
When Yan Yu saw Xie Yun going to touch Qiao Ruoyi, she hurriedly went forward to stop Xie Yun and said, Lord Xie, you can not touch my master!
Xie Yun said to Yan Yu, Do you want your master to live, or do you want your master to die today?
Yan Yus tears kept falling as she sobbed and said, This servant naturally wants miss to live well. Miss Nichang is still so young. She can not do without her mother!
Xie Yun said to Yan Yu, Since thats the case, then listen to me. Go Out Now and guard the door. No matter what soundse from inside, dont let anyone in.
Yan Yu looked at Qiao Ruoyi, who was in extreme pain, and had no choice but to go out first.
After Lan Xin and Yan Yu left, only Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun, who werepletely unconscious, were left in the room.
The bright sun shone in through the window, and Qiao Ruoyis face was covered with ayer of light.
Xie Yun reached out to touch Qiao Ruoyis face, put down the curtains on both sides of the bed, and slowly untied the belt of Qiao Ruoyis dress..
It had been many years, but Xie Yun always remembered that there was a red mole on Qiao Ruoyis heart..
In fact, Qiao Ruoyi was Xie Yuns only woman.
Back then, in order topete with third uncle and the Xie familys second son, he disguised himself as a woman. He did not dare to expose himself at all. Although he had maids by his side, he did not touch any of them.
Initially, Lan Xin was prepared to be his maid. However, he and Lan Xin had known each other since they were young. Moreover, he did not want to destroy Lan Xin because she had a man that she loved.
After he could regain his manhood, he had not taken a wife yet, and he did not want to cause any trouble for his illegitimate son, so he did not have any concubines. Not long after that, he met Qiao Ruoyi.
After that, he did not dare to have sex with other women before they got married.
Hence, Xie Yun was almost thirty years old, but Qiao Ruoyi was the only woman..
Xie Yun looked at Qiao Ruoyis appearance and said, Im sorry, but living is more important than anything else... what reputation, what other things are just worldly possessions.
Inside the house, clothes were scattered all over the floor.
Yan Yu heard the movement at the door and wanted to enter, but was stopped by Lan Xin. My Master is saving Miss Qiao.
Yan Yu said, This wont do. My Miss will hate me to death when she wakes up! She would rather die than have sex with Xie Yun!
Chapter 399
Chapter 399: Chapter 399. Nothing was more important than being alive
When Qiao ruoi woke up, she felt her entire body aching. She was still looking at the bed curtain in her room. She got up and got off the bed to see everything she was familiar with. Only then did she know that she had not turned into a ghost. She was still alive.
She was still alive in this world, but Xie Yuns body could no longer support another bowl of blood for her.
Yan Yu and the other servant girl heard themotion inside and rushed in.
Yan Yu was relieved when she saw Qiao ruoyi wake up. Miss, you finally woke up. I really thought you would never wake up again. It would be great if you could wake up.
Qiao ruoyi said to Yan Yu, Xie Yun donated blood to me again?
Yan Yu pursed her lips and did not dare to lie to Qiao Ruoyi. After all, Qiao Ruoyis body was full of marks. She would probably discover it by herself when she was changing.
Miss, Sir Xie just used another method to give you the antidote.
Qiao ruoyi raised her hand in shock and anger and pped Yan Yu hard on the face. I trusted you so much, but you helped others to humiliate me?
Yan Yu covered her face and knelt on the ground, kowtowing. Miss, this servant doesnt want you to die so young. Last year, before General Luo passed away, hisst words were also to hope that you could live well.
Miss, this is not something between a man and a woman, but just a good medicine to save lives. What is more important than you being able to live!
Qiao ruoyi saw the swelling on Yan Yus face and felt both angry and guilty. In the end, Yan Yu was doing this for her own good.
Someone, prepare hot water. I want to take a bath and boil a bowl of pill to avoid children!There was no way Qiao Ruoyi would give birth to another son for Xie Yun.
Qiao Ruoyi was soaking in the bathtub. Looking at the marks on her body, her face was extremely dark.
Although Qiao Ruoyi liked Confucianism, she did not like the fact that some sour schrs looked down on women. They even gave women the right to be respectable.
Due to the influence of the aristocratic families, the customs among the aristocrats had always been open. It wasmon for men and women to fall in love before marriage. As long as they did not talk about illegitimate children, it would be fine.
Qiao Ruoyi did not really care about that time when she had sex with Xie Yun. Not to mention that she was unconscious, even if she was conscious, if she knew that she was poisoned, she would casually pull out a mans antidote.
To Qiao ruoyi, these false titles werent that important.
But at that time, she didnt have a loved one in her heart. She wasnt willing to use this as an antidote because her heart was already upied by Luo Wei. She was Luo Weis wife for the rest of her life.
After having Luo Wei in her heart, how could she bear to have sex with another man?
Qiao ruoyi covered her lips and leaned against the bathtub, retching.
..
Qiao ruoyi took three days off before she returned to the imperial court.
When she entered the imperial court, she saw Xie Yun. Her eyes were filled with hatred as she looked at Xie Yun. She should not have gone easy on Xie Yun for Nichangs sake. She should not have been bullied by him like this!
After the imperial court, Xie Yun called out to Qiao ruoyi, Fifth Miss Qiao, wait.
Both sides were colleagues of the court. Qiao Ruoyi was after all someone who cared about face, so she could not cause a ruckus with Xie Yun in public.
Xie Yun said, Fifth Miss Qiao, would you do me the honor of dining at the Hundred Savory restaurant this afternoon?
Okay.
Qiao Ruoyi agreed. There were some things that she had to clearly exin to Xie Yun in person.
The business of the Hundred Savory Restaurant at noon was still very good.
It was hot outside in the summer, and there were ice cubes all over the ce that were very cool. Therefore, many officials in Chang an liked toe to the savory restaurant and the Hundred Savory Restaurant for meals.
In a private room of the Hundred Savory restaurant, Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun sat opposite each other.
Xie Yun said, Fifth Miss Qiao, what happened three days ago was an urgent matter. If I have offended you, it is to keep your life. I hope Miss Qiao will forgive me.
Qiao ruoyi said seriously, Thank you, sir. Then I will tell you again clearly. My husband is Luo Wei. My heart and body are Luo Weis. I will not betray my husband, and I will not allow other men to touch me.
If there is a next time, I will not let you off easily. I dont have long to live either. It would be better to die together!
Xie Yun poured a ss of wine for Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao ruoyi rejected Xie Yuns wine and said, I still have to go to the yamen to handle official business in the afternoon, so I wont drink this wine.
Xie Yun said, Luo Wei has already been gone for more than a year. If he had a spirit in the sky, he definitely wouldnt want you to suffer and die. Dont worry, fifth Miss Qiao. I just purely want you to live. This matter doesnt concern men and women, so why do you care so much?
Qiao ruoyi frowned.
Xie Yun continued to persuade her, Fifth Miss Qiao, why dont you think about Aunt Hu? If you die, who will remember Aunt Hu in the future?
Aunt Hus birthday, Aunt Hus death day. Do you still want the Marquise, the mistress of the household, to handle it for a concubine?
Or do you want those Rtivesof the Hu family to handle it? You can tell Nichang, but Nichang is only a young child. If she wants to take care of it, what will she do?
Aunt Hu has cut off her incense. Can you really leave with Peace of mind?
Aunt Hu was originally a child of the Qiao family. Although her brothers were still alive, they were afraid that they would use aunt Hus light to take care of some small viges outside. They only plundered Aunt Hu, they did not have the slightest brotherhood or sisterhood.
Why would they do these things for Aunt Hu?
Xie Yun narrowed her phoenix-like eyes and slowly said to Qiao ruoyi, Aunt Hu is one. Theres also Luo Wei..
Although Luo Wei is your Qiao familys son-inw, if you were not around, who would make a big fuss about his anniversaries? Even if he was the son-inw of the Qiao family, the Qiao family would do it for the sake of face.
Who would remember Luo Wei like you do? What kind of food would he like to eat?
If you were to die, everyone in the world would gradually forget about Luo Wei. Qiao ruoyi, in this world, nothing is more important than living. Luo Wei is alive, and I definitely hope that you can be happy for the rest of your life.
Qiao ruoyi picked up the wine cup in front of her and drank it in one gulp. There was a teardrop at the corner of her eye. She could abandon Nichang because at least someone would take care of her.
Aunt Hu and Luo Wei, besides her, who else could be as empathetic as her to handle the funeral affairs for them?
She could not die. At least she had to wait until Nichang grew up and was able to organize these memorial days for Aunt Hu and burn joss sticks and paper money for Aunt Hu.
Xie Yun handed Qiao ruoyi a piece of paper and said, This method is not more useful than blood, so it is best to cure it four times in a month. This is a garden in Chang an city. No one knows that it is my property.
If you want to cure it, you cane to this garden. Besides you, me, Lanxin, and your personal maid, I will not let others know about this and make others gossip.
Qiao ruoyi took the paper from Xie Yuns hand. After a long time, she sobbed, Okay.
Chapter 400
Chapter 400: Chapter 400, using Xie Yun as Luo Weis substitute
Three dayster.
After Qiao Ruoyi left the office, she did not return to the Qiao family. Instead, she took a horse carriage and arrived at Xie Yuns private residence.
This private residence was not on the main street that was filled with nobles. Instead, it was close to the exit of the city. It stood on about a hundred mu ofnd. There were rockeries and streams in it. It was currently the middle of summer and flowers were blooming everywhere.
It was quite the scene of an aristocratic family.
Lan Xii weed Qiao ruoyi into the house and said, The fifth Miss Qiao is here. Master is ying the zither in the courtyard. He has a new zither that has been passed down for generations. I heard that the fifth Miss Qiao is quite aplished in ying the zither.
Qiao ruoyi said, I dont Like Music.
When Qiao Ruoyi entered, she saw that Xie Yuns long hair was gently held up by a streamer. He was wearing a wide-sleeved light smoke luo robe, which was elegant and elegant. With a slight movement of his eyebrows, he showed the elegance of a member of an aristocratic family.
The ancient music yed by Xie Yun was full of charm, which showed how superb his zither was.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyi hade, Xie Yun stopped the music in his hand and asked, Youre here? You havent had dinner yet, right?
Theres no need. Lets finish this quickly. After I use the antidote, Ill go back to the Qiao family.
Qiao ruoyi said in a businesslike manner. She had been telling herself in her heart that the reason she came here was to live a good life.
Entering the room, Qiao Ruoyi was a little nervous. The first two times had happened when she was unconscious. She could not ept it when she was conscious.
She turned to Xie Yun and said, Lets eat. Also, I want to drink today.
Xie Yun said, Its ready.
Qiao ruoyi had drunk an unknown amount of wine, but she was still not drunk. She only thought that she had to bring some medicine the next time she came, so that she could be forced to bear all of this.
Qiao Ruoyi finished the wine that Lan Xin had prepared. Her consciousness was still clear.
Entering the room, Xie Yun could see Qiao Ruoyis reluctance. He only said, If you dont want aunt Hu to cut off the offerings, you can also leave now.
Qiao ruoyi took a deep breath. She recalled the whispers between her and Luo Wei when they were in Jiangnan that day.
She and Luo Wei had not slept together since they got married because Qiao Ruoyi was afraid of this matter, and Luo Wei did not want to force her..
They had originally agreed that when they returned to Chang an, she would ept Luo Wei and give birth to a child for Luo Wei, Luo Wei, Luo Wei..
Qiao ruoyi kept thinking about Luo Wei, forcing herself to think of the person in front of her as Luo Wei. Qiao ruoyi tried hard to find the simrities between Luo Wei and Xie Yun..
Qiao ruoyi walked to a desk in the room, picked up a pen, and pointed a ck mole at Xie Yuns eyes.
Luo Wei had a mole here. He said that this was a mole of bad luck. He used to believe it without a doubt. It was not until he met Qiao ruoyi that he realized that the heavens did not give him bad luck, but the greatest pity for Luo Wei.
Qiao Ruoyi stepped on the mans ck Moleand gradually nted a kiss on it.
The hangover from the alcohol also came. She even really thought that the person in front of her was Luo Wei.
Luo Wei, husband...
When Xie Yun heard Qiao Ruoyis address, he wished he could push her away. However, he owed her. He had no choice but to give Qiao ruoyi the antidote.
To think that he, the dignified Xie Yun, was actually used as a substitute for a young general by Qiao Ruoyi?
This was simply outrageous!
..
When Qiao Ruoyi woke up, it was already the morning of the next day. It was early in the summer, and the sun was already shining brightly at this time.
Xie Yun had already put on his official uniform and said, Youre awake? This ce is far from the imperial pce. Its about time to set off for the morning court.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said to Xie Yun, Youre not allowed to sleep with me in the future.
Xie Yun said slowly, You were the one who held my handst night and did not allow me to leave.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and recalled that she had mistaken Xie Yun for Luo Weist night.
Qiao Ruoyi was dressed in official clothes under the service of Yan Yu. After getting into the carriage, Lan Xin came over and gave Qiao ruoyi a food box. This is the breakfast that master specially prepared for you.
After getting out of the carriage, Lan Xin was in a great mood. Seeing Xie Yune out, she said, Master, fifth Miss Qiao finally doesnt hate master so much. So maybe Miss Nichang will return to our Xie family soon
Master, you wont be alone anymore. Youll have a lovely wife and beautiful children to apany you in the future.
Xie Yun touched her eyes and hit Lan Xins head with his fan. Stop talking nonsense. Dont let outsiders know what happened here.
..
After Qiao Ruoyi left the Yamen and returned to the Qiao family, Nichang immediately rushed out and threw herself into her arms. Why didnt Mother Come Back Last Night? Nichang misses you so much.
Qiao Ruoyi kissed Nichangs face. Mother misses Nichang too. However, mother had some matters to attend to yesterday. If mother is free tomorrow afternoon, I will bring you to y on the streets.
The nurse who took care of Nichang came over and said, Fifth miss, His Majesty and His Majesty have rewarded Miss Nichang with many good things today. The eldest princess has also given many gifts. They all praise Miss Nichang for protecting her sister at such a young age.
Qiao ruoyi chuckled. Nichang is so obedient.
At this moment, Fu Lu came to Qiao Ruoyis courtyard.
When Fu Lu saw Qiao ruoyi, he sighed. Sigh!
Why is sister-inw sighing? Did Something Happen?
Fu Lu said, Actually, its nothing important. After the matter with Xue Xiaoxiao, it made me think of something. The Empress has two sons, and our Qiao family also has many little girls. Ruofengs little daughter, along with Nichang, all have the surname Qiao.
Qiao ruoyi let Nichang y by herself and invited Fu Lu in. Now that the children are young, why worry about such things?
Back then, Zhou Sisi was five or six years old when she thought of marrying someone other than the crown princes cousin.
Fu Lu continued, I dont want my daughter to enter the pce, but she and Nichang have such a good rtionship with Anger. If they often y together, there will definitely be rumors outside, and it would be inappropriate to not allow them to y together.
I want to let Nichang and Nichang go to the academy or the academy or private school, so that they dont only know how to y with Anger.
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, I have already thought about the matter of entering the pce. Nichang and Nichang are both talented. Coincidentally, my sister told me that Anger is too yful, so I let Nichang and Nichang go to the pce to study together with Anger. He will also be an example for his two sisters.
Fu Lu said, Hey, how can you do this? I dont want neon and Ang er to y together all the time, so I sent neon to study. Otherwise, if studying is so hard, I definitely wont let neon suffer this hardship.
Qiao Ruoyi was puzzled and asked, Is studying hard? Isnt it a great blessing for us to be able to study?
Fu Lu said,... we really cant know what summer is like in winter...
Qiao ruoyi slowly said, Its the summer worm that cant be said to be cold. Sister-inw, I know your concerns, but the two princes are still young, and the neon dress is even smaller. They are cousins who are connected by blood, why should we avoid suspicion for the sake of othersWords?
Qiao ruoyi smiled again and said, Moreover, I also heard that sister-inw doesnt marry other cousins, but didnt she also marry brother in the end? Marriage is destined, why should we prepare for such a long-term thing?
Chapter 401 - When do you plan to marry Qiao Ruoyi
Chapter 401: Chapter 401: When do you n to marry Qiao Ruoyi
Qiao ruoyi made up a random excuse. Yesterday, Hong Qifeng invited me to her house to admire ancient paintings. I stayed toote, so I stayed over at the Li family.
Hong Qifeng and Li Yun had gotten married three months ago. Li Yun was now a third-grade Hanlin of the Hanlin College, so he had never felt anything for Hong Qifeng.
Li Yuan was prime minister Lins beloved disciple. Prime Minister Lin was old, and his son did not need to n anything for himself. Hence, he wholeheartedly groomed Li Yuan and often brought him to the Hong family.
Although Li Yuan and the Empress had a rtionship, it was a long time ago. Li Yuan had alsoe out of it long ago, but the marriage was not going well.
It was not until they met Hong Qifeng in the Hong family that Li Yuan and Hong Qifeng became familiar with each other. Both of them were not young anymore, and the marriage was finalized very quickly.
After their marriage, both of them raised the table and greeted each other respectfully. They were a model couple in the officialdom.
Princess Fu Lu pointed at the mark on Qiao Ruoyis neck. Didnt you look in the mirror when you washed up this morning?
Qiao ruoyi quickly went into the room and looked at the clear reflection in the bronze mirror. She blushed in embarrassment.
Fu Lu came in and said, Dont tell me that it was bitten by a bug? Actually, its a good thing that you have a man that you like. Its good that you can walk out of it. Which familys young master are you from?
Qiao ruoyi said to Fu Lu, Sister-inw, I will never be able to walk out of the regret that Lowe lost in my life.
AH? Then did you follow the example of my cousins and look for a male lover? You can look for a male lover, but dont look for the same male lover as my cousins. Princess Fu an found a male lover, but she didnt expect it to be cousin Rong Huas. The two of them started fighting on the street...
Qiao ruoyi said, Where am I going to find a boy toy? I was the one who went to look for Xie Yuns antidote yesterday. A humans blood is limited. If he gives me blood every month to make the antidote, he can only live for a year and a half at most... I have no choice but to use this method.
Fu Lu understood. So its like this. Xie Yun has really caused a lot of trouble. When does he n to marry you?
He cant just remain nameless and undivided forever. Although its an antidote, once its known by others, there will inevitably be gossip.
Qiao Ruo Yi recalledst year. Xie Yun had said that he wanted to marry her, but how could she marry someone else?
Her husband was only Luo Wei!
Fu Lu saw Qiao Ruo Yis troubled expression and determined that Xie Yun still looked down on Qiao Ruo Yis background and was unwilling to be responsible for Qiao Ruo Yi. Fu Lu ground his teeth in anger.
She held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Dont worry, I will definitely help you teach Xie Yun a good lesson!
Qiao ruoyi did not understand the meaning of Fu Lus words, but she felt that Xie Yun deserved to be taught a lesson, so she ignored this matter.
..
Fu Lu returned to his own courtyard. The matter of teaching Xie Yun a lesson could not be handled by the Qiao family. Then he would think that no one wanted their Qiao familys daughter anymore!
Fu Lu made a trip to the residence of Grand Princess Rong Hua.
The servants and pce servants in Grand Princess Rong Huas residence all had extremely bad expressions on their faces. They looked as if a great disaster was about to befall them.
Fu Lu entered Grand Princess Rong Huas main hall and was thrown a scroll of scripture by Grand Princess Rong Hua. His Majesty is too biased towards Fu An. I am his biological sister!!
Nowadays, there are fewer and fewer beautiful and talented men. It was not easy for me to take a fancy to one of them. Fu An, a little princess, actually dares to snatch it from me!
Fu Lu picked up the scripture on the ground and said, Cousin, dont be angry.
Rong Hua saw that it was fu lu and said, What are you doing here? You and Fu an are on the same side!
Fu Lu subserviently handed the scripture to Rong Huas eldest princess, I dont like Fu An at all. Its good that his majesty treated his cousin Fu an since she was young. That thousand-year-old Tianshan Snow Lotus was given to Fu an without batting an eye, and all kinds of new years gifts were never left behind.
After the Empress picked out the things that were offered, she gave them to Fu an to pick out. They wereparable to His Majestys biological sister. Its toote for me to be jealous.
Rong hua said angrily, They are both daughters of the Lu family. She is also a princess. How Outrageous!
Fu Lu whispered into Rong Huas ear, I heard that Fu an likes Xie Yun very much. The male pets that she found are somewhat simr to Xie Yun. If cousin can find Xie Yun to be your male pet, then Fu an will cry himself to death.
Rong hua said, Thats not appropriate. Xie Yun is now an official of the imperial court. Furthermore, he was previously a member of an aristocratic family.
Fu Lu goaded her, Cousin doesnt even have this little bit of courage! This is a good opportunity to make that little girl, Fu An, cry her eyes out. What aristocratic family? If he really had the ability, he wouldnt have entered the imperial court as an official and submitted to the imperial court, Right?
Eldest Princess Rong Hua Thought for a moment and said, What you said makes some sense. Men, please invite Lord Xie Yun Xie over to my residence for a chat!
Fu Lu walked out of the eldest princessresidence and said guiltily, Im sorry, Cousin Rong Hua, Fu An. I will definitely find a few more beautiful men for you in the future.
Eldest Princess Rong Hua had always been very bold. First of all, her mothers status was not low and she was the first daughter of the Hui Lin Emperor. Before Lu Chen was born, she was extremely doted on.
Second, she also knew that unless she rebelled, her position as the eldest princess could not be removed no matter how much she tried.
She did not have any children, so she did not need to n anything for them.
It did not matter if the emperor hated her because she was too good at causing trouble. She had endless silver anyway, so how could she be willing to suffer a loss.
This little girl Fu an actually dared to steal her things. She also wanted to properly humiliate the man Fu an liked.
If Xie Yun wanted to me someone, she should me fu an for liking him!
..
Xie Yun could not help but frown when she heard that it was the people from eldest Princess Rong Huas residence who came to look for him. He had some friendship with eldest Princess Jin Hua, but he had never had any friendship with Rong Hua.
At most, they were just acquaintances. How could the princess let him go to the Princessresidence for no reason?
Xie Yun went to Princess Rong Huas residence with doubts in her heart.
As soon as she entered, she smelled a decadent fragrance. This fragrance was so sweet that it made Xie Yun ufortable. She saw Princess Rong Hua lying on the wooden chair half-naked. Xie Yun could not help but take two steps back.
I, Xie Yun, pay my respects to the eldest princess.
Rong Huas eyes lit up. No wonder, no wonder that sickly man is so infatuated with you with your looks.
Xie Yun did not understand what Rong Hua meant. Does the eldest princess have anything to tell me? His Majesty is still waiting for me to report back.
Rong Hua walked to Xie Yuns side. Ive specially asked around. His Majesty has taken the empress to escape the summer.
Xie Yun:...
Rong Huas hand brushed across Xie Yuns face as he clicked his tongue in wonder. I want to have sex with Sir Xie. Sir Xie Wont refuse, right?
Xie Yun took two steps back and said, Your Highness, I shouldnt have rejected you. However, Im getting married and have a deep rtionship with my fiance. Please forgive me, Your Highness.
Youre Getting Married? Which familys daughter are you marrying?Rong hua approached Xie Yun and said, Are you more beautiful than me?
In terms of appearance, no one in the world canpare to your highness. Shes the fifth young miss of Marquis an Yuans mansion, Qiao Ruoyi.
Rong Hua was not afraid of anything, but he was also afraid of the Empress. After all, anyone who went against the Empress did not have a good ending.
Chapter 402
Chapter 402: Chapter 402: Xie Yun was poisoned again
Rong hua usually did not pay attention to the rumors outside, and no one came to her to talk about it.
When Luo Weis funeral was held, most of the Chang an nobles were in Jiangnan. At that time, it was only the chief official in the Princessmansion who sent the money. This was a small matter for Rong Hua.
Therefore, Rong Hua did not know that Qiao Ruoyi no longer had a husband.
Xie Yun replied, Your Highness, theres something you dont know. General Luo Wei diedst year because of raiding bandits.
Rong Huas eldest princessughed coldly. This husband diedst year because of raiding bandits. Now, he has a deep rtionship with Lord Xie. Theres no room for Lord Xie to have another woman?
Although Rong Huas eldest princess had many male pets, she only began to ept male pets three years after the death of her husband.
Rong Hua was very displeased with Qiao Ruoyi in his heart. He put his hand on Xie Yuns shoulder and said, We wont let the third person know that were having a good time today. Dont you want to have a good time before the wedding, Lord Xie?
Xie Yun quietly moved away Rong Huas eldest princesshand and said, Perhaps the eldest princess has also heard of the rules of the Qiao familys daughter. The men who marry the Qiao familys daughter must be innocent...
Rong hua frowned and said, How could I have not heard of such a rule? The Qiao family has set such a rule. Didnt you see that Marquis Qiao himself had two concubines in the past! ?!
Xie Yun unyieldingly said, Princess, please do not make things difficult for me. The Empress loves Qiao Ruoyi the most. If ruoyi is wronged in this matter, the Empress Will Definitely Not Forgive Your Highness.
Rong hua said, Youre using the Empress to suppress me?
Xie Yun only said, I dont dare.
Rong Hua heard Xie Yuns words and did not dare to really provoke the Qiao familys daughter. Firstly, her good younger brother doted on the empress as if nothing had happened. Offending the Qiao family would not do her any good.
Secondly, although Xie Yun was good-looking, she was almost 30 years old. Rong Hua still preferred young people who were around 17 or 18 years old. Although her looks and bearing could notpare to Xie Yuns, it was rare to see a well-behaved and obedient youth.
She wanted to have sex with Xie Yun to take revenge on Fu An, but Xie Yun was going to marry Qiao ruoyi. Fu an would naturally have his retribution. Why should she cause trouble for Xie Yun.
Rong Hua nced at the blush on Xie Yuns face and said, If you dont want to, I wont force you. However, you were drugged by my fragrance just now. You need a woman to resolve it.
Xie Yun:...
..
Qiao ruoyi then returned to her room to study the go map left behind by the go expert Wang Yibai 500 years ago.
When the aristocratic families were on their own, Go was something that the aristocratic families respected. There were many go experts who specialized in the way of go to be the hangers-on of the aristocratic families.
In order to gain the appreciation of the aristocratic families, these go experts would often destroy those important go maps.
As a result, there were very few go diagrams that were passed down from generation to generation. Most of them were the ones that only existed since the founding of Great Tang.
The Go diagrams that Qiao Ruoyi was looking at were the peerless go diagrams that she had found from the books that Xie Yun had presented to the imperial court. Among them, there were many go diagrams that Qiao ruoyi could not help but marvel at. If these go diagrams were passed down from generation to generation, it would be enough to make the world gasp in amazement.
Yan Yu lit a candle and said, Miss, its alreadyte. Its time for you to rest.
Qiao ruoyi said, Ill rest after looking at two more chess pieces.
As soon as she finished speaking, there was a sounding from outside the window. Yan Yu went over to open the window to check. Just as she opened the window a little, she saw Xie Yun.
Before Yan Yu could react, Xie Yun directly pushed open the window and entered Qiao Ruoyis room.
Qiao ruoyi saw Xie Yun and frowned. What are you doing here? This is the Qiao residence. To think that youre an official of the imperial court. Do you know what kind of serious crime it is to trespass into the hou residence?
Xie Yun walked to Qiao Ruoyis side and said, I was drugged by eldest Princess Rong Hua, and I need your help to cure me.
Qiao ruoyi said, There are many other women in Chang an, and the girls in Spring Breeze Street only need to pay silver. There are so many maidservants in the Xie family, why did youe to me for the cure? Since it was eldest Princess Rong Hua who drugged you, you can find eldest Princess Rong Hua to cure you.
Xie Yun went forward and held Qiao Ruoyis hand. I dont want to do this with other women.
Qiao ruoyi struggled and said, Xie Yun, what do you take me for? Last night was to survive. There was nothing I could do. What about today?
Xie Yun said in a low voice, Today, eldest Princess Rong Hua wants me to be her boy toy. I said that you and I are about to get married. Thats why eldest Princess Rong Hua is willing to let me go.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, Who wants to get married with you?
Eldest Princess Rong Hua wants you to be her boy toy. Its your good fortune, Xie Yun! Why are you using me as an Excuse?
Xie Yun said in a low voice, Do you want nichang to be burdened with such a joke because of me? Moreover, those princesses are already overbearing. If I be eldest Princess Rong Huas boy toy, do you think she will still allow me to give you the antidote in that way?
Xie Yun only felt her body temperature rising.
Qiao ruoyi said, You are an official of the imperial court. The eldest Princess Rong Hua cant force you. Tomorrow, His Majesty wille back and teach the eldest princess a lesson. As for our marriage, dont mention it. Also, you can find any woman you want to use as your antidote today.
Left and right, there are many women who want to be Xie Yuns wife and concubine but wont Be Jealous!
Yan Yu, send the guest out!
Xie Yun frowned and said, Qiao ruoyi, I have given you a years worth of blood. Is this how you repay kindness with enmity?
You owe me that.Qiao ruoyi stared at Xie Yun and said, If it werent for you, I wouldnt have to endure such pain.
Xie Yun let go of Qiao Ruoyis hand, turned around and jumped out of the window.
Yan Yu tried to persuade Qiao ruoyi, Miss, young master Xie is still under the effects of the medicine. He is such a noble man...
If you are speaking up for him, go to his side in the future. It just so happens that he still needs a woman with the antidote!
Hearing that, Yan Yu knelt down and said, Miss, Yan Yu wouldnt dare. But Yan Yu heard from Lan Xin that young master Xie only has you as a woman. He has never touched another woman. If you refuse to give him the antidote, he...
Qiao ruoyi said, What does it have to do with me whether he has touched another woman or not?
..
When Xie Yun walked out of the Qiao familys door, it began to rain heavily. He went back to the Xie family and looked for a doctor.
After the doctor checked his pulse, he said, Family head, the eldest princess only used a drug to stimte the mood. This drug can be removed with ice water. However, you have donated a years worth of blood to Miss Qiao. Your body is weak. Soaking in ice water for a night will probably destroy your body and bones. Its best to let a woman make the antidote.
Xie Yun said, Its alright. Lets Soak in the ice water.
Large chunks of ice entered the bathtub. Lan Xin looked at this scene and sighed. The Qiao familys young miss was a little too cruel.
After soaking in the ice water overnight, her masters body would probably be unable to withstand it.
Lan Xin steeled her heart and got another servant to serve her master. She then turned around and went to Qiao Ruoyis courtyard..
Chapter 403
Chapter 403: Chapter 403. She was at most a concubine
Lan Xin went outside the Qiao residence and found a secret guard of the Xie family to sneak into the Qiao residence.
She blew a cloud of sweat into Qiao Ruoyis room and made sure that the woman inside was sound asleep. Then, Lan Xin carried Qiao Ruoyi on her shoulder and nned to leave the Qiao residence.
The Secret Guards of the Qiao residence couldnt bear it any longer and offered their bodies, Miss Lan Xin, earlier on, seeing that you guys didnt do anything, our brothers have always been respectful towards you and Sir Xie. Now, youre taking my fifth miss away in front of us. Isnt that inappropriate?
Lan Xin:...
Themotion outside was so loud that Qiao Ruoyi slowly woke up. She saw that the lights were bright and she was struggling to get down from her own shoulder.
Lan Xin saw that Qiao ruoyi had woken up so quickly and scolded the profiteer of the pharmacy. The sweat had lost its effect so quickly.
Qiao ruoyi asked, Lan Xin? What are you doing?
Lan Xin knelt on the ground and suddenly kowtowed. Miss Qiao, Please Save My Master. Seeing that my master almost died for you, I beg you to save him! If he soaked in ice water for an entire night, he would probably be a corpse tomorrow!
Miss Qiao, as long as you are willing to save my master, Lan Xin will be your ve in the future!
Please, follow me. My Master is really going to die.
At this moment, Little Nichang, who had fallen asleep, ran to Qiao Ruoyi with a small cloth doll in her arms.
Little Nichang hugged Qiao Ruoyis thigh. Mother, is Uncle Xie going to die? Will he be like father and wont be able to sing for Little Nichang Anymore?
Qiao ruoyi looked at her daughter who looked simr to Xie Yun. She could not bear to let little nichang lose her parents.
No, uncle Xie wont die. Little Nichang, wait at home obediently. Mother will go and see Uncle Xie.
Little nichang nodded and said, Okay.
Lan Xin got up when she heard this. She wiped the tears from her eyes and brought Qiao Ruoyi to the Xie residence.
This was Qiao Ruoyis first time entering Xie Yuns room. His room was very spacious, and the antique shelves inside were all rare treasures. There was even a pearl the size of a childs fist in the room, shining with a bright pearl light.
Qiao ruoyi, who had been used to seeing treasures since she was young, was also surprised.
Further in, they saw a silken screen. Silken silk had always been used only by emperors. Now, there were women in West Mountain Academy who were learning silken silk, but it could only be used by the emperors and princesses in the pce.
There was actually such arge silken screen in Xie Yuns residence, and this was in the Xie familys vi in Chang an..
Behind the screen was Xie Yun soaking in ice water. The color of his lips had be extremely pale, and his eyes were tightly shut.
The doctor at the side advised Xie Yun, Master, Im afraid its not appropriate for you to continue like this. Why Dont you find a maid with a clean background to serve you?
Xie Yun still had his eyes closed, but his voice was clearly a little hoarse as he said, Theres no need.
Master, if you continue like this, youll have a high fever that wont go away.
Xie Yun said, Theres no need. I dont know if finding a woman will cause such trouble again. When that timees, Nichang wont be able to stay.
Qiao ruoyi sighed and said, Its rare for you to have such thoughts for Nichang.
Xie Yun opened his eyes and saw Qiao ruoyi.
Qiao ruoyi ordered Lan Xin to get a brush and ink. She approached Xie Yun and pointed at a ck mole in front of his eyes. Forget it, Ill help you with the antidote.
Xie Yun nced at the ck mole in the bronze mirror and clenched her fists. Luo Wei had such a ck mole on his face. Because of this ck mole, Luo Weis appearance was enhanced by a few points.
Qiao ruoyi thought he was Luo Wei again.
Xie Yun came out of the bathtub and held Qiao Ruoyi in his arms. He was going to teach this woman a good lesson today!
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were all on the mole in front of Xie Yun. Her hand gently wanted to touch the mole, but she didnt dare because the mole was fake. If she moved it, the mole would never be there again.
When Qiao Ruoyi woke up, it was already close to noon. Since the emperor was not here today, there was no need for morning court. Qiao ruoyi slowly got off the bed and called out to Yan Yu.
Lan Xin entered with a long line of maids, she bowed to Qiao ruoyi and said, Fifth miss, you are awake. There is no need for morning court today, so we did not wake you up. Your clothes are already prepared. Let the servants help you wash up.
Qiao ruoyi grew up in the marquisate, and the rules for washing up were quiteplicated. However, in front of the Xie family, she knew that it was nothing.
After Qiao ruoyi washed up, she left the Xie residence. She first went back to the Qiao family and brought Qiao Nichang to the Yamen of the Ministry of appointments.
..
Inside the Rong Hua Pce.
A secret guard was reporting to rong hua, Eldest princess,st night, Xie Yun first went to the Qiao residence and left not long after. Qiao ruoyi then went to the Xie family. She only left the Xie family at this time!
Eldest princess rong hua said, Xie Yun really did not lie to me. The wedding date between Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoi is approaching, how could Fu Lu not know? She deliberately came to y with me for Fu An?
When I go to the Qiao residence, I will also ask this girl Fu Lu properly. How did I let her down! She actually wanted to harm me like this!
Eldest Princess Rong Hua went to the An Yuan Marquis residence in a huff.
When Zheng Xiao heard that the eldest princess hade, he immediately went to the door to wee her.
Rong Hua did not dare to ept Zheng Xiaos greeting. He held Zheng Xiaos hand and said, Madam, there is no need to bow. This princess came here today to specially congratte the Qiao and Xie Second Manor on the uing wedding. I specially offer a small gift.
Zheng Xiao was puzzled and said, The wedding is approaching?
Rong Hua was also puzzled and said, Yesterday, Xie Yun told me that he and the fifth young miss of the manor have a deep rtionship. The two of them already have a marriage contract. Last Night, the fifth young miss even spent the night in the Xie Manor...
Zheng Xiao saw a few maidservants from other manors walk past the entrance of the manor, he said, Princess, pleasee in. I really dont know about this marriage contract. My Lord Marquis has also said that he will never let Xie Yun be the son-inw of the Qiao family. Im afraid that Xie Yun deceived you about this matter.
As for the matter of spending the night, I think your highness must have seen wrongly.
Rong hua smiled and said, Xu Huan really was mistaken. Is Fu Lu Here?
She took her two children to Luoyang yesterday with eldest princess Shou An. Xu wants toe back in three days.
Rong hua said, Okay, then sorry to bother you.
..
The maids who passed by the Qiao familys door went to the teahouse and discussed this matter.
Everyone said that the Qiao and Xie Familieswedding date is approaching. Its been more than a year. It seems that the wedding is approaching.
Thats right, thats right. I didnt expect assistant minister Qiao to have such capabilities.
In the Teahouse, a woman with a head full of golden hairpins stood out and said, Thats impossible. Xie Yun is still the head of an aristocratic family. Its impossible for him to marry his daughter-inw. At most, he would only marry Qiao Ruoyi as a noble concubine.
The maidservants snorted coldly and said, What era is this? The aristocratic families have long died. Xie Yun has already handed over the water transport collection book to the imperial court. How is the power of the Qiao family lower than the Xie Family?
The woman continued, The aristocratic families have the pride of the aristocratic families.
The Qiao family is also an aristocratic family!
The woman sneered, The Qiao family in the southwest has always been at the bottom of the aristocratic families. If they were not at the bottom of the aristocratic families, why would they work for the humble ss? If Xie Yun will marry Qiao ruoyi, I will chop off his head and use it as a kick for you!
Chapter 404
Chapter 404: Chapter 404, when Will Xie Yune to propose marriage
The rumors between Xie Yun and Qiao ruoyi became more and more widespread as the debate in the teahouse spread.
Qiao ruoyi had been avoiding Xie Yun during the past few days, both in the upper and lower court. Whenever she and Xie Yun got closer, she could always see the strange looks in the eyes of the others.
Even Emperor Hong and Prime Minister Lin were watching the lively scene between the two of them.
This made Qiao Ruoyi quite unhappy. When she arrived at the yamen, her subordinates asked when Qiao ruoyi would be able to have her wedding feast. Qiao Ruoyi couldnt keep a straight face in the yamen, and they had no ill intentions, but she didnt know how to deal with it.
While she was troubled, Qiao Ruoyi made a trip to the Qiao familys ancestral grave in Chang an.
Since Luo Wei had married into the Qiao family, he was the son of the Qiao family. His grave was also in the Qiao familys ancestral grave.
Qiao ruoyi ced the tributes in the bamboo basket in front of Luo Weis grave one by one. She used a handkerchief to wipe Luo Weis gravestone, Luo Wei, the outside world is very troublesome now. I really want to shed all pretense of cordiality with them. After all, Im an Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Appointments. My Sister is the Empress...
But every time Im about to lose my temper, I always think of the words you said to me when I was teased when I first entered the Ministry of Appointments. Officialdom is not just a test of knowledge. Its also important to keep in touch with people.
Luo Wei, I really miss you. Yesterday, I dreamed of you again. I dreamed that you and I had a daughter. Our family of four was living happily.
Qiao ruoyi looked at the uncarved ce on the left side of the tombstone. Perhaps in a few decades, she would be here. The sealed tomb would reopen, so that she could always be with Luo Wei.
Under a big tree in the distance, Xie Yun held an umbre and looked at Qiao ruoyi from afar.
Lan Xin, who was at the side, puffed her cheeks and said, Master is so good, why does she still miss that Tombstone? How can Luo Weipare to master?
Without the Qiao family, its impossible for Luo Wei to get the position of general, not to mention that his adoptive parents used the Qiao family to do all kinds of evil things. Luo Wei doesnt care about them. A man with no ability can notpare to you at all!
Xie Yun used his other hand to knock Lan Xins head with his fan. You spoke ill of him in front of his grave. Arent you afraid that he wille looking for you at night?
Looking for me? I said the same thing. Thinking of how miss ni Shang has always been your uncle Xie...
Xie Yun recalled the scene when she saw Luo Wei in Lin an that day. In his eyes, Luo Wei was definitely not capable. He was just a man who ate the Qiao familys soft bread. However, he had one ability, which was to be able to understand Qiao ruoyis shorings, he wanted Qiao Ruoyi to let go of her temper.
In Xie Yuns eyes, Qiao Ruoyi was extremely conflicted. She was born into the marquisdom with a noble status, yet she was only a concubine.
There was a pair of unreliable parents in the residence. Her biological aunts status was low, and Qiao Ruoyun was weak. Although Qiao Ruoyin was usually a concubine, the situation waspletely different.
Grandmother doted on Qiao Ruofeng and Qiao ruowan.
These sisters in the residence were inferior to Qiao Ruoyi in every aspect. However, everyone in the residence was protected and doted on. Only Qiao Ruoyi still needed to protect her aunt.
Qiao Ruoyi did not want to be a concubine who had epted her fate. However, she knew very well that she was only a concubines daughter..
She was a person who unconsciously had a sharp edge. She hurt others and hurt herself because she had low self-esteem and self-confidence. Luo Wei could tolerate such a contradictory person, advise her, and help her find points of conflict to integrate.
Since Qiao Ruoyi was able to establish herself in the Ministry of appointments, Luo Wei must have helped her a lot.
..
After Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Qiao family, she was called into the study by an Yuanhou.
An yuanhou asked Qiao ruoyi, Your mother should havee to tell you about this, but Im afraid that your mother will be fooled by you again, and you will bring up the past again.
Since Xie Yun said that he would marry you a year ago, he probably wont change his mind now, right?
Ask him when he wille to propose marriage.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, The Qiao family can not tolerate Nichang and me. I have a sry now. I dont need to marry to be able to support Nichang and me.
An Yuan Hou snorted lightly and said, With your sry, is it enough for you to buy a few paintings at the Wan Juan Restaurant?
Qiao ruoyi said, If I want to raise nichang, I will naturally have some restraint.
An yuanhou put down the pen in his hand and said, Your personality is not like SUXUEs at all!
Qiao ruoyi pursed her lips and said, Do you still remember suxue? How did she be because of you? She spent half her life on a bed of sickness, and I have never seen her smile...
An yuanhou said, But I remember that she loved to smile the most. At that time, when the Qiao family was in trouble, she was already sewing a wedding dress. She was going to marry her cousin. At that time, I was only the young heir of the Hou family, so I had no worries.
Su Xue was older than me by two years. We grew up together. I was still very reluctant to let her get married. Later, the Qiao family suffered a great defeat. Uncles body returned one by one. Your grandfather also died on the battlefield.
I had no choice but to go to the battlefield. Because of this, Su Xue had to guard the filial piety of the main family and could not marry her cousin. As for her cousin, he had already broken away from very. Originally, he had asked to marry Su Xue because she was the eldest servant girl in front of the heir of the Marquis family.
However, the Qiao family was repeatedly defeated. At that time, all the officials wanted to punish the Qiao family for a serious crime. Her cousin was afraid of being implicated, so he repeatedly married someone else as his wife.
Because of this, Su Xues marriage was dyed. Later, when I became the Marquis, her parents also helped her find a good marriage. She was unwilling. At that time, the Marquis Mansion really couldnt do without her, the eldest servant girl.
She always said that after the Madam entered the house, she could leave with peace of mind.
Later, before your mother entered the house, your grandmother made the decision to let her have sex. She agreed. At that time, I was muddle-headed and always felt that it would be better for Su Xue to stay in the Marquismansion than to marry someone who looked like her cousin.
Later, after you were born, I understood that she was unwilling to stay. It was just that at that time, she was unwilling to leave because of you..
Ruoyi, your aunt and I grew up together. Although I have no romantic feelings for her, I never thought that she would end up like this.
Qiao Ruoyis eyes were filled with tears as she said, But when she was harmed by the Qian family, you didnt care. When I said that the Qian family harmed us, you still helped the Qian family. My aunt should have left the Qiao residence at that time. She wouldnt have stayed sick for So Long!
An yuanhou said, Ruoyi, father knows that its useless to apologize to your aunt now. But before Su Xue died, she wrote me a suicide note. She hopes that you can be happy.
With the power of the Qiao family now, what influence does the rumors have on us? Its just that Father also hopes that you and niching can have a good home. The Qiao family has always been your and Nichings family. Niching is also the Qiao familys young miss.
After you and Luo Wei got married, you became much more sensible, and your conduct in the world was no longer as sharp as before.
Xie Yun was willing to give up the pride of an aristocratic family for you and marry you. Presumably, she will cherish you as much as Luo Wei does. Our family hopes that you can be happy too!
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and said, No, there is only one Luo Wei in this world. I will not marry Xie Yun. The Qiao family can not amodate me. I have my own ce to go!
An yuanhou said helplessly, I have said so much, but you still dont understand. Forget it, if you dont want to marry, then dont want to marry.
Chapter 405
Chapter 405: Chapter 405, Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyi ying chess
In the Xie familys vi.
It was the agreed time, but Xie Yun couldnt wait for Qiao Ruoyi.
Lan Xin walked to Xie Yuns side and said, Master, do you think something happened to the fifth Miss Qiao? Its almost time for the curfew. She Wont Be Coming, right?
Xie Yun held the chess piece in his hand and yed chess with himself. Shes surrounded by the Qiao familys guards. How could anything happen to her? Youve really worried for nothing.
A voice came from the door. Lan Xin went up to wee her. She saw that Qiao Ruoyi was the only one who came today. She was also carrying a medicine bag in her hand. Qiao Ruoyi handed the medicine bag to Lan Xin.
Please help me decoct the medicine.
Lan Xin sniffed the medicine and frowned. Is this the pill for avoiding children?
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, Yes.
Qiao ruoyi carried thentern into the room. Seeing the candlelight that was as bright as day inside, herntern was taken for nothing.
Xie Yun nced at Qiao ruoyi and said, I heard that you beat His Majesty in Chess a few days ago? Why Dont we have a match? You take the white and go first.
Qiao ruoyi took the chess piece and ced a piece on the star position. She said, It was just a fluke. Moreover, elder sister helped me to Get His Majesty to let me have three pieces.
Xie Yun immediately ced a piece on the star position. Then its already very impressive that you can beat his majesty. His Majesty studied under the chess master of the current dynasty. Back then, he had already beaten the chess master. In terms of chess skills, no one can beat him now.
Qiao ruoyi said, But sister said that she can beat His Majesty by Seven Eyes.
Xie Yun chuckled. You havent yed chess with your sister, have you?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and ced another stone. No.
When will you be able to understand how she can beat His Majesty by so much after the next round?Xie Yun said. Its all thanks to His Majestys willingness to y chess with her.
After fifteen minutes, Xie Yun put down the ck piece and looked at Qiao ruoyi and asked, Who taught you your chess skills?
Qiao ruoyi said, Its the sage hand, Mr. Cao Wei.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao ruoyi and said, Didnt Mr. Cao Wei never ept disciples? Not to mention a female disciple?
Qiao Ruoyi put down a piece and picked up Xie Yuns three ck pieces, Mr. Cao Weis chess book is very simple and clear, but his chess book is very expensive. One book costs five taels of silver. In order to buy his chess book, I pawned my new years clothes and was scolded by my mother.
Xie Yun asked, The Marquis Mansion is not willing to buy you a go book?
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, My father doesnt allow me to y go.
Xie Yun said, Why?
I probably won against him and his colleagues when I was eight years old.Qiao ruoyi followed Xie Yuns move and yed a white go. Thank you for letting me win.
Xie Yun looked at the go game and kept frowning. When he knew that Qiao Ruoyi won a game against Lu Chen, he thought that Qiao Jinniang was cheating. But now, he saw that Qiao Ruoyis arrangement was exquisite, her go skills could be said to be on par with Lu Chens!
It must be known that Lu Chen was forced by the Hui Lin Emperor to acknowledge the go sage as his master since he was young. He had to practice go for two hours every day. During the three years that he went missing, there was only a slight neglect.
But Qiao ruoyi could have such ability just by looking at the Go Manual of the current SAGE. Xie Yun was really surprised.
One more game.
Qiao Ruoyi agreed. Okay.
When Xie Yun lost three rounds in a row, he looked at the chessboard in disbelief.
Qiao ruoyi sighed and said, The Xie family has so many excellent chess maps, but you still havent learned one-tenth of the essence. Sigh! The so-called aristocratic families are just so-so.
One more round!Xie Yun said, I definitely wont lose to you with this sentence.
Qiao ruoyi yawned and said, We still have to go to court early tomorrow. Why Dont you practice more? Come and y with me again.
Xie Yun frowned. If you can beat me again in this round, you can pick any treasure in the Xie familys storehouse.
Qiao ruoyi said, Alright then.
Xie Yun yed the go seriously. After four rounds, he had figured out Qiao Ruoyis move. The pieces changed endlessly, but she was stuck in the moves recorded in the book. Xie Yun had underestimated his opponent, but his mentality had been disrupted, now, his state of mind gradually returned.
It was not difficult to break through Qiao Ruoyis chess moves.
Qiao ruoyi used the Chess Pieces to knock on the wooden table. She let out a deep sigh. I lost. Its really because my skills are inferior to others.
My master is Cao Wei. Youve been able to beat me for so long, yet you managed tost until the end of this round. Its extremely rare,Xie Yun said, The main reason is that you dont have a good teacher to teach you. Your chess moves are all recorded in the book, but the chess board has endless variations.
Qiao ruoyi said, Not many people are willing to y chess with me. In the ten thousand scrolls building, they are not willing to y with me every time we y a game.
Luo Wei has never yed chess with you?
Qiao Ruoyi red at Xie Yun and said, Itste at night, Ill leave first.
Xie Yun held Qiao Ruoyis hand. Theres still no antidote.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and walked to the side of the desk. Without the ink, she grinded the ink herself. However, before the ink could be grinded out, she heard Xie Yuns voice. This inkstone is broken, it cant be grinded out.
Qiao ruoyi said, Then forget about the antidote today.
Xie Yun walked towards Qiao ruoyi and said, Qiao ruoyi, Ive tolerated you for the past few times. But now, do you still want to treat me as Luo Wei? You Dont allow me to talk about Luo Wei, so why do you treat me as Luo Wei?
Today and in the future, I wont allow you to do anything to my face.
Xie Yun carried Qiao ruoyi horizontally and ced her on the wooden couch. Qiao ruoyi, the person with You is me, not Luo Wei. You treat me as Luo Wei and humiliate me again and again.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun calmly and said, Yes, you are Xie Yun, you are not Luo Wei.
It was time for her to step out. This was Xie Yun, not Luo Wei. When she was ying chess with Xie Yun just now, she had thought of Luo Wei.
Luo Wei did not know how to y chess at all. In order not to spoil her mood, he even went to learn chess.
During those few days, he had been running to the Chess Hall, but after learning for a long time, he did not even understand what anger was.
Later, Qiao Ruoyi stopped watching chess in front of Luo Wei and asked him to tell her interesting stories about the military.
However, Luo Wei still secretly learned to y chess day and night. His chess was terrible, but he still found his colleagues to y chess every day. By the time Lin an arrived, his chess skills had improved a lot.
Xie Yun called out for water.
Qiao ruoyi walked out from her memories and looked at Xie Yun curiously. In the past, the antidote would take almost an hour.
Today, it was less than fifteen minutes. Why did he call for water?
Lan Xin brought the medicine over. Xie Yun looked at the medicine in displeasure.
Qiao Ruoyi Drank the medicine in one gulp and let the servant girl serve her.
Xie Yun returned to the Xie residence in a huff. He, Xie Yun, had never suffered such humiliation. Qiao ruoyi, who was below him, was able to do such a thing without moving. Her mind was clearly filled with thoughts of outsiders.
She was truly treating this matter as an antidote.
It would be better to treat herself as Luo Wei. At least she would still cooperate. It would not make him feel like he was hugging a piece of wood!
Xie Yun was extremely frustrated. He did not know why he had such a feeling. It was just an antidote to begin with. Why did he care so much?
Chapter 406
Chapter 406: Chapter 406. Xie Yun regretted it
Although Qiao Ruoyi was an official in the imperial court, she would asionally go back to West Mountain Academy to have a look.
After arriving at West Mountain Academy today, it began to rain with lightning and thunder.
Nichang, who hade with Qiao ruoyi, threw herself into her mothers arms. She was extremely scared listening to the loud thunder.
The rain did not stop for more than two hours. West Mountain Academy had to go through a muddy road to go back to Chang an. It was not easy to travel on this muddy road after a rainy day, so Qiao Ruoyi nned to stay in West Mountain Academy for a night with Nichang.
Yan Yu whispered to Qiao ruoyi, Miss, today is the day I have made an appointment with Sir Xie... Should I find a guard to go back to the city to report the news so that Sir Xie wont have to wait for a long time?
Qiao Ruoyi looked at the clear sky outside after the rain and said, Theres no need.
Xie Yun was not stupid. If she could not wait until the curfew, she naturally would not wait any longer.
..
In the Xie familys vi.
Xie Yun had specially changed into a green robe today. Her long hair was tied up with a new white jade crown. She looked like an elegant young master who was unparalleled in the world.
Lan Xin looked at Xie Yun who had specially changed into a robe. She was puzzled at first, but when she arrived at the Xie familys vi, she understood that today was the day where she needed the antidote again.
After a heavy rain, there were still raindrops hanging on the trees in the courtyard.
Xie Yun entered and walked to the side of the chessboard. She yed with the chess pieces in her hand. She wondered if her chess skills had improved after seven days?
Xie Yun waited until the sky turned dark, and then waited for the sound of the rm outside.
It was already curfew time.
Lan Xin said to Xie Yun, Perhaps Miss Qiao has something to do today. Master, why dont you take a rest?
Xie Yun coldly said one word, Investigate!
Lan Xin understood Xie Yuns meaning and called the Xie familys secret guard to investigate.
The Xie familys secret guard returned very quickly and reported to Xie Yun, Master, this afternoon, Miss Xie Xiumu went to West Mountain Academy. She hasnt returned to the Qiao residence yet.
Prepare the carriage and go to West Mountain Academy.
..
After Qiao Ruoyi coaxed Nichang to sleep, she went out without feeling sleepy at all. West Mountain Academy had nock of hardworking female students. Even at this time, there were quite a number of students who lit up theirnterns at night.
The guard at the gate of West Mountain Academy came to Qiao ruoyi and said, Lord Qiao, Lord Xie Yun is here. He said he was looking for you.
Qiao ruoyi said, Let him in.
When Xie Yun entered, he frowned and asked Qiao ruoyi, Why didnt you find someone to talk to before you came today? The poison of the ice silkworm is very strong. If you dont suppress it, you might be poisoned tomorrow.
Qiao ruoyi said, Its just a days work. The road is slippery after the rain. Its not easy to go back to Chang an.
Qiao ruoyi asked Xie Yun, How did you get here?
The road was very muddy and slippery. Horse carriages and horses were not allowed. They had to wait until the next day to dry.
Qiao ruoyi looked down and saw that Xie Yuns ck boots, which had never been dusty, were covered in mud. Gradually, he walked over the road.
Xie Yun entered Qiao Ruoyis room and saw niching who was sleeping soundly. Xie Yun had not seen her for a long time, so he walked over and pulled her hand.
Qiao ruoyi patted Xie Yuns shoulder anxiously and said in a low voice, She was scared by the Thunder just now. It was not easy for her to fall asleep. Dont wake her up.
Xie Yun let go of Nichings hand and pulled Qiao ruoyi into his arms. Are there any other empty rooms here?
Qiao Ruoyi was very unhappy to be trapped in his arms, but thinking about it, she could not shirk this matter in the end.
She said, The room next door is empty.
After entering, Xie Yun did not light the candle. He relied on the weak moonlight to find the ce where the wooden bed was.
Before Xie Yun put down the bed curtain, Nichangs voice came from outside.
Qiao ruoyi said, Lets forget about the detoxification today.
Qiao Ruoyi quickly went out and held niching in her arms.
Niching leaned her head on Qiao Ruoyis shoulder and said, Mother, I want to sleep with you today. Im afraid of Thunder.
Qiao ruoyi said, Okay.
Not long after Qiao ruoyi fell asleep with Niching in her arms, Xie Yun came in andy on the other side of niching.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and asked, Isnt there a ce next door?
Niching opened her eyes slightly. When she saw Xie Yun, she asked, Uncle Xie? Why are you here?
Xie Yun patted nichings little head and said, Be good. Ill Sing a little boat for you. be good and go to bed early.
Niching nodded obediently and said, Uncle, sing.
Xie Yun coughed and cleared his throat before singing slowly. Xie Yuns voice seemed to have been pretending to be a woman for a long time, but there was a hint of gentleness in it. This gentle voice was singing a jiangnan bad, even Qiao ruoyi, who had been unable to sleep for a long time, gradually fell into a deep sleep.
Xie Yun watched as the mother and daughter fell into a deep sleep and smiled gently.
Just how foolish was he back then? If he had known this would happen, why would he have cared about a false reputation at that time?
Otherwise, he would not have been alone for these four years, while Luo Wei could enjoy the happiness that should have belonged to him.
..
The Empressbirthday was approaching. Qiao ruoyi had been looking for what birthday gift to give. She was not willing to admit defeat in front of Marquis an Yuan, but she was indeed a little short on money.
She did not have much savings.
Qiao Ruoyi could only choose a gift from her treasures to give to her sister. Thinking of her sisters superb chess skills, she took out a long-treasured Leng Nuan jade chess piece and gave it to her sister as a birthday gift.
Qiao Jinniang still did not hold a big birthday celebration this year. She only invited a few princes, princesses, and the members of the Qiao family in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor.
When Qiao Ruoyi arrived here, she remembered what happened five years ago.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyis expression was not right, Qiao Jinniang reacted and said, Its said that one is pregnant for three years. Ive already forgotten about it. I shouldnt havee here.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, Sister, its all in the past. Moreover, at that time, I had nichang. I Wont feel ufortable.
Qiao jinniang said, Just now, mother came to tell me to persuade you. Fu Lu also told me that youve been spending a lot of time with Xie Yun recently, but Xie Yun still isnt willing to marry you?
Qiao ruoyi said, Once, the vast sea is difficult to make water. Sister, Ive seen the vast sea. Its impossible for me to go to the ditch at the entrance.
The Jinniang was relieved. Its good that Xie Yun didnt look down on you.
Qiao ruoyi handed the box in her hand to Qiao Jinniang and said, Sister, this is a birthday gift for you. Sisters chess is so good. You should use the warm and cold jade chess pieces.
Qiao Jinniang took the box and opened it. It was made of ck Jade and white jade. Is this the legendary warm and cold chess pieces in winter and summer?
Qiao ruoyi nodded. Yes.
Lu Chen also has one. Hes so precious that he wont let me touch it. It seems that sister is still considerate,Qiao Jinniang said. Its still early for dinner. Why Dont you and I y a game?
Qiao ruoyi nodded. Sister, Please Show Mercy.
When Qiao Jinniang ced the chess piece in the middle of the Tian Yuan position, Qiao Ruoyi looked at Qiao Jinniang in shock. Sister is really an expert in chess.
Qiao ruoyi had so many people ying chess. This was the first time she saw the first chess piece fall in the Tian Yuan position.
Chapter 407
Chapter 407: In chapter 407, Princess Chu nned to marry ni Shang Ding
Qiao Jinniang smiled and said proudly, Im not bragging, but I have no opponent in the whole of Lin an. Aftering to Chang an, I seldom y chess. In the past, Mr. Zhu of the Chess Hall and I wanted to pay for free drinks, but in the end, we obediently paid for the drinks.
Qiao ruoyi had no choice but to put on 120% of her energy. However, when it came to the 30th stone, the ck and white stones on the board were symmetrical.
Obviously, Qiao Jinniang was learning from Qiao Ruoyis ying style.
Qiao Jinniangs first stone upied the position of Tianyuan, so it was very difficult for Qiao Ruoyi to win this game.
Qiao Ruoyi was stunned when she saw this. Sister, are you imitating my ying style?
Qiao jinniang said, Why, cant I?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and mumbled, Yes, no wonder your first move is Tianyuan.
Qiao Jinniang had yed chess for so many years, but apart from losing to Lu Chen in three games, she had never lost to anyone else.
Qiao ruoyi stared at the game and ced the piece in the middle. As long as she ate Qiao Jinniangs Tianyuan piece in the middle, she would not be able to imitate her own way of ying chess.
Qiao ruoyi heaved a sigh of relief when she ate Qiao Jinniangs Tian Yuan white piece.
Qiao Jinniang ced a chess piece on the chess piece beside Qiao Ruoyi. It was obvious that she had upied more territory.
Qiao ruoyi nced at the chess board and calcted the next moves. No matter how she yed, she was obviously powerless to turn the situation around. She could only admit defeat and say, Sister, I admit defeat.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Lin an Baiwei restaurants little chess saint is not undeserved.
Qiao ruoyi asked curiously, How did sistere up with such a way to y chess?
Qiao Jinniang clearly knew how to y chess. Even if she was not a saint, her chess skills were considered pretty good among ordinary people. Otherwise, how could she be able to win with one move when she cracked her imitation?
Qiao jinniang said, This started when I was young. When I was very young, no one could beat me when I yed chess. Butter, I met Miss Xie, also known as Xie Yun.
After he invited me to y chess, I lost three games in a row. Later, I figured out this method. As long as I was the first to go, I can definitely win by imitating the opponents ying method.
Then, will the person who yed with youter still y with you?Qiao ruoi asked curiously, then muttered in a low voice, Isnt your ying method cheating?
Who would be able to tolerate such a way of ying chess?
Qiao jinniang said, Yes, those uncles in Lin an like to y chess with me.
Only Lu Chen would rather y chess with those officials than with me.
He must be afraid of losing face to me, so he yed chess with those officials who ttered him. I wonder whats the point of winning a chess game by relying on his unreal ability.
Qiao Ruoyi stood up and bowed behind Qiao Jinniang. Greetings, Your Majesty.
Lu Chen looked at Qiao Jinniang and said, Lets y a game. Ill show you what real skills are and not just ttery.
Qiao jinniang said, Okay, I want to y White Chess.
Lu Chen gave the white stone to Qiao Jinniang. Qiao Jinniang continued to imitate Lu Chens style of ying chess. Halfway through the game, Lu Chen gently ced a stone. When Qiao Jinniang was about to y, she stopped.
She raised her eyes to look at Lu Chen. You! You...
Lu Chen smiled faintly and said, Admit defeat.
Qiao Jinniang took a sip of water and said, Ill give you a chance to regret your move.
Lu Chen said, Ive never done anything to regret my move.
Qiao Jinniang lightly tapped the table with the white piece and said, Your Majesty, if I lose today, Ill be in a bad mood. If Im in a bad mood, Ill feel unwell. Since Im Not Feeling Well, your majesty, why dont you rest in Taiji Pce today and note to Changle Pce?
Lu Chen silently took back the chess piece he had just yed and casually made a move. Speak properly.
Qiao Jinniang happily added another chess piece to the area that she had overlooked earlier. Continue, continue.
Qiao ruoyi, who was watching from the side, was dumbstruck. So there were chess pieces that could be yed like this? She was too short-sighted.
In the end, Qiao Jinniang won by half a nce and ended the game.
Qiao jinniang said happily, Fortunately, I still managed to keep my title as the chess saint of Lin an Baiwei brothel.
At the birthday banquet, Qiao Ruoyi did not dare to drink any more alcohol. She did not even dare to drink fruit wine today after such a big incident happenedst time.
In the afternoon, Lu Xi brought a group of children to the North Mountain Horse Farm to ride horses.
Little Nichang was also going. Qiao Ruoyi was a little worried. The Qiao familys daughter had learned to ride horses since she was young. Qiao Ruoyi had learned to ride horses since she was five years old.
Little Nichang was still younger, and she had never learned to ride a horse before.
But Nichang also went to ride a horse, so Nichang followed.
Princess Fu Lu advised Qiao ruoyi, There are so many officials in the horse farm. What are you afraid of? Girls in Chang an city should learn to ride horses at Nichangs age.
Qiao ruoyi sighed. Okay.
Qiao Ruoyi did not have many ymates when she was young. It was only when she grew up and became famous that she gradually had ymates who shared the same ideals. When she was young, she envied her sisters for having so many good friends.
Now that niching had so many ymates, it was a good thing. Moreover, Lu Xi was there. She should have been relieved.
Consort Chu smiled at the side and said, I know Lord Qiaos worries. Back then, I also valued Yun er more than my life. But children have to grow up. You should rx.
Qiao ruoyi smiled at Consort Chu and said, Thank you for your advice, Consort Chu.
Consort Chu said, Yun eres back every day and tells me that recently, the academy in the pce has an extremely good-looking younger sister. She is young but has a photographic memory. She despises his biological sister. She tells me every day that it would be great if Nichang was his biological sister.
Qiao ruoyi gave a faint smile and said, It would be Nichangs fortune if she could have a brother like Jun Yun.
Nichang is about the same age as my younger daughter. You can bring her to the Chu royal residence to have fun.
Qiao Ruoyi agreed. Alright, then Ill have to trouble you, Consort Chu.
After consort Chu left, Fu Lu said, My cousin-inw of the Chu King has a good idea. Yun er is only ten years old. She has already found a Jun consort so early.
Qiao ruoyi also knew what Princess Chu meant. Nichang is so young. Its too early.
Fu Lu smiled and said, Then you dont know that my cousin-inw of the king of Chu has already chosen a few husbands for her little princess.
So early?Qiao Ruoyi asked.
Fu Lu said, Princess Chu probably thinks that if she is toote, all the good second husbands will be taken away. Some families in Chang an have already decided on a marriage since they were young.
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, Thats too early. I need to go to the toilet.
Qiao ruoyi went to a small courtyard in the horse farm where nobles could rest. Before she entered, she heard the conversation between Princess Chu and her servant girl.
Princess, why do you have to praise Nichang in front of Princess Fu Lu and not Princess Nihon? and isnt it better to decide on a marriage for Princess Nihon?
Chapter 408
Chapter 408: Chapter 408, Nichang disappeared
Consort Chu said, I say youre stupid, but youre really stupid. Nichang is the daughter of the Qiao family, but their statuses are worlds apart.
Qiao Nichang is the eldest granddaughter of the Dukes manor and the eldest Princesss only granddaughter. In the future, she will inherit the title of Duke of Qin. How could her husband be a descendant of the royal family.
As for Qiao Nichang, her mother was a talented woman and a high-ranking official. Presumably, her future knowledge and bearing would not be too bad. The most important thing was that her father was Xie Yun. The Xie familys assets were unimaginable.
Yun er was close to the crown prince. Even if he did not enter the imperial court, he still had the title of county prince. If he could have the Xie familys assets, it would be a good thing for him.
The servant girl rubbed her head and said, But Qiao ruoyi and Xie Yun are not married yet, right? Nowadays, many people say that Xie Yun will not marry Qiao Ruoyi.
Princess Chu said, Even if its for Nichang, its only a matter of time before the Xie and Qiao families get married. Although everyone knows that Qiao Nichang is Xie Yuns daughter, its still not legitimate!
It doesnt matter that Nichang is still young now, but when ites to the marriage meeting in the future, theres a huge difference between her and the eldest daughter of the Xie family!
Back then, Qiao Ruoyi was influenced by her birth mothers background as a ve. Since Xie Yun has already announced that Qiao Nichang is his daughter, why wouldnt she marry Qiao Ruoyi?
Qiao ruoyi frowned. She actually acknowledged Princess Chus words from the bottom of her heart.
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and silently thought to herself. She didnt ask Nichang to marry well. After all, Nichang was different from her. She didnt need to marry into the Xie family to have a good marriage.
..
The days passed day by day. This years summer was especially hot. There were even more thunderstorms, and there was a lot of rain in the summer.
It was the promised day again. The torrential rain did not stop. Qiao ruoyi sat in the carriage and arrived at the Xie familys vi. The umbre she held could not withstand the wind and rain.
When she reached the house, she was already drenched.
Lan Xin quickly prepared hot water for Qiao ruoyi and let her take a bath first. After the Bath, Qiao Ruoyi wore a petticoat made of brocade and went into the room.
Xie Yun saw Qiao Ruoyi after the Bath. His Adams apple moved slightly and pulled Qiao ruoyi into his arms.
Outside, lightning shed and thunder rumbled. However, Qiao ruoyi still calmly closed her eyes and did not move, allowing Xie Yun to give her the antidote.
Xie Yun gently kissed Qiao Ruoyis eyes. Open your eyes.
Qiao ruoyi said, Its just the antidote. Theres no need to look at you.
Xie Yun said, Open your eyes.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and opened her eyes. She saw the extra mole at the corner of Xie Yuns eye.
Xie Yun said, Can you open your eyes now?
Qiao ruoyi reached out her hand to touch the mole and slowly said, Husband...
This Husbandfinally pleased Xie Yun, and Xie Yun finally admitted defeat. He really couldnt stand Qiao Ruoyi not moving when she was given the antidote. Even if she was treated as Luo Wei, it was better than holding a piece of wood.
After that, after the two of them washed up, the heavy rain outside had not yet ended.
Xie Yun held onto Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Its raining heavily outside. Why dont We Rest Here Today?
It wasnt Qiao Ruoyis first time resting here, so she didnt feel shy. Okay.
Xie Yun ordered Lan Xin to take out a chessboard and said, Its still early. Why Dont we y a game?
Qiao Ruoyi agreed. When she saw the chessboard, she thought of how Qiao Jinniang yed and wanted to give it a try. She was too embarrassed to y with others.
However, she yed with Xie Yun.
Xie Yun saw how Qiao Ruoyi yed and smiled. It seems that you have yed with the Empress.
Qiao ruoyi nodded and said, Yes, I also want to try this chess method.
Theres no need to try. I discovered the method to conquer this chess when I was young. Later on, when I saw that Little Jin er was about to lose, my eyes turned red. I just let her go,Xie Yun said.
Qiao ruoyi remembered that Xie Yun had once treasured the portrait of her sister and said, Sir Xie, please show some respect. Now that sister is the empress, its inappropriate for you to still call her by her maiden name.
Are you jealous?Xie Yun asked Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao Ruoyi was puzzled. Jealous of what?
Jealous of me and your sister!
Qiao ruoyi, who had always been polite, spat at Xie Yun. Ive seen people with thick skin, but Ive never seen someone as thick-skinned as you. To me, youre just an antidote. Do you understand antidote?
Im just afraid that youll hurt my sister again. Although His Majesty and my sister have deep feelings for each other, its hard to guarantee that people will hear you calling Little Jin er to make a fuss about this and make my sister bear the me!
Qiao Ruoyi put away the chess piece and said, Its gettingte. Im going to rest. Please leave early, Sir Xie.
Seeing that Qiao Ruoyi was really angry, Xie Yun said, I was just joking just now.
This joke is not funny at all,Qiao Ruoyi said coldly.
Qiao ruoyiy on the bed and fell asleep. She had a muddle-headed dream about what happened in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor back then. Although she had been drugged that day, her consciousness was clear after she woke up, the scene where her eyes met Xie Yuns made Qiao ruoyi wake up screaming.
Yan Yu heard themotion and asked after she woke up, Miss, did you have a nightmare?
Yes.Qiao ruoyi sighed. What time is it?
Its ugly time.
But at this moment, the voice of the Qiao familys secret guard came from outside. Yan Yu hurriedly opened the door. Whats the matter?
Quickly report to the fifth miss. Miss Nichang has disappeared. The entire an Yuan Marquis Manor has been searched, but there is still no trace of Miss Nichang.
How can that be?Yan Yu was shocked.
When Qiao Ruoyi heard this, she hurriedly put on her clothes and stumbled out of the door without evenbing her hair.
Xie Yun also rushed over. Clearly, he had also heard the news. How can such a big person suddenly disappear from the An Yuan Marquis Mansion?
The an yuan marquis mansion was heavily guarded. Xie Yun and Lan Xin were able to sneak into the Qiao mansion often, so the secret guards were only aware of the situation and spared them.
Other thieves were not allowed to enter at all.
How could niching, this child, suddenly disappear?
Qiao ruoi returned to the Qiao Manor as if she had lost her soul.
In the Qiao Manor, other than the old madam, everyone else was in the main hall. The maidservants beside Niching knelt on the ground, and the two maidservants had already been tortured.
When the an Yuan Marquis saw Qiao Ruoi and Xie Yuning together, he picked up the whip andshed it at Qiao Ruoi. Xie Yun repeatedly blocked in front of Qiao Ruoi.
Zheng Xiao snatched the whip from an Yuanhous hand and said, What are you doing?
Qiao ruoyi, you are a mother. Where are you when your daughter is missing in the middle of the night?An yuanhou said angrily, If anything happens to nichang today, I will beat you to death.
Qiao Ruoyis legs went weak and she almost couldnt stand. Xie Yun quickly supported her. Qiao ruoyi pursed her lips and said, If anything happens to Nichang, I will definitely not live alone.
Zheng Xiao quickly said, Bah Bah Bah, what nonsense are you talking about? Such a big child, where would she go? Even the gatekeeper said that she didnt go out, but we searched the entire marquis an yuan manor and couldnt find any trace of her.
Chapter 409
Chapter 409: Chapter 409 it was the second prince who took Nichang away
The housekeeper outside hurriedly came in and said, Marquis, Marquise, the servants in the manor with excellent water quality have already gone into the water to investigate. They didnt find anything underwater in the well.
This news could be considered good news. At least she didnt fall into the water.
Xie Yun supported Qiao Ruoyi and asked the two wet nurses who were kneeling below, When did nichang leave the sight of the two of you? How dare you wet nurses and maidservants leave Nichang?
The two maids continued, Around the time of the fifth hour, lightning shed and thunder rumbled. Miss ni Shang was afraid to look for the fifth miss, but the fifth miss was not in the residence..
We kept coaxing miss ni Shang, but miss ni Shang was still afraid and kept asking for the fifth miss.
Soon after, the second prince, Miss ni Hong, and Miss Ruo Han came. Miss ni Shang was not afraid when she saw the second prince.
Miss Nihon had been ying with the second prince the whole time. When it was quarter past five, the Lightning had not stopped. Miss Nihon and Miss Ruohan had left, and it was not long before the crown prince came to take the second prince away.
When the second prince left, Miss Nihon was still in the room. However, the Lightning had not stopped at that time... Miss Nihon hid under the quilt in fear, and the servants had been guarding outside the door.
When it was 11 p.m. , Miss Nichang entered the room to check if she needed to go to the bathroom at night. Who knew that there was no one on the bed...
Xie Yun asked, When the second prince left, did you see Nichang enter the bed with your own eyes?
The two wet nurses nodded and said, Yes, Miss Nichang even specially instructed her to sleep alone today. The servants are not allowed to enter and disturb her.
Xie Yun frowned. Qiao Ruoyis eyes were full of tears. She should not have gone to the Xie familys vi just now. Why did she leave Nichang alone at home?
Qiao ruoyi bit her lower lip and said, Nichang, Nichang!
Xie Yunforted qiao ruoyi and said, Dont be afraid. The second prince came to the Qiao residence. Maybe the second prince took Nichang away. Dont Cry now. Send a message to the pce to ask the second Prince First.
Qiao Ruoyi looked at the dozing Qiao Nihon and frowned. Nihon, dont you always love your sister the most? But today, my sister is missing. Why arent you worried at all?
Fu Lu also noticed that something was wrong with his daughter. Usually, if someone said a few words about nichang, Nihon would beat them until they admitted defeat and apologize to Nichang.
Niching went missing today, but neon was not worried at all.
Qiao lui asked neon, Do you know something?
Little neon yawned and said, Daddy, Im really sleepy. Im going to sleep.
Fu Lu said, Neon! My Sister is missing. The whole family is so nervous. If you know something, quickly tell us!
Little Neon covered her mouth and said, No, I wont. I promised brother Ang that I wouldnt tell anyone that he took neon away!
Fu Lu:...
Everyone in the Qiao family:...
Qiao Ruohan patted her head. This niece of hers... sigh..
Qiao ruoyi happily held little neons shoulder and said, Did the second Prince Really Take Neon Away?
Little Neon covered her mouth and said, I wont bother with you. Neon already said that you dont want her. HMPH, if you dont want her, she doesnt want you either.
Qiao Ruoyi was about to cry. How can I not want neon? She is my life. I want to enter the pce.
Xie Yun held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, We cant enter the pce at this time. We can just find someone to go to the pce to confirm the news. If neon was really taken away by the second prince, then nothing will happen to her in the pce.
But how did the second prince take her away?
Qiao Ruohan saw that she could not hide it anymore, so she simply confessed. She was afraid that her fifth sister would really barge into the pce at this time:
When the second prince came, he brought a little pce maid who looked somewhat simr to Nichang. The little pce maid was called Qingyu. He asked Nichang and Qingyu to change their clothes. Nichang left wearing the clothes of the little pce maid.
The pce maid called Qingyu stayed in Nichangs room. The two maids did not look carefully at Qingyus appearance. When the rain stopped, Qingyu went out of the window.
Qingyu is in my room now. I hid her in my closet.
Madam Hou looked at Qiao ruohan helplessly. You are aunt. You are aunt. Why are you still fooling around with them?
Qiao Nihong snorted lightly. Its clearly fifth aunts fault. This is the third time fifth aunt has left Nichang alone. Nichang is most afraid of thunder and lightning. Every time fifth aunt is not around, brother Ang took Nichang away. HMPH!
Fu Lu covered Qiao Nihongs mouth and said, What are you snorting for? You really know how to cause more trouble than me!
When Qing Yu was brought over, she immediately knelt on the ground and said, This servant Qing Yu greets the marquises and marquises.
Qiao ruoyi saw Qing Yus appearance clearly under themp. Her appearance was indeed somewhat simr to Nichangs. She took two more nces at Xie Yun.
Xie Yun frowned and said, Shes not my daughter.
Fu Lu teased, What do you mean by admitting it if you dont beat her up? Isnt this admitting it if you dont beat her up? No one said that shes your illegitimate daughter. However, you, the head of the Xie family, have a lot of romantic affairs. Who knows when youll have a daughter outside?.
The most popr story in Chang an was about a rich businessman who went around sparing others. A woman, in order to take revenge on the rich businessman, raised his illegitimate daughter into a thin horse and deliberately seduced the rich businessmans legitimate son.
In the end, the rich businessmans family was destroyed. The legitimate son knew that the woman he loved was his biological sister andmitted suicide by throwing himself into theke.
Hearing Fu Lus words, Xie Yun became more and more ridiculous and said, Princess, you are worrying too much. I, Xie Yun, have only ever touched Qiao ruoyi, and naturally, I only have one daughter, Nichang.
Everyone in the Qiao family was shocked by Xie Yuns words.
Xie Yun asked the kneeling man softly, Hurry up and tell the truth. If there is even half a lie, the board will be yours.
Qingyu knelt on the ground and trembled. She said, This servant also listens to the second Princes orders. When the second prince heard the Lightning and thunder today, he was worried about Miss Nichang so he came to see her.
Miss Nichangined that Lord Qiao didnt want her anymore. The second Prince wanted to take Miss Nichang away, but Miss Ruohan said that the Qiao family would definitely not let the second prince bring Miss Nichang into the pce.
Miss Nichang said that she wanted me to rece Miss Nichang and let Miss Nichang pretend to be me to enter the pce...
Qiao Nichang said angrily, Youre not loyal. How could you tell on Me and my aunt? Didnt we agree that whoever said it would be a puppy?
Qiao Ruohan gently pinched Qiao ni Hongs cheek. Youre the one who said it first!
Qiao Ruoyi did not wait until dawn and went to the pce gate. Xie Yun followed her.
At the Pce Gate, Qiao Ruoyi cried helplessly. It was indeed her fault. Ni Shang was still so young, but when she went to the Xie familys vi to get the antidote, she often left ni Shang alone..
This was too much. She didnt know if niching would still forgive her.
Chapter 410
Chapter 410: Chapter 400: Take Nichang to the Xie family courtyard
When the pce doors finally opened, Qiao Ruoyi hurriedly went forward to hand in the invitation. After waiting for about an hour, Qiao Ruoyi was finally able to enter the pce.
The moment she entered the pce, Qiao Ruoyi was extremely anxious. She felt that the attendant leading the way was indeed a little too slow.
In the past, when she entered the pce, she had never noticed that the attendant leading the way was so slow.
When she arrived in front of the second Princes pce, it was rare for Lady Qiao to wake up early. There was a hint of guilt on her face as she said, Ruoyi, Im sorry. Its my fault for not teaching you well. Ill definitely give Ang er a good beatingter.
Qiao ruoyi quickly said, The second prince did a good job. Its my fault. Sister, Please Dont me the second Prince.
The second Princes wet nurse came out with little nichang who had just woken up in a daze.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Little Nichang, she quickly went over to hold her in her arms. Im sorry, Nichang. Im sorry.
When Little Nichang saw Qiao ruoyi, she leaned her head on Qiao Ruoyis shoulder and said, Mother.
When Lu Ang came out, he was a little afraid when he saw Qiao Jinniangs angry face.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu ang coldly and said, You brought your sister into the pce. Do you know that your grandparents and aunts will be worried?
Lu Ang was afraid that Qiao Jinniang would be angry, but he also felt wronged and said, But mother, it was aunt who didnt want Nichang first.
Nichang heard this and also struggled out of Qiao Ruoyis arms and said, Mother is bad, dont want Nichang!
Qiao ruoyi quickly said, How can I not want you?
But there were several times of thunder, but I couldnt find mother...
Qiao ruoyi hugged nichang and said, Not in the future. No matter where mother goes in the future, she will bring Nichang. But you must not scare mother.
Qiao ruoyi nodded her little head and obediently called out, Mother!
Qiao Jinniang saw that the mother and daughter had reconciled, then she said to Lu ang, You have caused such a big incident and made your aunt so worried. She will definitely not let you off easily. She will punish you by copying the history book ten times! When you finish copying it, when you can go out to y.
Ah?Lu Angs mouth was wide open. Ten times? Mother, no!
Qiao Jinniang found the chief steward and the first pce maid in Lu Angs pce and scolded them fiercely.
The first pce maid felt wronged and said, Please forgive me, Your Majesty. Miss Nichang and Qingyu look too much alike. Last night, it was dark. The second prince didnt allow us to light themp too bright. We thought it was Miss Nichang who was Qingyu...
Qingyu?Asked Qiao Jinniang.
Qiao ruoyi said, Shes the little pce maid who reced Nichang in the Qiao family yesterday. She looks about five years old. She does look somewhat simr to Nichang.
When Qiao Ruoyi entered the pce, she also brought Qingyu with her.
Qiao Jinniang Curiously asked the first pce maid in Lu Angs pce, How can there be such a young pce maid in the Pce?
Previously, her mother and Empress had changed the age of the pce maid to enter the pce. There was definitely no pce maid who entered the pce at such a young age.
The pce maid quickly replied, Qingyus mother is Xie sizhi from the Shanggong Bureau. Last year, Xie Sizhi went to Lin an with the empress and found out that her husband who was separated from her was dead. Her daughter could not survive in a rtives home and was sold by her uncle to be a child bride at the home of a local official.
So, she asked the Shang Gong Lord for mercy and allowed her daughter to enter the pce. This little girl is already seven years old and has reached the age where she can enter the pce.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the thin girl and didnt look like a seven-year-old girl. Xie Sizhi? I remember that Xie Sizhi went to the pce because of illness at the beginning of the year.
Qiao Jinniang liked the gorgeous clothes made by Xie Sizhi, but it was a pity that she was weak.
The first pce maid replied, Yes, she only left a daughter. Later, the second prince went to the pce and saw her. He felt that she looked simr to Miss Nichang, so he brought her back to his pce. He only learned how to do some chores.
Qiao Jin thought that she was too lenient with her son. She didnt even know that he had such a little pce maid by his side, so she said,
This woman has a hard life. Her parents died young, and she almost became her child bride. Its pitiful for her to stay in the pce as a pce maid to serve others for her whole life. Just send her to the West Mountain Academy, and she can learn some skills in the Academy.
Lu Ang quickly hugged Qiao Jinniang and pleaded, Mother, no, I want Qingyu to stay. I will be obedient and learn to read. I will learn to memorize the four books as soon as possible. Please keep Qingyu.
Qiao jinniang said, No, if she stays, she will be a ve for the rest of her life. If she goes to the West Mountain Academy, she will have a good future.
Lu ang snorted, If mother wants to send Qingyu away, I will ignore mother.
Qiao Jinniang would not be threatened by him, Ask Qingyu. See if she is willing to be your ve for the rest of her life, or go to the West Mountain Academy to study and have a ce to settle down in the future?
Lu Ang said to Qingyu who was kneeling on the ground, Quickly say that you want to stay in the pce.
Qingyu kowtowed and said, Thank you for your Grace, Your Majesty. It is my good fortune to be able to enter the West Mountain Academy.
Lu ang snorted and said, No loyalty!
Qiao Ruoyi saw the pce maid beside Qiao Jinniang bring qingyu down and said, This girls mothers surname is Xie? It cant be rted to Xie Yun, right?
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, In Lin an city, Qian Xie is one of the two big families. The pen surnamed Qian and the pen surnamed Xie are all the same. They may be the same ancestor, but they must be far away from each other. Otherwise, my family wouldnt have ignored them.
As for appearance, children at this age didnt grow up to begin with. The simrity was probably just a coincidence.
..
Nichangs disappearance was a false rm. However, this made Qiao ruoyi reflect on herself. From then on, she would return to the office early every day to apany Nichang.
After another seven days, Qiao Ruoyi was caught in a dilemma. Looking at the sky, it was clear and bright. It was almost autumn. She did not know if there would be more lightning and thunder.
However, Qiao Ruoyi did not dare to leave Nichang alone in the manor. She simply brought her to the Xie familys vi.
When Xie Yun saw Nichang, he was obviously much happier than when he saw Qiao ruoyi. Xie Yun went forward to hold Nichangs hand and said, Nichang.
Nichang called out obediently, Uncle Xie.
Xie Yun frowned slightly and said, Have you had dinner? Do you want to eat the glutinous rice and sweet lotus root?
Nichang nodded and said, I have had dinner, but I still want to eat the glutinous rice and sweet lotus root.
Lan Xin quickly said, Little Master, please wait for a moment. Lan Xin will go and buy the glutinous rice and sweet lotus root for you.
Qiao ruoyi said, Dont spoil her. She just ate a lot of dinner. Its better to eat less at night.
Nichang looked up at Qiao ruoyi and said, Mother, just eat one piece!
Xie Yun then instructed Lan Xin to go to the Hundred Savory restaurant to get a serving of glutinous rice and sweet lotus root.
Uncle Xie is so nice.
Qiao ruoyi could not help but sigh at the intimate rtionship between Little Nichang and Xie Yun..
After nichang used the glutinous rice sugar lotus root, she kept pestering Xie Yun to y games.
Xie Yun was rather patient. It was only when he coaxed little nichang to sleep that he realized that it was already past midnight. It could be seen that even time passed extremely quickly when he was with Nichang.
Chapter 411
Chapter 411: Chapter 411. Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant again
When Xie Yun came out of the Nichang Room, she did not go straight to Qiao Ruoyis room. Instead, she went to the kitchen.
Every time Qiao ruoyi came, she would bring the pill to avoid the child. Once she arrived, she would order the orchid heart to boil it in the kitchen.
Xie Yun said to the servant girl in the kitchen, In the future, every time you boil the pill, change the pill to something that will make it easier for you to get pregnant.
Yes, Master.
..
An autumn rain fell. The heat was gone, and the autumn wind rustled. On a hot summer day, it was a good time to hold a poetry meet.
There were many banquets in all the noble families. There were all kinds of banquets. Qiao Ruoyi was in the officialdom, so it was impossible for her not to attend.
There were many banquets, and there were many rumors. Qiao ruoyi heard the rumors, and as she listened, people began to ask about Qiao ruoyi and Xie Yun.
No one knew how rich the Xie family was, but these people also knew that the Xie family was a big family with a lot of wealth. If the marriage between Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun didnt work out, then Xie Yun could be considered a good son-inw.
The others didnt dare to ask openly, so Qiao ruoyi naturally changed the topic with a few words, not mentioning her and Xie Yuns marriage.
After Qiao Ruoyi left, a fewdies who were holding her whispered, She still pretends to be noble. A concubines daughter is a concubines daughter. I heard that she often brings her daughter to the Xie familys vi and stays there for the whole night.
What noble? Xie Yun doesnt want to marry her, what else can she do? Beg her sister, the Empress, to marry her? But Xie Yun is not an ordinary family, how can she marry her just like that!
Its already amazing that the daughter of a concubine can do what she did. I heard that her aunt was a servant girl in the past, and now her daughter is an official.
She still has a good sister.
The words of these madams did notck some sourness.
When Qiao Ruoyi returned, these madams changed their faces again, praising Qiao Ruoyisplexion to be much better, and there was nock of ttery.
After the banquet, the servant girl ced a piece of white-cut chicken in front of Qiao Ruoyi. Qiao ruoyi looked at the white-cut chicken and covered her mouth. She stood up and said, Excuse me.
Qiao ruoyi walked to a small path and could not help but vomit. She vomited so much that her bile was about toe out.
Yan Yu asked worriedly, Miss...
Qiao ruoyi vomitedpletely and sat down on a rock beside her. I dont know why recently, but I feel like vomiting whenever I see anything.
Yan Yu asked, Are you pregnant? When the princess was pregnant with her second child, she also threw up a lot.
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, Thats impossible. I clearly took the pill to avoid the child. I didnt miss it every time.
Yan Yu said, Why dont we go back to the manor and ask the imperial physician to check her pulse?
Qiao Ruoyi Thought for a moment and said, Dont tell anyone yet. Tomorrow is the day to go to the Xie familys vi, right?
Yes,Yan Yu said.
Qiao ruoyi whispered a few words into Yan Yus ear, and Yan Yu quickly agreed.
The next day, Qiao Ruoyi did not bring Nichang with her this time.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao ruoyi, but he did not see Nichang following behind her. He asked, Why isnt my daughter here today?
The Crown Princes birthday is approaching. Recently, they are nning to have a birthday gift for the crown prince. They are still ying with the second prince.
Xie Yun said, Her rtionship with the second prince is good.
They are cousins after all,Qiao Ruoyi replied.
When the antidote was given today, Qiao ruoyi, who had never spoken, opened her mouth to ask Xie Yun to slow down. This made Xie Yun more and more unable to control himself..
After that, Lan Xin came in with a bowl of medicine for Qiao Ruoyi.
When Qiao Ruoyi wanted to drink the medicine, she could not help but vomit. The filth stained Xie Yuns extremely precious pair of boots.
Xie Yun frowned slightly and said, Whats wrong? The imperial familys doctor.
Qiao ruoyi said, Dont look for the imperial familys doctor. Just look for the imperial doctor.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao Ruoyi in confusion. Qiao ruoyi vomited again. Look for the Imperial Doctor.
The imperial doctor was called to the Xie familys vi by Lan Xin. When he saw Xie Yun and Qiao ruoyi inside, the imperial doctor who had heard of the rumors about the two of them was not surprised. After the imperial doctor checked her pulse, he said, Fifth miss is pregnant again.
Xie Yun was extremely happy and said, Really?
Qiao ruoyi shouted to the outside, Yan Yu,e in.
Yan Yu wrapped the medicinal dregs in a silk handkerchief and entered. Qiao ruoyi said to the imperial physician, May I trouble the imperial physician to take a look at what this medicine is?
The imperial physician looked at the medicinal dregs. Just as he was about to speak, Lan Xin said, It wasnt easy for the imperial physician toe all the way here. Why Dont you go to the side and have a sip of tea before you slowly read the prescription?
Qiao ruoyi slowly said, Cocoon silk, gngal ginger, acacia, angelica, Asarum... I dont read many medical books. From these medicinal dregs, I can see that these are all pregnancy-enhancing drugs.
The imperial physician replied, Fifth young miss has good eyesight. This is precisely the pregnancy-enhancing offspring soup that is very popr among aristocratic families.
Thank you for your exnation, imperial physician,Qiao Ruoyi said. Yan Yu, thank you very much, imperial physician.
After the imperial physician and Yan Yu left, Lan Xin hurriedly knelt in front of qiao ruoyi and said, Im sorry, fifth miss. This servant acted on my own initiative. I wanted master to have an heir, so I specially changed your son-avoiding soup. Please forgive me, fifth Miss!
Qiao ruoyi said, If it werent for your masters permission, would a servant girl like you dare to plot against Masters Heir?
Xie Yun calmly sat on a chair at the side and said to Qiao ruoyi, So what if I changed your pill? Now that you have my child, you wouldnt be thinking of marrying someone else with this child, right?
Qiao ruoyi saw Xie Yun like this and said, I will abort the child.
Although she didnt regret leaving Nichang behind, she wasnt willing to bear children for Xie Yun.
Xie Yun asked, Is that so?
Qiao ruoyi frowned slightly and said, Of course.
Xie Yun looked at Qiao Ruoyis t stomach and said, Qiao ruoyi, I gave you the antidote because I owe you. But if you dare to kill my son, I will not let you off.
The Xie family might be able to fight with your Qiao family to the point where both sides suffer. Do you think the Qiao family will use the entire familys strength to protect you, a concubines Daughter?
Qiao ruoyi saw that Xie Yun seemed to have changed.
Xie Yun said, Qiao ruoyi, previously, I felt guilty and felt sorry for the both of you. But if you dare to kill my son, then thats another matter.
Qiao ruoyi covered her stomach and said, Do you think the child is your son? You just want to use this child to force me to marry you. Its really sad for the children to have a father like you.
Xie Yun only said, Think about it carefully. I, Xie Yun, have always been a person who doesnt offend others. The hatred of killing my son is irreconcble. If you dare to kill my son, you can forget about me detoxifying you.
Qiao ruoyi left the Xie familys vi in a daze. She did not return to the Qiao residence but went to Luo Weis grave.
It was dark and it was curfew time again. However, the imperial guards recognized Qiao Ruoyi and did not question her further.
Qiao ruoyi went to Luo Weis grave and used the candlelight to wipe the tombstone. Her eyes were filled with tears. Luo Wei, Im sorry, Im sorry.
She should not have agreed to Xie Yun using this method to make the antidote in the first ce. She was really stupid.
Really Stupid!
Chapter 412
Chapter 412: Chapter 412, agreeing to the three requirements of the marriage
In the Xie Manor.
Lan Xin entered Xie Yuns study and reported, After fifth miss left us, she first went to the Qiao familys ancestral grave. After staying in the ancestral grave for about 25 minutes, she returned to marquis an Yuans manor. She even instructed the secret guards not to allow our people to follow her in.
Master, fifth miss originally thought that it would be better to just die. Im afraid that she wont be willing if you dont give her the antidote and force her to keep the child.
Xie Yun said slowly, She will. She has already sacrificed so much to survive. Why would she give up now? Moreover... she was able to keep Nichang back then. Its not like she wont keep the child now.
Lan Xin mumbled, Master, I feel that your actions seem a little despicable.
Xie Yun red at Lan Xin. It was fine if it was despicable, but if he could have two children, why not?
As for Qiao ruoyi, he had already felt guilty towards her. He didnt care if the guilt went up a notch or not.
She liked those famous paintings and ancient books. As long as she married into the Xie family, she would have everything. It could be considered as making up for the debt she owed her.
Lan Xin asked again, Arent you afraid that after the Qiao family finds out about this, they will stand up for fifth young miss? Especially when the Empress finds out. She will definitely stand up for fifth young miss.
That would be my wish,Xie Yun said slowly.
Lan Xin did not understand what her master meant, but she also felt that her master had gone too far in this matter.
The next day, Qiao Ruoyi applied for half a months leave and did not go to court.
Fu Lu entered Qiao Ruoyis Courtyard to visit. When he saw Qiao ruoyi lying on the bed with a pale face, he was shocked, Ruoyi, whats wrong with you?
Qiao ruoyi said, Im so stupid, so stupid. I want to kill him! Kill him and get it over with. I can also go see Luo Wei and aunt.
But I cant bear to part with Niching. I dont want Niching to be embarrassed when she grows up and finds out that her mother killed her father...
Fu Lu hugged Qiao ruoyi and said, What happened? How did Xie Yun Bully You? Your brother and I will help you get revenge. Even if we cant get revenge, theres still the Empress and His Majesty. The Empress loves you so much...
Qiao ruoyi sobbed and told Fu Lu about Xie Yun scheming against her for being pregnant. I dont know what to do now. I Wont give birth to his child!
Fu Luforted qiao ruoyi softly, Dont be anxious. If you enter the pce with me, the Empress will definitely seek justice for you. Xie Yun said that if he doesnt save you in the future, we will tie him up and force him to be a bloody man!
You are pregnant now. You really shouldnt cry so sadly.
Qiao ruoyi wiped her tears and said, Okay, enter the pce.
After Fu Lu and Qiao Ruoyi went out, they coincidentally met Xie Yun.
When Fu Lu saw Xie Yun, he said angrily, You still dare toe to my Qiao Residence?
Xie Yun said, I came to the Qiao residence today to propose marriage. Since Ruoyi is pregnant with my child, she should marry into my xie family as soon as possible.
Qiao ruoyi held her handkerchief tightly and said, Dont even think about it. I will not keep this child. When Ie back from the pce, I will abort the child!
Xie Yun sneered and said, Qiao ruoyi, you are now twenty-two years old. At this age, you still have to go to the pce crying andining to your sister after something happened?
Fu Lu said, Ruoyi, dont listen to his nonsense.
Xie Yun walked to Qiao Ruoyis ear and said softly, The Empress Values Friendship and loyalty. If you go and beg her, she will naturally stand up for you. But have you ever thought about your sister?
Why have there been very few civil officials who went against the Qiao family this year? The Xie family, which all the schrs in the world yearn for, once married to the Qiao family, the position of the Empress and the crown prince will be more stable.
Fu Lu spat, Ruoyi, dont listen to his nonsense. With His Majestys position in the Empress and crown prince is very stable, we dont Need Xie Yuns help. Our Qiao family also doesntck marriage with the Xie family.
Xie Yun said, Qiao Ruoyi, why dont you carefully think about how the Qiao Family Treats You, how the Marquise treats you as a daughter-inw, how your sister treats you. If you go to the pce andin, the Empress will naturally help you.
But what about you? What have you done for the Empress?
The Empress just came to Chang an not long ago and gave a rare ginseng to your aunt to extend her life. The emperors kindness is as thin as paper.
In the past year, those civil officials have stopped writing memorials for the eptance of the harem. But what if in another five years, when your sisters appearance is no longer the same, all the officials ask the emperor to ept the harem. When the emperor is faced with those young and beautiful women.., could he still be as focused as he was today?
Since ancient times, how many emperors had not been jealous of the Crown Prince until they were middle-aged?
The Qin emperor and the Han and the Wu all wished to remain young for a thousand years. Just as the princess had said, the Empressposition was now stable. It was true that the emperor was present, but the heart of the emperor was difficult to predict. In the future, when the Emperor met a woman who was even more moved, what would happen to your sister?
The Qiao and Xie families will be united by marriage. I believe that the Emperor will definitely not have the intention of abolishing the Empress!
Fu Lu frowned and said, What nonsense are you talking about? Everyone knows that His Majesty is deeply in love with the empress. Even in another five years, the empress will still be more beautiful than those youngdies. Ruo Yi, ignore him.
Xie Yun said to Qiao ruo yi, Lets not talk about your consideration for the Qiao family, why dont you think about Nichang? Nichang is still young now, but what if the marriage is to be decided in ten years? The status of the Xie familys eldest daughter is different from the status of the Qiao familys cousin.
Xie Yun saw that Qiao Ruoyi was a little rxed and said, No matter what, its a good deal for you to marry me. Other than the above, the Xie family has everything you like. The books you want will be yours in the future.
You dont have to sell your share of the house to buy them in the Ten Thousand Scrolls House. After bing the Xie familys mistress, youll have an endless amount of silver.
When Fu Lu heard this, he said, That sounds like human talk. Ruoyi, you can marry him and spend all the silver in the Xie family before you divorce him!
Xie Yun said to Qiao ruoyi, I believe you know how to choose this deal?
Qiao Ruoyi red at Xie Yun. Its fine if you want me to marry you, but I have three requirements. First, you must have a tattoo right now. I will tattoo a mole on your body!
Xie Yun frowned and thought for a while before finally agreeing. It was just a small mole. It was impossible to see it without looking carefully.
The second requirement is that you and I dont have to hold a big wedding ceremony, nor do we have to go back to Jiangnan to hold it. We just have to treat our rtives and friends to a wedding banquet in Chang an. Also, Im married for the second time, so we have to hold a wedding banquet at noon.
Xie Yun frowned and said, Youre going too far.
How could the Xie family keep such a low profile when they were marrying the matriarch? Moreover, they were holding a wedding banquet at noon. Moreover, there were many second marriages in Chang an. Not many of them were held at noon, and they were all married at dusk.
Qiao ruoyi then said the third request, Third, Nichang will never believe Xie. Shes Luo Weis daughter, so her surname must be Qiao!
Xie Yun frowned and said, I cant agree to this request of yours. Arent you going too far?
Qiao ruoyi said, You said it yourself back then. I, a concubines daughter, am not worthy of your position as Madam Xie. Back then, you didnt want Nichang first. Why are you saying its going too far now?
Chapter 413
Chapter 413: Chapter 413, giving orders to Aunt Hu
Lan Xin hurriedly said beside Xie Yuns ear, Master, why dont you agree to the fifth miss? If you cant marry the fifth miss, then Miss Nichang cant enter the Xie familys surname, Xie. Besides, doesnt the fifth miss still have a child in her belly?
Xie Yun listened to Qiao Ruoyisints and Lan Xins persuasion, but in the end, she agreed.
Fortunately, Luo Wei was married into the Qiao family, so Nichang followed the Qiao familys surname.
If her surname was not luo, why would she care so much?
Xie Yun went to the Qiao familys house to discuss the marriage with an yuanhou. An yuanhou naturally put on airs.
Back when he and Qiao lui came to the Qiao familys house, Xie Yun looked down on the Qiao familys daughter. Naturally, he had to teach Xie Yun a good lesson this time.
Xie Yun was patient. He was not afraid that an Yuan Hou would not agree. When an Yuan Hou took Qiao, Xie Yun smiled and said, Ruoyi is more than two months pregnant. In order to avoid being criticized in the future, the marriage has to be put on the agenda as soon as possible.
An Yuan Hou was furious. He did not have any intention to teach Xie Yun a lesson. He only proposed the marriage as soon as possible.
The Qiao family could not afford to lose face a second time.
The wedding was set a monthter, the day after the double ninth day. On the tenth day of the ninth month, Liu Li left in a hurry.
When the Qiao and Xie familys wedding was set, Chang an felt that it was a matter of course. However, a group of declining aristocratic families began to cry. They thought that the Xie family still had hope of reviving the aristocratic families.
Now, theirst hope had been extinguished.
Xie Yun marrying her step-daughter as the mistress could be considered to have broken the aristocratic familiesemPhasis on bloodline for thousands of years. It alsopletely tore apart the possibility of those aristocratic families thinking that there was still a chance of prosperity.
After the pce banquet was held during the mid-autumn Festival.
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang brought Lu Xi, Lu Ang, and the infant princess to the Qiao family.
Qiao Jinniang came to see Old Madam Qiao today. Old Madam Qiao was old and had been coughing non-stop since autumn. She did not enter the pce today.
Seeing Qiao Jinniang arrive, Old Madam Qiao wanted to get down and pay her respects, but was stopped by Qiao Jinniang. Grandmother, we specially came out of the pce to visit you. Theres no need to pay our respects.
Lu Xi and Lu ang obediently walked up to old madam Qiao and called her great-grandmother.
Old Madam Qiao coughed weakly and said, His Highness the Crown Prince is already a young boy. Ahem, ahem, thats great, thats great. Now that the Qiao familys children and grandchildren have settled down, even if I die, Ill still have the face to see your grandfather.
Qiao jinniang said, Grandmother, take good care of your body. Grandfather will surely hope that you can live a long life in heaven.
Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, I almost forgot what your grandfather looked like. If we met underground, he would definitely not dare to recognize me as an old woman.
Grandmother is still beautiful.
Old Madam Qiao smiled. He must have been mesmerized by those female demons underground.
Qiao Jinniang listened to Old Madam Qiaos words and thought that grandmother and grandfather must have had a very good rtionship back then. It was a pity that grandfather died young. When he died, he was only in his early thirties.
Old Madam Qiao held Qiao Jinniangs hand and said, Empress, cough cough, grandmother knows that the Qiao family has let you down. Grandmother has one more thing to ask of you... forget it, forget it, forget it.
Qiao jinniang said, Grandmother, if theres anything you want to say, just say it. If I cant do it, I naturally wont agree to grandmothers request, nor will I me you. If I can do it, I will definitely help grandmother.
Old Madam Qiao sighed and said, If there is one person in my life that I have let down, it would be Qiao Ruoyis birth mother, Aunt Hu...
Back then, the Qiao family suffered sessive defeats. The saliva of themon people almost drowned our Qiao family. Many servants in the manor fled for their lives, but Aunt Hu remained loyal to the Qiao family. However, I have let her down..
Over the years, I actually knew how the Qian family bullied aunt Hu. However, I never stood up for Aunt Hu and ruoyi. Firstly, Aunt Hu was after all a servants concubine, and the Qian family still had a cousin in the Hou Manor.
Secondly, as a mother, it was not good for me to interfere in the matters of the Hou Manors backyard when there was a marquis and a wife.
s, I should have allowed her to marry and set her free back then. It wouldnt have caused her to be miserable for the rest of her life.
Qiao Jinniang also felt that the old madam was at fault. However, at this moment, she could only console her, Grandmother also has grandmothers difficulties.
Old Madam Qiao coughed twice and said, Last year, when Ruoyi was seriously ill and unconscious, I said that if she could wake up, I would definitely personally request an imperial decree for the Hu n. Cough Cough, empress, I know that I have let down your mother... s.
Qiao jinniang said, Qiao ruoyi is now an official of the imperial court. It is within the rules to request an imperial decree for her biological mother.
Old madam Qiao said, Actually, when she first entered the officialdom, she had wanted to request an imperial decree for Hu, but was suppressed by the Marquis. Although this matter is within the rules, if it were to be spread out, Xiaoer would definitely beughed at. Also, Im afraid that it would cause people to criticize the empress.
Qiao jinniang said, Thats not how it is said. Since we are a family, why should we care about what outsiders say? There are rules to follow if we are to get an imperial decree for our birth mother.
As for mother, as long as she continues to be filial to her mother in the future, she will naturally not be criticized by others. There are a lot of rumors outside, wouldnt it be very tiring to have to worry about everything?
I will speak to His Majesty about this matter and have his majesty bestow an imperial order on Aunt Hu.
Qiao Jinniang left Old Madam Qiaos courtyard and went into the hall.
Today, the Qiao family wasplete. Apart from Qiao Ruofeng and his wife who were in the south of the ridge, even Qiao Ruoyin and his wife, Qiao Ruoyun, hade to the Qiao family.
They had originallye for the mid-autumn Festival, and also because the old madam was seriously ill, they hade to see the old madam for thest time.
When they heard that Qiao Ruoyis marriage was approaching, they nned to stay until the marriage and then leave Chang an.
Qiao ruoyi was still pregnant and vomiting. With her weak appearance, it was obvious that she was pregnant.
Qiao Jinniang invited Zheng Xiao to a side room. Although she had promised the old madam, she still had to inform Zheng Xiao about the imperial decree.
When Zheng Xiao heard this.., he replied frankly, Im not afraid of beingughed at. All these years, so many things have happened. The Hu family has always respected me, and Ruoyi is filial. This imperial decree position was earned by Ruoyi herself. If you dont mind, I naturally dont mind either.
Just as your grandmother said, when the wall of the Qiao residence fell, everyone pushed it down. The Hu family stayed loyally in the Qiao family and gave up her wonderful marriage. They gave up on your muddle-headed and blind father. Its time to give her an imperial decree.
When Qiao Jinniang heard Zheng Xiao scolding an yuanhou, she did not say a word.
After returning to the pce, Qiao Jinniang told Lu Chen about this matter. Lu Chen agreed, This can be considered as adding makeup to Qiao Ruoyi.
Qiao jinniang said, How can you be so stingy with adding makeup? An imperial decree is not enough. As an elder sister, I cant be stingy. No matter what, I have to add makeup to a manor and add ten thousand taels of silver.
As soon as Qiao Jinniang said this, she heard Little Weiyang burst into tears.
Qiao Jinniang hurriedly picked up her daughter and coaxed, Whats Wrong?
Lu Chen said, Maybe she cant bear to part with this silver?
Qiao Jinniang red at Lu Chen. Shes only been a few months. How can she not bear to part with it?
Chapter 414
Chapter 414: Chapter 414: Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun get married
The pce announced that Aunt Hu would be conferred the title of second-ss wife. Once the decree was issued, Chang an was in heated discussion.
Some people said that the emperor was giving face to the Xie family. Since Xie Yun was going to marry a wife, she naturally had to give Qiao ruoyi some face.
There were also many people who secretlyughed at Zheng Xiao. The wife of the MarquisConcubine was getting married, but she gave an order to her biological mother. wasnt this giving face to the Marquiswife?
There were also some people who guessed that the Empress would definitely not be kind to Qiao Ruoyi in the future.
However, all of this did not exist when the Qiao family was getting married. Qiao Jinniangs makeup was considered the most generous among the sisters. She even specially gave Qiao ruoyi the Shang Fang sword that was often mentioned in the book.
The Shang Fang sword was originally the Emperors Imperial Sword. However, ording to the folklore, the Shang Fang sword was extremely sharp. The book often mentioned that the Shang Fang sword could be executed first and reportedter.
When Qiao Jinniang gave the sword to Qiao ruoyi, she also gave a verbal order that if Xie Yun dared to bully Qiao ruoyi, Qiao Ruoyi could execute the Shang Fang Sword First and reportter.
When Qiao Ruoyi got married, Zheng Xiaos eyes were red. He could not bear to part with Qiao ruoyi, and he could not bear to part with niching.
Niching was brought to the Xie family a day in advance.
Qiao Ruoyis proposal of getting married at noon was rejected by Marquis an yuan. It was impossible for the Xie and Qiao mansions to keep a low profile when they got married. Therefore, the wedding day was still very lively.
Qiao ruoyi was in the bridal sedan, looking at the people outside through the wedding fan. She thought of the time when she and Luo Wei got married.
Luo Wei was married into the family. During the wedding, the child in her arms had grown older. During the worship ceremony, Luo Wei supported her everywhere, worried that something would happen to her. At that time, Qiao ruoyi and Luo Wei had not known each other for long.
But on the wedding day, Luo Weis every move made Qiao ruoyi very satisfied.
Todays wedding ceremony was much livelier than the previous one, but Qiao Ruoyi was not happy at all. She touched her lower abdomen and sighed heavily.
After the wedding ceremony, it was the nuptial chamber.
Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant, so it was naturally impossible for her to have a nuptial chamber. Xie Yun was also outside entertaining the guests.
Qiao Lui, Qian Yin, and the rest of the Qiao family naturally would not let Xie Yun off so easily. They toasted one after another. Even Xie Yun, who had a good tolerance for alcohol, could not stop them from drinking. In the end, she entered the nuptial chamber drunk.
Xie Yun walked to Qiao Ruoyis side andughed. From today onwards, Nichang will be able to call me Daddy.
Qiao ruoyi said, Youre drunk. Stay away from me. Dont Smoke Me.
Xie Yun reached out and gently caressed Qiao Ruoyis face. If I had known earlier, I would have married you. Five years ago, I shouldnt have just said that I would let you be my concubine.
Qiao ruoyi said, The past is in the past. Whats the use of regretting it?
Xie Yunughed and said, Fortunately, you can still marry me, unlike little...
When Qiao Ruoyi heard Xie Yuns words, she felt that something was not right. The maids around her all retreated. When she saw that Xie Yun was drunk, she asked, Do you still have little Jin er in your heart?
Xie Yun was drunk after all. He leaned against the bed and said, At that time, both my parents died. In order to let me live, I had no choice but to pretend to be a woman. As a man, I became a woman. I was very angry.
But at that time, there was no other way. I was too young and my family was weak. I had no choice but to endure.
That was until I met Xiao Jin er who came to give me snacks.
At that time, she was still very young, but she was the little shopkeeper of the Hundred Savory restaurant that everyone in Lin an city knew about. She was sweet-tongued and obedient, especially when the pastries of the hundred savory restaurant were extremely delicious. Her culinary skills were not inferior to those of the chefs that were passed down from aristocratic families.
Later on, I gained more and more control over the Xie family. Xiao Jin er was also about to get married. At that time, I wanted to let her enter the Xie family, but let her enter the Xie familys flower.., will she be able to live well in the Xie familys Dragon Pond and Tigers Den?
Xie Yun continued, And her identity as a merchants daughter. If I wanted her to enter the Xie family, I could only let her be a concubine. Such a bright and generous woman, entering the back residence as a concubine was a grievance for her. I watched helplessly as she married a son-inw. All I could do was help her live a better life.
Later, when I found out that she was the daughter of the Qiao family and that her husband was the crown prince, I also regretted it. I regretted not marrying her back then.
However, not long after his majesty ascended the throne, he said that she would be the only one in the six pces in the future. I no longer regretted it because I would never give up the pride of the Xie family for Xiao Jiner. If she can obtain happiness, I will also be happy for her.
Xie Yun was a little thirsty. She stumbled to a corner and poured herself a ss of water. She took a sip and said, But I still put down the pride of being a member of the Xie family...
Qiao ruoyi said, So you regret it again. You Didnt marry your sister back then? Youd better not have such thoughts as soon as possible. Now that His Majestys sister is very loving, dont be a burden to them!
Xie Yun held Qiao Ruoyis waist and shackled her in his arms. He said in her ear, Today, I understand that His Majesty is willing to give up everything for Little Jin er because he only has little Jin er in his heart.
And I was unwilling to give up my pride back then because I only liked the little sister next door. Just because I liked her, I couldnt give up the pride that I was born with.
Today, Im willing to let go of my prejudice because... I have you in my heart.
Qiao ruoyi pushed the drunk Xie Yun away. Her words made her want to vomit. What was the truth after drinking? It should be nonsense after drinking.
He was willing to marry her because of Nichang and for the child in her belly.
Only a fool would believe her words!
The two of them had ten days of rest after their marriage.
The Xie Yun n was in Lin an, so Qiao Ruoyi did not have to pay her respects to the Xie familys ancestors the next day, nor did she have to pour tea and water for the elders.
When Xie Yun woke up, he had a terrible headache. He did not know how much alcohol he had drunk yesterday. He did not know what he had said when he was drunk. He took the antidote that Lan Xin handed over and drank it in one gulp. Xie Yun asked, Where is she?
Master, Madam went to the ancestral grave of the Qiao family early in the morning...
Xie Yun clenched his hands. Veins were popping out on his hands. Is she so reluctant to let him go?
She could really do something like going to the grave of her ex-husband on the second day of her marriage!
When Qiao Ruoyi returned, she saw the dark-faced Xie Yun. She said, What did you say before you married me? The silver of the Xie family will be spent with me. Coincidentally, I have been interested in some of the jewelry in the jewelry pavilion for a long time...
Xie Yun said, It just so happens that I have nothing to do these few days. Ill apany Madam to stroll around the jewelry pavilion.
Xie Yun pulled little nichang behind Qiao ruoyi and said, Can You Call Me Daddy Now?
Little Nichang raised her head and said, Daddy.
Xie Yun picked up little nichang. It was worth it for her to call her that. As for Qiao ruoyi, she married her for Nichangs sake. If she was willing to go to Luo Weis grave, then so be it.
Business at the Jewelry Pavilion in mid-september was only ordinary. However, there were manydies who came over after having their meals at the Hundred Savory restaurant.
Qiao ruoyi entered. As long as it was ced on the table, she waved her hand and said, Wrap it up and send it to the Xie family.
Chapter 415
Chapter 415: Chapter 415: spend all of Xie Yuns silver
The jewelry in the jewelry pavilion had always been expensive. Qiao ruoyi had to make Xie Yun bleed to vent her anger. If Xie Yun did not have this silver, he would have to sell off his ancestral property.
He had to vent his anger.
It was the first time the shopkeeper had seen such arge sum of money. Madam Xie, Im afraid this will cost 500,000 taels of silver. This...
In this way, the Xie family might not even be able to sell their ancestral residence for this amount of silver!
Xie Yun said, Wrap it up. As for the silver, I will naturally settle it with your boss.
The shopkeeper said, Oh, okay. I will wrap it up now.
Qiao ruoyi asked Xie Yun, Do you know the owner of the Jewelry Pavilion?
The owner of the jewelry pavilion was very mysterious in Chang an city. He made a lot of money every day. Many officials wanted to get to know him but were unable to. Not long ago, there was a youngdy who came to cause trouble, but it was settled, the youngdy who caused trouble was also investigated.
Qiao ruoyi also wanted to get to know the owner of the jewelry store. If she could get the ount book of the jewelry store, it would be obvious which official was corrupt.
Xie Yun nodded. Do you still have ces to visit?
Qiao ruoyi said, Yes!
Since so many jewelry did not make Xie Yun frown, she went to the pawnshop that she had visited before and took all the treasures that she had valued for a long time.
The manager of the pawnshop smiled and said, Madam, please wait a moment. I will wrap it up for you now. I have seen that you are fated with me in the past. In the future, I hope that you will remember that I have given you a few taels of silver in the past and give me some tips.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun who was beside her and Xie Yun said, This pawnshop is the property of the Xie family.
Qiao ruoyi looked at the treasures that were wrapped up and felt that it was meaningless. Then who is the owner of the jewelry pavilion?
Without waiting for Xie Yun to reply, the Xie Manors housekeeper hurriedly went forward and said, Master, Madam, the Empress has ordered Madam to quickly enter the pce.
Seeing that her sister was looking for her, Qiao Ruoyi did not dare to be negligent and hurriedly rushed into the pce.
After entering the Changle Pce, Qiao Ruoyi saw the shopkeeper that she had seen in the jewelry pavilion not long ago.
Qiao Jinniang helplessly said to Qiao ruoyi, I remember that you dont like those jewelry. If you like them, you can say so earlier. But you cant buy out the jewelry pavilion all of a sudden!
Qiao Jinniang was not afraid that the jewelry in the jewelry pavilion could not be sold. She was afraid that the jewelry pavilion had no jewelry to sell. The jewelry in the jewelry pavilion was so expensive because of the good craftsmanship, some of the craftsmanship could only be done by dozens of people in a year.
Qiao ruoyi had bought out all the expensive jewelry in the jewelry pavilion all at once. She did not know when the jewelry pavilion would be able to restock.
There had been no jewelry for sale. When that time came, even if there were jewelry, not many people would enter the jewelry pavilion again.
Qiao ruoyi asked tentatively, Sister, did you open the Jewelry Pavilion?
Yes,Qiao Jinniang replied, Return all the jewelry you bought to the jewelry pavilion. If you like it, Ill ask the Shanggong Bureau to give you a few more sets of exquisite jewelry.
Qiao ruoyi shook her head repeatedly and said, No need, sister. I just want to spend all of Xie Yuns silver...
Spend all of Xie Yuns silver?Qiao Jinniang smiled lightly. Youre really brave.
After Qiao Ruoyi left the pce, she saw Xie Yun waiting for her outside the pce and said, Do you know that the manager of the jewelry store is sister?
The jewelry store receives so much silver every day. Naturally, it has to cooperate with the money house. The properties under Her Majestys name all have dealings with the Xie family money house,Xie Yun said.
Three Days of peace.
After Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Qiao residence, Fu Lu pulled her to his courtyard. Youre really amazing. On the first day of your marriage, you made Xie Yun spend so much silver.
Qiao ruoyi sighed and said, No, the jewelry in the jewelry pavilion cant be bought out. He didnt spend any silver afterward.
Fu Lu said, Why cant it be bought out?
Qiao ruoyi sighed and said, Because the jewelry pavilion is my sisters property.
Fu Lu widened his eyes and said, The Empresss property? Well, she didnt tell me about it. I wonder if the silver i spent in the jewelry pavilion all these years can be returned?
Qiao ruoyi said to Fu Lu, Where else in Chang an can I spend money like water?
Fu Lu thought for a moment and said, If you want to spend money, the best ce is the gambling den. Come, sister-inw will take you to the gambling den to see the world.
Qiao Ruoyi:...
Qiao Ruoyi had always been well-behaved and had never set foot in the gambling den. This was the first time she had entered. Qiao ruoyi looked at the elegantyout inside, and it was not the gambling den that she had imagined.
This is King Rongs new gambling house. The old gambling house has been used to open the Hundred Savory Restaurant. This gambling house has just opened and its business is very good. Lets go and y a few games.
When King Rong saw Fu Lu and Qiao ruoyi, he said to Fu Lu, You are now the wife of the heir of the Marquis Mansion. Why are you encouraging the imperial court officials toe to my gambling house?
Fu Lu said, Its not good to earn money for you. Lets y a game. Today, you will be the banker.
County Prince Rong replied, We wee people who send money. Come, what do you want to Bet?
Fu Lu recalled that on the birthday of Qiao Jinniang, Qiao Ruoyi lost when she yed dice and tes. Although she cheated, Qiao Ruoyis luck might not be good. He said, Lets y dice and bet on the size.
Betting on the size was the simplest gambling game in the casino.
Qiao Ruoyi ced five 100-tael notes on the size. Ill bet on the size.
Little County Prince Rong opened the Dice Cup. There were two 5s and a 4s inside. Naturally, it was a big one, Our Casino is not allowed to bet more than five coins. Before the casino opened, His Majesty had repeatedly reminded us that these 500-tael notes dont count. They dont count.
Fu Lu said, Arent you cheating?
Young County Prince Rong said, Didnt you forget just now? Its fine if I win five hundred taels for you, but the next round must not exceed five coins. At most, it will be five coins. If His Majesty finds out, my gambling house will be closed again.
Qiao ruoyi sighed and looked at Fu Lu helplessly.
Fu Lu said, I know theres another ce. Its a real life of luxury. I just have to go at night. But at night, your brother wont allow me to go out with you alone.
Fu Lu turned his gaze to county prince Rong and said, Why dont you ask Qiao Lui Out? That way, when I return home before Qiao Lui returns, he will naturally not know that Ive sneaked out.
County Prince Rong frowned and said, Dont let me get involved in this matter. I Cant beat your husband.
Fu Lu said, If you dont help, I will tell His Majesty about the bet of 500 taels of silver just now. See if your gambling house can continue to operate!
Im afraid of you. But apart from Spring Breeze Street in Chang an, where else can you spend money like water?County Prince Rong asked curiously.
Fu Lu smiled lightly, That is to go to Spring Breeze Street!
Chapter 416
Chapter 416: Chapter 416, buying the Peach Blossom House
Everyone in Chang an knew the name of Spring Wind Street. Qiao ruoyi had known about Spring Wind Street since she was a child, but she had never set foot in Spring Wind Street.
After entering the imperial court, her colleagues often went to spring wind street when they gathered at the government office. Qiao ruoyi only asked her subordinates to attend social events for her.
However, Qiao Ruoyi had heard of the name of Spring Wind Street. There was a curfew in Chang an, but Spring Wind Street was an exception. It was brightly lit throughout the night.
A river separated the inner city from Spring Breeze Street. The river was filled with pleasure boats, and the wide stone bridge was filled with men and women, all wearing silk.
Qiao ruoyi could smell the smell of Rougeing from the other side. She could not help but sigh. This ce is really lively.
Fu Lu said, Now that the world is peaceful and prosperous, this ce is naturally lively.
Qiao Ruoyi did not dare to take even half a step into Spring Wind Street since she was a child. If it was not for Princess Fu Lu beside her, she would have entered as well.
After walking across the bridge, one could see many gorgeous courtyards. In front of them were beautiful women dressed in cool and lead powder who were weing guests.
The two youngdies are here to look for their husbands in Spring Wind Street?
These two youngdies are so beautiful, yet their husbands are still here in Spring Wind Street? Are they here for Miss Miaoxue?
Today is Miss MIAOXUEs first time receiving customers. Everyone says that Miss Miaoxue is the best courtesan in Spring Breeze Street for ten years. I think the twodies are even more beautiful than Miss Miaoxue...
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, How dare you!
The girls of Spring Breeze Street dared topare them with the girls of brothels. This was too much!
Fu Lu held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Dont be angry. I came to this courtesan auction once with Prince Rong when I was young. It was a real waste of money. I remember that the first time the courtesan was receiving customers was 10,000 taels of silver!
Qiao ruoyi said, But Im not good at polishing the mirror. Why would I spend 10,000 taels of silver to buy that womans Night?
As for giving the courtesan Belle to Xie Yun, it was absolutely impossible. Since she was married to Xie Yun, she absolutely would not allow other women and children in Xie Yuns residence.
This had nothing to do with feelings. It was just that after the other daughters of the Qiao family got married, there was no husband taking in concubines. Her surname was Qiao, so she naturally could not break this rule.
Fu Lu thought for a moment and said, Most of the famous courtesans in Spring Breeze Street are also proficient in zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting. You can spar with her in literary talent. Most importantly, you can spend Xie Yuns Silver!
Qiao ruoyi vaguely felt that it made sense.
Miss Mi Xue was a girl from the Peach Blossom House. The Peach Blossom House was a famous brothel in great Tang that only high-ranking officials and nobles could enter. When the Madam saw the two girlsing, she thought that they were here to look for her husband, she was afraid that they would ruin Miss Meng Xues Big Day, so she asked someone to chase them out.
It was still a tortoise-like official who said, Madam Madam, one of these two is the female assistant of the Ministry of appointments, Lord Qiao, and the other is Princess Fu Lu.
When the Madam heard this, she immediately went forward and smiled, Princess, this crown prince Qiao has never set foot in my peach blossom brothel. You Wont be able to catch him today!
Fu Lu snorted. My Ah Lu is a clean person, so he naturally wonte here. Today, we are here to be Miss Mi Xues first benefactor. We will definitely not cause trouble. You can rest assured.
When the Madam heard this, she retreated. Yes.
When Miss Mi Xue came out, everyone below was full of praise. They all sighed at Miss Mi Xues excellent appearance. Miss Mi Xues dance was even more stunning.
However, there was no light in Miss Mi Xues eyes. This was because she knew that after today, she would be a prostitute in a brothel.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw Miss Mi Xue dancing, her eyes were filled with a sigh. If Mi Xues appearance, bearing, and dance were born in a wealthy family, she would be praised by all the madams.
Unfortunately, she ended up in a brothel.
Qiao ruoyi suddenly had an idea. A way to spend all the money and save this woman from Spring Wind Street.
Madam, name a price. I want to buy your peach blossom brothel.
Fu Lu heard Qiao Ruoyis words and said, Youre not joking, right?
Qiao ruoyi shook her head and said, The women here are really pitiful. It just so happens that Xie Yun has money...
The madam said with difficulty, Lord Qiao, dont joke around. Peach Blossom Tower has a master behind it. I Cant make the decision here!
Who is your master?Qiao ruoyi asked, I will definitely take over peach blossom tower today.
The madam said, I have never seen who the master behind it is. Lord Qiao, please dont make things difficult for me!
Qiao ruoyi replied, Its not difficult. Miss MIANXUEs graceful dance on the stage is one of the best even in the academy. She shouldnt be reduced to the ything of the people below the stage in the future.
Qiao ruoyi thought that if a woman had never studied before, it would be fine. But if she had studied, how could she be willing to be the ything of a man for the rest of her life.
The Madam was after all afraid of Qiao Ruoyis identity. Not to mention the madam, even those officials in the imperial court whose ranks were not as high as Qiao Ruoyi turned their heads and did not dare to enter when they saw her here.
..
Xie Yun knew that Qiao Ruoyi had followed Fu Lu out and had not seen Qiao ruoyi return to the manor. He then looked for Lan Xin and asked, Has she not returned yet?
Lan Xin replied, The secret guards havee to report that the princess has brought Madam to Spring Breeze Street. I dont think she will be back so soon.
Xie Yun frowned. She is still pregnant. Why would she go to a ce like Spring Breeze Street?
As soon as she finished speaking, the servant beside Xie Yun hurried over and said, Master, there is news from Peach Blossom House. It says that Lord Qiao wants to buy Peach Blossom House.
Lord Qiao?Xie Yun asked, Which Lord Qiao?
Thats madam...
Xie Yun said, Then let her buy it!
Qiao ruoyi drank about an hours worth of tea, the madam came over and said, Lord Qiao, my boss has already said that this peach blossom house will be sold to you. However, our peach blossom house usually receives close to a thousand taels of silver... how much do you n to offer to buy the Peach Blossom House?
Princess Fu Lu said, Dont lie to me. How Can Your Peach Blossom House earn a thousand taels of silver a day?
The madam said, I really didnt lie to you. Our Peach Blossom House has the best business on Spring Breeze Street. Even the poet schr Mingyue from Chang an wrote that where there are beautiful sights in Chang an, there are ten miles of Spring Breeze Peach Blossom House.
Qiao ruoyi took a sip of tea lightly and said, In that case, how much do you want to offer?
The madam didnt dare to offend Qiao ruoyi, so she followed the owners price and said, 200,000 taels of silver.
Qiao ruoyi said, Thats not appropriate. Since schr Mingyue is writing poems for the Peach Blossom Restaurant, 200,000 taels of silver is not enough. Ill offer another 200,000 taels of silver, a total of 400,000 taels of silver, as a favor to schr Mingyue.
Fu Lu:...
Fortunately, Qiao Ruoyi was no longer the daughter of the Qiao family. Her bargaining skills were really top-notch.
Chapter 417
Chapter 417: Chapter 417, the Xie familys estate
After Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Xie residence, she first went to Nichangs room. Little Nichang had returned to the Qiao residence today to y with Nihon for a day and had rested early.
Qiao ruoyi closed the door and returned to her room.
After entering the room, Xie Yun was holding a chess piece and was about to ce it on the chessboard. Youre back? Is it proper for a dignified assistant minister of the Ministry of Appointments to go to Spring Breeze Street?
Qiao ruoyi said, Its a ce frequented by officials, so why cant I go? Tomorrow, get the ounting office to prepare 400,000 taels of silver. Ill buy the Peach Blossom House.
After Qiao Ruoyi finished speaking calmly, she sized up Xie Yun, but she didnt see a trace of annoyance on his face, You said before your marriage that your silver would be used by me. Dont tell me that youre angry that I used a mere 400,000 taels of silver?
Xie Yun shook his head and said, Im not angry.
Oh,Qiao ruoyi said calmly, I wonder if you can gather all the silver tomorrow?
Xie Yun said, Theres no need to gather all the silver. The Peach Blossom House is the Xie familys property. You Dont have to pass such arge amount of silver to the government. You also have to pay arge amount of taxes. Ill just give it to you directly.
Qiao ruoyi said in shock, The Peach Blossom House is also the Xie familys property? How much property does your Xie family have?
Xie Yun said, Not your Xie family, but our family. Since you are the mistress of the Xie family,e with me. Ill show you how much property the Xie family has...
Qiao ruoyi followed Xie Yun into his study and saw piles of ledgers. They were all arranged ording to the state capital. Among them, there were more ledgers in Chang an, Luoyang, and Linan, Yangzhou, and Huizhou than in other ces.
Especially in Chang an, all the money-making shops and books were here, which meant that these were actually the Xie familys properties.
Qiao ruoyi asked Xie Yun, Then how much money does the Xie family have?
Xie Yun slowly said, I didnt count it carefully. The Xie family still has the money house. As long as the money house doesnt copse, no matter how much money you spend, you wont be able to spend it all. His Majestys private money is all in the Xie familys money house. Im sure he wont watch the Xie familys money house copse...
Qiao Ruoyi closed the ount book and said, You know this, but youve been looking at me as a joke for the past three days.
Xie Yun said, I dont want to see you as a joke, but if I dont let you try, how can you be willing? Youre pregnant, so youd better rest early.
Qiao Ruoyi returned to her room. After taking a shower, the smell of Rouge had faded from her body. As shey on the bed, she couldnt help but think that she was indeed silly andughable. Xie Yun was rich enough to rival a country, yet she actually thought of using up Xie Yuns money..
The next day, Qiao Ruoyi did not bother to think of ways to spend money. However, wanting the peach blossom house was not a whim of hers. She was thinking of changing the peach blossom house into a ce simr to a church.
The women inside did not need to sell their bodies to live, but they could also live a carefree life.
Five dayster, Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun returned to the imperial court. When the people from the Ministry of appointments found out that Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant, they did not allow her to work. This made Qiao Ruoyi feel extremely ufortable.
When Qiao Ruoyi returned to the Xie residence, she began to think hard about the memorials.
There was a difference between men and women. A woman was pregnant for ten months.
Even the servants in the residence, as long as she was pregnant, the master would not let her work anymore. Some women were like this. However, if she rested for ten months, her original position would not be able to amodate herself?
Qiao ruoyi thought about it again and again, and then submitted a regtion on when a woman was pregnant.
This regtion could be considered as aplement to the inconvenience for female officials, and it could also allow the people to hire female workers to follow suit.
For a time, assistant minister Qiaos name spread far and wide. During the imperial examinations next year, among the names reported by the various prefectures, one-tenth of them were women. Compared to before, this was already considered a lot.
In November, a cold wind blew, and the night became extremely cold.
This year, Chang an was colder than the previous years. Charcoal and firewood were both extremely expensive.
Qiao ruoyi also began to take leave to focus on her pregnancy. She heard Yan Yu and Lan Xin often talk about how people on the streets outside had frozen to death. People who had frozen to death under the emperors feet could be ridiculed by many schrs.
The prefectural magistrate of Chang an was so scared that he wanted to take out his own house and let the people on the streets sleep.
Chang an had a sickroom. People of all ages could go to the sickroom. They would not be frozen to death there.
However, there were some hawkers who wanted to earn more money in the morning and seize good stalls. At night, they would secretly sleep in small alleys. The officials would not look in those small alleys when they patrolled.
Once the matter of freezing people to death came out, the emperor was furious.
Xie Yun suggested that the Ministry of revenue should interfere with the price of charcoal and matches. He also suggested that the hawkers on the streets should also be treated separately, so that the hawkers would not secretly sleep on the streets at night in order to seize territory.
Xie Yuns two suggestions were highly appreciated by the emperor. Xie Yun was also transferred from the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Rites to the Ministry of Revenue as an assistant minister. They were both assistant ministers, however, the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Revenue had more real power than Xie Yuns assistant minister who specialized in dealing with foreign businessmen.
The Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Rites had no right to earn money, but the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Revenue had real power. More importantly, the Minister of Revenue would retire after the New Year.
The position of assistant minister was only temporary.
Since Xie Yun had a suggestion, these matters were ced on Xie Yuns head. Xie Yun had been so busy these days that she was nowhere to be seen. However, when it was time to give her medicine every half a month, the bowl of blood would alwayse.
In the blink of an eye, it was December. The atmosphere of the new year in Chang an became lively.
Xie Yun was no longer busy. He said to Qiao ruoyi, There are more than 20 days of rest after the new year. You can go back to Lin an and bring nichang to pay respects to the ancestors.
Qiao ruoyi said, I wont leave Chang an during the New Year.
Xie Yun looked at her in confusion. After you and I get married, we have to go back to the Xie familys old residence. The wedding was rushed, and we didnt pay respects to the ancestors.
Qiao ruoyi said, You can go back by yourself.
Xie Yun said, Forget it. Well talk about it next year. After all, youre still pregnant. Its not appropriate to go back and forth this time.
Before the New Year, the Minister of Revenue had written a letter to retire and return to his hometown. Naturally, Xie Yun became the Minister of Revenue. Many people came to visit during the New Year Festival.
On the 22nd of December, the day before New Years Eve, many officials in Chang an brought their families to the Xie residence to congratte them.
However, no one greeted their families.
Xie Yun asked Lan Xin, Where is she?
Ever since they got married, Xie Yun had asked Lan Xin the most. It was probably about where she was. Every Time Qiao Ruoyi went out, she would not tell him.
Lan Xin said softly, Madam, Madam went to the ancestral grave of the Qiao family early in the morning.
Again?
Xie Yun pursed his lips. It had only been three months since they got married, and Qiao Ruoyi had already gone to the front of Luo Weis grave three times. Could she really not let Luo Wei Go?
Was she still going to Lowes grave on his good day?
Chapter 421
Chapter 421: Chapter 421. It was sister who asked me to serve you
Xie Yun didnt even give Hu Caiqin a nce. She just said one sentence and was about to leave, Since your cousin asked you to stay, then you should stay in your courtyard.
Hu caiqin said, Brother-inw, actually, I have another thing to tell you. Previously, when Luo Wei was around, he gave the Hu family a hundred taels of silver every year during the New Year. But this year...
When Xie Yun heard the name Luo Wei, he stopped in his tracks and turned to look at Hu Caiqin. Luo Wei gives you a hundred taels of silver every year?
Hu Caiqin nodded. Brother-inw is a good person. Cousin has some misunderstandings because of what happened back then. Brother-inw is much more reasonable...
Xie Yun sneered. He did not want toment on the good and bad of the deceased. However, at this moment, he only wanted to scold Luo Wei for being stupid. Giving the Hu family a hundred taels of silver every year was not a lot for the Qiao family.
But to the Hu family, it was already a huge sum of money. Every year, a hundred taels of silver was easily obtained, so how could they not be greedy?
No wonder, as soon as Qiao Ruoyi got married, they immediately came after her.
Hu Caiqin waited for Xie Yun to also say that he would give them a sum of silver, but Xie Yun did not show any expression at all. He only left Hu Caiqin with a back view.
..
Qiao Ruoyi was about to rest when Yan Yu came forward and said, Madam, that Hu Caiqin finally moved today. Earlier, she made an earring and lost it. She found the outside of the son-inws study and even met the son-inw who had just returned to the manor...
Qiao ruoyi thought for a while and said, The Hu family really cant change their ways. Did she do anything shameful?
Yan Yu said, Not really. But she told the son-inw that when the general was around, he would give the Hu family a hundred taels of silver every year, as if to ask for silver from the son-inw...
Qiao ruoyi frowned. Did Luo Wei give them silver in the past?
No wonder they had not made a fuss over the past few years, but they hade to Chang an this year.
Yan Yu said, Yes.
Qiao ruoyi sighed. Luo Wei was the most polite, so she would not me him. She just asked, What about Xie Yun?
Her son-inw did not say anything, nor did he ask the ountant to give the Hu family silver.
Qiao ruoyi said, Keep an eye on him. If the Hu family cant get the silver, they will definitely have a backup n.
Yes!
..
Hu Caiqin didnt see Xie Yun for several days. Her family urged her to get the silver. Hu Caiqin went to Qiao Ruoyis room in a hurry.
Seeing the luxury in Qiao Ruoyis room, Hu Caiqin was full of envy. It was freezing outside, but Qiao Ruoyi was already wearing spring clothes in the room.
Cousin.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Hu Caiqin and asked, Is that ruffian still in Chang an?
Hu caiqin said, I heard from father and mother that he is still there. Cousin, I have seen a woman beside brother-inw these days. That womans age is about the same as brother-inws age, and she is very close to brother-inw. is that brother-inws concubine?
Qiao ruoyi knew that she was talking about Lanxin, so she said, That is not a concubine, but the eldest servant girl who grew up with Xie Yun.
Hu Caiqin lowered her voice and said to Qiao ruoyi, Cousin, then you have to be careful of that servant girl. Youre pregnant now. If that eldest servant girl seduces brother-inw, she and brother-inw have a childhood friendship. In the future, she wont climb onto your head.
Qiao ruoyi slowly said, That wont happen. Lan Xin doesnt have that kind of interest in Xie Yun.
Hu caiqin said anxiously, Aiya, cousin, arent you being silly? Back then, aunt was also a servant girl who grew up by the Marquisside. In the end, she also ascended to be the MarquisConcubine in one step.
Which servant girl wouldnt be willing to be the masters concubine? The lesson from the past is here. How can you not be wary of Lan Xin!
Qiao Ruoyis heart was already boiling with anger. The Hu family had received all the benefits from aunt, but in the end, they still looked down on Aunt Hu in their hearts!
The Hu family did not know the hardships aunt Hu had suffered in this generation!
Qiao ruoyi took a sip of tea and suppressed the anger in her heart. She looked at Hu Caiqin with her clear and cold eyes and said, Then in your opinion, what do you think should be done?
Hu caiqin said, As long as cousin is willing to believe me, I will definitely help you win over brother-inws heart.
Okay.Qiao ruoyi looked at Hu Caiqin calmly.
Hu caiqin said, Cousin, but I cant even enter brother-inws study?
Qiao ruoyi said, Just go in my name.
After Hu Caiqin left in high spirits, Yan Yu, who was at the side, asked Qiao ruoyi in puzzlement, Miss, arent you afraid that your son-inw will really be schemed against by Hu Caiqin?
Qiao ruoyi said, Can Hu Caiqin scheme against Xie Yun?
It was just that Hu Caiqin wanted to embarrass herself.
..
When the sky had just turned dark, Hu Caiqin carried thentern and the food box to Xie Yuns study and said, Im here to deliver the pastries to brother-inw under cousins orders.
The guard at the door said, Please Wait a moment, Ill go in and ask the Master.
Xie Yun, who was busy in the study, heard the Guards voice. Qiao ruoyi sent someone to deliver the pastries to him and said, Let her in.
The Sun would probably rise from the west tomorrow.
After the wedding, this was the first time Qiao Ruoyi had ordered someone to bring him pastries.
A pungent smell of ointment came from outside the study. Xie Yun frowned slightly and looked up. The woman in front of him was wearing makeup that was even whiter than a ghosts.
Hu caiqin twisted her waist. She was wearing spring clothes during the first month of the Lunar New Year. She wore a skirt that reached her chest and was extremely low, revealing the beautiful scenery under her corbone. Brother-inw, this is the pastries that sister asked me to bring to you. I made them myself.
Hu Caiqin believed that her appearance was the best in the vige. Qiao Ruoyi had been pregnant for a long time, and Xie Yun was a man who had sex before him. She did not believe that he could still hold himself back.
Brother-inw, this pastry is called the tender honey cake. The date cores in it were removed by my mouth one by one... have a taste!
Lan Xin, who waszily drinking pear red date soup outside the door, looked at the red dates in front of her and held onto a pir and vomited..
Seeing that Hu Caiqin was getting closer and closer, Xie Yun raised his hand and picked up a fan at the side to block Hu Caiqins approach. He coldly spat out a word, Get lost!
Hu caiqin said indiscriminately, Brother-inw, dont be so fierce to me. It was sister who asked me toe and serve you.
Hearing this, Xie Yun became even angrier. He said to the outside, Lan Xin, throw Hu Caiqin out. No, drive all the members of the Hu family out of Chang an. Dont let them enter Chang an city again.
If they still wont let it go, tell the outside world what Hu Caiqin has done in the Xie Family!
After Lan Xin vomited, she heard the voices inside and ordered the secret guards to throw the cool-dressed Hu Caiqin out.
Xie Yuns mind was still filled with that sentence. It was sister who asked me toe and serve you. She was so angry that she went to the courtyard where Qiao Ruoyi was!
Chapter 418
Chapter 418: Chapter 418: Divorce after marriage
Aunt Hus grave was located at the corner of the Qiao familys ancestral grave. The tombstone had been changed to the grave of a second grade madam. It was time to change the tombstone.
However, after the Emperors decree, the Ministry of Rites still had to follow the rules and change the tombstone for the second grade madam. They also had to give her a set of objects to be buried with.
Today was the day Aunt Hu opened the tomb and put objects that matched her rank into the tomb.
Qiao Ruoyi didnt tell anyone else about this. Aunt Hu was a servant after all. She knew that if she told them, her parents, brother, and sister-inw would definitelye. However, it was enough for them to order for Aunt Hu. Aunt Hu was the most fastidious about rules when she was alive. She definitely wouldnt let theme.
As for not telling Xie Yun about it, it was also because today was a good day for Xie Yun to be promoted. After all, it was a funeral. Also, Xie Yun probably looked down on aunt Hu from the bottom of her heart.
When Qiao Ruoyi saw the tomb open, tears rolled down her face. Aunt, from now on, you will be a second-grade Gao Mings wife. You will never be bullied by the Qian family again.
Yan Yu helped Qiao ruoyi up and said, Madam, dont be so sad. If aunt were in heaven, she would be very happy to know that her daughter is so promising. You are still pregnant. It is not appropriate for you to be so sad.
Qiao ruoyi wiped her tears with a handkerchief and went back to the Xie family.
Once she returned to the house, she lit the brazier and took off her coat.
As soon as she took off her cloak, Xie Yun held one of her wrists tightly, Qiao ruoyi, youre really capable. Today, when your husband was promoted, you were still thinking about your ex-husband. Go to his grave. What do you think I am?
Qiao ruoyi frowned and pushed Xie Yun. Let go.
Xie Yun did not let go. Instead, he carried Qiao ruoyi horizontally and ced her on the bed, Today, I will let you know who is your husband. You have humiliated me time and time again. You are not willing to return to Lin an with me. Are you thinking of spending the new year with Luo Wei in Chang an?
Qiao ruoyi saw that Xie Yun was so angry. She covered her lower abdomen and said, It hurts.
Xie Yuns eyes were actually filled with anger. He held Qiao Ruoyis chin with one hand and said, Do you still have children in your eyes? You carry children and go to the cemetery time and time again. Have you ever thought about children?
Qiao ruoyi frowned and said, The Qiao familys ancestral graves are all buried by my ancestors. They will naturally protect the Qiao familys descendants. How could they harm the child in my belly?
Xie Yun said, You do have an excuse. I wont allow you to go to Luo Weis grave in the future.
On what basis?Qiao ruoyi frowned and said.
On the basis that I am your husband now. If I have an ex-wife, I will never forget her every day. Would you ept it?
Qiao ruoyi said, Why wouldnt I ept it? Before the wedding, when you promised to get a tattoo on your side, you should know that I only have Luo Wei in my heart. Marrying You is your scheme against me. If you cant stand it, you can divorce me!
Xie Yun suppressed his anger and fiercely bit Qiao Ruoyis lips. Qiao ruoyi pushed Xie Yun and said, Let go of me, Yan Yu, Yan Yu!
Yan Yu rushed in and saw Xie Yun kneeling on the ground and said, Son-inw, the youngdy still has your flesh and blood in her arms. Moreover, she will enter the pce for New Years Eve in a few days. If the Empress Knows...
Dont use the empress to pressure me!Xie Yun said, Get out.
Yan Yu didnt go out, but bravely said, Son-inw, the youngdy set up a new tombstone for Aunt Hu today. She is already sad and has been suffering on the road just now. If you treat her like this, Im afraid that the child in her belly...
Xie Yun calmed down and asked Qiao ruoyi, whose eyes were filled with tears, Today, youre not going to see Luo Wei, but to re-erect the tombstone for your aunt?
Qiao ruoyi ignored Xie Yun and said to Yan Yu, Pack your things and go back to the Qiao Family!
Xie Yun held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, I was wrong. I thought you were going to see Luo Wei...
Im sorry, Ruoyi. I heard that old Madam Qiaos health isnt very good. If you go back to the Qiao family now, it would be a waste for old madam Qiao to worry about you. What do you want me to do? Just say it.
Qiao ruoyis eyes were blurry as she looked at Xie Yun and said, I just want you to understand that you forced me to marry you. You only called you father because of Nichang. Whether I have Luo Wei in my heart or not, whether I see or not in the future has nothing to do with you. If you cant stand it, you can divorce me now.
Xie Yun said, Forget it. This time, I was wrong. You built a monument for your aunt, why didnt you tell me?
Qiao ruoyi said, Today, your decree for promotion came down. If I tell you, will you go?
Qiao Ruoyi did not say that Xie Yun looked down on Aunt Hu, so that he would not belittle aunt Hu. She thought that aunt Hu probably did not want to see Xie Yun.
For a man like Xie Yun to meet him, it really made her have eight lifetimes of bad luck.
When Xie Yun heard this, the corners of his lips curled up slightly. She remembered herself in her heart, and even prevented him from going to her aunts grave to avoid a collision for the good news of his promotion.
As for Luo Wei, he was just a dead man. Time would wash away everything. He and Qiao Ruoyi still had a long life. When they grew old together, how would she remember who Luo Wei was?
When Xie Yun realized that he had his own thoughts, he looked at Qiao ruoyi again. He had to admit that he cared more and more about Qiao ruoyi.
Knowing that she had gone to the Qiao familys ancestral grave, he could not suppress his violent emotions no matter what.
Xie Yun could no longer lie to himself. He did not know when Qiao Ruoyi had appeared in his heart.
Otherwise, if it was for Nichang, he could have found another way to make Nichang call him father. He did not need to marry her.
..
After the New Year, a group of guests came to the Xie family residence.
Qiao Ruoyi was basking in the sun in the courtyard. When she heard Lan Xins report that her uncle was here, she did not react in time. What uncle?
Yan Yu carefully observed Qiao Ruoyis expression and said, Madam, its those Hu family members.
Otherwise, if it was for Nichangs sake, he could have found another way to make Nichang call him daddy instead of taking her as his wife.
..
After the New Year, a group of guests came to the Xie family residence.
Qiao Ruoyi was basking in the sun in the courtyard. When she heard Lan Xins report that her uncle was here, she did not react in time. What uncle?
Yan Yu carefully observed Qiao Ruoyis expression and said, Madam, its those Hu family members.
Otherwise, if it was for Nichangs sake, he could have found another way to make Nichang call him daddy instead of taking her as his wife.
..
After the New Year, a group of guests came to the Xie residence.
Qiao Ruoyi was basking in the sun in the courtyard. When she heard Lan Xins report that her uncle was here, she did not react in time. What uncle?
Yan Yu carefully observed Qiao Ruoyis expression and said, Madam, its the Hu family.
Chapter 419
Chapter 419: Chapter 419, rtives of the Hu family
Xie Yun looked at the man in front of him who was full of servile looks, and his heart was filled with disgust.
However, on ount that he was Qiao Ruoyis biological uncle, Xie Yun suppressed the disgust in his heart and said, So you are from the Hu family. Someone, go and ask Madam toe over.
When Qiao Ruoyi arrived at the front hall, she saw the Hu brothers and their family members whom she had not seen for a long time.
When Hu das wife saw Qiao ruoyi, she stepped forward and said, We havent seen each other for a few years. Ruoyi, you miss your aunt so much. Your grandmother always misses you. She always says that one day she will return to Chang an to visit you.
Who is my grandmother and who is my aunt?Qiao ruoyi flung her sleeves and said, My mothers family name is Zheng!
When Hu das wife heard Qiao Ruoyis words, she choked and said, The Zheng family is in exile. To think that you still acknowledge them as your rtives. Our Hu family is the one that is rted to you by blood...
Qiao ruoyi said coldly, The rules are like this. My uncles surname is only Hu. What kind of rtives are you? Its fine that you came today, but if youe again in the future, I will directly ask the guards to send you away.
Elder Hus youngest daughter stood up and said, Cousin, I have often heard of your great name in the countryside. Everyone in the Hu family is honored. I didnt expect that you would despise the poor and love the rich so much. Now that you have be an official of the imperial court, you dont even care about your mothers family anymore?
Qiao ruoyi mmed the table and said, Men, chase them out. Dont let theme near the Xie family in the future.
After the Hu familys rtives were chased out.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun and said, I know that you look down on me from the bottom of your heart. But now that Ive married into your Xie family, if you let those Hu family members enter as rtives again, it wont be because of my face, but because of your Xie familys face.
Xie Yun frowned and said, How is it that they look down on you? After all, they are connected to your bloodline. If I saw them and chased them away, I wouldnt have given you face. Who knew that you would treat the Hu family like this?
After all, since Qiao Ruoyi dared to take the risk of iming the Hu familys life, Xie Yun also thought that her rtionship with the Hu family was okay.
Qiao ruoyis abdomen was already high. She stroked her abdomen and said, Those Hu family members are not my rtives. In the future, you dont have to give them face.
Hu Da and Hu er had taken advantage of Aunt Hus presence to get rid of their ve status early on.
The Qiao family had some estates in the southwest that were under the control of Hu Da and Hu Er.
Hu Da and Hu er should have earned a lot of silver over the years.
However, when Aunt Hu was around, the Marquis found out that they were squeezing money from the estate. Hu Da and Hu er came to look for Aunt Hu. At that time, Aunt Hu sold a lot of treasures from the estate to the brothers for silver and asked them to return it to the estate.
At that time, Qiao Ruoyi had some fame in Chang an city and it was also when she was proud of herself. However, the wife of the Hu family led arge group of children to the poetry meet.
She begged Qiao Ruoyi to give her brothers and sisters some silver so that they could eat.
At that time, Qiao Ruoyi was ridiculed.
However, at that time, Qiao ruoyi gritted her teeth for aunt Hus sake and pawned all the books and paintings that she had bought previously.
She also gave the jewelry, rouge, powder, silk, and satin that had just been distributed from the manor to her new cousins.
Qiao ruoyi was not close to the sisters in the manor. Her cousins in the second house were simr in age to her, but in the end, they were separated by a room.
After having cousins, Qiao Ruoyi was very happy. She even brought her cousins to the poetry meet in Chang an.
Unexpectedly, just three monthster, the Crown Prince of the Duke of Zhongyongs mansion said that he wanted to take his cousin as a concubine. It turned out that during these three months, his cousin said that she was going to the poetry meet, but in fact, she was going to the poetry meet to find a princes grandson to entrust her with the rest of her life.
Qiao ruoyi also learned that she had given her aunt the Rouge powder for her life. The jewelry, Lingluo, had not been sold. Instead, she had given her cousins to dress up and go to many ces where princes and princes gathered.
Back then, Qiao Lui was only fourteen years old. When he returned to the manor, the Hu familys cousin had been calling him young master sweetly.
After grandmother found out, she harshly med the Hu family. At that time, grandmother even went to Qiao Ruoyi and told her not to associate with the Hu family in the future.
Qiao Ruoyi was still young at that time. Perhaps it was because of her inferiority as a daughter-inw, but she thought that grandmother looked down on the Hu family because they were servants of the Qiao family.
Later, she gradually learned that the Hu family had done many wrong things by relying on Aunt Hu and her.
Her cousin entered the courtyard of the heir-son lord of the Marquis of Zhongyong and, relying on the fact that her aunt was marquis an Yuans concubine, caused chaos in the back courtyard of the heir-son lord, in the end, she was driven out of the front gate of the Marquis of Zhongyongs estate because she harmed the heir-son lord of the Marquis of Zhongyongs estate.
At that time, Qiao ruoyi only knew that the so-called rtives were a joke. Since then, she had never treated the Hu family as her own rtives.
In the end, Aunt Hu went to ask the old madam to let the Hu brothers have more than 200 acres ofnd in the suburbs of Chang an, so that they could live in the countryside.
Aunt Hu would send some silver to them every new year and festival. After Aunt Hu went, Qiao Ruoyi no longer paid any attention to these so-called Rtives.
If the Hu family gave them a good look, they would definitelye up for blood!
After all, she was not rted to the Hu family. Her legitimate uncle was surnamed Zheng. As long as she did not let the Hu familye to her house, it was not a big deal.
..
It was not so easy to get rid of the Hu family members.
The few of them were scheming in an inn.
Hu er sighed and said, Qiao Ruoyi is really cold-blooded. She has already made up her mind to not acknowledge us. We have no way to get any benefits from her!
Hu ers wife said, Qiao Ruoyi doesnt care about her reputation. I dont believe that the Xie family doesnt care. When Luo Wei was still around, he gave us a hundred taels of silver every year. This xie residence is so wealthy. It should be at least five hundred taels of silver.
But Qiao Ruoyi is still an official. and Xie Yun isnt as easy to fool as Luo Wei.
Hu ers wife added, Brother, sister-inw, lets not take these silver taels.
Dont you want your daughter to marry better? Qiao ruoyi has a child now, and there are no concubines in the Xie Yun residence. If the CAIQIN and Caixiao sisters were to enter the Xie family, they would be infinitely rich!
Hu Ers wife was moved when she heard this. They were all children of the Qiao family in the beginning, but now, although they were no longer ves, they were still very poor, causing their children to suffer.
Qiao ruoyi, on the other hand, was different. She had lived a luxurious life since she was young. If her children were to marry an ordinary man, it would be better for them to enter the Xie family and be concubines.
Hu caiqin said, Father, mother, second uncle, second aunt, back then, cousin doted on me the most. Why Dont you let me try it in front of her?
Thats fine.
Hu Caiqin thought of Xie Yun, whom she had met in front of the Xie familys main gate. The young minister had a dignified appearance, but his face was still shining even though he was almost thirty years old. He was the best-looking man Hu Caiqin had ever seen.
If she could be his concubine, her life would be worth it.
Chapter 420
Chapter 420: Chapter 420-taking in a cousin
Qiao Ruoyi was pregnant and rarely went out. However, there was a banquet at the pce during the Lantern Festival, so she had to go.
When they entered the pce in the Xie residences carriage, Little Nichang was wearing a newly made red traditional dress. She was wearing a white fox cloak with two small buns tied with red fur balls on her head. She was extremely cute.
Xie Yun saw that little nichang was wearing such a festive dress and asked, Why are you wearing such a festive dress today?
Little Nichang stood up from the carriage and walked around in circles. This is a gift from my aunt.
Qiao ruoyi touched Little Nichangs bun and said, Sister felt that Nichang was dressed too simply in the past. Today is the Shangyuan Festival, so she specially made festive clothes for her, Nichang, and the princess of King Qis Chu Manor.
Nichang spun her embroidered golden plum dress around and around, unable to stop. Children always liked bright colors.
However, in the past, Qiao Ruoyi liked in clothes. When she arrived at the Xie family, she had the elegant style of an aristocratic family. All the bright colors were gone.
Nichang really liked this dress.
Be careful, dont drop it.Qiao ruoyi smiled when she saw the smugly nichang.
The carriage was not fast, but Qiao Ruoyi was still worried.
Xie Yun grabbed Little Nichangs hand. As soon as he grabbed her, the carriage came to a sudden stop. Even though it was not fast, little nichang still fell. Fortunately, Xie Yun pulled her back just now, and Little Nichang only fell on Xie Yuns body.
Qiao ruoyi lifted the curtain and asked outside, Did something happen?
The coachman said, A woman in shabby clothes suddenly came out just now. Thats why I stopped the horse.
Qiao Ruoyi got off the carriage. They were on the street after all. If the horse hit someone, it would be their fault. She walked up and saw that the person lying on the ground was Hu Caiqin?
Caiqin? Why are you here?
Hu Caiqin saw Qiao ruoyi and quickly said, Cousin, please save me. We came to Chang an this time because we offended the local ruffian in the suburbs. I didnt expect that the local ruffian would chase us all the way to Chang an...
Qiao Ruoyi asked Yan Yu to pull Hu Caiqin up from the ground and said, Local ruffian?
Hu caiqin cried and said, That local ruffian took a fancy to my looks and insisted on marrying me. At that time, my parents didnt know the local ruffians character and believed in the matchmaker. They epted me. Butter, I learned about his character and he wouldnt allow me to break off the engagement.
Please save me, cousin. As long as you take me in for a few days and let that ruffian know that my cousin is you, Im sure he wonte and humiliate me again in the future.
Qiao ruoyi had been in the officialdom for several years. If she couldnt even hear Hu Caiqins lies, she wouldnt be able to reach this position.
Qiao ruoyi thought about it. The Hu family was a problem after all. Rather than chasing them away and letting them suddenly appear out of nowhere, it was better to see what Hu Caiqin wanted to do.
She might as well get rid of the Hu family in one fell swoop.
Then you go back to the Xie residence and wait for me,Qiao Ruoyi said.
Hu caiqin secretly heaved a sigh of relief. When the Hu family came to Chang an, she was only nine years old. She was two years younger than Qiao ruoyi, so she did not do anything excessive at that time.
She thought that even if Qiao Ruoyi med the Hu family, she would not me her.
Since Qiao Ruoyi had allowed her to enter the Xie family, Hu Caiqins mind had cleared up. After entering the Xie family, why would she worry about not being able to stay in the Xie family for the rest of her life?
..
The Lantern Festival dinner had always ended early. Qiao Nichang followed the second Prince and Crown Prince of Nihon to y with the children.
Xie Yun then said to Qiao ruoyi, You have to go to the main street to take a look. I heard that there are many types of icenterns this year. They are notparable to the icenterns in previous years.
Qiao ruoyi shook her head, Im tired.
The Shangyuan Festival had always been a festival with lovers, and most of the streets were filled with couples.
Qiao ruoyi still remembered the first Shangyuan festival after marrying Luo Wei. Luo Wei had not studied since he was young, and he only knew a few words. He did not know any of thentern riddles.
Luo Wei was afraid that Qiao ruoyi wouldugh at him. On the night before the Shangyuan Festival, he had read manyntern riddles and memorized the answers to thentern riddles.
By the second day, he had forgotten all of them. Now, Qiao Ruoyi still remembered how embarrassed and ashamed Luo Wei looked in front of thenterns..
Qiao ruoyi had thought that if she had angjun, the Shangyuan festival would be after dusk. They would win all thenterns by guessing riddles from outside the pce.
However, she preferred that Luo Wei brought her to makenterns, to cut ice on the river, and to carve icenterns. She didnt have to rack her brains to solve riddles.
She watched Luo Wei make her a uniquentern. Unfortunately, the icentern was short-lived and melted after a night.
Xie Yun looked into the carriage and at Qiao Ruoyi who was smiling faintly at the scene on the street. She asked, What are you looking at?
Qiao ruoyi replied, Nothing much. Lets go back.
Luo Wei was no longer alive. All the good things had be memories.
After returning to the manor, Qiao Ruoyi asked the servant girl in the manor about what Hu Caiqin had done in the Xie Manor. After learning that she had stayed in a remote courtyard, she had never left the courtyard.
Yan Yu poured a cup of hot tea for Qiao ruoyi and said, Madam, why did you stop making Ice Lanterns this year?
Qiao ruoyi said, The person who made the icenterns with me is no longer here. Its better not to do it.
..
After thentern festival, she had to get busy with the spring examinations. It was alreadyte at night when Xie Yun finished her work every day, so she did not go to Qiao Ruoyis room.
Hu Caiqin, who had stayed in the Xie residence for a few days, also knew that her chance had finallye. The Sky had just turned dark when she said, Eh, where are my earrings? Why are they missing?
Hu Caiqin searched for the earrings all the way and found Xie Yuns courtyard.
Before she could enter, she was stopped by the guards at the courtyard entrance. Where did the servant girle from? Masters study is not allowed to go near!
Hu caiqin said, Little brother, I dont know where my earring fell to. I saw a wild cat running into this ce just now. I dont know if the earring was carried in by the Wild Cat? Little brother, please do me a favor and let me go in to take a look, okay? After all, this is a daughters item...
Just as Hu Caiqin finished her sentence, Lan Xinughed behind her back, Stray Cat? Master cant even enter a Sparrows study. Where did the stray cate from? You look very unfamiliar. Youre not even wearing the clothes of the Xie familys servant girl. Who Are You?
Hu Caiqin turned around and saw Xie Yun. Under the candlelight, Xie Yuns appearance was even more breathtaking.
Hu Caiqins voice softened as she bowed, Caiqin greets brother-inw.
Brother-inw?Lan Xin said, When did the Qiao family have another daughter? No, with your appearance, youre probably not the Qiao familys daughter!
The Qiao familys daughters were all extremely good-looking. Even Qiao Ruoyun, who was not their biological daughter, was much better looking than this one.
Hu Caiqin gently twirled a strand of hair in front of her and said, My surname is Hu. Qiao Ruoyi is my cousin. These few days, my cousin has allowed me to temporarily stay in the Xie residence...
As she spoke, Hu Caiqin raised her head and looked at Xie Yun. She then lowered her eyes shyly.
Chapter 422
Chapter 422: Chapter 422, Live Well
Qiao ruoyi had already rested. Xie Yun rushed to Qiao Ruoyis courtyard with a face full of anger. He looked at her peaceful sleeping face and had nowhere to vent his anger.
Qiao ruoyi seemed to be mumbling in her sleep. She softly called out, Luo Wei.
Xie Yun clearly heard her mumbling in her sleep. He bent down and held Qiao Ruoyis chin..
Qiao ruoyi woke up from the pain. When she woke up, she felt a burning pain at the corner of her lips. She reached out to touch the corner of her lips, which were covered in blood under the dim candlelight.
Xie Yun, are you crazy?Qiao ruoyi saw that his lips were stained with her own blood and wiped her annoyance. Are you a dog?
Xie Yun wiped his lips with the back of his hand. Qiao ruoyi, in your eyes, Im so desperate that I could even seduce a woman with Hu Caiqins looks?
Qiao ruoyi frowned. Do you think I sent Hu Caiqin?? Im not that stupid to go against my sister. After the Qiao familys daughters got married, none of their husbands were concubines. Even those concubines in Sister Ruoyins room were chased away. Why would I deliberately find a woman for you??
What does Hu Caiqins decision have to do with me?? The Hu family is difficult to deal with. If I dont silently admit that Hu Caiqin did such a shameful thing at home, its hard to guarantee that they will continue to pester me?
The Hu family is in the wrong now. I think they wont bother me in the future.
After hearing Qiao Ruoyis exnation, Xie Yun heaved a sigh of relief. So thats the case. Why didnt you tell me about this earlier? The Hu family can just send me away as they please.
Qiao ruoyi sneered, Whats the use of telling you about this? To let you continue to mock me for being a servants student, while my aunts family are all unscrupulous ves?
Xie Yun said, If I really thought that way, I wouldnt have married you. In these five years, I have never forgotten that day in the Northern Mountain Imperial Manor.
Back then, I said that I would take you in as a concubine because of the rules of the aristocratic families. However, I have long regretted it. Now that I have married you, I will notugh at you anymore.
Since you and I are husband and wife, and our lives are tied together, cant You Trust me a little more?
I was the one who plotted against you regarding the matter of the child, and I was also wrong about what happened back then. Cant you forget about Luo Wei and the unhappiness of the past few years? Just treat it as if I had married you back then, cant You?
Qiao ruoyi sneered, No. Back then, when I was beingughed at by everyone, when I lost all my face, it was Luo Wei who helped me get through the difficult times. What right do you have to make me forget about him? Its impossible for me to forget about him for the rest of my life.
Since youve married me, whether you want to live a good life or not is up to you. Its good that you can ept Luo Wei. If you cant ept him, then its fine to make a fuss and live a good life.
Xie Yun sighed, Forget it.
Xie Yun walked to Qiao Ruoyis side, lowered his head, and gently stroked her lower abdomen. The doctor had already taken her pulse. There was no doubt that she was his son. He was about to have both his children, so why did he have to quarrel with Qiao ruoyi endlessly?
Everything depended on the passage of time.
On the sixth day of April, the Xie familys eldest son was born. Qiao ruoyi named the child Xie Wei, which made Xie Yuns face darken for three days.
Lu Chen brought Qiao Jinniang to the Xie family in disguise. Qiao Jinniang went inside to see Qiao Ruoyi and his newborn child.
Lu Chen looked at Xie Yuns expression from outside and said, Im so happy that Lin er can see that you dont look very happy.
Xie Yun said, There are a lot of Wang characters. In terms of seniority, she should be named Xie Jue. Shes really good, but she chose Wei.
Lu Chen said, Luo Wei saved her life. Besides, why not name it Wei? When the timees, wouldnt she call you father? Or would you take advantage of Luo Wei?
Xie Yun did not feel happy about this. Instead, she felt that Lu Chen was gloating.
A hundred days after Xie Wei, Qiao Ruoyi returned to the imperial court. The Xie family often epted ancient paintings and calligraphy from famous artists. Everyone knew that Assistant Minister Qiao loved these, and the head of the Xie family was never stingy with money.
All of a sudden, many people were envious.
Xie Yun practically agreed to Qiao Ruoyis every request. The two of them were in the imperial court together, and treating each other like guests was a model for husband and wife.
However, Xie Yun clearly understood that Qiao ruoyi and he could only treat each other like guests. When they returned to the Qiao family for dinner, it was obvious that they were a loving couple. When he and Qiao ruoyi were in the Qiao family, there was only awkwardness.
After leaving the Qiao family home, Xie Yun said to Qiao ruoyi, Ive been married for a long time and I havent seen Aunt Hu. Its still early today. Why dont we go pay respects to Aunt Hus grave?
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun in surprise.
Xie Yun said, In a few days, it will be aunt Hus birthday. At that time, we will be going to Luoyang. Today, we will pay respects to Aunt Hu.
Qiao ruoyi nodded her head gently.
After entering the Qiao familys ancestral tomb, Qiao ruoyi walked towards a distant ce. The people buried here were all the aunties in the residence, but Aunt Hus tombstone was different from the others.
Xie Yun took the three incense sticks handed over by the tomb keeper and bowed three times towards Aunt Hus tombstone. Aunt, rest in peace in heaven. I will take care of ruoyi in the future.
Qiao ruoyi raised her eyes and looked at Xie Yuns side profile. She was now certain that what Xie Yun said on the night of their wedding night was not nonsense, but the truth after drinking.
Otherwise, why would the high and mighty head of the Xie family bow three times to aunt?
After Xie Yun ced the three sticks of incense on the incense burner, she held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, If I let Ruo Yi down in the future, I am willing to die without a burial ce.
Qiao Ruoyis expression was calm. She looked at the grave not far away and at the small flowers that had bloomed on the soil added to Luo Weis gravest year.
Xie Yun followed Qiao Ruoyis gaze and looked over. Luo Wei once wrote to me before he died.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun in confusion. Howe I didnt know about this?
He came to look for me. He said that if I was willing to marry you and ept Nichang, he was willing to divorce her. He had always felt that he was not worthy of you.
Before he died, he told you to live well. After that, we exchanged nces. I knew that he wanted me to promise him to take care of both of you.
Ruoyi, you and I Live Well. Only then can we let the deceased rest in peace.
Qiao ruoyi looked at the little flower that was blowing in the wind. It seemed like Luo Wei was smiling at her.
I will live well in the future. I will live well in ce of Luo Wei and aunt.
..
Ten yearster.
Today was Qiao Nihongs wedding day. The Anyuan Marquis Mansion was bustling with noise and excitement. Qiao Nihong was the eldest granddaughter of the Marquis Mansion and the eldest princessonly granddaughter. Qiao Nihong was born with iparable honor.
She was conferred the title of princess since she was young. She was the sessor of the Dukes Mansion of Qin. Qiao Nihong and Princess Weiyang were known as great Tangs reincarnation experts.
Qiao Nihong saw Qiao Nihongs annoyed expression and asked, Whats wrong? who provoked you again? Today is your wedding day.
Qiao nishang said, Its Lu Ang. What Time Is it now? Why isnt he back in Chang an? If he dares to miss my wedding day, I will definitely ignore him in the future!
Qiao nishang said, Brother Ang is also on official business. As the second Prince of Shu Province, it is his duty to go to the disaster area.
You only know how to put in a good word for him.Qiao Nishang teased Qiao Nishang. Who doesnt know that the two of you are childhood sweethearts? Maybe you have passed.
Chapter 423
Chapter 423: Chapter 423. She looked a little simr to Nichang
Qiao Nichang hit Qiao Nichang repeatedly. If you continue to spout nonsense, dont me me for drugging you!
Qiao Nichangughed out loud. Youre blushing just like that? Everyone in Chang an knows that the second princes consort will be Qiao Nichang in the future.
Qiao nichang twisted her handkerchief shyly. If you continue to spout nonsense, Ill tear your mouth open.
Oh, the future second prince consort is shy.
Qiao Nichang stomped her feet and said, You are still talking nonsense!
Qiao ruoyi came in and heard this. She smiled lightly and said, Nichang, are you bullying your sister again? You are already at marriageable age. You are already an adult. You are not allowed to bully your sister like this anymore.
Qiao Nichang threw herself into Qiao Ruoyis arms. Ruoyi looked at her daughters appearance and sighed at how fast time passed. Unknowingly, her daughter was already a young girl. In another eight months, Nichang would also be at marriageable age.
In the blink of an eye, it was time for Nichang to get married.
As for marrying Nichang to Lu Ang, Qiao Ruoyi had never thought about it. Although her mother-inw was Lady Qiao, the royal family had many rules.
Moreover, the royal family was the royal family after all. When nichang was wronged, they would not be able to do anything about it.
Princess Fu Lu was still as capricious as before. Qiao ruoyi felt that even if Princess Fu Lu was old, she would probably be a naive and willful old child.
Fu Lu helped his daughter and said, My daughter is not wrong. Although I didnt know that the Qiao family was going to produce a second prince consort.
Qiao Nichangs face turned even redder. She shyly threw herself into Qiao Ruoyis arms and said, Aunt and cousin are all bad people.
The few of themughed.
There were many influential families from Chang an gathered at the banquet today. When Qiao Ruoyun and Qian Yin, who were far away in the south of the Yangtze River, heard that Qiao Nihong had reached her marriageable age, their entire family came over to congratte her.
Qiao Ruoyun and Qian Yins son, Qian Yu, had just turned 16 this year. He had turned out to be a handsome man.
As soon as he had arrived in Chang an, he had been adored by many madams. The way they looked at him was that his mother-inw was bing more and more fond of her son-inw.
When Qiao Ruoyun brought her son in, Qiao Nichang and Qiao Nihong both looked over. Greetings, aunt, uncle and cousin Yu.
Qian Yu saw Qiao Nichang immediately. Little Sister Nichang, do you still remember me? Back then, you even stayed at our residence for a few days?
Qiao Nichang had long forgotten about her childhood. Now that she mentioned it, she vaguely remembered that when she was young, she had stayed at her aunts house for some time.
I remember.
Qian Yu smiled. Little sister still remembers. Little Sisters ancestors were from Jiangnan. If theres a chance to visit Jiangnan in the future, Ill definitely treat you well.
Qiao nichang said, If you go to Jiangnan in the future, dont think that Im disturbing you.
Qian yu said, I do have something to disturb you. Im going to participate in the imperial examinations next year and will be staying in Chang an during this time. Ill have to trouble you.
Qiao nichang frowned and said, Why is there another one?
Qian Yu did not know what Qiao Nichang meant. Qiao nichang smiled and said, Cousin, Nichang and I went through a lot of trouble in order to win next year. Once youe to our Qiao family, there will be one more personpeting for the top scorer.
Fu Lu sighed and said, Dont even mention the top spot. Two years ago, you were not enough to be a joke.
At that time, I was still young. I underestimated my enemy too much. These three years, we have been studying hard. I will definitely be able to help my father get back the top spot.
Qiao Ruoyun smiled and said to Qian Yu, Im afraid you dont know that these two cousins are also on the road to the imperial examinations. You have to study hard in Chang an. Dont be too far behind your two sisters.
Qian Yu cupped his hands and said, Mother, dont worry. I will definitely study hard and take the examinations to attain fame.
Qiao nichang sighed and said, The two of you can inherit the title of nobility in the future. Why are you still fighting with me for the position of the first schr? Sigh.
Qian yu said, Sister, I have several articles on the positions of the first schr over the past decades. I wonder if sister would like to read them together?
Sure.
Qiao Nichang naturally did not worry about these articles. However, knowing oneself and ones enemy would not defeat one in a hundred battles.
Besides, Qian Yu from Jiangnan might have some literary talent that was different from Chang an, so they could discuss it together.
..
Lu Xi and Lu Ang rushed back to Chang an to celebrate Qiao Nishangs wedding, but unfortunately, it rained heavily.
Lightning shed and thunder rumbled. In order to take a shortcut, they did not take the official road. Instead, they took the mountain path, which was a mountain path. They could not go forward in the heavy rain.
They had no choice but to find a nearby West Mountain Academy to rest.
When the West Mountain Academys Mountain Chief heard that the Crown Prince and the second Prince hade to the West Mountain Academy to rest, he found a few outstanding female students from the Academy to serve the Crown Prince and the second prince.
In the tea room.
All the women were discussing animatedly.
The Crown Prince and the second prince havee. I heard that the crown prince is already twenty-two, but there is not a single concubine in the Eastern Pce!
The retired emperors six pces seemed to be empty back then, and His Majesty only had the empress. There are no concubines in the harem, and the crown prince will probably only have one imperial consort in the future. Since there is only one, then its better to have one than to have one.
The second prince is now seventeen, right? I saw from afar just now that the second prince and the Crown Prince are both too handsome! It would be a blessing if I could get close to themter to serve them.
Eh, why is Qian Qingyu here too?
The mountain chieftain wont let her serve the crown prince and the second prince too, right?
Qian qingyu listened to their unrestrained words and focused on brewing tea. She really wanted to meet the second prince. She still remembered that she had stayed in the second Princes pce for half a year.
Now that they had grown up, she wondered if the second prince was still the same as when he was young.
..
In the Guest Hall of West Mountain Academy.
Lu angined, When Qiao Nihong was born, there was a thunderstorm. Now its her 15th birthday. This is a thunderstorm.
Lu XI smiled and said, Second brother, if Nihong hears what you said, she will tear down your mansion!
Lu ang said, If I dont go to her wedding, she will tear down my mansion. Sigh, why is it raining so heavily in the afternoon when the sun was shining just now?
Most of the torrential rain in the summer was at dusk. It was quite absurd that there would be a violent storm just after noon today.
The two of them had not eaten yet. Shan Chang ordered the cook from West Mountain Academy to cook some delicacies and the beautiful students from West Mountain Academy came to serve the dishes.
Lu Xi and Lu Ang rode back as fast as they could. It had been a long time since they had eaten.
However, the two of them still maintained the etiquette of the pce and ate in a dignified and reasonable manner.
After the two of them had their meal, Qian Qingyu went in and handed the crown prince a cup of tea to rinse his mouth. Lu Xi lowered her head and looked at Qian Qingyu. She couldnt help but take a second look at her.
Lu Ang saw Lu Xis expression and smiled. After everyone had left.., he said to Lu XI, Brother, did the iron tree bloom today? You usually dont even look at other women when you see them. Why did you look at that female student so many times today?
She looks a little simr to Nichang,Lu Xi said.
Chapter 424
Chapter 424: Chapter 424. The second prince treated her the best
Lu ang said, No way. Nichang is the most beautiful woman in Chang an. How can anyonepare to Nichangs looks?
Lu Xi said, Shes right there. She just looks a little simr to Nichang.
Lu Ang did not believe that there was a woman in this world who looked like Qiao Nichang. He followed her out. Just as he was about to go up to see the womans appearance, he saw a woman with a fierce faceing over with a whip in her hand, she fiercely whipped a woman.
I havent seen you in a while, but yourezy. Ill let you bezy, Ill let you bezy!
The whip hit the woman on the ground in great pain. The umbre in her hand fell to the ground, and bean-sized raindrops fell on her body.
The other students seemed to have never seen it.
Lu ang could not bear to humiliate the woman. He went up and scolded, Stop, what crime did shemit to let you hit her like this?
Your Highness, you may not know this, but back then she seduced Mr. Melody from the West Mountain Academy.
Mr. Melodys first wife hanged herself and her family came to cause trouble. Our reputation as a female student of the West Mountain Academy was almostpletely ruined by her.
The mountain chieftain spent a total of 200 taels of silver to settle this matter peacefully.
She only stayed in the West Mountain Academy to do some menial work for the ve.
She only knew how to bezy every day, and these clothes were not suitable for her to wear! The academy just collected wheat, and now the rain is so heavy. She doesnt help to collect the wheat to dry, but still walks around randomly.
Hearing this, Lu ang said, That serves her right.
Lu Ang had known these tricks since he was young. Today, with him and his royal brother here, it was hard to guarantee that there were some women with ulterior motives.
She could seduce a married man and force his wife to hang herself. It was difficult to enter the West Mountain Academy. When she came in, she did not bother to study. Instead, she came to seduce a teacher. She even cked off. She deserved it.
Qian Qingyu was on the ground, covering her face with her hair in a sorry state. If she had known, she would not have left the second Princes pce that year.
A whip came down fiercely again. She gritted her teeth and went back to the misceneous affairs yard.
The old woman threw a pile of wood in front of Qian qingyu and said, Hurry up and cut it. There will be a storm today, and there will be many people who want to bathe. If you dont finish cutting it, you wont be able to eat anything today.
Qian Qingyu picked up the axe, looked at the small mountain of wood, sighed, and began to cut the wood.
She looked down at her hand. After three years of grinding her hand to this extent, she was afraid that she would never have the chance to embroider in this lifetime..
Such rough hands could not embroider flowers.
Ma Ya sneakily hid a steamed bun over and gave it to Qian Qingyu. Why were you caught by that old hag again today?
Qian qingyu hurriedly stuffed the steamed bun into her mouth and said, I went to visit the second prince today.
The second prince has long forgotten who you are. No, if the second prince knew about you, would he have saved you? Back then, you were the Empress who let you in.
Qian Qingyu ate the mantou in a hurry, almost choking and coughing.
His good friend, Ma Ya, handed him a bowl of water. Be careful.
Qian qingyu said, Just as you said, the Empress and the second prince have long forgotten who I am. The oue today is also what I believe is Inhuman.
Ma Ya looked at Qian Qingyu and said with heartache, This year, I have two taels of silver for one portion. I have already collected all of it. It Wont take long for me to gather enough money to redeem you from the academy. I dont have to be beaten by that old woman every day.
Qian qingyu said, Yaya, Im not worthy of you being like this. Im afraid that I wont be able to earn two hundred taels of silver in my lifetime. In the future, I wont be able to return it to you. Although old woman Wang is fierce, if I dont sneak out today, she wont beat me up.
Since you dont want to beg the second prince, then why are you going to see the second Prince?
Qian qingyu smiled and said, I just want to see how he looks like now.? When I was in the second Princes pce, he was very good to me. No one has ever been so good to me in my life. Now that I see him so tall and handsome, Im d.
Ma Ya said, Are you stupid? You took such a beating just to see him.
A bolt of lightning struck, and Qian Qingyu was shocked. The Lightning today is really strange.
It had rained for an entire afternoon. After the heavy rain, there was a fear that rocks would roll down. Lu Xi and Lu ang nned to rest in West Mountain Academy for a night.
West Mountain Academy had Qiao Ruoyis vi. Qiao ruoyi came over a few times a month, so the mountain chieftain arranged for Lu Xi and Lu Ang to stay in Qiao Ruoyis courtyard. He ordered people to change the bedsheets and bedding inside.
The bedsheets and bedding that were changed were all cleaned by Qian Qingyu.
Qian qingyu had chopped firewood for the whole afternoon, and now her hands were soaked. Not only that, she also had to wash the bedsheets overnight. When she thought about how there would be so many bedsheets the next morning, she sighed helplessly.
She probably wouldnt be able to sleep well these two days.
The rain stopped at night, and Qian Qingyu coughed a few times. Today, she was caught in the rain, and there were red marks on the ces where the whip had struck. She washed the bedsheets and fell asleep indistinctly.
Qian Qingyus mother was born from an actress raised by the third master of the Xie family. In fact, she had to address Xie Yun as uncle.
It seemed that Qian Qingyus mother had always been disliked by the Xie family. Many people in the Xie family did not know that there was such a youngdy around. Qian Qingyus father was an ipetent person.
Her mother could not bear the hardships of the family and came to Chang an. By chance, she entered the Shang Pce.
Qian Qingyu had been at home with her father, who drank too much all year round. When she was very young, she knew the taste of chopping wood and washing clothes. Later, her aunt took pity on her and brought her home.
However, her aunt did not have any children all year round. One daughter after another was born, and her uncle sold her to be a servant.
At that time, being a servant was pretty good. At least she did not have to worry about food and clothing. Later, her mother followed the emperor and the empress to Lin an and brought her to the Chang an pce.
After her mother passed away, she met the second prince. The second prince was the first person to give her pastries. Before that, Qian qingyu only heard people say that pastries were delicious.
The second Prince would also give her beautiful clothes and y with sparkling pearls.
A wave of pain came. Qian Qingyu opened her eyes and the person standing in front of her was
However, her aunt did not have any children all year round. One daughter after another was born. Her uncle sold her to be a servant.
At that time, being a servant was pretty good. At least she did not have to worry about food and clothing. Later, her mother followed His Majesty to Lin an and brought her to the Chang an pce.
After her mother passed away, she met the second prince. The second prince was the first person to give her pastries. Before that, Qian Qingyu had only heard people say that pastries were delicious.
The second Prince would also give her beautiful clothes and y with sparkling pearls.
Qian Qingyu opened her eyes when she felt the pain. Standing in front of her was
Chapter 425
Chapter 425: Chapter 425: be a maid in the Princes mansion
There were many doctors in west mountain academy who used to treat the students there. There were also some women who came to West Mountain Academy to specialize in medicine. In the future, they would be female doctors.
The Shunds were dangerous. This time, when Lu Ang and Lu Xi went to relieve the disaster, Lu Ang was hit on the back by a mountain rock because of another Earth Dragon Flip. There was a gash on his back.
The wound had almost healed, but after being drenched in the rain today, it opened up again at night.
Doctor Zhu, who was the best in traditional Chinese medicine in the academy, came to treat Lu Angs wound. As soon as she applied the medicine, Old Wangs voice came from outside.
Doctor Zhu,e and save her!
Dont make a scene here!
Sir, this girl is going to die soon. Only doctor Zhu can save her...
Lu ang heard the voice of the guard outside and said to doctor zhu, You can leave now.
Doctor Zhu went outside and saw that the person on Granny Wangs Back was Qian Qingyu, she frowned and said, I will save others, but I wont save her. She should have lost her life a long time ago. Mountain chieftain is so kind to let her tarnish the reputation of West Mountain Academy in West Mountain Academy.
Granny Wang said nervously, Shes still so young, and she lost her life just like that...
Doctor Zhu said, Who asked her to seduce Sir so well, causing teachers wife to hang herself and lose her life? The academy even gave her two hundred taels of silver, which is already considered to be the best they could do. Giving her medicine would also be a waste.
Theres a noble in this courtyard, move her away as soon as possible, dont offend the noble.
Ma Ya rushed over and saw the unconscious Qian Qingyu. She shouted, Qingyu, qingyu, wake up!
Doctor Zhu, please save Qingyu! Its said that doctors are benevolent, please save her.
Doctor Zhu said coldly, I wont save a fickle woman like her. Shes carrying a human life on her back.
Lu Ang, who was inside, heard the noise outside and went out to take a look. The few of them were in the courtyard. The candlelight from the Lanterns was Dim, but they could still clearly see the face of the woman on Granny Wangs back.
The internal servant beside Lu ang saw that Lu Ang hade out, so he went forward and said, If you want to quarrel, go outside and Quarrel. Dont disturb the princes.
Ma Ya and the others knelt down in fear and trepidation.
Qian qingyu, who was on Granny Wangs back, almost fell because of her kneeling action.
Lu ang went forward to support Qian Qingyu. Looking at her carefully, she indeed looked too much like Qiao Nichang. Then, he said to doctor zhu, Save her, save her.
Doctor Zhu knelt down and kowtowed. Your Highness, I can not obey. Qian Qingyu has not reached the marriageable age. When he was fourteen years old, he seduced the Music Master in the academy, causing him to divorce his wife and marry Qian Qingyu.
After his wife found out about this matter, she hung herself at the academys entrance, and because of this, the reputation of West Mountain Academy was ruined! This woman should have returned her life a long time ago. As a woman, I dont want to save such a vixen.
Maya could not bear it any longer and said, Everyone says that Qingyu seduced teacher. If that teacher did not take the initiative to look for qingyu, how would Qingyu be moved? Moreover, at that time, Qingyu did not know that teacher was already married.
When she and Sir were secretly in love, Sir Never said that he had a wife. She was also wronged.
It was clearly that dog that deceived qingyu. After the incident, he was still famous in Chang an. However, wasnt it enough that Qingyu had been mistreated for the past three years?
Dont make yourself sound so noble. Its just that youve been jealous of her because of her looks since she was young.
Doctor Zhu said, No matter how good-looking she is, shes still a vixen. Why should I be jealous of her? Dont joke around.
Lu ang said, Shut up. Men, go back to Chang an.
The internal servant at the side advised Lu ang, Your Highness, Im afraid that the road back will be muddy and stones will fall. Your wound hasnt healed yet!
Lu Ang looked at the woman in his arms and said, Go back to Chang an. Her body is too hot. Im afraid that the doctors here cant save her.
Lu Xi heard that Lu ang insisted on going back to the city, so she could only let him go. However, he was not allowed to ride a horse and had to sit in the carriage, which could also block some small rocks in the mountains.
It was safe and sound all the way back to Chang an.
Lu Ang announced the imperial physician as soon as he entered the princes mansion.
The imperial physician rushed over. Seeing that he was checking the pulse of a woman, he did not dare to neglect her.
The imperial physician sighed and said, This girls Qi and blood are weak, her spleen and stomach are weak, and she is so thin. It seems that she often has an empty stomach. Today, she seems to have been caught in the rain and was exhausted to the point of fainting and falling asleep. I will prescribe a medicine for this girl to take. She should be able to wake up in the morning.
Lu ang said, Okay.
The candles in the imperial residence were brighter. When Lu ang looked at the womans appearance, he felt that it was different from Nichangs appearance. It was just that they looked simr at first nce. When he carefully looked at the corner of his lips, the ends of his eyes were a little surprised.
..
Last night, there was a rainstorm. Early in the morning, the sky was clear. It was midsummer, and early in the morning, there was the sound of cicadas chirping.
Qian Qingyu opened her eyes and looked at everything in front of her. She was puzzled. This was not the shabby house next to thetrine where she lived. She was covered with a thin quilt made of fine satin.
Youre Awake?
Qian Qingyu saw a woman around fifteen years olde over. She was about to open her mouth, but her throat hurt terribly. She coughed and asked while enduring the pain, Where is this?
The servant girl replied, This is Prince Pingliangs residence. His Highness said that you dont have to return to West Mountain Academy in the future. He has already given West Mountain Academy a sum of silver and bought your personal contract. After you recover from your illness, you can just work in the Princes residence.
Qian qingyu coughed twice again. She could not help but sigh at the fickleness of the world. Back then, she had gone to West Mountain Academy from the second Princes pce. After going around in circles, she had returned.
Okay, then what should I do in the future?
The servant girl said, I dont know either. After you recover in a few days, Im sure the Butler will arrange it for you.
Although Qian Qingyu did not know what her future would be like, it was better to stay in the second Princes residence than to stay in the West Mountain Academy.
In this way, she might be able to see the second prince every day.
..
Lu Ang entered the pce early in the morning and went to the Changle Pce. After leaving the Changle Pce, Lu Ang went to Marquis an Yuans mansion to give Qiao Nihong ate wedding gift.
Qiao Nihong received the wedding gift from Lu ang and said, This old-fashioned wedding gift, cant it be doubled?
Lu ang said, Please forgive me. My sry has been used to relieve the disaster. You can ask my royal brother to double it. His sry is much more than mine.
Qiao Nishang had been staying at the Qiao familys house yesterday. When she heard that Lu Ang hade, she hurried to Qiao Nishangs courtyard. Brother Ang, I heard that you called the imperial physicianst night. Are You Okay?
Lu ang smiled and said, Im fine. Yesterday, I hired the imperial physician for a servant girl. That servant girl looks a little simr to you, but shes different up close.
Qiao nishang heaved a sigh of relief. Its good that youre fine.
Qiao Nishang opened the Box Lu ang gave her and saw an exquisitely carved gold bracelet inside, she sighed and said, Lu Ang, youre too stingy. A mere gold bracelet is a wedding gift? Do you know that Qians cousin gave me and Nishang a rare set of pearls as a gift for our meeting?
Qiao nichang said, Brother Ang went to the Shunds. After the disaster relief, there was not much silver left. Moreover, the luster of the pearls will dim in a few years. The golden light will not be extinguished for ten thousand years.
Chapter 426
Chapter 426: In chapter 426, Qiao Nichang was the second Princess Consort
Qiao Nichang was a little disappointed when she heard the word Sister, but she immediately smiled again.
Brother Ang did not have a woman he loved yet. He had been ying with her since he was young. As long as she persevered, brother Ang would definitely ept her.
Lu ang asked again, Cousin Qian, Qian Yu is here?
Yes, he is going to take the examinations next year and the Chang an Qian residence will be renovated. He is staying at my house now.
Lu ang said, I went to look for him, but I have not seen him for a long time.
After Lu ang left, Qiao Nishang said to Qiao nihong, Dont joke around with him in the future. I am afraid that he will hate me because of this. He really only sees me as his sister.
Nichang said, There are no other women around Lu Ang. He has treated you differently from others since you were young. Now that you are still young, he will understand when you are older.
Qiao Nichang rested her chin on her hand and sighed. Sigh, since ancient times, my cousin will not have a good ending if she marries my cousin. That Zhou Sisi from the Zhou family caused the Zhou family to copse and die...
Neon looked at Qiao Nichang and smiled. If thats really the case, is there still time for our Qiao family to sever our rtionship with you?
Qiao Nichang:...
..
After Qian Qingyu recovered from her illness, the butler arranged for her to be the second princes servant. When Qian Qingyu learned that she would be the second Princes servant in the future, she was very happy.
Originally, there were servant girls in the manor. Even the smallest one looked bigger on her. Qian Qingyu then asked another servant girl named lucky to borrow a needle and thread.
The clothes worn by the servant girls by the second princes side in the manor were all made of silk. Qian Qingyu was very careful when changing her clothes.
Lucky saw that Qian Qingyus needle technique was very good. Your needle technique is superb. It looks like the skills of the pce.
Qian qingyu said, I learned some skills from the embroiderydies in the pce when I was in the Academy.
Then you must be very good at embroidery?
Qian qingyu shook her head and said, I dont know how to Embroider.
Lucky said, The second prince is very kind to people. He treats the servants and pce people very well. Usually, he doesnt scold or scold them. The chief of the Princes mansion and the nanny who manages the servants are a little strict. However, as long as you do your job well, they wont me you.
Qian qingyu gratefully said to lucky, Thank you.
Lucky said, You really look like Miss Nichang. Do you know Miss Nichang?
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Everyone knows to thank the eldest daughter. Qiao Nichang, the most beautiful woman in Chang an. She will be even more famous after she reaches her marriageable age next year.
Lucky said proudly, Not only that, she is also the second princes consort. Everyone in the mansion knows that she will be our mistress in the future.
Lucky looked at Qian Qingyus appearance and said, You look simr to her and are still working for the second prince. is that a blessing or a curse?
The embroidery needle in Qian Qingyus hand poked her thumb. Thinking about it carefully, no mistress would be willing to look the same as a servant girl..
No matter how magnanimous Miss Nichang was, she would not be able to tolerate it..
Qian qingyu lowered her eyes and sighed. No matter what, she could only take it one step at a time. Perhaps by the time Miss Nichang entered the house and became a princess consort, she would already be married?
Qian Qingyu changed into a new servant girls clothes and went to the second Princes main courtyard.
The main courtyard was managed by eunuch Ma and Nanny Ning, the first chambein of the Princes mansion.
There were a total of eight servants in the second Princes courtyard. These eight were the second Princes personal maidservants. There were also more than ten second-ss maidservants who were doing chores and cleaning in the courtyard.
Qian Qingyu entered the second Princes study and knelt down to greet him. Your Servant Qingyu Greets Your Highness the second prince.
Lu ang said, Get up. You can be my servant in the future.
Thank You, Your Highness, Second Prince.Qian qingyu smiled slightly. In a roundabout way, she became the second Princes servant girl again.
The second prince must have recognized that he was also a servant girl in front of him when he was young, right?
Lu Ang did not remember Qian Qingyu. He had long forgotten the servant girl whom he had spent a few months with when he was young. The reason why he let Qian Qingyu stay by his side was because he felt sorry for her.
Also, she had the same face as Nichang at first nce. It was inappropriate for her to be bullied outside. If she was an honest person as her good friend had said, then he would let her be a good maidservant.
If she was not honest and had other thoughts in the pursuit of wealth, then he would directly exile her to the border.
Lu ang asked Qian qingyu, Do you know how to grind ink?
Yes.Qian Qingyu went forward and picked up a piece of ink to grind in circles.
Lu ang saw her wrist, which was very slender.
..
Before the mid-autumn Festival, the people in Chang an loved to talk about the crown princes consort selection.
When Nanny Ning was not around, the maidservants in the mansion also gathered together and said secretly, I heard that the Empress will choose a consort for the Crown Prince and His Highness at this years mid-autumn Festival!
Isnt Our Highnessconcubine already decided to be Miss Nichang?
Maybe its not just Miss Nichang? After all, theres no rule. In the future, the royal family can only have one concubine. Miss Nichang is still young. Who knows, she might be given a side concubine first?
Qingyu, His Highness has only allowed you to serve these days. Have you heard about this?
Qian qingyu shook her head and said, No.
Sigh, if a side concubinees to the estate, I wonder if our days will be so good?
I would rather Miss Nichang enter the estate as soon as possible. Miss Nichangs personality is extremely good, and the servants by her side are also extremely good. Please donte with any side concubines!!
Ji Xiang tugged at the servant girl who said this, If Miss Nichang enters the estate, what about Qingyu?
The servant girl said, What does that have to do with anything? From Qingyus words, it can be seen that His Highness cant wait to let Miss Nichang enter the imperial residence. Otherwise, why would he find a servant girl who looks simr to Miss Nichang to enter the imperial residence?
Everyone agreed unanimously.
On the night of the mid-autumn Festival, the Master of the residence was not around, so a group of servant girls were in the residence to pay their respects to consort Yue.
Lucky tugged at Qingyu and said, You should make a wish. Consort Yues wish wille true.
Qingyu looked at the full moon in the sky and silently made a wish in front of the candles. May the Empress of the Moon Bless the second Princes health, peace, and happiness.
This was a wish that she made every year during the mid-autumn Festival. Every year at this time, she could always remember that the second prince had secretly hidden the mooncakes that the empress had personally made for her to eat during the pce banquet.
Qingyu had known about the fresh meat mooncakes from the Hundred Savory restaurant since she was very young. However, at that time, there was no money at home and her father drank too much, so she could only watch helplessly.
After her mother brought her to Chang an, it was the second prince who gave her the mooncakes so that she could eat the fresh meat mooncakes for the first time.
The second prince is back. What are you guys doing here?
Qingyu went into the room to greet the second prince. After Lu ang came in, he took off his cloak and gave Qingyu a box of mooncakes. Take it and share it with lucky and the others.
Qingyu saw the still hot mooncakes and bowed. Thank You, Your Highness.
Chapter 427
Chapter 427: Chapter 427,ining to Qiao Nichang
The next day, after Qian Qingyu sent the second prince off, she arranged the books on the desk in the room. There were a few pieces of paper beside them, and the words on them were graceful and lively. It was obvious that they were good words.
Qian Qingyu took a look and realized that this was an article written by Qiao Nichang. She suppressed her article with a paperweight, afraid that it would be blown away by the wind.
After all, to the second prince, Qiao Nichangs article should be very important.
Qian Qingyu went out of the room. When she returned to her room, she heard the second-ss servant girl whispering in the courtyard.
Really? Qian Qingyu has always been the eldest servant girl. These days, she has be the eldest servant girl by the second Princes side. The second prince trusts her so much. So she is such a fickle woman.
Everyone in West Mountain Academy knows about this. She is really capable. It is not enough that she seduced sir, but she hase to seduce His Highness!
Does his highness know about Qian Qingyus past?
His Highness brought her here from West Mountain Academy. How could he not know about this? We can not turn a blind eye to this matter. Miss Nichang is so good to us. Why dont we tell Miss Nichang about this matter?
Qian Qingyu only got His Highnesss attention because of her resemnce to Miss Nichang. If Miss Nichang knew Qian Qingyus true colors, she would definitely advise His Highness to chase Qian Qingyu out of the imperial residence.
Lucky walked to Qian Qingyus side and said, Youve been the eldest servant girl ever since you came to the imperial residence. These second-ss servant girls already haveints in their hearts. Miss Nichang is a reasonable person. You Dont have to be afraid.
Qian qingyu forced a smile and said, Yes, I know.
At worst, she would just leave the Princes mansion again.
Qian Qingyu returned to her room and looked at the moon cake that had gone coldst night. She could not bear to eat it. After all, it had been many years since the second prince gave her the moon cake. She had to keep it well.
..
There was a polo match in Chang an today. Qiao Nichang and Qiao Nihong were naturally going to participate.
The polo matches in the pce today were attended by rtives of the royal family, so there were no separate teams for men and women.
Qiao Nihongs polo skills had always been excellent, but Qiao Nichang was only average. There were no brothers or sisters in the match, and they were all members of the royal family and rtives of the royal family, so there was no need to be tolerant in a fight.
When a ball flew towards Qiao Nichang, Qiao Nichang forgot to swing her club and only knew how to Dodge. Unexpectedly, she almost fell off the horse.
At the critical moment, Qiao Nishang shouted, Brother Ang!
Lu Ang was too far away from Qiao Nishang. He could not rush over to save her. Qian Yu, on the other hand, anxiously got off the horse and caught Qiao Nishang. Unexpectedly, they were on a slope and he did not manage to catch Qiao Nishang.
Both Qiao Nishang and Qian Yu rolled down the slope.
With this incident, the Polo match was suspended. Qiao Nishang was worried about her. She was the first to rush down to watch. Qian Yu held Qiao Nishang tightly in his arms.
Nothing happened to Qiao Nichang. On the contrary, Qian Yus face had been scratched by the gravel, and his arm had also hit a rock..
The imperial physician rushed over to let Qian Yu take a look. He wanted Qian Yu to rest for more than half a year, which meant that he would not be able to write for more than half a year.
In the marquis an Yuans manor.
Qiao Nichang heard that the Xie familys manor doctors words were no different from what the imperial physician had said, and her nose immediately turned red.
Cousin Qian, Im sorry. Its all my fault. Ive implicated you.
Qiao Nishangs eyes were filled with tears.
Qian Yu reached out his other good hand to wipe away Qiao Nishangs tears. Dont cry. Youre the most beautiful woman in Chang an. Youll be ugly if you cry. My hand is fine as long as youre okay.
Qiao nishang said, Cousin, Im sorry. Ive implicated you so much that you wont be able to take the exam again until three yearster.
Qian yu smiled and said, Its alright. After all, I still have the title of nobility. The crown prince of the Princes mansion doesnt care whether I can take the exam or not. Dont cry. If you cry, it will hurt me.
Qiao nichang asked in confusion, Why does it hurt when I Cry?
Qian Yu gently used his finger to scratch the tip of Qiao Nichangs nose. My heart will hurt.
When Qiao Nichang heard this, her heart thumped rapidly. She did not know why it was like this, but this feeling was something that she had never felt in the past fourteen years.
Qiao ruoyi happened to see this when she entered the house. She could not believe that her big sister, who had always been dull, could give birth to such a Qian Yu.
She felt that in front of her little cabbage was a little fox. If she did not protect the little cabbage, she would be taken away by this little fox.
Nichang.
Mother!Qiao Nichang ran over to Qiao Ruoyi when she saw her.
Qiao ruoyi said a few words to Qian Yu and brought Qiao Nichang back to the Xie residence.
In the carriage, Qiao Ruoyi coughed twice and said, Nichang, you are not young anymore. Mother wants to ask you, what do you think about the marriage in the future?
Qiao Nichang Hung Her head shyly. Mother, I am still young.
Qiao ruoyi hugged Nichang in her arms and said, Mother also hopes that you can always be young and stay on Mothers wing. But, mother also knows that you will get married one day.
Qiao Nichang lowered her voice and said to Qiao ruoyi, Mother, I have a crush on brother Ang. I want to be brother Angs princess, but he only sees me as his sister. He likes me, just like a sister.
Qiao ruoyi asked, Then have you revealed your feelings to him?
Qiao Nichang shook her head. I dont dare. Im afraid that if I reveal them, he wont talk to me anymore. He wont even treat me as his sister. He wont even bring me along to y.
Qiao ruoyi asked again, Then do you know what it means to have a crush on him? Will your heart beat like a drum when you see him?
Qiao nichang said, No. I know that Im very happy when I see brother Ang because I know that he will give me a lot of delicious food and will even bring me along to y a lot of fun..
But when I see cousin Qian, sometimes my heart beats like a drum...
Qiao ruoyi patted Nichangs head. Silly girl, youre still young and dont know what love is. You might know it when you grow up.
Nichang smiled and said, I know that Father and mother are loving. Father loves mother so much. Why didnt fathere out with you today?
Qiao Ruoyi did not answer Nichangs question. Was It Love? Her Heart had died a long time ago. It was impossible for her to fall in love with Xie Yun. After ten years of being husband and wife, the so-called love was only in the eyes of others.
Nichang had just entered the Xie residence when the gatekeeper gave her a letter. Miss, this was brought over by a servant girl from the second Princes residence. She said that you must take a look at it personally.
Qiao Nichang opened the letter. Who sent this letter to me??
As soon as Nishang entered the Xie residence, the gatekeeper gave her a letter. Miss, a servant girl from the second Princes residence brought this over. She said that you must see it for yourself.
Qiao Nishang opened the envelope. Who sent me a letter?
Chapter 428
Chapter 428: Chapter 428, I leave the mansion
Qiao Nichang nced at the letter and said to Qiao ruoyi, Mother, the letter says that brother Ang has a new servant girl who looks simr to me.
This servant girl used to be in the West Mountain Academy. The letter says that she seduced a Mr. Music Theory with a wife in the West Mountain Academy... now brother Ang has asked this servant girl to be his personal servant girl.
Qiao ruoyi nced at her and said, Dont meddle in this matter.
Qiao ruoyi still remembered the tragic scene when the Zhou family building was about to copse. Lu Ang was a prince after all. Even the Empress did not interfere with the servants and pce maids in Lu Angs residence. How could niching interfere.
Niching agreed, but she was still a little curious. Why would brother Ang keep such a girl as a servant girl?
The next day, Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nihong went to the Princes mansion in Pingliang. Qiao Nishang was really curious about the woman who looked simr to her in the letter.
Qian Qingyu was on night dutyst night, so she did not have to be on duty during the day. Just as she was about to rest and catch up on her sleep, Lucky rushed over and said, Wake up quickly. The neon monarch and Miss Nishang are here. Miss Nishang wants to see you by name.
Qian Qingyu connected the dots.
Seeing that Qiao Neon and Qiao neon were in the Flower Hall of the main courtyard and their master was not around, the two of them were pleased with their rtionship with His Highness.
Qian Qingyu stepped forward and bowed. This servant Qingyu greets Princess Neon, Miss Qiao.
Qiao neon looked at Qian Qingyu carefully. Its You?
Qiao nichang asked, You Know Her?
Have you forgotten? When You Were Young, you were afraid of thunder. When aunt was not at home, Lu Ang wanted to take you away and had a servant girl rece you. It was her.
To others, they would think that Qiao Nichang and Qian Qingyu were simr, but Qiao Nihon did not think that the two were simr.
Qiao nichang said, I remember now. Later, she betrayed brother Ang and went to West Mountain Academy. Brother Ang was lost for a few days because of this!
The Empress asked you to enter West Mountain Academy. How could you seduce Sir?
Isnt this embarrassing West Mountain Academy?
Qian Qingyus face was pale, and her lips were pale. I did not seduce Sir. Mr. Jiang was well-versed in music theory. Many students in the Academy liked music theory sses at that time.
Mr. Jiang always praised my music theory and asked me to take music theory sses. Later, Mr. Jiang told me that he was happy with me and wanted to marry me.
It was already difficult for me to get married without parents. I was already 14 at that time. When I reached marriageable age, I had to leave West Mountain Academy. My future was unknown, so I agreed to Mr. Jiangs marriage proposal, But I didnt know that he had a wife at home.
If I knew, I would never have dared to get close to him. He also never told me that he had a wife at home...
Qian qingyu lowered her head guiltily and said, I dont know why his wife would hang herself and die like this. I didnt mean to hurt Mrs. Jiang, but she did die because of me...
Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nihong looked at each other.
Qiao nihong said, I see. is that musician named Jiang still alive?
Qian qingyu said, I havent heard anything about him, but I heard from Ma Ya that he is quite famous in Chang an and is highly appreciated by some noble families...
Qiao nichang asked, Is his name Jiang Wan?
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Thats right.
Jiang Wan was good at music theory, and now he was in the limelight. The Princess of the Su Kings mansion appreciated this musician Jiang the most, and she often held banquets for everyone to enjoy.
Jiang Wans name was also widely known in Chang an. Even Qiao Nishang had heard the music he yed. It was indeed very good, but she did not expect it to be such scum.
Qiao nishang said, I will verify this matter. Whether the truth is as you say or not, I will make that Jiang Wan lose his reputation and pay for his wifes early death.
Qian Qingyu looked at Qiao Nichang with gratitude and said, Thank you, Princess Nichang.
Back then, she was unable to defend herself in west mountain academy and everyone was scolding her. The family members of Jiang Wans wife also came to me her, but no one med Jiang Wan.
Qiao nichang said, If you really suffered such grievance, why didnt you tell the mountain chieftain?
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, The mountain chieftain didnt want to make a big deal out of this matter in order to calm things down. There were also ssmates in the Academy. Perhaps there was some misunderstanding with me...
Some misunderstandings were not entirely true. She had entered West Mountain Academy back then because of the Empressfavor.
There were many branches of West Mountain Academy. At that time, it was already very difficult to enter the first branch of West Mountain Academy.
Those who entered the academy were all from wealthy families, and they had also used many connections to enter the West Mountain Academy.
Back then, Qian Qingyu easily entered the academy and attracted a lot of gossip. She did not know why, but her rtionship with her other ssmates had always been bad.
After ten years, she only had one good friend, Ma Ya. After the incident, there were many people who added insult to injury and made up stories about her seducing Sirs student.
Qiao nihong said, I will investigate this matter properly. If you are really innocent, I will clear your name!
If you really have the intention to seduce teacher at such a young age, you should leave the Princes residence as soon as possible... Dont let me tell the Empress.
Qian qingyu bit her lips, Yes.
Qiao Nishang pulled Qiao Nihongs sleeve, Mother said that I am not allowed to interfere in brother Angs backyard.
Qiao nichangforted her, Dont worry. If she really is that disgusting person who would seduce Sir, if the Empress knew about it, she would never allow her to be by Lu Angs side.
After sending Qiao Nichang and Nichang away, Qian Qingyu returned to her room without any drowsiness.
She took out the mooncake wrapped in a handkerchief. A tear fell on the mooncake.
Lucky pushed the door open and entered. Qian qingyu wiped her tears away.
Lucky saw Qian Qingyu holding a mooncake and said, Why arent you eating this mooncake? If you put it down again, it will spoil. This mooncake will onlyst for five days at most. It has already been ten days. You can throw it away.
Qian Qingyu hid the mooncake and said to lucky, Your Highness is back?
Yes, you are not on duty today. If His Highness doesnt tell you to go, dont go. Otherwise, those people will gossip about you.
Qian qingyu said, Just say it.
Anyway, she did not have much time left in the Princes mansion. She only wished that she could take a few more nces at the second prince.
It was not that Qian Qingyu did not trust Qiao Nihong.
It was that she knew how bad her poprity in the academy was. Back then, her ssmates could falsely use her in front of the mountain chieftain. Now, it was hard to guarantee that they would note and make up stories to me her.
Over the past three years, it was not that Qian Qingyu did not want to exin, but that she had no way to exin herself.
Everyone had determined that she was the one who seduced the music theory master. There was nothing she could do to clear her name.
Even if Princess Nihon went to the academy to investigate, she would find out that she was the one who deliberately seduced the music theory master.
It was enough that Princess Nihon was willing to punish Jiang Wan.
Qian Qingyu then went to Lu Angs room.
Inside, Lu Ang was changing his dressing. He could not help but frown. You dont know how to be gentle at all. Wheres Qingyu? Let her change the dressing.
Hearing this, Ruyi said repeatedly, I know my mistake. I will go find Qingyu now.
Ruyi saw Qingyu as soon as she went out. Youre just in time. His Highness is asking you to change the dressing.
Chapter 429
Chapter 429: Chapter 429. You can not hug her highness
After Qian Qingyu went in.., si XI said to ruyi, She is really seductive. She has only been here for a few days and her highness is already so reluctant to part with her. She even asked for a change of medicine. Her hands are full of calluses. I really dont know how her Highness was seduced by her.
Ruyi said, Her Highness, Be Merciful. Im not going to let you spout nonsense. be careful that nanny Ning hears it and beats you up.
Si XI stuck out his tongue. If this goes on, we wont have to work in the future. Let her serve your highness alone.
In the room, Qian Qingyu washed her hands and gently applied ointment on Lu Angs back.
The wound on Lu Angs back had already healed. The ointment was used to remove the hideous scar.
After applying the ointment, Lu ang put on his own robe and said, Ruyi is always clumsy when applying the ointment. You can change it in the future.
Yes,Qian Qingyu replied.
Lu ang said, I heard that neon and Nichang came to look for you. What did they say to you?
Qian qingyu said, When Princess Neon heard about my past, she knew that I was wronged and wanted to uphold justice for me. Princess Neon and Miss Nichang are both very good women!
Lu ang smiled slightly and said, Thats true. They are both very good. Neon and Aunt Fu Lu are the same. Its best to uphold justice for the heavens. Nichang is a kind person and has always been happy to help others.
Qian qingyu answered, Yes.
His Highness mentioned Miss Nihon with such a gentle smile. Presumably, just as lucky said, Miss Nihon would be the second princes consort in the future.
Miss Nihon was a kind person. When the time came, she would definitely be able to live in harmony with His Highness. Presumably, His Highness would be able to live in peace and happiness as she wished.
..
When Qiao Nihon went to the West Mountain Academy to investigate, almost every student who was at the same level as Qian Qingyu was talking bad about Qian Qingyu.
Everyone was disdainful of her and extremely disgusted.
Princess Nihong, Qian Qingyu often uses her good looks to seduce the princes and grandsons whoe to West Mountain for an outing. Ive also witnessed her seducing Mr. Jiang.
Thats right, her usual behavior is extremely bad..
A while ago, when the second prince and the crown prince came here, she even sneakily went in front of the second Prince and Crown Prince, trying to be a Phoenix..
She really has the ability to let the second prince take her away. Fortunately, the second prince is sensible and only let her be a servant girl.
Princess Nihon, dont believe Qian Qingyus nonsense. Dont look at how weak she is, but her heart is full of tricks.
Qiao Nihon then asked the Gentlemen in the academy. The impression of the Gentlemen in the academy was that Qian Qingyu was studious and capable.
However, when it came to seducing Mr. Music Theory, the Gentlemen in the Academy also felt that it was Qian Qingyu who had taken the initiative to seduce him:
The Gentlemen said one after another, At that time, musician Jiang Wan was already famous in Chang an. What kind of woman did he not want? If Qian Qingyu had not taken the initiative to seduce him, he would not have risked his reputation to say that he wanted to marry a student.
Yes, musician Jiang Wans wife is also a beauty. If she didnt take the initiative to seduce musician Jiang, why would she say that she wanted to marry a student? Even if our great Tang is open-minded, master and disciple are still ipatible...
Musician Jiang Wan wouldnt ruin his reputation and future. Qian qingyu must have used some bewitching enchantment on Jiang Wan. Princess Nihon, dont be deceived by her.
Qiao Nihon had stayed in West Mountain Academy for an entire day. After investigating, she found it hard to believe Qian Qingyu.
Everyone in the academy was certain that Qian Qingyu had seduced Jiang Wan.
..
Qian Qingyu kept vigil at night and slept on a small wooden couch outside the house. She could hear what was happening inside. She didnt dare to fall asleep during the Night Vigil, afraid that her highness would make her unable to hear.
At night, Qian Qingyu dreamed of the day when she was criticized by everyone in the academy.
There was also the mountain chieftain who took out two hundred taels of silver and sent madam Jiangs rtives away, he then said to her, If it werent for the fact that you were brought here by Shang Gong and that you were afraid that our West Mountain Academy would lose its reputation, I wouldnt have given you these two hundred taels of silver. In the future, you will be a ve in the Academy!
From then on, Qian Qingyu had a worse life than when she was a child.
She had to wash everyones clothes in the cold weather. She worked from morning to night without a moment of leisure. Even so, she still couldnt finish her work.
She never had a moment of rest.
After half a year, she couldnt embroider anymore. Her rough hands would damage the silk threads, and the flowers wouldnt look good anymore.
Lu Ang woke up in the middle of the night and was thirsty. He whispered a few times, but there was no answer. He walked over and saw that she was sleeping soundly, but there were tears at the corner of her eyes.
She can cry even when she is asleep.
Lu Ang was only curious. He had never seen anyone cry when they were sleeping. So he moved closer and heard Qian Qingyus murmurs when she was sleeping:
Dont hit me. Ill wash it right away. Dont hit me.
No, I didnt seduce Sir. I didnt harm anyone.
I didnt seduce Sir. I...
Lu Ang could not help but frown.
Qian qingyu, who was sleeping, once again experienced the feeling of being unable to exin herself. She woke up in shock and opened her eyes. When she got up, she saw Lu ang right in front of her.
At that moment, Qian Qingyu thought that she was dreaming. After all, if it was not a dream, the second prince would not be so close to her.
Your Highness, you have to believe me. I really did not seduce anyone... I was really wronged. I really did not know that Jiang Wan once had a wife.
Perhaps thinking that she was in a dream, Qian Qingyu held Lu Angs hand without any respect.
Thentern in Lu Angs hand was put aside.
Qian qingyu held Lu Angs hand with both hands and said anxiously with tears, Your Highness, you have to believe me. I just want you to believe me.
Lu Ang felt very sad at that moment. He hugged Qian qingyu and said, Okay, I believe you. I believe that you are innocent.
If she was really trying to seduce him, how could she not seduce herself these days.
Qian Qingyu pushed Lu ang away and said, No, I cant Hug You. Your Wedding Date with Miss Nichang ising... Even in a dream.
Lu Ang was pushed by Qian Qingyu. Seeing her weak strength, Lu ang wanted to get angry after being pushed, but he didnt know what she was talking about.
When he stood up, Qian Qingyu closed her eyes and fell asleep again.
Lu ang sighed. Well, he was the best master in Chang an. He would forgive her rudeness tonight.
Lu Ang had to get some water by himself. He drank a mouthful of cold water and made up his mind that he would not need Qian Qingyu to keep watch in the future.
When Qian Qingyu woke up, it was still dark and the dream was clear. She was scared and broke out in a cold sweat when she knew that she had fallen asleep.
She didnt know if His Highness had called herst night.
Fortunately, Lu Ang hadnt woken up yet.
When the sky was still bright, Qian Qingyu gently called His Highness.
The first thing Lu ang said when he saw Qian qingyu was, You dont have to keep watch in the future.
AH? oh.Qian Qingyu answered repeatedly.
Chapter 430
Chapter 430: Chapter 430, Qian Qingyu requested to leave the mansion
Qiao Nihong investigated for three whole days, and all the people she visited thought that Qian Qingyu had deliberately seduced him.
When Lu Ang was not in the mansion, Qiao Nihong found Qian Qingyu and went straight to the point. These days, I visited many students and gentlemen in West Mountain College. They all said that you were the one who seduced Jiang Wan.
You have been in the West Mountain College for many years. Many of your ssmates have known you for many years. I dont think they need to tell such lies. Qian qingyu, youd better leave the mansion by yourself. Dont bring this matter to the Queens side.
Qian qingyu bowed and said, Yes, Princess.
Qiao Nihong looked at Qian qingyu curiously and said, Dont you want to exin more?
Qian qingyu sighed and said, This servant knows that this matter can not be exined. It is useless to exin.
The prince in the dream hugged himself andforted him, saying that he would believe her.
Even if the dream was fake, it was enough for her.
Its just that this servant still owes the second prince two hundred taels of silver. The contract is also in his hands. This servant can not leave just because this servant says so.
Qiao Nihong took out two hundred taels of silver notes from her purse. Here, I dont expect you to return it to me. Just leave the mansion as soon as possible.
Thank you, Princess.
..
Lu Ang had lunch in the Changle Pce before returning to the mansion.
He had drunk cold waterst night and did not sleep well. Lu Ang wanted to go back to the mansion to take a nap.
As soon as Lu ang entered the house, he saw Qian Qingyu kneeling in front of him. What are you doing?
Qian qingyu lowered her head, held up two banknotes with both hands and said, Your Highness, I have collected the silver taels. I would like to ask your highness to return the deed. I also want to leave the mansion.
Lu ang said, Didnt you say that you have no parents? Where did you get the banknotes? Besides, what else can you do after leaving the mansion? If you be a servant girl, you will not meet a better master than me.
With a new master, Qian qingyu only cared about sleeping by herselfst night. She had long been punished.
Qian qingyu said, I still have my aunt in the world. When mother took me away, my aunts family was already doing well. My aunt said that if I couldnt stay in Chang an anymore, I would go back home to find her.
Where is your aunt?
Jiangnan.
Lu ang frowned and said, Then you dont have to think about leaving. Jiangnan is a long journey, and you have met many people of all walks of life along the way. You havent written to your aunt for many years, so maybe your aunt is no longer in Jiangnan. Youd better stay in the Royal Mansion.
Lu Ang carefully looked at the banknote in Qian Qingyus hand and said, This banknote is neon, right? Why did she give you the banknote? Tell me!
Qian Qingyu somehow gave herself away, but she did not dare to hide it from Lu Ang, she came out with a tray and said, Princess Nihon was worried that I was a vixen. She was afraid that your highness would be affected by my reputation, so she went to the academy to investigate for a few days before she let me leave the mansion.
Lu ang said, You just stay in the mansion. Even if you make a scene in front of mother, I will protect you.
Qian qingyu lowered her head. But I dont want to implicate your reputation. I dont want others to think that you are stupid and seduced by a fox.
Lu ang heard this and said coldly, I dont need you to fulfill my reputation. Just stay in the mansion.
After Lu Ang said that, he left the mansion and went to Marquis an Yuans mansion.
When neon heard that Lu Ang hade, she went out to wee him.
When Lu ang saw her, he said, You forced Qingyu to leave the Princes Mansion?
Qiao neon said, Sheined?? Lu Ang, the servant girls in your mansion have all been spread. Qian Qingyus reputation was not good when she was in the West Mountain. If you keep her by your side as your personal servant girl, it will only harm your reputation. I helped you out of kindness. You wont Bite Lu Dongbin, right?
Qiao Nishang came over and said, Dont you dare call brother Ang a dog!
Lu Ang:...
Lu Ang said helplessly to Qiao nishang, When have I ever med you? I know that youre doing this for my own good, but Qingyu isnt that kind of person.
Qiao nishang said, When she was young, she was already disloyal enough to tell us about our n. In order not to be your maid, she even promised Aunt Queen to go to the West Mountain Academy and Betray You. How do you know that shes not that kind of person? You said it yourself when you were young. You will never y with Qingyu again.
Lu ang heard Qiao Nihons words and recalled the past. So its her! No wonder I feel that she is familiar. She is the Qingyu from back then!
Qiao Nihon said, So you didnt know that she was the qingyu from back then. Now she is the same as she was when she left you.
Lu ang said, You really misunderstood her. She dreamed about thisst night. The murmurs in her dreams were wronged. She cried and begged me to believe her. She even cried in her sleep. If she really is that kind of person, why would she be afraid in her sleep?
Qiao nishang said, I visited West Mountain Academy for three days. Everyone is sure that she seduced Jiang Wan. If you dont believe me, you can go and investigate.
Only Qiao Nishang asked, Brother Ang, why did you hear whispers in your sleep?
Qiao Nishang widened her eyes and said, You slept with Qian Qingyu?
Lu Ang found it hard to exin himself. As the second prince, he got up in the middle of the night and poured water for himself. He didnt have any dignity. He was still thinking of an excuse.
Qiao Nishang ran away with red eyes.
Qiao Nishang snorted. You, you disappoint me!
Qiao Nishang chased after Qiao Nishang.
Only Lu Ang was confused. So what if he slept with his maid? Why did it make him look like he hadmitted a heinous crime?
Qiao Nishang ran all the way to ake. Her eyes were full of tears. SOB, sob, sob, sob. I dont like brother Ang anymore. I hate brother Ang.
Qiao Nishang rushed over and said, Alright, stop crying. Without brother Ang, there are many other brothers. For example, brother Qian Yu. He has always been good to you. He even got hurt because of you!
Nishang sniffed and smiled. Yes, theres still brother Qian Yu. I Dont want brother Ang anymore.
Qiao Nishang:...
She had never seen a girl who was easier to coax than Qiao Nichang.
Qiao Nichang wiped her tears with a handkerchief and said, However, Im still worried about brother Ang. If Qian Qingyu is really that kind of vixen, brother Ang will be implicated. At that time, he wont be able to avoid being med by the empress. Have you investigated thoroughly?
Qiao nichang said, Ive investigated thoroughly. The gentlemen there also said that Madam Jiangs appearance isnt bad. If it werent for Qingyu intentionally seducing her, musician Jiang wouldnt do such a thing!
Qiao nishang said, But I believe that a person wouldnt lie in a dream.
Chapter 431 - Lu Ang’s support
Chapter 431: Chapter 431, Lu Angs support
The temperature of autumn had dropped, and the night air was cold. Qian Qingyu had been treated harshly for the past three years, and the worst part was that it was autumn. Every time the sunflower water came, the pain would be unbearable.
Lucky saw that Qian Qingyus face was pale, and he looked like he would copse at any moment, so he asked, Do you want me to invite a doctor to take a look?
Qian qingyu shook her head and said, No need, Ill be fine after resting for two days.
The first time she came to sunflower water, Qian Qingyu did not know that it was sunflower water and thought that she had some serious illness.
At that time, she thought that it was a relief.
There was nothing left for her in this world.
It was only when she found a bloodstain on the clothes of the washingdy that she found out that it was sunflower water that thedy woulde to every month.
Ma Ya told her that she could not eat raw and cold water when she came to sunflower water, but she could only eat raw and cold water on a daily basis. As for cold water, she could not avoid it.
More and more of the female students who came to West Mountain Academy were the pampered daughters of the manor. The academy did not allow maids to apany the students, so naturally, someone had to wash the clothes.
When Qian qingyu came to sunflower water, it was impossible for her not to touch the cold water. Perhaps because of this, the root of her illness fell and she would be in pain every month, but the pain of autumn and winter was especially severe.
Sister Qingyu, His Highness is calling for you.
Lucky said to ruyi at the door, Go and report to His Highness. Qingyu is sick and needs to rest for a day.
Ruyi replied, Okay.
Lu ang heard that Qian Qingyu was sick in the study and said, Let the female doctor in the Xuanshang Pce take a look at her.
Ruyi bowed.
After Ruyi left, Lu ang looked at the drawings of the Ministry of works for a while and then went to Qian Qingyus room.
The female doctor was checking Qian Qingyus pulse. Everyone saluted when they saw His Highnessing over.
Lu ang said, Theres no need to salute. How is Qingyu?
The female doctor sighed and said, Miss Qingyu doesnt take good care of her body. Its because of the cold evil pce. So every time shees to the sunflower water, she will be in great pain. Miss Qingyu should take good care of her body. Otherwise, it will be difficult for her to have children in the future.
Miss Qingyu, you are so young. How can the Cold Pce be so serious? Sigh, I will give you a few prescriptions. Miss Qingyu, remember to drink them every day. Only by taking good care of yourself can you have hope of having children...
Qingyu thanked him weakly, Thank you.
Lucky sent the female doctor out and Ruyi helped to get the medicine. Only Lu ang and Qian Qingyu were left in the room.
Lu Ang was a little embarrassed when he heard about this illness, so he changed the topic, Five dayster, the princess of the Su Kings mansion will hold a banquet and invite the young masters and Daughters of the noble families in Chang an to listen to Jiang Wans music. Neon dress and the others will avenge you. Do you want to go with me?
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Okay.
She was not afraid of confronting Jiang Wan. She had suffered for three years, and she also wanted to see how Jiang Wans reputation was ruined.
Lu ang asked Qian qingyu, When you went to the West Mountain Academy, you should have had a better life. Why did you make yourself so miserable and be my servant girl? If you had known, would you have regretted leaving?
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Yes, but ording to the rules of the pce, I could not stay. Moreover, the Empress was doing it for my own good. How could I let her down?
After saying that, Qian Qingyu took a deep breath in pain. His palm-sized face was almost scrunched up.
Lu ang asked, Is it really that painful?
Lu Ang did not know when to do it, but he remembered that his mother would also have abdominal pain after eating ice in the summer. His father would put his big hand on his mothers lower abdomen, as if it could alleviate the pain.
Lu ang put his hand on Qian Qingyus lower abdomen. This way, can it be better?
Qian Qingyus face instantly turned red. Your Highness, this cant be.
Whats not eptable? If you can feel better, then so be it.
Qian Qingyu looked up at the side of Lu Angs face and pursed her lips. She secretly warned herself that her highness only saw that she was in great pain. Her HighnessPrincess Consort was Qiao Nichang.
She was just a servant girl. Even if she had long been tempted, she should not have thought too much about it.
This kind of warmth, it would be fine after a while.
However, this was the first time Lu ang felt that a womans waist was only so thin. He did not know what kind of life she had been living in the academy all these years.
Lu Ang remembered that there was a person who begged the medical woman to save her that day. It seemed to be someone called Ma Ya. He should have found her and asked her about it.
..
Ma Ya was a little scared when the second prince called her over to the Princes residence of Pingliang. However, she wanted to see how Qian Qingyu was doing.
Ma Ya arrived at the main hall of the Princes residence and knelt down before Lu ang, who was seated at the seat of honor. Your Daughter Greets Your Highness Prince Pingliang.
Lu ang said, No need for formalities. I called you here today because I want to ask you what kind of life Qian Qingyu has been living in the academy these past few years. How did she end up with such a set of problems at such a young age?
Ma Ya lowered her head and said, If it were a court official or a daughter, she would have died a long time ago during these three years in the academy. Granny Wang beat and scolded her. There were at least a thousand people in the academy. Even if every student changed their clothes every three days, she would have to wash three to four hundred sets of clothes every day.
From morning to night, she would have to chop firewood and wash the shoes for those students. Not to mention washing the bed sheets and bedding for the students in the academy. She could only sleep for six hours every day for the past three years, The rest of the time, she was busy all the time.
There were times when I went to visit her. She was just too tired. After a short rest, she would be whipped. In winter, it was needless to say that her hands were not only swollen from blisters but also full of frostbite.
She was an embroidery expert praised by Mr. Lin. It was said that her embroidery skills could not even be matched by the beautiful women in the pce. However, over the years, her hands were unable to embroider anything. They were all calluses, if she was not careful, the silk thread would be destroyed.
There was not a single piece of good skin on her body. It was all beaten by Granny Wang with a whip. Not long ago, on a rainy day, Granny Wangs whip almost killed her.
Lu Ang had watched Granny Wang beat her that day. He was quite regretful that he had not been able to go out and stop Granny Wang. If he had known that she would be like this when she went to the West Mountain Academy, he would not have let Qingyu leave no matter what he said.
Lu ang asked again, How much do you know about Jiang Wan?
Ma ya replied, It was Jiang Wan who deceived qingyu, whose future was uncertain at that time. The women of the same level in the academy were jealous of Qingyus appearance, and they casually ndered and ndered her. The three of them became tigers, and Qingyu was killed.
Lu Ang went to find nanny Ning and said, Go to West Mountain Academy, arrest Granny Wang, and send her to the government. Also, find the mountain chief of West Mountain Academy.
When the mountain chief of the West Mountain Academy arrived at the second Princes residence, he trembled.
Lu ang saw the middle-aged woman kneeling on the ground and said coldly, Back then, mother managed the West Mountain Academy to Save a girl who had nowhere to turn. Now, it has be a good ce for some rich familys daughters to gild their gold. Do they even need someone to wash their clothes?
Qingyu was specially sent to the West Mountain Academy by Mothers order, except for ves. Who allowed you to force her to be a ve?
Chapter 432
Chapter 432: Chapter 432, punish Jiang Wan
The mountain chieftain kneeled on the ground and could not stop trembling, he said repeatedly, Your Highness, I forced her to be a ve in order to calm things down. After all, she seduced the teachers in the academy. If we dont punish her, Im afraid it will destroy the reputation of all the students in the West Mountain Academy...
Lu ang said angrily, As the mountain chieftain, dont you believe in your own student??
Even if Qingyu had seduced Jiang Wan and Jiang Wan did not want to divorce his wife, his wife would not die. The main culprit was Jiang Wan. What did qingyu have to do with it?
Back then, she was only fourteen years old and had yet to reach marriageable age. Jiang Wan was ten years older than her, yet she did not me Jiang Wan, but Qingyu? How could there be such a reason?
The mountain chieftain said, Your Highness, I know my mistake.
Lu ang said, You dont have to be the mountain chieftain anymore. I will report this matter to my mother. From today onwards, West Mountain Academy will be closed for half a month.
The original intention of West Mountain Academy was for women to be more knowledgeable. Over the years, there was nock of academic excellence in West Mountain Academy.
However, as the reputation of West Mountain Academy grew, there were many daughters of wealthy families who came to west mountain academy to be gold-ted, deviating from the original intention of his mother when she ran West Mountain Academy.
If this matter was not resolved, the reputation of West Mountain Academy would truly be ruined.
After the second Prince entered the pce, Ma Ya went to Qian Qingyus room. When she saw Qian Qingyu, she hurriedly said, Qingyu.
After Qian Qingyu Drank the medicine, she was already much better. When she saw Ma Ya, she said with some excitement, Why are you here?
Ma Ya smiled slightly and said, It was the second prince who announced me toe. The second prince is really good to you. No wonder you have been unable to forget him. His Highness ordered the punishment of Old Wang and even dismissed the mountain chieftain for investigation.
When Qian Qingyu heard this, she felt even more grateful towards the second prince.
Ma ya smiled and said, Now that I have seen His Highness the second Princes feelings for you with my own eyes, I can rest assured in the future. You can finally have a ce to stay in the imperial residence.
Qian qingyu only smiled slightly. She did not know how long she could stay in the imperial residence, but she would be satisfied if she could stay for one more day.
..
The beginning of September was a good day for autumn.
Princess Qing Yuan of the Prince Sus mansion was holding a banquet in a mountain vi on the outskirts of the city today. She invited people from Chang an city to listen to Jiang Wans music.
Qian Qingyu sat outside the carriage and watched the scenery along the way.
After entering the West Mountain Academy, she had never left the west mountain. When she arrived at the Lu Angs mansion, she had never left the mansion. She had been in Chang an for more than ten years, and this was the first time she could see the prosperity of Chang an.
King Su had always been a man with his tail between his legs in Chang an. However, because his only daughter was Qing Yuan, he doted on her very much.
When Qing Yuan was very young, he had given the imperial manor to Qing Yuan.
The people who came to the banquet today were all descendants of the royal families, and the outside of the manor was filled with horse carriages.
Princess Qing Yuan weed them at the door. When she saw Lu anging over, she said, Second brother, you are here. I have been waiting for you for a long time. Last time, I told you to let Jiang Wan into the pces teaching workshop. You said that you wanted to hear Jiang Wans songs first. Finally, you havee. After you hear it, you will definitely be amazed.
The Chang an teaching workshop was divided into two types of teaching workshops. However, there was a difference. The teaching workshops in the pce were dedicated to performing songs for the Emperor and the Empress. There were grades.
The second type was for high-ranking officials and nobles who could be hired as long as they paid money. Usually, the emperor would let them perform for themon people and soldiers. There was no rank. They were just singers.
Qing Yuan wanted Jiang Wan to enter the pce and be a musician in the academy, but it was not so easy to meet the musicians of Tian Yan
Lu ang said, If he is really capable and has a good character, there is no harm in entering the pce.
Qing Yuan said happily, I knew that second brother is the best.
Qian qingyu lowered her head and followed beside Lu Ang. She did not dare to raise her head to look at the nobles in the garden. After the banquet started, the sound of zither could be heard from afar. In the river in the manor, a small boat could be seening from the mist.
The music was moving, as if it was a fairnd.
After the song, Jiang Wan got off the boat in white. She walked to Lu Ang and knelt down to greet him. I, Jiang Wan, pay my respects to Your Highness, Second Prince.
Lu Ang sat on the throne. Qian Qingyu stood behind him and looked down. When she saw Jiang Wan kneeling at her feet, even if she was not the one kneeling, it was still very satisfying.
After the matter was exposed, his wifes rtives came looking for him. Jiang Wan did not have a man to take responsibility for it. He pushed all the responsibility onto himself.
After his wife died, he said that it was because Qian qingyu forced him to divorce his wife. But before that, Qian Qingyu did not know that he had a wife.
Princess Qing Yuan said in front of everyone, Second Brother, you also heard the music he yed. His ability is not inferior to the musicians in the pces teaching workshop. Do you think he could enter the pce as a musician?
Qiao Nihong stood up and said, I think it is inappropriate to let him enter the pce as a musician.
Princess Qing Yuan said, Nihong, what right do you have to say that?
The musicians in the pces teaching workshop not only have to be skilled, but they also have to have a good character. Jiang Wan abandoned the chaff and seduced the female students in West Mountain Academy when she was teaching. She disregarded human rtions and was worse than a pig or a dog!
Princess Qing yuan frowned and said, That was because that female student had no sense of shame and seduced Jiang Wan. Jiang Wan pitied her for having no parents, but who knew that the female student would go so far as to seduce Jiang Wan, causing Jiang Wans wife tomit suicide out of jealousy. What does this have to do with Jiang Wan?
Qiao nihong said, How is it not rted? If he doesnt want to divorce his wife, how could that female student threaten Jiang Wan? Moreover, that female student didnt even know Jiang Wan was married. She was the victim.
Jiang Wan quickly said, Princess, no, she was the one who seduced me! It was all done by Qian Qingyu. She was also the one who forced me. If I didnt want to divorce my wife, she would tell everyone that I was disrespected as a teacher and humiliated her. I was threatened by her, so I had no choice but to divorce my wife.
Qian qingyu frowned and said, Nonsense, Jiang Wan. At that time, I didnt even know that you had a wife. How could I threaten you? You lied and harmed peoples lives. Arent you afraid of retribution?
Jiang Wan looked up and saw Qian Qingyu. She was slightly stunned. Why are you here?
Qian Qingyu looked at Jiang Wan and felt very disgusted. I dare to swear that everything I said is true. Do you dare to swear?
Jiang Wan said, Of course I dare to swear. If it werent for you seducing me and threatening me, I would have gone crazy to do such an indecent thing. Now you still want me to go down with you? Dont even think about it!
Qian Qingyu was extremely anxious. It was as if she had returned to that day when no one believed her and everyone came to mock her..
Qing yuan also said, So that little slut is you. You came out just in time. You almost ruined Jiang Wans reputation. If you dare to cause trouble again today, I will make sure you die a horrible death.
Lu ang said lightly, Sister, you have such a big mouth. How can you make a move on my people? Jiang Wan forced his wife to die first and lied to the female studentster. His crime is unforgivable. Men, drag him away and send him to the border.
Qing Yuan said anxiously, Second Brother, how can you let Jiang Wan leave without any reason?
Chapter 433
Chapter 433: Chapter 433, the second Princes marriage was approaching
Lu Ang looked at Qing Yuan and said, Do I need a reason to punish a musician?
Qing Yuan was speechless.
Lu Ang stood up and left the manor. Qiao Nihong chased after him. She nced at Qian qingyu, who was beside Lu ang, and said, Lu Ang, Princess Qing Yuan will not be satisfied with you convicting Jiang Wan so easily.
Besides, this doesnt prove that Qian Qingyu is innocent.
Lu Ang said to Qiao nihong, I cant punish a mere musician, can I?
He really didnt want to see Jiang Wan and Qian Qingyu continue to confront each other. He was very unhappy to see Jiang Wan. If he couldnt even punish a musician, then what he did as a prince would be meaningless.
When Qian Qingyu went back, she sat in front of the carriage again and saw Jiang Wan being taken away by the guards in the mansion from a distance.
She felt relieved and looked at the scorching sun in the sky, which drove away the haze she had had for years.
Qingyu.
Hearing Lu Angs shout in the carriage, Qian Qingyu went in and asked, What Do You Want, Your Highness?
Sit inside while its outside,Lu Ang said. From now on, you can stay in the Princes residence with Peace of mind.
Thank You, Your Highness.
As soon as Lu ang entered the residence, Nanny Ning came over and reported, Your Highness, youre finally back. The Changle Pce has announced that you and Miss Qingyu are going.
Upon hearing that it was announced by the Empress, Qingyu immediately became nervous. Your Highness...
When my mother saw you, she must have wanted to ask about West Mountain Academy. You Dont have to be nervous. My mother is the gentlest in the world.
It was impossible for Qian Qing Yu not to be nervous.
As Lu ang entered the pce, Qian Qing Yu did not dare to raise her head to look at the high and mighty woman sitting on the main seat in the hall. She knelt down and bowed. This servant greets the empress.
Lady Qiao said slowly, No need. Back then, I let you leave the second Princes pce. I did not expect that I would harm you.
All these years, I did not know that West Mountain Academy would turn out like this. When we recruit students next year, we will strictly investigate.
Qian qingyu knelt down and said, Thank you, Your Majesty.
You may leave,Lady Qiao said. Ang-er, you may stay.
Qian Qingyu took a few steps back before turning around to leave.
After seeing Qian Qingyu leave, Qiao Jinniang said to Lu ang, I heard from Nihon that Qian Qingyu is someone in your room?
Lu ang said, Nihon is spouting nonsense. She is just a servant girl by my side.
Qiao jinniang asked softly, You have never doted on her? In that case, I owe her in the end. I heard that she still has rtives in Jiangnan. I n to give her arge sum of money so that she can return to Jiangnan to seek help from her rtives to start a small business.
Even if she cant find any rtives, she can still get the Qian familys Bai Wei Lou to help her. After all, she is only a servant in the imperial residence.
Lu ang said, Whats so bad about being a servant in the imperial residence? I have never mistreated servants. As a servant in the imperial residence, I dont have to worry about food and clothing. No one dares to bully her.
Qiao jinniang said, A servant is still a servant. How can a servant bepared to a good title? Besides, she will get married in this lifetime. The difference between a servant and a good titles husband is like the difference between heaven and Earth.
Qiao Jinniang saw Lu Angs conflicted look and said, You should think about it yourself.
..
After returning to the imperial residence.
Lu Ang took a few nces at Qingyu and felt unhappy. He knew that Qingyu wanted to get married. Otherwise, she would not have been deceived by Jiang Wan. However, if she were to leave the imperial residence.., what if she was bullied by a man like Jiang Wan again?
Qingyu handed Lu ang a cup of tea and asked, Your Highness, is there anything on my face?
Lu Ang took the tea and took a sip. Its nothing. I have a headache. Give me a massage.
Qian Qingyu walked behind Lu ang and pressed his temple with her thumb. Your Highness, is your strength okay?
Yes.
Lu ang narrowed his eyes and made up his mind.
He selfishly wanted to keep Qian Qingyu by his side. What was so good about getting married?
Nanny Ning was never married, and now she was the one and only nanny in the mansion.
If Qian Qingyu stayed in the mansion, she would be the nanny in the mansion even when she was old. Why did she still want to get married out of the mansion? Wouldnt it be terrible if she married someone else?
If she didnt get married, she could be at ease.
Qian Qingyu didnt know what Lu Ang was thinking, but she had made up her mind. Unless His Highness drove her away, she would stay by his side and be his ve for the rest of her life.
..
At the beginning of October, the cold wind in the early winter blew down the leaves on the ground. The temperature dropped overnight, and the maids who had just woken up changed into winter clothes.
Qian Qingyu went to Lu Angs room early in the morning. Lu Ang had received an errand in the Ministry of Works. He had to attend morning court meetings every morning. Even if there was no morning court meeting, he had to go to the pce to learn.
Qian Qingyu entered. Lu Ang had just woken up. He saw Qian qingyu and said, After todays court meeting, I have an appointment with Nichang and the others to go to the Yuan Xi Temple. Theres no need to prepare my lunch at noon.
Yes, Your Highness.Qian qingyu walked to a box at the side and took out arge cloak. She handed it to Lu Angs personal servant and said, The Yuan Xi Temple is on the mountain. Its very cold. Your Highness should put on the cloak when you go up the mountain.
Lu ang said, Its not so cold. How can people who practice martial arts be afraid of the cold?
Qian Qingyu helped Lu ang put on the cloak and tied a ribbon around his waist. She said, Its easy to catch a cold in winter. Your Highness should wear more clothes to take care of yourself.
Lu ang smiled. Okay.
After Qian Qingyu sent Lu ang off, Si Xi snorted. Your Highness has an appointment with Princess Nichang at the Yuan Xi Temple. The wedding ising soon. Qian Qingyu, I advise you to stop your seductive thoughts.
Lucky said, What are you talking about? Be careful that Nanny Ning doesnt hear you and p your mouth!
Si Xi looked at lucky with contempt and said, Youre so good to her, do you really think she can be His Highnesssidekick? Shes just a substitute for Miss Nichang..
Yuan Xi temple was famous for holding marriages and seeking children. His Highness had gone to seek marriage. Once Miss Nichang entered, how could Qian Qingyu, the imposter, be worthy of staying in the royal residence!
Qingyu looked at Si XI indifferently and said, If Im not worthy, then youre worthy again?
Si XI said, When Miss Nichang enters, youll have a good time!
After Si Xi left.., lucky said to qingyu, Ignore her. Shes just jealous that His Highness thinks highly of you. Miss Nichang is a kind person. Moreover, after a long time, I can see that you and Miss Nichang have many differences.
The two of them had different temperaments and figures. Qingyu was the frail Liu Fufeng, while Qiao Nichang was the bright and elegant youngdy from an aristocratic family.
Qingyu said, Miss Nichang is a kind person. She Wont mind these things. I also look forward to her entering the residence as soon as possible. I think His Highness will be happier this way.
Qingyu remembered that His Highness wanted Miss Nichang to stay in the pce when she was young. It would be better after Miss Nichang reached her marriageable age next year.
Chapter 434
Chapter 434: Chapter 434, the fate of marriage
The Yuan Xi Temple had always been bustling with incense.
As soon as the carriage stopped at the door, Qiao Nihongs maidservant carried a lot of gold ingots folded in yellow paper into the temple. Qiao Nihongs maidservant did not want to be outdone and carried a lot of fruits.
A young novice monk came forward to wee them. Amitabha, His Highness the second prince, the princess, Miss Qiao, Young Master Qian, pleasee in.
Qian Yu curiously asked Qiao nihong, This Yuan Xi temple has always been seeking marriage. Arent the two sisters here to seek sess next year? They should be seeking bodhisattva Wenshu from Wenchang.
Qiao nihong said, There are also two bodhisattvas from Wenshu and Wenchang in the Yuan Xi Temple. Moreover, these two bodhisattvas in the Yuan Xi temple usually dont have anyone to worship them.
Suddenly, there are such generous devotees like us whoe to worship them. Bodhisattvas will naturally protect us.
Unlike other temples that are full of worshippers, Bodhisattva Wenshu wont be able to control Wenchang.
Qian Yu:...Qiao Nihong had a point.
Lu Ang was deeply influenced by Qiao Jinniang. He was not a Buddhist. Usually, he came to the temple because Qiao Nihong did not have a biological brother. He only came to apany the two Qiao cousins.
However, after entering the temple, he went to worship the bodhisattva with respect and drew a lot.
When the lot fell out, Lu ang handed the lot to the little novice monk beside him. The little novice monk flipped through the corresponding lot and copied down the lot.
Lu Ang saw that it was a good lot and said, Todays luck is not bad.
The abbot walked over, he gave a Buddhist promation to Lu ang and said, Amitabha. What Your Highness has is a good fortune in marriage. The heaven-fake good fortune is a good match, and the two families are mostpatible. The zither tune and the rustling are set before the real one, and the weta is summoned to be stung..
In this fortune, it was said that your highness and the woman with the same mind were destined to be together. In this life, the zither and the rustling would definitely be harmonious, and they would grow old together. There would be many children and grandchildren.
Congrattions, Your Highness, your marriage ising.
Lu ang said, Master, this time, it wont work. I dont have anyone who shares the same heart and mind, let alone a woman who loves each other. This fortune doesnt allow it.
The abbot just smiled and said, Your Highness, keep this fortune. Whether its urate or not, well see in the future.
Most of the people who came to the Yuanxi temple were people who sought marriage. Therefore, there was a marriage tree here. Legend had it that by stepping on the Plum Blossom Stakes, one could safely hang the red rope on the marriage tree. The higher the red rope was hung, the more they could be together for life.
Lu Ang did not believe in these things.
On the other hand, Qiao Ni-hong and Qiao Ni-hong were having a great time. The two of them werepeting to see who could hang the red rope higher.
When they left Yuanxi Temple, Qiao Ni-hong bought four marriage talismans and gave them to each of them. Take this with you. This is for me. When I have a marriage, you can take it off.
Lu ang sighed. It cant be forever, right?
Qiao Nihong snorted. It seems that you want me to tear down your mansion, right?
Come on, Im afraid of you. Ill take it day and night and pray for you to get married soon. Ill have to find someone to control you.
Lu ang hung the marriage talismans in front of the sash.
They didnt go back to the Marquis Mansion of an Yuan and the Xie mansion directly. Instead, they went to Lu Angs mansion.
Lu Ang was not weak yet. He could have stayed in the pce until he was 20 years old. Butst year, he begged his parents toe out and live in the mansion.
Living in the pce was not as free as living in the mansion.
Qian Qingyu heard that Lu Ang had returned and went to the front yard to wee him. Lu ang saw Qian qingyu and said, You came at the right time. Go to the wine cer and bring the peach blossom wine to Qingfeng Garden.
Yes,Qian Qingyu replied.
Qian Yu said to Lu ang, Your Highness, is it inappropriate to drink? Nichang is still young.
Qiao nichang said, Brother Yu, why are you nagging like Father and mother? Its not easy for us toe out for a day. Its fine to drink a little.
When Qian Yu heard what Qiao Nichang said, he could only agree. Then you can only drink a little. Youre not allowed to drink too much.
Lu ang said, Dont worry. I Wont get drunk.
When Qian Qingyu brought the wine over, she had already ced the wine in the warm wine pot to warm it. Lu ang said, Theres no need to warm the wine. We all like to eat cold things.
Qian qingyu gently smiled and advised, Your Highness, drinking cold wine is not easy to get rid of. Moreover, its already winter. The princess and Miss Qiao shouldnt eat raw cold things, let alone wine.
Lu ang said, Then lets drink warm wine.
Qiao Nihong tilted her head and looked at Lu Ang. When did you be so obedient? Aunt Empress has always told you to drink warm wine, but you did not listen...
Qian qingyu smiled and said, Your Highness is not obedient, but you feel sorry for the two youngdies.
Qian qingyu gave Lu ang wine. The four of them could not hold their liquor well. At first, they swore that they would not get drunk, butter, apart from Qian Yu who was still a little sober, the rest were extremely drunk.
When Nanny Ning came over, she scolded Qian qingyu, His Highness wants to drink wine, how can you really give him wine? This wine is from the Crown Princes pce. Serve His Highness back to his room to rest first.
She could only send the two Miss Qiao home by herself. His Highness had brought his two younger sisters to get drunk and spread it to the pce, so he should be punished again.
Qian Qingyu looked thin and weak, but after three years of hard work, she was quite strong. She did not need help from others to help the half-drunk Lu ang back to his room.
When they reached the room, Lucky brought a bowl of hangover soup. I forgot to tell you, when His Highness wants to drink, you must stop him.
Lucky walked up to him and said, Your Highness, drink the hangover soup first before you sleep.
Lu ang said, Im not drunk... Dont drink the hangover soup. Its too fishy, I dont need to drink the hangover soup.
Qian qingyu said to lucky, Give me the hangover soup.
Qian qingyu took the hangover soup and said softly, Your Highness is not drunk, but if you dont Drink the Soup Tomorrow, you will have a headache. Just drink some.
Lu ang frowned, but he still drank the antidote in one gulp.
Qian Qingyu then took off Lu Angs clothes. When she took off the ribbon, she saw the marriage talisman hanging on it. She took off her outer clothes, and there was a fortune sign hidden in her sleeve.
Lucky asked softly, This fortune sign is a good fortune? What does it mean?
Qian qingyu looked at the meaning of the fortune sign, and felt happy for her highness, she said to lucky, It says that his highness will be able to get married to a woman who is connected to him in his life. He will also be able to y the zither, y the zither, and sing until he has a full family. That is such a good thing.
Lucky asked, Then who is the woman who is connected to him?
Qian qingyu said, I just saw that the marriage talisman on Miss Nichangs body is the same as the one on his highnesswaist. There is no other woman who is connected to him other than Miss Nichang.
Lucky looked at Qian qingyu curiously and said, Arent you disappointed? I can see that you like His Highness.
Qian qingyu said, His Highness is so good. Who can not like him? But I know my own limitations. It is enough that I can serve him by his side. It is already my fortune to be his servant.
Chapter 435
Chapter 435: Chapter 435. Do not change your mind
After Nanny Ning returned from Marquis an Yuans and Xies residences, she called Qian Qingyu to the courtyard and said, His Highness thinks highly of you. I have always seen you as a sensible person. How can I allow His Highness to get drunk today?
Qian qingyu said, This servant understands my mistake. If this happens again in the future, I will definitely stop His Highness.
Nanny Ning sighed and said, Forget it. On ount that you are a neer, I will let you off this time. If you do it again in the future, Dont me me for punishing you.
Qian qingyu lowered her head and agreed.
Nanny Ning warned Qian qingyu again, Also, there are some rumors in the manor recently. I have already ruthlessly dealt with those maidservants. Si Xi has also been demoted to a third-ss maidservant. You are a smart person. If some things be true, then Si XIs fate will also be yours!
Qian qingyu replied repeatedly, I will definitely do my duty. I dont dare to have any other thoughts.
..
After Lu ang woke up in the middle of the night, he had a terrible headache and called out softly.
However, it was the Ruyi who came to watch the night. Your Highness, do you want to drink water?
Go and call Qingyu over.
Lu Angs head hurt. Lu Xi lied to him. She clearly said that the peach blossom wine was not drunk, so he gave the peach blossom wine to neon and neon to drink.
Ruyi agreed and went into Lucky and Whispers room. When Whisper heard that Lu ang was looking for her, she did not dare to dy. Her waterfall-like long hair was roughly tied up with a hairpin. She wore a thin outer garment and went into Lu Angs room.
Your Highness, what can I do for You?
Lu ang said, My head hurts. Help me massage it.
Whisper walked to the bedside and gently pressed Lu Angs head.
Lu Ang took in a breath of cold air and reached out to touch Qingyus hand. Why are your hands so cold?
Qian qingyu said, Its inevitable that your hands and feet will be cold in winter. Your Highness, Dont drink in the future. My father died of alcoholism back then. Being drunk is the most hurtful thing.
Lu ang said, Okay, I Wont drink more in the future.
Qian Qingyu smiled and held Lu Angs head. Seeing that he was gradually falling asleep, Qian Qingyu did not dare to leave just like that. She was afraid that Lu ang would wake up and cry out for a headacheter.
She borrowed a thin quilt from Ruyi and fell asleep on the foot of the bed. Her body was half-leaning on the bedside as if she had not slept.
When the sky was just beginning to Brighten, Lu Ang woke up. Today, he did not go to the morning court but still had to go to the pce. He did not sleep anymore. When he got up, he saw Qian Qingyu leaning on the bedside.
Lu Ang looked at her face, which was only the size of his hand, and wanted to kiss her.
Lu Ang thought so and did so. He quickly pecked on the side of her face and left.
After lying back, his face turned red.
Qian qingyu woke up when she sensed the movement. She didnt know what touched her face just now. Seeing Lu Angs Red Face, she went over and touched Lu angs forehead.
Ah! Its so hot. Is she still drunk or Hot?Qian qingyu muttered to herself, Lets go to the imperial physician.
Lu ang reached out and grabbed Qian Qingyus wrist. Qian Qingyu stumbled and fell on Lu Angs quilt, close to Lu Angs eyes.
Your Highness...
Lu Ang didnt let go of Qian Qingyu, but looked into her eyes carefully. Your eyes are very beautiful.
Lu ang said softly, Your Highness, you must still be drunk. I Am Qingyu, not Miss Nichang.
Lu ang said, I know.
Qian qingyu trembled and said, You let go of me... it is not appropriate to be seen by others.
Lu ang said, What is not appropriate? We used to be like this when we were young.
You already said that we were young. You and I are almost 18 years old. If you continue to be like this, it will be inappropriate.Qian qingyu struggled to get up.
Lu ang saw that Qian Qingyu was full of conflict, so he could only let go of Qian Qingyu. Looking at her fleeing back, he sighed helplessly.
The fortune written yesterday was still not effective. He realized that he had someone he liked, but she was so against him.
How am I inferior to that Jiang Wan? He is a prince..
Qian Qingyu ran to the door and took in the cold wind to calm herself down. If this continued, she might not be able to control her thoughts.
After the redness on Qian Qingyus face receded, she went back into the room and waited for Lu Ang to get dressed.
Lu Ang said to Qian qingyu, Im sorry about what happened just now. I didnt mean to be flirtatious with you. Maybe I was still drunk yesterday.
Qian Qingyu was disappointed. Yes, with her status, it must have been the second Princes drunken stupidity.
You dont have to apologize to me, Master.
Qian Qingyu put on the marriage charm that she picked yesterday for Lu Ang. She felt that the marriage charm was too hot to handle. Since His Highness would have a marriage of zither and rustle, it was better for her servant to keep her heart.
..
It was December and the winter plum blossoms were in full bloom in the mansion. Lu Ang invited his family and friends to the mansion for a banquet.
The crown prince and the others would being today. Qian Qingyu and the other maidservants did not dare to let their guard down. They began to prepare for the banquet early in the morning.
There was a red plum hill in the mansion. As far as the eye could see, there were many red plum blossoms in full bloom. It added a touch of color to the cold and boring winter.
Qian Qingyu was arranged by Nanny Ning to serve the crown prince.
Lu Xi recognized Qian Qingyu as soon as she saw her. Werent you a student of West Mountain Academy? Why did you be a servant in Angdis mansion?
Qian qingyu said, Your Highness, the second Prince has helped me a lot. I have no way to repay him. I can only repay the favor of the second Prince for me.
Lu Xi said, I see. You and niching look alike. Naturally, brother Ang will help you.
Lu Ang saw that his royal brother, who had always kept his distance from women and looked coldly at beauties, was now chatting happily with Qian Qingyu. He was very displeased and walked over to pull Qian qingyu away.
When they reached the depths of Merlin, Lu ang let go. What did you say to My Royal Brother Just Now? Its better that you dont talk to him in the future. He likes to be moody. There are no pce maids in the Eastern Pce.
Qian qingyu said, How can the crown prince be unpredictable? I often heard in the academy and the backyard that the crown prince has the style of His Majesty when he was young. He is the kindest person.
Lu ang asked, In your eyes, is my royal brother that good?
Of course the crown prince is good.
Qian Qingyu answered. She remembered that Lu ang and Lu Xi were very close brothers.
When they were young, Lu Ang would follow Lu Xi whenever he saw her. He didnt allow anyone to say anything bad about the crown prince.
Lu Angs face turned dark when he heard Qian Qingyus answer. He said in a strange tone, Its a pity that my royal brother doesnt like women. Even if youre as beautiful as a fairy, its useless!
Ah?Qian Qingyu was very surprised. It was often said that Lu Xi had a good rtionship with long yang. Was It True?
Lu ang thought that Qian Qingyu really liked Lu XI. The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. He held Qian Qingyus chin and said, You are my ve. Dont change your mind. Do you understand?
Chapter 436
Chapter 436: Chapter 436, sleeping on the same bed
Qian qingyu said, I Am Your Highnessmaid. I will never be a maid for anyone else in my life, and I will never change my mind.
Lu Ang heard her promise and smiled slightly. He looked at a plum blossom that was blown away by the wind and fell on Qian Qingyus hair bun. He raised his hand and took the plum blossom down.
The two of them were very close and quiet. Their eyes met.
Lu ang lowered his head and kissed Qian Qingyus forehead. I have stamped it. Remember what you said.
Qian qingyu touched her forehead. The touch made her whole body numb. Your Highness...
Lu ang lowered his head and kissed her red lips again. His actions were unfamiliar, but he tasted something sweeter than the glutinous rice balls made by his mother.
Qian Qingyu was held in Lu Angs arms. At this moment, she forgot to keep her identity.
She liked his highness so much, why would she push him away at this time?
After a long time, when both of them were panting, the two of them separated. Qian qingyu lowered her head shyly.
At this moment, Qiao Nichang and Qian Yus voices came from not far away. With the cover of the plum tree, only their voices could be heard, but no one could see them.
Sister Nichang, what did you think about what I told youst time? If you agree, I will ask my mother to go to the Xie residence to propose marriage.
Qiao Nichang lowered her head and touched the corner of her clothes. My mother is not well, and I am still young. I dont want to get married so early. Since you have promised me to stay in Chang an, why are you in such a hurry?
Qian yu said, I am just afraid that Lu ang...
Aiya, I am still young anyway. There is no need to rush the marriage. Let me settle down and get the title first before we talk about it!
Qian Yus words were not very clear. She then remembered Miss Nishang. From the voice, it sounded like the crown prince of King Wu..
Lu Ang held her hand and went back to the banquet. He did not allow her to serve the crown prince anymore. He even let her sit beside him.
Qingyu sat beside Lu ang as if she was sitting on pins and needles. However, because it was His Highnessorder, she did not dare to disobey. She could only kneel beside Lu ang.
Lu Xi saw this and frowned slightly. She did not say anything.
Lu Ang handed a piece of plum blossom cake to qingyu and said, Try the plum blossom cake. Its very sweet.
Qian Qingyu was stared at by everyone. She was at a loss. She could only take a small sip and said, It is very sweet.
But I dont think its as sweet as you,Lu Ang said in a voice that could be heard by the two of them.
Qian qingyu lowered her head shyly.
Yue Rong, the daughter of Qin Miaomiao, asked Qiao nihong curiously, Sister Hong, who is the sister next to the second Prince? She looks like sister Nichang. Ive never seen her before.
Qiao nihong replied, Her name is qingyu.
Qiao Nihong had forgotten about the past. Lu Ang had never taken care of a woman like this before. After all, he was a prince, yet he was feeding a servant girl with such tenderness and affection today, this was clearly an acknowledgment that Qian Qingyus rtionship with him was extraordinary.
After the banquet, when Lu Ang sent Lu Xi away, Lu Xi warned Lu ang, Although you are a prince, you can not take concubines and side concubines. Otherwise, others will say that mother is lenient with herself and is strict with others.
Lu ang said, I dont n to take concubines and side concubines. I only have one princess.
Lu Xi understood what he was thinking from Lu Angs eyes, and her face was full of displeasure. After all, Qian Qingyu was a servant girl without parents. It was inappropriate for this ve to be a princess.
When Qian Qingyu heard Lu Angs words, she was stunned. She wouldnt take concubines and no side concubines..
Qian qingyu lowered her head and did not dare to have any more expectations.
Qian Qingyu returned to her room and took a sip of hot tea.
Lucky and Ruyi came in. Lucky said with a smile, His Highness asked you to sit beside him just now. It seems that your wedding ising soon. Congrattions.
Ruyi also said, Since his highness treats you so intimately in front of everyone, at least you can be a concubine in the royal mansion. Thats Great.
Behind the two of them was Si XI. She said, What Princes concubine? She just has the same face as Miss Nichang..
I just found out that Miss Nichang and Prince Wus crown prince Qian Yu are in love. His Highness just lost Miss Nichang, so he used Qian Qingyu as a substitute.
The hot tea in Qian Qingyus hand fell to the ground.
Si Xi said, His Highness likes Miss Nichang, and you are just a substitute fake. To think that the two of you rushed here to congratte the fake, just waiting to see if his highness will give Qian Qingyu a title!
Ji Xiang said, You are now a third-ss servant girl, who allowed you toe in?
Si Xi looked at Qian Qingyu with contempt and said in a strange tone, You took Miss Nichangs light and really thought of yourself as half a master of the mansion. Arent you still a servant girl now?
In Qian Qingyus mind, the words that Lu Ang had said to the crown prince just now rang out. There was only one princess. She would not take concubines and would not have side concubines.
So, just as Si XI had said, she was indeed a fake to rece Miss Nichang.
Qian qingyu squatted down to clean up the Teacup that had fallen to the ground. The porcin pieces were sharp and cut her hand, but she did not feel any pain at all.
At night, when Qian Qingyu was about to rest, lucky came over and smiled ambiguously at Qian Qingyu. His Highness said to leave the night watch to you in the future... When you have a title, lets see how arrogant Si XI will be!
Qian qingyu pursed her lips and said, Si XI is right.
Indeed, she only took advantage of the fact that she looked like Miss Nishang..
Lucky said, Dont believe what Si Xi said. Who is the master? If master really likes Miss Nishang, how could he be snatched away by Prince Qian? Miss Nishang is not married yet. What substitute? Si Xi is just jealous of you!
Qian qingyu felt better after listening to Luckys advice, so she went to Lu Angs room.
She walked to the small bed at the side and spread the thin quilt. Then she went to help Lu ang wash up and take a rest. When Lu Ang entered the quilt, he grabbed Qian Qingyus wrist and said, Sleep here.
Qian qingyu said, Your Highness, this is not appropriate...
Again.Lu ang pulled Qian Qingyu into the quilt. The small bed outside is very cold. You are still drinking medicine. It is warm in my room.
Qian Qingyu looked at his handsome face under the candlelight and replied, Yes, Ill sleep outside. You can get water if you want at night.
Lu ang held Qian qingyu down and said, I didnt really ask you to watch the night.
Then you?
Before Qian Qingyu finished speaking, Lu Ang got closer to her and kissed the corner of her lips. Dont you understand what Im thinking?
Qian qingyu blinked and raised her head in response to Lu Angs kiss. So what if she was used as a substitute?
At least it would make her highness happy. If Her Highness was happy, she would be happy too.
Chapter 437
Chapter 437: Chapter 437, applying medicine
The next morning, Qingyu heard some movement around her and slowly opened her eyes. When she saw that Lu Ang had woken up, she wanted to get up, but her whole body was sore.
Lu ang saw that she frowned slightly and smiled with satisfaction. You dont have to get up. Just let the other maids serve me.
Qingyu didnt try to force herself, because she was still naked..
Lu Ang kissed her forehead and said, Go back to sleep.
After Lu ang left, Qian Qingyu didnt dare to sleep anymore. She put on her clothes and got up, then went back to her room to wash up.
Lucky smiled at Qian Qingyu and said, Did you serve His Highness Yesterday? It seems that I was right. Did His Highness say that he would give you a title?
Qian qingyu shook her head.
Lucky said unhappily, His Highness has always been kind. Why wouldnt he give you a title?
Qian qingyu smiled slightly and said, I dont ask for a title.
It was her fortune to be able to stay by the second princes side. She knew where she came from. She had no parents and her mother was an unspeakable illegitimate daughter. She was as lowly as dust in front of His Highness. How could she dare to ask for a title?
Lucky said, You are so silly. His Highness is so easy to talk to. If you dont ask for status now, it will be difficult to ask for status in the future.
Qian qingyu only smiled faintly. After changing her clothes in the room, she went to prepare pastries for his highness to use when he returned to the mansionter.
Lu Ang rushed back to the mansion today. After Lu Xi stopped him.., lu Xi looked at his smug expression and said, What kind of happy asion are you having? Father looked at you a few times just now, and you only know how to Giggle.
......
Lu ang said, You wont understand my happy asion.
Lu Xi said, Look at you giggling. Whats with the injury on your neck? What do the maids in the Imperial Residence Do? The mark looks like it was scratched by a cat. Does anyone in the imperial residence have a cat?
Lu ang touched the wound and said, You wont understand.
Lu Xi said, Go to the imperial hospital and get a bottle of jade muscle scar removal ointment to apply it. The jade muscle scar removal ointment is very useful.
Thank you for the Reminder.After Lu Ang said that, he went to the imperial hospital.
Lu Xi frowned. She didnt know why he was so silly?
Lu Ang went to the imperial hospital and took all the jade muscle scar removal ointment from the imperial hospital. When he returned to the Princes mansion, he saw Qian Qingyu at the door and said, Its cold. You Dont have to wait at the door in the future. Come in with me.
Qian Qingyu followed Lu ang into his room. Lu Ang reached out to untie the knot on Qian Qingyus clothes. Qian qingyu held Lu Angs hand and said, Your Highness, its still daytime.
Lu ang smiled lightly and said, What are you thinking about? Last night, when I bathed after the incident, I saw that you had a lot of whish injuries. This is the secret medicine in the pce, jade muscle scar removal ointment. Daily application will definitely remove whish injuries.
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, Do you dislike my body...
Lu ang said, I dont dislike it, not at all. I just feel sorry for you. This jade muscle scar removal ointment can also be used to apply on your hands. This way, you can also do your favorite embroidery as soon as possible. Im waiting for you to embroider a piece of clothing for me.
Lu Ang dug out a thickyer of ointment to apply on Qian Qingyus hands.
He had no idea how much the imperial physicians in the imperial hospital would feel sorry for him.
Qian Qingyu looked at Lu ang applying the ointment on her hands, and her heart was filled with sweetness.
After Lu ang finished applying the ointment on her hands, he said, Move all your things to my ce and live here in the future. Oh right, you have to change your clothes too. The clothes on you are all worn by the maidservants in the residence. Ill go to the Shang Pce...
Qian Qingyu pulled Lu ang back and said, Your Highness, I am a maidservant after all. How can I ask the Shang Pce to make clothes for me?
Thats true. Then I will take you to the tailors shop on the main street to pick out some clothes to make.
Lu ang said, Lets go now. The clothes of the maidservants in the mansion are on you. It makes your appearance lose a lot of colors.
Qian Qingyu was also happy to see that she could leave the mansion. She had never strolled on Chang an street. She had heard that it was bustling outside, but she had never been there before.
Lu ang brought Qian Qingyu out of the mansion and went to the tailor shop next to the Hundred Savory restaurant.
Qian qingyu held Lu Angs hand and said, I want to go to the Hundred Savory restaurant for a meal. Is that okay?
Lu Ang saw that it was time for dinner, so he naturally agreed. Of course.
When the waiter of the restaurant saw that it was Lu ang, he quickly came over to wee him. Your Highness, pleasee in. Do you want a private room?
Lu ang said, Yes.
Lu ang brought Qian Qingyu to the private room on the second floor and ordered the signature dishes of the restaurant.
Qian qingyu said softly, Lin an also has the restaurant. Other than my father who drank too much, the only thing I remember about Lin an is the restaurant. There is a glutinous rice aunt in the restaurant.
In the middle of the night, she would always put some new dishes made with leftover ingredients in the alley behind her.
Unfortunately, there were also many people who snatched the dishes. I couldnt get them every time. At that time, I thought that it would be great if I could eat the dishes in the hundred savory restaurant...
Lu ang said with heartache, In the future, if you want to eat, just eat. You Dont have to worry so much. If you want to eat in the Hundred Savory restaurant every day, you can eat there.
Why couldnt he meet Qian qingyu earlier?
When the dishes were served, Qian Qingyu looked at the table full of delicacies and said, This is too much. If we cant finish it, it will be a waste.
Lu ang said, It wont be a waste. You eat first.
As soon as he said that, Qiao Nihong and the others came in through the door.
Lu Ang said to Qiao Nihong and Qiao nishang, Take Qingyu to pick a few pieces of good cloth and introduce a good tailor to make clothes for her.
Qian Qingyu saw Qiao Nichang and the others arrive and stood up to salute. Lu Ang gently patted her hand and said, In the future, they will call you cousin-inw. Theres no need to salute.
Qian Yu came over and smiled. Cousin-inw.
Qian Qingyu was somewhat at a loss.
Qiao Nichang looked at Lu ang and said, Father just said that you knew to smile foolishly when you went to court today. Did something good happen? Could it be that the crown princes cousin gave up the crown prince position to you?
Qian Qingyus face turned pale when she heard this. could these words be said without reason?
Lu ang said, Bah Bah Bah, dont say such unlucky words on happy days. What kind of happy asion is this?
Qiao nihong said, Then what kind of happy asion is there?
Lu ang said, Didnt I already say that you guys are going to have a cousin-inw?
Yue Rong, who was beside Qiao nihong, asked innocently, But isnt she a servant girl? Didnt the book say that a servant girl can not be a princess consort?
Qiao Nihon picked up a drumstick for Yue Rong and said, Shut your mouth!
Yue Rong said, Oh, I understand now. Is it because sister nichang and brother Qian Yu are together? Your Highness, brother, are you jealous, so you deliberately stay with the servant girl that Sister Nichang imagined, wanting sister Nichang to be jealous?? Its all like this in the book now.
Lu ang also picked up another drumstick for Yue Rong. Shut your mouth!
Qian qingyu nced at Lu Ang. Yue Rong was young, but her words might not be wrong. Otherwise, Lu ang would not have stopped Yue Rongs mouth.
Chapter 438
Chapter 438: Chapter 438, clothes
When they arrived at the tailors shop, Qiao Neon and Qiao neon were busy choosing the fabrics for Qian Qingyu.
The two of them had chosen the ones they liked. Qian Qingyu had chosen the ones that Qiao Neon had chosen. His Highness liked Qiao Neon, so he had chosen the ones that Qiao Neon liked. His Highness would definitely like them too.
When the tailor measured Qian Qingyu, he clicked his tongue and said, Miss, you are the thinnest person I have ever seen. You Wont be able to support yourself wearing this kind of fabric...
Lets do it this way,Qian Qingyu said. It was enough that her highness liked it.
After the tailor calcted the price, he said, Its a total of five hundred taels of silver.
After Qian Qingyu learned the price of the clothes, she was surprised. Why is it so expensive? I dont want it.
Five hundred taels of silver was enough for her to live for her whole life. It was a bit too much to be so expensive for just a few sets of clothes.
Qiao nishang said, Brother Ang has plenty of silver. You Dont have to save money for him. Hes really too much. He already made you his man long ago and even made you wear the clothes of a servant girl!
Qiao nishang said, Thats right. Spend it. These taels of silver are nothing in front of the imperial residence.
Qian qingyu finally nodded under the persuasion of the two of them. However, she still felt a little unsatisfied in her heart. She thought that after her hands were healed, she would make a few sets of clothes for his highness.
When the tailor learned that they were from the Prince of Pingliangs mansion, he did not dare to be negligent and ordered the embroidery girls to work on the clothes overnight.
In just three days, the clothes were made and brought to the Princes mansion.
Qian Qingyu had already lived in Lu Angs courtyard. After getting the clothes, she could not wait to try them on.
......
However, although the clothes were gorgeous, they were not something that she could support.
She wanted to wear gorgeous clothes and imitate Qiao Nishang, but she could not do it at all.
Qiao Nishang was born to be a rich youngdy. Her parents were born noble, how could she, a servant,pare to them?
Qian Qingyu might be defeated, but this 500 taels of silver was going to be wasted..
Qian Qingyu changed into the original servant girls clothes and nned to use her monthly silver to buy a few sets of clothes.
In fact, there were no rules in the manor that prevented the maids from going out. As long as they were not on duty, they were allowed to go out.
Lucky was not on duty today, so Qian Qingyu allowed lucky to go out of the manor to buy clothes.
Lucky heard Qian Qingyu say that the clothes she wore earlier were strange, so he said, Then you can change them if you cant wear them. His Highness doesntck these silver taels. What clothes can you buy with your monthly allowance?
Qian qingyu said, Ive only heard that people rely on clothes and saddles. Its just that if people are not good enough, they cant even wear gorgeous clothes.
Lucky smiled. Why do you need to belittle yourself? You have the same appearance as the most beautiful woman in Chang an. How can you not support your clothes?
Your hair style, makeup, and jewelry are just a little nd. Instead of buying new clothes, you might as well buy some rouge, makeup, and jewelry.
Lucky pulled Qian Qingyu into the Rouge shop. The shopkeeper in the Rouge shop gave Qian Qingyu a bright makeup.
Lucky asked Qingyu to look at her in the mirror, Look, doesnt this make her look more like Miss Nichang? What weck now is jewelry. We cant use gold jewelry. I know a silver jewelry shop that has very exquisite hair crowns.
Qian qingyu followed lucky to the jewelry shop and took a fancy to a set of exquisite hair. It actually cost fifty taels of silver. Qian qingyu only had ten taels of silver on her.
This was already the monthly sry of a first-ss servant girl in the Princes mansion.
When the shopkeeper saw that the two of them looked like servant girls from some manor.., he said, If you cant afford it, why are you looking at it? Dont move. Dont break my hair. Otherwise, you wont be able to afford it even if you sell it. A mere servant girl wants to use the same thing as her master.
Lucky said, How can it be damaged? Its just a light touch. Your jewelry is also imitating the jewelry in the jewelry pavilion. Who doesnt know that you often go to the jewelry pavilion to look at it and dont buy it? You secretly draw it and imitate it. You really treat this ce as a treasure.
The shopkeeper said, Then if you have the ability, go to the jewelry pavilion to buy it. The jewelry in the jewelry pavilion can not be bought even if you sell it a hundred times.
Qian Qingyu saw that Lucky still wanted to argue with the shopkeeper, so she pulled lucky and said, Forget it, dont lower yourself to her level. I dont want it. Dont trouble master.
Lucky said, You...
..
The two returned to the mansion, and Lu Ang was already in the mansion.
Lu ang saw Qian Qingyuing back and said, Where have you been? I cant even see you when Ie back.
Qian qingyu said, Today is the lucky break, so I went shopping with her.
I saw that the new clothes have arrived just now. Quickly put them on and let me have a look.Lu ang put the clothes in front of Qian Qingyu.
Qian Qingyu took the clothes and went behind the screen to put them on, when Lu ang saw Qian Qingyuing out, he said, Its very beautiful, but its too thin. From today on, apart from going to the pce for dinner, you will eat with me. I will definitely fatten you up.
Qian Qingyu had been skinny since she was young. She was the same age as her, but she was even thinner than Nichang when she was young. It was clear that she had suffered a lot since she was young.
The clothes outside are not worthy of you. Tomorrow, I will get the people from the Shang Pce to make you some nice clothes.
Qian qingyu said, These clothes cost 500 taels of silver. Wouldnt it be a pity if you dont wear them?
Lu ang said, 500 taels of silver is nothing. If it can make you happy, I will do anything to make you happy.
Qian Qingyu leaned against Lu Angs chest and said, Your Highness, you are so kind.
Lu Ang asked the Minister of the pce to make clothes for the maidservants in the residence. The Minister of the Pce could not pretend that he did not know about this. After the Minister returned to the pce, he reported the matter to Lady Qiao.
Lady Qiao teased the Parrot in the changle pce and said, You said that that woman has been doted on by my son?
Yes, Your Highness.
Lady Qiao said, Then you should make her a few sets of clothes.
Also, His Highness took all the jade skin scar removal ointment from the Imperial Academy of Medicine for that woman...
Lady Qiao said, How many scars do you need to have on this body? Then let the Imperial Academy of Medicine prepare some. In case they need to use it at that time, there are no more.
Shang Gong asked Qiao jinniang curiously, Your Highness, if the future Princess knows that His Highness the second prince dotes on a maidservant in the manor so much, Im afraid it would be inappropriate...
Qiao jinniang said, That would be his business in the future.
Qiao Jinniang did not want to interfere with her sons affairs in the bedroom. How tiring would that be? Moreover, she believed that Ang er was a person of love and righteousness. Even if he had a princess in the future, he could be dealt with properly.
When ang er could not be dealt with, she could do it.
Lady Qiao said, Give this parrot to that maidservant.
..
Qian qingyu received the parrot from the empress. She did not know what the Empress meant, but when she saw this little yellow parrot, she liked it very much.
The parrot would greet her. What Qian Qingyu taught it, it was also smart enough to say.
Xiao Huang, say hello to Your Highness.
The little yellow parrot pped its wings and said, Your Highness, dont. Your Highness, be gentle...
Qian Qingyu:...
In the future, they could not leave the parrot in the room. They would rather let it freeze to death outside.
Chapter 439 - Lu Ang cooks longevity noodles
Chapter 439: Chapter 439: Lu Ang cooks longevity noodles
As the new year approached, Lu Ang got busy. He usually left early and returnedte.
There were many people in the mansion who came to visit and present gifts. Everyone in the mansion seemed to be very busy.
Only Qian Qingyu had nothing to do. Although she did not have a status, ording to Grandma Ning, she was already considered half a master.
On New Years Eve, the servants who could not return home for the New Year gathered together to eat and drink.
Lucky did note and asked Qian Qingyu to go.
Qian Qingyu could not go over either, so she could only light antern and watch the snowkes fluttering outside. No one knew that today was her birthday.
When she remembered, her mother was no longer by her side. Her father drank too much, and only her aunt would bring her home to cook a bowl of longevity noodles for her on new years Eve.
Qian Qingyu brought in the little yellow parrot outside and taught it, Happy Birthday.
But the little yellow parrot, who had always been quick to learn from others, did not want to say happy birthday.
Qian qingyu pointed at the little yellow parrots head with her finger. Stupid.
Stupid thing.
Qian qingyu listened to the little yellow parrot and learned this sentence. She was so angry that sheughed. If you were not given by the Empress, you would have been plucked and made into bird soup.
Qian Qingyu could not wait for Lu ang toe back until 11:45 pm. It was almost midnight, so she did not wait any longer.
......
At this time, Lu ang probably would note back.
Perhaps he was drinking happily in the marquis an Yuans residence, so he rested in the marquis an Yuans residence.
After Qian Qingyuid down, she could not sleep either side, so she went to therge kitchen.
There were always servants guarding therge kitchen. Firstly, they always prepared hot water, and secondly, they were afraid that their master would want to eat.
Miss Qingyu.
Qian qingyu said, Ill make a bowl of noodles. You guys go and do your thing.
Okay.
Qian qingyu made noodles. She actually did not know how to make noodles. The Little Chef, Stone, came over and said, Miss, do you want to make noodles? Do you need my help?
Qian qingyu said, Thank you, Little Brother.
You are wee, miss.
After stone finished the noodles, he said to Qian qingyu, Miss Qingyu, the noodles still need a while. Why Dont you go back first and Ill bring it to youter?
No need. Ill wait here.
The kitchen was some distance away from the main courtyard. It was the new year, so there was no need for the Little Chef to make an extra trip.
After the noodles woke up, stone pulled on the noodles and pulled them so long that they did not break. He put the whole noodle into the pot and boiled it.
Qian qingyu said, Why dont you break the noodles?
Stone smiled at Qian qingyu and said, If the noodles break, it wont be longevity noodles. Miss Qingyu, Happy Birthday.
Qian Qingyu was slightly surprised and said, How did you know that today is my birthday?
When I brought you dinner just now, I heard that you were teaching the parrot to say happy birthday. Masters birthday is still a few months away,stone said. So I guessed that today is your birthday. Am I right?
Qian qingyu smiled slightly and said, No.
..
Lu Ang was indeed drunk. His alcohol tolerance was actually not good. Before the age of 15, he was not allowed to drink alcohol in the pce.
He could only drink when he lived in the mansion outside, but he did not drink too often.
Lu Ang woke up in the middle of the night with a headache and shouted softly. When he could not see her, he woke up and rested at his maternal grandfathers house.
Lu ang endured the headache and frowned. Someone, go back to the mansion.
Today was the New Years Eve. How could he let Qingyu be alone?
The servant beside him supported Lu ang and said, Your Highness, itste. Its still snowing outside. You can rest in the manor.
No, go back. I want Qingyu...
The servant had no choice but to support Lu ang and said, Yes, Your Highness.
Lu ang leaned against the carriage and went back to the manor. When he entered his own courtyard, he did not find Qian Qingyu. There were only parrots flying around.
Qingyu, Qingyu.
The servant girl who was on night duty outside quickly came in and said, Your Highness, Miss Qingyu just went into the kitchen.
Lu ang frowned. What are you doing in the kitchen sote at night?
Lu Ang also went into the kitchen. He saw the candlelight in the kitchen. In front of a small table, Qian Qingyu and a chef were sitting face to face.
He didnt know what the Chef said, but Qian Qingyus smile was very touching.
Lu ang looked at Qian Qingyus smile and felt very bitter. He was not in the mansion, but Qian Qingyu went to the kitchen to talk andugh with a strange man?
Lu Ang entered and knocked over the noodles in front of Qian qingyu without waiting for Qian Qingyu to bow.
You are not in the room in the middle of the night, what are you doing here?
Qian qingyu looked at the long-lived noodles on the floor and bowed. Your Highness, I feel a little hungry in the middle of the night. I even made some food in the kitchen. Are you drunk? Shall I brew you a bowl of antidote?
No need.Lu ang flicked his sleeves and left.
He did not hear Qian Qingyus voice. He turned around and saw Qian Qingyu squatting down to pick up all the noodles on the floor. He said unhappily, Hurry up and follow me.
Qian qingyu said, Yes, Your Highness.
Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu returned to the room. He always felt that there was something wrong with Qian Qingyus expression, but he could not tell what was wrong.
Qian Qingyu went up to Lu ang and gently pressed his temple. You should drink less in the future. Last Time, you promised me that I would not get drunk. This time, I am drunk again.
Lu ang said, I will not get drunk next time. Today, Qian Yu and the others deliberately made me drunk. Qingyu, can you not smile at other peoples men in the future?
Qian qingyu said, I am not, Your Highness. Do you still think that I am the kind of seductive woman who will casually seduce people?
Lu ang held Qian Qingyus hand and said, No, I just dont want you to smile at others.
Qian qingyu smiled and said, Okay, I will smile at Your Highness in the future. Your Highness, Can You Hug Me?
It was almost midnight. Although they could not eat the longevity noodles, it was enough to have your Highnessembrace.
Lu ang hugged Qian Qingyu and suddenly remembered that the noodles that he had knocked over was a whole strand. Is it your birthday today? was that your longevity noodles just now?
Qian qingyu said, Yes.
Lu ang frowned and said, Why didnt you say so earlier?
Lu ang held Qian Qingyus hand and said, Its still your birthday before dawn. Lets go, Ill bring you to make another bowl.
Qian Qingyu followed Lu Ang to the kitchen. Qian Qingyu saw Lu ang take the flour and make it himself, so she said, Your Highness, this is absolutely not allowed. A gentleman cooks from afar, how can I Let You Cook?
Lu ang said, I only know how to make longevity noodles. I learned it when I was young for my mothers birthday. The longevity noodles I made are very delicious. If you had told me that today was your birthday, I wouldnt have gone to the Hou Mansion.
Qian Qingyu looked at Lu Angs hand gesture of kneading and making noodles. He did look like an old hand.
Lu ang put his fingers stained with flour close to Qian qingyu and said, Your ce is dirty.
Qian qingyu avoided him and said, Your Highness...
Lu ang smiled and said, I miss my sister. She was the one who suggested learning how to make longevity noodles for my mother. Later, I found out that she wanted to save some money. She should be a beautifuldy now.
Chapter 440 - I want to marry Qian Qingyu as a princess
Chapter 440: Chapter 440: I want to marry Qian Qingyu as a princess
Qian qingyu asked, Princess Weiyang? Isnt she in Chang an?
Lu ang said, No, shes in Lingnan with her grandparents. After she went to Lingnan, I met her five times. Each time, I became more and more stingy. Usually, I dont even want to write letters. I feel that writing letters to me is a waste of paper.
Every time, I wrote a lot of letters to her. In order to save some ink and brush, she answered several letters at the same time. Usually, it takes half a year to receive a reply from her.
Qian qingyu said, Its a good thing that the princess is thrifty and doesnt waste money.
Lu ang smiled lightly and scooped out the noodles in the pot. Here, try it. Dont bite it off. You have to eat all of it.
Qian Qingyu looked at the simple bowl of clear broth noodle soup in front of her. Her eyes were slightly red as she said, This is your first time making longevity noodles for me. Im a little reluctant to eat it.
Lu ang touched Qian Qingyus head and said, Whats there to be reluctant about? If you like it, Ill make it for you every day in the future, Okay?
Qian Qingyu hugged Lu Ang. Thank You, Your Highness.
Lu Ang also hugged her and said, Qingyu, Happy Birthday.
..
Because of the New Years Eve incident this year, Lu ang proposed to bring Qian Qingyu to the pce to celebrate the New Year.
Qian qingyu said, How can that be? I have a lowly status, how can I enter the pce to celebrate the New Year?
Lu ang said, After I enter the pce, I still dont know when I can leave the pce? My brother always stays in the Changle Pce until midnight. If he doesnt leave, I cant leave either. If you dont follow me into the pce, you will have to spend the new year alone in the mansion.
......
Qian Qingyu was still a little afraid of entering the pce.
Another reason why Lu ang wanted Qian Qingyu to enter the pce with her was to let his parents see Qian Qingyu.
After he got together with Qian Qingyu, Lu ang wanted Qian Qingyu to be his princess. However, he did not dare to speak to his parents rashly. The difference in status was too big.
Moreover, Qian Qingyus ancestors were not honorable.
Qian Qingyu did not mention it, but it was not difficult to find out her background. Her maternal grandmother was originally a brothel girl, her maternal grandfather was third master Xie, and her mother was an illegitimate daughter.
If she wanted to be a princess consort, it was not necessarily impossible for people to use her identity to say something.
Lu ang nned to let his parents and empress take a look at Qian Qingyu. As long as his parents agreed, it would not be difficult for him to marry Qian Qingyu.
Lu ang said, The pce is not a tigers den that will eat people. Why Dont youe with me to the pce for the New Year?
Okay,Qian Qingyu agreed.
Lu ang happily picked up Qian Qingyu. I have to find someone to dress you well. When we go to the pce, you have to follow me closely.
Qian qingyu replied, Okay.
At the New Years Eve Pce banquet, all the guests were family members of high-ranking officials and nobles.
Everyone was surprised to see a woman sitting next to the second prince because they had never seen this woman before. She looked a little like Qiao Nichang, but she was not Qiao Nichang.
They were all curious about the identity of this woman.
Qian qingyu lowered her head more and more under the scrutiny of the officials and their families..
Lu ang looked at Qian qingyu and said, No need to lower your head. Let them look if they want to.
Qian Qingyu did not have the courage to raise her head.
Because she saw Qiao Nishang and Qian Yu sitting opposite her, she could not help but guess that His Highness had brought her to the pce banquet to make Miss Nishang jealous?
Everyones eyes sparkled as they looked at her and Miss Nichang. This made Qian Qingyu feel that she was just a fake..
After the pce banquet, Lu ang was going to bring Qian Qingyu to the Changle Pce. However, before they could reach the entrance of the Changle Pce, they were stopped by Lu Xi..
Lu Xi asked Lu ang, Its rare for our family to get together. Are you going to bring irrelevant people in?
What do you mean by rare? We usually get together every few days,Lu ang said. Besides, Qingyu is not an irrelevant person.
Lu Xi said to Qian qingyu, Miss Qingyu, its just a family banquetter. Please go back to the mansion first.
Lu Ang looked at Lu Xi unhappily. Brother!
Qian Qingyu saw that Lu ang wanted to argue with the crown prince, so she said to Lu ang, Your Highness, Im not feeling well, so Ill go back to the mansion to rest. Ill wait for you in the mansion.
Seeing this, Lu ang could only nod.
After Qian Qingyu left, Lu Ang said to Lu XI unhappily, Why did you chase Qingyu Away?
Lu Xi asked coldly, Ang-er, shes only your concubine now. No, shes not even your concubine. Shes just a servant girl. Do you think its appropriate to bring her to see Father and mother today?
Lu ang said, Ive never treated her as a servant girl. I want to marry her!
Lu Xi said unhappily, How old are you to be sure that shes yours for Life?
Shes also very capable. Her status is as different as the clouds and mud from yours. Do you think its appropriate to have a mother who is an adulterer and a grandmother who is a servant girl of a brothel as the Princess Consort??
Anger, the matter of the princess consort is of great importance. You have to think about it slowly. You and she are still young, so theres no hurry to get married.
Lu ang said, Im not young anymore. I know the decision I made. I want to marry her and spend the rest of my life with her!
Lu Xi said, What do you mean youre not young anymore? You havent even gotten a crown yet. Youre just bewitched by her beauty for a while.
Lu ang retorted, No, its not bewitched by her beauty.
Lu Xi said, Do you dare to bet with me? I bet that three yearster, if you still like her so much and decide that she wants to be a concubine, Ill beg father and mother to agree to it.
Lu Ang was not fooled. Why should I bet with you? After the new year, Ill tell father and mother that I want to marry Qingyu as my wife.
Lu Ang was absent-minded when he entered. He answered Qiao Jinniangs question incoherently.
Lu Chen looked at Lu ang and said, Your mother is asking you a question. What are you thinking about?
Lu Ang regained his thoughts. Mother, what are you asking me?
Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly and said, Forget it. You should go back to the mansion. After all, if you dont go back, the Prince of Pingliangs mansion will face North.
Lu ang asked, Why would it be facing north?
Then how many times have you looked outside the Pce Gate?Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Go back.
Lu ang bowed and was about to leave when Qiao Jinniang gave him two red packets and said, This is the new years money.
Lu ang asked curiously, Why are there two?
And one is for the person you miss so much.Qiao Jinniang smiled faintly.
Lu ang kowtowed to Lu Chen and Lady Qiao and left without stopping.
Lu Xi looked at Lady Qiao unhappily and said, Mother, you spoil little brother too much. That servant girls grandmother is a brothel girl. How is she fit to be little brothers Princess Consort? Little brother was just muddle-headed.
Lady Qiao was surprised. Ang-er wants to marry that concubine as a princess consort? But Yue Rong, that little girl, told me when she entered the pce that ang-er found that little servant girl as a substitute because Nichang and Qian Yu were together...
Lu Xi said, Yue Rong is right. The matter of wanting to marry the servant girl as the Princess Consort, perhaps brother is just trying to anger Nichang.
Nichang, who was in the marquis an Yuans Manor, sneezed fiercely. Qian Yu hurriedly took off his outer clothes and put them on Nichang.
Qiao ruoyi and Xie Yun frowned when they saw this scene.
Chapter 441 - Qingyu wanted to leave the imperial residence
Chapter 441: Chapter 441, Qingyu wanted to leave the imperial residence
Qiao Ruoyun and Qian Yin were overjoyed. If it were not for Qiao Ruoyi and her husbands ugly expressions, Qiao Ruoyun would have really wanted to settle the marriage on the spot. Wouldnt it be better if they were to kiss and marry?
..
In the Princes residence of Pingliang.
After Lu ang returned, he found Qian Qingyu ying with a little parrot in front of the light. He did not know why his mother had given Qian qingyu a parrot. Usually, she looked at the parrot much better than she looked at herself.
Lu Ang put the red packet in front of Qian Qingyu.
Qian Qingyu saw the red packet and bowed, Your Highness, where did you get this Red Packet?
Mother gave us the lucky money. One for you and one for me.Lu Ang put the red packet in Qian Qingyus hand.
Qian Qingyu opened the red packet and saw two banknotes of 100 taels of silver inside. She asked in surprise, So much?
Mother has plenty of silver.Lu ang said, Ill give you this too.
Qian qingyu said, Isnt this too much?
Lu ang smiled and said, Is that too much? Then in the future, the entire mansion will be given to you...
Qian Qingyu did not wait for Lu Ang to finish his words and whispered, Your Highness, dont Make Fun of me. Ill take it.
Qian Qingyu did not want to hear the joke about the whole mansion being given to her. She did not want the whole mansion. She only wanted Lu ang.
......
..
After the New Year, the spring examinations would be held once every three years. This time, the number of women participating in the spring examinations was the highest since the imperial examinations began.
Qian qingyu rarely left the mansion. She could only listen to the little maidservants in the mansion talking about the bustle outside.
In the past, when Qian Qingyu was in the West Mountain Academy, she would always hear those female students studying the scriptures and preparing for the imperial examinations reciting books day and night. She was in the embroidery ss, so she did not need to recite books day and night. She only needed to know how to read.
At that time, Qian Qingyu was envious of those girls. In the future, when those girls went out to the West Mountain Academy, they would at least be able to be teachers in other academies.
There were very few slots in that academy, and it was unknown if there would be any ssmates going to take the examinations this year.
Lucky took out a post and gave it to Qian qingyu, Qingyu, this is a post given to you by someone outside the door.
Qian Qingyu opened it and saw that it was a post from Ma Ya. Today, the results were released, and Ma Ya had invited Qian Qingyu to watch the show.
Qian Qingyu had not left the princes mansion for a long time. Recently, the imperial examinations had been very busy, and Lu ang was usually very busy, so Qian Qingyu followed Ma Ya to the taste pavilion beside the results.
When Ma Ya saw Qian Qingyu, she did not dare to recognize the woman in front of her. Qingyu, youve changed too much, havent you? No Wonder His Highness did not let you go out. Youre so beautiful that even I dont allow you to go out.
Qian Qingyus face heated up slightly. Dont make fun of me.
The private rooms in the savant pavilion had already been booked long ago. The two of them stood by the window near the corner of the street. The results were about to be released, and there were many people standing outside.
Ma Ya said, After three years, I also want to take the exam and have a try. I dont know if there will be children at that time. Qingyu, Im getting married. It will be at the end of March. Could youe to send me off?
Qian qingyu said, I will definitelye. Howe I havent heard you mention it before?
Ma Ya said, The marriage is set in a hurry. You must remember toe.
Qian qingyu nodded. Dont worry, I will definitely go.
In the darkest three years of her life, it was Ma ya who constantly helped her and trusted her. If it werent for Ma Ya, she would have died long ago.
Qian Qingyu would always remember this friendship.
After the results were released, some people in the crowd cried, someughed, some knelt down, and some even did a backflip in front of everyone.
Qian Qingyu looked over and saw Lu ang in the crowd. Beside Lu ang were the neon and Neon Sisters. When they saw their names on the list, they were extremely happy.
Qiao neon was so excited and happy that she hugged Lu ang.
This scene deeply stung Qian Qingyus eyes.
Qian Qingyu no longer looked over. She took a sip of tea and suppressed the pain in her heart.
After that, Qian Qingyu could tell that Lu ang was in a good mood.
After the court examination, the rankings were determined. The Qiao sisters were both among the top this time.
Qian Qingyu knew that Lu ang must be very happy, so she asked the kitchen to cook a lot of Lu Angs favorite dishes to celebrate.
However, Lu Ang did not return at night.
The servant beside Lu ang came over and said, Miss Qingyu, the two Qiao girls have won the title. His Highness will take the two Qiao girls to visit the manor in Luoyang City for half a month. You Dont have to wait for His Highness toe back for this half a month.
Qian qingyu said, Okay, Tell His Highness to drink less.
Qian Qingyu had her period today. Although she had taken medicine to recuperate for half a year, there were times when the pain was unbearable. Since Lu Ang was not there, she simply stayed in the room to rest.
On the carriage out of Luoyang, Qiao Nihong teased Lu ang and said, You have followed us to Luoyang for half a month. Dont You Miss Your Precious Servant Girl? She hasnt been to Luoyang City, right? Call her along.
Lu ang said, That wont do. Her period ising. Every time her periodes, she will feel unbearable pain. Just let her recuperate in the residence.
This trip to Luoyang city was to celebrate the two of them getting a good ranking and also to celebrate Qiao Nichangs birthday.
The Xie family had already prepared a birthday banquet for Qiao Nichang in Chang an. However, there were many people at the birthday banquet, so it was better to go to Luoyang city to celebrate her birthday.
Lu Ang and Qiao Nichangs birthdays were close, so they celebrated together in Luoyang.
At the end of March, Qian Qingyu remembered her promise to Ma Ya. When the time was near, Qian Qingyu found out that Ma Yas family was in Luoyang. She had promised earlier and could not go back on her word now.
Moreover, Ma Ya had done a lot for her.
Lu Ang did note back, so Qian Qingyu could only tell Nanny Ning. After all, the journey to Luoyang was neither far nor near, and they had to use a carriage.
Moreover, after three days of traveling back and forth in Luoyang, Qian Qingyu did not dare to leave the mansion for three days.
Nanny Ning heard her and said, If Miss Qingyu wants to go out and y in Chang an city, I will definitely prepare a carriage for you. But this is going to Luoyang city. Please forgive me for not being able to prepare a carriage for you.
Qian qingyu said gently, Nanny, Maya is really important to me. I Cant not go to her wedding. Once she is married, I will rush back. I beg for your forgiveness.
Nanny Ning said, Miss, please dont make things difficult for me. I dont know what will happen on the three-day journey to Luoyang. If anything happens, I wont be able to bear the consequences if the Lord mes me..
If you really think that Miss Ma is important to you, I can ask the servants of the manor to apply makeup in the name of the Lords Manor. This can be considered misskind gesture.
Qian Qingyu was helpless. She did not read the wedding invitation in the beginning. Now there were only three days left for the divorce..
She could not get Lu Ang to agree.
Nanny Ning said, Miss Qingyu, do you want me to find a servant girl to apply makeup on Miss Ma?
Qian qingyu bowed and said, Thank you, Nanny.
Chapter 442 - misunderstanding
Chapter 442: Chapter 442, misunderstanding
After Qian Qingyu returned to her room, she remembered how Ma Ya had taken care of her for the past three years.
If she agreed to Ma Yas request and did not send her off, she would be letting Ma ya down.
Qian Qingyu made up her mind. Even if her highness scolded her, she would personally send Ma ya off to get married.
Even if she did not have a carriage maid from the Princes mansion, she still had money on her.
It was only a days journey from Chang an to Luoyang by carriage. In such a short time, it should be fine for her to go alone.
Qian qingyu left a letter in the room and dug out the clothes that Lu ang had not thrown away in the past. At that time, Lu Angs figure was almost the same as her current figure.
Qian Qingyu changed into Lu Angs clothes and sent away an old woman who was in charge of a side door. After leaving through the side door, she went to the courier station in Chang an.
In the courier station, she easily rented a horse carriage with Lu Angs jade pendant.
When the horse carriage left the city gate of Chang an, Qian Qingyus heart beat very fast. She did not know how many people would be implicated. This was also the first time she did it so smoothly.
Qian Qingyu did not dare to let anyone down. She forced herself to be alert and opened the curtain of the horse carriage. It was very dark outside.
Qian Qingyu clenched the dagger in her hand..
It was not until the sound of a rooster crowing was heard and the sunlight prated through the curtain of the carriage that Qian Qingyu slightly rxed her vignce. When she heard the voices with different ents, she pulled open the curtain and looked at the words Luoyang. She let out a sigh of relief, they had already arrived at the borders of Luoyang.
Qian qingyu showed the groom the location of the wedding invitation. It took another two hours before she arrived in front of the horse residence.
......
Ma Yas father was a sixth-pin judge in Luoyang city. There were many guestsing and going to celebrate the wedding of their daughter. Qian Qingyu handed over the wedding invitation, and the maids beside Ma Ya came out to wee her, Miss Qian, youre finally here. My miss has been waiting for you!
Qian qingyu smiled and said, Im finally here.
After entering Ma Yas room, the inside was already covered with the words Wedding. The bright red wedding dress was hung on the clothes rack. Ma Ya was going to be married tomorrow, and the residence was very busy today.
Ma Ya held onto Qian Qingyus hand and said, Qingyu, why are you so pale? Do you see ck and blue under your eyes?
Qian qingyu said, I had to travel all nightst night.
Ma Ya said guiltily, Its been hard on you, quickly take a rest. Ill get a servant girl to bring you to the guest room to sleep.
Qian Qingyu was really tired and could not hold it in any longer. She went to the guest room to rest for a while. When she woke up, Ma Yas room was filled with sisters who came to add makeup.
Qian Qingyu said to Ma ya, I wont stay any longer. After all, Im a servant in the mansion. Its not appropriate for me toe out rashly. Ill leave first.
Ma Ya held Qian Qingyus hand and said reluctantly, Arent you going to watch me leave after I Get Married Tomorrow?
Qian qingyu said, I... Im sorry, Yaya.
Ma Ya said, Whats there to be sorry about? Its just that I want you to see how I look when Im wearing my wedding dress. Its not easy for you either. You should be careful on the way back to Chang an.
Okay.Qian Qingyu agreed and then left the horse mansion.
Qian Qingyu knew that Lu ang was in Luoyang city and she had not seen him on the 12th day. Qian Qingyu missed him very much and came to Luoyang from both sides. She wanted to take a look at Lu Ang.
When she arrived outside the Luoyang Pce, she saw Lu Ang, neon, Qiao Nishang, Qian Yu, and a few others riding on horses. She did not know where they were going.
Qian Qingyu got on the carriage and let the coachman follow them. He watched them arrive at a mountain in Luoyang and y games in a pavilion in the mountain. Lu ang smiled very happily. When he was with Miss Nishang, they were perfect for each other.
From Afar, they could hear Qiao Nishangs voice from the other side. Today is the birthday of the two birthday stars. Its your turn to drink.
Qian Qingyu slowly realized that Lu Angs birthday was only a few days away. It turned out that his and Qiao Nihons birthdays were also very simr.
Lu ang said, Ill drink it. Youre not allowed to bully Nihon. Ill drink her wine too.
Brother Ang, dont get drunk.
Dont worry, I wont get drunk.
Qian Qingyu looked at Lu Ang who was drinking for Qiao Nihon. A tear fell from her eye. She hated alcohol. When her father was drunk when he was young, he would beat her up.
Alcohol was not cheap. There was no savings at home. She was often hungry, but her father always borrowed money to drink. The rice that her aunt used to help them was also used by her father to exchange for alcohol.
Lu Ang had promised himself twice not to drink too much, and he drank so much.
Miss, are you still leaving? Chang an has a curfew. If you dont Leave Now, Im afraid you wont be able to make it back before the curfew.
Qian Qingyu got on the carriage and returned to Chang an. However, she didnt expect that it was already curfew time when she arrived at the Courier station outside Chang an. The Courier Station was already full of people.
Qian Qingyu went to the city gate and took out the silver taels and Lu Angs jade token. She wanted to enter the city, the city guard said, No, there are many distinguished people in Chang an these days. No one can open the city gate without permission. You can wait outside the city until midnight before you enter.
A sudden p of thunder came from the sky and the rain started to fall.
The carriage was already in the courier station. Qian Qingyu hid by the city gate without an umbre. However, the heavy rain and wind still made her wet.
Qian qingyu squatted by the city wall, hoping that the rain would stop soon.
Unexpectedly, the rain continued to fall until the morning. When the city gate opened, Qian Qingyu walked for more than an hour before she arrived at the gate of the Princes mansion. As soon as she entered the mansion, she could not help but faint when she saw lucky.
Lucky hugged Qian Qingyu and said to nanny ning, Nanny Ning, Qingyu is back, but she was caught in the Rain...
Nanny Ning came out and frowned. Why Bother? Someone, quickly get a doctor.
When Qian Qingyu woke up, she woke up from the pain caused by the medicine, when Lucky saw Qian qingyu wake up, he said, You finally woke up. You secretly left the Princes residence and Nanny Ning was angry. You went to Luoyang, why didnt youe back with the Prince?
Qian qingyu forced herself to stand up and said, The prince is so happy in Luoyang, why should I bother him?
Lu Ang liked Qiao Nichang. With the real master around, a fake like her would only make the prince unhappy.
On the 10th of April, Lu Ang and the others came back from Luoyang.
After Lu ang came back, he took the things he bought from Luoyang and went to the room. Qingyu, these are all brought to you from Luoyang.
Qian Qingyu looked at the things in the hands of Lu Ang and the manservant behind her and smiled. Thank you for Remembering Me, Your Highness.
She thought that when Lu Ang and Miss Nichang were ying together, she would not be in his heart. His Highness still remembered that she brought so much food for her to eat and y with.
Lu ang smelled the scent of medicine on Qian Qingyu and heard her hoarse voice. Are you sick?
Qian qingyu coughed twice. I caught a cold in the rain a few days ago. Im much better now.
Lu ang walked up to Qian Qingyu, hugged her, and kissed her on the face. I havent seen you for so many days. I miss you so much.
Qian qingyu said, Me too. I Miss Your Highness very much.
Lu ang spread the curtain and whispered into Qian Qingyus ear, Then let me see how much you miss me!
Qian qingyu said, Your Highness... Im sick. Dont give me your sickness...
Its okay.Lu ang really missed Qian Qingyu. Next time he went to Luoyang, he must bring Qian Qingyu with him.
Chapter 443 - having a child!
Chapter 443: Chapter 444, having a child!
?
Lu Ang had naturally heard of the rumors. He had not brought Qian qingyu out of the manor for the past few days because he was afraid that Qian Qingyu would feel ufortable when she heard those words.
Qian Qingyu was ying with the parrot that Lady Qiao Jin had given her in the manor. Suddenly, it jumped out of the parrots mouth. A woman from a brothel, an adulterer who has given birth to a daughter. She is just a servant girl who can not even earn the title of a concubine.
When Lucky heard this, he immediately chased the parrot away and walked to Qian Qingyus side. He said to Qian qingyu, I dont know what this damn parrot is talking about!
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, Lucky, I know that outsiders always say this about me, right? Thats Why Your Highness isnt willing to take me out these days. With My Background, Your Highness will also feel embarrassed, right?
Lucky said, Dont let your imagination run wild. Why would his highness care about these things?
Qian qingyu sighed heavily. She did not want to fight for any status, but she was really afraid that because of her identity, she would attract the ridicule of outsiders towards Lu Ang.
She did not want Lu Ang to be ridiculed because of himself.
From then on, even if Lu ang wanted to take Qian qingyu out of the mansion, she was also unwilling and stayed in the mansion.
She was really afraid that she would attract ridicule from others if she left the mansion.
Until Qiao Nichang and Qian Yu made a marriage agreement and a banquet was held in the Marquis an Yuans mansion, Lu ang was determined to bring Qian Qingyu along.
Lu Angs idea was very simple. Qiao Nichang and Qian Yu made a marriage agreement, and all the elders in the marquis an Yuans mansion would be present. His grandparents would also be present.
It was just a few months away from his weak crown. He would first introduce Qian Qingyu to his rtives in the Marquis Mansion.
Qian qingyu said, Your Highness, there is a lot of discussion about my background. If I were to go out, I would embarrass you.
Who is talking nonsense in your ear?Lu ang said, Everyone in the Marquis an Yuans residence is their own rtive. No one will talk about your background. We will go together. Dont tell me you wont listen to Me?
Qian qingyu helplessly agreed.
It was very lively in the marquis an Yuans mansion. Qian Yu and Ni Shangs engagement was a joyous asion, so they invited their rtives and friends toe.
Qin Miaomiao and Yue Zhans family also came.
Qian Qingyu followed Lu Ang gently and carefully. After a banquet, she didnt say anything at all. After eating wine, her face was slightly red, so she walked to thekeside to rx.
Yue Rong walked to her side and said, Sister Qingyu, you are so pitiful. His Highness Prince Pingliang is really a scum. Your background is so tragic, but he still treats you as a substitute.
Today, sister Nichang and brother Qian Yu are engaged. He brought you here to help him save face by treating you as a substitute. He deliberately embarrassed brother Qian Yu and sister Nichang!
Yue Rong said indignantly, Sister Qingyu, you should do your best. Dont be used as a stand-in by His Highness anymore. After all, a stand-in is still a stand-in. A fake is still a fake.
Qian qingyu found it interesting when she heard Yue Rong say this at such a young age. Im willing to be a stand-in for his highness. As long as His Highness is happy, its good enough.
Yue Rong frowned. AH? Why?
Qian qingyu said, Because His Highness is the first person who treats me very well.
Yue Rong did not understand. Why is this different from what is written in the script?
What script?Qiao Nihong came over and asked.
Yue Rong did not say another word.
Qiao Nihong said to Qian qingyu, The outside world is talking about you now. You Dont have to hide in the mansion and note out. If anyone dares to say these things in front of you in the future, you can call them. If it doesnt work out,e find me.
Qian Qingyu looked gratefully at Qiao Nihong and said, Thank you, Miss Nihong.
Qian Yu and Qiao Nichangs wedding date was set for the year after next. After the wedding date was set, Qiao Ruoyuns family returned to Lin an and Qian Yu returned to Lin an to prepare for his exams.
Qiao Nichang usually yed around with Qiao Nihong so that she would not miss Qian Yu. However, their little brother was still young. Sometimes, when they went out, their parents would not feel at ease.
They had to find Lu ang.
After Lu Xi ascended the throne, Lu Ang was much busier than before, so he did not have time to take them out to y.
Qiao Nishang went to find Qian Qingyu. If Qian Qingyu wanted to go out to y, she did not believe that Lu ang would not have time to take Qian Qingyu Out?
These days, Qian Qingyu often yed in Chang an city with Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nishang. Later on, even if Lu Ang was not allowed to take them to ces, the two sisters woulde to find Qian Qingyu to y with.
Lu Ang had not seen Qian Qingyu many times when he went back to the mansion. He only heard that it was Qiao Nihong who took Qian qingyu away.
It was the same today. Qian Qingyu did note back until it was dark, she saw Lu Ang and said with a smile, Today, Princess Nihong took me to Hibiscus garden. It was the first time I saw so many hibiscus. It was like entering a fairnd. At night, when thenterns were lit, the hibiscus flowers were of different colors and were very beautiful.
Lu Ang saw that she hadnt been so happy for a long time and said, If you like it, get someone to nt hibiscus flowers all over the manor.
Qian qingyu said, Not good. I prefer the red plum forest in our manor.
Lu ang looked at Qian Qingyus red lips and said, Me too. I like the red plum forest the most, and I like you even more in the Red Plum Forest!
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, I wonder when the plum blossom will bloom?
Lu ang said, It should be soon, but how about I bring you to Lin an city for the New Year?
Qian Qingyu said with some excitement, Lin an? That would be great. Although my father doesnt treat me well, I havent gone to his grave to pay my respects for more than ten years...
Lu ang said, Then Ill take you back to pay my respects. I went to Lin an once when I was young. The winter in Lin an is warmer than in Chang an.
Qian qingyu said, I almost forgot what Lin an looked like. I almost forgot the dialect of Lin an when I was young.
I remember when we first met, you spoke in Lin an dialect.Lu ang recalled what happened when he was young.
Qian Qingyu had been looking forward to returning to Lin an for the new year. She wanted to see her hometown, which had be blurry. She didnt know if her aunt was still there or how her cousins were doing now?
However, Qian qingyu kept vomiting when they were about to leave in December.
After the imperial physician came to check her pulse, he was not sure if she was pregnant. But when he asked about the situation, it was almost the same as being pregnant. He said, Your Highness, from the look of madam, she may be pregnant. But her pulse is still shallow. We have to wait for a month to take a look.
When Lu ang heard the imperial physicians words, he knew that it was almost certain that she was pregnant. He hugged Qian qingyu excitedly and said, Qingyu, we finally have a child.
Qian Qingyus body had been damaged by three years of harsh treatment in the West Mountain Academy. It was difficult for her to have a child. However, she finally had a child today.
After having a child, no matter how much the royal brother disagreed, he had to agree to his marriage with Qingyu!
Qian Qingyu was held by Lu Ang and reached out to touch her abdomen. She did not know whether she should be happy or sad..
Chapter 444 - having a child
Chapter 444: Chapter 444: having a child
Lu Ang had naturally heard of the rumors. He had not brought Qian qingyu out of the manor for the past few days because he was afraid that Qian Qingyu would feel ufortable when she heard those words.
Qian Qingyu was ying with the parrot that Lady Qiao Jin had given her in the manor. Suddenly, it jumped out of the parrots mouth. A woman from a brothel, an adulterer who gave birth to a daughter. Shes just a servant girl who can not even earn the title of a concubine.
When Lucky heard this, he immediately chased the parrot away and walked to Qian Qingyus side. He said to Qian qingyu, I dont know what this damn parrot is talking about!
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, Lucky, I know that outsiders always say this about me, right? Thats Why Your Highness isnt willing to take me out these days. With My Background, Your Highness will also feel embarrassed, right?
Lucky said, Dont let your imagination run wild. Why would his highness care about these things?
Qian qingyu sighed heavily. She did not want to fight for any status, but she was really afraid that because of her identity, she would attract the ridicule of outsiders towards Lu ang.
She did not want Lu Ang to be ridiculed because of himself.
From then on, even if Lu ang wanted to take Qian qingyu out of the mansion, she was also unwilling and stayed in the mansion.
She was really afraid that she would attract ridicule from others if she left the mansion.
Until Qiao Nichang and Qian Yu made a marriage agreement and a banquet was held in the marquis an Yuans mansion, Lu ang was determined to bring Qian qingyu along.
Lu Angs idea was very simple. Qiao Nichang and Qian Yu made a marriage agreement, and all the elders in the marquis an Yuans mansion would be present. His grandparents would also be present.
It was just a few months away from his weak crown. He would first introduce Qian Qingyu to his rtives in the Marquis Mansion.
Qian qingyu said, Your Highness, there is a lot of discussion about my background outside. If I were to go out, it would be hard for you to avoid losing face.
Who is talking nonsense beside your ear?Lu ang said, Everyone in the marquis an Yuans manor is their own rtive. No one will talk about your background. They will just go together. Dont tell me you wont even listen to me?
Qian qingyu helplessly agreed.
It was very lively in the marquis an Yuans mansion. Qian Yu and Ni Shangs engagement was a joyous asion, so they invited their rtives and friends toe.
Qin Miaomiao and Yue Zhans family also came.
Qian Qingyu followed Lu Ang gently and carefully. After a banquet, she didnt say anything at all. After eating wine, her face was slightly red, so she walked to thekeside to rx.
Yue Rong walked to her side and said, Sister Qingyu, you are so pitiful. His Highness Prince Pingliang is really a scum. Your background is so tragic, but he still treats you as a substitute.
Today, sister Nichang and brother Qian Yu are engaged. He brought you here to help him save face by treating you as a substitute. He deliberately embarrassed brother Qian Yu and sister Nichang!
Yue Rong said indignantly, Sister Qingyu, you should do your best. Dont be used as a stand-in by His Highness anymore. After all, a stand-in is still a stand-in. A fake is still a fake.
Qian qingyu found it interesting when she heard Yue Rong say this at such a young age. Im willing to be a stand-in for his highness. As long as His Highness is happy, its good enough.
Yue Rong frowned. AH? Why?
Qian qingyu said, Because His Highness is the first person who treats me very well.
Yue Rong did not understand. Why is this different from what is written in the script?
What script?Qiao Nihong came over and asked.
Yue Rong did not say another word.
Qiao Nihong said to Qian qingyu, The outside world is talking about you now. You Dont have to hide in the mansion and note out. If anyone dares to say these things in front of you in the future, you can call them. If it doesnt work out,e find me.
Qian Qingyu looked gratefully at Qiao Nihong and said, Thank you, Miss Nihong.
Qian Yu and Qiao Nichangs wedding date was set for the year after next. After the wedding date was set, Qiao Ruoyuns family returned to Lin an and Qian Yu returned to Lin An to prepare for his exams.
Qiao Nichang usually yed around with Qiao Nihong so that she would not miss Qian Yu. However, their little brother was still young. Sometimes, when they went out, their parents would not feel at ease.
They had to find Lu ang.
After Lu Xi ascended the throne, Lu Ang was much busier than before, so he did not have time to take them out to y.
Qiao Nishang went to find Qian Qingyu. If Qian Qingyu wanted to go out to y, she did not believe that Lu ang would not have time to take Qian Qingyu Out?
These days, Qian Qingyu often yed in Chang an city with Qiao Nishang and Qiao Nishang. Later on, even if Lu Ang was not allowed to take them to ces, the two sisters woulde to find Qian Qingyu to y with.
Lu Ang had not seen Qian Qingyu many times when he went back to the mansion. He only heard that it was Qiao Nihong who took Qian qingyu away.
It was the same today. Qian Qingyu did note back until it was dark, she saw Lu Ang and said with a smile, Today, Princess Nihong took me to Hibiscus garden. It was the first time I saw so many hibiscus. It was like entering a fairnd. At night, when thenterns were lit, the hibiscus flowers were of different colors and were very beautiful.
Lu Ang saw that she hadnt been so happy for a long time and said, If you like it, get someone to nt hibiscus flowers all over the manor.
Qian qingyu said, Not good. I prefer the red plum forest in our manor.
Lu ang looked at Qian Qingyus red lips and said, Me too. I like the red plum forest the most, and I like you even more in the Red Plum Forest!
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, I wonder when the plum blossom will bloom?
Lu ang said, It should be soon, but how about I bring you to Lin an city for the New Year?
Qian Qingyu said with some excitement, Lin an? That would be great. Although my father doesnt treat me well, I havent gone to his grave to pay my respects for more than ten years...
Lu ang said, Then Ill take you back to pay my respects. I went to Lin an once when I was young. The winter in Lin an is warmer than in Chang an.
Qian qingyu said, I almost forgot what Lin an looked like. I almost forgot the dialect of Lin an when I was young.
I remember when we first met, you spoke in Lin an dialect.Lu ang recalled what happened when he was young.
Qian Qingyu had been looking forward to returning to Lin an for the new year. She wanted to see her hometown, which had be blurry. She didnt know if her aunt was still there or how her cousins were doing now?
However, Qian qingyu kept vomiting when they were about to leave in December.
After the imperial physician came to check her pulse, he was not sure if she was pregnant. But when he asked about the situation, it was almost the same as being pregnant. He said, Your Highness, from the look of madam, she may be pregnant. But her pulse is still shallow. We have to wait for a month to take a look.
When Lu ang heard the imperial physicians words, he knew that it was almost certain that she was pregnant. He hugged Qian qingyu excitedly and said, Qingyu, we finally have a child.
Qian Qingyus body had been damaged by three years of harsh treatment in the West Mountain Academy. It was difficult for her to have a child. However, she finally had a child today.
After having a child, no matter how much the royal brother disagreed, he had to agree to his marriage with Qingyu!
Qian Qingyu was held by Lu Ang and reached out to touch her abdomen. She did not know whether she should be happy or sad..
Chapter 445
Chapter 445: Chapter 445. Qian Qingyu wanted a status
Qian Qingyu didnt care about her status as long as she could stay by Lu Angs side.
But if she had a child and had no status, what should she do with the child?
In the future, Lu Ang would have to marry a concubine.
It was fine if she had a daughter, but if she had a son, the future princess might be able to tolerate Lu ang having a bastard son?
Lu ang saw that Qian Qingyu was not smiling and asked, Arent you happy that we have a child?
Qian qingyu forced a smile and said, Yes, why wouldnt I Be Happy?
Lu ang put his hand on Qian Qingyus abdomen and said, I dont know if its a son or a daughter. Do you like a son or a daughter?
Qian qingyu said, Both are good. I prefer your Highness.
Lu Ang was very satisfied when he heard Qian Qingyus words. I hope the first one will be a girl. It would be even better if she looks like you.
Qian qingyu frowned slightly when she heard this. She gently stroked her belly. She could be willing to be Lu Angs substitute, but she did not want her daughter to live in the shadow of a substitute.
After the pregnancy, the trip to Lin an could not be carried out.
Lu Ang went to the pce to find Lu Xi. Brother, Im about to be a weak tiara. Qingyu is pregnant now. Please help us!
Lu Xi frowned. Youre quite capable. Do you still think that a mother is expensive because of her child?
......
Lu ang said, Its not that a mother is expensive because of her child. Qingyu and I are in love with each other. Brother, do you have the heart to let your little niece be born with the reputation of an illegitimate daughter?
Lu XI said, You can take her as a side concubine first. After all, given her background, the position of side concubine is already considered very good.
Lu ang frowned. No, the position of side concubine is not enough. If thats the case, you can only watch as your first little niece is born with an illegitimate daughter!!
Lu Xi was really helpless, but she was also not threatened by Lu Ang, That is your child. Although he is my nephew, he is your biological child. Think carefully about whether you want to give him the position of imperial consort or a side Consort.
Lu ang said, When Qingyus fetus is more stable, I will take her to Lin an to find her parents. Why didnt I think of it earlier? How can you decide my marriage?
Lu Ang had been following Lu Xi since he was young. He had forgotten that marriage was supposed to be arranged by his parents. What did his marriage have to do with Lu Xi? His parents were both there!
His mother had always doted on him and felt guilty towards Qingyu. If he had told his mother, perhaps his marriage with Qingyu would have been a sess!
..
In the imperial residence, Qiao ni Hong and Qiao ni Shang heard that Qian Qingyu was pregnant, so they came to the imperial residence to look at her.
Qiao nishang said, Im going to be an aunt. By the way, you already have a child. Doesnt Lu ang n to give you a status?
Qiao nishang also said, Brother Ang already told us to call you cousin-inw, but you dont even have a status. What kind of cousin-inw are you?
Qiao Nishang said to Qian qingyu, Qingyu, its fine that you didnt ask for a status before, but when you have a child, you cant not ask for it. You know that its not eptable to have children in this world.
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Thank you for your advice, Princess Nihon. I understand.
She didnt care about it herself, but she had to care about the child.
But she didnt know how to tell Lu Ang. After all, she had told Lu ang that she didnt ask for status. She was also afraid that if she asked too much, Lu ang would hate her, and then she wouldnt be allowed to stay by her side.
Over the past few years, Qian Qingyu had gotten used to this warmth. She did not know what she would do if she was chased away by Lu Ang?
With this thought in mind, she would rather not have this child.
However, the child was already here. She could not bear to not have this child. This was His Highnesschild..
Qian qingyu felt ufortable in her stomach and vomited.
Lu ang walked to Qian Qingyus side and handed her a ss of water without even frowning. Why are you vomiting so badly?
Qian qingyu said, The imperial physician said that this is normal.
Lu ang touched Qian Qingyus stomach and said, Be good. Dont make your mother feel ufortable.
Qian Qingyu leaned against Lu Angs embrace. She did not know how to say what she wanted. She just hugged Lu ang and said, Your Highness, Do You Know My Mother?
She was born an illegitimate daughter of a prostitute. She was supposed to be the high and mighty youngdy of the Xie family. At that time, third master Xie was in control of the Xie family. Even Xie Yun had to disguise as a woman.
But he refused to acknowledge my mother. The prostitute saw that my mother couldnt let her enter the Xie family, so she sold my mother to my father as a child bride.
My mother learned how to make jewelry in the Qian family. Later, she couldnt stand my father anymore, so she left. I dont even remember her when she left.
When I was young, everyone said that my mother didnt want me anymore. Butter, when my mother came back, I knew that she loved me...
Qingyu is so good. Your Mother Must Love You,Lu ang advised Qian Qingyu. However, your mother may have her own difficulties, right?
Qian qingyu nodded. Yes, my mother has her own difficulties. Your Highness, Im going to be a mother soon...
Lu ang asked, What do you want to say?
Qian qingyu still found it hard to say that she hated a title. Nothing, just rest.
Lu Ang had decided to wait for Qian Qingyu to vomit better and the fetus to stabilize. Then, he would go to Lin an and ask for his parentsconsent. At that time, he could get married in Lin an.
Winter passed and spring came. The Imperial Courts annual Hunt began at least once a year.
Lu Ang did not bring Qian Qingyu with him before he went hunting. He was afraid that the hunting ground would be blind. It would be bad if he slept with Qian Qingyu.
Qian Qingyu stayed in the Princes mansion to make a round-necked robe for Lu ang. After three years of recuperation, her hands had recovered a lot. The jade muscle scar removal ointment was really effective.
However, after a long time of not embroidery, Qian qingyu found that her skills had be rusty. She did not know if Lu ang would dislike her skill in this dress.
Lucky came in and said, Madam, the sky is dark. If you continue to embroider, it will be hard for you to free your eyes. Why Dont You Embroider Again Tomorrow?
Qian qingyu also felt a little sore at her waist. She touched her belly and said, Well, okay.
At night, Qian Qingyu had a nightmare. She dreamed that after her daughter was born, she wasughed at by everyone. Qian Qingyu was woken up by the cries of adulterers, and her head was full of cold sweat.
Adulterer..
She didnt want it. She didnt want her daughter to be reduced to the appearance in the dream.
She wanted a title. She had to quickly seek a title. She didnt want any other title, as long as she was a concubine.
As long as her daughter had a legitimate birth, even if Lu Ang would despise her, at least she would not beughed at by others.
Qian Qingyu made up her mind to tell Lu ang about this when Lu ang came back.
Chapter 446 - Your Highness, I want a title
Chapter 446: Chapter 446, Your Highness, I want a title
Qian Qingyu was looking forward to Lu Angs return.
When Lu Ang finally came back, she was also looking forward to a young woman.
The woman was not old. She was wearing a wedding dress and there were many servants carrying the dowry behind her.
Yuanyuan, this is my mansion. You can stay here before you get married!
Tang Yuanyuan looked at the grand mansion and said, Brother Ang, its so grand here. You live alone in such a big house? What about brother Lu Xi? Does he live with you too?
Lu ang smiled and said, He is the emperor, so he naturally lives in the royal pce.
Qian qingyu bowed to Lu ang and asked, Your Highness, who is this girl?
Lu ang introduced, She is aunt glutinous Rices daughter and also my mothers disciple. She came to Chang an many days ago to get married. I will let her stay in the Princes mansion first. Nanny Ning, find a better courtyard for her.
Nanny Ning should be.
Qian Qingyu did not know who aunt glutinous rice was. When she heard that she was the Empressdisciple, she naturally asked respectfully, May I know how to address thisdy?
Tang Yuanyuan replied, My name is Tang Yuanyuan, and my nickname is Tang Yuanyuan.
Miss Tang.
After Lu Ang had settled Tang Yuanyuan, he returned to his room and said to Qian qingyu, Yuanyuan came from Lin an and knows nothing about Chang an. She is a simple person. You should tell her more about Chang ans customs and customs these few days.
......
Okay,Qian qingyu replied, Your Highness, I have something to tell you...
Before Qian Qingyu could say anything, Lucky rushed in and said, Your Highness, His Majesty is here.
Lu ang frowned. Why is he here?
Because Lu Xi didnt agree to the marriage, Lu Ang didnt want him toe to the mansion at all.
Qian Qingyu gently persuaded Lu ang, Whether you are a ruler, a minister, or a brother, your Majesty probably Misses Your Highness.
Misses? He had juste out of the pce, so he did not think that Lu Xi was here to visit his younger brother.
As expected, Lu Xi went to the courtyard where Tang Yuanyuan was staying.
When Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu arrived, Lu Xi was in the room looking for trouble. Why arent the curtains here made of tobo? and the embroidered thread on the quilt is not clean enough, this...
Lu ang frowned. Brother, this is the best thing in My Mansion!
Tang Yuanyuan also said, Yes, brother Lu Xi. Everything here is already very good. I like it very much.
Lu Xi said, If theres anything missing, just ask Grandma to tell me. Dont be polite. If I dont take good care of you, Ill treat aunt glutinous rice badly.
Tang Yuanyuan nodded. Theres nothing missing. Its just that Im not used to the dishes here. Can I use the kitchen?
Of course,Lu Ang said. Since you studied under your mother, you must be very good at cooking, but you have to cook something light. Qingyu is pregnant and will vomit if she smells greasy.
Tang Yuanyuan said, Leave it to me.
Tang Yuanyuan worked in the kitchen for nearly two hours.
Lu Ang saw that Lu Xi had not left, so he asked curiously, Howe imperial brother has so much free time today? You just came back from hunting, so there should be a lot of manuscripts waiting for you to review, right?
Lu Xi said, Since father, mother, and the Empress left the pce, you and I rarely eat together. I will eat with you today.
Lu ang snorted and said, Dont be so hypocritical. You are just a dish made by gluttony yuan yuan! You can have dinner in my residence, but you have to eat at the same table as Qingyu.
Qian Qingyu was so scared that she directly knelt on the ground. Your Highness, this is absolutely not allowed.
Lu ang said, Whats not allowed? You are the Master of this residence, and he is the guest. The guest is up to the host.
Qian Qingyu was even more frightened.
Lu Xi said, Then lets eat together.
Tang Yuanyuan worked for two hours and ced the five dishes and one soup on the round table, tang Yuanyuan ced the cold dish in front of Qian qingyu and said, This cold dish will appease the pregnant madam. It will also be good for the fetus.
Thank you, Miss Tang.Qian Qingyu felt like she was sitting on pins and needles.
After all, the other side was the king of the world.
Tang Yuanyuan was used to it among the people. Glutinous rice had never asked Tang Yuanyuan to learn any etiquette. Tang Yuanyuan did not feel restrained in front of Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. He treated Lu XI and Lu ang as if they were his masters sons.
Tang Yuanyuan even picked up a piece of fish for Lu Xi with his chopsticks. Master always said that you like to eat fish. Have a taste of my cooking and masters cooking. Is there any difference?
The eunuch servants around Lu Xi wanted to me Tang Yuanyuan for being impolite, but Lu Xi stopped the eunuch and ate the fish that Tang Yuanyuan had picked up with her chopsticks.
Lu Ang looked at Lu Xi, who had always been particr about public chopsticks, and felt that it was abnormal that she could eat the fish that Tang Yuanyuan had given him with her chopsticks.
Lu Ang tried to pick up a piece of meat for Lu Xi with his own chopsticks, but Lu Xi red at him!
Lu Ang:...
Even his own brother was despised. Why didnt Lu Xi despise Tang Yuanyuan?
After a meal, Lu ang found that Qian Qingyu had eaten quite a lot. He couldnt help but say happily, It seems that todays dishes are to your liking.
Qian qingyu smiled. Miss Tang is indeed worthy of being a disciple of Empress Qiao. Her culinary skills are really good. Lord Zhou will be blessed in the future.
Lord Zhou was the person Tang Yuanyuan was going to marry in Chang an this time.
Lu Xi could not help but frown when she heard this.
Tang Yuanyuan said, I havent seen him for a long time. When he left Lin an, I was still a very, very little girl. I wonder if he is as handsome as before?
Lu XI asked, Do you like handsome men?
Tang yuanyuan nodded and said, Who doesnt like beautiful men in this world? I also like beautiful men.
Lu Ang looked at Lu Xi and almost asked Tang Yuanyuan if he was handsome. He was not as unbrotherly as Lu Xi. He said to Tang Yuanyuan, Then do you think His Majesty is Handsome?
Tang Yuanyuan said, Of course brother Lu Xi is handsome, but I think brother Ang is more handsome!
Lu Xis peach blossom eyes narrowed slightly as she looked at Lu Ang sinisterly. For the first time, he felt that it was not bad to agree to his marriage with Qian Qingyu, so that his face would not attract the attention of others.
Qian qingyu nodded in agreement. She also felt that Lu Angs face was the most handsome in the world.
Lu Ang saw Lu Xis angry and helpless look and smiled.
Lu Xi could not stay outside the pce for long, so she instructed Lu ang to take good care of Tang Yuanyuan.
Lu ang said, I know. Ive never seen you so dilly-dallying.
Lu Xi said, She is aunt glutinous Rices daughter. She married into Chang an alone, so I naturally have to take care of her more.
After Lu Ang sent Lu Xi away, he returned to his room.
Qian Qingyu heard Lu Angs footstepsing from outside, so she took a sip of water. The moment Lu Ang came in, she mustered up her courage and said, Your Highness, I want a title!
Chapter 447 - he decided to leave the mansion
Chapter 447: Chapter 447, he decided to leave the mansion
Lu ang walked to Qian qingyu and said, Why did you suddenly think of this? Dont worry, I will give you the title.
Qian Qingyu said with tears in her eyes, A few days ago, I dreamed that because I didnt have the title, I gave birth to an illegitimate daughter. She wasughed at by others. Your Highness, I dont want to be a concubines wife. A concubines position is enough.
Lu ang said unhappily, You actually want to be a concubine? Do you know what it means to be a concubine?
Qian qingyu said, I know that my status is lowly. Even if I am a concubine, I am not worthy of you... But I beg you to give me a status for the sake of my child.
In the future, when the concubine of the princess enters the house, I will definitely abide by my status and will not act Rashly!
Lu ANGs expression became more and more unsightly.
Qian qingyu, on the other hand, knelt down and pulled on Lu Angs sleeve. I really dont want my daughter to follow in my mothers footsteps and be ridiculed by everyone for being an illegitimate daughter. Your Highness, I Beg You...
Lu ang looked at Qian Qingyu who was kneeling on the ground and his eyes were filled with disappointment. How have I treated you these three years? Cant You Feel It? Concubine? Concubine? What do you take me for?
Lu Ang was really angry. He had never thought of making Qian Qingyu his concubine. He had nned everything for Qian Qingyu to make her his princess.
He was wholeheartedly devoted to Qian qingyu, but she could easily say that she was his concubine and ask him to find another princess. What did these three years of rtionship count for?
Qian qingyu knelt on the ground. Looking at Lu Angs anger, she felt regret. She should have known that she was just a fake, a substitute for Qiao Nichang. What right did she have to demand a title?
Lu ang saw her pale face and helped her up. Qian Qingyu, you have disappointed me!
Qian Qingyu sat on the bed, tears streaming down her face. Yes, she was just a servant. She was from a humble background. How could she ask for the position of a concubine?
......
But what about her child?
Did she really want the child to be born andughed at?
Lu Ang saw her crying and did not know how tofort her. He just said, Okay, stop crying. Think about our rtionship.
Qian qingyu wiped her tears and covered her stomach. No, she had to do something for her child.
She could not let her child go back to the same path as her mother.
If Lu Ang was not willing to give her a title, then she had to think of another way. She could not let her child beughed at and mocked.
Lu ang saw that Qian qingyu finally stopped crying and heaved a sigh of relief.
Tang Yuanyuans wedding day was approaching. Qiao Nihong and Qiao Nishang came to the mansion under Lu Xis orders to apany Tang Yuanyuan to relieve boredom.
Tang Yuanyuans lively personality was verypatible with Qiao Nihongs personality.
Qiao Nihong said to Tang Yuanyuan, Come to think of it, we still have rtives. Nishang is going to marry your cousin Qian Yu soon.
Although Qian Yu was only a few years older than Tang Yuanyuan, his seniority was a whole generation higher.
Tang Yuanyuan said, I heard from my cousin that Nichang is really the number one beauty in Chang an. She is really beautiful.
Qiao nihong said, Eh, we have been here for so long. Why isnt Qingyu Here?
Qiao nihong said, I havent seen her for a long time. Lets go and find her together.
Neon nodded and followed Qiao Nishang to the main courtyard. When they entered, Qiao Nishang saw Qian Qingyu making a round-necked robe.
This embroidered robe is so serious?Qiao Nishang clicked her tongue and said, Your skills are almost as good as those in the pce.
Qian Qingyu put down the round-necked robe and said, You are here?
Qiao Nihong saw the tears on Qian Qingyus face and asked, Why are you crying? Did Lu Ang Bully You?
This time, Qian Qingyu could not say no. After all, she did not know what to do.
She sobbed and said to Qiao nihong, Princess Nihong, His Highness is not willing to give me a title. He is not even willing to give me the title of a concubine. I can not let the child in my belly be an illegitimate child. Can you help me?
Lu Ang, this is too much!Qiao ni Hong said indignantly, You have served him for three years, and he is not even willing to give you the title of a concubine. This is too much!
Qiao ni Shang said, Brother Ang is not willing to give you a title. It is not like you have no other way.
Back then, my father was not willing to marry my mother. Later, my mother did not want me to be an illegitimate daughter, so she found my father and married him.
Ive been following my fathers surname for my entire life. I didnt enter the Xie family tree and entered the Qiao family tree. In the future, all future generations will recognize Luo Wei!
Qiao neon said, Qingyu, Nichang is right. Lu Ang didnt want to give you a title, so you took his child and married someone else!
Qian qingyu listened to their suggestion and said, Thats not very feasible, right? After all, this is the royal bloodline...
Qiao nihong said, Whats wrong with that? Since Lu Ang is not willing to give you a title, do you really want your child to be an illegitimate child? Nowadays, regardless of whether it is the royal family or not, any child born without a title is an illegitimate child.
Qian qingyu heard what Qiao Nihong said and felt that what Qiao Nihong said made sense. But how can I find a man who is willing to pretend to be married to me? Also, I cant bear to part with His Highness...
Qiao nihong touched Qian Qingyus forehead with the back of her hand, If you dont have a fever, why are you spouting nonsense? Please, its been three years. Lu Ang isnt even willing to give you the title of a concubine, and you still cant bear to part with him? Can you fight for Us Girls?
Qian qingyu lowered her head. She knew this, but she was extremely reluctant to part with him. If it werent for the child, she definitely wouldnt want to part with Lu Ang.
Qian Qingyu said to Qiao nihong, But how can I leave the mansion? His Highness will not allow me to take his child and marry another man.
She was different from Qiao Nichangs mother. Qiao ruoyi had a strong family to support her.
Qiao nihong asked, What about your family? Is there no one in your family?
Qian qingyu said, I have an aunt in Lin an, but I havent seen her for a long time. Is she still in Lin an?
Qiao Nishang heard Lin an and said, How about this, Ill bring you to Lin an to find your aunt?
Qiao nishang said, You want to see Qian Yu on your own, right?
Dont expose me!Qiao Nishang said with a slightly red face, Tang Yuanyuan will be getting married in a few days. There will be a lot of people in the mansion that day, so you can sneak out in the dowry. When that timees, Ill bring you to Lin An, okay?
Qiao Nihon said, Ill go too, Ill go too!
Qian Qingyu thought about it carefully and felt that this was also a solution. The only ce she could go now was indeed Lin an.
At least Lin an and her familys ancestral home had a ce to settle down and not be disced..
Chapter 448 - reluctant to part
Chapter 448: Chapter 448, reluctant to part
After they had agreed on how to leave the Princes mansion, Qian Qingyu was reluctant to part with the Princes mansion.
She was most reluctant to part with Lu Ang.
It had only been ten days since Tang Yuanyuans wedding. Qian qingyu almost did not want to leave Lu ang at all times. It would be great if he was willing to give himself an identity.
Lu Ang was very pleased to see Qian qingyu sticking to him like this.
Qiao Ruohan, who was married today, held a flower feast in her residence. She invited the handsome young masters of Chang an city and the daughters of various manors.
Lu Ang also received an invitation. He had to stick to Qian qingyu like this, so he also brought Qian Qingyu with him.
Tang Yuanyuan heard that there was a flower feast, so he also wanted to attend it. Brother Ang, can you take me with you? I heard that the peonies in Chang an are very beautiful. Unfortunately, there are no peonies in Lin an city, not even peonies.
Lu ang said, Youre about to get married, and youre still the new wife. Its not good to go out rashly, right?
Tang Yuanyuan said, Then Ill treat you as Sister Qingyus maid. Im dying of boredom.
Lu ang said, Alright, just in time. There will inevitably be ces that I cant take care of at the banquetter. Help me protect Qingyu.
Tang Yuanyuan nodded. Yes, yes, okay.
The butler of the Qian family who sent Tang Yuanyuan over was already very helpless. ording to the rules of Lin an, after marrying a brother from a distant family, the rest of the rtives were not allowed to send him off. Tang Yuanyuans seniority was low and he did not have a brother.
The butler of the Qian family could not care about Tang Yuanyuan at all. He only told Tang Yuanyuan about the appearance of Zhou Gu. Today, Qiao Ruohan invited all the young talents in Chang an. Zhou Gu might also be at the banquet.
......
There were many people attending Qiao Ruohans flower feast today. Firstly, Qiao Ruohans status was high. Secondly, the Emperor and the second prince were not married yet, and the empress dowager was not in Chang an.
Qiao Ruohan was the Empress Dowagers youngest sister, and the emperor was also her nephew. Perhaps the flower feast was organized for the Emperor.
Therefore, not only did the people who sent out the invitations alle, but there were also many youngdies who specifically begged the people who had the invitations toe to Qiao Ruohans banquet.
As the name suggested, the reason why Qiao Ruohan held the flower feast was really to enjoy the flowers. She had loved flowers and nts since she was young. This year, there was a purple peony that had actually grown a deep purple and gradually turning ck du Dan Flower. This was a rare sight in the world.
As soon as Lu ang arrived, he was called away by a few princes from the royal family. Qian Qingyu was very observant and did not go over. Just as Tang Yuanyuan had said, there were no peonies in Lin an city.
She was determined to leave and had to see more of the magnificent peonies here.
It was the first time Tang Yuanyuan saw so many varieties of peonies. She said, No wonder everyone says that peonies are beautiful and graceful. Today, when I saw the peonies, I was indeed very generous. I wonder if I can make a dish with peonies?
Qian qingyu smiled lightly. Tang Yuanyuan seemed to be able to think of anything better than cooking.
While the two of them were admiring the flowers, the voices of a few people could be heard.
Lian er, your brothers wedding date is approaching, right? It should be less than ten days, right?
Zhou Lian er said, Yes, Im almost annoyed to death when I talk about this. That Tang Yuanyuan might be the daughter of the Wu royal family, but her father is just a small constable. He hasnt made much progress after so many years.
I heard that she has been learning to cook these two years and has been following her mother to show her face in the restaurant. She doesnt have the self-awareness of the future Prime Ministers wife at all.
The young sisters beside Zhou Lian er said, Lord Zhou Gu is already the top schr in high school at such a young age. Over the past few years, there have been many matchmakers who have proposed to Lord Zhou Gu. Indeed, they are not suitable for the women of themon people.
Zhou Lian er sighed and said, When I think about how my brother has a bright future ahead of him but wants to marry Tang Yuanyuan, that woman who is nothing, I feel extremely depressed. My Brother is an auspicious schr, the prime minister in the future.
When Tang Yuanyuan heard Zhou Lian ers words, he was extremely angry. He stood out and said, So what if Im a Cook? If it wasnt for the engagement back then, I wouldnt have been willing to marry your brother. Who would be willing to marry into your Zhou family!
Zhou Lian er recognized Tang Yuanyuan, who had grown up. She did not expect that her looks had improved a lot after not seeing her for a few years, Tang Yuanyuan, your wedding date is approaching. Why are you at this banquet instead of waiting at the Courier Station to get married? And youre even with a fake.
Zhou Lian er saw Qian qingyu, who had a slightly bulging stomach beside Tang Yuanyuan. Youre about to get married to my brother. Before your marriage, you were so close to the descendant of a brotheldy. Its a disgrace to our Zhou family.
Tang Yuanyuan said, Its the most shameful thing for the Zhou family to have you.
Zhou Lian er pointed at Tang Yuanyuan and said, You!
Zhou Gu saw the change and quickly came over. Lian er, did you cause trouble again?
Zhou Lian er said, Elder brother, it was Tang Yuanyuan who came to scold me.
Zhou Gu looked at Tang Yuanyuan. In his memory, she was still a delicate child, but now she was a young girl. Zhou Gu looked at Tang Yuanyuans appearance and said, Yuanyuan, Lian er is young and insensible. Dont be angry.
Tang Yuanyuan lowered her head and said quietly, She is even older than me.
Zhou Gu said to Tang yuanyuan, Why did youe to the banquet today? Do you want me to send you back to the Courier Station?
The Qian family of the Tang family had set off early so that Tang Yuanyuan would not have to travel on the road. Therefore, they had arrived in Chang an half a month earlier.
They could not get married before the auspicious day. Zhou Gu did not know that Tang Yuanyuan was in the Princes mansion and had always thought that she was in the courier station.
Tang Yuanyuan took a look at Zhou Gu. When he was young, Brother Zhou was handsome in Lin an city, but when he came to Chang an, she felt that Zhou Gus appearance was too ordinary..
Tang Yuanyuan replied, No need. I have been living in the Princes mansion in Pingliang recently.
The Princes Mansion?Zhou Gu was stunned.
Tang yuanyuan nodded and said, It was brother Lu Xi who let me live in the Princes Mansion.
When Zhou Gu heard Lu Xis name, he immediately said respectfully, Shh, You Cant Call His Majesty by his first name.
Tang Yuanyuan did not want to talk to Zhou Gu anymore. She said to Qian qingyu, I think there are more beautiful peonies ahead. Lets go over there!
Qian qingyu replied, Okay.
On the way, Qian Qingyu looked at Tang yuanyuan guiltily and said, Im sorry, Miss Tang. Its all because of me that you were ridiculed by the Zhou familys miss...
Tang Yuanyuan said, Zhou Lian er has the face of a viin who has achieved sess. Just ignore her.
On the other side, Zhou Lian er said to Zhou Gu, Brother, youre actually helping Tang Yuanyuan?
Zhou Gu said with slight annoyance, Zhou Lian er, are you brainless?? Tang Yuanyuan was the eldest cousin of the Wu royal family. Her mother used to be the empress dowagers maidservant. If you dare to ruin my marriage with Yuanyuan and ruin my future, Ill definitely teach you a lesson!
Brother, if you marry Tang Yuanyuan, what will happen to cousin?Zhou Lian er asked. You are the future prime minister. She doesnt have much rtionship with the Prince of Wus mansion.
Zhou gu said, You should show some respect to Tang Yuanyuan!
Although the Prince of Shu had the title of prime minister, he might not be able to enter the cab.
Tang Yuanyuan lived in the Princes mansion when he came to Chang an. It could be seen that his majesty and the Prince valued Tang Yuanyuan. Marrying Tang Yuanyuan would be beneficial to him in the future!
Chapter 449 - Lu Xi stole the bride and left quietly
Chapter 449: Chapter 449. Lu Xi stole the bride and left quietly
Lu Ang had recently noticed that Lu Xi hade to his mansion many times.
Both lunch and dinner were left in the mansion for dinner.
Red Silk began to hang in the mansion. There were still three days until Tang Yuanyuans wedding day.
Before dinner, Lu Ang really did wait for Lu Xi toe.
Lu Ang waved a fan in his hand and blocked Lu Xi at the door. As the saying goes, brothers always settle their debts. If you dont grant me a marriage, youe to my mansion every day to eat and drink for free. Do you have any shame?
Lu Xi used her hand to move Lu Angs fan away and took out a gold ingot from her pocket. Is it enough?
Lu Ang returned the gold ingot to Lu Xi. Who cares about your gold ingot?
Lu Xi said, After Yuan Yuan gets married, you can invite me here in a pnquin. I Wonte.
Lu ang snorted and let Lu Xi in. He said as he walked, After Yuan Yuan gets married, Im going to take Qingyu to Lin an to find my parents to discuss the marriage.
Lu Xi said, Up to you.
Qian Qingyu was shocked to have dinner with Lu Xi, so she stayed in her room to eat.
When it was time to leave, her mind was full of memories of being with Lu Ang.
Even though everyone said that Lu ang had treated her as a fake body double.
But Qian Qingyu could not deny that she was happy every time she was with Lu Ang.
Lu Ang had never disrespected her.
He would carefully apply medicine to her old whip wounds. As long as she cried out in pain, he would be very gentle..
After they were together, Lu Xi would not let the maids and servants serve her in the room. In the middle of the night, if Qian Qingyu was thirsty, Lu ang would personally get out of bed and pour water for her to drink.
Many times, when he whispered in her ear, Qian Qingyu felt that he did not use her as a stand-in..
When Qian Qingyu heard Lu Anging in, she ran over and hugged him. Your Highness.
Lu ang felt that Qian Qingyus expression was very wrong and asked, Whats Wrong?
Just give me a title. The title of a concubine will not affect you. If you are afraid that the future princess will be angry, I will take the child to a corner in the future...
Lu ang said angrily, Last time, I thought you had figured it out, but you still havent figured it out.
Seeing that Lu Ang was angry again, Qian Qingyu sighed helplessly and said, I understand, Your Highness.
With Lu Angs attitude, Qian Qingyu was finally not so reluctant to leave Chang an.
The day before Tang Yuanyuans wedding, Qian Qingyu heard that there was a bigmotion in Tang Yuanyuans courtyard. She did not take the initiative to inquire about it, but lucky came back to tell her.
That Zhou family is too shameless. Miss Tang has not married yet, but they actually caused an illegitimate child. Zhou Gu has a cousin staying at home, and they have been secretly doing it for a long time. Yesterday, they found a doctor and even had a child!
Qian qingyu heard Luckys words and asked, How was this discovered?
His Majestys heart ached for Miss Tang, and he sent a nanny from the pces Shanggong Bureau to help with the wedding.
When the servant from the pce went to the Zhou family, she saw that the Zhou familys cousin was pregnant and immediately knew that something had happened before the marriage.
TSK tsk, that Zhou familys cousin is really indecent!
Qian Qingyu clearly knew that lucky was not scolding her, so the Zhou familys cousin really deserved to be scolded.
But what was the difference between her and the Zhou familys cousin?
Wasnt she the same kind of person?
She felt extremely angry for Miss Tang. What about the future Princess Consort? Qian Qingyu was very disappointed.
She didnt know how they were talking over there, or if it was Zhou Gu who had been drenched in the heavy rain for four hours.
Tang Yuanyuan still agreed to continue tomorrows happy event, but after the door was closed, she would have the Zhou familys cousin get an abortion and find another man to marry.
How could Zhou Gu not agree.
After a night of heavy rain, Qian Qingyu was not sleepy at all because of the sound of the rain outside.
She opened her eyes and looked at Lu Angs sleeping face under the candlelight. Your Highness, you have to take care of yourself in the future!
It was sunny in the morning. It was the first time in the royal mansion to hold such a wedding, so it was inevitably a bit messy.
Tang Yuanyuan was married in the Lu ang royal mansion, so how could the officials not see it ande to give gifts? So early in the morning, Lu Ang met the officials who gave gifts in the hall.
Qian Qingyu followed the route that Qiao Nihong had prepared for her and sneaked into a box when the servant girl next to her was not paying attention.
Qiao Nihong and Qiao Nishang would follow her box along the way and leave in the chaos when they reached the Zhou family.
However, before they reached the Zhou family, there was the sound of soldiers approaching. Qian Qingyu almost thought that her n had been exposed. She pricked up her ears and heard the voice of His Majestying from outside.
Then, there was amotion. There were people outside the box. Qiao ni Hong came forward and opened the box. Lets go.
Qian qingyu came out of the box and followed Qiao ni Hong into a pnquin. When they reached the pnquin, Qian Qingyu asked Qiao ni hong, What Happened Just Now?
Qiao ni Hong said, Nothing big. His Majesty just stole Tang Yuanyuan.
His Majesty stole my wife. Isnt that a big deal?
Qian Qingyu could tell that Lu Xi must have a special feeling for Tang Yuanyuan since she came to the mansion every day.
But she didnt expect that His Majesty would dare to steal my wife in public.
When they reached the dock, Qiao Nihong was already waiting. The Xie family had a shipping business, so Qiao Nihong bribed her younger brother, Xie Wei, to get a ship.
When Qiao Nishang and Qian Qingyu arrived, they set off on the ship.
When Qiao Nishang learned that Her Majestys cousin had stolen her officials wife in public, although she was a little surprised, she agreed, Zhou Gu wanted to rely on Tang Yuanyuans official fortune to prosper, but before the marriage, he caused an illegitimate child. Well done, well done!
Qiao Nishang thought the same. Yes, well done. I didnt expect that His Majesty, who has always been unkind, would fall in love with a little girl so much younger than him.
Qian Qingyu looked at the deck and saw that the Chang an pier was getting further and further away from her. She touched her belly and decided not to look at the Chang an pier anymore.
Lu Xi did such a big thing quietly. She directly brought Tang Yuanyuan back to the pce and gave her an imperial edict as her queen.
All the officials were shocked and they all went to look for Lu Ang.
Lu Ang was also very helpless. could he still care about his elder brothers matters?
Moreover, he was on Lu Xis side. Lu Xi had not fallen in love for many years, which made Lu ang feel that he was going to be lonely for the rest of his life. It was a good thing that he could have a lover.
It was already dark when Lu ang returned to the Princes mansion. When Nanny Ning saw Lu ang return, she immediately knelt down in front of Lu Ang and said,
Your Highness, Miss Qingyu has gone missing. She has not been seen since the afternoon. The entire Princes mansion has been searched, and only this letter was left.
Lu Ang opened the letter and looked at Qian Qingyus handwriting. His heart was in a mess, and he immediately went to the Jinwu Guards.
He ordered the Jinwu guards to close the Chang an city gate. He also mobilized the troops in the Princes mansion to guard all the exits in Chang an city.
Chapter 450 - Don’t you want to see Ang ‘er in the future
Chapter 450: Chapter 450. Dont you want to see Ang er in the future
Lu Ang took the letter and hurried to the gate of Chang an city. At the gate, he carefully watched the women pass by one by one. They were not Qian Qingyu.
How can you be so stupid? Qian qingyu, you came out!
The sky waspletely dark, and Lu Ang waspletely panicking. He gathered the soldiers of Chang ans three David and ordered them to find Qian Qingyu. They searched every neighborhood.
Chang an was under martialw, and some people thought that something big had happened.
After some officials learned about this, they naturally went into the pce.
In the pce.
Qiao ruoyi said to Lu XI, Your Majesty, His Highness Prince Pingliang sealed the city gate for a woman. He imposed martialw on Chang an and went door to door to investigate.
Even if we were to catch a key criminal of the imperial court, there wouldnt be such a big battle. The people are anxious about this matter. I Hope Your Majesty Can Stop His Highness Prince Pingliang.
Lu XI nodded and said, Aunt, dont worry. I Wont let him do anything.
Lu Xi personally left the pce and went to the city gate. She saw Lu Ang, who was extremely flustered.
There was no news about Qian Qingyu, so Lu ang became more and more irritable.
Lu Xi walked to Lu Angs side and said, Ang-er.
Tears rolled down Lu Angs eyes as he said, Brother, just agree to let Qingyu be my princess consort. I really like her... really.
Lu Ang held the envelope tightly in his hand. Its my fault. I didnt tell her in advance and let her live in fear...
Where can she go? Shes pregnant and has no family. Dont let her be bullied. Shes always been easy to bully.
Lu Xi had wanted to persuade Lu Ang to withdraw his army, but seeing him like this, she let him be.
It had been almost 20 years, but Lu Xi had never seen her brother so heartbroken. It was clear how important Qian Qingyu was to him.
Lu ang searched for three whole days. Even his beard hade out, and he looked very haggard.
The ministers were alreadyining about Lu ang. Even marquis an Yuan, who had been recuperating for days, personally went to the Princes mansion to persuade Lu Ang.
However, Lu ang still acted as if he had gone mad. He went out of the city gate of Chang an and dug three feet into the ground to find Qian Qingyus whereabouts.
There was no news. After half a month and a month, he gradually became desperate.
Lu Ang drank all day long. Qian Qingyu hated him drinking the most and hated him being drunk the most. He drank so much today that Qian Qingyu could no longer tell him about himself.
Lu Ang looked at the letter left by Qian qingyu and sighed, How could you be so stupid!
The handwriting in the letter was beautiful, Your Highness, I was no longer in Chang an when you read this letter.
I was very happy to be by your side these few years, even though I knew that you liked Princess Nishang and you only treated me as a fake.
But I was willing to do it. I will never forget the kiss you gave me in Merlin for the rest of my life.
I want to stay by your side for the rest of my life, but my status is indeed not worthy of you. The difference between you and Me is like the clouds and the mud. I dont even dare to dream of having a concubine.
However, I am going to be a mother. Your Highness, I know how much the three words Treacherous childhave an impact on the child. Therefore, I have no choice but to leave you and leave Chang an with the child.
I hope that your Highness will live a peaceful life year by year and be able to find a princess who will bepatible with you for the rest of your life as soon as possible. Dont worry.
In just a few words, Lu ang remembered Qian Qingyus abnormality. This silly girl had no idea that he had never used her as a substitute.
He had always liked her, Qian Qingyu!
It was not because she was not qualified to be his concubine.
Lu Ang really regretted not exining at that time. Qian qingyu would not have such a misunderstanding with just a few words of exnation.
She was nowhere to be found in Chang an city. Where did Qian Qingyu go?
..
Lin an city was very lively. Qian Qingyu had been on the boat for a month. She felt a little dizzy when she got off the boat.
Qiao Nichang and Qiao Nihong took Qian Qingyu to the Qian family.
Qian Qingyu declined their kindness. She had an ancestral home in Lin an city. However, it was dpidated after she went to the ancestral home. Half of the house had copsed.
Qian Qingyu wanted to find her aunt, Granny Qian, but there was no one at her house and the house had copsed. She asked her neighbors about her aunts whereabouts and said she didnt know.
Qian Qingyu wanted to ask the nearby hundred savory restaurant. After all, people in the restaurant would know about this.
What Qian Qingyu didnt expect was to see the Empress Dowager in the Hundred Savory Restaurant!
The retired emperor and the Empress Dowager had always announced to the outside world that they were taking care of their Old agein Luoyangs temporary pce, even though they were far from the age to take care of their old age.., qian Qingyu did not expect the empress dowager to Show her face in publicin the restaurant.
Qian Qingyu did not dare to disobey Qiao Jinniangs orders, so she stayed in the guest room of the restaurant.
Living in the restaurant, Qian Qingyu had seen a lot of excitement.
Lu Weiyang brought a bowl of birds nest into Qian Qingyus room.
When Qian Qingyu saw the princess bring the birds nest over personally, she quickly stood up and said, Your Highness, how can I Do This?
Dont Call Me Your Highness. Just Call Me Weiyang. This is the birds nest that I specially prepared for you,Lu Weiyang said. Other than my grandmother, I usually cant bear to give food to others.
Qian qingyu said, This is too precious.
Lu Weiyang said, Youre pregnant and have traveled a long distance, so you naturally have to take good care of it. The Doctor said that your fetus is unstable, so you have to nourish it as much as possible. If you dont eat it, are you looking down on me?
Qian qingyu scooped a spoonful of soup and said, Thank you, Princess.
Lu Weiyang asked Qian qingyu, You can rest assured here and take care of the fetus.
Qian qingyu pursed her lips and said, But Your Highness, my child doesnt have a title...
With your parents here, are you afraid of not having a title?Lu Weiyang advised Qian qingyu, Dont worry. Even if my mother doesnt recognize my second brother, she will recognize the child in your arms. Just rest assured and take care of the child.
Qian Qingyu also couldnt live free in the Hundred Savory restaurant. When her fetus settled down, she would help out in the restaurant. She couldnt serve tea or water, but she could collect money.
Before she knew it, it was already half-july. Qian qingyu suddenly gave birth prematurely. Although it was premature, the baby was white and fat and weighed at least eight pounds.
Qian Qingyu did not dare to imagine that if the baby was born at full-term, she would have difficulty giving birth.
It was not the daughter of her dream, but a son. Qian Qingyu was not disappointed. Looking at the sleeping face of the baby, Qian Qingyu felt that although her life was full of suffering, it was worth it.
After Qian Qingyus baby was born, Qiao Ni and Qiao ni went back to Chang an.
When the baby was about to be full moon, Qian Qingyu went to find Qiao Jinniang.
Seeing Qian Qingyue out, Qiao Jinniang said, You havent given birth yet? Its not easy toe out. Its a lifetime thing to be exposed to the wind.
Empress dowager, its not a long-term n for me to keep disturbing you in the Hundred Savory Restaurant. The ancestral house next door has been repaired. I want to take the baby to live in the ancestral house.
Qiao jinniang asked Qian qingyu, Qingyu, do you really not want to see Ang er in the future? Do you want to hide from Ang er forever with your child?
Chapter 451 - Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu get married
Chapter 451: Chapter 451: Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu get married
Qian Qingyu didnt know how to answer. She couldnt let go of Lu Ang. She didnt want Lu Ang to be unable to see his child, but she was afraid that Lu ang would hate her.
Qiao jinniang continued, After you left Chang an, the usually sensible Ang er went crazy looking for you in Chang an and mobilized the army to cordon off Chang an.
Ang Er hadmitted a serious crime. If Xier did not care about the brotherhood, she could have directly convicted Ang er of treason!
I dont know what happened between you and Ang Er.
But I think Ang er has already regretted it after you left Chang an. Qingyu, are you willing to give Ang er another chance?
Qian qingyu nodded and said, Yes.
Then after the mid-autumn Festival, when you leave the courtyard, I will take you back to Chang an. If ang er is still muddle-headed and is not willing to give you a title, I will give you the title of first-ss wife. No one will use the identity of a child to argue. You can rest assured.
Qian qingyu bowed to Qiao Jinniang and said, Thank you, Empress Dowager.
Qian Qingyu looked at the Moon that was getting more and more round. She still had that piece of mooncake that she was reluctant to eat. She sealed the mooncake with wax so that it would not have a bad smell.
Now, she could eat as many mooncakes as she had in the restaurant, but she missed the mooncakes that Lu ang brought back from the pce every year.
On the night of the mid-autumn Festival, Qian Qingyu was brought by Lu Weiyang to have dinner with Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. Qian Qingyu was very reserved.
Soon, she saw Lu Xi returning with Tang Yuanyuan. Beside them was a gaunt, much thinner Lu ang.
Qian Qingyu had just stood up when she fell into an embrace. Lu Ang hugged the person in front of him fiercely. Qingyu.
......
What happened next made Qian Qingyu feel like she was dreaming.
Lu ang actually said that he wanted to marry her as a princess consort. Ever since she got together with Lu Ang, Qian Qingyu had never dreamed of being a princess consort. She knew that the gap between them was too big.
After the banquet, Lu ang took Qian Qingyu to a nearby pce. He hugged her for a long time and refused to let go. If she had not just given birth, Lu ang would never be willing to just hug her.
Qian Qingyu was hugged by Lu ang and said, Your Highness, do you really want me to be a princess consort? But my identity...
Lu ang slightly let go of Qian Qingyu. He looked at her eyes and said, Qian Qingyu, listen well. The moment I kissed you in Merlin, I had already decided to have you as my princess consort.
All these years, I thought you knew my intentions, but I didnt know that you actually had such a stunt double in your heart!
How did I treat you badly? How could I let you think that I have made you a stunt double?
Qian qingyu lowered her head and said, You have never made me a stunt double for Miss Nichang?
Of course not. If I really like Nichang, why dont I fight with Qian Yu and let the people in front of me go and find a stunt double instead? Besides, if I really love her, why would I find a stunt double?
Lu ang pointed at Qian Qingyus head and said, Do you think you are stupid?
Qian qingyu held Lu Angs finger and said, So all these years of sweetness are real, not fake. I am not lying to myself!
Lu ang once hugged Qian Qingyu with heartache and said, Its true. I have always liked you. You are the only one in my heart.
Qian Qingyu leaned on Lu Angs shoulder and sobbed softly. Me too.
While the two of them were affectionate, Lu Weiyang came in with the child and said, Second brother, Little Treasure cant stop crying. He must be about to eat.
Lu Weiyang came in like this and gave Lu ang a fright.
Lu Ang only thought of his child after a while. He got off the bed and took the child from Lu Weiyangs arms. The crying child was now in Lu Angs arms, crying even harder.
Lu Weiyang said with disdain, Second brother, be gentle. Let second sister-inw carry him.
Qian Qingyu took her son and held him in her arms to gentlyfort his back. The child gradually stopped crying.
Lu Weiyang looked at Qian qingyu and said, He is really cute. Second Brother, second sister-inw, can you keep him in Lin an?
Lu ang asked, What do you think? If you really like children, wouldnt it be better for you to have one yourself?
Weiyang sighed and said, Who should I find to have one?
Lu ang said, Youre not young anymore. I think its time to find you a husband.
Weiyang said, No, no. After marrying the husband, he will use my money. I dont want any husband.
Just be a miser for the rest of your life. Father and mother have so much money that you wont be able to spend it all day and night. I dont know where you get your stinginess from! For three coins, you caused me and Qingyu to be separated for so long.
He had to be his own sister. He could only pamper her and not me her. Otherwise, Lu ang would have taken action long ago.
Wei Yang said, This is called being thrifty and frugal. Im not stingy. Even if I have a mountain of gold and silver, Im willing to use gold and silver to build a house of gold and silver, but Im not willing to spend it.
Lu Ang:...
It was October and autumn. The Prince of Pingliangs residence was filled with red silk. It was very lively when Prince Pingliang married the Princess Consort. Those who had been pointing fingers at Qian qingyu were now filled with regret.
They only hoped that Prince Pingliang, who was holding a grudge, would not find trouble with them.
Although the wedding was rushed, the officials of the Ministry of Rites stayed up all night toplete the ceremony. Qian qingyu came down from the sedan chair in a bright red wedding dress. When she saw Lu ang in red, she smiled faintly.
Little Princess Weiyang and Tang Yuanyuan looked at them from below and bowed, she said, The wedding is too extravagant. Second Brother spent 100,000 taels of silver to marry a princess. When you marry eldest brother next year, you wont spend more taels of silver, right? I have to leave Chang an quickly.
Tang Yuanyuan held Weiyangs hand and said, Youre not allowed to leave. You said that you would apany me until I married into the pce. Besides, the empress dowager and master and Master are both in Chang an. Where can you go by yourself?
The Empress Dowagers marriage was a major event. It was not something that the ministry of Rites couldplete overnight. It was announced to the world that the wedding would be held in April of the following year, so that all the small countries coulde to great Tang to watch the grand event.
It was impossible for Lady Qiao not to be present for such a major event like Lu Xis marriage.
Weiyang held Tang Yuanyuans hand and said, But I feel like Im bleeding when I see all these extravagance and waste. Do you know how many maids there are in My Princessmansion? There are a total of 300 maids in the PrincessMansion!
Tang Yuanyuan said, Its hard for you to give out monthly allowances to 300 people.
Good sister, you really understand me.
Lu Xi came over and heard Wei Yangs words. She smiled and said, This monthly allowance will be paid by the pce. You still have to change your stingy habit. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to find a son-inw.
Wei Yang said, Big Brother, if you continue to talk about the son-inw, I will, I will be a monk!
Tang Yuanyuan said, Its good to be a monk. Its peaceful and doesnt need to spend money. The Taoist temple is self-sufficient...
Before she finished speaking, she saw Wei Yang leave. The wedding banquet hasnt started yet. Where are you going?
To be a monk!
Chapter 452 - Weiyang wins Lingxuan’s Buddha beads
Chapter 452: Chapter 452: Weiyang wins Lingxuans Buddha beads
Tang Yuanyuan pulled Weiyang back. Although you dont need to spend money to be a monk, its still difficult. You Cant eat the meat and meat that you love.
Weiyang pondered for a moment. For the sake of meat, she decided not to be a monk for the time being.
After the wedding banquet, Weiyang returned to the Princessresidence.
The Princessresidence was given to her by her parents the moment she was born. The carvings, beams, and paintings were all the most exquisite in the world.
The first thing Wei Yang did when she returned to the Princessresidence was to count her own money.
Today, her second brother was marrying a princess. As her younger sister, she had no choice but to take out a lot of silver as a gift..
The pce maid beside Wei Yang, Xiao Mang, said, Master, youve counted it several times. Dont worry, there wont be ack of silver notes.
Weiyang said, I can only be at ease if I count them every day. I dont need to worry about the restaurants. I have nothing to do. Im quite happy counting banknotes.
Qiao Nihong and Qiao Nichang had not seen Princess Weiyang for a long time.
Knowing that she hade to Chang an, Qiao Nihong brought Qiao Nichang to see her. She did not know if she was as stingy as she was when she was young.
When Weiyang heard that her two cousins hade, she let them in and asked the pce maids to serve them tea.
Qiao nihong teased, I thought I wouldnt even be able to get a cup of tea at the Princessresidence. The princess is not as stingy as they say.
Weiyang said, Cousin, its been a long time. You teased me the moment you came.
......
No matter how stingy I am, I know my manners. I still have to spend money where I should. What business do you two cousins have with me?
Qiao nihong smiled and said, You havent been back to Chang an for a long time. Do you want us to take you to Chang an city to y?
No, it costs money to y,Weiyang refused. Thank you for your kindness, Cousins.
Qiao nihong said, We are going to Yuan Xi Temple. It doesnt cost money to pray at Yuan Xi Temple. Do you want to go with us?
Wei Yang nodded when she heard that they could y without money. Sure, lets go together.
The incense in the Yuan Xi Temple had always been very popr.
The day after Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu got married, they also came to the Yuan Xi Temple to rebuild the golden body of the bodhisattva.
Lu Ang said to Qian qingyu, Back then, I asked for a fortune here and it was quite effective.
There was a marriage tree in front. Back then, Nihon asked for four marriage talismans here and asked us to wear them to pray for her. Later, Qian Yu, Nihon, and I all had a home, but she was gone.
Hearing Lu Angs words, Qian Qingyu remembered how deep her misunderstanding was. She didnt want to say it out loud and let Lu Ang make fun of her again.
When the two of them entered the hall, they saw Weiyang, Nihon, and Nihon in the hall.
After Weiyang knelt down, the novice monk took a tray and walked to her side. Lu Weiyang did not know what he meant.
She looked at Qiao Nichang and Qiao Nichang who took ten hundred taels of silver notes and ced them on the tray.
Weiyang widened her eyes and said, I forgot to bring the silver when I was in a hurry.
The novice monk looked at the gold hairpin on Weiyangs head.
Wei Yang gritted his teeth and pulled out a gold hairpin from his head and ced it on the tray.
The young novice monk did not take the tray away. Instead, he handed it to Wei Yang. Wei Yang gritted his teeth again and took off the silver bracelet on his right hand. The gold bracelet on his left hand was ced on the small tray.
Only then did the young novice monk take the tray and leave.
Wei Yangs breathing stopped and he almost fainted. Qiao Nihon, who was at the side, quickly supported Wei Yang.
Wei Yang whispered into Qiao ni Hongs ear, Cousin, you lied to me! Didnt you say that you dont need to spend money toe to the temple? How Are They Merciful Monks? They are simply bandits!
Qiao ni Hong:...
Lu Ang stepped forward and asked, Wei Yang, whats wrong? Do you feel ufortable?
Wei Yang forced a smile and shook his head. Its nothing. Second Brother and sister-inw, are you also here to worship Buddha?
Lu ang nodded and said, A few years ago, I asked for a fortune here. It was very effective, so I came here today to reconstruct the golden body of Bodhisattva...
Wei Yang turned around and saw two guards carrying a small box of gold. She felt dizzy and stuffy again.
Wei Yang went to the back of the temple to get some fresh air. She was afraid that she would really faint if she saw her second brother squandering so much.
Wei Yang had always been used to being free outside and did not like her maidservants following her. As she walked into the back of the mountain, she saw the word Abbotwritten on it.
There was an ancient ginkgo tree inside. At this time, the ginkgo leaves were slightly yellow and fell with the wind,nding on the monks kasaya inside. Wei Yang looked over and saw that the monks kasaya inside was different from the othersred-gold color, he was wearing a white-gold kasaya.
Great Tang had a rule that only the abbots of a temple could wear kasaya of this color.
The abbots of a temple were also the masters of this temple. Wei Yang thought of the silver taels that she had been cheated of just now, so she entered and saw the monks appearance clearly.
Wei Yang had seen all the beauties since she was a child. Her parents and brothers were all beauties. However, when she saw the young monk in front of her, she was still stunned by his appearance.
Amitabha, female benefactor, are you lost?
Wei Yang said, No, I saw master ying chess alone and wanted to spar with him. I wonder if Master can teach me a game?
Ling Xuan raised his head to look at the girl who had just reached marriageable age and said, Female benefactor, if you dont mind, I will naturally apany you.
Wei Yang sat opposite Ling Xuan and a ginkgo leaf fell right in front of her. Wei Yang held the ginkgo leaf and ced a white chess piece on Tianyuan.
Ling Xuan ced a ck stone on the star position.
Wei Yang yed with the ginkgo leaf with one hand and yed chess with the other. After twenty stones, Wei Yang said, Master, its not fun just ying chess. Why dont we make a bet?
Ling Xuan held the Buddha bead with one hand and said, Amitabha. Buddhists dont gamble.
Wei Yang said, But isnt winning or losing a chess game between two ck and white stones also a Gamble?
Ling Xuan fiddled with the Buddha bead and said, In that case, what do you want to Bet?
Wei Yang immediately took a fancy to the Buddha bead in Ling Xuans hand. The hairpin on her head and the bracelet on her hand added up to at least five taels of gold.
The Buddha bead in Ling Xuans hand was carved from precious wood, which was just enough to match her five taels of gold.
If I win, I want the Buddha bead in your hand.
Ling Xuan asked, What if the female benefactor loses?
How can I lose?When she was young, she learned chess from her father. Later, when she went to Lingnan to learn chess from her grandfather, many go masters lost to her in chess.
Wei Yang said, If I lose, I wille to the temple every day to clean the fallen leaves for a month.
Okay,Ling Xuan replied.
Wei Yang continued ying chess. After the time it takes for two incense sticks to burn, Wei Yangs ying slowed down a lot. It had been a long time since she had seen such a difficult opponent. If she had known earlier, she would not have yed Tianyuan first.
Every time Wei Yang yed, it was very difficult. In the end, she won by a fluke.
Wei Yang also saw the astonishment in the eyes of the monk in front of her.
Ling Xuan put his palms together and said, Amitabha. The chess skills of the female almsgiver are unparalleled in the world. I am willing to ept my loss and give this Buddhist bead to you.
Wei Yang took the Buddhist bead from Ling Xuan and said, Thank you, Master.
Chapter 453
Chapter 453: Chapter 453, unraveling the exquisite chess game
Lu Weiyang walked out of the abbots courtyard with the Buddhist beads. Neon saw Lu Weiyanging over from afar and said, Ive finally found you. I was so worried. Where have you been?
Lu Weiyang spun the Buddhist beads and said, I just yed chess with the abbot of this temple.
Neon asked, Do the abbots here still know how to y chess? Its time to go back.
Lu Weiyang said, Wait for me a little longer. Just now, I donated so much silver to Bodhisattva, but I still havent made a wish. Wouldnt that be even worse?
Lu Weiyang entered the temple again, he worshiped the bodhisattva in front of him sincerely and said, Bodhisattva who saves the suffering and saves the suffering, on ount of the fact that the fairies have donated so much gold, you must bless the Peace of the great Tang Empire. Father, mother, grandmother, brother, grandmother, grandfathers health...
Qiao Nihong waited for Lu Weiyang to make a wish by the side. After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, Lu Weiyangs wish had yet to be fulfilled.
Qiao Nihong said softly to Lu Weiyang, Alright, if you continue to make a wish, bodhisattva will be annoyed to death.
Lu Weiyang smiled faintly and said, I have spent so much silver, I will definitely make a full wish.
She picked up the fortune-teller again and a fortune-teller fell out from the fortune-teller. Lu Weiyang went to the side of the little novice monk to exchange for the fortune-teller. He saw that the words fiercewere written on it.
Lu Weiyang frowned. Second Brother is lying. Yuanxi temple is not effective at all.
After saying that, Lu Weiyang threw the fortune-teller on the ground.
Qiao Nihong looked at the poem written on it. I once thought that amorous feelings would harm the Buddhist practice, but once I entered the mountain, I was afraid that I would be able to turn the city upside down. The world is safe, and I will not let down the Tathagata.
When Qiao Nihong saw the poem, she recalled that there was a princess who fell in love with a monk in the great ancestors era. The monk was sentenced to death, and the princess plotted a rebellion and eventually became crazy.
......
Could it be that Lu Weiyang also fell in love with a monk?
Qiao Nihong shook her head as she thought about it. Perhaps she was thinking too much. Perhaps there was another meaning behind this poem.
In the abbots courtyard.
Lu ang entered and asked, Master Ling Xuan? Why are you here?
Master Ling Xuan was not the abbot of the Yuan Xi Temple, but the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple. With the rise of Buddhism among the people, the Prime Minister Temple became the National Temple, and Master Ling Xuan was conferred the title of National Master two years ago.
Ling Xuan looked away from the chessboard and said, Your Highness, I was invited by Master Tong Ming to y chess today.
Lu ang looked at the chessboard in front of Ling Xuan, then at the ck piece that Ling Xuan was holding, and asked curiously, You actually have a time to lose?
Ling Xuan said, Today, I know that there is always someone better than me. The female benefactor who ys chess with me looks to be at the age of marriageable age, and the first move she made in Tian Yuan won half an eye, which shows her superb chess skills.
The person who yed Tianyuan in the first move should be my sister. If you lost to her, it wouldnt be too bad. An ordinary chess master wouldnt be able to win against her when she was holding a white stone.Lu Ang looked at the chess game carefully, It really looks like its her.
Ling Xuan said, So its her highness the Princess.
..
Everyone knew that Lu Weiyang had returned to Chang an, but the number of people who had seen Princess Weiyangs appearance could be counted on one hand.
However, those who had young talents in their families were all afraid that Princess Weiyang would choose her husband.
The princessreputation was already extremely bad. Even if her husband could enter the imperial court and rely on the princess to obtain a bright future, there were still very few people who were willing to be her husband.
After Weiyang received the Buddha Bead, she wore it on her body. Although she had thrown away the signing document, she was still a little afraid that it woulde true.
Putting the Buddha bead on her body might save her from some bloody disaster.
Today, neon came to find her to y again. Neon promised that she would not let Weiyang spend money today, so she sent Weiyang to the Marquismansion in an yuan.
Weiyang had not seen her maternal grandmother for a long time. She was very happy to see her maternal grandmother. What was even happier was that her maternal grandmother gave her two big red packets.
Thank you, maternal grandfather, maternal grandmother.
Zheng xiaoughed and said, You have grown so much. You have not been in Chang an all these years. You should have fun in Chang an. The marriage between your two brothers has been decided. You...
Weiyang said, Maternal grandmother, I am still young. I am not in a hurry to find the Prince Consort.
Zheng xiao nodded and said, Yes, there is no hurry to find him.
Left and Right Wei Yang was the only eldest princess and His Majestys only sister. There were too many choices for marriage. There was no need to worry about finding a husband.
Moreover, Wei Yang looked so good. Why would he worry about not finding a husband?
Wei Yang smiled. I think grandmother should be worried about cousin. Next year, cousin Nichang and brother Qian Yu are going to get married, but cousin Nichang hasnt decided on a marriage yet!
Qiao Nichang nced at Wei Yang. This little princess must be seeking revenge for spending arge sum of silver at the Yuanxi Temple a few days ago.
Zheng Xiao said, Today, Ive asked you toe precisely for this matter. I n to hold a chrysanthemum appreciation poetry meet in the mansion in a few days and invite all the young talents of Chang an. You two can also see if theres a man you like.
Nihon and Weiyang did not need to worry about their husbands, but because their positions were too high, the men did not dare to rashlye and propose marriage.
It was better to let them choose one that they liked first. Then, even if the woman went to propose marriage, what harm would it do?
Weiyang did not want to disappoint her grandmothers good intentions, so she agreed. However, she did not have the slightest intention of finding a prince consort. If she found a prince consort who knew how to spend money, she was afraid that she would suffocate every day.
After Weiyang left the marquis an Yuans manor, she did not allow the servant girls to follow her to the main street.
The shouts along the main street were all things that women loved. Along the way, there were quite a few vendors. Most of the women would not be able to endure not spending money.
However, Weiyang really endured it and did not spend a single silver tael.
Weiyang held a Buddha Pearl in her hand. When she passed by a vendor, she saw a group of people surrounding her. She also went over to watch themotion.
She saw an old man cing a go manual in front of her. People kept giving her five cents to solve the game. Basically, she lost the entire game.
Wei Yang looked for a woman who was watching the show and asked, Sister, what are you doing here?
Little girl, dont you know? This is a remnant game, also known as the exquisite go game. This game is said to be a remnant game set up by the number one Go yer, Imperial Preceptor Ling Xuan. Until now, no one in the world has been able to solve it.
Five coins per game. If you can solve this remnant game, you will get five taels of silver if you win. If you cant win this five coins, you wont be able to get it back.
Wei Yang looked at the go game and was eager to go forward. However, she didnt want to spend five coins. If she was asked to take out silver, even if it was just five coins, she would feel her heart ache. It was really painful.
Master Ling Xuan is really the number one saint in the world. In todays go world, no one is better than him.
Who said that?Wei Yang said unwillingly, This chess piece is just so-so. Is it worthy of being called a rare chess game? Great Tang is full of talents. This chess piece is not the number one expert, right?
Chapter 454
Chapter 454: Chapter 454, Crown Prince of Uncle Zhaos mansion
When the old man saw that it was a little girl, he said, You little girl, dont talk nonsense. Master Ling Xuans exquisite go game has stumped so many divine hands in Chang an.
Wei Yang said, This go game is very easy to break.
The old man said in disbelief, Little girl, youre not afraid of losing your teeth even if you talk big. In that case, I wont charge you five cents. If you can break this game, Ill give you fifty taels of silver.
Weiyang knelt on the futon opposite the old man and ced the ck piece on the star position of the chessboard. With one move, she turned the dead game of the ck piece.
The old man looked at the position where Weiyang was ying and followed up with another move.
Weiyang calmly yed another move.
All the chess lovers in Chang an gathered around and looked at the game. Every time Weiyang yed a move, everyone around cheered.
After about an incense stick, Weiyang said to the old man, I won. Give me the Silver!
The old man took out fifty taels of silver from his pocket and gave it to Weiyang. He cupped his hands and asked, May I know your name, Miss?
Weiyang smiled and said, Lu Weiyang.
When Weiyang heard this, the old man immediately knelt down and saluted, Greetings, eldest Princess Weiyang.
Lu Wei yang chuckled and said, Theres no need to be so polite. Tell that Master Ling Xuan or whatever that he is, theres always someone better than you. Not everything is worthy of being called the number one Go yer in the world.
Lu Wei Yang was in a great mood after taking the banknote. He did not expect that although Chang an had many ces to spend money, there were also many ces to earn money. He could win so many things just by ying two games of go.
......
In the crowd, the young master of Uncle Zhaos house looked at Lu Weiyangs back and felt a ripple in his heart. He jogged after him and said, Miss, please wait.
Lu Weiyang turned back to look at the young master behind him and asked, Are you calling for me?
Zhao qingquan nodded and said, I am the Crown Prince of Uncle Zhaos house, Zhao Qingquan. I just saw your amazing go game. I wonder if you have time to talk to me?
Lu Weiyang looked at the sky as if it was going to rain and said, Another day.
As expected, as soon as he said that, bean-sized raindrops fell and Lu Weiyang ran back to the Princessmansion.
When he ran back to the Princessmansion, Xiao Mang opened his umbre and greeted Lu Weiyang, Your Highness.
Lu Weiyang took the umbre and said, This day is really strange. It rains when it says it does, or is that fortune-telling really effective?
Just as Lu Weiyang was pondering, Xiao Mang whispered to Lu Weiyang, Your Highness, do you know that Little Langjun who followed you?
Lu Weiyang looked at the panting man behind him and asked Zhao Qingquan, Why did you follow me here?
Zhao Qingquan, who was caught in the rain, panted and said, I was afraid that the princess didnt have any maidservants and guards following her, and I brought an umbre. But the princess ran too fast, i...
Lu Weiyang burst outughing, thinking that this person was really stupid. Forget it, for the sake of your sincerity, Ill y a game of go with you today.
Hearing Lu Weiyang call himself me, Zhao Qingquan smiled slowly and said, Then Ill ask the Princess to teach me.
In the main hall of the Princessmansion, the pce maids set up a game of go.
Lu Weiyang knelt on the jade ground and said, You y first.
Zhao Qingquan cupped his hands and said, Then I wont stand on ceremony.
Lu Weiyang and Zhao Qingquan had just yed the middle game when she said to Zhao Qingquan, Youve lost.
Zhao Qingquan looked at the chessboard and carefully thought about the next few steps. He was indeed powerless to alleviate the situation, he sighed and said, The princesschess skills are rare in this world. I submit. I wonder if you can give me some pointers on my chess moves?
Lu Weiyang was not stingy in this aspect. He pointed out Zhao Qingquans shorings in her chess moves and before he knew it, it was already evening.
Zhao Qingquan saw that the sky was already dark. He bowed to Lu Weiyang and said, Your Highness, the sky is already dark. I wille and Bother Your Highness Another Day.
Lu Weiyang wanted to tell him not to bother her anymore, but before she could finish, Zhao Qingquan had already left.
Lu Weiyang saw that the rain had stopped outside, so she went to the neighboring Prince Pingliangs residence for a meal without any meaning.
Rather than saying that the meal was empty, Lu Weiyang felt sorry for the silver. After all, her second brothers house next door did not have a pair of chopsticks like hers.
Lu Ang did not have any objections to Weiyanging to the residence for a meal. He looked at the string of red sandalwood Buddhist beads in Lu Weiyangs hand and looked at it carefully. Isnt this the string of Buddhist beads in Master Ling Xuans Hand?
Weiyang said rather smugly, Master Ling Xuan is the abbot of the Yuan Xi Temple. I won this from the abbot of the Yuan Xi Temple.
Lu ang said, Master Ling Xuan is the son of heaven. When he was born, there were strange phenomena in the sky, and the sky was filled with golden light. The abbot of the Prime Minister Temple said that he was fated with Buddhism and was born a small monk in the Prime Minister Temple.
Two years ago, Ling Xuan became the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple. Now he is the great Tang temple. In ces like Japan, Tibet, and the northern desert, there are people from the Buddhist sect whoe to great Tang to ask Master Ling Xuan for Buddhist teachings. He is just a weak crown now.
Wei Yang said, So that Monk is still the prime minister. Then this string of red sandalwood Buddhist beads should be extremely precious?
Lu ang replied, Of course. This is a rare red sandalwood, extremely precious. It can be said to be a treasure of the Prime Minister Temple.
Wei Yang fiddled with the Buddhist beads and said, Then I didnt lose out on my gold hairpin and gold bracelet.
..
A banquet was held in the manor of Marquis an yuan. Wei Yang had no choice but to go because of her maternal grandmothers good intentions. When she arrived at the manor of Marquis an Yuan and saw the courtyard full of Young talents,she did not have anyone that she was moved by.
Looking at these men, it was better to see the cordiality of money.
Zhao Qingquan walked to Wei Yangs side and said, Your Highness, do you still remember me?
Lu Weiyang nodded. Yes, I remember. A stinky chess basket...
Lu Weiyang revealed an apologetic expression and quickly corrected himself, No, its crown prince Zhao.
Zhao Qingquan said, Ive been practicing hard recently. I wonder if I can y chess with the princess again?
Lu Weiyang was not very willing to y chess with Zhao Qingquan. His chess skills were too poor. The difference between their chess skills was like heaven and earth. There was no point in ying chess with him.
Lu Weiyang said, Okay. If you lose this game, then youre not allowed to y chess with me in the future.
Zhao Qingquan heard this and asked, Why?
Lu Weiyang said to Zhao Qingquan in embarrassment, Your chess skills dont have any fun for me. So if you lose this game, dont y chess with me in the future.
Zhao qingquan quickly said, Then the princess may dy this game for a few days and let me think about it again?
Okay,Lu Weiyang replied.
Qiao Jinniang heard that her mother had arranged a banquet for the two men to choose their husbands, so she came over with Lu Chen to have a look. The two looked over from the waterside pavilion and saw Weiyang talking to a man.
She asked Lu Chen, Who is the man with Wei Yang?
Lu Chen said, The crown prince of Uncle Zhaos mansion. He stayed in Wei Yangs mansion until dark a few days ago before he left the Princessmansion.
Qiao jinniang said, Crown Prince Zhaos looks are not bad. I wonder what his character is like?
Chapter 455 - the Prime Minister’s Temple
Chapter 455: Chapter 455, the Prime Ministers Temple
Lu Chen said, I dont think Zhao Qingquan is good enough for Weiyang.
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, ording to your standards, no one in this world is good enough for Weiyang! However, I also dont think Crown Prince Zhao is good enough.
However, Xiers wedding ising from all over the world. If the Tubo of the northern desert asks to marry the princess and refuses rashly, it will hurt the harmony between the two countries. We have to arrange a marriage for her first.
Great Tangs national strength was prosperous, so it was naturally not afraid of fighting with the Tubo from the northern desert. However, since the beginning of the trade, the various countries had maintained a friendly appearance.
If they used the position of the mother of the country to ask to marry Princess Great Tang, if Great Tang was unwilling, it would hurt the harmony.
It was not only the princess who needed to marry during times of war, but the princesses in the prosperous era also had to marry. It was just that their status was different from the past.
The Tubo imperial court was already discussing the matter of marrying Princess Datang. Therefore, Lady Qiao was also happy to see Weiyang find the one he loved in his heart as soon as possible.
Lu Chen said, You dont have to worry about it. Datangs national strength is flourishing. I think they wont insist on marrying her.
Lu Weiyang did not see anyone he liked after a day.
However, many young masters were shocked by Princess Weiyangs appearance. Princess Weiyang was not in Chang an in the past. No one had seen how good-looking she was in person.
Today, she was standing with Qiao Nichang, the publicly recognized number one beauty in Chang an. They did not lose at all. They all went forward to please Lu Weiyang.
Lu Weiyang was finally annoyed. He hid to the side to find some peace and quiet. When he saw Qiao Jinniang, he ran over and jumped into her arms, Mother, dont let Grandmother do this in the future. I dont like it at all. I dont like getting married. Isnt it good for me to stay by your side for the rest of my life?
Qiao Jinniang stroked Lu Weiyangs head and smiled dotingly. Sure. Im just afraid that youll dislike mother in a few years.
......
Lu Weiyang hugged Qiao jinniang tightly and said, Why would I dislike you?
Qiao jinniang said, Youve been cooped up here all day today. Its been hard on you. Do you have anywhere you want to go to y? Mother will apany you.
Lu Weiyang said, I want to go to the temple of Prime Minister. Some time ago, I drew a huge ominous lot at the Yuanxi Temple. Ive always been thinking about it, and Ive been very unlucky these past few days.
When Lu Chen heard about the ominous lot, he consoled lu weiyang, Misfortune is a blessing in disguise, and misfortune is a blessing in disguise.The ominous lot might not necessarily be bad, but it could also turn for the better. What did the lot say?
Lu Weiyang said, What does it say about the world being safe and sound? It doesnt let down the Tathagata, and it doesnt let you down. A monk can not eat meat. I dont want to be a monk.
Lu Chen said, This signing document refers to the great ancestors Great Aunt Hui ans great grandmother. When Princess Hui an was young, she fell in love with a monk. After she got married, she often interacted with the monk. In a fit of anger, the great ancestor ordered the monk to be sentenced to death. Princess Hui an rebelled.
Lu Weiyang said, Father, dont worry. I definitely wont rebel. A rebellion will cost a lot of money. I Wont be willing to part with it.
Qiao Jinniang chuckled. I know you wont rebel.
Lu Chen sighed. I Wonder Who Your Miserly character followed?
Qiao jinniang said, Ive always been generous. She definitely followed you.
Lu Chen:...
..
Qiao Jinniang had always been skeptical about the matters of the Gods and Buddhas. However, in order to make Lu Weiyang Beg for Peace of mind, she still brought Lu Chen to the Prime Minister Temple.
Lu Chen went to look for Ling Xuan. When Ling Xuan learned of the purpose of the nobles visit, he put his palms together and said, Amitabha Buddha, there is no such thing as fate in Buddhism. The lottery in Yuanxi Temple is also abination of the folk temples and Daoistslottery.
The Buddha cultivates in this life and wishes toe to the next life. In this life, only by umting merit can one be blessed in the next life. As for the lottery of great evil, the princess does not need to take it to heart. Only by doing more good deeds in this life can one have merit in the next life.
Lu Weiyang said, But second brother said that the lottery in Yuan Xi temple is very effective.
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together and said, Amitabha Buddha, if the princess cant Let It Go, why dont you quietly copy the Scriptures in front of the Buddha? You can repay your sins in half a month.
Qiao Jinniang looked at Lu Weiyang and said, There is a side room in the Prime Minister Temple. Mother will apany you to stay on the mountain for half a month. If you sincerely copy the Scriptures, you can also pray for Peace of mind.
Lu Weiyang said, Its cold on the mountain. Daughter can stay here alone to copy the scriptures. Mother doesnt have to apany me.
Lu Chen also said to Qiao jinniang, Weiyang is not young anymore. Just let her stay in the temple together.
She has never suffered since she was young, and she likes to eat meat. Im afraid that she is too poor in the temple.
Qiao Jinniang was really worried about Lu Weiyang staying in the temple alone.
Lu Chen smiled lightly. Dont worry. Master Ling Xuan, Ill leave Weiyang in your care.
Your Majesty, dont worry. I will take good care of the Princess.Ling Xuan put his hands together and bowed.
Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen said when they left the mountain, Master Ling Xuan has an extraordinary appearance. He is one of the best men in Chang an.
Lu Chen said, If he was not a Buddha at birth and still living in the secr world, he would be one of the best among the princes and Sons of Chang an.
Is he from an extraordinary family?
Lu chen nodded and said, He was originally the son of the eldest son of the Zhao family. The current Uncle Zhao is his uncle.
Qiao jinniang asked curiously, In that case, the title of nobility of Uncle Zhaos estate originally belonged to him?
Lu Chen said, Yes. His father died early that year, and he was a posthumous child. When Old Uncle Zhao was still alive, he once wanted to confer this grandson the title of crown prince. Later, the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple said that he was a son of Buddha destined by Heaven. His infant child became a monk and his title fell to the current Uncle Zhao.
Qiao Jinniang asked, Then isnt he very pitiful? He became a monk at birth, and Im afraid that he doesnt even know what meat tastes like. Did he just miss out on the delicacies of the human world?
Lu Chen smiled faintly. Yes.
..
Lu Weiyang quietly sat on his knees in a corner of the great hall, copying scriptures. He watched Ling Xuan kneel in front of the Buddha statue, devoutly reciting the Heart Sutra, and knocking on the wooden fish.
The afternoon sun shone on Ling Xuans body, seemingly casting ayer of golden light on his body.
Lu Weiyang rested her chin on her hand, unable to shift her gaze for a moment.
Until she heard a voice from master Ling Xuan, Your Highness, copying scriptures requires sincerity. If the heart is not sincere, the sin will be even deeper.
When Lu Weiyang heard this, she continued to copy scriptures until the sky darkened and she returned to the side room.
Lu Weiyang did not like extravagance to begin with. The rooms in the prime minister temple were prepared for the nobles and were not truly poor. For Lu Weiyang, they were just right.
The vegetarian dishes in the prime minister temple were not bad either. Lu Weiyang felt that it was a good choice to be a monk here.
However, Lu Weiyang, who was woken up by the ringing of the bell and chanting of the scriptures before dawn the next day,pletely gave up on the idea of bing a monk.
She asked the pce maids outside that it was only a quarter past three in the morning and they were already unable to sleep because of the sound of the chanting. They had no choice but to get up.
Chapter 456 - female benefactor, respect yourself
Chapter 456: Chapter 456, female benefactor, respect yourself
Lu Weiyangbed her hair into a bun and went to the main hall of the Prime Minister Temple. Inside, Ling Xuan led the monks in the temple and piously recited the scriptures.
Lu Weiyang found an empty seat and knelt down to recite the scriptures with them. For some reason, she had been disturbed by the chanting just now. After hearing Ling Xuans recitation, Lu Weiyang felt at ease.
When the Sun Rose, Ling Xuan left the hall after finishing his morning lesson. Lu Weiyang followed him and said, Master.
Ling Xuan stopped and asked Lu Weiyang, Your Highness, whats the matter?
Lu Weiyang went forward and returned the Buddha bead to Ling Xuan. Here, Ill return this to you.
Ling Xuan asked curiously, How can the princess bear to return the Buddha bead to this little monk?
Lu Weiyang smiled and said, Isnt there something I need to ask of you? When you recite the scriptures and cultivate, can you help me recite the scriptures to eliminate the Evil Karma?
Ling Xuan said, Okay.
Ling Xuan took the Buddha bead from Lu Weiyangs hand, and a light fragrance drifted into his nose. The red sandalwood Buddha bead he had held since he was a child not only had the scent of sandalwood, but it also had the faint fragrance of a woman.
Lu Weiyang walked to the side of the square in front of him and looked at the rising sun in the distance from the guardrail. He said to Ling Xuan,
The morning sun here is actually not worse than the morning sun in Lingnan. The Morning Sun in Lingnan is very beautiful. The Red Sun that was born in the vast ocean gradually hangs above the clouds and shines over the world.
Looking at the distance from here, you can see the morning sun gradually covering the entire Chang an city. Its really beautiful!
Ling Xuan said, Its like this every day. How beautiful is it?
......
Lu Weiyang said, Boring.
..
After three days in the temple, Lu Weiyang began to crave for meat. However, she was still a little afraid of the Great Evils signature and did not dare to eat meat.
Lu Weiyang went to the abbots courtyard in the afternoon.
Ling Xuan was meditating and cultivating when she heard the sounding from the courtyard door. She opened her eyes and saw that it was Lu Weiyang. She asked, Your Highness, what brings you here?
Lu Weiyang said slowly, I came here to ask master how to resist eating meat. I dont think I can endure it for more than half a month.
Ling Xuan said, All creatures in the world have spirits. Those who eat meat kill, and there are many bad karma.
Lu Weiyang took the teapot in front of Ling Xuan, he poured himself a cup of water and said, But vegetables also have spirits. When I was young, I grew vegetables in Lingnan. I watched a seed grow bigger and bigger, and I was even more reluctant to eat it. Vegetables are also life. Why can you eat them?
Master, have you eaten meat?
Ling Xuan looked at Lu Weiyang lightly. Since your highness is here to eliminate the evil karma, and you havent been devout to Buddha yet, dont think about the matter of meat and fish killing people.
Lu Weiyang said, Then what if I cant help it? Master, your Buddhist skills are profound. Can you give me some guidance?
Ling Xuan said, If the princess cant help it, then she can meditate and recite scriptures. The scriptures are profound and the merits are profound. She is addicted to the profound Buddhist skills, so she naturally wont think about meat and fish anymore.
Lu Weiyang looked at the chessboard at the side and said, I heard that master is very skilled in chess. Last time, I only won a small victory. How about another game?
Ling Xuan replied, Okay.
Lu Weiyang did not y Tianyuan this time, but this time, Ling Xuan did not underestimate his opponent. After two hours, Ling Xuan won by a narrow margin.
Lu Weiyang counted the Chess Pieces and looked at Ling Xuans eyes. He had a pair of pure eyes. Lu Weiyang looked at his pure eyes and suddenly felt his heart palpitate slightly.
There was actually a thought in his heart. If he were to give the silver to him, he would not be reluctant to part with it.
It seems that master is not old, but he actually has such good chess skills. I wonder who master learned it from?
Ling Xuan replied, My Master.
Lu Weiyang:...wasnt he wasting his words.
I lost in chess, and I want to eat meat even more. This time, I lost because I did not eat meat. If I ate meat, I would definitely win against Master.
Lu Weiyang leaned closer to Ling Xuan and said, Master has never eaten meat before. If master tasted meat, would he be unable to endure it?
Ling Xuan saw that Lu Weiyang was very close to him, so he said in a cold voice, Female benefactor, please have some self-respect.
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuans Red Ears and smiled lightly. He reached out and touched the tip of Ling Xuans burning ears. AH, master, your ears are red!
Ling Xuan frowned and stood up. Your Highness, dont forget that you came to the temple to eliminate the evil karma.
Lu Weiyang tilted his head and said, Forget it, I wont tease you anymore.
Lu Weiyang went out to the main hall to copy the scriptures. When she was copying the scriptures, it was difficult for her to calm down. She thought of the first time she met Ling Xuan in the Yuanxi Temple.
The wind blew down the fallen leaves and fell on Ling Xuans shoulders..
When he was meditating in the afternoon, the sunlight sprinkled gold on his body..
Also, when she was teasing him just now, her face was red..
Lu Weiyang thought about it and shook her head. She just wanted to tease the son of Buddha, who was aloof, unsmiling, and strictly abiding by the rules. How could she really be moved?
It was just a smelly monk.
But that smelly monk was really quite good-looking.
Lu Weiyang lowered her head and looked at the scripture that she had copied. For some reason, she had copied thest two words into Ling Xuan. It had taken her so much effort to copy a page of the scripture, but it had all gone to waste.
Lu Weiyang was very upset and continued to write another one. As she wrote, her heart was in a mess.
She simply stopped writing scriptures.
After leaving the temple, she went to the back of the mountain to rx. There was a hot spring in the back of the mountain. Lu Weiyang wanted to go to the side of the pool to wash her hands. She had been writing Buddhist scriptures for so long. If there was no charcoal in the temple, her hands were about to go stiff.
When she walked over, she saw the pitter-patter of water.
She looked over and saw a tinum-colored kasaya ced on a stone.
The back of a bald head was leaning against a rock.
Lu Weiyang stepped forward. When she was face to face with Ling Xuan, she stared at the Naked Ling Xuan with Her Eyes Wide Open.
Then, she realized that staring at a man like that seemed a little inappropriate, so she covered her eyes with her hands, but she still secretly left a gap.
Ling Xuan said angrily, Your Highness, the back of the mountain is a ce that outsiders are not allowed to enter.
Lu Weiyang put down his hand and said, I am not an outsider. This prime minister temple belongs to my family, so why cant I Come Here? Not only do I want this ce, I also want to use the hot spring water here to warm my hands.
Lu Weiyang leaned closer to Ling Xuan and said, And you have dirtied my water.
Ling Xuan Saw Lu Weiyang getting closer and closer. His face was livid as he said, Princess, have some self-respect.
Lu Weiyang liked to see the cold expression on Ling Xuans face change because of her, so he continued to move forward with bad intentions. He did not see the stone under his feet and tripped over it.
Just when Lu Weiyang thought that she was going to fall this time, and perhaps her face would be disfigured, she fell into the Hot Spring Pool with a plop.
Chapter 457
Chapter 457: Chapter 457. The masters heart was stirred
Lu Weiyang fell into the hot spring. Ling Xuan could not care less about the difference between a man and a woman. He grabbed Lu Weiyangs waist and pulled her out of the water.
Lu Weiyang fell into the hot spring unprepared. For a moment, she was panicking and her hands could not stop moving.
After Ling Xuan hugged her waist, she wrapped her arms around Ling Xuans neck.
Lu Weiyang looked into Ling Xuans eyes. This time, it was her turn to blush.
In the back of the mountain, the asional cries of sparrows could be heard. Ling Xuan only let go of Lu Weiyang after some time. He got up in a hurry, put on his monk robe, and put on his kasaya. Then, he left in a hurry.
It was as if some wild monster was chasing after him.
Lu Weiyang was soaking in the hot spring pool. When she saw the string of Buddhist beads left by Ling Xuan by the stone, she picked up the beads and smiled lightly. She rubbed the beads with her fingers.
No wonder second brother said that the verdicts in Yuan Xi temple were quite urate.
What was the saying that the world was safe and sound? It did not let down the Tathagata and did not let down the minister.
She, Weiyang, was the most honorable princess of Great Tang. She was born to be the Empresspearl. She was loved by all and no one could let her down.
Only, she did not let down Tathagata!
Xiao Mang came over with clean clothes and said, Your Highness, are you really here? Why are you soaking in the hot spring with your clothes on? Quickly change into your wet clothes. Its cold in winter, dont catch a cold because of it.
Lu Weiyang changed into his clothes and put the Buddha beads on his wrist. Then, he went to the main hall to copy the Buddhist scriptures.
......
As soon as he arrived at the main hall, he saw the Xuanling kneeling in front of the Buddha statue with another string of Buddha beads in his hand. He was chanting the scriptures. When he was chanting the scriptures, he still looked cold and indifferent.
Lu Weiyang found Xiao Mang and said, You guard the door and dont allow anyone toe in.
Xiao Mang nodded and said, Yes, Your Highness.
Lu Weiyang closed the door of the hall.
Seeing that the door was closed, Xuanling stood up and asked, Your Highness, what is the meaning of this?
Lu Weiyang walked closer to Xuanling and said, Master Xuanling touched my waist just now and ruined my innocence. I want Master Xuanling to be responsible for me.
Xuanling put her palms together and said, Amitabha. This is an important ce of Buddhism. Your Highness, please be careful.
Master is, after all, a abbot of a temple. This is in front of Buddha. How can master not take responsibility for me?
Xuan ling frowned and said, Your Highness, I was helpless just now. You know that you fell into the pond just now. If I didnt save you, you would have lost your life. I didnt return your Highnessinnocence.
Lu Weiyang tiptoed and lightly touched Xuan Lings lips. There is now.
Xuan Ling gasped. He had never seen such a bold woman. Your Highness, how is your behavior different from that of a Hooligan? I Hope Your Highness has some self-respect. Otherwise, I will send a message to his majesty.
Lu Weiyangughed heartily. This is different from a hooligan. After all, a hooligan molested a virtuous woman. A virtuous woman does not like them. And I know that Master has me in his heart.
Xuanling frowned. Your Highness, dont talk nonsense.
Lu Weiyang whispered in Xuanlings ear, Im talking nonsense? You did hug me just now to save me, but after I was saved, master still hugged me and refused to let me go..
Also, why did master run away in a hurry in the hot spring pool just now?? If Masters heart wasnt in a mess and he didnt have me in his heart, he wouldnt be afraid of breaking the rules. He only saved my life, so why did he run away in a hurry?
Lu Weiyang reached out his finger and drew a circle on Xuanlings heart. You already have me here, dont deny it.
Xuanling put her hands together, and cold sweat kept breaking out on her forehead. Xuanling looked at Lu Weiyang. She was not princess da Tang, but clearly the seductive demon that her master described when she was young.
Amitabha.
Dont be Amitabha anymore. You hugged me and Kissed Me... You have to give me an exnation!
Xuan Ling said, Your Highness is so unreasonable. It was clearly you who kissed me just now.
Lu Weiyang smiled and said, Its good that you remember this kiss. I am understanding and will not force you today.
Lu Weiyang opened the door and left the hall. Xuan Ling walked to the ce where Lu Weiyang was copying the scripture. She picked up the scripture that she had copied and looked at it. The words Xuan Lingwere written all over it.
Xuan Ling sighed. She had been observing the rules and regtions for twenty years. She did not expect that she would break the rules today.
She did not expect that the Buddha Dharma that she had cultivated for twenty years would not be able to defeat a young girl who had just turned fifteen.
Lu Weiyang returned to the room and was in a good mood.
Xiao Mang asked Lu Weiyang, Your Highness, why are you so happy today?
Im going to have a son-inw soon.Lu Weiyang smiled.
Xiao Mang was puzzled, Ah?
The next morning, when the bell rang, Lu Weiyang got out of bed and went to the main hall to listen to Xuanlings lecture on Buddhism. When Xuanling saw Lu Weiyang, she paused for a moment. However, there was a disciple beside her who reminded her before she continued.
After the morning lesson, Lu Weiyang followed Xuanling back to the abbots courtyard. She closed the door and said, Master, have you thought about it? Have you thought about when to renounce asceticism?
Xuan Ling said Amitabha and said, Your Highness, this little monk will not renounce asceticism.
The smile on Lu Weiyangs face stopped. Why? You clearly like me too. Isnt it good to renounce asceticism and marry me?
Xuan Ling fiddled with the Buddhist beads in her hand and said, This little monk was born to be a Buddhist. Ever since I learned how to speak, I grew up in a temple. His Majesty has taken pity on this little monk and made him the National Master. He is famous throughout the world. If this little monk renounces asceticism, it will inevitably cause the people in the world tough at the great Tang Buddhism.
Lu Weiyang said anxiously, There are many people with profound Buddhist skills in Datang. You have already moved your mortal heart and vited the rules and regtions. You are no longer qualified to be the National Master. Why Cant you renounce asceticism and marry me?
Xuan Ling said, Even if you have moved your mortal heart, you can still stop it.
How can I stop it?Lu Weiyang approached Xuan Ling with tears in his eyes. Tell me, how can I stop it?
Xuan Ling said, Everyone in the world makes mistakes. Since youve made a mistake, you should stop it in time if you have thoughts that you shouldnt have. For the sake of the princess, please leave the mountain as soon as possible. I hope that the princess will forget about me after leaving the mountain for half a year.
Lu Weiyang said, What if I cant forget it after half a year?
Xuan Ling said, Your Highness, dont be willful.
At this time, there was a knock on the door of the courtyard. Lu ang entered and said, Weiyang, what did you do in the temple? Master was so tired that he asked me to take you away early in the morning.
Lu Weiyang looked at Xuan Ling, whose expression did not change, and said, I just molested the holy monk.
Molested?Lu ang held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, Are you crazy? Molested the monk? Do you think that the reputation of the princess of Chang an is not bad enough?
Lu Weiyang said, If he was not tempted, how could I flirt with him? If he was tempted, he wanted me to stop being tempted. Master, is this the equality of all living things in Buddhism?
Xuan Ling spun the Buddhist beads and read the scriptures.
Lu ang finally understood and said to Xuan Ling, So Master is also interested in my sister? Then wouldnt it be a good thing for both of us to return to the secr world?
Chapter 458 - master does not wish to renounce asceticism
Chapter 458: Chapter 458, master does not wish to renounce asceticism
Ling Xuan said, Your Highness, you must be joking. I am the National Master of Great Tang. How can I renounce asceticism when I was born a Buddha? The princess is intelligent and beautiful. She will definitely have a good marriage fate waiting for her.
Lu ang said, Why cant I renounce asceticism? My sister likes you. Even if you are a eunuch, you have to be a man!
Lu Weiyang tugged at the corner of Lu Angs clothes and said, Second brother, forget it. If he doesnt want to, why force him? Its not like I, Lu Weiyang, cant find a prince consort. There are many men in Chang an who want to be my prince consort and my malepanion. I dont want him anymore!
Lu Weiyang did not want to use her status to pressure Ling Xuan. What was the point of using her status to force Ling Xuan to submit.
He had already made up his mind. To be his son-inw was not to willingly renounce asceticism.
Even if she allowed Ling Xuan to renounce asceticism, it would only be an unfortunate fate.
If she could not forget it for half a year, then it would be a year. It would only take a few days for her to be moved. She should be able to forget about it for half a year.
On the way down the mountain, Lu ang saw his unhappy sister and said, If you really cant bear to part with Ling Xuan, just ask Big Brother to issue an edict to force him to renounce asceticism. Why Are You So Unhappy?
Lu Weiyang said, The marriage that he was forced to get is just a bad fate after all. He cant bear to part with his tathagata...
Lu Ang did not know how tofort Lu Weiyang. After bringing her back to the manor, he told Qian Qingyu about it. Qian Qingyu was really surprised when she heard about it. The princess actually fell in love with a monk?
Princess Datang fell in love with a monk, but I dont know if Weiyang is alone,Lu Ang said. In the future, the Chang an Temple should order that handsome men should not be monks.
Qian qingyu said, The princess has never been wronged before. She must be very sad this time, right?
Lu ang said, She has not spoken all the way. She is not so dispirited usually. She does not want to use her identity to threaten Ling Xuan. This matter must not be known to her parents.
......
Qian qingyu sighed. Sigh, what should we do?
She fell in love with a monk, who was also the state preceptor of great Tang. He was born a man who was known as the son of Buddha. The one who suffered was still Lu Weiyang.
Your Highness, Princess, the princess has left.
Lu Ang and Qian Qingyu looked at each other and chased after her.
Lu Weiyang walked to the main street. Whenever he saw a jewelry shop, he would walk into the Lingluo shop. Every shop would spend at least 100 taels of silver.
For a time, the news spread to all the shops on the main street of Chang an city, hoping that Lu Weiyang coulde from her own shop to spend money.
Lu Ang was not happy at all when he saw Lu Weiyang, who had changed her personality and was not stingy at all. This was Lu Weiyang, who would not even send a message with three taels of silver. If she was not extremely ufortable, she would have spent so much silver at once, would she really do that?
Qian Qingyu went up to Lu Weiyang and advised, Weiyang, there are all these in the pce. There is no shortage of them. You better not spend more silver coins.
Lu Weiyang sniffled and said, Second sister-inw, dont tell me I cant even spend silver coins?
Qian Qingyu looked at Lu Weiyang with heartache and said, Yes, you can spend as much as you want. If you feel ufortable, just cry it out. It will be fine as long as you cry it out. There are thousands of good men in this world. Dont keep it in your heart all the time.
Lu Weiyang leaned into Qian Qingyus embrace and said, Why cant he renounce asceticism for me? What Buddha? What National Advisor? As long as he is willing to renounce asceticism, these arent problems. But he isnt willing...
Its fine if he doesnt like me, but I know that he loves me. I can understand that he has feelings for me.
Qian qingyu sighed helplessly. Weiyang, time will take care of everything. Everything will be fine.
Lu Weiyang returned to the Princessresidence in a daze. Lying on the bed, her eyes were slightly red. It was the first time she liked someone so much. She was willing to spend money for him, but he was not even willing to return to the secr world.
Lu Weiyang took off the Buddhist beads in her hand and ced them in front of her. She wanted to throw them away, but she was reluctant to do so.
Princess, Princess Nihon is here to see you.
Lu Weiyang heard Xiao Mangs voice and said, Let her in.
Qiao Nihon entered Lu Weiyangs room and said, Have you changed today? Everyone in Chang an is praising you for your generosity. Normally, you arent even willing to spend a single cent. Today, you actually spent so much silver. You Dont feel bad about it, right?
The heartache of spending silver is nothingpared to the heartache of him not wanting to marry me.Lu Weiyang turned the prayer beads in his hand and sighed.
Qiao nihong said, Who is so blind??
When Lu Weiyang heard Qiao Nihongs words, he said, Cousin is right. He just doesnt have eyes, so he deserves to not eat meat for the rest of his life. He has to abide by his rules and regtions for the rest of his life.
You really like a monk?Qiao nihong said in shock, Didnt the fortune-telling in Yuan Xi temple say that it was a great fortune? You actually fell in love with a monk?
Lu Weiyang said, Cousin, dont tell me I can control my feelings?
Qiao Nihon said, Thats true. But since the fortune of the Yuan Xi Temple said that it was a big bad fortune, he didnt want to renounce asceticism, so thats it...
Lu Weiyang pursed his lips and said, But cousin, I really feel bad, really, really bad!
Qiao Nihong hugged Lu Weiyang and said, It will all pass.
Lu Weiyang gently wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes. This is the first time in my life that someone has treated me with such contempt. I want to choose my son-inw. I want him to see that I dont want him.
Qiao nihong said in shock, Choose your son-inw?
..
In the abbots courtyard in the Prime Minister Temple.
Ling Xuans fingers were stroking the chess piece that Lu Weiyang had once touched. He was thinking about meditating and cultivating, but his mind was filled with scenes of that delicate and pretty girl.
Ling Xuan Sighed. He had broken the rules of the mortal world. Even if he cultivated Buddhism, he would only be fooling himself.
But he was born a Buddha, and he was also the National Master. How could it be so simple to renounce asceticism and take a wife?
Master Fang Zhang, the Crown Prince of Uncle Zhaos family outside requests to see you.
Ling Xuan said to the little novice monk outside, Let him in.
Zhao Qingquan entered and gave Ling Xuan a Buddhist promation. Master Ling Xuan, I want to ask you to help me y a game of chess.
Ling Xuan frowned. y chess? Why?
Zhao Qingquan said, It concerns the future of Uncle Zhaos residence. I hope you can help me, Master.
Who do you want to y chess with?Ling Xuan asked.
Zhao Qingquan said, Princess Weiyang, I fell in love with Princess Weiyang when I saw her on the street. Princess Weiyang is good at chess, and she likes to y chess very much. Recently, she even announced to the whole of Chang an that she wanted to choose her son-inw from chess. Over the past half a month, Ive looked for quite a few saints to y chess. Im still afraid that I cant beat Princess Weiyang, so I want to ask you to help me.
Ling Xuan saw thisymans cousin and said, How can anyone help me when Im ying chess?
Zhao Qingquan said, Thest time the princess yed chess with me for an entire afternoon, I think the princess must have some feelings for me as well.
Its just that my chess skills arent good enough to guarantee my victory in the consort selection ceremony.
If I have the help of a master, I can gain the recognition of Princess Weiyang and be the consort, which will be of great benefit to Uncle Zhaos residence.
Chapter 459 - Chess moves for the son-in-law
Chapter 459: Chapter 459: Chess moves for the son-inw
Ling Xuan listened to Zhao Qingquans words and frowned slightly. Your Highness wants to use chess moves for the son-inw?
Zhao Qingquan said, Thats right. Please help me, Master.
Ling Xuan fiddled with a Buddhist bead of his own and said, I cant help you with this.
Zhao Qingquan stood up and asked, Why? Now that Uncle Zhaos residence is declining in Chang an, the Zhao familys ancestors are a famous aristocratic family. Now that they have the title of nobility, if I can be the son-inw, I will definitely be able to restore the Zhao family, brother...
Ling Xuan red at Zhao Qingquan and said, Amitabha. I have long entered Buddhism. There is only Ling Xuan here, not almsgivers elder brother.
Zhao Qingquan said, Auntie already knows about this. Cant you help our Zhao family this time for Aunties sake?
Ling Xuan closed his eyes and turned the Buddha Pearl in his hand, no longer paying attention to Zhao Qingquan.
Zhao Qingquan angrily flicked his sleeves and left. Ling Xuan, its fine if you dont want to help. Without your help, I might be able to be the Prince Consort!
Not long ago, he had recruited the powerful go masters of Chang an. With the help of those go masters, he might be able to win against Ling Xuan.
After Ling Xuan sent Zhao Qingquan off, he looked at Zhao Qingquans back with a hint of unconceble envy in his eyes. If he had not been recognized as a Buddha by the Prime Minister Temple as soon as he was born and had grown up in the secr world.., he would definitely not let go now.
Ling Xuan entered a dark room and lit a candle. He took a small knife from the side and ruthlessly cut his own arm.
In front of where the knife had cut, there was a scar. This scar was caused by a series of masters orders when he had been bewitched when he was young and followed a few monks to secretly catch pheasants.
This knife had eliminated the evil karma, allowing him to see this scar and remember not to break the rules.
......
Ling Xuan watched the blood continuously drip onto the ground, gradually forgetting the lively figure in his heart.
On the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, there were many pilgrims from the Prime Minister Temple. Some of them came to taste a bowl of Laba congee from the Prime Minister Temple.
Outside the Prime Minister Temple, the Princessceremony was grand and grand.
Ling Xuan heard that Princess Weiyang had arrived. As the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple, he had to go out to wee her. When he reached the door, Ling Xuan bowed to Lu Weiyang and said, Your Highness.
Lu Weiyang looked at the man in front of him, whom he had not seen for almost a month, and said coldly, I am going to select a prince consort in Chang an city tomorrow. I want to invite Master Ling Xuan to go and observe.
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together and said, I have no choice but to obey the princessorder. However, there is a spiritual conference in the Prime Minister Temple Tomorrow, and as the abbot, I am unable to escape. Please forgive me, Princess.
Lu Weiyang sneered, Master, is it really for the spiritual conference?
Ling Xuan said, Yes.
Lu Weiyang stared at Ling Xuans face. His eyes were as pure as before, and no change could be seen on his face. He really did not care about her anymore.
Lu Weiyang clenched his hands. She was really too stupid. The dignified princess had be restless and sorrowful because of him, but he was still the high and mighty abbot of the Prime Minister Temple, and also the son of Buddha who could not move the hearts of mortals.
Tomorrow, I will choose a prince consort,Lu Weiyang said.
Ling Xuan smiled slightly and said, Then congrattions, Your Highness.
Lu weiyang frowned and said, Im going to find someone else to be the prince consort. Is that a happy thing for you?
Ling Xuan put his palms together and said, If the princess can find a good man to be the prince consort, I will naturally be happy for her highness.
Lu Weiyang wanted to find out from Ling Xuans expression that he was lying, but his eyes told her that he was happy and did not care about her at all.
She was the only one who was silly and still worried about Ling Xuan. Tomorrow was the day of the selection of the prince consort, but she still did not give up and came here. She was very cheap.
..
Princess Weiyangs matchmaking ring was set up outside the pce gate. Many people had rushed over early in the morning. There was a huge iron chessboard hanging on the side with maic chess pieces on it.
With every step on the stage, the pce staff would stick the chess pieces on the huge iron chessboard for the audience to admire.
Those who coulde here topete in the match of marriage naturally had to hand over the chess books they had yed in the past. There were a total of ten people who were shortlisted, and each of them was a young master from the city of Chang an.
The format of thepetition was two-on-two chess games, and the winner was determined by five people. Among the five winners, one of them could draw lots to advance directly, and the other four people would still have two winners in two-on-two chess games. The three people would then y chess separately, the winner would y against Weiyang.
The chesspetition started in the morning. They rested for a while at noon. It was not until dusk that the winner, Zhao Qingquan, was decided.
When Lu Weiyang saw that Zhao Qingquan had won, she was quite curious. She had yed against Zhao Qingquan before, but his chess was far from this good.
The pce maid at the side lit up the sandalwood incense. Lu Weiyang touched the Buddha bead in her hand and said, Lets begin.
Lu Weiyang yed the white piece first, so her first move was naturally to y Tianyuan.
Zhao Qingquan saw the Buddha bead in Lu Weiyangs hand and said, This string of Buddha beads belongs to Master Ling Xuan, right?
You Know Him?
Zhao Qingquan said, Master Ling Xuan was my cousin when he was ayman.
Lu Weiyang understood and said, I see, lets continue.
Lu Weiyang looked at Zhao Qingquans fierce go style. He did not expect that his go skills had improved so much in just a months time.
In a private room in a teahouse not far away, Lady Zhao smiled at Ling Xuan and said, I havent seen you for a long time. I really cant even invite you. Today, you must apany me to finish ying this game.
Ling Xuan said, Lady Zhao, this little monk has already be a monk.
Lady Zhao looked at her son and said, Lets y.
First Madam Zhao looked at the little servant girl at the side and gestured with her actions. Then, she counted the pieces on the chessboard and ced a stone.
Ling Xuan looked at the position where first Madam Zhao ced the stone. The first move was Tianyuan, and the way she ced the stone was very simr to Lu Weiyangs.
Ling Xuan looked at his arm.
His unscabbed arm was still hurting. He thought that he could endure it.
However, he should not have thought of Lu Weiyang after ying chess.
On the stage, Lu Weiyang and Zhao Qingquan were ying chess. Their initial underestimation of the opponent had turned into a serious confrontation. How could that be possible? How could a persons go skills change so much in such a short period of time?
Moreover, she was too familiar with this go style. This was clearly Ling Xuans way of ying chess.
Because Zhao Qingquan had ced a ck piece, the people watching the battle praised, Good, this chess piece is very well ced!
I see that Crown Prince Zhaos chess style is very simr to master Ling Xuans.
Crown Prince Zhao is master Ling Xuans secr cousin. Since they are brothers, perhaps their chess style is simr too.
After Lu Weiyang ced a piece, she did not see Zhao Qingquan ce a piece for a long time. She felt strange in her heart. Zhao Qingquan did not need to think about her position at all.
She followed Zhao Qingquans gaze and saw all the people who came to watch the game. Just when Lu Weiyang was curious about what he was looking at, she saw Zhao Qingquan ce a stone next to her stone.
Chapter 460 - the princess and Ling Xuan were in love
Chapter 460: Chapter 460, the princess and Ling Xuan were in love
Lu Weiyang ced another chess piece, and Zhao Qingquan started to think. Soon, he looked at the crowd and ced another chess piece.
After Lu Weiyang ced another chess piece, he saw someone leave the crowd.
Not long after, he turned back and raised his hand as if he was watching a show. However, his hand had more than Lu Weiyang, so he could not understand the gesture. After Zhao Qingquan saw it, he quickly ced another chess piece.
Lu Weiyang casually ced a stone. When everyone was eximing that Lu Weiyang had ced the wrong stone, only Zhao Qingquans expression did not change as he continued to ponder.
Lu Weiyang immediately got up from his chair, got down from the arena, and stared at the servant as he entered a teahouse.
Lu Weiyang followed him into the teahouse. When the servant came out, he saw Lu Weiyang and was so scared that he broke out in a cold sweat.
Lu Weiyang directly looked at the Teahouses private room and pushed the door open. He saw the two people ying chess in the private room. The chessboard was exactly the same as the chessboard that she and Zhao Qingquan yed?
Lu Weiyang raised her hand and gave Ling Xuan a hard p on the face.
When Ling Xuan Saw Lu Weiyanging over with red eyes, he did not react for a moment before he received such a p.
Zhao Qingquan chased in from the outside and panted heavily as he said to Lu Weiyang, Your Highness... This chess game is not over yet!
Lu Weiyang looked at Zhao Qingquan and sneered, Uncle Zhaos estate deceived me and lied to me about the chess game and the marriage match. I must take away your uncle Zhaos title as a royal brother.
Zhao qingquan quickly said, Your Highness...
Lu Weiyang stared at Ling Xuan with hatred and said, Ling Xuan, is this your so-called Buddhist monk? Buddhist monks dont lie, but you helped Zhao Qingquan cheat. Arent you afraid that it will damage the prestige of the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple?
......
Ling Xuan finally understood what was going on. He frowned at Lu Weiyang and said, I was also schemed against in this matter.
Lu Weiyang said sarcastically, Plotted against? Do you think Im Stupid? You must be mocking me in your heart. The princess has fallen in love with a bald donkey like you. Youreining that Im blocking your path of Buddhism, so you cant wait to push me to another man, right?
Ling Xuan sighed and said, It really isnt, your highness. It was a good ploy by Zhao Qingquan and Lady Zhao. If I knew about it, I would have fallen into the Devil Path forever, into Avici Hell.
Lu Weiyang flicked his sleeves and said to the Zhao family, Just wait to be demoted!
After Lu Weiyang left, Zhao Qingquan anxiously looked at Ling Xuan in front of him and said, Master Ling Xuan, did the princess just say that she likes you?
How are you worthy? You are a monk who is worthy to be the princessson-inw. Are you jealous that I can be the crown prince of the unclesestate and marry the princess, so you deliberately told the Princess?
Lady Zhao looked at Ling Xuan angrily and said, Although you have been a monk since you were young, the Zhao family is still your secr family after all. They gave you your life. You are really good. If the Zhao family is robbed of their title, lets see how you will still have the face to be the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple!
Ling Xuan looked at Zhao Qingquan and Lady Zhao, made a Buddhist promation, and then turned to leave.
Lu Weiyang was really annoyed. What did the Zhao family think she was? They actually came to deceive her so openly.
After Lu Weiyang entered the pce, he told Lu Xi how Zhao Qingquan had cheated in the chess match.
Big Brother, you have to help me stand up for myself. The Zhao family has gone too far. Whats the difference between doing this and lying to the emperor? Quickly issue a decree to seize the Zhao familys title. And Ling Xuan, he helped the Zhao family to cheat and deceive me. You have to punish him harshly too.
Lu Xi was really angry when she heard this. The Zhao familys title will definitely be seized, but why would master Ling Xuan help the Zhao Family?
Master Ling Xuan was a monk, how could he be involved in this kind of secr world.
Sister, you must have a misunderstanding with Master Ling Xuan.
Lu Weiyang said, What misunderstanding? Hes just afraid that Ill continue to pester him!
Lu XI asked, What do you mean?
Lu Weiyang said slowly, I like him, and he knows that I like him. But he chose to stay in Buddhism and doesnt want to return to the secr world to marry me. He would rather be his son of Buddha for the rest of his life.
Instead of watching me constantly disturbing his cultivation, why dont you push me to Zhao Qingquan...
Lu Xi sighed. Do you still like him now?
I dont like him anymore. He treats me like this. If I still like him, Ill be belittling myself.
Lu Xi smiled. Thats good. Otherwise, it would be a lot more troublesome for him to return to the secr world since hes the imperial preceptor of this dynasty.
Lu Xi immediately issued an imperial decree to strip the Zhao family of their title of nobility. The Zhao family was already an aristocratic family with no title of nobility. After losing their title of nobility, the entire Zhao family immediately fell into decline.
Zhao Qingquan also became a joke to everyone.
In the tavern, Zhao Qingquan was ridiculed by his peers, he said, I was also schemed by that Bald Donkey Ling Xuan. He had a rtionship with Princess Weiyang a long time ago. He was unwilling to let the title of ayman be mine, so he conspired with the princess to set up this trap to lure me in!
Princess Weiyang and Master Ling Xuan actually have a rtionship?
Is this really true?
Zhao Qingquan said drunkenly, Its true. I heard that not long ago, Princess Weiyang stayed in the Prime Minister Temple for a period of time. I wonder how many disgusting things these two people have done in the Buddhist peacefulnd!
Zhao Qingquan was after all Master Ling Xuansymans cousin. His words made many people in the teahouse take it seriously.
It was not the first time that the princess fell in love with a monk. Back then, Emperor Taizu had ordered the death of the monk that the princess loved. The princesster rebelled because of this.
The Little Princess Weiyang did not grow up in Chang an. People had already paid a lot of attention to her. The words that Zhao Qingquan said in the tavern gradually spread to Chang an.
Lu Xi also received a petition from the officials to impeach Weiyang. It was fine if the princesses were willful, but the emperors wedding was approaching, and the four seas wereing to court.
Ling Xuan was also a famous National Master of Great Tang in the four seas, and he was a famous person in the Japanese, Tibetan, and Buddhist sects. It was not just the royal familys face that he and the princess made such a rumor.
It would also destroy the prestige of the Great Tang Empire.
There were also people who used a book to get Princess Weiyang to settle the marriage as soon as possible. After the marriage was settled, the rumors dispersed just like that.
The three of them became tigers, and the rumors outside became more and more ridiculous.
Lu Weiyang was in the teahouse listening to the Storyteller reading the unofficial history that the schrs had just written, which was about the Wild Mandarin ducks in the great hall. She was dumbfounded when she heard it.
Although the officials were catching these ridiculous storytellers, but the people loved to hear it. As long as the storytellers gave money, they would say anything.
When Lu Weiyang heard that she was already pregnant, if the storytellers were talking about other peoples romantic affairs, she would also love to hear it. But when they were talking about herself, she could not take it anymore!
Chapter 461 - a Master who was similar to Zhao Qingquan
Chapter 461: Chapter 461: a Master who was simr to Zhao Qingquan
The storyteller said, After Princess Weiyang found out that she was pregnant, she secretly gave birth to a son. She ced him in a wooden basin and carried him away with the flowing water of the Yangtze River. Did he drown in the river or was he saved by someone? If you want to know what happened next, please listen to the exnation next time.
The people in the teahouse were unwilling to listen. They threw money on the stage and said, Hurry up and tell us. We cantck your money. Hurry up and tell us. Dont keep us waiting.
Lu Weiyang walked to the storyteller and said, The next part is that the storyteller is going to jail. When did I get pregnant? How dare you make up this story about me?
When the storyteller saw that it was Lu Weiyang, he quickly covered his head and ran away.
This matter was too big. Lu Ang could not hide it from Qiao Jinniang at all.
Qiao Jinniang went to the Princessresidence. The moment she entered, she saw Lu Weiyang lying in the courtyard basking in the sun with a string of Buddhist beads in his hand.
When Lu Weiyang saw Qiao Jinniang, he said happily, Mother.
Qiao Jinniang walked to Lu Weiyangs side and said, Weiyang, Tell Mother the truth. Do you like Master Ling Xuan?
Lu Weiyang leaned into Qiao Jinniangs embrace and said, Yes, I like Master Ling Xuan, but whats the use of that? He is not willing to return to the secr world for me. It is destined that there is no fate between us.
Mother, I am already much better. When I found out that he was not willing to return to the secr world for me, my heart really hurt, but now it wont.
Lady Qiao Jin gently patted Lu Weiyangs shoulder and said, Weiyang, mother hopes that my daughter can live a carefree life. If its really ufortable, its not like we cant force Lingxuan to return to the secr world now.
People were biased. Lady Qiao Jin would rather risk the worlds heresy to make her daughter happy.
Lu Weiyang said, If hes not willing, he wants to be his Buddha. Mother, you dont have to worry about me. Im really better now. I really wont feel ufortable.
......
Qiao Jinniang understood Lu Weiyang. If she really didnt feel bad, she wouldnt be so dispirited.
After Qiao Jinniang left the Princessresidence, she went to the Prime Minister Temple with Lu Chen and Ling Xuan.
When Ling Xuan heard that the two of them hade to visit, he came out to wee them. The two saints have graced us with their presence. Are you here to worship Buddha?
Qiao jinniang said, Im not here for Buddha, but for Weiyang.
Ling Xuan cupped his hands and said, Pleasee in.
When they reached the Fang Zhang Courtyard.., lu Chen said, I remember that the year you were born was the year I became emperor. At that time, old Uncle Zhao even specially came to ask for the position of grandson. Later on, master said that you were fated with Buddhism and converted to Buddhism when you were still a baby.
May I ask if Masters six roots can be pure? Can it really be used for cultivation in the mortal world?
Ling Xuan said, If it can not be used for cultivation, then it can only be used for cultivation in the afterlife. Buddhism cultivates in the afterlife, and all the suffering in this life is a blessing in the afterlife.
I have never believed the words of suffering in this life and enjoying the blessings in the afterlife,Qiao Jinniang said, No one knows what happens after a person dies. Isnt it ridiculous to not cherish the blessings in this life and ask for blessings in the afterlife?
Lu Chen said, When Master Xuanji was still alive, he once told my father that Buddhism emphasizes on sowing good karma and reaping good karma. Meeting each other in the world is karma. Why didnt you sow good karma in your previous life when you met Weiyang in this life? Why is it karma in this life?
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together and said, The two saints love their daughters dearly, but this Little Monk was born as a Buddhist to promote Buddhism. This little monk still needs to help all the people in the world.
Qiao Jinniang sneered. What a joke. You Cant even help a little girl, yet you want to help all the people in the world?
Ling Xuan choked for a moment. He didnt know how to answer Qiao Jinniang, so he could only give her a Buddhist title.
A young monks voice came from outside. Master abbot, the firstdy of the Zhao family is here to see you again.
Ling Xuan said to Qiao Jinniang and Lu Chen, Two saints, I have a guest to see...
Qiao jinniang said, You can go.
Ling Xuan walked to the door and saw the eldest madam Zhao who was looking for him. The eldest Madam Zhao was here to ask for money from Ling Xuan.
The Zhao family was originally an empty shell. Without the title of nobility, Zhao Qingquan was caught making up stories about the princess. The Zhao family had to go to the yamen to settle things. Now, the Zhao family was penniless.
It was not the first time that the firstdy of the Zhao family came to ask Ling Xuan for silver.
Qiao Jinniang looked at the Lady of the Zhao family from afar and said in annoyance, How can a mother bear to see her child be a monk when he is still a baby?
Qiao Jinniang was someone who could not bear to see her child born unable to taste the beauty of the human world, so she had to live a hard life as a monk.
Ling Xuan ordered the young monk to bring out the silver taels and handed them to Lady Zhao. Amitabha. Buddha has the virtue of living well, but he does not save those who are insatiable in greed. After you return this time, Lady Zhao, you must note to Buddhism again.
Lady Zhao took the silver taels and said, Sigh.
Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang entered a courtyard within the abbot courtyard with the previous abbot tablets of the Prime Minister Temple. They had originallye to pay their respects, but Lu Chen saw one of the portraits at a nce.
Qiao Jinniang saw the portrait and asked, Master Yitong? Why does this master Yitong look somewhat simr to Zhao Qingquan?
Lu Chen replied, Send someone to investigate and youll know.
..
There were many new year banquets approaching, and Lu Weiyang had received many invitations, but she was unwilling to go, so she simply followed Qiao Nihong and the others to Luoyang to y.
Luoyang was the second capital city of Great Tang. It was as lively and bustling as Chang an.
Lu Weiyang had never been to Luoyang in her entire life. After arriving in Luoyang, she gradually forgot about Ling Xuan. However, the Buddha beads on her wrist had never been removed.
Qiao Nihong brought Lu Weiyang to a Luoyang Chess Hall. This chess hall is filled with great Tangs Go Masters. Perhaps you like Ling Xuan just because he ys chess well?
Lu Weiyang said, Who said I like him just because he ys go well?
Then why?
I just think its fun to tease him, especially when I break his serious look and make his expression change for me...
Qiao nihong frowned and said, What kind of bad taste is this?
Lets go, lets go. Today, Master Ling Xuan from Chang an Prime Minister Temple came to Dai Lu temple to preach Buddhist scriptures. If werete, we wont be able to see him!
Lu Weiyangs gaze shifted to the Dailu temple not far away. Why was she still able to see him when she was already in Luoyang?
She had already tried very hard to forget him. Why was he in front of her again?
Lu Weiyang sighed heavily.
Qiao Nihong pulled Lu Weiyangs hand and said, Why dont we listen to it together? Look at you, you dont look like youve let it go at all!
Lu Weiyang followed Qiao Nihong. The Imperial preceptor of Ling Xuan came to give a sermon, and the people of Luoyang were all surrounded. Lu Weiyang and Qiao Nihong could only stand outside the door and watch.
Lu Weiyang looked over. There were devout believers kneeling at the feet of Ling Xuan. In fact, Ling Xuan was like Buddha to these devout believers.
Once he renounced asceticism, how many people would lose their faith?
Chapter 462 - willing to renounce asceticism
Chapter 462: Chapter 462, willing to renounce asceticism
The Dharma lecturested for two hours before it stopped. Everyone felt that they had benefited greatly.
After Ling Xuan finished his lecture, he headed towards the backyard of the temple.
Lu Weiyang followed.
Qiao Nichang wanted to catch Lu Weiyang but could not catch her at all. Weiyang!
Lu Weiyang followed Ling Xuan into a side room. The novice monk behind Ling Xuan said, Almsgiver, outsiders are not allowed to enter here.
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan and said, Master Ling Xuan, Am I an Outsider?
Ling Xuan let the novice monk leave first and said to Lu Weiyang, Your Highness, what are your orders?
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan and said, Do you know where the storyteller in Chang an is now?
Ling Xuan looked at Lu Weiyang in confusion. What storyteller?
The storyteller has already said that our son was picked up by the monks of the prime minister temple in the water and found the Buddha beads on his neck.
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together. Amitabha. Its better for the princess to not listen to such a low-ss storyteller story so as to avoid dirtying your ears.
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan and said, But I would rather that what they said is true.
Ling Xuan said, Your Highness...
......
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan and said, I wanted to forget you. That day at the chess match, I really wanted to never see you again and never think of you again. I thought that I could do it.
But I came to Luoyang, and you also came to Luoyang. When I saw you again today, I realized that I couldnt forget you at all. I said that I had forgotten you, but it was all a lie. I couldnt forget you at all.
Lu Weiyang hugged Ling Xuans waist from behind. I dont know whats good about you either. Youre still a bald donkey. I dont know if youll be able to grow hair again in the future, but I just like you.
Today, I saw the devotion of those believers toward you. I understand that you dont want to return to the secr world. Then, can you not return to the secr world, but stay with me?
Amitabha. Your Highness, this is Heavens punishment for sending you to Hell.
For you, Im Not Afraid of Heavens punishment!Lu Weiyang leaned on Ling Xuans back. Ling Xuan... I dont want to feel bad anymore. I dont want to do anything that looks like you. Ive never felt so wronged since I was young.
Ling Xuan stood tall and straight, his hand fiddling with the Buddhist beads as he chanted the Buddhist scriptures..
Seeing him like this, Lu Weiyang sighed helplessly and let go of his hand.
Qiao Nihongs eyes turned red when she saw Lu Weiyanging out. She asked, Did that bald donkey bully you?
Lu Weiyang said, Cousin, lets go hunting.
Qiao nihong said, Hunting at this time?
Lu Weiyang whispered a few words into Qiao Nihongs ear. Qiao Nihong looked at Lu Weiyang and said, But what if he doesnte?
If he doesnte, my heart will die. Cousin, please help me with this.
Qiao nihong said, Alright.
After Lu Weiyang left, Ling Xuans heart could not calm down. He looked at the scar on his hand. The scar had just formed a scab and was very ferocious.
When he was young, after being cut, he no longer had any thoughts about meat. But why did he have to give up on Lu Weiyang? It was so difficult not to have a mortal heart.
Master, master, something bad has happened.
Ling Xuan put down his Kasaya and heard Qiao Nihongs voice from outside.
Qiao Nihong rushed over and said breathlessly, Master, something bad has happened. Weiyang went hunting on Laojun mountain just now, but when she went deep into the mountain while hunting, she disappeared without a trace. Please go and look for her together!
Ling Xuan frowned. He did not have the time to consider whether the princess should not go to the officers and soldiers first, nor did he have the time to consider why he went hunting on Laojun Mountain at this time. It was going to be dark tomorrow, but when he heard that the princess had disappeared.., ling Xuan knew that he was worried.
He connected to the horse at the gate of Dailu Temple and rode towards the depths of Laojun Mountain.
The sky gradually darkened. There was already a thickyer of snow on Laojun Mountain. Every step was very difficult. The withered branches were covered in white snow and the ground was filled with gravel.
Ling Xuan saw that his Kasaya was cut by the branches, but he did not care. he shouted loudly, Your Highness, Your Highness!
Snowkes fell from the sky. Ling Xuan kept going deeper into the mountains. As he walked, he shouted, Your Highness, Your Highness!
Seeing that the sky was about to turn dark, Ling Xuan became more and more anxious. Although most of the wild beasts were hibernating in the winter, it was very cold in the mountains. Weiyang had been well-fed since she was young, so how could she suffer this hardship.
Ling Xuan shouted loudly, Wei Yang, Wei Yang!
Ling Xuan, Im here.
Ling Xuan looked over. Under the setting sun, Wei Yang stood under a tree branch with a red face and wearing a red cloak.
Ling Xuan got off the horse and ran over to hold Wei Yang in his arms.
Wei Yang also reached out to hold Ling Xuan and looked up at Ling Xuan.
Ling Xuan lowered his head and kissed Wei Yangs lips. He did not care about Buddha, evil karma, or hell. He only knew that he could not abandon Wei Yang.
For her, so what if he went to hell?
Wei Yang stepped on the snow and kissed Ling Xuan. The two of them, one red and one white, were entangled in the sunset light. They were very intimate.
The sky waspletely dark. It was impossible to go down the mountain at this time. Wei Yang took out a lighter from her purse and picked up a tree branch to light it up.
Ling Xuan, theres a cave not far away. Lets pick up some branches and go into the cave!
Ling Xuan picked up the tree branch and went into the cave. He watched as Wei Yang neatly put up the tree branch and lit it up with fire. Finally, there was a trace of warmth in the cold cave.
Ling Xuan took off his Kasaya and ced it on the ground of the cave, letting Wei Yang sit on it.
Wei yang smiled and said, Arent you afraid that Buddha will me you now?
Ling Xuan said, This is just a piece of cloth after all. When I return to Chang an, I will renounce asceticism.
Wei Yang leaned on Ling Xuans shoulder and said, Really? Dont try to coax me.
Ling Xuan said, Really.
Wei Yang saw a very deep scar on Ling Xuans wrist. He held his wrist and asked, Where did this scare from? The scab is still there. Havent you been injured for a long time?
Ling Xuan slowly exined, When I was young, when I wanted to break the precepts, a master cut a scar on my wrist. From then on, I didnt dare to break the precepts again. After meeting you, I thought that by cutting this scar, I wouldnt be able to break the precepts again, but in the end, I made a huge mistake.
This scar can only make me remember you more and more. After seeing you, I couldnt help but want to break the precepts.
Wei Yang looked at the scar on Ling Xuans wrist with heartache and rubbed it with her hand, Your mother is really cruel. When you were still a baby and didnt know anything, she sent you to the temple and made you suffer.
Ling Xuan said, She also had her own difficulties. I still have an elder sister, and my father passed away that year.
Even though grandfather protected me, he was too old and sick to protect me from growing up.
The power in the house is in the hands of second uncle and second aunt. If my mother didnt agree to a series of masters orders to send me to the temple, perhaps I might not be able to live to this day.
Wei yang asked, What do you mean?
Chapter 463 - return to Chang ‘an prime minister temple
Chapter 463: Chapter 463, return to Chang an prime minister temple
Ling Xuan held Weiyangs hand and said, When I was young, I learned of my identity from my senior brother. When the Zhao family came to the temple to offer incense, I met Lady Zhao once.
When I was young, I asked her why she didnt want me. She said that this was the only way I could live.
Moreover, Master Yitong was the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple. Master Yitong said that I was fated to be Buddhas son, so she agreed to send me to the temple.
Lu Weiyang had grown up in a harmonious family, but she also understood that the two brothers were fighting for the title of nobility.
The second uncle of the Zhao family would not be so easily willing to give up the position of the imperial residence to his little nephew.
Lu Weiyang reached out and touched Ling Xuans bald head.
Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand, and his eyes revealed a hint of danger as he said, Weiyang!
Lu Weiyang smiled and said, My mother always touches my head like this when I feel ufortable. I know that you must feel very wronged when you think about what happened when you were young, so I want to touch your head too!
Ling Xuan let go of Weiyangs hand and let Weiyang touch his head.
The candlelight was lit at the side, and Lu Weiyang and Ling Xuan leaned against each other and gradually fell asleep.
The few secret guards outside did not know whether they should barge in or not. If they did not, they were afraid that their master would me them. If they barged in and ruined the princessgood deed, they would not have to think about living a good life.
They had been on tenterhooks for the whole night and did not hear the voices that should not havee from inside. They let out a sigh of relief.
..
......
Lu Weiyang and Ling Xuan returned to Luoyang City. Ling Xuan was pulled into a ready-made clothing store by Lu Weiyang.
After changing out of his kasaya, he changed into a ck round-necked robe, and put on a crown, he became a young man dressed in fresh clothes.
Ling Xuan had been subject to Buddhist rules all his life, and he had never worn clothes other than a monks robe.
Lu Weiyang paid the silver in satisfaction.
Qiao Nihong happened to see this scene. TSK tsk, our little Princess Weiyang has finally changed her personality. The Sun Wont rise from the west, will it?
Lu Weiyang snorted. Cousin, cousin Nichang will be getting married next spring. Do you have someone to marry?
You!Qiao Nihong Sighed. Alright, I helped you so much yesterday. You turned around and treated me like this. Cousins heart is cold. My Heart is cold. Master Ling Xuan...
Lu Weiyang quickly covered Qiao Nihongs mouth and said, The Yuan Xi temple is very effective in seeking marriage. Cousin will definitely be able to find a good marriage if you go to the Yuan Xi temple a few more times.
Qiao nihong smiled and said, Then Ill leave it to you.
Lu Weiyang held Ling Xuans hand and said, I havent had a good time in Luoyang city in the past few days. You have to make it up to me!
Ling Xuan nodded. He had already decided to return to the secr world, so he naturally had no objections to Lu Weiyang.
Lu Weiyang first pulled Ling Xuan to the pce to build a snowman and said, I went to Lingnan when I was very young. There was no snow in Lingnan, and the snow in Lin an was not very heavy. Ive always thought of the Snowman I used to build when I was young.
Ling Xuan helped Lu Weiyang build a snowman. The Prime Minister Temple is on the mountain. Even though it was the first ce in Chang an where it snowed, I often built snowmen with my senior and Junior Brothers when I Was Young.
Lu Weiyang put a piece of coal into the Snowmans eyes and asked, If you want to return to the secr world from the Prime Minister Temple, will you regret it?
Ling Xuan replied, No.
Lu Weiyang smiled faintly. It would have been better if you had said so earlier. Youve made me sad for so many days. Look, my eyes are much purer than before.
Ling Xuan lowered his head and looked into Lu Weiyangs eyes. He gently nted a kiss on her eyes, I promise that I wont make you sad again in the future, and I wont Make You Cry again. When I return to Chang an, Ill give the abbots position to someone else and immediately return to the secr world.
But I may not be able to marry you right away.
Why?Lu Weiyang asked.
Ling Xuan said, I have no achievements and fame. After renouncing asceticism, I have nothing. If I want to marry Princess Shang, Im not qualified.
Lu Weiyang said helplessly, But I have a lot of silver. Although I was a little stingy in the past, I wont feel sorry for giving you silver.
Ling Xuan smiled faintly. How can I Use Your Silver?
Lu Weiyang said, I dont want it. Although I dont want to get married so early, what if you have no fame and fortune and want to go back to being a monk? No, you must marry me immediately. At worst, you can fight for fame and fortune after marriage.
It doesnt matter if you dont want my silver. We can go to a street stall and y chess. Last time, I yed the exquisite chess game you set up on the street, and I even got fifty taels of silver.
Ling Xuan said, Any gambler who gathers together can not get more than five taels of silver once.
Five taels of silver is enough. Im very easy to feed. Its not like I havent eaten steamed buns and pickled vegetables before. That year, during the drought in Lingnan, I mingled among the disaster victims and relied on pickled vegetables and porridge to survive.
Lu Weiyang made a small snowball with his hand and said, This is all I can eat in a day. Moreover, Im still a princess. Royal Brother Wont watch me starve.
Ling Xuan smiled lightly. Okay, after I return to the secr world, I will propose marriage to the two saints.
..
Ling Xuan and Lu Weiyang returned to Chang an together. When they reached the gate of Chang an, they had no choice but to part ways. In the end, Ling Xuan still did not return to the secr world as the abbot of the Prime Minister Temple.
These few days, Ling Xuan had a great time in Luoyang. When Ling Xuan returned to the gate of the Prime Minister Temple, it felt like a lifetime had passed.
Master Fangzhang, youre back. These past few days, Old Madam Zhao and first Madam Zhao have beening to the temple every day to look for you.
Ling Xuan Sighed and said to the little novice monk, Go and bring Ling Yuan, ling FA, and Ling Xin Junior Brothers to the Fangzhang Courtyard.
Yes, Fangzhang.
Ling Xuan entered the FANGZHANG courtyard and knelt before the memorial tablets of the sessive abbots of the Prime Ministers Temple.
After his junior brothers arrived, they sped their hands together and asked Ling Xuan, Senior brother, do you have any instructions?
These junior brothers were all much older than Ling Xuan, but Ling Xuan had grown up in the temple since he was young, so he naturally became his senior brother.
Ling Xuan said, I have decided to renounce asceticism. In the future, the position of Abbot of the Prime Minister Temple will be handed over to junior brother Ling Yuan.
Ling yuan immediately said, Senior brother Abbot, you must not. Back then, when Master Yi Tong was around, he said that you and Buddha were fated to cultivate to be Buddha in the future. The Four Seas Buddhism holds you in high esteem. You must not renounce asceticism!
Thats right, senior brother abbot, if you renounce asceticism, what will happen to our Prime Minister Temple? The reputation of the Prime Minister Temple is great, and you are also the National Master. If you are not in the Prime Minister Temple, the reputation of the prime minister temple will definitely be greatly weakened.
Ling Xuan heard Ling Xins words and said, When you enter the Buddhist sect to cultivate Buddhism, you dont care about fame or obscurity. If you meditate and recite scriptures and do more good deeds, you will definitely be rewarded with good fortune and be a Buddha.
Ling Yuan said, But senior brother Fangzhang, why do you want to renounce asceticism? In a few days, the great masters of the Japanese and Tubo wille to my great Tang. At that time, we may not be able to have your attainments in Buddhism.
Yes, senior brother, you are the National Master. If you want to renounce asceticism, Im afraid the imperial court will not be willing!
Chapter 464 - No returning to the secular world
Chapter 464: Chapter 464. No returning to the secr world
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together and said, Junior brothers, there is no need to persuade me anymore. I have made up my mind.
Ling Xin frowned and said, Senior brother, you can not return to the secr world. Back then, master said that you were the son of Buddha. After you return to the secr world now, where will the prime minister temple get the incense in the future?
Ling FA also said, Thats right. The believers in themon people have a lot of trust in you, senior brother. Once you leave the Prime Minister Temple, you will only make the prime minister temple aughing stock.
Does senior brother want to renounce asceticism for the sake of the Princess?? Princess da Tang mostly yed with mens beauty. Princess Wei Yang was still a princess who stood high and mighty even after she had had enough of ying with them. However, senior brother, you will be cursed by the world and will even go to Hell for betraying the Buddha.
Ling Xuan pressed his palms together and said, I will renounce asceticism.
Lingyuan and lingxin LINGFA saw that they could not persuade Ling Xuan to stay, so they went out to discuss it together. From the prime minister temples incense offerings, they definitely could not let Ling Xuan renounce asceticism.
Senior brother Ling Xuan wants to return to the secr world so much, but once he does, our prime minister temple will only be aughing stock.
Its better to go all out and imprison senior brother Ling Xuan...
How is this possible? Senior Brother Ling Xuan is the state preceptor? Moreover, her highness the princess is here.
While the few of them were discussing, they kept sighing.
Ling Yuan said, Why dont we go and find first Madam Zhao? After all, the first madam of the Zhao family is senior brothers biological mother in the secr world. I think she can listen to the first madam of the Zhao family.
Thats true, but Old Madam Zhao and first Madam Zhao have spent money and have been to the temple more than once...
Ling Xuan knelt in front of the memorial tablets of the previous abbots for an entire day before getting up.
......
Just as he left the door, he saw Ling Yuan bring first Madam Zhao in.
After first Madam Zhao saw Ling Xuan.., she immediately said, Ling Xuan, please save your brother! Qingquan already knows his mistake. His days in prison are simply not human. If he is locked up again, Im afraid he will lose his life.
Ling Xuan said, Zhao Qing Quan also asked for it. When he made up about me and the princess, he should have thought of this oue.
First Madam Zhao said, Your brother is the only male in the Zhao family. The Supreme Court sentenced him to ten years of punishment. Isnt this a little too heavy?
Ling Xuan scoffed, Just ten years. Is It Heavy?
First Madam Zhao frowned and said, How is it not heavy? And I heard that you are going to renounce asceticism? This is absolutely not allowed! Back then, after Master Yi Tong took you away, he said that you were the destined son of Buddha.
If you renounce asceticism, you will destroy the Zhao family and the lives of your loved ones.
Your father died because of you. You renounce asceticism because you want to destroy your sisters and mothers lives as well?
You absolutely can not renounce asceticism!
Ling Xuan frowned.
Lady Zhao said, You were born with no father, no mother, and no family.
Master Ling Xuan was very urate. Your father really lost his life at a young age. You became a posthumous child. If you had not entered Buddhism and severed your rtionship with the secr world, I would have been killed by you long ago!
Ling Xuan fiddled with the bead in his hand and said, Lady Zhao, dont talk about such nonsense. Buddhism has never paid attention to the theory of fate.
Lady Zhao said, Everyone in the Zhao family knew this back then. Otherwise, how could your grandfather and grandmother bear to let the only posthumous child of their eldest son be a monk? Did you really renounce asceticism and destroy our entire Zhao Family?
Ling Xuan was silent.
Madam Zhao said, Its fine if you dont want to save your brother, or if you want to watch our Zhao family fall, but if you want to renounce asceticism, you must not! If you want to renounce asceticism, you might as well kill me yourself!
Its not to the extent that I would be scolded by the ancestors of the Zhao family to give birth to a vile creature like you who destroyed the Zhao family!
Vile creature?Lu Weiyang pushed open the door and entered. He frowned and said to first madam Zhao, This is the first time Ive seen a mother speak of her own child like this!
First Madam Zhao Saw Lu Weiyang and bowed. Greetings, Princess Weiyang.
Lu Weiyang went over and held Ling Xuans hand. Have you already arranged the matters in the temple? Have you renounced the secr world? Im here to bring you down the mountain.
First Madam Zhao said, You cant return to the secr world. Returning to the secr world will harm the entire Zhao family!
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan. Ling Xuan, you wont go back on your words and refuse to return to the secr world again, right? You promised me! If you dont want to return to the secr world, Ill ughter the entire Zhao family today. At worst, Ill just be stripped of the title of Princess!
Lu Weiyang naturally wouldnt ughter the entire Zhao family. He only said this for the sake of what Madam Zhao said.
Lu Weiyang did not believe that Ling Xuans renunciation of the secr world would harm the entire Zhao family!
Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, I know that the princess will not ughter the entire Zhao family. Dont worry, Princess. Give me some time and I will return to the secr world.
Lu Weiyang said, But I dont want to wait another day. Why Dont you follow me down the mountain today?
Ling Xuan saw the worry in Lu Weiyangs eyes and said, Okay!
Hearing that, Lady Zhao was very angry. Ling Xuan! You really want to take your mothers life!
Ling Xuan said, Lady Zhao, I always thought that you sent me to the temple because second uncle wanted the title of nobility. Youre a widowed mother who cant protect me, so you might as well let me enter the temple.
I didnt know that the reason you actually let me enter the temple was soughable!
Lu Weiyang pulled Ling Xuan and said, Theres no need to waste words with her. Lets go.
Ling Xuan gave Lady Zhao a deep look, then turned around to leave the prime minister temple with Lu Weiyang.
At the entrance of the Prime Minister Temple, Ling Yuan brought a group of monks to kneel in front of Ling Xuan and said, Senior brother, dont leave the Prime Minister Temple!
Senior brother, please dont leave the Buddhist path and fall into the path of the Devil!
Lu Weiyang saw that all the monks of the prime minister temple were kneeling at the entrance of the temple and could only helplessly hold Ling Xuans wrist even tighter.
She was extremely afraid that Ling Xuan would stay here because of the monks kneeling in the temple.
Ling Xuan patted Lu Weiyangs hand to signal her to be at ease, then, he pulled out his hands and put them together. Devout Buddhist cultivation requires sincerity and purity. My Heart is no longer sincere and my heart is no longer pure. If I were to stay here and forcefully cultivate, I would go mad and fall into the Devil Path. Amitabha. Take care of yourselves.
Then, Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, Princess, lets go.
Lu Weiyang smiled at Ling Xuan and said, Lets go.
It was almost dusk when they descended the mountain. After descending the mountain, Ling Xuan looked at the temple that he had lived in since he was a child and no longer had any lingering feelings.
Princess, I have already given up everything for you to return to the secr world. You Cant let me down.
Lu Weiyang smiled faintly and said, Of course I wont Let You Down.
Ling Xuan said, Since I have returned to the secr world, but I dont have a secr name. Princess, please give me a name, okay?
Lu Weiyang rubbed his chin and thought for a while. Zhao Aiyang, or Zhao Muyang? Okay?
Ling Xuan chuckled. Zhao Muyang, thats a good name.
Lu Weiyang said, Its not appropriate to really call it that. It sounds like were brother and sister. Why Dont You Call It Ling Xuan? After all, this name has already been engraved in my heart.
Ling Xuan said to Lu Weiyang, Okay, listen to the princess. Lets call him Ling Xuan.
Chapter 465 - Tiansha Lonestar
Chapter 465: Chapter 465, Tiansha Lonestar
Ever since Ling Xuan left the mountain, she had been staying in Lu Angs mansion.
Lu Weiyang really wanted Ling Xuan to stay in her princess mansion, but she knew that this was against the rules.
In the mansion.
Lu Ang and Ling Xuan were ying chess. After Lu ang ced his stone.., he said to Ling Xuan, Royal Brother still wants you to be the National Master. Your attainments in Buddhism are not low. Now that the people are spreading the word about Buddhism, even if you are not in Buddhism, you can go to the people and spread some correct Buddhist scriptures to guide the people toward good.
Ling Xuan said, Thats true. Nowadays, some Buddhists rely on the trust of the people to receive incense money, but they dont lead the people to do good deeds wholeheartedly. Its not appropriate to use money to deceive the people. However, if they spread Buddhism among the people, Im afraid they will mistreat the princess.
Do you think she is the little princess who stayed in Chang an? She has been to more ces in her life than I have,Lu Ang said. She was born to love freely.
This was the best oue for Ling Xuan. He had been practicing Buddhism all his life. Now, he could preach Buddhism and advocate the good in the world, and he could be together with the princess.
Lu Weiyang carried his nephew over and looked at Lu ang ying chess. TSK TSK, second brother, your chess skills are exactly the same as mothers...
Lu ang said, Be careful, I wont let you carry Baoer.
Lu Weiyang teased the baby in his arms. If you dont want to hold it, then dont hold it. Maybe I can have one next year too!
Ling Xuans face was red as he coughed twice. Princess, dont joke around.
Lu Weiyang said bashfully, How can I joke around? You and I have already done that. Who knows, maybe I already have one in my arms?
Lu ANGs expression changed. He threw away the chess piece in his hand and grabbed Ling Xuans cor. You, you havent married Weiyang yet! How Dare You Bully Weiyang?
Ling Xuans face turned even redder. Your Highness, youve misunderstood. The princess must have also misunderstood. I have never been married to the Princess.
Lu Weiyang said anxiously and shyly, Ling Xuan, Dont you want to be responsible for me? You and I were clearly on the mountain in Luoyang... Lips to lips... are you not going to admit it now?
Ling Xuan exined with a red face, Princess, youve really misunderstood. This is not the marriage between husband and wife... youll know when we get married.
Lu ang smiled and let go of Ling Xuans cor. So the omniscient Princess Weiyang also has something she doesnt know.
Ling Xuan said, Your Highness, dont make fun of the princess. The princess is still young.
Lu Weiyang returned the child to Lu Ang. Lu Weiyang, who had been an omniscient student since he was young, encountered something he didnt know for the first time.
Lu Weiyang followed Ling Xuan back to his courtyard and pestered Ling Xuan to tell him, It doesnt make sense that all monks know about husband and wife, but I dont.
Ling Xuan said, There are Buddhists who are happy, so I know. The princess doesnt need to know now. She will know when you and I get married.
Lu Weiyang pouted and said, But royal brother can not get married until March. No matter what, you and I have to get married after him. Why Dont you tell me now?
Ling Xuan poured himself a ss of water to cool down and said, Princess, have some self-respect.
Lu Weiyang approached Ling Xuan and said, You are not a monk anymore, why do you still want me to have self-respect? Humph! If you are not willing to tell me, I will go and ask someone.
Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, Princess, wait for me for a few days. I will go and find the statue of the joyful Buddha. You will understand once you see it.
A few dayster, when Lu Weiyang saw Ling Xuan take out a box of statues, she blushed and closed the wooden box. She would never take this thing out in front of others.
Ling Xuan Saw Lu Weiyangs extremely red face and smiled lightly by her ear. Your Highness, does this count as me taking back a city?
Not long ago, she had been seducing herself like a fairy. It turned out that she did not know anything about men and women.
It was also her fault for not being able to control herself.
..
Ling Xuan had been in the Lu ang residence for the past few days and had not left the residence. However, the news of Master Ling Xuans renunciation of the secr world had spread throughout Chang an, and everyone in Chang an knew about it.
Eldest Madam Zhao was on tenterhooks every day, but old Madam Zhao had personallye to the Princes residence.
Ling Xuan heard that Old Madam Zhao hade, so he could not not see her, so he had the gatekeeper bring old Madam Zhao to the courtyard.
Old Madam Zhao was followed by the eldest madam of the Zhao family. When Ling Xuan saw that the eldest Madams expression had changed slightly, he had insisted on not paying any more attention to her after they had parted at the Prime Minister Temple that day.
Old Madam Zhao saw that Ling Xuan was wearing the clothes of the secr world and a wig, with tears in her eyes, she said, Yes, you really look alike. You are extremely simr to your father. Ling Xuan, since you have already renounced the secr world, you should return to the Zhao family. The Zhao family is your home!
First Madam Zhao said anxiously, Mother, didnt you say that you were fine when you came?? I havent been feeling well these few days, and you are also feeling very dizzy. Isnt this just like what the Great Master Said?? He is the Lone Star of Heavens evil. If he doesnt be a monk and is still in the secr world, you and I wont be able to live for long!
Old Madam Zhao said angrily, I dont care about those hindrances. Isnt it enough that this child has suffered twenty years of hardship in Buddhism?? Im already old and cant care about these things. Child, are you willing to go home with grandmother?
Grandmother has let you down. I should have kept you by my side back then...
Ling Xuan saw the white-haired old madam and said, Grandmother, I appreciate your kindness, but since eldest madam has determined that I will hinder you, Id better not go back to the Zhao family.
First Madam Zhao said, Not only should you not go back to the Zhao family, you should also continue to be a monk. My body is getting worse and worse. If you dont be a monk, sooner orter, even I will die.
When that timees, lets see if you can withstand the notoriety of everyone in the world! You were born to be a lone star. Do you think that you can have a good ending as a Princess? When that timees, you will also be a hindrance to the Princess!
Qiao Nihongs voice sounded at the entrance of the courtyard, Who doesnt know that Princess Weiyang has a good life? Princess Weiyang has such a good life. Whats there to be afraid of? Moreover, Weiyang is the daughter of the Tian family. She will naturally be protected by the Dragon Qi!
Lu Weiyang saw Lady Zhaoing over and frowned, Why are you here again? I have never seen such a mother. She called her son the Lone Star of Tianshan and even helped her nephew plot against her own son!
Back then, there were people who said that my aunt was born Tiansha lonxing, but when my grandmother heard it, she would only make others unhappy. How could a mother not help her own child?
Lu Weiyang really could not understand why a mother would say that her child was Tiansha lonxing.
Lady Zhao said, Your Highness, I really did not make this up. It was said by a master himself. Back then, everyone in the Zhao family knew about this... Mother-inw, say something!
Chapter 466 - the story of Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyi
Chapter 466: Chapter 466, the story of Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyi
Old Madam Zhao sighed and said, This is really what master Yitong said back then. Otherwise, we wouldnt have been willing to let Ling Xuan be a monk...
Ling Xuan said, There is no such thing as fate in Buddhism. Heaven Demon Lone Star is what Taoism said. There is no such thing in Buddhism. I dont know why Master Yitong said this back then, but this theory of fate is nonsense.
Lady Zhao covered her heart and said, Good, good. You are going to watch mother lose her life because of you!
Ling Xuan said helplessly, If you think so, just think so. I have a clear conscience.
Lady Zhao saw that Lady Zhaos heart was hurting, so she did not ask Ling Xuan to follow her back to the Zhao family. That would only make the house restless.
Qiao nihong said, This is really strange. This is the first time Ive seen such a mother.
Lu Weiyang said, Fortunately, we wont stay in Chang an after we get married. Ling Xuan, Dont take this matter to heart.
Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, Ive never taken this matter to heart.
Lu Weiyang asked Qiao nihong, I havent seen cousin Niechang for a long time. What has she been doing?
Qiao ni Hong said, Fifth aunt has been seriously ill recently. She has been taking care of fifth aunt. Fifth aunt hasnt been going to the imperial court for a long time.
Lu Weiyang said, AH, fifth aunt is sick. I actually didnt know about this. Im going to visit fifth aunt.
Qiao ni Hong pulled Lu Weiyangs hand and said, You shouldnt go for now.
Lu Weiyang said, Why?
Qiao Nihong sighed, You shouldnt go. The Xie residence is already in a state of chaos. A few days ago, fifth aunt thought that she didnt have much time left, so she called her loyal death attendants and brought her to the Qiao familys ancestral grave. She opened Uncle Luos grave.
Lu Weiyang didnt even know about uncle Luo. When she was sensible, she only had an uncle, Xie Yun. She didnt have any impression of Luo Wei.
Qiao Nihong told Lu Weiyang about the past, This fifth aunt nned to be buried together with uncle Luo after she died. After uncle Xie found out about this, he went into the grave and brought her out.
These few days, the Xie family has been in a mess. Fifth aunts illness has been repeated over and over again. Its better that you dont go.
..
The Xie family.
Qiao Nichang stood in front of Qiao Ruoyis sickbed. Her eyes were red as she said, Mother, you have to persevere. You will recover soon.
Qiao ruoyi said slowly, Yes, mother will persevere, at least you have to watch my Nichang get married! Yuer is a good person, with sisters character, you will not be mistreated as a mother-inw.
Qiao nichang said, Mother, you will definitely recover, definitely!
Qiao ruoyi slowly closed her eyes, Mother is tired, sleep for a while. Nichang, you have to remember, in the future, you have to bury mother and your father Luo Wei together.
Dont even think about it. If you dare to close your eyes in front of me, I will never allow you to be buried together with Luo Wei!
Xie Yun entered and said to Qiao ruoyi, Its been 15 years, a long 15 years. Our Son is almost 13 years old. Cant you let him go? How am I not as good as him? Hes only been with you for three short years, and Ive been with you for 15 long years...
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun and said, Xie Yun, this doesnt concern the length of time, it only concerns whether my heart is moved or not. My heart is very small, and it can only amodate the child and Luo Wei.
Xie Yun, I know that youve been extremely good to me these 15 years, even better than how Luo Wei treated me back then.
Ive also chosen to forgive you and raise my children with you. Cough, cough, cough, but I dont love you...
Xie Yun clenched her hands tightly when she heard this. Are you really that heartless? If I had agreed to marry you back then, nothing would have happened to Luo Wei. Luo Wei has been dead for 15 years. He has been reincarnated long ago!
As long as you dare to die in front of me, you can only be buried with me!
Qiao ruoyi held Qiao Nichangs hand tightly and said, Nichang, you must bury me and Luo Wei together.
Nichang cried bitterly and said, Mother...
Qiao Nichang looked at her father, who looked extremely pale, and then at Qiao ruoyi, who looked extremely pale. She did not know that she had made such a decision.
Qiao Nichang remembered Luo Weis father. When she was young, she forced herself to remember Luo Weis father. She also had to remember that Xie Yun did not want her at the beginning, butter on, Xie Yun treated her very well.
Fifteen years of getting along was not a short period of time. Qiao Nichang felt guilty and grateful towards Luo Wei, so she did not dare to forget. Hence, when Xie Yun suggested many times that she change her surname to enter the Xie family tree, Qiao Nichang did not agree.
She knew that Xie Yun loved her very much, so Xie Yun wouldpromise on this matter.
However, she did not know what to do when it came to the question of who Qiao ruoyi would be buried with?
Her father loved her mother very much. All these years, he had treated her extremely well. If she chose to bury her mother and father Luo Wei together, it would really hurt her fathers heart.
However, if she were to bury her mother and father together, how would she be able to let her mother down?
Qiao Nichang could not stop her tears from falling as she said, Mother, you will get better. You will live a long life. Little Brother is still so young. You Cant bear to leave us.
Qiao ruoyi held Qiao Nichangs hand tightly and said, Promise Me, okay?
Xie Yun said, Nichang.
Qiao Nichang simply broke free from Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Dont force me. I dont know what to do! I dont want you to leave, mother. I dont want either of you to be sad!
Qiao Nichang wiped her tears with a handkerchief and said, Mother, dont think so much. Just take care of your body, okay?
Lan Xin came in from the door and said, Master, Madam, outside, the Wu King couple and crown prince Qian Yu are here.
Qiao Ruoyi was seriously ill and Qiao Ruoyun wanted to discuss the wedding. Firstly, the wedding had already been prepared and the wedding could be celebrated in advance. Secondly, if there was an ident, Qiao ruoyi would not have any regrets.
Qian Yu saw that Qiao Nichangs eyes were red and his heart was upset. However, because of the elders, he could not go forward tofort her.
Qiao Ruoyun saw that Qiao Ruoyi was thin and weak and asked, Are you still a Gu worm from the early years?
Qiao ruoyi replied, It has nothing to do with Gu Worms. Its just that my body is not well. Ahem, big sister... the marriage between Nichang and Yuer might be brought forward...
Qiao Ruoyun held Qiao Ruoyis hand and said, Of course, of course. Im here for this.
Qiao ruoyi said, Thats good. Its good to see Nichang get married.
Qian Yin said to Xie Yun, The wedding has been prepared long ago. Weve chosen three good dates for the wedding. What do you think?
Qiao ruoyi forced herself to stand up and said, Just the next few days. The closer the better... Yuer.
Fifth aunt.Qian Yu walked up to Qiao Ruoyi and said.
Qiao ruoyi said to Qian Yu, Treat Nichang well. Also, Nichang is not the daughter of the Xie family after all. She has to get married from the Qiao family...
Qiao Ruoyun and Qian Yin looked at each other and looked at Xie Yun, This...
Chapter 467 - other than Xie Yun and Qiao ruoyi
Chapter 467: Chapter 467, other than Xie Yun and Qiao ruoyi
Xie Yun said coldly, Unless I die, ni Shang will have to get married from the Xie Family!
Qiao ruoyi coughed violently and spat out a mouthful of blood. Qiao Ruoyun quickly supported Qiao ruoyi and said, Ruoyi, Xie Yun, ruoyi is already like this. It doesnt matter where she gets married. Just Promise Ruoyi...
Xie Yun looked at the weak Qiao ruoyi and frowned. Its fine if Nichang doesnt change her surname after so many years. If you let her get married from the Qiao family, what would I be? I will never agree to this.
Qiao ruoyi coughed and said, That year...
Xie Yuns voice was extremely cold. That year... that year again? Arent these fifteen years enough to make up for that year?
Lan Xin added, Madam, master really liked Miss Nichang back then. Before she was born, he had always been concerned about her. After Miss Nichang was born, its not that he didnt want her.
To be fair, even though master hadmitted a heinous crime back then, he still had to be sentenced!
In the past fifteen years, has master treated you or Miss Nichang badly in any way?
Qiao ruoyi held Qiao Ruoyuns hand tightly and said, If I dont allow Nichang to get married from the Qiao family, Ill die with a grievous grievance.
Xie Yun quickly added, If Nichang wants to get married from the Qiao family, Ill have to die blind.
Qiao Nichang looked at Qiao ruoyi and then looked at Xie Yun. Tears streamed down her face as she said, I wont get married.
After saying that, Qiao Nichang jogged away.
Qian Yu made a fist at the elders and followed Qiao Nichang. Nichang, Nichang.
......
Qiao Nichang stood by the Lakeside and kept crying in a low voice. Qian Yu, Im not getting married. Im not getting married. This way, it doesnt matter if I get married from the Qiao family or the Xie Family!
Qian Yu went over and hugged Qiao Nichang. What are you talking about? Ive been waiting to marry you for two years!
Qiao nichang sobbed softly, Mother is seriously ill, and I dont know what to do. I know I should listen to mother, but father has treated me well. If I choose anyone, it will hurt the other persons heart, so I might as well not marry!
Qian Yu wiped Qiao Nichangs tears with Heartache. Seeing her emotional expression, heforted her, Okay, we wont get married for the time being. Dont cry.
Qiao nichang whispered, I really dont know what to do.
Qiao Ruoyi was filled with worry when she saw Qiao Nichang run out. She coughed violently again.
Xie Yun closed his eyes and walked to Qiao Ruoyis side.
Qiao Ruoyun gave the bedside to Xie Yun and held onto Qian Yins hand as they walked out. She sighed deeply and said, Sigh, once ruoyi has decided on something, even eight horses wouldnt be able to pull her back.
In the room, Xie Yun picked up the warm water by the bedside and handed it to Qiao ruoyi, Why do you have to force Nichang so much?
Qiao ruoyis voice was hoarse, she said helplessly, Am I forcing her, or are you forcing her? This is something that you, Nichang, and I owe to Luo Wei. Qiao Nichang is Luo Weis daughter. Naturally, she has to be married off from the Qiao family. This is the rule.
When you married me back then, you also promised. Why are you going back on your word now?
Xie Yun said, Its fine if you want me to promise Nichang to be married off from the Qiao family, but you must also promise me that after you die, you will share the same acupuncture point as me.
Qiao ruoyi shook her head lightly and said, When I sent Luo Wei to his grave back then, I had already left my heart there. I will only be buried together with Luo Wei.
Xie Yun Xin asked, Fifteen years? In these fifteen years, have you not had a single moment of feelings for me?
Qiao ruoyi smiled and said, My Heart is already dead. Why would I still have feelings for her?
Xie Yun looked at her smile. It was as if he was mocking him for not wanting to marry her back then. If he could go back to eighteen years ago, he would definitely have agreed to marry her back then.
The fifteen years of loving couple that he thought was just his own opinion in the end.
Qiao Ruoyi had never liked him from the beginning to the end.
Never.
Xie Yun stood up and said, Its up to you. If you want Nichang to get married anywhere, its fine. You Can Bury yourself with whoever you want...
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yuns back as he left. She did not know why, but she actually felt a little heartache for him. Qiao ruoyiughed at herself. What was there to feel heartache for Xie Yun?
When Xie Yun left, Qian Yu came over and bowed. Fifth uncle, I dont know about the past between you and fifth aunt, but Nichang is in a lot of pain because she cant decide between the two of you.
I think that since fifth aunt is seriously ill, it would be better for her to get married in the Qiao family to fulfill fifth aunts wish.
The Xie family and the Qian familys ancestral home are both in Jiangnan. It would be better for them to hold two weddings. One is to get married from the Qiao family in Chang an, and the other is to get married from the Xie family in Lin an. This is also the best way to achieve both.
Xie Yun said, Theres no need. Lets get married from the Qiao family.
Qian Yu looked at Xie Yuns expression and was a little puzzled. Fifth uncle...
Xie Yun said, Just dont make things difficult for Nichang.
Qian Yu cupped his hands and said, Thank you, fifth uncle.
When Qiao Nichang heard from Qian Yu that her father had agreed to marry from the Qiao family, she was a little puzzled. She went to the study to look for Xie Yun, who was drinking strong wine.
When she saw nichang, she said, Im sorry for making things difficult for you earlier. Just listen to your mother. Wherever your mother wants you to get married, you will get married and be buried in the same ce as she wants you to be buried!
Father!Qiao Nichang went over to grab the wine cup in Xie Yuns hand. This is hard liquor. Dont drink anymore. What did mother say to you, and you agreed to marry me from the Qiao Family?
Xie Yun said to Qiao nichang, Nichang has grown up. Father and mother dont want you to be troubled. As long as you can be happy, everything is enough.
Qiao Nichang returned the wine cup to Xie Yun and said, Father, I also hope that you, mother, and brother can be well.
Xie Yunughed self-deprecatingly. How can we be a family? She has never treated me as a family. Fifteen years. Fifteen years, I have only been a joke.
Xie Yun drank up the wine in his cup, and a tear fell from the corner of his eye.
Qiao Nichang looked at Xie Yuns tears, and her heart was filled with difort.
Early February, on the bright spring day when the grass was long and the birds were flying, the manor of Marquis an yuan was filled with red silk. Qiao Nichang was getting married, and the guests were all over the ce.
The Emperor of the pce also personally came to send off Qiao Nichangs marriage. It could be said that it was very well arranged. Qiao ruoyi weakly leaned on the servant girls body. After sending off Qiao Nichang, Qiao Ruoyis illness became even worse.
In the middle of February, the imperial physicians were practically already living in the Xie residence.
Xie Yuns head was covered in silver-gray hair. Seeing that Qiao Ruoyi was getting worse day by day, the time he woke up was also getting lesser day by day. His white hair was also getting more and more day by day.
On the fifteenth day of February, Qiao Ruoyi suddenly became much better. The imperial physicians could not be happy. This sudden improvement was probably a sign of a return to the past.
Qiao ruoyi went outside the courtyard and looked at the paper kites that wereing from outside. She did not know which familys daughters were flying kites when the spring was beautiful.
Qiao ruoyi said to Xie Yun, Unfortunately, Im afraid I cant bring Nichangs child to fly kites... When we were young, we sisters often flew kites. Qiao ruoshui bullied me honestly...
Xie Yun said beside her, Do you want to fly kites together today?
Sure, no more.
Chapter 468 - Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyi’s side
Chapter 468: Chapter 468, Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyis side
On a small hill in the Xie familys backyard, green grass was growing. Early spring butterflies were resting on the small wildflowers.
Lan Xin brought over a butterfly-shaped paper kite.
Xie Yun took the paper kite and raised it high. After that, he ced the kite string in Qiao Ruoyis hand. Hold on tight.
Qiao ruoyi looked at the high kite and said, Xie Yun, after I leave, you have to teach weier well. Nichang is already married. With big sister around, I naturally dont have to worry. Weier is still young. When you help him find a wife, you have to remember to find a more virtuous wife.
However, the most important thing is that Weier likes it. You Cant set some boundaries for your status. Having a lowly background doesnt mean that youre a lowly person.
Xie Yun sat beside Qiao ruoyi and replied, Alright.
Qiao ruoyi looked at the white-haired Xie Yun and said, After I leave, you can also find another wife. When Weier is better, you can think of a way to cken your white hair. Youre clearly not old yet...
Xie Yun did not respond to Qiao Ruoyi at this moment.
Qiao Ruoyi looked at the clouds in the sky and said, Youve already agreed to let me and Luo Wei be buried together. You Cant go back on your words!
Xie Yunughed, You dont have to be afraid, because I wont have the chance to go back on my word.
Qiao ruoyi looked at Xie Yun in confusion.
Xie Yun reached out and hugged Qiao ruoyi, covering the mole under his eyes. Can you kiss me onest time?
Qiao ruoyi said unwillingly, Xie Yun, why?
......
Yes, why!Xie Yun said, Your kite is about to fall. Pull the string.
Qiao ruoyi pulled the string, but the wind was strong enough to break the string. The kite flew away with the wind. Qiao ruoyi looked at the kite in the distance and felt a little disappointed.
This might be thest time she would fly a kite.
Lan Xins voice rang in Qiao ruoyis ears, Master!
Qiao ruoyi looked down and saw Xie Yun lying on her leg. Xie Yuns lips were bleeding. Qiao ruoyi shouted, Xie Yun, Xie Yun! Dont die.
Xie Yun held hisst breath and said, I said, unless I die before you, I Wont watch you die at the same acupoint as other men.
Qiao Ruoyis tears kept falling. She hugged Xie Yun and said, Youre crazy. Youre too stupid. Do you think Ill change my mind? No! No!
Xie Yun said, I know, but I cant watch you die at the same acupoint as other men. Ruoyi, wait for you by the bridge of helplessness.
Qiao ruoyi saw the blood dripping from the corner of Xie Yuns lips and leaned her head against Xie Yuns head. Xie Yun, Xie Yun...
Qiao ruoyi leaned over and covered the mole at the corner of Xie Yuns eyes. She kissed Xie Yuns lips, but she couldnt get any response. Xie Yun...
Lan Xin knelt on the side and cried uncontrobly. When she raised her head, she saw Qiao Ruoyi lying on Xie Yuns body. The two of them held each others hands tightly.
Lan Xin was very upset. Master, Madam...
The kite with its string cut in the sky fell to the ground. Qiao Nichang, who hade back to visit her parents, heard Lan Xins crying voice and trotted over.
When she saw her parents lying on the ground, Qiao Nichang almost fainted. Qian Yu held Qiao Nichang.
When Qiao Nichang came closer, she knelt on the grass and shouted sternly, Father, mother! Wake Up! What should I do if you leave? What should Weier Do?
Qian Yu hugged Qiao Nichang and did not know how tofort her.
Xie Yun and Qiao Ruoyis deaths shocked the entire Chang an city. Lu Xis wedding date was extended by two months. The wedding date was originally in March, but it was moved to May.
The Xie family in Chang an was covered in white silk, and the mourning hall was filled with guests.
Xie Wei was young, but he grew up in a day when his parents died.
Qiao Ruoyun and her husband were helping the Xie family with the funeral. Qiao Nichang cried until her voice was hoarse and she looked like she was wasting away.
Qiao Ruoyun had no choice but to look for Lady Qiao and said, When Ruoyi was alive, she had a dying wish to be buried with Luo Wei. However, if she and Xie Yun died on the same day, it wouldnt make sense if they werent buried together.
Xie Wei didnt know about Luo Wei since he was young. Naturally, he wanted his parents to be buried together.
Ni Shang was heartbroken. It would not be appropriate for me to ask her. Lady Jin, what do you think we should do about this?
Even if my parents were to give up their lives, I cant make things difficult for them. I dont even know how to properly handle this matter.
Lady Qiao sighed and said, No wonder Xie Yun would die together with Ruoyi. Xie Yun used his final life to make Qiao Ruoyis final life depend on him...
Qiao Ruoyun said, The problem lies here. I wonder if Ruoyi changed her mind in the end?
Qiao jinniang said, Its actually not difficult to say this. Cremation is very popr in Lin an now. When the timees, half of the ashes will be left in Chang an, and the other half will be brought back to Jiangnan to be buried together with Xie Yun. After death, they will all be like floating clouds. Its just a thought of the future generations. This will fulfill ruoyis wish.
Qiao ruoyun sighed and said, Now it seems that this is the only way.
At the beginning of April, the raging fire engulfed the two people holding hands. Thousands of people on Chang an street were sent to the funeral. Qiao Ruoyi was the first female official and the Early Mountain Chief of West Mountain Academy.
The female students who sent Qiao Ruoyis ashes back to Jiangnan upied almost a street.
There were also people who witnessed the cremation. Seeing that Xie Qiao and his wife were tightly holding hands, it was rumored that Xie Qiao and his wife loved each other very much.
In front of the Qiao familys ancestral grave, they sent the ashes to the grave. Aftering out, Qiao Nichang knew that mother had never loved father. She also did not know if mother had changed her mind when father died in front of mother..
Qian Yu patted Qiao Nichangs shoulder and said, Lets go. The boat is about to leave. We still have to rush back to attend His Majestys wedding. Father and mothers wishes have been fulfilled. There will be no regrets in heaven.
After the funeral boat left Chang an pier, a rumor was once again prevalent in Chang an city.
The firstdy of Uncle Zhaos mansion said it herself. I heard it personally at the funeral.
Thats right. The firstdy of Uncle Zhaos residence said that Lord Xie and Lord Qiaos deaths were caused by Master Ling Xuans interference. It turns out that Master Ling Xuan was born with the fate of a lone star.
One must be a monk in front of Buddha to cultivate. Once one renounces the secr world, it will interfere with the people around him.
But what does Lord Xie and Lord Qiao have to do with Master Ling Xuan?
Qiao ruoyi has nothing to do with Ling Xuan, but she has something to do with Princess Weiyang. Qiao Ruoyi is Princess Weiyangs fifth aunt. With the imperial edict given to her as the emperors son-inw, Qiao Ruoyi and her husband both died. wasnt it because of Ling Xuans interference?
How could it be? How far are they rted? Why arent Princess Weiyang and the prince affected?
At that time, because Princess Weiyang and the prince were from the Tian family, the royal family had Gods protection, but Qiao ruoyi and the Xie family didnt! They died at such a young age.
Chapter 469 - give half of your mother to you
Chapter 469: Chapter 469, give half of your mother to you
Lu Weiyang was furious when she heard the news in Chang an. However, the source of the news came from the firstdy of the Zhao family.
If the firstdy of the Zhao family was not caught, she would not be able to find trouble with the people who were gossiping behind her back.
Ling Xuan Saw Lu Weiyangs angry look and said, Why are you angry at their ignorant words?
Lu Weiyang said, Fifth aunts early death is incurable. Fifth Uncle died because he used poison. What does it have to do with you? Fifth Aunts body was already in bad shape long before you returned to the secr world.
Ling Xuan advised Lu Weiyang, Dont be angry with ignorant people like them. If Youre angry, youll only be angry at yourself.
Lu Weiyang said with a dark face, Its fine if they say that Im stingy and stingy, but they cant say that Im the only one! The source is Lady Zhao. If I go and find trouble with her, will you me me?
Ling Xuan sat in front of Lu Weiyang and said, Of course I wont me you. Its just that I dont want the princess and Lady Zhao to argue for me. Theres no need for that. The theory of fate is just a joke in front of Buddhism. No one will believe it.
Lu Weiyang said, But the people all believe it! No, I cant bear this resentment. I have to ask Lady Zhao why she treats her own flesh and blood like this.
Ling Xuan Saw Lu Weiyang leave in a huff and went forward to hold Lu Weiyangs hand. Thank you, Princess, but I want to ask this question myself.
Lu Weiyang looked up at Ling Xuan. Okay.
Ling Xuan had not been to the Zhao family since he renounced his secr life. His feelings for the Zhao family were also very thin. He used to have respect for Lady Zhao, but now even that respect no longer existed.
First Lady Zhao saw Ling Xuan at the entrance of the Zhao family and screamed, Quickly get out! Donte and disturb our Zhao family!
Second Master Zhao saw Ling Xuan and went forward to say, Ling Xuan, youre finally willing to go home. This is a good thing. Its a good thing, sister-inw. Its our Zhao familys honor that Ling Xuan is willing to return home.
Ever since the Zhao familys Earls manor title was snatched, second master Zhao had been using his connections everywhere in order to restore his title.
The people who used their connections felt that second master Zhao was unnecessary. The wedding date between Ling Xuan and the princess had already been set. Would the emperor not restore his brother-inws title?
However, second master Zhao had always been ashamed of going to look for Ling Xuan. Naturally, he was happy to see Ling Xuane over today.
Ling Xuan, you have never entered the Zhao familys gate. Now that you are back, you can go in openly,second master Zhao said.
Ling Xuan looked at first madam Zhao and said, Second master, I came to your residence today to have a few words with first Madam Zhao. Mother and son are one. If first Madam Zhao doesnt care about the rtionship between mother and son, dont me me for not doing so..
Buddhism did not have the theory of fate. The so-called temples that talked about the theory of fate were all unorthodox and not the orthodox sects of the Great Tang Buddhist sect. Taoism had the theory of fate, but Buddhism and Taoism were not one family. I had never looked for a Taoist priest to read my fate before.
Since Lady Zhao cares so much about the theory of fate, why dont we go to the Taoist temple together and carefully calcte whether I am destined to be a lone star or not. I also hope that Lady Zhao will not randomly make arrangements in the future. If there are any more arrangements, dont me the officials for seeing you.
Lady Zhao stomped her feet and said, How did I give birth to such a monster like you? Now, for the sake of your position as the Prince Consort, you still refuse to acknowledge your masters words..
Ask the people of the Zhao family, ask your second uncle, your second aunt, did Master Yitong say these words twenty years ago?
Master Yitong is your master, a master who attained the Dao, how could his words be false?
Ling Xuan said, Master Yitong is indeed boundless in the Buddhist dharma, but Buddhism indeed does not have a theory of life!
Second Master Zhao sighed helplessly and said, Ling Xuan, this matter is true. When Master Yitong came looking for you, your grandfather thought that second uncle had sought out master Yitong for the sake of the Earl Manors title.
But who was this series of Masters? He was already fifty years old back then, and was the grand abbot of the Prime Minister Temple. How could he be someone that I could bribe?
When you were still a baby, everyone had no enmity with you. No one would go looking for a series of masters to treat a baby like you like this, right?
Ling Xuan examined second master Zhaos expression and saw that second master Zhaos expression was sincere. It did not seem like he was lying.
He habitually twirled the Buddha beads in his hand. I will investigate this matter to find out.
Second master Zhao said, Ling Xuan, you are after all a child of our Zhao family. Second Uncle and your grandmother both wish for you to return. The Zhao familys title of nobility has been lost in our generation. We have truly let down our ancestors.
And Qingquan, he is after all your younger brother. Can you, on ount of Grandmothers old age, beg the Princess to release Qingquan as soon as possible...
Ling Xuan said, Zhao Qingquan deserves it.
First Madam Zhao said, Second brother, he cant wait for Zhao Qingquan to note out. If he kills the entire Zhao family, then the Zhao family will belong to him alone!
Second master Zhao said, Sister-inw, how can you say that about Ling Xuan?
First Madam Zhao said, I am not wrong either. Qingquan has been sensible and obedient since he was young. It is the hope of our Zhao family. And because Ling Xuan had the intention to return to the secr world, he was disrespectful to Bodhisattva and caused Qingquan to be confined in prison. This is all his fault!
When Ling Xuan heard this, his heart turned cold. His biological mother would rather help a nephew who was not rted by blood, but she believed those superstitious words. She had determined that he was the lone star of Tiansha. It was simply ridiculous.
Lu Weiyang looked at the scene in front of the Zhao family from afar and felt that Ling Xuan was too pitiful.
After Ling Xuan left the Zhao family, Lu Weiyang let Ling Xuan get into his own carriage and hugged Ling Xuan. Dont be sad. Your Mother doesnt want you. Can I give you half of my mother?
Ling Xuan hugged Lu Weiyang and said, I want to go back to the prime minister temple and ask martial uncles. Did master really say that I was the lone star of Tiansha back then? Master is a disciple of Buddhism, so theres no need to say that. But everyone in the Zhao family says that it was master who said it.
Lu Weiyang held Ling Xuans hand and said, No, I dont want you to go back to the Prime Minister Temple. After we get married, youll be the legitimate son-inw. If Lady Zhao dares to say anything against you again, Ill put her in jail.
Lu Weiyang took Ling Xuan to a vi in Chang an city.
Ling Xuan followed Lu Weiyang out of the carriage and asked, Where is this ce?
This is my parentsvi in Chang an city.Lu Weiyang got out of the carriage and led Ling Xuan inside. In the future, my mother will be your mother. You Dont have to be sad for that crazy woman.
Ling Xuan lowered his head and smiled. Returning to the secr world for her was his lifes purpose.
Otherwise, he would miss this dazzling gaze for the rest of his life.
Tang Yuanyuan saw Lu Weiyanging and said, I just made a table full of dishes, and you came.
Lu Weiyang said, You are about to marry your royal brother, why are you still cooking?
Tang Yuanyuan circled the handkerchief in his hand and said, Am I not nervous? I dont even know if I can be a good empress... only cooking can calm me down.
Chapter 470 - Zhao Qingquan was the child of Master Yitong
Chapter 470: Chapter 470. Zhao Qingquan was the child of Master Yitong
Lu Weiyang went inside and looked at the dishes. Yuan Yuan, why are they all fishy vegetables? Theres not even a vegetable dish?
Qiao Jinniang came in and chuckled. Yuan Yuan didnt know that you and Ling Xuan wereing. Ill get someone to cook two more bowls of vegetable dishes.
Lu Weiyang smiled. I knew that mother is the best. Unlike first Madam Zhao, Ive never seen a mother like first Madam Zhao. She scolded her son for being the lone star of Tiansha and doting on her nephew..
Can I give half of mother to Ling Xuan?
Qiao jinniang smiled and said, Of course, but what do you mean by the Lone Star of Tiansha?
Dont you listen to the rumors outside Chang an?
Lu Weiyang told Qiao Jinniang about the rumors in Chang an about Ling Xuankes death of Qiao Ruoyi and Xie Yun.
Qiao jinniang said, Its nonsense. How could the firstdy of the Zhao family spread such a rumor? Its ridiculous.
Exactly. Ive never seen such a mother.Lu Weiyang hugged Qiao Jinniangs waist and said, Fortunately, I have a good mother.
Qiao Jinniang scratched Lu Weiyangs nose and said, Youre the only one who knows how to make mother happy. But didnt the master say that Ling Xuanke was the chosen one? Howe hes The Lone Star of Tiansha Now?
Lu Chen walked to Qiao Jinniangs side and said, Do you still remember the portrait of Master Yitong when he was young that we saw in the Prime Minister Temple not long ago?
Qiao jinniang nodded and said, I remember that the portrait of Master Yitong when he was young is somewhat simr to Zhao Qingquan.
Ling Xuan heard this and hurriedly asked, How is that possible? How can master be simr to Zhao Qingquan when he was young?
When Ling Xuan saw Master Yitong when he was young, he was already over 50 years old. Ling Xuan had never seen Master Yitong when he was young, so when he heard Qiao Jinniangs words.
He carefully thought about master Yitongs appearance, and it seemed to be very simr.
Lu Chen said, That portrait is in the Abbot Court. Perhaps you have never seen it before.
The secret guards found that ever since second madam Zhao married into the Zhao family, she had never been out. A year before Zhao Qingquan was born, she had been going to the prime ministers Temple to pray for a child...
Qiao Jinniang had a bold guess in her heart. In reality, the storyteller had also said a lot about this matter, and it was often mentioned in the unofficial history.
Some women who had not been pregnant for a long time went to the temple to pray for a child. They would soon have a child. It was not because Bodhisattva had appeared, but because they had borrowed a child from a monk.
Qiao jinniang asked Lu Chen, So Zhao Qingquan is the son of second Madam Zhao and Master Yitong?
Lu Chen said, We still have to ask second madam Zhao about this, but I think its about the same.
Otherwise, master Yitong had no enmity with the Zhao family, and he was not entrusted by the second son of the Zhao family. There was also no need to say that a baby in his infancy was the lone star of Tiansha.
When Ling Xuan heard this result, he could not ept it for a moment. Master Yitong was wholeheartedly devoted to Buddhism. Why would hemit such a transgression? He is an eminent monk outside the secr world...
After Lu Weiyang understood, he said, Master Yitong has already made up that you are the lone star of Tiansha. Why Cant hemit such a transgression?
Master Yitong asked you to be a monk and said that you are the chosen son of Buddha so that his biological son, Zhao Qingquan, could obtain the title of nobility of the Zhao family?
And those muddle-headed people of the Zhao family actually believed Master Yitongs absurd words and sent their familys bloodline to the temple, pampering Zhao Qingquan as he grew up.
Master Yitong is simply a scum of Buddhism.
Ling Xuan said, However, we cant just rely on Zhao Qingquan and master Yitongs appearance when they were young to determine that Zhao Qingquan isnt a child of the Zhao family. Im afraid that this matter will not be convinced by the masses.
Lu Weiyang said, Yan Guo left a mark. If that second Madam Zhao is really having an affair with Master Yitong, there will definitely be a loophole in this matter. Lets go to the Zhao family and find out.
The next day, Lu Weiyang and Ling Xuan arrived at the Zhao family.
When second master Zhao heard that the princess had arrived, he immediately asked the whole family toe out to wee her.
It is the Zhao familys honor to have the princesse. Pleasee in, Princess.
First Lady Zhao red at Ling Xuan. She did not like Ling Xuan entering the Zhao family. Once Ling Xuan entered the Zhao family, she felt extremely stifled and could not breathe.
However, since the princess and Ling Xuan came together this time, First Lady Zhao could not push Ling Xuan out.
Lu Weiyang entered and said, Second Lady Zhao, I have something to ask you.
Second Madam Zhao obediently came out and said with a smile, Your Highness, what are your orders?
Lu Weiyang took the tea that the servant girl handed over and said, This princess has heard that the Guanyin in the prime minister temple is very efficacious when ites to seeking children. Back then, second Madam Zhao and second master Zhao had no children for many years. However, after a few days in the Prime Minister Temple, they had children. It can be seen how efficacious the Guanyin in the prime minister temple is.
A hint of embarrassment appeared in second Madam Zhaos eyes as she said, Yes, the prime minister temple has always been effective.
Then, why didnt second Madam Zhao go and ask for a few more children?
Second Madam Zhao said, Bodhisattva bestowing children is already heavens mercy.
Bodhisattva bestowing children?Lu Weiyang snorted. Donte and spoil bodhisattva. Why would bodhisattva bestow a hypocrite like Zhao Qingquan? Zhao Qingquan is extremely hypocritical. He is somewhat simr to master Yitongs sanctimonious appearance!
Second Madam Zhao held the handkerchief tightly and said, Your Highness, what do you mean? Qingquan and Master Yitong are not father and son. How can they be simr?
First Madam Zhao followed, Your Highness, Master Yitong is an eminent monk who has attained immortality. Dont talk nonsense.
Ling Xuan turned the Buddhist beads in his hand and said, Second Madam Zhao, the princess never said that Zhao Qingquan and master Yitong are father and son. The princess only said that they are simr. Why would second madam think of Father and Son?
Second Madam Zhao said, I, this...
Lu Weiyang ced the Teacup to the side and said, Second Master Zhao, perhaps you have never seen a portrait of Grandmaster Yitong when he was young? This was drawn by an artist when Grandmaster Yitong was young. Look at this portrait of Grandmaster Yitong when he was young. Isnt it exactly the same as Zhao Qingquan?
This painting was naturally not the one in the Prime Minister Temple. Instead, it was a painting that Lu Weiyang had drawn overnight based on Zhao Qingquans appearance.
When she was young, her painting skills were on par with Lady Qiaos. Later on, under the pressure of her imperial grandfather, she was very good at drawing people.
Using fake to confuse the real could be obtained.
Second Master Zhao looked at the painting in front of him and saw the flustered expression on second madam Zhaos face. He already had a rough idea of what was going on in his heart.
Second Madam Zhao knelt on the ground and said, Master, I have never told you that Master Yi is my biological father and Qingquans biological grandfather... the grandfather and grandson are rather simr...
Second master Zhao said, Is that so?
Lu Weiyang pped his hands and saw a royal doctor enter from outside. Lu Weiyang said, This is the royal doctor with the best medical skills in the imperial hospital. Why dont we let him take second master Zhaos Pulse?
The royal doctor went forward and took second master Zhaos pulse. He said, Your Highness, just as you guessed, second master Zhao cant give birth to any children. That Zhao Qingquan is not of second master Zhaos bloodline.
Second Master Zhao lowered his head and looked at the flustered second Madam Zhao. He pped her hard and said, You B * Tch!
Second Madam Zhao copsed on the ground, her eyes filled with tears.
Chapter 471-end - Great Tang Weiyang
Chapter 471: Chapter 471, Great Tang Weiyang
Lady Zhao did not react for a moment.
Old Lady Zhao almost fainted when she heard this. Second daughter-inw, you, you really did such a shameless thing?
Second Lady Zhao copsed on the ground and said, At that time, eldest sister-inw was already in her third child. I was also anxious. Eldest sister-inw and I married into the Zhao family in the same year, so we wanted to go to the Prime Minister Temple to pray for a child. It was that darn bald donkey that forced me...
Later on, after I got pregnant, I also thought that no one else would know about this matter. Moreover, I wanted a child too much, so I took the risk and made the mistake. Everything that happened after that was the work of a great master. It had nothing to do with me!!
What heaven-ordained Fozi? The Heavenly Fiend Lone Star was all fabricated by that darn bald donkey for the sake of his son being able to inherit the title of nobility. I could only keep my mouth shut for the sake of clear spring!
Hearing this, First Lady Zhao kept shaking her head. wasnt she just a joke all these years?
She was certain that her son was the Heavenly Fiend Lonestar, so she doted on her nephew. However, she did not expect Zhao Qingquans background to be so unbearable.
Second Master Zhao was really angry. He kicked Second Lady Zhao several times on the ground. Slut, Slut!
Then, he knelt in front of ling xuan and said, I have let you down, let Father Down, let Big Brother Down!
Ling Xuan made second Master Zhao stand up and said, This junior does not deserve such a kneel from you.
Eldest Madam Zhao looked at Ling Xuan, her eyes full of guilt and regret. Ling Xuan... Mother has let you down! I have let you down!
With that, eldest madam Zhao fainted.
The Zhao familys matter could not be hidden in Chang an city, and the reputation of the prime minister temple was ruined.
......
The wedding of the Emperor was approaching, and the arrival of a foreign court was undoubtedly the biggest joke in Chang an.
As a result, a master was whipped to death, and second Madam Zhao directly gave him a cup of poisoned wine. Zhao Qingquan was innocent, but he could not escape being implicated in this matter.
After first Madam Zhao woke up, she went crazy. She hugged a pillow and thought it was herst child.
The Prime Minister Temple was sealed and the monks inside were all dispersed.
Ling Xuan Sighed heavily when he heard about this.
Lu Xiter ordered Ling Xuan to be the national temple and spread the correct Buddhism among the people instead of those evil rumors.
..
In the early summer of May, cicadas chirped. Lu Xis wedding and the foreign imperial court came. The entire Chang an was bustling for a whole month.
However, after Lu Xis wedding, the people from the Ministry of Rites still did not have the slightest bit of leisure. After His Majestys wedding, it would be Princess Weiyangs wedding.
His Majesty originally only had one sister. Weiyang had been pampered by the royal family since she was young. Even if the wedding was more grand than His Majestys wedding, His Majesty and the Empress would probably not say anything.
As long as the Ministry of Rites made it as luxurious as possible.
However, when the officials of the Ministry of Rites prepared for the Princesswedding, they had a terrible headache.
Lu Weiyang saw the list of wedding banquets presented by the officials of the ministry of Rites and kept frowning.
The Minister of Rites said helplessly, Your Highness, this is really the lowest list of wedding banquets for the royal family. You must know that when the concubine Princess of the Su Royal Family gets married, it is also the same list of wedding banquets!
Lu Weiyang said, No, no, this is too expensive. A table like this costs a hundred taels of silver. Cant we use some fish, shrimp, or something cheaper...
The Minister of Rites said helplessly, Your Highness, this is Chang an, not Lingnan. Ordinary officials in Chang an city have to pay a hundred taels of silver for a wedding...
Qiao Nihong chuckled. Weiyang, dont make things difficult for the old minister. Look at how much his hair is missing! The Prime Ministers Temple is closed. The minister wont be able to find a ce to be a monk.
Lu Weiyang puffed his cheeks and said, Its so expensive. Why dont we go to the Hundred Savory restaurant to entertain the guests? We wont need to spend so much silver...
The Minister of Rites was really afraid that Lu Weiyang would go to the Hundred Savory restaurant to entertain the guests, so he quickly said, Ill think about it again. Itll definitely save us a lot of money.
Lu Weiyang flipped through the other books and held Qiao Nihongs hand. Cousin, my heart aches. If I knew that getting married was so expensive, I wouldnt have gotten married.
Qiao Nihong smiled. There are still plenty of opportunities to go back on my words now.
Lu Weiyang looked at Ling Xuan, who had just entered the room, and went over to exin, Ling Xuan, dont listen to cousin. I still want to get married.
Ling Xuan smiled lightly. I know. Thats what youre thinking. Our wedding is indeed not so grand. With this money, its better to do good. The capable will help the world.
Lu Weiyang said, Yes, yes, yes, thats what I think.
Ling Xuan said, Minister, everything about the wedding can be simple.
When the Minister of Rites heard the Prince Consort Say the same thing, he felt that the hair on his head was falling even more.
The Minister of Rites had no choice but to look for Lu Chen and Qiao Jinniang. He went there to show his loyalty. It was not that he had mistreated the princess, the wedding of the princess was so simple.
Qiao Jinniang also knew her daughters character. Other than the days when Ling Xuan was unwilling to return to the secr world, Lu Weiyang had never been generous. Usually, he had to spend every penny carefully.
So she let the Minister of Rites Follow Weiyangs thoughts.
In order to save money for the banquet, Lu Weiyang had specially set the wedding date on the same day as Qiao Jinniangs birthday. It was both a wedding banquet and a birthday banquet.
Qiao Jinniang did not want to celebrate the birthday banquet to remind herself that she was one year older, but she had to ept the Little cotton-padded jackets kindness.
In order to show his love for his sister, His Majesty specially ordered someone to rebuild Weiyang Pce in Chang an and give it to Weiyang as a new princess residence. Everyone thought that the wedding would be extremely luxurious.
However, on the wedding day, everyone looked at the pomp and ceremony of the Princesswedding and felt extremely cold.
Even the princess, who was not favored by the imperial family, would not be so cold.
Before everyone could react, some schrs had written poems praising Princess Weiyang for her diligence and thrift, and the empress dowager, the empress dowager, the empress dowager, and the Popes daughter. In an instant, the reputation of the princess in Chang an for hundreds of years had been reversed.
In the past, when the princess was mentioned, there was only extravagance and extravagance.
Now, when the princess was mentioned, she was thrifty and loved the people. For a time, many daughters of prestigious families followed her example of thrift.
Lu Weiyang and Ling Xuan left Chang an to go to various ces to preach Buddhism. When Lu Weiyang heard thesepliments in Luoyang City, he could not help but smile. I didnt expect that being stingy would also have benefits.
Ling Xuan said, Its because Im frugal, not stingy.
Lu Weiyang smiled at Ling Xuan. Although Ive been doted on since I was young, no one understands my frugality.
Only Ling Xuan was willing to live frugally with her. Although she had spent a lot of money on this trip back to Chang an, it was not a loss to exchange for a husband.
Ling Xuan held Lu Weiyangs hand and said, You have me to apany you.
Lu Weiyang looked down at the prosperous Luoyang city from the city wall of Luoyang. She saw her father, mother, second brother, and second sister-inw ying in the city. She smiled lightly and interlocked her fingers with Ling Xuans.
Ling Xuan, do you have any ideals?
Ling Xuan said, Spread the dharma to the whole of Datang.
... unmodified..
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