The previous general who had turned into a the Minister of the Left of a country, all the people now addressed Chu Fei Yang differently due to this transformation, but one thing that only remained unchanged, was Chu Fei Yang’s position and status in their hearts. For more than ten years of being together, the brotherly love for each other fighting hand-to-hand in the battlefield, how could it be easily replaced because Emperor Yu Qian had assigned a new leader for them?
And Chu Fei Yang didn’t even open his mouth to speak a word, he just slightly lifted up his own right hand, then he could see the soldiers kneeling down behind General Hu Wei immediately stood up in an orderly madder, afterwards, with invigorated spirit, they climbed up onto the horsebacks, the solemn expression in their eyes was entirely different from earlier, as if they were two entirely different troops.
Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi watched Chu Fei Yang like this. Although their hearts were astonished yet they also knew that Chu Fei Yang’s life in the army camp for more than ten years was not something that could be joked about.
For all the soldiers to still obey him like their own leader after leaving them for so many years, they could not help but say that Chu Fei Yang was an extremely intractable opponent. Even Qi Jing Yuan who was standing in the corner could not help but slightly squinted his both eyes, concentrating his attention towards the situation here.
And during this time, the person with the ugliest face was General Hu Wei. It seemed to him that, Chu Fei Yang was negatively affecting his reputation, in this way how will he able to lead the troops, and how will they be able to fight against the troops of Northern Qi cowering in the borderland?
Since Chu Fei Yang had done this, he naturally expected all the consequences, he was even more aware that the things that happened today will reach Emperor Yu Qian’s ears.
This General Hu Wei, Chu Fei Yang was not intimidated by him. He only wanted to use this pretext to inform Emperor Yu Qian that he was not a foolishly loyal person, it will be unlikely for him to remain silent after being suppressed by the others.
And this kind of action, furthermore told the people of Northern Qi that, they should not vainly attempt to create chaos at anytime and any place. Even if he, Chu Fei Yang, was not around in the borderland, but this high-ranking military officers were not cowards, they were united as one. They certainly would not lower down their capability to fight because of the dismissal of one military officer!
“Chu Xiang, what do you mean by this? Don’t you forget, Xiang Ye, that at this very moment, I am the military officer leading these garrison troops in the borderland! With Chu Xiang’s actions, don’t tell me that you are not afraid of being punished by His Majesty?” In the end, General Hu Wei was not able to restrain himself, in the presence of everyone he started to interrogate Chu Fei Yang, he was already tightly gripping on the sword that was hanging on his waist. If it wasnot because he might hinder the people of Northern Qi, perhaps he had already brandished his sword waging war against Chu Fei Yang.
For those who practised martial arts, they always had an air of arrogance refusing to admit defeat.
Although his family wasn’t as dazzling as Chu Wang Fu, yet he wasn’t someone who will get trampled on by the others! Moreover, he was also being assigned by the emperor to come to the borderland, during normal days he was extremely well coordinated with these officers and soldiers under his command, who would have thought that with Chu Fei Yang’s appearance, everything had changed. How will this mighty General Hu Wei endure all this? No wonder the emperor had issued an imperial decree to let him come here, because if everything behaved just like what they had in the past, will the garrison troops in the borderland area became privately-owned by Chu family?
“I had remained silent ever since the beginning, in what way did I offend you, General?” Looking at General Hu Wei who was close to his fifties, Chu Fei Yang was being reminded instantly of his big and small military campaigns throughout his life. The expression in his eyes expression was calm as water, making people unable to point out even the slightest bit of difference.
“Chu Xiang, were you embarrassing me in front of my people?” Even for a cool-headed man like him, being tricked by another person like this, perhaps the fury in his heart will also rush forth. General Hu Wei was on his expedition all year round in the outer regions. Though he admired the fighting style and strategy of Chu Fei Yang and the others, but he had never really crossed swords with Chu Fei Yang before, how could he really appreciate fighting battle of words with Chu Fei Yang?
“General, don’t you forget you still have a more important mission to complete today! If you delayed the matter concerning the two countries, even if His Majesty had favored you, the major officials of the imperial court will not simply leave the matter! Besides, this incident will also be recorded in the books by the historian. If the time was delayed due to the General’s unwillingness, when that time comes, you might become a person condemned by history of Western Chu!” Facing the anger vented out by General Hu Wei, Chu Fei Yang just ignored it, his eyes gradually shifted towards General Piao Ji and the others who were similarly suppressed by Qi Jing Yuan, the corner of his mouth hooked up a grin as he spoke.
Having heard what was said, aside from General Hu Wei, even General Piao Ji’s body suddenly trembled a bit, with knitted brows he lifted up his both eyes then shot a glance at Chu Fei Yang, his eyes contained the strong anger.
“Since the two countries had already signed their treaty, the Crown Prince and Princess He Shun will soon get married, please hand over to us our Rui Wang!” Seeing the situation, Chen Wang spoke with a slightly cold voice, his both eyes were closely staring at Qi Jing Yuan, watching how they will hand over Rui Wang to them.
On their journey towards the borderland, it seemed calm, yet it appeared to be strange, although the troops on both sides did not have any conflicts, but both privately contained some uninterrupted small movements.
Qi Jing Yuan and the others had secretly assigned people to investigate on the whereabouts of General Wei Wu, on the other hand, Chu Fei Yang, Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi had also separately scouted out Rui Wang’s hiding place. Despite their sly and treacherous skills, both sides were not able to find the respective persons that they were looking for.
“Chen Wang, rest assured, since we have already signed the treaty with your country, obviously we would comply with every word that was written on it. But, where will be our General Wei Wu’s hiding place? If we’re not able to see him, how can we hand over Rui Wang to you?” Qi Jing Yuan was also a crafty person, he wouldn’t easily hand over the person because of only a few words from Jiang Mu Chen.
“Since that is the case, then I’m having no other choice but to doubt the Crown Prince’s sincerity! Now that Princess He Shun was already set to marry into the far away country of Northern Qi, don’t tell me that the crown prince still wanted to delay the time? Don’t tell me that the crown prince wasn’t afraid that other countries might mock Northern Qi for not being able to abide by rules on the treaty, with the lack of integrity?” Seeing Qi Jing Yuan using all sorts of excuses refusing to hand over Rui Wang, Jiang Mu Chen’s face suddenly went cold. His voice was increasingly chilly, the anger unconsciously exposed from his body, being born in the family of the royalty, such was the antisocial behavior he acquired from his childhood, no matter how hard he was trying to conceal it, during such critical situation it would still unconsciously show up.
“There’s no need to get angry, Wang Ye. I knew Wang Ye’s eagerness to save your brother! But since the treaty had been signed, there’s no way that only me alone will hand over the hostage, in other words, Western Chu is also not fulfilling its promise! Since that is the case, it would be better for both sides to bring out the hostages at the same time, after careful examinations then we shall proceed to the exchange! Do you have any suggestions, Chu Xiang and Hai Jun Wang?” Qi Jing Yuan sneered as he spoke, his eyes quickly glanced at Chu Fei Yang and Hai Chen Xi, seeing both of them slightly nodded their heads, he inclined sideways whispering a few words to the guard behind him, that guard immediately urged the horse to rush towards the army camps of Northern Qi in the borderland area.
And at this same time, Chu Fei Yang also nodded his head towards the guard behind him, that guard had also rushed towards the direction of the army camp of the borderland area of Western Chu.
“Apparently, Chu Xiang and I have the same thought!” Watching the guards from both sides taking their necessary actions, Qi Jing Yuan remarked coldly, looking at Chu Fei Yang taking even more precautions.
And Chu Fei Yang just simply smiled, being very cautious and solemn towards Qi Jing Yuan’s actions.
Soon, the two guards brought along with them Rui Wang and General Wei Wu, respectively, as they rushed towards their own group of people.
“Big brother, may I trouble you to go ahead and exchange the hostages” Qi Jing Yuan told Qi Jing Xuan at this moment.
Having heard what was said, Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji suddenly shot a glance at Qi Jing Yuan, both were unable to comprehend what Qi Jing Yuan had actually requested his own brother in public place with the presence of numerous people.
And besides, Qi Jing Xuan is a prince of Northern Qi, how could anybody allow him to undertake such dangerous task?
“Crown Prince, what do you mean by this? The eldest prince has an honorable position, how can you allow him to task risks? If any accident happens, aren’t you afraid that His Majesty will put the blame on you, Crown Prince?” General Piao Ji was infuriated, his eyes glared at Qi Jing Yuan with pure anger.
“Sending out the prince, will be able to show that Northern Qi people like us valued the marriage as peace treaty and displayed our good faith!” Qi Jing Yuan just naturally spoke this statement.
“Since that is the case, then why don’t you go there yourself, Crown Prince? In this way it will be more likely for Western Chu to feel the sincerity of Northern Qi!” With both eyes smiling treacherously, the murderous spirit on Qi Jing Xuan’s body rushed towards Qi Jing Yuan unrestrained, this time the great number of people in the troops of the borderland were the trusted people of Qi Jing Xuan’s uncle, Qi Jing Yuan would not have the guts to threaten him!
“You are being silly, brother! Being the Crown Prince, I am also Northern Qi’s apparent heir to the throne, the root of a country! When did you ever see an heir who would go ahead and exchange hostage with another country? Furthermore, it is easy to dodge an open spear thrust, but difficult to guard against an arrow in the dark. We can’t say for sure but someone might have already assigned some archers hidden in the secret spots, waiting to kill me right on the spot once I go there alone! I still need time to share my contributions with our Father the emperor, how can I allow myself to be easily victimized by other people?” With cold eyes he glared at his maternal uncle who was evidently angered, Qi Jing Yuan laughed carefreely, not in a very least bit of being intimidated by the troops of Northern Qi which were lined up in front of him, bearing his arrogance while speaking loudly in his clear voice, with every statement he was warning Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji, with every word he was pressuring the two persons in front of him with ashen faces.
“Humph! The tenth prince is also present here! Why not send the tenth prince over there? Don’t tell me it’s because the eldest prince and Crown Prince aren’t from the same mother, as a result you are just using this situation to eliminate the outsider!” That General Piao Ji who used to participate in the war between different factions of the princes, he evidently knew what sort of words he would use to counterattack Qi Jing Yuan.
And besides, now that the current Emperor Ling Xiao is in his prime, being very healthy, if something like murdering one’s own blood to seize the throne happened between all the princes, even the Crown Prince to whom Emperor Ling Xiao usually favored, he will be very likely to be punished, when that time came perhaps even the Empress will get involved in it.
If the political party of the crown prince was to be defeated, based on the eldest prince’s glorious achievements in the imperial court, as well as being the oldest among all the princes, sooner or later the crown prince position will be given to him.
With this analysis, General Piao Ji immediately changed his plan of attacking. His slightly droopy lids concealed the astonished brightness in his eyes. He quickly exchanged a look with Qi Jing Xuan, he was planning to send a hint to the deputy general behind him, yet unexpectedly Qi Jing Yuan had actually spoken during this moment.
“Brother and General Piao Ji, are you two planning to stage a trick to injure yourself to gain our enemy’s confidence? Such out of date dramatic tricks, don’t the two of you feel tired about it? It will be for me to shot that arrow, in this way it will look more believable!” Qi Jing Yuan’s both eyes were staring at that deputy general, while he slowly spoke, his tone of voice was mocking and foretelling, causing Qi Jing Xuan’s heart to tense up, and General Piao Ji’s eyes to flicker with the intention to kill.
“Since I can shoot out an arrow, then that naturally means that I will be able to justify myself in front of Father and the hundred officials! I would say that today’s situation was a mess, and I wanted to rescue my brother then I shot the arrow towards the enemy, yet unexpectedly brother refused to come back, then it led to his injury as a consequence! If this happens, do you both think that the people will believe me or both of you who had committed crimes?” Qi Jing Yuan was riding on the horseback as he gradually approached both of them, using a voice that only the three of them could hear as he slowly spoke out his own plan, the sarcastic smile in the corner of his mouth was even colder, such kind of insight made people tremble with fear, yet beyond their capabilities to fight back.
“Of course, it is also possible for me to go over there! But, if I am dead, Brother will naturally take the responsibility, when the time comes if brother became a sacrifice for the others, then will you be willing to do it?” Seeing both of them turned speechless, Qi Jing Yuan continued to speak.
Emperor Ling Xiao had numerous sons, there were more than twenty princes, he and Qi Jing Xuan were included among these, both were two most powerful factions, if both of them collapsed, then the others will be glad!
Qi Jing Yuan believed that with Qi Jing Xuan’s intelligence and narrow-minded heart, he would never do stupid thing like becoming a sacrifice for the others.
“If I were to go there, what will you do?” Qi Jing Xuan was always shrewd, how could he agree to put himself in the disadvantageous position?
“Humph! Of course I will wait for brother to bring General Wei Wu back! As long as General Wei Wu will be able to weigh the severity of the case, I will absolutely not do anything against you, brother!” Qi Jing Yuan glanced at the rigorous troops of Western Chu in the opposite side. Particularly when the soldiers immediately displayed their mighty state after Chu Fei Yang showed up, causing them to be unhappy and at the same time having no other choice but to be on high alert, then he spoke in a cold voice “If Northern Qi is having its internal conflict, and Western Chu working together as one united country, what happens next during this time, I presume you know it better than anybody else, Brother!”
Along with Qi Jing Yuan’s words they looked ahead, seeing the armed forces of Western Chu with great loftiness, the entire army was in high spirits, every high ranking military officer with eyes bright and full of expression, people might get intimidated by them at first glance, it seemed that if the internal conflict between them will break out at this time, perhaps if Qi Jing Yuan and Qi Jing Han will be killed today, afterwhich Chu Fei Yang and others of the opposing party will not easily let Qi Jing Xuan get away with it.
“Alright! Then I will trust you this time!” As compared to killing Qi Jing Yuan causing himself to be in a dangerous situation, Qi Jing Xuan had chosen to compromise for the time being.
“Eldest prince, how could you believe……” Seeing Qi Jing Xuan had agreed to Qi Jing Yuan’s suggestion, General Piao Ji had his thoughts in a whirl, arguing noisily facing Qi Jing Xuan.
“Uncle, you just need to assign a bodyguard in a secret place to protect the prince! For other concerns, we shall discuss them after we settle the matter!” Qi Jing Xuan did not give General Hu Wei a chance to speak, watching Qi Jing Yuan continuously sneering at him. Qi Jing Xuan knew by heart, that this person is someone who would not allow any mistake when dealing with his opponent, if during this time General Piao Ji would say a word to offend Qi Jing Yuan again, perhaps he will lose an arm when he returned back to the palace.
After speaking, Qi Jing Xuan took Rui Wang from a bodyguard who was riding on the horseback, putting him in his own horseback, placing him in front of his body, taking Rui Wang along with him as they proceeded towards the borderland of the two countries.
“Wang Ye and Jun Wang, please stay here and wait, I shall go ahead to exchange for Rui Wang!” Seeing the opposing party sent out Qi Jing Xuan, Chu Fei Yang pulled up the tall and sturdy body of General Wei Wu, placing him on the horseback, as they rode on top of the warhorse rushing towards the direction of Qi Jing Xuan.
Seeing Chu Fei Yang taking his own initiative to go ahead, Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi simultaneously furrowed their brows as they angrily glared at Chu Fei Yang’s rear view, and that General Wei Wu exposed a vicious gaze in his eyes.
“Didn’t expect that the eldest prince will personally come here!” Looking at the ashen face of Qi Jing Xuan, Chu Fei Yang spoke in a simple smile, but his both perspicacious eyes were carefully observing Rui Wang in front of him, as he spoke slowly “It must be tough for you, Wang Ye!”
Rui Wang was not very old, yet he was also someone with integrity, this time being held captive in Northern Qi making him discouraged to face other people. This time seeing Chu Fei Yang approach, he felt even more shameful, hearing Chu Fei Yang greet him, he just coldly glanced at Chu Fei Yang, refusing to communicate with him.
“Apparently, Chu Xiang really isn’t a perfect man! In this world, there’s still someone who hated Chu Xiang!” Seeing Chu Fei Yang getting snagged in front of Rui Wang, Qi Jing Xuan coldly sneered at him. His cold eyes glanced at General Wei Wu who was sitting in front of Chu Fei Yang, seeing the usually well-regarded General Wei Wu still straightened his waist looking solemn, Qi Jiang Xuan suddenly laughed and said “How are you these days, General? The Third Princess is quite worried about what had happened to you!”
General Wei Wu is actually the Third Princess’ father-in-law, but after all, the Third Princess was Emperor Ling Xiao beloved daughter. Although she was his daughter-in-law, but there were still differences between the ruler and his ministers, now that he heard Qi Jing Xuan talk about it, General Wei Wu’s face looked ashamed, and he could only apologize “Once I return back to the imperial palace, I will certainly beg for His Majesty’s forgiveness! Thanks for your concern, Eldest Prince!”
Hearing General Wei Wu said this, Qi Jing Yuan sneered. Probably Qi Jing Yuan had left out a person like General Wei Wu in his schemes before, but now he just needed to show off being concerned about the him, and in addition with him risking his life today to exchange hostages, even if he was not on good terms with the Third Princess, General Wei Wu would not clash with him in a hurry.
Little could he imaging thate Qi Jing Yuan was watching intently with mocking eyes.
The Crown Prince of one country being willing to sacrifice his own imperial wife for the sake of a General, as compared to Qi Jing Xuan’s small kindness, this decision seemed to be more meaningful. He could also make General Wei Wu be devoted to him.
“Since you’ve already confirmed that he is the right one, then we shall now begin!” Seeing the both sides had verified the hostages were not fake, Chu Fei Yang’s both eyes glanced towards Qi Jing Xuan, so as to avoid the opposing party to put on their secret tricks.
And Qi Jing Xuan just slightly nodded his head. The men on both sides dismounted from their horses, each handler had one had tightly gripping the bounds hands behind their hostage’s back, and the other hand reaching out for the person their countryman. Behind the back of the hostages, both troops focused their attention while staring at each and every move of the hostages, for the fear that there might be any unexpected mishap halfway through.
During this time the wind and snow suddenly went violent, yet all the people seemed as if they were not able to feel the chilliness of the cold wind. All the people’s attention were focused on the four persons in the distant place, feeling the palm of their hands were drenched in cold sweat, their faces seemed nervous similar to being in the battlefield for the very first time.
The two generals on both sides had already allowed their archers to make necessary preparation, the long bows were pulled reaching the limit and aimed at the opposite sides, if there wass anything wrong up ahead they will immediately set off the arrows!
But while the troops of Northern Qi under the command of General Piao Ji aimed their arrows at only two persons, Chu Fei Yang and Rui Wang, the trusted aide of Western Chu’s General Hu Wei was aiming their arrows towards all four!
Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi were able to see General Hu Wei’s intention, yet they kept their silence. They wanted to see how Chu Fei Yang would keep his life in this situation.
Yet unexpectedly, the armed troops of ten thousand people had already received a hint from Chu Fei Yang earlier. A division of troops holding the shields immediately surrounded the ten thousand armed troops, protecting all the archers in the middle, yet they did not block the archers’ view on both Qi Jing Xuan and the other one, yet coincidentally it also blocked off their aim towards both Chu Fei Yang and the other man, suddenly causing all the people to be dissatisfied. But again this was a secret order from General Hu Wei, all the people could only hold their resentment to themselves without saying a word. They had no choice but to hold on to their original disposition not daring to have any negligence, or else it will only give rise to the chaotic warfare between two countries. Perhaps when Emperor Yu Qian got angered, even General Hu Wei will not easily get away from his crimes.
General Hu Wei absolutely did not anticipate that there’s someone who had the audacity to disobey his order, without permission that person had dispatched other soldiers to provide assistance to Chu Fei Yang. He was greatly angered, before he could manage to utter words to berate them, yet he discovered that Chu Fei Yang and Qi Jing Xuan’s hands were already touching their own people’s sleeves at the same time, both sides had already exerted their efforts to pull back both persons to their respective sides.
Chu Fei Yang cast a glance at Rui Wang who remained silent, afterwards he placed Rui Wang between him and the horse, and Qi Jing Xuan had also similarly placed General Wei Wu between both, people on both sides glanced at each other once again, then without speaking they climbed up to their respective warhorses, using the fastest speed to return to their respective camps.
Being different from that General Wei Wu who immediately took his action to kneel down on one knee upon seeing Qi Jing Yuan, after Rui Wang returned to a safe place his face turned even more uglier, those thin and pale cheeks had proven the psychological stress that he had went through today, after he saw Hai Chen Xi’s delighted face, anger rushed up from the bottom of Rui Wang’s heart, particularly when he learned that Hai Chen Xi knew that he had been held captive then being rescued by Chu Fei Yang in exchange for another hostage, which caused Rui Wang’s facial complexion to turn extremely ugly.
“Wang Ye is already tired, bring Wang Ye down to take some rest!” Seeing Rui Wang still harbored hard feelings towards Hai Chen Xi, Chu Fei Yang allowed his subordinates to bring Rui Wang to the army camps to take some rest, as he still needed to deal with the enemy troops behind him which was in its disposition as if preparing for a battle.
The wind and snow swirled up in the air, making everyone’s line of sight to become more fuzzy, yet it caused people’s heart to become clearer and brighter, Hai Chen Xi looked at Rui Wang who had suffered yet still did not learn from experience, a bit of sarcastic smile streak across his heart, yet he also paid no attention to the Wang Ye who only had his arrogance and not being open-minded, he only focused all his attention on the enemies up ahead.
“Now that the matter has been completely settled, may we request the Crown Prince to hand over the treaty to Emperor Ling Xiao, as the gesture of friendship between the two countries!” Although Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji were both glaring at the people like the tiger watching its prey, but Chu Fei Yang believed that with Qi Jing Yuan’s intelligence, it will be improbable for him to deal with the internal conflict and directly cross swords with the enemy troops, or else the one who will get the worst of the situation, will perhaps be Qi Jing Yuan himself!
“Of course I will!” Passing through the wind and snow, Qi Jing Yuan saw Chu Fei Yang and the two others riding on the horsebacks, their body posture were tall and straight, behind them the indestructible officers and soldiers protected the three persons, then he replied with this statement, afterwards he changed the direction of the horse, leading Qi Jing Han and the others as they took the initiative to leave the borderland.
“Chu Xiang you are truly brave, during that intense moment earlier, Chu Xiang actually didn’t discuss the matter with both of us as you proceed ahead alone. If something happened earlier, wouldn’t His Majesty put all the blame on both of us?” Watching the armed forces of the Northern Qi borderland instantly leaving the area, Jiang Mu Chen remarked coldly. His eyes seemed to be criticizing Chu Fei Yang “Chu Xiang, even if you wanted to take the credit for your achievement, you shouldn’t do it this way!”
“Wang Ye, why do you say such thing? His Majesty had dispatched me and Wang Ye, Jun Wang, three of us to come and exchange the hostage, such kind of meritorious service, of course it wasn’t only for me alone! But I didn’t expect that Wang Ye, being in a high position, had actually cared for such kind of meritorious service, that is quite surprising!” After speaking, Chu Fei Yang’s eyes simply glanced towards General Hu Wei who was standing aside, earlier he had haggled himself between life and death situation earlier, so he could clearly see who were the trusted men of General Hu Wei at this moment.
General Hu Wei wanted to intidimate him all along, yet he did not expect that based on this psychological effect, seeking victory in the midst of danger, enabled him to explore the hidden strength of the opponent!
And General Hu Wei also did not expect that Chu Fei Yang had already made necessary preparations for all these. Furthermore they even hid General Wei Wu of Northern Qi inside the army camps, and after a very long time, surprisingly he himself was not even aware of it. A cold feeling rushed to the bottom of his heart, as he looked at Chu Fei Yang bearing an untraceable fear in his eyes.
Jiang Mu Chen was riding on the horseback as he directly proceeded ahead to the army camp. Hai Chen Xi glanced at General Wei Wu who remained silent, then slowly spoke “What happened today must be tough for you! But General, since you’ve already made necessary arrangements for almost half day, yet it was not able to put into good use, that was truly pitiful!”
Earlier Hai Chen Xi and Jiang Mu Chen were able to see through General Wei Wu’s intention, although they did not speak to stop it, but quite unexpectedly Chu Fei Yang had a higher skill, he had suppressed General Wei Wu, also making the two of them who coldly observed sitting in the corner like clowns jumping up and down the beams, being treated by Chu Fei Yang like a joke, how could this not make Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi became angry, then they relentlessly put all the blame on General Wei Wu.
Translated by:
cristinaEdited by:
korezmiThe Lantern Festival will soon come to an end, after sending off the people of Bei Qi, all the people in the capital felt somehow relieved.
Particularly those families of major officials who have daughters, also exhaled deeply as a relief, after all there were three princes who arrived from Bei Qi, although Hai Tian was being chosen as the imperial wife of the Crown Prince, but it was hard to say that the eldest prince and the tenth prince will not fancy their own daughters, now that they had finally sent them off, how could they not feel overjoyed?
Although it wasn’t a great day for the merchant to do their businesses on the fifth day of the year, but during that it was also the day when Wen Tai Shi’s funeral was held, it was intended that people should light up the firecrackers as a tradition to attract the God of Wealth, but because of their respect for Wen Tai Shi they had foregone such old tradition.
Thinking about the funeral during that day, in the long street of the town there were scholars who would join the procession of the funeral, there were common people on both sides who tearfully sent their farewells to the distinguished teacher of this generation, in fact they occupied the ten neighborhoods long of the street to send off Tai Shi, such kind of scene was truly unforgettable for those people who had witnessed it.
“My lady, Xiang Ye was already gone for more than ten days, we don’t know whether he will be able to hurry back home during the Lantern Festival!” Mu Chun filled up the hot water in the teacup then laid it down beside Yun Qian Meng, she had calculated in her heart the number of days when Chu Fei Yang had left the capital, then she asked in a low voice.
Yun Qian Meng was examining the account books in her hand, translating the complicated numerals into arabic numerals in her mind, afterwhich she computed using the four rules of arithmetic in her mind, then she wrote the final results on the fine writing paper using the wood charcoal brush, verifying them with the numbers written in the last pages of the account books, causing the few servant girls beside her to extend their heads as they curiously looked at the strange numbers written on the fine writing paper, their eyes looking puzzled.
“The borderland of Bei Qi was quite far away from the capital, moreover he was bearing the heavy responsibility, how can we make presumptuous guess on his date of return?” Yun Qian Meng glanced at the few servant girls in their curious expression, after a simply laugh she slowly spoke, looking at the numbers written on the last page of the account books which were exactly similar to her calculations, Yun Qian Meng then closed the account book, lifting up a the teacup on the table she took a sip, her eyes casted a glance towards the cedar tree in the courtyard, for the time being relaxing her eyes for a short period of time.
“My lady, what are these patterns, why didn’t humble servant see them before!” Ying Xia blinked her vivid big eyes, asking out of her curiosity.
Yun Qian Meng retracted her gaze, she saw the four servant girls were knocking against each other, then with a simple smile she lifted up the piece of fine writing paper on the table, pointing at the arabic numerals on top of it she said “These symbols are used for recording! They are similar to the monetary values that we normally see in the account books. Yet they had simplified those complicated characters, which will in turn increase our rate and efficiency in bookkeeping and computations!”
After speaking, Yun Qian Meng picked up the wood charcoal brush wrapped in white silk, on the fine writing paper she wrote the ten arabic numerals from zero to nine, one by one she explained “This is a number, each represents our Chinese characters zero, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine! But as compared to the writing style of complicated words of our Chinese characters, these numbers are very much easier to write and read!”
While speaking, Yun Qian Meng separately took out four pieces of fine writing papers, allowing the four servant girls to practice writing these arabic numerals following her style of writing.
The few servant girls were quite serious, bearing a curious mind towards these new things, learning them based on the patterns.
But in Yun Qian Meng’s mind she wasn’t only thinking about these, Mu Chun and the others were by her side for quite a long period of time, although during their teens they were still considered to be just like children in the modern times, but during the ancient times they were already in their marrying age, she shouldn’t keep them beside her all their lives!
Moreover during the recent days Rong Yun He had sent his men to deliver the account books, Yun Qian Meng knew it beforehand that, that the medicine store that they collaborated to build up will soon open its branches abundantly all over Xi Chu, during that time the account books will not only be a few just like what she had right now, even if she had an outstanding capability, perhaps she will not be able to calculate all the account books, it would be better to teach Mu Chun and the others, allowing them to learn how to compute, during that time she will be a bit more relaxed.
On the other hand, once they have the branches in the future, they will hire a storekeeper, if they have a suitable candidate, she will also be able to play the matchmaker for these four servant girls, giving them an opportunity for advancement.
“My lady, where did you learn all these? They were truly awesome!” After practising a few times, Mu Chun felt these numbers were indeed easier, as she looked at Yun Qian Meng with eyes filled with adoration. But, she was personally serving her lady master all day long, then how did her lady master learned all these?
Yun Qian Meng actually didn’t expect Mu Chun to be clever like this, she had surprisingly asked the most important question, then in a serious tone she said “I learned them occasionally, you have to practice them well, don’t think about those trivial matters, take a look at Yuan Dong, her words looked more elegant than yours!”
Having heard what was said, Mu Chun immediately lowered down her head to look, seeing Yuan Dong had already filled half page of the fine writing paper, she immediately sat down then lifted up the writing brush and began to practice earnestly.
This time, Mi Mama walked inside Meng Xin Xiao Zhu taking quick steps, she lifted open the curtains in the main room then walked in, seeing Yun Qian Meng was lowering down her head examining the words written by the few servant girls, she immediately bent her knees, and said “My lady, Lao Ye and Er Furen, the Er gongzi, and the two xiaojie of Xie family have arrived!”
Having heard what was said, Yun Qian Meng immediately lifted up her head, her eyes looked confused, afterwhich smiled elegantly, then slowly spoke “They were actually rare visitors!”
Even the four servant girls who were busy practising the character all lifted up their heads simultaneously, their eyes doubtfully looked at Mi Mama, Ying Xia couldn’t restrain herself as she asked “Mama, why will Lao Ye and Er Furen come here? Why only the er gongzi come here but not the Chu xiaojie?”
A burst of headache came through Mi Mama’s head after being asked by Ying Xia, but her face looked worried, her eyes couldn’t help but look at Yun Qian Meng, seeing her sincerely stood up, bringing along Mu Chun as they walked inside the inner room to take off her usual home clothes, then switched into a relatively festive rosy red buttoned down long skirt, afterwhich wearing a simple smile on her face, as she cautiously stepped out of Meng Xin Xiao Zhu.
Shang Guan Mama was waiting in doorway of Meng Xin Xiao Zhu, she saluted upon seeing Yun Qian Meng came out, then immediately led her towards the main hall of Chu Xiang Fu.
All the way through, the snow on the path had just melted, the place was overflowed with the beginning of the springtime, bit by bit the green vegetations began to gradually show their sprouts under the layer of brilliant white snow, in the atmosphere the fragrance of the green grass assailed the nostrils, which immediately shaken up the spirit, unlike the languid mood earlier inside the room.
Stewrd Hong was already waiting outside of the doorway of main hall, seeing Yun Qian Meng he immediately saluted, afterwards he personally lifted up the curtains for Yun Qian Meng, welcoming the mistress of Xiang Fu inside the main hall.
Stepping inside the main hall, Yun Qian Meng saw Chu Pei and Xie Shi were already seated in the head seats, Chu Qing Yang was seated below next to Chu Pei, and the two sisters of Xie family were seated below next to Xie Shi, but they had set aside a seat for her nearest to Xie Shi’s seat, the five of them simultaneously lifted up their heads upon seeing Yun Qian Meng, Chu Pei was still in his solemn expression, Xie Shi repeatedly put up her simple smile, and a refined simple smile was worn on Chu Qing Yang’s face, afterwhich he stood up, then bowed down to Yun Qian Meng with hands held in front, in a loud and clear voice he said “Qing Yang is please to meet you, sister-in-law!”
And Xie Wan Wan and Xie Yuan Yuan also immediately stood up and saluted “Pleased to meet you, sister-in-law!”
Yun Qian Meng gracefully approached the three persons, her face was wearing an invulnerable smile, seeing Chu Qing Yang saluting her, she return a politeness “Good to see you, brother-in-law, and the two cousins!”
Soon after she moved her body to the side facing Chu Pei and Xie Shi, giving them a standard salute, then softly said “Daughter-in-law is pleased to meet you, Father, Er Niang! Daughter-in-law apologize for arriving here late, please do not take any offense, Gong Gong and Er Niang!”
“Quickly stand up and take your seat!” The one who responded, was obviously Xie Shi, tender and warm just like her usual way, after Yun Qian Meng sat down on the seat below her, Xie Shi smiled and spoke “We are being rude, how can you be blamed? It was already half a month since Lao Ye’s return to the capital, during these days he is always busy with the affairs of the royal court, he didn’t come here to visit you, now that Fei Yang isn’t also in the capital, today our horse carriage just happens to pass by here, then we thought of coming over to visit you!”
Yun Qian Meng watched as Xie Shi explained from the start, her smiling eyes didn’t seem to be impatient, but after speaking Xie Shi’s face looked frightened as she stood up, lowering down her head she self-criticized “It was all my fault! It was supposed to be daughter-in-law who should go over to visit Gong Gong and Er Niang more often, today it had troubled both of you to come here to Xiang Fu, it was purely because of my thoughtlessness!”
“This child, don’t stress yourself too much about the etiquette! We are one family, there’s no need to regard yourself as the outsider.” Seeing Yun Qian Meng stood up again, Xie Shi smiled and waved her hand gesturing her to sit down.
“Did Fei Yang assign his men to inform us when he will be back?” And during this time, Chu Pei, who had never spoken to Yun Qian Meng before, actually asked this question, his voice sounded imposing like an order, even if it was just a common interrogation in a family, it seemed aloof and remote.
Yun Qian Meng drooped down her both eyes, the corner of her mouth was wearing a respectful smile, then she slowly replied “He hasn’t send anyone to report yet. He is probably still busy with the official business!”
Having heard what was said, Xie Shi slightly sighed, after which she looked at Yun Qian Meng feeling sorry for her “Making you stay alone in such a big Xiang Fu, it must be hard for you! Today you must dine with us at Wang Fu! It will seem more lively with more people around, Jie’er is absolutely missing you these days, but too bad she was not feeling very well, which is why I didn’t allow her go out!”
Facing Xie Shi’s assertive remarks, although Chu Pei’s face still remained serene, yet he didn’t seem a bit impatient, as if it was a matter of course to allow Xie Shi to take care of things, which had actually shown the significance of Er Niang in Chu Pei’s heart.
Yun Qian Meng’s lips curved up with a smile, then she respectfully replied “It is impossible for the parents-in-law to come here without staying around to dine with us. I hope Gong Gong and Er Niang will appreciate it!”
While speaking, Yun Qian Meng was about to instruct Mi Mama to go out and prepare for the meal tonight, yet they saw Shang Guan Mama respectfully walked inside, bending her knees towards the people in the middle of the main hall, she then looked at Yun Qian Meng then spoke “Furen, Wen family’s Er Furen has come to visit you!”
Hearing Shang Guan Mama’s report, Yun Qian Meng’s eyes seemed indifferently swept through the few visitors inside the hall, she seemed to somehow realize the reason why they came here to visit Chu Xiang Fu today.
Before Yun Qian Meng could speak, Chu Pei and Chu Qing Yang stood up at the same time, she heard Chu Qing Yang respectfully spoke “Since sister-in-law has a female visitor, then Er Di and Father will now return to Wang Ye in advance!”
While speaking, Chu Qing Yang and Chu Pei left the main hall together, and Xie Shi and the Xie sisters were sitting upright in the middle of the main hall laughed and spoke to Shang Guan Mama “Please invite Wen Er Furen here in the main hall, don’t let our noble guest wait too long!”
Hearing Xie Shi said this, Shang Guan Mama didn’t immediately leave, but she just looked at Yun Qian Meng, seeing her nodding her head, she then left the hall to invite the guest inside.
“After Er Furen gets back, Meng’er you should come with Er Niang to Wang Fu and dine with us! A few days ago, I had sent someone to invite you many times, you are being too stubborn, my child, today I will not simply let you get away with it!” Xie Shi’s words seemed to be reasonable and fair, unsophisticated persons might think that she had specially stayed behind because she was concerned about Yun Qian Meng.
And Yun Qian Meng just smiled without saying anything, lifting up the teacup she moistened her throat, her eyes continuously glanced at the Xie sisters sitting beside her, since the moment she stepped inside the main hall, aside from the greetings the two sister remained silent all along, they seemed to form a total distinction from their lively paternal aunt, which made her feel very curious.
After a while, the thick cotton cloth curtains of the main hall were being lifted up, that unadorned Er Furen walked inside, but when she saw Xie Shi sitting in the middle of the hall, her eyes immediately looked flabbergasted, after which she smile and said gently “Didn’t expect Chu Er Furen is also here, I apologize for being rude!”
“Why will you say that, Er Furen? You are actually a noble guest that we weren’t able to invite that easily!” Yun Qian Meng smiled as she stood up to welcome Wen family’s Er Furen, she was refined and courteous, truly a rare woman in the capital that made people feel mentally and physically comfortable upon seeing her.
“Today, Mother had initially planned to come with me, but since grandpa already passed away not long ago, Mother still had to wear her mourning apparel, it will be inappropriate for her to come, then she sent me here to visit, and to thank Chu Furen for paying us a condolence visit at home that day!” Wen Er Furen smiled as she spoke, when she mentioned about Wen Tai Shi, her eyes seemed to look grieved, causing other people to also feel sad for her.
“The person had already departed, you must pay attention to your own health, furen, don’t be too sorrowful!” Yun Qian Meng led Wen Er Furen to her seat, the servant girls were sharp-sighted and deft as they prepared the hot tea and refreshments, afterwhich they retreated out quietly.
Hearing Yun Qian Meng’s comforting words, Wen Er Furen simply smiled, then she spoke “Many thanks, Chu Furen!”
“Having a gentle and thoughtful mother like Er Furen, I presume Er Furen’s son and daughter are also educated and well-balanced, and obedient to their parents!” This time Xie Shi was looking at Wen Er Furen as she smiled and spoke.
“You are making fun of me, Er Furen! My son is naughty and mischievous, and as for my daughter she is also a mischievous one! They are simply incomparable to Er Furen’s Miss Chu and the two young ladies of Xie family! I presume Miss Chu and Miss Xie were already betrothed to someone in You Zhou, aren’t they?” Wen Er Furen denied Xie Shi’s commendation to her children, her eyes seemed helpless without any choice, but mixed with her eye expression which seemed favorable, had made her looked like a caring mother.
Seeing Wen Er Furen like this, even the two Xie sisters covered their mouths and softly laughed, Xie Shi’s smile was even more amiable, she directly spoke and said “My Jie’er is also a naughty one! If she is more like Meng’er, then I will not worry too much! Wan Wan and Yuan Yuan were actually obedient and lovable, whenever there’s any discrepancies in the family background, if someone wants to find a husband’s family which seemed like everything one could wish for, that is not quite an easy task as well!”
Wen Er Furen thought of the persons she saw earlier upon entering Chu Xiang Fu, then she asked “Earlier I saw a young man wearing a dark brocade suit riding on the horseback, is he Er Furen’s son?”
Hearing Wen Er Furen mentioned Chu Qing Yang, Xie Shi’s eyes inevitably exposed the pride and love of a mother, then immediately nodded her head and said “I’m sorry for his poor performance, yes, he is my son! As compared to his big brother, Qing Yang seemed to fall far short, without any achievements in both literary and martial skills, it was making me feel anxious! If he is able to achieve even one tenth of what Fei Yang had, I would really thank the heavens!”
These words seemed to be a bit exaggerated, seemingly a bit playful, teasing Wen Er Furen as she also started to laugh, she recalled Chu Qing Yang’s looks in her mind, then she commended “Er Furen you are being excessively modest, of course Chu Xiang is a very good minister we rarely seen in a hundred years, but the second young master had a plump forehead, at one glance we can say that he is a rare ambitious young man, he will certainly have a bright future ahead!”
Hearing Wen Er Furen praising her own son, Xie Shi evidently felt grateful in her heart, but on the surface she still maintained her usual smiling face, she seemed not to be easily moved by honor or disgrace, the words that came out from her mouth seemed to be too humble “You are flattering me, Furen! We have heard from You Zhou that the Pu Guo An is very effective in the capital, we actually wanted to bring the children to go and worship! If you don’t mind, Wen Er Furen, it would be better for us to go together in one group, we can keep each other company on the road, furthermore we will never feel bored!”
Hearing Xie Shi’s words, Yun Qian Meng knew that Xie Shi certainly intended to make friends with Wen family, although the Wen family seemed to be greatly favored, but the one who really had the authority was actually the family of the first wife in Wen family, but based on Xie Shi’s attitude and the coincidence today, Xie Shi seemed to be more enthusiastic towards the second wife, that made her feel somewhat curious.
After all, if Chu Pei intended to vie over the position of Chu Wang, involving the second wife who didn’t have an official position was totally useless, despite the fact that the second family Wen Di obtained academic attainments even greater than his older brother, but as compared to Wen Xie who was being appointed as the young teacher of Crown Prince, Wen Di seemed to be somewhat insipid.
What does Xie Shi really have in her mind, or maybe, what sort of scheme Chu Pei really have in his mind, that was truly incomprehensible!
And during this time, having heard of Xie’s invitation, Wen Er Furen didn’t immediately respond, but instead she carefully thought of it, then she replied “Thank you for inviting, Xie Furen, but at this moment, I still need to discuss this matter with Mother after I get back! I’ll give you Er Furen an answer after a few days, is it good or not?”
Hearing Wen Er Furen responded that way, Xie Shi gladly nodded her head and agreed, after which she looked at Yun Qian Meng, then gently spoke “Meng’er you should also come with us! Let’s worship the Bodhisattva, and pray that you will give birth to a healthy boy for Chu Xiang!”
Having heard of Xie Shi’s words, all the people inside the hall laughed, Yun Qian Meng’s cheeks blushed as she said “Er Niang, you really know how to make me feel happy! These days my husband still wasn’t around, it will be better for Meng’er to stay inside the house and wait for his return, so as to avoid neglecting my husband!”
With a few words, Yun Qian Meng refused Xie Shi’s invitation, perhaps in Xie Shi’s heart, she wasn’t happy to see her travelling together with her.
“Chu Furen is very deeply in love with Chu Xiang, that was truly admiring!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng didn’t try hard to make herself get involved in the crowd, Wen Er Furen’s impression towards her became increasingly better, the admiration she felt towards her was also coming from the bottom of her heart.
The few persons exchanged a few more words to each other, seeing the color of the sky gradually turned darker, Wen Er Furen stood up to say her goodbyes, and Xie Shi acted as the mother-in-law as she stubbornly invited Yun Qian Meng to ride inside the horse carriage of Chu Wang Fu.
All the things were already prepared appropriately in Wang Fu during the night, when Yun Qian Meng and the others went there, Chu Wang was already sitting beside the dining table waiting, and Chu Pei, Chu Qing Yang and Chu Jie weren’t there.
“My girl, quickly come here and sit down!” Seeing her favorite granddaughter-in-law, Chu Nan Shan’s face finally blossomed like a flower after many days of being gloomy, he waved his hand allowing Yun Qian Meng to sit down beside his left hand side.
“Hi Grandpa!” Yun Qian Meng quickly stepped in front of Chu Wang and made her salutations, then sat down.
“Jie’er is not feeling well, I have instructed the servant girls to bring the food to her room, so as to avoid catching a cold walking around!” Xie Shi nodded her head at the servant girl beside her, a few servant girls were holding trays of hot dishes as they walked inside, then they carefully laid down all the hot dishes and hot soups on the table.
Chu Nan Shan looked at the table filled with vegetables and meat dishes in front of him, yet he somehow lost his appetite, his eyes pitifully turned towards Yun Qian Meng, then he pleaded “My girl, Fei Yang is still not around in the capital at this moment, come tomorrow, why don’t you cook the ginseng chicken soup that you’ve once made for grandpa and the young fellow last time, good or not? If the food is delicious, grandpa will give you a treasured object!”
Seeing Chu Nan Shan speaking in this conspiratorial way, Yun Qian Meng instinctively wanted to laugh, for the sake of the ginseng chicken soup, Chu Wang had actually planned to give out his treasure, that was truly a childish behavior.
But, since he still remembered that ginseng chicken soup even after a very long time, Yun Qian Meng felt somehow sorry for him, then she smiled and nodded her head.
This time Xie Shi had just sat down on the seat, seeing Yun Qian Meng nodding her head, she also smiled and said “Wang Ye, you truly love our Meng’er!”
Her words had other intended meaning, but they were actually thornless, apparently no matter how Xie Shi seemed to be generous, but watching Chu Wang treating his granddaughter-in-law better his own grandchildren, Xie Shi’s heart must be feeling uncomfortable.
They were unusually quiet during the meal, even Chu Nan Shan who normally talked endlessly in front of Yun Qian Meng, didn't also utter any word, after having the dinner, Xie Shi ordered the servant girls to put away all the leftovers on the table, smiling as she was about to speak, yet Chu Nan Shan talked first “Meng’er, it’s getting late, you must return back earlier, don't stress yourself! Although the people Bei Qi were said to have left the capital, but since Fei Yang is not home, during normal days you should be more careful, as far as possible you should entertain less guests, so as to avoid committing mistakes!”
Having heard what was said, Yun Qian Meng subconsciously took a glance at Xie Shi, yet she discovered that she was sitting upright in a corner wearing her usual expression, seemed as if she didn’t hear Chu Nan Shan’s implied meaning in his words, maintaining the same radiance on her smiling face, such kind of skill was truly surprising!
“Yes, grandpa! Granddaughter-in-law will take her leave now!” But, since Chu Wang had already made an excuse for her, Yun Qian Meng naturally wouldn't disappoint him, facing the two elders in front of her she bent her knees, under the assistance of the servant girls she climbed up to Xiang Fu’s horse carriage.
“Xiaojie!” The sky had already turned dark, the bid snow had just stopped during the recent days, the dark sky was already decorated with stars, it also seemed quite beautiful, but since the snow had just melted, the temperature was still low, Mu Chun appreciated the scenery outside for a while, then feeling cold she released her grip on the curtain.
“What’s the matter?” When the horse carriage passed through the long street Yun Qian Meng saw the new store that Rong Yun He and she opened, but this time since the Lantern Festival wasn’t over, the common people were still immersed on the New Year celebration, all the shops had closed their doors earlier, aside from the lanterns that every family lighted on the long road, it was quite rare to see passers-by walking in the midst of the cold night.
“My lady, don’t you feel that Er Furen laughed a bit fakely?” Seeing her lady master was staring at the scenery on the long road, Mu Chun whispered the thoughts in her mind “Moreover, why would Lao Ye suddenly visit our house? Furthermore they had also brought along the second young master with them! If it wasn’t for the presence of Er Furen and the Xie sisters, if this thing spread out, it will certainly ruin my lady’s reputation!”
Mu Chun was fighting for her justice, Yun Qian Meng’s eyes exposed a smile, afterwhich she simply remarked “Their main purpose this time clearly wasn’t just visiting me! Don’t you see that the Er Furen of Wen family has come to visit soon after? That was their main purpose!”
Hearing this, Mu Chun immediately felt worried, she anxiously said “Then are we just their stepping stones?”
Watching Mu Chun’s anxious expression, Yun Qian Meng stretched out her arms then lightly patted her head, this girl wasn’t able to keep calm sometimes “Which is why grandpa had reprimanded Er Niang on my behalf earlier! Regardless of the plan in her mind, in the future she will learn to restrain herself!”
And earlier based on Xie Shi’s behavior, she had a dignified attitude as the head of the household, despite the fact that serving the father-in-law being the duty of a daughter-in-law, but her every move had gone beyond expectation, she actually didn’t wait for Chu Wang to speak and allow Chu Jie to dine with them inside the same, then she voluntarily made her decision, which was not surprising that grandpa had kept his silence during the meal.
And earlier inside Xiang Fu, Xie Shi’s actions by strenuously inviting Wen Er Furen, was not only limited to simply pulling their relationship closer with them, she had intentionally made Wen Er Furen saw Chu Qing Yang, also mentioned about the marriage of her daughter, the intended desire among it was self-evident, this actually made Yun Qian Meng having a hard time to guess their intentions, after all, if they wanted to fight over Wang Ye’s position, whether Chu Qing Yang or Chu Jie, they needed to find a more reliable and powerful relatives by marriage, but Xie Shi would always hid Chu Jie away not allowing anybody to get close to her, yet she always brought the Xie sisters along appearing in public, that was also incomprehensible!
“Sigh, if Xiang Ye was able to come home earlier, then our lady master wouldn’t have to face these troublesome matters!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng’s face seriously turned gloomy, Ying Xia whispered these words in Mu Chun’s ears.
“En!” The other three servant girls nodded their heads simultaneously.
The night sky had turned darker, permitting all the servant girls to retreat out of the inner room, after washing herself Yun Qian Meng reclined down in the center of the brocade quilt, her arms were slightly opened, her palm was touching the side of the bed where Chu Fei Yang was supposed to be as it went downwards, the matters that lingered on her heart had eventually settled down a bit, until the latter half of the night she was able to close her both eyes, her consciousness drifted off as she went to sleep.
This time, a panel of wooden window in the inner room which was tightly closed was being lifted open by someone, afterwhich a slender figure quietly landed on the carpet in the inner room, that black figure walked quietly on tiptoe as it closed the wooden window properly, afterwhich striding the extremely light footsteps it quickly approached beside the bed, those slender white hands slowly lifted up layer by layer of draperies, watching Yun Qian Meng who was sleeping inside of it with her brows still slightly furrowed, that black figure couldn’t help but also furrowed his brows.
Removing his cloak and outer clothing, that black figure quickly took off the boots in his feet, using his fastest speed to go inside the cotton quilt which was seeping with fragrance, when a small hand suddenly moved towards his cheek he held it in his palm, afterwhich with the slightest effort he pulled Yun Qian Meng, who was now with her eyes wide open yet coldly staring back at him, he pulled her closer to his arms.
“You sneaky man!” Yet unexpectedly, his own wife who had never seen her own husband for quite a long time didn’t throw herself at him as he expected, those reproachful words, made Chu Fei Yang lowered down his head, using the newly mustache in his chin to softly rub Yun Qian Meng’s gentle skin, with a bit of vicious tone he asked “Did you miss me, hmm?”
The pricking sensation came through her cheeks, Yun Qian Meng immediately stretched out her hands to push away the troublesome Chu Fei Yang, yet she discovered that his ability to stick on to her was brought to the point of perfection, once he seized her palm he would purse up his lips and kiss her twice, for a moment Yun Qian Meng’s cheeks were hurt, her palm itched, and her heart was greatly angered.
“Did you miss me, Meng’er!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng was occupied with breaking off from his attack, under the hazy lights, Chu Fei Yang was able to see Yun Qian Meng’s pink undergarments which got exposed in midair while struggling, her chest bulged out fully plumped causing the raging inferno to rush forth to his eyes, his body tensed up like it had never been before, his palm contained a surprisingly hot temperature as he grabbed on to Yun Qian Meng’s little hands which were waving at him in the air, in a rough voice he asked again.
Even if it was in the middle of the night, Yun Qian Meng was still able to feel Chu Fei Yang’s scorching hot gaze on her, his rough voice as well as the burning heat that spread out from his wrist, causing Yun Qian Meng to lift up her eyes and exactly found Chu Fei Yang’s eyes, with one hand slightly struggled free from his palm, gently caressing the handsome face which she hadn’t seen for a couple of days, until the pricking sensation can be felt in her palms, Yun Qian Meng thoughtlessly laughed “I thought that, you would always appear in front of everybody fresh and cool!”
Yet unexpectedly her gentle laughs caused Chu Fei Yang to slightly raise up his brows, his eyes looked like they were longing for something, without saying anything further he pulled her closer in his arms, bearing a sense of satisfaction he exclaimed “When a soldier marched on to fight in a battlefield, he will be too preoccupied that he wouldn’t pay attention to his own appearance! Do you think that those soldiers were like the scholars inside the capital who only make their semi-incomprehensible talks, treating their own outer appearance like a part of their lives? You ignorant girl, fancy that I’ve left Chen Wang and Hai Chen Xi behind, spurring the horse to full speed to get home, contrary to what I’ve expected you had actually started to make fun of your own husband!”
Although his tone of voice was full of anger, but the kisses that landed on her face were abnormally gentle, and when he lowered down his head, Yun Qian Meng had lifted up her lovely face, meeting his lips as she delivered her own thoughts.
Inside the cotton rose covering veil it was a charming and gentle scene, the moon blushed as it hid inside the layers of clouds, even those glittering stars seemed to have almost lost their brilliant rays of light…...
“Ah!” Early in the morning, Mu Chun was carrying the copper as she entered the inner room, she quietly laid the copper basin down on the wooden frame, yet she discovered that there was an additional pair of boots in the couch her lady master, Mu Chun was frightened as her facial complexion suddenly turned pale like a piece of white paper, covering her mouth she immediately dragged Yuan Dong who was following behind her, her trembling fingers were pointing at that pair of boots, tears gradually formed in her eyes.
Yuan Dong was also being stupefied by the situation in front of her, what had really happened last night? With her martial skills, it will be impossible for her not to detect the thief who sneaked into her lady master’s room, now that such thing happened, what will be the best thing that she should do?
The two of them went deathly pale as their hearts suddenly trembled, they couldn’t imagine the consequences that this incident will bring once it spread out, they could only quietly approach the bedside, Yuan Dong even took out a dagger from her sleeve, planning to kill so that the dead man will tell no tales…...
This time, a big hand gently lifted open the thick and heavy drapery, revealing Chu Fei Yang’s slightly angry face, those slightly cold pair of eyes were staring at the two servant girls who slowly approached the bedside, his mighty expression caused the back of the two girls to be drenched in cold sweat, looking at the face that suddenly appeared in front of them, the two of them managed to react after a long time “Xiang… Xiang Ye……”
But before they could finish speaking, Chu Fei Yang made a hand gesture to hush them, after which he quietly came down from the bed, then whispered his instructions to the two of them beside their ears.
When Yun Qian Meng woke up, it was already almost noon time, rubbing her both eyes, she was about to get but discovered that her four limbs were sore, she couldn’t help but silently cursed Chu Fei Yang, yet discovered that Chu Fei Yang was already not beside her.
“My lady, you’re awake!” A small hand lifted up the drapery, revealing Mu Chun’s smiling face, seeing Yun Qian Meng was looking fabulous, Mu Chun smiled like a kitty who was just having an affair.
“Where’s Xiang Ye?” Supporting her waist as she sat up, Yun Qian Meng stared at Mu Chun, then she put on her shoes then stepped down from the bed.
“Xiang Ye had already went out to attend the morning assembly! Before he leaves he instructed humble servants to assist my lady to bathe and change clothes, he said he will take my lady to a place once he returned back!” Mu Chun assisted Yun Qian Meng as they approached behind the screen, afterwhich she opened the cover of the wooden bath tub, the steam inside immediately came out.
Yun Qian Meng looked at the hot water in front of her which was surging with steam, then she nodded at Mu Chun, after she retreated out of the room, she untied her undergarments then stepped inside the bathtub, immersing her sore body inside the hot water which had the fragrance of the medicine, her mind was guessing what sort of place he will bring her to afterwards.
“When will you ever change your old habit of refusing other people to serve you?” Little did she know that, after thinking about the things, Yun Qian Meng had actually fell asleep inside the tub, if Chu Fei Yang didn’t come home earlier, Yun Qian Meng nearly slided down to the bottom of the bathtub, bearing his infrequent anger, Chu Fei Yang stretched out his arms then carried her out from the water, pulling the towel that was suspended on the screen he wrapped it around her body, his eyes was angrily staring at the person in his arms.
“Hmm?” Yun Qian Meng was instantly woken up, looking at her own wretched appearance, she pushed Chu Fei Yang away instantly, afterwhich she dodged herself behind the screen, she picked up the clothes which was already prepared in advance then quickly put them on layer by layer, then with a head full of wet hair she walked out, then she curiously asked “Where will we go after a while?”
Chu Fei Yang was evidently still angry at her, he pushed her shoulder down sitting in front of the dressing table, he fetched a clean and soft towel then carefully wiped the water off her hair, then she saw Mu Chun carefully walked ahead, then she assisted Yun Qian Meng to fix a simple yet elegant hair bun.
After Yun Qian Meng finished tidying herself up, Chu Fei Yang quietly sat down on the bedside reading a book, the cold expression on his face didn’t fade away as time elapsed.
Yun Qian Meng secretly sighed, being resigned she walked ahead, with both hands she held up that handsome which had regained its usual romantic and elegant appearance, smiling as she spoke “If you refuse to speak, then I will go ahead and visit Wang Fu instead! You might as well neglect my position here in this household, there’s no need for you to just ignore me!”
After speaking, she actually prepared to turn around and leave, but before she could take one step further, she was being hauled inside his arms, on top of her head an awkward voice echoed “Today you are not allowed to go anywhere, you just need to stay beside me!”
After speaking, a warm hand lifted up Yun Qian Meng’s lower jaw, before she could manage to dodge out of the way, a deep kiss was planted on her lips, feeling pleased he released her, pulling her hand they walked out of Chu Xiang Fu, carrying her up on his horseback…...
Translated by:
cristinaEdited by:
korezmi
The previous general who had turned into a the Minister of the Left of a country, all the people now addressed Chu Fei Yang differently due to this transformation, but one thing that only remained unchanged, was Chu Fei Yang’s position and status in their hearts. For more than ten years of being together, the brotherly love for each other fighting hand-to-hand in the battlefield, how could it be easily replaced because Emperor Yu Qian had assigned a new leader for them?
And Chu Fei Yang didn’t even open his mouth to speak a word, he just slightly lifted up his own right hand, then he could see the soldiers kneeling down behind General Hu Wei immediately stood up in an orderly madder, afterwards, with invigorated spirit, they climbed up onto the horsebacks, the solemn expression in their eyes was entirely different from earlier, as if they were two entirely different troops.
Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi watched Chu Fei Yang like this. Although their hearts were astonished yet they also knew that Chu Fei Yang’s life in the army camp for more than ten years was not something that could be joked about.
For all the soldiers to still obey him like their own leader after leaving them for so many years, they could not help but say that Chu Fei Yang was an extremely intractable opponent. Even Qi Jing Yuan who was standing in the corner could not help but slightly squinted his both eyes, concentrating his attention towards the situation here.
And during this time, the person with the ugliest face was General Hu Wei. It seemed to him that, Chu Fei Yang was negatively affecting his reputation, in this way how will he able to lead the troops, and how will they be able to fight against the troops of Northern Qi cowering in the borderland?
Since Chu Fei Yang had done this, he naturally expected all the consequences, he was even more aware that the things that happened today will reach Emperor Yu Qian’s ears.
This General Hu Wei, Chu Fei Yang was not intimidated by him. He only wanted to use this pretext to inform Emperor Yu Qian that he was not a foolishly loyal person, it will be unlikely for him to remain silent after being suppressed by the others.
And this kind of action, furthermore told the people of Northern Qi that, they should not vainly attempt to create chaos at anytime and any place. Even if he, Chu Fei Yang, was not around in the borderland, but this high-ranking military officers were not cowards, they were united as one. They certainly would not lower down their capability to fight because of the dismissal of one military officer!
“Chu Xiang, what do you mean by this? Don’t you forget, Xiang Ye, that at this very moment, I am the military officer leading these garrison troops in the borderland! With Chu Xiang’s actions, don’t tell me that you are not afraid of being punished by His Majesty?” In the end, General Hu Wei was not able to restrain himself, in the presence of everyone he started to interrogate Chu Fei Yang, he was already tightly gripping on the sword that was hanging on his waist. If it wasnot because he might hinder the people of Northern Qi, perhaps he had already brandished his sword waging war against Chu Fei Yang.
For those who practised martial arts, they always had an air of arrogance refusing to admit defeat.
Although his family wasn’t as dazzling as Chu Wang Fu, yet he wasn’t someone who will get trampled on by the others! Moreover, he was also being assigned by the emperor to come to the borderland, during normal days he was extremely well coordinated with these officers and soldiers under his command, who would have thought that with Chu Fei Yang’s appearance, everything had changed. How will this mighty General Hu Wei endure all this? No wonder the emperor had issued an imperial decree to let him come here, because if everything behaved just like what they had in the past, will the garrison troops in the borderland area became privately-owned by Chu family?
“I had remained silent ever since the beginning, in what way did I offend you, General?” Looking at General Hu Wei who was close to his fifties, Chu Fei Yang was being reminded instantly of his big and small military campaigns throughout his life. The expression in his eyes expression was calm as water, making people unable to point out even the slightest bit of difference.
“Chu Xiang, were you embarrassing me in front of my people?” Even for a cool-headed man like him, being tricked by another person like this, perhaps the fury in his heart will also rush forth. General Hu Wei was on his expedition all year round in the outer regions. Though he admired the fighting style and strategy of Chu Fei Yang and the others, but he had never really crossed swords with Chu Fei Yang before, how could he really appreciate fighting battle of words with Chu Fei Yang?
“General, don’t you forget you still have a more important mission to complete today! If you delayed the matter concerning the two countries, even if His Majesty had favored you, the major officials of the imperial court will not simply leave the matter! Besides, this incident will also be recorded in the books by the historian. If the time was delayed due to the General’s unwillingness, when that time comes, you might become a person condemned by history of Western Chu!” Facing the anger vented out by General Hu Wei, Chu Fei Yang just ignored it, his eyes gradually shifted towards General Piao Ji and the others who were similarly suppressed by Qi Jing Yuan, the corner of his mouth hooked up a grin as he spoke.
Having heard what was said, aside from General Hu Wei, even General Piao Ji’s body suddenly trembled a bit, with knitted brows he lifted up his both eyes then shot a glance at Chu Fei Yang, his eyes contained the strong anger.
“Since the two countries had already signed their treaty, the Crown Prince and Princess He Shun will soon get married, please hand over to us our Rui Wang!” Seeing the situation, Chen Wang spoke with a slightly cold voice, his both eyes were closely staring at Qi Jing Yuan, watching how they will hand over Rui Wang to them.
On their journey towards the borderland, it seemed calm, yet it appeared to be strange, although the troops on both sides did not have any conflicts, but both privately contained some uninterrupted small movements.
Qi Jing Yuan and the others had secretly assigned people to investigate on the whereabouts of General Wei Wu, on the other hand, Chu Fei Yang, Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi had also separately scouted out Rui Wang’s hiding place. Despite their sly and treacherous skills, both sides were not able to find the respective persons that they were looking for.
“Chen Wang, rest assured, since we have already signed the treaty with your country, obviously we would comply with every word that was written on it. But, where will be our General Wei Wu’s hiding place? If we’re not able to see him, how can we hand over Rui Wang to you?” Qi Jing Yuan was also a crafty person, he wouldn’t easily hand over the person because of only a few words from Jiang Mu Chen.
“Since that is the case, then I’m having no other choice but to doubt the Crown Prince’s sincerity! Now that Princess He Shun was already set to marry into the far away country of Northern Qi, don’t tell me that the crown prince still wanted to delay the time? Don’t tell me that the crown prince wasn’t afraid that other countries might mock Northern Qi for not being able to abide by rules on the treaty, with the lack of integrity?” Seeing Qi Jing Yuan using all sorts of excuses refusing to hand over Rui Wang, Jiang Mu Chen’s face suddenly went cold. His voice was increasingly chilly, the anger unconsciously exposed from his body, being born in the family of the royalty, such was the antisocial behavior he acquired from his childhood, no matter how hard he was trying to conceal it, during such critical situation it would still unconsciously show up.
“There’s no need to get angry, Wang Ye. I knew Wang Ye’s eagerness to save your brother! But since the treaty had been signed, there’s no way that only me alone will hand over the hostage, in other words, Western Chu is also not fulfilling its promise! Since that is the case, it would be better for both sides to bring out the hostages at the same time, after careful examinations then we shall proceed to the exchange! Do you have any suggestions, Chu Xiang and Hai Jun Wang?” Qi Jing Yuan sneered as he spoke, his eyes quickly glanced at Chu Fei Yang and Hai Chen Xi, seeing both of them slightly nodded their heads, he inclined sideways whispering a few words to the guard behind him, that guard immediately urged the horse to rush towards the army camps of Northern Qi in the borderland area.
And at this same time, Chu Fei Yang also nodded his head towards the guard behind him, that guard had also rushed towards the direction of the army camp of the borderland area of Western Chu.
“Apparently, Chu Xiang and I have the same thought!” Watching the guards from both sides taking their necessary actions, Qi Jing Yuan remarked coldly, looking at Chu Fei Yang taking even more precautions.
And Chu Fei Yang just simply smiled, being very cautious and solemn towards Qi Jing Yuan’s actions.
Soon, the two guards brought along with them Rui Wang and General Wei Wu, respectively, as they rushed towards their own group of people.
“Big brother, may I trouble you to go ahead and exchange the hostages” Qi Jing Yuan told Qi Jing Xuan at this moment.
Having heard what was said, Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji suddenly shot a glance at Qi Jing Yuan, both were unable to comprehend what Qi Jing Yuan had actually requested his own brother in public place with the presence of numerous people.
And besides, Qi Jing Xuan is a prince of Northern Qi, how could anybody allow him to undertake such dangerous task?
“Crown Prince, what do you mean by this? The eldest prince has an honorable position, how can you allow him to task risks? If any accident happens, aren’t you afraid that His Majesty will put the blame on you, Crown Prince?” General Piao Ji was infuriated, his eyes glared at Qi Jing Yuan with pure anger.
“Sending out the prince, will be able to show that Northern Qi people like us valued the marriage as peace treaty and displayed our good faith!” Qi Jing Yuan just naturally spoke this statement.
“Since that is the case, then why don’t you go there yourself, Crown Prince? In this way it will be more likely for Western Chu to feel the sincerity of Northern Qi!” With both eyes smiling treacherously, the murderous spirit on Qi Jing Xuan’s body rushed towards Qi Jing Yuan unrestrained, this time the great number of people in the troops of the borderland were the trusted people of Qi Jing Xuan’s uncle, Qi Jing Yuan would not have the guts to threaten him!
“You are being silly, brother! Being the Crown Prince, I am also Northern Qi’s apparent heir to the throne, the root of a country! When did you ever see an heir who would go ahead and exchange hostage with another country? Furthermore, it is easy to dodge an open spear thrust, but difficult to guard against an arrow in the dark. We can’t say for sure but someone might have already assigned some archers hidden in the secret spots, waiting to kill me right on the spot once I go there alone! I still need time to share my contributions with our Father the emperor, how can I allow myself to be easily victimized by other people?” With cold eyes he glared at his maternal uncle who was evidently angered, Qi Jing Yuan laughed carefreely, not in a very least bit of being intimidated by the troops of Northern Qi which were lined up in front of him, bearing his arrogance while speaking loudly in his clear voice, with every statement he was warning Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji, with every word he was pressuring the two persons in front of him with ashen faces.
“Humph! The tenth prince is also present here! Why not send the tenth prince over there? Don’t tell me it’s because the eldest prince and Crown Prince aren’t from the same mother, as a result you are just using this situation to eliminate the outsider!” That General Piao Ji who used to participate in the war between different factions of the princes, he evidently knew what sort of words he would use to counterattack Qi Jing Yuan.
And besides, now that the current Emperor Ling Xiao is in his prime, being very healthy, if something like murdering one’s own blood to seize the throne happened between all the princes, even the Crown Prince to whom Emperor Ling Xiao usually favored, he will be very likely to be punished, when that time came perhaps even the Empress will get involved in it.
If the political party of the crown prince was to be defeated, based on the eldest prince’s glorious achievements in the imperial court, as well as being the oldest among all the princes, sooner or later the crown prince position will be given to him.
With this analysis, General Piao Ji immediately changed his plan of attacking. His slightly droopy lids concealed the astonished brightness in his eyes. He quickly exchanged a look with Qi Jing Xuan, he was planning to send a hint to the deputy general behind him, yet unexpectedly Qi Jing Yuan had actually spoken during this moment.
“Brother and General Piao Ji, are you two planning to stage a trick to injure yourself to gain our enemy’s confidence? Such out of date dramatic tricks, don’t the two of you feel tired about it? It will be for me to shot that arrow, in this way it will look more believable!” Qi Jing Yuan’s both eyes were staring at that deputy general, while he slowly spoke, his tone of voice was mocking and foretelling, causing Qi Jing Xuan’s heart to tense up, and General Piao Ji’s eyes to flicker with the intention to kill.
“Since I can shoot out an arrow, then that naturally means that I will be able to justify myself in front of Father and the hundred officials! I would say that today’s situation was a mess, and I wanted to rescue my brother then I shot the arrow towards the enemy, yet unexpectedly brother refused to come back, then it led to his injury as a consequence! If this happens, do you both think that the people will believe me or both of you who had committed crimes?” Qi Jing Yuan was riding on the horseback as he gradually approached both of them, using a voice that only the three of them could hear as he slowly spoke out his own plan, the sarcastic smile in the corner of his mouth was even colder, such kind of insight made people tremble with fear, yet beyond their capabilities to fight back.
“Of course, it is also possible for me to go over there! But, if I am dead, Brother will naturally take the responsibility, when the time comes if brother became a sacrifice for the others, then will you be willing to do it?” Seeing both of them turned speechless, Qi Jing Yuan continued to speak.
Emperor Ling Xiao had numerous sons, there were more than twenty princes, he and Qi Jing Xuan were included among these, both were two most powerful factions, if both of them collapsed, then the others will be glad!
Qi Jing Yuan believed that with Qi Jing Xuan’s intelligence and narrow-minded heart, he would never do stupid thing like becoming a sacrifice for the others.
“If I were to go there, what will you do?” Qi Jing Xuan was always shrewd, how could he agree to put himself in the disadvantageous position?
“Humph! Of course I will wait for brother to bring General Wei Wu back! As long as General Wei Wu will be able to weigh the severity of the case, I will absolutely not do anything against you, brother!” Qi Jing Yuan glanced at the rigorous troops of Western Chu in the opposite side. Particularly when the soldiers immediately displayed their mighty state after Chu Fei Yang showed up, causing them to be unhappy and at the same time having no other choice but to be on high alert, then he spoke in a cold voice “If Northern Qi is having its internal conflict, and Western Chu working together as one united country, what happens next during this time, I presume you know it better than anybody else, Brother!”
Along with Qi Jing Yuan’s words they looked ahead, seeing the armed forces of Western Chu with great loftiness, the entire army was in high spirits, every high ranking military officer with eyes bright and full of expression, people might get intimidated by them at first glance, it seemed that if the internal conflict between them will break out at this time, perhaps if Qi Jing Yuan and Qi Jing Han will be killed today, afterwhich Chu Fei Yang and others of the opposing party will not easily let Qi Jing Xuan get away with it.
“Alright! Then I will trust you this time!” As compared to killing Qi Jing Yuan causing himself to be in a dangerous situation, Qi Jing Xuan had chosen to compromise for the time being.
“Eldest prince, how could you believe……” Seeing Qi Jing Xuan had agreed to Qi Jing Yuan’s suggestion, General Piao Ji had his thoughts in a whirl, arguing noisily facing Qi Jing Xuan.
“Uncle, you just need to assign a bodyguard in a secret place to protect the prince! For other concerns, we shall discuss them after we settle the matter!” Qi Jing Xuan did not give General Hu Wei a chance to speak, watching Qi Jing Yuan continuously sneering at him. Qi Jing Xuan knew by heart, that this person is someone who would not allow any mistake when dealing with his opponent, if during this time General Piao Ji would say a word to offend Qi Jing Yuan again, perhaps he will lose an arm when he returned back to the palace.
After speaking, Qi Jing Xuan took Rui Wang from a bodyguard who was riding on the horseback, putting him in his own horseback, placing him in front of his body, taking Rui Wang along with him as they proceeded towards the borderland of the two countries.
“Wang Ye and Jun Wang, please stay here and wait, I shall go ahead to exchange for Rui Wang!” Seeing the opposing party sent out Qi Jing Xuan, Chu Fei Yang pulled up the tall and sturdy body of General Wei Wu, placing him on the horseback, as they rode on top of the warhorse rushing towards the direction of Qi Jing Xuan.
Seeing Chu Fei Yang taking his own initiative to go ahead, Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi simultaneously furrowed their brows as they angrily glared at Chu Fei Yang’s rear view, and that General Wei Wu exposed a vicious gaze in his eyes.
“Didn’t expect that the eldest prince will personally come here!” Looking at the ashen face of Qi Jing Xuan, Chu Fei Yang spoke in a simple smile, but his both perspicacious eyes were carefully observing Rui Wang in front of him, as he spoke slowly “It must be tough for you, Wang Ye!”
Rui Wang was not very old, yet he was also someone with integrity, this time being held captive in Northern Qi making him discouraged to face other people. This time seeing Chu Fei Yang approach, he felt even more shameful, hearing Chu Fei Yang greet him, he just coldly glanced at Chu Fei Yang, refusing to communicate with him.
“Apparently, Chu Xiang really isn’t a perfect man! In this world, there’s still someone who hated Chu Xiang!” Seeing Chu Fei Yang getting snagged in front of Rui Wang, Qi Jing Xuan coldly sneered at him. His cold eyes glanced at General Wei Wu who was sitting in front of Chu Fei Yang, seeing the usually well-regarded General Wei Wu still straightened his waist looking solemn, Qi Jiang Xuan suddenly laughed and said “How are you these days, General? The Third Princess is quite worried about what had happened to you!”
General Wei Wu is actually the Third Princess’ father-in-law, but after all, the Third Princess was Emperor Ling Xiao beloved daughter. Although she was his daughter-in-law, but there were still differences between the ruler and his ministers, now that he heard Qi Jing Xuan talk about it, General Wei Wu’s face looked ashamed, and he could only apologize “Once I return back to the imperial palace, I will certainly beg for His Majesty’s forgiveness! Thanks for your concern, Eldest Prince!”
Hearing General Wei Wu said this, Qi Jing Yuan sneered. Probably Qi Jing Yuan had left out a person like General Wei Wu in his schemes before, but now he just needed to show off being concerned about the him, and in addition with him risking his life today to exchange hostages, even if he was not on good terms with the Third Princess, General Wei Wu would not clash with him in a hurry.
Little could he imaging thate Qi Jing Yuan was watching intently with mocking eyes.
The Crown Prince of one country being willing to sacrifice his own imperial wife for the sake of a General, as compared to Qi Jing Xuan’s small kindness, this decision seemed to be more meaningful. He could also make General Wei Wu be devoted to him.
“Since you’ve already confirmed that he is the right one, then we shall now begin!” Seeing the both sides had verified the hostages were not fake, Chu Fei Yang’s both eyes glanced towards Qi Jing Xuan, so as to avoid the opposing party to put on their secret tricks.
And Qi Jing Xuan just slightly nodded his head. The men on both sides dismounted from their horses, each handler had one had tightly gripping the bounds hands behind their hostage’s back, and the other hand reaching out for the person their countryman. Behind the back of the hostages, both troops focused their attention while staring at each and every move of the hostages, for the fear that there might be any unexpected mishap halfway through.
During this time the wind and snow suddenly went violent, yet all the people seemed as if they were not able to feel the chilliness of the cold wind. All the people’s attention were focused on the four persons in the distant place, feeling the palm of their hands were drenched in cold sweat, their faces seemed nervous similar to being in the battlefield for the very first time.
The two generals on both sides had already allowed their archers to make necessary preparation, the long bows were pulled reaching the limit and aimed at the opposite sides, if there wass anything wrong up ahead they will immediately set off the arrows!
But while the troops of Northern Qi under the command of General Piao Ji aimed their arrows at only two persons, Chu Fei Yang and Rui Wang, the trusted aide of Western Chu’s General Hu Wei was aiming their arrows towards all four!
Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi were able to see General Hu Wei’s intention, yet they kept their silence. They wanted to see how Chu Fei Yang would keep his life in this situation.
Yet unexpectedly, the armed troops of ten thousand people had already received a hint from Chu Fei Yang earlier. A division of troops holding the shields immediately surrounded the ten thousand armed troops, protecting all the archers in the middle, yet they did not block the archers’ view on both Qi Jing Xuan and the other one, yet coincidentally it also blocked off their aim towards both Chu Fei Yang and the other man, suddenly causing all the people to be dissatisfied. But again this was a secret order from General Hu Wei, all the people could only hold their resentment to themselves without saying a word. They had no choice but to hold on to their original disposition not daring to have any negligence, or else it will only give rise to the chaotic warfare between two countries. Perhaps when Emperor Yu Qian got angered, even General Hu Wei will not easily get away from his crimes.
General Hu Wei absolutely did not anticipate that there’s someone who had the audacity to disobey his order, without permission that person had dispatched other soldiers to provide assistance to Chu Fei Yang. He was greatly angered, before he could manage to utter words to berate them, yet he discovered that Chu Fei Yang and Qi Jing Xuan’s hands were already touching their own people’s sleeves at the same time, both sides had already exerted their efforts to pull back both persons to their respective sides.
Chu Fei Yang cast a glance at Rui Wang who remained silent, afterwards he placed Rui Wang between him and the horse, and Qi Jing Xuan had also similarly placed General Wei Wu between both, people on both sides glanced at each other once again, then without speaking they climbed up to their respective warhorses, using the fastest speed to return to their respective camps.
Being different from that General Wei Wu who immediately took his action to kneel down on one knee upon seeing Qi Jing Yuan, after Rui Wang returned to a safe place his face turned even more uglier, those thin and pale cheeks had proven the psychological stress that he had went through today, after he saw Hai Chen Xi’s delighted face, anger rushed up from the bottom of Rui Wang’s heart, particularly when he learned that Hai Chen Xi knew that he had been held captive then being rescued by Chu Fei Yang in exchange for another hostage, which caused Rui Wang’s facial complexion to turn extremely ugly.
“Wang Ye is already tired, bring Wang Ye down to take some rest!” Seeing Rui Wang still harbored hard feelings towards Hai Chen Xi, Chu Fei Yang allowed his subordinates to bring Rui Wang to the army camps to take some rest, as he still needed to deal with the enemy troops behind him which was in its disposition as if preparing for a battle.
The wind and snow swirled up in the air, making everyone’s line of sight to become more fuzzy, yet it caused people’s heart to become clearer and brighter, Hai Chen Xi looked at Rui Wang who had suffered yet still did not learn from experience, a bit of sarcastic smile streak across his heart, yet he also paid no attention to the Wang Ye who only had his arrogance and not being open-minded, he only focused all his attention on the enemies up ahead.
“Now that the matter has been completely settled, may we request the Crown Prince to hand over the treaty to Emperor Ling Xiao, as the gesture of friendship between the two countries!” Although Qi Jing Xuan and General Piao Ji were both glaring at the people like the tiger watching its prey, but Chu Fei Yang believed that with Qi Jing Yuan’s intelligence, it will be improbable for him to deal with the internal conflict and directly cross swords with the enemy troops, or else the one who will get the worst of the situation, will perhaps be Qi Jing Yuan himself!
“Of course I will!” Passing through the wind and snow, Qi Jing Yuan saw Chu Fei Yang and the two others riding on the horsebacks, their body posture were tall and straight, behind them the indestructible officers and soldiers protected the three persons, then he replied with this statement, afterwards he changed the direction of the horse, leading Qi Jing Han and the others as they took the initiative to leave the borderland.
“Chu Xiang you are truly brave, during that intense moment earlier, Chu Xiang actually didn’t discuss the matter with both of us as you proceed ahead alone. If something happened earlier, wouldn’t His Majesty put all the blame on both of us?” Watching the armed forces of the Northern Qi borderland instantly leaving the area, Jiang Mu Chen remarked coldly. His eyes seemed to be criticizing Chu Fei Yang “Chu Xiang, even if you wanted to take the credit for your achievement, you shouldn’t do it this way!”
“Wang Ye, why do you say such thing? His Majesty had dispatched me and Wang Ye, Jun Wang, three of us to come and exchange the hostage, such kind of meritorious service, of course it wasn’t only for me alone! But I didn’t expect that Wang Ye, being in a high position, had actually cared for such kind of meritorious service, that is quite surprising!” After speaking, Chu Fei Yang’s eyes simply glanced towards General Hu Wei who was standing aside, earlier he had haggled himself between life and death situation earlier, so he could clearly see who were the trusted men of General Hu Wei at this moment.
General Hu Wei wanted to intidimate him all along, yet he did not expect that based on this psychological effect, seeking victory in the midst of danger, enabled him to explore the hidden strength of the opponent!
And General Hu Wei also did not expect that Chu Fei Yang had already made necessary preparations for all these. Furthermore they even hid General Wei Wu of Northern Qi inside the army camps, and after a very long time, surprisingly he himself was not even aware of it. A cold feeling rushed to the bottom of his heart, as he looked at Chu Fei Yang bearing an untraceable fear in his eyes.
Jiang Mu Chen was riding on the horseback as he directly proceeded ahead to the army camp. Hai Chen Xi glanced at General Wei Wu who remained silent, then slowly spoke “What happened today must be tough for you! But General, since you’ve already made necessary arrangements for almost half day, yet it was not able to put into good use, that was truly pitiful!”
Earlier Hai Chen Xi and Jiang Mu Chen were able to see through General Wei Wu’s intention, although they did not speak to stop it, but quite unexpectedly Chu Fei Yang had a higher skill, he had suppressed General Wei Wu, also making the two of them who coldly observed sitting in the corner like clowns jumping up and down the beams, being treated by Chu Fei Yang like a joke, how could this not make Jiang Mu Chen and Hai Chen Xi became angry, then they relentlessly put all the blame on General Wei Wu.
Translated by:
cristinaEdited by:
korezmiThe Lantern Festival will soon come to an end, after sending off the people of Bei Qi, all the people in the capital felt somehow relieved.
Particularly those families of major officials who have daughters, also exhaled deeply as a relief, after all there were three princes who arrived from Bei Qi, although Hai Tian was being chosen as the imperial wife of the Crown Prince, but it was hard to say that the eldest prince and the tenth prince will not fancy their own daughters, now that they had finally sent them off, how could they not feel overjoyed?
Although it wasn’t a great day for the merchant to do their businesses on the fifth day of the year, but during that it was also the day when Wen Tai Shi’s funeral was held, it was intended that people should light up the firecrackers as a tradition to attract the God of Wealth, but because of their respect for Wen Tai Shi they had foregone such old tradition.
Thinking about the funeral during that day, in the long street of the town there were scholars who would join the procession of the funeral, there were common people on both sides who tearfully sent their farewells to the distinguished teacher of this generation, in fact they occupied the ten neighborhoods long of the street to send off Tai Shi, such kind of scene was truly unforgettable for those people who had witnessed it.
“My lady, Xiang Ye was already gone for more than ten days, we don’t know whether he will be able to hurry back home during the Lantern Festival!” Mu Chun filled up the hot water in the teacup then laid it down beside Yun Qian Meng, she had calculated in her heart the number of days when Chu Fei Yang had left the capital, then she asked in a low voice.
Yun Qian Meng was examining the account books in her hand, translating the complicated numerals into arabic numerals in her mind, afterwhich she computed using the four rules of arithmetic in her mind, then she wrote the final results on the fine writing paper using the wood charcoal brush, verifying them with the numbers written in the last pages of the account books, causing the few servant girls beside her to extend their heads as they curiously looked at the strange numbers written on the fine writing paper, their eyes looking puzzled.
“The borderland of Bei Qi was quite far away from the capital, moreover he was bearing the heavy responsibility, how can we make presumptuous guess on his date of return?” Yun Qian Meng glanced at the few servant girls in their curious expression, after a simply laugh she slowly spoke, looking at the numbers written on the last page of the account books which were exactly similar to her calculations, Yun Qian Meng then closed the account book, lifting up a the teacup on the table she took a sip, her eyes casted a glance towards the cedar tree in the courtyard, for the time being relaxing her eyes for a short period of time.
“My lady, what are these patterns, why didn’t humble servant see them before!” Ying Xia blinked her vivid big eyes, asking out of her curiosity.
Yun Qian Meng retracted her gaze, she saw the four servant girls were knocking against each other, then with a simple smile she lifted up the piece of fine writing paper on the table, pointing at the arabic numerals on top of it she said “These symbols are used for recording! They are similar to the monetary values that we normally see in the account books. Yet they had simplified those complicated characters, which will in turn increase our rate and efficiency in bookkeeping and computations!”
After speaking, Yun Qian Meng picked up the wood charcoal brush wrapped in white silk, on the fine writing paper she wrote the ten arabic numerals from zero to nine, one by one she explained “This is a number, each represents our Chinese characters zero, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine! But as compared to the writing style of complicated words of our Chinese characters, these numbers are very much easier to write and read!”
While speaking, Yun Qian Meng separately took out four pieces of fine writing papers, allowing the four servant girls to practice writing these arabic numerals following her style of writing.
The few servant girls were quite serious, bearing a curious mind towards these new things, learning them based on the patterns.
But in Yun Qian Meng’s mind she wasn’t only thinking about these, Mu Chun and the others were by her side for quite a long period of time, although during their teens they were still considered to be just like children in the modern times, but during the ancient times they were already in their marrying age, she shouldn’t keep them beside her all their lives!
Moreover during the recent days Rong Yun He had sent his men to deliver the account books, Yun Qian Meng knew it beforehand that, that the medicine store that they collaborated to build up will soon open its branches abundantly all over Xi Chu, during that time the account books will not only be a few just like what she had right now, even if she had an outstanding capability, perhaps she will not be able to calculate all the account books, it would be better to teach Mu Chun and the others, allowing them to learn how to compute, during that time she will be a bit more relaxed.
On the other hand, once they have the branches in the future, they will hire a storekeeper, if they have a suitable candidate, she will also be able to play the matchmaker for these four servant girls, giving them an opportunity for advancement.
“My lady, where did you learn all these? They were truly awesome!” After practising a few times, Mu Chun felt these numbers were indeed easier, as she looked at Yun Qian Meng with eyes filled with adoration. But, she was personally serving her lady master all day long, then how did her lady master learned all these?
Yun Qian Meng actually didn’t expect Mu Chun to be clever like this, she had surprisingly asked the most important question, then in a serious tone she said “I learned them occasionally, you have to practice them well, don’t think about those trivial matters, take a look at Yuan Dong, her words looked more elegant than yours!”
Having heard what was said, Mu Chun immediately lowered down her head to look, seeing Yuan Dong had already filled half page of the fine writing paper, she immediately sat down then lifted up the writing brush and began to practice earnestly.
This time, Mi Mama walked inside Meng Xin Xiao Zhu taking quick steps, she lifted open the curtains in the main room then walked in, seeing Yun Qian Meng was lowering down her head examining the words written by the few servant girls, she immediately bent her knees, and said “My lady, Lao Ye and Er Furen, the Er gongzi, and the two xiaojie of Xie family have arrived!”
Having heard what was said, Yun Qian Meng immediately lifted up her head, her eyes looked confused, afterwhich smiled elegantly, then slowly spoke “They were actually rare visitors!”
Even the four servant girls who were busy practising the character all lifted up their heads simultaneously, their eyes doubtfully looked at Mi Mama, Ying Xia couldn’t restrain herself as she asked “Mama, why will Lao Ye and Er Furen come here? Why only the er gongzi come here but not the Chu xiaojie?”
A burst of headache came through Mi Mama’s head after being asked by Ying Xia, but her face looked worried, her eyes couldn’t help but look at Yun Qian Meng, seeing her sincerely stood up, bringing along Mu Chun as they walked inside the inner room to take off her usual home clothes, then switched into a relatively festive rosy red buttoned down long skirt, afterwhich wearing a simple smile on her face, as she cautiously stepped out of Meng Xin Xiao Zhu.
Shang Guan Mama was waiting in doorway of Meng Xin Xiao Zhu, she saluted upon seeing Yun Qian Meng came out, then immediately led her towards the main hall of Chu Xiang Fu.
All the way through, the snow on the path had just melted, the place was overflowed with the beginning of the springtime, bit by bit the green vegetations began to gradually show their sprouts under the layer of brilliant white snow, in the atmosphere the fragrance of the green grass assailed the nostrils, which immediately shaken up the spirit, unlike the languid mood earlier inside the room.
Stewrd Hong was already waiting outside of the doorway of main hall, seeing Yun Qian Meng he immediately saluted, afterwards he personally lifted up the curtains for Yun Qian Meng, welcoming the mistress of Xiang Fu inside the main hall.
Stepping inside the main hall, Yun Qian Meng saw Chu Pei and Xie Shi were already seated in the head seats, Chu Qing Yang was seated below next to Chu Pei, and the two sisters of Xie family were seated below next to Xie Shi, but they had set aside a seat for her nearest to Xie Shi’s seat, the five of them simultaneously lifted up their heads upon seeing Yun Qian Meng, Chu Pei was still in his solemn expression, Xie Shi repeatedly put up her simple smile, and a refined simple smile was worn on Chu Qing Yang’s face, afterwhich he stood up, then bowed down to Yun Qian Meng with hands held in front, in a loud and clear voice he said “Qing Yang is please to meet you, sister-in-law!”
And Xie Wan Wan and Xie Yuan Yuan also immediately stood up and saluted “Pleased to meet you, sister-in-law!”
Yun Qian Meng gracefully approached the three persons, her face was wearing an invulnerable smile, seeing Chu Qing Yang saluting her, she return a politeness “Good to see you, brother-in-law, and the two cousins!”
Soon after she moved her body to the side facing Chu Pei and Xie Shi, giving them a standard salute, then softly said “Daughter-in-law is pleased to meet you, Father, Er Niang! Daughter-in-law apologize for arriving here late, please do not take any offense, Gong Gong and Er Niang!”
“Quickly stand up and take your seat!” The one who responded, was obviously Xie Shi, tender and warm just like her usual way, after Yun Qian Meng sat down on the seat below her, Xie Shi smiled and spoke “We are being rude, how can you be blamed? It was already half a month since Lao Ye’s return to the capital, during these days he is always busy with the affairs of the royal court, he didn’t come here to visit you, now that Fei Yang isn’t also in the capital, today our horse carriage just happens to pass by here, then we thought of coming over to visit you!”
Yun Qian Meng watched as Xie Shi explained from the start, her smiling eyes didn’t seem to be impatient, but after speaking Xie Shi’s face looked frightened as she stood up, lowering down her head she self-criticized “It was all my fault! It was supposed to be daughter-in-law who should go over to visit Gong Gong and Er Niang more often, today it had troubled both of you to come here to Xiang Fu, it was purely because of my thoughtlessness!”
“This child, don’t stress yourself too much about the etiquette! We are one family, there’s no need to regard yourself as the outsider.” Seeing Yun Qian Meng stood up again, Xie Shi smiled and waved her hand gesturing her to sit down.
“Did Fei Yang assign his men to inform us when he will be back?” And during this time, Chu Pei, who had never spoken to Yun Qian Meng before, actually asked this question, his voice sounded imposing like an order, even if it was just a common interrogation in a family, it seemed aloof and remote.
Yun Qian Meng drooped down her both eyes, the corner of her mouth was wearing a respectful smile, then she slowly replied “He hasn’t send anyone to report yet. He is probably still busy with the official business!”
Having heard what was said, Xie Shi slightly sighed, after which she looked at Yun Qian Meng feeling sorry for her “Making you stay alone in such a big Xiang Fu, it must be hard for you! Today you must dine with us at Wang Fu! It will seem more lively with more people around, Jie’er is absolutely missing you these days, but too bad she was not feeling very well, which is why I didn’t allow her go out!”
Facing Xie Shi’s assertive remarks, although Chu Pei’s face still remained serene, yet he didn’t seem a bit impatient, as if it was a matter of course to allow Xie Shi to take care of things, which had actually shown the significance of Er Niang in Chu Pei’s heart.
Yun Qian Meng’s lips curved up with a smile, then she respectfully replied “It is impossible for the parents-in-law to come here without staying around to dine with us. I hope Gong Gong and Er Niang will appreciate it!”
While speaking, Yun Qian Meng was about to instruct Mi Mama to go out and prepare for the meal tonight, yet they saw Shang Guan Mama respectfully walked inside, bending her knees towards the people in the middle of the main hall, she then looked at Yun Qian Meng then spoke “Furen, Wen family’s Er Furen has come to visit you!”
Hearing Shang Guan Mama’s report, Yun Qian Meng’s eyes seemed indifferently swept through the few visitors inside the hall, she seemed to somehow realize the reason why they came here to visit Chu Xiang Fu today.
Before Yun Qian Meng could speak, Chu Pei and Chu Qing Yang stood up at the same time, she heard Chu Qing Yang respectfully spoke “Since sister-in-law has a female visitor, then Er Di and Father will now return to Wang Ye in advance!”
While speaking, Chu Qing Yang and Chu Pei left the main hall together, and Xie Shi and the Xie sisters were sitting upright in the middle of the main hall laughed and spoke to Shang Guan Mama “Please invite Wen Er Furen here in the main hall, don’t let our noble guest wait too long!”
Hearing Xie Shi said this, Shang Guan Mama didn’t immediately leave, but she just looked at Yun Qian Meng, seeing her nodding her head, she then left the hall to invite the guest inside.
“After Er Furen gets back, Meng’er you should come with Er Niang to Wang Fu and dine with us! A few days ago, I had sent someone to invite you many times, you are being too stubborn, my child, today I will not simply let you get away with it!” Xie Shi’s words seemed to be reasonable and fair, unsophisticated persons might think that she had specially stayed behind because she was concerned about Yun Qian Meng.
And Yun Qian Meng just smiled without saying anything, lifting up the teacup she moistened her throat, her eyes continuously glanced at the Xie sisters sitting beside her, since the moment she stepped inside the main hall, aside from the greetings the two sister remained silent all along, they seemed to form a total distinction from their lively paternal aunt, which made her feel very curious.
After a while, the thick cotton cloth curtains of the main hall were being lifted up, that unadorned Er Furen walked inside, but when she saw Xie Shi sitting in the middle of the hall, her eyes immediately looked flabbergasted, after which she smile and said gently “Didn’t expect Chu Er Furen is also here, I apologize for being rude!”
“Why will you say that, Er Furen? You are actually a noble guest that we weren’t able to invite that easily!” Yun Qian Meng smiled as she stood up to welcome Wen family’s Er Furen, she was refined and courteous, truly a rare woman in the capital that made people feel mentally and physically comfortable upon seeing her.
“Today, Mother had initially planned to come with me, but since grandpa already passed away not long ago, Mother still had to wear her mourning apparel, it will be inappropriate for her to come, then she sent me here to visit, and to thank Chu Furen for paying us a condolence visit at home that day!” Wen Er Furen smiled as she spoke, when she mentioned about Wen Tai Shi, her eyes seemed to look grieved, causing other people to also feel sad for her.
“The person had already departed, you must pay attention to your own health, furen, don’t be too sorrowful!” Yun Qian Meng led Wen Er Furen to her seat, the servant girls were sharp-sighted and deft as they prepared the hot tea and refreshments, afterwhich they retreated out quietly.
Hearing Yun Qian Meng’s comforting words, Wen Er Furen simply smiled, then she spoke “Many thanks, Chu Furen!”
“Having a gentle and thoughtful mother like Er Furen, I presume Er Furen’s son and daughter are also educated and well-balanced, and obedient to their parents!” This time Xie Shi was looking at Wen Er Furen as she smiled and spoke.
“You are making fun of me, Er Furen! My son is naughty and mischievous, and as for my daughter she is also a mischievous one! They are simply incomparable to Er Furen’s Miss Chu and the two young ladies of Xie family! I presume Miss Chu and Miss Xie were already betrothed to someone in You Zhou, aren’t they?” Wen Er Furen denied Xie Shi’s commendation to her children, her eyes seemed helpless without any choice, but mixed with her eye expression which seemed favorable, had made her looked like a caring mother.
Seeing Wen Er Furen like this, even the two Xie sisters covered their mouths and softly laughed, Xie Shi’s smile was even more amiable, she directly spoke and said “My Jie’er is also a naughty one! If she is more like Meng’er, then I will not worry too much! Wan Wan and Yuan Yuan were actually obedient and lovable, whenever there’s any discrepancies in the family background, if someone wants to find a husband’s family which seemed like everything one could wish for, that is not quite an easy task as well!”
Wen Er Furen thought of the persons she saw earlier upon entering Chu Xiang Fu, then she asked “Earlier I saw a young man wearing a dark brocade suit riding on the horseback, is he Er Furen’s son?”
Hearing Wen Er Furen mentioned Chu Qing Yang, Xie Shi’s eyes inevitably exposed the pride and love of a mother, then immediately nodded her head and said “I’m sorry for his poor performance, yes, he is my son! As compared to his big brother, Qing Yang seemed to fall far short, without any achievements in both literary and martial skills, it was making me feel anxious! If he is able to achieve even one tenth of what Fei Yang had, I would really thank the heavens!”
These words seemed to be a bit exaggerated, seemingly a bit playful, teasing Wen Er Furen as she also started to laugh, she recalled Chu Qing Yang’s looks in her mind, then she commended “Er Furen you are being excessively modest, of course Chu Xiang is a very good minister we rarely seen in a hundred years, but the second young master had a plump forehead, at one glance we can say that he is a rare ambitious young man, he will certainly have a bright future ahead!”
Hearing Wen Er Furen praising her own son, Xie Shi evidently felt grateful in her heart, but on the surface she still maintained her usual smiling face, she seemed not to be easily moved by honor or disgrace, the words that came out from her mouth seemed to be too humble “You are flattering me, Furen! We have heard from You Zhou that the Pu Guo An is very effective in the capital, we actually wanted to bring the children to go and worship! If you don’t mind, Wen Er Furen, it would be better for us to go together in one group, we can keep each other company on the road, furthermore we will never feel bored!”
Hearing Xie Shi’s words, Yun Qian Meng knew that Xie Shi certainly intended to make friends with Wen family, although the Wen family seemed to be greatly favored, but the one who really had the authority was actually the family of the first wife in Wen family, but based on Xie Shi’s attitude and the coincidence today, Xie Shi seemed to be more enthusiastic towards the second wife, that made her feel somewhat curious.
After all, if Chu Pei intended to vie over the position of Chu Wang, involving the second wife who didn’t have an official position was totally useless, despite the fact that the second family Wen Di obtained academic attainments even greater than his older brother, but as compared to Wen Xie who was being appointed as the young teacher of Crown Prince, Wen Di seemed to be somewhat insipid.
What does Xie Shi really have in her mind, or maybe, what sort of scheme Chu Pei really have in his mind, that was truly incomprehensible!
And during this time, having heard of Xie’s invitation, Wen Er Furen didn’t immediately respond, but instead she carefully thought of it, then she replied “Thank you for inviting, Xie Furen, but at this moment, I still need to discuss this matter with Mother after I get back! I’ll give you Er Furen an answer after a few days, is it good or not?”
Hearing Wen Er Furen responded that way, Xie Shi gladly nodded her head and agreed, after which she looked at Yun Qian Meng, then gently spoke “Meng’er you should also come with us! Let’s worship the Bodhisattva, and pray that you will give birth to a healthy boy for Chu Xiang!”
Having heard of Xie Shi’s words, all the people inside the hall laughed, Yun Qian Meng’s cheeks blushed as she said “Er Niang, you really know how to make me feel happy! These days my husband still wasn’t around, it will be better for Meng’er to stay inside the house and wait for his return, so as to avoid neglecting my husband!”
With a few words, Yun Qian Meng refused Xie Shi’s invitation, perhaps in Xie Shi’s heart, she wasn’t happy to see her travelling together with her.
“Chu Furen is very deeply in love with Chu Xiang, that was truly admiring!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng didn’t try hard to make herself get involved in the crowd, Wen Er Furen’s impression towards her became increasingly better, the admiration she felt towards her was also coming from the bottom of her heart.
The few persons exchanged a few more words to each other, seeing the color of the sky gradually turned darker, Wen Er Furen stood up to say her goodbyes, and Xie Shi acted as the mother-in-law as she stubbornly invited Yun Qian Meng to ride inside the horse carriage of Chu Wang Fu.
All the things were already prepared appropriately in Wang Fu during the night, when Yun Qian Meng and the others went there, Chu Wang was already sitting beside the dining table waiting, and Chu Pei, Chu Qing Yang and Chu Jie weren’t there.
“My girl, quickly come here and sit down!” Seeing her favorite granddaughter-in-law, Chu Nan Shan’s face finally blossomed like a flower after many days of being gloomy, he waved his hand allowing Yun Qian Meng to sit down beside his left hand side.
“Hi Grandpa!” Yun Qian Meng quickly stepped in front of Chu Wang and made her salutations, then sat down.
“Jie’er is not feeling well, I have instructed the servant girls to bring the food to her room, so as to avoid catching a cold walking around!” Xie Shi nodded her head at the servant girl beside her, a few servant girls were holding trays of hot dishes as they walked inside, then they carefully laid down all the hot dishes and hot soups on the table.
Chu Nan Shan looked at the table filled with vegetables and meat dishes in front of him, yet he somehow lost his appetite, his eyes pitifully turned towards Yun Qian Meng, then he pleaded “My girl, Fei Yang is still not around in the capital at this moment, come tomorrow, why don’t you cook the ginseng chicken soup that you’ve once made for grandpa and the young fellow last time, good or not? If the food is delicious, grandpa will give you a treasured object!”
Seeing Chu Nan Shan speaking in this conspiratorial way, Yun Qian Meng instinctively wanted to laugh, for the sake of the ginseng chicken soup, Chu Wang had actually planned to give out his treasure, that was truly a childish behavior.
But, since he still remembered that ginseng chicken soup even after a very long time, Yun Qian Meng felt somehow sorry for him, then she smiled and nodded her head.
This time Xie Shi had just sat down on the seat, seeing Yun Qian Meng nodding her head, she also smiled and said “Wang Ye, you truly love our Meng’er!”
Her words had other intended meaning, but they were actually thornless, apparently no matter how Xie Shi seemed to be generous, but watching Chu Wang treating his granddaughter-in-law better his own grandchildren, Xie Shi’s heart must be feeling uncomfortable.
They were unusually quiet during the meal, even Chu Nan Shan who normally talked endlessly in front of Yun Qian Meng, didn't also utter any word, after having the dinner, Xie Shi ordered the servant girls to put away all the leftovers on the table, smiling as she was about to speak, yet Chu Nan Shan talked first “Meng’er, it’s getting late, you must return back earlier, don't stress yourself! Although the people Bei Qi were said to have left the capital, but since Fei Yang is not home, during normal days you should be more careful, as far as possible you should entertain less guests, so as to avoid committing mistakes!”
Having heard what was said, Yun Qian Meng subconsciously took a glance at Xie Shi, yet she discovered that she was sitting upright in a corner wearing her usual expression, seemed as if she didn’t hear Chu Nan Shan’s implied meaning in his words, maintaining the same radiance on her smiling face, such kind of skill was truly surprising!
“Yes, grandpa! Granddaughter-in-law will take her leave now!” But, since Chu Wang had already made an excuse for her, Yun Qian Meng naturally wouldn't disappoint him, facing the two elders in front of her she bent her knees, under the assistance of the servant girls she climbed up to Xiang Fu’s horse carriage.
“Xiaojie!” The sky had already turned dark, the bid snow had just stopped during the recent days, the dark sky was already decorated with stars, it also seemed quite beautiful, but since the snow had just melted, the temperature was still low, Mu Chun appreciated the scenery outside for a while, then feeling cold she released her grip on the curtain.
“What’s the matter?” When the horse carriage passed through the long street Yun Qian Meng saw the new store that Rong Yun He and she opened, but this time since the Lantern Festival wasn’t over, the common people were still immersed on the New Year celebration, all the shops had closed their doors earlier, aside from the lanterns that every family lighted on the long road, it was quite rare to see passers-by walking in the midst of the cold night.
“My lady, don’t you feel that Er Furen laughed a bit fakely?” Seeing her lady master was staring at the scenery on the long road, Mu Chun whispered the thoughts in her mind “Moreover, why would Lao Ye suddenly visit our house? Furthermore they had also brought along the second young master with them! If it wasn’t for the presence of Er Furen and the Xie sisters, if this thing spread out, it will certainly ruin my lady’s reputation!”
Mu Chun was fighting for her justice, Yun Qian Meng’s eyes exposed a smile, afterwhich she simply remarked “Their main purpose this time clearly wasn’t just visiting me! Don’t you see that the Er Furen of Wen family has come to visit soon after? That was their main purpose!”
Hearing this, Mu Chun immediately felt worried, she anxiously said “Then are we just their stepping stones?”
Watching Mu Chun’s anxious expression, Yun Qian Meng stretched out her arms then lightly patted her head, this girl wasn’t able to keep calm sometimes “Which is why grandpa had reprimanded Er Niang on my behalf earlier! Regardless of the plan in her mind, in the future she will learn to restrain herself!”
And earlier based on Xie Shi’s behavior, she had a dignified attitude as the head of the household, despite the fact that serving the father-in-law being the duty of a daughter-in-law, but her every move had gone beyond expectation, she actually didn’t wait for Chu Wang to speak and allow Chu Jie to dine with them inside the same, then she voluntarily made her decision, which was not surprising that grandpa had kept his silence during the meal.
And earlier inside Xiang Fu, Xie Shi’s actions by strenuously inviting Wen Er Furen, was not only limited to simply pulling their relationship closer with them, she had intentionally made Wen Er Furen saw Chu Qing Yang, also mentioned about the marriage of her daughter, the intended desire among it was self-evident, this actually made Yun Qian Meng having a hard time to guess their intentions, after all, if they wanted to fight over Wang Ye’s position, whether Chu Qing Yang or Chu Jie, they needed to find a more reliable and powerful relatives by marriage, but Xie Shi would always hid Chu Jie away not allowing anybody to get close to her, yet she always brought the Xie sisters along appearing in public, that was also incomprehensible!
“Sigh, if Xiang Ye was able to come home earlier, then our lady master wouldn’t have to face these troublesome matters!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng’s face seriously turned gloomy, Ying Xia whispered these words in Mu Chun’s ears.
“En!” The other three servant girls nodded their heads simultaneously.
The night sky had turned darker, permitting all the servant girls to retreat out of the inner room, after washing herself Yun Qian Meng reclined down in the center of the brocade quilt, her arms were slightly opened, her palm was touching the side of the bed where Chu Fei Yang was supposed to be as it went downwards, the matters that lingered on her heart had eventually settled down a bit, until the latter half of the night she was able to close her both eyes, her consciousness drifted off as she went to sleep.
This time, a panel of wooden window in the inner room which was tightly closed was being lifted open by someone, afterwhich a slender figure quietly landed on the carpet in the inner room, that black figure walked quietly on tiptoe as it closed the wooden window properly, afterwhich striding the extremely light footsteps it quickly approached beside the bed, those slender white hands slowly lifted up layer by layer of draperies, watching Yun Qian Meng who was sleeping inside of it with her brows still slightly furrowed, that black figure couldn’t help but also furrowed his brows.
Removing his cloak and outer clothing, that black figure quickly took off the boots in his feet, using his fastest speed to go inside the cotton quilt which was seeping with fragrance, when a small hand suddenly moved towards his cheek he held it in his palm, afterwhich with the slightest effort he pulled Yun Qian Meng, who was now with her eyes wide open yet coldly staring back at him, he pulled her closer to his arms.
“You sneaky man!” Yet unexpectedly, his own wife who had never seen her own husband for quite a long time didn’t throw herself at him as he expected, those reproachful words, made Chu Fei Yang lowered down his head, using the newly mustache in his chin to softly rub Yun Qian Meng’s gentle skin, with a bit of vicious tone he asked “Did you miss me, hmm?”
The pricking sensation came through her cheeks, Yun Qian Meng immediately stretched out her hands to push away the troublesome Chu Fei Yang, yet she discovered that his ability to stick on to her was brought to the point of perfection, once he seized her palm he would purse up his lips and kiss her twice, for a moment Yun Qian Meng’s cheeks were hurt, her palm itched, and her heart was greatly angered.
“Did you miss me, Meng’er!” Seeing Yun Qian Meng was occupied with breaking off from his attack, under the hazy lights, Chu Fei Yang was able to see Yun Qian Meng’s pink undergarments which got exposed in midair while struggling, her chest bulged out fully plumped causing the raging inferno to rush forth to his eyes, his body tensed up like it had never been before, his palm contained a surprisingly hot temperature as he grabbed on to Yun Qian Meng’s little hands which were waving at him in the air, in a rough voice he asked again.
Even if it was in the middle of the night, Yun Qian Meng was still able to feel Chu Fei Yang’s scorching hot gaze on her, his rough voice as well as the burning heat that spread out from his wrist, causing Yun Qian Meng to lift up her eyes and exactly found Chu Fei Yang’s eyes, with one hand slightly struggled free from his palm, gently caressing the handsome face which she hadn’t seen for a couple of days, until the pricking sensation can be felt in her palms, Yun Qian Meng thoughtlessly laughed “I thought that, you would always appear in front of everybody fresh and cool!”
Yet unexpectedly her gentle laughs caused Chu Fei Yang to slightly raise up his brows, his eyes looked like they were longing for something, without saying anything further he pulled her closer in his arms, bearing a sense of satisfaction he exclaimed “When a soldier marched on to fight in a battlefield, he will be too preoccupied that he wouldn’t pay attention to his own appearance! Do you think that those soldiers were like the scholars inside the capital who only make their semi-incomprehensible talks, treating their own outer appearance like a part of their lives? You ignorant girl, fancy that I’ve left Chen Wang and Hai Chen Xi behind, spurring the horse to full speed to get home, contrary to what I’ve expected you had actually started to make fun of your own husband!”
Although his tone of voice was full of anger, but the kisses that landed on her face were abnormally gentle, and when he lowered down his head, Yun Qian Meng had lifted up her lovely face, meeting his lips as she delivered her own thoughts.
Inside the cotton rose covering veil it was a charming and gentle scene, the moon blushed as it hid inside the layers of clouds, even those glittering stars seemed to have almost lost their brilliant rays of light…...
“Ah!” Early in the morning, Mu Chun was carrying the copper as she entered the inner room, she quietly laid the copper basin down on the wooden frame, yet she discovered that there was an additional pair of boots in the couch her lady master, Mu Chun was frightened as her facial complexion suddenly turned pale like a piece of white paper, covering her mouth she immediately dragged Yuan Dong who was following behind her, her trembling fingers were pointing at that pair of boots, tears gradually formed in her eyes.
Yuan Dong was also being stupefied by the situation in front of her, what had really happened last night? With her martial skills, it will be impossible for her not to detect the thief who sneaked into her lady master’s room, now that such thing happened, what will be the best thing that she should do?
The two of them went deathly pale as their hearts suddenly trembled, they couldn’t imagine the consequences that this incident will bring once it spread out, they could only quietly approach the bedside, Yuan Dong even took out a dagger from her sleeve, planning to kill so that the dead man will tell no tales…...
This time, a big hand gently lifted open the thick and heavy drapery, revealing Chu Fei Yang’s slightly angry face, those slightly cold pair of eyes were staring at the two servant girls who slowly approached the bedside, his mighty expression caused the back of the two girls to be drenched in cold sweat, looking at the face that suddenly appeared in front of them, the two of them managed to react after a long time “Xiang… Xiang Ye……”
But before they could finish speaking, Chu Fei Yang made a hand gesture to hush them, after which he quietly came down from the bed, then whispered his instructions to the two of them beside their ears.
When Yun Qian Meng woke up, it was already almost noon time, rubbing her both eyes, she was about to get but discovered that her four limbs were sore, she couldn’t help but silently cursed Chu Fei Yang, yet discovered that Chu Fei Yang was already not beside her.
“My lady, you’re awake!” A small hand lifted up the drapery, revealing Mu Chun’s smiling face, seeing Yun Qian Meng was looking fabulous, Mu Chun smiled like a kitty who was just having an affair.
“Where’s Xiang Ye?” Supporting her waist as she sat up, Yun Qian Meng stared at Mu Chun, then she put on her shoes then stepped down from the bed.
“Xiang Ye had already went out to attend the morning assembly! Before he leaves he instructed humble servants to assist my lady to bathe and change clothes, he said he will take my lady to a place once he returned back!” Mu Chun assisted Yun Qian Meng as they approached behind the screen, afterwhich she opened the cover of the wooden bath tub, the steam inside immediately came out.
Yun Qian Meng looked at the hot water in front of her which was surging with steam, then she nodded at Mu Chun, after she retreated out of the room, she untied her undergarments then stepped inside the bathtub, immersing her sore body inside the hot water which had the fragrance of the medicine, her mind was guessing what sort of place he will bring her to afterwards.
“When will you ever change your old habit of refusing other people to serve you?” Little did she know that, after thinking about the things, Yun Qian Meng had actually fell asleep inside the tub, if Chu Fei Yang didn’t come home earlier, Yun Qian Meng nearly slided down to the bottom of the bathtub, bearing his infrequent anger, Chu Fei Yang stretched out his arms then carried her out from the water, pulling the towel that was suspended on the screen he wrapped it around her body, his eyes was angrily staring at the person in his arms.
“Hmm?” Yun Qian Meng was instantly woken up, looking at her own wretched appearance, she pushed Chu Fei Yang away instantly, afterwhich she dodged herself behind the screen, she picked up the clothes which was already prepared in advance then quickly put them on layer by layer, then with a head full of wet hair she walked out, then she curiously asked “Where will we go after a while?”
Chu Fei Yang was evidently still angry at her, he pushed her shoulder down sitting in front of the dressing table, he fetched a clean and soft towel then carefully wiped the water off her hair, then she saw Mu Chun carefully walked ahead, then she assisted Yun Qian Meng to fix a simple yet elegant hair bun.
After Yun Qian Meng finished tidying herself up, Chu Fei Yang quietly sat down on the bedside reading a book, the cold expression on his face didn’t fade away as time elapsed.
Yun Qian Meng secretly sighed, being resigned she walked ahead, with both hands she held up that handsome which had regained its usual romantic and elegant appearance, smiling as she spoke “If you refuse to speak, then I will go ahead and visit Wang Fu instead! You might as well neglect my position here in this household, there’s no need for you to just ignore me!”
After speaking, she actually prepared to turn around and leave, but before she could take one step further, she was being hauled inside his arms, on top of her head an awkward voice echoed “Today you are not allowed to go anywhere, you just need to stay beside me!”
After speaking, a warm hand lifted up Yun Qian Meng’s lower jaw, before she could manage to dodge out of the way, a deep kiss was planted on her lips, feeling pleased he released her, pulling her hand they walked out of Chu Xiang Fu, carrying her up on his horseback…...
Translated by:
cristinaEdited by:
korezmi