Rui-wangfei didn’t conceal this matter from Shen Qi and Shen Jin. Shen Qi thought it unbelievable, “What is she trying to do? Wasn’t it just trying to bring an eyesore for Sister?”
Chen-cefei was also present, she was amazed that Shen Jin was right that it was Shen Zi’s doing. Crying with her head bowed, “They are sisters. Where is this cruel heart from? Such enmity..….”
“Mother.” Shen Jin was pained to see Chen-cefei like that.
Rui-wangfei said, “Such is the heart of a mother.”
Shen Jin said in low voice, “Why don’t Mother go back first, don’t worry I will be fine.”
Rui-wangfei had asked her what she wanted to do, it is not proper for Chen-cefei to be present as the person involved was Rui-wang’s daughter, someone with Junzhu status.
Rui-wangfei also said, “Better go back and calm down.”
Chen-cefei also understood, she rose and bowed, “Then I will leave first.”
After Chen-cefei left, Rui-wangfei looked at Shen Jin, “Jin Girl, Wangye said he would help you vent, what do you want?”
Shen Jin’s eyebrows were knotted in perplexion. “Did Second Sister really think I would be angry because of this female story-teller?”
If Chu Xiuming had been the kind of man who collected girls, she wouldn’t have put her trust in him and thus wouldn’t have been angry. If she wasn’t angry then there was no issue whatsoever.
Shen Qi instantly laughed, “Good of you to think so. Female story-teller?”
Shen Jin said, “I have heard stories similar to her story.”
As Shen Qi looked confused, Shen Jin enthusiastically told her, “At the border there is an Old Man Zheng. How he became blind is unknown, but he is very good at telling stories…. “
She started to tell a sad story about a beautiful poor woman, and the story was sadder than Danqiao’s story.
Rui-wangfei and the others became absorbed by Old Man Zheng’s story, it was tumultous, full of up and down. Unfortunately Shen Jin stopped it halfway through, “Right, we were talking about Second Sister.”
Shen Qi was busy listening, she was startled for a while before she could recover. Rui-wangfei’s hand that was reaching for melon seeds paused in the air, she laughingly scolded Shen Jin “Just finish the story first.”
Shen Jin refused, “Not finishing. That time I also had to wait five days to hear the ending.”
Shen Qi asked, “You didn’t invite him to your residence?”
“No point. Wouldn’t be interesting that way.” Shen Jin rubbed her belly, her legs slightly swayed, “We went to the teahouse to listen. Whenever Old Man Zheng stopped and said the story would continue next time, people slapped their tables in anger. It was so much fun.”
Rui-wangfei put the melon seeds down, “Fine then. Hearing it all in one go won’t be as interesting.”
Shen Jin nodded. Shen Qi helplessly asked, “So, what does Sister plan to do?”
“She is like that, but we are still sisters……” Shen Jin said, “Second Sister doesn’t care about our relationship or about Father’s feeling, but we shouldn’t do the same. How about this, give it 3 years. In this 3 years, she shouldn’t visit us, and we won’t accept her invitations either.”
Rui-wangfei’s eyes narrowed, “It’s good.”
“I am afraid one day Second Sister may dislike me and treat me like this too.” Shen Qi said, “I don’t have as good temper as yours, so I will avoid Zheng family.”
Shen Jin smiled, “Eldest Sister loves me the most.”
“What are you talking about?” Rui-wang as he walked in, he was in a good mood to hear them chatting.
“Father.” Both of the sisters got up and bowed.
Rui-wang said, “No need too much courtesy.”
The sisters sat back down after Rui-wang did. Shen Qi said, “We were talking about Second Sister.”
“From now on she is not your sister.” Rui-wang’s face was bad, “And not my daughter either.”
Rui-wangfei poured him a cup of tea, “Wangye, please calm down.”
Rui-wang took the cup and drank, “Since when she became this despicable.”
Shen Jin blinked, laughter appeared on her face, “Second Sister must be jealous that Father and Mother Consort love me more, so she made this joke with me.”
“You are such a silly girl.” Rui-wang was speechless, this daughter really didn’t know how to be upset. He came to feel even strongly that Shen Zi was unruly and spiteful, but he wouldn’t let her harm his other daughters.
Shen Jin said, “But this joke is a bit too far, I am a little angry.”
“It is expected that you are angry.” Rui-wang said, “Tell Father what do you want to do, I’ll help you.”
Shen Jin’s face was full of trust and admiration, “Father is really kind.”
Rui-wang was satisfied, “Wangfei, give them the two boxes of gemstones from Empress Mother, let them make some new jewelries.”
Rui-wangfei smiled, “Fine, tomorrow we’ll call the jewelry-maker here, let them choose the styles themselves.”
“Thank you Father and Mother Consort.” Shen Jin smiled.
Shen Qi also said her thanks, “Obviously I benefit from Sister being here.”
Rui-wang laughed heartily, Rui-wangfei said, “Wangye, Jin Girl just said to me that even though Second Girl disregards their sisterly bond, but she couldn’t do the same because it would make Wangye unhappy.”
“If only that disgraceful one was as sensible as Jin Girl.” Rui-wang sighed.
Rui-wangfei picked up the teapot to fill Rui-wang’s cup eight-part full, the lustrous green of the jadeite bangle on her wrist made it look even more slender and fair, “But it is not good to just let this go unpunished. Today she did this out of jealousy, what else she would do in the future.”
Rui-wang nodded.
Rui-wangfei placed the teapot back, “Like Fifth Girl’s face. She will soon reach the marrying age, but I don’t even know what to do.” There was some regret in her tone.
Remembering Shen Rong’s face, Rui-wang’s heart softened, he sighed, “It’s all because I spoiled her in the past.”
“It is not Father’s fault.” Shen Jin comforted him, “Father has doted on all of us sisters.”
Shen Qi added, “Yes, it is not Father’s fault.”
Rui-wang looked at both of them, “Wangfei has taught you two well.”
Rui-wangfei didn’t take the credit, she smiled, “Does Wangye feel like listening to us mother and daughters heaping compliments to each other?”
The melancholy in Rui-wang’s heart disappeared, “My fault. Wangfei, please continue.”
“Jin Girl said not to let Wangfu accept Zheng family’s invitations, and also not to issue any in return.” Rui-wangfei slowly explained.
Seeing Rui-wang’s eyes narrowed, she continued, “Jin Girl feels 3 years of this is enough. In these 3 years, whatever happens Zheng family shouldn’t visit us, and neither should we visit them. What does Wangye think?”
Shen Qi also said, “This Daughter thinks the same.”
Shen Jin’s lips pursed, some sadness on her face, “We are sisters, we can’t stay away for a lifetime, so I think 3 years is enough to give Second Sister time to think.”
Rui-wangfei gently said, “Jin Girl is too kind-hearted, if Son-in-law was here, he would be very touched.”
Rui-wang nodded, “Then let’s do it as Jin Girl said. In these 3 years, even on New Year or other times, don’t let them set foot here.”
Rui-wangfei responded, Rui-wang turned to Shen Jin, “Good girl, Father know you have suffered, Father will help you vent.”
Shen Jin bit her lips and laughed, “Father is the best.”
—
Rui-wang nodded and smiled, he left after a few more words. Shen Jin also took her leave afterwards, only Rui-wangfei and Shen Qi were left in the room.
Shen Qi said, “Mother, a few days ago I mentioned about our children’s marriage to Sister.”
“You were rejected, weren’t you?” Rui-wangfei smiled at Shen Qi.
Shen Qi nodded, “Sister thinks, if the children are willing later then she won’t stop them. If not, she won’t force it either.”
Rui-wangfei slowly released her breath, “Qi-er, do you blame me for making you marry into Yongle residence?”
“Not blaming.” Shen Qi understood, her mother was doing it for her.
Rui-wangfei eyes drooped, “I anticipated His Majesty had intended to marry a girl from the royal family to Count Yongning, so I arranged to have you engaged early on. Count Yongning’s noble character and loyalty is not false, but I was not willing to let you tread that muddy water.”
At Shen Qi’s astonished expression, Rui-wangfei laughed, “It is fine, I am just letting you know. What your Third Sister have today was achieved through life and death struggles. Yongle-shizi is a trusting man, such a man is easy to control, and he is harmless. Marquis Yongle is smart, he was able to protect Yongle clan through the turmoil that time, even if…… it will be just fine.”
Her daughter didn’t it understand yet but she didn’t explain further. “What do you think of Jin Girl?”
Shen Qi didn’t regret not marrying Count Yongning. In the Capital she had Father, Mother and two brothers as her backers, while she would have noone in the border. She wouldn’t have been able to bear the initial days there, let alone the events that ensued after.
“I think Third Sister is very smart, just a little soft-hearted.”
“En?” Rui-wangfei looked at her.
Shen Qi explained what she meant, “For example Shen Zi, she still tried to save Shen Zi’s face.”
“If it was you, what would you do?”
Shen Qi considered it, but in the end couldn’t come up with an answer. Light punishment wouldn’t do, but but heavy punishment wasn’t good either, she was her own sister who was also a Junzhu, especially as this kind of matter couldn’t be revealed to outsiders. Had it been someone else, Shen Qi would have sent someone to deliver a slap.
“You feel three years ban on visiting is too light?”
“En.”
“Since you feel it is too light, then your Father can feel the same too. If he thinks Jin Girl is wronged, naturally wouldn’t he treat Jin Girl better?”
“What situation Zheng family is currently in, do you know?”
“Zheng family’s situation…. is not very good.” Shen Qi hesitated, “All they have is their reputation. Zheng Jiaqu is talented and quite famous in the literary circle, but since his grandfather’s time Zheng family has never produced any other official.”
Zheng Jiaqu’s grandfather was a ‘three-level top scorer’, the glory of this had seen Zheng family reached it’s peak during his grandfather’s time. However after he retired, there was no other official came from Zheng family anymore.
T/N – Three-level top scorer 三元及第 = someone who managed to be the top-scorer at all three level of examinations he’d passed (probably a jieyuan 解元 of county-level exam, a huiyuan 会元 of metropolitan exam, and a zhuangyuan 状元 of palace exam).
“It is enough to attract someone like your Second Sister.” Rui-wangfei said. “There has been only one such three-level top scorer in history. This great reputation has become a burden for their future generations that they are still unable to overcome until now. It’s not that they couldn’t become officials, they have no courage to become officials.”
Shen Qi understood, Rui-wangfei continued, “For such family, being renowned as noble and upright is both a good and a bad thing. Paper and ink, antiques and paintings don’t look much, but they don’t pay themselves either.”
“I understand.” Shen Qi said.
Rui-wangfei smiled, “What do you understand?”
“Zheng family proposed because they were aware of the crisis.” Shen Qi said, “They were after Second Sister’s dowry and her Junzhu allowance from the government.”
“You think of them too simply,” Rui-wangfei said, “Zheng family’s younger generations have ambitions.”
“But Father’s title has no real power?” Shen Qi frowned.
“As long as he is still a royal relation then it is fine.”
“I see.”
“Zheng family couldn’t make ends meet, so the right to their family management becomes a hot potato. Second Girl’s is proud, what do you think she will do if she is handed the family management?”
“She would use her dowry to cover the gap.” Shen Qi replied.
Rui-wangfei asked someone to bring her a small hammer, she continued talking while knocking walnut shells, “That’s it. Third Girl doesn’t know about this three year ban yet. When she later finds no invitation comes for New Year or other days, and your Father or myself wouldn’t meet her when she visits, what do you think she will do?”
“She’ll grasp even more tightly to the family management right so people won’t look down on her.” Shen Qi understood.
Shen Qi felt as if a blow of cold air broke into her heart, the three years Shen Jin had casually mentioned was a trap.
Within three years, a big part of Shen Zi’s dowry would have been spent to mend the hole, especially as Zheng family miss was going to get married under her administration. Zheng family didn’t know that time a significant portion of Shen Zi’s dowry had been given to Shen Jin due to her refusal to marry Count Yongning and even though Xu-cefei must had given her something but the end total would still be limited.
When Shen Zi was unable to give anymore, how would they treat her? Today the family still indulged her even after Shen Zi hit their eldest shaoye, would they still do the same later?
If Zheng-furen knew Rui Wangfu didn’t care about Shen Zi, even if she couldn’t make it big, there were plenty of small tricks under her sleeves to make Shen Zi’s life difficult. Shen Zi was no match for Zheng-furen.
Rui-wangfei said again, “Not only that. Your father is not someone who is loyal with his affection. How deep will his feelings be towards a daughter who he hasn’t seen for three years? Plus, what do you think Shen Zi will do as soon as they meet again?”
“Complaining.” Shen Qi was very sure of this, “Making a scene.” Then any leftover affection would also get squeezed out.
“Xu-cefei has lost his sanity, so there is noone to shield her.”
Shen Qi nodded, “Mother, I get it.”
Rui-wangfei’s eyes narrowed, “I am afraid Shen Rong won’t have a peaceful life after marriage either.”
Shen Qi frowned, “What this got to do with Fifth Sister?”
Thinking of what Shen Rong had done, Rui-wangfei sneered, “As a Junzhu even with her current appearance, Fifth Girl can still get married despite more limited choices. Whatever Xu-cefei has will be Fifth Girl’s when she gets married. Second Girl has always thought that all of Xu-cefei’s possessions is hers, and when her own has run out, and she finds it’s all been been given to Fifth Girl, what do you think will happen?”
Shen Qi gasped a mouthful of cold breath, “Third Sister plotted this far.”
Rui-wangfei shook her head, “I can’t be sure if she calculated all of this, or if it is by coincidence.”
Shen Qi looked at Rui-wangfei in confusion, but Rui-wangfei wasn’t willing to talk further. “Sometimes ‘luck’ this word is very magical, noone can see through it.”
In the Moyun Courtyard, Shen Jin finished recounting what had happened. Chen-cefei frowned without speaking. Zhao-momo was able see deeper into it, “Furen, how did you come to think of this way?”
“The thing Second Sister cares about the most is her Junzhu status.” Shen Jin said, “She relies on Father and Xu-cefei, but with Xu-cefei’s current condition, she has only Father.”
Chen-cefei understood what she meant. Being spoiled since young, losing the backers was the worst punishment.
What Shen Jin said next confirmed this, “Without Father as her backer, Second Sister will feel uncomfortable.” Shen Zi had tried to make things difficult for Shen Jin, so Shen Jin did the same to her.
“Three years is not enough.” Anping spoke up.
Shen Jin laughed, “I just don’t want to see her. Fujun won’t let me wait here for three years. After three years, whether she is back or not, it’s not my business.”
Chen-cefei took a breath, “Right, you won’t be here by that time. And if you don’t limit it to three years, Wangye would think you are heartless.”
Shen Jin didn’t care about Rui-wang’s opinion of herself but Chen-cefei still had to stay there, so she needed to leave some margin. Her revenge was actually very straightforward, she would destroy what Shen Zi cared about the most.
Zhao-momo thought foolish people really had foolish luck, Shen Jin had not plotted that far, but everything just fell into place by itself.
—
Shen Zi at Zheng residence had no idea of what had happened. Zheng Jiaqu had returned to her room after being persuaded by his mother. He had thought about just getting her drunk, but as Shen Zi had prepared meal and alcohol because she wanted to mend her relationship with him, Zheng Jiaqu just went with the flow. Shen Zi was in good mood thinking of what she had done to Shen Jin, she failed to notice Zheng Jiaqu kept urging her to drink.
Shen Zi thought after the night their relationship would recover to how it was before, but who knew in the morning Zheng Jiaqu had turned even colder.
Shen Zi made fusses after fusses, so Zheng Jiaqu complied with staying at her room most nights of the month. However he kept his mouth shut and never smiled to her anymore. Shen Zi was bitter but as a proud person she refused to relent. The relationship between them became more and more stiff.
—
“What?” Rui-wang dared not believe it, “Say it again.”
“Replying to Wangye. Count Yongning had disappeared after losing a battle.” The person reporting was crying, he didn’t want to report such news either if he could help it. Losing a battle and disappearing normally meant death without a corpse.
Rui-wang angrily said, “Impossible, wasn’t it a victory news just a few days ago? What can mere little pirates do….. “
“Wangye please just prepare. His Majesty had asked Wangye to the palace, should be about this matter.” The messenger servant bowed his head.
Rui-wang inhaled a mouthful of air, “Change clothes.” He stepped towards the rear courtyard.
Rui-wangfei was talking to Cuixi in the room, seeing Rui-wang hurrying in, she asked, “Wangye, what happened.”
“His Majesty called me to the Palace.”
Rui-wangfei frowned, she ordered his court attire to be brought in. Rui-wang told her in a lowered voice, “Heard Son-in-law lost a battle and is now missing. His Majesty must be calling me for this.”
“What!” Even if it was Rui-wangfei, at that moment she had lost her calm.
“Don’t tell Jin Girl the news.”
Rui-wangfei gritted her teeth, “I am afraid it it hard to keep it secret.”
“Wangye, you……”
“I know the limit, Wangfei don’t worry.” Rui-wang knew what she didn’t finish saying.
Rui-wangfei nodded, she helped Rui-wang tidied up his attire. He patted her hand and left.
Cuixi asked, “Wangfei, should nubi invite Third Junzhu here?”
Rui-wangfei slowly released a breath, “I’ll go to Moyun Courtyard.”
On the way Rui-wangfei mulled over Chu Xiuming’s disappearance. The news came from the officials of Central Min so unfortunately it was likely to be true. It’s just this disappearance….. Was Chu Xiuming forced to disappear, or did he disappear by design? As for losing the battle, Rui-wangfei didn’t believe small pirates were able to beat him.
Rui-wangfei didn’t agree about concealing this from Shen Jin. Based on Emperor Cheng’s nature, the news would have spread all over the Capital by tomorrow morning, it was better to let Shen Jin know earlier.
She sighed and looked up to the sky, wondering what Emperor Cheng was doing. If he kept doing this, even the most loyal ministers would turn cold in their hearts.
—
In the Moyun Courtyard, Shen Jin was noisily playing with Xiaobudian. It’s ears had completely perked up now, and it had now grown to be considerably larger than when they had just arrived at the Capital. Xiaobudian lying down was such a large size spread, the weather had turned colder nowadays, it was time for Xiaobudian to change the fur, heaps of it’s fur shed all over the floor when combed.
Shen Jin was hugging Xiaobudian’s head when Rui-wangfei arrived. The dog placed it’s two large paws on Shen Jin’s knees so Shen Jin didn’t have to bend to hug it’s head, it was as smart as human. As Rui-wangfei was there, Shen Jin said, “Xiaobudian, go play with yourself.”
“Auwo.” Xiaobudian went down, tilted its head to look at Rui-wangfei, wagged it’s tail at Shen Jin then left.
“Mother Consort,” Shen Jin got up with a smile on her face, “Please sit inside, I’ll change my clothes first.” Her body was full of dog furs.
Chen-cefei also came out, “Wangfei please come inside.”
Rui-wangfei shook her head, “No need.”
“En.” Shen Jin went inside supported by Anping.
Zhao-momo followed them to help Shen Jin change clothes. Once they were inside, the smile on Shen Jin’s face vanished. Rui-wangfei wouldn’t have come to Moyun Courtyard if it hadn’t been something difficult to say.
“Furen, is there something to worry about?” Zhao-momo asked.
As Shen Jin only shook her head without speaking, Zhao-momo softly said, “I stewed silver fungus and lotus seed soup for Furen, is there anything else Furen would like?”
“Nothing.” Shen Jin had finished changing, she closed her eyes, “I’ll go outside now, shouldn’t let Mother Consort wait too long.”
Rui-wangfei was sitting with Chen-cefei on her side, Shen Jin’s face wasn’t as bright of smiles as usual but wasn’t full of worry like when she was inside. “Mother Consort, Mother.”
“Sit down.” Rui-wangfei let Shen Jin sat next to Chen-cefei with Anping and Anning around her. “I have something to tell you.”
“Alright.” Shen Jin’s grip on her handkerchief tightened, the anxiety she herself wasn’t aware of appeared in her eyes.
Rui-wangfei’s voice was soft and gentle, “Count Yongning has disappeared.”
“What?” Chen-cefei lost her countenance, abruptly lifted her head to look at Rui-wangfei.
Shen Jin felt her whole body suddenly turned weak, she fell limply on the chair’s back. Anping and Anning’s face changed, Anping hurriedly poured warm water for Shen Jin, “Furen, have some water to calm down.”
“Mother Consort…. what happened?” Shen Jin pushed Anping’s hand away, “Where is the news from?”
“From the Palace. Your father has been called to the Palace, we have to wait for him for the details.”
Chen-cefei had recovered first, she didn’t know Count Yongning directly, for her he was just someone kind to her daughter. She pulled Shen Jin into her embrace, “Don’t be afraid, don’t be afraid……”
Shen Jin leaned into her mother’s arms and didn’t speak.
Rui-wangfei said, “I’d rather telling you now than you hearing it from outside.”
Shen Jin weakly pushed herself out of Chen-cefei’s embrace, “Mother Consort, I know.”
Rui-wangfei nodded, “If you are not comfortable, call the doctor here.”
Shen Jin nodded, Rui-wangfei didn’t stay too long, “When your father is back, I will send Cuixi to give you the news.”
“Thank you Mother Consort.” She tried to rise to see Rui-wangfei off, but Rui-wangfei stopped her.
Chen-cefei looked at her daughter with worry, but Shen Jin shook her head, “I don’t believe it.”
She said so, but she still needed Anning’s support to get up. “Mother don’t worry too much, Fujun will be fine.”
Chen-cefei felt Shen Jin was actually trying to comfort herself, better not to say too much so she just nodded, “Good if you think so. Remember you are not alone now. The child is…. Chu Xiuming’s child.”
“En.” Shen Jin turned her eyes down at her bulging stomach, “Fujun will come back.”
Chen-cefei nodded. Whatever happened, it was still fine as long as her daughter thought that way.
Shen Jin went inside with Chen-cefei. Zhao-momo had been inside all the time so Anping told her the news.
Zhao-momo’s face changed but she recovered quickly, “The General will be fine.”
“En.” Shen Jin responded. “Momo, have someone inform Steward Zhao.”
“Yes. Furen be at ease, I will arrange now.”
“Fujun said, whatever the news is, I should not believe.” It was unclear whether this was said for herself or for Chen-cefei.
Chen-cefei reached out to hold her hands, Shen Jin’s hands were very cold, “Anning, warm up the silver fungus and lotus seed soup.”
“Yes.” Anning went to the kitchen and soon returned with the soup. The soup contained silver ear fungus, red dates, and wolfberries, it was a good warming tonic. Shen Jin felt calmer eating the soup.
The news was from the Palace, so it must be sent by Central Min officials. The disappearance was likely to have really happened. The question was whether it was real.
Slowly biting a piece of red date, Shen Jin felt Emperor Cheng was not Chu Xiuming’s match. If Emperor Cheng was playing trick to Chu Xiuming……
She ate another lotus seed, and as her bowl gradually emptying, Shen Jin had thought it through. Rubbing her stomach, she asked, “Give me one more bowl.”
“Yes.” Anning hurriedly went to the kitchen, she returned soon and scooped a bowl for Shen Jin.
Shen Jin looked at Chen-cefei, “Mother, try it too, it’s quite good.”
At that moment whatever Shen Jin asked, Chen-cefei would comply in a heartbeat let alone just to eat something. “Alright.”
Anning scooped one bowl for Chen-cefei too. Seeing her daughter’s complexion had recovered, she said in relief, “Let’s have Doctor Sun here to take a look at you.”
Shen Jin nodded, “Yes.”
“What do you feel like eating for dinner?”
Shen Jin considered it for a while, “Anything is good.”
“Then I’ll make you some noodles?”
“En”
When the second bowl finished, Zhao-momo returned. She felt much more at ease to see Shen Jin’s face was better. “Furen, the guards have been despatched.”
Shen Jin nodded, now they could only wait for Rui-wang to be back.
—
Rui-wang didn’t let them wait too long. He came after dinner time, Shen Jin took her maids to the main courtyard to see him. This time Chen-cefei couldn’t give a care of anything else, she tagged along with them.
Rui-wang had just finished changing out of his court attire. Shen Xuan and Shen Xi, even Shen Qi and Yongle Shizi had been there, Shen Jin was the last one to come. It was natural as her courtyard was a bit far from the main courtyard.
Rui-wang’s face looked a bit tired, “Sit down first.”
“Yes.” Both Shen Jin and Chen-cefei sat down.
Rui-wang told them, “It was an urgent despatch from Central Min government. It was said that Chu Xiuming was out patroling when the pirates suddenly ambushed.”
Shen Qi anxiously glanced at Shen Jin, she saw Shen Jin’s face was pale but still looking calm. Rui-wang also glanced at her before continuing, “His Majesty has summoned Ruyang Gongzhu and her Fuma to the Capital.”
* Gongzhu 公主 = Princess of first rank. Fuma 驸马 = Princess’ husband.
Ruyang Gongzhu was the Emperor’s eldest daughter. Her husband was still the heir of Marquis Zhongyi when they were married. Not long after the wedding, Marquis Zhongyi gave up his title for his son, and for Ruyang Gongzhu, the Emperor let her husband inherited the same title as his father.
T/N – The Fuma became the new Marquis Zhongyi like his father, same title but different person. Sometimes titles were degraded when passed down to the next generation.
Summoning Ruyang Gongzhu and her Fuma to the Capital….. Shen Jin’s hand was gently placed on her stomach without speaking.
Rui-wangfei said, “Heard that Marquis Zhongyi has both civil and military skills.”
Someone who was well-versed in both civil and military matters, Emperor Cheng obviously had made his preparation.
Rui-wangfei looked at Shen Jin, “I am afraid that as soon as Gongzhu is in the Capital, there will be a flower appreciation or some other get-together events.”
Rui-wangfei asked Shen Jin. “Jin Girl, do you want to spread news that you are ill?”
It was better to create an excuse now, otherwise it would be too late to plead illness when the invitation came. Ruyang Gongzhu had never met Shen Jin, but the matter was now pressing.
Shen Jin spoke, “Thank you Father and Mother for the concern.”
“Sister……” Shen Qi wanted to say something.
But Shen Jin shook her head, “My Fujun will be fine. Moreover, how long can I hide?”
Rui-wangfei could only sigh. Rui-wang said, “You are always our Rui Wangfu’s Junzhu.”
“Thank you Father.” Shen Jin replied.
Even if she hid in Rui Wangfu refusing to step outside, wouldn’t Ruyang Gongzhu just visit Rui Wangfu? Plus, Chu Xiuming would be just fine, it was even more reason for Shen Jin not to hide.
Rui-wangfei didn’t conceal this matter from Shen Qi and Shen Jin. Shen Qi thought it unbelievable, “What is she trying to do? Wasn’t it just trying to bring an eyesore for Sister?”
Chen-cefei was also present, she was amazed that Shen Jin was right that it was Shen Zi’s doing. Crying with her head bowed, “They are sisters. Where is this cruel heart from? Such enmity..….”
“Mother.” Shen Jin was pained to see Chen-cefei like that.
Rui-wangfei said, “Such is the heart of a mother.”
Shen Jin said in low voice, “Why don’t Mother go back first, don’t worry I will be fine.”
Rui-wangfei had asked her what she wanted to do, it is not proper for Chen-cefei to be present as the person involved was Rui-wang’s daughter, someone with Junzhu status.
Rui-wangfei also said, “Better go back and calm down.”
Chen-cefei also understood, she rose and bowed, “Then I will leave first.”
After Chen-cefei left, Rui-wangfei looked at Shen Jin, “Jin Girl, Wangye said he would help you vent, what do you want?”
Shen Jin’s eyebrows were knotted in perplexion. “Did Second Sister really think I would be angry because of this female story-teller?”
If Chu Xiuming had been the kind of man who collected girls, she wouldn’t have put her trust in him and thus wouldn’t have been angry. If she wasn’t angry then there was no issue whatsoever.
Shen Qi instantly laughed, “Good of you to think so. Female story-teller?”
Shen Jin said, “I have heard stories similar to her story.”
As Shen Qi looked confused, Shen Jin enthusiastically told her, “At the border there is an Old Man Zheng. How he became blind is unknown, but he is very good at telling stories…. “
She started to tell a sad story about a beautiful poor woman, and the story was sadder than Danqiao’s story.
Rui-wangfei and the others became absorbed by Old Man Zheng’s story, it was tumultous, full of up and down. Unfortunately Shen Jin stopped it halfway through, “Right, we were talking about Second Sister.”
Shen Qi was busy listening, she was startled for a while before she could recover. Rui-wangfei’s hand that was reaching for melon seeds paused in the air, she laughingly scolded Shen Jin “Just finish the story first.”
Shen Jin refused, “Not finishing. That time I also had to wait five days to hear the ending.”
Shen Qi asked, “You didn’t invite him to your residence?”
“No point. Wouldn’t be interesting that way.” Shen Jin rubbed her belly, her legs slightly swayed, “We went to the teahouse to listen. Whenever Old Man Zheng stopped and said the story would continue next time, people slapped their tables in anger. It was so much fun.”
Rui-wangfei put the melon seeds down, “Fine then. Hearing it all in one go won’t be as interesting.”
Shen Jin nodded. Shen Qi helplessly asked, “So, what does Sister plan to do?”
“She is like that, but we are still sisters……” Shen Jin said, “Second Sister doesn’t care about our relationship or about Father’s feeling, but we shouldn’t do the same. How about this, give it 3 years. In this 3 years, she shouldn’t visit us, and we won’t accept her invitations either.”
Rui-wangfei’s eyes narrowed, “It’s good.”
“I am afraid one day Second Sister may dislike me and treat me like this too.” Shen Qi said, “I don’t have as good temper as yours, so I will avoid Zheng family.”
Shen Jin smiled, “Eldest Sister loves me the most.”
“What are you talking about?” Rui-wang as he walked in, he was in a good mood to hear them chatting.
“Father.” Both of the sisters got up and bowed.
Rui-wang said, “No need too much courtesy.”
The sisters sat back down after Rui-wang did. Shen Qi said, “We were talking about Second Sister.”
“From now on she is not your sister.” Rui-wang’s face was bad, “And not my daughter either.”
Rui-wangfei poured him a cup of tea, “Wangye, please calm down.”
Rui-wang took the cup and drank, “Since when she became this despicable.”
Shen Jin blinked, laughter appeared on her face, “Second Sister must be jealous that Father and Mother Consort love me more, so she made this joke with me.”
“You are such a silly girl.” Rui-wang was speechless, this daughter really didn’t know how to be upset. He came to feel even strongly that Shen Zi was unruly and spiteful, but he wouldn’t let her harm his other daughters.
Shen Jin said, “But this joke is a bit too far, I am a little angry.”
“It is expected that you are angry.” Rui-wang said, “Tell Father what do you want to do, I’ll help you.”
Shen Jin’s face was full of trust and admiration, “Father is really kind.”
Rui-wang was satisfied, “Wangfei, give them the two boxes of gemstones from Empress Mother, let them make some new jewelries.”
Rui-wangfei smiled, “Fine, tomorrow we’ll call the jewelry-maker here, let them choose the styles themselves.”
“Thank you Father and Mother Consort.” Shen Jin smiled.
Shen Qi also said her thanks, “Obviously I benefit from Sister being here.”
Rui-wang laughed heartily, Rui-wangfei said, “Wangye, Jin Girl just said to me that even though Second Girl disregards their sisterly bond, but she couldn’t do the same because it would make Wangye unhappy.”
“If only that disgraceful one was as sensible as Jin Girl.” Rui-wang sighed.
Rui-wangfei picked up the teapot to fill Rui-wang’s cup eight-part full, the lustrous green of the jadeite bangle on her wrist made it look even more slender and fair, “But it is not good to just let this go unpunished. Today she did this out of jealousy, what else she would do in the future.”
Rui-wang nodded.
Rui-wangfei placed the teapot back, “Like Fifth Girl’s face. She will soon reach the marrying age, but I don’t even know what to do.” There was some regret in her tone.
Remembering Shen Rong’s face, Rui-wang’s heart softened, he sighed, “It’s all because I spoiled her in the past.”
“It is not Father’s fault.” Shen Jin comforted him, “Father has doted on all of us sisters.”
Shen Qi added, “Yes, it is not Father’s fault.”
Rui-wang looked at both of them, “Wangfei has taught you two well.”
Rui-wangfei didn’t take the credit, she smiled, “Does Wangye feel like listening to us mother and daughters heaping compliments to each other?”
The melancholy in Rui-wang’s heart disappeared, “My fault. Wangfei, please continue.”
“Jin Girl said not to let Wangfu accept Zheng family’s invitations, and also not to issue any in return.” Rui-wangfei slowly explained.
Seeing Rui-wang’s eyes narrowed, she continued, “Jin Girl feels 3 years of this is enough. In these 3 years, whatever happens Zheng family shouldn’t visit us, and neither should we visit them. What does Wangye think?”
Shen Qi also said, “This Daughter thinks the same.”
Shen Jin’s lips pursed, some sadness on her face, “We are sisters, we can’t stay away for a lifetime, so I think 3 years is enough to give Second Sister time to think.”
Rui-wangfei gently said, “Jin Girl is too kind-hearted, if Son-in-law was here, he would be very touched.”
Rui-wang nodded, “Then let’s do it as Jin Girl said. In these 3 years, even on New Year or other times, don’t let them set foot here.”
Rui-wangfei responded, Rui-wang turned to Shen Jin, “Good girl, Father know you have suffered, Father will help you vent.”
Shen Jin bit her lips and laughed, “Father is the best.”
—
Rui-wang nodded and smiled, he left after a few more words. Shen Jin also took her leave afterwards, only Rui-wangfei and Shen Qi were left in the room.
Shen Qi said, “Mother, a few days ago I mentioned about our children’s marriage to Sister.”
“You were rejected, weren’t you?” Rui-wangfei smiled at Shen Qi.
Shen Qi nodded, “Sister thinks, if the children are willing later then she won’t stop them. If not, she won’t force it either.”
Rui-wangfei slowly released her breath, “Qi-er, do you blame me for making you marry into Yongle residence?”
“Not blaming.” Shen Qi understood, her mother was doing it for her.
Rui-wangfei eyes drooped, “I anticipated His Majesty had intended to marry a girl from the royal family to Count Yongning, so I arranged to have you engaged early on. Count Yongning’s noble character and loyalty is not false, but I was not willing to let you tread that muddy water.”
At Shen Qi’s astonished expression, Rui-wangfei laughed, “It is fine, I am just letting you know. What your Third Sister have today was achieved through life and death struggles. Yongle-shizi is a trusting man, such a man is easy to control, and he is harmless. Marquis Yongle is smart, he was able to protect Yongle clan through the turmoil that time, even if…… it will be just fine.”
Her daughter didn’t it understand yet but she didn’t explain further. “What do you think of Jin Girl?”
Shen Qi didn’t regret not marrying Count Yongning. In the Capital she had Father, Mother and two brothers as her backers, while she would have noone in the border. She wouldn’t have been able to bear the initial days there, let alone the events that ensued after.
“I think Third Sister is very smart, just a little soft-hearted.”
“En?” Rui-wangfei looked at her.
Shen Qi explained what she meant, “For example Shen Zi, she still tried to save Shen Zi’s face.”
“If it was you, what would you do?”
Shen Qi considered it, but in the end couldn’t come up with an answer. Light punishment wouldn’t do, but but heavy punishment wasn’t good either, she was her own sister who was also a Junzhu, especially as this kind of matter couldn’t be revealed to outsiders. Had it been someone else, Shen Qi would have sent someone to deliver a slap.
“You feel three years ban on visiting is too light?”
“En.”
“Since you feel it is too light, then your Father can feel the same too. If he thinks Jin Girl is wronged, naturally wouldn’t he treat Jin Girl better?”
“What situation Zheng family is currently in, do you know?”
“Zheng family’s situation…. is not very good.” Shen Qi hesitated, “All they have is their reputation. Zheng Jiaqu is talented and quite famous in the literary circle, but since his grandfather’s time Zheng family has never produced any other official.”
Zheng Jiaqu’s grandfather was a ‘three-level top scorer’, the glory of this had seen Zheng family reached it’s peak during his grandfather’s time. However after he retired, there was no other official came from Zheng family anymore.
T/N – Three-level top scorer 三元及第 = someone who managed to be the top-scorer at all three level of examinations he’d passed (probably a jieyuan 解元 of county-level exam, a huiyuan 会元 of metropolitan exam, and a zhuangyuan 状元 of palace exam).
“It is enough to attract someone like your Second Sister.” Rui-wangfei said. “There has been only one such three-level top scorer in history. This great reputation has become a burden for their future generations that they are still unable to overcome until now. It’s not that they couldn’t become officials, they have no courage to become officials.”
Shen Qi understood, Rui-wangfei continued, “For such family, being renowned as noble and upright is both a good and a bad thing. Paper and ink, antiques and paintings don’t look much, but they don’t pay themselves either.”
“I understand.” Shen Qi said.
Rui-wangfei smiled, “What do you understand?”
“Zheng family proposed because they were aware of the crisis.” Shen Qi said, “They were after Second Sister’s dowry and her Junzhu allowance from the government.”
“You think of them too simply,” Rui-wangfei said, “Zheng family’s younger generations have ambitions.”
“But Father’s title has no real power?” Shen Qi frowned.
“As long as he is still a royal relation then it is fine.”
“I see.”
“Zheng family couldn’t make ends meet, so the right to their family management becomes a hot potato. Second Girl’s is proud, what do you think she will do if she is handed the family management?”
“She would use her dowry to cover the gap.” Shen Qi replied.
Rui-wangfei asked someone to bring her a small hammer, she continued talking while knocking walnut shells, “That’s it. Third Girl doesn’t know about this three year ban yet. When she later finds no invitation comes for New Year or other days, and your Father or myself wouldn’t meet her when she visits, what do you think she will do?”
“She’ll grasp even more tightly to the family management right so people won’t look down on her.” Shen Qi understood.
Shen Qi felt as if a blow of cold air broke into her heart, the three years Shen Jin had casually mentioned was a trap.
Within three years, a big part of Shen Zi’s dowry would have been spent to mend the hole, especially as Zheng family miss was going to get married under her administration. Zheng family didn’t know that time a significant portion of Shen Zi’s dowry had been given to Shen Jin due to her refusal to marry Count Yongning and even though Xu-cefei must had given her something but the end total would still be limited.
When Shen Zi was unable to give anymore, how would they treat her? Today the family still indulged her even after Shen Zi hit their eldest shaoye, would they still do the same later?
If Zheng-furen knew Rui Wangfu didn’t care about Shen Zi, even if she couldn’t make it big, there were plenty of small tricks under her sleeves to make Shen Zi’s life difficult. Shen Zi was no match for Zheng-furen.
Rui-wangfei said again, “Not only that. Your father is not someone who is loyal with his affection. How deep will his feelings be towards a daughter who he hasn’t seen for three years? Plus, what do you think Shen Zi will do as soon as they meet again?”
“Complaining.” Shen Qi was very sure of this, “Making a scene.” Then any leftover affection would also get squeezed out.
“Xu-cefei has lost his sanity, so there is noone to shield her.”
Shen Qi nodded, “Mother, I get it.”
Rui-wangfei’s eyes narrowed, “I am afraid Shen Rong won’t have a peaceful life after marriage either.”
Shen Qi frowned, “What this got to do with Fifth Sister?”
Thinking of what Shen Rong had done, Rui-wangfei sneered, “As a Junzhu even with her current appearance, Fifth Girl can still get married despite more limited choices. Whatever Xu-cefei has will be Fifth Girl’s when she gets married. Second Girl has always thought that all of Xu-cefei’s possessions is hers, and when her own has run out, and she finds it’s all been been given to Fifth Girl, what do you think will happen?”
Shen Qi gasped a mouthful of cold breath, “Third Sister plotted this far.”
Rui-wangfei shook her head, “I can’t be sure if she calculated all of this, or if it is by coincidence.”
Shen Qi looked at Rui-wangfei in confusion, but Rui-wangfei wasn’t willing to talk further. “Sometimes ‘luck’ this word is very magical, noone can see through it.”
In the Moyun Courtyard, Shen Jin finished recounting what had happened. Chen-cefei frowned without speaking. Zhao-momo was able see deeper into it, “Furen, how did you come to think of this way?”
“The thing Second Sister cares about the most is her Junzhu status.” Shen Jin said, “She relies on Father and Xu-cefei, but with Xu-cefei’s current condition, she has only Father.”
Chen-cefei understood what she meant. Being spoiled since young, losing the backers was the worst punishment.
What Shen Jin said next confirmed this, “Without Father as her backer, Second Sister will feel uncomfortable.” Shen Zi had tried to make things difficult for Shen Jin, so Shen Jin did the same to her.
“Three years is not enough.” Anping spoke up.
Shen Jin laughed, “I just don’t want to see her. Fujun won’t let me wait here for three years. After three years, whether she is back or not, it’s not my business.”
Chen-cefei took a breath, “Right, you won’t be here by that time. And if you don’t limit it to three years, Wangye would think you are heartless.”
Shen Jin didn’t care about Rui-wang’s opinion of herself but Chen-cefei still had to stay there, so she needed to leave some margin. Her revenge was actually very straightforward, she would destroy what Shen Zi cared about the most.
Zhao-momo thought foolish people really had foolish luck, Shen Jin had not plotted that far, but everything just fell into place by itself.
—
Shen Zi at Zheng residence had no idea of what had happened. Zheng Jiaqu had returned to her room after being persuaded by his mother. He had thought about just getting her drunk, but as Shen Zi had prepared meal and alcohol because she wanted to mend her relationship with him, Zheng Jiaqu just went with the flow. Shen Zi was in good mood thinking of what she had done to Shen Jin, she failed to notice Zheng Jiaqu kept urging her to drink.
Shen Zi thought after the night their relationship would recover to how it was before, but who knew in the morning Zheng Jiaqu had turned even colder.
Shen Zi made fusses after fusses, so Zheng Jiaqu complied with staying at her room most nights of the month. However he kept his mouth shut and never smiled to her anymore. Shen Zi was bitter but as a proud person she refused to relent. The relationship between them became more and more stiff.
—
“What?” Rui-wang dared not believe it, “Say it again.”
“Replying to Wangye. Count Yongning had disappeared after losing a battle.” The person reporting was crying, he didn’t want to report such news either if he could help it. Losing a battle and disappearing normally meant death without a corpse.
Rui-wang angrily said, “Impossible, wasn’t it a victory news just a few days ago? What can mere little pirates do….. “
“Wangye please just prepare. His Majesty had asked Wangye to the palace, should be about this matter.” The messenger servant bowed his head.
Rui-wang inhaled a mouthful of air, “Change clothes.” He stepped towards the rear courtyard.
Rui-wangfei was talking to Cuixi in the room, seeing Rui-wang hurrying in, she asked, “Wangye, what happened.”
“His Majesty called me to the Palace.”
Rui-wangfei frowned, she ordered his court attire to be brought in. Rui-wang told her in a lowered voice, “Heard Son-in-law lost a battle and is now missing. His Majesty must be calling me for this.”
“What!” Even if it was Rui-wangfei, at that moment she had lost her calm.
“Don’t tell Jin Girl the news.”
Rui-wangfei gritted her teeth, “I am afraid it it hard to keep it secret.”
“Wangye, you……”
“I know the limit, Wangfei don’t worry.” Rui-wang knew what she didn’t finish saying.
Rui-wangfei nodded, she helped Rui-wang tidied up his attire. He patted her hand and left.
Cuixi asked, “Wangfei, should nubi invite Third Junzhu here?”
Rui-wangfei slowly released a breath, “I’ll go to Moyun Courtyard.”
On the way Rui-wangfei mulled over Chu Xiuming’s disappearance. The news came from the officials of Central Min so unfortunately it was likely to be true. It’s just this disappearance….. Was Chu Xiuming forced to disappear, or did he disappear by design? As for losing the battle, Rui-wangfei didn’t believe small pirates were able to beat him.
Rui-wangfei didn’t agree about concealing this from Shen Jin. Based on Emperor Cheng’s nature, the news would have spread all over the Capital by tomorrow morning, it was better to let Shen Jin know earlier.
She sighed and looked up to the sky, wondering what Emperor Cheng was doing. If he kept doing this, even the most loyal ministers would turn cold in their hearts.
—
In the Moyun Courtyard, Shen Jin was noisily playing with Xiaobudian. It’s ears had completely perked up now, and it had now grown to be considerably larger than when they had just arrived at the Capital. Xiaobudian lying down was such a large size spread, the weather had turned colder nowadays, it was time for Xiaobudian to change the fur, heaps of it’s fur shed all over the floor when combed.
Shen Jin was hugging Xiaobudian’s head when Rui-wangfei arrived. The dog placed it’s two large paws on Shen Jin’s knees so Shen Jin didn’t have to bend to hug it’s head, it was as smart as human. As Rui-wangfei was there, Shen Jin said, “Xiaobudian, go play with yourself.”
“Auwo.” Xiaobudian went down, tilted its head to look at Rui-wangfei, wagged it’s tail at Shen Jin then left.
“Mother Consort,” Shen Jin got up with a smile on her face, “Please sit inside, I’ll change my clothes first.” Her body was full of dog furs.
Chen-cefei also came out, “Wangfei please come inside.”
Rui-wangfei shook her head, “No need.”
“En.” Shen Jin went inside supported by Anping.
Zhao-momo followed them to help Shen Jin change clothes. Once they were inside, the smile on Shen Jin’s face vanished. Rui-wangfei wouldn’t have come to Moyun Courtyard if it hadn’t been something difficult to say.
“Furen, is there something to worry about?” Zhao-momo asked.
As Shen Jin only shook her head without speaking, Zhao-momo softly said, “I stewed silver fungus and lotus seed soup for Furen, is there anything else Furen would like?”
“Nothing.” Shen Jin had finished changing, she closed her eyes, “I’ll go outside now, shouldn’t let Mother Consort wait too long.”
Rui-wangfei was sitting with Chen-cefei on her side, Shen Jin’s face wasn’t as bright of smiles as usual but wasn’t full of worry like when she was inside. “Mother Consort, Mother.”
“Sit down.” Rui-wangfei let Shen Jin sat next to Chen-cefei with Anping and Anning around her. “I have something to tell you.”
“Alright.” Shen Jin’s grip on her handkerchief tightened, the anxiety she herself wasn’t aware of appeared in her eyes.
Rui-wangfei’s voice was soft and gentle, “Count Yongning has disappeared.”
“What?” Chen-cefei lost her countenance, abruptly lifted her head to look at Rui-wangfei.
Shen Jin felt her whole body suddenly turned weak, she fell limply on the chair’s back. Anping and Anning’s face changed, Anping hurriedly poured warm water for Shen Jin, “Furen, have some water to calm down.”
“Mother Consort…. what happened?” Shen Jin pushed Anping’s hand away, “Where is the news from?”
“From the Palace. Your father has been called to the Palace, we have to wait for him for the details.”
Chen-cefei had recovered first, she didn’t know Count Yongning directly, for her he was just someone kind to her daughter. She pulled Shen Jin into her embrace, “Don’t be afraid, don’t be afraid……”
Shen Jin leaned into her mother’s arms and didn’t speak.
Rui-wangfei said, “I’d rather telling you now than you hearing it from outside.”
Shen Jin weakly pushed herself out of Chen-cefei’s embrace, “Mother Consort, I know.”
Rui-wangfei nodded, “If you are not comfortable, call the doctor here.”
Shen Jin nodded, Rui-wangfei didn’t stay too long, “When your father is back, I will send Cuixi to give you the news.”
“Thank you Mother Consort.” She tried to rise to see Rui-wangfei off, but Rui-wangfei stopped her.
Chen-cefei looked at her daughter with worry, but Shen Jin shook her head, “I don’t believe it.”
She said so, but she still needed Anning’s support to get up. “Mother don’t worry too much, Fujun will be fine.”
Chen-cefei felt Shen Jin was actually trying to comfort herself, better not to say too much so she just nodded, “Good if you think so. Remember you are not alone now. The child is…. Chu Xiuming’s child.”
“En.” Shen Jin turned her eyes down at her bulging stomach, “Fujun will come back.”
Chen-cefei nodded. Whatever happened, it was still fine as long as her daughter thought that way.
Shen Jin went inside with Chen-cefei. Zhao-momo had been inside all the time so Anping told her the news.
Zhao-momo’s face changed but she recovered quickly, “The General will be fine.”
“En.” Shen Jin responded. “Momo, have someone inform Steward Zhao.”
“Yes. Furen be at ease, I will arrange now.”
“Fujun said, whatever the news is, I should not believe.” It was unclear whether this was said for herself or for Chen-cefei.
Chen-cefei reached out to hold her hands, Shen Jin’s hands were very cold, “Anning, warm up the silver fungus and lotus seed soup.”
“Yes.” Anning went to the kitchen and soon returned with the soup. The soup contained silver ear fungus, red dates, and wolfberries, it was a good warming tonic. Shen Jin felt calmer eating the soup.
The news was from the Palace, so it must be sent by Central Min officials. The disappearance was likely to have really happened. The question was whether it was real.
Slowly biting a piece of red date, Shen Jin felt Emperor Cheng was not Chu Xiuming’s match. If Emperor Cheng was playing trick to Chu Xiuming……
She ate another lotus seed, and as her bowl gradually emptying, Shen Jin had thought it through. Rubbing her stomach, she asked, “Give me one more bowl.”
“Yes.” Anning hurriedly went to the kitchen, she returned soon and scooped a bowl for Shen Jin.
Shen Jin looked at Chen-cefei, “Mother, try it too, it’s quite good.”
At that moment whatever Shen Jin asked, Chen-cefei would comply in a heartbeat let alone just to eat something. “Alright.”
Anning scooped one bowl for Chen-cefei too. Seeing her daughter’s complexion had recovered, she said in relief, “Let’s have Doctor Sun here to take a look at you.”
Shen Jin nodded, “Yes.”
“What do you feel like eating for dinner?”
Shen Jin considered it for a while, “Anything is good.”
“Then I’ll make you some noodles?”
“En”
When the second bowl finished, Zhao-momo returned. She felt much more at ease to see Shen Jin’s face was better. “Furen, the guards have been despatched.”
Shen Jin nodded, now they could only wait for Rui-wang to be back.
—
Rui-wang didn’t let them wait too long. He came after dinner time, Shen Jin took her maids to the main courtyard to see him. This time Chen-cefei couldn’t give a care of anything else, she tagged along with them.
Rui-wang had just finished changing out of his court attire. Shen Xuan and Shen Xi, even Shen Qi and Yongle Shizi had been there, Shen Jin was the last one to come. It was natural as her courtyard was a bit far from the main courtyard.
Rui-wang’s face looked a bit tired, “Sit down first.”
“Yes.” Both Shen Jin and Chen-cefei sat down.
Rui-wang told them, “It was an urgent despatch from Central Min government. It was said that Chu Xiuming was out patroling when the pirates suddenly ambushed.”
Shen Qi anxiously glanced at Shen Jin, she saw Shen Jin’s face was pale but still looking calm. Rui-wang also glanced at her before continuing, “His Majesty has summoned Ruyang Gongzhu and her Fuma to the Capital.”
* Gongzhu 公主 = Princess of first rank. Fuma 驸马 = Princess’ husband.
Ruyang Gongzhu was the Emperor’s eldest daughter. Her husband was still the heir of Marquis Zhongyi when they were married. Not long after the wedding, Marquis Zhongyi gave up his title for his son, and for Ruyang Gongzhu, the Emperor let her husband inherited the same title as his father.
T/N – The Fuma became the new Marquis Zhongyi like his father, same title but different person. Sometimes titles were degraded when passed down to the next generation.
Summoning Ruyang Gongzhu and her Fuma to the Capital….. Shen Jin’s hand was gently placed on her stomach without speaking.
Rui-wangfei said, “Heard that Marquis Zhongyi has both civil and military skills.”
Someone who was well-versed in both civil and military matters, Emperor Cheng obviously had made his preparation.
Rui-wangfei looked at Shen Jin, “I am afraid that as soon as Gongzhu is in the Capital, there will be a flower appreciation or some other get-together events.”
Rui-wangfei asked Shen Jin. “Jin Girl, do you want to spread news that you are ill?”
It was better to create an excuse now, otherwise it would be too late to plead illness when the invitation came. Ruyang Gongzhu had never met Shen Jin, but the matter was now pressing.
Shen Jin spoke, “Thank you Father and Mother for the concern.”
“Sister……” Shen Qi wanted to say something.
But Shen Jin shook her head, “My Fujun will be fine. Moreover, how long can I hide?”
Rui-wangfei could only sigh. Rui-wang said, “You are always our Rui Wangfu’s Junzhu.”
“Thank you Father.” Shen Jin replied.
Even if she hid in Rui Wangfu refusing to step outside, wouldn’t Ruyang Gongzhu just visit Rui Wangfu? Plus, Chu Xiuming would be just fine, it was even more reason for Shen Jin not to hide.
