Chapter 92: Jade Rabbit Festival
"They have arrived."
With Xie Jing Xing's words, Gao Yang's joking expression was put away as he looked at him, "You are saying that they have arrived at Ding capital?"
"You guys should pay more attention these days." Xie Jing Xing frowned, "The thing in Prince Yu residence might have spread out and perhaps had exposed your identity. Do not go out for these few days."
"How can you do it alone?" Not waiting for Gao Yang to speak, Ji Yu Shu anxiously said, "You had already aroused their attention and now that they had entered Ding capital, they would definitely look for you and you cannot activate other people in the capital."
"No need to worry." Xie Jing Xing lazily stretched his waist and a trace of viciousness appeared in his smile, "I have waited for them to come for a long time."
"Third Xie Older Brother, are you going to teach someone a lesson again?" Ji Yu Shu looked at him with eyes sparkling, "Can you take me this time?"
"Alright.: Xie Jing Xing casually said, "You can be a target then."
Gao Yang, "..."
*****
The matter about Prince Yu and the Shen family in the Ding capital was soon drowned in the joy of the approaching new year. It was after all the new year and everywhere was surrounded by a lively atmosphere. That tragic massacre on that stormy winter, as well as the gloomy despairing suicide in the prison was soon left behind of everyone's mind.
Nothing was more important than welcoming the new year and time would not stop. New snow would cover the old snow, new conversations would replace the old ones and new hopes would always be preferred over the past.
The Emperor in the Palace also did not show any reactions and even spent a lot of money to hold a Palace banquet, and invited all the Ladyships and concubines to welcome the new year. Obviously the death of his blood Younger Brother had not caused Emperor Wen Hui to feel sad. This made the common people feel that the rumours of the ruthlessness of the Imperial family were indeed true, but the really smart people would know that Emperor Wen Hui had nipped the problem in the bud and it was handled so cleanly, thus was secretly happy. So even if the Government Office was unable to find out the perpetrator of the extermination of the entire household and the case became an unsolved case, Emperor Wen Hui did not pursue it.
Shen Qing was buried together with Prince Yu in the Royal tomb. But because Shen Qing committed suicide and her identity was overly awkward, the Imperial family did not give out any compensation. This made Old Shen Furen angry for a while.
In the Western courtyard, Bai Lu and Shuang Jiang were bringing the books out from Shen Miao's room to bask in the sun.
Shen Xin and Luo Xue Yan went early in the morning to practice drills with the new recruits, as there was a need for training due to the annual recruitment of new soldiers at year's end. Shen Qiu also followed to join in the fun thus Shen Miao was left alone in the Western courtyard.
"A few days ago, Eldest Young Master once against sent a number of books over. How about bringing those over to bask in the sun too?" Gu Yu asked Shen Miao.
"I still have uses for those books so there is no need to sun them." Shen Miao answered. Ever since Shen Qiu noticed the many military books in Shen Miao's room, he immediately told Shen Xin and Luo Xue Yan happily about it. Shen Xin and Luo Xue Yan also thought that she was temporary interested and be it as it may, they still ordered others to search for several military books.
If one did not know, they would think that the Shen family intended to raise a little female General. Naturally Shen Miao did not have any intention of being a female General, but it was due to the many dangers that the Shen family army would face in the future, and she could only rely on the possible problems that the Shen family army faced in the previous lifetime. Thus there was always no harm to read more.
Bai Lu said as she flipped the pages of the books, "Tomorrow is the Jade Rabbit Festival and one heard that there would be a scene of tens of thousands of people lighting lanterns by the Wan Li Lake. Will Young Lady be going tomorrow?"
The Jade Rabbit Festival is a festival of Ming Qi. In every night of the eve of the new year, people would come out of their homes into the great streets and small alleys to look at lanterns and solve riddles written on lanterns, making it really lively. There would be an exceptionally big Jade Rabbit in the middle of the lanterns, blessing and protecting the entire Ming Qi to have a favourable weather in the oncoming year so that commoners would have a good harvest. This year's Jade Rabbit Festival was different from previous years as the Jade Rabbit was on the lake, thus at that time the common folks can also place their own flower lanterns on the water and pray for their wishes. With the flower lanterns on the water, the image of it would certainly be very lively. Bai Lu and Shuang Jiang were also young females at the prime of youth thus it was common to love such fresh ideas.
"What nonsense are you saying." Gu Yu scolded, "At that time the entire street will definitely be crowded and what if something happens to Young Lady?"
"But in previous years, did not one always went?" Bai Lu said, unwilling to submit.
"Previous years are previous years. This year is this year!" Gu Yu said fiercely. Bai Lu was not wrong, at this time in previous years, Shen Xin and wife would have already returned back to the Ding capital, and the Jade Rabbit Festival was when the entire Shen residence would all go out to watch the bustling occasion, but this year such a big matter happened to the Shen residence and Prince Yu residence and the mastermind had yet to be found. If there was one who took the opportunity to retaliate then Shen Miao's situation would indeed be much more dangerous. No matter how big the excitement was, it was not as important as the safety of Shen Miao.
"It is of no bother." Shen Miao gently smiled, "I originally also wanted to go and take a look at the excitement. With Father, Mother and Eldest Brother at the side, there would not be any danger."
"But..." Gu Yu still wanted to persuade.
"It will be like this then." Shen Miao interrupted her words and walked back to the room. Gu Yu could only restrain the worries in her heart. She did not know from when onwards Shen Miao had developed a temperament of standing by one's words, and did not have any signs of wanting help from the people of the Second and Third household like previously. It was indeed good to have a mind of one's own but when she got stubborn, it also made others feel helpless.
Shen Miao returned back to the room and walked toward her desk to sit down and her eyes fell onto the plum blossoms branches outside. The branches were dotted with little red spots but reminded her of the letter that she received before.
The Chen family brothers had returned to JiangNan and after the Prince Yu residence was eliminated, they did not have any other contact. Shen Miao was extremely cautious and all the communication exchanges with the Chen family was through the letters that Mo Qing and Feng Xian Pawnshop sent over. Mo Qing's life contract was not in the Shen family thus others would not suspect her at all.
This time Mo Qing brought another news back to her. Previously she had entrusted Ji Yu Shu to make some inquiries about a Young Lady Liu Ying and finally there was some information. Her whereabouts were exactly in the biggest money squandering establishment in Ding capital, Bao Xiang Lou. Young Lady Liu Ying was Bao Xiang Lou's number one beauty and one heard that on the day of the Jade Rabbit Festival, she would be playing the Jade Rabbit fairy to dance by the lake. She really wanted to take a look so she took advantage of this opportunity.
As for Gu Yu's worries about the matter of people taking revenge, this mention did not seem to be of any worth to Shen Miao. The Chen family brothers were cooperating with her so where was the logic of revenge. As for the Shen residence, currently Shen Old Furen was so angry that other than her two sons and the Second household's grandsons, she was not willing to see anyone else. The Second household of the Shen family was considered as collapsed and Shen Yuan was busy with fawning over the people of the court, and would not take any action on her at the moment. The Third household had always concealed their strengths and bided their time, so at such a critical juncture, they would not take any actions.
Now thinking about it, there was not a year that was actually more comfortable than this.
As she was thinking about it, Shen Miao's lips slightly hooked up which made Gu Yu, who was looking at her, to could not help but be startled. But before she could recover to her senses, she heard Shuang Jiang's voice. Shuang Jiang walked in from outside and said, "Young Lady, the Eastern courtyard's Wan YiNiang wants to come over and see you."
Madam Wan? Gu Yu frowned and softly said, "Why her again?"
"Why does this Wan YiNiang keep running towards our courtyard?" Shuang Jiang and Bai Lu also whispered, "This is already too much of a rush to fawn."
Several of the maids were not welcoming toward Madam Wan. In fact ever since after Ren Wan Yun's and Shen Qing's matter, their disgust with the Second household increased. Regardless of what Wan YiNiang had, she was after all a Second household's person and to keep running over here all day, made one feel really uncomfortable.
A few days ago when Wan YiNiang came to see Shen Miao, it was declined by Shen Miao by a various means. Today she however said, "Let her in."
Jing Zhe was stunned for a moment before she complied and head out. It was Gu Yu and the few others who had a look of worry, afraid that Wan YiNiang had bad intentions.
After a moment, Wan YiNiang followed Jing Zhe in and Shen Miao raised her head to look at her.
Wan YiNiang was wearing a dark blue lined jacket and a green coloured skirt with a plain silver bracelet, looking like a very simple person. But upon a careful look, the lined jacket has white little flowers embroidered on it and the skirt was tailored to a waving form, and that pair of fair hands had a bright nail polish on, which was very captivating to one's eyes. As for that seductive waist, coupled with the slim and lively body, it made one's imagination roam. Looking upwards, she had an oval face, big eyes, fair complexion and red lips that when she smiled, there appeared some coquettish air on her.
This was a female who knew how to lie low, from how she was able to not appear for many years because of Shen Dong Ling, one was able see that, but she was also one who was unable to remain calm. Upon Shen Qing's death and Ren Wan Yun's craziness, she paraded herself ostentatiously around. In Shen Miao previous life, she had seen a lot of such people, with that little smarts and little good looks, one thought that as long as they were willing, they would be able to firmly control men's hearts, not knowing that there were numerous fresh females in the world and that men's hearts were the most elusive. If one was able to remain calm, then perhaps one would be able to have a special position in the man's heart but once one was unable to remain calm, the little smarts they had would become too smart for their own good.
Wan YiNiang was obviously the kind of person that was too smart for their own good.
Wan YiNiang dashed to give a greeting and sat on the small stools in front of Shen Miao by herself. She sat down on her side with her legs slightly tilted. Her body line was very smooth and flexible, she indeed has the foundation of one who was a lead entertainer. Shen Miao calmly looked at her and did not say any superfluous words and directly went to the point, "For what reason did Wan YiNiang look for me?"
Wan YiNiang did not expected that Shen Miao would be so direct with her words and it made her choke a little. She had heard that right now in the Shen residence, Shen Xin and wife had the greatest power and that the previously idiotic Fifth Young Lady was also a powerful one. Thinking of her purpose of currying favour, she had not thought that Shen Miao would not bother about social courtesies, which made Wan YiNiang somewhat unable to predict if Shen Miao was one who did not understand the world, or was being deliberately mystifying.
In fact Wan YiNiang had thought as much, as Shen Miao could not be bothered about her because one Wan YiNiang was not worth it to be valued by her.
Wan YiNiang smiled obsequiously, "The new year is nearing, this concubine has come over to take a look at Fifth Young Lady and also to wish Fifth Young Lady a good year." She said, "Seemingly because of Eldest Young Lady's matter, one has cause Fifth Young Lady to be unhappy so this concubine represent Master and Furen to apologise to Fifth Young Lady."
Shen Miao looked at her with a smile but not a smile, "Wan YiNiang, your 'apology on behalf', one do not know if Second Shu and Second Shen are aware of it?"
Wan YiNiang was slightly stung but continued to smile, "This lowly concubine's words carry little weight and it was also said by Master to this concubine on some impulse. This concubine then acted on one's initiative to come over and apologise to Fifth Young Lady."
Shen Miao looked at her without blinking an eye at all. To be stared by Shen Miao like that, Wan YiNiang expression started to be restless but she quickly pressed it down and said smilingly, "In fact, Third Young Lady also wanted to come and see Fifth Young Lady, after all you are sisters but Third Young Lady recently caught some chills, and was afraid to encounter any wind and could only come over to talk to Fifth Young Lady after recovering."
Shen Dong Ling? Shen Miao's eyebrows raised.
Other than the three Di daughters in the Shen residence, there was actually a Shu daughter, which was Shen Dong Ling of the Second household, who was borne by Wan YiNiang. In the Shen residence, the Third household and Chen Rou Qiu only had Shen Yue, one daughter and Shen Xin and wife only had Shen Miao and Shen Qiu but the Second household Shen Gui had a houseful of concubines and also gave birth to Shu daughters but all of them died at a young age thus that was why the ranking of the Di daughters in the Shen family was somewhat odd.
Shen Dong Ling was ranked the third so she was called Third Young Lady. Ren Wan Yun had the character of most jealous, so after Wan YiNiang gave birth to Shen Dong Ling she would stay in the courtyard and not come out all day. That Shen Dong Ling was also a weak and sickly one, in Shen Miao's previous life, she did not have any impression of Shen Dong Ling at all. She was almost a transparent person, even if a Shu daughter was not favoured by whichever noble family she perhaps would be bullied and scolded but would not be like this, practically forgotten by others.
If such a person like this was really weak till one could overlook and disregard, it meant that one could tolerate what ordinary people would not be able to do so. In the previous lifetime, Shen Dong Ling at the end seemed to become a bargaining chip that Ren Wan Yun used for Shen Gui's career and was given to others. In this lifetime Ren Wan Yun had lost her power and Wan YiNiang once again flew up to the highest branches, thus it was unknown if Shen Dong Ling's fate would change because of it.
"Third Older Sister's health is not good so it is better not to come out." Shen Miao said lightly, "If one were to catch a cold because of this, I cannot take responsibility of it."
Wan YiNiang was somewhat displeased when she heard this but still had a smile on her face when she said, "This is Third Young Lady's single hearted wish to get closer to Fifth Young Lady. It is a long story of this concubine's weak health that Third Young Lady is sickly after birth, and could only watch other kids play from the courtyard for so many years. It is all this concubine's fault..." As she said, she tilted her head and used the handkerchief in her hands to cover her mouth as if she was extremely distressed.
Shen Miao could not stand Wan YiNiang's fake act and lightly said, "No one can be the master of one's body, furthermore Third Older Sister had been staying in the courtyard which might not necessarily be bad. Eldest Sister had enjoyed the enjoyment but who knew that beautiful woman would suffer unhappy fates." Her lips slightly hooked up, "One's fortune after all cannot be visible on the surface."
When the words were spoken, Wan YiNiang looked at Shen Miao with some surprised and bewilderedness but after a moment she forcefully smiled, "Fifth Young Lady said correctly." She suddenly stood up and looked towards Shen Miao, "Fifth Young Lady, this concubine remembers that there are matters to tend and will leave first. If there is a day where Fifth Young Lady is free, Third Young Lady would come over to have a chat with Fifth Young Lady. Her health is not good so may Fifth Young Lady please pardon." Finishing, she greeted Shen Miao before leaving elegantly. However as compared to the silhouette before, it seemed to be much more in a rush and panic.
Jing Zhe was all the while been at the side serving tea and when she saw Wan YiNiang's silhouette leaving in a hurry, she said puzzled, "What does Wan YiNiang mean? Come over to express goodwill? And that Third Young Lady had not come out of the courtyard for many years and had not even seen Young Lady for a few times. How would there be any emotions like what was said?"
"Exactly." Gu Yu was clearing the teacup that Wan YiNiang used to drink as she said, "Now thinking about it, this servant also cannot remember how Third Young Lady looks like. In any case, she is also a Young Lady of the residence but to hide for so many years, it was most probably to hide from Second Furen. Really pitiful."
"What pitiful?" Shen Miao picked the tea from the table and took a light sip, "One afraid that in her eyes, you all are even more pitiful."
"Her?" Jing Zhe was puzzled, "Young Lady is speaking about Third Young Lady?"
Shen Miao smiled, "It is I who had made an error of judgement, in our residence there is another intelligent person."
Wan YiNiang's purpose today was clearly to sound out. However with Wan YiNiang kind of person who expose her smarts, she could only think of such a method like this to sound someone out. On the surface she seemed to be itching to announce her regaining Shen Gui's favour but if one carefully think, it was not the case. One would see the head of the legendary dragon but not its tail, that Shen Dong Ling that had not shown her face at all was much more intelligent than Shen Qing.
However... No matter where she stood, Shen Miao would not see her as a friend, not to mention sisters.
"One must be on the guard." She put the teacup in her hands down and reminded the maids by the side.
But at the other end of the words, Wan YiNiang was returning back to her courtyard in a rush and closed the doors. Three steps became two steps as she went forward and faced the silhouette behind the screen, "Ling-er."
The silhouette behind the screen paused and looked towards Wan YiNiang. Wan YiNiang gave a sigh of relief and sat down on the wooden chair and repeated word for word the conversation with Shen Miao. She originally was a lead opera singer and had a good memory so she was able to repeat the two persons' conversation as if it was actually happening in front. After finishing speaking Wan YiNiang then said, "Ling-er, what is Fifth Young Lady's meaning behind those words? My heart trembled as I listened to it, you say... Does the matter with Eldest Young Lady involved Fifth Young Lady?"
"YiNiang have to guard one's tongue." The person behind the screen said, "Eldest Sister's matter had passed and whatever was said outside is as such. One must not mention about the matter again otherwise, it would only harm oneself."
"I just feel that my heart is somewhat unsettled." Wan YiNiang said.
A light sigh came from behind the screen and the person who was sitting down placed the embroidery down from her hands and stood up to walk over to Wan YiNiang's side.
That was also a delicate and pretty young female that as compared to Shen Qing's magnanimous, Shen Yue's gracefulness and Shen Miao's dignified presence, this young female was soft and weak and her facial features followed those of Wan YiNiang's. Her face was oval with large eyes, if her eyes were much more spirited then she most likely would be cursed by others to be a little vixen, but she looked so pale that even her lips looked like there was no blood. Thus the seductive charm was reduced and seemed to be somewhat harmless.
She was wearing a rather old beige yellow coat dress. That coat dress might had belonged to Wan YiNiang and as this young female's figure was not as fully developed as Wan YiNiang, thus when she wore it there were much more empty spaces that it discounted the beauty she had, making her looked somewhat ordinary.
That young female was indeed the Shu daughter of the Shen family's Second household, Shen Dong Ling.
"Now everything is much better than before." Shen Dong Ling comforted, "At least YiNiang and I can go out confidently and do not have to be threaten by Furen."
"This Shen residence is indeed difficult to live in." Wan YiNiang looked at her daughter and her hearted soured, "In the beginning I had a voracious desire for wealth and thought that by entering the Shen residence, one would be able to sleep in comfort without worries in the second half of one's life. Who knew that it would be this difficult in the noble families and even implicated you. For so many years, in order to continue living under Furen's eyes, one had to live like this, moreover the people in the residence are powerful, even that originally wordless and quiet Fifth Young Lady is currently that scary..."
"YiNiang," Shen Dong Ling shook her head, "No matter if Fifth Younger Sister is involved in Eldest Sister's matter, after all the mastermind had helped us. Even if Furen want to turn over her fortune, it would be difficult now. Even though Second Brother is powerful and Furen have the rank and position, but she have no more good prospects and would not be able to beat us."
"This is also true." Wan YiNiang looked at Shen Dong Ling delightedly, "Finally broke clear of all the troubles and hardships. But Ling-er today you let me go ahead to feel Fifth Young Lady out but Fifth Young Lady treated me coldly, one fear that she was unwilling to accept our goodwill. Now what can be done?"
"Not willing to accept then not willing to accept." Shen Dong Ling smiled, "Fifth Younger Sister seemed to be an intelligent person. That being the case, from now onwards it is better not to provoke her. If it is possible, let her deal with Second Older Brother."
"Second Young Master?" Wan YiNiang was surprised for a moment. "Second Young Master already entered officialdom and Fifth Young lady is just a little young female, how could she deal with Second Young Master?"
"YiNiang should relax one's heart." Shen Dong Ling said, "Fifth Younger Sister is not a simple character, she is the sharpest knife in the Shen residence."
*****
The small moves in the Eastern and Western courtyards of the Shen residence were perhaps not known outside. Other than the residence people, most likely in other people's eyes in the Ding capital, the General's residence was harmonious and everyone was benevolent and filial. Before this year it had always been so but unfortunately the world kept changing and at times the seeds were buried too deep, and there would suddenly be a time where sprout would grow.
In the training courtyard outside the Shen residence, Mo Qing was exchanging blows with Shen Qiu's close soldiers. Ah Chi was currently Shen Qiu's subordinate with the best martial arts skill but Mo Qing was able to fight evenly with him. In the beginning when Shen Miao introduce Mo Qing to Shen Qiu, Shen Qiu also wanted to test out Mo Qing's skill and after testing, Mo Qing was indeed quite good.
Naturally Shen Qiu was very happy, there was no weak soldiers under a strong General so the more strong soldiers he had, the more resounding the reputation the Shen family army had. Ever since recruiting Mo Qing, Shen Qiu had been expressively boasting Shen Miao's foresight and occasionally pestered Shen Miao to go the haunts of the common people to 'discover' such talents, but Shen Miao blocked it off with a roll of eyes. In the previous life there was only one commanding guard, with Shen Qiu's logic, was there commanding guards in all the big streets and small alleys?
After Ah Chi and Mo Qing finished a round of hand to hand combat, they were so tired and sweat was dripping down. Ah Chi swallowed a big mouthful of water and said, "It is indeed refreshing to exchange blows with Brother Mo! Brother Mo's entire body of sword skills is indeed superb that make one eyes heat up."
Mo Qing cupped his hands, "Brother Ah Chi has over praised. My sword skills are not considered superb. There are people beyond people and heavens beyond heavens. There are many superior people in this world."
"Could it be that there are people who are of even higher skills than Brother Mo?" Ah Chi smiled, "Then I must widen one's knowledge!"
Mo Qing did not speak as his mind was at the night in Wo Long Temple. He carried Shen Qing and changed the rooms with Shen Miao. It was that night that had changed the fate of two people. That night there was a black clad person that swept into the room from the window and easily took his sword within five moves. Under that person's hands, he was as weak as a child and he heard Shen Miao calling him Little Xie Marquis.
That young male's sword skills had truly reached perfection.
Ah Chi sighed before speaking, "Not sure if one could kill enemies with Brother Mo in the battlefield. Such a happy matter, I actually could not wait for it. Unfortunately the General will be staying in the capital for six more months for the Young Lady. If one were to join hands against the enemies, one must wait for half a year more." He looked at Mo Qing, "Speaking of which our Young Lady has a discerning eye for heroes. To be able to discover a person like Brother Mo, it is indeed rare."
"Young Lady is truly an incredible person." Mo Qing said. After following Shen Miao for a long time, he disdained some of Shen Miao's actions. As a female, Shen Miao was cold and ruthless, without any compassion but one could not hate her as the people she dealt with were those that had set her up to death.
Mo Qing remembered the day when Shen Miao parted the carriage's curtain and asked him with a smile, "Are you willing to sell your entire body filled with martial arts skills to our Shen family of military lineage?"
A true gentleman would sacrifice his life for a friend who understood him and from a certain point of view Shen Miao was Mo Qing's benefactor.
Ah Chi hammered a punch at him, "I know you are picked by Young Lady and naturally find her good. Do guard her well during the Jade Rabbit Festival tomorrow."
"En?" Mo Qing suddenly raise his head and looked upwards.
"Why?" Ah Chi also looked over at his gaze and was unable to make head or tail out of it, "There is nothing."
"Probably I felt incorrectly." Mo Qing shook his head and ignored the strange feeling in his heart.
At the other end of the wall there were two people squatting at the moment, wearing bamboo hat and had their face tightly covered that one was unable to see their appearance in a glance.
One person said, "This Shen residence indeed have talented people. For a guard to have such an ability that almost found both of us."
"Indeed." The other person pressed his voice down to discuss, "There are so many guards outside and with Shen Xin's soldiers watching over, it would be overtly risky to take action from inside and probably would not be easy to succeed. Instead one would inadvertently alert the enemy and if in the future Shen Miao will be protected so well that a single drop would not leak, then it would be even more difficult to take action."
"Above had sent down instructions and it was difficult to have such little news." That person said to the companion, "If one was able to achieve the outcome from questioning her then this trip would not be wasted, and both you and me only need to wait to be promoted. How can one give up halfway?"
"Naturally one cannot give up." The person wearing the bamboo hat smiled, "Did not the two guards just said that during tomorrow Jade Rabbit Festival Shen Miao would be going and during the surge of crowd, it would be easy to do something. At that time a wave of people can be used to draw the Shen family people away and another wave of people can take her away."
"Do it cleanly and neatly." That person's words were filled with thick vicious intentions, "In order to nip the problem in the bud, throw the body into the lake after asking and do not get any other ideas."
"Naturally."
Chapter 93: Missing
During the day of the Jade Rabbit Festival, it was indeed extraordinarily lively.
After Shen Miao had taken her dinner, Bai Lu and Shuang Jiang hurriedly ran over and spoke, "Young Lady, there are people in the city who have lit fireworks. One heard that there would be continuous fireworks that would be lit at night and it will look very good." The anticipation in her words was unable to be concealed.
"What is there to be flustered?" Gu Yu was combing Shen Miao's hair as she scolded, "One will eventually head over and see. There is no need to rush for the moment."
Her voice hardly faded when one could hear Shen Qiu smiling voice coming from the outside, "Is Younger Sister ready? Father and Mother are in the front hall waiting for us."
"Replying Eldest Young Master," Jing Zhe relied outside, "Young Lady's hair is yet to be combed. Kindly wait for a while more."
"How can a little girl's hair take so long to be combed?" Shen Qiu muttered, "Already caught up to the time for a soldier to gear up armour." After saying that he roared towards the house, "Younger Sister, I will head to the front hall to wait for you first, you come over yourself alright?"
Shen Miao complied from the window side. At the same time Gu Yu finished combing her hair and was picking and choosing from the box, and finally she found a jade hairpin and inserted it into Shen Miao's head. Shen Miao took a glance at the bronze mirror and could not help but be startled, "Why this piece?"
"This servant find that this hairpin goes well with the clothes that Young Lady is wearing." Gu Yu smiled, "And this hairpin is delicate but not complicated which match with today's simple spiral coil style."
Shen Miao could not help but reach to the hairpin in her hair. It was the Begonia jade hairpin that Xie Jing Xing gave to her. This hairpin was later thoroughly vetted by Gu Yu and the rest and it was definitely invaluable thus Shen Miao initially wanted to return it to Xie Jing Xing, but later dropped the idea as she thought that perhaps there would be a day where she would be over-extended, and she most likely would be able to use it for exchange of some money to spend. But if Xie Jing Xing was aware of that, one did not know how angry he would become.
"Does Young Lady felt that the hairpin is not good?" Gu Yu looked hesitantly at Shen Miao before saying, "How about changing to another one. Eldest Young Master had sent over a number of jewellery that were bestowed from the Palace, and most likely one would be able to find some good looking hairpins."
"No need." Shen Miao interrupted her, "One fear that by searching for it would only delay more time. Leave it as it is." It is nothing more than a hairpin.
Gu Yu tidied her collar for her again and draped a cloak over before smiling, "Now it is completed."
"Do not forget the little warmer." Jing Zhe handed a hand warmer to her.
When Shen Miao and entourage reached the main hall, all the people of the Shen residence was already present there. Because in previous years the entire Shen residence would travel together to the Jade Rabbit Festival and thought that it would be the same this year.
Chen Rou Qiu and Shen Wan were talking and Shen Yue wore a light pink long dress with twelve plaits, which had many winding patterns. In this kind of cold weather, what she wore was considered very thin inside and on the outside, she wore a pink peach embroidered cloak which was also visually attractive but useless, as it most likely would not be able to even resist the wind but she still had a very satisfied appearance on. When she saw Shen Miao coming, she even smiled as she called her, "Fifth Younger Sister."
Shen Miao nodded her head at her and turned over to see Shen Gui's side. It was as if there were no difference from previous years, even if Ren Wan Yun and Shen Yuan Bo were not present. In those previous years, Ren Wan Yun would bring along Shen Yuan Bo but now Ren Wan Yun was mentally ill due to grieve and could not go out. Shen Yuan Bo was young of age and there are many kidnappers on the streets, thus Old Shen Furen wanted Shen Yuan Bo to accompany her in the residence. Shen Yuan stood beside Shen Gui and behind them Wan YiNiang was holding a young female's hand as that female looked over.
This was the Shu daughter of the Second household, Shen Dong Ling.
Shen Dong Ling was wearing a long apricot coloured lined jacket, most likely because of her so called 'chills'. That lined jacket was massive and thick but it seemed to make her look very thin. In fact if one were to look seriously, her facial features followed those of Wan YiNiang's delicate beauty but one did not know why, her temperament was so plain that she was almost invisible. She did not greeted Shen Miao and just quietly looked, one did not know if she was shy or cold.
Shen Miao retrieved her eyes back but heard Shen Qiu boast loudly, "Younger Sister, now you appear even better looking!"
"Brat." Shen Xin heard it and kicked Shen Qiu, "Since when was your Younger Sister not good looking!"
Luo Xue Yan also smiled as she walked over to Shen Miao's side. She held her hands and said, "Our Jiao Jiao is also a grown Young Lady."
Everyone's gazes in the hall went towards Shen Miao, all with unknown implications. One year ago Shen Miao was still wearing gold and silver and her makeup was whiter than any silly females. But the current her was wearing a dark bluish purple with gold embroideries dress and her cloak was in peony colour. Her hair was styled into a delicate spiral coil to the side, it only had one jade hairpin inserted and no dangling accessories at all, but it still expressed a magnificent and majestic air. Her facial features were clean and clear and that pair of eyes were as clear as a young beast. If she looked more gentle and graceful then she would look childish, but she stood tall and dignified like the clear and bright moon of the Nine Heavens, which made one feel a suppressing feeling.
She had directly competed with the houseful of females and one felt that the room was filled with vulgar powder and rouge.
There was a trace of jealousy in Shen Yue's eyes as she thought that the person who cannot be compared to her the most was Shen Miao, but now unwittingly she had already snatched her limelight. Shen Yue was most confident of the elegance and beauty of her scholarly style but seeing Shen Miao today, a sense of inferiority was borne. She raised her head and looked towards Chen Rou Qiu wishing to see a little look of disdain of Shen Miao, but she saw a trace of heaviness which made her heart cold.
Wan YiNiang sighed and her hands that were holding onto Shen Dong Ling unconsciously tightened. She did not thought about any other matters and only felt that Shen Miao was worthy of being a Di daughter. The bearing of a Di daughter was really different and no matter how exceptionally intelligent her daughter was, since previously she was kept in the courtyard for so many years, in terms of the air of nobility she was incomparable to Shen Miao at all.
There was however not much reaction from the males in the room. Other than Shen Xin and Shen Qiu, Shen Gui and Shen Wan at the most frowned, and as for Shen Yuan he kept staring at Shen Miao but no one knew what was he thinking about.
Chen Ruo Qiu changed the subject seamlessly, "Since everyone is present, let us start to head out."
Old Shen Furen was old and naturally was unable to appear in such an occasion. In the Shen residence, other than Old Shen Furen, Shen Yuan Bo and Ren Wan Yun were left behind, all the concubines of the Second household also remained. The rest of them started heading to the streets to mingle in the Jade Rabbit Festival. If it were like in previous years, naturally there would be laughter the entire way, but because Shen Miao were in the large fire that burned the ancestral hall this year, Shen Xin and Shen Qiu almost intentionally kept their distance from the rest and only talked to Luo Xue Yan.
The guards of the Shen residence were following at the back. In fact, in order to maintain the safety of the people in the Ding capital and stop kidnappers from abducting others in crowded areas, the city guards would put up patrols at both sides and thus it could be said that it is considered relatively safe.
Shen Xin did not talked to Shen Gui and Shen Wan thus they did not bother to court a rebuff and talked to themselves. Shen Yue previously would walk together with Shen Qing and Shen Miao. Shen Miao would highlight her literary knowledge but now Shen Miao could not bother with her, and Shen Yue was not willing to let Shen Miao steal her limelight so she went to chat with Shen Dong Ling. When Wan YiNiang saw that Shen Yue was willing to get closer, naturally she was happy but one did not know if it was Shen Dong Ling who was being shy, but she was not warm with Shen Yue as Shen Yue was never this open hearted. However Shen Dong Ling had a timid appearance thus after a few moments, Shen Yue also lost interest.
When this entourage of people walked on the streets, the atmosphere became somewhat awkward. They seemed to be at odds as there would always be enjoyment when an entire residence traveled together instead of enjoying the moment just by themselves.
As Shen Miao walked, she was seriously looking at the lanterns and riddles along the streets. Shen Xin and the few did not like to guess the lantern riddles as they were rough people of the military family, how would they be able to set their heart down to guess words from riddles. Using Shen Qiu words, "If Younger Sister like those colourful lanterns, tomorrow Eldest Brother will go to the capital to find a master to make an exact same one. There is no need to spend so much effort."
Shen Qiu would not be able to understand Chen Rou Qiu's and the rest's 'elegance'. After waiting with great difficult for Chen Rou Qiu and the rest to finish guessing the lantern riddles, when they were about to walk forward, suddenly Wan YiNiang said to Shen Gui, "Master, heard that there will be a dance from the Jade Rabbit Fairy on the lake tonight. This year the Jade Rabbit Lantern will be set off on the lake so let us go there to see it."
But Chen Rou Qiu frowned when she heard this and said softly, "That Jade Rabbit Fairy comes from Bao Xiang Lou and we also brought our residence's young ladies along, so one fear that it is somewhat not good." What kind of place Bao Xiang Lou was, it was the biggest money squandering establishment in Ding capital and the young ladies there had warm flesh and fragrance of a beauty. How several men had abandoned their wives and staked a thousand gold to spend a night with the young ladies of Bao Xiang Lou, thus making the main wives felt shameful of. However no matter how much those TaiTai and Furen disdained, they are unable to change that fact that Bao Xiang Lou's young ladies were all talented performers. Thus this year's Jade Rabbit Fairy ended up performed by one of Bao Xiang Lou's young lady.
"Third Furen," Wan YiNiang softly said, "Although that is said, it is after all only a performance. One think that in front of so many people that Jade Rabbit Fairy would not be able to do any inappropriate things and one would only be watching the festive. There is no need to be that serious." Wan YiNiang initially did not want to fight with Chen Rou Qiu but like Ren Wan Yun, she could not stand Chen Rou Qiu's loftiness and ever present scholarly attitude. As compared to Ren Wan Yun, Wan YiNiang hated Chen Rou Qiu more because she was born in the troupe and today when Chen Rou Qiu suppressed that Bao Xiang Lou, she no doubt also looked down on her.
When both of their tit for tat were heard by others, in a moment the atmosphere started to get interesting. Males would not intervene in female's dispute and Shen Dong Ling could only clutch Wan YuNiang's hand and tightly purse her lips without speaking. Shen Yue had the heart to argue for Chen Rou Qiu but found that by doing so she would lose her Di daughter status so at the moment no one spoke.
"Who said that going to Wan Li Lake is to see the Jade Rabbit Fairy." In the silence Shen Miao gently spoke, "It is not every day where one can see tens of thousands of people that will be setting off lanterns. Moreover, the rich and poor are unable to choose their birth and thus there is no need to look down on another because of it. No matter what identity she has, today she is the Jade Rabbit Fairy. A person with a clear heart would not care about these superficial things."
Everyone was first surprised for a moment before Shen Xin threw his head back and laughed, "Jiao Jiao said correctly. The rich and poor are unable to choose their birth and what kind of ability is that to look down on others!"
Luo Xue Yan also smiled. As the soldiers of the army that fight on the battlefields, some came from official's families but even more came from ordinary commoners. Some of them could not even afford rice to eat and some of their families' elderly almost starved to death, thus talking about family background, each had their own hardships. Thus they would never look down on the poor and Shen Miao's words were in line with their minds.
"Younger Sister." Shen Qiu patted Shen Miao's shoulder, "Your tone is one who can bear the entire world in their mind. With this kind of vision, I as your brother am ashamed of being inferior."
She obviously knew that Shen Qiu was teasing the words she used but Shen Miao was despondent. In her previous life she married Fu Xiu Yi and became the Empress and it was because of love, but as an Empress the responsibility that was placed onto her was not one less than anyone. The words of 'motherly model of the world' were to ensure that all the ordinary folks lived in peace and worked happily, and the person occupying that leading position must love one's citizens. This was what Fu Xiu Yi taught her even though Fu Xiu Yi himself was unable to achieve it.
As they echoed one another at one side, Chen Rou Qiu's face was however green and white. Was not Shen Xin praising Shen Miao's frankness indicate her hypocrisy? Shen Wan's expression was also somewhat gloomy, and Shen Yue had long burst into anger but held down the sarcastic words she had for Shen Miao.
Wan YiNiang thought that Shen Miao's words were helping her and the next moment there was a hint of joy on her face. When Shen Dong Ling saw that, she slightly shook her head. Shen Yuan still had a cold smile on his face and Shen Gui was acting ignorant.
"Then let us go to Wan Li Lake." Since Luo Xue Yan was used to being a female General, it was natural of her to give a command. Even if the rest of the Shen family was reluctant, because of the Shen family guards behind, they could only keep up.
Wan Li Lake was located slightly west of the heart of the Ding capital and the entire lake was embedded into the city. When it was spring, it looked like a piece of jade but during winter, when there was some snow descending, the image of the fluttering snow on the lake with boats floating by and one discussing about matter over wine was such an enjoyable thing.
There was also some snow today but under the many lights, those snowflakes had become crystal clear jade flowers that were lit as they fell onto the ground. The willow tree by the lake was covered with little snow crystals making one unsure which was snow and which were the lights.
But before one walked to the side of the Wan Li Lake, one was able to hear the sound of fireworks. Upon raising one's head, one would be able to see in the dark skies large pieces of fireworks that made the people's eyes flower. Below, people's hearts were moved, lovers stood side by side and held hands and if an entire family was out for fun, when they looked up, they were able to see a moment of eternity.
"Young Lady, Young Lady quick look." Jing Zhe said excitedly, "Those are the fireworks by Wan Li Lake. Heard that the fireworks would be lit the entire night tonight!"
"It really looks good." Gu Yu also murmured.
"Ha. The Ding capital is indeed truly flourishing." Shen Qiu said to Luo Xue Yan, "It is more fun than our Northwestern region."
Luo Xue Yan also sighed as she walked.
After walking more, one suddenly saw the crowd run up brainlessly and no one knew what the rush was for. Shen Xin seized a male who was running by his side and asked, "This young brother, what is up in front that is making everyone run up?"
"The Jade Rabbit Fairy has arrived!" That person said, "Everyone is heading to take a look at the Jade Rabbit Fairy!" He took a glance at Shen Xin and suddenly said, "This brother is new around, the Jade Rabbit Fairy this year is performed by Liu Ying of Bao Xiang Lou. It better for this brother to quickly go!" Finishing, he happily ran away.
When Shen Xin turned his head back, Luo Xue Yan said lukewarmly, "Still do not go over and see Young Lady Liu Ying?"
"What words Furen is talking about." Shen Xin wiped the sweat on his forehead, "I do not even see enough of Furen, what kind of person is Young Lady Liu Ying. She is certainly not as beautiful and magnanimous as Furen."
Although it was said as such, they were already here and Luo Xue Yan would not be a wet blanket for everyone so they headed forward. As they waited in the crowded area, suddenly one heard someone shouting, "Young Lady Liu Ying is here! Young Lady Liu Ying is here!"
Shen Miao was small in size and was unable to see what was going on above, so Shen Qiu took her to the stone platform at the side and placed her there while he stood by her side. When Shen Miao raised her head, she was able to see a flower carriage approaching that was surrounded by people.
In the depths of winter this carriage was actually decorated with fresh flowers, showing the attentiveness of the person behind. The flowers were in such beautiful purples and brilliant reds that they did not seemed real, but just at this time one was able to see clearly the person in the flower carriage.
It was a young female who was sitting on the carriage wearing a moon white cotton dress with a velvet cloak. Her hair was styled into a flying immortal bun that made one desire to be one. Her forehead and brows were perfect and her teeth were like weaving shells, and the most moving feature was her pair of narrow eyes, which slightly hooked up at the end, making her look flirtatious without a cause. Cold but attractive, light but heavily smeared, as if with her entrance the wind beside had a trace of a warm scent. This Jade Rabbit Fairy was said an immortal but had the vibe and air of the human world, but to say that in the human world her enchanting coldness was not part of it.
Liu Ying was not considered as extremely beautiful and based on her facial features they were slightly modest as compared to Wan YiNiang, but there was a cold enchanting vibe in her bones which was able to hook the desires of the people. This Jade Rabbit Fairy was an immortal or demon, it was really thought provoking but for the ordinary men, it was a soul hooking death call.
Shen Miao's gaze landed on Liu Ying for a moment but then she turned around to see the surrounding area, wanting to see if that person had come. After looking for a round and not discovering, Shen Qiu saw her actions and spoke curiously, "Younger Sister, what are you looking at?"
"Why is Older Brother not looking at this Young Lady Liu Ying?" Shen Miao directly turned the conversation around.
Even though Shen Qiu was not stupid, he would not think more when he talked to Shen Miao thus when he heard Shen Miao enquiring this, he answered, "I do not like this kind."
Shen Miao raised her brows and said, "Then what does Eldest Brother like?"
Shen Qiu was unable to speak at all.
Shen Miao felt that this distressed look of Shen Qiu was very interesting and wanted to laugh. In the previous life Shen Qiu married that vicious SaoSao and had never met a lady he admired from the beginning to the end. Now reliving a lifetime, she did not know who would be fated to be her SaoSao in this lifetime.
"Let us go." Shen Qiu stretched his hands out to Shen Miao, wanting to bring her down from the stone platform. Just now in order to let Shen Miao see that Young Lay Liu Ying, Shen Qiu brought her here, separating from Shen Xin by ten over Mi (1 Mi = 1 Meter). Now that one had seen the commotion, naturally it would be to return to Shen Xin's side so as to go together to Wan Li Lake to set the lanterns off.
Just as Shen Miao was about to jump down, suddenly she heard a child crying. Shen Qiu also heard it and both of them turned around and saw that in a few Mis away, a three to four year old child had collided with the nearby shop stall. Most probably the child was mischievous and climbed to the tall beams to watch the commotion but at the end slipped and fell. Currently both hands were hugging the beam tightly and the other half was hanging out. If one were to fall down like this, it would definitely be a big problem. The surrounding people had gone to get a ladder but the child was unable to hold on much longer. Seeing his little hands slowly weakening, the child's mother was clutching her face and cried.
"Younger Sister, wait for me here." When Shen Qiu saw this, he quickly instructed Shen Miao, thinking that it was only a few Mis (Mi = Meter) away and he had martial arts so he immediately walked over.
Before one could reach, that child's hands softened and he directly fell off. A burst of shock sounded from the surrounding people, Shen Qiu's feet lightened and kicked the stall at the side and flew over to catch the child, saving his life. The people around erupted in applause and praised his good skills as Shen Qiu returned the child back to the mother. That child's mother kept apologising with tears, making Shen Qiu somewhat embarrassed.
After appeasing this mother and child with great difficulty, Shen Qiu was ready to return to the stone platform to pick Shen Miao. As it was only a few Mis (Mi = Meter) distance, he was shocked when he turned his head around.
The stone platform was empty. There was no one there at all.
Shen Qiu's heart tightened and three steps became two as he vigorously separated the crowd and ran up to the stone platform. There was no one there at all and not even a single trace of anything. Shen Qiu still had a wishful thinking in his heart as he looked around and called out loudly, "Jiao Jiao!" But no one answered him.
He grabbed a person who was not standing far from the stone platform and asked, "Where is the Young Lady standing here just now? Did you see the Young Lady here!"
That person replied impatiently, "What Young Lady? No no!" Finishing he looked at him, "Could it be that your family's Young Lady has being kidnapped? There are many kidnappers in this Jade Rabbit Festivals, if there are no guards, those young ladies who strayed from the family would most likely be kidnapped!"
Shen Qiu's body started to tremble. An eight chi (1 chi = 1 foot) tall big man who did not even blink in front of the enemies in the battlefield, at this moment, suddenly changed colour.
*****
On the street by the Wan Li Lake, in the crowds of people who were rubbing shoulders and following in each other's footsteps, there were two people walking. One was wearing a blue robe and jade headgear and had an impressive appearance while the other one was wearing a romantic purple, with picturesque eyebrows.
Both of them looked good, especially the purple clad youth whose actions had a kind of elegance and nobility. There was a faint smile hanging on his lips which made those females surrounding them to look over from time to time.
"When are you going to stop following me?" Xie Jing Xing asked.
Su Ming Feng shaked his head, looking pleased with himself, "With such a festival, as a good friend, naturally we will travel together. Why are you not happy about it?"
"I still have something on."
"It is better to meet by chance than to intentionally invite each other thus since we have met, then lets travel together. We have not walked together during the Jade Rabbit Festival for a while." Su Ming Feng was dissatisfied, "You are really getting more mysterious now."
Today Su Ming Feng was traveling together with the Su family and by a lucky coincidence met with a lone Xie Jing Xing, so he forcefully pulled Xie Jing Xing along. The Su and Xie families' relations had all the while been good thus Master Su would not say anything about it. At the moment Master Su and the rest were walking in front while Su Ming Feng and Xie Jing Xing walked at the back.
Su Ming Feng asked, "Your Father is not angry that you have come out alone today?"
It was usually an entire family travelling during the Jade Rabbit Festival but there was only Xie Jing Xing alone. One did not need to think to be certain that it was Xie Jing Xing who came out by himself. Most likely Xie Ding had blown up to one's top but there was no way out of it. To have such a son like this, one would feel that one was returning debts from one's past life.
"He has his sons as accompany so I will not join in the fun." Xie Jing Xing casually said, "One is not that free."
Su Ming Feng shook his head, "You are sure free and at ease."
As one was speaking, one saw a group of people walking over in front. Su Ming Feng was surprised for a moment, "Is that not General Shen?"
Xie Jing Xing lifted his eyes and saw that Shen Xin was heading over here in a rush with Shen Qiu and Luo Xue Yan following him closely, and at the back was a group of guards and every one of their expression was very heavy and serious. Su Ming Feng touched his chin and said, "It seemed that the Shen family is in some sort of a trouble, else why would all of them have this kind of expression?"
For the Shen family people to have such expressions in a public area filled with joyous people, it was very abrupt. One did not need to think to be certain that it was not a good matter at all. Master Su also saw them and stopped to chat with them but Xie Jing Xing and Su Ming Feng did not go forward and only stood far away. As they were practitioners of martial arts, they were able to hear the conversation.
Master Su asked, "Where is General Shen going?"
"Ah, casually strolling." Shen Xin said, "It is just that my wife suddenly felt some discomfort and had to go back to the residence. May Master Su stroll happily." Finishing he cupped his hands in greeting and left without turning his head back.
The Shen and Su family did not belong to the same line in the political arena so when Master Su saw that Shen Xin did not want to talk to him, naturally his heart was not at ease but he was too lazy to meddle thus he just walked away. Instead it was Su Ming Feng that said, "General Shen is really that wild, but why does it seemed as though something big had happened? Even if Shen Furen was feeling some discomfort, there was no need to bring so many guards."
Xie Jing Xing's eyes swept across a group of guards and said, "Fifth Shen Young Lady is not there."
"Ah?" Su Ming Feng was surprised for a moment.
"Shen Miao is not there." Xie Jing Xing took a glance at the Shen family entourage. With Shen Miao and the other two households relationship, it was not possible that she would abandon her own mother and enjoy the lanterns with the other two households. Moreover there was no signs of Shen Miao's figure in the entourage and it does not seem possible that Shen Miao did not even left the residence today. With such a big festive day like this, even if Shen Miao was unwilling, Shen Xin would not leave her alone in the residence.
Just at this moment, one suddenly heard a pliable wavy voice, "Shen Older Sister is missing!"
Xie Jing Xing lowered his head. It was not known when did Su Ming Lang slipped away from Master Su and ran over to Su Ming Feng and pulled his own Eldest Brother by the corner of his clothes and said repeatedly, "Just now I secretly ran over to them and heard that those people saying to find Shen Older Sister as soon as possible."
Su Ming Lang, this glutinous rice dumpling seemed to be almost negligible when mixed in the crowd, but he had the guts as he was not afraid of being unable to find the route back after straying from the group.
"They said that perhaps the Shen Older Sister had been taken away by kidnappers." Su Ming Lang continued, "Eldest Brother, let us go and save Shen Older Sister!"
"Missing?" Xie Jing Xing thoughtfully looked at the far away back views of the Shen family people and suddenly said to Su Ming Feng, "This matter must not be made public. I will take my leave first." He looked down at Su Ming Lang again and smiled evilly, "The matter of Shen Miao going missing, if you say it out, I will sell you to the kidnappers."