Chapter 100: Taking Action for Her
Jing Chu Chu and Shen Miao left together but returned alone and it seemed that it did not caught many people's attention. But in the evening, Shen Miao unprecedentedly came over to the side courtyard of Old Furen's and personally talked to Jing Chu Chu.
Coincidently Jing Chu Chu was playing with the jewelleries on the table. Among them there was a jade bracelet that was exceptionally eye-catching as the colour was almost transparent and overall the entire piece of jade was in excellent grade. This piece of jade bracelet would at least required hundreds of Liang to purchase and Jing Chu Chu definitely was unable to afford it, furthermore, yesterday when Shen Miao was in Zhen Bao Ge, among the jewellery that was bought for Jing Chu chu, this jade bracelet was not among them.
Shen Miao stared at that jade bracelet from the moment she entered the room, shocking Jing Chu Chu so much that she quickly kept it in the box. Shen Miao gently smiled, "Biao Older Sister's jade bracelet does not look to be of an ordinary grade."
Jing Chu Chu asked softly, "Does Fifth Younger Sister know about this bracelet?"
"Had seen a similarly imported goods but the colour of it was not as good as yours. Even so, the initial price it was sold was at five hundred Liang so Biao Older Sister's piece, one fear that it would require thousands of Liang of silver before one can purchase it." Shen Miao casually said. Even though this jade bracelet was precious, it was less than two thousand Liang of silver and two thousand Liang of silver can purchase much better jewellery, but in Jing Chu Chu's exposure, even if she were to exaggerate more, Jing Chu Chu would still believe without a doubt.
"But Biao Older Sister, where does this precious jade bracelet come from?" Shen Miao asked, "Previously one did not see you wear it before."
"It... It is given from a friend." Jing Chu Chu softly said.
An understanding appeared in Shen Miao's eyes. Sun Cai Nan's ability to coax females was not only depending on putting on airs and using graceful words and flowery speech, he was also willing to drop money. Else the wife of the wealthy Deputy General, Jing Chu Chu in the past life would not be a red apricot tree that leans over the garden wall (aka having an illicit lover aka cheat). Only the first encounter and he had gifted such a big valuable. For Jing Chu Chu who had never seen the world, it was very difficult not to be tempted.
"It seemed that this friend treat Biao Older Sister very good." Shen Miao said.
Jing Chu Chu face reddened as she looked towards Shen Miao, "What is the matter Fifth Younger Sister here for?"
Shen Miao slowly tidied up her clothes before saying, "Heard that Biao Older Sister was sent back by others?"
"I... I met a good hearted Gentleman." Jing Chu Chu was somewhat shocked, "He has a good heart and I dare not refuse but we have been abiding etiquette and keeping the distance."
"Biao Older Sister need not be nervous." Shen Miao slightly smiled, "Does Biao Older Sister know who is that person?
Jing Chu Chu was surprised for a moment, "Who?"
"It is the only Di son of the Minister of Personnel, Sun Cai Nan." Shen Miao said.
Jing Chu Chu looked at Shen Miao with surprise in her eyes.
Shen Miao sneered in her heart. Sun Tian Zheng was very strict with Sun Cai Nan so even though Sun Cai Nan keep hooking females, he seldom revealed his identity unless it was to bring those young ladies back to the residence as concubines. Towards Jing Chu Chu, most likely he did not reveal his true identity. Jing Chu Chu most likely assumed that Sun Cai Nan was only a wealthy man's son but now that she knew about Sun Cai Nan's real identity, how would Jing Chu Chu, who clambered over the dragon and hanged on to a phoenix, let it go?
"Biao Older Sister should know that the Minister of Personnel is a very high official rank." Shen Miao gently smiled, "Their residence is not inferior in any respect to ours. The most important thing is that Sun Daren have only one Di son, Gentleman Sun. For such an identity, he actually send Biao Older Sister back to the residence, could it be..." Shen Miao lightly and casually sketched it out, "He like Biao Older Sister a little?"
"Fifth Younger Sister must not say nonsense." Jing Chu Chu quickly retorted but her cheeks instantly flushed and her eyes were somewhat erratic. Obviously Shen Miao's words had set off waves in her heart. She softly said, "Gentleman Sun and I are innocent."
"I did not say that there is something between you." Shen Miao smiled, "A fair and graceful lady is desired by gentlemen. Biao Older Sister is beautiful thus it is only natural that Gentleman Sun's heart feel cheerful and committed. But Gentleman Sun is indeed a good person with a magnificent bearing and a wealthy family background. If whoever could be his wife, would be the matriarch of the entire Minister of Personnel's residence since Sun Daren only has this one Di son."
Jing Chu Chu pursed her lips and did not speak. Shen Miao stood up and smiled, "I only came over to casually talk. Biao Older Sister should not take it to heart. In this world, one should probably look at fate. If there is such fate then one cannot say for certain how it would be in the future. At that time Biao Older Sister would definitely stay in the Ding capital for the rest of the life." Finishing speaking she turned around and left.
Jing Chu Chu sat in the room alone and she unconsciously took that smooth jade bracelet from the box out and stroked the lines on top. She did not expect that Sun Cai Nan was the Minister of Personnel's son and as to why he did not disclose his identity, most likely it was like how shows were written, he did not wish that someone would get close to him because of his family background. Did this not mean that Sun Cai Nan was sincere? Else why would he give a bracelet valued thousands of Liang out in the first encounter?
In all fairness, Jing Chu Chu after all came from a small family and even though she was sought after by many gentlemen back in SuZhou, those people spending styles seemed minor compared to Sun Cai Nan. When she saw the Ding capital's bustle, she was even more reluctant to return back to SuZhou, and now Shen Miao's last sentence moved her heart. If she was able to marry to Sun Cai Nan, she would be able to stay in the capital for the rest of her life.
But... What about Old Shen Furen side?
Outside, Shen Miao had stepped out of the courtyard when she encountered Jing Guan Sheng. When Jing Guan Shen saw her, his eyes brightened as he said with a smile, "Biao Younger Sister is here to see Chu Chu?"
Shen Miao nodded her head.
"Now Biao Younger Sister is getting closer with Chu Chu." Jing Guan Shen wanted to come forward, but unfortunately Jing Zhe and Gu Yu stepped up as if they were defending against lechers. Jing Guan Sheng was someone who flaunted himself as a cultured scholar and did not approach closer.
"It is no bother since it is all one family." Shen Miao gently smiled and headed out of the courtyard without looking at Jing Guan Shen at all.
Gu Yu softly asked, "Young Lady is hopping to match make Biao Young Lady with Gentleman Sun?" Shen Miao just now kept talking about Sun Cai Nan's good points, so when the two maids heard that they found it particularly strange and felt that it was very similar to those matchmakers who come to visit.
"Since when have you seen me being so kind?" Shen Miao said without any expression on her face.
"Then why..." Gu Yu was even more puzzled.
"One have to let Biao Older Sister's heart up in a whirl." Shen Miao said with a bland smile, "Old Furen and Biao Older Sister previously had the same goal so both of them were naturally close, but if what they seek is not the same, guess what will happen?"
Jing Zhe suddenly got smart, "Dogfight!" Then she suddenly recovered and panicked, "This servant is not saying that they are dogs. This servant. This servant do not know words..."
"What you said was not wrong." Shen Miao said, "The interpretation of a dogfight is apt. In addition, on these few days, go to Rong Jing Tang and build a relationship with Fu-er."
"Fu-er?" Jing Zhe was slightly surprised.
"Old Furen want to marry her to the stewards' son who is blinded in one eye." Shen Miao said, "Fu-er is very much unwilling to."
"Heavens." Jing Zhe was stunned, "Fu-er had followed Old Furen since young, why..." Even if it was rearing cats or dogs, one would also have some feelings so why would one marry a fine young female to a one-eyed person? Fu-er was efficient in her work and even though she sounded fierce, she was very loyal to Old Shen Furen.
"Old Shen Furen had gotten annual profit from the fields from the steward, so naturally one need to show some appreciation. Since she is not willing to come out with money then she has to come out with people. One can only blame that Fu-er's fate is not good but was born well."
"Then Young Lady plan to help Fu-er?" Gu Yu carefully asked but a strange feeling appeared in her heart. Shen Miao was not very concerned about the people in Rong Jing Tang and was not one who had a Buddha's heart, so it sounds impossible for her to help Fu-er.
"Of course help." Shen Miao said in a calm and composed manner, "Every single mistake Old Furen made is our opportunity."
"Young Lady want to bribe Fu-er?" Jing Zhe asked, "But will Fu-er be willing to be bribed? Fu-er has always been the most loyal to Old Furen."
"If a loyal heart is not reciprocated then the rebound would be even bigger. Only when the dog raised by the side go crazy, then it would be the most painful bite to the owner." Shen Miao lightly said.
*****
For several days, the calm in the Shen residence arrived and Jing Chu Chu no longer swinged by the Western courtyard, but often brought a few guards from the Shen residence out to shop, saying that she wanted to see the bustle in the Ding capital. Naturally no one stopped her and as for the people in the Western courtyard, they could not wait for Jing Chu Chu to go out every day so that the guards at the Western courtyard could also relax a little.
But what Jing Chu Chu was wearing was getting more expensive day by day. Even though Old Shen Furen gave some money to the Jing siblings, she was after all naturally stingy and would not give too much. Jing Chu Chu dressed up so richly that even Shen Yue felt surprised but when she asked, Jing Chu Chu said that it was bought from the money she brought from home. Even Jing Guan Sheng's hands loosened and gave more rewards to the servants in the Shen residence.
Everyone said that it was because the Jing siblings had come to the Ding capital and were exposed to the world, thus they now concealed the habits of a small family and become more like the people in the Ding capital.
The more comfortable the Jing siblings lived, the more there would be someone in the residence that was not very comfortable. In Rong Jing Tang, Old Shen Furen looked at Jing Chu Chu in front and her eyes flashed, "Chu Chu, lately how are you living? Is there anything that you are not used to after arriving here?"
"Replying on Old Furen's fortune, Chu Chu is living very well." Jing Chu Chu said.
"Since you are living very well then why is the medication package not used till now?" Old Shen Furen's pair of triangular eyes were staring straight at Jing Chu Chu, and her voice was very heavy that for those who were timid, would have been frightened to tears with her fierceness.
Jing Chu Chu however lowered her head and her voice did not even change, "Old Furen, Chu Chu cannot even get closer to Biao Older Brother and could not find any opportunity at all."
Old Shen Furen had very early on passed the medication package to Jing Chu Chu so that she could find an opportunity to drug Shen Qiu, but who knew that after so many days the Shen residence was calm and quiet as Jing Chu Chu did not even took action.
"You kept going out and only return to the residence at night. It would be strange if one is able to find an opportunity." Old Shen Furen could not help but sneer, "Chu Chu, are you willing or not? If you are not willing then let the matter be."
"It is not that Chu Chu is not willing." Jing Chu Chu quickly said. These days she had gone out daily to privately meet up with Sun Cai Nan. She pretended not to know Sun Cai Nan's identity and Sun Cai Nan treated her tenderly and gifted her clothes and jewellery. It was because Sun Cai Nan gave her all these things that made Jing Chu Chu's heart hesitate. Compared to Shen Qiu who would be going to the bitter cold Northwestern region the entire year, it was definitely more comfortable to marry to Sun Cai Nan. But whether Sun Cai Nan was willing to marry her was another problem. Jing Chu Chu kept on clinging to her innocence because she knew the male's disease. By letting them see but unable to touch, feel but unable to eat, eat but unable to fill full then one could capture a man's heart. She indeed made Sun Cai Nan so fascinated with her, but Sun Cai Nan was the Minister of Personnel's Di son and she was from a small family so even if Sun Cai Nan likes, Shen Tian Zheng would not agree and she was not willing to be Sun Cai Nan's concubine.
So Jing Chu Chu hesitated. If it was with Shen Qiu, Old Shen Furen could guarantee that she would be Shen Qiu's official wife, but Sun Cai Nan treated her gently and was generous. The human's heart was always greedy and would not be able to settle for less, eating from the bowl but looking at the pot. Jing Chu Chu was unable to make the decision thus she did not drug Shen Qiu.
She had not taken action for so long and Old Shen Furen was already anxious so she called her over to ask about it.
"Since you are willing then why the hesitation?" Old Shen Furen asked.
"Chu Chu... Chu Chu want to ensure that it is fool proof before taking action. Moreover the Western courtyard is guarded very tightly thus it is hard for Chu Chu to find an opportunity. If one were to inadvertently alert them then it would be even harder to take action again."
"Chu Chu, I do like you." Old Shen Furen slowly said, "But if you continue to be like this, I will be disappointed. With your timidity, one fear that it would be difficult to succeed in the future."
Jing Chu Chu lowered her head and agreed.
Old Shen Furen looked at her and seemed to be somewhat loathing and said, "You can go out."
Jing Chu Chu hastened her steps to withdraw.
After Jing Chu Chu had left, with a 'Pa' sound Old Shen Furen had smashed the cup in front of her and said angrily, "That thing cannot be seen in public!"
As Zhang Mama instructed the servant to pick up the broken pieces from the floor, she was comforting softly, "Old Furen need not be anxious, most likely Biao Young Lady is really timid and there would be some qualms for a female to do such a thing."
"How can I not be anxious?" Old Shen Furen was flustered and exasperated, "Yuan-er had already said yesterday that the Eldest one family had been looking at young ladies for Shen Qiu, and if that is really settled then there will not be any possibility to take any action in the future. I initially thought that Jing Chu Chu was ambitious so I lend a helping hand, but who knows that mud could not hold up the wall!"
Zhang Mama helped Old Shen Furen to breath by patting her chest, "Biao Young Lady is young of age. Moreover what Biao Young Lady said has some logic to it. Now Eldest Master's family is up in guards, and if it is not carried out well it will be like beating the grass and alarming the snake. It would be bad to tear all faces."
"Then you say what can be done?" Old Shen Furen said in a bad mood, "Now that it is urgent and that girl is not willing to take action, one cannot just look with wide eyed as Shen Qiu marry a noble young lady right?"
"Old Furen," Zhang Mama deeply pondered, "Biao Young Sister is young and it would be a bit dangerous for her to do it, so why not let us get our people to do it instead?"
"Our people?" Old Shen Furen looked towards her.
"Correct." Zhang Mama said, "Naturally our people would be able take care of things better than Biao Young Lady. At that time even if any matters goes wrong, one can still push Biao Young Lady out and leave a route to retreat. But thinking about it there would not be any problem as these servants are already familiar with this, and one think that it will be as easy as turning a hand."
Old Shen Furen's eyes slightly moved and she was silent for a moment before suddenly speaking, "What you said is also not wrong. Since that girl dare not take action then let other help her. Go and call Fu-er and Xi-er in."
The change in Rong Jing Tang's view was naturally not know to anyone but whether the people who knew would speak about it was another matter. From the surface, everything proceeded in a well-organised manner.
On this day when Shen Miao was returning to the Western courtyard from outside, she encountered Shen Yuan.
Ever since the Jing siblings arrived in Shen residence, no one knew what Shen Yuan was busy with, that one did not see him around much. Upon returning to the Ding capital he left early and returned late in the day, making Shen Gui unhappy as he thought that Shen Yuan was purposely avoiding him because of Ren Wan Yun's matter. He had quarrelled a few times with Shen Yuan and always parted on bad terms. However these quarrels did not affect Shen Yuan as he still did not appear in the residence as before.
At the end they encountered here.
Seeing Shen Miao, Shen Yuan slowed down his steps and said, "Fifth Younger Sister."
"Second Older Brother."
"Heard that lately Fifth Younger Sister is rather close with Biao Younger Brother and Biao Younger Sister." Shen Yuan smiled as he spoke, "Is this coming back from Biao Younger Brother's?" He unexpectedly mentioned about Jing Guan Sheng as if implying that there was something between Shen Miao and Jing Guan Sheng. Bai Lu's and Shuang Jiang's brows furrowed as they found that Shen Yuan's words were not good to listen.
Shen Miao glanced at Shen Yuan and did not answer his words, "It seem like Second Older Brother just returned from Second Shen's. One heard that lately Second Shen's crazy fits has reduced a lot, is it that she would recover soon?" Ren Wan Yun had not appeared for a long time and all big and small matters were handled over to Wan YiNiang to manage. Old Shen Furen, who usually was not satisfied with Wan YiNiang, did not say anything about it so the people of the Shen residence were well aware that it was not possible for Ren Wan Yun to be able to live as grandly as the first half of her life. Moreover, Ren Wan Yun's maiden family was only a wealthy merchant and no matter how much money they had, there was no power and could not help in anything.
Shen Yuan's face paused and sized her up before smiling, "Fifth Younger Sister recently look much better, is it that there are any happy event nearer?"
Because of Shen Xin's and wife's return, Shen Qiu had been daily paying particularly attention to Shen Miao. Now Shen Miao was no longer that slow and prudent young girl and has now superior manners and looked much better in appearance, at least she would not be ignored anywhere she was placed.
"How would I have any happy event? On the contrary with Second Older Brother's busy appearance, perhaps a happy event is nearing." Shen Miao answered.
Hearing that, there was look of what could be considered as happiness that surfaced on Shen Yuan's face. He said, "Oh? It was seen? One often felt that previous days were troubled with bad luck, but lately Second Older Brother is thinking of ways to disperse them. Now that things are getting smooth, most likely one would feel happy." He then looked at Shen Miao meaningfully, "But Fifth Younger Sister need not be unduly humble as I see that Fifth Younger Sister's good news is almost here."
Shen Miao did not speak so Shen Yuan cupped his hands and said, "One still have some matters and will not talk more with Fifth Younger Sister. Will be taking one's leave." Finishing speaking, he strode away.
Bai Lu angrily said, "This Second Young Master is really not polite at all." Those cynical words he used, everyone could hear the hostility Shen Yuan had with Shen Miao.
Shen Miao's brows were tightly knitted as she looked at Shen Yuan's back without speaking.
"Young Lady?" Shuang Jiang asked worriedly.
Shen Miao said, "He is being somewhat strange." Shen Miao was very clear about Shen Yuan and did not underestimate him. He might look indifferent to the matters in the residence but was in fact the most ruthless one. Now Shen Miao could be sure that Shen Qiu's ending in the previous life was definitely related to Shen Yuan.
Even though Shen Yuan did not know that Shen Miao had made inversion plans on some matters but the words just times seemed to have leaked some information that Shen Yuan still had plans behind.
"Why not let Guard Mo to follow Second Young Master?" Shuang Jiang proposed.
"Not needed. Mo Qing does not have that ability." Shen Miao shook her head. There was no need to fear Fu Xiu Yi but one must be careful with the people behind him. She said, "Wait and observe."
Upon returning to the Western courtyard and just as she stepped into the room, one was able to see Gu Yu and Jing Zhe anxiously waiting in the room. Once they saw Shen Miao return, Gu Yu quickly closed the doors and pulled Shen Miao to the couch to sit down before Jing Zhe softly said, "Young Lady, Rong Jing Tang's Fu-er has passed the information over."
"What is it?" Shen Miao asked.
"Old Furen intends to personal take action and arrange it to happen in two days later." Jin Zhe said angrily, "Old Furen is really too bad. Master and Furen had treated her well but she actually scheme against Young Master. And that Biao Young Lady, one can already tell that she is not a good person but did not know that she was that shameless!"
"Alright." Gu Yu interrupted her, "Young Lady, what do we do now?"
"Why is it two days later?" Shen Miao asked.
"There is a family banquet two days later and just nice Second Furen's friends want to come over to pay a visit to Second Furen..." Jing Zhe did not finish speaking but the meaning behind was without a doubt, that Old Shen Furen want to take advantage of the number of people to slander Shen Qiu taking Jing Chu Chu's innocence, and take account for it in front of everyone. How could Shen Qiu decline it?
The exactly same means as in the past life, with the rebirth, Old Shen Furen's tactics were still not at all high.
"So be it. Instruct to Fu-er this." Shen Miao beckoned over and Jing Zhe leaned forward as Shen Miao said a few words by her ears.
"But someone is still required to monitor." Shen Miao said, "This matter cannot go wrong."
"This servant understand." Eagerness flashed in Jing Zhe's eyes, "This servant will definitely do it well."
Shen Miao gently smiled, "This is a good matter, do not let other smash the matter up. There would be retribution when one destroy others marriage." She stretched her hands and reached out for the teacup before lightly tapping it. She looked calm as if she was one who was higher up.
*****
In the night, a few hundred Li (1 Li = 500m) away from the Ding capital in a manor, there sat a person in the main hall.
The people who were standing in the hall were all clad in black and long boots, their uniform appearance along with their imposing manner were shocking. The leader cupped his hands and said, "This subordinate is not good at handling the work. The information was transmitted back. May Master punish."
"Alright." The youth who was sitting at the main hall lazily waved his hands. He was wearing a purple robe with gold thread embroidered patterns of dragons on the ends of the robes. Under the lights, those golden dragons seemed to want to fly off from between the purple clouds. He was playing with a female hairpin and had a handsome and charming face (Translator looks up to the skies and shakes head) that even with a devilish smile on his face, he seemed to be a noble gentleman from a great family who came out to play. But if one were to look carefully, in that pair of peach flower shaped eyes, they were deeply filled with wine but was like ice and snow, without a trace of emotions.
"You all cannot conceal it up." Xie Jing Xing said, "I did not intend to hide it. It is just to strive for more time. Since the information has been transmitted back then time is even tighter now."
"Master." The leader of the black clad people frowned, "The matters of the Ding capital has yet to be managed well and now with the pressing time, what does Master intend to do?"
"Do not leave any potential problems. Firstly." He looked at the side while pondering before casually saying, "Find a time to settle Xie Chang Wu and brother." Xie Chang Wu and Xie Chang Chao still had half of the same blood flowing in them but from how Xie Jing Xing spoke, there was no trace of hesitation, as if he was dealing with a stranger, like a cat or dog in general.
"Master?" The black clad person was surprised for a moment before asking hesitantly, "For so many years... Why Master?"
"Previously was too lazy to manage but now both of them are going beyond their bounds." Xie Jing Xing said, "If they are not wiped out, I will not feel relieved when I go."
"But Marquis Xie had already entered them into officialdom." The black clad person said, "These days the two brothers keep close to Marquis Xie and one had heard that Marquis Xie had already introduced them to his Official colleagues and told them to look after them. It is not difficult to take action but it would alarm others."
"Xie Ding that fool!" Xie Jing Xing's expression got darker and his tone had some fury, "Unable to accomplish anything but more than enough to spoil everything."
His subordinates were not the slightest surprise when he directly called out the Marquis of Lin An's name as if this was a natural matter.
The black clad person lightly coughed and said, "It is because Master delayed into entering officialdom and Marquis Xie fear that there would be no successor so he let both of them hold the position first."
It was not the first or second day of Xie Jing Xing's stubborn and obstreperous temperament so it seemed that Xie Ding was truly helpless with this, else no matter how biased the Marquis of Lin An was he would not have given up on Xie Ding Xing, and let Xie Chang Yu and brother take over his mantle.
"Never mind." Xie Jing Xing knitted his brows, "Postpone the matter on the Marquis of Lin An residence. At the Princess residence side, send people to secretly protect Princess Rong Xin."
"Master." The black clad person hesitated, as if he was determined and said callously, "Since in the future it would be as so, it is better to now draw a line to the relationship with Princess Rong Xin..."
"Since when is it your turn to teach me to do things?" Xie Jing Xing lightly swept his eyes towards him and he immediately remained silent and felt a chill covering his entire back. In the next moment, a voice above his head sounded, "The things I do is my business and it is her business if she appreciate it. I have already done the utmost duty."
The words contained a faint indifference and ruthlessness, coupled with his handsome face, it made one shudder in fear.
He stood up and the edge of his robes were slightly wavering and in the movement of gold light he said, "Do as planned."
"When in the Ding capital striving for time, one heard that Shen Yuan had already collected almost all of the evidence." The black clad person spoke, "One fear that once the year reopen, Shen Yuan would be able to completely consolidate the evidence and at that time the Shen family will become the first one to suffer."
"Very good." Xie Jing Xing shrugged his shoulders, "If Shen Yuan have any difficulties, help him secretly."
"But Shen Yuan is Prince Ding's people." The black clad person reminded.
"I certainly know that he is Prince Ding's people." Xie Jing Xing waved his hands, "I only let the Shen family help us do some blocking."
Chapter 101: Drunk
The Shen family banquet was held two days later.
The banquet was suggested by Old Shen Furen herself, the previous annual family banquets were always single-handedly arranged by Ren Wan Yun, but this year it was handled by Chen Rou Qiu. Now that the management power of the Shen family landed onto Chen Rou Qiu's hands, Old Shen Furen naturally felt that this was giving Chen Rou Qiu a big face but did not know that behind the glorious appearance, it made one miserable.
In Qiu Shui Yuan, Chen Rou Qiu was sitting in front of a table holding an accounting book in one hand and the other hand was awkwardly calculating on the abacus. The two maids standing behind spoke out, "Furen, you have been calculating for an entire afternoon, it is better to take a break."
"The money just cannot seem to tally." Chen Rou Qiu shook her head in distress, "Tomorrow's entire account to Liang has to come out from my own pocket." As she spoke, a trace of anger appeared on her face.
Chen Rou Qiu had flaunted herself as a noble female from a scholarly family, and thus was proud and aloof and could not bear the smell of money. In the beginning when Old Shen Furen handled the household power to Ren Wan Yun, it was not that she was not jealous inside but she could not bring her face down to fight, thus at the end there was a knot of it in her heart. After so many years of troubles, she became the matriarch of the Shen family but it was only now she found out that this management power was not easy to grasp.
Ren Wan Yun was from a wealthy merchant family and normally when Old Shen Furen wanted to spend more money, Ren Wan Yun could subtract it from her own dowry since she did not lack money. But the Chen family were only civil officials, if one were to speak positively, it was that breeze flowed into their sleeves (aka unsoiled by corrupt practices) but if one were to speak negatively, it was that they were poor, thus how could they be able to fork out more money to make up for it. Chen Rou Qiu thought that by taking over the management power, she would be able to divert money to subsidize her family expenses. But now looking at the situation, Ren Wan Yun had been fishing a lot for so many years that the money in the accounting books did not tally at all. Now that the family banquet was approaching, there was not enough silver.
It was still alright previously as Shen Xin would receive a generous reward from the Palace every year. But now that Shen Xin and the Shen family relationship was in a deadlock, there was no opportunity for the public funds to subsidise, thus Chen Rou Qiu felt some headache.
"Obviously knowing that there was not enough money in the public fund, Old Furen still want to hold the family banquet at this time. This is bullying Furen." Chen Rou Qiu's maid felt indignant for her.
"Eldest Master also intend to do nothing to save one from ruin. Since Furen's money is not enough, why not ask Master for some?" Hua Yi also said.
"What nonsense are you saying." Chen Rou Qiu said, "Master's salary is not enough to bribe in the official circles, how can one ask him to fork out money?" She continued, "Let me think of what to do." Shen Wan set his heart to climb up in his official career but Shen Gui was different. Shen Gui bit off more than one could chew and he did not have any ability thus could only fawn and curry favour to keep up appearances. Shen Wan was climbing up a step at a time and even though his steps were slower, he was much more practical than Shen Gui.
Chen Rou Qiu always knew that because she was unable to give birth to a son, the only thing she could rely in the Second household was Shen Wan's love for her. Thus in order to control Shen Wan, she was gentle and soft but if she was unable to resolve the small amount of money in the household then would it not be troublesome for Shen Wan? With Shen Wan's qualification, there were lots of female who were willing to enter the Second household so why would she put herself at a disadvantage.
"Moreover, this little money will not be spent in vain." Chen Rou Qiu's eyes flashed, "If there are profits to be harvested than it is worth to spend."
"Furen's intention is..."
Chen Rou Qiu smiled, "It is strange that Old TaiTai did not hold the family banquet earlier or later but at this time. Moreover, I had heard that in previous days that SuZhou Biao Young Lady likes to head to the Western courtyard..." Chen Rou Qiu's eyes showed a trace of disgust as she spoke, "Old TaiTai's action are really low level but... It is suitable. I also do not like Shen Qiu."
Chen Rou Qiu did not like Shen Yuan and similarly did not like Shen Qiu. If one were to say that she was a bit fearful of Shen Yuan but about Shen Qiu, she really looked down upon him. She herself could not give birth to a son so she could not see other people's son being outstanding. Towards Shen Qiu, Chen Rou Qiu only felt that he was a coarse person who only know about swords and knives, for what reason he could gain so much praises from so many people. People would want to destroy things that they were unable to gain, and she dare not take action on Shen Yuan as he had deep thoughts but Shen Qiu was straightforward and honest. Moreover he had not grown up in the inner courtyard so he was much easier to deal with. The most important thing was that she did not even need to do it herself, as this time the person who took action was Old Shen Furen and she only need to sit back and watch the show.
"I will go back and write a few more invitations." Chen Rou Qiu said, "Go and find people to send the invitations to the various Furens' residences." It would be even better when more people come to watch.
*****
Two days later at the Shen residence's family banquet.
Ever since Ren Wan Yun went crazy, those noble Furens had broken the exchanges with her. After all it was not a glorious thing for one to have a young lady who got pregnant before marriage. Even though one did not know what happened to Ren Wan Yun, when the tree topples the monkeys scatters so no one asked about Ren Wan Yun.
And those Furens that originally had a good relationship with Ren Wan Yun gradually got closer with Chen Rou Qiu. Even though one could not keep dealing with Ren Wan Yun but the relationship with the Shen residence still had to be maintained. There was not only one Furen in the Shen residence, but as compared to the rough and always not in the Ding capital Luo Xue Yan, Chen Rou Qiu who was from a scholarly family and was much better to fawn over.
Yi Furen and Jiang Furen had long came over and Jiang Xiao Xuan and Yi Pei Lan pulled Shen Yue to speak, "One can only go back to Guang Wen Tang after the end of the year. It is really boring to be lock in the residence."
They had totally forgotten about the death of Shen Qing as they chatted, and also forgotten that just not long ago they were good friends of Shen Qing. The friendship between the Ding capital noble females were that thin, as friendship could not be compared against benefits. Getting along with another was not just because of a person but the forces present behind the person.
Shen Yue also smiled at their response, as if the few of them had an understanding with the rest to invariably forget about Shen Qing's matter. It was Bai Wei who looked at a distant figure and said, "Oh? Who is that? Is that the Biao Young Lady that you all were talking about?"
She pointed with her chin to the young female standing not far away, who was wearing a simple apricot coloured dress talking to a servant by her side.
"That is Third Younger Sister, Shen Dong Ling." Shen Yue said with a smile, "She is born from a YiNiang and previously was sick so she did not come out. It is natural for you all not to see her before." She deliberately focused on the word 'YiNiang'.
Hearing this, Jiang Xiao Xuan's and the rest's eyes suddenly filled with disdain. Yi Pei Lan said, "What sickness?, she still... She still came out. Those who are raised by a YiNiang all have hidden intentions. You must not be swindled by her."
Shen Yue smiled, "Third Younger Sister does not really come out of the courtyard. Look at that, that is my Biao Older Sister."
As Shen Yue was speaking, she saw Jing Chu Chu walking over. Most likely she did not see Shen Yue and the three of them so she did not come to greet. It was Bai Wei's sharp eyes that asked in puzzlement, "Did not you mention that your that Biao Older Sister is from SuZhou? Why do I just see that her clothes and jewellery seemed to be very expensive? Look at the bracelet she is wearing, it is better than the one you are wearing."
Bai Wen said it unintentionally but Shen Yue's face paled and she barely forced a smile, "I also do not know. Most probably it was gifted by ZhuMu."
"What is there to see." Jiang Xiao Xuan said, "Could it be that someone from SuZhou can be better compared to us, young ladies in the Ding capital? Jewellry and clothes are just a pretense but exposure and temperament are not. You see that delicate and timid look, how can this be shown in public?"
Shen Yue shook her head, "You should not say that of Biao Older Sister."
"You are just too kind." Yi Pei Lan felt resentful of iron not becoming steel, "You get close with everyone. Even that idiot from your residence that you also defended previously. Now people has grown up and do not place any importance to you. Speaking of which, why have one not seen that idiot?"
The 'idiot' she was speaking about was naturally Shen Miao. After she had the dispute with Shen Miao in Guang Wen Tang, Yi Pei Lan has viewed Shen Miao as her number one enemy and could not wait to step on her.
And the Shen Miao she was speaking about was at the moment in a room in the Western courtyard, drinking tea with Shen Qiu.
"What is with ZhuMu?" Shen Qiu frowned as he spoke, "Why invite so many female guests over? No matter where one walk, there is so much twittering. So noisy."
"Most likely one had invited all Third Shen's friends over." Shen Miao poured some tea for Shen Qiu, "Perhaps they are here to admire your Deputy General's elegant bearing."
"Younger Sister, spare me." Shen Qiu waved his hands, "One is already tough to deal with, much less so many females. Even the battlefield is not this terrible."
Shen Miao felt somewhat amused. The appearance of Shen Qiu seeing females like a fierce beast and severe floods was really funny but thinking about it, it was expected. Most females around Shen Qiu had ulterior motives and the Shen residence's females were all not easy to deal with thus with his straightforward attitude, it was like a nest of demons.
"How could it be that difficult?" Shen Miao tried to appease him, "In the future once you meet a young lady of your liking, you will not think that anymore."
Shen Qiu did not speak and stared at her like he had seen a ghost. After a moment he then shook his head and said, "Younger Sister, the words you just said and that expression really look like Mother."
Shen Miao, "..." Thinking about that, she felt that she really treated Shen Qiu like he was Fe Ming.
Just as she was about to speak, suddenly there was some noise outside. She and Shen Qiu exchanged a look and both of them walked out and saw someone shouting at the courtyard door, "What is with you all? I am here to see Shen Miao, let me in!"
Shen Miao was startled, "Feng An Ning?"
When that person heard Shen Miao's voice, she waved her hands even though she was blocked by the guards, "It is me Shen Miao, quickly ask them to let go of me!"
"Let her go." Shen Miao said, "She is the Young Lady of the Feng family."
After Feng An Ning was released by the two guards, she then patted the dust on her clothes bad temperedly and said angrily, "What is the matter with you? Why is there so many guards in your own courtyard? I thought that you were in trouble and when coming in I was stopped by the people outside. Shen Miao, are you crazy?"
It was probably the first time Feng An Ning was stopped by someone and her bossy young lady attitude came out and she lashed out at Shen Miao. But coincidently she stepped onto Shen Qiu's foot. Shen Qiu stood forward and said in a cold voice, "Who are you? To shout that loud in someone else's house, do you know what is etiquette!"
Shen Miao, "..." For Shen Qiu to say one did not know any etiquette, it was really thought provoking.
After being lectured, Feng An Ning wanted to refute when she looked up, but after seeing Shen Qiu she could not help but be slightly surprised for a moment. Shen Qiu had a handsome appearance and was different from the weak and delicate gentlemen of the Ding capital. Normally he had a smile on which made him look innocent but when his face was cold, he became the reputed Deputy General of the battlefield and had some predatory air.
Feng An Ning immediately curbed her arrogance and softly asked, "Who are you?"
"This is my Eldest Brother." Shen Miao said.
Shen Qiu has a little reputation in the Ding capital. Southern Xie, Northern Xin. One would often compare the Little Marquis of the Xie family and the Deputy General of the Shen family, but it was a pity that Xie Jing Xing was not willing to enter officialdom else both of them would be the most outstanding Generals of this generation.
"What are you here for?" Seeing that Feng An Ning was somewhat embarrassed, Shen Miao asked.
Once Feng An Ning heard this she complained, "I come to look for you to chat. You also know after those people from Guang Wen Tang knew that my relationship with you is not bad, they also excluded me. Who cares about that. So I came over to look for you."
After Shen Qiu heard this, his facial expression became a little at ease. She knew that Shen Miao was somewhat snubbed but unfortunately because he was not around most of the year, he could not always protect Shen Miao. Seeing that Shen Miao had a friend, even though she had an arrogant temperament and did not know about etiquette but... One made do with it.
Of course he and Feng An Ning also did not know that the 'not bad relationship' was something that Feng An Ning felt herself, as Shen Miao really did not have the heart to make friends with others.
"Since your friend came over, then you all should chat." Shen Qiu softly coughed, "I will go out and speak to Father about some things."
Shen Miao complied and after Shen Qiu walked away Feng An Ning then softly said, "Why is your Eldest so fierce and vicious? I was scared to death just now."
Fierce and vicious... Shen Miao was too lazy to explain so she said, "Yes, he kills people like cutting beancurd."
Feng An Ning quickly patted her chest and said, "Fortunately I admitted my fault early and next time I would not dare to just rush in anymore."
Without realizing, it was time for the Shen family banquet to start.
Male and female guests were seated separately. The females were all sitting at the hall of Rong Jing Tang while the male guests were under the care of Shen Gui and Shen Wan. Since Shen Xin did not have much interest in the family banquet, he did not care to go around fawning in the official circles, so he just sat down to drink.
There were not many guests that came over and most of them were civil officials who had good relationship with Shen Gui and Shen Wan, and thus did not have anything to talk with Shen Xin. Thus when one looked over at the bustling table, it seemed like Shen Xin and Shen Qiu were deliberately neglected. Shen Qiu was not in the slightest unhappy as he was happy eating the food by himself. But it was Shen Yuan who portrayed a shadow of Shen Gui, with his smooth and slick appearance that made Shen Qiu somewhat lose his appetite.
At the other side on the female guests, the ones who were naturally neglected were Lou Xue Yan and Shen Miao. Since they were Chen Rou Qiu's friends, naturally they would give her face. Even though they could not ridicule Shen Miao in front of Luo Xue Yan, they could treat her coldly. Those young ladies and Furens keep talking to Chen Rou Qiu and Shen Yue, and even pretended to care about Jing Chu Chu and Shen Dong Ling and talked a few words with them. Only Shen Miao was purposely ignored.
Lou Xue Yan was somewhat angry and if it was the past Shen Miao, she would be acting out rashly. But now it was different and even if those Furen and young ladies were talking with excitement, Shen Miao would reservedly take her meal. Each move of hers had a type of majesty and grandeur, that made others have an illusion that it was not that others were deliberately neglecting her, but that Shen Miao herself disdained from talking to those people.
As if a punch had landed on soft cotton and after many times, everyone's interest started to die down.
Yi Furen smiled and said, "It is always said that SuZhou is a place endowed with talents and previously I did not believe it but after seeing this Biao Young Lady from Old Furen's family, one believe that those words were not false. Our capital would not be able to raise such a full of life young lady."
During the banquet Old Shen Furen had shown high importance towards Jing Chu Chu and even though the Furens present did not know the reason why, they were not fools. Since Old Furen wanted to enliven Jing Chu Chu up then there was no harm in saying that she was beautiful.
Jing Chu Chu was so shy that her face flushed and she lowered her head and dare not say anything. Old Shen Furen laughed, "Yi Furen words, this old person cannot agree. Yi Young Lady is also full of life that when I see I also like."
Yi Pei Lan smiled and thanked Old Shen Furen's praise. She became more curious about Jing Chu Chu and softly asked Shen Yue, "Old Furen look like she really like your Biao Older Sister."
Shen Yue vaguely agreed and her heart was somewhat doubtful.
Even though Shen Dong Ling sat at the corner of the banquet, Wan YiNiang did not have the opportunity to be present at this kind of situation. Since she did not have her birth mother to help or Old Shen Furen to lift up, she was a nobody. Even it was such, Shen Dong Ling did not reveal a hint of unwillingness and just ate from her bowl, and behave properly like what an unfavoured Shu daughter should be.
Old Shen Furen at one end instructed Jing Chu Chu to eat more, and at the other hand talked to others about Jing Chu Chu good points. She practically made a pretty daughter from a humble family into one that was from heavens.
Until a servant came over to pour tea and accidently spilt tea over Jing Chu Chu then she stopped. Old Shen Furen scolded the careless servant, "How do you do thing? What if Biao Young Lady is scalded?"
"It is alright." Jing Chu Chu smiled, "The tea is not hot so I am fine."
"Are the clothes wet?" Old Shen Furen saw that the front of Jing Chu Chu's clothes had a large patch of water and caringly said, "It is a cold day and one cannot wear such wet clothes. Xi-er bring Biao Young Lady down to change into a set of clean clothes." She then also said to Jing Chu Chu, "One must not catch a cold."
Jing Chu Chu lowered her head and looked at her old clothes. No matter how thin winter clothes were they would still be heavy, thus when tea was soaked into the cotton, it would not be comfortable if one were to continue wearing them. Thus at the moment she did not decline and agreed with Old Shen Furen as her face redden, and said her greetings to the female guests before following the maids to leave.
Jiang Furen said, "Jing family's Young lady is really fortunate to have Old Furen to value this much."
"How is it her fortune." The smile on Old Shen Furen face was wrinkled together, "It is this old person's fortune. This girl is well-behaved and sensible, thus this one like."
Hearing this, everyone started up flattering. Chen Rou Qiu glanced at Old Shen Furen and her gaze unconsciously went towards Shen Miao. Most likely she had felt her eyes, so Shen Miao also looked towards Chen Rou Qiu with some slightly puzzled intention.
Chen Rou Qiu smiled and lowered her head and a trace of pleased filled her heart. But she did not see that when she was lowering her head, the doubts on Shen Miao's eyes disappeared and was replaced with a light smile. If one were to seriously look, that smile contained some kind of inexplicable excitement.
It was Shen Dong Ling who looked at Shen Miao without a trace before quickly lowering her head to eat the things from her bowl.
At the male side of the banquet it was not as meticulous as the female side, but it was like in the official circles and was filled with wine. Even though Shen Xin and Shen Qiu were left out, there were several colleagues who came over to toast and after a few cups, Shen Qiu's head was a little dizzy and heavy.
"Brat. Only drink a few cups and you got drunk. Did you not eat?" Shen Xin said angrily.
Shen Qiu rubbed his brows and shook his head, "One do not know." As a man who grew up in the barracks, this little bit of wine was nothing. One need to know that normally in the army, one would drink by the jars and thus would look down on the wine in the Ding capital as it was not strong enough. Who knew that today one would be hit on the face.
"Really taught you for nothing after so many years." Shen Xin said exasperated that he did not live up to expectations.
"Eldest BoFu must not be angry." It was Jing Guan Shen who smiled as he explained, "It is not that Biao Older Brother does not have the volume for alcohol, but it is that he had drank Fu Tou Wine and Yin Guang Wine together." He pointed to the wine cups in front of Shen Qiu. Indeed the wine in the cup was not as red as Fu Tou Wine and was not as silver as Yin Guang Wine but was like a kind of mixed version. Jing Guan Sheng continued explaining, "There are people here who are drinking Yin Guang Wine and some who are drinking Fu Tou Wine. Biao Older Brother most likely did not pay attention and poured it together. Others would have collapsed after drinking half a cup of Yin Guang Wine and Fu Tou Wine but Biao Older Brother is still awake. It is already not an easy feat."
"Hahaha." A Daren heard this and laughed, "The heir's alcohol volume is already not bad, General Shen must not blame him."
Shen Yuan swept a look at Shen Qiu and said, "Eldest Brother cannot continue to drink like this. It is better to go to a room and rest."
Shen Qiu waved his head and mumbled something with his mouth. It seemed that he was quite drunk.
"Let me send Biao Older Brother back." Jing Guan Shen said with a smile.
Even though because of the Shen Miao matter, Shen Xin was quite critical of Jing Guan Shen but one would not raise one's eyes to beat up a smiling person, and ever since more guards were placed at the courtyard doors, Jing Guan Sheng behaved better. Shen Xin looked at him, "That being the case then one would trouble you and Ah Chi to help him back."
Just as Jing Guan Sheng was about to get up, one saw Shen Qiu grab onto Shen Yuan shooking his head, "Ah Chi, you bring me."
Shen Yuan was startled as Shen Xin frowned, "This kid has treated you as Ah Chi." He then spoke to Shen Qiu, "You brat, quickly release your Second Younger Brother."
Shen Qiu did not move. Shen Yuan's gaze slightly moved and said, "Biao Younger Brother and me are the same, since it is as such, I will send Eldest Brother back to a room." He supported Shen Yuan and headed out without waiting for Shen Xin to refuse.
Just as Shen Xin was about to speak, Shen Wan came over with wine, "Eldest Brother, I offer you a cup!"
*****
After the little waves in the banquet, no one put it in mind as there were many people who entered and exit. But when the banquet ended, the Furens were talking leisurely about the courtyard, Bai Furen suddenly seemed to remember, "Why has Jing Young Lady not returned yet?"
After Jing Chu Chu's clothes were dirtied by the maid, she went back to change her clothes. But after that she did not make another appearance. Old She Furen was surprised for a moment and asked Xi-er who was standing beside, "Go and find someone to ask why is Biao Young Lady not back yet."
"Perhaps one is a little drunk." Shen Yue smiled, "Just then she had drank a lot of honey wine and even though it is sweet, the alcohol content is rather high. Biao Older Sister loves sweet things and one forgot to hold her back. Most likely she was a little drunk and is resting in the room."
Xi-er complied and went out.
Feng An Ning pursed her lips and slightly pushed Shen Miao, "Initially one though that since there are more daughters in your residence, it would be very lively during the family banquet so I insisted on following my mother. Now it seem that it is very boring." Feng An Ning was the bright pearl in the Feng's residence palm and did not have that many sisters, but Shen Miao had so many sisters but was not close to them. She was even deliberately neglected thus in Feng An Ning's eyes, it was very boring.
"So it is the case." Shen Miao answered.
Feng An Ning looked around, "I want to go to the toilet and will come over later. Wait for me."
Feng An Ning followed the servant and walked away when Xi-er also returned back to Old Shen Furen's side before shaking her head, "Old Furen, Biao Young Lady is not in the resting room."
"Not in the resting room?" Old Shen Furen voice was rather high and the Furens' gazes turned over to look. Old Shen Furen quickly tapered her voice down, "Then where is she?"
Xi-er shook her head, "The servants also do not know."
"This girl." Old Shen Furen was somewhat anxious, "Could it be that something happened?"
When her appearance landed into the sharp eyes of the noble Furens, naturally it was cause for reckon.
"Old Furen?" Just at the right time Chen Rou Qiu walked over and asked about what had happened before smiling, "Old Furen need not be worried. I just came over from Master and think that Chu Chu is drunk. Speaking of which it is also coincidental that Qiu-er that child is also drunk, and was sent back to a room to rest. The alcohol in our family banquet is quite strong so perhaps Chu Chu is resting in another room."
She had deliberately pointed out that 'Shen Qiu was also drunk' and Shen Miao's eyes suddenly sharpened.
Old Shen Furen shook her head and said, "Go and get a few people to search for Chu Chu since it is just in the residence. It would not be good if one were to catch a cold." She looked towards other, "Speaking of which, this old one lately acquired from Zhang Qiao Xian a piece of a golden Buddha drawing that has embroidery on both sides. It is currently hung in the main hall of this one's, if anyone want to see, this old one is willing to take all of you to take a look."
Zhang Qiao Xian was the Ming Qi master embroidered, and one piece of embroidery could fetch a high value in the marketplace. Hearing that Old Shen Furen had a piece, everyone wanted to take a look to widen their horizons. Shen Miao's lips hooked up. That double sided embroidery was bestowed from the Palace and was given to Old Shen Furen by Shen Xin a few years ago, but this stingy person did not let others see. Now with this appearance, to be willing to bleed this much, there must be for another thing.
Could it be... Really as Old Shen Furen wished?
Furens and Young Ladies were indeed very willing to follow Old Shen Furen to look at that embroidered picture. The main hall of Rong Jing Tang was like a tea room for guests to relax at, but usually there were few people who would go there as Old Shen Furen had few guests, thus the tea room was empty most of the time.
However when one reached the doors, one saw that the doors were somewhat strange.
Some noise sounded from the closed room and one could not hear what it was for the time being, as if something in the room was knocked over.
Everyone abruptly stopped.
"Who is inside? Where are the guards?" Old Shen Furen questioned.
"Replying Old Furen, just now they were still here. Most likely there are no one in the tea room." Xi-er said unconvincingly.
"Really raise a group of idlers! Cannot even guard a door properly." Old Shen Furen was somewhat angry, "Open up the doors!"