Chapter 136: Marriage
That was an extremely terrifying dreamscape that made all struggles fruitless. One clearly knew that the outcome was brutal but was unable to stop anything from happening, and can only watch as everything irretrievably went to a route of no return.
She was a murderer.
A rumbling of thunder was heard. It was the beginning of winter and it was strange that there was such a lightning. Shen Miao sat up still asleep and kept panting and gasping.
Her hand involuntary grabbed onto something and felt that someone was lightly patting her back. The strength in that hand was very gentle, as if it had reassuring strength. She just leaned onto the other person's embrace and held her own neck, feeling an entire head of sweat as if she could almost not breath.
That person also had a good temperament and let her curl her own body up, before pausing and reaching out to place one's hand behind Shen Miao's head and pressed her into his embrace. Shen Miao entire body was trembling badly and she bit his shoulder. His body stiffened but did not move and only patted Shen Miao's head.
One did not know how long has passed but the thunder gradually became softer, and only the pitter pattering rhythm of the rain could be heard from outside the room. Shen Miao's heart gradually calmed down and her mouth relaxed but the tip of her nose touched something cold, a golden button.
She was in an very intimate position with the other person.
She slowly got up from that person's embrace.
After a moment when the latter got up, the room was lit and someone held up a lamp to the stool in front of the bed, and sat down at the side of it. The brows were dark and handsome and was as always elegant and noble looking. Other than Xie Jing Xing, who could it be? Under the lamp, his gaze was less cynical than usual, a few parts consoling and a faint concern.
Shen Miao's heart shrank.
She was so absorbed in the horrible nightmare that she could not wake up till now. That dream was not just a dream but was as if it had really happened. She was scared of the terrible truth and in a moment of gaffe, when she felt something warm, she grabbed onto it and refused to let go like a drowning man grasping onto a life-saving straw. But she had forgotten that in this late of a night, the person who normally came was someone who was difficult to deal with.
The secret that she had kept locked up seemed to have a crack at this moment, and she was facing the most astute of hunters. Xie Jing Xing's acumen was like a torch that with only a few words, one fear that he could guess something out.
"What did you dream of?" Xie Jing Xing cut out the excess wick in the oil lamp. Even such a simple action, when done by him, it had become the most perfect silhouette, making one's heart warm and pleased.
"Only a nightmare." Shen Miao's eyes hung down as she spoke. However her voice was still unnatural.
Xie Jing Xing paused and turned his head towards her, "There are also times when you are afraid."
Some anger suddenly boiled in Shen Miao's heart, "I am not Your Highness Prince Rui. Living in the world is originally hard work, naturally there is time when one is afraid."
Shen Miao looked at him. His eyes looked very beautiful and were shaped with the best looking peach blossom eyes. On normal days they were a few parts coquettish and a few parts serious, that made one unable to tell if he was sincere or fake, but also could make a female drown in these moving eyes. But now he was facing Shen Miao, that pair of eyes were like an autumn lake, as deep as dark jade, making it difficult for one to detect any emotions. He said, "No need to be afraid, it is only a dream."
Shen Miao's nose became sour and an unparalleled sadness suddenly burst out from her heart. After her rebirth, she had controlled her emotions very well and was only unable to hide one's love and hate but after a brief eruption, she would cleaned up quickly. However she was unable to deal with this dream today. Perhaps it was because the rain was too cold tonight, or perhaps Xie Jing Xing's gaze was too gentle that made her cold heart suddenly become fragile. She really wanted to look for a place to cry out loud.
She felt the scene in front of her blurred, as if there was something on her face. When she looked up, she saw Xie Jing Xing holding a handkerchief, wiping her tears away.
She actually cried out.
That youth's fingers were slender as he slightly looked down, and his hand movements were very gentle. His gaze was very serious as if she was doing the most meticulous matter in the world. The long eyelashes were hanging down and that usual indifferent and naughty face was faded, but what appeared was the most gentle of companionship. Just like an older brother yet like a friend.
Shen Miao was somewhat dispirited. When Xie Jing Xing wiped her clean, he looked at her gaze and raised an eyebrow, "Not crying?"
Shen Miao avoided his gaze, "Many thanks." The thanks this time was finally no longer filled with ridicule like previous, and it was the first time she had this kind of modest appearance.
Xie Jing Xing was also somewhat surprised as he looked at her, and suddenly his lips hooked up as he stroked her head, "What did you see to keep calling out Shen Furen? What did you do wrong?"
Shen Miao was secretly surprised and looked at Xie Jing Xing as she asked, "What dream talk did I say?"
Xie Jing Xing paused for a moment before saying, "Said that Shen Furen, you are wrong. Said sorry Shen Furen." He asked thoughtfully, "What kind of serious mistake did you do in your dreams?"
When Shen Miao heard this, she was relieved and said half-heartedly, "Nothing. It is just a dream." But she did not know that her efforts to relax were seen by Xie Jing Xing and his fingers slightly flexed.
"But." Shen Miao suddenly thought of something and looked at him to ask, "It is already late, what are you here for?" Even Shen Miao herself did not notice that now she was accustomed to Xie Jing Xing barging in the middle of the night to her bedroom. At this moment there was no anger in her question, as if it was a very normal matter.
Xie Jing Xing took out a letter from his sleeves, "Was actually planning to give you a present."
Shen Miao glanced at him unfathomably and took the letter to open it. She was however surprised for a moment upon seeing it.
The words that were densely written in the letter were nothing else but the matter of Chang Zai Qing in the Liu province. It included that Chang Zai Qing still had a husband and child which she had abandoned. These secrets were all Chang Zai Qing's secrets. She froze for a moment not because of the content of the letter, but that Xie Jing Xing would give this to her.
"You do not seem to be surprised." Xie Jing Xing looked at her from the side, "Already knew since long ago?"
"Many thanks to Prince Rui's good attention." Shen Miao kept the letter, "Prince Rui, do not intervene in this matter. I will do it myself."
Xie Jing Xing looked at her for a while and shook his head while smiling, "It is this Prince who is nosy."
Shen Miao was silent for a moment as she did not know why, but she actually felt that the room was cramped. She lowered her head and her gaze unconsciously landed on the corner of Xie Jing Xing's robe. The material was very luxurious and the embroidered gold threads were exquisite. It was as if she could felt Xie Jing Xing's probing gaze on herself. Shen Miao looked up and tried very hard to be calm and looked at him, "If there is not any matter, you can return."
Xie Jing Xing stared at her.
Shen Miao slightly frowned. This person pulled her out of the nightmare and one should be grateful. However what kind of person was Xie Jing Xing? One who saw a tiny thing and knew the overall of things. The longer he stayed here with her, one fear that she would be eaten up without any residue. Shen Miao did not wished to have her secrets exposed to others, not to mentioned that Xie Jing Xing's identity was this sensitive. Even if Xie Jing Xing did not show any hostility to her now, she dare not rest assured.
Xie Jing Xing said, "The rain is so heavy, you are letting me go?"
As a cue a soft thunder accompanied the rain outside the window, and seemed it would not stop for the entire night. Shen Miao was angry with his words that she almost forgot her heartache just now, "Could it be that Prince Rui still want to stay overnight?"
Xie Jing Xing's eyebrows moved, "Good idea."
"Xie Jing Xing." Shen Miao called out lowly.
"You call my little name smoothly." Xie Jing Xing placed the handkerchief that he used to wipe Shen Miao's tears, "Go and sleep. I will leave when the rain stop."
Shen Miao was exasperated and the cramped feeling that was in the room had disappeared. How could a young lady sleep when there was an unfamiliar man watching at the side? What was this totally scoundrel thing that Xie Jing Xing did all day?
"Prince Rui is here. I cannot sleep." Shen Miao looked at him expressionless. After being distracted by Xie Jing Xing, the solemness that was caused by the appearance of Chang Zai Qing disappeared by a lot, and even her face looked a lot better.
Xie Jing Xing reached his hand out to lift her chin up, and forced Shen Miao to look at his eyes before leisurely saying, "Watch clearly. This Prince is the bloodline of Royalty and have the air of dragons. When this Prince stays in your room, those demons and sprites dare not come over so you will not have nightmares."
Shen Miao did not get angry but laughed instead as she knocked his hand away, "So this is to say that I have to thank Prince Rui."
"Correct."
Shen Miao glared at Xie Jing Xing but her mood gradually relaxed. Xie Jing Xing did not ask her anything else. She did not care if Xie Jing Xing really did not guess it or if he knew but pretended not, because it made her feel like she had escaped. Currently she has no more strength and energy to deal with others, thus Xie Jing Xing was helping by not speaking.
Xie Jing Xing walked to the window and pulled it, lest the rain outside drift in. He then walked to the table not far from the bed and sat down, before casually taking a book as if he wanted to sit down to read. He did not turn around and said, "This Prince is here, you can rest assured to sleep."
Shen Miao moved her lips and wanted to say something but at the end she did not say anything. Outside the wind was mourning, the rain was bewailing and the lightning was truly frightening. She wrapped herself with the beddings and only exposed her head, but her gaze unconsciously went towards the person in front of the table.
The youth sitting down was slender and tall, and he was flipping the pages of the book with a very serious appearance. From the side view, he looked really handsome and under the light, he seemed a bit modest. The cynical attitude towards life had faded, and at this moment Xie jing Xing seemed to be calm and gentle, as if his figure could cover all the wind and rain that even without speaking, one would have some feeling of trust.
He has deep schemes and was cold, indifferent and ruthless. He dared to deceive the world and take drastic decisions. Duping the Imperial family, steal a rafter and replaced it with a column, on the surface he had a cynical appearance but upon a turn of a hand, rainclouds would gather. He was not a good person but was not as heartless as one thought he ought to be.
Shen Miao's mood was like the wind and rain outside, that little bit of sorrow and pain seemed to be covered by this light as she slowly closed her eyes.
The drips and drops of the rain finally stopped after a long time, and the oil in the table lamp was left with a little bit. The flame was slightly wavering, as if it would soon extinguish.
The purple clad youth in front of the table closed the book in his hands, and stood up to walk to the edge of the bed.
On the bed, the young female was sleeping in tranquillity and letting out a soft uniform breathing. When she closed her eyes, she was not as dignified like normal but was a bit more peaceful, and was as if she still possessed the innocence of childhood
She was actually only sixteen years old and still a little young lady. In an ordinary family, a sixteen year old young lady would probably be pondering which family's youth was more handsome, or which shop's sachet is more fragrant.
Xie Jing Xing's gaze was a bit complicated.
From the start when he saw Shen Miao, she had just reached a marriageable age but what she showed was a completely different ruthlessness unfit of her age. It was ruthlessness but also unflusteredness. The Shen family faced a very complicated situation but she had never panicked, and countered soldiers with arms, and water with an earthenware. It was as if she had long expected it.
However she was at the end a little young lady and just like her little name, Shen Jiao Jiao. She should grow up pampered but she was forced to grow up. Not showing one's vulnerabilities did not meant that one was not vulnerable. Just like when she had just awoken from her nightmare, the desperation that her eyes revealed was shocking.
She grabbed onto his lapel and her entire body was trembling, as if she was going through tremendous horror, but at a moment's notice she returned to her normal dignified appearance. Like a wounded beast that had to appear stronger and bigger at all times, because if one's enemies discover the wound, they would kill and attack without any strand of energy left.
Xie Jing Xing was confused. He was not a good person and had the ruthlessness that no ordinary person possessed, but every time when he encountered Shen Miao, he would leave a little leeway. From the first time he saw Shen Miao, actually he had a concessing attitude. He was yielding to her.
But one did not know what was it for.
It was as if he deliberately said that the rain did not stop just to see her sleep. She was obviously very scared but tried to flaunt bravery, so he could only pretend not to know.
The rain had stopped and he tucked Shen Miao into the blanket, before putting the gauze down and leave the room.
On the bed, Shen Miao's eyelashes slightly moved but did not open.
The mansion that was separated of Shen mansion by just a wall in between them, had been purchased by Prince Rui. When Xie Jing Xing walked out from it, Tie Yi and Nan Qi who were waiting outside, quickly followed.
"The invitation from the Palace, accept it." Xie Jing Xing said.
Tie Yi was surprised, "Did not Master said not to go?"
"Changed one's mind." Xie Jing Xing swept a glance at him.
Tie Yi quickly complied but he was secretly suspicious. That invitation was sent by the few Princes from the Palace, for all the Princes of the Ming Qi and the Crown Prince of the Great Qin. Xie Jing Xing did not want to mingle with them so he directly rejected. Why would he suddenly want to go now? Tie Yi cautiously looked at his Master and only felt that Xie Jing Xing's eyes were cold, and his heart became even more puzzled.
Xie Jing Xing's eyes were slightly cold.
In fact in Shen Miao's dream, she not only call out Luo Xue Yan's name. She also called out Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi.
Would no longer like Fu Xiu Yi? His lips hooked up to a sneer. Like?
'Previously liked' were always the words that were the most offending.
The sudden thunderstorm in the Ding capital made the weather turn cold on the second day. It was as if deep winter had reached over night, so when people was discussing about the heavy rain yesterday, they all mentioned that it was somewhat unexpected.
"One did not expect the rain to come like this, and had forgotten about the flora and fauna in the courtyard. When one thought about it, several pots were broke. Those flowers were usually looked over with utmost care. This is just a pity." Chen Rou Qiu was tidying up Shen Wan's clothes as she spoke about the rain last night.
Chen Rou Qiu had always paid attention to elegance, and would also find particularly scarce varieties of flora and fauna. Shen Wan was absent-mindedly listening, but his eyes were not on Chen Rou Qiu.
Chen Rou Qiu noticed Shen Wan's expression and asked with a smile, "Does Master have any matters in one's mind?"
Shen Wan recovered to his senses and looked towards Chen Rou Qiu, "I was thinking that Yue-er has reached the age to discuss about marriage."
Chen Rou Qiu's heart thumped but she still smiled, "I know. One had been looking for the right person for Yue-er, but one must slowly pick and not let Yue-er marry over foolishly, else Master will also be distressed."
"This matter had been delayed for so long." This time Shen Wan did not let Chen Rou Qiu skim past it and bluntly said, "Ever since Yue-er was sixteen, it is already two years. Even if those young ladies of other family were not married, they are all engaged. If Yue-er carried on like this, it would be difficult to find someone suitable in the future. A few days ago I have given you a few families that were all quite good. I have looked over it and the families were well-off and there are not to many complications in their residences, so Yue-er will not be in a disadvantage when she marries over."
"However that being said," Chen Rou Qiu grudgingly said, "It had been only for a while. One need to let Yue-er familiarise with it."
"It has been two years. Every time the topic of marriage is brought up with her, she would decline and you as a Mother also let her be." Shen Wan's eyes sharpened, "Even though our residence is also not bad, but Yue-er expectations are too high. If she has an intention that she should not have and involved our household, it would not be worth it at all."
Shen Wan's gaze had an intentional implication and Chen Rou Qiu suddenly understood. Shen Wan was not a fool, so when Shen Yue kept saying she did not want to marry this or not, him being a Father would definitely be suspicious. Shen Yue was in love with Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi, and if Shen Wan knew about it, one feared that he would not spare Shen Yue.
"Some families are not for us to climb up." There were hidden meanings behind Shen Wan's words, "It is better to let Yue-er be down to earth and perish such thoughts as early as possible. Otherwise this mud would be too deep that it would be too late to come out of it.
Chen Rou Qiu broke out to a cold sweat. After being husband and wife with Shen Wan for so many years, at this moment she could almost conclude that Shen Wan definitely knew of Shen Yue's wishes. But Chen Rou Qiu understood clearly of Shen Yue's temperament. At the beginning when Shen Miao was still around, Shen Yue's heart was all on Prince Ding and now without Shen Miao, Shen Yue would be even more hell-bent. To get Shen Yue to marry to others, one feared that Shen Yue would not agree to it till death.
"But Master," Chen Rou Qiu still wanted to fight for Shen Yue. "Yue-er is still young and one cannot be impatient with some things. Previous you also dote her, so can not one empathise with her this time?"
Shen Wan took a deep breath, and looked towards Chen Rou Qiu with some disappointment in his eyes. He said, "Furen had always been understanding of the overall picture, but now why are you unable to see it? Prince Ding is one that looked simple on the surface, and when the Eldest household was still around and had the military power of the Shen family's army, perhaps Prince Ding would have some fear. Now that the Eldest household has separated, Second Older Brother and I are both civil officials with smooth careers, Prince Ding would not attach any importance. When Prince Ding marries, it would definitely be with a wife whose family will be able to benefit him. Yue-er is of no significance to him, so he would not let Yue-er be the official wife and she can only be a concubine. Even if Yue-er gain his favour, how would a concubine be able to fight with the official wife? At that time the one that is at a disadvantage is still Yue-er."
When Chen Rou Qiu heard this she broke into a cold sweat. She initially thought that Shen Wan did not agree to let Shen Yue marry Prince Ding, because he was not optimistic about Prince Ding in the fight of the heir position. But now it seemed that Shen Wan's evaluation of Prince Ding was not from an ordinary man's point of view, but from one who considered all pros and cons. It was difficult for this type of man to be sincere and even if there was sincerity, to let Chen Rou Qiu watch as her Di daughter yield and lower her head to other female, Chen Rou Qiu was unwilling.
She said, "Since that being the case, it is this wife that was not thoughtful. Master kept on thinking about Yue-er but I still blamed Master. It is me who is at fault."
"You are also not at fault." Shen Wan sighed, "Yue-er temperament is now more arrogant than before. You must get her to fix it, so that there would be less troubles in the future. I will let my subordinates write a book on all the sons of good family in the capital and send it to you. Pick a few and bring Yue-er to go visit them on another day." After pausing, he said, "This matter cannot be dragged on."
After Chen Rou Qiu learnt of the matter, this time she stood together with Shen Wan and immediately agreed. After Shen Wan went to court, that book was sent over and Chen Rou Qiu carefully looked through each one before making a mark with compatible ones, intending to let Shen Yue meet them.
But one did not see that in Qiu Shui Yuan, among the maids that were sweeping the courtyard someone quietly put down the task on hold and left.
The calligraphy brush in Shen Yue's hand suddenly paused, and a long ink mark appeared on the unfinished painting. The painting was actually a well done autumn landscape, but the sudden appearance of an long black ink appeared on the blue skies. But she did not take it to heart at all and asked the maid in front angrily.
"What did you say? Mother is choosing a husband for me?"
"Replying Young lady." That maid cautiously lowered her head, "Furen had already picked a few people from a book and sent some invitations. One guessed that in a few days' time Furen will bring Second Young Lady over to pay a visit."
"Scoundrel." Shen Yue was so angry that she threw the brush. One did not know who was she scolding, and the previous appearance of gentleness and elegance had vanished. The maids that were in the area all dared not even breath loudly. Everyone knew that this Second Young Lady might look weak and gentle, but disregarded servants and would not have a bit of mercy when dealing with them.
Shen Yue displayed a look of irritation.
She was currently eighteen. Eighteen. Within the Ding capital, females of that age would have been married, and even those who did not marry would at most be engaged. But till now she was still not engaged. She was the limited talent female and had a good appearance, with a gentle and intelligent character. There were numerous males that liked her but she only wanted to marry one, and that was Fu Xiu Yi.
Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi, was the youngest of all the Princes, and was currently the only one that did not have a consort. Initially Shen Miao fell for Fu Xiu Yi at first sight because she was charmed by him, but who knew that Shen Yue also liked that type of man. Since he was made to charm others, he did not have the strange tempers of Princes, and was young and handsome. What was more than that, he was the descendant of royalty and was the most distinguished male other than the Emperor in Ming Qi. Shen Yue had always felt that only she was compatible with Fu Xiu Yi. So at the beginning, when Shen Miao shamelessly made her love for Fu Xiu Yi known to public, Shen Yue felt that she was insulting her sweetheart.
Fortunately Fu Xiu Yi was extremely cold towards Shen Miao, and now there was not anything between them, making Shen Yue relieved. At first she eavesdropped on Shen Wan's and Shen Gui's conversation, saying that there was a possibility that Fu Xiu Yi would suffer a wrong and marry Shen Miao in order to obtain Shen Xin's military power. She had been on tenterhooks for a long time and wished that there was no Shen Miao in this world. It was fortunate that Shen Miao herself later gave up.
At the moment Shen Miao was not fighting with her, so why did her own parents force her?
"I want to talk to Mother. I am not marrying. I am not marrying." Shen Yue stood up and swept the ink and paper off the table, apparently very furious. The maids around quickly got to their knees but none dare to persuade.
Over at Cai Yun Yuan, someone also heard the movements.
As compared to the ruckus two years before, Cai Yun Yuan was much more bleak. Ever since Ren Wan Yun's death and Shen Gui's descendants line was harmed, Old Shen Furen got furious and no longer allowed Shen Gui to bring a mess of females back to the residence. After Shen Gui's pot has cracked, and knew that in this lifetime he was unable to have any child with any female, he feels upset when he returns to the residence, so he kept on lingering in pleasure quarters. Other than the servants in Cai Yun Yuan, the only remaining females were Wan YiNiang and Shen Dong Ling.
Shen Gui once had two sons and compared to the Third household, it was considered as thriving with descendants, but now unfortunately there was only a Shu daughter left. No matter what, Shen Dong Ling was Shen Gui's only bloodline left, thus the servants treated Shen Dong Ling and Wan YiNiang with respect.
"What is the hustle and buzz outside about?" Wan YiNiang who was doing needlework looked up. These two years she had lived well and as compared to the past, she had become much more unyielding.
The maid at the doors said, "Replying YiNiang, it is Second Young Lady throwing a tantrum because Third Furen is selecting a husband for her. At this moment she is rushing over to Qiu Shui Yuan."
With a sneer, Wan YiNiang laughed out and shook her head, "This Second Young Lady would actually be angry because of this matter." She suddenly thought about something and her eyes darkened, "When growing up in happiness, one fails to appreciate what happiness really means."
Her Shen Dong Ling was also a Young Lady of the Shen residence, and almost the same age as Shen Yue. However Old Shen Furen looked down on Shu daughters, and Shen Gui just simply did not care about matters of the courtyard. Shen Dong Ling's identity was not high, thus there were very little people who came to ask for marriage. Even those who came for marriage were all those odd people that one know they were not good people with one look.
She was here worrying about Shen Dong Ling's marriage but at the other end Shen Yue, who was managed, was not satisfied. Being reincarnated to which position was really a matter of merit.
Just as she was thinking, Shen Dong Ling who was sitting behind the screen stood up. She had grown up a lot, she had a slim and slender figure and her eyes were sharp, possessing the grace that Wan YiNiang had when she was singing.
"Where are you going?" Wan YiNiang asked casually.
Shen Dong Ling said, "Is not Wan YiNiang worried about my marriage constantly?"
Wan YiNiang was surprised for a moment, as she did not know what was the meaning behind those words.
"I have waited for two years. Now the opportunity has arrived." Shen Dong Ling said.
Chapter 137: This Prince Wants
Shen Yue threw a tantrum for a while in Qiu Shui Yuan, but this time Chen Rou Qiu seemed to have an iron heart. No matter how much she begged, she remained indifferent and even got furious, and said that if she continued then she will confine her. This time Shen Yue really panicked but Chen Rou Qiu was no longer bothered about her, so she was angry and anxious as she left Qiu Shui Yuan.
However she saw a few people coming out of Cai Yun Yuan, and the blue clad young female who was leading was startled first before stepping forward to speak, "Second Older Sister."
Shen Yue glanced at that female and replied, "En." Her attitude was however somewhat cold.
This female was no other than Second household's Shu daughter, Shen Dong Ling. Previously, Shen Dong Ling was pressed down by Ren Wan Yun, and would not leave the courtyard for the entire year, thus some servants did not even recognise her. But after Ren Wan Yun's death, Shen Gui was diagnosed as unable to have any heirs, Shen Dong Ling became the only bloodline of the Second household. But even so, Shen Yue still looked down on Shen Dong Ling's identity, even though she appeared to be amiable with her. Even if it was the same blood, it would not change the fact that Shen Dong Ling was a Shu daughter. If one were to say that Shen Yue is jealous and resentful of Shen Miao, then towards Shen Dong Ling, there was no hesitation with the contempt for her.
However, Shen Dong Ling seemed to have not see the cold look in her eyes and still said with a smile, "I intend to spin a few silks to make silk cloth, and a few days back when one spoke to YiNiang about the matter, one was very excited about the patterns. Coincidently one had designed a few patterns. Does Second Older Sister want some?"
"No need." Shen Yue said.
Even being treated coldly Shen Dong Ling said with a good temper, "Since it is as such then it is alright. One originally was thinking to make a few for Second Older Sister."
Shen Yue was somewhat impatient. At this moment, she was only worried about the matter of Chen Rou Qiu choosing a husband for her, so how would she think of other matters? Seeing Shen Dong Ling lowering her head and exposing a section of her fair neck, her heart slightly paused. She retracted her hand and carefully looked at Shen Dong Ling.
There was only a difference of half a year of age between Shen Dong Ling and Shen Yue. If one were to speak of the original daughters of the Shen family, Shen Qing was magnanimous, Shen Yue was a refined elegant beauty and Shen Miao was a delicate beauty. The three of them also had the unique temperament of a Di daughter, thus Shen Dong Ling also had the similar unique frailness of a Shu daughter. Wan YiNiang was previously the lead of a theatre, and was a bit of a beauty when one was talking about looks. Shen Dong Ling did not look like Shen Gui, but was almost the exact same copy of how Wan YiNiang looked like when she was young. Big eyes and sharp chin that were taken from Wan YiNiang's looks. However, compared to those domineering YiNiangs, Shen Dong Ling often lowered her eyes and would not snatch or create noises, putting her YiNiang to shame.
However after a careful look to measure her up, she was a delicate girl who grew up and became a beautiful lady.
Suddenly Shen Yue's heart moved. She took the initiative to pull Shen Dong Ling's hand over and said with a smile, "I do not let you do it for me because I fear that it would tire you out. You are a Young Lady of the residence and not a embroidery lady of a workshop. What is with doing needlework all day long?"
Shen Dong Ling was surprised for a moment and her face slightly reddened, seemingly surprised by Shen Yue's sudden intimacy. She said favourably, "Second Older Sister spoke too seriously. I have nothing to do on normal days so YiNiang told me to do some needlework, thus I did some. It does not hinder anything." Wan YiNiang seemed to be suppressed by Ren Wan Yun too long and even though the tide has turned now, what she loved to do was just staying in the courtyard to do embroidery. Shen Dong Ling apparently also followed her character.
Seeing Shen Dong Ling this well-behaved, the smile in Shen Yue's eyes got deeper, "You should change your temperament. It is a good thing to be well-behaved and like doing needlework, but which Young Lady is seen doing embroidery all day? Tomorrow I will be going to the jewellery shop to choose some jewellery. You should follow me. There are some new designs this year and perhaps there would be some that you will fancy. If you saw anything you like, I will gift it to you."
"This." Shen Dong Ling waved her hands in panic, "Cannot."
"You are still being too courteous to me." Shen Yue feigned anger, "You and me are after all closest sisters and if even you are so distant, then what is the point of being sisters?"
Shen Dong Ling was somewhat at a lost, and did not know how to continue Shen Yue's words. When Shen Yue saw this, she smiled gently and patted her shoulder, "Third Younger Sister is still timid and has a character that make other's heart ache. That will do, I still have some matters so one will not continue talking to you. Tomorrow one will let the maids go to Cai Yun Yuan to look for you, so that you can go to the jewellery shop with me." There was an indisputable tone in her words.
Shen Dong Ling nodded her head and accepted.
After Shen Yue and entourage left, Wu Mei who was a maid beside Shen Dong Ling said, "What is this Second Young Lady trying to do? At one time cold, at another time warm. Without any rhyme or reason, why would she thought about inviting Young Lady to the jewellery shop?"
Shen Yue naturally treated Shen Dong Ling blandly and to be that warm, it indeed aroused suspicion.
"This is her changing her tactics to fawn me." Shen Dong Ling looked at Shen Yue's fading figure and said with a gentle smile, "Most likely she felt that I am easy to bribe and want me to rely and trust her, so that in the future when she need me to help her to do something, it would be much easier."
Wu Mei was astonished when she heard this, "What can be done? This Second Young Lady clearly has ill-intentions and want to use Young Lady. Since Young Lady know about it, what can be done?"
"There is no harm." Shen Dong Ling was somewhat happy, "I am happy to help in it, just like her gifting me jewellery. She want to gift good things to others, and I am not a saint so there is no logic in not accepting." She said, "It is just that she is short-sighted."
Shen Yue, who was walking towards Qiu Shui Yuan, was deep in thoughts as her mind was filled with the weak and obedient look of Shen Dong Ling. Both were sweet, fair and graceful ladies, both were at the prime age, both were daughters of the Shen family, but Shen Yue had an instinct that by winning Shen Dong Ling over, it would perhaps be of great use to her in the future.
At this end Shen Yue was in total disorder and at another end, at the doors of the Western courtyard, there was someone outside moving flowers. The bustle of activity was a bit lively and just as Shen Wan passed by the Western courtyard's doors, he heard an old woman exclaiming, "Young Lady, be careful."
Shen Wan looked over at the sound and saw a young female moving a heavy pot of flowers. Most likely the flower pot was too heavy and it almost knocked against her foot. The MaMa beside sighed in relief, and that female turned around and smiled at the MaMa with a smile like flower.
Shen Wan's footsteps paused.
The female was wearing a greenish blue top with a pink jaded skirt, and has her hair up in a Lily style with an agate hairpin. There was a thunderstorm last night and she was out and about early in the morning. She was not devastatingly beautiful that could cause the downfall of a country, and could only be considered as a graceful beauty. But the sunlight fell onto the sweat on her forehead and became dazzling like crystals. Because she was sweating, her face was a little flushed, making her become a kind of unspoken beauty. (T/N: Argh... Hate translating this few sentences)
Everyone had the heart for beauties. Even though Shen Wan was not lustful, it did not mean that he would be indifferent towards beauties. There was only Chen Rou Qiu in his inner courtyard and even though he was in love dearly, as the days grew longer and as time passed, one would always feel a little bored. However, today upon seeing this beauty with vivid fragrance, naturally one could not help but stop.
It was like one was appreciating a painting or a poem. At this moment Shen Wan did not have any other emotions. He had always been not warm to matters between a male and female. That female seemed to have noticed that someone was watching her and turned over. Upon seeing Shen Wan, she paused in surprise before walking over.
She walked to Shen Wan and was not at all shy or embarrassed but instead gracefully greeted, "Third Master."
Shen Wan swept a glance at her and suddenly realised her identity, "Young Lady Chang."
Chang Zai Qing only saw Shen Wan once and that was when she just came to Shen residence, and that evening Chen Rou Qiu brought her to Old Shen Furen. At night the light was fainter and since everyone was thinking about matters during the day, Shen Wan also did not notice Chang Zai Qing. He did not expect that upon closer look she was such a beauty of a rare temperament. Thinking that Chen Rou Qiu had good relations with Chang Zai Qing, his attitude became more cordial.
"What is Young Lady Chang doing?" Shen Wan asked while smiling.
Chang Zai Qing turned back and looked at the flower terrace, "It was raining last night so many of the flower stalks were damaged by the rain, so I am bandaging them up."
"Bandage?" Shen Wan felt it was somewhat novel and asked, "How to bandage the flowers?"
Chang Zai Qing smiled gently, "Third Master can just take a look."
Shen Wan walked over to the flower terrace to take a look and indeed saw that on those scattered branches, some were wrapped in fabric and some was coated in some medicine but all were place and arranged tidily. Around them, there were some fabric and scissors, and one of the flower was folded into half but actually became connected.
"You are considerate." Shen Wan sighed, "It is difficult to be willing to do it." With the thunderstorm last night, most of the flora and fauna would be injured and even Chen Rou Qiu, one who loved flowers, would also throw the flowers away after pitying for a bit. Destroyed flowers are not as good looking as before, and it would be annoying to keep raising it. One did not expect that Chang Zai Qing would be so attentive with these plants, and not only she did not throw them out, she still 'dressed' them up.
"Plants also have life." Chang Zai Qing smiled as she spoke, "Since one is one who loves flowers, one cannot forget one's original aspiration upon such encounters. Every living thing has a spirit, and one cannot be a person who say one thing but mean another. To speak about loving flora and fauna but cannot even do this little thing." Chang Zai Qing said candidly, "Moreover it is just doing some stuff, and this would delight ourselves so why not?"
"Such a pleasing person." Shen Wan looked at Chang Zai Qing with eyes full of appreciation, "Young Lady Chang is truly an elegant person. It is me who is vulgar."
"Third Master has praised exaggeratedly." Chang Zai Qing said jokingly, "Everyone is common people and I too have selfish motives. If I grew the flora and fauna well, one will feel more at peace staying in the residence, since one can still do some little things."
Shen Wan smiled, "Young Lady Chang has worried too much. Even if Young Lady Chang do not know how to grow anything, there will not be anyone in the Shen residence that will chase you away."
Chang Zai Qing also smiled along, "Then many thanks to Third Master." She suddenly remembered something and looked at Shen Wan, "Speaking of which, I accidentally laid out a chess game yesterday and was unable to solve it. One initially wanted to look for Third Furen to help me take a look, but Third Furen seemed to be a bit busy today. One heard that Third Master is a chess expert. Is it possible to help give Zai Qing a pointer or two?"
After thinking again she smiled, "I can make tea for Third Master. Perhaps Third Furen had told you that the tea I boil is very good to drink."
Her conduct was natural and unrestrained and if one rejected her, it would seemed that Shen Wan was rude. At the end she also used tea as a condition, showing a little wit. Shen Wan thought for a moment and laughed, "Obedience is a better way of showing respect than outward reverence."
Both of them began to play chess upon reaching the stone table in the garden and when they were playing, they also casually chatted. Shen Wan was surprised to discover that not only Chang Zai Qing was superior in chess, when she was talking to him, she knew about astronomy, geography and there was no subjects that she did not dabble in. Moreover, she has a long term perspective and could even talk a little about matters of court. Shen Wan was one who appreciate talented people and paid less attention to the beauty of a female, and only favoured Chen Rou Qiu in the inner courtyard because Chen Rou Qiu was skilled in the four scholarly arts, and was an out and out talent. But the only one thing bad about Chen Rou Qiu was that because she was from a scholarly lineage, she would occasionally put up on airs and thought herself as high and pure. It was interesting if it was once or twice but for one who lived every day, one would inevitable feel that Chen Rou Qiu was too small minded, and unduly worried over minor matters.
Chang Zai Qing was however very different. Both were very talented females but Chang Zai Qing did not have the arrogance of a big family and was candid. She was exquisite in her candidness and was very considerate. When chatting with her, it was full of humour and wit and made one's mind calm. Unconsciously Shen Wan's gaze at Chang Zai Qing became admiration and they hang out with one another longer.
Zhao MaMa looked from afar and a trace of happiness appeared in her eyes. However, she quietly instructed the maids at the courtyard door to guard carefully, and not let others come in.
It was the case at this end and within the Imperial Palace of Ming Qi, it was also an exceptionally lively day today.
In order for the Crown Prince to welcome the guests from the Qin country and the Great Liang, he specially held a banquet. The Crown Prince of the Qin country and Princess Ming An were present, and Prince Rui of the Great Liang also accepted the invitation, and the nine Princes of Ming Qi accompanied at well.
Currently the Crown Prince's medical condition had gotten more serious, and this was an unchanging fact. Because of that, Prince Chu and Prince Xuan, who were following the Crown Prince, had their morale shaken. For these two years, the Crown Prince's influence was gradually replace by other Princes. Almost everyone had tacitly consent to this fact that the position of the Crown Prince, would not be sat for much too long. The Crown Prince himself most probably also realised this so in the two years, he was generally less involved in government affairs, not because he did not want to participate but there were just too little supporters.
On retrospect, two other factions, The entourage of Prince Zhou and Prince Jing, along Prince Li's, had grown more prominent. Prince Li had been a smiling tiger and fawned everyone, thus he had many supporters. Prince Zhuo and brother relied on their consort mother, Consort Xu Xian. This two factions were now fighting like fire and water, and there was a number of times when the map was unrolled and the dagger was revealed.
The most steady one was actually Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi. Prince Ding was also involved in the matter of the court in these two years, but the matters in which he was involved were relatively easy, and seemed to deliberately show that he had no ambition at all. As it was all small matters, Emperor Wen Hui was extremely satisfied with him, and also because of his neutrality and peacefulness, he was not suppressed by the Crown Prince, Prince Zhuo or Prince Li.
On the contrary Prince Ding was the safest one.
In the hall, the Crown Prince smiled and lifted his cup with a smile, "Everyone came here from afar so one should celebrate."
HuangFu Hao sat below the Crown Prince and raised his cup to him, "Many thanks to the Crown Prince's hospitality."
Princess Ming An was sitting beside HuangFu Hao, and after being confined by him for a few days, Princess Ming An was finally let out. She had especially dressed up today, and was making eyes at the purple clad youth sitting across her.
Unfortunately while the dropping flowers pined for love, the heartless brook babbled on unrequited love. Prince Rui's face was half covered by a mask, and his eyes did not look over to her end. However, he also did not look at the Crown Prince at all, and just stared at the wine cup, no one knew what he was thinking.
The Crown Prince asked with a laugh, "Why is Prince Rui not drinking? Is it that the wine is not of one's taste?"
Prince Rui's lips hooked up, "Not feeling well, thus not drinking."
This was slapping one's face without hiding at all. Even though this Prince Rui's actions after he had come to Ming Qi were always mysterious, and no one could tell what attitude he had for Ming Qi, but his etiquette was exceptional. Today, everyone present could not help but have a thought pop into their minds, that the Prince Rui of the Great Liang seemed to be a little annoyed.
Everything was perfectly fine so who provoked him?
The Crown Prince looked somewhat awkward so Fu Xiu Yi said, "In this case, Your Highness Prince Rui can drink tea as a replacement for wine. Someone come and serve tea to Prince Rui."
Fu Xiu Yi spoke and continued the Crown Prince's conversation, thus the Crown Prince's expression was much better and was a bit grateful with Fu Xiu Yi. The rest of the Princes also agreed with Fu Xiu Yi's words. Even though Prince Rui background was not small, but no one was willing to be submissive in front of other countries. Fu Xiu Yi's words were firm yet not rude, and took into consideration the reputation of Ming Qi.
HuangFu Hao looked probingly at Prince Rui, but Princess Ming An was looking somewhat worried at Prince Rui and said, "Does Prince Rui not feel right? Is there a need to call the Imperial Physician to take a look?"
When HuangFu Hao heard this, his expression got heavier and he fiercely glared at Princess Ming An. It was alright if Princess Ming An was too arrogant and wilful on normal days, but to be so lovesick in front of so many Princes in Ming Qi, this was letting others watch a joke. HuangFu Hao was a male, and males were the clearest at how other males think. The gaze that Prince Rui used to look at Princess Ming An was clearly of somewhat impatience. It was alright if this Prince Rui was one who was magnanimous, but if Prince Rui really had a bad temper and got fed up with Princess Ming An, he would also not have good feelings for the entire Qin country, and the person who would be in a loss was him.
Prince Rui did not heed her words at all, but instead looked at the person sitting right at the back across him. Everyone noticed his gaze and looked towards the direction and saw that it was Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi.
Fu Xiu Yi was the Prince that knew his place and behaved himself among the nine Princes, but at the moment Prince Rui was only looking at him, so the gaze of the few other Princes also somewhat changed. Fu Xiu Yi was calm and did not seem to panic because of Prince Rui was directly looking at him.
Prince Rui suddenly laughed and said, "Before coming to Ming Qi, one had heard that the Ninth Prince was a young and handsome youth and now when one see, it is truly a deserved reputation. One do not know if there is already a marriage."
Everyone did not expect that Prince Rui would suddenly say such things, and their expression became weird. Fu Xiu Yi was stunned for a moment before replying, "Not yet."
Prince Zhou laughed out loud. He sat beside Fu Xiu Yi and took the opportunity to pat Fu Xiu Yi's shoulder, "Our Number Nine is the only one without a consort among us brothers. Why? Is Prince Rui also interested in Number Nine's marriage?"
The lips under Prince Rui's mask hooked up as he leisurely said, "There are many age-appropriate Princesses in the Great Liang's Palace. When this Prince saw the Ninth Prince, one felt as though one had met a kindred spirit, and is determined to promote a marriage alliance."
When the words were spoken, everyone present changed their expressions.
The meaning of Prince Rui's words were actually wishing to be in-laws with Fu Xiu Yi. If it was really as what Prince Rui said and he married a Great Liang's Princess, it would not only mean that he has the backing of a consort but also the Great Liang. If one had a moderate attitude towards Fu Xiu Yi, it was because Fu Xiu Yi had never shown any interest in the Imperial throne but with Prince Rui's words, it made everyone else unable to look at Fu Xiu Yi like before. This was because once Fu Xiu Yi marries a Great Liang's Princess, he would become the most powerful contender of the Imperial throne.
Fu Xiu Yi's hands that were holding the wine cup, suddenly tightened as he quietly looked at Prince Rui.
Was it truly like what was superficially said, that he wanted a Great Liang's Princess to be married to him? Fu Xiu Yi did not think so.
Prince Rui was not helping, but harming him.
Fu Xiu Yi had always upheld the idea of keeping a low profile, and not show his cards until the last moment. Even though Prince Rui's conditions were extremely attractive, if it was really out of good intentions, Fu Xiu Yi would not be unwilling, but this was brought up in front of all the Princes. It was just one sentence and all of the Princes' eyes were up on guard, and almost pushed him to the point where the wind and waves were the fiercest.
No matter how moved he was by it, it was impossible to agree. Fu Xiu Yi clenched his teeth. He did not know the reason but he actually felt that this Prince Rui, that he had never met before, seemed to be brimming with hostility against him, else he would not have casually said such words and put him in such a difficult position.
He started to be vigilant against Prince Rui in his heart but on surface he smiled, "Many thanks for Prince Rui's generous favour. It is just that at present this one does not have any thoughts of marrying a wife."
"Oh." A smile hooked up on Prince Rui's lips, "Does the Ninth Prince admire a female, thus unwilling? This Prince will never breakup a pair of lovebirds and if it is really so, one would not pressure."
"Your Highness is joking." Fu Xiu Yi cupped his hands together, "It is just that one does not have such intentions yet."
Seeing Fu Xiu Yi rejecting Prince Rui's offer neatly, the expression on every Princes then became better. But after the experience just now, they no longer feel as rest assured as previous with Fu Xiu Yi. Today Fu Xiu Yi had rejected but who can guarantee that he would change his mind about the Imperial throne? It was after all the biggest temptation. All nine of them wanted to gamble as such, how would a saint appear in the Imperial family?
"This is strange." Prince Rui seemed to be very interested in Fu Xiu Yi, and did not let him go even after Fu Xiu Yi rejected his proposal. He smiled but was not a smile, "The Ninth Prince have yet to marry and have did not admire anyone, so why not consider the matter? This Prince see that the Ninth Prince is an outstanding talent. Could it be that there are no young ladies that admire you?"
When those words were said, the slightly rough and boorish Prince Chen laughed out loud, "Your Highness Prince Rui is not aware of it, but originally in our Ming Qi there is a Young Lady that love our Number Nine till the entire court was aware of it."
"Is it Shen Miao?" Not waiting for Prince Chen to finish, Princess Ming An interrupted his words in a rush. Princess Ming An had heard about the rumours on Shen Miao, and initially laughed a lot about it.
"So the Princess also knew about it." Prince Chen was somewhat surprised.
"The entire Qin country know the matter about Shen Miao loving His Highness Prince Ding. It is not considered to be something bizarre." Princess Ming An said, rejoicing in another's misfortune. As long it was a matter that could let Shen Miao be shamed, she would always be willing to take part.
"Correct." Prince Chen laughed, "Your Highness Prince Rui may not know, but this Shen Miao is the Di daughter of the Formidable Great General, and was the one who competed with Her Princess Highness on the tribute banquet." He then sighed and said, "One believed that at the beginning Shen Miao was still young, and would keep on thinking of ways all day to look for Number Nine, and she did not know what was shame and directly spoke to Number Nine about her love for him. She even did needlework, making pastries, learning to play the Qin and write poetry for Number Nine. Gee, she really had done a lot of things." Even though Prince Chen said that but his words were actually a malicious insult, as if he was watching a joke.
"However on the day of the tribute banquet, she had some gracefulness." The one talking was HuangFu Hao. It was two different things to hear from rumours and to hear it from an insider. HuangFu Hao was inevitably somewhat surprised, as how Shen Miao had presented herself during the tribute banquet and in the Qin's residence, was not one who would accept a compromise. Doing needlework and making pastries. HuangFu Hao thought about the time when Shen Miao was dealing coldly with Princess Ming An, he felt very bizarre. He joked, "The Ninth Prince really have a heart of steel."
"At that time, that Shen Young Lady was young." Prince Chen continued speaking, "Who knew that after two years she would become so beautiful. Moreover, now one is unable to see any one bit of the originally stupid and cowardly demeanor, or even her past image. Among all the young ladies in this Ming Qi's Ding capital, there are not many who is more outstanding than her." Prince Chen smiled, "If one had the foresight, Number Nine would not need to be so merciless at the beginning and let down a beauty. One has to know that it is too late for regrets now."
Princess Ming An sneered, "This Shen Young Lady is also a marvellous person. She is a female but do not know a little shame at all, and directly chase like this. It is really hard on her to do needlework, making pastries and following around. Really very considerate."
Knowing that Princess Ming An was dealt by Shen Miao during the tribute banquet, one knew that she was not happy with Shen Miao, so all the Princes only smiled and did not speak.
It was Fu Xiu Yi who lightly shook his head and said, "Shen Young Lady is a good person. May everyone not use her as a joke as it would be a sin to destroy her reputation, and neither anyone could afford to take responsibility."
"Number Nine, you are just too serious." Prince Chu laughed, "You do not want others, and could it be that you do not allow others to have? If we did not have established our consorts, I am willing to marry Shen Young Lady."
"Exactly." The Princes continuously echoed.
"Indeed is like this." HuangFu Hao laughed, "If I was the Ninth Prince, I will also certainly marry her."
Princess Ming An was extremely annoyed. She looked towards Prince Rui and discovered that Prince Rui was not joking around with others, but was quiet and her heart became happy as she asked, "Does Prince Rui also think so?"
Prince Rui paused.
Everyone eyes looked towards him.
The young man wearing a mask picked up the wine cup to play and said lightly, "Doing needlework, making pastries, learning to play the Qin and write poetry for a man."
Princess Ming An said, "Correct, practically offending social decency and expose one to ridicule."
"Such a good young lady." Prince Rui smiled, "As luck would have it, this prince also want."