Chapter 16: The Mobile Treasure Chest
After waking up from her nap, Jiang Ru took a stroll around Prince An's residence with Dong Xue and Mama Liu.
Pavilions, towers, covered corridors...
This Prince An's residence was unbelievably extravagant!
Xiao Chengjin truly deserved to be the most beloved son of the late Emperor. Even a newcomer like her couldn't help but envy him, not to mention the wolves and tigers in the palace.
Jiang Ru squatted on the steps next to the waterside pavilion, watching as a gentle breeze ruffled the rippling water, and an idea came to her.
There should be fish in this water, right?
"Dong Xue, fetch some pastries."
"Oh, and let that big, smiling idiot bring a large bucket to catch some fish."
"Yes, Your Highness."
Dong Xue left eagerly, while Mama Liu stood by, watching Jiang Ru indulgently.
Miss was right; leaving the Prime Minister's residence might not be a good choice. Although the people in Prince An's residence appeared fierce, there weren't as many dirty tricks.
Miss had not only not suffered since coming to the mansion, but her mood seemed to have improved significantly.
In no time, Dong Xue returned with a plate of pastries, followed by the brightest-smiling shadow guard, Shadow Two.
Ever since Xiao Chengjin's incident, Shadow One and Shadow Two, the two highest-skilled shadow guards, had switched roles to protect Jiang Ru.
Shadow One was steady and guarded Xiao Chengjin's courtyard.
Shadow Two had a more carefree personality and had been assigned by Steward Lin to protect Jiang Ru.
Jiang Ru rose, took a pastry, crumbled it, and tossed it into the water. With her sleeve concealing her actions, she discreetly added a few drops of spirit spring water.
In an instant, a group of fish rushed towards Jiang Ru's direction in a frenzy.
Haha! An evening snack.
Braised carp, spicy and sour fish... even without the sour vegetables, it was still spicy and fishy.
Dong Xue and Mama Liu were astonished by the sudden appearance of so many fish. How did they appear out of nowhere?
Their young miss was truly remarkable.
Jiang Ru pointed at Shadow Two and shouted, "Hey, you big, smiling idiot, don't just stand there dumbstruck. Hurry up and use the bucket to catch the fish."
If only they had a fishing net.
The big, smiling idiot, Shadow Two, had a grin on his face but a bitter heart. Your Highness, I may be tall, but I'm not an idiot.
Guided by Jiang Ru, Shadow Two enthusiastically used the bucket to catch the fish.
He was, after all, the most outstanding shadow guard in the Shadow Guard Battalion. But here, he was reduced to being a fisherman.
Sigh, times change!
Jiang Ru watched as Shadow Two brought over a bucket filled with three or four pounds of carp. With a wave of her hand, she said, "Take them back to the kitchen. We'll have fish for dinner tonight."
Shadow Two carried the bucket, still grinning but somewhat wryly, and took it to the kitchen.
The Princess was truly one of a kind, finding fishiness in everything.
Steward Lin, watching from nearby, couldn't help but feel tears welling up in his eyes. If only His Highness had met the Princess earlier, the mansion wouldn't be so desolate now.
The mansion lacked nothing except for a Princess who could liven up the atmosphere.
Sigh, he hoped His Highness would wake up soon!
After a moment of contemplation, Steward Lin returned to his room, found the key to the storeroom, and proactively handed it to Jiang Ru, who was wandering about.
"Your Highness, now that you've married into the Prince's Residence, the management of the household treasury should be entrusted to you," Steward Lin said.
Jiang Ru looked at the bunch of keys in her hand, considering the situation. "..."
For the sake of convenience, let's hold onto them temporarily!
After all, she was a walking treasure chest.
Seeing Jiang Ru not rejecting the idea, Steward Lin smiled and added, "Your Highness, Prince An has a lot of assets under his name. You don't need to be frugal. If you like something, just buy it."
Just like other noble ladies and misses who enjoyed shopping. The Princess shouldn't be any different; if she liked something, she should get it.
The Prince's wealth was meant to support the Princess, the future little Prince, and little County Princess!
Jiang Ru felt a warmth in her heart at his words. She lightly caressed the keys in her hand and nodded to Steward Lin.
Never mind other things; these keys proved that Uncle Steward trusted her.
You trust me, and I will never let your trust down.
...
As the sun set in the west, Jiang Ru personally took charge in the kitchen.
Luckily, in this world, there was an ingredient known as chili, although there were few spicy food enthusiasts.
Jiang Ru thought that if they didn't like spicy food, she could make a separate portion for herself.
Under Jiang Ru's guidance, the head chef prepared another serving of braised fish and sweet and sour fish.
When the head chef looked puzzled, Jiang Ru chuckled, "I read about these cooking methods in a book a few days ago. It said that fish has many health benefits, like enhancing brain function and being good for the body."
The head chef silently noted down how to prepare and marinate the fish and how to use liquor to remove the fishy smell. Their Princess preferred a vegetarian diet because of the strong odor of meat.
Dong Xue watched in admiration as Jiang Ru worked her magic, thinking that their young miss was truly incredible.
Finally, Jiang Ru personally used the spirit spring water to stew a bowl of fish soup for Xiao Chengjin.
It would be best if he woke up soon. If not, they'd treat him as a pig.
Later, Jiang Ru remarked, "It seems like the pig I've been raising has grown plump... Quite fragrant."
In the dining hall, Jiang Ru couldn't help but smile when she saw everyone eating with disdainful expressions before proclaiming how delicious it was afterward.
Especially Shadow Two, who enjoyed it the most.
The Princess was indeed something else!
Tomorrow, he would go fishing.
After finishing her meal, Jiang Ru instructed Dong Xue to bring the soup to their courtyard.
"This is the fish soup I made myself. Make sure he drinks it all!" Jiang Ru tested the temperature and reminded Xiao Chengjin.
In Jiang Ru's eyes, even if Xiao Chengjin was unconscious, she treated him as a normal person.
Xiao Chengjin's internal monologue: Take it away quickly. I'm vegetarian and don't eat meat.
What's wrong with the servants in Prince An's residence?
They didn't even remind her of something so important.
In the end, Xiao Chengjin drank two bowls of fish soup with tears in his eyes. Seeing that she had personally cooked for him, he forgave her for her behavior this time.
Well... the taste wasn't bad.
...
"Steward Lin, please arrange for the Prince to have a bath later. I'm going for a stroll outside," Jiang Ru said after some thought. She then added, "Don't forget to give the Prince a light massage on his arms and legs, and, well, ask them to be gentle."
After Jiang Ru's words, she left with Dong Xue.
Hehe, with this group of martial artists, it wouldn't be too bad for Xiao Chengjin even if he fell into their hands.
It didn't matter; he didn't know what pain was.
Steward Lin watched Jiang Ru and her maids leave, his words stuck in his throat.
Your Highness, you and the Prince are already married; there's no need to be so reserved.
Our Prince doesn't have the preferences you mentioned.
People always had to pay for what they said.
Just like their Prince, the consequences of avoiding the opposite sex... in the Princess' eyes, it was liking the same sex.
You could say that it's infuriating.
On the street, Dong Xue looked at the pitch-black road, her voice trembling as she said, "Miss, it's getting late, and we're outside the Prince's Residence. What if we encounter danger?"
Jiang Ru chuckled softly, "Don't worry; someone is protecting us from behind."
From the shadows, Shadow Two muttered to himself, "Wait, did I just blow my cover?"
If the Prince found out, he'd be sent back to the Shadow Guard Battalion for retraining.
Jiang Ru led Dong Xue to the courtyard where her dowry and betrothal gifts were stored.
She had already asked Ji Yunze, and two men guarded this place. They weren't from the Prime Minister's residence, and their character was reliable.
"Knock, knock!"
"Who's there?"
As soon as the two burly men opened the door, they quickly saluted, saying, "The humble servants greet Princess An."
Jiang Ru pretended to support herself. "No need for formalities."
"These past few days have been hard on you," Jiang Ru said. As she spoke, she handed each of them a heavy bag.
One of the men declined, saying, "Princess An, we cannot accept this. My brother and I once received help from Master Ji; guarding this place is our duty."
Jiang Ru smiled gently. "Please accept it. In the future, stay away from gambling houses."
The two brothers didn't say much more and took their leave after expressing their thanks, carrying bags filled with money.
After Jiang Ru and her maids entered the courtyard, a dark figure lurking in the diagonal corner sneaked away.
Chapter 17: Return to the Mansion
Jiang Ru gestured for Dong Xue to step aside and stowed all the treasury items back into her space.
On the way back to the Prince's Residence, Jiang Ru suddenly felt troubled. She couldn't expose the secret of her space, but how could she explain where all these items had gone?
A wise man keeps a secret if he is innocent; otherwise, without a powerful backer, he would end up knowing nothing.
Sigh, she needed to figure out a solution when she got back.
Dong Xue silently followed behind Jiang Ru, lost in her own worries. Everything seemed fine for now, but if Prince An remained unconscious or...
At that point, how would her master deal with it?
Both master and servant returned to the Prince's Residence with their own concerns. Jiang Ru went straight to the bathhouse in her courtyard for a hot bath.
In another courtyard, Xiao Chengjin, under the "care" of the servants, was seething with anger. His noble self was being subjected to ruthless treatment by these two dog servants!
They used such force for his "massage" that it felt like they were going to snap his arms and legs.
And as for Jiang Ru, the newlywed Princess, she wasn't there to attend to him. Instead, she went out for a stroll.
What was she doing outside so late at night?
The phrase "having an affair" suddenly popped into Xiao Chengjin's mind, making him even more resentful.
When Jiang Ru entered Xiao Chengjin's room, she suddenly sensed a subtle aura... Was this guy angry?
"Must be because those servants were clumsy and didn't take care of him properly," Jiang Ru muttered as she pinched Xiao Chengjin's handsome face.
"He's definitely upset."
Hearing Jiang Ru's words, Xiao Chengjin felt even more wronged.
See? This woman knows everything, yet she's intentionally neglecting me.
With no energy to argue, Xiao Chengjin drifted into sleep.
In the quiet of the night, Jiang Ru's figure flickered into her space.
Looking at the mist-covered mountain not far away, the words "search for treasures on the mountain" came to her mind.
Actions speak louder than words.
She found a small shovel near the wall and carried a small bamboo basket on her back as she climbed the mountain.
Jiang Ru strolled through the woods, her bright eyes scanning the surroundings like spotlights.
Suddenly, she glimpsed a blood-red mushroom on a tree branch.
Huh, a crimson mushroom...
Wait... Wasn't this the top-grade Blood Lingzhi described in her master's medical book?
Although she hadn't mastered her master's superb medical skills, she recognized valuable medicinal ingredients!
Jiang Ru, with a smile on her face, approached carefully and plucked the Blood Lingzhi.
Nurtured by spiritual energy, this Blood Lingzhi was undoubtedly the best of the best.
Sigh, if only her master were here.
She'd definitely offer him the best medicinal ingredients as a token of gratitude.
Thinking of the cantankerous old man who complained about everything, Jiang Ru couldn't help but shout in her space, "Old man, your disciple has made something of herself..."
In a village thousands of miles away, an old man was suddenly awakened from his sleep.
It's over; in his dream, he seemed to have heard the voice of his unfilial disciple. Could it be... she was bitten by zombies?
Sigh, it's better that she's dead. It saves her from the endless days of running.
After placing the Blood Lingzhi in her bamboo basket, Jiang Ru continued searching on the mountain.
When she found two ginseng plants as thick as a baby's arm, she couldn't contain her joy.
Money, food, and precious medicinal ingredients... She was definitely on a winning streak.
Jiang Ru packed the Blood Lingzhi and ginseng into a box, and when she saw a white jade ring placed on the shelf, a sly smile crossed her face.
After drinking a few sips of spirit spring water, Jiang Ru left her space, carrying the white jade ring with her.
...
Prime Minister's Residence.
Lady Pei drank the medicinal broth from her bowl, her energy depleted as she lay back in bed.
"Zhou Mama, did you find out anything?" she inquired weakly.
"Madam, your humble servant has been keeping watch near Princess An's courtyard where she stores her dowry. Tonight, your humble servant saw two men leaving that courtyard."
Hearing Zhou Mama's report, a sinister smile appeared on Lady Pei's somewhat pale face.
This was such an excellent opportunity. She couldn't let it slip through her fingers.
That little wench, whether it's true or not, must be proven to be unfaithful.
With this thought, Lady Pei's condition improved significantly in an instant.
"Zhou Mama, tell the steward that when that little wench returns to the mansion tomorrow, make sure no one leaks the news of the Prime Minister's residence losing any property."
Zhou Mama touched her still-painful cheek from the beating a few days ago. She had lost all dignity in the Prime Minister's residence.
This debt must be repaid, or she wouldn't be surnamed Zhou.
...
The next morning.
Jiang Ru woke up and stared absentmindedly at the bright red canopy.
Today, she would be returning to the mansion.
Thinking about this, Jiang Ru cast a slightly aggrieved glance at Xiao Chengjin in bed. "Other people have their husbands accompanying them when they return home..." Her tone was filled with grievance.
Xiao Chengjin: ...
This woman's behavior this morning didn't seem right.
But it seemed like she was wronging herself somehow.
However, he couldn't move!
With Princess An as her title, no one should dare to mistreat her!
After getting out of bed, Jiang Ru went straight to her courtyard.
Early in the morning, Lin Steward had prepared some return gifts. No matter what, they couldn't let their own Princess lose face.
He wanted outsiders to know that everyone in the Prince An's residence loved their Princess.
After having a simple breakfast, Jiang Ru changed into a stunning court gown and made her grand entrance.
Jiang Ru looked at the clothes on Dong Xue and couldn't help but frown.
She had already bought some new clothes for Dong Xue and Lao Mama, but these two refused to wear them.
This couldn't continue; she needed to change this mindset.
With this in mind, Jiang Ru playfully pouted. "Dong Xue, go and change into the new clothes I bought for you. You'll accompany me to the Prime Minister's residence."
When Dong Xue thought about the exquisite clothes in her room, her lips moved slightly. Those luxurious outfits...
After a while, Dong Xue bit her lip and said, "Princess, your servant's status is humble. I dare not wear such expensive clothes and attract attention."
As soon as she finished speaking, Lao Mama quietly tugged at Dong Xue's sleeve and whispered, "Xiao Xue, listen to Princess."
Dong Xue instantly understood Lao Mama's meaning and, with a slightly blushing face, bent down slightly. "Wang Fei, your servant will go change."
A quarter of an hour later, Dong Xue, dressed in her new clothes, came to Jiang Ru's side, showing a hint of shyness. "P-Princess, your servant has changed."
Jiang Ru looked at the slightly blushing young girl and couldn't help teasing her. "Oh my! Our Dong Xue has grown up. If you meet a man you like, this Princess will take charge for you."
Dong Xue, upon hearing this, became anxious. "Your servant doesn't want to marry; I just want to serve Princess for a lifetime."
Jiang Ru didn't tease the earnest young girl any further. "Alright, it's getting late. Let's go early and return early."
On the street.
Several stern-faced guards led the way, while Jiang Ru sat gracefully inside a carriage.
This grand procession attracted the attention of many bystanders.
Chapter 18: Meeting Princess An, Who Refused to Kneel
"It seems like today is the day Princess An is returning to her mansion!"
"With such a grand entourage, it seems like Prince An's residence highly values this auspicious Princess An."
"No kidding. Princess An is as beautiful as a celestial being. She must have endured quite a bit to help Prince An with the marriage!"
Listening to the murmurs outside, Jiang Ru couldn't help but peek through the carriage curtain.
As the curtain lifted, the discussions among the commoners outside abruptly fell silent.
Jiang Ru found the reaction of these commoners somewhat amusing and offered them a friendly smile.
On the second floor of a teahouse across the street, a handsome man in white stood by the window. When he saw Jiang Ru's sweet smile, a hint of amazement flashed in his eyes.
He mumbled to himself, "Xiao Chengjin is such a lucky guy!"
"Lying at home without moving, yet he managed to bring such a beauty back."
Ah, comparisons are odious!
Hmph! If Jiang Ru's mother were still alive, she would be the rightful Lady of the Duke's Heir.
This man was Ning Jinghuai, the Duke's Heir. Upon hearing the whispers outside, he couldn't help but stand up and take a look.
He didn't expect that the soft and gentle little girl from his childhood memories had grown into such an enchanting woman.
Oh, right, Xiao Chengjin has a "hidden ailment"!
Haha, Jiang Ru still had a chance to become his Lady of the Duke's Heir.
...
Prime Minister's Residence.
A maid rushed to report upon seeing the carriage from Prince An's residence.
Due to her weakened condition, Lady Pei had to heavily rely on makeup to conceal her haggard appearance.
Upon hearing the news that Jiang Ru had arrived, she hurriedly made her way to the front hall.
Meanwhile, Jiang Yunyao had trouble sleeping these past few nights due to the missing items. Her once radiant face had lost its luster.
For some reason, she felt like the missing items in the Prime Minister's Residence might be connected to Jiang Ru. But when she thought about it more, Jiang Ru didn't seem capable of such a thing.
Strange!
As the carriage arrived at the gate, Jiang Ru, assisted by Dong Xue, gracefully stepped out of the carriage.
Two guards at the entrance of the Prime Minister's Residence looked at Jiang Ru, who carried herself with a princess's demeanor, and a hint of disdain flashed in their eyes.
She was just a fake Princess; did she really think she had transformed into a phoenix perched on a branch?
They half-heartedly bowed and said, "We pay our respects to Prince An... uh..."
Before they could finish speaking, An Er, who stood at the front, kicked them away.
An Er's eyes were sharp, and he scolded them with a stern face, "The servants of the Prime Minister's residence have quite the arrogance. They don't even perform the proper kneeling greeting when they see Princess An?"
The steward had made it clear that anyone who disrespected their princess today would be taught a lesson.
Not only did these two servants have disdain in their eyes, but their bows were also extremely perfunctory.
They were courting death!
Jiang Ru gaped at the dark and imposing figure of the second guard, eh? Wasn't he the cute little guy who always smiled the most brightly?
Oh my, he looks so terrifying when he's angry!
Hehe, was he here to support her?
In her previous life, when she was seven, her parents died in a car accident.
In one night, she became an orphan.
In the year before she turned eight, she experienced all the ups and downs of the world. It wasn't until she picked wild fruits in the mountains to stave off hunger that she encountered that grumpy old man...
Thinking of this, a warm feeling spread through Jiang Ru's heart.
There are still many good people in the world, aren't there?
Dong Xue looked at the second guard with worshipful eyes. Just now... this guy looked so majestic!
The two servants who had been kicked to the ground were terrified. Ignoring their pain, they quickly knelt and begged, "Please, spare us, Princess An. We know we were wrong."
Jiang Ru coldly observed the guards kneeling before her, her tone indifferent. "Do you think that just because I am Princess An, you can disrespect me at will?"
"We were wrong, please forgive us, Princess An."
Nearby, a crowd of onlookers had gathered.
Jiang Qinian and Lady Pei hurriedly arrived, their anger evident at the commotion.
How dare they cause trouble on the day of her return? It was outrageous.
"Ru'er, why are you standing outside instead of entering the house as soon as you return?" Jiang Qinian showed a hint of impatience, and his tone was displeased.
Lady Pei, struggling to maintain her composure, said with a strange tone, "Lord Jiang, Ru'er's status has changed now. She is Princess An!"
Jiang Ru couldn't help but smirk at Lady Pei's words. Let's see how her previous scumbag of a father reacts!
Jiang Qinian suddenly realized that the daughter who had married into Prince An's residence was indeed different from before.
He quickly bowed, saying, "I greet Princess An."
Lady Pei, hearing this, hastily followed suit, "I, too, greet Princess An."
Jiang Ru cast a cold glance at Lady Pei and then turned to Jiang Qinian, saying, "Father, there's no need for formalities."
After that, she took the lead and entered the Prime Minister's residence.
Jiang Qinian glanced at Jiang Ru's back and suddenly had an inexplicable feeling...
For some reason, he had a thought that his daughter would become an exemplary woman in the future.
It couldn't be true; she had no talent or virtue, only her beauty. How could she become such an exemplary woman?
In the hall, Jiang Ru sat gracefully in the main seat and raised an eyebrow as she looked at Jiang Yunyao, who appeared somewhat haggard.
What do you think?
Are these days not going well for you?
Reluctantly, Jiang Yunyao finished the greetings, then stood to the side, twisting the handkerchief in her sleeve into a spiral.
What's so great about it? She's just a princess!
Look at her proud expression.
When I become the Crown Princess... Well, even if I become Empress, her rank will still be higher than mine.
By then, I'll have to address her as "Empress Aunt."
Thinking of this, Jiang Yunyao shot a resentful look at Jiang Qinian.
"You may all retire. I have some personal matters to discuss with Princess An," Jiang Qinian announced, dismissing the others.
Lady Pei's face showed a hint of surprise upon hearing this. She quickly gestured to Jiang Yunyao, "Yao'er, come with your mother to the dining room."
In fact, Lady Pei was most concerned that Jiang Ru would inadvertently reveal her secrets.
Jiang Ru nodded reassuringly to Dong Xue, who was worried.
Once everyone had left, Jiang Qinian's expression immediately turned grim.
"Ru'er, how have you handled the matter I entrusted to you?"
Jiang Ru shrugged and replied with a question, "I've only been in the residence for three days. I got lost in Prince An's mansion. How do you think I'm doing?"
Jiang Qinian's expression froze momentarily. He patiently said, "You must find a way to manage the supplies for Prince An's residence as soon as possible. Do you understand?"
Before Jiang Ru could respond, a voice came from outside, "The Crown Prince has arrived."
Upon hearing this, Jiang Qinian's eyes flashed with suspicion.
Why would the Crown Prince come in person?
Without time to consider further, Jiang Qinian quickly straightened his robe and went outside to welcome Xiao Mocheng.
Jiang Ru stretched lazily as she got up.
Now that she had returned, it was time to go back inside.
Chapter 19: The Young Imperial Aunt is Easily Manipulated
Xiao Mocheng, dressed in a splendid robe, appeared in the front yard, where all the servants knelt and paid their respects.
"We, your humble servants, greet the Crown Prince."
"Please, rise!" Xiao Mocheng's lips curled into a friendly smile, and he exuded an air of sophistication.
Jiang Qinian and Lady Pei hurried forward. "We, your subjects, respectfully welcome the Crown Prince!"
Xiao Mocheng walked up and offered a hand in a symbolic gesture. His voice was as smooth as jade. "Prime Minister Jiang, Lady Pei, there's no need for formalities."
Today, he came to the Prime Minister's residence with a purpose in mind.
Today was the day that the young Imperial Aunt returned home.
He had heard from the palace servants that this Imperial Aunt was a rare beauty.
Seeing her beauty was one thing, but more importantly, he wondered what he could do with this Imperial Aunt.
According to Jiang Yunyao's description, this young Imperial Aunt had a weak personality and should be easy to manipulate.
Perhaps he could bribe her. When she found the "amulet" from his younger Imperial Uncle, he could...
He would deal with the aftermath discreetly.
While Xiao Mocheng was deep in thought, he suddenly noticed a woman with extraordinary looks slowly approaching from inside the hall.
She moved gracefully, her beauty accentuated by her enchanting figure...
Xiao Mocheng's eyes widened.
Was this the young Imperial Aunt?
Why was she so different from what Jiang Yunyao had said?
Upon a reminder from the servants around him, Xiao Mocheng quickly greeted her, "Nephew pays respects to Imperial Aunt."
Since Jiang Ru had left the hall, she had been discreetly observing the Crown Prince's every move.
She didn't miss the calculating look in Xiao Mocheng's eyes.
That's why, when Xiao Mocheng bowed, Jiang Ru maintained the demeanor of an elder and spoke in a cold tone, "Crown Prince, no need for excessive formalities."
Xiao Mocheng: "...?"
Such calm and composure seemed even more inconsistent with Jiang Yunyao's description.
Xiao Mocheng slowly let his gaze fall upon her exquisite face...
When he met her peach blossom eyes, shimmering like clear water, he was momentarily entranced.
Jiang Qinian observed Jiang Ru's composed demeanor and silently thought: Wouldn't this useless daughter be trembling with fear in the backyard, meeting the Crown Prince with utmost respect?
Why does she appear so confident?
Lady Pei, on the other hand, muttered in her heart: Shameless vixen, daring to seduce the Crown Prince.
In just a few days, this little troublemaker had grown into such a seductive and enchanting beauty, even showing signs of overshadowing her precious Yao'er.
Jiang Yunyao knew that Xiao Mocheng was coming to the Prime Minister's residence today, so she quickly changed into a pink court dress and meticulously reapplied her makeup.
Her heart was filled with delight; the Crown Prince must have come to see her.
But when she rushed to the front yard, she happened to witness Xiao Mocheng gazing intently at Jiang Ru.
Jiang Yunyao was immediately filled with anger.
This fox-like woman had already married Prince An, yet she dared to openly flirt with the Crown Prince.
She suddenly stopped in her tracks, hiding to the side, secretly observing Xiao Mocheng's facial expressions.
When she saw the surprise in Xiao Mocheng's eyes, Jiang Yunyao became anxious...
She quickened her pace to reach Xiao Mocheng, feigning a shy and demure demeanor. "Yao'er greets the Crown Prince."
Jiang Yunyao's voice brought Xiao Mocheng back to reality.
Xiao Mocheng coughed lightly behind his hand to conceal his momentary lapse. "Miss Jiang, no need for formalities."
Jiang Yunyao: "...?"
How did she become "Miss Jiang"? Didn't he prefer calling her Yao'er?
It was to avoid any suspicion in front of Jiang Ru.
Although Jiang Yunyao felt irritated, she still put on a gentle and virtuous appearance. "I was just preparing lunch for Princess An in the kitchen, which is why I arrived a little later."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Mocheng initially showed an approving smile, but in the next moment, that smile froze on his lips.
Jiang Ru glanced at Jiang Yunyao's newly changed outfit and fresh makeup, her lips curved with a hint of mockery. "Sister's attire and makeup today are quite impressive."
You went to the kitchen? What a joke!
The bystanders instantly understood Jiang Ru's implied meaning and involuntarily shifted their gaze towards Jiang Yunyao.
Jiang Yunyao couldn't hold back her anger and tightly clenched her hands. She hated Jiang Ru.
Because of this, Jiang Qinian felt somewhat displeased, and his gaze towards Jiang Ru became a bit more severe.
Taunting her sister in front of the Crown Prince, both overtly and covertly. Did she not understand the principle of standing or falling together?
Xiao Mocheng looked at the elegant and sharp-tongued Jiang Ru, and a hint of surprise flashed through his eyes.
The carefree appearance of the young Imperial Aunt was quite unique compared to those shy and timid noble ladies.
Jiang Ru ignored them, turned to her father Jiang Qinian, and said coldly, "Father, your daughter needs to go back to take care of Prince An. I'll return to the Prince's Residence first."
She nodded slightly at Xiao Mocheng before turning to leave.
Xiao Mocheng had come for Jiang Ru, so when he saw her leave, he also found an excuse to depart. "Um, I suddenly remembered some official matters that I haven't finished..."
Jiang Qinian and Lady Pei exchanged glances and bowed slightly. "We, your subjects, and our daughter, respectfully bid farewell to the Crown Prince."
After the group left, the front yard of the Prime Minister's residence fell into silence.
Outside the Prime Minister's residence...
After a while, a few people watched the carriage from Prince An's residence leave, and Xiao Mocheng also boarded his sedan chair and departed.
Jiang Yunyao, seeing the departing sedan chair, stomped her foot in frustration.
She was currently grateful that Jiang Ru had married into Prince An's residence for the wedding.
Otherwise, the Crown Prince might have been lured away sooner or later.
In the sedan chair, Xiao Mocheng closed his eyes to rest, contemplating how to deal with Jiang Ru.
He decided to change his strategy. Given the poor condition of the young Imperial Uncle, if he passed away someday, the young Imperial Aunt might face a fate of burial alongside him.
By then, if he could become her reliance, would she wholeheartedly serve him?
Thinking of this, Xiao Mocheng's face showed a determined smile.
...
Prince An's residence...
Jiang Ru, after changing out of her court attire, strolled towards Xiao Chengjin's courtyard.
The sun was shining brightly, and a gentle breeze was blowing.
"Let's take the Prince out to enjoy the sun," she instructed. "And fetch some picture books. I want to tell him stories."
Steward Lin sighed and ordered, "You go buy some picture books, and you two lift the Prince out."
The quiet courtyard suddenly became lively.
Xiao Chengjin, who was being lifted out, roared in his heart: I don't want to sunbathe!!!
Jiang Ru sat on a bench beside the soft couch, reached out to pinch Xiao Chengjin's cheek, and whispered, "Since entering the Prince's residence, I've been playing the role of both father and mother."
"Most importantly, there are wolves lurking outside, and it's incredibly challenging."
Xiao Chengjin: Could it be... that this woman has suffered since returning home?
Chapter 20: Left Eye Twitching for Fortune, Right Eye Twitching for Disaster
The atmosphere in the courtyard appeared heartwarming to onlookers. Two exceptionally beautiful figures, especially the enchanting smiles on the women's faces, outshone even the most vibrant blossoms in the yard.
After about a quarter of an hour basking in the sun, Jiang Ru had someone move Xiao Chengjin to a nearby gazebo.
Sitting beside him, Jiang Ru gently massaged Xiao Chengjin's arms while gazing at the picturesque scenery. "The sky is so blue, and the flowers are in full bloom. Are you feeling moved?"
"If you are, you should wake up earlier to see it." The sooner I wake up, the sooner I can leave.
The gentle touch made Xiao Chengjin feel rather content.
He thought to himself: Having a wife like this by my side might not be bad at all.
After Jiang Ru finished massaging Xiao Chengjin's limbs, she discreetly applied some ointment to his chest.
He sighed inwardly: Why does she always have to touch me like this?
What kind of woman is she, anyway?
He used to despise women with ulterior motives, especially their nauseating scent of makeup from a mile away.
But Jiang Ru was different; she had a faint, elegant fragrance he liked. He even found himself welcoming her proximity.
"Princess, these are newly bought storybooks!" Steward Lin placed the books on a stone table on the side and gestured to the servants in the yard.
Receiving Steward Lin's signal, the servants left the courtyard discreetly.
Jiang Ru wondered: Why are they leaving? We could have listened to stories together!
Could it be... the books contain something indecent?
With a curious expression, Jiang Ru picked up the top book, titled "The Alluring Fox Wife of a Down-and-Out Scholar," and started flipping through it.
Pfft... Jiang Ru couldn't help but burst into laughter.
It was filled with explicit illustrations right from the beginning!
Oh no, she's impure now.
Stupid servants, don't you know Prince An's situation?
Jiang Ru put down the book and rested her chin on her hand, looking at Xiao Chengjin on the soft couch. "Tell me, do you prefer handsome men or delicate, fragile beauties who fall at a push?"
Xiao Chengjin: "...?"
Handsome men? Delicate and fragile?
What on earth is this woman thinking?
He didn't have any "hidden illnesses," nor did he have such preferences.
He felt like opening her head to see what she was hiding inside.
"These things not suitable for children, I won't tell you," she said, "How about this? I'll tell you the story of Snow White. Once upon a time, there was a little princess... 'Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?' 'The fairest one of all is Princess Jiang Ru!'"
Jiang Ru's throat got dry from talking, "Well, I've forgotten the rest of the story. I'll tell you the rest when I remember it."
Xiao Chengjin, propping up his ears to listen to Jiang Ru's unfinished story, commented, "Clearly, you just don't want to tell me."
In the afternoon, Jiang Ru called for Steward Lin. She pointed to a small wooden box on the table and said with a somewhat subdued tone, "Steward Lin, I have some land deeds and property titles left by my parents here. To avoid dwelling on the past, I want to sell them all."
Steward Lin, upon hearing Jiang Ru's words, didn't say much. "Princess, rest assured, this matter will be handled properly."
The Princess's mother had passed away many years ago, and these belongings were indeed reminders of the past. The Prince's Residence was vast, ensuring the Princess's worry-free life.
The shopkeeper, one of Lady Pei's people, rushed to report the news to the Prime Minister's residence when he saw someone buying the shop. Upon hearing that Jiang Ru had sold all the shops and fertile lands, Lady Pei blacked out on the spot.
Once again, turmoil enveloped the Prime Minister's residence.
In the following days, the Empress sent two invitations to Princess Jiang Ru to join her in the palace gardens, both of which Princess Jiang Ru declined on the pretext of taking care of Prince Xiao Chengjin. Princess Jiang Ru had a hunch that the Empress's invitations were likely influenced by Prince Xiao Moheng.
To plan for the long term, Princess Jiang Ru decided to learn some self-defense techniques.
The people in the Prince's Residence were all supportive of Princess Jiang Ru's interest in martial arts. With self-defense skills, even the Princess could protect herself in times of danger.
Steward Lin, upon learning of Princess Jiang Ru's intentions, arranged for a trusted servant named An'er to teach Princess Jiang Ru some sword techniques, light-footed techniques, and key principles.
In the evenings, Princess Jiang Ru would diligently practice her light-footed skills in the spiritual realm, while during the day, she would learn sword techniques under An'er's guidance.
With the abundant spiritual energy in the spiritual realm and the accelerated passage of time, Princess Jiang Ru made significant progress in just a few days.
Scaling walls and leaping over courtyards became effortless for her.
Princess Jiang Ru, eager to showcase her newly acquired skills, gracefully jumped onto the roof.
The onlookers applauded her, giving her the recognition she sought.
Prince Xiao Chengjin listened to the cheers in the courtyard and found his mood lifting.
No wonder she's so popular in the Prince's Residence.
Even his daily anticipation of hearing her say "good morning" and "good night" demonstrated how unique his Princess was.
For the first time in his life, Prince Xiao Chengjin was looking forward to a woman.
That night, the rain drizzled endlessly, causing inexplicable restlessness.
Princess Jiang Ru, lying on the small couch, felt her right eyelid twitch uncontrollably.
Left eye twitching for fortune, right eye twitching for disaster...
With this thought, Princess Jiang Ru suddenly had an ominous feeling.
The original plot didn't specify the date of her exile, but could it be tomorrow...
A dilemma required decisive action.
Tonight, she would go empty the Emperor's treasury and private vault.
Simultaneously, not far from the entrance of the Prince's Residence, a woman clad in a cloak was knocked unconscious by a figure in black and carried away.
At midnight, when the rain gradually subsided, it was the time when the palace guards were most relaxed. Once she entered the palace, everything would be fine.
Princess Jiang Ru entered the spiritual realm and swiftly changed into the night clothes she had prepared a couple of days earlier.
Seeing a lithe figure gracefully exit the Prince's Residence, An'er, full of resignation, shook his head.
In the dead of night, what could the Princess possibly be up to?
Suddenly, he regretted teaching Princess Jiang Ru his lifelong martial arts skills.
He thought, given Princess Jiang Ru's personality, if she wasn't careful, she might turn the entire capital upside down.
An'er lamented in his heart, wondering if he'd be sent back to the covert guards when the Prince woke up.
Aware that someone was secretly protecting her, Princess Jiang Ru waved to the shadows as she entered a nearby alley.
An'er, landing lightly in front of Princess Jiang Ru, clasped his fists and asked, "Princess, how may I assist you?"
Princess Jiang Ru pointed to the six drowsy guards at the palace gate and whispered, "A while ago, when I entered the palace to pay my respects, I left behind an important item. Later, when you divert their attention, I'll slip into the palace to retrieve it."
An'er was about to voice his objections when Princess Jiang Ru threatened him, "If you don't follow my instructions, I'll enter the palace like this."
An'er: "..."
Can't your subordinates listen to orders?