Lin Jin Rong could still remember the first day she entered the General's house. It was during spring and the estate was bright and colourful.
She could not help but look everywhere. She taught that even if the flowers were the same than in Lian's estate. The general's house had more standing.
As her influence in the estate grew she felt powerful and heroic!
Lian Jin Rong while smiled remembering all this.
When she met An Zhong Tao for the first time, the man was not stunned. He was so serious, just like a scholar. She was embarrassed at first. How was she going to approach him? But she gave it a try.
On her second day, while she was carrying a basin full of water, she deliberately stumbled on him.
At first, An Zhong Tao didn't think anything of it. However, he was not willing to help her either. In the end, he did help carry the basin.
Some water had spilt on him and she had reached to wipe it out. But he had turned and left without a word.
Lin Jin Rong had met a challenge. For such a man to try and tempt him would only bring disgust and hatred. She thought hard about what she should do.
Fortunately, Lian Jin Yu believed in her and asked her to manage the income of East Warm Pavilion. This gave her the opportunity she needed in order to get closer to An Zhong Tao.
She did everything she could to get the man praise! But a month after her arrival Lian Jin Yu morning sickness got better. Suddenly Lian Jin Rong didn't have an excuse to stay in the general's estate and panicked.
Twelve years ago...
In the East Warm courtyard. Jin Yu was staying in bed her face a bit haggard due to the last month strong morning sickness. But she had a pair of bright black eyes.
Lian Jin Rong smiled at her and askes "sister how are you feeling today? If you feel better we should go out and enjoy the sunshine. I'll help you!"
Lian Jin Yu nodded.
"Thank you for all your help these days".
Lian Jin Rong laughed inside if only her sister knew her true purpose she would never say such a thing.
Playing the loving sister she smiles and took Lian Jin Yu outside. After a little walk, Jin Yu got tired and went back to her room. This was her chance!
It was exactly what Jin Rong wanted. She sneaked out and went to her room. After she gave Hong Mama a vague answer when the old mama asked her where she was going.
Once she had locked herself in her room, she sprinkled some powder in the tea. This drug was given to Jin Rong by her mother.
In the Lian estate, her mother was only a low concubine and didn't have a special status. So, she used special means to attract her father's attention. In this matter she followed her mother teaching: if you work for it you shall obtain it!
She put some makeup and smiled while she looked at her beautiful face in the mirror. Even if she couldn't compare to Lian Jin Yu's looks she was still beautiful.
After all, she was also a young lady of the Lian household. Just because she was concubine born they treated only a bit better than the servant.
She could never compare to the Di daughter!
Even in regard to their weddings. Lian Jin Yu was married to the young and promising general. While she was engaged to a small family relative.
Lian Jin Rong refused to accept that reality! In what way was Lian Jin Yu better than her?
An evil smile slowly appeared in her eyes when she took the tea to An Zhong Tao's study.
"How is Jin Yu?" asked the man when he saw her coming in.
"Mei Mei is much better! She is now resting. I brought you a new bubble tea. Please try!"