To Consummate the Marriage or Not?
The letter was from Gu Shu, requesting peace, and it had the ruler of Gu Shu's imperial seal. After Xuan Tian Ming looked at it, he handed it to Feng Yu Heng and said: "It's within expectations. It's just that the conditions need to be discussed some more."
Feng Yu Heng saw that the letter said that Gu Shu was wanting peace. It expressed that they felt apologetic for initiating the offensive on Da Shun. As reparations, they would have no intentions of asking for the three cities that had been taken by Da Shun, and a large sum of gold and silver would be paid. They wanted to once again be subordinate to Da Shun.
She raised an eyebrow: "We had already taken those three cities for ourselves. They want to use our things as reparations. They really are magnanimous, huh?"
"That's why I said that the conditions need to be discussed some more." Xuan Tian Ming pondered, "It would be better to set our sights on the capital. If they agree to hand over the capital and all of the cities North to Da Shun, Da Shun will agree on peace terms. If they don't agree with this, we will charge straight into their capital and not spare a single hair." After saying this, he turned slightly and said to Bai Ze: "Have things decided like this. Have someone send a report back to the capital for the old man to take a look at."
Bai Ze happily accepted this task, feeling that his master had become even more skilled at scamming people since marrying the princess! But he was still a bit puzzled: "We have already begun fighting. Why should we accept peace terms? Can't we just wipe out Gu Shu?" The heavenly lightning that the princess had provided really was quite useful. Not to mention a lowly Gu Shu, but even flattening the world with explosions would not take much effort.
Feng Yu Heng was able to understand why Xuan Tian Ming accepted the peace deal, telling Bai Ze: "The further we advance toward Gu Shu, the hotter it will get. When we reached Yue Ping City, the situation with the soldiers suffering from heatstroke was far more severe than with the two previous cities. If the entirety of Gu Shu was taken by Da Shun, just governing it would be enough of a headache for us. Based on His Highness' assessment, Da Shun's soldiers would only be able to endure the heat up to the capital. It would be better to leave Gu Shu to govern themselves while continuing to pay tribute each year. As for leaving them a few cities, even if they have the intention of reversing the situation, they would not have the power."
Xuan Tian Ming nodded. His wife's analysis really was the most accurate.
Bai Ze also admired Feng Yu Heng greatly, quickly going to take care of the report. As for Xuan Tian Ming, he brought Feng Yu Heng back to Yue Ping City. Living in the most beautiful city in the desert, they waited for a response from the Emperor.
During this period of time, Xuan Tian Ming and Feng Yu Heng spoke most about the matter of "consummating" the marriage.
Xuan Tian Ming's opinion was: "This prince has been waiting since you were 12 years of age. You've finally come of age, you need to help relieve some of this prince's lovesickness."
Feng Yu Heng's opinion was: "In the face of a great enemy, you have the mind to consummate the marriage? Also, we are only living here temporarily. It cannot be considered as having married into your house." But when Xuan Tian Ming continued to question it, she finally voiced her internal thoughts: "My parents passed away. Even if I don't observe a three-year mourning period, it should be at least 100 days. To consummate this marriage with you at this time, I feel unable to accept it."
Xuan Tian Ming gently sighed and pulled the person at his side into his embrace, "You've been troubled." He could understand his wife's feelings. Both of her parents passed away at the same time. Regardless of how well they got along, it was still taboo. It was just 100 days. He could endure it.
Enduring it was fine. Since they had already gotten married, they had to sleep together. Thus Feng Yu Heng spent her nights being held from the back. At first, she could endure it, but by the end, she truly could no longer endure the heat of the desert combined with the heat coming from another person's body. Thus the two simply went to sleep inside her space. In a room with constant temperature and things from the 21st century, it felt incomparably comfortable.
The report to the capital was sent by eagle. The main goal was speed. The so-called report was just a piece of paper folded into a square and did not resemble an official report*. The Emperor did not care about such a thing, as he had already become accustomed to communicating with old ninth in such a manner. He did not feel that it was improper. Especially when he saw that they had already taken three of Gu Shu's cities, including Gu Shu's largest and most beautiful city, Yue Ping City, he smiled extremely happily.
At this time, the old emperor was presently in Winter Moon Palace eating lunch. Imperial Concubine Yun had granted him special permission to take a nap after eating lunch. Of course, the bedrooms were separate, but it was enough for the Emperor to feel happy. He handed the letter to Imperial Concubine Yun, as he poured himself a bit more wine. While Imperial Concubine Yun was not paying attention, he downed it. Imperial Concubine Yun just looked at him sideways, and the Emperor scratched his head: "Rejoice, rejoice."
Compared to the Emperor, Imperial Concubine Yun was far calmer. Holding the letter in her hand, she spoke after reading it over: "It's a result of A-Heng's efforts."
The Emperor nodded and said: "I heard that they used a type of explosive, and the people in the South have called it heavenly lightning. Just by throwing one over, everyone in the area would die. Most amazingly, we've taken three of Gu Shu's cities without losing a single soldier. It's a complete victory!"
Imperial Concubine Yun snorted coldly: "But of course! The enemy was defeated without using much effort. As for your eighth son, the mess that he left behind gave those two children quite a bit of trouble." She had stayed away from the matters of the court for a long time, but this did not mean that she did not know about what happened. Imperial Concubine Yun also had eyes, and her eyes had been sent by either Xuan Tian Ming or Xuan Tian Hua. None of them had been sent for nothing. Compared to the arrangements made by other princes, the level was a step higher. Imperial Concubine Yun could get a report about the situation in the South nearly every day. She was also quite intrigued by the heavenly lightning mentioned in the rumors.
Hearing Imperial Concubine Yun mention old eighth, the Emperor felt a bit guilty. In truth, he really wanted to take harsh measures like he had with old third, just having him killed to finish things off. But that was his own son. Not only was there a blood relation, but the old emperor also felt a bit of guilt towards his other sons as a result of the matter with Imperial Concubine Yun. It was such that it was inevitable that he would be a bit softer in his handing out of punishments.
Imperial Concubine Yun knew what he was thinking and did not make any requests. She just reminded him: "Either way, don't go too far. If more innocents are harmed as a result of your soft heart, you will need to seriously re-examine yourself as a ruler." She was speaking about the matter with the jade mine. In a case where there was sufficient testimony, the eighth prince, Xuan Tian Mo, was summoned every day by the Board of Punishments. It was extremely passive. But in the end, he had gathered quite a substantial amount of support this time around. For each concubine in the imperial harem that had been treated coldly, there was an official that supported him. It was such that they would counteract every move made by the Board of Punishments. The case remained stuck in place like this, and there was only one benefit to this: It left Xuan Tian Mo with no time to concern himself with the battle in the South. He could only arrange for some trouble to be caused for the delivery of supplies being handled by the second prince. He did not have any energy to do anything else.
The Emperor was truly frustrated with this, but there was indeed nothing that he could do. It seemed as though his life's work would be ruined by his eighth son during his waning years, but when he thought of how he had doted Xuan Tian Mo when he was young, the ferocity in his heart quickly dissipated.
In the end, he could not bring himself to be so harsh! He smacked himself on the head and helplessly said: "It's a sin. It's a sin that I committed. Now that I'm old, I don't know how to resolve it." After saying this, he downed another cup of wine.
Today, the Emperor had drank a bit much. Imperial Concubine Yun did not advise against it. She knew that this old man was in a bad mood. They were all his flesh and blood. Although he was able to give up on his feelings for in his imperial harem, his son was his own flesh and blood. It was not her place to say too much. She just felt that this old man continuing to linger on these emotions was not a good thing. With the families of those concubines supporting the eighth prince, the atmosphere in the palace had become even stranger. Those women that had not caused a fuss in a decade or two were now putting on airs and beginning to move; however, who knew what sort of scene they could cause. She just hoped that her son could quickly return and that there would be no trouble before her son came back.
One month after Xuan Tian Ming had sent the letter by eagle, the Emperor's reply reached the South, and Bai Ze handed it over to Xuan Tian Ming. The Emperor expressed his support for demanding the capital of Gu Shu and all of its cities to its North. At the same time, he extolled his thorough considerations. The desert's unique climate made governing the entirety of Gu Shu extremely difficult. The capital and the cities to its North could be maintained, but that would also require a large amount of investment. If they continued to advance, they may not be able to digest it.
With the Emperor's reply, Xuan Tian Ming immediately had someone open communications with Gu Shu. Gu Shu's ruler also seemed to have realized that only using three cities, especially cities that they had already conquered, would not be accepted. When Xuan Tian Ming's envoy arrived, he did not think much about it and just agreed.
To Gu Shu, giving up their capital and the cities to the North meant that the capital would need to be pushed further South. They were not afraid of the heat, but they felt very saddened by the loss of those cities. Gu Shu's ruler hated Bi Xiu's family to the core, as he gave the order for the entirety of Bi Xiu's family to be executed!
Gu Shu's so-called peace was just surrendering. The ten smaller countries saw this and felt extreme disdain, but there was nothing that they could do. In the past, they were not bordering Da Shun, and they could just live on their own. Although their countries were a bit weaker, they lived freely. Now, things were different. Xuan Tian Ming sent them all diplomatic notes. If they wanted to live, and if they wanted to keep their countries, they needed to obediently surrender and become subordinate. They would need to pay an annual tribute. If they were dissatisfied with this, Da Shun's army would immediately use their heavenly lightning to completely flatten those countries that refused.
How could the small countries endure this sort of horror? Moreover, they had all witnessed that heavenly lightning. It was truly too frightening. Thus the rulers of the ten countries figured, they had to surrender and accept their fate! Who told them to stand on the wrong side, to begin with?
With just a single conflict in the South, Da Shun had taken half of Gu Shu and obtained ten new vassal states. Xuan Tian Ming's military service made him a star throughout Da Shun. Word of him being a god of war spread even more. Of course, mentioned alongside him was his wife, Princess Yu, Imperial Daughter Ji An! Because heavenly lightning had already become known throughout the world, Xuan Tian Ming did not deliberately hide it. He simply announced to the world that the heavenly lightning had been made by Imperial Daughter Ji An. It was the exact same as steel. It was all a contribution made to Da Shun.
The people were even more skilled at spreading this than him, as they said that it was a wedding dowry that Imperial Daughter Ji An had prepared for her own wedding. While others were adorned in feminine attire, she was adorned in military attire, domineering and mighty.
In an instant, legends about Imperial Daughter Ji An had spread across the world. This sort of rumor was enough to prop someone up as a deity. Feng Yu Heng felt that it was too conspicuous, but she could not control the speed or scope of information. Xuan Tian Ming was much more lighthearted about it, saying: "Just let them spread it. Either way, it can't be controlled. It would just be better to accept it. Moreover, this prince's wife was originally a deity. There was no need for them to say it."
During the 24th year of Tian Wu's rule, the god of war finished his duty on the fifth day of the sixth month and returned to court...
The Legitimate Princess Yu
While the army was heading back toward the capital, arrangements for the new cities acquired in the desert had begun to be handed down from the court.
The South would be re-partitioned. The six cities would become part of a large province called the Mo Province, and the court would dispatch someone to be the prefect. The six cities would be designated as zhou, but their manner of governance would remain the same.
In truth, aside from Yue Ping City, all of the other prefects would be replaced, and they were all dispatched by the court. They would all be sworn in along with the new prefect of Mo Province. This person was none other than Feng Yu Heng's eldest cousin, Yao Shu.
Hearing that Yao Shu would be going South to be sworn in, Feng Yu Heng let out a sigh of relief. It had to be known that there were six cities! This included Yue Ping City. For six cities to join a province at once was unheard of in Da Shun. The area was too large, and there were too many cities. At the same time, the prefects had too much power. If the large area of land that they had fought hard for fell into the hands of someone unreliable, that would be a huge blow. If things went poorly, the tragedy would repeat itself after a number of years.
Now, Mo Province's rule would be handed over to Yao Shu. This was the same as giving it to Feng Yu Heng and Xuan Tian Ming. The Emperor's decision made the two very satisfied. Along the way, Xuan Tian Ming repeatedly said: "The old man really isn't foolish." As for Feng Yu Heng, she was thinking that it would be best if they could run into Yao Shu on his way down. She would give him some more of the medicine that would be necessary in the desert.
This time, the court was quite forceful when it came to the conflict in the South. Not only had six cities in the desert have new governments, but even Lan Zhou's prefect was replaced, but the replacement had not been sent from the capital. Instead, an imperial decree was sent over, and the adviser that had helped manage Lan Zhou after Xuan Tian Ming's arrival in the South was promoted. After that adviser received the decree, he viewed Xuan Tian Ming and Feng Yu Heng as his second parents. He was also completely subservient to Yao Shu, who would be arriving, but this was another story for another time.
While Feng Yu Heng was returning to the capital, she really did run into Yao Shu, as she gave him medicine, clothes and money that had been prepared beforehand. This was enough to fill two chests, and it left Yao Shu feeling embarrassed. Xuan Tian Ming also told him that there were quite a few people that he had left behind among the soldiers staying in the South. Although the vast majority were the 300 thousand troops of the Southern Army, and those people had expressed their loyalty to him, those people had previously followed old eighth. First, he was worried that they would no longer be in awe once he had left for a long time. Second, he was worried that there would still be traitors in their midst that would seek to cause trouble. The people that he had left behind all had weapons. When necessary, they would be able to suppress any uprising.
Xuan Tian Ming's words helped calm Yao Shu. As for the things that Feng Yu Heng had given Yao Shu, it made him feel that she was very close. He said that she was his younger sister, and he would not accept the money, but he would feel more at ease with the medicine that had been prepared. He had heard that the South was extremely hot, and his government office would be in Yue Ping City. When setting out, he really was worried that he would not be able to endure the heat.
Fortunately, Feng Yu Heng had already established Hundred Herb Halls in the cities of Sha Ping, Jue Ping, and Yue Ping in this short period of time. Among these, the one in Jue Ping City was the largest. She had also left Wang Lin over there, advising him to slowly expand Hundred Herb Hall into the other three cities, but there was no rush. The most important thing was still to put all of their efforts into expanding Yue Ping City. After all, Yue Ping City's position in the desert was uncommon. It also had the largest population. The city also had an oasis in the center, and its climate was relatively better. After she returned to the capital, she would need to begin sending people to the Hundred Herb Halls in the other areas. Then more people would need to be sent into the desert. Also, they needed to continue training doctors. Who knew if her grandfather had trained any new doctors during these few months.
The army did not detour toward Ji An Prefecture. After all, Feng Yu Heng had just gotten married. In the future, she would need to remain at her husband's side. Moreover, she had not been to the capital for a long time, and she wanted to see what the situation in the capital was like.
Along the way, she wrote a letter to Ji An Prefecture. One was written to the sixth prince, telling him about her own plans. At the same time, she asked the sixth prince if he would be staying there or if he would be returning to the capital. At present, Ji An Prefecture's management had already taken steps towards normalcy. Things were progressing steadily, and there was no need for too much concern. Moreover, there was also Qian Feng Shou present. She had already said to have Qian Feng Shou take care of managing Ji An Prefecture along with Yu Zhou. As for the salary, she would provide an extra sum each month. Also, it was a great deal more than what the court provided.
Qian Feng Shou was very happy with this. After all, his son was still under Xuan Tian Ming's command. In addition to this, the skills that Feng Yu Heng had shown really earned his admiration. He paid even more attention to Ji An Prefecture than he did Yu Zhou. He even bought himself a small residence there and would occasionally go to live there.
Another letter was written to Xu shi and Qin shi, telling them that she was already on her way back to the capital. This also told the two aunts to tidy up their things and return. As for the imperial daughter's manor in Ji An Prefecture, it would be left to Xiang Rong and An shi. She had originally planned to have Xu shi bring Xiang Rong back to the capital, but apparently, An shi had already arrived, thus she wanted to leave mother and daughter to peacefully remain there. Either way, she would frequently visit Ji An Prefecture. There would be plenty of opportunities for the sisters to meet.
The army marched for two months before finally reaching the capital. The citizens in the capital had received the news long ago, saying that today would be the day that the ninth prince and Imperial Daughter Ji An returned to the capital. The people began to gather around the city's gates starting early in the morning. There were some that scattered flower petals on the ground, some that held large, red banners, and there were some that held baskets filled with dates, peanuts, longan fruits, and lotus seeds. Everyone knew that Imperial Daughter Ji An had gotten married to the god of war ninth prince. Everyone was looking forward to them giving birth to a child. When the city guards opened the gates, a portion of the group immediately surged out of the gates, waiting in bliss. Everyone warmly spoke about the marriage between the ninth prince and Imperial Daughter Ji An. This truly was even more joyous than if their own daughter had gotten married.
To the people of the capital, the ninth prince returning in triumph was indeed something worth celebrating. They had been moved when the ninth prince had quelled the Northwest, and they had also exited the city to receive him. This time, however, it was different. This time, Imperial Daughter Ji An was also returning. Ever since Feng Yu Heng had closed Hundred Herb Hall and left the capital, the one thing that the people hoped for the most was for Imperial Daughter Ji An to quickly return and reopen Hundred Herb Hall. The people in the capital were not accustomed to living in the capital without Hundred Herb Hall. The normal citizens were no longer able to get free scraps of medicine. The wealthy families also needed to return to drinking bitter medical soups. Those with severe symptoms were also unable to find skilled doctors.
Some people had thought of begging Yao Xian, but even if Yao Xian saved a few, he could not save too many. He was old and needed to concern himself with matters in court. How could he have the idle time to care about the normal citizens?
Thus the people just bided their time until this day finally came, and Feng Yu Heng finally returned.
When Xuan Tian Ming's army reached the capital's gates, the crowd began to stir, as they all kneeled and loudly exclaimed: "Congratulations to Your Highness the ninth prince on your triumphant return! Your Highness the ninth prince's fame as the god of war is well-earned!"
Xuan Tian Ming sat in an open carriage, and Feng Yu Heng was at his side. Seeing this scene, it was as though it was a repeat of the scene from three years prior. It was just that the people were not just celebrating Xuan Tian Ming alone. Very quickly, the people began loudly exclaiming: "Imperial Daughter Ji An! You've finally returned! We've all missed Imperial Daughter and have been hoping that Imperial Daughter could quickly return to the capital!"
Xuan Tian Ming raised an eyebrow: "Un, the welcoming of this prince was just for a prince. The reason that these people came was to welcome their Imperial Daughter Ji An!" After saying this, he looked sideways at his wife: "Why are they still calling you imperial daughter? Later on, this prince will have them change it. They should be calling you Princess Yu!"
Feng Yu Heng covered her mouth and smiled. A certain person had become jealous! But Princess Yu was it? This sounded really good. She had already waited for three years. Although there were people that had called her princess before, that was still "future princess." Now, she had finally and legitimately become his wife. It was just a pity that the Feng family no longer existed, and her state of mind had already changed a bit. There was no longer any delight of distancing herself from the Feng family to move into the Yu Palace.
Although the wedding had not been conducted in the capital, they had still heard that the citizens of the capital had gone to the Yao manor to congratulate them. Also, none of them had gone empty handed, bringing along the best gifts that their families could afford. Feng Yu Heng was very moved by this. Before coming back from the desert, she had already gone around and bought things unique to the area from the three cities. Just like Xuan Tian Ming had done when going to fetch her from Lan Zhou for their wedding, they were wrapped up like gifts. There were all kinds of gifts, and they were not too valuable, but they had come from a great distance. They had also come from her, and they had a certain meaning to them.
The two stood on the carriage and began to distribute these gift bundles. They could not guarantee that everyone present would receive one, but the majority of the crowd was able to snatch one. Those that could not get one did not care, as they were still smiling happily. In summary, the ninth prince and Imperial Daughter Ji An had returned to the capital. Their lives would have more to look forward to.
Finally, the two entered the city, and Xuan Tian Ming entered the palace to report. Feng Yu Heng did not follow him but led everyone back to the Yu Palace. She was now Xuan Tian Ming's wife. She was no longer the Imperial Daughter Ji An of the past. The imperial daughter's manor naturally belonged to her, but from this moment forward, she now had one more home. Also, it was the most important one: The Yu Palace.
In front of the palace's gates, Lady Zhou and Eunuch Zhang stood at the entrance. All of the servants in the palace stood behind them with smiles on their faces and wearing tidy clothes. To Feng Yu Heng, none of the servants in the Yu Palace were unfamiliar. After all, Feng Yu Heng had occasionally come to live for a few days. Not only was she easygoing, but she also granted them some small graces. Of course, those small graces were nothing to Feng Yu Heng, but to the servants, they were heavenly graces.
For example, Feng Yu Heng had given Lady Zhou an entire set of skincare products, treated one of Eunuch Zhang's leg injuries, given the male servants of the palace modern tea packets, and given the maidservants and grannies hand cream. She could have as much of these things in her space as she wanted, but the people of the era had never seen them before. These people were extremely grateful, and their impression of their future princess had improved by quite a bit.
Now, their future princess had become the actual princess. Today, they stood there to welcome her while feeling emotional and moved. How many years had the Yu Palace only had the ninth prince as its only master? Now, there would finally be a female master, and it was such a strong female master. The people could practically imagine the couple being completely undefeatable when together.
Lady Zhou stood at the entrance with a bright smile. Watching Feng Yu Heng's carriage approach, she quickly gestured to Eunuch Zhang. Eunuch Zhang quickly took a step forward and announced with twinkling eyes: "We respectfully welcome Princess back to the palace!"
This Prince's House Only Has One Woman!
The word princess formally announced the change in Feng Yu Heng's status. Everyone in the Yu Palace kneeled to receive her. Even the citizens watching on from the outside kneeled, having been affected by the atmosphere. They no longer called her Imperial Daughter Ji An. Instead, they all changed the way they called her and repeated what Eunuch Zhang had announced: "We welcome Princess back!"
Feng Yu Heng sat in the carriage and felt quite emotional. Princess, she had finally become Princess Yu. She felt that she was a little unaccustomed to it! With Wang Chuan and Huang Quan's help, she exited the carriage. She had not specifically changed into a spectacular dress, as she was still wearing the clothes that she had worn on the way back. She did not have much of a princess' bearing, but the aura surrounding her brought cheers from all around.
She quickly stepped forward and personally helped Lady Zhou and Eunuch Zhang up. She then turned to the servants kneeling behind them and said: "You may all rise! We are all familiar with each other. There's no need for this." After saying this, she said to Lady Zhou: "A-Heng still recalls returning to the capital three years earlier. At that time, Lady Zhou had brought the Yu Palace's betrothal gift to the Feng manor to help support me. Ever since that moment when Lady Zhou visited, A-Heng's life in the Feng manor could finally be tolerable. A-Heng will clearly remember Lady Zhou's grace."
These words caused Lady Zhou to feel extremely emotional. Of course, she still recalled when His Highness the ninth prince had asked her to handle delivering the gifts to the Feng family. Speaking truthfully, she was also a bit lost. Nobody had much of an impression of the Feng family's second young miss, nor had they ever met her. She had spent three years in a mountain village. Upon returning to the capital, the ninth prince had actually become so interested. As the one that had raised the ninth prince from childhood, she was also lost. But through their interactions over the years, she praised His Highness' foresight. The Feng family's second young miss was not just exceptionally beautiful, but she was also someone to marvel! With her at the ninth prince's side, he would be like a tiger that had grown wings.
"What sort of thing is Princess saying? From this day forward, you will have entered the Yu Palace and become this place's master. This old servant and the others must be utterly obedient to Princess."
Lady Zhou had expressed her stance, and the other servants quickly echoed her. Feng Yu Heng did not say anything else in regards to this. It was inevitable that these servants would have the self-awareness. Since she would be walking this path, this was something that needed to be preserved.
Very quickly, Feng Yu Heng entered the Yu Palace under everyone's urging. Today, she would be entering the palace as the female master. Lady Zhou first led her into the main hall, where she led the servants in kowtowing to her. She had Wang Chuan and Huang Quan distribute the red envelopes that had been prepared beforehand. Princess Yu was magnanimous in her gifting, as everyone was given a pair of beautiful jade earrings.
Lady Zhou and Eunuch Zhang had also prepared things on their end. Lady Zhou was responsible for the palace's warehouse, while Eunuch Zhang was responsible for the treasury. The keys and accounting journals were handed over, and they did it very willingly. They earnestly accepted their new female master and handed over the Yu Palace to her.
Feng Yu Heng, however, did not accept it, first saying to Lady Zhou: "As the princess, I should indeed be clear on the contents of the warehouse, so I will trouble Lady Zhou with keeping an eye on it for me. As for the key..." She shook her head, "It will continue to remain in Lady Zhou's hands. A-Heng will take on the responsibilities of the head wife of the palace; however, I do not wish to hoard all of the rights." After saying this, she turned to Eunuch Zhang: "When the Feng family took the shops from my mother's dowry and used a number of false accounts to fool me, it was Eunuch Zhang who personally helped me take care of it. A-Heng admires Eunuch Zhang's accounting ability. Also, even if I spent my entire life working on accounting, I would never reach Eunuch Zhang's level. Leaving the treasury in Eunuch Zhang's hands is most reassuring. If Eunuch Zhang feels that this is improper, just bring the account journals for me to see once each month."
She had expressed her stance. She would accept the responsibilities, but she did not want the rights. This caused Lady Zhou and Eunuch Zhang to feel extremely embarrassed, as Lady Zhou said: "Princess, this is unreasonable."
She shook her head and said: "There isn't any reason to it. In our own palace, the rules that we come up with ourselves are what's reasonable. I trust you and want to leave these rights to you. This is what I believe."
The two heard her say this, thus they did not continue to insist. They just expressed that they would work with the princess in taking care of the palace. With a look from Lady Zhou, Eunuch Zhang led the other servants out of the hall.
Lady Zhou then brought Feng Yu Heng and her maidservants to the inner courtyards, heading straight for where Xuan Tian Ming had previously lived. Feng Yu Heng remembered that it was the most magnificent courtyard in the palace. It was behind some bodies of water, was surrounded by a bamboo forest and had some peach trees behind it. The middle of the courtyard was a large and empty area. Xuan Tian Ming had once said that it was for martial arts training. While Lady Zhou walked along, she said: "A letter had been sent to His Highness, although the wedding between His Highness and Princess was not conducted in the capital, a bridal chamber needed to be chosen. His Highness said to choose this place. Would Princess take a look to see if you are satisfied. If you need anything, this old servant will immediately have someone fetch it."
How could Feng Yu Heng not be satisfied? Although she did not really understand the rules of weddings in the ancient world, when she entered the room and saw the festive appearance, she knew that Lady Zhou had put in a large amount of effort. This was Xuan Tian Ming's bedroom. She had come and slept here before; however, it had already had its furnishings completely changed by Lady Zhou. Everything was new, and everything was in pairs. It felt auspicious just looking at it.
Even the bed had been turned bright red. On it was written "give birth to a son soon*" in red dates, and this sight caused Feng Yu Heng's face to turn red. She said to Lady Zhou: "Lady Zhou knows more about these ceremonies than A-Heng, and these actions were very fitting. I really like them."
Lady Zhou smiled brightly: "It's good that Princess likes it. There is still something that I must inquire of Princess about. In the past, His Highness' courtyards never made use of maidservants, and it was only this old servant that would come to take care of him. The other things were left to the male servants to handle. Now that Princess has entered the palace, do you want some more help in this courtyard?"
Feng Yu Heng covered her mouth and smiled. She knew that Xuan Tian Ming did not make use of maidservants, but now that she moved in, to continue using male servants would be against the rules, thus she said to Lady Zhou: "Just bring in some stronger maidservants. As for my personal maidservants, it will continue to be Wang Chuan and Huang Quan!"
Lady Zhou nodded: "This old servant was also thinking this way." After saying this, she pointed behind herself: "These six girls were chosen by this old servant. The girls in the palace all have some martial arts foundation. Thinking about it, Princess will find it a bit easier to make use of them. They will only take care of things in the courtyard. As for your personal needs, I will trouble Wang Chuan and Huang Quan."
Wang Chuan and Huang Quan quickly bowed, saying: "Lady is too courteous. Taking care of His Highness and Princess is our duty."
Lady Zhou laughed and said: "The two of you were formerly part of the Yu Palace and were specifically trained as female guards by His Highness, you have been with Princess for all these years. There's no need to be so courteous with me. Princess has come back from far away. This old servant will go and see if lunch has been prepared yet."
Everything had been arranged properly. When Feng Yu Heng sat down in the bath to soak, she felt completely free of worry. Interacting with the people of the Yu Palace was rather relieving. First, she was familiar with them from before. For her, coming into this palace did not have much of a feeling of a newlywed bride going into an unfamiliar environment. Second, the people in the Yu Palace had been adjusted by Xuan Tian Ming. They did not ramble, they were not urgent, and they were not fussy. They would say the things that they should say and avoid saying the things that they should not say. Their courtesy was also just right. They were not toady, nor were they excessively fawning, as everything they did was very calming. Even Wang Chuan and Huang Quan said: "Coming to the Yu Palace really does give off a feeling of belonging. It's like it's our home."
Feng Yu Heng nodded, admitting this reality, but she also said to the two servants: "Although we have moved into the Yu Palace, the imperial daughter's manor cannot be left empty. Leave as many people as are necessary. People can't be chased out just because we aren't there anymore. If there are truly too many people in the manor, just send some to the residence on the outskirts. Also, ask if there are any that want to learn medicine. I will go and speak about it with grandfather. Some of the doctors that have finished their studies will open a small school to teach even more people. It will make things easier in the future. Also, we will be living in both places. We cannot neglect the imperial daughter's manor."
Wang Chuan and Huang Quan quickly complied while also taking away the clothes that Feng Yu Heng had changed out of. They brought in some new clothes and placed them to the side. Only then did the two leave. Feng Yu Heng did not like having people take care of her while she bathed, and they had become accustomed to this long ago.
Xuan Tian Ming only returned to the palace in the evening, and he felt very comfortable with the people joyously checking up on him. How many years had it been since he had been this happy? Now, the palace had a female master. The atmosphere really was different! He saw Eunuch Zhang holding a platter that had the toothbrush and toothpaste that Feng Yu Heng had given him. There was also a perfumed soap. He knew that these things had already become common in the imperial daughter's manor, as the servants had been using it. Had it now come to the Yu Palace as well? This really was bringing a benefit to the people.
Lady Zhou and Eunuch Zhang saw that he had returned and told him about how Feng Yu Heng had brought all kinds of nice things to the palace in the afternoon after she entered the palace. She had also given red envelopes to all of the servants. The two spoke happily, and Xuan Tian Ming was happy to listen. Lady Zhou noticed that ever since His Highness had returned and ever since the palace had gained a female master, the icy face would occasionally reveal a smile. Lady Zhou was very happy about this.
But she also reported to Xuan Tian Ming about Feng Yu Heng not accepting the warehouse and treasury. Xuan Tian Ming thought about it for a bit then said: "It's fine. Just do as she said. Just send a report to her each month. That girl is someone with a great deal of knowledge, but she should not be tripped up by the affairs of the palace. Also, the palace must not refuse to view her as the head wife because she did not accept those matters! Remember, in this lifetime, the Yu Palace will only have this one female master. There will only be one head wife. It can also only have one woman living in it. Nobody is permitted to treat her poorly."
Lady Zhou laughed and said: "Your Highness, don't say such harsh things. In the future, when you have many children and grandchildren, having a daughter or something, our palace will not just have one female master, nor will it only have one woman living in it."
Xuan Tian Ming's eyes squinted from a smile. Right! If he had a daughter, she would definitely need to be like Heng Heng. She would be bizarre and smart. having a child that looked like her running around, just thinking about it was a joyous thing.
"Un." Xuan Tian Ming nodded and did not say anything, as he walked toward the inner courtyard. Lady Zhou did not follow. Of course, she also did not know that Xuan Tian Ming was currently thinking: "It has been over 100 days since Feng Jin Yuan and Yao shi passed away. It seems it's time that the matter of the bridal chamber is added to the agenda!"
The Delayed Consummation of Marriage
That night was the first time that Feng Yu Heng had stayed overnight as the female master of the Yu Palace. She was not someone that could only sleep in a specific bed. Regardless of whether it was her previous life or her current life, they were both different, and she did not have a set living location, thus it was not as though she would be unable to fall asleep in a new environment.
But this night was a bit different. Her status had changed. She was no longer a guest. Instead, she was the master. Who knew what Lady Zhou was thinking. Having found out that she and Xuan Tian Ming had not yet consummated their marriage, she had specifically placed a white handkerchief on the bed. Feng Yu Heng looked at it and was completely speechless, and it just so happened that Xuan Tian Ming was hugging her from behind, saying: "Dear wife, the mourning period of 100 days has already passed. Isn't it about time that we consummated this marriage?"
She counted the days on her fingers: "100 days, over three months, have passed that quickly?"
"Hm?" A certain person became unhappy, "Does dear wife mean that you were hoping that this day would not come so quickly? Do you still not wish to consummate this marriage with husband?"
"That's not it..."
"Then you really want to consummate it with husband."
Feng Yu Heng felt that she would always lose out when talking about this topic, thus she simply shut her mouth. But even if she did not want to talk about it, there was someone that really wanted to talk about it, and they did not just use their mouth to communicate. They also wanted to try it with their hands. Like the paws of a wolf, they were not at all obedient. Feng Yu Heng had just brushed them off of her hip when they reached for her chest. Just when they had been pushed away from her chest, they immediately went for her neck.
Feng Yu Heng was about to collapse! She was also a normal and healthy adult woman, alright. The term adult was just in terms of the ancient world, but she still had the soul that was from the modern era. This was a completely matured soul! This soul was stimulating her hormones! Xuan Tian Ming's hands just could not be stopped. Now, they had even begun undoing her buttons!
She cried, would she hide? Would she not hide? It seemed that she could not escape, and... she did not have much grounds to hide. Who had ever heard of refusing to allow their husband to touch them many months after getting married; moreover, this was in the Yu Palace. If the two still did not consummate their marriage, the man would completely lose face, right? It was just that she... very well! It was not that she did not want to. It was just... hah, she just felt a little bit embarrassed, ok!
The usually heroic Imperial Daughter Ji An had become like a little kitten. With most of her clothes having already been undone, a large amount of skin was revealed. Under Xuan Tian Ming's touch, the skin reacted instinctively, turning red and hot. Her breathing also became coarse, as a slight feeling of expectation began to fill her heart, hoping that those hands would take the next step.
Seeing his wife's little face turn red like a red-hot branding iron, Xuan Tian Ming's heart rejoiced! He had endured for three years! He could finally enjoy eating meat! Only a lamb that he had personally raised would be so savory! And be so reassuring!
A certain person became like a starving wolf. After removing the wool, he pushed her down, un, pushed her down onto the bed. First, he smelled her. Then he licked her. So fragrant, so sweet, it seemed like she would be very delicious.
Feng Yu Heng's face was so red that it was about to begin bleeding, but her body quite welcomed it, while she awkwardly shouted through gritted teeth: "Xuan Tian Ming! You scoundrel! You lecherous wolf!"
But a certain person heard those words, and they became: "Husband, you're the most amazing! Quickly come and eat me!" He nodded with satisfaction, "Don't rush. Husband is coming!"
"You... where are you coming to?" The young wife on the bed had a tear-stained face. She really was extremely nervous. Having lived two lives, she was doing this for the first time! What should she do now? She had heard that she needed to appear reluctant? This would make her appear reserved, but would it really not push the man away? She had also heard that she needed to be fragile? This would make the husband be more sympathetic? In her past life, she had read some romance novels. There were female leads who cried, some who cried, some who were cooperative, and there were some who were passive and became aggressive... but she did not know how to do any of this!
Feng Yu Heng's entire body trembled, while her small mouth grimaced. It looked as though she was about to cry. However, who knew that this sort of appearance would make a man feel moved. For her husband, his heart nearly leaped out of his chest.
"Dear wife, husband is truly very hungry and can't wait." Xuan Tian Ming's voice was hoarse, and his fiery feelings had reached their apex. Before Feng Yu Heng could react, the heated scene of "a lamb being eaten" began.
The pitiful Feng Yu Heng had lived through two lives but had never experienced this sort of thing; however, in this one night, she was played with by her husband from sunset to sunrise. They worked their way from the head of the bed to the foot, and her small body had gone from the initial pain and discomfort to expectant and catering by the end. Finally, when the big, grey wolf put on a wicked smile and expressed his warm feelings, the little, white sheep was just thinking: would she get pregnant? A 15- or 16-year-old body giving birth would be very difficult. After thinking a bit and calculating it, her grandfather was also present. She could get a C-section, but she did not want to become a mother at such a young age. She still had many things that she needed to do! In this sort of chaotic and unstable environment, having a child would mean an additional concern. Would she be able to protect her own children?
Forget it, forget it, she silently made the decision. She would just take some medicine! It would be best if she could begin considering the matter of children when she was around 20 years old. It would give her a few years time to prepare herself, and it would give Da Shun a few years time to settle things down.
The matter was considered up to this point. The little white sheep had run out of energy and fell asleep in a daze. In her dream, it seemed as though someone was carefully carrying her to bed, resting her head on a pillow. The pillow was one that she had taken out of her space, and it was very soft. A person then gently covered her with a blanket, but it was lifted a little while after she had been covered. A warm towel gently wiped her thigh and was very careful with that area, fearing that touching it would hurt her. But she still felt pain, as her brow slightly furrowed. She wanted to get up, but she was so exhausted that she could not even open her eyes.
Very quickly, something else gently applied to that area, and her legs had been slightly parted. This caused her to feel extremely embarrassed. She seemed to realize what they were doing, as she might have gotten hurt during her first time, and the medicine that had been applied was very cool and very comfortable. She thought that it should be Wang Chuan or Huang Quan, right. She had heard that these things were all handled by the maidservants or grannies in the ancient era. She had never had a granny at her side, and she only had Wang Chuan and Huang Quan as personal servants. It should be the two girls that had come to help her. Moreover, she recalled that it was already getting bright outside before she had closed her eyes. Thinking about it, Xuan Tian Ming needed to get up early to attend court, thus the maidservants had been let inside.
She still had the idle time in her dream to analyze this, and she had even thought about Xuan Tian Ming also having stayed up all night. Just going like this to court, would he still have the strength? As she thought about it, she drowsily fell back asleep.
When she woke up once more, she rolled over and felt someone lying next to her. The breathing was familiar and reassuring, and made her unconsciously reach out to hug them while muttering: "Xuan Tian Ming, what time is it? Did you come back from morning court?"
The person at her side quietly laughed: "This prince was enjoying the first night with my wife. What court is there to attend?"
"Hm?" She frowned and forced her eyes open, but she was still sleepy and continued to yawn. Looking again at Xuan Tian Ming, his upper body was bare, and he was lying very freely at her side. One of his arms had even served as a pillow for her. With a lazy look on his face, it was clear that he had also just woken up. How did this have any resemblance to someone that had come back from court? She was puzzled: "You didn't go to court?"
He nodded: "Of course, it was already said that this prince would be enjoying my first night. How could there be the idle time to attend court?"
"But..." She suddenly recalled that someone had applied medicine for her at dawn when she had fallen asleep. She tried to move her body and found that it was still a bit sore. The cool feeling from the medicine was still there, and it seemed that it was true. But if Xuan Tian Ming had not gone to court, it was impossible for Huang Quan and Wang Chuan to come into the bedchamber to take care of her, thus... the person that had applied the medicine was... "Xuan Tian Ming." She looked up at him in a daze: "What did you do to me?"
A certain person burst out laughing, "All kinds of things."
She was exasperated! Facepalming, "That's not what I meant."
"Then what did my dear wife mean?" A certain person's face drew closer, as his hot breath hit her face. With that devilish expression, it made her want to look at the purple lotus on his forehead through her fingers. As a result, she heard this person continue: "This prince knows that dear wife did not enjoy it fully. In truth, this prince was indeed in the wrong! It's just that dear wife was too weak, and it was the first time. This prince showed pity and did not overindulge. The injured area has already had medicine applied. After resting for another two days, husband will properly take care of you."
Feng Yu Heng's face turned blood red, fuck... "Who didn't enjoy it fully?"
"Then dear wife means to say that you enjoyed it a great deal?"
"I..." Forget it, it was yet again something that could not be clearly expressed. She ducked her head under the covers. Really, she should have foreseen this. Someone that looked like they could bring calamity to the country and its people, how could they possibly have good intentions? They were filled with bad ideas! But after some thought, it was Xuan Tian Ming himself that had helped clean her up and applied medicine. Although it was completely embarrassing, it was a bit sweet! In this world, which man would do this sort of thing? Not to mention how the chauvinistic ancient world, but even in the modern world, this sort of behavior would be difficult to find.
When the young wife thought of this, she immediately became happy. She happily dozed off under the covers for a little while longer but heard her husband say: "If you still don't get up, this prince will have someone go into the palace to send word to Father Emperor that paying respects will wait until tomorrow."
"Hm?" Feng Yu Heng was stunned, "Pay respects? Pay what respects?" She pondered for a bit then said: "Are you saying that I should go and greet Father Emperor for returning to the capital? But didn't those officials gather together to request that I no longer be allowed into the palace?" She was very resentful.
Xuan Tian Ming laughed and picked her up from under the blankets, saying to her: "Those trifling old guys have already been taken care of by the two prime ministers with some difficult questions and sent packing. Going into the palace today is not because you returned to the capital and should go visit. Instead, it's for our marriage. With Da Shun's filial laws, we need to go and serve tea to Father Emperor and Her Highness the Empress. Of course, you also need to go and greet Imperial Concubine Mother with your new identity."
When Feng Yu Heng heard this, she realized that she had been negligent. That was right, she had truly become their daughter-in-law. Going to visit the parents-in-law was something that needed to be done, thus she quickly sat up. This was met with some pain from below, reminding her that she was not wearing anything...
Xuan Tian Ming did not continue to tease her, as he went to help and bring her new clothes over; however, Feng Yu Heng felt that just putting clothes on like this was truly uncomfortable. To call for someone to prepare water for a bath now was too late, thus she entered her space in a flash.
This left Xuan Tian Ming helplessly watching as his young wife suddenly disappeared from the bed, and he could not help but bitterly smile. He really had married a deity!
New Daughter-in-Law Offers Tea
When the two entered the palace, noon had already passed, and the Emperor had just finished eating lunch in Winter Moon Palace. He even said to Imperial Concubine Yun: "It seems like that little one Ming'er won't be able to come today, and we will need to wait until tomorrow."
Imperial Concubine Yun, however, said: "That might not be the case. What if they came after eating lunch!"
Just as she was saying this, a servant came to report: "Your Majesty, Imperial Concubine, His Highness Prince Yu has entered the palace with Princess."
The Emperor immediately stood up and rubbed his hands, "Pian Pian, your guess really was accurate. That brat is finally willing to bring his wife into the palace!" After saying this, he looked at Imperial Concubine Yun: "The newlywed wife needs to offer tea. Look, will you come with me to Zhao He Hall, or should they be called here?"
Imperial Concubine Yun waved her hand, saying with a bit of laziness: "I won't go, and you don't need to stay. The tea is offered by the prince and princess to the Emperor and the Empress. I will not be participating. Quickly go! Don't disturb the rules for such a small matter. Either way, those two will be coming to this side later on."
The Emperor had originally wanted to say a bit more, but Zhang Yuan reminded him from the side: "Just be obedient! Think about the people that His Highness the eighth prince is still communicating with. Which one of those problems was not caused by you, and do you want to cause more trouble for His Highness the ninth prince?"
The Emperor looked sideways at that damn eunuch. He had wanted to say a bit more; however, he felt that what was said was correct. Speaking of this matter, he was indeed wrong. Forget it, he waved his hand: "Let's go! Set out for Zhao He Hall. Also, have the Empress prepare herself."
His Highness Prince Yu led Imperial Daughter Ji An into the palace to offer tea to the Emperor and the Empress. News of this had spread around the palace, and many people were happy for them; however, there were also many people that were unhappy. One such person was Noble Lady Yuan, and other examples would be the other concubines of the imperial harem who were not favored. At present, their families were supporting the eighth prince. It was not as though they did not know. They had remained quiet for many years, and their hearts had originally completely given up; however, with the eighth prince's actions, there came a bit of a stir. Hearing that Xuan Tian Ming and Feng Yu Heng had entered the palace, those concubines who had been neglected for many years began to gather into a group and mess around with their own little tricks.
The rite of the newlywed wife offering tea to the mother-in-law was something that was paid close attention to by the masses. Naturally, the palace was the same, but the Emperor had always been very casual. In addition to this, the Empress also felt that she herself was not Xuan Tian Ming's birth mother, and Xuan Tian Ming had never been cordial with others. She did not want to make too much of a scene out of things, which would ensure that the one in Winter Moon Palace did not become unhappy. That was why she requested that everything be done simply. It would just be considered family members greeting each other, and there was no need for so many formalities.
The Empress and the Emperor had always been good collaborators. She was able to figure out what the Emperor was thinking, and the plans for simplicity were in accordance with the Emperor's desires. After all, the Emperor felt that his relationship with Imperial Concubine Yun had now improved, but that woman, Yun Pian Pian, had the same capricious personality as their son. Who knew when she might become unhappy and give him the death sentence! If this side had a lively offering of tea ceremony, he should give up on ever getting back inside Winter Moon Palace. How could that be handled? That was why the Emperor was very satisfied with the Empress' arrangements, praising her for the first time: "The Empress is very good at seeing the broader picture."
Thus Feng Yu Heng's tea offering ceremony was very simple. She kneeled, kowtowed three times, presented two cups of tea, and that was the end of it. The Emperor and the Empress each presented her with a red envelope, as the Empress said to her: "You're now a wife. You should not continue to be so plain. When you come back into the palace, wear the phoenix hairpin. That's something that you are worthy of wearing."
The ceremony there was very simple. She presented the tea, saluted, then listened to the Empress speak intimately with her. From beginning to end, it lasted less than an hour before they were sent to Winter Moon Palace. Naturally, the Emperor accompanied them.
That night, Winter Moon Palace put on a feast with Xuan Tian Ming and Feng Yu Heng as the main focus.
Normally, Winter Moon Palace was also quite lively. There were times when Imperial Concubine Yun would call dancers in to perform, but today's liveliness had an extra topic: Xuan Tian Ming's marriage. He had married Yao Xian's granddaughter. To Imperial Concubine Yun, this was the most beautiful thing in the world.
During the evening banquet, Xuan Tian Hua was also present. After the singing and dancing had passed, he quietly sat in a corner and played the zither. Once again, he was wearing white robes, and he still had a refined appearance. When Feng Yu Heng looked at him, her eyes revealed something that slowly became warm affection.
Imperial Concubine Yun said: "Ming'er and A-Heng got married, and this can finally be considered as resolving one big matter." After saying this, she glanced in Xuan Tian Hua's direction
Xuan Tian Hua smiled bitterly but did not say anything, slightly shaking his head while continuing to play the zither. He just presented a gift to Xuan Tian Ming and Feng Yu Heng after the banquet had ended, and it was time to leave the palace.
It was a pearl head ornament made of real pearls. It could not be considered ornate, and it looked a bit aged; however, it was something that was quite likable. It was elegant and plain, and it was not adorned with gold or jade. It just quietly gave off its own aura.
Imperial Concubine Yun quietly told her that it was the only thing that had been passed down by Xuan Tian Hua's birth mother. After Feng Yu Heng heard this, there was nothing that she could do. Since someone like Xuan Tian Hua had chosen to give it to her, she could not refuse it. After thinking a bit, she simply placed it inside her space. Since it belonged to Imperial Concubine Zhao, she would place it inside a timeless space to preserve it!
News of Feng Yu Heng's return to the capital had been spread all over. Of course, this included Feng Fen Dai. Over the past few days, Dong Ying had felt that her young miss' mood was a little off, as she would constantly get mad at His Highness the fifth prince, who had come to visit her. When the two argued, it was usually done while she was in the yard, and she could not clearly hear what the argument was about. She could only faintly hear that they spoke about whether or not they would go into the palace.
It was only on this day that the fifth prince personally came to bring Feng Fen Dai into the palace. Naturally, Dong Ying would go along with them. It was only now that she understood that her young miss had acted out for a few days because she wanted to enter the Imperial Palace. As for her goal in entering the palace, when the three stood before Jing Si Palace, Dong Ying completely understood. It turned out that her young miss just refused to give up!
The fifth prince, Xuan Tian Yan, was already completely powerless against Feng Fen Dai. Extending his arm, he pointed at Jing Si Palace's gates and said to Fen Dai: "Normally speaking, Jing Si Palace does not allow outsiders to enter, nor would it allow Noble Lady Li to come out, but since you insisted on coming, this prince prepared everything for you. Fen Dai, this prince has already told you my stance. Unfortunately, you would not listen. Then go ahead! Either way, the situation is already exceedingly messy. This prince wants to see just how messy it can get."
Just as his words came out, Feng Fen Dai ran out of patience and immediately began to step toward Jing Si Palace. When passing by him, she spat out: "Aren't I doing this for your benefit?!"
Watching Feng Fen Dai bring her maidservant into Jing Si Palace through a small entrance, Xuan Tian Yan watched for a long time with his brow furrowed. Suddenly, he said to the attendant at his side: "Say, is this fate?"
The attendant had been with him for many years. Hearing him say fated, he immediately understood what his master was saying. As the Feng family's fourth young miss snuck in through a barely-opened door, she looked so resolute and stubborn. When exactly had the Feng family's foolish fourth young miss become stubborn like that person? And since when had the Feng family's fourth young miss' figure begun to resemble that person from that time?
"Your Highness, you're overthinking it." The attendant did not know how to advise him, and he could not advise on this matter. Back when the fifth prince had wanted to get engaged to the Feng family's fourth young miss, he had felt awkward about it. After all, Feng Fen Dai was nothing more than the daughter of a concubine. No matter how one looked, she was not worthy of the spotlight. But after some more thought, his own master had acted wantonly for so many years. Not to mention the Feng family's daughter of a concubine, but even dancers could end up as secondary princesses. Compared to those girls, the daughter of a concubine from the Feng family at that time was a much better identity. However, who knew that... "Your Highness, you must reconsider carefully!"
"Reconsider, huh?" Xuan Tian Yan smiled bitterly, "I've already reconsidered, and I have already spoken with her. She has her temper, and I have my perseverance. She won't listen to me and insists on believing that her own methods are correct. She insists on continuing, and I am unable to stop her. Then let's just let her go! Either way, life is nothing more than a game. At the very least, seeing her allows me to see the many things that have been lost." Xuan Tian Yan turned around and turned onto the main path. Like someone without a soul, he just floated around on the path. Occasionally, there would be some palace servant walking past and would knock him over. They would kowtow, while he would act as though he never saw them. He just walked along on his own. It was only when he reached the palace's gates that he suddenly turned around and quickly told his attendant: "Don't follow me out. Go to Jing Si Palace and wait. After that girl comes out, get her out of the palace! You must not allow her to cause a scene in the palace."
After Xuan Tian Yan finished speaking, he left the attendant behind and climbed into the Li Palace's carriage on his own.
The attendant accepted the order and turned back into the palace, quickly walking toward Jing Si Palace. If the fifth prince had not reminded him, he really would have forgotten about this matter. The Feng family's fourth young miss must not be left behind in the palace on her own. What if she came out of Jing Si Palace and began causing a scene? That would truly begin causing trouble.
Inside Jing Si Palace, Fen Dai was in the middle of looking down on the tea brought over by the palace maid: "It's just some tea dust. How could noble lady drink something so poor?"
Noble Lady Li's personality was originally a bit weaker, and she had never been able to endure Fen Dai's harshness; moreover, she no longer had her position as an imperial concubine. She was just a lowly noble lady, and she had been locked up inside Jing Si Palace for such a long time. She no longer had her stature as an imperial concubine. Fen Dai's words caused her to tremble. Her trembling caused Fen Dai to roll her eyes in contempt.
The palace maid that had brought the tea could not bear to watch her master be bullied and unhappily said: "Fourth young miss Feng, please watch your words. Although my master has been demoted, she is still a noble lady with a prince for a son. Based on fourth young miss Feng's identity, it's not such that you can speak like this to noble lady."
"Is it not?" Fen Dai was no longer a child that would be quick to anger. Who knew when that ruthlessness in her being had been developed. As she spoke, her eyes shifted, and it had a similar feeling as the former Feng Chen Yu. She ignored the palace maid and stopped evaluating the tea. She just looked at Noble Lady Li and drearily asked: "Noble Lady, how long has it been since you were last out of Jing Si Palace? How long has it been since you've seen someone else?"
Noble Lady Li frowned upon hearing this and felt as though Feng Fen Dai was a little different from the child that she had met at the hunting ground. It seemed as though she had matured a bit. She did not really want to speak with Feng Fen Dai, but since she had come, she could not really refuse, thus she vaguely said: "His Majesty has not permitted me to leave this place, nor are people easily allowed in. Naturally, I'm not as free as fourth young miss Feng."
"Oh!" Feng Fen Dai nodded, "No wonder, no wonder you're still able to eat and sleep peacefully; otherwise, were any other mother, when they found out that their own son had done that sort of thing, they would definitely be unable to sit still..."