191 Feng Yi Shuang’s End
The officials in the front hall, seeing the Emperor arriving at Prime Minister’s Manor, all felt that the Prime Minister’s Manor has quite the imperial favor and regarded Prime Minister even more highly. However, they didn’t know that the Emperor was merely temporarily placating Prime Minister’s manor, while he was suppressing Prime Minister’s manor secretively.
“This old subject appreciates Your Majesty’s sympathy!” Prime Minister An gratefully greeted the Emperor.
“Beloved subject please rise!” The Emperor had Eunuch Lu help Prime Minister An up, offering comfort, “Beloved subject is a pillar of Feng country. You must pay heed to your health. Don’t be overwhelmed by grief.”
It truly looked like the a pair of cordial monarch and subject. But whether it was the Emperor or Prime Minister An, both were merely acting. Prime Minister An’s eyes flashed with smugness as his eyes landed on Lan Jian Jun, standing off to the side. Don’t you, Lan Jian Jun, love that legitimate daughter the most? After today, they shall see if this sworn enemy can still stand there like that.
Lan Jian Jun could tell there was something with Prime Minister An’s expression and felt panic slither into his heart. With his son was right beside him, for Prime Minister An to be so smug at him, the matter can only concern Nian’er. Lan Jian Jun panicked, wanting to find his daughter.
But without waiting for Lan Jian Jun to leave, a maidservant of Prime Minister’s manor fell to her knees wailing, “Prime Minister, the little master he…”
Prime Minister An panicked slightly as he heard this. Though everything went according to their plans, Prime Minister An couldn’t help feeling distressed thinking of that little grandson who has just been born a few months ago. That was his An manor’s bloodline. To be able to die for An manor was that child’s honor. A child in exchange for a blow against Lan manor was worth it.
“What? What happened to this old man’s grandson?” Prime Minister An demanded in a panic. Then, he questioned the Empress who was following beside the Emperor, “Wasn’t this old man’s grandson with the Empress? What-what is going on?”
The Empress looked confused, saying “When this empress learned of His Majesty’s arrival, I handed the child to Lan manor’s Miss Lan to take care of. Though Miss Lan is an unmarried girl, she should be able to look after a child. What is going on?”
When Lan Jian Jun heard this, he knew his daughter was schemed against by the Empress’s faction and his entire face darkened. He was fully aware of the danger of the disputes between the different parties, but he didn’t expect these people to drag his daughter into this whirlpool one time after another. He, Lan Jian Jun, won’t let Prime Minister manor have an easy time!
Meanwhile, Feng Xia Qi and Jing Wu An both realized today wasn’t merely a funeral but also a conspiracy. The two of them believed in Lan You Nian’s abilities and cleverness in dealing with these, but they couldn’t help worrying.
How could Emperor Feng Xuan not understand these people were directing their attack against Lan manor’s girl? Thinking of his sixth son who was at the borders, if something should happen to this girl, then the consequences…the Emperor felt a headache coming just thinking about the possibilities.
“What has happened?” Emperor Feng Xuan demanded, while considering if something happened, how could he save Lan clan’s girl.
“This servant doesn’t know. Only Miss Lan and little young master are in the room, but the doors are stuck closed, so this servant came for instruction!” That maidservant trembled as she knelt on the ground, sneaking nervous looks at Prime Minister An from time to time.
“Your Majesty, let this consort go take a look. The child is still very little. If something has happened…,” the Empress said anxiously.
“What can happen!” Emperor Feng Xuan roared and then said, “Since this happened at Prime Minister’s manor and this emperor is present, we will go together to take a look. This emperor would like to see what could possibly happen to Prime Minister manor’s legitimate son in Prime Minister’s manor!”
With the Emperor’s words, the expressions of the Empress and An manor changed slightly, but considering even if the Emperor has the intention to be partial, he couldn’t block gossiping mouths!
~
“What is Her Majesty’s intention in framing this humble girl? What purpose does Prime Minister Manor have in indiscriminately slandering this girl?” Lan You Nian whom everyone was talking about appeared together with Jing manor’s marquis and Yue country’s Princess Bai Lian. Lan You Nian’s usually polite smile already recovered its unswerving serenity, even slightly expressionless with indifference, giving off an unattainable feeling.
The Empress and Prime Minister An stared at Lan You Nian in disbelief. Beside Lan You Nian stood a marquis and a princess. Prime Minister An was in a panic. If Lan You Nian was here, then, who was in the room? So his little grandson in vain…
“Nian’er!” Lan Jian Jun, seeing his daughter appear, sighed in relief inside. Knowing that Prime Minister An’s plot wouldn’t affect Nian’er, Lan Jian Jun settled his heart back into his stomach.
“Respects to Your Majesty!” the three of them greeted the Emperor.
“Beloved subject Jing, what’s going on?” Emperor Feng Xuan asked Marquis Jing. “How come Her Majesty does Lan family’s girl is looking after Prime Minister manor’s legitimate son in the room? How is Lan family’s girl with you?” Emperor Feng Xuan knew, since Lan family’s girl was with Jing Leng, what has happened today was alright. Jing Leng, this person, was quite fond of sixth son, so naturally he wouldn’t let anything happen to the girl sixth son liked.
“What is Her Majesty saying?” Jing Leng looked at the Empress without any respect. In his heart, the Empress will always be his little sister, not this hypocritical woman. “Recently, Lan family’s girl said she had a recipe for brewing wine for this subject. This subject just happened to encounter Lan family’s girl and Princess Bai Lian. These two girls have been accompanying this subject walking around, letting Lan family’s girl tell this subject the recipe along the way. This subject heard His Majesty attended personally, so I brought the two girls over to present themselves to His Majesty. How has it become the accusation of plotting harm against Prime Minister’s legitimate son?”
“Not only does Uncle Jing doesn’t understand, this girl doesn’t understand either. How come I’ve been accused of such a great crime in such a short time?” Lan You Nian and Yue Bai Lian stood beside Lan Jian Jun as Lan You Nian asked in confusion.
“Would this empress have lied?” the Empress looked at Lan You Nian in fury. Clearly, she’s arranged several guards with high levels of martial arts outside in fear that Lan You Nian will run away when the time came, yet she was still able to escape. Could someone have helped her? The Empress glanced at Jing Leng, feeling that Lan You Nian was able to come out of the room was because of Jing Leng.
“When this empress left, only you were in the room. Now the maid said something has happened to the child, shouldn’t I suspect Miss Lan?” the Empress said haughtily, without a trace of panic.
Lan You Nian’s radiant eyes stared directly at the Empress as she said “As soon as Your Majesty left, this girl left the room as well. When this girl left the room, I handed the child, without a single hair out of place, to a palace maid. With this said, what suspect does this girl have?” Lan You Nian smirked. “Besides, does anyone know what exactly has happened to Prime Minister manor’s legitimate son? Since no one knows what has happened, why is Her Majesty so certain something has happened to Prime Minister manor’s legitimate son? Can Her Majesty foresee things?”
“You…” the Empress was made speechless. She didn’t expect this girl to be meticulous at such a young age, to entrust the child to a palace maid after she left the room. That way, it really had nothing to do with her-today’s trap was set in vain!
Lan You Nian’s eyes flashed with killing intent, seeing the Empress and Prime Minister An flustered. Of course this trap wasn’t just a display. Though I can’t use this trap to deal with you people, it is more than enough to deal with Feng Yi Shuang. Speaking of which, she really should thank them!
“In this case, this matter has nothing to do with Lan girl!” Emperor Feng Xuan declared. “As the country’s Empress, you are lacking in judgement. Empress, this emperor is disappointed in you!” Emperor Feng Xuan’s words were not only striking the Empress, it was slapping Prime Minister An’s face. After all, Prime Minister An didn’t have any judgement either.
“Ah!” Suddenly, a sharp painful screech sounded from the room.
“What’s going on?” Emperor Feng Xuan said, displeased. How could this Prime Minister Manor can always come up with so many things? It seems he should let sixth and them make a move quickly; otherwise, such an endless plotting this and plotting that, when will it end?
The wicked smile on Lan You Nian’s lips became deeper as she followed the crowd over to the room. Before they could approach the room, they saw a matron-An Gong Jing’s wife-wailing as she held an infant outside the room. The shrill and forlorn cries made the Prime Minister manor that was decorated with white seem even more gloomy.
The matron upon seeing An Gong Jing, crawled on her knees over to An Gong Jing, wailing, “Husband, save my child, save our child! Why won’t he open his eyes?” Lan You Nian, seeing this, knew the woman wasn’t aware of the Prime Minister and their plans. That’s right, who would be willing to part with the flesh that fell from her own belly to be murdered by his own father and grandfather?
An Gong Jing looked at the lifeless infant in the woman’s arms. It would be a lie to say he wasn’t distressed, but for their big plans, he was willing. After all, he can have more children in the future, but there wouldn’t be many opportunities. At present, Prime Minister Manor was already starting to go downhill.
“Wife” An Gong Jing gently called his wife’s name. “The child has already passed. Let go of him alright?”
“No! Not possible!” The matron gripped the child even tighter, refusing to let go. She’s been married to An Gong Jing for many years. She has only given birth to one son and one daughter, and her son was killed by Lan Zhi. It wasn’t easy for her to give birth to this son, so she doted on him very much. How could the child be gone shortly after the Empress took him away?
“Wife,” An Gong Jing looked at his wife, not feeling good either, and felt hated Lan manor’s people even more. Why do they suffer the consequences every time they plot a trap for Lan manor?
“The child is already dead! Wake up! Someone, take eldest madame back!” Prime Minister An was about to vomit the old blood in his heart. His plot was flawless-he even brought over his daughter from the palace and paid with a grandson-but it was all in vain!
“No! No!” the matron saw the family retainers wretch the dead infant from her. The matron seemed to have gone mad as she yanked Feng Yi Shuang by the hair out of the room, like a shrew, dragging out Feng Yi Shuang who was hiding in the room.
Feng Yi Shuang, after being dragged and clawed at, was disheveled. Her cheeks showed several scratches made by the matron. When the crowd saw Feng Yi Shuang being dragged out, they were even more confused. How could a princess come out of this room?
“Enough!” The Emperor said to the guards, “So unseemly! Drag them apart!”
After the guards dragged the two apart, the matron fell to her knees, “Your Majesty please give this humble concubine justice! It’s her!” The matron pointed at Feng Yi Shuang, her eyes filled with bone-chilling hatred. “She killed my child! She stole my child!”
“It can’t be. It was done by the second princess?” The crowd started to gossip after hearing this. None of them ever would have thought Feng Yi Shuang would kill Prime Minister manor’s legitimate son. None of them understood why the second princess would do this.
Feng Yi Shuang didn’t understand what was going on either. She went to use the latrine and then woke up in this room. The child in her arms no longer had any breath. She was really afraid so she was going to throw the infant out. Just as it happens, this matron walked in, believing she killed this child.
“You’re absurd!” Feng Yi Shuang said furiously, “This princess didn’t kill this child! When this princess came into the room, this child was already dead!” Feng Yi Shuang refuted.
With Feng Yi Shuang’s words, the Empress felt a shock of surprise, “According to the second princess’s words, when Miss Lan left the room, the child was already dead? In this case, it has nothing to do with the second princess!”
“Yes, it must be Lan You Nian! This princess has no strife with Prime Minister manor. How could this princess kill this child?” Feng Yi Shuang affirmed.
Lan You Nian walked over to the dead infant, “When has Her Majesty’s ears become deaf? This girl clearly said when I left the child with a palace maid, the child was still fine. Has Her Majesty already forgotten? Or is Her Majesty determined to pour this dirty water on this girl today?”
“This empress didn’t slander you. What if you poisoned this child? Some poisons take time to take effect!” the Empress aid viciously. This child was already poisoned by them. They only had to say Lan You Nian was the one who placed the poison.
Feng Xia Qi and the others could already see all of the schemes. Feng Xia Qi was about to take a step out to say something but Lan You Nian shot him a look. Feng Xia Qi was a smart man, so he understood what Lan You Nian meant. To the Empress, he said, “There’s no meaning in continuing this dispute. Since Her Majesty is determined to accuse Nian’er meimei, let’s have the imperial physician to check it out. That way, everyone will be given justice!”
Lan Mo Xian looked at Feng Xia Qi in panic. Seeing Feng Xia Qi’s expression was normal, Lan Mo Xian felt a slightly reassured. He trusted fourth wangye won’t harm his little sister.
At this moment, the Empress felt Feng Xia Qi who’s fought with her son for so many years was nothing much to speak about. Meanwhile, Prime Minister An was a little suspicious. Fourth wangye handled matters methodically. From his hands, he couldn’t gain any benefit. So how could he say something like this?
Emperor Feng Xuan waved his hand, granting the request. There was an imperial physician at Prime Minister manor today, so immediately an imperial physician checked the corpse of the infant. After a while, the imperial physician said, “Your Majesty, this infant did not die by poison but was choked to death. The bruising hasn’t faded, so it is certain Miss Lan isn’t the culprit!” the imperial physician felt some sympathy for this Lan manor’s little lady. How come every time it was aimed at her?
“No, how is it possible, not possible!” the Empress uttered in disbelief. Meanwhile, Feng Yi Shuang fell on her buttocks in fear. If the infant was choked to death, she can’t from being charged with the crime.
“Does Her Majesty still not believe?” Feng Xia Qi chewed on his words, “In this case, why don’t we question the palace maid standing guard?” Feng Xia Qi pointed at that palace maid, “You explain what has happened!”
“Answering fourth wangye!” the palace maid knelt on the ground, “After Her Majesty left, Miss Lan also left. When Miss Lan left, the child was still fine. In the end, second princess entered the room and this servant was chased. Later, this madame started screaming!”
“Now isn’t everything clear? What else does Her Majesty want to say? This girl has been blamed wrongfully many times. If Her Majesty still doesn’t understand, you can tell this girl. This girl will resolve Her Majesty’s confusion!” Lan You Nian’s eyes were slightly chilly like ice at the peak of a snowy mountaintop. Only a glance already made people’s hearts shudder.
The Empress remained silent. No matter what she says, she wouldn’t be able to drag Lan You Nian in. It’s better if she didn’t say anything.
Lan You Nian’s eyes flashed with satisfaction, studying the palace maid kneeling on the ground. This palace maid wasn’t one of her people but was a chess piece Feng Xia Qi placed by the Empress’s side. This chess piece was a big help today. No one would suspect the words of the Empress’s own palace maids.
“Your Majesty, please give justice to this subject-wife! Second princess killed subject-wife’s child. Your Majesty please bring justice!” the matron already believed that Feng Yi Shuang killed her child, and now there is a witness and physical evidence, the matron pleaded.
“Imperial Father, subject-daughter didn’t…” Feng Yi Shuang cried, attempting to explain.
But the Emperor didn’t give Feng Yi Shuang the chance to explain. Someone must shoulder the responsibility of this crime, so Feng Yi Shuang couldn’t be saved, “Remove second princess’s title as princess and degrade to a commoner’s status, no longer allowed to enter the palace!” The Emperor paid no heed to Feng Yi Shuang’s pleading and left Prime Minister Manor. The Empress followed back to the palace in a rage.
“This girl accepts Prime Minister manor’s present. It will be repaid tenfold!” Lan You Nian curtsied and left the Prime Minister manor with Lan Jian Jun and the others, leaving the Prime Minister and his son An Gong Jing in a state as they threw the objects in their hands onto the ground. The Prime Minister felt his vision turning dark. After everything, they weren’t even able to topple Lan manor.
Feng Xia Qi and the others didn’t return to their manors. Instead, they snuck into Lan manor. Ever since Lan You Nian returned to Lan manor, Lan manor has become more lively. Everyone would always run over to Lan manor, no matter the reason. However, they were always cautious. Whenever they came to Lan manor, they didn’t allow certain concerned people notice.
Lan Qu brewed and served up some quality tea for the people present. The first one who couldn’t help himself from asking was Lan Jian Jun,”Nian’er were you hurt?”
“No,” Lan You Nian shook her head. She couldn’t help admire Prime Minister An’s means, being so ruthless just to ruin her.
“What exactly happened?” Lan Mo Xian asked anxiously. He was really afraid today. Why was it every time his little sister went out, there were so many people who wanted to hurt her? He was ashamed that as her older brother he couldn’t help her at all.
The matter of explaining what happened was left to An San. Actually, the moment Lan You Nian entered the room, the infant was already poisoned, so when the innocent infant died by poison, with only Lan manors legitimate daughter, who didn’t have an amiable relation with Prime Minister manor, was present in the room, no matter how Lan You Nian explained, she wouldn’t be able to clear herself of the blame. Thus, Lan you Nian had Lan Feng deal with the guards outside left by the Empress while An San lugged over Feng Yi Shuang who was knocked unconscious. By the time Feng Yi Shuang came to, the infant was already dead.
At the time, Lan You Nian used a silver needle to seal away the poison in the infant’s body. Ordinary people wouldn’t be able to figure it out. Then, she created the illusion that the infant was choked to death. Then, Lan you Nian and An San walked straight out of the room as Lan Feng lured An Gong Jing’s madame over. Then, the chess piece Feng Xia Qi placed by the Empress’s side was made use of by framing Feng Yi Shuang.
“Ai, a healthy child was actually…” Hua Mu Qing murmured melancholily. The child was innocent yet it was used by those people to harm other people.
Lan Mo Xian patted Hua Mu Qing’s hand in comfort. They stood in a high position and were able to see more things than most people, but they must not have so much sympathy. How could Hua Mu Qing not understand? She was only uttering her discontent.
Lan You Nian looked at Lan Jian Jun. She doubted her father was able to accept her framing Feng Yi Shuang. Lan Jian Jun had an upright air, unlike her who lives in the darkness. However, Lan You Jian did not see the blame in Lan Jian Jun’s eyes, which was quite unexpected for her. What Lan You Nian doesn’t know that though Lan Jian Jun was an upright man, at the same time, he was a father. He believed in his daughter.
“Nian’er, what are you thinking?” The sonorous voice carried hints of doting, the rough tone was filled with gentleness. Lan Jian Jun looked at his daughter who was staring at him.
“Won’t father ask Nian’er why I treated Feng Yi Shuang that way?” Lan You Nian asked, feeling slightly anxious inside. She didn’t know whether this relationship between father and daughter can still continue.
Lan Jian Jun chuckled heartily, “My, Lan Jian Jun’s, daughter doesn’t need a reason whatever she wants to do. You only need to know father will always stand by you!”
When the voice drifted into her ears, Lan You Nian’s heart jumped as a warm current flowed into her heart, from her heart up to the tip of her nose. It was wonderful to have such a father.
Feng Xia Qi was happy for the father and daughter pair, but still asked, “As for Feng Yi Shuang, how does Nian’er meimei want to deal with her?” Since this Feng Yi Shuang dares to commit arson, then she must suffer the consequences. Feng Xia Qi didn’t trust this little sister born of the same father but different mother to behave herself in the future.
Lan You Nian pondered on it for a moment and then said, “Eradicate!” Since she’s already a commoner, it would be much easier to kill Feng Yi Shuang without any troublesome follow-up.
“Leave it to me!” Feng Xia Qi said. He still wanted to do something for her, even though it may seem absurd.
Lan You Nian didn’t overthink it and nodded her head in confirmation.
When everyone left, Lan You Nian said to Lan Feng, “Let An Gong Jing’s wife know the truth behind her child’s death. Internal fighting is the most entertaining…”
Chapter 192 First Time
Winter’s first snow fall blew in quietly. This year’s New Year’s Eve was almost here. Lan You Nian stood in front of the window overlooking everything. Suddenly, she felt everything was quiet. The only restless heart was longing for the faraway Feng Yi Xuan.
When Lan You Nian woke up at dawn, she found it was snowing. These heart-warming snowflakes didn’t stir Lan You Nian’s heart. She was nestled in the pavilion all day without leaving, simply watching the drifting snow outside, so quiet it made people’s heart ache.
After washing up, Lan You Nian had Lan Wu and the others go rest. Lan You Nian didn’t feel a sliver of drowsiness. She couldn’t help reaching out a hand to capture an icy snowflake. The snowflakes were very playful. Lan You Nian wanted to catch it with her hand but it seeped through the seam between Lan You Nian’s fingers. Only when Lan You Nian had given up, it tried desperately to fall into Lan You Nian’s hand. The pleasant coolness tickled her hand. Lan You Nian released a warmth breath and the snowflake melted into a crystalline bead. Lan You Nian lifted her hand to gaze up at the snowflakes fluttering from the sky, as if she too would float up into the air.
Suddenly, Lan You Nian’s eyes widened, for she saw a man standing in the heavy snow of her courtyard. The expression in his eyes was indulgent as he looked upon her. His lips were curled upwards, seemingly smiling as his eyes were filled with a tenderness that could drown someone in them, making Lan You Nian feel like she wanted to drown in those eyes.
“Xuan?” Lan You Nian gaped at Feng Yi Xuan, as if in disbelief.
Feng Yi Xuan stood as tall and straight as before he left, uncommonly handsome. His trimmed sharp brows were tightly furrowed. Everywhere those dazzling purple eyes landed on, a storm raged. His flawless features seemed to have been frozen by glaciers as he looked over Lan You Nian’s thin outfit, his face was an everlasting frost and worry.
Before Lan You Nian could get down from the pavilion, Feng Yi Xuan flew into the pavilion, pulling Lan You Nina into his arms, as if the many days of emptiness was finally filled up.
“Xuan?” Lan You Nian murmured.
“Nian Nian, I missed you so much!” His voice was especially gentle, so unlike the usual Feng Yi Xuan’s mechanized coldness, carrying a warm gentleness like the sunshine at the start of spring, addicting and and indolent.
Lan You Nian wasn’t able to utter a word before Feng Yi Xuan impatiently kissed her, his tongue swiftly darted inside her mouth, repeatedly sucking, from gently and softly to a heady tempest within a blink of an eye.
As Feng Yi Xuan kissed the lips of the girl in his arms, she tasted as sweet as he imagined. Every day and night, he longed to kiss these lips while he was at the borders. Nian Nian’s lips were like a sweet and mellow spring, making him uncontrollably want to taste more of it, becoming addicted without any inhibition.
Feng Yi Xuan repeatedly ravished her lips, over and over again. A ripple of gentle and dazzling light lingered in his brows. Under the moonlight, he was brimming over with love and pampering. His slender hands traveled down from her graceful shoulder, unable to restrain himself.
Lan You Nian was light-headed from Feng Yi Xuan’s kiss. Because of her longing for Feng Yi Xuan that’s been building up over the days, Lan You Nian boldly responded to Feng Yi Xuan’s kiss. Lan You Nian shy response was undoubtedly adding fuel to the fire for Feng Yi Xuan. Even without Lan You Nian doing anything, Feng Yi Xuan would feel both an emotional and physical excitement, much less now he has the beauty in his arms, Lan You Nian’s fragrant tongue responded to him, Feng Yi Xuan felt he was about to explode.
Feng Yi Xuan already desired Nian Nian very much, not only a physical desire but also an emotional desire. He wanted to be together with Nian Nian.
Lan You Nian was startled when Feng Yi Xuan’s hand stroked all over her body, but she merely giggled, allowing Feng Yi Xuan free rein. Even if she really gave in to Feng Yi Xuan, she wouldn’t regret it, but based on Lan You Nian’s understanding of Feng Yi Xuan, this man wouldn’t take her like this. Because he loved her, he wasn’t willing to take her while she was still so young.
Lan You Nian guessed correctly. Though Feng Yi Xuan desired Lan You Nian, he knew Nian Nian was still young. If he took her, it would only harm her female root. Feng Yi Xuan wanted to marry Nian Nian grandly before taking her. However, Feng Yi Xuan considered there was still two years before Lan You Nian came of age, he wanted to eat meat; he wanted to collect his interest!
Feng Yi Xuan held Lan You Nian’s petite body as his hands became a little frisky…
“Mm…” When Lan You Nian realized such a sultry sound came from her, she bit down on her lips in embarrassment. She felt she’s become so strange.
When Feng Yi Xuan heard Lan You Nian’s lustful moan, his body tightened and his breathing became harsher. He felt Nian Nian’s moans were more powerful than any aphrodisiac. He loved such sounds to death.
Feng Yi Xuan stopped Lan You Nian from biting her lips by continuing to kiss her. He felt he will go mad if he continued to endure this! Definitely fall into madness!
Feng Yi Xuan used his internal force to slam all the windows in the pavilion close as he carried the girl in his arms over to the wood-carved bed. Before Lan You Nian could react, Feng Yi Xuan’s entire body hovered over Lan You Nian’s delicate body. Lan You Nian could even feel Feng Yi Xuan’s body was burning hot and taunt. Lan You Nian felt a little bad for Feng Yi Xuan’s forebearance.
Feng Yi Xuan let go of Lan You Nian’s bright red lips. He was kissing the girl he loved. The girl in his arms was his one desire-his life!
“Nian Nian…” Feng Yi Xuan’s voice has became even more sensual and hoarse from lust.
Lan You Nian was feeling a little shy. Though she understood these matters, she didn’t know how to put it into action. Seeing such an amorous Feng Yi Xuan becoming even more tempting , Lan You Nian felt she has been bewitched.
“Nian Nian, help me…” Feng Yi Xuan’s forehead pressed against Lan You Nian’s forehead. The fire in his body transferred to Lan You Nian from the two’s touching bodies, making Lan You Nian feel her own temperature raising.
“How?” Lan You Nian’s voice was so tender and delicate, giving people the feeling they were chewing on sweet and soft cotton candy, pleasant to the ears. Lan You Nian can’t be blamed for being muddle-headed, for Lan You Nian has always been this muddle-headed around Feng Yi Xuan. Besides, Lan You Nian really didn’t understand.
Feng Yi Xuan’s entire body was pouring down sweat. His forehead was already to pop with veins from restraining himself. Feng Yi Xuan couldn’t bear it any longer as he grabbed Lan You Nian’s petite hand in his.
Lan You Nian, like a frightened kitty, wanted to snatch her hand back, but Feng Yi Xuan didn’t let her, his voice pitiful, “Nian Nian, it hurts, help me!”
Though Lan You Nian wanted to cower, when she looked at Feng Yi Xuan, she felt her heart ache, so…
When it was over, Lan You Nian looked at Feng Yi Xuan who was massaging her hand, grievously glaring at at Feng Yi Xuan. Why did this man take so long!
Feng Yi Xuan was satisfied as he held Nian Nian. Though he didn’t really eat Nian Nian, he still felt happy inside, because this meant Nian Nian didn’t object to him. He wouldn’t really eat Nian Nian, for he wanted to leave the best the the day they marry. Most importantly, Feng Yi Xuan knew Nian Nian was still too young and her body couldn’t bear such things. Nian Nian’s body was more important than anything or anything. Feng Yi Xuan carried Lan You Nian over to the screen panel and wiped off Lan You Nian’s body, as well as his own body; then, they changed into clean clothes and laid on the bed together. Lan You Nian stared in horror at Feng Yi Xuan whose eyes were shining, “I’m really tired. No more!” Feng Yi Xuan’s eyes were already starting to burn and Lan You Nian was really afraid. Feng Yi Xuan chuckled in amusement. Lan You Nian was leaning against Feng Yi Xuan’s chest so she could feel the tremors and the delighted laughter.
Though Feng Yi Xuan wanted to continue, he knew Nian Nian’s hand were sore, so he couldn’t bear for her to suffer. Speaking of which, it was his first time. That kind of feeling was still in Feng Yi Xuan’s mind. Feng Yi Xuan really longed for when he can really possess Nian Nian.
Lan You Nian reached out her hand, pinching at Feng Yi Xuan’s handsome face, saying fiercely “Talk! How did you know?” He actually let her use her hand to help him take care of it, honestly…
Feng Yi Xuan’s ears were a little red, and said with some embarrassment, “I learned of this from reading some smut illustrations while I was at the border.” Feng Yi Xuan wouldn’t hide anything from Ln You Nian, but feared Lan You Nian will get mad, “It’s my first time. Really! Nian Nian, you must take responsibility!”
Lan You Nian gazed suspiciously at Feng Yi Xuan. Many men, if they kept their bodies clean, will use their right and left hand to take care of the problem. Lan You Nian believed Feng Yi Xuan didn’t have any other woman. With Feng Yi Xuan’s temper, he wouldn’t allow any woman to approach him. Lan You Nian was certain of this.
“You haven’t done this yourself?” Lan You Nian hadn’t taken off her small hand from Feng Yi Xuan’s handsome face.
Feng Yi Xuan saw the air outside the blanket was colder so he pulled Lan You Nian’s hand back into the blankets. He hugged Lan You Nian, stating seriously but slightly awkwardly, “I haven’t felt any lust before. I only feel desire for Nian Nian! Really! So never!”
Lan You Nian believed Feng Yi Xuan, for Feng Yi Xuan wouldn’t lie to her.
“You can only feel lust for me in the future!” Lan You Nian shut her eyes, declaring imperiously.
“Alright!” Feng Yi Xuan patted Lan You Nian’s back, coaxing her to sleep, however he was still excited over what happened, so he couldn’t fall asleep. After being separated for so many days, they’re finally together again; Feng Yi Xuan felt fulfilled. It was because he missed Nian Nian too much so he was so impulsive. Though he was a little impulsive, he wouldn’t really take Nian Nian. He wanted to leave the best for the wedding night. But recalling Nian Nian’s jade-like skin on her hand, Feng Yi Xuan realized he wanted it again.
Helplessly, he could only use his internal force to suppress the impulse of his body. Feng Yi Xuan couldn’t bear to let Nian Nian tire herself again…
193 An Apple, A Touched Heart
In the morning, when Lan Qu and Lan Wu came to serve their young miss, before they could step into the pavilion, they heard a masculine voice reverberate from within, “”Withdraw.”
Lan Qu and Lan Wu’s made eye-contact, knowing Ming wang was back. They two of them can be reassured. Though they never felt otherwise in the past, they can tell young miss was happy with Ming wang by her side.
An San saw An Yi and the others standing guard in the courtyard of You Nian Pavilion and nearly skipped over to them, chattering about all the stuff that happened to everyone. Having nothing to do, Lan Wu and Lan Wu joined in conversation. They clearly belonged to two different masters, yet they were all chattered together like good friends. The atmosphere was strangely harmonious.
Though Feng Yi Xuan covered up Lan You Nian’s ears when he spoke, Lan You Nian still blearily opened her eyes and climbed out from Feng Yi Xuan’s chest. She didn’t know whether it was because she didn’t sleep enough or because of Feng Yi Xuan’s presence that she didn’t feel awake. Her eyes were misty. Her palm-sized face appeared adorably dopey. Her hair was a mess as it cascaded over her shoulders. In Feng Yi Xuan’s eyes, she was absolutely adorable.
Feng Yi Xuan couldn’t hold himself back from stroking Lan You Nian’s messy hair. His voice was soft, “Do you want to sleep some more?” By the time they finished last night’s activity, it was already past midnight. Nian Nian was tired out. Feng Yi Xuan felt it was best if she slept some more.
Lan You Nian blinked her eyes a few times to wake herself. Though she didn’t have much rest last night, it was the most restful sleep she’s had in a while. Lan You Nian shook her head.
Feng Yi Xuan, seeing this, picked up Lan You Nian’s clothes to help her dress. Whether it was due to last night’s venting of lust or because he’s back by Lan You Nian’s side, Feng Yi Xuan was in a very good mood this morning.
After the two finished washing up and walked out of the inner chamber, as Lan Qu and the others served the morning meal, they noticed Ming wang’s eyes were brimming with tenderness and attentiveness as he gingerly carried the petite and peerless Lan You Nian in his arms, incomparably cherished, as if even the slightest force can break that world’s greatest treasure.
Meanwhile, An San carried the daily bowl of medicine over. Lan You Nian’s overjoyed countenance instantly became miserable. Actually, when Feng Yi Xuan wasn’t there, Lan You Nian obediently drank the medicine, but since he was with her, Lan You Nian became a little fussy.
Feng Yi Xuan waved his hand at the others. They knowingly left the room. With Ming wang here, he wouldn’t let young miss act willful, so they were all reassured. Besides, they’ve been separated for so long. They best not stay there to suffer the cold shoulder.
“So bitter!” Lan You Nian perched on Feng Yi Xuan’s thigh, muttering in vexation, “I don’t want to drink it!”
Feng Yi Xuan sniffed the medicine and knew it was bitter but he won’t relent on this matter. Feng Yi Xuan said sympathetically, “Behave, good medicine is bitter to the taste. You’ll get better after drinking it!”
Lan You Nian pouted and prepared to drink. She’s not really refusing to drink. She only wanted to act spoiled with this man because she liked seeing this man spoiling and pampering her.
Feng Yi Xuan indulgently flicked Lan You Nian’s nose. Picking up the still warm medicine, he drank it; then, he locked down Lan You Nian’s head as he locked lips with her, transferring the medicine in his mouth into hers. Maybe because of the kiss, Lan You Nian didn’t feel the medicine was so bitter anymore.
After finishing the medicine, Feng Yi Xuan stuffed the candied fruit An Yi left behind into Lan You Nian’s mouth. Lan You Nian obediently chewed on it, her eyes shuttered with a smile. The candied fruit was not only sweet, it carried a slight fragrance, making it even more delicious.
Seeing Lan You Nian’s enjoyment, Feng Yi Xuan knew Lan You Nian liked this candied fruit and felt he made the right decision. Though he sent the quickest and best assassins in Ghost Realm to Jiangnan, but for Nian Nian, it was all worth it.
Feng Yi Xuan hasn’t been back in the capital for some time, so there were many matters in the manor that required his judgement. But Feng Yi Xuan was reluctant to part with Lan You Nian, after the meal, causing An Yi’s and the other shadow guards’ eyebrows to twitch. It it really alright for their master to be so clingy?
Lan You Nian felt helpless and decided to return to Ming wang manor with Feng Yi Xuan. Sure enough, Feng Yi Xuan was overjoyed hearing this. He grabbed a white cloak to wrap Lan You Nian up into a little bear before he carried Lan You Nian into the carriage heading to Ming wangfu.
Arriving at Ming wang manor, Lan You Nian suddenly asked the steward,”Uncle Feng, what day is it today?” Actually, Ming wang manor’s steward didn’t actually surnamed Feng. Feng was the national surname of Feng country. Those who were not members of the royal family were forbidden from possessing the Feng surname. However, because steward Feng looked after Feng Yi Xuan and oversaw Ming wang manor, the Emperor gifted him the surname Feng.
Upon hearing wangfei’s words, Uncle Feng’s weathered face smiled as he answered. He really wanted to have wangye to marry in wangfei as early as possible. Ming wang manor has been desolate all these years. Only when wangfei came, it would gain some sense of life.
Lan You Nian was taken by surprise and her steps faltered, slowing down Feng Yi Xuan’s pace. It turns out tonight was Christmas Eve, a western tradition. If she didn’t happen to ask what day it was, Lan You Nian wouldn’t have remembered. Lan You Nian thought of those people who cared about her, those she loved and those who loved her. It seems she’s obtained many sincere friends and this lover of hers. Then, shouldn’t she do something this Christmas Eve?
“What’s wrong, Nian Nian?” Feng Yi Xuan tightened the outer coat around Lan You Nian. He noticed Nian Nian was pondering on something after she asked what day it was.
Lan You Nian suddenly halted, pulling on Feng Yi Xuan’s hand, “Xuan, I have some things to take care of, so I can’t accompany you!” Lan You Nian’s voice contained guilt and uneasiness. She wanted to give everyone a surprise.
Feng Yi Xuan felt his heart ache seeing Lan You Nian act spoiled and uneasy. No matter what his Nian Nian did, she didn’t need to have any concerns, not even him. So, Feng Yi Xuan pecked Lan You Nian’s forehead, murmuring, “I accompany you?”
Lan You Nian shook her head, saying “I’ll come back tonight okay? Have Uncle Feng make something tasty!”
Feng Yi Xuan nodded his head dotingly. Though he hated he couldn’t have Nian Nian by his side every moment of the day, Feng Yi Xuan understood his Nian Nian wasn’t a canary (caged bird). She was an eagle that can soar shoulder to shoulder with him. And now that Feng Yi Xuan knew Nian Nian had him in her heart, he didn’t feel so uneasy, so he can give Nian Nian her own space.
“En, then I’ll leave now!” Lan You Nian then left Ming wang manor. Behind her, Feng Yi Xuan watched her departing figure with a gentle expression, until she left Ming wang manor. Feng Yi Xuan turned to An Er, “Buy out Jiangnan’s shop that makes candied fruits.”
An Er affirmed in reply; then, he had the underlings handle this. There weren’t many shops in Jiangnan that made candied fruits, neither could it be bought, but since Feng Yi Xuan was set on it, there wouldn’t be any problems. If the soft approach didn’t work, assassins loved to use force.
So, in the future, when Ming wang manor and Lan manor used the candied fruits that were locally produced in Jiangnan, many people were envious. Once the shop that made Jiangnan’s specialty candied fruits were bought by Ming wang manor, even the candied fruits used by the palace wasn’t as good as Ming wang manor’s.
Lan You Nian took Lan Wu and Lan Qu to Zhen Wei Pavilion, even summoning over Lan Ren and Lan Feng who were busy with some other matters. The four people thought their young miss had some important matter, but they could never have guessed…
“Lan Feng, you and Lan Wu go buy some pretty colored paper. Buy a lot!” Lan You Nian said. “Lan Ren, you and Lan Qu go help me buy some apples, also, buy a lot. You must pick the good looking ones.”
“Eh?” Lan Wu and the others looked at their young miss in bewilderment, “Young miss, there are plenty of fruits in the manor.” With Feng Yi Xuan handling the food and clothing aspects of Lan You Nian’s life, Lan manor had a continual supply of all types of fruits.
Lan You Nian rubbed her forehead, speechless. If she wanted to eat fruit, why would it need to be apples? And would she need to buy so many? Lan You Nian was deeply disheartened by having such a naive Lan Wu by her side. She could only shoot her a glare as she huffed, “Why aren’t you going yet!? Have it done by this afternoon!”
Hearing Lan You Nian say this, the four of them hurried to do what they were told. It wasn’t the first time their young miss made some strange new thing. A lot of times the things young miss did confused them, but afterwards, after it was all done, it was novel and awe-inspiring for them.
When boxes of apples were transported into Zhen Wei Pavilion, Zhen Wei Pavilion’s steward’s face was stiff, wondering what new dish Miss Miao Yin was creating.
When the four of them have assembled the things and Lan You Nian checked to make sure everything was perfect and after she hastily had a meal at Zhen Wei Pavilion, Lan You Nian and the four of them gathered in the room packaging every apple.
“Wow!” Lan Wu picked up the adorable multi-colored apple that Lan You Nian wrapped up, exclaiming, “Young miss, it’s so pretty!”
Lan You Nian didn’t say anything, only teaching the three other girls how to package the apples. Meanwhile, the only man, Lan Ren, acted as an assistant. Such feelings, such interactions was how it was like all these years. They weren’t family but they surpassed family.
As night gradually fell, Lan You Nian shoved open the window of the suite in Zhen Wei Pavilion. The snow at dusk, deeply, seemed to have thousands of emotions, at the same time, tumultuous as the sea that could drown everything. It seemed to uncovering something concealed, exposing it to the world. The snowflakes were all shapes and sizes, crystal clear, as if warriors on a campaign, donning silver armor, and like white war sails on a voyage…
Lan You Nian chose four apples that she packaged and gave it to the people with her, saying, “Tonight is Christmas Eve. If you eat an apple this night, may you have a good and peaceful life next year!”
{T/N: Christmas Eve is 平安夜 in chinese, which directly translates to Peaceful Night. It’s a play on words here, since apples is 苹果, which shares the homophone “ping”}
The four of them didn’t know there was such a saying. Holding the apple in their hands, they slowly unwrapped the recently packaged apples in front of Lan You Nian; then, they were red-eyed as they devoured the apple, bite after bite. This was their young miss’s hopes for them, as well as her care for them.
By the time the four of them left Zhen Wei Pavilion, it was already dark out. Lan You Nian had the four of them deliver those apples to those people…
When Lan You Nian returned to Ming wang manor, lanterns were already hung up on Ming wang manor’s gates. In the heavy snow, under the hazy light, the man donned in black robes, whose face was as handsome as a god’s and his bearing was so noble that people couldn’t bear to profane, yet his gaze was tender, for those faintly purple eyes were as gentle as water.
Lan You Nian’s lips couldn’t help curling up as she saw Feng Yi Xuan; then, hurrying her pace, she walked over to his side and naturally dove into his open arms, savoring the warmth of his body.
“Why are you waiting for me outside? Aren’t you cold?” Lan You Nian scolded, but her voice was filled with concern.
Feng Yi Xuan shoved the girl into his wide outer robes, walking as he talked, “I wanted to see you as soon as possible!” Even though it just a short distance from the entrance of the manor to his study, he still wanted to see her as soon as possible.
Ming wang manor’s front hall was lit up with a burner. As soon as they entered the hall, Lan You Nian felt the warm air rushing at her. The table was full of delicious dishes on it.
The two of them sat across from one another. Lan You Nian took out an exquisitely wrapped apple from her outer robe and handed it to Feng Yi Xuan. Her big eyes were curved like crescents and her twinkling eyes were like the sparkling stars at night, especially beautiful. The corners of her cherry lips were curled upwards, having hints of a child-like cuteness.
Feng Yi Xuan very naturally took it from her. Seeing Nian Nian so happy, his heart was nearly reverent with joy. He liked her childishness, he liked her spoiled temper, he really really liked the girl before him.
Lan You Nian tilted her head saying, “Xuan, do you know, tonight is Christmas Eve. If you eat an apple on Christmas Eve, you will have a safe and peaceful life, so…” Lan You Nian looked into Feng Yi Xuan’s no longer concealed purple eyes, “I want Xuan to be safe and sound, always safe and sound!”
Feng Yi Xuan’s gaze was as gentle and intimate as it always has, making people couldn’t help but immerse themselves in it, not wishing to wake up. Gingerly, he unwrapped the apple in his hand. Though he really wanted to hide this apple away, he couldn’t bear to disappoint Nian Nian. He wants a safe and peaceful life; even more, he wanted Nian Nian to have a safe and peaceful life.
Feng Yi Xuan took a bite of the apple; then, he nudged the apple to Lan You Nian’s lips, “I want to have a safe and peaceful life with Nian Nian!” Feng Yi Xuan even started to wish, if he ate the apple, Nian Nian’s poison will be cured and they could be well. He didn’t know, but he was certain, he won’t let Nian Nian be alone. He will be with her wherever she goes.
Lan You Nian took a bite of the apple from Feng Yi Xuan’s hand, her brows lit up with a warm and gentle smile. Her exquisite face was filled with a moonlight softness. (Xuan, do you know, the current me wishes to live. More than anyone, I wish to live, because I love you. I can’t bear to leave you!)
Like a painting, the two of them sat there, one taking a bite after the other as they finished this apple that represented peacefulness, their hearts getting closer as always.
Meanwhile, many people in the capital received their own apple that represented peacefulness.
Lan manor, Lan Jian Jun and Lan Mo Xian looked at the apple in their hands. In the father and son’s hearts, they felt the same pride. Lan You Nian finally accepted them as family in her heart. She finally no longer rejected them. They finally have become a real family. You Nian Pavilion’s guards all received an apple. They all felt they followed a good master. Not only capable, she also cared for them. With this apple, Zhang Lin and the other guards became even more loyal.
Jing manor, Jing Leng looked at his son, Jing Wu An and “daughter-in-law” Yu Liu Li. All three of them held an exquisite apple. Thinking of Lan You Nian’s consideration, their hearts were moved. Jing Leng especially lamented why wasn’t such a child his own family’s?
Fourth wangye’s manor, Feng Xia Qi held the apple Lan Feng delivered, a smile lit up with happiness. Though he couldn’t confess his feelings, but wasn’t this enough? Using the position of friend and older brother, taking up a place in her heart, it was already very good.
Junzhu manor, Hua Mu Qing looked at the cute looking apple. Turning it over in her hands, she couldn’t bear to eat it. She didn’t have any family, so this feeling of being cared for was very nice. Hua Mu Qing felt Lan You Nian will be her little sister for a lifetime, always be her friend.
The guest palace, when Yue Bai Lian received the apple, she was surprised. She didn’t expect Lan You Nian to remember her at this time. Thinking that she will use another identity to live in Feng country, it was fine as long as she got to see her.
Xiao Jin Pavilion, after Gui San took care of business and returned to the suite, he received the apple. Gui San smiled indulgently at the apple. Only little junior could have thought of these quirky things. Gui San criticized mentally but he still devoured the apple, for little junior sister’s thoughtfulness.
Ming army’s army camp, Gui Wu held the apple in his hands, chuckling, making a group of rough old man envious from admiration upon hearing Lan Feng’s words. How come they didn’t have someone caring for them? Then, everyone started to fighting over this humble apple.
Meanwhile, in Ming wang manor, after Feng Yi Xuan and Lan You Nian finished their dinner, Lan Feng and Lan Ren carried box after box of apples into Ming wang manor. Lan You Nian had the shadow guards all gathered in the hall. Though none of them knew what wangfei wanted to do, but they all liked this little wangfei very much, so they all stood there respectfully.
Though Lan You Nian hated explaining herself, but facing these subordinates who’ve been following Feng Yi Xuan all these years, Lan You Nian felt gratitude towards them, so Lan You Nian told everyone of eating apples on Christmas Eve; then, under their burning gazes, she gave everyone an apple.
Whether it was steward Uncle Feng or An Yi and the other shadow guards, or Ming wang manor’s manservant and the cooks in the kitchen. No one was left out. She knew many of the people in Ming wang manor seemed ordinary, but all of them had their own talents. It wasn’t her intention to draw them to her side or anything. She wanted Ming wang manor to seem more like a home, so her Xuan won’t be so lonely.
Those who received the apple all felt gratitude. They felt they were being respected and valued. Though wangye was a very good master, wangfei gave them a warmth wangye wasn’t capable of giving. This kind of Ming wang manor seemed more like a home.
What Lan You Nian didn’t know is, Ming wang manor’s shadow guards were all people from the Ghost Realm, so when Ghost Realm’s assassin’s learned of this, they all asked to change shifts and guard Ming wang manor. For this, all the men in Ghost Realm’s fought over it for a long time.
Feng Yi Xuan looked at Nian Nian who was standing beside him, smiling at his subordinates. He too smiled. His Nian Nian was like an elf in the night or like a celestial maiden from the ninth heaven, beautiful, enchanting, pure, clean, her entire body permeated with a captivating aura and perfection. Feng Yi Xuan felt he would be addicted as soon as he encountered her, unable to extricate himself. If he couldn’t meet this girl in this life, he will live his life alone until the end and continue to wait in the next life.
194 Lan Mo Xian’s Wedding
Wintertime, goose feathered flurries of snow fluttered to the ground. The ground was carpeted with snow, thick and soft; snow drifted onto the house, blanketing it with snow, loose and soft; trees were covered with snow, the snow piling up on the branches bent over its waist. The bright sun cast its rays on the snow white mountain, emanating a dazzling brilliance.
Lan manor was bustling with activity, for it was the day Lan manor’s eldest young master, Lan Mo Xian, married in junzhu manor’s junzhu, Hua Mu Qing. Ever since the two of them became engaged, they’ve been preparing for their wedding. but it couldn’t be helped that they haven’t found an appropriate opportunity. With everyone in the capital and New Years’ Eve being a good day, Lan Jian Jun decided on a day for the two of them to marry. Lan Mo Xian and Hua Mu Qing were mutually in love, so they naturally prepared for the wedding.
Lan Mo Xian wasn’t the type to be extravagant and wasteful. Though Lan Mo Xian’s wedding, it wasn’t overly extravagant. But as it is the General’s manor, despite not being extravagant, other families could not compare to it. Many of the capital’s prominent families came to attend the wedding.
Lan Jian Jun changed out of his usual uniform and into a festive black robe lined with gold. He stood in the grand hall of Lan manor greeting all the guests’ good wishes with a smile. At this moment, he felt the joy of a father, feeling joy for his son for finding his own happiness.
Because Hua Mu Qing didn’t have any relatives in the capital, nor did she have any other friends, fearing she would be lonely, Lan You Nian brought Lan Qu and the others to junzhu manor. Bai Lian, too, came to junzhu manor from the guest palace, to accompany her as Hua Mu Qing’s friend.
A mama of the palace was currently brushing Hua Mu Qing’s hair and doing her makeup. The complicated headdress weighed down on Hua Mu Qing’s head. Hua Mu Qing blinked her eyes helplessly at Lan You Nian and Yue Bai Lian, complaining in misery, “This headdress is so heavy!”
Lan You Nian and Yue Bai Lian caught each other’s eye and snickered. Lan You Nian comforted, “It can’t be helped. Aren’t all brides like this? Just bear with it for a while!” She knew Hua Mu Qing was a simple and frank girl, so her usual attire was very simple. She preferred to disguise herself as a man, because it was more comfortable to scamper about in.
The mama doing the hair and makeup dusted Hua Mu Qing’s face with a faint layer of powder and her light pink lips were also touched with scarlet. The bright red wedding dress made Hua Mu Qing appear even more fiery and zealous, as if she could ignite the entire sky. It’s no wonder people say women are most beautiful on their wedding day, Lan You Nian quite perceived this.
Maybe because she wasn’t used to such an attire, Hua Mu Qing couldn’t help from fidgeting around, but such painstaking bride’s makeup didn’t allow for carelessness. Yue Bai Lian couldn’t couldn’t bear it and held Hua Mu Qing down, not allowing her to mess up her makeup.
“Nian’er meimei, I…” Hua Mu Qing was suddenly afraid as she clutched Lan You Nian’s hand, “I’m nervous!”
Lan You Nian gently patted the hand Hua Mu Qing placed on hers, comfortingly, “Don’t be nervous. Look, you have us friends with you and you’ll have a husband like older brother in the future, as well as Father, older sister Mu Qing, things will get better!”
Hua Mu Qing pulled Lan You Nian and Yue Bai Lian on each respective hand, saying, “After my parents passed away, I never felt any warmth. Many people found my uninhibited tomboyish personality shameful. I thought I will continue to be like this forever, but I didn’t expect to meet you guys and I obtained friends. I never imagined I would end up together with Lan Mo Xian. I will have a family. Nian’er meimei, do you know, you really are my lucky star!”
Lan You Nian smiled warmly and said, “From now on you are your own lucky star…”
In a few moments, the news came that the groom has arrived. Because Hua Mu Qing no longer had any relatives, there wasn’t all that many formalities. Lan Mo Xian, as the groom, directly walked into the bridal chamber. Landing his eyes on Hua Mu Qing who wore a veil over her head, he felt a burst of excitement in his heart.
Not only Lan Mo Xian came to pick up the bride, there was also He Chu Yang and Gui San. Originally, it had nothing to do with Gui San. It was Jing Wu An who was supposed to come, but it couldn’t be helped Gui San kept pestering Lan You Nian until she agreed to let him come. Gui San simply loved to ogle all the fun.
“Older brother, where’s my red envelope?” Lan You Nian stood beside Hua Mu Qing, giggling mischievously. “If there’s no red envelope, I won’t let the bride go!”
[T/N: in a traditional chinese wedding, if the groom wanted to take the bride from her maiden home, he had to give out red envelopes (money) to the girls from the bride’s side of the family]
Lan Mo Xian let out a laugh as Gui San, part of the bridal escort, passed out all the previously prepared red envelopes to Lan You Nian, Bai Lian and the others, ignoring He Chu Yang who looked like he’s about to stop him and Lan Mo Xian who seemed to want to speak but was forced to swallow his tongue. The only thing Gui San knew was to give all his money to his little junior sister.
Lan You Nian and Yue Bai Lian helped the veiled Hua Mu Qing walk out of junzhu manor. There was nothing worth lingering for in this place for Hua Mu Qing. Yue Bai Lian helped Hua Mu Qing up the bridal sedan chair while Lan Mo Xian mounted his towering steed. On the road, drums and music reverted in the streets as they headed towards Lan manor.
On the way, many people ogled Lan manor’s eldest young master and junzhu’s wedding, appearing to be bustling with noise and excitement. As for Lan You Nian, she was suddenly carried away by Feng Yi Xuan in the hustle bustle of activity, because Feng Yi Xuan was displeased his Nian Nian actually spent so long with Hua Mu Qing.
But fortunately, Feng Yi Xuan didn’t overstep his boundaries. After he returned Lan You Nian to Lan manor, Feng Yi Xuan straightened out Lan You Nian’s somewhat disheveled clothing and said, “Our wedding ceremony will be even more beautiful than this!”
When Feng Yi Xuan left to go to the front hall, Lan You Nian was still a bit dazed. She was a little looking forward to marrying him.
Lan You Nian, as Lan manor’s legitimate daughter, as the most popular and most noble lady in the capital, stood docilely beside Lan Jian Jun, witnessing Lan Mo Xian holding Hua Mu Qing’s hand as they performed the ceremony, witnessing them bowing to one another, witnessing a wedding as old as time.
Lan You Nian raised her head and saw Feng Yi Xuan sitting at the men’s seating area, his expression gentle as he watched her. It seemed no matter when she looked back, she will always see this man standing somewhere not far from her, tenderly gazing at her, never leaving her.
Meanwhile, Feng Xia Qi and the others only gazed sourly at the newly wedded couple. Because they lost the bet, they had to give out more money. When the groom was toasting, Feng Xia Qi was so angry he started to coerce Lan Mo Xian to drink more. It’s only a pity He Chu Yang and Gui San weren’t easy to deal with and let Lan Mo Xian slither away much earlier.
“Say, should we go crash the bridal chambers?” Yu Liu Li asked excitedly. They didn’t have much friend. Since they were genuine friends, so when a friend marries, they all felt joy.
{T/N: Crashing or visiting (if you prefer) the bridal chamber is another traditional chinese wedding custom. Usually the groom’s friends or relatives of the same generation would visit the bridal chambers and plays games, joke around and tease the bride and groom, so the atmosphere becomes more lively and intimate to help the bride and groom get to know each other, since the bride and groom usually don’t even know what each other look like before marriage}
“You should go back to practice pressing down!” Gui San said in contempt. He blocked a lot of wine for Lan Mo Xian tonight, so his words were a lot more straightforward. And he was a frequent resident of Xiao Jin Pavilion, so how innocent could he be? But none of them were sanctimonious people, so no one minded.
“Just you wait, I will be on top one day!” Yu Liu Li vowed, making all of them burst into laughter. Jing Wu An didn’t say anything, because no matter how tough Yu Liu Li was, he was always on top in bed.
The lively day passed quickly. That night Lan You Nian nestled in Feng Yi Xuan’s arms, she was looking forward to their own wedding. She wondered if she would be like Hua Mu Qing, feeling uneasy yet happy.
“What are you thinking about?” Feng Yi Xuan tucked Lan You Nian in, asking. Actually, ever since that event happened that night, a lot of times, he wanted Nian Nian to help him take care of his desires, but he was a little unwilling. Fortunately, as long as he left Nian Nian, he wouldn’t feel any desire, so most of the time the two of them didn’t sleep together. But for some reason Feng Yi Xuan wanted to hug her to sleep. Though he wished for this every night, he especially longed for it this night.
“Nothing. I’m just so happy!” Lan You Nian smiled. She was really happy. She had a lot of people who loved her. These people will find their own happiness. It gave Lan You Nian a wonderful feeling.
“Then Nian Nian, when will you marry me?” Feng Yi Xuan’s voice was slightly depressed. He glanced at the petite little one in his arms, sighing, “I feel like I can’t anymore!”
“After I’ve come of age, I’ll marry you!” Lan You Nian snickered. In Feng country, once girls reached the age of sixteen, they can marry, but a lot more girls married at fifteen. There were even some who married at thirteen, but that’s because those girls were chess pieces on the political arena.
“There’s still two more years!” Feng Yi Xuan muttered in displeasure. It wasn’t he couldn’t wait. For the girl in his arms, no matter how many years, he will wait, not to mention two years. It’s just after seeing today’s wedding ceremony, he didn’t feel like it was fair.
“What?” Lan You Nian reached out and pinched Feng Yi Xuan’s arm, huffing angrily like a little hot pepper, “You’re not willing to wait?”
Feng Yi Xuan allowed Lan You Nian her mischief. For him, it didn’t hurt at all. He liked Nian Nian showing him a different side of her. It made him feel that Nian Nian only belonged to him.
“No matter how long, I’m willing to wait!” Feng Yi Xuan didn’t know how to sweet talk but because he didn’t know, everything he said was from the heart. The most sincere was often the most moving and Lan You Nian was the one moved.
Feng Yi Xuan felt he was very greedy. In the beginning, he just wanted this girl’s heart to have him in it. After he learned Nian Nian liked him, he started to long for them to be together in matrimony, so they became engaged. And now he wished for them to get married. It seems, since meeting this girl, he learned to be dissatisfied. He loved her too much, so he was always thinking about letting the two of them be together forever.
“Sleep!” Feng Yi Xuan coaxed. He was reluctant to shut his eyes. He was greedy yet pleased…it seems after meeting Nian Nian, he’s become different. He had someone he cared about, had someone he wanted to knead into his life, blood and bones.
“Alright!” It only took a while for Lan You Nian to fall asleep. The corner of her lips were still slightly curled upwards, as if even in her dreams, she was happy.
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Chapter 195 Lan Wu’s Disapperance
The warm sunlight of winter shed its rays into the chamber through the window, spilling onto Lan You Nian’s body, covering her with a golden glow. The sunlight landed on the side of her face, making that white and tender skin appear transparent. Along with those pretty brows, pert nose, and that slightly pursed lips, those deep and dark eyes were like the bright stars in the night sky, so stunning in beauty it made others unable to tear their eyes away.
Because it was nearly New Years’ Eve, though Feng Yi Xuan and the others were busy, Lan You Nian, on the other hand, was very idle. All day, she was either basking in the sun or she going to Ming wangfu to spend time with Feng Yi Xuan. Her days passed quite serenely, making her feel like she’s really a noble lady of the boudoir.
Lan Qu’s footsteps were hurried as she rushed into the pavilion. Lan You Nian sat up. As soon as she heard Lan Qu’s uneven breathing and chaotic footsteps, she knew something must have happened for Lan Qu who was so organized to be like this.
“Young miss!” Lan Qu’s eyes were a little red as she fell to her knees, exclaiming, “Lan Wu’s missing!”
“Speak!” Lan You Nian couldn’t help lifting her chin. Under the sunlight, those pair of eyes were as bright as the stars, as if a oppressiveness exclusive to a superior sunk into her bones, naturally coming off her body.
Seeing Lan You Nian so calm, Lan Qu’s emotions steadied. Though usually she was steady, but this time something has happened to Lan Wu; their friend, their family, so she was panicked.
“Lan Wu went over to Xiao Jin Pavilion to play yesterday afternoon but she didn’t come back last night. I thought Lan Qu was being frivolous and stayed behind at Xiao Jin Pavilion but when I went to Xiao Jin Pavilion this morning, third young master said Lan Wu should have returned yesterday afternoon, so Lan Wu is missing!” Lan Qu said, then looked at her young miss.
Lan You Nian’s index finger rapidly tapped the table. A thick murderous air came off her in waves. She hasn’t been this angry in a long time. Good, very good! She wants to see who dared to touch her people. Do they think she’s easy to bully!?
“Have everyone drop everything. Focus on finding Lan Wu!’s whereabouts!” Lan You Nian said, “They most likely kidnapped Lan Wu because of me, so have Lan Feng go investigate the imperial court. As for the pugilistic world, have Lan Ren go check it out. Find out what route Lan Wu took yesterday! And, you guys be careful. If you’re going out, have Zhang Lin and the others protect you!” Lan Wu is already missing. She won’t let other people encounter the same thing.
Lan Qu nodded and headed outside, beginning to have everyone investigate. Though she was worried, but from the first day they followed young miss, they knew this pugilistic world and the imperial court was constantly changing. They were young miss’s subordinates. No matter what, they must protect young miss, so though she was worried and afraid, her will was firm.
Lan You Nian sat there pondering for a moment then rode a horse from You Nian Pavilion to Xiao Jin Pavilion. At Xiao Jin Pavilion, Gui San was similarly worried.
“Little junior sister!” Gui San looked at Lan You Nian who flashed into the room, even her hair emitted coldness. Gui San felt guilty. After all, the person left from his place. Gui San knew what Lan Wu and the others meant to little junior sister but Gui San didn’t know how to comfort her. They all knew what Lan Wu’s disappearance meant.
Lan You Nian nodded and sat down, “Have you found anything?” The intelligence network was managed by Gui San. What she needed to know now was who kidnaped Lan Wu. As long as she knew who did it, then the next step was much easier.
“We still haven’t found anything out, but we can be certain it wasn’t done by anyone from the imperial court, so the person must be someone from the pugilistic world. Their aim is either you or me!” Gui San analyzed. His expression was ugly.
Lan You Nian’s finger that was tapping the table increased her page, her voice was strangely clear. Gui San knew this gesture meant little junior sister was thinking.
“Summon by everyone who’s looking for Lan Wu. Third brother, you personally look!” Lan You Nian’s finger paused then said. Her tone of voice didn’t allow for any negotiation. Gui San wasn’t dissatisfied, nodded, and went to do it. Ordinarily, this girl was their junior sister, the girl they protected, but once they encountered a problem, she was a decision maker, Wu Qing Pavilion’s pavilion master, their master. They were very clear on the difference.
Lan You Nian didn’t have others looking doesn’t mean she was giving up on Lan Wu. To her, as long it was her people, she will never give up. But the people who touched Lan Wu were clearly from the pugilistic world. The biggest reason for the people of the pugilistic world to touch Lan Wu was because of Gui San. Don’t ask her why it wasn’t herself, because the people of the pugilistic world don’t know she was Master Wu Qing. Recently, someone probably noticed Lan Wu and Xiao Jin Pavilion had a close relationship. They’ve probably kept watch on Wu Qing Pavilion’s people but couldn’t find Master Wu Qing so they could only look for Gui San. Though Gui San was usually a philanderer but he never left behind anything others could hold against him. But Lan Wu can freely enter Xiao Jin Pavilion, so it let many people mistake Lan Wu and Gui San’s relationship. So these people are using Lan Wu to threaten Gui San. By threatening Gui San, Master Wu Qing wouldn’t be far off.
Lan You Nian knew if she used too many forces to search for Lan Wu, isn’t this telling others Lan Wu and Master Wu Qing’s relationship? Not only wouldn’t they be able to save Lan Wu, they would harm her. But if Gui San personally went, these people will make their move. Even if its threatening Gui San, as long as someone stepped out, then it was a piece of cake to follow this clue,. The only thing they could do was wait.
Soon, Lan Qu, Lan Ren and Lan Feng returned to Xiao Jin Pavilion, sitting there with Lan You Nian without uttering a word. They knew their young miss, even if she didn’t say anything or show any sadness, they knew their young miss mustn’t be feeling good either. They didn’t ask why young miss had them all come back. They believed in Lan You Nian!