Sunday, April 12, 2026
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Friday, April 10, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 645
Chapter 645 I Added to the Princess’s Dowry!
On the eighteenth day of the first month, the weather was clear and bright. A crimson carpet, embroidered with peonies, stretched from the main hall of Yuhua Palace all the way to the gates of Yue Wang Manor.
The Imperial Guards lined the route, and the main streets were sealed off. Fortunately, the Emperor had not ordered a full street clearance, so the people were allowed to watch the ceremony from behind the guards.
Countless citizens had risen before dawn, more excited than if it were their own daughters being married.
In the days leading up to the wedding, two incidents had stirred discussion throughout the court.
Mu Yunyao’s reputation had already spread far and wide—especially because of the embroidery techniques she had shared. Countless households had benefited from them, and the people were deeply grateful.
No one knew who had first come up with the idea, but after learning the route the bridal procession would take, they began sewing flowers from scraps of cloth, binding them with silk thread, and tying them onto the trees lining the road.
Others quickly followed suit. Soon, even the trees were not enough—some nearly came to blows just to claim a spot. The officials from Shuntian Prefecture had to intervene several times to maintain order.
One well-meaning official tried to persuade them, saying,
“Making these silk flowers takes time and effort, and wastes both cloth and money. There is truly no need to go this far.”
The people frowned, unwilling to concede.
“Nowadays, many households make embroidered goods. These flowers are made from leftover scraps and thread—it costs us nothing. And besides, we’ve all benefited from Princess Wenxian. Because of her embroidery techniques, our families can now eat their fill, even save a little.
Now that the Princess is getting married, we have no means to offer grand gifts. What’s wrong with tying a single silk flower? The Princess has always been kind—she would never disdain something we made with our own hands. Why are you trying to stop us? Does our sincerity not matter?”
The official was surrounded and questioned until his face flushed red. He could only stammer,
“I just… I only meant that earning money is not easy for you all. I didn’t want you to waste it…”
“Who says it’s a waste?” someone retorted loudly. “Even if it is, we’re willing! One day, when our children and grandchildren grow up, we can proudly tell them—we gave a gift to the Princess! We added to her dowry!”
With those words, the crowd erupted in agreement.
“Adding to the Princess’s dowry” quickly became the most talked-about spectacle in the capital.
Ling Wang had originally intended to use the situation to cause trouble for Yue Wang and Mu Yunyao. Instead, not only did he fail to smear them—he nearly angered himself to death.
Unable to decide how to handle things, the Prefect of Shuntian reported the matter to the Emperor.
After confirming that the silk flowers required no real expense, the Emperor did not intervene further and allowed the matter to continue.
But the excitement did not end there.
The people of Jingling refused to be outdone. After being denied permission by local officials, they hired ships at their own expense and sent congratulatory gifts all the way to the capital’s docks.
Seeing four ships loaded to the brim, their hulls riding dangerously low in the water, even seasoned boatmen sucked in sharp breaths.
“Xingshun Shipping Company has guts,” they muttered. “To carry this much cargo in winter, with floating ice on the river—it’s a disaster waiting to happen.”
The Emperor had only just finished handling the capital’s situation when Jingling’s gifts arrived as well.
Looking over the long list—filled with everything from cloth to daily goods, even children’s clothing—he could not help but laugh.
“Send this list to Yunyao. These are the people’s gifts to her. I will not interfere. Let her remember this kindness—and not forget her original intentions.”
When Mu Yunyao saw the list, she was momentarily stunned. A warm tide rose in her heart.
“I never imagined that one unthinking act on my part would bring such heartfelt remembrance from so many people… It makes me feel ashamed.”
Grand Princess Yide studied her expression and spoke gently,
“The people offer gifts to repay your kindness. If you feel unworthy, then do more good for them in return. Only then will this spark of goodwill continue to grow and burn without end.”
“Yes,” Mu Yunyao nodded seriously. “Please rest assured, Grandmother. I understand.”
“I know you do,” the Grand Princess said with a smile. “You have always known your limits.”
There were simply too many gifts from Jingling, too varied for Mu Yunyao to manage alone. She asked the Grand Princess for assistance with unloading the goods and coordinating with Niyun Workshop, Buxian Tower, and Yue Wang Manor.
Perishable items were prepared into dishes and distributed among the people of the capital.
As for Jingling, Mu Yunyao allocated two hundred thousand taels of silver. Part was entrusted to local officials for infrastructure and irrigation; the rest was used to purchase farming tools, oxen, and grain—some of which was used to host communal feasts.
When news of this spread, the people rejoiced.
Yet in the shadows, others began to speculate—
If she could casually give away two hundred thousand taels, just how profitable were Niyun Workshop and Buxian Tower?
On the day of the wedding, before dawn had even broken, Mu Yunyao was already awake, preparing herself.
Fortune matrons dressed her in her wedding robes and began combing her hair, smiling brightly as they recited blessings:
“One comb to the end—may wealth never depart.
Two combs to the end—may you be free from illness and sorrow.
Three combs to the end—may you be blessed with children and longevity.
Again to the end—may husband and wife live in harmony.
Two again—may you fly together like paired wings.
Three again—may your hearts remain forever united.
From beginning to end—may you be blessed with prosperity and honor.”
Standing beside Grand Princess Yide, Xu Yanhan’s eyes reddened.
Her daughter had grown from a frail newborn into a graceful young woman. Now she was to be married, stepping into a new life. How could she not feel moved?
“Yunyao…”
The Grand Princess sighed as well, unable to hide her reluctance.
Through the mirror, Mu Yunyao saw their expressions and quickly stood.
“Grandmother, Mother—I am getting married. My life will be peaceful and happy. You should be glad.”
Xu Yanhan wiped her eyes. “You’re right… we should be happy.”
The Grand Princess gently adjusted the phoenix hairpin in Mu Yunyao’s hair, her gaze filled with warmth.
“Sit down, child. We are only overwhelmed with joy.”
Mu Yunyao felt the same reluctance in her heart, but she dared not dwell on it, afraid of making them even more emotional.
Jin Lan entered briskly, smiling.
“Your Highness, Madam, Princess—the dowry has begun to be carried out.”
“Good.” The Grand Princess nodded. “Tell them to move quickly. Yunyao’s dowry is extensive—it will take time to settle everything. We must not delay the auspicious hour.”
“Yes.”
Outside, the streets were already packed with onlookers.
Suddenly, someone cried out—
“The dowry procession has begun!”
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Thursday, April 9, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 644
Chapter 644: Out of the Ordinary
Mu Yunyao accompanied Yue Wang through half a bowl of noodles. Seeing that he still showed no sign of leaving, she could not help feeling puzzled.
“Fourth Master, are you still not going back?”
“Yao’er, the palace gates have already been locked for the
night. I cannot get out now.” As he spoke, Yue Wang’s gaze drifted toward Mu
Yunyao’s bed.
Mu Yunyao froze, then her face flushed scarlet. “Since
Fourth Master cannot return, then… you may as well stay here for the night?”
She was mortified to the core, yet refused to yield in words.
Yue Wang had originally meant only to tease her, but at her
suggestion, his heart began pounding wildly. He opened his mouth, only to give
in at last beneath Mu Yunyao’s sly gaze.
“I… I had already told Imperial Father that, on the Lantern
Festival, I especially wished to remain in the palace and keep him company. He
gave me permission to stay the night.”
If he had not obtained the Emperor’s leave, then no matter
how capable he was, he could never have moved freely in and out of the
forbidden palace. Still, when he had said those words, Imperial Father’s
expression had been particularly teasing. Clearly, he had known Yue Wang had
another purpose in mind.
The redness in Mu Yunyao’s ears faded somewhat, and the
pounding of her heart gradually steadied.
“Then Fourth Master should hurry back. There is court early
tomorrow morning.”
The New Year had passed, and tomorrow the Emperor would
resume official business.
Yue Wang lowered his head and kissed her lightly between the
brows. “Then I will go first.”
“Alright.”
Only after his figure had vanished from sight did Mu Yunyao
close the window, change her clothes, and climb into bed. Hugging the quilt,
she rolled back and forth more than once. Thinking of the sea of lanterns among
the plum trees that night, and of the love shining in Yue Wang’s eyes, she felt
her heart swell as though it had been filled to the brim with honey, leaving
not the slightest space empty.
Jin Lan stepped forward to place a bed warmer in the bed and
said with a suppressed smile, “Miss should sleep soon. It is already quite
late. In only two more days, you will be a bride. You must take care and keep
yourself looking your most beautiful.”
“I know. You and Jin Qiao should go rest as well.”
She passed the night in beautiful dreams. When morning came,
Mu Yunyao was almost reluctant to wake.
In her dream, she had worn a red bridal gown and stood hand
in hand with Yue Wang. Their eyes had met, brimming with affection, so sweet
that one could not help but smile.
When Jin Lan saw that Mu Yunyao was awake, she stepped
forward and drew back the curtain, letting the sunlight spill in.
“Miss, Grand Princess Yide knew you slept late last night,
so she specially instructed this servant not to wake you too early and said you
need not go pay your respects today. Why, you have even missed breakfast.”
Mu Yunyao raised a hand to shield her eyes from the light.
The clear morning sun only made her feel more languid and unwilling to move.
“It was still snowing heavily last night. Has it cleared
already today?”
“Yes. This servant did not expect it either. After the
snowfall in the night, the sky has cleared completely. Everything outside is
covered in silver. If Miss wishes to enjoy the scenery, then you should get up
quickly.”
As Mu Yunyao rose to dress, Jin Lan noticed that the smile
lingering at her lips had not faded.
“Miss, this servant sees that you have been smiling all this
time. You seem very happy…”
Mu Yunyao looked into the bronze mirror before her. In its
reflection, she could clearly see the slight curve of her lips. Thinking again
of last night’s dream, her smile deepened further.
“Yes, I am very happy.”
In her previous life, she had entered Jin Wang’s residence
as a concubine. Her background had been considered disgraceful, and Madam Meng
of the Su family had deliberately made things difficult for her. Back then, she
had packed her things herself and been led into the residence by a matron. At
that time, her heart had held nothing but unease and confusion.
Only now did she understand that marriage could also be
something joyful—something capable of filling one with anticipation and
delight.
After washing and dressing, Mu Yunyao first went to pay her
respects to Grand Princess Yide, only to be teased yet again. On the way back,
she passed the side hall where Poisonous Lady had once stayed, and concern
stirred in her heart.
“Has there still been no word from Poisonous Lady?”
“No.”
“Before she left, she said she would return for my wedding.
Have people keep a closer watch. If there is any news, send it to me
immediately. Also, prepare a separate invitation for Su You. Otherwise,
Poisonous Lady will surely throw a fit at me again afterward.”
“Yes, this servant understands.”
She waited all the way until the seventeenth day of the
first month, yet there was still no news from Poisonous Lady. Instead, it was Beijiang
that suddenly began to stir.
Wei Jiu came to report respectfully.
“Master, Beijiang has already agreed to ally with Jin Wang. Beijiang
princess has also inclined toward his side. This subordinate intercepted word
that Beijiang has agreed to supply Jin Wang with sufficient iron and horses,
and Jin Wang is now cautiously trying to win over military officers.”
“Military officers? Whom has he approached?”
“Xun Lü of the Xun family.”
“Xun Lü? The second-rank Cavalry Commandant? If I remember
correctly, he has never gotten along with Yu Wang or the Qi family.”
“Yes. Xun Lü was once a first-rank Loyal and Valiant
General. Later, after drunkenly injuring two subordinates in the army, he was
impeached by the Duke of Wei and demoted by the Emperor. He is now serving as a
Cavalry Commandant in the Jingxi Camp. This man is arrogant by nature and
hungry for glory. Though a military man, he has made repeated contact with
court officials and has long harbored ambitions beyond his station.”
Mu Yunyao’s expression turned cold.
“No wonder Jin Wang would seek him out. Mobilizing a great
army is no easy matter. Not only would he need the Emperor’s tally, but the
capital garrisons cannot enter the city unless the Emperor issues a special
decree. Besides that, the capital itself is guarded by twenty thousand of the
finest imperial troops, while the palace is protected by the Imperial Guard. To
try to seize the capital in one blow would be all but impossible. Jin Wang
cannot be foolish enough to attempt such a thing.”
Wei Jiu raised his eyes.
“Master, on the third day of the third month, the Emperor is
to leave the palace and go to the imperial estate outside the city to conduct
the Spring Plowing Ceremony.”
Mu Yunyao’s brows drew together sharply.
“The Spring Plowing Ceremony… the imperial estate outside
the city…” Her eyes darkened. “I understand. What movements have there been
from Ling Wang and the Li family?”
If Beijiang had tilted toward Jin Wang, then Ling Wang and
the Li family would naturally have to respond.
“Reporting to Master, during the Lantern Festival, Ling Wang
and Jin Wang both invited Beijiang princess to go view the lanterns. The
princess chose Jin Wang. After learning that the two had gone out together,
Ling Wang flew into a rage. For the moment, however, we have not discovered any
move against Jin Wang. On the contrary, he is secretly helping Jin Wang contact
military officers.”
“Helping Jin Wang?” Mu Yunyao’s eyes shifted. “If Ling Wang
is helping Jin Wang win over military officers, then either he has gone mad, or
he intends to use Jin Wang—letting him be the one to test the waters first.”
“Master, should the Shadow Guards place people among them?”
Mu Yunyao shook her head.
“The Shadow Guards are few in number. Every one of them has
a greater use. The Emperor, Grandmother, and Mother alone already require many
of them at their sides. We cannot afford to scatter our people any further. I
will have others find a way to investigate. You may go for now. If there is any
news, report it immediately.”
The Shadow Guards were a blade—one meant to cut through an
enemy’s throat at the critical moment. They could not be worn down on secondary
matters, or the cost would outweigh the gain.
“Yes.”
After Wei Jiu withdrew, Mu Yunyao lifted a hand to rub at
her brow, turning over countermeasures again and again in her mind.
Jin Lan brought over a cup of tea.
“Miss, you should rest early. Tomorrow is your wedding day.”
Mu Yunyao’s heart trembled. She pressed all those tangled
thoughts down into the depths of her heart.
“Alright. I understand.”
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 643
Chapter 643: Love Makes Fools of Us All
Yue Wang released her and tightened the ties of her cloak for her, a faint smile on his face. “Yao’er, I want to prepare something for you. Most of it is already done, and it will be ready very soon. Stand beneath the corridor and wait for me a little while, all right?”
He wanted to see her smiling like a flower in bloom. He wanted every day of her life from now on to bring her whatever her heart desired.
Seeing the eagerness in his eyes, Mu Yunyao could not bear to refuse him. “All right. I’ll help you prepare it—”
“No. This is my gift to you. Naturally, I should prepare it with my own hands.”
Yue Wang settled her beneath the covered corridor, then turned and strode quickly to the edge of the plum grove, crouching down to arrange the ice lanterns one by one.
Mu Yunyao’s gaze followed him. Looking at the ice lanterns that had already been set in place around them, her eyes gradually reddened. Who knew how long this fool had spent preparing all of this? He was so clearly a clever and wise man, and yet he always did such foolish things.
Yue Wang set the last ice lantern in place, then lit a candle and used it to illuminate the others one after another. Snow whirled through the air, red plum blossoms bloomed in proud defiance of the cold, and amidst the lush plum grove, the ice lanterns slowly came alight, gradually forming a winding river of stars.
Mu Yunyao tried hard not to blink, wanting to etch both the dreamlike beauty before her and the clumsy man who had created it deep into her heart. She felt that this scene alone was enough to be remembered for a lifetime.
When Yue Wang finished lighting the last lantern, he extinguished the candle in his hand and set it aside, then turned back to look at her. “Yao’er, do you like it?”
Mu Yunyao looked at the sheen of sweat on his brow from all his exertion, and the smile in her eyes was sweet as honey. “I do. I like it very much.”
Yue Wang smiled, and his already handsome face became all the more dazzling for it. “If you like it, then my heart is glad.”
Mu Yunyao tossed aside the palace lantern in her hand and hurried over to him, throwing herself straight into his arms. Then she lifted her hands around his neck, rose on tiptoe, and kissed him.
Their lips met, their hearts pressed close, their pulses raced wildly, and their warm breaths mingled together, drawing them deeper and deeper into intoxication.
After a long while, the two of them finally separated. Leaning against Yue Wang’s chest, Mu Yunyao listened to the fierce pounding of his heart against her ear. “Fourth Master, if you go on like this, you will spoil me rotten.”
Every move he made was filled with deep affection. Mu Yunyao could feel that he treasured her in his palm and held her close against his heart. Such tenderness was addictive. It made one sink into it, unable to pull free.
Yue Wang held her tighter. “What I want is precisely to spoil you rotten—better yet, until you grow arrogant in my favor and lawless in your confidence. Then no one will dare compete with me for you.”
“You are the only one who treats me like a treasure.”
Yue Wang’s arms tightened further. His Yao’er was like the bright moon itself. So long as others were not blind, they would surely see the radiance she gave off. Yet Yao’er herself seemed unaware of it. Since that was the case, he certainly had no intention of pointing it out.
Mu Yunyao remained nestled in Yue Wang’s arms until the candles in the ice lanterns had all burned out. Only then did they walk hand in hand back to the side hall. They had stayed outside for a long time, and though they had later stood beneath the corridor, their hands and feet were still freezing cold, as though their whole bodies had turned to ice.
Jin Lan and Jin Qiao hurried forward to welcome them inside. They added fresh charcoal to the brazier, then brought hand warmers and soft fur wraps to drape around them. Only when both of them looked a little better did the maids finally relax and bring over steaming bowls of ginger soup.
“Your Highness, Miss, the two of you stood outside for far too long. Your bodies are full of cold. Drink a bowl of ginger soup to warm yourselves.”
Mu Yunyao and Yue Wang exchanged a glance. Cradling the bowls in their hands and blowing on the hot broth, they felt the heat against their fingertips and could not help but laugh aloud.
The ginger soup was still too hot to drink. Yue Wang set Mu Yunyao’s bowl aside, took her hand, and placed it against his own neck. “Yao’er, let me warm your hands.”
Mu Yunyao’s hands were like ice. The moment she placed them against either side of Yue Wang’s neck, he shivered violently.
“Fourth Master, doesn’t it feel cold?”
Though shuddering, Yue Wang shook his head. “Not cold.”
Mu Yunyao laughed. She and Yue Wang really were like fools, standing there over a field of ice lanterns, watching until every last candle burned out. Had she heard of someone else doing such a thing, she would surely have found it childish beyond measure. Yet now that she herself had done it, she found it thoroughly delightful.
Hearing Mu Yunyao laugh, Yue Wang could not help laughing as well.
“Fourth Master, what are you laughing at?”
“I don’t know. I just feel happy.”
Mu Yunyao withdrew her hands, took Yue Wang’s hand in hers, and gave it a gentle squeeze. “It is not yet midnight. I will go make Fourth Master a bowl of longevity noodles.”
“I’ll go with you.” Yue Wang was unwilling to let her leave.
“I’ll be very quick. I certainly won’t let the birthday star go hungry.”
“But I want to stay with you.”
Mu Yunyao gave a helpless sigh. “There is truly nothing I can do with you. Very well, then. We’ll go together.”
Jin Lan and Jin Qiao brought over their cloaks and other things, then quietly withdrew to one side.
Watching the two of them head toward the kitchen hand in hand, Jin Qiao could not help blinking. “Sister Jin Lan really did think ahead, having the kitchen keep someone behind with hot water and firewood ready. Otherwise, by the time Miss got there and finished preparing everything, midnight would probably have passed.”
A faint trace of envy appeared in Jin Lan’s eyes. “His Highness and Miss are deeply attached to one another. And today is His Highness’s birthday. I thought they would surely find a way to meet, so I had someone remain in the kitchen just in case. I did not expect it would truly come in handy.”
“Sister Jin Lan, do people always become like this after meeting someone they truly like? Mm... how should I put it...” Jin Qiao thought for a long while before finally finding what she felt was a fitting description. “Simple and carefree?”
Jin Lan could not help laughing. “If you want to say Miss and His Highness have become a little silly, then just say so. ‘Simple and carefree’ indeed...”
Jin Qiao looked slightly embarrassed. “But they are our masters. I cannot put it so bluntly. Sister Jin Lan, hurry and tell me—does everyone become like this?”
“When two people truly love one another, even drinking plain cold water together tastes sweet. Once that happens, there is no telling what they may become.”
Jin Qiao nodded, half understanding and half not. “Mm, that makes sense.”
In the main hall, after Granny Qu had finished describing what had happened in the plum grove behind the hall, Grand Princess Yide smiled with deep affection in her eyes. “Those two children, truly... There is no need to mind them. Pass word to the maids attending Yunyao that they need not wake her in the morning. She will sleep late tonight, so let her rest well tomorrow. In just two more days, she is to be married. It truly makes one reluctant to part with her.”
Granny Qu helped Grand Princess Yide lie down. “Your Highness should rest well. The weather has been changing these past few days, and your chest has been feeling unwell again. It is most important to take care of your health. This servant will make sure someone goes to pass along instructions to Miss’s side.”
“Mm.”
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Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 642
Chapter 642: Do You Want Me to Become a Widow?
Liu Liang’s sudden identity reveal had a huge
impact on Mu Yunyao. She looked troubled on the way back to the palace.
Jin Lan was a bit concerned: “Miss, are you alright?”
“It’s nothing. I just feel a bit unprepared.” Mu Yunyao
thought back to the way Helian Liluo had left and couldn’t help but sigh. Liu
Liang’s identity would be made public sooner or later, and when it was, there
would definitely be another storm. After all, both she and Yue Wang had
sensitive positions, and with Liu Liang being from the fallen Beijiang royal
family, things were bound to get messy.
“Miss, if it really becomes too difficult, why don’t we let
Liu Liang leave for a while?” Jin Lan suggested.
“Although Liu Liang rarely appears in public, his existence
is not a secret. Many people know about him. If we let him leave now, people
will only think that there is something hidden between us, which could invite
unwanted gossip.”
Jin Lan nodded. “That’s true. But although Liu Liang is from
Beijiang, you didn’t know his true identity when you took him in. If we really
think about it, there’s no big problem.”
“That’s true, but I have a clear conscience. However, others
may think differently, especially given the attitude of the Beijiang Princess.
Even if nothing happens, this could still stir up trouble.” Beijiang’s
intentions this time were definitely not simple. Add to that the interference
from the Li family, and they wouldn’t let this rare opportunity slip by.
Jin Lan couldn’t help but feel upset. “I am too foolish to
come up with any good ideas to help you, Miss.”
“It’s alright. For now, we will face whatever comes. We’ll
take it one step at a time.”
“But, Miss, the wedding date with Yue Wang is getting
closer...” Jin Lan said. It had been so difficult for Miss and Yue Wang to
finally be together, and now, with the wedding day almost here, the thought of
others ruining their happiness made Jin Lan angry.
A cold gleam flickered in Mu Yunyao’s eyes. “Don’t worry. If
they dare to interfere… then I will use our wedding to teach them a lesson!”
She and Yue Wang had made a promise to each other, and
whether the wedding went smoothly or not didn’t matter to her. It would just be
a mess if others meddled, and as for those who wanted to harm them, let’s see if
their methods were enough.
For the next period, there was no further movement from
Beijiang, and Ling Wang, Jin Wang, and the Li family all fell mysteriously
silent. The entire capital maintained an eerie calm, but beneath it, hidden undercurrents waited for an opportunity to erupt.
Mu Yunyao instructed Caiyi and the others to keep an eye on
Niyun Workshop, then stopped leaving the palace and stayed there, awaiting her
wedding.
According to customs of the Da Li Dynasty, engaged men and women
were not allowed to meet for three months before the wedding. However, due to the
hasty wedding arrangements and a lack of supervision, she and Yue
Wang had both tacitly forgotten this rule.
But now, with the Lantern Festival just around the corner,
in three days they would be married. It was not suitable for them to meet at
this time.
The Lantern Festival also marked Yue Wang’s birthday. Though
they regretted not spending it together, they comforted themselves with the
thought that they would soon be married and would be together forever.
Mu Yunyao stood on the steps, looking up at the night sky,
her gaze as cold as the night air.
Jin Lan brought over a fox fur cloak and draped it over Mu
Yunyao’s shoulders, gently brushing the hair falling behind her back. She
softly said, “Miss, the weather is cold. It’s better to return to the hall.”
Mu Yunyao shook her head. “I just feel uneasy. You and Jin
Qiao should go back and rest first. I’ll stay here for a little longer.”
“...Yes.” Seeing Mu Yunyao’s determined attitude, Jin Lan
didn’t dare to persuade her any further. She went back into the hall, stoked
the charcoal fire, and instructed Jin Qiao to prepare ginger soup before
quietly waiting.
The night wind blew, and the coldness grew stronger. Mu
Yunyao raised her hand to her lips, exhaling gently. At this moment, she missed
Yue Wang greatly. His hands were broad and always dry and warm, capable of
warming hers instantly.
Lost in thought, she suddenly felt a chill on her forehead.
Looking up, she saw snowflakes softly falling from the sky.
Mu Yunyao was stunned for a moment, then she smiled faintly
and picked up the palace lantern Jin Lan had left for her. Stepping through the
falling snow, she walked out of the hall.
The Yuhua Palace was specifically designated by the emperor
for Grand Princess Yide to reside in. The palace was luxurious, and the
courtyard was vast, second only to the Taihe Hall in the entire palace. Even
the emperor’s residence in Yangxin Hall didn’t compare.
Behind the main hall, there was a plum orchard, planted with
cold-resistant and early-blooming plums. The gardeners had cared for them
meticulously, and just two days ago, buds had started to appear. They should be
blooming now.
Mu Yunyao carried the palace lantern and walked toward the
back of the hall, passing through the corridor, when she suddenly stopped.
In the plum orchard, a figure was busy setting up. Snow had
fallen lightly on his hair and shoulders, but he didn’t seem to care,
occasionally squatting down to carefully take out and place small ice lanterns
from a large box on the ground.
Mu Yunyao’s lashes trembled as snowflakes landed on them,
melting into tiny droplets that made her eyes sting. She suppressed the feeling
in her throat, trying to make her voice sound lighter. “Fourth Master, are you
busy scaring people at this hour?”
The figure in the plum orchard froze, quickly turning
around. Yue Wang’s handsome face looked like ice and snow, but there was a trace of
frustration and urgency in his eyes. “Yao’er, why are you suddenly here in the
plum orchard? I… I haven’t finished setting up.”
Mu Yunyao walked forward and took out a handkerchief to
brush the snowflakes from his hair and shoulders. “Fourth Master, the snow is
already heavy. Why are you still working so hard?”
The warm light of the palace lantern shone on Mu Yunyao’s
face, adding a hazy beauty to her. Yue Wang lowered his head and saw the deep
concern in her eyes. Unable to resist, he reached out and held her wrist. It
was only then that he realized his fingers, which had been handling the ice
lanterns, were cold. He quickly pulled his hand back into his sleeve. “I… I
heard from the emperor’s aunt that you couldn’t leave the palace to admire the
lanterns. I didn’t want you to feel regretful, so I set up this lantern sea in
the plum orchard for you.”
Mu Yunyao bit her lip, feeling a warmth spread through her
heart. “When did Yue Wang become so foolish? How long are you planning to be alone? Didn’t you see the snow? You didn’t even wear a cloak. If I hadn’t
come, you would have frozen yourself into an ice lantern by the time you were
done.”
Yue Wang couldn’t help but smile, then hugged Mu Yunyao
tightly. However, he felt that this alone didn’t fully express his joy, so he
rocked her gently in his arms as if she were the most precious treasure. “For
the sake of setting up ice lanterns for you, Yao’er, even if I freeze to death,
it will be worth it.”
Mu Yunyao pressed both hands on his chest. “If you freeze to
death, do you want me to become a widow?”
Yue Wang quickly shook his head. “Wearing the cloak is
inconvenient, and I might accidentally knock over the ice lanterns. But my
internal strength is deep, and I’m not afraid of the cold. You don’t need to
worry, Yao’er. I still need to accompany you for the rest of our lives. I can’t
leave you alone.”
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Monday, April 6, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 641
Chapter 641: Feelings Made Clear
After finishing her tea, Helian Liluo rose to her feet. “Sixth Brother, all the imperial brothers have been worried about you. You have been out roaming freely for quite some time now. It is time for you to return.”
Liu Liang stood beside Mu Yunyao, silent from beginning to end.
Mu Yunyao set down her teacup and took out a handkerchief, gently dabbing at the corners of her lips. “Princess, take care on your way back. If you wish to have garments made, Niyun Workshop would be pleased to welcome you. But if it is for anything else, I am afraid I cannot help.”
Helian Liluo curled her lips. “Princess, one should not be too greedy. Your lifelong marriage has already been decided, so why cling to other men as well?”
Jin Lan’s expression changed at once. “You—” This Princess of Beijiang had gone too far. Those words clearly implied that Miss was entangled with more than one man. Was she not deliberately ruining her reputation?
Mu Yunyao stopped Jin Lan with a glance, the faint smile on her face unchanged. “It seems the Princess has nothing further to say. Take care. I will not see you out.”
Helian Liluo turned to Liu Liang. “Sixth Brother, do not forget that you already have a marriage agreement with Nanling. She is still waiting for you in Beijiang. Do not let her sincere feelings go to waste.”
Liu Liang, who had remained silent and unresponsive the entire time, suddenly lifted his head to look at Mu Yunyao. His gaze wavered involuntarily. Seeing his reaction, Helian Liluo narrowed her eyes slightly, then turned and left with a faint curl of her lips.
Yet her heart was far from calm. Just what kind of charm did this Mu Yunyao possess? She had softened Yue Wang, a man once known for his coldness and ruthlessness. And now even her Sixth Brother, a blade that had known only killing, had developed feelings for her.
“Master, I do not have any marriage agreement. What Helian Liluo just said...” Liu Liang hurried to explain, but halfway through, he met Mu Yunyao’s clear eyes, and the rest of his words caught in his throat.
He should not harbor such improper feelings for the young woman before him. He was simply unworthy.
Mu Yunyao lowered her eyes, her feelings momentarily complicated. Liu Liang had made his feelings so plain that if she still failed to understand, she would truly be too dull.
“Liu Liang, what are your plans from now on?”
“This subordinate wishes to remain by Master’s side.”
“The Princess of Beijiang came straight here and found you with such precision. She must already have investigated your identity. And judging from what she said, it seems she intends to bring you back to Beijiang. I fear you can no longer remain by my side.”
“Master, this subordinate would rather die in the Da Li Dynasty than return alive to Beijiang.”
Beijiang was his nightmare and his shame. The very thought of standing once more upon that land made him feel suffocated. Only after following Mu Yunyao had he finally begun to feel alive.
Mu Yunyao’s heart trembled. After a long moment of silence, she said softly, “Liu Liang, you should understand that I am about to be married, and the only person I love is Ning Junyue.”
Since she had already seen through his feelings, it was better to speak plainly sooner rather than later, so that he could pull himself back before he sank too deeply. She already had Yue Wang, and she was about to marry him. She could not respond to Liu Liang’s feelings.
“Master, this subordinate would never dare indulge in such delusions. I ask only to remain by your side and serve you loyally.”
Liu Liang lowered his head. His posture was especially respectful, even humble.
“Why must you do this?” Mu Yunyao’s emotions were tangled. After being with Yue Wang, she had come to understand how precious true feelings were. Even if she could not accept them, she had no wish to wound him with harsh words.
Liu Liang raised his eyes. The emptiness within them gradually softened as her reflection settled there. “Master, the name ‘Liu Liang’ was bestowed upon me by you. From the moment I received that name, I was reborn because of it. If there is no longer any place by your side for the name Liu Liang, then the person reborn through that name has no reason to go on living.”
“You...” Mu Yunyao frowned. Seeing the stubborn resolve on his face, she could only sigh. “Very well, I understand. You... go to Yue Wang Manor first. I will have someone make arrangements. Since the Princess of Beijiang already knows your identity, she may very well come to Niyun Workshop again to make trouble. For now, stay at Yue Wang Manor. She will not dare disturb you there. As for the rest, we will think of a solution later.”
“Yes. Thank you, Master.”
Mu Yunyao instructed that the completed wedding dress be sent into the palace, then headed for the manor with Liu Liang.
Yue Wang had long known that Mu Yunyao would be coming today. After leaving court, he had been waiting for her at the manor. The moment he saw her step inside, he reached out and took her hand.
“Yao’er, why are you so late?”
“Eunuch Cheng, take Liu Liang away first and let him rest. I have something to discuss with Fourth Master alone.”
Eunuch Cheng quickly nodded, his face blooming with delighted smiles. “Yes, this old servant will see to it at once.”
Yue Wang led Mu Yunyao into the study. Seeing how distracted she looked, he felt alarm rise in his heart. “Yao’er, what is wrong?”
“Fourth Master, there is something I need to tell you... It concerns Liu Liang’s identity. He... he seems to be the son of the former Prince of Beijiang, a member of the Beijiang royal family.”
Yue Wang’s gaze flickered slightly, then he nodded. “I had already suspected as much. It is only that this matter is too important. Before it was confirmed, I did not dare draw conclusions lightly. Do the Beijiang envoys know his identity?”
He had once fought against the Beijiang royal clan, and Liu Liang’s features bore some resemblance to theirs. At first, it had only been a suspicion. Later, after discovering that Liu Liang had developed feelings for Mu Yunyao, he deliberately ordered an investigation. The results, however, had not yet been delivered.
“The Princess of Beijiang came today with two maids and hoped I would persuade Liu Liang to return to Beijiang, but he is unwilling to leave.”
Yue Wang frowned slightly, “Beijiang is in chaos at present. Ever since the new ruler ascended the throne, unrest has broken out in many places. Helian Ye places great importance on the customs and ceremonies of the Da Li Dynasty. He even admires the Imperial Father’s authority and has been imitating the Da Li Dynasty in one matter after another. His ambitions are by no means small. Unfortunately, he has forgotten that Beijiang and the Da Li Dynasty are fundamentally different. Forcing such rites and systems upon it will only produce a clumsy imitation and bring suffering to the people. Beijiang is now a muddled mess. It is only natural that he would not wish to return.”
Mu Yunyao did not mention the matter of Liu Liang’s birth mother. The dead deserved respect.
“Fourth Master, then how should Liu Liang be settled?”
“Setting his identity aside, he has protected you loyally for all this time, and he is highly capable. You have benefited greatly from having him by your side. Since he is unwilling to leave, then let him stay here for now in peace. Do not worry. I will deal with Beijiang.”
Yue Wang saw Liu Liang’s feelings for Mu Yunyao very clearly. Even so, Liu Liang knew his place and had never overstepped, so Yue Wang had tolerated him for the time being. But Liu Liang was, after all, still a rival in love, and sooner or later he would have to be dealt with properly. Naturally, he would not resort to underhanded methods. Keeping him close and suppressing him openly—that was the bearing a truly confident man ought to have.
Mu Yunyao bit her lip lightly. “Fourth Master, the nearer the wedding day draws, the more uneasy I become. I keep feeling that something is about to happen. Do you think everything will go smoothly?”
Yue Wang drew her into his arms. “Do not worry. Everything will go smoothly.”
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Sunday, April 5, 2026
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Sunday, March 15, 2026
Incurable Chapter 62 Part 2
Lu Feng did not look well either. Since Mu Wan still did not know what had happened, she only asked, “Where’s Lin Wei?”
“In the bedroom,” Lu Feng said. He knew how close Mu Wan and Lin Wei were. Seeing her, some of the tension left his eyes. He looked tired, with bloodshot eyes, but with Mu Wan there, Lin Wei would probably calm down soon.
If Lu Feng looked this bad, Lin Wei must be feeling even worse. Liu Qianxiu waited downstairs while Mu Wan hurried upstairs. Lin Wei’s door was closed tight. Mu Wan knocked softly.
“Lin Wei?”
Footsteps came from inside, and Lin Wei came to open the door.
Mu Wan relaxed a little when she saw Lin Wei. Lin Wei looked pale, but otherwise seemed okay. But just as Mu Wan thought that, Lin Wei suddenly ran to the bathroom. Soon, Mu Wan heard her dry-heaving inside.
Mu Wan’s heart lurched. She quickly followed her in. Lin Wei was sitting on the floor in front of the toilet, weakly saying, “I don’t want to have this baby anymore, and I don’t want to get married anymore.”
Lin Wei was dealing with severe morning sickness and couldn’t sleep. The constant nausea and lack of rest made her miserable, and the discomfort brought on serious pre-wedding anxiety.
This had been going on for three days. Lin Wei had been holding herself together, but as soon as she heard Mu Wan’s voice, she broke down.
Mu Wan didn’t know where she found the strength, but she bent down and helped Lin Wei up from the floor. With Lin Wei in that state, nothing else mattered. Mu Wan just focused on getting her settled in bed and comforting her.
Time passed slowly, and the sky outside grew completely dark.
Downstairs in the living room, the two men sat on opposite ends of the sofa, waiting. After Mu Wan arrived, Lu Feng relaxed greatly. But now, with no idea what exactly was going on upstairs, he kept glancing in that direction from time to time.
After Mu Wan went upstairs, Liu Qianxiu sat quietly with an interior design book. He turned a few pages, then checked the time.
It was already seven in the evening.
Liu Qianxiu closed his book, looked at Lu Feng, and asked calmly, “Can I use your kitchen?”
The living room had been quiet the whole time. When Liu Qianxiu spoke, Lu Feng froze for a moment, then turned and met his eyes, a little surprised.
Lin Wei had told him before that Mu Wan’s husband was special. Even without being told, anyone who looked at him could see he was different from most people.
“Huh?” Lu Feng answered hurriedly. “It’s not being used. Why do you ask?”
Liu Qianxiu practiced the Dao, and even in regular clothes, he seemed calmer than most people. With his refined features and quiet presence, he almost seemed untouched by the world, like someone out of reach.
After Lu Feng spoke, Liu Qianxiu put his book aside. His expression stayed calm as he stood up. He glanced toward the bedroom where Mu Wan had gone, then said quietly,
“My wife still hasn’t eaten dinner.”
“I want to make something for her.”
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Saturday, March 14, 2026
Incurable Chapter 62 Part 1
And yet, even without sunscreen, Liu Qianxiu sat out in the sun with her every day and still remained cool and pale-skinned, looking like an immortal from some celestial palace, as if sunlight never touched him.
They had such a good time abroad that even after coming home, they still felt restless. After landing, Liu Qianxiu took Mu Wan to Xu Xingkong’s place to pick up the cats. On the drive back, Mu Wan looked at the sparkling sea along the coast and said to Liu Qianxiu,
“Actually, living by the sea would be pretty nice too.”
When the car stopped at a red light, Liu Qianxiu rested one hand on the steering wheel and turned to glance at her. Her complexion was just a little darker than before they went to Australia, as a layer of caramel melted over white chocolate, making her look especially sweet and tempting.
Looking past her toward the sea, he asked, “Do you want to live here?”
The moment he asked that, Mu Wan’s eyes widened slightly. No matter if they were in Finland or Tasmania, the Liu family had branch companies there, and the places they stayed had all been Liu family properties.
“You have a house here, too?” Mu Wan asked.
“No,” Liu Qianxiu replied.
Mu Wan’s widened eyes narrowed a little.
The red light turned green. Liu Qianxiu started the car and added, “We have a house here.”
Since they were husband and wife, their property was naturally shared. If it was his house, then it was also her house.
Mu Wan: “...”
Seeing that she only smiled without answering, Liu Qianxiu asked again, “Do you want to live here?”
Leaning back in her seat, Mu Wan thought for a while before saying, “It’s too far from the hospital. One is in the south district, the other in the north. By the time you get off work and come home, you won’t even have time to cook dinner for me.”
“Then we can come here on weekends,” Liu Qianxiu said. The villa in the south district was always kept clean, so they could move in whenever they wanted. They would just need the staff to buy groceries a day ahead.
Mu Wan listened to him making arrangements, but did not answer right away. At the next red light, Liu Qianxiu stopped again and turned to glance at her. She was looking straight ahead, seeming to be thinking about something.
“Is that not okay?” Liu Qianxiu asked, lifting a hand to touch her cheek.
His palm settled against her face, and Mu Wan made a soft sound of acknowledgment, snapping back to herself. She turned to look at him, her eyes dark and beautiful, then shook her head and smiled. “I like it. Of course, I like it.”
Being able to live anywhere she wanted, without any worries, was really an easy, comfortable life.
“Then what were you thinking about?” Before pulling his hand away, Liu Qianxiu tucked her hair behind her ear and gently pinched her earlobe.
The spot behind Mu Wan’s ear was very sensitive. When he pinched it, she let out a soft cry and pulled her neck back, her cheeks turning red. Her face warmed, and she tilted her head, rubbing against his hand like a small puppy.
“I was just thinking that I used to have no ambition,” Mu Wan said.
Starting the car again, Liu Qianxiu curved his lips faintly. “How so?”
Thinking back over her past, Mu Wan laughed too. Leaning slightly toward him, she said, “Ever since I graduated from high school and entered film school, my life goal has been just to become a minor actress. Take home film pay that was a little more than an ordinary salary, buy a house that felt comfortable to live in, buy a car that felt comfortable to drive, and then live the rest of my life in comfort.”
When she reached this point, she paused. Liu Qianxiu pressed his lips together slightly, eyes forward, and asked in a light voice, “And now? Is it uncomfortable?”
“Of course it’s comfortable!” Mu Wan said with a sigh. “We have a private plane when we travel, so we can go anywhere. Even in Xia City, we have houses in every district—east, west, south, and north—and staff takes care of them all. We can live wherever we want.”
“It’s exactly because it’s too comfortable that I feel like I have no ambition,” she lamented. “Having money is really wonderful. No wonder everyone chases fame and profit.”
After saying that, she quickly corrected herself, as if reminding herself of her values. “But it’s still better to earn money on your own. Like me...”
Liu Qianxiu looked at her.
Mu Wan pointed at herself and smiled, her eyes crinkling. “I also used my own ability to find such a rich husband.”
She burst out laughing before she could finish. Liu Qianxiu just watched her with a faint smile and replied softly, “Mm.”
When they got back to Nanfeng Apartment, everything looked just as it had before—clean and tidy. It was already evening. Liu Qianxiu went to the kitchen to make dinner, while Mu Wan took the cat carrier to the cat room.
She first filled the cat bowls with fresh food and water, then let the three little ones and Zhou Yi out. Since she had been away for quite some time, the three little cats rushed into her arms the moment they were released, meowing as they threw themselves at her.
Mu Wan laughed as the cats’ fur tickled her, petting each one in turn. Zhou Yi stood off to the side, still a bit shy, but Mu Wan picked him up and gave him a big cuddle, too.
Just as she was happily petting them, a phone rang in the living room. Mu Wan got up from the cat room and went to get her phone. The screen flashed with the name Lin Wei.
After coming back, Mu Wan and Liu Qianxiu went straight to pick up the cats and hadn’t told Lin Wei yet. Her schedule for the next few months was light, and Liu Qianxiu could also take another two weeks off. They had actually come back early to make it in time for Lin Wei’s wedding.
Lin Wei’s wedding was set for early November—next Monday, in fact. That meant there were only four days left, and it should have been the busiest time.
Although Lin Wei was from Jing City, she had attended high school in Xia City and had been Mu Wan’s classmate there. While Mu Wan was still in Tasmania, Lin Wei had already messaged her about the invitation list for the high school classmates.
Lin Wei had always been popular and still kept in touch with many old classmates. She had even joked that the wedding could be a class reunion.
Thinking of that, Mu Wan smiled and answered the call. “Hello, Lin Wei.”
“Are you back in the country?” Lin Wei’s voice carried almost no rise or fall.
After so many years as friends, Mu Wan could tell right away that something was wrong. Her smile disappeared. She straightened up, frowned, and asked, “What happened to you?”
The moment the words left her mouth, Lin Wei burst into tears on the other end.
“I’m not doing very well, Wanwan. Come stay with me for a while.”
Lin Wei cried so hard that Mu Wan started to panic, too. She did her best to comfort her, and after a while, Lin Wei finally stopped sobbing. Still flustered, Mu Wan had just calmed her down and hung up when Liu Qianxiu came out of the kitchen and asked,
“What happened?”
“I need to go check on Lin Wei,” Mu Wan said, turning to him.
Worry filled her eyes. Liu Qianxiu didn’t ask any more questions. He just said, “I’ll drive you there.”
Friday, March 13, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 640
Ni Yun Fang had opened its doors early that morning. Even on New Year’s Day, customers kept coming without pause.
Mu Yunyao entered through the back door and headed straight upstairs, without drawing anyone’s attention.
Liu Liang had been waiting in the room since early morning. When he saw her arrive, he hurried forward and bowed. “This subordinate greets Master.”
“No need for ceremony. How are things with Qi Ming?” Though Wei Jiu had been relaying messages to her in the palace, hearing the news firsthand made her feel more at ease.
“Reporting to Master, Qi Ming is safe for the time being. He has also sent word that Jin Wang has already begun contacting the Beijiang people. The letter Master arranged has already had its effect.”
When Liu Liang first read the letter, he felt uneasy. It seemed too careless and childish. Jin Wang was so cunning that surely he would not fall for it. Yet, to his surprise, Jin Wang slowly accepted it and even started secretly reaching out to Beijiang.
Mu Yunyao nodded. “Remind Qi Ming to be extremely cautious. If he notices anything even slightly amiss, he must withdraw from Jin Wang’s side immediately. Jin Wang is very calculating and always thinks things through. There’s no telling what he might do.”
She had spent years by that man’s side, studying his thoughts every day. Over time, she came to understand him. He trusted his own skills too much. If a plan seemed perfect, he would suspect a trap. So she did the opposite: the letter she sent was full of flaws. Because it looked suspicious, he became uncertain. Once doubt took hold, he would keep thinking about it until it slowly settled in his mind.
As she spoke, Mu Yunyao noticed that Liu Liang seemed distracted.
“Liu Liang, what’s wrong?”
Liu Liang clenched his fists and looked up at her. A trace of struggle flashed through his usually empty eyes. After a long moment, he suddenly dropped to his knees.
“Master…”
Before he could continue, a knock sounded at the door.
Mu Yunyao looked up. Jin Lan hurried in, clearly flustered.
“Miss, the Beijiang princess has arrived. She seems to know that you’re upstairs and asked this servant to come report. She says she wishes to ask you why you are detaining her royal brother.”
Mu Yunyao froze. “Her royal brother? Did you hear correctly?”
Jin Lan shook her head quickly. “This servant also found it unbelievable when I heard it and asked the Princess to confirm it again. She definitely said, “Royal brother.”
Liu Liang’s face turned pale, and his eyelashes trembled uncontrollably.
“Master… the royal brother Helian Luoli mentioned… is me.”
Mu Yunyao shot to her feet, astonishment filling her heart. “Liu Liang… you… You are of the Beijiang royal family?”
“Master may punish me.”
Jin Lan gasped in shock and hurried to Mu Yunyao’s side to steady her arm. “Miss…”
Mu Yunyao frowned deeply. Ever since she had discovered Liu Liang’s extraordinary abilities, she had secretly wondered about his background. Yet no matter how boldly she speculated, she had never imagined he might be a member of Beijiang’s royal family.
“If you are royalty, how did you end up a slave?”
“My birth mother was a woman of the Dali Dynasty captured by Beijiang raiders. Because of her beauty, she was presented to the king of Beijiang. Later, she became pregnant and gave birth to me, after which she was bestowed upon a meritorious Beijiang general as a reward. Unable to endure the humiliation, she died. I grew up in the Beijiang royal palace as a slave. Later, I attempted to assassinate the general who had dishonored my mother and was imprisoned in Tiger Prison. By chance, I escaped and eventually fled to the Dali Dynasty. I was badly wounded and sold to a slave broker. That was when I met Master.”
Liu Liang kept his head lowered, his face growing paler.
He knew well the common saying of the Dali Dynasty: Those not of our kind will never share our hearts. Moreover, his origins were a disgrace he rarely spoke of.
He had imagined countless times how his identity might be exposed. But he had never expected it to happen in such a sudden and humiliating way.
The room fell deathly silent.
Seeing Mu Yunyao’s serious expression, Jin Lan pressed her lips together and did not dare speak.
Suddenly, Liu Liang drew a dagger from his sleeve and pointed it at his chest.
“Master need not worry. I will never implicate you.”
Mu Yunyao’s brows drew together, and anger flashed across her face, something rarely seen.
“Liu Liang, do you still recognize me as your master?”
He shuddered. Meeting the fury in her eyes, he felt a chill spread through him, freezing his entire body.
“Master…”
Mu Yunyao took a deep breath, strode forward, and snatched the dagger from his hand. Only after restraining herself several times did she suppress the anger in her heart.
“Stand up. Go stand to the side and say nothing. Jin Lan, go tell the Beijiang princess that the noise downstairs is too loud and invite her upstairs to speak.”
“Yes, Miss.”
Soon, the Beijiang princess followed Jin Lan upstairs.
The moment she saw Liu Liang, a brilliant light flashed through her eyes.
“Sixth Brother. It has been a long time. Are you well?”
Liu Liang glanced coldly at Helian Luoli, his gaze utterly devoid of emotion.
This Princess had the face of spring blossoms but the heart of a venomous snake. Over the years, more than a few of her brothers and sisters had died at her hands.
Mu Yunyao turned to Jin Lan. “Jin Lan, our guest has arrived. Why aren’t you serving tea?”
“Yes, Miss.”
Helian Luoli turned her gaze toward Mu Yunyao, her eyes shimmering with intrigue.
“Greetings, Princess Wenxian. My Sixth Brother is quiet by nature and rarely speaks to anyone. For you to keep him by your side, PrPrincessust have put in considerable effort.”
More than two years ago, she had already begun searching for Liu Liang. She had combed through the entirety of Beijiang without success. Only later had she discovered a clue within a merchant caravan, eventually deducing that he had fled to the Dali Dynasty.
Mu Yunyao smiled faintly.
“For the Princess to find her way to me so quickly must have required considerable effort as well. Let us not waste time with polite evasions. If the Princess has something to say, speak plainly.”
Helian Luoli removed her veil, revealing a face of mesmerizing beauty.
“Princess speaks strangely. I merely came to express my gratitude for taking care of my Sixth Brother for so long. There is no other meaning. Princess is overthinking things.”
Mu Yunyao looked at her with a half-smile.
When Jin Lan brought the tea, Mu Yunyao lifted the cup and took a delicate sip.
“If the Princesses have nothing else to say, then please try some tea from the Dali Dynasty—Lu’an Guapian. It is excellent for calming the mind. Tell me whether the Princess enjoys it.”
“Thank you, Princess Wenxian. But as the saying goes, people cherish their homeland, and the moon shines brightest over home. No matter how fine the tea of the Dali Dynasty may be, it cannot compare with one’s homeland.”
“I personally prefer the phrase, when in a place, follow its customs. After all, people must always move forward.”
Jin Lan stood silently at the side, barely daring to breathe.
Though her mistress and the Beijiang princess had only exchanged a few sentences, the air in the room felt tense enough to cut with a blade.
Helian Luoli took a sip of tea. As her sleeve moved, it shimmered like flowing water. Her movements were elegant and fluid, revealing that she was extremely familiar with the etiquette and customs of the Dali Dynasty.
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Thursday, March 12, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 639
Yue Wang gently tucked the loose strands of hair behind Mu Yunyao’s ear. Seeing a faint smudge of dark makeup at the edge of her brow, the smile in his eyes deepened.
Mu Yunyao froze for a moment, then remembered their earlier playful moment. She quickly covered her face and rushed to the dressing table. Seeing her smudged eyebrow in the mirror, she groaned in embarrassment, forgetting all about the Beijiang issue.
“Fourth Master! My makeup is ruined—why didn’t you remind me?”
Yue Wang walked over and gently took her hands away from her face. “What does it matter? Yao’er is naturally beautiful without makeup, breathtaking with it, and even when it’s smudged, you’re still captivating.” Meeting such a wonderful girl was a blessing earned over several lifetimes.
Mu Yunyao quickly turned back to the mirror and wiped the smudge pigment from her brow. “Fourth Master, you only know how to say sweet things.”
“Even if they’re sweet words, they’re still the truth.”
The atmosphere between them was warm and gentle, while outside the palace, in Ling Wang’s residence, the study was in chaos.
Li Qingzhou frowned slightly. “Your Highness, please calm down. What’s done is done, and anger won’t help now.”
Ling Wang’s eyes were bloodshot. “Grandfather, look at Imperial Father. He’s lost all sense! He only favors Yu Wang. Does he even notice me, his eldest son?”
A shadow passed through Li Qingzhou’s eyes. “Your Highness, you shouldn’t say that. He is still the sovereign and your father.”
Ling Wang snorted coldly. “Sovereign and father? If the Emperor were impartial, I would naturally honor him as such. But if he insists on favoritism, then he cannot blame me for being ruthless. Grandfather, you should see clearly now—the Qi family is forcing the Li family to retreat step by step. If we do not resist, the fate of the Su family will become our own warning.”
“Your Highness… have you truly made up your mind?”
“The road to the throne has always been paved with blood.” Ling Wang’s gaze turned cruel. Noble Consort Qi’s recent incident had struck him too deeply. It made him fully realize the Emperor’s bias. He refused to be Yu Wang’s whetstone or the stepping stone for his rise.
“Your Highness, don’t rush. This matter must be carefully planned. The Emperor holds extremely tight control over the army. The Imperial Guard protects the capital, and the Forbidden Guard watches the palace. With a single command from the Emperor, not even a mosquito could fly into the imperial city. We must wait for the right moment—preferably find someone to act as the vanguard.”
“The vanguard?”
“Indeed. Jin Wang’s legs have already recovered. Do you think he can calmly watch Yu Wang grow stronger and stronger? The informant I placed at Jin Wang’s residence has reported that he has been secretly contacting Beijiang. It seems he harbors questionable intentions.”
Ling Wang’s eyes lit up. “Jin Wang and Beijiang? Could he actually dare to betray the country?”
“I doubt he would betray the country. He probably wants to use Beijiang as leverage in the power struggle. Lately, Beijiang has faced internal conflict and disease. The people are suffering and unhappy with their rulers. To calm things down and buy time, Beijiang sent envoys for peace, but the Emperor treated them coldly. Mu Yunyao’s map yesterday was also a clear warning. For their own stability, Beijiang might support one imperial prince’s ascension in exchange for greater benefits.”
Ling Wang’s eyes flickered as thoughts raced through his mind. “Grandfather, what if I married the Beijiang princess?”
“Your Highness, for a Beijiang princess to become your secondary consort would already be a great honor for her. But… the Princess Consort might not be pleased about it.”
Ling Wang snorted. “After all these years, she has yet to give me a legitimate son—does she still have the face to interfere with whether I take another consort? Grandfather, quickly sound out Beijiang’s intentions. If Jin Wang wishes to play the mantis catching the cicada, then I will be the oriole waiting behind! Let him borrow Beijiang if he wishes. Once he succeeds in forcing matters with the Imperial Father, I can gather troops under the banner of protecting the throne. When that time comes, Jin Wang will bear the infamy, and not a drop of dirty water will splash onto me.”
If he was going to make a move, he wanted both fame and gain.
Li Qingzhou bowed respectfully, admiration evident on his face. “Your Highness is wise indeed. I’ll gatherour people right away and uncover Beijiang’s intentions as quickly as possible.”
Meanwhile, at Jin Wang’s residence, a personal guard brought in several gifts.
“Your Highness, these are all the gifts sent from Beijiang.”
“Mm.” Jin Wang sat in his wheelchair. Though his legs had recovered enough for him to stand, each attempt brought pain like blades slicing through his bones. He could only minimize the time he spent standing.
He carefully opened and inspected each gift from Beijiang but found nothing unusual.
The letter Beijiang had previously sent weighed heavily on his mind, leaving him restless. Yet since that one message, no further word had arrived.
After helping him put the gifts away, the guard reported, “Your Highness, regarding the Li family—you asked us to watch them closely. Recently, we’ve received reports that Li Qingzhou has left his residence several times under the cover of night, apparently contacting Beijiang.”
Jin Wang’s eyes grew sharp. “The Li family and Beijiang… It looks like I need to make some decisions soon.”
He had seen the Emperor’s favoritism toward Yu Wang. Ling Wang’s many setbacks made him realize something important: ever since the Emperor found out that he and Ling Wang had jointly blown up the river dike, the throne had been forever out of their reach.
The only reason they were still allowed in court was to serve as whetstones for Yu Wang, helping to shape him into the next Emperor.
If he wanted to change his fate and find his own path, he needed another way. Right now, Beijiang was his best chance.
He knew Beijiang had its own ambitions, but he believed he could keep them in check.
“I’ll write a letter. Have someone secretly deliver it to the Beijiang princess.”
Helian Luoli was not just a princess, but also a possible heir among the Beijiang royals. She was far more perceptive and wise than most. She would surely understand his intentions.
But the letter had barely left Jin Wang’s residence before it was intercepted by the Shadow Guards and delivered straight to the palace.
Mu Yunyao glanced at the letter and gave a mocking smile. “Ling Wang and Jin Wang really do think alike. They both chose the same unusual path. Send this letter to the Beijiang princess and let’s see which side she picks.”
As the Shadow Guards left, Grand Princess Yide took a sip of tea, her eyes smiling. “Yao’er, you’re getting better at using the Shadow Guards. I’ve already talked with the Emperor. These guards won’t be given to Yu Wang anymore. From now on, you and Yue Wang must be careful. Don’t lose the calm heart you have now.”
“Grandmother,” Mu Yunyao said as she sat beside her, “there may not be many Shadow Guards, but they carry great significance. Is it truly appropriate?”
“If Junyue hadn’t already given up on the throne, the whole empire would be his. Compared to that, a small group of Shadow Guards is nothing. Accept them without worry.”
Mu Yunyao leaned softly against Grand Princess Yide. “Yes, I won’t let you down, Grandmother.”
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Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 638
After Yu Wangfei escorted Noble Consort Qi back to her palace, the two of them remained inside for a long time. No one knew what mother and son discussed, and no one dared mention Wen Lixiao’s name again.
When Mu Yunyao later went to offer New Year greetings to Noble Consort Qi, she noticed that aside from her slightly reddened eyes, the Consort’s expression appeared perfectly normal. The red envelope she handed out was especially generous.
On the way back, Jin Lan held her curiosity in for quite a while before finally giving in. “Miss, do you think Noble Consort Qi already knows about the death of that Qin musician?”
“The palace isn’t that large, and news travels quickly. It would be difficult for her not to know.”
“Then… then… isn’t she sad?”
Mu Yunyao looked up at the sky. It seemed like it might snow again soon, since the weather had been gloomy for days. “So many years have passed—everything has already changed beyond recognition. Even if she feels sorrow, what good would it do?”
Time was the cruelest thing in the world. No matter how deep love once was or what promises were made, in the end, it could only become a beautiful memory that would never come back.
Jin Lan sighed softly, feeling a vague melancholy. “It really makes one reflect…”
Mu Yunyao suddenly smiled. “I heard that not long ago, Yu Heng gave you an ice lantern?”
Jin Lan looked up, her expression turning strange as she shook her head. “Miss, that wasn’t an ice lantern—it was an ice lump! A round block of ice with a hollow carved out in the middle for a candle. If you dropped it, it could smash a pit in the ground!”
Mu Yunyao couldn’t help laughing. “That Yu Heng really doesn’t understand romance. The first gift he gives a young lady is a chunk of ice? One day, I’ll have Yue Wang punish him.”
Jin Lan’s cheeks reddened immediately. “Miss, it’s nothing serious. How could someone be punished over such a small matter?” Even though it was just a lump of ice, once the candle was lit inside, it sparkled quite beautifully.
“Who told him to be so unromantic—giving a block of ice and making our Jin Lan unhappy?”
“Miss!” Realizing Mu Yunyao was teasing her, Jin Lan blushed even deeper. “Please don’t make fun of me.”
“Jin Lan, you’ve been by my side for many years. Though we are mistress and servant, our affection is like that of sisters. Other people’s feelings always inspire reflection, but what love truly tastes like must be experienced personally. I spoke with Yue Wang about this earlier—we want to find good matches for you and Jin Qiao. Many of Yue Wang’s subordinates are decent men. If you feel there is fate, you can get to know one another.”
Jin Lan’s cheeks grew even redder. “Miss… this servant will follow whatever arrangements Miss makes.”
Hearing that, Mu Yunyao instantly understood her thoughts. “No hurry. I think Yu Heng is having quite a good time coaxing you. Let him struggle a little longer.”
After completing the rounds of New Year greetings on the first day of the year and returning to Yuhua Palace, Mu Yunyao felt as if her legs no longer belonged to her. She lazily leaned against the couch with her eyes closed to rest, and before long, sleepiness overtook her.
Jin Lan covered her with a blanket and quietly stepped back toward the door. Just as she reached it, Yue Wang stood straight outside and quickly curtsied.
Yue Wang gestured for silence and quietly stepped into the side hall.
The room was warmed by glowing charcoal braziers. The moment Yue Wang entered, he smelled the gentle sweetness of Suhe Zinuan incense (a refined lotus-blend fragrance), the same scent Mu Yunyao carried. It was intoxicating.
He crouched beside her and gazed at her soft, jade-like face, flushed faintly pink. His throat moved involuntarily.
Yue Wang reached out and put his hand beside the couch. Just then, Mu Yunyao stirred in her sleep and turned slightly, shifting to the side—pressing his hand underneath her.
Yue Wang held his breath right away. It felt like he was holding a piece of soft tofu. The warm, smooth feeling under his hand sent a tingling numbness up his arm.
Suddenly, Mu Yunyao opened her eyes, mischief dancing in her eyes. “If I hadn’t woken up, Fourth Master—were you planning to stay frozen like that forever?”
Seeing those lively eyes, Yue Wang couldn’t help but lower his head to kiss her forehead. “You naughty girl.”
A lock of Yue Wang’s hair fell forward onto Mu Yunyao’s chest. She reached up and caught it, winding it around her fingers playfully. Wrinkling her nose, she narrowed her eyes at him. “How am I naughty?”
Yue Wang couldn’t resist pressing her down lightly against the couch and leaning in to kiss her. This time, he did not deliberately avoid it—his lips landed directly on her soft pink ones.
Mu Yunyao’s eyes widened. Feeling the warmth on her lips, she unconsciously ran her tongue across them.
The small pink tip of her tongue brushed over his lips, soft as flower petals. Yue Wang stared, stunned, and had to try hard not to kiss her again. His ears turned red as he cleared his throat. “Were you deliberately teasing me today?”
Mu Yunyao blinked innocently. Seeing Yue Wang’s awkward expression only made her more mischievous. “What does Fourth Master mean? I don’t understand.”
“This morning when I came to pay New Year’s respects, you asked me for a red envelope.”
“Of course. Fourth Master is my uncle—shouldn’t you give me one?”
Yue Wang’s dissatisfaction deepened. “I am your husband!”
Mu Yunyao smiled and pressed her lips together. “Fine—my husband. Then it’s only natural for my husband to give me money so I can support the household.”
Yue Wang bent down and kissed her again. Her lips felt like the sweetest honey in the world, and just one taste was enough to haunt him forever. “Mm.”
It was natural for a husband to contribute to the household… but unfortunately, he seemed to have very little money. In fact, he even owed Yunyao quite a bit of silver. That was… somewhat awkward.
“Yao’er… I… I don’t seem to have much money…”
Mu Yunyao burst into laughter. She pulled Yue Wang’s hand to her waist and wrapped her arms around his neck, sliding off the couch and onto him.
Yue Wang had been crouching on the floor. With Mu Yunyao suddenly moving onto him, he lost his balance and fell backward. Fortunately, he held her tightly to protect her as they landed.
“Yao’er…”
Mu Yunyao lay on top of him, cupping his handsome face and planting a quick kiss on his lips with a cheerful pop.
“Don’t worry,” she said brightly. “Even if Fourth Master has no money to support the family, I won’t dislike you.”
Yue Wang’s ears turned bright red, though his gaze softened deeply. “As long as Yao’er doesn’t dislike me, I will stay by your side forever.”
“Then it’s settled. As long as I don’t let go, you’re not allowed to leave. Even if someone tries to pull you away, you must cling stubbornly to my side.”
Yue Wang laughed, starlight shining in his eyes. “Alright. Even if someone tries to pull me away, I won’t go.”
The two of them lingered like that for quite some time before finally getting up from the floor.
Mu Yunyao didn’t bother smoothing the wrinkled hem of her skirt. Instead, she took Yue Wang’s hand and pulled him to the table to sit.
“Didn’t you just finish the New Year visits? Why didn’t you leave the palace?”
“I didn’t feel like dealing with those people, so I stayed to keep you company.”
“Don’t the court officials all know your temperament? Would anyone still come bother you?” Mu Yunyao’s eyes flickered with sudden realization, recalling the scene from the previous night’s banquet. “Don’t tell me the Beijiang envoys went to your residence?”
Yue Wang nodded, a hint of irritation flashing in his eyes. “Yes. After hearing that I helped you draw the map at last night’s banquet, those envoys came to my residence during the New Year to pry for information.”
Mu Yunyao smiled faintly. “Their guess wasn’t wrong.”
The map really had been drawn with Yue Wang’s help. But trying to get information from him was completely pointless.
“Alright.”
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 637
The map Mu Yunyao had presented was like a massive stone pressing heavily upon the hearts of the Beijiang envoys. They secretly resolved to investigate whether the Dali Dynasty truly possessed a detailed map of Beijiang. Otherwise, once they returned home, they feared they would lose sleep for many nights.
Seeing the envoys’ uneasy expressions, the officials of the Dali Dynasty smiled faintly, their eyes full of pride. Their mutual dislike of Beijiang had lasted for years. Seeing the Beijiang envoys so unsettled made the officials feel they could enjoy an extra bowl of rice tonight.
The Emperor kept a pleased expression, and his smile only faded slowly after the banquet ended.
The officials departed one after another, and the Beijiang envoys were escorted out of the palace. Silence fell over the grand hall. Mu Yunyao glanced at Noble Consort Qi kneeling on the floor and quietly asked Grand Princess Yide, “Grandmother, should we withdraw first?”
“There’s no need. Stay and listen. Though these are old matters, much of the future will rest upon your shoulders. It is good to understand more.”
Noble Consort Qi knelt on the ground. The phoenix hairpin atop her head hung, its long tassels brushing the floor, their brilliance somewhat dimmed.
Yu Wang and Yu Wangfei knelt behind her with their heads down, not daring to speak.
The Emperor leaned against the dragon throne, his gaze unusually deep. “Wanyan, you’ve been in the palace for many years. I know you carry a knot in your heart, but I don’t think I’ve treated you badly.”
Hearing the Emperor call her by name, Noble Consort Qi’s shoulders trembled slightly. “Your Majesty has treated this consort very well.”
“Since you know this, then you should also understand the proper boundaries.” A trace of anger entered the Emperor’s tone.
Noble Consort Qi raised her head, tears streaming endlessly down her face. “Your Majesty, though Li Xiao and I once had a marriage agreement, we have never overstepped propriety. Your Majesty should know this better than anyone. If I had ever been disloyal to Your Majesty, my father would never have sent me into the palace.”
“The Duke of Wei’s loyalty is something I understand clearly. Naturally, I do not doubt him. As for you—if I did not trust you, would you still be kneeling here safely, shedding tears?”
Noble Consort Qi froze, her tears falling even more fiercely. “Your Majesty… this consort has failed you.”
She remembered the moment she had first entered the palace. The Emperor had been young then, his bearing spirited and noble beyond compare, yet his gaze was particularly calm and upright. He had told her, If you are unwilling, I will allow you to leave the palace after one year. Her heart had pounded wildly at those words. But later, he had been schemed against, and the two of them shared a night of intimacy. It was that single night that led to her conceiving Junyu—and so she remained in the palace for many years.
The Emperor let out a heavy sigh. “Wanyan, rise. You are now my Noble Consort and Junyu’s mother. You no longer have the freedom to act on impulse. I’ve had Wen Lixiao kept in the palace. You may see him one last time. After today, you must let go of the past. Don’t shed another tear for those old memories.”
He deeply loved the Empress and understood the pain of longing. It was because he measured others by his own heart that he had not been overly harsh.
Noble Consort Qi bowed deeply, kowtowing respectfully. “This Consort thanks Your Majesty for your kindness. However… it will not be necessary. Your Majesty has already said those matters belong to the past. Since they are past, there is no need to dwell upon them any longer. The glimpse earlier was already enough.”
In truth, she was a selfish woman. She could not cast everything aside for love alone. She had to consider the Qi family and plan for Junyu’s future. With so many matters weighing upon her mind, there was simply no room left to indulge in a love that was destined to bear no fruit.
Grand Princess Yide’s eyes shifted slightly, the tight line of her lips easing a little. Fortunately, Nobke Consort Qi had not allowed old emotions to cloud her judgment and do something that might harm Junyu. The Crown Prince of the Dali Dynasty was concerned about the empire’s fate. He must remain flawless. If the mother of a future Crown Prince failed to understand her place, the rear palace might once again accumulate another debt of blood.
Yu Wang and Yu Wangfei helped Consort Qi stand up.
The Emperor spoke again. “Yu Wangfei is with child—she should focus on proper rest. I will instruct the imperial physicians to care for you. Return first to Liyang Palace. Let Junyu escort Noble Consort Qi back.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
After bidding farewell to the Emperor and the Grand Princess, Yu Wang supported Consort Qi as they headed toward the inner palace.
Mu Yunyao slowed her steps slightly, walking beside Yue Wang. As they exited the hall, the candlelight revealed what appeared to be bloodstains on the ground. She called Eunuch Li over.
“Eunuch Li, this blood on the floor?”
Eunuch Li glanced down and quickly ordered the attendants to clean it up. “Thank you for the reminder, Princess. The blood was left by that Qin musician earlier.”
“The Emperor previously said he would keep that musician in the palace. Where is he now?”
“Replying to Princess—just after leaving the hall, that musician vomited a mouthful of blood. We did not have time to report it, so we first summoned the imperial physicians. After examining him, they said he had been poisoned. He has already passed away. Since it is the New Year and we did not wish to disturb His Majesty with such ill news, we have yet to report it. This servant has been quite troubled over it.”
“Poisoned?” Mu Yunyao frowned. Thinking of Ling Wang’s furious expression earlier, a chill rose from the depths of her heart.
“Yes. The physicians said he had taken duanchang grass—‘heartbreak herb,’ a deadly poison. When it takes effect, the pain is unbearable, but if the antidote is taken in time, it will not be fatal. Unfortunately, though the physicians brought the antidote, the musician refused to take it and endured the agony until he died.”
Mu Yunyao exchanged a glance with Yue Wang, worry flashing across her eyes. “I understand. Thank you, Eunuch Li.”
“Princess is too courteous. This servant will take his leave.”
Seeing that Mu Yunyao’s expression remained troubled, Yue Wang took her hand and led her forward. “Yao’er, do you want to go see that Wen Lixiao?”
Mu Yunyao was taken aback. Hearing Yue Wang’s question, she hesitated. “Does Fourth Master wish to involve himself in this matter? It concerns the previous generation, and judging by the Emperor’s mood earlier, it might not be appropriate for us to interfere.”
Yue Wang turned to look at her. “Your expression looked troubled. I thought you were upset.”
Mu Yunyao burst into laughter. “Fourth Master is overthinking it. Seeing what happened today did leave me with many thoughts, but not enough to make me meddle in someone else’s affairs.” She had never been a particularly warmhearted person.
Yue Wang tightened his grip on her hand. “As long as you’re happy, it doesn’t matter—even if it means meddling.”
Mu Yunyao’s smile grew sweeter. She lifted his hand and slowly interlaced their fingers. “There are countless matters in this world. How could anyone manage them all? Being able to know and stay with Fourth Master without regrets is already enough for me.”
Yue Wang lowered his gaze to look at her. In his deep eyes, it seemed as though countless tiny stars were shimmering.
Mu Yunyao found herself staring, momentarily entranced. Seeing no one around, she quickly reached out and gave his face a playful stroke, grinning like a cat that had just stolen a bite of cream. “Fourth Master is truly handsome.”
Yue Wang’s ears turned red. Watching Mu Yunyao tilt her head with her eyes narrowed in delight, he suddenly thought that if she had whiskers at the corners of her lips, she would look exactly like the mandarin cat he once raised.
“Then I will only let Yao’er see me,” he said softly. “And Yao’er is only allowed to look at me.”
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