Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 650

Chapter 650: Then Let Them First Bow and Apologize

After hearing Helian Liluo’s words, the chill in Yue Wang’s voice deepened further.

“So, according to you, your side spoke recklessly and insulted my Princess Consort. In that case, then let them first bow and apologize.”

Hearing Yue Wang reverse black and white in the blink of an eye, Yu Wang silently applauded in his heart.

The Beijiang envoys looked furious. “Your Highness Yue Wang, you are clearly shielding your own Princess Consort!”

Yue Wang narrowed his eyes slightly. “Your princess herself just admitted that, out of excessive worry for that Sixth Prince and because she found the sudden news hard to accept, she spoke without restraint. What is it? Are you saying your princess was speaking nonsense? Or are you saying that you came here deliberately to disrupt my wedding?”

The envoy choked. Was this what people meant when they said Yue Wang was taciturn and poor with words? If a man who could overturn right and wrong with nothing but his tongue counted as poor with words, then the rest of them could only be considered mute.

Helian Liluo blinked. A trace of sorrow flashed through her beautiful eyes, like a magnolia flower touched with morning dew. Her gaze seemed full of tears, while her expression held back what it wished to say.

“Your Highness Yue Wang, I was rash just now, and because of that, the envoys misunderstood matters. I ask Your Highness to forgive us.”

Yue Wang’s words had driven her into a corner from which there was no easy retreat. Whether she admitted it or not, Beijiang would lose face. So she could only avoid the weightier matter and take the blame upon herself. Compared with Beijiang’s honor, the honor and dignity of one woman meant nothing.

Seeing her in such a state, some among the guests suddenly thought they understood. So this Beijiang Princess had actually set her heart on Yue Wang. Alas, the goddess was willing, but the prince had no dream. That must be why she had spoken up earlier, hoping to throw the wedding into disorder. Yet Yue Wang was truly too unromantic—before such a delicate and moving beauty, he remained utterly unmoved.

The other officials merely smiled without speaking. As for how much they believed Helian Liluo’s words, only they themselves knew.

Yue Wang held Mu Yunyao’s hand, his expression cold and indifferent. “Princess Helian ought to apologize to my Princess Consort. It was she whom you slandered.”

Helian Liluo ground her teeth in secret. “Yes... I was rash. I ask Princess Consort to forgive me.”

The moment those words left her mouth, she knew she could no longer use Liu Liang to attack Mu Yunyao. Yue Wang was truly deep in calculation. He had clearly measured her purpose in coming to the Dali Dynasty, and that was exactly why he dared act so unrestrainedly, paying no heed to Beijiang at all.

The curve of Mu Yunyao’s lips was perfect. Her clear gaze rested on Helian Liluo, and her tone carried a hint of deeper meaning. “It is understandable. Princess Helian need not take it to heart. I will not hold it against you.”

Helian Liluo felt her chest tighten painfully, but in the present circumstances, she could only swallow shattered teeth together with blood. “Many thanks, Princess Consort. Then I shall take my leave first.”

To Mu Yunyao’s ears, the title Princess Consort sounded especially pleasing. “Those who come are guests. Princess Helian’s status is noble, so naturally she is an honored guest. Men, arrange seats for Princess Helian and the Beijiang envoys.”

“Yes.”

The atmosphere in the hall quickly became lively once more. Mu Yunyao was escorted to the rear-court bridal chamber to wait, while Yue Wang began offering wine to the guests.

Since her bridal veil had already been lifted in the main hall, Mu Yunyao simply instructed the full-blessing matrons to remove the heavy phoenix crown, pearl hairpins, and dangling ornaments from her head.

The matrons had all seen how deeply Yue Wang cherished his Princess Consort and did not dare disobey. After removing those heavy ornaments, they arranged her hair in a simple trailing-cloud coiffure and secured it with a phoenix-headed gold hairpin. Seeing that nothing looked improper, they withdrew as ordered.

Mu Yunyao sat upon the bridal bed, and when she thought of Ling Wang and Jin Wang, neither of whom had yet made a move, her brows stirred slightly.

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao came in smiling, carrying food, and even their form of address had changed. “Princess Consort, this is something Wang Ye especially ordered us to prepare for you. He said you had hardly eaten since morning and that you should quickly eat a little to steady your stomach, lest you go hungry.”

Mu Yunyao nodded. Once the excitement of finally marrying Yue Wang had settled somewhat, her mind became crowded with many thoughts. “Is everything all right on Liu Liang’s side?”

“Replying to Master, Liu Liang is fine. He has been staying quietly within Yue Wang’s residence.”

Mu Yunyao ate a little, then leaned half against the bridal bed and waited patiently for Yue Wang to return. Because her emotions had been running too high, she had not slept well the night before, and she had risen especially early this morning. Before long, leaning there against the bedhead, she drifted drowsily into sleep.

She did not know how long she had slept before a sudden unease in her heart jolted her awake.

“Jin Lan?”

Jin Lan came in quickly. “Princess Consort, this servant is here.”

“Has Wang Ye not yet returned?”

“Replying to Miss—” Jin Lan caught herself and hurriedly corrected, “Replying to Princess Consort, the round of toasts has not yet ended.”

“I see...” Thinking of the sudden palpitating unease she had just felt, Mu Yunyao rubbed her chest. What exactly was going on? Why had that sense of panic come over her so suddenly?

“Has Poison Lady still not returned?”

“Replying to Miss, no.”

Mu Yunyao felt a thread of worry rise in her. “Something must have happened to delay her. I only hope nothing has gone wrong. And what about Yu Wang’s Princess Consort and Su You? Were special dishes prepared for them according to my instructions? One is with child, and the other is frail; both must be treated with particular care.”

“Please forgive this servant, Princess Consort... I did not keep close watch over that. I will go to the front court at once and check.”

“Go.”

Before long, Jin Lan came hurrying back. “Miss—” Again, she corrected herself, “Princess Consort, the food was all specially prepared. However, Yu Wang’s Princess Consort was feeling somewhat unwell and left early to return to the palace. Miss Su is quite all right.”

“Yu Wang’s Princess Consort returned to the palace early—what of Yu Wang?”

“He is still in the front court helping Wang Ye fend off the wine.”

Mu Yunyao’s brow moved slightly. For some reason, hearing this only made the unease in her heart grow worse. “How long ago did Yu Wang’s Princess Consort leave?”

“At this point, no more than the time it takes to drink two cups of tea.”

“Have Liu Liang take men and go after her. Make sure Yu Wang’s Princess Consort returns safely to the imperial palace.”

After giving the order, Mu Yunyao still did not feel reassured. She summoned Wei Jiu. “Go help Liu Liang.”

Wei Jiu immediately answered, “Yes.”

Once she was alone in the room again, Mu Yunyao could not help knitting her brows. She had expected Ling Wang and Jin Wang to make their move during her wedding. She had even prepared herself for the possibility that the wedding might not be completed. Yet all that had happened was that the Beijiang Princess and envoys had come to make a disturbance—and even that had been easily dealt with.

The sky gradually darkened. Suddenly, a burst of noise rose outside the door and startled Mu Yunyao awake again.

A crowd of people had escorted Yue Wang to the entrance of the bridal chamber. Eunuch Cheng quickly stepped forward to block them.

“What are you all making a fuss for? Is Princess Consort someone you may disturb? Hurry and let Wang Ye go in alone. The rest of you, go back. Tonight is Wang Ye’s wedding night—if anyone dares interfere, I’ll have him serve under me from now on.”

Those men who had come to tease the bridal chamber were all Yue Wang’s close confidants. After finally finding such lively excitement, they had been unable to suppress their curiosity and had all come hoping for a glimpse of Princess Consort. But the moment they heard Eunuch Cheng’s words, they scattered in every direction. What a joke. They still wanted wives, children, and a warm bed at home. If they ended up serving under Eunuch Cheng for the rest of their lives, what pleasure would there be left in anything?

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 650

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 649

Chapter 649: Open and Naked Contempt

Beneath the bridal veil, Mu Yunyao’s eyes curved slightly. Hearing the firmness in Yue Wang’s voice, the anger in her heart gradually dissipated, replaced by a deep and spreading warmth.

“Very well. Let us first complete the wedding.”

A wedding happens only once in a lifetime. She did not want a single regret left behind. As for the matter of those Beijiang people slandering her, there would be time enough to settle that score afterward.

Princess Helian’s heart trembled. Beneath her sleeves, both hands clenched tightly into fists. Unbidden, her mind returned to the first time she had laid eyes on Yue Wang.

At that time, she had only just come of age. She had followed her royal brother to the border, where they directed the Beijiang cavalry in harassing the frontiers of the Dali Dynasty. Elsewhere, everything had gone smoothly, yet here in Yuexi, the Beijiang cavalry—whom she had always regarded as invincible—had not dared step forward at all.

She had been utterly puzzled and kept questioning her royal brother. Her brother, his expression grave, gazed toward Yuexi with deep-set eyes and said, “Because there is one man there.”

That answer only deepened her confusion.

“We of Beijiang have hundreds of thousands of cavalry, each one capable of fighting ten men. Are we truly to fear a single person?”

The moment the words left her mouth, she saw a black steed burst forth from the borderlands of Yuexi. It raced like lightning itself, carrying the force of thunder, and the figure seated upon it was even colder and sharper than the flash of light. Never in her life had she seen someone so awe-inspiring. Even the imperial brother she admired most could not compare.

From that day onward, she paid close attention to all news from Yuexi. She watched as immense changes unfolded there in a short span of time. She watched that man remain, from beginning to end, like a cold star in the heavens. She had thought him like the snow upon the high mountains of the frontier—unchanging through the passage of time, through the turn of seasons, forever cold and white.

Yet now, seeing him again, he was smiling at a single woman with a softness like spring wind.

Yue Wang and Mu Yunyao turned to face one another and completed the final step of the wedding.

The ceremonial officer glanced at the Beijiang delegation, whose faces had gone green with anger and who, from beginning to end, had not dared say another word. He let out a heavy inward sigh of relief.

“The rites are complete!”

Yue Wang curved his lips in a smile, raised a hand to lift Mu Yunyao’s bridal veil, and looked with open delight upon her incomparably beautiful face. Then, still holding her hand, he turned toward the Beijiang delegation.

“Now that Princess Wenxian and I are married, she is my Princess Consort. Whatever you wish to discuss, you may address it to me.”

The Beijiang officials looked at Yue Wang’s deep, icy eyes and ground their teeth in silent fury. Of all the princes of the Dali Dynasty, Yue Wang was the one they understood best. And the more they understood him, the more they feared him, because too many Beijiang cavalrymen had died by his hand. Every one of those deaths was a lesson written in blood.

Though Yuexi nominally belonged to the Dali Dynasty, it was a place of bitter cold, sparse people, and vast land. In former days, the people of Beijiang had ridden across it almost as though it were ownerless territory, and often passed through Yuexi to harass Yuxi City.

All that ended when Yue Wang was enfeoffed to Yuexi. During the first two years, while he was recovering from his health, his control over the region had been insufficient. But in the years that followed, no matter how many cavalry Beijiang sent, they never again managed to set foot upon Yuexi’s soil. Later, they were struck back in several campaigns and forced into retreat again and again, losing great numbers of cattle and sheep in the process.

Quite a few of the older envoys could not help shivering at the sight of him. In earlier years, they had assumed that this prince was still young and that conditions in Yuexi were so harsh that even the stationed troops could hardly fill their bellies. They had thought such men would collapse at the slightest fright.

Who could have guessed that Yue Wang would not only forge that army into order, but would turn what seemed a flock of sheep into a pack of wolves?

That battle had been a disastrous loss for Beijiang. Many of their soldiers had been captured, and this very Yue Wang had ordered their heads cut off and sent rolling down the hillside until they landed at the feet of the Beijiang cavalry below. After that battle, Beijiang no longer dared to invade Yuexi lightly.

One envoy, unable to contain himself, spoke up. “Yue Wang, we have already made ourselves perfectly clear. Princess Wenxian used deceit and manipulation to forcefully keep our Beijiang Sixth Prince within the Dali Dynasty. Such conduct shows utter contempt for Beijiang and openly challenges Beijiang’s dignity. If Princess Wenxian does not provide us with an explanation, then Beijiang will never let the matter rest.”

Yue Wang’s expression remained indifferent. At those words, he gave a mocking smile.

“You are only an envoy. Can you truly make decisions on behalf of Beijiang?”

The envoy’s face changed at once, and he cast a pleading glance toward Helian Liluo.

Helian Liluo gave a slight nod, though her voice sounded stiff. “What this envoy says is indeed Beijiang’s meaning.”

The mockery in Yue Wang’s expression deepened.

“Leaving aside the fact that my Princess Consort has no knowledge at all of who this so-called Sixth Prince of yours is—even if she did know, even if she deliberately made use of him, what exactly could you do about it?”

Helian Liluo’s face darkened with anger. “Your Highness Yue Wang, are you showing contempt for Beijiang?”

“You were the ones who just insisted again and again that my Princess Consort deceived and made use of your Sixth Prince. By that logic, she has already been showing contempt for Beijiang all this time. Since you have endured such contempt for so long, you ought to meet it calmly. Why is it that after hearing only a few words from me, your reaction is so extreme?”

Yue Wang paused, then continued in an even colder tone.

“I have heard that Beijiang is presently a complete tangle of disorder. The people no longer submit, plague is spreading in every direction, and the royal clan thinks only of fencing off land and claiming pasture, utterly indifferent to whether the common people live or die. The people’s resentment has grown unbearable, and the strength of the state has declined sharply. Having no other choice, you sent envoys here, hoping to exchange for a prescription to treat the plague and thereby steady the hearts of the people. Tell me, have I spoken wrongly?”

Beijiang was made up of many tribes, and its governance was loose. It was nothing like the Dali Dynasty, with its severe hierarchy and tight order. That looseness had given him ample room to operate. The merchant caravans he had sent into Beijiang were never merely there to make money. After so much time, he had long since come to understand Beijiang seven or eight parts out of ten.

The envoy who had spoken so boldly only moments before now looked deathly pale. He kept glancing toward Helian Liluo, not daring once to meet Yue Wang’s eyes.

The officials gathered to witness the ceremony wore thoughtful expressions. If matters truly were as Yue Wang described, then there might be much to see in the days ahead. With Beijiang in turmoil, perhaps this would become an opportunity to seize some of its land. For years, Beijiang had profited from the Dali Dynasty. It would only be fair to reclaim a portion of that.

Helian Liluo felt her heart quiver. Her face turned ashen, and a trace of fear flashed through her eyes.

“Your Highness Yue Wang, the words spoken by the Beijiang envoys just now were somewhat excessive. We have been searching for my sixth brother for so long that, upon suddenly hearing he had become a subordinate under Princess Wenxian, we found it difficult to accept. That is why we spoke rashly and too harshly.”

The situation in Beijiang truly was dire. She could only retreat and soften her stance for now. If she continued to press matters in open opposition to Yue Wang’s line of attack, the result might very well be armed conflict between the two states. The Dali Dynasty, though in a critical period of imperial succession, remained far stronger than Beijiang. If war came, the side to suffer would be theirs.

Around the hall, the officials of the Dali Dynasty smiled faintly, their eyes openly mocking the Beijiang envoys. Their skins truly were thick enough. To deny with their own mouths the very things they had just said—what difference was there between that and swallowing back down what one had spat out? How utterly shameless.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 649

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 648

 Chapter 648: Disrupting the Wedding

The people were still busy offering their blessings, and when that especially resounding cry of “May you soon be blessed with a child!” rang out, they could not help but laugh in good humor.

Beneath her bridal veil, Mu Yunyao’s face flushed red. Yet Yue Wang, riding at the very front, could not help turning his head and smiling as he gave a nod toward the direction from which the shout had come.

The people froze for a moment, and then their cheering only grew louder.

Though Mu Yunyao’s formal rank was that of a Princess, over these past years, she had worked with painstaking care, and her name was held in enormous esteem among the common people. Thanks to Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Lou, which had from time to time distributed porridge to the needy, the people always felt an unusual closeness when speaking of her. There was hardly any sense of distance at all.

And now, seeing Yue Wang smile because of a single shouted blessing from among them, they felt him draw closer to them as well.

Mu Yunyao could not help curving her lips. In her heart, there was a little helplessness and yet much sweetness as well.

Amid the cheers of the people, the wedding procession arrived before Yue Wang’s residence. Yue Wang dismounted, bent down, and at once lifted Mu Yunyao out of the sedan.

The full-blessing matrons hurried forward to stop him.

“Your Highness Yue Wang, now that the bride has arrived at her husband’s household, the new bride need only step down from the sedan and walk in on her own.”

Beneath the veil, Mu Yunyao’s smile deepened still further. Earlier, Yue Wang had repeatedly assured her, with utmost confidence, that he had already familiarized himself with the entire wedding ritual. He had told her many times that if she grew nervous and forgot the rules, she needed only to follow his lead and entrust everything to him without worry.

But seeing how nervous he was now, it seemed she truly could not leave everything in his hands after all.

By now, Yue Wang had already gathered Mu Yunyao into his arms. Thinking of his conduct ever since the wedding began, he simply ceased bothering over the rules and carried her straight into the residence.

All around them, the guests’ discussion swelled, yet Yue Wang paid it not the slightest mind. Holding Mu Yunyao firmly, he strode through the front hall and into the main ceremonial hall.

The full-blessing matrons hurried after them, and for a time, the whole residence was filled with noise and festivity.

Then the eunuch’s announcement rang out:

“His Majesty arrives! Grand Princess Yide arrives!”

The guests hastily rose to pay their respects. Once the formalities were complete, the auspicious hour had already come.

The Emperor looked at Ning Junyue and Mu Yunyao standing side by side in the great hall, and his eyes shone with delight.

“The auspicious hour has come. Perform the rites and be wed.”

The master of ceremonies called out the formal words of blessing in a clear voice. Standing at Yue Wang’s side, Mu Yunyao held the red silk that symbolized a marriage bond stretching for a thousand li. In her heart, there was only peace and quiet contentment.

“Bow to Heaven and Earth—”

Following the guiding pressure of the full-blessing matron’s hand, Mu Yunyao turned and bowed toward Heaven and Earth. The sweetness in her heart deepened. From this day onward, she and Yue Wang would share the rest of their lives together. Whether in hardship or joy, in glory or in decline, they would pass through it all hand in hand.

Yue Wang helped Mu Yunyao back up. Then, following the master of ceremonies’ voice, he turned toward the Emperor, Grand Princess Yide, and Lady Huiyi and bowed with deep sincerity. He had lost many things in this life. From the resentment and bitterness of the beginning to the peace and contentment of now, he felt only gratitude that Heaven had not treated him too poorly. Though it had taken his mother from him in childhood and burdened his early years with misfortune, it had also given him the best girl in all the world.

The ceremonial officer’s voice rose higher, full of festivity.

“Husband and wife shall bow to one another—”

Joy flashed thickly through Yue Wang’s eyes. Once this rite was complete, he and Yunyao would be husband and wife. From then on, he could openly and rightfully treasure her in his palms. Merely thinking that from now onward he would be able to call himself Yunyao’s husband made the corners of his lips lift. Wave after wave of joy rose within him, filling his heart until there was room for nothing else.

Yet just as the two were about to complete the rite, a commotion suddenly broke out outside.

Beneath her bridal veil, the smile on Mu Yunyao’s lips gradually vanished, and a chill entered her eyes.

The Emperor frowned.

“What is the meaning of this?”

Li De hurried inside.

“Reporting to Your Majesty: the Beijiang Princess and her envoys have arrived. They are demanding that Princess Wenxian return the Beijiang prince, Helian Yizhi.”

“The Beijiang prince, Helian Yizhi?”

Even as he spoke, the Beijiang Princess and her envoys had already forced their way inside.

“Helian Liluo greets Your Majesty. Today is the wedding day of Yue Wang and Princess Wenxian. By all reason, I ought not to have come to disturb it. But the matter concerns too much, and so I had no choice but to come.”

The Beijiang envoys immediately began speaking over one another.

“Our Beijiang prince, Helian Yizhi, has been imprisoned by Princess Wenxian! He remains trapped within the Dali dynasty. We ask that Your Majesty give us an explanation!”

“This time, Beijiang came in full sincerity and even sent a princess for a marriage alliance, yet Princess Wenxian has deceived and manipulated our royal blood in secret. This is contempt of the highest order toward Beijiang!”

On Helian Liluo’s face, there was open grief.

“Your Majesty, Helian Yizhi is my sixth brother. Ever since he was injured protecting my royal brother and then disappeared, all my elder brothers have labored to find him. Who would have thought that he had in fact been forced to remain at Princess Wenxian’s side? Princess, now that you already know my sixth brother’s identity, how can you still keep him held against his will?”

The smile disappeared from Yue Wang’s face. Watching the Beijiang Princess and her envoys twist the relationship between Mu Yunyao and Liu Liang with such brazen force, anger slowly rose in his heart.

Mu Yunyao lifted a hand to raise her veil, smiling faintly, though her gaze was exceedingly cold. Just as she was about to speak, Yue Wang caught her fingers.

“Yunyao, a bride must not casually lift her veil. That is something this husband of yours ought to do.”

As he spoke, he lowered the veil back into place.

Then he turned to look at the Beijiang party. The force of his presence was overwhelming.

“Princess Helian, honored envoys of Beijiang—by coming to disrupt my wedding, do you mean to declare war on me on behalf of Beijiang?”

That he had no wish to contend for imperial power did not mean he feared trouble. He had spent so long making his arrangements. If Beijiang wished to serve as a whetstone, then he did not mind taking the measure of their cavalry.

Helian Liluo’s pupils contracted sharply.

“I only came to find my sixth brother...”

A trace of a cold smile touched Yue Wang’s lips.

“You may look for him whenever you like. But Yunyao and I will have this wedding only once. Whoever dares disrupt it—I shall make sure that person never knows peace again. What does Princess Helian think of that?”

Helian Liluo knitted her brows. She had intended to follow the plan and ruin this wedding. But when her gaze met Yue Wang’s, the ice-cold force within them struck her like a blow. She felt waves of chill pour through her heart, almost freezing the blood in her veins. Her beautiful face paled, and though her lips moved, no sound came out.

Yue Wang withdrew his gaze and pressed down the ice raging within himself. Then he turned to the stunned ceremonial officer.

“What rite comes next?”

One of the Beijiang envoys was unwilling to let matters rest.

“Yue Wang, our Beijiang Sixth Prince—”

Yue Wang merely lifted a hand.

At once, Yu Heng and Yu Yi strode forward, kicked the speaking envoy clear off his feet, knocked him unconscious, and had him thrown straight out of the hall.

Helian Liluo abruptly stopped breathing.

“Your Highness Yue Wang—what is the meaning of this?”

Yue Wang’s voice turned colder still.

“Princess Helian ought to feel grateful that today is my wedding day, when bloodshed is inauspicious. Otherwise, that man would not merely have been knocked unconscious—he would have been cut down where he stood.”

Once he had spoken, Yue Wang looked again at the still-frozen ceremonial officer. His brows drew together sharply.

The man shuddered violently and at last came back to himself.

“Husband and wife bow to one another!”

Yue Wang took hold of the red silk, and in the blink of an eye, his tone turned gentle again.

“Yunyao, let us first complete the wedding.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 648

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 647

 Chapter 647: May You Soon Be Blessed with a Child!

Mu Yunyao wore a faint smile as she stepped forward and leaned into Su Qing’s embrace.

“Mother, Yao’er will come to see you again in three days. When I do, I want to eat the eight-treasure rice you make with your own hands.”

At those words, Su Qing could not help but pause in surprise, and then she smiled.

“Very well. When the time comes, Mother will cook plenty—enough to leave you too full to move.”

Though Yao’er was getting married, she would still remain right under Su Qing’s very eyes. And Yue Wang, that child, was someone whose character she knew well enough. He would certainly never let her daughter suffer any grievance.

“Anything Mother makes, no matter how much, I could never have enough of.”

Seeing that Su Qing had grown a little less sorrowful, Mu Yunyao stepped back and knelt to Grand Princess Yide in formal thanks.

“Grandmother, Yao’er is being married today.”

Grand Princess Yide slipped a pair of blood-jade bangles, inlaid with coiling dragons and phoenixes, from her own wrist.

“These are the bangles I wore when I was married. Today, I place them in your hands. I bless you and Yue Wang with a lifetime of devotion and a marriage that lasts to old age.”

Mu Yunyao removed the green jade bangles she had been wearing and replaced them with the blood-jade pair Grand Princess Yide had given her. Her eyes shone bright and steady.

“Many thanks, Grandmother.”

A burst of commotion rose outside.

“His Highness Yue Wang has arrived!”

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao stepped forward to help Mu Yunyao rise, then withdrew to one side with smiling faces.

At the same moment, the eight doors of the main hall were opened together. When Mu Yunyao turned her head, she saw Yue Wang standing beyond them.

He wore solemn wedding robes, and the rich crimson only served to make the sharp clarity of his features all the more striking. He stood upright and still, his dark hair falling loose behind him, the red-gold crown upon his head blazing with light. In ordinary times, he was always cold and keen, like a blade honed to cut through darkness and filth alike. But now, his eyes were filled only with gentleness, like a red flame quietly burning in the night—without earth-shaking force, yet hot enough to sear the heart.

Yue Wang was looking at Mu Yunyao in just the same way.

He had seen the wedding gown long ago and knew how breathtaking it was. But only now, seeing her actually wearing it, did he understand that there existed a kind of beauty so stunning that language itself could no longer describe it.

Her hair was styled in a canluan chignon, which made the graceful line of her neck appear all the more slender. A sunrise-five-phoenix hairpin with hanging pearls held her dark hair firmly in place, revealing a face of incomparable loveliness. Her eyes held the softness of autumn waters, her glances endlessly expressive; her brows curved like a new moon, tender and full of feeling. Now, as she smiled at him, her dimples bloomed like flowers, radiant and enchantingly lovely, and from that moment on, no other beauty existed in his eyes.

Yue Wang’s back drew taut. In his vision, there remained only the beautiful figure of Mu Yunyao in her wedding robes. For a moment, his throat felt unbearably dry, and his whole body seemed strangely weightless, as though he were standing in the clouds. His joy was so great that the scene before him almost felt unreal.

Was he truly about to marry Yao’er?

“Fourth Master...”

A soft voice reached his ears.

Yue Wang felt as though something crashed through his mind with a roar. In an instant, he was grounded again. The sounds around him rushed back into his hearing, but he had no attention to spare for any of them. He strode into the main hall in great steps and seized Mu Yunyao’s hand at once.

Mu Yunyao froze, then, seeing Yue Wang’s tightly pressed lips and stubborn expression, could not help laughing aloud.

“Fourth Master, the master of ceremonies was just asking you to bow. Why have you run straight into the hall instead?”

At the side, Yu Wang pinched his own arm to stop himself from bursting into laughter. He had thought he himself had been nervous enough on his own wedding day, but his fourth brother was even worse. On the road over, Yue Wang’s expression had been as cool as ever, no different from usual, and Yu Wang had thought him perfectly composed. Who could have known that the moment he reached the front of Yuhua Palace’s main hall, he would look as if he no longer knew where to put his hands or feet? Just now, the palace attendants had reminded him to bow, yet even after being prompted twice, he had failed to react. And once he finally did react, instead of bowing, he charged straight into the hall and grabbed hold of the bride! That single moment alone would be enough for Yu Wang to laugh over for three years.

Yue Wang came back to himself and nearly wished he could bury his head in a crack in the ground. In his nervousness, he had failed to hear a single word of the attendants’ reminders. But now that he had already come into the hall, retreating only to go back out again would be the true peak of humiliation. So instead, he simply lifted his robe and knelt down beside Mu Yunyao.

“Jun Yue pays his respects to Grandmother and to honored Mother-in-law.”

Mu Yunyao’s cheeks flushed bright red at once.

This man... this man actually addressed them like that...

Though she and Yue Wang were not related by blood, their respective generations were what they were, and after marriage, the forms of address had always been awkward. She had originally thought that each could simply continue calling the elders in their own accustomed way. She had never expected that Yue Wang would change his mode of address outright.

Grand Princess Yide could not help laughing aloud.

“Enough, enough. Don’t just kneel there foolishly. Since Yunyao has no elder brother to carry her out, you may simply take her yourself.”

This foolish boy, she thought, had probably fixed his entire heart on marrying his bride and thrown every other thought right out of his head.

Yue Wang nodded at once. He stepped forward and directly lifted Mu Yunyao into his arms. Unable to contain his delight, he even gave her a small upward bounce, setting the dangling ornaments in her hair trembling wildly so that flashes of dazzling light scattered from them.

“Yao’er, let us go get married.”

Mu Yunyao lifted her arms to circle Yue Wang’s neck, the smile on her face brighter than the wedding sedan itself.

“Fourth Master, carrying me like this must be tiring. It would be enough just to carry me on your back.”

Yue Wang immediately shook his head. “You are my treasure. It is only right to hold you like this.”

And without caring in the least for her attempts to stop him, he strode straight out.

One of the full-blessing matrons hurried after them.

“Your Highness Yue Wang—the bridal veil, the bridal veil has not been put on yet!”

Yu Wang finally gave up resisting and wheezed out laughing.

Eunuch Cheng secretly rolled his eyes at him. Yu Wang was meant to become Crown Prince, and yet he could be so lacking in dignity—hmph. And then, when Eunuch Cheng turned and looked again at his own master striding away with the Princess Consort in his arms, he immediately broke into a grin so wide his eyes nearly disappeared. Married! His own Wang Ye was finally getting married! From this day onward, he must live with all his might and struggle to stay alive long enough to see the little prince’s wedding day as well!

The red carpet wound all the way out of the palace. Yue Wang carried Mu Yunyao like that the entire way to the palace gates, only stopping once they had arrived there to set her carefully into the wedding sedan.

Beneath the red bridal veil on her head, with the tassels hanging down, Mu Yunyao could see only Yue Wang’s robes.

Once she had settled into her seat, Yue Wang bent to arrange her skirt for her. From the full-blessing matron who had hurried up behind them, he took the ruyi scepter and the apple, then carefully placed them in Mu Yunyao’s hands.

“Yao’er, wait patiently a little while. Very soon, we shall be going home.”

Mu Yunyao could not help curving her lips.

“All right.”

Yue Wang broke into a broad grin, the expression carrying a trace of unmistakable foolishness.

Yu Heng felt he could hardly bear to look. In order to keep his master from becoming the laughingstock of the capital, he hurried forward to remind him,

“Wang Ye, please lower the sedan curtain. The auspicious hour is nearly upon us.”

At last, the bride procession began to move.

Seated within the wedding sedan, Mu Yunyao remembered what she had heard earlier—that the people had tied silk flowers to the trees lining both sides of the road. Unable to resist, she lifted her veil and, through the little side window of the sedan, looked out toward the roadside.

In winter, the scenery should have been bleak and bare. Yet now the trees were all in bloom, each branch crowded with silk flowers of every color. From afar, they resembled drifting clouds of rosy light gathered upon the boughs.

As the wedding procession passed, the people could not help calling out their blessings at the tops of their voices:

“Ten thousand years to the Princess!”

“May Wang Ye and the Princess grow old together!”

“May you enjoy a hundred years of harmony and enduring love!”

“May you soon be blessed with a child!”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 647

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 646

 Chapter 646: You Didn’t Go Weak at the Knees?

At the far end of the road, guards had already appeared carrying wedding chests engraved with the motif of dragons and phoenixes bringing auspicious harmony. At once, the common people began whispering among themselves.

“Have you heard? They say Princess Wenxian’s dowry chests were specially commissioned by Grand Princess Yide.”

“I know about that. I heard the original dowry chests were too small.”

“I wonder how many dowry trays Princess Wenxian has altogether?”

“Well, isn’t this the perfect chance? Count them yourself.”

Quite a few people watched with great care, their eyes full of excitement. Princess Wenxian’s wedding had already become the grand spectacle of the capital. To have a chance to witness it up close was something one could boast about for years, so everyone naturally paid close attention.

Tray after tray of dowry was borne swiftly toward Yue Wang’s residence. The onlookers noticed that the guards were moving at an unusual speed, and many could not help but wonder about it. A dowry display was meant, after all, to be displayed. So why did these men seem as if they were racing the hour? But then, seeing the line of dowry-bearers stretch on and on without end, realization dawned in many hearts: this must be for fear that displaying the dowry too long would delay the auspicious hour.

Many young ladies and young masters from the great families had also come out to watch Princess Wenxian’s wedding. Seeing tray after tray piled high with goods, more than a few young ladies’ eyes reddened with envy. For a woman to establish herself securely in her husband’s household, what mattered above all was family standing and support—and dowry accounted for a great part of that. The richer the dowry, the straighter a woman could stand in her marital home. Judging by the scale of Princess Wenxian’s dowry, perhaps not even the Empress could match it.

At first, the common people counted with enthusiasm. Later, however, they could only feel dazzled. There had already passed twenty or thirty trays of jewelry, hair ornaments, fine silks, and brocades alone. The larger furnishings, it was said, had already been delivered ahead of time to Yue Wang’s residence. At the end came roof tiles symbolizing houses and landholdings, and even these filled several great chests.

Some who were better informed began speaking up.

“Have you heard? An imperial estate west of the city outskirts has been assigned under Princess Wenxian’s name.”

“The imperial estate west of the outskirts? That’s at least a thousand qing of good farmland, isn’t it? His Majesty truly dotes on Princess Wenxian.”

“But do you know why His Majesty assigned that estate to the Princess?”

“Why?”

“I knew you wouldn’t guess. That estate was given as Princess Wenxian’s rouge-and-powder land.”

“Rouge-and-powder land?”

As the name suggested, it meant the harvest from the land was to be turned into silver for rouge, powder, and adornment.

The crowd could not help exclaiming in amazement.

“With over a thousand qing of fertile land, that’s enough to bury a person in rouge and powder, isn’t it?”

Inside Yue Wang’s residence, Eunuch Cheng was facing matters as if confronting a great enemy. On ordinary days, he found the residence so vast that every place felt empty. But now, he felt there was not even room to set down a foot.

Yu Heng directed the guards as they carried the dowry in and stored it away. When it became clear that even two storerooms could not contain it all, he first had them place the remaining items in other rooms that had been hastily emptied. But in the end, even those temporary rooms were filled to bursting, and he had no choice but to go find Eunuch Cheng.

“Eunuch Cheng, there’s no more room in the storerooms. What should we do about this...?”

“How many trays of dowry still haven’t been brought in?”

“Another forty or fifty trays.”

“Put them in the training ground for now. Then call all the guards here to keep watch. These are all Her Highness the Princess Consort’s dowry. Not a single thread can be allowed to go wrong. Tell them all to sharpen their eyes. If even one copper coin goes missing, I’ll settle accounts with them properly.”

“Yes.”

Mu Yunyao and Yue Wang were deeply devoted to one another, and the two of them had busied themselves with the wedding preparations, leaving only the matter of the dowry overlooked. It was not until yesterday, when the dowry list was delivered to Yue Wang’s residence, that they finally realized something was wrong.

How was it that the dowry list was so astonishingly long?

Mu Yunyao herself had been stunned when she saw it. Only after asking did she learn that Grand Princess Yide had specially prepared it for her, nearly emptying out her own storerooms in the process.

And that was not all. His Majesty and Noble Consort Qi had taken the lead, and the other imperial consorts had each expressed their goodwill as well. Add to that Grand Princess Yide’s exalted status, which meant no one else could send light gifts. Then the congratulatory presents gathered from the various Ni Yun Fangs and Bu Xian Lou establishments across different regions—when all of it was added together, it was almost enough to drown Yue Wang’s residence whole.

Eunuch Cheng had only just finished arranging the dowry when someone at the side came hurrying over to urge him on.

“Eunuch Cheng , some of the congratulatory gifts sent from Jingling City are meant to be brought into the residence. Please make space for them quickly.”

Before the items had even been fully sorted out, someone else was already rushing over to say the auspicious hour was nearly upon them and that it was time to hurry to the palace to receive the bride. In his haste, Eunuch Cheng grabbed Yu Yi by the arm.

“Keep an eye on this and get everything arranged. I’m going with Wang Ye to fetch the bride.”

Yu Yi was adjusting the new clothes he had changed into. “Eunuch Cheng, let me go instead. I’ve already changed clothes. They were only just finished after so many days—I’d be sorry not to wear them out at least once.”

“I had the clothes for this day’s bride procession made eight years ago. If I don’t wear them out for a turn today, wouldn’t that be an even greater pity?”

Yu Yi nearly choked. “How old was Wang Ye eight years ago?”

Just how many years had Eunuch Cheng been waiting for a Princess Consort?

“Wang Ye is twenty-three now. You tell me how old he was eight years ago.”

Eunuch Cheng looked at Yu Yi with utter disdain.

“With a brain like yours, I can’t let you go fetch the bride. Wouldn’t that disgrace Wang Ye?”

As Eunuch Cheng looked at the mountain-like pile of dowry, the Princess Consort’s status rose higher and higher in his heart. They said money could make ghosts turn millstones. Just looking at the dowry of his own Princess Consort, and then thinking of all the silver Wang Ye owed her, it felt as if his master could toil like an ox or horse for lifetimes and still never finish repaying it. Ah, it truly was enough to worry a man to death.

Guests had already gathered in the front courtyard. Yue Wang, dressed in his wedding robes, felt the beating in his chest quicken again and again. Though he had checked himself countless times already, he still worried that something about his appearance might be amiss.

Yu Wang had arrived at Yue Wang’s residence early. Seeing Yue Wang in such a state, he burst out laughing.

“Fourth Brother, don’t be nervous. It’s only a wedding—just a ceremony.”

Yue Wang smoothed down his robes, which were already without a single crease, then turned to look at Yu Wang, whose face was full of teasing.

“Second Brother, when you married, I seem to recall you even put your shoes on the wrong feet.”

“Who said that? It was the shoes that didn’t fit properly. I was careless for a moment...”

“When you were waiting outside the Min family residence, your legs were shaking.”

“That was because I was cold—you didn’t know—”

“You were married in the seventh month. It was probably the hottest time of the year.”

“The wedding robes were heavy! They made my legs unable to bear it...”

“Second Brother, are you in weak health?”

“You’re the weak one. Your second brother here is vigorous as a dragon and fierce as a tiger. You—” He coughed twice. “Fourth Brother, the auspicious hour has arrived. You should go fetch the bride.”

At once, Yue Wang no longer cared to keep exposing Yu Wang’s weaknesses. He straightened his robes one last time, then left the residence, mounted his horse, and, under the escort of the assembled crowd, rode toward the imperial palace.

The full-blessing matrons helped Mu Yunyao settle her wedding robes properly, then carefully adjusted the pendants weighing down the hem of her skirt before retreating respectfully to one side and bowing.

“Your Highness is the most beautiful bride this servant has ever seen.”

Xu Yanhan stepped forward and symbolically adjusted Mu Yunyao’s headdress.

“Yao’er, the auspicious hour is almost here. After you are married, you must respect your husband and honor your elders...”

She had spoken only two sentences before her throat tightened and her voice began to catch.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 646

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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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 645

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.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 644

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 643

Chapter 643: Love Makes Fools of Us All

Mu Yunyao looked at Yue Wang and felt that he looked absolutely foolish at this moment. “The snow is falling harder and harder. Fourth Master, come with me to the side hall and have a bowl of ginger soup. Today is your birthday. I thought I would not be able to make you a bowl of longevity noodles with my own hands, but it seems there is still a chance.”

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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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 643

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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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 642