PPRW Chapter 627

~ Shadow Fights Turn into Open War ~ 

On the twenty-third day of the first lunar month, Little New Year arrived. The Beijiang envoys entered the palace to meet His Majesty and, in their words, hinted at a desire for a marriage alliance.

His Majesty did not respond directly. He only said the matter could be discussed later.

With outsiders present at the banquet, the princes behaved themselves for once. No one openly fought, no one blatantly tore at another’s throat. But the Beijiang envoys were clearly displeased with His Royal Highness Yu Wang. They provoked him more than once, only to be brushed aside with calm, unhurried retorts that stung without drawing blood.

After the banquet, His Majesty was preparing to rest when Imperial Consort Qi brought two boxes of account books to the imperial study. She reported that the Imperial Household Department’s ledgers were wrong and that someone had been secretly embezzling silver. Over the past seven or eight years, the amount had already reached several hundred thousand taels.

His Majesty flew into a rage. He summoned the Chief Steward of the Imperial Household Department on the spot and ordered the ledgers verified.

The chief steward refused to confess to the end, then smashed his head against a pillar and died. Three stewards under him also “committed suicide” out of fear of punishment. Once the accounts were checked, Imperial Consort Qi’s reported figure was accurate. His Majesty ordered the silver trail investigated, and in the end, it led straight to Imperial Consort Li.

Ling Wang and Li Qingzhou had not even returned to their residences when His Majesty summoned them back into the palace. The moment they stepped into the hall, they saw Imperial Consort Li kneeling on the ground, trembling from head to toe. Their hearts sank.

His Majesty threw the account books at Li Qingzhou and furiously rebuked Imperial Consort Li for mismanaging palace affairs. He ordered the whereabouts of the silver to be thoroughly investigated. Other officials and stewards within the Imperial Household Department were beaten and interrogated. Someone finally broke under the punishment and confessed that everything had been done under Imperial Consort Li’s orders, stating that the silver had all been siphoned off by people she arranged.

Imperial Consort Li refused to admit it. With the chief steward and the key stewards dead, there was no living testimony, and His Majesty could not convict her on that point alone.

Right then, Imperial Consort Li arrived to report. Her people had caught a palace maid who was thieving. During interrogation, the maid became entangled in an old case. She confessed that Imperial Consort Li had drugged Noble Lady Zhou, then ordered a guard to violate her, causing Noble Lady Zhou to become pregnant. Further questioning dragged up more old cases, one after another. Imperial Consort Li stood there frozen, as if struck dumb.

Ling Wang knelt and begged, pounding his forehead until it bruised purple. His Majesty did not soften even a fraction. He directly issued an order to demote Imperial Consort Li to Consort status and imprison her temporarily in Liuli Palace.

Imperial Consort Li fainted from crying. When she woke, she had already been thrown back into her palace. Before, she had merely been confined, with maids still attending her. Now, the vast palace held only her alone. And she was no longer the lofty Imperial Consort, but a demoted Consort. If His Majesty still held even a trace of old affection, and if not for Eldest Imperial Brother’s sake, she likely would not have even kept a Consort rank.

His Majesty ordered the Imperial Household Department reorganized. With Eldest Princess Yide’s quiet assistance, Imperial Consort Qi used the opportunity to purge most of the Li family’s planted people. The few remaining were no longer capable of influencing anything.

Taking advantage of the reorganization, Imperial Consort Qi also obtained His Majesty’s approval to release a large batch of palace “old servants,” paying special attention to clearing out the Li family’s eyes and ears. As a result, Ling Wang and the Li family lost the majority of their surveillance network.

The Li family wanted to strike back, but before they could move, they discovered that their industries were under attack from multiple fronts. When they traced it downward, it led them to Yi Bao Xuan.

Ling Wang was furious. He assumed Qi Ming had completely defected to Jin Wang and was about to vent his anger on Yi Bao Xuan when he received word from Qi Ming instead.

Jin Wang’s legs had already recovered by more than half. He was now practicing walking.

Ling Wang’s mind went into chaos. One Yu Wang had already stretched him thin. Add Jin Wang on top of that, and he would be fighting with his sleeves tied behind his back.

In his rage, he did not even consult Li Qingzhou. He secretly instructed the nail he had planted at Jin Wang’s side to poison Jin Wang again.

This time, the nail was caught before he could act. Under interrogation, he confessed everything from start to finish. Jin Wang immediately brought his men into the palace and placed the poison before His Majesty.

His Majesty was furious, but what rose even stronger was disappointment.

He had not expected Ling Wang to be this far gone, to poison his own blood brother without hesitation. He did not explode publicly. But in the shadows, he began supporting Yu Wang and Jin Wang as they suppressed Ling Wang, gradually stripping away the power in his hands.

The court became a daily battlefield. Today, you gained ground. Tomorrow, I will outplay you. Thankfully, His Majesty maintained a balance, and only then did the Da Li Dynasty avoid falling into complete chaos.

Mu Yunyao and His Royal Highness Yue Wang had already reached Yancheng.

Yancheng was not far from the capital, yet it carried none of the capital’s floating splendor. With the year-end approaching, the city was steeped in festive cheer, lively everywhere you looked.

After disembarking, they found an inn to rest briefly. Then they switched to a carriage and slowly headed toward Xia Yan Village.

They arrived early enough that they could see cooking smoke rising in thin curls from the village.

Mu Yunyao thought of Auntie Yang, who had once taken especially good care of her and Su Qing. She followed her memory and quickened her steps.

Most of the village looked unchanged, but Auntie Yang’s home had been rebuilt. The courtyard was brighter and more spacious than before.

The carriage stopped, drawing children out to stare from a distance. Some pointed excitedly at the tall horses, chattering as if they had discovered something rare.

Auntie Yang heard the dogs barking and came out. The moment she opened the gate and saw the guards around the carriage, her heart clenched in panic. She nearly turned to call for her husband when she saw a man step down first.

He carried an overwhelming presence. A dark purple brocade robe patterned with cloud motifs, a jade belt at his waist, a red-gold crown on his head. His face was strikingly handsome, his aura cold and sharp. He looked even more impressive than the “heavenly gods” in storybooks. Auntie Yang’s legs went soft, and she could barely think of how to greet him.

Before she could react, the man turned back and reached into the carriage, helping a young woman down.

No, not a woman.

A girl.

Slender and tall, she wore a silver-threaded cloak of plain brocade trimmed with snow-white fur, warm and soft, framing a sweet, delicate face that seemed even more lively and exquisite beneath it. As she stepped down, the cloak swayed, revealing a beautifully embroidered scattered-flower yanluo skirt.

Auntie Yang stared at her. The more she looked, the more familiar she felt, until she blurted out in shock.

“Yao… Yao’er? Are you Yunyao?”

Mu Yunyao looked over. Auntie Yang seemed far healthier than before, her clothes neat and proper. Her face was full of disbelief, yet her excitement was impossible to hide. Mu Yunyao’s lips curved gently.

“Auntie Yang, it’s been a long time. Have you been well?”

Auntie Yang’s eyes reddened instantly. She forgot her fear of Yue Wang and rushed forward to grip Mu Yunyao’s hands.

“Yunyao, it really is you? Thank heavens, thank heavens. I’ve been worrying about you and Su Qing all this time. Where have you been? Why didn’t you send a single word back?”

Mu Yunyao let her hold on, her emotions tangled and heavy. She spoke softly.

“Thank you for thinking of us, Auntie. Mother and I are both well.”

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Continue reading PPRW Chapter 627

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 626

~ A Blunt Knife Can Still Kill ~

The two of them boarded the boat and drifted downriver. It would not take long to reach Yan City. If they kept to the schedule, there was plenty of time for a round trip, so neither of them felt rushed.

Mu Yunyao handed a teacup to Yue Wang, then lowered her gaze to the brazier’s glowing coals. Her expression turned strangely unreadable.

“Fourth Master, what do you think the situation in the capital looks like right now?”

She chose this time to return to Xiayan Village to pay her respects to her father. It had been planned, yes, but it also carried the intention of avoiding the turmoil in the capital. Since she and Yue Wang had already decided not to get involved, they might as well avoid it completely so that no one could twist their absence into something else.

Yue Wang’s lips held a faint smile. “Don’t worry. Second Imperial Brother can handle it. Besides, there’s Imperial Father and Imperial Aunt. The capital won’t truly fall into chaos.”

Mu Yunyao nodded softly. “Mm.”

Yet within the capital, undercurrents were surging.

Yue Wang had never held much sway in court, so his absence drew little attention. But Jin Wang was different.

Before, when Jin Wang fought Ling Wang, they could be evenly matched, and at times Jin Wang even held the upper hand. Everyone had thought that with his body crippled and the Emperor placing him under confinement, he would never rise again.

Who would have expected that in such a short time, he would not only have his confinement lifted and his title restored, but that news would spread that plum blossoms had bloomed early in Jin Wang Residence and lotus flowers had risen in the dead of winter?

The rumors flew like wildfire. Commoners praised the Third Prince as a heavenly dragon’s son descended to the mortal realm. They said his suffering had moved Heaven to pity, and so Heaven had sent an omen to awaken the world.

The moment Ling Wang heard this, he had people spread the rumor immediately. If they could push the idea of “dragon’s son” into “true dragon,” then the Emperor would surely be displeased. After all, only the Emperor dared call himself the true dragon son of Heaven. If a prince claimed he was the true dragon reborn, was that not blatant disloyal ambition?

But Ling Wang had only just finished setting things in motion when Jin Wang had people carry him into the palace to beg forgiveness, claiming the outside world had exaggerated the matter beyond reason and asking Imperial Father to discern the truth.

The Emperor had already heard about it, and he did not take it too seriously. Instead, he was quite satisfied with Jin Wang’s cautious conduct. He comforted him, even kept him for a meal, then had him escorted out of the palace.

When Ling Wang heard this, he immediately sensed trouble and hurriedly withdrew the people he had sent to spread the rumors.

He thought that would end it.

Instead, once his people were pulled back, the rumors somehow grew even louder.

Soon, the entire capital was buzzing that Jin Wang was the true dragon son of Heaven. Worse still, some went as far as saying the Emperor should abdicate and yield the throne to the Third Prince.

Commoners treated it as gossip for idle mouths. Whoever sat on the throne would never be decided by them. As long as they had food, they did not care.

But the court exploded.

The Emperor’s fury was thunderous. He immediately ordered a strict investigation, and in the end, it traced back to Ling Wang.

Ling Wang entered the palace to confess. He pushed forward several stewards and personal attendants to take the blame, insisting it was all their private doing and he knew nothing of it.

The Emperor executed the stewards and attendants, then docked Ling Wang three months of stipend and ordered him to return and discipline his household servants properly.

That incident tore open the curtain. From then on, the three princes’ struggle shifted from shadowed scheming into open contention.

Ling Wang had the Li family behind him and acted without restraint. He had the most supporters in court.

Yu Wang had the Duke of Wei as his backing and held great prestige in the military. Many upright ministers with real authority stood behind him as well.

Jin Wang was the weakest in power, but his reputation was the best. The Emperor, to maintain imperial dignity, did not expose the true story behind the dyke collapse case, so Jin Wang’s name did not suffer much. Instead, because of his blindness and recovery, the common people paid even more attention to him.

Inside Yuhua Palace, Xu Yanhan accompanied Eldest Princess Yide. Recently, she had been practicing her chess, and her progress was obvious.

“Mother, will Yunyao and Junyue make it back in time for the New Year?”

“Yunyao said she would. She always keeps her word. Don’t worry.” Eldest Princess Yide sipped the tea Mu Yunyao had pan-fired specifically for her and let out a soft sigh. “She’s only been gone a little while, and I’m already missing her.”

Xu Yanhan nodded in full agreement. “Yes. When she was here, it didn’t feel like anything. Now that she’s suddenly away, the days feel unbearably long, as if time itself has slowed down.”

Mama Qu brought over tea and snacks and set them aside. “Eldest Princess, Madam, you both feel like you can’t stand it now. What will you do once Miss gets married?”

Eldest Princess Yide frowned. “If Mama Qu didn’t say anything, I would have been fine. The moment she speaks, my chest feels blocked.” She pressed a hand over her heart, then spoke decisively. “Just thinking of Yunyao marrying out feels like someone carving a piece of flesh from me. I’ll find time to speak to the Emperor and have him bestow Qin Fang Garden on Yunyao as her residence. After she marries Junyue, they can live there. Qin Fang Garden is only a few steps from the Eldest Princess Residence. Yue Wang Residence is far too far.”

Xu Yanhan thought about the distance from Qin Fang Garden to Yue Wang Residence and nodded. “Yes. Even by carriage, it takes nearly two quarters of an hour. It really is far.”

“Then I’ll go speak to the Emperor later and have Qin Fang Garden set aside for Yunyao alone.”

Mama Qu chuckled. “All these years, Eldest Princess has never done anything against the rules. Who would’ve thought the first exception would be for Miss.”

Eldest Princess Yide’s gaze sharpened slightly. “Court is arguing like a rabble, and those people kneel and bow to me on the surface while plotting to drag me into the political struggle behind my back. I’ll break the rule once, as a warning. Let them know that right now, I only want to plan steadily for my child. I want nothing to do with anything else.”

Xu Yanhan fell silent for a moment, then lifted her head. “Mother, Yunyao said before that she wanted to suppress Imperial Consort Li completely. Do you think it’s still necessary now?”

“What do you think?” Eldest Princess Yide asked, smiling as she looked back.

Xu Yanhan pressed her lips together. “I don’t know if I’m judging correctly, but when you strike a snake, hitting its vital point is the most lethal. Yet if the snake is too large and you can’t seize its vital point in one grasp, then striking other places can still wear it down. A blunt knife cutting meat is slower, but it still kills.”

“That’s well said, and the metaphor fits.” Eldest Princess Yide nodded. “Yanhan, have you thought through how to do it?”

“Mother, I don’t know any profound schemes. I only know that karma turns, and retribution never misses.” Xu Yanhan’s eyes cooled. “Back then, it was Imperial Consort Li who framed Noble Lady Zhou for secretly meeting a guard. In the palace, many concubines have also miscarried for no reason at all. It’s time to settle old sins. What do you think?”

Eldest Princess Yide nodded slowly, then spoke with calm clarity. “Your thinking is not wrong, but you’ve overlooked the outer court. The things Imperial Consort Li has done, the Emperor may not be unaware. Even if you expose them, as long as the Li family doesn’t fall, as long as Eldest Imperial Brother remains strong, Imperial Consort Li will at most suffer some punishment. If she endures it, it becomes nothing.”

“And once she regains power, she will retaliate against you. The aftermath would be endless.”

Xu Yanhan nodded, deeply instructed. “But Mother, if we can’t uproot the Li family completely right now, what should we do?”

“The ones who want to move against the Li family aren’t only us.” Eldest Princess Yide’s smile was faint. “Join hands properly. Inside and outside working together, only then can you win with an unexpected strike.”

Xu Yanhan’s eyes brightened. “Then tomorrow, I’ll pay a visit to Imperial Consort Qi. Her birthday is approaching. I’ll bring a gift and show my sincerity.”

“Good,” Eldest Princess Yide said. “Do it.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 626

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 625

~ Thick Skin, Black Heart ~

The carriage rolled steadily out of the capital. Poisonous Lady finished fussing with the brazier, replaced the charcoal in Mu Yunyao’s hand warmer, then finally sat down and let out a long breath.

“Yunyao, why did you suddenly decide to go back to Xiayan Village?”

Mu Yunyao shifted the warmer in her hands and shook her head slightly. “It wasn’t sudden. When we left, my father had only just passed. The year after that, we were far away in Jingling City, and nothing had settled yet. I didn’t feel safe going back. The second year, we returned to the capital, but the Su family persecuted Mother and me again and again. I couldn’t leave her behind and go alone, so it was delayed. This year, Mother and I are back by Grandmother’s side, and Father’s cause of death has been investigated clearly. Everything has finally come to rest. Also, I’m about to leave my mourning period, so I should properly pay my respects.”

She had lived through too much. Her father already felt very distant in her memories, yet every time she thought of him, the care and indulgence from her childhood still lingered in her heart. Each time, she could not help smiling softly.

Seeing the faint sadness in Mu Yunyao’s expression, Poisonous Lady leaned against the carriage wall and sighed. “Let me tell you, fathers only want their daughters to be happy. Back then, I was so childish that I made the old man stomp in rage, but when Medicine Immortal Valley fell, he still left me enough to live on. All these years, I thought I survived in the jianghu by my own medical skill and poison craft. Only after I went back did I learn he had quietly arranged so many things for me behind the scenes.”

Warmth rose in Mu Yunyao’s eyes. “Yes. I was the only child in the family. Grandmother Li never liked my mother, and because of that, she thought I, her daughter, was nothing but a money-losing burden. But Father treated me like a treasure. When I was little, my body was weak. I envied the other children running wild all over the village, so Father would take me everywhere to play. Climbing trees, wading into the river, catching birds, fishing… thinking back now, more than half my childhood was spent being carried and pampered by him like that. It’s just… before I could be filial to him, he was already gone…”

Poisonous Lady opened the hidden drawer in the carriage, took out a small white rabbit-shaped soft cake, and shoved it straight into Mu Yunyao’s mouth.

“Thinking about the past and missing him is fine, but you absolutely cannot cry. I hate it when people shed tears, especially when we’ve just set out. Crying is bad luck. If you dare cry, I’ll dust you with itching powder. I guarantee you’ll laugh until your stomach hurts.”

Mu Yunyao had been feeling a little heavy-hearted, but hearing that, she did not know whether to laugh or cry. She pulled out some snacks from the hidden compartment and ate with Poisonous Lady, the two of them chatting back and forth in high spirits.

Outside the carriage, His Royal Highness Yue Wang rode alongside them with an expression colder than winter frost.

Yu Heng cautiously slowed his horse, keeping a bit more distance from his lord. Only then did he feel the air around him warm slightly.

After Mu Yunyao finished her cake, she grew worried about Yue Wang riding out in the cold. She quickly lifted the curtain and looked over.

“Fourth Master, do you want to come in and drink some hot tea?”

Yue Wang met her gaze and could not help smiling. “It’s fine. I’m not cold.”

The moment he said it, he gave a very convincing shiver.

Mu Yunyao’s worry deepened. She held her hand warmer out to him. “Fourth Master, keep this inside your clothes.”

Yue Wang took it at once. “Yao’er, close the curtain quickly. It’s too cold outside. Don’t let yourself get chilled. It’s inconvenient inside the carriage, so I won’t go in.”

Mu Yunyao nodded. She had only stretched her hand out for a moment, and her fingertips were already icy, let alone Yue Wang, who had been riding the whole time. Just thinking of it made her heart ache.

“Fourth Master, it won’t be long before we can take the boat. You…”

“I’m fine. Yao’er, don’t worry.” Yue Wang’s voice was gentle, his smile warm, and that only made Mu Yunyao feel even more tender toward him.

From the narrow gap in the curtain, Poisonous Lady squinted at Yue Wang. So this was the cold, taciturn man people talked about? Nonsense. He was a big-tailed wolf with a fox’s heart, finding every way to needle her. Hmph. She had been planning to leave as soon as they were out of the capital, but now she had changed her mind. She would stick around until they got on the boat.

When the curtain fell again, Yue Wang tucked the warm hand warmer against his chest and sighed in contentment.

Yu Heng quietly withdrew his gaze and recorded the lesson in his heart.

If you want to coax the one you love, remember this: your skin must be thick, and your heart must be black like his lord. With internal energy, His Royal Highness did not fear the cold at all. In a place like Yuexi, he could ride through wind and frost in thin clothing without blinking. Yet in front of Miss Mu, he insisted on acting as if he were shivering from the chill. Also, when you lie, you cannot blush. You have to hold steady. Your expression must look natural, more natural, and even more natural.

Yes. This move was very useful. I could try it in other situations, too.

The carriage traveled all the way to the river pier. Guards halted it, and Mu Yunyao, Yue Wang, and the others boarded a boat.

Poisonous Lady hauled out her luggage, then waved at Mu Yunyao with breezy confidence. “I’ve got something to handle, I’m going back to Medicine Immortal Valley for a bit. You and His Royal Highness Yue Wang, be careful on the road. If you meet bad people, throw a handful of poison powder first and drop them where they stand.”

Mu Yunyao stared. “So that’s why you packed so fast when leaving the palace. You were already planning to slip away.”

As she spoke, she suddenly noticed someone on the opposite bank, waving excitedly.

Poisonous Lady’s face changed. She instantly pulled up her veil to cover her face. “I’m going. Be careful on the road. I’ll definitely return to the capital before your wedding.”

With that, she turned and hurried off.

The person across the river panicked and leapt straight over the water, skimming across the surface and landing on the bank in a flash.

Only when he drew close did Mu Yunyao see him clearly. He looked just over twenty, tall and straight, yet he had a baby face that made him seem younger. His eyes were especially clear and bright.

Seeing Mu Yunyao and Yue Wang standing by the river, he stopped, straightened his clothes, and bowed properly.

“Thank you, County Princess, for taking care of my Senior Sister.”

A thought flashed through Mu Yunyao’s mind, and she remembered the pouch she had once seen on Poisonous Lady. A smile tugged at her lips. “No need to thank me.”

The young man bowed again, then turned and chased after Poisonous Lady. “Senior Sister, Senior Sister, wait for me…”

Poisonous Lady walked even faster, as if she could not flee quickly enough.

A moment ago, the young man had crossed the river with superb lightness and skill. Now, he did not use any martial arts. He ran after her on foot. When he caught up, he did not dare get too close, only trailing behind while calling again and again.

“Senior Sister, Little Senior Sister, wait for me. We haven’t seen each other in so long, I have so much I want to tell you properly. Little Senior Sister, Medicine Immortal Valley only has the two of us left now. We should care for each other. Senior Sister, you’re walking so fast, aren’t you tired…”

When their figures finally disappeared from view, Mu Yunyao looked away.

“Fourth Master, what do you think of those two?”

“They’re very good,” Yue Wang said calmly.

Very good, as long as they kept entangling each other like this and did not come back to interrupt him and Yunyao.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 625

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 624

~ His Royal Highness Yue Wang Was Unhappy ~

“Jin Wang Residence?” Poisonous Lady clicked her tongue in admiration. “Looks like Jin Wang’s scheme worked. I’ve got to hand it to him. His eyes have been healed for ages, yet he still keeps acting as if nothing had changed. And those legs, too. He might not be able to walk, but he hasn’t completely lost feeling either. Still, he gritted his teeth and knelt in the snow and ice for more than ten days. That kind of ruthlessness is honestly impressive.”

“Yes.” Mu Yun Yao’s lips curved faintly. “He’s vicious to others, and just as vicious to himself. To climb back up, he really did wager everything… It’s just a pity…”

A pity that she existed.

Poisonous Lady scooted closer, eyes glittering with curiosity. “Yao’er, you hate that Jin Wang so much. Did he wrong you in your previous life?”

Mu Yunyao’s heart stirred. Then she calmly lifted her hand and pushed Poisonous Lady’s forehead, shoving her back into her seat with a half-laugh. “Yeah. He tricked me so badly that I ended up with nothing left. The kind where you don’t even leave bones behind.”

Poisonous Lady narrowed her eyes, killing intent flashing. “Don’t worry. I’ll help you get revenge. I won’t let him have an easy time.”

After saying that, she turned and walked out without hesitation.

Mu Yunyao lifted her head to stop her, but in the time it took her to blink, Poisonous Lady was already gone.

Jin Lan brought in tea and snacks. “Miss, Consort Li is making a fuss again. They say the rash on her face has gotten worse. Before, it only itched. Now it’s started to hurt. Consort Li has sent letters to the Li family several times. There should be news soon.”

Mu Yunyao’s gaze shifted slightly. “Mm. I understand.”

Ning Junjin had regained the title of Jin Wang and even received imperial rewards. The officials who once supported him immediately flocked back. With Yu Wang pressing hard from the front, the pressure on Ling Wang’s side would only grow. He could not afford to lose Consort Li, who held real standing in the palace.

Two nights later, just as Mu Yunyao was preparing to rest, the candle flame flickered. Wei Jiu appeared out of nowhere.

“Master. We’ve confirmed the identities of the Beijiang envoys staying at the relay lodge. Also, the Li family sent a letter to Beijiang today, asking about the poison that ruined the beauty’s face. Beijiang denied everything. The Li family is very displeased.”

Mu Yun Yao took the dossier and flipped through it page by page. When she reached the end, her fingers paused.

“This Guo Ao… he’s from the Da Li Dynasty?”

“Not entirely,” Wei Jiu answered. “Guo Ao’s ancestors were officials of the former dynasty. When the former dynasty fell, the Guo family fled and eventually settled in Beijiang. Their descendants have lived there ever since. Now they’re no different from Beijiang natives.”

“Former dynasty… the Guo family…” Mu Yunyao reread Guo Ao’s record carefully, then closed the booklet. “Keep a close eye on Guo Ao. He’s an outsider, yet Beijiang’s royal court deeply trusts him. That alone means he’s not ordinary. But a man like that is hiding among the envoy group as a mere attendant. No matter how you look at it, something’s off.”

“Yes.”

“Keep watching the Li family as well. Consort Li is in a bad position. If the Li family doesn’t want to abandon her, they’ll have to contact Beijiang again. If they can’t get an answer through the envoys, they might reach out directly to Beijiang’s royal court. If we get a letter or a witness, that becomes a blade we can use to bring the Li family down.”

“Yes. Please rest assured, Master.”

As the New Year drew closer, the Beijiang envoys were tormented to the brink by Tian Shouzheng’s “etiquette lessons.”

Yu Wang had expected them to make trouble again after a few days. Instead, they actually endured it.

Tian Shouzheng reported that the envoys’ rules and rituals had been taught. After Yu Wang personally inspected them, he finally relented and allowed them to enter the palace for an audience.

When the Emperor heard the report, he approved their attendance at the palace banquet for the Little New Year, three days later.

Inside Yuhua Palace, Mu Yunyao bowed to the Eldest Princess Yide, her expression resolute. “Grandmother, please agree.”

The Eldest Princess sighed. “Fine. Since you insist on returning to Xiayan Village to pay respects to Mu Cheng, I can’t stop you. Go, then. Bring more guards, and be careful on the road.”

“Yes. I won’t be able to accompany Grandmother for the Little New Year in the palace. Please forgive me.”

“It’s nothing.” The Eldest Princess waved it off. “Your mother’s cold hasn’t healed. Let her stay in the palace with me. You go and return quickly. We’ll wait for you to come back for the New Year.”

“Yes. Yao’er will remember.”

Poisonous Lady looked over the luggage Jin Lan and Jin Qiao had packed, then immediately grabbed a small bundle and followed along. “I’ve got nothing to do sitting in the palace. I’m coming with you to Xiayan Village.”

“I’m going back to mourn my father. What are you coming for?” Mu Yunyao shot her a look. Her three-year mourning period was already over. After the New Year, she would be getting married. No matter what, she had to return once and properly pay her respects.

“If you’re not around, I’ll be bored. Besides, the road from the capital to Xiayan Village isn’t short. Her Royal Highness told me to protect you properly. I’m just following orders.”

“His Royal Highness Yue Wang will be accompanying me. He’ll take good care of me.”

“He’s a man. How could he take care of you as thoroughly as I can?” Poisonous Lady tugged Mu Yunyao along. “Enough. Hurry up. If we leave any later, we won’t make it to the next inn before nightfall.”

Mu Yunyao had no choice but to follow.

At the palace gates, the tall, lean figure of Yue Wang leaned against the carriage. Hearing footsteps, he turned at once. “Yao’er, let’s go.”

Poisonous Lady beat Mu Yunyao to it, tossed the baggage onto the carriage, then hopped up and reached down a hand. “Yunyao, get in.”

Only then did Yue Wang notice an extra person. His gaze sharpened instantly.

Poisonous Lady grinned at him, completely unbothered. “Greetings, His Royal Highness Yue Wang. Considering Your Royal Highness is a man, it’s inconvenient for you to care for the County Princess along the way. So I’m accompanying her back to Xiayan Village under Her Royal Highness the Eldest Princess’s orders.”

The moment she mentioned the Eldest Princess, the chill around Yue Wang did not lessen. It only deepened.

Mu Yunyao hurried to smooth things over. “Poisonous Lady and I will ride in the carriage. I’ll have to trouble Fourth Master to ride on horseback.”

Meeting Mu Yunyao’s pleading gaze, Yue Wang could only swallow his displeasure. “Fine.”

He had thought this trip would finally give him time alone with Yunyao. Who would’ve guessed Poisonous Lady would barge in halfway? If he’d known, he never would’ve let Yunyao recruit her in the first place.

Mu Yunyao climbed into the carriage. Seeing Poisonous Lady’s smug smile, she couldn’t help feeling both amused and helpless. “Fourth Master didn’t provoke you. Why do you always pick fights with him?”

“Yao’er, I’m testing him for you.” Poisonous Lady leaned in close, whispering. “Men talk sweet before marriage, but they can change afterward. Better to test him now and see clearly, so you don’t regret it later. Want me to mix a little hallucinatory powder? I guarantee he’ll spill everything, even the time he wet the bed.”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes widened. “Don’t you dare. I trust Yue Wang. Even if he’s keeping something from me, it must be for my own good, or simply not something that needs saying.”

People always have secrets. No matter how close they are, there are lines you don’t cross.

Like Yue Wang’s past in the Cold Palace.

Like the truth that what she had “dreamed” of her previous life wasn’t a dream at all, but something she had truly lived through.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 624

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 623

~ A Special “Whitewashing” Technique ~

Mu Yunyao nodded and followed Eldest Princess Yide into the carriage.

Inside the Third Prince’s residence, the Emperor arrived with his entourage. The moment he stepped in, he saw plum blossoms blooming everywhere. Tree after tree stood crowned with flowers despite the brutal cold. The petals were nearly frozen transparent, delicate veins clearly visible, beautiful to an almost unreal degree.

Mu Yunyao followed Eldest Princess Yide out of the carriage and into the courtyard. At a glance, she spotted Third Prince Ning Junjin kneeling beside the lotus pond.

He wore only a thin, plain white robe. A white jade crown bound his hair; black hair and white clothes made him look even more fragile amid the wintry chill. His hands were clasped together, lips moving silently as though reciting a prayer.

When Mu Yunyao and Eldest Princess Yide drew closer, she saw how pale he was. No one knew how long he had been kneeling. Even his eyelashes and brows were coated with frost.

The crowd’s footsteps approached, yet Ning Junjin did not react at all, as if lost in his own world. The servants finally noticed the Emperor and dropped to their knees in a wave, loudly crying, “Long live His Majesty.” The sound was so sudden that it startled Ning Junjin awake.

He slowly turned his head, then abruptly clutched his eyes and cried out, collapsing to the ground.

“It hurts.”

The Emperor immediately ordered the imperial physician forward. After a long examination, the physician returned with visible excitement.

“Your Majesty, the Third Prince’s eyes have recovered. The pain just now was because his eyes had not seen sunlight for a long time. The sudden brightness was too much. He is fine now.”

The Emperor’s eyes lit up. “Recovered? You mean Junjin can see again?”

“Yes.”

As soon as those words fell, an official hurried forward to congratulate him.

“Your Majesty, no wonder the plum blossoms bloomed early and the pure lotus rose in the depths of winter. This is a heavenly omen, a sign that good fortune is approaching the imperial household.”

The Emperor was delighted and stepped forward himself. “Junjin, can you see Imperial Father clearly now?”

Ning Junjin’s gaze was clear, trembling with joy like a spring of clean water.

“Imperial Father. Your son is fortunate enough to see you again. Heaven has heard my heart.”

“If Heaven can restore my sight, then it will surely grant what I seek as well. May Imperial Father be healthy and strong from this day onward, never again troubled by illness.”

The Emperor’s expression tightened. “You were praying for me just now?”

“Yes.” Ning Junjin’s voice remained gentle. “Your son is already a cripple, and I made mistakes before. I cannot enter court to share Imperial Father’s burdens. I can only use this way to offer a little filial devotion.”

The Emperor swiftly removed his cloak and draped it over him. “Junjin, I have received your filial heart. In the future, do not push yourself like this again.”

Ning Junjin smiled softly, warm and mild.

“These days, your son has lost everything. I thought I would be shattered, but instead, with all the old vanity and noise stripped away, my heart has become calmer than it has ever been.”

“And I finally understood many things I never had the peace to think through before.”

“In the past, I often angered Imperial Father. I truly was ignorant. So your son is willing to lose twenty years of my life, if only Heaven will protect Imperial Father, increase your blessings and your years, and grant you long life.”

The Emperor pressed a hand to his shoulder, his face filled with complicated emotion. “You child, how can you say such things…”

Ning Junjin’s smile only grew brighter, joy written plainly in his eyes.

“Imperial Father, Heaven must have heard my wish. Otherwise, how could my eyes suddenly recover?”

Mu Yunyao watched him with calm indifference.

This man had always been a master of performance. If he truly wanted to win someone over, he could warm even ice with his hands. And the Emperor already carried guilt toward him. The more Ning Junjin acted as though he had no grievances, the deeper that guilt would grow.

Sure enough, the Emperor’s heart turned even softer. “Junjin… you child…”

He turned sharply. “Imperial Physician, his eyes have recovered. What about his legs? Is there any sign of improvement?”

Jin Wang.

The moment that title was spoken, everyone understood. The Emperor was already preparing to restore the Third Prince’s status. Many people’s thoughts immediately shifted. The winds at court were about to move again.

The imperial physician hurried forward. “Your Majesty, this humble physician must examine Jin Wang before I can say.”

“Mm.”

The physician checked his pulse, then reached down to press and test his legs.

A guard quickly spoke up. “Imperial Physician, please be careful. Our prince’s knees are injured.”

“Injured knees?” The Emperor frowned, his gaze turning even more pained. “I saw him kneeling just now. Was this from kneeling on the ground?”

It was deep winter. Kneeling for hours could let cold seep into the bones. If his knees were injured on top of that, then even if the poison in his legs was cured, he might still be left with lifelong pain.

The imperial physician carefully lifted Jin Wang’s pant leg. The moment he saw the bruised, purpled skin mixed with frostbite sores and scabs, he sucked in a breath.

“Jin Wang, your knees…”

Ning Junjin remained calm. “It is a small injury. It is nothing.”

The Emperor’s heart clenched. “Junjin, how can you be this foolish?”

“This is not foolishness, Imperial Father.” Ning Junjin said softly. “It was sincerity. I wanted Heaven to see my repentance and hear my wish, to bless Imperial Father with health and peace.”

The Emperor took a deep breath. “Imperial Physicians, you must do everything you can to treat Jin Wang. Do not let his legs be left with any lasting ailment.”

“Also, Jin Wang’s filial devotion is commendable. My heart is greatly comforted.”

“From today onward, his confinement is lifted. His title, Jin Wang, has been restored. He is awarded a pair of jade ruyi, ten hu of pearls…”

At the mention of the jade ruyi, Jin Wang’s heart tightened, then joy surged up uncontrollably. His Majesty bestowed the jade ruyi only when he was truly satisfied. With this pair, much of the past could finally be smoothed over.

Mu Yunyao lowered her eyes slightly. Beneath her long lashes, a faint cold glint flashed.

Jin Wang had finally decided to step back into court.

This grand play was finally about to begin.

Back at Yuhua Palace, Mu Yunyao set down her hand warmer.

Poisonous Lady hurried over, took Mu Yunyao’s hand, and felt it. Only after confirming it was warm did she bring over a cup of hot ginger tea.

“Your body was injured before, and you did not nourish it properly. Cold has gathered inside you. In winter, you must be especially careful, do not catch a chill.”

“How was it at the Third Prince’s residence?”

Mu Yunyao took a sip of ginger tea and smiled.

“It should be called Jin Wang Residence now.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 623

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 622

~ Qi Ming Pledges Himself to Jin Wang ~

Qi Ming knelt on the ground, his face full of panic and unease.

“Your Highness… I’ve always been in trade. I managed Yi Bao Xuan for the Li family and His Royal Highness Ling Wang. But some time ago, I failed my duties and offended His Royal Highness. After that, His Royal Highness even began to suspect I had ulterior motives. He detained my family… and he even killed my wife.”

“For the sake of my only remaining child, I had no choice but to resist.”

“Failed your duties?” Jin Wang studied him, weighing every word for truth. “What exactly do you mean?”

Qi Ming’s throat tightened.

“Before… in Linjiang City, His Royal Highness ordered me to intercept the boats transporting tax silver. I failed to stop them.”

“After that, he ordered me to recover the tax silver that sank to the riverbed. But because of His Royal Highness Yu Wang and Yue Wang, I still couldn’t find it. That’s why His Royal Highness was completely disappointed in me.”

Jin Wang fumbled for his teacup, raised it, and took a light sip. A gentle smile touched his lips—warm on the surface, chilling underneath.

“You may go. I’m already a crippled man. I’m not worth my Eldest Imperial Brother spending effort to scheme against.”

Qi Ming’s face turned even whiter. He slammed his head to the floor.

“Third Prince—if I step out of your gates, I’ll be beheaded in the street before I’ve taken ten steps. Please don’t drive me away. Please save this servant.”

“I truly have nowhere left to go. I’m not someone Ling Wang deliberately planted here. Please see clearly, Your Royal Highness.”

“Words are cheap.” Jin Wang’s voice remained calm. “What proof do you have?”

Qi Ming’s voice shook, but his eyes were desperate and sharp.

“Your Royal Highness… I am only a servant. The things I can touch are limited. Secrets of the highest level would never reach me.”

“But I know a secret big enough to shake heaven.”

“If Your Royal Highness is willing to take me in and save my child… this servant will tell you.”

“Sheltering a servant isn’t difficult,” Jin Wang said slowly. “But how do I know whether your ‘secret’ is real?”

Even as he spoke, his gaze never left Qi Ming’s face.

Qi Ming looked terrified—too terrified. He’d watched and listened carefully, and it didn’t look like acting.

If this were the past, Jin Wang might not have been so suspicious.

But now?

He had no power, no faction, no leverage. Even the officials who once supported him had long since cut ties.

And yet Qi Ming came running to him anyway.

How could he not suspect a trap?

Qi Ming’s forehead streamed with sweat despite the winter chill.

“Third Prices, I can’t prove it. I can only say it, and let Your Highness judge for yourself.”

Then he forced the words out, each one like a nail hammered into the room.

“The Li family has been secretly exchanging with Beijiang. Their ties are extremely close.”

The moment he finished, Qi Ming lowered his head and fell silent, waiting for judgment.

The teacup in Jin Wang’s hand jerked violently. Tea spilled onto his robe.

He didn’t even notice.

“The Li family… and Beijiang?” His voice turned tight. “You’re certain?”

“Yes.”

Behind the white gauze over his eyes, Jin Wang’s gaze trembled violently. After a long moment, he spoke again, voice low and strange.

“I have no power and no influence. I’m even confined to this residence and can’t move freely.”

“If you truly had this information, wouldn’t it be better to tell Yu Wang?”

Qi Ming’s shoulders shook.

“This servant… I tried.”

“I secretly went to Yu Wang’s residence, but before I even reached the gates, I saw Ling Wang’s people.”

“Right now, the two royal residences are locked in open conflict—needle to wheat, blade to throat. They’d probably count how many bites the other ate at dinner.”

“This servant is useless. I can’t get close to Yu Wang at all.”

That answer shaved away some of Jin Wang’s suspicion.

He fell quiet, thinking. After a moment, he finally said, “Go. I’ll arrange a place for you to stay—for now.”

Qi Ming’s face lit up with frantic relief… only to twist again with worry.

“Your Highness… my child…”

“Don’t worry.” Jin Wang’s voice was calm. “I’ll have someone extract him as soon as possible, then place him somewhere else for the time being.”

“Yes! Thank you, Your Highness!”

Qi Ming withdrew.

Once he was gone, Jin Wang’s personal guard stepped forward. “Your Highness… do you believe what Qi Ming said?”

Jin Wang reached up and tore away the gauze from his face, then lowered his eyes to the tea stains on his robe.

“Li family and Beijiang…” His tone was dark. “That’s not something one blurts out casually. The stakes are too high.”

“And Qi Ming’s expression didn’t seem fake. Many details he gave were coherent, grounded.”

“More importantly, those account books he handed over.” Jin Wang’s gaze sharpened. “So many transactions don’t add up. The Li family seems to be using Yi Bao Xuan to plot something in the dark.”

“If what he said is true…” Jin Wang’s mouth curved coldly. “Then Eldest Imperial Brother is digging his own grave.”

The guard shuddered and said, “Beijiang has been watching like a tiger for years. Dealing with them is courting disaster.”

Jin Wang set the teacup down and lightly pounded his legs, frustration flashing across his face.

“How are the herbs Doctor Gu ordered?”

“We’ve found most of them. Two remain.”

“Mn.” Jin Wang’s voice tightened. His eyes were already restored—what he wanted now was for his legs to stand again.

“And the things I told you to arrange?”

“All prepared, Your Highness.”

“Good.” Jin Wang’s lips curled faintly. “If tomorrow goes smoothly, Father should lift my confinement… and perhaps even restore my royal title.”

“But that still won’t be enough.”

“If we can truly confirm a connection between Beijiang and the Li family, then with that merit… I’ll have my chance to rise again.”

To be honest, he hoped Qi Ming was telling the truth.

Because he needed a merit vast enough to overwrite his earlier mistakes.

A servant brought in a fresh teacup. “Your Highness, should this subordinate help you change your clothes?”

“No need.”

Another guard asked, “Your Highness, His Royal Highness Yue Wang and Wen Xian Junzhu’s wedding date is approaching. This subordinate has prepared some congratulatory gifts—does Your Highness have any additional instructions?”

Jin Wang’s brow jerked. A strange, unreadable light flashed through his eyes.

“No. Leave.”

“Yes.”

Once the guard withdrew, Jin Wang suddenly grabbed the teacup on the table and smashed it to the ground.

His teeth clenched. His expression was terrifyingly dark.

Early the next morning, an official reported during court:

Overnight, the plum grove within Jin Wang’s residence had burst into bloom.

The frozen lake had begun to melt.

And even more shockingly, lotus leaves and lotus blossoms had emerged.

The Emperor and the court officials scoffed at first and ordered guards to verify.

But when the guards returned, they reported that everything was as they had said.

The court erupted.

Some officials said plum blossoms blooming early had precedent, but ice melting in midwinter, lotus leaves rising, lotus flowers blooming—this was too unnatural. It might be heaven’s warning.

Others argued it was a great omen. Lotus flowers, after all, were famed for purity: rising from mud unstained, washed by clear ripples without becoming seductive—symbols of noble virtue. Blooming early must mean a heavenly summons, urging His Majesty to summon the Third Prince and question him.

After pondering it, the Emperor decided to see it personally.

The ministers could not dissuade him and could only accompany him.

News also reached Eldest Princess Yide.

“Yao’er,” she said, amused, “His Majesty is having us go together to view the spectacle of lotus flowers blooming in winter. Will you come take a look, too?”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes curved with a smile. “Of course. Such a rare sight is worth seeing.”

“Too bad Mother caught a cold. She can’t go out these days.”

“Let her rest, rest,” Eldest Princess Yide said lightly, a calm understanding flickering in her eyes. “Besides, lotus flowers are meant for summer. Winter lotuses are too artificial—too much craftsmanship, too little spirit. Not seeing them is fine.”

Too much craftsmanship?

Mu Yunyao’s smile deepened, faintly cold.

That was no miracle at all.

It was artificial.

The Third Prince truly had methods—he even thought of using a ‘heaven-sent omen.’

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 622

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 621

~ Qi Ming Slips Away ~ 

Inside Ling Wang’s residence, the atmosphere was heavy enough to suffocate.

Ling Wang sat in a chair, his expression dark, his gaze sharp as he scrutinized the man kneeling before him.

“Qi Ming. Do you have nothing to confess to this Wang?”

Qi Ming’s face was deathly pale. Cold sweat dotted his forehead. After a long, choking silence, he slammed his head to the ground.

“This servant deserves ten thousand deaths. Please punish me, Your Royal Highness.”

Ling Wang’s eyes softened for only a breath, then turned even colder.

“I truly didn’t expect you to be a nail the Third Prince planted at my side. Over these years, you must have helped Jin Wang obtain quite a bit of information, hm?”

“Your Royal Highness,” Qi Ming pleaded, voice trembling, “I am loyal to you with my whole life. From the moment I acknowledged you as my Master, I never dared harbor a second heart. Besides, the Third Prince tried to silence me back then. I hated him to the bone. How could I ever return to him?”

“Hmph.”

Ling Wang tossed a letter down in front of him.

“Still refusing to admit it, still daring to speak of loyalty. Then tell me, where is this loyalty, when you privately transferred Yi Bao Xuan’s silver to the Third Prince? Qi Ming, I’ve never treated you poorly. Why did you choose betrayal?”

Qi Ming didn’t even reach for the letter. Instead, he knocked his head against the floor three times, hard enough that the sound rang.

“Your Royal Highness, it is this servant who deserves death. But I had no choice. The Third Prince seized my family. If I didn’t do as Jin Wang ordered, my wife and child would have died.”

“I only moved some silver. Everything else the Third Prince ordered, I brushed off and muddled through. I did not leak any information about Your Royal Highness. Please investigate clearly.”

Ling Wang’s gaze was ice. “Qi Ming, I hate betrayal most. You’ve disappointed me.”

“Master!” Qi Ming’s expression collapsed into grief. He kowtowed again and again, voice breaking. “This servant truly had no way out. Please forgive me this once. I only wanted to save my family. I never intended to harm you.”

“The Third Prince… because I didn’t follow his instructions, he already had my wife killed.” Qi Ming’s eyes filled with pain and fury. “He said if I don’t obey next time, my child will die too. I couldn’t disobey him, but I also didn’t dare betray you. That’s why I diverted part of Yi Bao Xuan’s funds, just to stall for time…”

By the end, he was sobbing, tears streaming, every inch of him soaked in remorse.

Ling Wang narrowed his eyes, measuring every word, weighing truth from performance. After a long moment, his tone eased slightly.

“Jin Wang’s methods have always been cruel. You should know that even if you obeyed him, he wouldn’t spare your family.”

“Yes…” Qi Ming’s face went ashen. Despair slowly swallowed his features.

“But, Qi Ming,” Ling Wang said coolly, “for the sake of what little loyalty you still showed, I’ll give you a chance. If you do well, I will have someone rescue your child.”

Qi Ming’s head snapped up. His eyes lit up as if a candle had been struck in darkness.

“Your Royal Highness, truly? This servant thanks you! I truly have no way to repay Your Royal Highness’s great kindness!”

“Wait.” Ling Wang lifted his gaze. “Don’t rush to thank me. I have a condition.”

“Please speak, Your Royal Highness. This servant will obey every command.”

“If I help you, the master and servant bond between us ends completely,” Ling Wang said, voice like iron. “From this day on, no matter who asks, you will never mention you were my man.”

“And you know well the grudge between the Third Prince and me. You will help me bring him down, completely.”

“Yes,” Qi Ming said without hesitation. “This servant will obey all of the Master’s commands.”

At the mention of revenge, the light in Qi Ming’s eyes burned even brighter.

“This servant’s heart is full of hatred for the Third Prince as well. Whatever you need, Master, please order it!”

“Good.” Ling Wang nodded slowly. “The Third Prince is using your child to force you to leak information from my side, is he not? I’ll give you some information. You will deliver it to Jin Wang.”

“Then tell him I’ve grown suspicious of you, and you wish to return to the Third Prince’s side.”

Qi Ming hesitated. “Master… the Third Prince previously sent people to hunt me down. Will he truly accept me back?”

Ling Wang sneered. “He’s so desperate now that he doesn’t even have a ghost beside him. Of course, he’ll accept you.”

Ling Wang sneered. “He’s so desperate now that he doesn’t even have a ghost beside him. Of course, he’ll accept you.”

“Relax. The Third Prince will take you back, because right now he’s a stray dog driven into a corner. He needs Yi Bao Xuan. He needs your support.”

“And once you return…” Ling Wang’s voice dipped. “You know what to do.”
Ling Wang gave a satisfied nod.

The Third Prince was already a useless wreck. Ling Wang had no real interest in what happened on that side, but Qi Ming’s attitude pleased him.

“You may go.”

“Yes.”

Qi Ming retreated.

Once Qi Ming was gone, Li Qingzhou stepped out from behind the screen. Seeing Ling Wang still looking displeased, he asked quietly, “Your Royal Highness is still reluctant to part with that Qi Ming?”

Ling Wang’s mouth twisted. “Qi Ming is rare. A loyal dog. It’s a pity to lose him, especially to that blind,d crippled Third Prince.”

Li Qingzhou replied calmly, “Your Royal Highness needn’t regret it. Qi Ming has been by your side for too brief a time. Time is tight. We have no room to investigate him thoroughly.”

“It’s better to discard him for now. If he’s lucky enough to survive, Your Royal Highness can give him a chance to serve again in the future.”

Ling Wang’s expression eased slightly. “You’re right, Grandfather.”

“Good thing we had people monitoring Qi Ming’s family in Jiangnan earlier, otherwise we might not have uncovered his entanglement with the Third Prince at all.”

He let out a harsh breath.

“Third Brother really can’t sit still. He’s already in this state, yet he still plays these tricks, grabbing family members to threaten people. Pathetic.”

Li Qingzhou lowered his hands in salute. “If the Third Prince truly surrendered so easily, it wouldn’t match his nature. Besides, Consort Zhen may be confined, but as His Majesty’s guilt toward the Third Prince deepens, a single decree could set her free again.”

Ling Wang snorted. “If time weren’t so tight, if we could’ve planned thoroughly against Eldest Princess Yide and Yu Wang, Jin Wang wouldn’t have gotten off so cheaply.”

Li Qingzhou bowed slightly. “Your Royal Highness is wise.”

On Jin Wang’s side, he also received the results of his guards’ investigation. He gave a cold laugh, eyes full of amused contempt.

“Yi Bao Xuan’s shopkeeper, Qi Ming… so he’s the Eldest Imperial Brother’s man.”

“And now he comes to pledge himself to me.”

Jin Wang’s smile turned sharp. “Does he think I’m some fool they can toy with at will?”

A subordinate asked, “Your Royal Highness, should we drive him out?”

“No.” Jin Wang’s eyes narrowed. “I’ll keep him.”

“Maybe I can squeeze something out of his mouth. And there’s Yi Bao Xuan as well. It might become useful later.”

Qi Ming knelt again, his face still pale as paper.

“Greetings, Third Prince.”

“Rise.” The Third Prince’s eyes were covered with a layer of white gauze. It hid his gaze from prying eyes and, at the same time, disguised the truth that his eyes were already improving.

“You see it clearly,” the Third Prince said, voice mild but eerie. “I can’t see, and my legs can’t walk.”

“Following Eldest Imperial Brother would give you a brighter future. Why come to rely on a useless cripple like me?”

Qi Ming swallowed hard, then forced out the words like someone cornered to the edge of a cliff.

“Your Royal Highness… I won’t hide it. I was driven here with nowhere left to go.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 621

Incurable Chapter 59 Part 2

After seeing Lin Wei off, Mu Wan and Liu Qianxiu went over the wedding procedures again. After dinner, they strolled through the back garden, holding hands. They had only walked a short while when Liu Qianxiu received a call.

The call was from Grandma Mei. He listened, squeezing Mu Wan’s fingers slightly in response. After hanging up, Liu Qianxiu said to Mu Wan, “Grandma wants me to take you there now.”

On the wedding day, Mu Wan was to depart from the Mei residence.

Their stroll was only halfway through, and the sky hadn’t even fully darkened yet. Mu Wan looked up at Liu Qianxiu, pressed her lips together, and said, “Alright.”

When Liu Qianxiu dropped Mu Wan off at the Mei residence, it was already eight o’clock. The car stopped on the parking lot lawn. Both stayed inside, with no intention of leaving.

The October night carried a damp chill. A night breeze blew in through the window, making Mu Wan squint slightly.

The Mei residence was already decorated for the wedding. Broad red traditional Chinese accents made the mansion look festive and solemn. Everything was arranged for the two of them. Inside, lights flickered warmly, and everyone was joyful.

But the two people it was meant for hadn’t joined in that happiness. They sat in the car, its interior softly lit and quiet. Only the sound of their breathing could be heard.

Mu Wan leaned back in her seat. In this quiet moment, her heart grew lighter and at ease, as if a weight had been lifted.

She turned her head, wanting to look at Liu Qianxiu. Liu Qianxiu was also looking at her. Their gazes met, and a moment of silence fell.

Shadows fell across Liu Qianxiu’s face, making his features look sharper. He watched her quietly, his lips pressed in a small frown.

The quiet parking lot held only the occasional chirping of insects in the grass. Mu Wan broke the silence, tilting her head as she asked Liu Qianxiu, “How many days of wedding leave do you have?”

She wore a coat, her hair falling loosely over her shoulders. She tilted her head, her eyes bright as she looked at him. Liu Qianxiu felt a flutter in his heart, and the darkness in his eyes softened.

“Half a month. Where do you want to go?”

Hearing his question, she smiled. Her lips curved upward, the corners of her eyes crinkling. She sat down in the passenger seat.

“How did you know I wanted to go out?” she asked.

After asking, she lowered her gaze and smiled to herself, filled with happiness.

“Well, you do know everything I want to do.”

Her face radiated a bright smile as she rose to leave. Her fingers touched the door handle. She opened it and said, “Let me think about it. I’ll tell you when I decide.”

Mu Wan finished speaking and opened the door to get out. The man pulled her hand back just as she was about to leave the seat. The force wasn’t strong, but enough to make her sit back down. She turned to look at him. Liu Qianxiu stared at her, his eyes holding an emotion she couldn’t fathom.

Liu Qianxiu gazed at her brows and eyes, calling her name.

“Wan Wan.” His voice was low and slightly hoarse. “When we meet again tomorrow, you’ll be my bride.”

His words drifted on the night breeze, reaching her ears. Mu Wan looked at him, her heart like a barren grassland swept by spring winds, suddenly bursting with vitality.

Mu Wan’s eyes shimmered as she smiled, her gaze radiant. She reached back to grasp his hand, leaned forward, and kissed the corner of his lips. The warmth of their breath mingled. Her eyes met his, her voice soft and tender, thick with longing.

“Then come early to take your little bride home~.”

No sooner had the words left her lips than he swept her into his arms. She heard his heartbeat, and she heard his final word: “Yes.”

The Mei residence had already prepared a decorated room for her wedding. It was filled with her belongings, as if she had lived there since childhood. There were formal gowns, wedding dresses, and various red accents for the ceremony. Even the wallpaper had been replaced.

After Liu Qianxiu dropped her off, he stayed and sat with her for a while before leaving. Now the room felt empty, with only her inside. Mu Wan sat, gazing at the furnishings. Her calm heart grew tense under the solemnity of marriage.

Incense burned in the room. Mu Wan took deep breaths, trying to calm her nerves. When that failed, she decided to take a bath first, hoping to force herself to sleep.

Just as she closed her eyes, a knock sounded at the door. Mu Wan looked up and recognized Old Lady Mei’s voice.

“Wan Wan, are you asleep?”

The old lady spoke softly, as if afraid of waking her. Glancing at the clock, it was already ten o’clock, and the old lady was still awake. She hurried up and rushed to open the door.

Grandma Mei stood outside, looking at her with affection. Mu Wan rubbed her hair and called out, “Grandma.”

“Couldn’t sleep, could you?” Granny Mei smiled warmly, gently stroking her cheek.

Mu Wan smiled back, wrapping her arms around Granny Mei’s waist. She helped her into her room, chatting as they walked, “You know everything, Granny.”

“Of course I know. I was married once, too.” Grandma Mei followed her inside, closing the door behind them. Mu Wan went to her bedside, while Grandma Mei sat on the fabric sofa beside it. The light softly illuminated her silver-streaked hair, making her look like a kind grandmother from a fairy tale.

Grandma Mei’s presence settled the unease in her heart. Mu Wan smiled, her spirit calming.

“Lie down. I’ll stay with you. I’ll leave only after you’ve fallen asleep.” As she spoke, she lifted the edge of the quilt and patted the bed gently.

“It’s too late.” Her affection touched Muwan, but she feared the strain on her frail body. Just as she was about to refuse, Old Lady Mei gazed at her and spoke.

“Before Qianxiu’s mother married, I was the one who stayed with her until she fell asleep.”

The words stuck in her throat. Mu Wan gazed at the older woman’s white hair, her heart stirring. She slipped off her shoes, climbed into bed, and lay down. Once settled, she took the old lady’s hand. The hand remained warm and smooth. Mu Wan rested her face against it, gently rubbing it as if to soothe her.

Old Mrs. Mei was visibly moved. She looked at Mu Wan and asked, “Are you looking forward to it?”

“Yes,” Mu Wan answered honestly. “I’m also a little excited and nervous.”

“Qianxiu’s mother was the same before her wedding.” Liu Qianxiu’s mother had been her only daughter. She had sent her off to a grand wedding, yet who could have foreseen the outcome she ultimately faced?

The older woman showed little outward emotion, yet her eyes held a sea of complexity. She lowered her gaze, her fingers gently brushing Mu Wan’s hair as she said, “Wan Wan, your grandmother hopes you find happiness.”

Mu Wan thought of her mother. If she had passed away before her, would she have looked on like this now?

“Grandmother,” Mu Wan called softly.

“Hmm?” Grandma Mei’s voice carried a slight upward inflection.

“We will love each other, remain faithful, and live happily together for the rest of our lives,” Mu Wan declared solemnly. “I swear it.”

Grandma Mei gazed at her, a smile gradually blossoming across her face. She gently stroked her cheek and murmured, “I believe you. Now sleep.”

Mu Wan held her hand and gradually drifted off to sleep.

Mu Wan slept soundly through the night. She didn’t wake up in the morning; Mei’s mother roused her. Seeing her dazed as she sat up in bed, Mei’s mother smiled. “Wan Wan, do you know today is your wedding day?”

Mu Wan snapped back to awareness, glanced around, and called out, “Auntie.”

Aunt Mei smiled in response as the makeup team and wedding staff flooded in from outside. She rose from the bed, surrounded by people who helped her with her makeup and changed her clothes. After her makeup was complete, Mu Wan gazed at her reflection in the mirror before the red veil was finally placed over her head.

Once she was fully dressed and adorned, the relatives and friends had all arrived. Lin Wei gazed at her, her eyes reddening as she continued to praise her beauty. Amidst the surrounding clamor, all Mu Wan saw was the vast expanse of crimson from her veil. She straightened her posture, her heartbeat steady and even. Her consciousness felt slightly adrift, momentarily unable to distinguish whether the present scenario was a dream or reality.

Mu Wan felt as if a pair of hands had seized her heart. She instinctively clasped those hands in return.

His touch was cool and dry. His fingers were long and slender, as always, drawing Mu Wan’s hands together and enveloping them—as if cradling her entire being within his palms.

The world around them fell silent as his hands guided her to her feet. Through the veil, Mu Wan saw his deep crimson robe and caught the faint scent of sandalwood on his skin. His hand slipped beneath the veil, brushing her cheek. Her heart leapt as she heard his voice.

“I’ve come to take you.”

“My little bride.”

Mu Wan’s heart dropped heavily. Her “dream” had ended.

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 59 Part 2

Incurable Chapter 59 Part 1

The two spent the afternoon idly, reeling in just three or five fish by the time they hauled in their nets. The smaller ones were released, while the larger ones were brought back to the Taoist temple. For dinner, Liu Qianxiu prepared fish soup.

In the days that followed, Mu Wan experienced what it was like to live freely, like a drifting cloud or a wild crane. Liu Qianxiu took her hiking through the mountains and forests, where they looked out over distant valleys and rivers and admired the bamboo groves and pine trees up close. When he meditated, she read quietly in her room. In the mornings, she brought a cushion and sat beside him as he practiced. On rainy autumn days, she stood nearby, holding an umbrella for him.

The view before the cliff was the most expansive, revealing mist-shrouded mountain ranges and the faint river winding through the gorge. The air was filled with the chirping of insects and pure, refreshing birdsong.

Time seemed to slow. The red sun rose over the horizon, coloring the dawn sky. As the mist faded, the morning sunlight felt cool.

During her days at the Taoist temple, Mu Wan felt her mind grow calm and clear, as if it had been washed clean. Sometimes she almost believed she had gone back in time and forgotten the world outside.

She started to see why Liu Qianxiu followed the path of Taoist cultivation. It wasn’t for immortality or enlightenment, but to stay away from the pull of fame and fortune. He wanted to keep his integrity, calm, and purity in a busy world. That was what his path truly meant.

Five or six days before the wedding, Mu Wan and Liu Qianxiu descended the mountain with Xuan Qingzi and Qing Chan. As the car entered the highway, the dense human presence and the aura of the mundane world enveloped them, and everything came alive.

Life at Qingyuan Temple was not dull, and the world outside was not always ordinary either. How one saw the world depended on one’s own perspective.

Grandma Mei had always held Master Xuan Qingzi in high regard. After descending the mountain, Liu Qianxiu and his group first visited the Mei residence. Xuan Qingzi exchanged greetings and then headed back to the Liu residence because he didn’t like big crowds.

The Mei residence buzzed with cheerful activity. Even before entering, Mu Wan could sense the warmth of its inhabitants. Having not seen Grandma Mei for several days, Mu Wan missed her dearly. The living room radiated warmth. As soon as Xuan Qingzi entered, he exchanged greetings with Old Lady Mei. She nodded and made small talk with him, while Mu Wan was pulled over to sit beside her.

Old Lady Mei and Xuan Qingzi chatted casually. In this environment, Qing Chan became well-behaved. Mu Wan had him sit beside her, while Mei Yaozhi played with him nearby.

Liu Qianxiu hadn’t changed out of his Taoist robe. Mei Yaozhi glanced at him and asked Mu Wan, “You sure picked a clever spot for your pre-wedding trip. Aren’t you worried Qianxiu might not come back after visiting the Taoist temple?”

Liu Qianxiu looked up at him. Mu Wan replied, “Then I won’t come back either. Husband and wife should follow each other’s lead, right?”

Everyone laughed. Mei Yaozhi smiled brightly and said, “He hasn’t even changed out of his Taoist robe. I thought you’d dragged him back here by force.”

Mentioning the robe, Mei Yaozhi turned to Liu Qianxiu and said, “Your wedding attire has already arrived. When we head back later, bring it along to try on. If it doesn’t fit, we’ll need alterations.”

There were three sets of wedding attire in total, including one for Mu Wan. Hers was more intricate and had been finalized earlier. Liu Qianxiu’s had been completed and delivered to the Mei residence, but he only found time to try it on today.

After spending some time at the Mei residence, Liu Qianxiu and the others returned to the Liu mansion. After dinner, Xuan Qingzi and Qing Chan were shown to their quarters. Qing Chan, with his childlike spirit, wanted to play as soon as they reached the bottom of the mountain. He had planned to follow Mu Wan to the back garden to see the pond full of koi, but Xuan Qingzi called him back, and they returned for evening practice.

With the master present, Liu Qianxiu joined them for evening practice as well. Mu Wan, exhausted from a day of errands, returned to her room, took a bath, and went to sleep. When she awoke, the sky was already pitch black.

She hadn’t drawn the curtains before sleeping. The inky night sky was adorned with a crescent moon, its pure, cool light spilling across the windowsill. Mu Wan turned around. The wardrobe door was slightly ajar, a warm glow spilling out.

She rose from the bed and walked toward the closet. Before she could open the door, she heard rustling sounds inside. She pulled the door open and stepped in. Under the light, Liu Qianxiu stood there, holding a long, black, and crimson robe.

He still wore his blue Taoist robe, accentuating his tall, slender figure. His features softened in the light. He set the robe aside, came over, and gently touched her cheek.

“Did I wake you?”

“No.” Mu Wan rested her forehead against his chest. It wasn’t that she hadn’t woken up; she just wanted to be affectionate the moment she saw him. After leaning against him for a moment, she lifted her face and looked behind him. “Haven’t you started trying them on yet?”

Liu Qianxiu was trying on wedding attire here. He had three sets in total. Their wedding was Chinese-style, with robes meant to match her bright red bridal gown. The other two sets were Western-style suits.

Before he could answer, Mu Wan straightened up and reached to tug at his waistband.

She moved with just the right touch, not too strong or too soft. Liu Qianxiu leaned forward a little, and their bodies met. Liu Qianxiu glanced down at her, his eyes shifting. She looked up at him with a small, playful smile and spoke teasingly.

“Let me help you change.”

He stood upright as she undid his collar, her head slightly bowed in earnest study. Fine strands of hair framed his temples, concealing her delicate, pink ears and earlobes, which gradually flushed crimson.

Mu Wan wasn’t sure how to undo his Taoist robe and thought loosening the sash would do the trick. Her hands moved around his waist, feeling the shape of his body through the thin fabric. At last, she hugged him tightly, her fingers pressing into his lower back as she leaned into him. She smiled brightly, her voice gentle and sweet.

“How do I undo it?”

She pressed gently against his chest, moving with a quiet grace. Her fingers traced his waist as she tilted her head back, her smile bright and a little playful.

Being alone together in the quiet room made the air feel charged with emotion.

He looked down at her, his dark eyes calm but full of hidden feeling. Though his emotions ran deep, he appeared steady and quiet.

He captured her restless hand. Her frame was small and delicate, her slender fingers clenched into a fist, completely covered by his palm. Fresh from sleep, her body radiated warmth, still carrying the scent of sandalwood from the bed.

Liu Qianxiu gently released her arms wrapped around him. Mu Wan’s hands fell empty, and her body rose. She nestled against his chest, and he leaned down to kiss her, his voice low and husky.

“Come to bed. I’ll teach you.”

Mu Wan felt warmth in her chest, and a smile grew on her lips. Resting in his arms, she was gentle but playful. She wrapped her arms around his neck, tilted her head back, and softly bit his jaw.

He moved and gently laid her down on the bed. Moonlight shone on the sheets, lighting up his pale features. Mu Wan was caught up in his beauty and in the moment.

Before the wedding, Mu Wan had plenty of free time. Other than practicing the ceremony with Liu Qianxiu, she had little to do. Still, she was never bored. Being with him made her truly happy. The wedding itself felt like just a formality, since they already had their marriage certificate.

The day before the wedding, Lin Wei invited her over. They sat on the second floor of the attic, sipping plum tea while gazing at the scenery outside. The Liu residence was designed like a garden, with lush greenery outside the windows, flowers vying for attention, and a pond filled with koi.

Xuan Qingzi eventually called Qing Chan away from the fish he had been playing with. The two Taoist priests, one tall and one short, further enhanced the residence’s antique ambiance.

Lin Wei sat next to her, quietly admiring the attic’s design and decor. As an interior designer, she was used to studying every space she entered.

“This classical style really needs real antiques to feel grand,” Lin Wei said. As a high-end interior designer, she usually worked with wealthy or influential clients, but most of their decor was affordable modern replicas. Real antiques were hard to find and valuable.

“Why don’t you take a break?” Mu Wan withdrew her gaze from the window and poured Lin Wei a cup of plum tea with a smile.

Lin Wei hummed in response, turning her gaze toward Mu Wan.

“You’re getting married tomorrow? How does it feel?” Lin Wei asked.

Taking a sip of the plum tea, its tartness made Mu Wan’s brow furrow slightly. She picked out a piece of sugar, dropped it in, and held the teacup. “Nothing special.”

“You sure are cool about it,” Lin Wei teased.

Both women were pregnant and at about the same stage, their faces healthy and full. Pregnancy brought cravings, and Lin Wei, who usually avoided sour foods, had eaten dried fruits and plum tea that day—things she normally couldn’t handle.

Mu Wan smiled and countered, “What about you? How did your parents and Lu Feng’s parents get along when they met?”

“Them?” Lin Wei’s eyebrows shot up at the mention of the parents’ meeting. “They hit it off instantly. Both businesspeople share temperaments that mesh perfectly. Lu Feng is the only child, and his parents are eager for him to marry as soon as possible.

After taking a sip of her plum tea, Lin Wei added, “By the way, where are you planning to go for your honeymoon? Give me some ideas.”

The mention of honeymoons drew Mu Wan’s gaze away from the koi outside the window. She hadn’t really thought about it. Though she had more free time lately, she still didn’t know what to do with herself day after day.

After they got married, they could go out and enjoy themselves. Mu Wan still had some freedom while pregnant, but once the baby was born, she would have to care for the child and herself. She knew she wouldn’t be able to leave so easily then.

“I’ll ask Liu Qianxiu about it later,” Mu Wan said.

“Don’t you have anywhere you’d like to go?” Lin Wei asked.

Mu Wan shook her head. Resting her chin on her hand as she gazed out the window, she replied, “Anywhere is fine, as long as I’m with Liu Qianxiu.”

Lin Wei: “......”

She was about to get married herself, but still had to listen to Mu Wan’s sweet words.

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 59 Part 1

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 620

~ I’m Entrusting Junyue To You ~

Yu Wang looked at Yue Wang’s grave expression and couldn’t help making a bold guess.

“With how widely these two businesses have expanded, they must bring in at least several… hundred thousand to a million taels a year?”

He didn’t know much about embroidered garments, only that tea could be hugely profitable. But Bu Xian Luo limited the number of guests it could host, so it had to forgo much of its income. And Mu Yunyao often ran porridge relief, donated silver to the foundling home, and spent heavily on disaster relief back in Linjiang. Added together, there might not be much left at the end of the year.

Yue Wang shook his head heavily.

“Second Imperial Brother, Mu Yunyao nets more than ten million taels a year.”

Yu Wang’s eyes flew wide. He was so shocked he nearly forgot himself.

“Fourth Imperial Brother, you’re joking, right? More than ten million taels. That’s more than ten million. Nearly a third of Da Li’s annual tax revenue. Just from embroidery and tea, is it really that profitable?”

“Even I didn’t expect it,” Yue Wang said with a sigh. “I’ve been helping Yunyao sort through the account books lately, and only then did I realize how narrow my view was. Ni Yun Fang appears to be focused solely on embroidery, and its garments are mainly sold to the wives and young ladies of aristocratic households. Still, behind the scenes, Ni Yun Fang also operates raw silk, spinning, cloth, embroidery thread, and more. The reach is far wider than it appears.

“Bu Xian Luo is even more so. Receiving guests accounts for only a small share of its income. The main profits come from the tea mountains and the tea trade. With Bu Xian Luo as a gold-lettered signboard, a large portion of Jiangnan’s tea gardens share profits with it. It also involves river transport, shipping, and overland routes…”

Yu Wang felt like he needed a moment to calm down.

“Fourth Imperial Brother, stop. If you keep going, I’m going to want to seize Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo for myself.”

Yue Wang sighed again.

“Second Imperial Brother, do you think I can still stand tall?”

Yu Wang swallowed, hesitated, and then said, “Fourth Imperial Brother… a real man knows when to bend and when to straighten. Besides, it’s a good thing Yunyao can earn silver. If your Second Imperial Brother ends up short someday, I might need to borrow from you two.”

As they spoke, Yu Heng entered to report, “Your Royal Highness, Miss Mu is here.”

“Quickly, invite Yunyao in.”

Mu Yunyao entered and bowed. She noticed Yu Wang staring at her with an odd expression and looked at Yue Wang, confused.

Yue Wang coughed awkwardly and signaled Yu Wang to rein it in.

Yu Wang tried to look away, but the moment he looked at Mu Yunyao now, he felt as if she were practically glowing with gold.

“Sister-in-law…”

Mu Yunyao paused, then her eyes filled with a faint smile. “Second Imperial Brother, what’s wrong?”

She was shy around Yue Wang, but in front of outsiders, she never let her presence weaken. Besides, she and Yue Wang were about to be married. Calling Yu Wang “Second Imperial Brother” was only proper.

Yu Wang quickly answered, “Ah, yes. Fourth Imperial Brother and I were talking about you. Look at my Fourth Imperial Brother, he’s so dull, silent all the time. Yet you had the discerning eye to see what’s special about him. Don’t be afraid of his cold face. If he ever dares bully you, I, as your Second Imperial Brother, will absolutely stand up for you and give you justice.”

After saying that, Yu Wang gave Yue Wang an apologetic look. He used to think being the Emperor’s son was all the benefits there were. Only now did he understand how hard it was to manage a household, and how much harder it was to manage a realm. Most of all, there was never enough silver. These past years had been mostly peaceful, yet the treasury was still not flush. There were too many places where money was needed. In the future, they might still have to rely on Yunyao’s support, so his Fourth Imperial Brother would have to take one for the team.

Mu Yunyao’s smile deepened. “Second Imperial Brother, rest assured. I will treat Yue Wang well.”

Yu Wang nodded again and again. “Good, good. Then I’ll be off. Beijiang’s envoys still need me to make arrangements.”

“Alright.”

Once Yu Wang left, Mu Yunyao turned to Yue Wang with a smile.

“What were you and Yu Wang discussing just now?”

Yue Wang cleared his throat, serious as ever. “Second Imperial Brother said a real man should stand tall. He also said I should restore household authority.”

Mu Yunyao looked at him, half-smiling. “Restore household authority?”

Yue Wang nodded. “That’s what he said. But I don’t think that’s right. In the Prince’s Manor, Yunyao, you’ll be the one who decides. Everything will follow your word.”

Mu Yunyao laughed softly. “As a wife, I should take my husband as my heaven. My husband should still decide the household.”

Yue Wang pulled her close. “Then come here and let your husband steal a kiss.”

Mu Yunyao cupped his face and kneaded it firmly. “Fourth Prince, you’re getting more and more shameless.”

Yue Wang gathered her into his arms and kissed her cheek. “Yunyao, I told Second Imperial Brother some things about Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo.”

Mu Yunyao nodded. “He would investigate sooner or later. Better to be upfront from the start than to let him discover it and grow suspicious. It looks more open and natural this way.”

No matter how close two people were, a relationship still needed careful tending, the same way it had been between the Emperor and Her Royal Highness.

“Mm.” Yue Wang lowered his voice. “Second Imperial Brother is going to keep Beijiang’s envoys busy. In the next stretch of days, they’ll be tormented by etiquette lessons. Have the Shadow Guards investigate those envoys’ identities. Second Imperial Brother suspects something is off about them.”

“Alright. I’ll have the Shadow Guards look into it. By the way, has there been any news on the Third Prince?”

“He’s been contacting officials in secret, but not many are willing to back him. I don’t know why, but he still hasn’t spread the word that his eyes have recovered.”

Mu Yunyao’s gaze shifted. “Then he’s likely plotting something big.”

“And Qi Ming, any news from him?”

“Yes. Yesterday, we finally got word. Your earlier guess was right. The Li family has indeed grown suspicious of him, but things aren’t as dire as we expected. They haven’t traced Yi Bao Xuan back to us, but they do think his sudden attachment is abnormal. Since they can’t verify it, they plan to push him out as a scapegoat, pin the iron-smuggling charge on Yi Bao Xuan, and wash their hands of it. They just haven’t decided yet who will take the blame and be thrown away along with Yi Bao Xuan.”

Yue Wang’s eyes sharpened. “You were thinking of pulling Qi Ming out before, weren’t you? Isn’t this the perfect chance?”

Mu Yunyao lifted her brows slightly. “Fourth Prince plans to use the Third Prince?”

“He’s the best excuse. We already used him once when we planted Qi Ming. Using him again changes nothing.”

“Fine. The water is muddy enough already. One more splash won’t matter. It’ll drag the Third Prince into it as well.” Mu Yunyao’s lips curved. “I’ll have Sixth Tael pass word in secret. For the next few days, Fourth Prince should still avoid the court. Since you’ve decided to stay away, stay away completely. You only need to take care of the Emperor.”

“Alright.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 620

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 619

~ Stand Tall, Establish the Husband’s Authority ~

After the Beijiang envoys arrived in the capital, they were settled in the courier station. Officials from the station were assigned to look after them, but the reception was far from the careful hospitality they had imagined. The envoys complained loudly, making the station clerks’ lives miserable. Later, they continued to clamor for a meeting with Yu Wang. With no other choice, the clerk could only go and plead before Yu Wang.

When Yu Wang heard about it, he let out a cold laugh in his heart, yet his face wore a pleasant smile.

“Perfect. I was about due to meet these Beijiang envoys anyway.”

This time, Beijiang had sent sixteen men in total. Aside from the chief envoy, Tu Jie, who oversaw the mission, there were six deputy envoys and nine accompanying attendants.

Yu Wang arrived at the courier station and swept his gaze over the Beijiang group seated in the main hall. His brows knit slightly.

“Why are there so many people? Where is Envoy Tu?” With this many gathered together, there was no sense of hierarchy at all. Did they think he would meet just anyone?

The station clerk hurried forward. “Your Royal Highness Yu Wang, the one seated in the middle is Chief Envoy Tu Jie.”

Yu Wang put on an “oh, so that’s him” expression and walked into the hall with a smile.

“So you are Envoy Tu. Long admired, long admired.”

Tu Jie rose, his expression cold. “Your Royal Highness Yu Wang, Beijiang has come with sincerity to request an audience with your country’s emperor. Why have you not arranged for us to enter the palace, but instead kept us staying in the courier station?”

Yu Wang looked at him as if puzzled. “Envoy, what a strange thing to say. I was acting out of goodwill, thinking you should rest and recover for a few days first. How is it that you turn around and accuse me instead?”

“Our Beijiang men are strong and hardy. On the battlefield, we can go seven days and seven nights without sleep and still cut the enemy down until blood runs like a river. This journey was nothing. There is no need for rest.”

As soon as Tu Jie said that, suppressed laughter sounded from behind him.

“Heh. I’ve heard the scholars of Da Li Dynasty proudly call themselves too weak to truss a chicken, and they’re not even ashamed…”

“Exactly. Da Li Dynasty’s people probably couldn’t withstand even one of my iron fists…”
The voices were lowered, but still clear enough for Yu Wang to hear.

Tu Jie curled his lips, his arrogance plain. “Your Royal Highness Yu Wang, I hope you can arrange for us to enter the palace and have an audience as soon as possible.”

Yu Wang nodded. “Fine. Since you gentlemen refuse to rest, then let’s begin preparations.”

“Preparations?” Tu Jie frowned. “What preparations? Our gifts are already prepared. We can enter the palace at any time.”

The smile on Yu Wang’s lips vanished. His gaze sharpened.

“The Da Li Dynasty is a nation of rites. Even if we know that Beijiang customs are fierce and unrestrained, the rules must still be observed. My Imperial Father is the sovereign of the Da Li Dynasty, the most exalted person under Heaven. You must first learn the etiquette for appearing before the throne, and you must bathe and purify yourselves, and change your garments. Otherwise, I can charge you with disrespect before the imperial presence.”

Someone spat out in protest, “We are Beijiang envoys. Why should we follow the Da Li Dynasty’s rules?”

“That’s a good question.” Yu Wang lifted the corner of his mouth, his eyes cool. “If you do not wish to see Da Li’s sovereign, and you do not wish to stand on Da Li’s land, then do whatever you please, and no one will care. But if you do, then you conduct yourselves according to our rules.”

Tu Jie’s face darkened. He was about to retort when someone suddenly coughed lightly. His expression shifted. He clenched his jaw and forced his anger down.

“Then please, Your Royal Highness Yu Wang, make arrangements quickly.”

“Mm. Tomorrow I’ll have people from the Ministry of Rites come over. You will follow their instructions.”

After returning to the palace, Yu Wang went straight to find Yue Wang, his face full of cheer.

Yue Wang was bent over a piece of paper, writing and calculating his assets, figuring out how much of a betrothal gift he should present to show how much he valued Mu Yunyao.

“Fourth Imperial Brother,” Yu Wang said, “what do you think if I send Tian Shouzheng from the Ministry of Rites over there?”

“You’re sending Vice Minister Tian, at his age? Aren’t you afraid you’ll torment him into collapsing?” Tian Shouzheng was famously obsessed with ritual propriety, to the point of being rigid and pedantic.

Many years ago, his daughter was of marriageable age and already engaged. Once, while traveling, their carriage broke down, and she was injured. A passing farmer helped rescue her and, in the process, accidentally touched her upper arm. Tian Shouzheng decided her chastity had been ruined, personally annulled the engagement, and insisted on marrying his daughter off to that farmer.

The farmer already had a wife and children and knew he was unworthy of a young lady of the Tian family. Still, Tian Shouzheng ignored everything and sent his daughter over anyway, even explicitly stating that, since she entered later, she should be taken as a concubine.

The incident was gossiped about all over the capital for a long time. Miss Tian was driven to attempt suicide twice, though she was saved both times. Tian Shouzheng’s wife was heartbroken and took their daughter back to her maiden home, never returning to this day.

If he were sent to teach the Beijiang envoys etiquette, someone would go mad in the end.

Yu Wang did not care much. “I’ll send two imperial physicians along with him. Vice Minister Tian loves reputation. If you hand him this task of showcasing Da Li’s rites, he’ll handle it flawlessly. Right, Fourth Brother, have you looked closely into the delegation Beijiang sent this time?”

“What is it, Second Imperial Brother? Did you notice something?”

“Today, I deliberately provoked the chief envoy, Tu Jie. He was clearly furious and about to strike back, but the moment he heard a cough, he stopped midstream. There were too many people in the hall, and I didn’t catch who coughed. I didn’t want to startle the snake, so I pretended not to notice.”

Yue Wang’s brows drew together. “I’ll investigate. Second Imperial Brother, keep your focus on court affairs. Because of Imperial Aunt’s matter, Eldest Imperial Brother took a hit, but there are still many officials attached to him. Second Imperial Brother must be careful.”

Yu Wang nodded, then hesitated. “Fourth Imperial Brother… do you truly not want to contend, even a little?”

Yue Wang smiled and shook his head. “Second Imperial Brother, my ambitions are not there. You carry the realm in your heart, while I keep only one person in mine. Having Yunyao is enough. People have different aims. I will support Second Imperial Brother with all I have. When you ascend the throne, don’t forget to reward me properly. I’m counting on you to back me up.”

“Even without my reward, you’re an imperial prince, a wang of Da Li. Your backbone is already hard enough. Just remember to establish the husband’s authority.”

“Yunyao is a County Princess, and Imperial Aunt’s only granddaughter. Her backbone is harder than mine.” Yue Wang looked over, his tone full of helplessness.

Yu Wang waved it off. “What’s that got to do with anything? You have a fief, and now you oversee the Ministry of Personnel…”

“Yunyao has Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo. Now that they’ve grown, you could say they reach into embroidery, cloth, silk, tea…” Yue Wang paused, then looked up. “Second Imperial Brother, setting everything else aside, just Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo alone, do you know how much silver those two bring in each year?”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 619