Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 142

Chapter 142: A Wrongly Delivered Letter

“That sounds like a good plan. Let the men write the characters ‘Fu Shou An Kang’ (Longevity, Prosperity, Peace) and collect them. Afterward, the women can embroider them according to the pattern. Once the small characters are stitched together to form the large characters, if there are still any shortcomings, I’ll lead the embroiderers from Niyun Pavilion to help finish the work. This should not delay the New Year’s gift.”

“Good, this sounds perfect!” Madam Jin said with great delight, not expecting that by simply visiting Mu Yunyao to check on her, she would inadvertently solve a significant issue. “But this matter will still require discussion with others. However, it seems nearly settled. You must prepare well, as this matter will require you to coordinate everything.”

“Please rest assured, Madam. I will do my utmost. After all, this is a matter of bringing honor to Jingling City. I must contribute as much as I can.”

“Good. Hearing you say this, I feel at ease.” With the New Year’s gift now settled, Madam Jin smiled even more as she tasted the dishes Su Qing had prepared, praising them enthusiastically.

Su Qing, seeing Madam Jin’s warm attitude, relaxed and paid even more attention to the preparations, even speaking more casually.

After finishing the meal, the two sat together, discussing how to raise children. Su Qing shared some amusing stories from Mu Yunyao’s childhood, which made Madam Jin laugh heartily.

Mu Yunyao, feeling embarrassed, excused herself and left the room. Madam Jin and Su Qing were in high spirits, joking with her before letting her go.

Back in her room, Mu Yunyao’s smile gradually faded.

Jin Lan, noticing the change in her expression, couldn’t help but ask, “Miss, what happened? You were so happy just now?”

“It’s nothing, just feeling a bit sorry for Mother.” She understood that today, her mother had struggled to restrain her awkwardness and unease, forcing herself to interact with Madam Jin and make sure nothing went wrong, all for her sake.

Her mother had realized that what she had said about the dream was true, that they would eventually return to the Su family. That’s why she had worked so hard to become accommodating and meticulous, so that when they went back to the Su family, she could take better care of Mu Yunyao and help her establish a foothold in the Capital.

“Feeling sorry for Madam?”

“You wouldn’t understand if I told you. Go prepare some things. Tonight, I’ll cook for Mother and properly treat her.” She wouldn’t hinder her mother’s transformation out of sympathy; she would silently support her from behind and ensure no one could look down on her.

“Yes, Miss.”

Madam Jin stayed for nearly two hours before leaving. Before she left, she arranged to visit again in a couple of days.

Mu Yunyao entered the room, seeing Su Qing with a smiling face, and her heart felt at ease.

“It seems you and Madam Jin had a pleasant conversation.”

“Madam Jin holds a high status, but she is so kind and gentle with people. It is truly rare,” Su Qing sighed.

“Mother didn’t eat much at lunch, and now she’s been accompanying Madam Jin for half the day. She must be hungry. I made some food myself. Mother, please try it.”

“Good.” Watching Mu Yunyao go and instruct the servants to bring the dishes, Su Qing gently sighed. For Yunyao’s sake, no matter how difficult it was, she had to adapt to interacting with Madam Jin and others, learning those complex social etiquettes. This way, when they returned to the Su family, she could take better care of Yunyao.

The mother and daughter ate happily together. As the day wore on, they chatted for a while before heading to their rooms to rest.

At Yuexi, in the study of Yue Wang’s residence, the lights were still on late into the night.

Yue Wang held the letter and read it over and over again. A strange look appeared in his clear eyes. He hadn’t expected that Mu Yunyao had guessed his identity. What must she be thinking now?

Eunuch Cheng entered with hot tea, carefully placing it beside Yue Wang.

“Your Highness, you’ve read this letter many times. Has there been anything wrong with Old Qin’s side?”

Since receiving the letter ten days ago, His Highness had placed it on the desk, occasionally taking it out to look over it. By now, he could probably recite it by heart.

“It’s nothing,” Yue Wang said, closing the letter, but his mind was not at peace. Seeing Eunuch Cheng preparing to leave, he asked, “Eunuch Cheng, do you have any other thoughts because of my different identity?”

Eunuch Cheng was taken aback, recalling the letter from Qin, guessing that Yue Wang might be disturbed by Mu Yunyao figuring out his true identity. He could not help but speak cautiously.

“Servant has served His Highness for many years. Whether Your Highness is a prince or an ordinary person, you are still my master. How could I have any other thoughts? But since Your Highness asks, is there any concern?”

Yue Wang’s brow furrowed, and he couldn’t quite explain the unease in his heart. After seeing Qin’s letter, his mind had started to wander.

Would Mu Yunyao fear him, be wary of him, or look down on him? Or perhaps, would she not care about him at all? Thinking of any of these possibilities made him feel inexplicably irritated.

Eunuch Cheng saw the changing expressions in his eyes and became even more certain of his own guess. After a moment’s thought, he spoke with subtle implication, “Your Highness need not overthink. Anyone who truly cares for you, regardless of your identity, will always treat you the same.”

Yue Wang’s brow remained furrowed, but he only nodded, turning back to the papers on his desk.

Eunuch Cheng, seeing that he was not in the mood to continue talking, silently withdrew.

Over the next few days, Yue Wang’s expression remained heavy, and Eunuch Cheng, seeing this, was filled with sympathy. He could not help but discuss with Yu Heng.

“What about Mu Yunyao and His Highness?”

Mu Yunyao and His Highness?

Yu Heng thought carefully, then quickly shook his head.

“His Highness only sees Mu Yunyao in the study and has dismissed everyone else. I have never seen it myself, so I don’t know how things are going.”

Eunuch Cheng glared at Yu Heng.

“You are of no help when it counts. You are just like that foolish fool, Yu Yi, wasting resources!”

“Eh? Eunuch Cheng, you called me?” Yu Yi quickly ran in from the door, halting when he saw Eunuch Cheng.

“Didn’t you see I was busy?” Eunuch Cheng snapped.

“No, no, I just came back from Jingling City. It’s getting colder, and I’m not used to the weather.”

“Why are you back?”

“Oh, Eunuch Qin sent me back with a letter. He told me to personally deliver it to His Highness.”

“Has Old Qin sent me a letter?”

Yu Yi took out two letters and looked at them. Not knowing if it was a rush from Qin, the envelope wasn’t marked with who it was for. He quickly thought back to Qin’s words, shaking his head.

“Qin said to personally deliver it to His Highness. He didn’t say it was for you.”

Eunuch Cheng looked at the envelope and realized that it wasn’t addressed to him. He thought maybe this time Old Qin didn’t write to him. Nodding, he said, “The Prince is in the study. You go and deliver the letter to him quickly.”

“Yes.”

Yu Yi entered with the letters and handed them to Yue Wang, who felt the weight of the letters. His brow furrowed deeper. He looked at Yu Yi.

“Go rest for two days.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

The two letters were of similar weight. Yue Wang carefully weighed the heavier one, opened it, and his brow twitched.

At that moment, in Jingling City, Eunuch Qin happily organized the ledgers. Suddenly, he shuddered and mumbled to himself.

“Looking at the days, the letter should have arrived in Yuexi by now. I wonder if Old Cheng has seen the letter I sent him.”

To encourage Old Cheng to put in more effort to matchmake, he had emphasized in the letter that Mu Yunyao had deep feelings for Yue Wang. He thought to himself that if Mu Yunyao didn’t constantly care for and worry about Yue Wang, how could she have thought of roasting ginger tea to help him through the winter?

As the saying goes, “A goose feather sent thousands of miles away, light in gift but heavy in sentiment.” Even though Jingling City and Yuexi were thousands of miles apart, Mu Yunyao had roasted the ginger tea and sent it over. This friendship was certainly weighty and boundless.

“Hopefully, His Highness will embrace this golden girl soon! Then, we will all feel at ease.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 142

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 141

Chapter 141: Madam Jin Offers Advice

When Madam Jin saw Su Qing, her smile grew even more sincere.

“Between you and me, where is the need for so much ceremony? Hurry and rise. Come sit. I was just having Yunyao take my pulse. A moment ago, I even said I was craving the dishes you make.”

Su Qing still felt somewhat restrained inside, but she did her best to control it. With a graceful and natural manner, she walked to the seat below Madam Jin and sat down.

“I heard from Si Qin just now that Madam had arrived, so I immediately instructed people to prepare food. Madam only needs to wait a short while, and there will be something to eat.”

“That is wonderful. Today, I can truly satisfy my appetite.”

“Please rest for a moment, Madam. I will go to the kitchen and take a look, so they can prepare everything more carefully.”

“Thank you for the trouble.”

“Madam is too polite.”

After Su Qing left, Mu Yunyao withdrew her fingers and helped Madam Jin straighten the sleeve around her wrist.

“Madam has indeed recovered well. Your pulse is very steady. The child must be extremely healthy.”

“That is good. That is good!”

Joy appeared between Madam Jin’s brows.

“Right. I heard that you took in a girl from the Charity Child Bureau named Cai Qing, as well as several children?”

“Yes. I saw that they were extremely pitiful, and I also happen to lack hands here, so I let them come over to help.”

Madam Jin could not help sighing.

“You are simply kind-hearted.”

Whether it was Niyun Pavilion or Buxian Tower, finding people to help would only take a single word. Where would she need to use several children?

Mu Yunyao only smiled lightly and did not explain further. In Madam Jin’s eyes, this manner confirmed the guess in her heart even more.

“Yunyao, I also heard that Tan Lin, the owner of Caiyue Pavilion, came to you twice. He did not make trouble for you, did he?”

“At first, he wanted me to speak on behalf of Tan Bawang. But I am insignificant and my words carry little weight. How could I help with such a matter? Later, he heard that I intended to teach embroidery stitches, so he took the initiative to offer help. I thought that having one more person help would also be good. It would allow more people to benefit.”

Madam Jin paused.

“What you mean is… you intend to spread the embroidery stitches you know to other places?”

“Teaching them in one place is still teaching. Teaching them in many places is also teaching. Besides, these techniques will sooner or later spread everywhere. Rather than that, it is better for us to give them a push. That way, people will feel a little more gratitude toward Jingling City.”

Madam Jin’s thoughts turned quickly.

“What you said is not wrong. But if we are the ones to do this, would it not be somewhat improper?”

Spreading them within the limited scope of Jingling City could still count as a piece of merit. But once other places became involved, it would become a charitable act that gathered the people’s hearts. People like them were not qualified enough to take on such a matter.

Confusion appeared on Mu Yunyao’s face.

“Have the embroidery stitches not already spread throughout Jingling City? Teaching them in other places would only expand the range a little and allow more women to benefit. How is that improper?”

Madam Jin explained, “Within Jingling City, the influence is limited. But once it expands to other places, more and more people will become involved, and the matter will no longer be so simple. Jiangnan’s powers are especially tangled and complex. For a charitable act like this, one that gathers the people’s hearts, who knows how many people would become red-eyed with envy? The best way is to compile the embroidery stitches into a booklet and present it to the Emperor!”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes trembled slightly.

Since Madam Jin could say these words, it meant she truly regarded her as one of her own and was thinking entirely for her sake. Thinking of Su Qing’s earlier teaching, Mu Yunyao could not help putting down a trace of her guard. She spoke frankly to Madam Jin.

“But I have already reached an agreement with the owner of Caiyue Pavilion. I wanted to use Caiyue Pavilion to spread the embroidery stitches more quickly. In this case, would that not harm him…”

“Caiyue Pavilion…”

Madam Jin thought briefly, then asked urgently, “Have you signed a contract with Caiyue Pavilion?”

“I did. But the contract was drafted by Caiyue Pavilion’s owner. Because I was worried Tan Bawang would retaliate afterward, I deliberately kept a safeguard. When I signed, I did not use my own handwriting. The seal paste used for the handprint was also specially treated. After enough time passes, it will blur into an indistinct patch. Also, the owner of Caiyue Pavilion feared that word would leak and draw the attention of other embroidery workshops, so he asked me to keep the matter hidden for him and not let anyone notice that he had sent embroiderers here to study…”

Madam Jin could not help laughing. She reached out and gently tapped Mu Yunyao between the brows.

“They say kindness brings kind rewards. You girl, you have done many good deeds on ordinary days, and now heaven has treated you well. Good. This little bit of caution was used well. Since that is the case, we do not need to worry. Did Caiyue Pavilion say when they will send the embroiderers over for you to teach?”

“Judging from how anxious he looked, I imagine they will come within these two days.”

“I will have someone handle this matter. You can teach the embroidery stitches with peace of mind. As for everything else, pretend you know nothing. As for that contract, since there are no traces of you left on it at all, naturally it cannot be counted as valid. Since it is something that cannot be counted, do not mention it again if others ask about it in the future. Do you understand what I mean?”

Mu Yunyao thought briefly, then nodded solemnly.

“Yes. I will listen to Madam. But in that case, will it bring trouble to you and Lord Cao?”

“Do not worry. Even if there is some trouble, we can pass through it smoothly. Overall, the benefits outweigh the harm.”

Madam Jin thought for a moment, then added, “As for the booklet of embroidery stitches, you still need to make it as soon as possible. When the right time comes, I will have someone take it to the Capital and present it to the Emperor.”

“Yes. Starting today, I will begin preparing it and try to finish it as early as possible!”

“There is no need to rush too much. As long as you can complete it within one or two months, that will be enough.”

Mu Yunyao nodded.

“All right. By the way, Madam previously said that you wanted to prepare a New Year gift for the Emperor. Have you thought of anything?”

“I thought of a few things, but I truly could not think of anything fresh. If there is really no other way, I can only follow the usual practice.”

Only this year, Jingling City had received the Emperor’s reward. If they could stand out through the New Year gift and make the Emperor value them a little more, that would be an added blessing and would benefit all of Jingling City.

“Just now, hearing Madam speak of organizing the embroidery stitches, I suddenly thought of a method. I only do not know whether it can succeed,” Mu Yunyao said carefully.

“Hurry and tell me.”

Her thoughts were always different from those of others. Perhaps she really had a good idea.

“Since we received the Emperor’s reward because of embroidery stitches, why not send the Emperor an embroidered work?”

“An embroidered work? Would such a gift be too light?”

“Although an embroidered work may seem light, that still depends on how it is completed. What if every woman in Jingling City embroidered a few stitches, and together, they completed an astonishing masterpiece?”

Mu Yunyao smiled gently, her bright eyes looking toward Madam Jin.

“If that is the case, then this embroidered work would contain the blessings of all the women of Jingling City toward the Emperor. Its meaning would naturally be extraordinary…”

Madam Jin’s eyes lit up.

Mu Yunyao smiled and nodded.

“I heard that some years ago, when the former Yangzhou Prefect was transferred, the common people remembered his integrity and achievements. They sent a Ten-Thousand-People Umbrella to the Capital, which moved the Emperor deeply. The Emperor heavily rewarded the former Yangzhou Prefect and even made an exception by promoting him three ranks in succession. Although what we send is not a Ten-Thousand-People Umbrella, its meaning would be similar.”

“Yes, only…”

“Madam feels that this embroidered work would be completed only by women, so the number of people included is still a little too small?”

Madam Jin nodded.

“Exactly.”

“Then, let all the embroidery workshops in the surrounding areas participate as well. Let all the women who can embroider take part.”

Madam Jin’s eyes lit up even more.

Mu Yunyao smiled and nodded.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 141

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 140

Chapter 140: Repaying Resentment with Virtue?

“Although Niyun Pavilion has a resounding reputation in Jingling City, it has also drawn no small amount of secret jealousy. I spread the embroidery stitches because I want the golden signboard above my head to become even more stable. Therefore, I will help Master Tan train embroiderers and teach everything I know without holding anything back. When Master Tan passes the embroidery stitches down, you should tell everyone where these stitches came from.”

Tan Lin frowned.

“I can publicize Miss’s contribution, but how can I make sure that Miss has taught everything she knows?”

“In the future, when it comes to embroidery, Master Tan may keep an eye on Niyun Pavilion at all times. If you see me using a new embroidery stitch, you may bring people to my door, or even report me directly to the authorities.”

“Then one more point must be added. Miss may only cooperate with Caiyue Pavilion.”

“Very well. Other embroidery workshops do not have Caiyue Pavilion’s strength either. Why should I abandon what is near and seek what is far?”

Seeing Mu Yunyao agree, a trace of joy appeared on Tan Lin’s face.

Mu Yunyao continued, “Cai Qing and her younger brothers and sister have already signed life-sale contracts. From now on, they are servants of my household. I hope your son will not trouble them again.”

Although she had not agreed to help, Caiyue Pavilion’s influence still could not be underestimated. After some investigation, Tan Bawang would most likely be locked up for only two months before being released. Even if the punishment was heavier, Tan Lin had enough silver to help him offset the crime.

“Good.”

Tan Lin agreed readily. A few servants were not worth placing in his eyes.

The smile on Mu Yunyao’s face deepened.

“Since that is the case, please have Master Tan draft the contract. That way, I imagine you can feel more at ease.”

Tan Lin thought about it. This would only benefit him and cause no harm. It would also prevent Mu Yunyao from drafting the contract and hiding loopholes inside that he could not discover. The young girl before him was not old, but her thoughts were extremely deep. Otherwise, how could she have risen so smoothly in Jingling City within such a short time?

Fearing that delay would bring trouble, and because Tan Lin had already considered the matter carefully before coming, he asked for paper and brush and began drafting the contract on the spot.

Mu Yunyao quietly sipped her tea. Tan Lin had inherited his father’s business and expanded Caiyue Pavilion step by step. If not for his refined calculations and excellent methods, Caiyue Pavilion would have long since vanished among the crowd. Therefore, seeing him write the contract on the spot did not surprise her much.

Tan Lin spent nearly an hour before finishing the document and handing it to Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao took it and carefully read through it. Then she nodded.

“Master Tan has written it thoroughly and thoughtfully. Since that is the case, let us make two copies. After the contract is signed, you may send the embroiderers to Jingling City.”

“If I send the embroiderers over so openly, and the other embroidery workshops find out, will they interfere?”

Although there was a contract, he could not stop others from trying to insert themselves into the matter. He had offered such a generous gift, and for the moment, had even set aside his own son, all because he wanted to hold this fat piece of meat firmly in his mouth. He would not allow anything to go wrong again.

“How about this? Recently, I have been preparing to count the people from other places who have come to Niyun Pavilion to learn embroidery stitches. Master Tan may select a portion of Caiyue Pavilion’s best embroiderers and send them over. I will treat them as ordinary outsiders and teach them together with the rest. This way, it should not attract attention.”

“That is the only way. I wonder how long Miss will need to finish teaching the embroidery stitches?”

“That will depend on the aptitude of the embroiderers Master Tan sends. If they are talented and intelligent, half a month will be enough.”

“Good. I will return and make arrangements now, so I will not disturb Miss any further.”

Mu Yunyao stood and personally escorted Tan Lin out.

“Master Tan, take care.”

“Miss, please stay.”

After Tan Lin left in high spirits, Jin Lan entered to tidy the tea set. Yet her eyes kept looking toward Mu Yunyao.

Seeing her expression of wanting to speak but holding back, Mu Yunyao felt uncomfortable on her behalf.

“Do you think I should not have handed such a good opportunity to Tan Lin?”

“Yes. This servant has followed Miss for quite some time. I always feel that, with Miss’s temperament, you have always been clear about kindness and grudges. Tan Bawang had malicious thoughts and framed you. Even if Caiyue Pavilion is powerful, you would not repay resentment with virtue like this!”

Mu Yunyao smiled. A flash of light passed through her lowered eyes.

“Until the very end, no one can decide whether something is good or bad. Just watch slowly.”

Three days later, Jin Qiao entered and reported to Su Qing and Mu Yunyao.

“Madam, Miss, County Magistrate Zhao held court and concluded Tan Bawang’s case of forcibly seizing a common woman. Because Tan Bawang’s servants insisted that they had egged him on from the side and caused him to have wicked thoughts, they also said that they were the ones who injured A'Mao, Nan’er, and the others. Li’er was also abducted by them. The false accusation against Miss was also their crooked idea and had nothing much to do with Tan Bawang. Therefore, only some silver was confiscated, and Tan Bawang was locked up for three months.”

Su Qing could not help frowning.

“That Tan Bawang nearly beat Nan’er and A'Mao to death. And it is settled just like this?”

Mu Yunyao did not feel surprised.

“Mother, there is no need to be too angry. Those two servants shouldered most of the crimes and instead protected Tan Bawang. I imagine Tan Lin must have operated behind the scenes. However, good and evil receive their reward in the end. The punishment he deserves will not be escaped.”

Su Qing nodded and instructed Jin Lan, Cai Qing, and the others.

“Then in the future, we must be more careful in how we act, lest Tan Bawang come looking for trouble again after he comes out.”

“Yes, Madam.”

After lunch, Jin Lan quickly ran over to report, “Miss, Madam Jin has arrived.”

Mu Yunyao quickly stood and straightened her skirt.

“Hurry and invite Madam in.”

Madam Jin wore a pale lotus-purple silk skirt, matched with a red jadeite tortoiseshell hairpin. She looked especially bright and beautiful.

“Greetings, Madam.”

“Quickly rise. These past few days, seeing that you were busy, I did not come over every day. I did not expect so many things to have happened here.”

As Madam Jin spoke, her tone carried a little reproach.

“When something happened, why did you not come find me?”

Mu Yunyao quickly supported her arm and led her inside to sit. Then she instructed Jin Lan to brew a cup of flower-fruit tea.

“They were only small matters. How would I dare trouble Madam? Right now, the most important thing for you is to calmly nurse your body. That is far more important than my small matters.”

Madam Jin could not help smiling.

“You always speak reasonably. Yesterday, County Magistrate Zhao’s wife came to visit me. She told me about Tan Bawang’s matter and asked me to come here and inform you, fearing that you would hold a grudge in your heart.”

“Madam Chen truly worries too much. County Magistrate Zhao handled the matter impartially. How could I hold any grudge?”

“I told her the same thing. The days ahead are long. Nothing is decided in one morning or one evening.”

Madam Jin’s tone carried deep meaning.

Mu Yunyao could not help smiling.

“Is it not exactly as Madam says?”

Seeing that she understood her meaning, Madam Jin did not say more. Instead, she stretched out her wrist for Mu Yunyao to take her pulse.

“Come quickly and take a look for me. I feel very well these past two days. It is all thanks to the delicious food your mother made for me. Even now, thinking of it makes me terribly greedy.”

Mu Yunyao was just about to speak when Su Qing walked in.

“Greetings, Madam Jin.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 140

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 139

Chapter 139: A Lavish Gift

Mu Yunyao gave a soft laugh.

“Niyun Pavilion has gained a firm foothold in Jingling City, but Jingling City is still too small after all. Now that everything is ready, it is time to expand it elsewhere. I was worrying over this matter, and Master Tan came to my door on his own. He can truly be considered to have helped me greatly.”

“Miss, explain it in detail. Let me share in the joy as well.”

After hearing Mu Yunyao repeat the conversation from earlier, Steward Qin could not help feeling somewhat worried.

“Miss, teaching embroidery stitches is a great merit. How can you bear to hand it over to Tan Lin?”

Would the merit and reputation not all be earned by Caiyue Pavilion?

“Whether it is Niyun Pavilion or Buxian Tower, what I seek is not reputation.”

Her original intention had always been to earn silver. Teaching embroidery stitches to gain a reputation was also for the sake of laying a foundation, so she could earn silver more quickly. If she blindly fought for credit, that would truly be putting the cart before the horse.

Steward Qin suddenly understood.

“I was thinking in the wrong direction. Niyun Pavilion’s fame is already brilliant enough. It is also good to let Caiyue Pavilion stand in front and bear the attention.”

“That is right. Let Caiyue Pavilion busy itself. Once the embroidery stitches spread to more places, we can directly go there to select embroiderers and open more Niyun Pavilions.”

“If that is the case, after the embroiderers in Caiyue Pavilion improve their embroidery skills, will they steal our business?”

“Steward Qin, do not worry. The embroidery work is not the most important part of the garments sold by Niyun Pavilion. Even if Caiyue Pavilion has the same embroidery skills, does it have our golden signboard?

“Whether it is the Niyun Beauty Catalog or the Niyun Beauty Ranking, we have already spread our reputation in the early stage. Even if Caiyue Pavilion catches up from behind, it will only be Dong Shi imitating Xi Shi. You can set your heart at ease. If I were not confident, I would not dare take such a risk.”

“Yes. Hearing Miss say this, my heart feels much steadier.”

Liu Liang handled matters extremely quickly. When Mu Yunyao returned home from Jinxiu Garden, he had already delivered the amount of silver calculated by Qi Ming.

After roughly sweeping her eyes over it and finding no problem, Mu Yunyao directly handed the banknotes to Liu Liang.

“Have Qi Ming buy the grain as soon as possible. These days, many merchants are coming and going through Jingling City. If possible, try to conceal it as much as he can. After all, suddenly buying this much grain may cause unnecessary misunderstandings if word spreads.”

“Master, rest assured. I have already instructed Qi Ming. This grain will all be disguised as fresh leaves used for roasting tea. No one will notice.”

“Good.”

Mu Yunyao did not ask Liu Liang for more details. This person’s origins were a mystery, and she did not know when this master-servant connection between them would end. As long as he did not develop any malicious intentions toward her, the rest could be left as it was.

Liu Liang withdrew from the room. Waves of disappointment surged through his heart. He did not dare explain his identity to Mu Yunyao, yet her attitude of not asking or interfering made him feel as if he were dispensable.

Early the next morning, Mu Yunyao arrived at Jinxiu Garden to see Steward Qin.

“I have already had someone go buy rice and grain. I imagine that in a few days, the grain will be transported back one batch after another. Has Steward Qin chosen a place?”

Once the grain was bought back, it had to be ground into flour, then fried with ginger, green vegetables, and other ingredients. Not only would they need a place, but they would also need many hands.

“Miss, rest assured. His Highness once bought a country estate. That place is hidden, and few people go there on ordinary days. Many farmers nearby work on the estate, and they are all trustworthy. We can have them help.”

Steward Qin’s heart was excited. Once this batch of ginger tea was delivered to Yuexi, the soldiers under His Highness would be able to live a little more comfortably.

Looking at Steward Qin’s happy appearance, Mu Yunyao suddenly lifted the corners of her lips.

“Did Steward Qin not say before that His Highness’s days were extremely poor and difficult? Then where did the silver used to buy Jinxiu Garden and the country estate come from?”

“Cough…”

Steward Qin said, “His Highness spent all the savings he had accumulated over many years on these two places. In the Capital and Xiling, any random wastrel from an influential family spends money like flowing water. His Highness struggled for many years and barely saved enough silver to buy a place where he could settle down. The difference between them is truly…”

Steward Qin sighed heavily.

Seeing Steward Qin’s embarrassed expression, Mu Yunyao nodded.

“That is true. His Highness truly has not had it easy.”

For intelligent people, it was enough to stop after making the point. This way, they would know she was not someone easy to fool.

“Yes. In the future, I will still need Miss Mu to take good care of him.”

Mu Yunyao paused. The words “take good care of him” could not be said casually. Even if Yue Wang was not favored, he was still an imperial prince. How could she possibly be someone who could take care of him?

Just as she was about to speak, Jin Lan entered and interrupted her.

“Miss, Master Tan has arrived.”

Steward Qin quickly took his leave.

“Then I will go busy myself first. If Miss needs anything, please send someone to give me instructions at once.”

At this moment, it was no longer convenient to explain. Mu Yunyao could only nod in response.

“Invite him in.”

This time, Tan Lin brought many people with him. They carried more than a dozen chests. The moment he saw Mu Yunyao, he came forward with a face full of smiles.

“Greetings, Miss Mu!”

Anyone who saw the sincere smile on his face would never believe that there was a deep grudge between the two of them.

Mu Yunyao sighed inwardly. Based on this ability to endure alone, Tan Lin cannot be underestimated.

“Greetings, Master Tan. This is…”

Seeing Mu Yunyao look toward the chests behind him, Tan Lin signaled for the servants to open them.

“Miss Mu and I both run embroidery workshops. Here are some fabrics, embroidery threads, and similar items. I wanted to ask Miss to help look at their quality. Naturally, Miss is busy, and I cannot take up your time for nothing. There is also a small gift here. Please accept it with a smile.”

Jin Lan took the box from Tan Lin and brought it before Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao lowered her eyes and swept a glance over it. Her eyelids could not help trembling slightly. The box was not large, but it was filled with banknotes. At the very least, there were seventy or eighty thousand taels inside.

This was truly a generous hand.

Mu Yunyao did not respond for a long time. Tan Lin did not urge her either. He continued standing below with a smile on his face.

After a long while, Mu Yunyao finally spoke.

“These past two days, Buxian Tower has released a new batch of tea leaves. I will personally brew two cups and invite Master Tan to judge them. How does that sound?”

“It would be my honor.”

A burst of wild joy flashed through Tan Lin’s heart.

This matter had succeeded.

Mu Yunyao personally brewed the tea. Her superb tea artistry left Tan Lin marveling in admiration.

“No wonder Buxian Tower has caused tea arts to become fashionable for a time. Miss Mu’s tea-brewing skill is truly pleasing to the eye.”

“Master Tan flatters me. What I am better at is still embroidery. Only, I am merely a weak woman. If I can live peacefully in Jingling City, I will already be satisfied. As for other matters, I will still need Master Tan’s help.”

“That is only natural. Miss may rest assured. Caiyue Pavilion has branches everywhere. It will certainly be able to carry Miss’s embroidery skills forward and make them flourish.”

Mu Yunyao smiled and nodded.

“That would naturally be best.”

Tan Lin took a sip of tea.

“Since Miss favors Caiyue Pavilion, should Caiyue Pavilion and Niyun Pavilion sign a written contract? That way, both of us can feel more at ease.”

Mu Yunyao nodded.

“That is only natural. After all related matters are discussed, we will naturally sign a contract. Master Tan is also a straightforward man, so I will speak plainly.”

“Miss, please speak freely.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 139

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 138

Chapter 138: Will You Discuss This Deal?

The next day, after Steward Qin heard that Mu Yunyao was going to meet Tan Lin, he directly cleared out Xiaoxiang Bamboo Courtyard. He even transferred Wei Yi over to help brew tea. Wei Yi’s tea-brewing skill was not considered top-tier, but his martial arts were the best. If that Tan Six-Fingers had a bad attitude, Wei Yi could throw him out directly.

When Mu Yunyao heard this, warmth rose slightly in her heart. No matter whether she and Yue Wang would turn against each other in the future, for now, she felt that getting along with Steward Qin and the others was quite pleasant.

“Many thanks, Steward Qin.”

“Miss need not be polite. This is not Huai’an City. If that Tan Six-Fingers wants to throw his weight around, he will have to weigh things carefully first.”

“I understand.”

Tan Lin arrived on time. He was in his forties and wore a dark blue brocade robe. His bearing appeared extraordinary.

Mu Yunyao’s eyes moved slightly. It was truly hard to imagine that Tan Lin had raised a son like Tan Bawang.

“Greetings, Miss Mu.”

“Greetings, Master Tan.”

“Jinxiu Garden has a new scene at every step. Walking all the way here made one reluctant to leave. Miss Mu’s exquisite thoughts truly inspire admiration!”

Without such exquisite thoughts, she would not have been able to trap his son so miserably.

Mu Yunyao smiled faintly. She knew that the “exquisite thoughts” he spoke of carried hidden mockery, but none of it showed on her face.

“Jinxiu Garden’s original scenery was already good. I merely made slight repairs and arranged some tables and chairs. When the foundation is good, the scenery will naturally be good.”

For someone like Tan Bawang, whose conduct was improper from the beginning, ending up like this was also deserved.

Tan Lin’s smile stiffened. A trace of coldness showed in his eyes.

“I have only been in Jingling City for two short days, but Miss Mu’s reputation has already thundered in my ears. Everyone says that you are the kindest person.”

“There is no question of being kind or not. Cai Qing and the others were pitiful, so I helped them. But if someone bullies me to my face, I will not hold back when I strike. I imagine Master Tan should have heard of the Ding family. Back then, when the Ding family ruined Niyun Pavilion’s reputation, I did not show the slightest mercy when I struck back.”

Tan Lin burned with anger. He had only one son, Tan Bawang, so he had spoiled him excessively since childhood and raised him into someone lawless. In the past, he had kept him confined to Huai’an City. Even if something happened, he could still do his best to smooth it over. Who would have thought that Tan Bawang would cause trouble in Jingling City and be directly arrested by County Magistrate Zhao and thrown into prison?

If not for the sake of this only heir, why would he show such a pleasant face to a little girl like Mu Yunyao?

“Miss Mu, to be honest, I came this time for my unworthy son. On ordinary days, his temperament is mild and peaceful. Who knew that after coming to Jingling City, he would be instigated by servants, and that lowly maid called Cai Qing would deliberately seduce him? Only then did he make such a great mistake. May I ask Miss to show mercy and let him go?”

As he spoke, he actually bent deeply in a full bow toward Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao quickly stood and moved aside to avoid his bow.

“Master Tan, although this matter involves me, what exactly happened in the middle still requires Lord Zhao to investigate clearly. You came to find me, but I truly have the heart to help and not the strength.”

“Miss has ties with the Governor’s wife and Madam Jin. As long as they let one word slip, I imagine my son can come out safe and sound. As long as Miss is willing to speak, then I, Tan Lin, and Caiyue Pavilion will owe Miss an enormous favor. In the future, there will certainly be generous repayment.”

“I only made two sets of clothes for the Governor’s wife and Madam Jin. That cannot be called friendship. They are also women of the inner household. How could they speak to County Magistrate Zhao? Besides, from what Master Tan just said, your son’s mistakes were all caused by circumstances. If Lord Zhao handles the matter impartially, I imagine there should not be any serious problem.”

Tan Lin’s face twitched slightly. Anger lingered in his eyes.

“Looking at it this way, Miss Mu is unwilling to let my son go no matter what?”

Mu Yunyao’s expression also cooled.

“I have already explained it clearly to Master Tan. As for what is right and wrong, Lord Zhao will make his own judgment. If your son made no mistake, who could wrong him?”

“You clearly already accepted the silver I gave you, yet now you go back on your word. You…”

Mu Yunyao interrupted him.

“Master Tan sent me silver. Was it not because you had business to discuss with me?”

“What business could I possibly have with you?”

“It seems I misunderstood.”

Mu Yunyao looked toward Jin Lan.

“Jin Lan, bring Master Tan’s silver over.”

Mu Yunyao handed the banknotes to Tan Lin.

“I previously thought Master Tan had heard that I was looking for embroidery workshops to cooperate with, so you had specially come to discuss it. It turns out that I misunderstood. I am truly sorry. As for your son’s matter, I really cannot help. Jin Lan, see the guest out.”

“Wait. Miss Mu said just now that you are looking for embroidery workshops to cooperate with? What does that mean?”

Tan Lin’s heart jumped. Niyun Pavilion had received the Emperor’s reward, and its reputation could be said to be exceptionally resounding. Countless embroidery workshops were already red-eyed with envy over Niyun Pavilion’s profits. If word of cooperation spread, the embroidery workshops that came begging at the door would likely flatten the threshold.

“Niyun Pavilion can be considered firmly established in Jingling City. The embroidery stitches have also been taught. Recently, many people from other places have come to Jingling City wanting to learn embroidery. Seeing their sincere attitude, I felt deeply moved, so I thought of expanding the scope of teaching these embroidery stitches.

“However, my heart is willing, but my strength is insufficient. I can only find some embroidery workshops to cooperate with. Naturally, Caiyue Pavilion would be the first choice.”

Tan Lin restrained the excitement in his heart and repeatedly studied Mu Yunyao’s expression. Suddenly, a look of sorrow appeared on his face.

“Miss Mu, just now I was truly too anxious. After all, at my age, I have only this one child. If something happens to him, I fear there will be no one to see me off at the end of my life. For my earlier rudeness, I ask Miss Mu to forgive me!”

Because the Niyun Pavilion had spread embroidery stitches, it had received the Emperor’s reward. But in the end, it was still limited to the small scope of Jingling City. Caiyue Pavilion was different. In every prosperous city of the Dali Dynasty, there were branches of Caiyue Pavilion. If used well, this merit would be enough to let Caiyue Pavilion soar to the sky in one leap.

Mu Yunyao still had displeasure on her face as she pushed the invitation card with the banknotes tucked inside back toward Tan Lin.

“I can understand everything Master Tan said. So please hurry and go save your son. I will not delay your time.”

Tan Lin quickly pushed the banknotes back.

“I came in a hurry today and did not have time to bring Miss Mu a proper gift. Tomorrow, I will come again for a formal visit.”

Mu Yunyao thought for a moment, then nodded slightly.

“Then I will receive Master Tan again tomorrow.”

Hearing Mu Yunyao agree, Tan Lin’s heart filled with joy.

“Farewell.”

“Jin Lan, see the guest out.”

After Tan Lin left, Steward Qin walked in.

“Miss, did that Tan Lin come to make things difficult for you?”

Mu Yunyao’s face was full of smiles. She lightly tapped the invitation card on the table.

“This Master Tan is a God of Wealth. See? The silver to buy grain for His Highness has arrived.”

The silver she earned from making clothes could now be saved.

Steward Qin froze. When he saw the banknotes scattered from the middle of the invitation card, he suddenly became delighted.

“This… there should be twenty thousand taels here. Was it sent by Tan Lin?”

“Yes. At first, he wanted to ask me to plead for Tan Bawang. After I refused, he left the banknotes behind as a gift.”

“He was refused, but instead of flying into a rage out of shame, he left the banknotes as a gift?”

Steward Qin could not help muttering inwardly.

Could that Tan Lin be a fool?

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 138

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 137

Chapter 137: The Owner of Caiyue Pavilion Arrives

Mu Yunyao had not expected Steward Qin to react so strongly.

“In truth, these are all ordinary seasonings. It only takes some care to roast and fry them. The cost is not much higher than ordinary grain. In fact, many merchants who travel to different places for business in winter carry some ginger tea with them. Has Steward Qin never heard of it?”

Steward Qin froze. Then he shook his head with a bitter smile.

“I have made Miss laugh at me. I accompanied His Highness out of the palace, so naturally, I never came into contact with such things while we were in the imperial palace. Later, after we arrived in Yuexi, the land there was poor in resources and sparsely populated. In winter, we often had to endure hunger and cold. Even His Highness himself had to be extremely frugal with a single basin of charcoal fire.

“There are some cities around us, but the prices of rice and flour there are far too high. The monthly military pay issued by the imperial court cannot even buy one sheng of rice. Moreover, now the imperial court is even withholding that military pay…”

Listening to Steward Qin’s account, Mu Yunyao grew increasingly surprised.

She had only met Yue Wang twice. The first time, she had fallen from a carriage and landed at his feet. At that time, she had only felt that the person before her carried a coolness like water all around him. His blade-like brows and eyes were filled with sharp coldness. One glance at him seemed capable of cutting through even the mind.

The second time was when Jin Wang sent her to Yue Wang’s Residence. She had only seen him hurriedly in the room before fainting.

Most of her impression of Yue Wang came from the complaints she had once heard from Jin Wang. At that time, Yue Wang had already taken charge of the imperial guards and guarded the palace city. His status could also be considered imposing and powerful. She had not expected that his life in Yuexi had been so bitter.

A dignified imperial prince, and the Empress’s legitimate son at that, actually had to worry about his livelihood. If this were said aloud, many people would likely hear it as a joke.

Steward Qin sighed heavily.

“His Highness went to Yuexi when he was twelve. In the very year he arrived, he became seriously ill and almost could not be treated. Later, His Highness did all he could to develop the place, but the conditions were limited. Even now, when winter comes, people still often starve to death.

“Those of us who accompany His Highness are truly useless. We cannot help him much. Fortunately, there is Miss Mu. If this ginger tea can be transported to Yuexi, it will truly be a great help.”

No wonder Steward Qin had hurriedly sent the silver to Yue Wang before. It turned out that he truly lacked money. Judging from this situation, that place likely lacked everything.

“In that case, I will make arrangements as soon as possible. I will first roast and prepare a batch of ginger tea, then have it sent to His Highness.”

“Good. Many thanks, Miss. If there is anything I can help with, please give your orders. I will return to Jinxiu Garden first and write a letter to tell His Highness this good news.”

“Mm.”

When Steward Qin left, he was still reluctant to part with the ginger tea in his hands. He directly carried the bowl away with him.

Mu Yunyao looked at his departing figure and could not help curling her lips into a smile.

She believed that Yuexi’s conditions were poor, but they were definitely not as miserable as Steward Qin had said. After all, if they truly did not even have food to eat, how would Yue Wang have the ability to cultivate his own forces?

However, these things had nothing to do with her. She only wanted to use the ginger tea to make Yue Wang owe her a favor. In the future, when he rose to power, she could borrow his influence and make her own affairs more convenient.

Mu Yunyao thought carefully for a moment, then called Liu Liang in.

“Master.”

“Liu Liang, do you have anyone under you who is good at business?”

Whether it was Liu Liang, Shopkeeper Qian, Ding Yuelan, or the others, too many people in Jingling City knew them. If they went to buy grain in large quantities, it would draw far too much attention.

“Yes. Qi Ming. He is good at doing business.”

“Good.”

Mu Yunyao nodded and handed over the paper in her hand.

“The things I need are written on this. Take it to Qi Ming and let him look at it. Have him investigate the prices and calculate the total amount of silver. Then report back to me.”

“Yes, Master.”

On the other side, Steward Qin carried a bowl of ginger tea back to Jinxiu Garden. The smile at the corners of his eyes and brows was difficult to hide, making Yu Yi, who saw him, extremely curious.

“Steward Qin, what are you carrying? It smells quite good.”

Steward Qin quickly dodged aside.

“This is a treasure. Hurry and go attend to the guests. Do not ask what you should not ask. Wait. I remember we have quite a few jewelry sets and hair ornaments here, do we not?”

“We do have quite a few, but those things were all left behind by that person. Although Master did not say anything, it would be better if we did not use them lightly…”

“Choose a set that does not reveal its origin and send it to Miss Mu.”

Yu Yi was startled.

“Steward Qin, should this not be discussed with Master?”

“If I tell you to send it, then send it. If Master asks about it, just say I told you to send it. It will not implicate you. Hmph.”

After Steward Qin finished speaking, he directly carried the ginger tea away.

After arriving at the study, he slowly finished drinking the ginger tea. Feeling the warm, full sensation in his stomach, Steward Qin could not help sighing. If they had met Miss Mu earlier, His Highness would not have had to suffer so much.

However, every drink and every bite was governed by fate. It was not too late now. His Highness’s fortune had finally arrived!

After finishing two letters, Steward Qin handed them to Yu Yi.

“Deliver them personally to Master. They are extremely important.”

Yu Yi’s expression became stern, and he quickly nodded.

“Yes.”

After Mu Yunyao finished instructing Liu Liang, she settled down and watched over the progress of Niyun Pavilion.

Now that there were several more storefronts given by the Governor’s wife, Niyun Pavilion’s scale had risen to another level. She did not plan to rebuild the shops below. They only needed to be carefully renovated, and for the time being, they could still be used as Niyun Pavilion’s storefronts.

The Niyun Beauty Catalog had already been completed. After Mu Yunyao carefully checked it and found no problems, she directly followed the usual practice and sent one copy to each residence.

Now, her status was different from before, after all. The booklets had only just been sent out when she received many letters ordering custom garments. It could be said that as long as she opened her mouth, nearly forty thousand taels of silver would immediately enter her account.

This was just right. Since she intended to bribe Yue Wang, this silver would be useful.

The newly released Niyun Beauty Catalog received great praise throughout Jingling City.

On the other side, Tan Lin, the owner of Caiyue Pavilion, hurriedly arrived in Jingling City. It was said that he brought generous gifts several times and requested to meet County Magistrate Zhao, but each time, he was driven out of the yamen. This drew many people to rush over and watch the excitement.

Mu Yunyao was directing the embroiderers in adjusting garment sizes when Jin Lan hurried in with an invitation card.

“Miss, Master Tan, the owner of Caiyue Pavilion, sent someone to deliver an invitation. He wishes to meet you.”

Mu Yunyao took the card and swept her eyes over it. Then she casually tossed it aside.

“Go reply to him. Say that only Mother and I live in this household, so it is inconvenient for us to receive male visitors. It is truly unsuitable for us to receive Master Tan.”

“Yes, Miss.”

Jin Lan had not been gone for long before she came in again with another invitation card.

“Miss, Master Tan’s people said he wishes to invite Miss to Buxian Tower for tea…”

Mu Yunyao took the card. When she opened it, she saw banknotes tucked inside. After counting them slightly, she found a full twenty thousand taels.

“What a generous hand… However, since silver has been delivered to my door, there is naturally no reason not to take it. Go reply to him. Say that a guest who has come from afar should be treated with courtesy. Tomorrow morning, at the third quarter of the si hour, I will invite Master Tan to drink tea at Buxian Tower.”

“Miss, are you planning to let Tan Bawang go?”

Jin Lan could not help asking.

“I am only a merchant, not an official. Even if I speak, it does not count. How the case will be judged is still County Magistrate Zhao’s business. As for why I am meeting Master Tan, naturally, it is to discuss business.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 137

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 136

Chapter 136: Yue Wang, Who Lacks Everything

After the two of them had eaten something, Mu Yunyao noticed that Su Qing kept looking at her. She could not help blinking.

“Mother, what is it?”

Su Qing had a smile on her face, and her expression seemed somewhat emotional.

“Nothing. I just feel happy.”

Mu Yunyao thought she was talking about saving Nan’er today and could not help saying, “Mother also likes that child Nan’er?”

Su Qing shook her head.

“Mother feels happy not because we saved someone today, but because of you, Yao’er.”

“Because of me?”

Mu Yunyao did not understand.

“Yes.”

Su Qing hesitated for a moment, then held Mu Yunyao’s hand and slowly said, “You told Mother before that in your dream, you saw your whole life. Although you passed over many things briefly, Mother can imagine how you struggled step by step through every difficulty, how you did everything you could, and in the end, still failed to meet a good end…”

Seeing tears in Su Qing’s eyes, Mu Yunyao quickly comforted her.

“Mother, you said it yourself. It was only a dream. Perhaps Heaven saw that I was pitiful, so it warned me through the dream and allowed me to know in advance what would happen. That is why I can avoid those things in this life. You do not need to feel sad over it.”

Hearing Mu Yunyao say this, Su Qing’s heart ached sharply.

“Yao’er, you do not need to lie to me. If it were only a fleeting dream, many things would surely have passed in a blur. How could you have mastered embroidery skills overnight? How could you also understand tea arts and medicine? Most importantly, you are my daughter. How could I not sense the changes that happened to you?”

Mu Yunyao’s heart trembled. In an instant, countless ways to conceal the truth surged into her mind. But when she lifted her head and met Su Qing’s eyes, which were full of heartache, she froze where she stood.

“Mother…”

Su Qing reached out and pulled her into her arms.

“I was so afraid that the matters of your previous life would affect your nature. I was afraid that the Su family would fill your heart with hatred. I was afraid that those hatreds would change your temperament. Now, it seems Mother can finally feel at ease.”

Yao’er had not become cold-hearted and bloodless. Instead, she was gentle and kind. With this, Su Qing could finally rest assured.

Mu Yunyao leaned against Su Qing’s embrace, and tears fell straight down.

“As long as Mother is here, I will definitely not destroy myself because of hatred. So Mother must live a long life. You must stay with me forever.”

It was precisely because Mother was here that she had not allowed hostility to control her. Because of Mother, a soft place had remained in her heart.

“All right. Mother will stay with you forever. So you must remember this. Even if you do not strive to do every good deed in the world, at the very least, you must live without shame in your heart. Mother only hopes that you will be safe and sound. When I grow old, I still have to enjoy your blessings!”

Mu Yunyao nodded heavily. She reached out and wrapped her arms around Su Qing’s waist, leaning fully into her embrace.

“It is so good to have Mother…”

Su Qing stroked her hair, her eyes full of tenderness.

“Silly child.”

Since Su Qing had already guessed the matter of her rebirth, the heavy stone in Mu Yunyao’s heart finally fell to the ground. Her whole person felt much lighter. First, she pestered Su Qing for Eight-Treasure Rice. At night, she also clung to Su Qing’s room and insisted on sleeping with her. This left Su Qing not knowing whether to laugh or cry. She kept saying that she had raised a big baby, causing Si Qin and the others who served Su Qing to secretly laugh.

Mu Yunyao did not mind at all. Leaning against Su Qing made her feel unusually at ease.

After several days of nursing their injuries, Nan’er and A'Mao both woke up. However, for the wounds on their bodies to heal completely, they would probably still need to rest for several months.

“Miss, Steward Qin has arrived.”

Mu Yunyao put down the book scroll in her hand.

“A few days ago, I said I wanted to find Steward Qin to discuss something. In the end, Mother came to talk with me, and I forgot about it. Invite Steward Qin to the flower hall. Prepare the things I arranged earlier. I will go to the front courtyard to meet him.”

“Yes, Miss.”

“Greetings, Miss Mu.”

“Steward Qin, there is no need for so much courtesy. These past two days have been busy, and I actually forgot to go to Jinxiu Garden to find you. I hope Steward Qin will forgive me.”

“It is nothing. If Miss has any matter, please give your orders.”

Mu Yunyao had Jin Lan and the others serve tea, then signaled for them to withdraw. She lifted her teacup and took a sip. After thinking for a moment, she said, “I imagine Steward Qin has already reported to Yue Wang that I know His Highness’s identity?”

“Please forgive me, Miss. I have indeed already reported it to Yue Wang. I imagine His Highness should receive the letter soon.”

“During these days, I have been thinking in private. I was able to borrow Jinxiu Garden from His Highness to open a tea business, and I even took forty percent of the profits. This was truly because His Highness was willing to support me and did not haggle with me. Because of this, I feel deeply grateful, so I thought I should also do something for His Highness.”

Steward Qin froze for a moment. Then a smile appeared on his face.

“Miss is truly too polite. By opening Buxian Tower, you have also helped His Highness.”

If they became one family in the future, then there would be even less need to calculate things so clearly. He wondered whether Old Cheng had managed to advise His Highness. Alas, on ordinary days, that old fellow only knew how to shout blindly. But when it came to proper matters, he could not help at all. The next time they met, Steward Qin would definitely scold him.

“It is like this. Seeing that Jiangnan has already reached the end of the eighth month and the weather has become cool, I imagine Yuexi must already be very cold.”

Steward Qin nodded.

“Yes. Yuexi is bitterly cold. There is already frost and snow there now.”

Those who had never been to Yuexi would never be able to imagine its cruelty. This season was still considered slightly better. In another two months, the weather would be so cold it could nearly freeze a person’s blood. Every breath made the entire chest feel as if steel needles had been driven into it.

What was even more frightening was that many places were mountainous and barren, with not even an inch of grass growing. By winter, even charcoal for warmth was scarce. If one had not seen it with one’s own eyes, who could imagine that the Emperor could be so cold-blooded as to exile his own son to such a desperate place?

Mu Yunyao had only heard about Yuexi from others. In truth, she did not know what its actual conditions were like. Now, seeing the gravity on Steward Qin’s face, her heart could not help stirring.

“It is like this. In my hometown, people can fry a kind of ginger tea. It mainly uses fresh ginger and rice flour. When one wants to eat it, one only needs to add hot water and stir it open. It is not only convenient, but can also dispel cold. It is only that the ingredients are too ordinary. I do not know whether His Highness would dislike it.”

Steward Qin’s eyes lit up.

“Miss, do you have this ginger tea here? May I have a bowl to taste?”

“Jin Lan, bring up the things I prepared.”

Mu Yunyao gave an instruction toward the doorway. Jin Lan immediately brought over a bowl and hot water.

Steward Qin quickly looked over. He saw a handful of pale-yellow rice flour placed inside the bowl. One could faintly see scallions, ginger, and vegetable leaves inside. With a slight sniff, a fragrant aroma drifted over.

Mu Yunyao personally moved. She slowly poured the hot water into the bowl while stirring it with a silver spoon. Before long, that handful of rice flour had turned into a bowl of rice porridge.

Steward Qin ignored the heat and lifted the bowl. He gently blew on it once. The rice flour was savory and fragrant, with a ginger flavor that was just right. The vegetable leaves that had originally been fried dry now unfolded again. Paired with diced meat carrying a scorched fragrance, one mouthful warmed the whole body.

“Miss, how much does this ginger tea cost?”

Steward Qin’s heart stirred with excitement. He had accompanied Yue Wang in Yuexi for five years and had seen the cruelty there. This bowl of ginger tea might save a person’s life in winter.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 136

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 135

Chapter 135: Taking Them In

“They were not injured at all. Earlier, they swore solemnly that Miss Mu had sent people to beat them. Now, looking at them, it was clearly all slander!”

“That is right. Seeing how miserable they looked, I almost believed them.”

“That Tan Bawang is the young owner of Caiyue Pavilion. They say people in the same trade are enemies. He must be jealous of Niyun Pavilion, which is why he deliberately came to frame Miss Mu!”

“What you said is right. Otherwise, he would not have shouted so arrogantly just now and even claimed that Miss Mu wanted to murder someone. He was clearly making malicious accusations!”

“Miss Mu, rest assured. We can all testify for you. Just now, it was Tan Bawang who falsely accused you. You absolutely must not soften your heart and let him off. Such an evil man should be punished.”

“Many thanks to all of you neighbors for speaking up for justice.”

Mu Yunyao bowed to the crowd and thanked them. Then she bowed to County Magistrate Zhao.

“Please, Lord Zhao, uphold justice.”

County Magistrate Zhao nodded. He was very satisfied with Mu Yunyao’s attitude. Earlier, he had thought she might rely on her relationship with the Governor and Lord Cao to pressure him. Now it seemed he had overthought it.

“This official will immediately take Tan Bawang and the others away. After returning to the yamen, I will question them through the night. I will certainly give Miss Mu and Miss Cai Qing an explanation.”

“Many thanks, Lord Zhao.”

Tan Bawang looked panicked. Seeing that County Magistrate Zhao truly had people escort him away, he could not help shouting, “I am the young owner of Caiyue Pavilion. You cannot treat me like this!”

County Magistrate Zhao’s expression grew even colder.

“Even if the Son of Heaven breaks the law, he receives the same punishment as commoners, much less you. Take him away. If he dares spout nonsense again, gag him directly!”

“Yes.”

County Magistrate Zhao nodded to Mu Yunyao, then had Tan Bawang and the others escorted away.

Mu Yunyao immediately signaled Jin Lan and Jin Qiao to step forward and help Cai Qing and Li’er up. Then she said to the physician from Renshan Hall, “Physician, Li’er’s condition is serious. Miss Cai Qing, A'Mao, and Nan’er are also covered in injuries. I have long heard that Renshan Hall’s medical skills are excellent. Please come inside and help examine and treat them.”

The physician from Renshan Hall shook his head and sighed.

“This little girl has truly been beaten badly. I fear it will cost no small amount to nurse her back to health.”

“Two days ago, I happened to meet Nan’er. Seeing that he was clever and quick-witted, I thought of letting him help out in the garden so he could have a means of making a living. I did not expect that just after I had spoken with him, such a change would happen the very next day.

“They are all pitiful people. Their lives are already hard and difficult. I cannot simply stand by and ignore them. Moreover, that Tan Bawang kept falsely accusing me. I imagine he holds a grudge against me. In a sense, they have suffered this undeserved disaster because of me. So, no matter how much silver it costs, I will help them recover.”

Everyone looked at Li’er’s appearance, then listened to Mu Yunyao’s words. They could not help sighing.

“Miss Mu, you do not need to blame yourself. How could this matter be blamed on you?”

“I know that Nan’er. He is the orphan who has been running errands at the garden entrance these past two days. Earlier, when I was drinking tea in the garden, I even saw Miss Mu treat him to snacks. She also said she wanted to hire him to tidy up the garden. When he left, she even gave him snacks to take with him. Such kindness is truly rare.”

“That is right. Now she even wants to pay for their recovery. Miss Mu truly has a kind heart.”

Mu Yunyao quickly shook her head. A trace of embarrassment appeared on her face.

“I cannot accept such praise from everyone. If not for everyone’s support, Niyun Pavilion and Buxian Tower would not have what they have today. Yet what I can do for Jingling City is limited. The children of the Ciyou Bureau are also people of Jingling City. I saw that they were extremely pitiful, so I lent them a little help. Once their injuries recover, I will let them do some simple work in Buxian Tower. At least this can give them food to eat.”

Once these words came out, they naturally drew another wave of praise. The crowd gradually dispersed. Mu Yunyao’s words and the events of the day gradually spread throughout Jingling City, making her reputation even better.

After returning home, the physician from Renshan Hall rose and bowed to Mu Yunyao and Steward Qin.

“This humble one is Zhang Chun. Greetings, Miss Mu. Greetings, Steward Qin.”

“Today, I must thank Physician Zhang for cooperating.”

“I would not dare accept that. It was only a small matter and is not worthy of Miss’s thanks. Besides, Miss’s medical skills are far deeper than this humble one’s. If there is a chance, may I ask Miss to give me some guidance?”

Zhang Chun knew that these words were somewhat improper, but after seeing Li’er’s condition, he truly could not suppress his curiosity.

Mu Yunyao smiled and nodded.

“Physicians should avoid hoarding their skills and refusing to share. Only by exchanging knowledge with one another can we learn from each other’s strengths and make up for our shortcomings. Another day, I will invite Physician Zhang to Buxian Tower for tea. At that time, we can discuss medicine together.”

Zhang Chun was overjoyed.

“Many thanks, Miss Mu.”

Mu Yunyao took out a porcelain bottle and placed it beneath Li’er’s nose. A moment later, Li’er coughed and woke. Seeing so many people around her, she immediately shrank into Cai Qing’s arms.

“Elder Sister Cai Qing…”

“Li’er, do not be afraid. Quickly kowtow to Miss Mu. She saved our lives.”

Li’er was young, but she was especially obedient. Following Cai Qing, she knelt before Mu Yunyao.

“Many thanks to Miss Mu for saving our lives!”

“Rise. There is no need to be so polite.”

When Tan Bawang had come to make trouble at the gate, Mu Yunyao had already ordered Liu Liang to secretly search for Li’er’s whereabouts. After that, she had deliberately arranged for someone in the crowd to shout it out, allowing them to rescue Li’er in time.

As for Li’er looking especially miserable, that had only been the result of some medicine. Once she drank water and rested a little, there would be nothing wrong with her.

Seeing that Li’er had awakened, Steward Qin rose and said, “Miss Mu, we will return to Jinxiu Garden first.”

Mu Yunyao nodded.

“In a while, there are some matters I would like to discuss with Steward Qin. Once I finish handling things here, I will go find you.”

“Very well. I will be waiting for Miss at any time.”

After everyone dispersed, Cai Qing grew even more uneasy. She knelt on the ground and did not dare make a sound.

Mu Yunyao took Nan’er and A'Mao’s pulses. Seeing that their pulses had gradually stabilized, she finally sat down and let out a soft breath.

Cai Qing stepped forward and kowtowed again.

“Miss’s great kindness is something Cai Qing can never repay.”

“It is nothing. Rise. As I said earlier, Tan Bawang and I have old grudges. You can also be considered innocent people dragged into this.”

Cai Qing shook her head repeatedly.

“Back then on the street, Tan Bawang deliberately found fault and beat A'Mao. After seeing me, he truly was moved by lust. This matter has nothing to do with Miss. Moreover, if I had not met Miss, my ending in the Ciyou Bureau would have been even more miserable. Now Miss has helped me escape that sea of suffering. I am endlessly grateful.”

Jin Lan brought tea over and gently placed it beside Mu Yunyao’s hand. Mu Yunyao took it, sipped her tea, and remained silent.

“Cai Qing is bold enough to hope that Miss can also take Li’er in. Although she is young, she is especially sensible. If she returns to the Ciyou Bureau, I fear she will not have any good ending.”

Li’er was also extremely thin and weak, but she was especially delicate-looking. At this moment, she lifted her large eyes and looked timidly at Mu Yunyao.

“Miss, I can work too. I can help Miss wash clothes, and I can sweep the courtyard. I beg Miss to take me in.”

Su Qing walked in.

“Yao’er, they truly have not had it easy. Take them all in.”

Since Su Qing had spoken, Mu Yunyao scattered the last trace of hesitation in her heart.

“All right. I will listen to Mother. However, all of you must sign life-sale contracts. Only then can I feel at ease using you.”

Cai Qing nodded repeatedly.

“Yes. We will all sign them. Many thanks, Miss.”

Mu Yunyao glanced at Li’er and sighed softly.

“I will not make things difficult for you. The life-sale contracts may be signed as permanent contracts, or they may be signed as five-year term contracts. Once five years have passed, whether you leave or stay will be entirely up to you.”

After speaking, she stood and held Su Qing’s arm.

“Mother, after all this trouble, I am hungry. Let us go eat something together.”

Naturally, Su Qing quickly agreed.

“All right.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 135

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 134

Chapter 134: Tan Bawang Provokes Public Outrage

Cai Qing soon followed Jin Qiao out. Seeing County Magistrate Zhao, she quickly bowed.

“Greetings, Lord Zhao.”

Seeing that Cai Qing was truly safe and unharmed, Tan Bawang could not help glaring at her viciously. This wretch must have betrayed him at the final moment. Since she had failed to keep her word, that girl Li’er could forget about living!

When Cai Qing saw Tan Bawang, she could not help shrinking back. She hid closer to Mu Yunyao’s side.

County Magistrate Zhao saw this scene, and his heart stirred slightly. He asked, “Cai Qing, did you willingly become Tan Bawang’s concubine?”

Cai Qing quickly shook her head.

“Lord Zhao, please see clearly. Tan Bawang was moved by lust when he saw me. He injured my two younger brothers and intended to force me to submit. Fortunately, my younger brother Nan’er has some friendship with Miss Mu. Taking advantage of the moment when Tan Bawang was threatening me, he came out to ask for help. Miss Mu is kind-hearted and saved me. Only then was I not violated by him.”

This wretch!

Tan Bawang hated her so much that his teeth clenched. Yet he took out a contract.

“Lord Zhao, this contract bears Cai Qing’s handprint. You may send someone to inspect it. Whether it is true or false can be known with one examination.”

Once he dealt with Mu Yunyao, he would deal with Cai Qing. Anyone who dared scheme against him would not have an easy end.

A constable took the contract and delivered it to County Magistrate Zhao. The handwriting and handprint on it were both clear and unmistakable.

“Cai Qing, you clearly signed this contract. Why do you refuse to admit it?”

Cai Qing glanced at Tan Bawang, her eyes filled with indignation.

“Tan Bawang, I never thought you would be such a person who stops at nothing! Lord Zhao, please see clearly. My hands are injured. I could not press down a handprint at all. How could I have signed a contract?”

As she spoke, she stretched out both hands. Her fingers were covered in wounds that had already scabbed over. Her fingertips, in particular, were covered with blood scabs. It was impossible for her to press down a handprint.

Tan Bawang froze. Then he shouted harshly, “Well done, Mu Yunyao. You actually incited Cai Qing to falsify evidence and deceive County Magistrate Zhao. Your hands were clearly fine this morning. How did they become so injured that you cannot press a handprint now? Unfortunately for you, how could such tricks deceive Lord Zhao? I ask Lord Zhao to send a physician to examine her. Cai Qing’s wounds must be fresh. That will prove they are guilty of fabricating evidence.”

Tan Bawang felt pleased. He truly had not expected Mu Yunyao to leave behind such a huge handle. After the physicians examined her, he wanted to see how she would argue her way out of this. He originally wanted to look at Mu Yunyao’s panicked appearance, but he found that her expression was calm. Even Cai Qing was extremely composed.

County Magistrate Zhao appointed a coroner to examine the wounds on Cai Qing’s hands.

“Reporting to Your Honor, the wounds on Cai Qing’s hands are burn injuries. Judging from their appearance, they are already five or six days old.”

“What? That is impossible!”

Tan Bawang rushed forward abruptly, grabbed Cai Qing’s hand, and rubbed it hard. Yet the wounds did not show the slightest sign of being fake.

Cai Qing cried out in shock. She raised her hand and slapped him across the face.

“Shameless! Lord Zhao, please uphold justice for this common woman!”

When Mu Yunyao helped her fabricate the wounds on her hands, Cai Qing was still worried that they would be exposed. She had not expected that even the coroner would fail to identify them as fake.

“Impudent Tan Bawang. You dare act so recklessly before this official!”

Tan Bawang noticed Mu Yunyao’s gaze. For no reason, panic rose in his heart. Everything must have been calculated by this wretch. He had been completely led by the nose.

Wretch. This damned little wretch!

“Lord Zhao, please see clearly. That contract truly was signed by Cai Qing…”

Cai Qing immediately prostrated herself on the ground and wept bitterly.

“Lord Zhao, that day, my younger brother A'Mao accidentally blocked the road. Tan Bawang ordered his followers to beat him, then falsely claimed that A'Mao had dirtied his clothes and tried to extort one hundred taels of silver.

“I felt indignant and stepped forward to reason with him. Unexpectedly, after Tan Bawang failed to tease and insult me with words, he brought Matchmaker Liu to threaten and tempt me. He insisted on taking this common woman as his concubine. I would rather die than obey. So he ordered his followers to beat me and my two younger brothers.

“Now, Nan’er and A'Mao are both unconscious and lying inside Miss Mu’s home. You will know the truth once you examine their injuries. Also, many neighbors saw him bring people to the Ciyou Bureau. They can testify for me.”

“That is right. At the time, when Tan Bawang beat that A'Mao, I happened to pass by and even tried to advise him. Who would have thought that Tan Bawang would be so arrogant that he even wanted to beat me?”

“Miss Cai Qing speaks the truth. Early this morning, I saw Tan Bawang lead people to the Ciyou Bureau.”

Cai Qing bowed to thank the people who spoke up for justice.

“Many thanks to all of you for testifying for me. Cai Qing is deeply grateful! Lord Zhao, Tan Bawang also took away my younger sister Li’er and used her to threaten me into submission. I do not know how my poor little sister is now. I beg Lord Zhao to save her life!”

Mu Yunyao, who had remained silent all this time, finally spoke.

“Lord Zhao, I imagine that by now, you have already distinguished right from wrong. Saving the person is urgent. If there is any delay…”

County Magistrate Zhao nodded. When he turned to look at Tan Bawang, his gaze had become especially sharp.

“Bold Tan Bawang. Are you still not going to confess honestly? Where did you take her?”

“I… I did not take anyone. Li’er, Ping’er, whatever her name is, I know nothing about her.”

Tan Bawang was already panicking. If County Magistrate Zhao found Li’er at this moment, would that not confirm everything Cai Qing had said?

Suddenly, a shout came from within the crowd.

“I saw Tan Bawang’s followers carrying a sack into the inn where they are staying!”

County Magistrate Zhao’s eyes turned cold.

“Men, immediately go search the inn where Tan Bawang is staying.”

The expressions of the surrounding onlookers had become unfriendly. Tan Bawang said he was the young owner of Caiyue Pavilion, which meant he was not from Jingling City. Earlier, the shopkeeper of Caiyue Pavilion had caused deaths by lending money at usurious rates, which had already greatly worsened the people of Jingling City’s impression of Caiyue Pavilion.

Now, Caiyue Pavilion’s young owner had come here to forcibly seize a common woman. This made their hearts even angrier. Fortunately, Caiyue Pavilion had already been closed. Otherwise, some people might have directly gone to smash its doors.

Very quickly, two constables hurried back. Behind them, a woman was holding a little girl. The girl was covered in wounds, and her face was deathly pale. From the look on her face, she was breathing out more than she was breathing in.

The people around them grew even more furious. Tan Bawang had failed to forcibly seize a common woman, yet he still dared to harm an innocent person’s life. Did he think the people of Jingling City were easy to bully?

“Lord Zhao, you must severely punish such an evil man!”

“Please, Lord Zhao, uphold justice for these poor children!”

Cai Qing quickly rushed to Li’er. Her whole person was so panicked that she nearly lost control.

“Miss Mu, I beg you. Please save my younger sister.”

A physician in the crowd had already stepped forward.

“I am Physician Zhang from Renshan Hall. Let me examine this little girl.”

Cai Qing looked anxiously toward Mu Yunyao. Seeing her nod slightly, she finally let go and allowed the physician to take Li’er’s pulse.

“This…”

After Physician Zhang of Renshan Hall finished taking the pulse, he glared at Tan Bawang with hatred.

“If he had struck just a little harder, this little girl would have died on the spot!”

County Magistrate Zhao’s expression turned cold and stern. With a wave of his hand, he ordered the constables to arrest Tan Bawang and the others.

“Forcibly seizing a common woman and maliciously beating commoners. This official will certainly question you clearly on every one of your crimes!”

The surrounding commoners were so furious they could hardly endure it. Some could not help picking up stones and similar objects from the ground and throwing them at Tan Bawang and his followers.

Once this began, more and more commoners around them started throwing things. No one knew who it was, but someone actually brought over a pot of hot tea and poured it over the two followers lying on the ground with blood all over their faces.

This pour was no small matter. The two followers were scalded so badly that they immediately jumped up. They raised their sleeves and kept wiping their faces. Once they wiped, the blood on their faces was cleaned away, revealing perfectly unharmed skin.

“They are pretending!”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 134