Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 162

Chapter 162: Another Side of Yue Wang

When Su Qing heard Si Qin’s report, she quickly brought the others out to receive their guest. At the sight of Yue Wang in dark robes, she could not help praising him inwardly. As expected, his bearing was truly extraordinary.

“This common woman, Su Qing, greets Fourth Master Ning.”

Yue Wang stepped forward and made a light gesture to help her up. “Madam need not be so courteous. This one is surnamed Ning, courtesy name Huaijin. You may simply call me Huaijin.”

Su Qing had originally felt a trace of apprehension upon seeing Yue Wang’s cool expression. Yet now, observing his distinguished manner and hearing his modest, respectful speech, she could not help smiling. “How could I directly call Fourth Master by his personal name?”

“Madam is my elder. If you address me as Fourth Master, that would truly place me in an undeserved position. As a junior, allowing an elder to use such a respectful form of address toward me would only diminish my own fortune.” Yue Wang’s face still showed little expression, but the air around him had softened considerably.

Seeing this, Su Qing knew it would be improper to keep refusing. She smiled and said, “Since that is so, I shall call you Young Master Ning. I heard your hometown is in the capital. It just so happens that most of the food we prepared for the New Year this time is northern fare. I imagine it should suit your taste.”

“Many thanks, Madam.”

Seeing Mu Yunyao standing there in a daze while holding a snowball, Su Qing cast her a mildly reproachful glance. “How old are you already, yet you are still so playful? Hurry and lead Young Master Ning to the main hall to warm himself. I will go to the kitchen and see whether everything has been prepared.”

Steward Qin quickly followed Su Qing’s steps. “I shall go with Madam to have a look.”

“Steward Qin has labored for more than half a year. You should go rest in the Flower Hall.”

“It is no trouble, no trouble at all. Once people grow old, they cannot remain idle. Buxian Tower has not opened these two days, and I was just feeling restless. It is perfect timing for me to lend Madam a hand.”

“In that case, very well.”

As Steward Qin walked beside Su Qing, he quietly explained, “I hope Madam will forgive him. When our young master was little, misfortune struck the family. He grew up without his mother by his side, so his temperament inevitably became somewhat cold. But please rest assured. Though he may appear distant, in truth, he is exceedingly gentle.”

After hearing this, sympathy stirred in Su Qing’s heart. So Young Master Ning’s lack of expression was because he had grown up without a mother’s companionship. He must also be a filial person; otherwise, he would not still be so affected by it. “That truly was not easy for him.”

“Indeed…”

Only after Steward Qin and Su Qing had gone some distance away did Mu Yunyao finally come back to herself. She stepped forward and saluted Yue Wang. “Fourth Master, please follow me.” As she walked, she kept recalling the way Yue Wang had spoken to Su Qing just now. She had thought Yue Wang would show no warmth to anyone, yet unexpectedly, he had such a mild side as well.

The moment they entered the flower hall, waves of warmth greeted them. After handing their cloaks to the maidservants, the two walked into the main room. Jin Lan brought in tea, then stood side by side with Liu Liang behind Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao found herself uncertain what to say. With others, she had no lack of ways to make the atmosphere relaxed and pleasant. Yet when facing Yue Wang, she could not explain why an indescribable dread always lingered in her heart. Perhaps it was because her death in her previous life had been connected to him.

Just as she was racking her mind for something suitable to say, Yue Wang spoke first. “I heard you acknowledged Lord Cao as your Godfather?”

“Yes. During this time in Jingling City, Madam Jin has taken great care of me. In addition, she and Mother are especially congenial, so we acknowledged this god-kinship. For Mother and me, it gives us another support to rely on, and life can be a little steadier.”

Yue Wang’s brows lifted faintly, his gaze deep. “Why seek what is far when what is near is at hand?” Was he not far more worthy of reliance than a mere Salt Transport Commissioner?

Mu Yunyao quickly turned Yue Wang’s words over in her mind. Did he think she had grown too close to the Cao family?

Cao Yunnian had always remained relatively neutral. Even later, when the various imperial princes fought for power, he had not openly taken sides with anyone. Moreover, his current rank was only in the lower fourth grade. Yue Wang should not be wary of him.

“Fourth Master supported me in opening Buxian Tower and even specially lent Jinxiu Garden for my use. Naturally, you are also someone I can rely upon. But for minor matters, it would not be proper to trouble you constantly.”

Yue Wang nodded. Lifting his teacup, he took a sip. Then, remembering how Steward Qin had once written to him to boast about this matter, he said, “I heard you are especially skilled at brewing tea.”

With him asking one thing after another, Mu Yunyao could not grasp what he truly wished to know. She could only meet change with constancy and nod. “I know a little. If Fourth Master wishes to drink tea, I shall brew some specially for you another day.”

“Good.”

Just as the atmosphere in the flower hall was growing increasingly awkward, Nan’er came trotting in with small steps and bowed respectfully to Mu Yunyao. “Greetings, Miss.”

“What is it?”

“Miss, the snowmen have already been built. Would you like to go and see them?”

Mu Yunyao could not have wished for anything more. Given Yue Wang’s temperament, surely he would not be interested in going to see some snowmen, and she could use the opportunity to avoid him for a while. “Fourth Master, I would like to go look at the snowmen. Please…”

Yue Wang rose and walked toward the door. Seeing that Mu Yunyao had not followed, he turned back, his eyes carrying a trace of question. “Did you not wish to see the snowmen?”

“Yes. I did not expect Fourth Master to like such little amusements as well.”

Yue Wang nodded without speaking. Seeing Mu Yunyao walk straight toward the doorway, he frowned and looked toward Jin Lan. “Why have you not brought your mistress’s cloak and gloves?”

Swept by Yue Wang’s gaze, Jin Lan felt a chill rise along her spine, as though a winter gale had scraped over her entire body. She shivered and quickly gathered the cloak and gloves, hurrying after Mu Yunyao. Without allowing any protest, she dressed her properly.

Mu Yunyao watched as Jin Lan prepared to tie the straps of her gloves. She blinked. “It is only a few steps. Surely the gloves are not necessary?”

“How could they not be necessary? It is so cold outside. It would be terrible if Miss caught a chill.”

After Jin Lan finished dressing Mu Yunyao, she secretly glanced at Yue Wang. Seeing no further displeasure on his face, she finally released a breath. That look just now had truly been frightening.

In the courtyard, two large snowmen had already been built. Round pieces of polished charcoal served as eyes, chilies as mouths, and one wore a light straw hat. Altogether, it looked rather comical.

The other was smaller and more slender. A length of red silk had been wrapped around it, and from the look of it, it was the same piece Mu Yunyao had used yesterday when dancing on the ice.

Nan’er pointed to the shorter snowman as though presenting a treasure. “Miss, look. Does this snowman look like you?”

Mu Yunyao could not help laughing softly. “It is not bad. I will reward you with a red packet later. Next year, build one that resembles me even more.”

“Thank you, Miss.”

Jin Qiao, Jin Pei, and the others also crowded forward one after another. “Miss, we helped too! Miss must reward us as well!”

Su Qing walked over. Seeing such a lively scene, her face was full of smiles. “If your Miss does not reward you, then I shall. Whoever helps me carry dishes later will receive a large red packet!”

“This servant will do it!”

“Madam, this servant is clever and nimble. Carrying dishes suits me best.”

“Madam, do not listen to her nonsense. She broke a plate just last month. This servant has had an affinity with carrying dishes since childhood!”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 161

Chapter 161: Yue Wang, Who Would Never Think to Prepare a New Year’s Gift

When Mu Yunyao returned home, the dumplings in her bowl might as well have been wax. Seeing her pick at them without appetite, Su Qing’s heart could not help but tighten with worry.

“Yao’er, did things go badly between you and that Fourth Master Ning? Or does he intend to take Jinxiu Garden back?”

Mu Yunyao came back to herself at once. Catching the crease between Su Qing’s brows, she hurried to soothe her. “Nothing of the sort. Jinxiu Garden is flourishing now and earning him a great deal of silver. Why would he suddenly take it back?”

“Then why does Mother feel that something is weighing on your mind? Before Fourth Master Ning arrived, you were still happily playing on the ice with Jin Lan and the others. But after seeing him, you have looked as though your thoughts are tied in knots. Tell Mother the truth. Even if there truly is some difficulty, we are mother and daughter—we should face it together.”

At the sight of Su Qing’s anxious expression, the impulse rose in Mu Yunyao to tell her Yue Wang’s true identity. Yet she knew Su Qing’s temperament all too well. If her mother learned who he really was, even the smallest gesture might betray it, and that would only make matters worse.

“Don’t worry, Mother. It has nothing to do with Fourth Master Ning. I was simply thinking of the New Year tribute that was sent to the capital. Tomorrow, at the New Year’s Eve banquet, His Majesty will see it. I cannot help wondering whether it will please him.”

Seeing that her expression held no obvious falsehood, Su Qing’s smile returned. “Rest easy. Mother watched you embroider that tribute stitch by stitch. There was not the slightest flaw in it. The Emperor will certainly like it.”

Mu Yunyao nodded and let out a quiet breath, as though something in her chest had eased. “That is good. With Mother saying so, I can finally set my mind at rest.”

“I truly thought it was something grave. So even you, little girl, can be troubled by gain and loss like this.” In the past, Yao’er always carried herself as though everything lay already within her grasp. To see her caught in such a small knot of worry only made her seem all the more tender.

“It is a matter of consequence. Of course I cannot help but worry.”

“But the matter is already settled. Worrying now will not change anything. Why torment yourself for no reason?”

Mu Yunyao paused. Turning Su Qing’s words over in her mind, she slowly felt that great stone hanging in her heart sink back to earth.

Whatever purpose had brought Yue Wang here, he was already here. Her background could not be changed. If he had truly discovered something, she would simply find a way to remedy it when the time came. Why should she borrow worry from the future and spoil the New Year before it had even arrived?

“Yes, I understand now. Thank you for your guidance, Mother.”

Su Qing reached out and tapped her lightly between the brows. “Now that you understand, cheer up for Mother’s sake. It is the New Year—no long face is allowed. Otherwise, the whole coming year will be filled with endless cares.”

Mu Yunyao rose and gave a proper little bow with exaggerated solemnity. “Yes. Your daughter will respectfully obey Mother’s instruction.”

Once that burden had been set aside, Mu Yunyao simply cast Yue Wang to the back of her mind. When she woke again, New Year’s Eve had already arrived.

The moment she rose, she sensed a world of whiteness outside the window. Pushing it open, she saw that the courtyard lay buried beneath a thick layer of snow; the branches, too, were laden with white. When the wind stirred, snow drifted down in soft flurries, like a rain of pear blossoms, and the line slipped from her lips almost of its own accord: “As though the spring wind had come in a single night, and ten thousand trees had burst into pear blossoms…”

Jin Qiao came in carrying a basin of water, with Jin Lan just behind her. Hearing Mu Yunyao recite those lines, she blinked in puzzlement. “Miss, not long after you went to bed last night, the snow began to fall. It snowed all through the night and only just stopped. In weather this cold, where would there be any pear blossoms to admire?”

Mu Yunyao pointed out the window and turned to her with a smile. “Look at those trees. Do they not resemble pear trees in bloom?”

Jin Qiao craned her neck to look. “Now that Miss says it, they truly do! Ah—so that is what you meant. I heard ‘spring wind’ and ‘pear blossoms’ and thought you were talking about spring scenery.”

Mu Yunyao smiled faintly, the sight of the courtyard snow already stirring her interest. “Call Jin Pei and the others in a while. How about we build a snowman in the yard?”

“What a lovely idea! It is rare enough to see snow this heavy in Jiangnan. This servant will help too.”

“Mm. Then let us build it in the front courtyard. Tonight, when we come out to set off firecrackers and watch the fireworks, a snowman there will suit the occasion nicely.”

“Very well. We will do exactly as Miss says.”

After breakfast, Mu Yunyao informed Su Qing and then swept toward the front courtyard with a whole procession in tow. Shovels, dustpans, and brooms were brought out, and soon the snow was being piled high.

Nan’er, A’Mao, and Li’er were bundled up so roundly that they looked like little balls rolling through the snow. They ran back and forth to help, and whenever one of them slipped and tumbled into the drifts, they simply scrambled up again and left a trail of bright laughter behind them.

Mu Yunyao had wanted to lend a hand as well, but Jin Lan and Jin Qiao stopped her, fitted thick gloves onto her hands, and stationed her at the side as commander. At first, she directed them with lively enthusiasm. Later, seeing that, without her interference, Jin Lan and the others actually worked faster, she could only nudge the snow with the tip of her shoe in boredom.

Not far away, Nan’er and A’Mao were chasing one another and pelting each other with snowballs. Watching them, Mu Yunyao bent down and packed one together as well. A mischievous gleam flashed through her eyes as she flung it toward Jin Lan. Unfortunately, the winter clothes on her body were so thick that she misjudged the throw. The snowball sailed high over Jin Lan’s head and shot straight out beyond her.

Steward Qin had just entered the Su Residence together with Yue Wang. The moment he stepped into the front courtyard and saw everyone gathered around building a snowman, a sigh of fond amusement rose from him. “It has been many years since this old servant saw such a lively scene.”

Yue Wang’s gaze, however, passed through the crowd and settled on Mu Yunyao. She wore a snow-white cloak, her hair dark as ink, her eyes bright as stars. Bending to shape a snowball, she smiled with a sly curve to her lips. The sight called to his mind the snow foxes of the Beijiang (the Northern Frontier) ice fields. It was said those foxes were creatures of rare spirit; if one cultivated itself to perfection, it could take human form and beguile all beneath heaven. If there were any truth in such tales, then a snow fox turned mortal would likely look very much as Mu Yunyao did now.

He was still caught in that thought when he saw the snowball she had made come flying toward him. Her smile shone brighter than the surrounding ice and snow, and his hand lifted of its own accord to catch it. The snow began to melt in his palm, leaving behind a chill that bit to the bone, yet as he watched her smile, a faint warmth stirred beneath his ribs instead.

Only when the snowball landed in Yue Wang’s hand did Mu Yunyao realize what had happened, and even she was briefly startled. She hurried forward to salute. “Greetings, Fourth Master Ning.”

Yue Wang came back to himself. The snowball in his hand had already half-melted, and seeing her gaze fixed upon it, he extended his arm and offered it over. “Here.”

Mu Yunyao hurriedly tugged off her gloves and moved to take it, only to see Yue Wang withdraw his hand. A slight crease gathered between his brows, the silent disapproval plain enough. “The weather is cold. When playing with snow, do not court the chill.”

Mu Yunyao stood still for a moment. Following the direction of his gaze to the rabbit-fur gloves in her arms, she stiffly put them back on and only then stepped forward to receive the snowball with both hands.

The line between Yue Wang’s brows eased. Seeing her lift both fur-covered hands together to cup the snowball, he thought to himself that she resembled a little calico cat more than a snow fox. Snow foxes were famed for their cunning; they would never foolishly reach out barehanded to catch a lump of snow.

At the side, Steward Qin was smiling so broadly that he could scarcely close his mouth, and the thought had already drifted through him that perhaps in another two years’ time, he might be serving a little master.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 161

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 160

Chapter 160: Yue Wang Wants to  Spend New Year Together

After Su Qing left, Mu Yunyao leaned lazily back against the soft couch, carefully turning over Yue Wang’s expression from earlier in her mind.

Over the past half year, Buxian Tower and Niyun Pavilion had earned Yue Wang nearly a hundred thousand taels of silver. Even if that could not completely improve Yuexi’s circumstances, it should at least have relieved his most urgent need. Added to that were the several batches of ginger tea she had sent over. By all rights, he should have no dissatisfaction toward her. Yet just now, there had seemed to be coldness and distance in his manner. Could it be that he had secretly investigated her and Mother’s identities?

The more Mu Yunyao thought, the less she could find a thread to follow. It was only when Su Qing came in carrying the freshly cooked fen dumplings that she realized quite some time had passed.

“Yao’er, take these over quickly. Earlier, we had already agreed with Steward Qin that we would spend the New Year together here. But now that Fourth Master Ning, the owner of Jinxiu Garden, has returned, should we discuss it again? Go and ask Fourth Master Ning what he intends. If he is willing to spend the New Year with us, then it will be all the livelier. If he is not, ask what things he lacks, and we can send some over from our side.”

Invite Yue Wang to spend the New Year here? It had not been easy to gain a few days of ease. If he stayed here, no one would be able to enjoy the New Year properly.

“Mother, Fourth Master Ning came in such haste, so he must have his own arrangements. We can simply send over some of the things needed for the New Year. It would be better not to invite him rashly.”

“That is reasonable. Then Mother will go sort through the things and discuss it with Steward Qin. If anything is lacking, we shall make it up together.”

“Good.”

Mu Yunyao carried the dumplings through the side gate and saw Steward Qin waiting there. “The weather is terribly cold. Why are you waiting here?”

Steward Qin stepped forward and took the food box from Mu Yunyao’s hands. “I thought Miss had not yet told Jin Lan and the others His Highness’s identity, so you would have to carry the food box over alone. I came to receive you.”

“Many thanks, Steward Qin.”

“Miss is too courteous. His Highness is in the study. Please follow me.”

Yu Heng announced from outside the door, “Master, Miss Mu and Steward Qin have arrived.”

“Enter.”

Hearing Yue Wang’s cool voice, Mu Yunyao drew a faint breath. A smile appeared on her face as she slowly walked into the study.

“Greetings, Fourth Master.”

“No need for ceremony.” Account books were stacked upon the desk. Hearing her, Yue Wang set down the ledger in his hand.

Steward Qin opened the food box and took out the steaming fen dumplings, along with several small dishes, arranging them one by one on the side table. “Madam Su truly prepared a great deal. His Highness certainly cannot finish all of this alone. Has Miss eaten yet? Why not have some together?”

Mu Yunyao quickly shook her head. “These were all prepared by my mother for Fourth Master. How could I touch them? Besides, Mother is already waiting at home for me to eat.” So after delivering the dumplings, she ought to leave.

Yue Wang, however, seemed not to hear the meaning beneath her words. He walked straight to the table, sat down, picked up the chopsticks, and began eating.

Mu Yunyao’s brows moved slightly. “Then I shall not disturb Fourth Master’s meal. I shall take my leave first…”

“The filling in these fen dumplings is especially fresh. What was added inside?” Yue Wang suddenly asked.

Mu Yunyao could only stop and explain, “There are some winter bamboo shoots, winter mushrooms, and fresh pork. The pork was carefully minced with a bamboo knife, so the taste is particularly good.” These fen dumplings had been specially wrapped by Mother for her. To keep the flavor pure, Mother had worked with exceptional care, refining the filling again and again. Who knew how much time she had spent preparing it?

Steward Qin withdrew, leaving only Yue Wang and Mu Yunyao in the room. Silence settled for a time.

Mu Yunyao grew somewhat anxious. Mother was still waiting for her to return and eat. Yet Yue Wang would not let her withdraw. What exactly did he mean?

Yue Wang ate an entire plate of fen dumplings and even finished more than half of the small dishes before finally setting down his chopsticks.

Mu Yunyao felt a little more at ease. If Yue Wang had merely tasted one or two dumplings and stopped, would that not have wasted Mother’s painstaking effort?

“Have all the New Year preparations been made?” Yue Wang looked at Mu Yunyao. She wore a pale green dress edged with soft fur at the collar and cuffs, which made her skin appear luminous as jade. She looked fresh and delicate, like a new bud on a branch.

Although she did not know why Yue Wang had suddenly become inclined to talk, Mu Yunyao could not refuse to answer. “Replying to Fourth Master, everything has been prepared.”

“Has Steward Qin prepared as well?”

“Previously, we did not know Fourth Master would come to Jingling City. Mother had discussed with Steward Qin that we would spend the New Year together, so the things were prepared in one place. However, it will not be troublesome to separate them. After I return…”

“No need.” Yue Wang suddenly spoke.

Mu Yunyao paused. “You say there is no need… What does Fourth Master mean?”

“Since it was agreed that the New Year would be spent together, then we shall spend it together. Why go to the trouble of separating everything?”

Mu Yunyao’s heart tightened, but she could not allow it to show on her face. She could only reveal a smile. “…That is excellent. With more people, the New Year will be livelier.”

Seeing the smile on her face, Yue Wang’s fingers shifted faintly. His expression turned even colder. “Mm.”

Mu Yunyao’s smile nearly stiffened. Afraid that Yue Wang would see through her, she could only lower her head and salute. “In that case, I shall return and inform Mother. I take my leave.” Once she finished speaking, she did not wait for Yue Wang to answer before turning and leaving the study.

Not long after Mu Yunyao left, Steward Qin entered the study with a face full of smiles, carefully observing Yue Wang’s expression. “His Highness, why did Miss Mu leave in such a hurry?”

“I do not know.” Yue Wang furrowed his brows. She had clearly been smiling quite happily before. He had not said anything in particular, yet she had turned and left…

Steward Qin chuckled. “Young ladies are thin-skinned. Perhaps Miss Mu felt embarrassed.”

Yue Wang’s gaze shifted. Hearing Steward Qin’s explanation, he nodded as though it made perfect sense. “Mm.” No wonder she had left so hastily, and even lowered her head before departing. So she had been embarrassed.

“His Highness, tomorrow is New Year’s Eve. What arrangements do you have?”

“Mu Yunyao just invited me to spend the New Year at her home. Since the things have already been prepared together, there is no need to separate them and go through the trouble again.”

Miss Mu had taken the initiative to invite His Highness?

Steward Qin felt happier than if it were already New Year’s. He nodded repeatedly. “Exactly. With so many things prepared together, separating them would indeed be troublesome. With more people, it will be livelier as well. Then should His Highness prepare a New Year's gift for Miss Mu? After all, it is the New Year, and Miss Mu has worked exceedingly hard over the past half year. Sending a gift to express thanks would only be proper.”

“Mm. Since Uncle Qin says so, then I shall prepare one for her.”

“Ah, Miss Mu will surely be very pleased.” Steward Qin knew that reaching this point was already rare enough, so he did not say more. “Then this old servant will withdraw and prepare a few more things.”

“Mm.”

Steward Qin left the study in high spirits. Once he returned, he immediately began writing a letter to Eunuch Cheng. From the look of things, His Highness had already misunderstood that Miss Mu admired him. Since that was so, let the misunderstanding continue. In any case, the goal was to invite Miss Mu back to the Wang residence. As for the process, there was no need to be so particular.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 160

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 159

Chapter 159: Miss Mu Brings Fen Dumplings

Yue Wang’s gaze remained fixed upon the lake below. For the first time, the chill in his deep eyes receded, replaced by open astonishment. He had never imagined that a woman could burn with such brilliance, like a cluster of flame setting the bitter winter ablaze.

She was like a riddle. When they first met, he had thought her timid, yet she had calmly bandaged his wound, stolen his dagger, killed a man, and framed another with it. Later, after investigating her, he had thought her scheming and deep-minded, only to hear that she had selflessly aided Ding Yuelan and rescued the orphans from the Charity Bureau. Now, just when he thought he could finally see her clearly, she had shown him this fierce and pure side of herself.

And such a complicated, unfathomable woman secretly harbored feelings for him…

At that thought, Yue Wang’s fingers trembled slightly. He reached for the teacup beside him and drank the tea, already gone cold, in a single swallow.

Steward Qin came back to himself just in time to see this. A smile stirred secretly in his heart, and he quickly ordered someone to replace the tea with a hot cup.

“His Highness, please try this. It is the newest batch of Lotus Fragrance Dew.”

Yue Wang lifted the cup and took a sip, but his gaze soon returned to the lake. Mu Yunyao was no longer there. Only the red silk remained, winding across the ice.

Steward Qin followed his gaze, the smile in his heart deepening. “His Highness, Miss Mu has likely gone to change her clothes.”

After spending these days together, he had come to understand Miss Mu’s proper and decorous nature quite well. When she played with the female apprentices, wearing clothes suited for ice games naturally did not matter. But if she were coming to pay respects to His Highness, that shortened skirt would certainly make her uncomfortable. At this moment, she had most likely gone to change before coming.

Seeing the crowd on the lake gradually disperse, Yu Heng stepped forward and suggested, “His Highness, you have had a long and tiring journey. Would you like to return to your room and rest first?”

Steward Qin narrowed his eyes slightly. His gaze fell upon Yu Heng, a cold glint flickering at the bottom of it. Yu Yi, standing to the side, could not help shivering. He tugged hard at Yu Heng’s sleeve, and, as if struck by sudden inspiration, quickly said, “The garden scenery is so fine. His Highness would naturally wish to admire it first before returning to rest.”

Yu Heng glanced around at the garden buried beneath white snow. With such a desolate winter scene on every side, where exactly was the fine scenery?

Yue Wang, however, nodded. “Mm. It is good to admire it for a while.”

Yu Heng blinked. Could the scenery truly be beautiful, and he simply did not know how to appreciate it?

Before long, Mu Yunyao had changed and returned to Jinxiu Garden. Seeing that there were still figures in the pavilion, her brows moved faintly.

Just now, that man’s cold, austere air had resembled Yue Wang so strongly that all her desire to continue playing vanished at once. She had gone straight back to her room to change, then hurried over, thinking Yue Wang would have returned to rest by now. She had not expected him to still be in the pavilion.

Mu Yunyao entered and immediately curtsied in formal salute. “This common girl, Mu Yunyao, pays respects to Your Highness Yue Wang.”

Yue Wang set down his teacup, his fingers brushing lightly along the edge of the cushion behind him. “Rise. My identity is not suitable to be publicly known. In the future, there is no need for such ceremony. It is better that you continue calling me Fourth Master.”

Mu Yunyao hurriedly rose. In winter, the ground felt like a slab of ice; naturally, she was more than willing not to perform such formalities. “Yes, Fourth Master. Have you come this time to inspect Niyun Pavilion and Buxian Tower?”

Yue Wang nodded slightly. “Indeed. You have managed Buxian Tower very well.”

Mu Yunyao smiled. “His Highness overpraises me. Strictly speaking, Buxian Tower has always been managed by Steward Qin. Aside from teaching some tea-brewing skills, I truly have not been of much help.”

Steward Qin quickly said, “Miss is far too modest. Brewing tea, roasting tea, and later helping Buxian Tower gain its reputation were all Miss’s contributions. If it had been left to me alone, Buxian Tower would likely have closed before it even opened.”

Mu Yunyao could not help laughing. “How could it be as serious as that? Speaking of which, when I came just now, Mother asked me to borrow a few people from you to help wrap fen dumplings. There are many people on both sides, so quite a lot need to be made.”

“Very well. In a moment, I shall have Yun Chun bring people over.”

Mu Yunyao was just about to thank him when she saw Yue Wang rise. She swallowed the words at the edge of her lips. “Is His Highness going back to rest?”

Yue Wang nodded. Against the snow-white fox-fur cloak, his peerlessly handsome face appeared even colder and more aloof, as though untouched by the mortal world.

Mu Yunyao’s thoughts were sharp. Looking at Yue Wang like this, she somehow felt that something was not quite right. Almost instinctively, she said, “Then His Highness should go back and rest first. Once you have rested, the fen dumplings should be about ready. I will send some over for you to taste.”

Yue Wang’s gaze shifted faintly. He nodded almost imperceptibly, then led his people away. Had Mu Yunyao not been watching him closely, she might not even have noticed the slight movement.

Steward Qin’s face was full of smiles as he bowed to Mu Yunyao. “Then I shall trouble Miss Mu later.”

“Steward Qin is too courteous.”

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao came over. “Miss, was that young master, the true owner of Jinxiu Garden?”

“Mm. You may address him as Fourth Master Ning. His temperament is cold, and his moods are difficult to predict. For the next while, do not go in and out of Jinxiu Garden lightly, and do not draw his attention. Otherwise, when the time comes, even I may not be able to save you.”

The two quickly nodded. “Yes. Please rest assured, Miss. We will also restrain the others.” Jinxiu Garden had, after all, been borrowed. When its owner was absent, it was one thing for them to come in and play. Now that the owner had returned, continuing to do so would be somewhat like guests overwhelming the host. If they were in his place, they would feel displeased too.

After the fen dumplings were wrapped, Su Qing washed her hands and returned to the room. Seeing Mu Yunyao leaning lazily against the soft couch, she could not help asking, “What is this? Just now, I heard Jin Lan and Jin Qiao complaining to me that you won away all their monthly silver.”

Mu Yunyao withdrew her gaze and immediately defended herself. “They were the ones who insisted on betting with me. How can that be blamed on me? Who told them their skills were inferior?” Back when she was in Jin Wang’s Residence, she had loved ice games. Once she put on ice shoes and glided across the frozen surface, the defect in her leg could no longer be seen. Instead, it won her admiring gazes.

“You…” Su Qing shook her head fondly. “Tomorrow is New Year’s Eve, and the day after is the first day of the year. You must prepare a few more red packets for them. These past months, following us mother and daughter has not been easy for them either.”

“Very well. I shall listen to Mother.”

“Enough. Get up. The fen dumplings have already been wrapped. There are lotus-root-and-fresh-pork ones you like, as well as winter-mushroom-and-bamboo-shoot ones. I will cook a few for you to taste first.” Su Qing affectionately rubbed Mu Yunyao’s hair, then took her wrist and pulled her up. This girl became especially languid whenever she lay on the soft couch. If no one pulled her up, one could call her ten times and still not see her move.

Mu Yunyao sighed. “Mother, cook a few extra. The owner of Jinxiu Garden next door has returned. Hearing that we are eating fen dumplings, he seemed rather envious. We may as well cook more and send some over to him.”

“The owner of Jinxiu Garden—you mean the Fourth Master Ning you mentioned?”

“Yes. Who else could it be?”

“Then wait here. Mother will personally cook them. Once they are ready, you send them over. If he had not generously lent Jinxiu Garden to us, Buxian Tower would not exist as it does today. We must properly repay this kindness.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 158

Chapter 158: Yue Wang Arrives

Steward Qin finished securing the swing frame and looked toward the cautious figures moving one by one across the frozen lake. The corners of his lips lifted. Snow had fallen for several days in a row, and even the lake in Jinxiu Garden had frozen over. Miss Mu had brought the apprentices onto the ice to play. He had not expected that girls who looked so light and nimble on ordinary days would turn into rolling gourds the moment they stepped onto the ice. Yet the more they tumbled, the more spirited they became. Even without Miss Mu leading them, they insisted on going up and testing themselves again.

Yu Yi came to stand beside him. “Steward Qin, tomorrow is New Year’s Eve. I wonder how His Highness is doing.”

Steward Qin sighed. “His Highness only returns to the capital once for the Emperor’s birthday. On all other days, even the New Year, he is required to remain in Yuexi. This year will likely pass the same way. Still, with the ginger tea and the silver we sent over, at least he should be able to have a decent New Year.”

“Alas. If only His Highness could come here as well.”

“What nonsense. How could His Highness come here?”

Yu Yi’s eyes suddenly widened, as though he had seen something impossible. He stared behind Steward Qin and cried out, “His Highness?”

“What are you shouting for? Do you not know His Highness’s identity must be kept secret? Besides, shouting so loudly—do you think His Highness will simply appear before you?”

Yu Yi hurriedly tugged at Steward Qin. “His Highness… behind you! Turn around and look!”

Steward Qin turned. One glance was enough to make his eyes widen, and his tongue freeze in his mouth. “His… His Highness?”

The man behind him, wrapped in a fox-fur cloak and carrying the cold, cutting air of winter in his gaze, was indeed Yue Wang.

Steward Qin stood dazed for a moment before delight spread across his face. He hurried forward to greet him. “This old servant pays respects to Master.”

“Uncle Qin, rise quickly. Why are you outside?” Steward Qin’s waist had never been well; the ailment had been left behind from the years he had cared for him. Thus, when someone had needed to take charge in Jiangnan, Eunuch Cheng had insisted that Steward Qin come here, all so his days might be easier.

The smile on Steward Qin’s face deepened. “My waist has long been much better. It is all thanks to Miss Mu. Do not be fooled by her young age—her medical skill is exceedingly profound. With only a few needles, most of the old pain in my waist was relieved.”

Suddenly, cheers rose from a short distance away.

“Miss, hurry and come down!”

“We are all waiting for you. Today, we must win back what we lost!”

By the lakeside, Mu Yunyao had just arrived when Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others began hopping in place and challenging her. Their words made her laugh. “You had better think carefully. If you keep losing, all the silver you earned these past few months will end up in my hands. Do not cry when the time comes.”

“Miss, do not look down on us. These past two days, we have practiced with great effort. We will certainly win our silver back from you. When that happens, you must not go back on your word!”

“Rest assured. If you can win, I shall take out another hundred taels of silver as your reward.”

“Good!”

Seeing Yue Wang’s gaze shift in that direction, Steward Qin narrowed his eyes slightly. “His Highness, Miss Mu, and the maidservants are holding a contest on the ice. This old servant finds it most interesting. Why not have a look as well?”

Yu Heng, standing to the side, tugged the corner of his mouth. Inwardly, he thought: His Highness has traveled all this way through wind and dust. In the dead of winter, his body must nearly be frozen stiff. How could he still be in the mood to watch a few young ladies play on the ice?

Before the thought had fully settled, he saw Yue Wang lift his foot and walk toward the lake. Yu Heng froze where he stood and could only stare blankly at Steward Qin. “Steward Qin, this…”

Yu Yi hurried forward and pulled him aside, then smiled at Steward Qin. “Do not worry. I will take him aside and teach him properly.” After these days, he had come to understand one thing clearly: whenever Miss Mu was involved, Steward Qin became especially unreasonable. If Yu Heng said anything unsuitable, he might very well be dealt with by Steward Qin in secret.

Steward Qin nodded. Only then did he turn and follow Yue Wang’s steps toward a pavilion beside the lake.

The pavilion stood on slightly higher ground, giving a clear view of the lake. Those on the ice, however, would not notice what was happening inside the pavilion unless they deliberately raised their heads to look.

Yue Wang sat in the pavilion, his gaze fixed on the frozen lake.

By the lakeside, for the sake of moving easily on the ice, Mu Yunyao had changed into a newly made outfit. At a glance, it looked like a gauze skirt, but the hem had been slightly gathered. It was not as elaborate as ordinary skirts and had been shortened slightly, revealing the full surface of her shoes and making it easier for her to glide across the ice.

She moved her body lightly to loosen herself, then put on her ice shoes and stepped onto the lake. With a deliberately provocative glance at the female apprentices, she said, “Have you prepared all your silver? If you cannot take it out, beware—this Miss will strike your palms.”

Nan’er, who was watching from the lakeside, quickly brought over a wooden box. When he opened it, there were scattered bits of silver inside. “Miss, I have been keeping watch for you. All the elder sisters have placed their silver inside.”

Mu Yunyao nodded approvingly. “Well done. Watch me win all their silver, then I shall reward you with money to buy sweets.”

Nan’er jumped in place, his face full of joy. “Good! Many thanks, Miss.”

Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others immediately protested. “Miss, we have not even competed yet. How do you know you will certainly win?”

“Then let us see the truth with our own hands.”

Everyone glided to the southern side of the lake. At the command, Mu Yunyao shot forward across the ice like a light, nimble swallow, easily leaving the apprentices behind her.

Her figure was light and her speed swift. As she moved, the wind lifted the hem of her skirt until it bloomed like a flower, breathtakingly beautiful.

By the time Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others reached the northern side of the lake, Mu Yunyao was already waiting for them with a smile.

“Miss, we will compete again in three days. We will certainly beat you then.”

Mu Yunyao laughed softly. Nan’er had already run to her side, clutching the wooden box with a face full of delight. “Miss is truly amazing. You won again!”

Mu Yunyao nodded. Seeing that Jin Lan and the others were still unwilling to concede, her own competitive spirit was stirred. “Do you think moving on ice is only about who is faster? Since I am in a good mood today, I shall show you something with a bit more flair.”

“More flair? What kind of flair can there be on ice?”

Mu Yunyao smiled without answering. She glided forward for a long stretch, then pulled down a length of red silk from the lakeside. After checking its length, she nodded in satisfaction and wound the silk around her arm. Then, all at once, she began to move.

Her speed was astonishing. The silk unfurled like rosy clouds, and she seemed to fly above the ice as though riding the edge of the heavens. The red silk in her hands danced with her movements, like a crimson lotus blooming beneath the morning sun, so beautiful it made people hold their breath. Her movements alternated between swift and slow—arriving like thunder that had not yet spent its fury, ending like rivers and seas condensed into clear light. Upon the broad frozen lake, her brilliance unfolded in dazzling splendor.

Gradually, everyone’s breathing quieted. Their eyes held only Mu Yunyao, spinning suddenly upon the ice. They did not know what words might describe it. In the end, only one word surfaced in their minds: beautiful. Beautiful beyond compare.

At last, Mu Yunyao stopped. Slightly breathless, she released the red silk. Seeing that everyone had yet to return to themselves, she smiled with a touch of pride. “I told you all…” Suddenly, she felt the strange sensation of being watched. Before she could finish speaking, she swept her gaze around the area. Then her eyes narrowed sharply.

Yue Wang!

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 157

Chapter 157: Jingling City Again?

On the twenty-third day of the twelfth lunar month, common households swept their homes and began offering sacrifices to the Kitchen God. Within the imperial palace, the Emperor sealed his imperial brush for the year and held a banquet, sharing the festive joy with his officials and people.

Just as the banquet reached its liveliest point, the inner attendant Xu Li entered with two guards carrying scrolls. “This servant pays respects to Your Majesty.”

“Mm?” The Emperor looked toward the guards behind Xu Li and immediately straightened, delight appearing on his face. “Those two guards—were they sent by Grand Princess Yide?”

Xu Li quickly bowed and answered, “Replying to Your Majesty, they are people from Her Highness the Grand Princess’s side. Today, she specially sent them to present Your Majesty with a gift.”

The joy on the Emperor’s face deepened. He even rose and personally descended the steps. “The Grand Princess has always kept Us in her thoughts. Now, while residing at Huguo Temple to pray for the Dali Dynasty, she still does not forget to send Us a gift. It truly moves Us.”

The officials in the hall hurried to echo him. “Indeed. Grand Princess Yide and Your Majesty share deep affection as siblings. Naturally, she thinks of Your Majesty at all times.”

“Grand Princess Yide personally prays for the nation. She is truly a model for all women under Heaven!”

The Emperor’s heart grew increasingly pleased as he listened. Grand Princess Yide was his elder sister by blood. Before he ascended the throne, she had saved his life more than once, and the bond between them had always been deep. Later, after he took the imperial seat, he wished to grant her supreme honor and glory. Yet, she had withdrawn at the height of favor, spending her days burning incense and worshiping Buddha, no longer involving herself in worldly affairs.

“What gift has the Grand Princess sent?”

The guards hurriedly and carefully unfurled the scroll in their hands. The painting was about seven chi long and four chi wide, filled with figures of all kinds. On closer inspection, the houses and buildings were all in the Jiangnan style. The scenery followed a single street as its main thread, depicting the distribution of porridge. There were more than a thousand people in the painting, each with different clothing and bearing. Their expressions were lifelike, yet almost all carried some measure of a smile. Even through the painted scene, one could glimpse the harmony and warmth of that moment.

The Emperor was deeply shaken as he looked at it. “Jingling City Laba Porridge Distribution Painting? Li Chong… This… this is Master Li Chong’s work?”

One guard quickly presented a letter. “Replying to Your Majesty, this is a handwritten letter from Her Highness the Grand Princess.”

The Emperor immediately took the letter and read it carefully.

The officials at the side, however, grew anxious. Recently, if one were to speak of which name had appeared most frequently in court, it would certainly be Jingling City. First, at the Emperor’s birthday banquet, Cao Yunnian’s wife had sincerely prayed for the Emperor, drawing butterflies to dance around her. His Majesty had been pleased and promoted Cao Yunnian because of it.

After that, Jingling City spread embroidery techniques among the people, which counted as a great merit in educating the populace, and the Emperor personally bestowed rewards. Later, the embroidery workshop that had spread the techniques was burned down, and the Emperor once again bestowed his own calligraphy, thereby causing Niyun Pavilion and Buxian Tower to become famous. Even now, the tea His Majesty drank still came from Buxian Tower.

And now, they had produced a Laba Porridge Distribution Painting. In their view, on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, which city did not have someone distributing porridge? Why was Jingling City’s porridge distribution the one painted and sent before the Emperor? If this painting had not been by Master Li Chong, they would have suspected Jingling City’s officials of deliberately using this trick to show their faces before the Emperor.

The Emperor had already finished reading the letter Grand Princess Yide had sent. When he looked again at the painting, his feelings deepened further. “Beloved ministers, come forward and have a look as well. The people do not ask for much. If they can live and work in peace, then the hearts of the people will naturally submit. Many merchants do things for the people, yet so many officials occupy their positions and do nothing. It truly pains Us.”

“This subject is guilty.” Hearing these words, the officials immediately knelt and confessed their faults, fear tightening within them.

The Emperor pondered for a moment and gave a faint sigh, carefully putting away Grand Princess Yide’s letter. “Elder Sister Yide is reminding Us that We must always remember the duties of a ruler. Xu Li, take the gifts We prepared, and add ten hu of pearls, ten pieces of jade, ten bolts of brocade, as well as the pigeon-blood gemstones, rhinoceros horn, and agarwood that were recently offered as tribute. Send them all to the Grand Princess. Wait—We will also write a letter. Take it to the Grand Princess and ask whether she lacks anything there. When you return, report it to Us in detail. We will personally choose more things to send her.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Xu Li’s heart surged with excitement, though he firmly restrained it from showing on his face. He knew this was his moment of fortune. In the past, whenever His Majesty sent things to the Grand Princess, he would always dispatch Chief Eunuch De. Xu Li had not expected that today, this blessed errand would fall to him.

The officials below remained kneeling, not daring to make a sound. People often said there was no kinship in the imperial family, yet all these years, the sibling bond between the Grand Princess and the Emperor had clearly only grown deeper. On ordinary days, if there was something delicious, His Majesty would have someone send a portion to the Grand Princess. Now that the New Year was near, the gifts he prepared nearly emptied the palace storehouses. It was truly difficult for others to understand.

The chief eunuch had already ordered people to clear most of the table before the Emperor, then brought over a brush, ink, paper, and an inkstone for His Majesty to write the letter. Once the letter was finished, the Emperor finally looked at the officials kneeling below. “Enough. Rise. Go forward one by one and look at the painting and calligraphy that the Grand Princess has sent. Reflect upon yourselves. Only then will you understand the duties of a minister.”

“Yes. This subject respectfully obeys Your Majesty’s teachings.”

The officials below hurried forward, according to rank and position, to admire Master Li Chong’s painting. After seeing it, each felt moved to some degree. The painting was extraordinarily vivid; the longer one looked, the more easily one was drawn into the scene.

However, although those censors who had always wielded their brushes like blades were likewise stirred, they also worried that the matter might not match its reputation. One after another, they thought that tomorrow they ought to submit memorials, preferably urging His Majesty to send an imperial envoy to investigate the true circumstances in Jingling City. If the matter was indeed real, then Jingling City should naturally be rewarded properly. If not, this inflated and frivolous style must be suppressed.

Then again, this painting had been sent by Grand Princess Yide. With that lady’s temperament and conduct, there was a ninety percent chance the matter was true. Alas, other officials had to rack their brains to achieve even a little in politics. In contrast, the officials of Jingling City seemed to do almost nothing before merit and reputation leaped straight into their arms. It was enough to make one’s heart itch with envy.

Mu Yunyao had no idea that a thoughtless act on her part had once again stirred waves in the capital.

As the New Year approached, each day had its own customs and sayings. Mu Yunyao simply had Niyun Pavilion and Buxian Tower close their doors. A group of people gathered lively and noisily in Jinxiu Garden, spending their days calculating what things ought to be prepared for the New Year.

Over the past half year, Mu Yunyao had taken every step with utmost caution. Su Qing had seen it all and ached for her in silence. Now that Yunyao had become much livelier these past few days, Su Qing urged Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others to accompany her to play all sorts of games.

Everything was proceeding smoothly according to her plans, and Mu Yunyao’s heart was also exceedingly light. She simply let go of her usual restraint and played to her heart’s content—swings, archery, pitch-pot, cuju, ice games… The whole of Jinxiu Garden was filled with laughter.

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 156

Chapter 156: A Careful Explanation for Su Qing

Only then did everyone return to their senses. They echoed one another in praise, while their eyes strayed more than once toward Mu Yunyao. None of them knew how her mind worked. Even clothing, in her hands, could be transformed into so many clever designs—and the crucial point was that every design stirred the heart, making them wish they could have such a set for themselves.

This was especially true for the madams. Their gazes seemed almost unable to part from the two outfits. At their age and status, many things could no longer be spoken aloud too directly. Yet to use clothing to quietly suggest the affection between husband and wife—subtle, veiled, and graceful—made them yearn for it all the more.

Originally, everyone had thought that Mu Yunyao was the one benefiting from this god-kinship. Now, however, it was difficult to say who had truly gained the greater advantage.

When the banquet began, the madams’ manner toward Mu Yunyao and Su Qing grew noticeably warmer. They were only short of writing the words I have a favor to ask directly on their faces.

Mu Yunyao merely pretended not to understand. With a smile, she accompanied everyone until the banquet came to an end.

By the time the feast concluded, nearly two hours had passed. After seeing off the guests, Mu Yunyao accompanied Madam Jin back to the rear courtyard. “Godmother, you truly worked hard today.” As she spoke, she helped check Madam Jin’s pulse.

“I was happy today. Even if it was tiring, it was worth it. Besides, you prepared everything so thoroughly for me that I did not feel weary at all.”

Madam Jin looked at Mu Yunyao, and the more she looked, the more affection gathered in her eyes. The outfit she wore was not only light but also warm. Earlier, in her previous clothes, she had felt chilled all over, but after changing into the garments Mu Yunyao had made, she felt much more comfortable. Even the shoes on her feet had cotton and mugwort added to the soles; they were soft, good for the body, and did not tire her when she walked.

After taking her pulse, Mu Yunyao’s smile eased. “Godmother’s pulse is perfectly steady. It seems my little brother was happy today as well, so he has been especially well-behaved.”

Madam Jin stroked her belly. “If he could be this well-behaved every day, I would wake laughing even from my dreams. Ah—look at this mischievous little one. I had only just finished speaking, and he already seems unconvinced. Now he is punching and kicking again.”

Mu Yunyao gently placed her hand on Madam Jin’s belly and deliberately put on a trace of sternness. “You must behave and listen. You are not allowed to make trouble in Godmother’s belly. Otherwise, this elder sister will not let you off.”

Whether by coincidence or not, the child who had been moving restlessly suddenly quieted, as though he had understood Mu Yunyao’s words. Madam Jin’s face lit with surprise again and again.

Mu Yunyao laughed with her for a while but did not linger. “Godmother has been tired all day. You should rest now. I will come to keep you company another day.”

“Good. You and Younger Sister Su must be exhausted as well. Go back and rest quickly.”

“Yao’er takes her leave.”

On the way home, the excitement in Su Qing’s chest had yet to settle. “Yao’er, I keep feeling that after those madams saw the clothes you made for Lord Cao and Madam Jin, they became especially warm toward me. Can a single set of clothes truly have such influence?”

Mu Yunyao could not help laughing. “What they were looking at was not the clothes themselves, but the status those clothes represented.”

“What sort of status can an ordinary set of clothes represent?” Su Qing grew even more puzzled.

“A single outfit on its own is nothing particularly special. But when Godfather and Godmother’s outfits are placed together, they become just as the governor’s wife said—butterflies lingering over flowers, symbolizing affection between husband and wife. Those who attended today’s banquet were all legitimate wives of their households. Although they hold the title of main wife, they are not necessarily the most favored women in their residences. Which household does not have one or two favored concubines to vex them?”

“But can one set of clothes help them win favor?” Su Qing knew that great households often had many concubines in the rear courtyard. As the official wife, having to constantly face a favored concubine was indeed enough to leave one ill at ease.

“It may not necessarily help them win favor, but at the very least, it can display their status. Such clothing is something only a legitimate wife may wear as a matching set with her husband.” Moreover, what those official wives valued most was often precisely this status. As for whether they were favored or not, one could not say they cared nothing at all, but at least half of them no longer placed it first in their hearts.

Su Qing nodded, a quiet sigh settling in her expression. “In the past, I only thought those madams lived in glory. Now it seems their lives are not entirely as one might wish.”

“The deeper the mansion and the greater the household, the more hidden paths there are inside. Mother will understand gradually after seeing more of it.”

“Mm. Yao’er, do not worry. If I do not understand, I shall listen more and watch more. In time, I will learn to see things clearly.”

Mu Yunyao naturally knew that Su Qing was doing all of this for her. Warmth rose behind her eyes. She could not help throwing herself into her mother’s embrace. “Mother is so good to me.”

“Silly girl.”

After returning home, Mu Yunyao also felt rather tired, so she went straight to rest.

Out on the streets, however, Steward Qin and the others were busy until the sky turned completely dark. Only when the stacked mountain of rice had become a pile of empty sacks did people gradually stop coming to receive porridge.

Those who had helped distribute the porridge were so tired they could barely walk. Once they sat down on the ground, none of them wanted to move. They had never imagined that a single bowl of Laba porridge could be so eagerly sought after by the people.

Yu Yi could not help asking Steward Qin, “Do you think the entire population of Jingling City came to receive porridge today?”

“Perhaps more than that.”

“More than that?”

“Yes. There are many merchants in Jingling City these days. Just now, I saw quite a few people in fine clothing come to receive porridge as well. Those people did not look as though they were lacking this one bowl of porridge.”

Yu Yi grew even more confused. “Since they did not lack this bowl of porridge, why did they insist on lining up to receive it?”

“I told Yue Wang long ago that when choosing people, one cannot look only at martial skill and loyalty. One must also see whether they have a brain. When you saw the scene today, with the whole city receiving Laba porridge together, how did it feel?”

“If you ask how it felt… aside from feeling warm inside, there was nothing especially different. Oh, and it was very tiring.”

“Then did you feel the exhaustion was worth it?”

Yu Yi looked around at the people who had not yet dispersed. Every face still carried a smile. For some reason, although his body remained heavy with fatigue, there was a quiet satisfaction in his chest that he could not quite put into words. “It was worth it.”

Steward Qin smiled as well. “That is exactly it. Those who came to receive porridge may not truly have lacked that one bowl. What they wanted was to take part in such a scene. If I have guessed correctly, Jingling City is about to become famous again.”

The lively day came to an end. One night passed, the morning sun rose, and it was another new day.

Mu Yunyao began preparing for the New Year. This was the first New Year she would spend with her mother since her rebirth. In Su Qing’s eyes, every day had been spent together with her, but to Mu Yunyao, it had already been many years since she had passed a New Year at her mother’s side.

Because of that, she treated this year with particular care. She only hoped to invite good fortune during the New Year, so that the days ahead might proceed smoothly. In addition, she had now recognized a pair of Godparents, so the New Year gifts needed to be prepared with even greater thought.

At this time, a special gift was being sent by fast horse all the way into the imperial city of the capital.

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 155

Chapter 155: Distributing Porridge

“Yunyao pays respects to Governor Zhang and the governor’s wife, and to Lord Cao and Madam Jin.” At this moment, naturally, she would only change her form of address after the formal god-kinship ceremony was completed. Thus, Mu Yunyao still addressed them as Lord Cao and Madam Jin.

Cao Yunnian looked her over, approval brightening his eyes. “Yao’er, quickly rise.”

Madam Jin also rose and led Su Qing forward to pay respects to Governor Zhang and the governor’s wife.

The governor’s wife personally helped Su Qing up, her manner exceedingly gentle. “Madam Su, there is no need for such ceremony. Please take your seat. Today, you are the honored ones. We may speak at leisure another day.”

“Yes. Many thanks, Madam.”

The rites for recognizing god-kinship were not actually complicated. Yin Hong set out the kneeling cushion, and Mu Yunyao stepped forward to kowtow and offer tea to Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin.

Both of them gave her ample face. After accepting the tea, each took a large sip. Then Cao Yunnian ordered someone to bring over a tray. When the red cloth covering it was lifted, everyone saw a golden bowl, a pair of golden chopsticks, a golden spoon, and a longevity lock laid upon it.

Cao Yunnian handed the items to Mu Yunyao and said, “From this day forward, you are the Goddaughter of Madam and me. Your Godmother and I hope you will live in peace and safety, and enjoy a long life of a hundred years.”

Looking at the exquisite set of gifts, Mu Yunyao’s eyes filled with genuine warmth. “Yunyao thanks Godfather and Godmother.”

“Good. Quickly rise.”

Mu Yunyao stood. “Godfather, Godmother, your daughter has also prepared a few things. I hope Godfather and Godmother will not disdain them.”

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao each entered carrying a tray.

When Madam Jin saw what lay upon the trays, she paused slightly. A moment later, heat gathered at the rims of her eyes. “You child… Because the New Year is near, the chosen date was set rather close. Altogether, there were only four or five days. How did you manage to prepare so many things?”

On the trays rested two full sets of clothing, one for a man and one for a woman. One glance was enough to see that they had been prepared for Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin. The fabrics chosen were all exceedingly fine, and every accessory had been completed. Even from the visible sections alone, the embroidery was exquisite. No matter how swift Mu Yunyao’s needlework was, she must have had to work through the nights to finish them.

The governor’s wife could not help showing a trace of envy. “This child Yunyao is truly filial. You two are blessed indeed. At the banquet later, you should wear these clothes and let us all admire them.”

Madam Jin was naturally willing to give Mu Yunyao this honor and quickly nodded in agreement. “Very well. I shall change into them later.”

Facing such an occasion for the first time, Su Qing felt somewhat at a loss. Fortunately, Madam Jin treated her with particular intimacy, and Mu Yunyao conducted herself with exceptional dignity and grace. Because of this, everyone unconsciously held Su Qing in a little more respect, and their words toward her were especially mild, allowing her to feel far more at ease.

Meanwhile, in Jingling City, porridge sheds had been set up along several main streets. Steward Qin had temporarily closed Buxian Tower and brought Wei Yi, Yun Chun, and the others onto the streets to help distribute porridge.

The embroiderers of Niyun Pavilion were not idle either. Some helped serve porridge, while others brought out leftover scraps of fabric from the embroidery workshop and distributed them to poor households.

When the people saw the great cauldrons that had been set up and the towering stacks of grain sacks behind them, the whole of Jingling City was stirred. In past years, there were naturally people who distributed porridge on the Laba Festival as well, but most only put on a show. They would bring out two buckets, ladle out a little for wandering beggars, display their kindness, and earn themselves a charitable name. Who had ever seen porridge distributed with such sincerity?

The lives of common people were always stretched tight. This year, because Mu Yunyao had taught embroidery skills, many households were somewhat better off than before. Yet the weather had suddenly turned cold, winter clothes needed to be added, and silver was still not enough. Thinking that even a little saved counted, people took their bowls and chopsticks and went out to queue for porridge.

When the people drew close to the porridge sheds and saw what was in the pots, their eyes widened one after another. Firewood still burned beneath the temporary stoves. A great pot of thick Laba porridge bubbled and simmered, and each burst of steam released a rich, mellow fragrance into the air. The ingredients in the porridge were genuine and plentiful: glutinous rice, coix seed, lotus seeds, lily bulbs, red dates, millet, walnuts, hyacinth beans… With a rough count, there seemed to be more than ten kinds of ingredients inside.

Steward Qin smiled as he filled a bowl to the brim for the first person to come receive porridge. “Old sir, drink slowly. If it is not enough, you may come back for another serving. Just be sure to line up again.”

The elderly man who received the porridge smiled broadly. “No need, no need. At my age, I cannot eat much. This one bowl of Laba porridge will be enough to last me the whole day!”

Steward Qin paused. Then he took a small spoonful of sugar from the wooden bucket beside him and added it to the old man’s bowl. “Please enjoy it slowly, old sir.”

The old man froze for a moment, then bent in a bow, “Many thanks, Shopkeeper Qin. Many thanks to Madam Jin and Miss Mu!”

Perhaps influenced by the old man’s gesture, every person who received porridge afterward murmured a word of thanks to Madam Jin and Miss Mu. There was even a child who could barely speak clearly, yet still held his bowl and stumbled through his gratitude. Hearing it, Steward Qin felt something warm press against his chest.

Each porridge shed had prepared two pots. The firewood burned fiercely to hasten the cooking, yet even so, they could hardly keep up with the speed at which the people came to receive porridge.

Most of the people who received Laba porridge gave up their places in line and stood by the street corners, cradling their bowls as they began to eat. For a time, several streets were filled with the fragrance of porridge. The people drank as they chatted with one another, laughter rising continuously, as though the entire city of Jingling had been warmed by this single bowl.

Within the Cao Residence, the atmosphere was just as lively.

The male and female guests were in no hurry to take their seats for the banquet. Instead, they all urged Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin to change into the clothes Mu Yunyao had prepared. Everyone knew that Mu Yunyao’s embroidery skills were superb; even the New Year’s tribute had been completed by her over three painstaking months. Now that they had a chance to admire her craftsmanship, naturally, no one wished to miss it—especially since this was the first time she had made men’s clothing.

When Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin emerged after changing, the previously lively hall fell suddenly silent.

Cao Yunnian wore a robe of deep navy blue. Dark, mysterious patterns were embroidered along the shoulders and collar, while a cluster of noble orchids adorned the hem. The orchids were so lifelike that, with each step he took, they seemed to gently unfurl their leaves. There was an indescribable scholarly elegance to them, making Cao Yunnian appear nearly ten years younger.

Madam Jin, beside him, was even more striking. Her dress was ice blue, embroidered with clusters of pale pink peonies that climbed from the hem to her waist. The design perfectly concealed the curve of her belly, so she did not appear heavy or ungainly at all. Instead, she carried an added air of grace and noble splendor. Most distinctive of all were the two deep navy butterflies embroidered beside the peonies. Their wings were spread as they danced lightly around the flowers.

Viewed separately, each outfit was already magnificent to the extreme. Seen together, however, they gave the impression that the deep navy butterflies on Madam Jin’s dress had flown from the orchids on Cao Yunnian’s robe.

The governor’s wife looked at them for a long while before suddenly sighing in admiration. “Butterflies lingering over flowers. Lord Cao and Madam Jin are indeed a loving couple.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 154

Chapter 154: A Heart Still in Mourning

Cao Yunnian could not help laughing aloud. He reached out, his palm full of tenderness, and gently stroked Madam Jin’s belly. “This is the first child between Madam and me. Naturally, I wish I could hold him in my palms and place him at the very tip of my heart to cherish him… Ah! The child kicked me! Madam, did you feel that? He kicked me!”

Cao Yunnian’s eyes widened, wonder spreading across his face as his smile refused to fade.

Watching him, Madam Jin felt her heart soften. “That is the child greeting his father. Speaking of which, in a while, I should begin preparing some clothes for the child…”

“You must not tire yourself, Madam. I remember that Concubine Zhou is quite skilled with needlework. She has little to occupy her on ordinary days. Why not have her prepare some?”

Madam Jin smiled and nodded, though a glimmer of satisfaction passed through her eyes. Since Concubine Wang was gone, Concubine Zhou’s arrogance had grown rather unchecked. This would be a fitting opportunity to press her down a little, so she might learn what it meant to restrain herself. “Then in two days, I shall send someone to inform her.”

Soon, the guests who had received invitations arrived at the Cao Residence one after another.

On the men’s side, when the guests saw Cao Yunnian personally receive them, they could not help but feel secretly relieved. It seemed Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin valued Mu Yunyao greatly. Fortunately, the gifts they had prepared this time were sufficiently generous.

On the women’s side, however, it was Mu Yunyao who stood outside to receive the guests. Madam Jin was with child, and as the months had grown heavier, it was only reasonable that she would not come out to greet everyone in person. Yet for Mu Yunyao to stand in her place carried an unmistakable implication.

Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin were clearly treating her as their own daughter. From this day on, she would be a young lady of the Cao Residence—someone they could no longer afford to offend lightly.

Many silently sighed over it. Mu Yunyao could be said to have overturned her fate in a single morning, flying from an ordinary sparrow onto a high branch. Though one could not say she had become a phoenix, at the very least, she could now be called a peacock. It was an opportunity countless people longed for day and night, yet might never obtain.

Whatever they thought inwardly, no one was foolish enough to let their true feelings show. Every face was bright with congratulatory cheer.

The guests politely exchanged greetings with Mu Yunyao. After a few words of courtesy, they entered the hall and took their seats. Once seated, they could not help observing her in secret, and many nodded inwardly. No wonder Madam Jin held Mu Yunyao in such regard. Her composed and graceful bearing alone was something many families could not cultivate even after years of effort.

After all the female guests had been welcomed into the Cao Residence, Mu Yunyao first stepped forward and curtsied. Only then did she withdraw to the rear and support Madam Jin as she came out.

As soon as Madam Jin appeared, the ladies rose and offered their greetings. After another round of polite exchanges, everyone returned to their seats.

“Many thanks to all the madams and young ladies for coming to today’s banquet,” Madam Jin said. “Once the kinship ceremony is completed later, Yunyao will also be my daughter. In the future, I hope you will all look after her and offer her guidance.”

“Congratulations, Madam. Yunyao is obedient and considerate, and she observes propriety so well. Even if we wished to offer guidance, we would be hard-pressed to find any fault.”

“Miss Mu is pleasing at first glance. With Madam’s careful teaching in the future, she will surely grow even more lovely and graceful.”

As praise came one after another, Mu Yunyao lowered her head slightly. A faint blush rose on her face, lending her a bashful softness that made her even more endearing. Madam Jin kept holding her hand throughout, the closeness between them plain without needing a single word.

Before long, Yin Hong entered and reported, “Madam, Miss, the auspicious hour has arrived. It is time to go to the front courtyard.”

Madam Jin rose and nodded lightly to the gathered guests. “Everyone, please come forward to observe the ceremony.”

“Of course. How could we miss such a moment?”

Madam Jin patted Mu Yunyao’s hand, signaling for her to go change first. Mu Yunyao curtsied before withdrawing.

In the rear courtyard, Su Qing hurried forward when she saw Mu Yunyao arrive. “Yao’er, how was it?” Though Madam Jin had given repeated assurances, Mu Yunyao’s origins were still plain for all to see. Su Qing had worried that while Yunyao greeted the guests, someone might deliberately make things difficult for her.

“Mother, do not worry. Everything went smoothly. Nothing happened.”

“That is good. The auspicious hour is nearly here. Hurry and change your clothes.” Su Qing had looked over the garments for quite some time and felt the red gauze dress was the most splendid, so she brought it over directly.

Mu Yunyao stroked the red gauze dress at her side, hesitation flickering through her expression. “Mother, although it has been more than a year since Father passed away, I still do not wish to wear red.”

Su Qing paused, and a trace of sorrow crossed her eyes. “Our Dali Dynasty does value filial piety, but the rites are not considered overly strict. Among ordinary people, observing mourning for one year is already sufficient.”

Mu Yunyao shook her head. “That may be true, but in great families where rules are strict, it would still become something others could criticize. I shall wear the light purple one instead. I believe Madam Jin will understand.”

“…Very well. We shall do as you wish. Your father would surely be moved to know you have such filial devotion.” Mu Cheng, if your spirit truly watches from above, then protect Yao’er. Let the road ahead be safe and peaceful for her. Do not let her suffer as bitterly as she did in her previous life.

After Mu Yunyao changed, she carefully chose her jewelry. Just as she finished dressing, Si Qin came in to pass along the message. “Miss, Madam Jin has sent someone to urge you.”

“I understand. Mother, let us go.”

In the main hall of the front courtyard, all the guests had already taken their seats. Cao Yunnian had just finished speaking at length in praise of Mu Yunyao and, unsurprisingly, received another wave of approving compliments.

He was about to have someone invite Mu Yunyao forward when a guard hurried in. “Reporting to Lord Cao: Governor Zhang and the governor’s wife have arrived. They are alighting at the entrance now.”

Cao Yunnian’s face lit up. “I will go to receive them at once.”

The guests’ expressions became even more delighted. There were not many opportunities in ordinary times to see Governor Zhang and his wife. Attending today’s banquet had certainly not been in vain.

Very soon, Governor Zhang and the governor’s wife were escorted inside. Everyone exchanged greetings and courtesies once more. It took nearly two quarters of an hour before calm returned to the hall.

The governor’s wife wore a warm smile as she turned toward Madam Jin. “I am also very fond of that girl Yunyao. She is gentle by nature and exceptionally filial. You are truly blessed.”

“Is that not so? These past two days, I have nearly laughed aloud even in my dreams. Since Madam has come today for the kinship ceremony, I must be shameless and ask you for a gift on Yao’er’s behalf.”

The governor’s wife laughed. “It was prepared long ago. Where is the need for you to ask?”

“Then I shall first thank Madam on Yao’er’s behalf. Later, I will have her offer you tea.”

“In that case, I shall not stand on ceremony.”

When the auspicious hour arrived, Cao Yunnian rose and once again thanked the guests. Then he had Mu Yunyao invited forward.

Everyone could not help looking toward the entrance. They saw Mu Yunyao enter slowly with Su Qing at her side.

She wore an upper robe of Bixia gauze patterned like ancient mist, paired with a violet gauze skirt embroidered in emerald tones. Light purple was clearly a cool, restrained color, yet on her it seemed to gain a fresh vitality. As she walked, the gauze skirt moved in soft waves, stirring the thin outer layer of mist-like fabric so that she appeared as graceful as drifting clouds and flowing rosy light.

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 153

Chapter 153: Cao Yunnian’s Stroke of Fortune

Mu Yunyao looked toward Su Qing. Seeing her mother give the faintest nod, the last thread of hesitation in her heart slipped away. She rose, took up the untouched cup of tea on the table, walked to Madam Jin, and knelt.

Holding the teacup high above her head, she said in a clear voice, “Yunyao pays respects to God Mother. Please accept this tea.”

Madam Jin quickly took the cup and drank a mouthful. The smile at the corners of her lips could no longer be restrained. “Good. Yao’er, quickly rise.”

As she spoke, she helped Mu Yunyao up with both hands. Then she slipped a pair of jade bangles from her own wrist, removed a gold hairpin from her hair, and carefully placed them on Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao accepted them with a bright smile and did not offer any distant words of refusal. Now that this kinship had been acknowledged, there was no need to remain as reserved as before. “Thank you, God Mother.”

Madam Jin held her hand affectionately, the delight in her eyes soft and sincere. “Now I may be considered to have both a son and a daughter.”

Mu Yunyao glanced toward Madam Jin’s rounded belly, then deliberately put on a troubled expression. “Earlier, I even joked with Madam that when your child was born, I would ask you for a large red envelope. Now it seems I will not only fail to receive one, but must prepare one myself as a first-meeting gift for my younger brother.”

“Do not worry. That red envelope will still be yours. In the future, when your younger brother grows up, he can obey your instructions and run errands for you.”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes curved with delight. “That would be wonderful. In that case, I shall prepare an especially generous first-meeting gift.”

Su Qing, who was seated to one side, could not help smiling. “Since you are acknowledging each other as kin, Yao’er should also offer Lord Cao a cup of tea. Why not set a table at Buxian Tower tomorrow? We can treat it as a small celebration.”

Madam Jin quickly shook her head. “I intend to treat Yao’er as my own daughter. Naturally, we cannot settle the matter so casually. Today, I only came to discuss it with Younger Sister Su. Since Yao’er is willing to call me God Mother, I must make her status proper and secure. Once I return, I will have someone choose an auspicious date, then send invitations to all the notable families in Jingling City. Only after the rites are formally performed and a banquet is held can it be considered fitting.”

“This… would that not be too ostentatious?”

“How could it be ostentatious? I only fear the occasion will be too modest and wrong Yao’er. She is my God Daughter. It is only right that she be treated with such regard.”

Hearing Madam Jin speak this way, warmth gathered quietly in Mu Yunyao’s heart. This time, she accepted this Godmother with true sincerity. “Then everything shall be arranged according to God Mother’s wishes.”

“Good. Rest assured, God Mother will not let you suffer any grievance.”

Mu Yunyao smiled, holding Madam Jin’s hand in one of hers and Su Qing’s in the other. “Then should I begin preparing my clothes now? When the day comes, I must dress beautifully.”

“Our Yao’er is so lovely that she looks beautiful in anything.”

Mu Yunyao lightly swayed their hands. “Both my mothers only know how to tease me. I shall stop speaking with you now. I am going to the kitchen to see what has been prepared, then personally cook a few dishes to show filial respect to my two mothers.”

“In that case, we shall be blessed with good food today.”

Mu Yunyao personally prepared a full table of dishes. The meal was lively and warm, with laughter lingering beneath the lamplight.

When Madam Jin was about to leave, Mu Yunyao had charcoal braziers and fox-fur robes placed in her carriage. She repeatedly reminded Yin Hong to take careful care of her, and only then did she watch the carriage depart.

In neighboring Jinxiu Garden, Steward Qin heard of the matter and could not help curling his lips. “That Cao Yunnian truly stumbled into great fortune.”

Yu Yi had just finished a bowl of ginger tea. Its fragrance still lingered between his lips and teeth, and he was savoring the aftertaste when Steward Qin’s remark reached his ears. Curiosity immediately drew him over. “Steward Qin, what do you mean?”

“Cao Yunnian relied on Madam Jin to rise smoothly through the ranks. In the future, perhaps even Yue Wang will have to show him some respect. If that is not great fortune, what is?”

Yu Yi’s brow furrowed, the words circling around without settling. “Even if Cao Yunnian becomes powerful—even if he rises to the first rank—before Yue Wang, he is still an official. How could Yue Wang have to respect him?”

“Madam Jin has recognized Miss Mu as her God Daughter. That means Cao Yunnian is Miss Mu’s God Father. Is that clear enough?”

“God Daughter, God Father, Miss Mu, Yue Wang…” The more Yu Yi tried to connect the words, the more tangled his expression became. “The more you explain, the less I understand.”

Steward Qin’s gaze sharpened. He picked up an account book and threw it at him. “Get out. Just looking at you vexes me.”

Yu Yi caught the account book in one hand and flipped it open at random. When he saw the figures recorded within, his eyes widened slightly despite himself. “Steward Qin, your hands are very full these days. When the New Year comes, should you not prepare a red envelope for me as well? This past half year, I have made no fewer trips between Beijiang and Jingling City.”

“If you say one more useless word, I will give you a slap instead.”

“You are already advanced in years. Why is your temper still so fierce? Can you not speak properly?”

As soon as the words left his mouth, Yu Yi slipped out of the room. Behind him, Steward Qin snorted coldly for quite some time.

Considering Madam Jin’s thorough way of handling matters, as well as the affection between her and Miss Mu, the ceremony to recognize Miss Mu as her Goddaughter would surely be held with great fanfare. The congratulatory gift would need to be chosen with care.

Madam Jin ultimately chose the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, the Laba Festival. She also decided to draw on her own savings to distribute porridge throughout Jingling City to accumulate blessings for Mu Yunyao.

When Mu Yunyao heard of this, she specially took out eight thousand taels of silver to buy rice and prepare porridge, so that on Laba day, she could join Madam Jin in giving alms throughout Jingling City.

With rice purchased and people hired in advance, the news that Madam Jin intended to recognize Mu Yunyao as her Goddaughter quickly spread through Jingling City. Many people were not surprised. Madam Jin and Mu Yunyao had always been close; this acknowledgment of kinship merely made their relationship more secure.

After hearing the news, the ladies of the various residences sighed for a while, then turned their thoughts to what congratulatory gifts they ought to send.

Cao Yunnian had outstanding political achievements and was clearly on the verge of promotion. Madam Jin held a ninth-rank imperial title, and Mu Yunyao had received rewards from the Emperor. None of the three could be taken lightly. Before sending gifts, each household naturally had to inquire carefully on all sides. If they could choose something suited to their tastes, that would be best.

On Laba day, the Cao Residence was swept and arranged until everything looked newly refreshed. Madam Jin rose early to oversee the preparations. Cao Yunnian, who had not treated the matter with quite such gravity at first, gradually became affected by the atmosphere as well. He carefully trimmed his beard before the mirror, then brought over two new outfits for Madam Jin to help him choose from.

Only then did Madam Jin’s expression brighten. As she personally helped him change, she said softly, “This is my fault. These past two days, I only thought about arranging the banquet and actually forgot to instruct someone to prepare a few new sets of clothes for you, my lord.”

“Madam is carrying a child. Your body is heavy now. You and the child are what matter most. These two sets are newly made as well; there is nothing improper about them.”

Madam Jin smiled as she smoothed his robes, then replaced his pouch with one she had sewn herself. Only after that did her gaze ease. “Since my lord places such importance on Yao’er, this God Daughter, once our child is born, he will surely enjoy endless blessings.”

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