Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 171

Chapter 171: Slowly and Carefully

Hearing Eunuch Li refer to Xu Li as his master, Mu Yunyao’s eyes stirred faintly, and the smile on her face grew even brighter.

Cao Yunnian spoke. “I have already ordered wine and dishes to be prepared. Eunuch Li, please take a seat.”

“My lord is far too courteous. In a little while, I imagine I will be seeing you often.” Since Cao Yunnian was being courteous, Eunuch Li also offered a timely favor, revealing a little information.

Cao Yunnian froze for a moment. Then delight flared in his eyes. From Eunuch Li’s words, it seemed that before long, he would be promoted and transferred to the capital. Only then would he often encounter palace eunuchs. “Many thanks, Eunuch Li. Please, please come this way!”

Cao Yunnian went to the main hall to host Eunuch Li, while Mu Yunyao supported Madam Jin back to the rear courtyard.

“Yao’er, you should hurry back and make preparations as well. I imagine that by evening, Eunuch Li may go to Buxian Tower.”

Thinking of Yue Wang, Steward Qin, and the others in Jinxiu Garden, Mu Yunyao quickly nodded. “Very well. Then I will come another day to keep Godmother company.”

After leaving the Cao Residence, Mu Yunyao went directly to Jinxiu Garden. Steward Qin came out to receive her. “Miss, I just heard from Madam that His Majesty has bestowed rewards upon you again. Allow me to offer my congratulations first.”

“Many thanks, Steward Qin. I would like to pay a visit to Fourth Master. I wonder if it is convenient?”

“Fourth Master is in the study. Miss, please enter.”

As soon as Mu Yunyao entered the study, she caught a faint scent of blood and could not help furrowing her brows slightly. “Greetings, Fourth Master.”

Yue Wang looked her over. Seeing that her complexion had basically returned to normal, his expression eased slightly. “Has your wind-cold recovered?”

“Replying to Fourth Master, it has mostly recovered. Today, thanks to His Majesty’s favor, quite a few rewards were bestowed. Eunuch Li, who came to deliver the decree, may visit Buxian Tower for tea this evening. Does Fourth Master need to avoid him?”

“I am unfamiliar with this place and have nowhere else to go. Moreover, Jiangnan is crowded and full of watchful eyes. I am somewhat worried my whereabouts might be exposed.” Yue Wang’s expression was rather grave.

Mu Yunyao thought it over. No matter what thoughts Yue Wang had held toward her before, judging from the present, those feelings seemed already set aside. Their cooperation would inevitably have to continue. Since that was so, she could not allow their relationship to grow too rigid. “If Fourth Master does not mind, you may first take shelter at my home.”

“Will Madam Jin go to your home?”

Mu Yunyao paused. If Eunuch Li was coming, Cao Yunnian would certainly accompany him. Madam Jin might also be in the mood to come admire the scenery. In that case, she would inevitably go speak with Su Qing. If they accidentally ran into one another, matters would become troublesome.

Yue Wang raised his eyes. His gaze fell lightly upon her, quietly waiting for her answer.

Mu Yunyao thought for a moment and could not help pressing her lips together faintly. “If Fourth Master does not mind, then hide in my room. Even if Godmother comes, she will not enter my boudoir. Comparatively speaking, that is the safest place. I will instruct Jin Lan and the others not to go in.”

Yue Wang nodded calmly. “Since that is the case, I shall trouble Miss.”

Steward Qin came in with tea and smiled. “Miss was ill some days ago, and I had no chance to visit. Seeing your complexion much improved today, I imagine you have recovered.”

“Many thanks for Steward Qin’s concern. I am already fine.”

“That is good. In the future, Miss must take greater care. Once a person falls ill or suffers an injury, nothing is more uncomfortable.”

Mu Yunyao blinked faintly. She sensed there was something hidden in Steward Qin’s words. Falling ill naturally referred to her. But what about the words “suffers an injury”? Thinking of the smell of blood she had detected when entering the study, she could not help looking toward Yue Wang.

Steward Qin smiled faintly. After setting down the tea, he withdrew.

After hesitating for a moment, Mu Yunyao asked, “Is Fourth Master injured?”

“I accidentally hurt my hand. It is nothing serious.”

“No wonder I smelled blood when I came into the study. But why did I not smell any medicine?”

Yue Wang placed his left hand on the table. The white gauze wrapped around it was stained with threads of blood. “Yu Heng has gone to invite Doctor Zhang. He has not arrived yet.” A bitter-flesh stratagem naturally had to involve some genuine suffering if it were to convince another.

Mu Yunyao’s gaze trembled. “I understand a little medicine as well. If Fourth Master does not mind, allow me to bandage it for you.”

Yue Wang nodded slightly and gave a soft, “Mm.”

After instructing Jin Lan to fetch the medicine chest from her room, Mu Yunyao unwrapped the gauze from Yue Wang’s hand. The moment she saw the wound, her brows drew together sharply. The injury lay at the base of his left thumb, slanting downward across the pad of the joint. It was extremely deep. As soon as the gauze was removed, blood began to flow, and the wound looked alarmingly severe.

Mu Yunyao lifted her head to look at Yue Wang and met his ever-clear eyes. They were deep beyond sight, yet bright and unstained, reflecting her image with perfect clarity. Her breath caught.

The wound on his hand should have been left by a carving knife. No wonder he had not brought an ice lantern that night. It was not that he had given up. He had injured his hand and could no longer carve.

As this conclusion rose in her mind, Mu Yunyao’s heart trembled. The lake of her heart, which had always been calm, once again stirred with faint ripples.

Yue Wang lowered his eyes to look at her. Seeing her lashes tremble slightly, carrying a trace of fragile unease, made one’s heart ache for no reason. He could not help speaking. “Were you not going to bandage my wound?”

“The wound is very deep and needs careful treatment. It may hurt somewhat. I ask Fourth Master to endure it.”

Jin Lan brought the medicine chest over. Mu Yunyao cleaned Yue Wang’s wound, her movements swift yet gentle, causing him little pain. Then she applied medicine and carefully wrapped the injury. “Fourth Master, because the wound is at the base joint of the thumb, to prevent you from accidentally pulling it open, I will fix your thumb and arm in place. It may be inconvenient for movement, but it will allow the wound to heal as quickly as possible.”

“Very well. Thank you.”

After treating the wound, Mu Yunyao tidied the medicine chest. With her eyes lowered, she avoided looking at Yue Wang’s expression. “I will go back first to make preparations. In a quarter of an hour, His Highness may come over to my side.”

“Mm.”

After Mu Yunyao left with her people, Steward Qin came in carrying food. “His Highness, why did Miss Mu leave? Did His Highness not ask her to stay and dine together?”

Yue Wang shook his head faintly, then said, “Uncle Qin, pack up the things I use. Send them to the Su Residence shortly. People from the palace may come this evening. I will avoid them by staying at Mu Yunyao’s place.”

“Very well. This old servant will go make preparations at once. Does His Highness wish to change clothes?”

“No need.” Yue Wang lowered his eyes, light flowing slowly within them. He had led troops at the border for many years; what he lacked least was patience. Many things could not be rushed. It was better to calm the heart and plan slowly—especially when dealing with a woman who looked as delicate as a cat, yet whose inner nature was as nimble as a fox. The more impatient one became, the more her guard would deepen.

That evening, just as expected, Cao Yunnian accompanied Eunuch Li to Buxian Tower.

At this moment, within Buxian Tower, a thousand lights shone from lantern trees, and flower flames bloomed from seven-branched lamps. Rich colors stretched across the earth, and countless lights embroidered the distant sky. The moment one entered the garden, it was as though one had stepped into an immortal realm on earth, seizing tightly the hearts and spirits of all who came inside.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 171

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 170

Chapter 170: The Emperor Bestows Rewards Once More

Yu Yi and Yu Heng quietly followed him out. Once outside the door, they hurried forward, one on each side, and carried Steward Qin off toward a side courtyard.

Steward Qin flew into a rage and struck each of them sharply. “Have you gone mad? Do you not know that old bones cannot withstand fright?”

Yu Yi grinned and quickly apologized. “Master Qin, tell this little one the truth. Has Master taken a fancy to the one next door…” As he spoke, he pointed toward the Su R.

Yu Heng watched Steward Qin nervously from the side. Seeing him give the slightest nod, his mouth fell open. “I nearly believed His Highness’s words just now. I never thought His Highness was also someone whose mouth and heart do not match!”

Steward Qin struck the two of them again. “At present, no one knows how this matter will turn out. The two of you are not allowed to go around shouting about it!”

“Master Qin, rest assured. We brothers are the most reliable men there are.” Yu Heng hurriedly patted his chest in guarantee.

Steward Qin could not help rolling his eyes. “If His Highness had not made it so obvious today, who knows when the two of you would have noticed? And you still dare call yourselves reliable. Every day, you do nothing but waste grain!”

Yu Yi chuckled. “Then, when we see Miss Mu in the future, should we be especially respectful?”

“Act as you usually do. Miss Mu has not yet reached marriageable age, and besides, the matter is still uncertain…” Steward Qin sighed.

Yu Heng did not understand. “Why is it uncertain? In this world, one could not find a better man than His Highness. I think Miss Mu has good judgment. She ought to be able to recognize a pearl with discerning eyes.”

“Matters of the heart are the hardest to predict. His Highness has not been in the best mood these past few days. I must be busy with Buxian Tower and cannot come over at all times. The two of you must serve him attentively.”

“Yes. The two of us will certainly devote ourselves fully.”

On the day of the Lantern Festival, Mu Yunyao rose early, dressed, and went to the Cao Residence.

When Madam Jin heard that she had arrived, she quickly had her brought into the warm chamber. “I heard you were ill. The weather is so cold now—why did you come all this way?”

“It has been several days since I saw Godmother, and I missed you. Only, I was quite ill before and did not dare come, lest I pass on the sickness. Now that I am mostly recovered, I hurried over to pay my respects. Has Godmother been well these past few days?”

“Very well. I have been listening to you and walking about the room every day. Sure enough, I can feel the child gradually moving downward.”

“It seems little brother cherishes his mother and knows how to spare Godmother some hardship when the time comes to give birth.” As childbirth drew near, the fetus’s descent would make labor far easier.

Hearing this, Madam Jin smiled even more happily. “I prepared some gifts for your mother. Later, help me bring them back.”

“Very well.”

After they spoke for a while, Mu Yunyao took the initiative to excuse herself. “Godmother, my wind-cold has not fully cleared. I should not stay too long. After I leave, have Yin Hong boil some vinegar and fumigate the room. These next few days, you must be careful to keep warm. If the weather is cold, do not go out too often. Walking about the room is the same.”

“Good. I will listen to you.”

After leaving the Cao Residence, Mu Yunyao lifted the carriage curtain and looked along both sides of the street. It was the Lantern Festival; the streets were lively, and lanterns of every color competed in beauty. From a distance, the whole scene shimmered in brilliant colors.

Jin Lan sat beside her and could not help sighing. “Although these lanterns are not as exquisite as the ones in Jinxiu Garden, there are so many of them. At first glance, they make quite a magnificent sight. Would Miss like to buy one to enjoy?”

“No need. Let us return home quickly, lest Mother worry.”

“Yes, Miss.”

When they returned home, Su Qing saw that Mu Yunyao was in good spirits and finally let out a breath. Mu Yunyao was now her only family; even the slightest disturbance was enough to make her heart leap in fear. “Hurry back to your room and rest. I will go make something for you to eat.”

“Very well. Thank you, Mother.”

Mu Yunyao had just risen when she saw Yin Hong hurrying after them. “Greetings, Madam Su. Greetings, Miss.”

“Miss Yin Hong, has something happened? Why have you come in such haste? Come in and warm yourself first before speaking.” Su Qing spoke at once.

Yin Hong caught her breath. “Madam, I have come to invite Miss to the Cao Residence. His Majesty has bestowed rewards, and they are waiting for Miss to go receive the decree and give thanks!”

At these words, Su Qing was overjoyed. Jin Lan and the others at the side could not help showing their delight as well. To embroider that New Year tribute, Mu Yunyao had endured no small hardship. If she could receive the Emperor’s reward, then all that suffering had been worthwhile.

Mu Yunyao smiled. “I will go at once. Mother, please tidy the room and also notify Steward Qin. I imagine many of the things will need to be enshrined properly!”

“Good. You go to the Cao Residence first. Mother will see to it now.”

Mu Yunyao boarded the carriage with Yin Hong. They rushed all the way to the Cao Residence. When Madam Jin saw her, she quickly pulled her close. “I told you to stay a little longer earlier, but you insisted on being so careful. See? Now you have had to make another trip.” Though her words sounded reproachful, she had already ordered a maid to bring a hand warmer over.

“If I had known Godmother could foresee the future, I certainly would not have left.”

“Goodness, you even dare tease your Godmother now. When your little brother is born, I will certainly have him go trouble you often.”

“I have already prepared the fabric. Once the Lantern Festival passes and needlework may be taken up again, I will begin sewing clothes for little brother. I will dress him up like a child attendant beneath Guanyin’s seat. I guarantee Godmother will hold him at one glance and refuse to let go. You certainly will not bear to send him to trouble me then.”

Madam Jin could not help laughing. Every time Mu Yunyao came, her mood brightened especially.

As they spoke, the front courtyard had already been prepared. Mu Yunyao supported Madam Jin and went with her to the front courtyard.

“The Emperor decrees: Mu Yunyao of Jingling City is pure in disposition, graceful, clever, dignified, and wise. For her meritorious work in embroidering the New Year tribute, she is specially rewarded with one hundred taels of gold, ten bolts of brocade, one set of golden needles… a pair of jade ruyi sceptres…”

By the time the long list of rewards was finished, Mu Yunyao’s knees were numb from the cold. “This subject girl thanks His Majesty for his sacred grace. May our Emperor live ten thousand years, ten thousand years, ten thousand upon ten thousand years.”

Cao Yunnian and Madam Jin also each received rewards. For an official of the lower fourth rank, such favor was unique. They could hardly contain their joy and quickly invited the eunuch who had delivered the decree to drink tea in the Flower Hall. “Eunuch Li, please come this way.”

The eunuch who had come to deliver the decree was not old. His surname was Li, and his attitude toward Mu Yunyao was especially warm.

“Miss Mu, this one has come under the Chief Eunuch’s instruction to convey his greetings to you.”

Mu Yunyao looked somewhat puzzled. “Eunuch Li, I have never had the honor of seeing the Chief Eunuch’s face. How could such greetings come about?”

“Miss has naturally seen him. Last time, when he came to convey His Majesty’s verbal decree, you even gifted the Chief Eunuch tea leaves.”

Surprise and delight appeared on Mu Yunyao’s face. “The Chief Eunuch—could it be Eunuch Xu?”

“Yes. A few days ago, Eunuch Xu was promoted to Chief Eunuch. He also told me to ask Miss for some more tea leaves.”

“I had prepared some tea leaves earlier, intending to send them to Eunuch Xu during the New Year. But since he resides deep within the palace, I had no way to deliver them, so they have remained here all this time. I did not expect the opportunity to come today. I also specially prepared several other kinds of tea. They can all be brought back for Eunuch Xu to taste.”

“That would naturally be excellent. My master now speaks every day of the tea leaves Miss roasted.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 170

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 169

Chapter 169: Warm Lanternlight Beyond the Window

Illness made her body ache and her temper soften into grievance. Hearing Su Qing speak that way, Mu Yunyao felt even more wronged. She pulled the quilt over her head and curled beneath it, wrapping herself up like a silkworm cocoon.

Su Qing was both exasperated and amused. “Mother has just made eight-treasure rice. Do you truly not want any?”

Only then did Mu Yunyao lift the quilt, revealing a pair of eyes as she said pitifully, “I do.”

“Then hurry and sit up. Although you are not allowed to bathe, you still must wash your hands before eating.”

Knowing Su Qing was worried, Mu Yunyao did not insist too strongly. After eating the eight-treasure rice and forcing down a bowl of medicinal decoction, she was pressed firmly back into bed.

Perhaps because she had slept too much during the day, she became wakeful by night instead. Su Qing had insisted on staying by her bedside, and Mu Yunyao had only managed, after much persuasion, to send her back. In the end, she barely succeeded in leaving only Jin Lan to keep watch in the outer room.

Mu Yunyao looked toward the window and, without meaning to, thought of the ice lantern from the night before. Had it melted away? It was rather a pity about that charmingly plump little cat…

As her thoughts drifted, her expression grew faintly dazed. When she came back to herself, she suddenly sensed something unusual by the window. A warm glow had appeared there.

Mu Yunyao rose, draped clothing over herself, and walked to the window. When she opened the lattice, she saw an ice lantern shaped like a rabbit embracing a candle. The lamplight was warm, swaying gently with the wind, yet never going out.

Hearing movement from inside, Jin Lan quickly asked in a soft voice from the outer room, “Miss, do you need anything?”

Mu Yunyao’s hand trembled. She closed the window. “I got up to drink some water. It is nothing now. You may continue resting.”

“Yes. If Miss needs anything, just call this servant.”

“I know.”

The warm glow of the ice lantern filtered through the window lattice. Mu Yunyao lowered her eyes, then returned to bed with a calm expression. Before long, she fell asleep.

The next day, her wind-cold still showed no sign of improving. Instead, it had worsened considerably, leaving Su Qing beside herself with worry. She sent for Doctor Zhang Chun again, who adjusted several ingredients in the prescription and instructed her to take the medicine for a few more days.

Mu Yunyao knew her own condition. Yet if she stubbornly refused the medicine, Su Qing might worry herself into illness. Thus, she forced herself to drink those bitter medicinal brews.

Jin Qiao carried in a charcoal brazier, while Jin Lan opened the window a narrow crack to let out some of the charcoal fumes. “Miss, for some reason, there are water marks on the window lattice again today. This servant looked, and the snow has not melted. How could water marks be left there?”

“Perhaps yesterday’s had not dried.”

Being ill had already ruined her appetite, and with the added bitterness of medicine, Mu Yunyao found her mouth tasted acrid no matter what she ate. She wanted nothing. Still, to ease Su Qing’s heart, she forced herself to eat a little more. By evening, her stomach felt uncomfortably swollen.

As night descended, Mu Yunyao lay in bed, tossing and turning. After a while, she suddenly heard movement by the window. She got out of bed, draped clothing over herself, and went over, but there was only an ice lantern—no trace of the person who had brought it.

This time, it was an ice lantern shaped like a galloping horse. Its hooves were lifted, its head raised as though neighing. It looked exceptionally spirited.

Mu Yunyao’s eyes darkened. She sighed softly, studied the ice lantern for a while, then closed the window with the back of her hand.

For the next dozen or so days, an ice lantern appeared at her window every night. She counted them carefully. Aside from the cat from the first night, the twelve zodiac animals were all present.

But on this night, Mu Yunyao waited for a long time and still did not see an ice lantern appear. Only when pale light began to brighten the edge of the sky did she finally lose strength and fall asleep. Yet she slept for less than an hour before waking again.

Seeing Mu Yunyao’s appearance, Jin Lan grew even more worried. “Miss, did you not seem a little better yesterday? Why do you look worse today?”

Mu Yunyao shook her head. Her gaze fell by the window, calm and without a ripple. Yue Wang had finally given up, had he not? Since that was so, she could be at ease.

Pressing down that small thread of emptiness in her heart, Mu Yunyao’s thoughts returned to their old stillness, like an ancient well undisturbed by waves. Yet once ripples had stirred, how could everything truly be the same as before? It was only that she had not yet noticed.

“Tomorrow is the Lantern Festival. Jinxiu Garden should open for business again. Have the flower lanterns and other things all been prepared?”

Jin Lan quickly nodded. “Replying to Miss, this servant has gone to look. Steward Qin has prepared everything properly according to your instructions.”

Mu Yunyao nodded. “That is good. Tomorrow is the first day of business in the new year. Naturally, it must be lively, prosperous, and auspicious.”

“Yes. Judging from today’s weather, tomorrow should be a fine day. It will surely bring a good omen.”

“Help me prepare. Tomorrow, I will go pay respects to Godfather and Godmother.”

Jin Lan was somewhat worried about her health. “Miss, your wind-cold has not yet fully recovered. Lord Cao and Madam Jin have also sent word for you to rest well first. Why not wait until you have recovered before going?”

“They are considerate of me out of affection, but no matter what, I should go pay respects on the Lantern Festival. That is my filial intention. Still, I am ill now and should not remain too long with Godmother, lest I pass the illness to her. I will go make a brief appearance, complete the courtesy, and return. It will not delay much time, nor will it worsen my condition.”

“Yes. Then this servant will go count the gifts now.”

“Go.”

Inside Jinxiu Garden, Zhang Chun carefully finished bandaging Yue Wang’s hand. “His Highness must take particular care to rest. In winter, wounds are already difficult to heal. In two days, you must ride back to Yuexi. If the wound has not healed, this journey will bring no small amount of suffering.”

“Many thanks, Doctor Zhang.”

“His Highness is too courteous. This humble one withdraws.”

Steward Qin entered carrying a meal. Seeing Yue Wang’s condition, his heart ached terribly. “His Highness, how did you injure your hand so carelessly? The wound is so deep that the bone can be seen. If it had shifted even slightly and cut the tendon, this hand would have been ruined.”

“It was only a moment of carelessness. Uncle Qin need not worry.”

“This old servant has served Master for many years. How could I possibly not worry? You should stop carving those ice sculptures for now. If Miss Mu likes them, this old servant can go buy a few lanterns and let His Highness choose one to send over.”

During the day, His Highness carved the ice sculptures; when the night was deep and still, he sent them over. Fearing they would be discovered, he then had to retrieve them before dawn. Such back-and-forth torment had made even him look thinner.

Yue Wang’s brows moved faintly. “She is ill now and cannot conveniently go out to admire scenery. I merely saw that she was pitiful, and that she has earned us so much silver, so I thought of a way to let her enjoy a little of it.”

“Yes, His Highness has always possessed a benevolent heart.”

At the side, Yu Yi could not help lifting his head. Silently, the corner of his mouth twitched. If one said His Highness possessed a benevolent heart, then the white bones scattered across the battlefields of Yuexi’s border might leap up and shout their objections.

Yue Wang nodded as though the words were perfectly reasonable. “Mm.”

Steward Qin withdrew and looked toward the Su Residence, sighing softly. Inwardly, he comforted himself: good things take time; good things take time…

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 169

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 168

Chapter 168: Illness

Yue Wang looked deeply at Mu Yunyao. A thousand emotions seemed to pass through his eyes, yet when one tried to search for them, there appeared to be no ripple at all. He turned directly and strode away.

Mu Yunyao closed the window, slid the dagger on the table back into its sheath, then placed it calmly beneath her pillow. She removed her outer robe and lay back down.

Two quarters of an hour later, she opened her eyes, utterly without sleep. Slipping on her shoes and draping a cloak over herself, she opened the door and went outside, then lifted the ice lantern from where it had fallen in the snow.

The snow had been thick these past two days. Although the ice lantern was fragile, it had landed in the snow without a single scratch. She brushed away the snowflakes, placed the lantern by the window, found a short candle, and lit it.

Under the candlelight, the ice lantern became even more crystal-clear and dazzling, flawless from every angle.

Afraid the warmth inside the room would melt it, Mu Yunyao deliberately opened half the window. Sitting beside it, she stared quietly at the lantern, her thoughts drifting despite herself.

Cold wind poured in through the window, chilling her from head to toe, yet it also made her thoughts clearer.

The instant she had seen Yue Wang take out the ice lantern, countless details from before had rushed into her mind, allowing her to arrive at one conclusion in the blink of an eye: Yue Wang had fallen for her.

That conclusion left her shaken beyond measure. She had nearly lost composure in front of him, which was why she had hurriedly driven him away.

She had never liked anyone. Even in her previous life, when she entered Jin Wang’s residence as a concubine, it had only been to survive more easily. In this life, her heart was filled with hatred; she had even less regard for the matter of romance between men and women. Thus, the first thought that came to her upon sensing Yue Wang’s feelings was to push him away.

Leaving aside the gulf in their status, her death in her previous life had also been entangled with Yue Wang. Before that matter was investigated clearly, she could not face him without the slightest knot in her heart—much less anything beyond that.

Even though, after thinking carefully now, Yue Wang had most likely been schemed against at the time, she still could not completely let it go.

In this life, she only wanted to finish taking revenge, then guard Mother and live peaceful, worry-free days. She did not wish to become entangled with any prince, noble, or aristocrat again.

Once her thoughts settled, Mu Yunyao reached out and stroked the head of the ice-carved cat. A piercing chill spread across her fingertip, as though it could follow her arm all the way into her heart, cooling even her gaze. “A momentary stirring of the heart—how could it last? It is only a passing confusion. I imagine Yue Wang will not take it to heart either…”

Withdrawing her fingers, Mu Yunyao returned to bed. She did her utmost to press down the tangled emotions in her heart and eventually drifted into a muddled sleep.

She did not know how long she had slept. She only felt her whole body aching and burning, as though someone had placed her over a fire to roast. Her brows drew together.

“Yao’er, Yao’er, are you awake?” Su Qing’s face was full of weariness and worry. Hearing Mu Yunyao move, she quickly called to her softly.

Mu Yunyao struggled to open her eyes, only to feel as though her head were splitting apart. “Mother…” The moment she spoke, she realized her throat was hoarse and painfully raw. Her brows furrowed even tighter.

Su Qing quickly helped her sit up, her voice filled with both anxiety and heartache. “You child, how could you sleep without knowing to close the window? If Mother had not seen this morning that you still had not woken and come to call you, you might have fallen even more seriously ill!”

Mu Yunyao was still dazed. “What happened to me?”

“Doctor Zhang has already come to see you. You caught wind-cold. He has prescribed medicine, and Jin Lan has gone to brew it. Sit up first and drink some porridge. After you take the medicine, lie back down and rest.”

Mu Yunyao lifted her head toward the window. It was shut tightly, and there was no trace of the ice lantern. “Mother, that window…”

“Was it you who opened it because you were greedy for cool air?” Su Qing looked at her and helplessly tucked the quilt around her. “You must not do this again. Even if the room feels stuffy, open the window for only a little while, then close it quickly. You cannot sleep with it open all night.”

Mu Yunyao nodded. “I understand, Mother.”

Seeing her blink through clouded eyes, faint red rising on her cheeks from the fever, Su Qing could not bear to scold her further. “Sleep a little longer. Mother will go see whether the porridge is ready.”

Mu Yunyao obediently lay down and soon slipped back into muddled sleep.

She did not often fall ill easily, but once she did, recovery was never simple. Her illness would always come and go, improving for a while only to worsen again, and no amount of medicine seemed very useful. She could only wait for the sickness to pass on its own. Who would have thought that after more than a year without trouble, she would fall ill just as the New Year began?

When she woke again, Jin Lan and Jin Qiao were standing nearby, trays in hand.

“Miss, this is all our fault. We played too late last night and did not come to keep watch for you.”

After sleeping for a while, Mu Yunyao had regained a little strength. “This cannot be blamed on you. I said long ago that I do not like anyone keeping watch outside at night. By the way, when you came this morning, did you see anything by the window?”

The two shook their heads. “We did not see anything. Has Miss lost something?”

“Last night, on a whim, I made a little snowman and placed it by the window. I suppose it melted.”

“That is quite possible. When this servant came in the morning, there were water marks by the window.”

Mu Yunyao said nothing more. After eating porridge and resting for a while, she drank a bowl of medicine and lay down to continue resting. Every time she fell ill, she became especially drowsy. This time, she slept until the sky was nearly dark before waking again. Thick quilts covered her, and they had forced out a layer of sweat. Now, she felt terribly uncomfortable.

“Jin Lan?”

She called once, but no one answered from outside the room. Mu Yunyao frowned slightly and lifted the quilt, about to get out of bed.

“Do you not know you are ill? And at a time like this, you still dare get out of bed?” The cold voice carried threads of concern, making Mu Yunyao freeze in place.

“Fourth Master, why are you here? Where are Jin Lan and the others?”

“How did you fall ill?” Yue Wang did not answer her question. Instead, he looked at her slightly haggard appearance, and the discomfort in his chest deepened.

Mu Yunyao smiled, her tone careless. “People eat grains and cereals; who can avoid illness? I am merely a little more unlucky than most, falling ill during the New Year.”

Yue Wang studied her, the look in his eyes difficult to read. “Where is the ice lantern I gave you last night?”

Mu Yunyao’s smile did not change. “Was it not Fourth Master who threw it away himself? Why come ask me? If you truly want it, you may go look beneath the steps. Perhaps it can still be found.”

“First rest properly and recover from your illness. Once you are well, then think about other matters.”

“Many thanks for Fourth Master’s concern.”

Yue Wang nodded and turned to leave.

Not long after he left, Jin Lan came in carrying a bowl of medicine. “Miss, you are awake. This servant went to bring your medicine just now. Jin Qiao was called to the front courtyard by Madam for some matter, so neither of us was beside you.”

“It is fine. I sweated all over and feel unbearably uncomfortable. Prepare some hot water for me. I want to wipe myself down a little.”

“How can that be allowed? Miss, you have caught wind-cold. You must not catch another chill now!” Jin Lan shook her head at once.

“Do not worry. I understand medicine. As long as the water is prepared hot enough, I will not catch cold.”

“That still will not do!” Su Qing entered, deliberately making her expression stern. “The moment Mother fails to keep watch, you start causing trouble. Who has ever heard of someone with wind-cold fussing about wanting a bath?”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 167

Chapter 167: Ice Lanterns

Su Qing could not help sighing softly. “Even paying New Year visits is no easy matter.”

“Indeed. Mother, I am starving. Hurry and bring me something to eat.”

Su Qing quickly slapped her hand lightly. “Pah, pah, pah. A child’s careless words are blown away by the wind. It is the New Year—you must not speak so recklessly.”

Mu Yunyao leaned against Su Qing’s shoulder with a bright smile. “Mother, I am so hungry I can hardly walk.”

“Go back to your room and sit down to rest. Mother will bring you something delicious at once.”

The night remained lively, but Yue Wang and Steward Qin could not properly continue staying at the Su Residence. At this moment, Jinxiu Garden was utterly quiet. Yue Wang stood at the doorway, listening to the noise drifting over from next door and watching fireworks blossom across the sky. For no reason, a faint loneliness rose within him.

Steward Qin came over with a cloak. “His Highness, the weather is cold. You must take special care.”

“Compared to Yuexi, this place is truly mild.” Though he said so, Yue Wang still accepted the cloak and draped it over himself, unwilling to make Steward Qin worry.

A smile entered Steward Qin’s eyes. “Spending New Year’s Eve at the Su Residence yesterday was truly lively. It was the first time this old servant felt so at ease.”

Yue Wang’s gaze softened for a brief moment. He had practiced martial arts for many years, and his hearing was far sharper than that of ordinary people. The study was not far from the neighboring residence, so he could clearly hear the movement from Mu Yunyao’s side. It seemed they were noisily making ice lanterns.

Steward Qin faintly caught a shout as well and could not help smiling as he suggested, “Back in Yuexi, this old servant once saw Yu Heng and Yu Yi carve ice lanterns. Why not have them make two later and send them to Miss Mu?”

Yue Wang’s eyes moved slightly. “What is there to see in ice lanterns?”

“Girls always like delicate, crystal-clear things. Miss Mu is naturally no exception. Over the past half year, Miss Mu has helped us greatly. Making some small trinkets to coax her into happiness is only proper.”

“No need.”

Steward Qin sighed with some regret. “Then we shall do as His Highness says and not trouble ourselves with it. I only wonder whether Miss Mu has anyone capable on her side, someone who can make ice lanterns to her liking.”

“Uncle Qin, it is late. You should go back and rest.”

“Very well. The weather is cold. His Highness should go inside early as well.”

Yue Wang nodded. After Steward Qin left, his gaze drifted involuntarily toward the neighboring courtyard. Fireworks were blooming there now. He wondered whether the ice lanterns had been finished.

Mu Yunyao had only thought of ice lanterns on a sudden whim. In her previous life, she had seen them at the lantern festival in the capital. Skilled craftsmen had carved ice into all sorts of shapes. The largest she had ever seen had been a lotus-shaped ice lantern, its petals layered one upon another, more than twice a person’s height. Each petal had been as thin as a butterfly’s wing, clear enough to reveal the candle flame burning at its center. It had truly been a marvel.

Yet what sounded simple in thought proved extremely difficult in practice. Ice was brittle by nature. During carving, the slightest force would shatter it into fragments. In the end, they could only make a few simple ice bowls, though once candles were lit inside them, they were still very beautiful.

After the lively commotion continued for quite some time, Mu Yunyao could not help but grow drowsy. Knowing that she had gone to many places during the day to pay New Year visits, everyone urged her to return and rest.

Back in her room, Mu Yunyao lay in bed, listening to the intermittent crackle of firecrackers outside. Somehow, she found herself unable to sleep again. She had finally begun to drift off when she heard movement by the window. Startled, she opened her eyes at once and looked toward it.

A black silhouette was reflected on the window paper, rustling softly, doing something unknown.

Mu Yunyao’s heart tightened. She reached beneath her pillow and drew out the dagger Yue Wang had given her. Soundlessly, she got out of bed, then abruptly pushed open the window and stabbed toward the shadow outside.

Her wrist was seized in an instant. The grip was cold and powerful, making Mu Yunyao’s scalp prickle. Just as panic surged in her heart, a familiar voice sounded.

“Are you trying to assassinate me?”

Yue Wang’s voice?

The window was pushed fully open, and Mu Yunyao finally saw the person outside clearly. He wore a silver-white cloak, his face cold and handsome beyond compare. Behind him lay snow across the ground, setting him off until he seemed almost unreal.

Mu Yunyao let out a heavy breath. In that instant just now, she had thought she had returned to the scene in her previous life, when the Su family sent men to assassinate her. Cold sweat had broken out all over her. “Fourth Master, coming here so suddenly in the middle of the night—did it not occur to you that there might be something improper about it?”

Seeing her appearance clearly, Yue Wang frowned in disapproval.

Her hair was loose, her face bare of powder, and she wore only a snow-white inner robe. Perhaps because of the cold, her lips were faintly pale, making her look especially pitiful.

“Go put on your clothes first.”

As the tension in her heart receded, Mu Yunyao felt the cold sweat soaking her back and shivered. She hurriedly closed the window, returned inside, and dressed properly. Only then did she open the door. “Fourth Master, if there is anything to say, come in and speak.” Yue Wang had already barged into her boudoir once before. At this point, there was no need to be too particular.

Yue Wang’s feet shifted, but he still stood by the window and did not enter. After a moment, he bent down and lifted an ice lantern from the ground.

The ice lantern was carved with exquisite care, roughly one chi square. At its center was the shape of a candle, and around the candle curled a charmingly plump cat. Its eyes curved slightly, and its small mouth tilted upward with a sly little arc, making it look especially clever and adorable.

Mu Yunyao froze for a moment, then could not help smiling. “What a delicate ice lantern. At such a late hour, are there still people selling ice lanterns on the street?”

Yue Wang’s brows moved faintly. “I made it.”

“You made it?” Mu Yunyao was surprised. Looking more closely now, she realized the cat on the ice lantern looked extremely similar to the cat Yue Wang had previously shaped from dough. One glance was enough to tell they had come from the same hand. Her heart could not help sinking. “I truly did not expect Fourth Master to know how to make ice lanterns.”

“When I was young, there was nothing much to play with. Eunuch Cheng taught me how to carve all sorts of little objects. A single piece of wood could amuse me for several days.” As Yue Wang spoke, he seemed to recall that time. Shadows and traces of remembrance flickered through his eyes, complex and difficult to distinguish.

Mu Yunyao’s fingers tightened slightly. A sting spread across her palm, but the smile on her face remained flawless. “Thank you, Fourth Master, for sending the ice lantern. If there is nothing else, I should rest.”

Yue Wang looked at her, his gaze clear and intent, as though it could grasp a person’s very soul. “You do not like ice lanterns?”

Mu Yunyao’s heart trembled. The smile on her face faded faintly. “Earlier, when I was bored, I only joked about them with Jin Lan and the others. Ice lanterns look crystal-clear and exceedingly beautiful, but in truth they are terribly fragile. The slightest change in temperature outside can make them lose their original form. Admiring them for a moment is one thing. If one truly likes them, it becomes far too easy to be saddened.”

Looking at the smile on Mu Yunyao’s face, Yue Wang suddenly felt a deep discomfort. “Since you do not like it, then throw it away.” As he spoke, he casually tossed the ice lantern resting on the windowsill down the steps.

The smile on Mu Yunyao’s face did not change. She saluted Yue Wang. “It is late. Fourth Master should return early and rest.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 166

Chapter 166: New Year Visits

Naturally, the Emperor also saw Mu Yunyao’s name written in Governor Zhang’s memorial. He could not help praising her inwardly. “This Mu Yunyao is only thirteen or fourteen, is she not? To possess such embroidery skill at such a young age is truly extraordinary.”

Xu Li quickly smiled and said, “Your Majesty, the pattern on the reverse side of this embroidery is also exceedingly exquisite.”

The eunuchs hurriedly turned the embroidery around. On the reverse side, a golden dragon coiled across the surface. Its eyes shone as brightly as the sun and moon, its aura vast and majestic. Even an ordinary person would feel his spirit shaken after one glance.

“Good!” The Emperor was exceedingly pleased. Only such a divine dragon was worthy of his status. “We must heavily reward Mu Yunyao. This year, the Governor of Huainan and the Jingling Salt Transport Commissioner have also performed extraordinarily well. They too shall each receive rewards.”

Xu Li respectfully lowered his head and said nothing, yet inwardly he sighed again and again. When a person’s fortune arrived, it truly could not be blocked.

In Jingling City, after Mu Yunyao had accompanied Su Qing and the others through the New Year vigil, she breathed in the crisp air outside and felt her entire being settle into calm. Her embroidery should already have been delivered before the Emperor. She wondered what Su Wenyuan had thought when he saw that piece.

After keeping vigil, everyone dispersed. Mu Yunyao and Su Qing saw Yue Wang and Steward Qin out the door before returning to their rooms to rest.

After Yue Wang returned to Jinxiu Garden, he did not immediately go to bed. Instead, he sat in a chair, staring absently into space, his thoughts unreadable.

Suddenly, a knock sounded at the door. Steward Qin entered carrying a food box. “His Highness, this old servant saw that you were especially fond of the qiaomo figures Madam Su made, so when we returned, I specially brought back the few that remained. If you grow hungry, you may eat some.”

Meeting Steward Qin’s gaze, Yue Wang felt, for some reason, faintly uncomfortable. “Uncle Qin, it is late. You should hurry back and rest as well.”

“Very well. This old servant shall withdraw. Ah, His Highness, according to etiquette, since you called yourself Madam Su’s junior, by custom you should go to the Su Residence tomorrow morning to pay New Year respects. As for…”

“I know.”

“Then this old servant will withdraw. His Highness should rest early as well. You must rise early tomorrow.”

Because she had stayed up so late for the vigil, Mu Yunyao was reluctant to rise the next morning. But remembering that she still had to go to the Cao Residence to pay New Year’s respects to Madam Jin, she struggled to sit up. Hearing Su Qing’s footsteps approach, she deliberately pressed her lips together, wrapped herself in the quilt, and lay back down.

Su Qing gently pushed open the door. Seeing that Mu Yunyao had indeed not risen, she shook her head with a smile. Sitting at the bedside, she pulled open the quilt and directly placed half a honey mandarin into Mu Yunyao’s mouth. “May your year be sweet and full of harmony.”

Mu Yunyao could not help narrowing her eyes. She rose and leaned into Su Qing’s arms. “May Mother have great luck and great profit this New Year. May all things go as you wish. May your youth remain forever, and may blessings and wealth be shared with you.”

Su Qing took out a red packet and placed it in her hand. “Very good. Since Yao’er’s mouth is so sweet, here is a red packet for you to buy candy.”

Mu Yunyao climbed up, knelt crookedly on the bed, and gave a wobbly salute, making Su Qing laugh aloud. “Thank you, Mother.”

Mu Yunyao rose and began to wash and dress, while Su Qing went to the front courtyard.

Next door at Jinxiu Garden, Yue Wang had risen early to wash and arrange himself. Then, together with Steward Qin, he came to the Su Residence.

Hearing the movement, Su Qing quickly came out to receive them, her face full of smiles.

Yue Wang cupped his fists and bowed. “I have come to pay Madam Su New Year respects. May all things be auspicious and according to your wishes.”

Su Qing took out a red packet and offered it to him. “I also wish Young Master Ning every blessing and good fortune in the new year.”

“Many thanks, Madam.”

Su Qing quickly invited them to sit and called for Jin Lan and the others to serve tea.

Since she had to visit the Cao Residence for New Year greetings, Mu Yunyao thought it over and changed into a pale pink dress. The color was soft and restrained, neither violating the rites of mourning she observed for her father nor making her seem too somber during the New Year. Once she had changed, she went to the front courtyard, intending to accept New Year greetings from Jin Lan and the others before setting out for the Cao Residence. Yet just as she entered, she saw Yue Wang seated in a chair.

With a smile on her face, Mu Yunyao walked lightly into the room and curtsied to Yue Wang. “Greetings, Fourth Master Ning. May Fourth Master have great fortune and all things as you wish in the New Year.”

The moment Mu Yunyao drew near, Yue Wang recognized her footsteps. Seeing her in a charming pale pink dress, her face as fair as jade, her hair as dark as ink, her eyes like stars, and her lips touched with vermilion, the spirited grace about her could not be hidden. She was like a spring blossom, bright and radiant.

“Happy New Year, Miss Mu. May all things go as you wish as well.” After saying this, he actually took a red packet from his sleeve and offered it to Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao accepted it readily. He was seven years older than she was; accepting a red packet from him was hardly improper. Besides, silver delivered right to her door would be foolish to refuse. “Many thanks, Fourth Master Ning.”

Yue Wang’s expression softened for a clear instant before returning to its usual cool calm.

Seeing that it was growing late, Mu Yunyao did not dare delay. After explaining to Yue Wang and Steward Qin, she went straight out, boarded the carriage, and headed directly for the Cao Residence.

Madam Jin was already close to eight months pregnant. She had taken good care of herself in ordinary days, and her complexion was especially rosy. Now, wearing the clothes Mu Yunyao had sent her, she did not look bulky in the slightest; instead, she carried an added air of dignified grace.

The moment she saw Mu Yunyao enter, Madam Jin’s face filled with smiles.

“Yunyao pays New Year respects to Godmother. May you enjoy peace, health, and all things as you wish in the New Year.”

“Quickly, rise.” Madam Jin hurriedly called her up and handed her a red packet. “I also wish our Yao’er to grow more beautiful with each passing year. Best if you become a beauty capable of toppling kingdoms and cities.”

Mu Yunyao accepted the red packet. “Thank you, Godmother. For the sake of those words, I must work hard to grow even lovelier.”

Madam Jin could not help laughing. “Good, good. Your Godfather has colleagues to visit, so you may pay New Year respects to him later. I will first take you to greet the Governor’s wife.”

Mu Yunyao pressed gently on Madam Jin’s wrist. “There is no hurry. I should first take Godmother’s pulse.”

Madam Jin nodded again and again. “Look at me, nearly forgetting the most important matter.” Now that her month was advanced, she suffered little discomfort. This was all thanks to Mu Yunyao’s careful conditioning.

After taking the pulse, Mu Yunyao leaned forward slightly and spoke toward Madam Jin’s belly. “Little brother must also be obedient today. Once you are born, Elder Sister will prepare a large red packet for you.”

Hearing this, Madam Jin knew everything was well. She ordered someone to bring her cloak, then took Mu Yunyao out.

This round of visits lasted most of the day. By the end, their smiles had nearly stiffened upon their faces. Fortunately, Madam Jin’s status was high; wherever they went, they were received with exceptional care, and Mu Yunyao benefited from that honor as well. Even so, by the time she returned home, her legs were nearly numb from exhaustion.

Su Qing had long been waiting anxiously at home. Only when she saw Mu Yunyao return did a smile finally reach her eyes. “Yao’er, why were you gone so long?”

“The Governor’s wife especially kept us to speak for a while, and there were quite a few households we needed to visit. Godmother’s status is high, so I benefited from her honor. Mother did not see it, but many people of lower rank are still lining up outside the various officials’ residences even now. I am afraid that even by nightfall, those officials may not necessarily have time to receive them.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 165

Chapter 165: A New Year Tribute That Shone Brilliantly

Only after Yue Wang accepted it did Yu Yi finally let out a heavy breath. Once he sat back down, he heard Steward Qin give a quiet, cold snort from the side. A wail rose in his heart. The red packet he had only just received would likely be confiscated by tomorrow.

Inside the Su Residence, warmth and liveliness filled every corner. In the imperial city of the capital, the palace was even more brilliantly lit.

After the Emperor had accepted the congratulations of the imperial princes, ministers, and palace consorts, his face was bright with pleasure. Reclining slightly upon the dragon throne, he swirled the wine cup in his hand while admiring the song and dance below the hall.

Seeing that the wine cup in His Majesty’s hand had emptied, Xu Li quickly stepped forward to refill it. In a soft voice, he said, “Your Majesty, this year the winds and rains have been timely, and the people are peaceful and well. This servant heard that among the New Year tributes presented by the various regions this year, several are exceptionally magnificent. We servants were fortunate enough to glimpse them once, and found ourselves unable to look away.”

“Oh?” The Emperor looked toward him. “You may be considered an old hand in the palace. What sort of treasures have you not seen? For you to praise them so, they must indeed be unusual. Since that is the case, have them brought up for Us to see.”

Joy stirred in Xu Li’s heart. He quickly withdrew and instructed the young eunuchs to present the selected New Year tributes.

“Your Majesty, please look. This is the Divine Stone of Mount Tai, presented by the Governor of Ludong. It is said to emit a glow at night, and the stone bears natural markings that form the character for longevity. It is especially wondrous.”

The Emperor glanced at it, but little interest appeared in his expression. “Some days ago, when We celebrated Our birthday, the regions below sent up no small number of strange stones and auspicious objects. Looking at them again and again holds little meaning. Are there others?”

“This servant has heard that Jingling City also presented a New Year tribute. It is said to have come from Niyun Pavilion, which Your Majesty previously rewarded, and the people of five or six cities near Jingling also took part in it.”

At the mention of Jingling City, the Emperor’s interest had just begun to stir. But when he heard that the people of five or six cities had all participated, a hint of displeasure appeared. “The most important thing in a New Year tribute is sincerity. If, for the sake of presenting a gift to Us, the common people were disturbed and made uneasy, would that not be mere pursuit of empty fame?”

Xu Li’s heart tightened. He had only just been promoted to Chief Eunuch; in the end, his understanding of the Emperor’s temperament could not yet compare to Eunuch De’s. He had only wished to secretly sell Mu Yunyao a favor, but had forgotten to carefully weigh the Emperor’s thoughts.

Yet the Emperor had already spoken. “Bring up the New Year tribute from Jingling City. We would like to see what sort of tribute required the labor of the people of five or six cities.”

Upon hearing the words “Jingling City,” the officials below gradually lowered their voices. Jingling City had been too conspicuous of late. Judging from His Majesty’s expression just now, he seemed somewhat displeased. Could it be that misfortune had finally come for them?

At this thought, many of them became alert, their gazes drifting without a trace toward the entrance of the hall. Before long, two eunuchs carried in a frame. From its shape, it appeared to be a screen, though it was covered with red cloth, making it impossible to see clearly.

Quite a few people looked toward Su Wenyuan with schadenfreude. During the Emperor’s birthday banquet, Su Wenyuan had presented a screen in hopes of claiming merit, only for the Splendid Rivers and Mountains at Sunrise screen to turn in the blink of an eye into an ominous sign of blood staining the empire.

Because of that, the Su family had suffered a period of cold treatment. For the past half year, they had been doing their utmost to perform well, all to erase the shadow left by that screen. Just when success seemed near, who would have thought Jingling City would send in another screen? Was this not stabbing the Su family straight in the heart?

Su Wenyuan remained composed, a mild smile still upon his face. Only the wine cup in his hand trembled faintly, sending a cold glint across its surface.

When the Emperor saw the frame, he clearly also remembered the screen Su Wenyuan had presented on his birthday. The displeasure in his expression deepened. “What is there to hide? Remove the red cloth.”

Seeing the Emperor’s anger, the eunuchs below shrank in fear. Their hands trembling, they hurriedly yanked the red silk down.

The great hall was filled with bright lamps. Suddenly, everyone felt a flash of brilliance before their eyes, almost dazzling enough to blind them. When they recovered and looked carefully, they could not help drawing in a sharp breath.

The object presented by Jingling City resembled a screen, yet seemed even more like a piece of embroidery mounted upon a frame. Because the eunuch’s movements had been too forceful, the embroidery still swayed faintly. Upon it, four golden characters were releasing a dazzling divine light.

Under the candlelight in the great hall, the auspicious clouds beneath the large characters seemed to flow slowly. The four golden characters looked as though they had flown down from the heavens and now stood firmly among the clouds—

Fortune. Longevity. Peace. Health.

Even the Emperor’s eyes widened slightly. His gaze fixed upon the embroidery below, and he felt a surge of vast, upright energy stir within his chest. He could not help laughing aloud. “Good!”

As he spoke, he rose and descended the steps, approaching the embroidery to admire it up close. The nearer he drew, the more miraculous it seemed. “These four large characters—Fortune, Longevity, Peace, and Health—are actually all formed from smaller characters written in different hands. There must be tens of thousands of these small characters, no?”

Seeing the Emperor’s expression turn from overcast to clear, Xu Li secretly wiped the cold sweat from his palm. He knew he had won this wager. Hearing His Majesty’s question, he quickly stepped forward to answer. “Replying to Your Majesty, Governor Zhang Boyong of Huainan submitted a greeting memorial. It records the origin of this embroidery in detail.”

“Present it. We wish to see whose hands produced such astonishing embroidery.”

Very soon, Governor Zhang’s greeting memorial was delivered. After the Emperor finished reading it, his expression grew even more pleased. “These small characters of Fortune, Longevity, Peace, and Health were actually written by fully blessed elders from the six cities of Huainan—more than sixteen thousand people in all. Truly astonishing. Zhang Boyong says the papers collected with them were also sent into the palace. Where are they now?”

Xu Li quickly replied, “This servant will have them brought at once.”

Before long, several guards carried in two large chests. Xu Li immediately ordered them opened. Inside, sheets of white paper covered with the words Fortune, Longevity, Peace, and Health were stacked neatly one upon another.

Xu Li took several sheets and presented them to the Emperor. “Your Majesty, please examine them.”

The Emperor picked up one sheet and compared it carefully against the screen. The small characters forming the four large words on the screen were varied in shape and size; for a time, it was truly difficult to find the corresponding writing.

“Beloved ministers, each of you take a few sheets and come forward to help Us look. See whether you can find the matching handwriting.”

Several senior ministers hurried forward. Taking the papers, they compared them carefully. Suddenly, one of them cried out in surprise, “I found it, Your Majesty. This minister has found it. Please look here.”

“Indeed. It corresponds exactly.”

“This minister has also found one. Your Majesty, please look.”

For a time, the entire Golden Hall became exceptionally lively. Everyone held slips of paper and searched for the corresponding handwriting on the embroidery. To their surprise, every single sheet matched. Most remarkable of all, the handwriting showed not the slightest deviation. Other than the difference in size, the stitches were exactly the same.

“The skill of the embroiderer is truly like the work of Heaven!”

“Indeed. These tens of thousands of characters are each in different handwriting, yet arranged in perfect order, making the four large characters appear dignified, solemn, and magnificent. It is truly rare.”

“As expected of Niyun Pavilion, which received His Majesty’s reward. Such craftsmanship may be called unparalleled under heaven.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 164

Chapter 164: It Looks Delicious

After all the playing and laughter, dusk gradually settled. Su Qing went to prepare the remaining items for the offering to Heaven, while Mu Yunyao sat idly by the window, looking out at the snowmen. Yue Wang, for his part, had fallen silent, his thoughts hidden behind an unreadable expression.

Outside, the sounds of firecrackers and fireworks had already begun to rise one after another. Su Qing, Steward Qin, and the others arranged the incense table, and everyone entered the courtyard to respectfully worship Heaven and pray for blessings.

Since cloaks could not be worn during the ceremony, the moment Mu Yunyao stepped out of the room, she shivered from the cold. A quiet sigh passed through her heart. It was said that going from frugality to luxury was easy, but returning from luxury to frugality was hard—the ancients had not deceived her. Thinking back to her previous life, she had once dragged her broken leg through the snow to search for firewood; otherwise, Li Shi would not give her food. Back then, even a cold, hard coarse-grain bun had seemed sweet. Now, with one gust of winter wind, the cold felt almost unbearable.

Sensing the brief shadow that crossed Mu Yunyao’s mood, Yue Wang glanced at her without a word. Then, as though by chance, he stepped to one side of her, blocking the north wind.

Mu Yunyao felt the wind against her suddenly weaken. She turned her head to glance at Yue Wang not far away, only to see him looking at the offering table, his face without the slightest expression. She paid it no further mind and stepped forward to stand behind Su Qing, following her in kowtowing and paying reverence to Heaven.

The weather was bitterly cold, yet the night sky was thick with stars. It looked vast and sharp, deep with a chill that made Mu Yunyao’s heart tremble. For some reason, she suddenly thought of Yue Wang’s eyes, and a shiver ran through her. She silently made up her mind: if she ever lacked spirit in the future, she need only think of Yue Wang, and she would be wide awake at once.

“Today we offer reverence to Heaven and pray for blessings. May the coming year bring timely wind and rain. May our family be joyful, peaceful, and healthy.”

Su Qing did not speak any ornate words of blessing, yet Mu Yunyao listened with particular solemnity. She repeated the words in her heart several times, then respectfully kowtowed to Su Qing.

Once the offering to Heaven was finished, Su Qing relaxed completely and quickly called Si Qin, Jin Lan, and the others to help bring out the dishes from the kitchen. After reverence had been offered to Heaven and blessings had been prayed for, the rest of the night belonged to human celebration.

Su Qing and Mu Yunyao did not ordinarily place too much emphasis on rigid rules, and now it was New Year’s Eve. The entire courtyard was full of lively warmth.

Su Qing once again brought out red packets, drawing a wave of cheers from Jin Lan, Si Qin, and the others.

Relying on her status, Mu Yunyao was the first to snatch the thickest one. Pride shone from the corners of her eyes to the tips of her brows.

Su Qing tapped her lightly between the brows, unable to help saying with fond helplessness, “You…”

Mu Yunyao immediately picked up the words. “I am the best. This year, fortune will flow abundantly!”

“Miss certainly does have abundant fortune. It is the New Year, and you have already won away all our money.”

From the corner of her eye, Mu Yunyao glanced at Yue Wang. “Do not speak nonsense. The true culprit who won away your money is standing right beside us!”

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao could not help sticking out their tongues. They were still shaken by Yue Wang’s gaze and did not dare step forward to joke with him.

After Su Qing distributed the red packets, she took another from her sleeve and walked over to Yue Wang, offering it to him. “Young Master Ning, since you call me an elder, then I must give you a red packet as well. May the coming year bring you abundant fortune, great luck, and great profit.”

Yue Wang’s gaze stirred abruptly. Looking at Su Qing, he seemed momentarily at a loss. Then he accepted the red packet with both hands, handling it with uncommon care. His expression softened. “Many thanks, Madam.”

At the side, Steward Qin rubbed his eyes, a sour warmth rising in his heart. In all these years, this was likely the first red packet His Highness had ever received. He only hoped that in the coming year there would be more sweetness than bitterness, more reunions than partings, and all things would go smoothly.

Yu Heng and Yu Yi were also especially pleased. They had not expected to receive red packets. They could not help sending repeated glances toward Steward Qin, hinting that since Madam Su had already handed out red packets, His Highness’s side could not be so stingy either.

Steward Qin took out the red packets he had prepared long ago and first handed one to Mu Yunyao. “Miss Mu, this is from me. Please do not disdain it.”

Mu Yunyao accepted it readily. Feeling the thickness of the packet, surprise flickered through her heart. “Thank you, Steward Qin.” The silver inside was probably several thousand taels.

Seeing her accept it, Steward Qin’s smile grew even brighter. Only then did he take out smaller red packets and distribute them to Jin Lan and the others.

Nan’er also received one. He bounced twice in place with delight, then ran outside to check whether the incense used for the offering to Heaven had burned out. Seeing that it had, he quickly called A’Mao and Li’er to bring in the dishes and qiaomo figures used for the offering.

“Madam, Miss, the banquet may begin.”

Mu Yunyao had long been thinking of the qiaomo figures outside. When she saw Nan’er carry them in, she immediately went to look for the rabbit that belonged to her zodiac year. Unexpectedly, someone was faster. Before she could step forward, that person had already pinched the zodiac rabbit into his hand.

Su Qing’s hands were skillful, and the rabbit had already been adorable before steaming. Now that it had puffed up after being steamed, it looked even fairer and plumper. When one poked it lightly with a finger, a small soft dent appeared, only to spring back again.

Mu Yunyao looked at Yue Wang’s hand and felt a chill creep up her back. It was as though she herself had become the rabbit in his palm, ready at any moment to be flattened, kneaded round, and swallowed whole.

Seeing that Yue Wang liked the qiaomo figure, Su Qing could not help recalling Steward Qin’s words that he had grown up without his mother. While gesturing for everyone to take their seats, she said to Yue Wang, “The qiaomo has cooled a little. Later, you may place it beside the small brazier and roast it. Once the outside is toasted crisp and fragrant, that is when it tastes best.”

Listening to this, Mu Yunyao felt uncomfortable all over. Crisp and fragrant? Why was Mother always siding with outsiders? “Mother, have you forgotten our family’s rules from previous years? The zodiac figure has always belonged to whoever was born under that sign.”

The moment her voice fell, Yue Wang had already bitten into the rabbit, eating half of its head in one mouthful.

Seeing Mu Yunyao staring at him, Yue Wang lifted the qiaomo in his hand and said with remarkable innocence, “My apologies. I did not know…”

“Do not listen to Yao’er’s nonsense. There is no such rule. Whoever likes whichever one may eat that one.” Su Qing quickly soothed Yue Wang, then secretly shot Mu Yunyao a glance. She casually picked up another qiaomo and placed it in her hand. “There are still so many left. Hurry and eat.”

Mu Yunyao looked down at the tiger in her hand, the character Wang carved upon its forehead. She worked hard to press down the odd feeling in her chest, then bit off one of the tiger’s ears. The fierceness of that bite startled Su Qing, who quickly poured herself a cup of warm water. “Do not rush. Who is going to snatch it from you? Truly, you little girl—one year older and still so childish.”

Mu Yunyao looked at the tiger in her hand, now missing an ear. Its round body was striped like a tiger’s, yet somehow looked even more foolish. Suddenly, the breath caught in her chest eased. This had been personally made by Yue Wang. In another two years, if it were taken outside, it might well be worth a thousand gold. This time, she had not lost out after all.

She busied herself battling with the tiger qiaomo and did not notice the smile flickering through Yue Wang’s eyes.

Steward Qin drank his wine with a smile, feeling that tonight’s wine was especially intoxicating—so much so that even his eyes grew warm.

Yu Yi gently nudged Yu Heng beside him and hinted toward Yue Wang’s direction. “Look over there.”

Yu Heng glanced over, not understanding what he meant. Thinking Yu Yi also wanted to eat a qiaomo figure, he casually reached out, picked one up, and passed it over. “Here.”

Yu Yi felt as though a harsh gale had swept across his face. He hurriedly carried the calico-cat-shaped qiaomo to Yue Wang with both hands. “Fourth Master, I see that you have not eaten your fill. Please have this one. This one looks delicious.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 164

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 163

Chapter 163: Calling a Cat a Tiger

The entire Su Residence was filled with bustle and laughter, warmth rising through the ice and snow.

Steward Qin stood to the side, smiling as he watched everyone make merry. He even slipped over to Yue Wang’s side to encourage him. “His Highness, you are also Madam Su’s junior. Why not go help carry a dish and earn yourself a red packet?”

Yue Wang’s expression drew even tighter, the light in his eyes shifting faintly.

Steward Qin knew well enough to stop at the proper point. After saying his piece, he immediately went to the kitchen to help.

After a lively lunch, Mu Yunyao saw that Jin Lan and the others had all received reward money. A mischievous thought rose in her mind, and she suggested playing leaf cards.

Jin Lan and the others hesitated. “Miss, this is the reward money we only just received. You are not thinking of winning it away again, are you?”

Mu Yunyao blinked innocently. “Leaf cards are not like ice games. When playing cards, everything depends on luck. Could Heaven possibly favor me in particular?”

Jin Lan and the others discussed it among themselves and found the reasoning sound enough. Ice games relied on skill, but leaf cards were different. This was a fine chance to win from Miss. “Very well. If Miss loses later, you must not go complain to Madam.”

“Naturally.” Mu Yunyao agreed with a beaming smile. As soon as she finished speaking, she felt Yue Wang’s cold gaze fall upon her, making her fingers tremble. She quickly turned and asked with a smile, “Would Fourth Master like to play a few rounds as well?”

“I am not very skilled.” Yue Wang’s tone held a trace of hesitation, yet he had already risen and walked to the table, sitting down at Mu Yunyao’s left.

Mu Yunyao had originally wanted to say, In that case, forget it. But seeing him sit down, she silently swallowed the words at the edge of her lips. These days, she found herself increasingly astonished. Her understanding of Yue Wang kept changing, and she truly did not know what the complete Yue Wang was like.

In her previous life, Mu Yunyao had been extremely good at leaf cards. After playing two rounds to regain the feel of it, she thoroughly became the ever-victorious general. Before long, she had managed to win more than half of the red-packet silver that Jin Lan and Jin Qiao had just received.

Jin Lan could not help but wail. “Miss, did you not say leaf cards depended on luck?”

“Naturally. If not luck, then what else could it depend on?” Mu Yunyao blinked back at her with an innocent expression.

Jin Lan muttered under her breath, then pulled Jin Pei over. Her own red packet had barely grown warm in her hands before flying away. As good sisters, the others naturally ought to share hardship with her.

Yet in the next two rounds, Mu Yunyao unexpectedly lost.

Looking at Yue Wang, who played his cards at an unhurried pace, Mu Yunyao could not help blinking. She kept feeling as though Yue Wang could somehow tell exactly what cards she held in her hand. Sure enough, after several more rounds, the broken silver beside Yue Wang had nearly piled beyond the table’s edge.

“Fourth Master, why is it always you who wins?”

A hint of laughter flashed at the bottom of Yue Wang’s eyes. Rarely relaxed, his lips curved faintly, so slightly it was almost imperceptible. “Good luck.”

Mu Yunyao’s breath caught. Seeing Su Qing call for help preparing the meal, she immediately threw down the leaf cards and followed her out.

Jin Lan and the others looked at one another. With Miss holding the table, they still dared to sit there. Now that Miss had left, none of them dared to face that Fourth Master alone. His gaze alone was enough to make one’s heart tremble.

Fortunately, Yue Wang also set down his cards. He had Yu Heng put away the broken silver by the table, then went out to admire the snow in the courtyard.

In the kitchen, Mu Yunyao helped with small tasks while watching Su Qing steam dough figures of the twelve zodiac animals for the offering to Heaven. “I was born in the Year of the Rabbit, so Mother must make the rabbit especially adorable. After we finish the offering, I still want to eat it!”

“I know. Every year, when we steam the twelve zodiac animals, you say the same thing.” Su Qing’s fingers moved deftly, and in just a few motions, a lifelike little rabbit appeared in her hands.

Mu Yunyao rested her chin in her palm, smiling sweetly from the side. “If it is not made adorable, how could it be worthy of me?”

“Your face is nothing like a rabbit’s. It is more like the last animal among the twelve zodiac signs.” As Su Qing spoke, she reached out and scraped a bit of flour across the tip of Mu Yunyao’s nose.

Mu Yunyao wrinkled her nose. She did not wipe away the flour on its tip, instead making a fuss at Su Qing. “Who says so? Mother, touch it and see. Is my face not exceedingly thin-skinned—so delicate it might break with a breath?”

“It is clearly as thick as a city wall!”

“Who says so? I need someone to judge fairly. Where is Steward Qin?” As Mu Yunyao spoke, she turned around to look for someone. Steward Qin was nowhere in sight. Instead, she saw Yue Wang walking slowly in with his hands behind his back. She immediately closed her mouth and nearly bit her tongue. Why did this man seem to linger like a ghost that would not disperse?

Yue Wang had long since heard the exchange between Mu Yunyao and Su Qing. His gaze fell upon the steamer. A full set of twelve zodiac animals had already been made, each with a different shape, all of them charming.

Su Qing also saw Yue Wang and quickly smiled. “Why has Young Master Ning come here as well? The kitchen is stuffy. Do not let it soil your clothes.”

“Madam, may I help?”

Su Qing’s face filled with surprise. In the Da Li Dynasty, gentlemen were expected to keep away from the kitchen. A person of Young Master Ning’s status likely had never known what a kitchen looked like in his life. “This…”

Yue Wang had already gone to wash his hands in the basin nearby. He picked up a lump of dough and kneaded it lightly between his fingers. Before long, he had shaped a round little calico cat. The cat was curled into a half circle, eyes slightly narrowed, tail wrapped around its body, as though sleeping soundly. It looked especially adorable.

Su Qing was even more astonished. “I truly would not have expected Young Master Ning to possess such skill!”

“I carved small objects before. Dough should not be very different.” After saying this, he placed the calico cat in the steamer, right beside the rabbit Su Qing had finished not long ago. Once he set it down, he even glanced at Mu Yunyao.

Mu Yunyao felt a prickle of displeasure. She pointed to the cat and said, “Fourth Master, is what you made a tiger?”

Yue Wang’s brows moved faintly, and he looked over with an expression that was almost a smile and yet not quite one.

Su Qing could not help laughing. “Where in the world is there such a dainty little tiger? This is a cat. I am afraid it would not even be enough for a tiger to swallow in one mouthful.”

“Mother, to me it looks very much like a tiger…” Mu Yunyao refused to admit she had seen wrong.

Yue Wang said nothing. He picked up a larger lump of dough and, in a few movements, shaped a tiger. To emphasise its identity, he took the small knife beside him and carefully carved the character Wang upon the tiger’s forehead. Then, with complete composure, he placed the tiger beside the calico cat.

With that, the contrast became especially sharp. That tiger truly looked as though it could open its mouth and swallow the cat whole.

Yue Wang looked toward Mu Yunyao, who had puffed up in indignation, and the light in his eyes shifted faintly. “Would Miss Mu like to shape one as well?”

Mu Yunyao could not resist lifting her head to glare fiercely at Yue Wang.

Su Qing burst into laughter, tears glimmering at the corners of her eyes. “You must not let her try. She cannot even knead steamed buns properly, let alone shape animals. Ask her to make a cat, and she can turn it straight into a toad!”

“Mother!” Mu Yunyao’s cheeks flushed. How could Mother expose her shortcomings like that—and in front of Yue Wang, no less? This was far too embarrassing.

Yue Wang looked at Mu Yunyao’s faintly reddened cheeks. The movement in his gaze gradually softened, and his heart, too, seemed to quiet along with it. Before, no matter what he did, there had always been a thread of violence and killing intent lodged within him. Yet now, there was only stillness—so quiet and lovely that the corners of his lips could not help rising.

Su Qing also felt she had teased her a little too much. “Enough, enough. Mother will stop talking. Hurry and steam these qiaomo figures. We still need them for the offering to Heaven later.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 163