Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 133

Chapter 133: Tan Bawang’s Righteous Accusations

“I also did not expect to meet Miss Mu here. Back then, you claimed to be from the Han family. You made me search for you for quite some time!”

Tan Bawang’s gaze grew increasingly dark and vicious. In his heart, he wished he could tear Mu Yunyao into ten thousand pieces.

Back then, on the streets of Huai’an City, she had taken an oil-paper umbrella and beaten him soundly, forcing him to rest in bed for more than a month. What enraged him even more was that ever since she had kicked him between the legs, he had discovered that he could no longer function as a man. He had invited every famous physician he could find, yet there had not been the slightest improvement. How could he not hate her until his heart bled?

“Did I ever say that? I have been busy with many things recently, so my memory has become worse and worse. Why do I not remember ever saying I was from the Han family? I wonder what instruction Young Master Tan has for me, coming here with such great fanfare?”

Tan Bawang gave a cold laugh.

“You snatched away my concubine, yet you still ask why I came here? Miss Mu’s ability to play the fool is truly admirable.”

“Young Master Tan has many concubines in your residence. Unfortunately, I have had no fate to meet even one of them. Besides, my residence does not lack servants to wait on me. Why would I snatch your concubine?”

Tan Bawang was so angry his insides trembled. His concubines had all been chosen with the utmost care. How had they become servants waiting on others once they passed through her mouth? Although he himself did not take those concubines seriously, hearing Mu Yunyao say this made him feel as if she had stabbed him where it hurt.

“Miss Mu, stop playing tricks. Hand over Cai Qing!”

“The concubine you speak of is Cai Qing?”

“That is right. This morning, I already signed a contract with Cai Qing. She willingly entered my residence as a concubine, with Matchmaker Liu of Jingling City as witness. I was just about to discuss bringing her back to Huai’an City when you sent people to forcibly snatch her away. I would like to ask you, what reasoning is there in that?”

Mu Yunyao frowned.

The hatred in Tan Bawang’s heart burned fiercely. Seeing her like this, he could not help laughing inwardly with delight. In order to make the contract real, he had even found a matchmaker. Now that the evidence was conclusive, he wanted to see how Mu Yunyao would still argue her way out of this.

“What is it? Nothing to say? According to the laws of the Dali Dynasty, the crime of snatching away another person’s concubine without cause is punishable by exile eight hundred li away. Mu Yunyao, if you kowtow and admit your mistake now, perhaps this young master may let you off!”

The surrounding commoners began discussing among themselves. They did not know Tan Bawang and his people, but who did not know Mu Yunyao? Now, hearing that she had snatched away someone else’s concubine, they could not help feeling curious. If a man had snatched another person’s concubine, that would still make some sense. But why would Miss Mu snatch someone’s concubine?

Someone could not hold back and stepped forward to speak for Mu Yunyao.

“This young master should not make reckless accusations. How could Miss Mu snatch your concubine without reason? There must be some misunderstanding.”

“What misunderstanding could there be? The one who went to snatch her was that subordinate of hers called Liu Liang. He even injured two of my followers. Men, quickly carry them forward and let everyone see how miserable my two followers are!”

As he spoke, two men were truly carried forward. Their faces were bruised purple, and blood covered them. They lay on stretchers and wailed without stopping. They looked extremely miserable, causing many people around them to retreat two steps, not daring to look at them directly.

Tan Bawang’s face was filled with anger.

“Mu Yunyao, you simply have no regard for law or order. You have gone too far in bullying others. Hurry and hand over my concubine, Cai Qing. Otherwise, I will report this to the authorities right now and ask the County Magistrate to arrest and interrogate you.”

Someone quietly spoke to Mu Yunyao.

“Miss Mu, it is not worth making such a fuss over a concubine. If that Cai Qing truly is in your residence, you may as well hand her over to him. A contract has already been signed. No matter how one puts it, she is already his person…”

Mu Yunyao shook her head slightly.

“Many thanks to this young master, but the matter is not as Tan Bawang says.”

Seeing Mu Yunyao shake her head, Tan Bawang gave a sinister laugh inwardly. His eyes carried the pleasure of revenge that was about to arrive.

“Mu Yunyao, you keep refusing to hand her over. Could it be that something has happened to my concubine in your residence? I remember now. Cai Qing once told me that her younger brother Nan’er accidentally offended you before. Could it be that you held a grudge because of this, captured both Cai Qing and Nan’er, and wanted to take revenge on them?”

“Do not speak nonsense. Miss Mu is not that kind of person!”

“That is right. Miss Mu selflessly taught embroidery stitches and helped the women of Jingling City gain a skill to rely on. How could she be such a vicious person as you say?”

“It is hard to know a person’s heart by their face. Who knows whether she was only fishing for fame? If she is not guilty, why has she still refused to hand the person over? Does she think forcibly occupying another person’s concubine is reasonable?”

Tan Bawang pretended to cry out in surprise.

“Could it be that you really did something to Cai Qing? Hurry and hand her over. If you keep making excuses, I will bring people inside to search for her!”

Steward Qin immediately led people to guard the entrance.

Tan Bawang gave a cold laugh. Seeing Mu Yunyao act like this, he became certain that Cai Qing had taken the poison and died, and that Mu Yunyao felt guilty, which was why she refused to hand her over. His arrogance grew even stronger.

“Mu Yunyao, do you think this can cover up your crime? Let me tell you, I have already sent someone to report this to the authorities. Today, I must seek justice for Cai Qing!”

As he was speaking, the crowd suddenly parted. County Magistrate Zhao, dressed in official robes, entered with constables.

“I heard there was a case involving human life here, so this official came to take a look. Miss Mu, what exactly is going on?”

“Greetings, Lord Zhao. I merely brought Miss Cai Qing and her two younger brothers to my home so they could recover from their injuries. This Young Master Tan came to make trouble at my door and insisted on falsely accusing me of snatching away his concubine. He also repeatedly hinted that I had murdered someone. To be honest, I am not clear on what exactly happened either.”

County Magistrate Zhao turned to look at Tan Bawang.

“Who are you, and why are you causing trouble here?”

“Greetings, Lord Zhao. I am Tan Bawang, the young owner of Caiyue Pavilion. My concubine, Cai Qing, was captured by Mu Yunyao. Now her life or death is unknown. That is why I went to the yamen to report the case. I hope Lord Zhao will handle this impartially.”

County Magistrate Zhao frowned.

“No matter who is involved, this official will handle it impartially. Explain the case clearly.”

Seeing that County Magistrate Zhao intended to question the case right there in the street, more and more commoners gathered around. Because the constables were present, they only watched quietly and did not dare make a loud noise.

Tan Bawang immediately recounted the matter in vivid detail. Especially when he spoke of Mu Yunyao sending people to capture Cai Qing and A'Mao, his expression became particularly filled with righteous indignation.

Matchmaker Liu also stepped forward to testify for Tan Bawang, saying that Cai Qing had indeed pressed her handprint onto the document, signed the contract, and willingly agreed to become Tan Bawang’s concubine.

As for the two beaten followers, their words were even more pitiful. Those who heard them felt sorrow, and those who listened shed tears. Quite a few people could not help feeling sympathy for them.

After County Magistrate Zhao finished listening, his expression remained stern, making it difficult to read his thoughts.

“Miss Mu, is the matter truly as Tan Bawang says?”

Mu Yunyao shook her head slightly.

“I am not very clear on the details either. It would be better to let Cai Qing speak for herself.”

“What?”

Tan Bawang could not hold back a cry of surprise. According to their plan, should Cai Qing not have already taken poison and killed herself by now?

Mu Yunyao looked over. A trace of ridicule flashed across the corners of her lips.

“What is it? Young Master Tan seems rather disappointed that Cai Qing is still alive?”

“How could that be? I am only afraid that you secretly threatened her…”

“From what Young Master Tan said earlier, you and Miss Cai Qing share mutual affection and deep love. You even made a special trip from Huai’an City to this place specifically to bring her back. With such deep feelings between you, how could she harm you because of one or two threats?”

Mu Yunyao turned to look at Jin Qiao.

“Go invite Miss Cai Qing out.”

“Yes, Miss.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 133

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 132

Chapter 132: Seeing Tan Bawang Again

Mu Yunyao bent down and picked up the packet of medicinal powder.

“If this were truly poison, I would believe your words. Unfortunately, your act was not complete. After someone takes this packet of powder, they will vomit blood without stopping and appear to be in critical condition, but it will not be fatal. As long as they receive treatment in time, they will recover after nursing themselves for a few months.”

Cai Qing lifted her head. Her whole body trembled uncontrollably.

“Miss Mu also understands medicine?”

“There are too many wicked people in this world. One must always have a few more means to protect oneself. If I did not understand medicine, would I not have been plotted against by you today?”

Cai Qing fell silent for a moment. Then she suddenly burst into tears.

“Miss Mu, I deserve death. I had thoughts I never should have had. But I truly had no way out. A'Mao was injured, yet we had no silver to have him treated. Nan’er is already eleven years old, but because he never has enough to eat, he looks no different from a child of eight or nine…”

Mu Yunyao looked at Cai Qing coldly. A trace of disgust flashed through her heart.

“Even now, you still use them as an excuse? Or do you think I have no way to punish you? There are plenty of ways in this world to make a person die silently and without a trace. You said it yourself. For people of your status, even the authorities would not care. I have more than enough ways to settle the matter!”

She did not believe that this intelligent woman before her would risk her life to scheme against her for such a reason. If Cai Qing truly valued Nan’er and A'Mao more than her own life, how could she bear to use them?

Cai Qing shuddered. She raised her hand and slapped herself fiercely across the face. She used great force. With one slap, blood immediately flowed from the corner of her lips.

“Miss Mu, I will tell the truth… It is true that I was not scheming to deceive you for Nan’er and A'Mao. I did it to earn a sum of silver and leave the Ciyou Bureau!”

As Cai Qing spoke, she lifted her head slightly. Seeing Mu Yunyao’s expression grow even colder, a trace of desolation flashed through her eyes.

“You live in comfort, high above us. How could you know the suffering of orphans like us? On the surface, the Ciyou Bureau exists to aid orphans like us, but inside, it is filthy beyond measure. Girls like us, once we grow up, are secretly bought away. The luckier ones become someone’s concubine, but many more are bought and kept in private residences as hidden prostitutes. I was unwilling to fall to that state, so I agreed to Tan Bawang’s conditions…”

The Ciyou Bureau? Hidden prostitutes?

Mu Yunyao had not expected the Ciyou Bureau to be involved in such business. She assessed Cai Qing.

“You were so certain I would send someone to rescue you? If I had not agreed to Nan’er’s request, how were you planning to end this?”

“Miss Mu likes that child Nan’er, does she not? He was abandoned at the entrance of the Ciyou Bureau when he was little. Because his body is thin and weak, he is often bullied. Yet he has never blamed Heaven or resented others. Especially those eyes of his. They are clear, as if they contain no filth at all. If others show him even the slightest bit of kindness, he can happily rely on that bit of kindness to keep living. I felt Miss would not refuse a child with such a pure heart. Even if it did not succeed this time, I could continue planning. It would succeed eventually…”

Mu Yunyao gave a soft sneer.

“You certainly know how to use people thoroughly. Moreover, you were certain that I would save you, were you not?”

Now that Cai Qing was in her home, even if Mu Yunyao handed her over now, Tan Bawang would still cling to the matter of her snatching away his concubine and refuse to let go. If he were a little more ruthless and secretly sent someone to poison Cai Qing to death, he could still frame her for it.

What a fine scheme!

Cai Qing could not help bursting into loud sobs.

“Miss, I truly regret it. I should not have used Nan’er, and I should not have placed Li’er in danger. I was only confused for a moment. I did not want my own ending to be so tragic. I truly never thought of harming them. I beg you. Please think of a way to save them!”

Mu Yunyao’s brows drew together tightly. Just as she was about to speak, she noticed movement from Nan’er beside them.

“Miss, I beg you. Save Elder Sister Cai Qing…”

Nan’er struggled to sit up, but he could not use even the slightest bit of strength. He nearly rolled off the soft couch.

Cai Qing hurried forward to support him.

“Do not move recklessly. Miss Mu said two of your ribs are broken. If you move around carelessly, I fear it will leave a lingering illness.”

Nan’er, however, stubbornly looked in Mu Yunyao’s direction.

“Miss, I know this is unreasonable. But aside from you, I know no other noble person. I can only beg you to save Elder Sister Cai Qing. I have nothing. Only this life of mine can still be used. I am willing to repay with my life for Elder Sister Cai Qing. As long as you can save her, I am willing to do anything!”

Hearing this, Cai Qing covered her face and wept uncontrollably.

“I am sorry. I have wronged all of you…”

At the doorway, Su Qing walked in. Her eyes were red as she looked hesitantly toward Mu Yunyao.

“Yao’er…”

Mu Yunyao nodded slightly to her, then looked toward Nan’er and Cai Qing.

“I can save you, and I can also help you escape from the Ciyou Bureau. However, the two of you must sign life-sale contracts. Are you willing?”

Nan’er quickly nodded.

“I am willing. Many thanks for Miss’s great kindness.”

Cai Qing also agreed without the slightest hesitation.

“I am willing as well. Many thanks, Miss.”

She truly felt regret now. Even if Mu Yunyao were to sell her off again, she would accept it. After living together for so many years, had she not also treated Nan’er and A'Mao as her own younger brothers? Now, seeing them harmed by her to such a miserable state, yet still pleading for her, her heart had long since been drowned by remorse. She could not even understand how she had previously been so heartless as to use them and nearly harm both their lives.

Seeing this, the coldness in Mu Yunyao’s eyes lessened slightly. She said to Cai Qing, “Come with me. I will have Jin Lan look after these two children.”

“Yes, Miss.”

After a burst of busyness, noon was nearly upon them. Suddenly, a wave of commotion sounded from the entrance of Jinxiu Garden, drawing many commoners to gather and watch the excitement.

In front of the gate, a young servant with a severed finger was shouting continuously toward the garden.

“Mu Yunyao, come out! Hand over our young master’s concubine! Forcibly snatching away another person’s concubine is a serious crime. If you still refuse to hand her over, our young master will sue you in court and ask the County Magistrate to judge the matter fairly!”

Jin Lan reported the matter to Mu Yunyao. Su Qing, standing to the side, was filled with worry.

“Yao’er?”

“Mother, do not worry. I will go to the entrance and take a look. I will be back shortly.”

“You must be careful. Bring Si Qin and the others with you. You absolutely must not let yourself suffer a loss!”

Su Qing quickly called Si Qin and the others over.

“You must protect Miss well!”

Mu Yunyao did not know whether to laugh or cry.

“Mother, rest assured. They will not dare make a move.”

“Bring them anyway. The other side even kicked Nan’er hard enough to break his ribs. That shows how reckless and lawless they are. You must not be careless.”

“All right. I will listen to Mother.”

After leaving the room, Mu Yunyao’s eyes immediately turned cold.

Steward Qin had already brought people to wait at the entrance. Seeing Mu Yunyao come out, he quickly stepped forward and bowed. After bowing, he stood at her side, his gaze unfriendly as he stared at Tan Bawang and the people he had brought.

When Tan Bawang saw Mu Yunyao come out, his teeth clenched so hard they creaked. He narrowed his eyes and kept sizing her up, his heart full of resentment.

At last, he had caught this little slut!

Naturally, Mu Yunyao also saw Tan Bawang. But after seeing his appearance, a trace of surprise flashed through her eyes. Compared with the last time, his whole person had grown much thinner. The aura around him had also become much more feminine and sinister than before. Every movement revealed an indescribable sense of disharmony.

“Young Master Tan, it has been a long time. I did not expect you to have come to Jingling City.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 132

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 131

Chapter 131: Vicious Scheme

Mu Yunyao wiped her hands clean, then allowed Liu Liang to enter.

“You mean Tan Bawang, the young owner of Caiyue Pavilion whom I beat in Huai’an City?”

“Yes.”

Mu Yunyao could not help lowering her eyes slightly. Inwardly, she pondered the matter. This was rather coincidental. The person she had saved had actually been injured by Tan Bawang. Then was this truly a coincidence, or had someone arranged it deliberately?

“That follower of Tan Bawang once had his fingers cut off by you. I imagine he should recognize you.”

“Yes. Just now, seeing that Master was saving someone, I did not step forward to report. Please punish me, Master.”

Mu Yunyao glanced at him. Ever since that day when she had asked about Liu Liang’s identity, this man had become especially cautious around her. His expression and attitude were so respectful that she was not used to it.

“I know. Go investigate what he has done after coming to Jingling City.”

“Yes.”

After Liu Liang withdrew, Mu Yunyao thought for a moment, then went to the eastern side wing.

Ding Yuelan’s injuries had almost healed, but her temperament had become much quieter than before. From time to time, she would sit there in a daze. Su Qing had secretly tried to comfort her many times, but it had little effect. On the contrary, her embroidery skills had improved day by day. The patterns she embroidered now were already not inferior to Mu Yunyao’s.

“Miss Mu, why have you come?”

Mu Yunyao saw the peony she was embroidering. The petals were layered and lifelike.

“Madam does not need to hurry your work like this. If you embroider for too long, your eyes will not be able to endure it.”

Ding Yuelan revealed a faint, bitter smile.

“Only when I embroider can my heart become a little calmer. Did Miss come to find me for something?”

“There is something I wish to ask Madam. It is only that…”

Mu Yunyao was somewhat worried that she would touch Ding Yuelan’s painful memories. Yet if she did not ask, she would not feel at ease.

Ding Yuelan immediately understood her hesitation and led Mu Yunyao into the room to sit.

“Miss may ask whatever you wish.”

She had already given up completely on the Ding family. Although she still felt sorrow, she no longer had the heartbroken despair she had felt at first.

“I wanted to ask Madam whether, after the Ding family fell, they had contact with anyone?”

Ding Yuelan recalled carefully.

“When the tree falls, the monkeys scatter. After the Ding family declined, no one came to the door. Especially after my father… after Master Ding suffered a stroke and was paralyzed in bed, even relatives did not come to visit. I did not notice anyone contacting the Ding family again…”

Ding Yuelan thought carefully. After a slight pause, she suddenly added, “Only, two days before Old Madam Ding decided to sell me into Ruyi Pavilion, she changed from her usual worried and miserable appearance. She looked extremely happy. She even said that Heaven had eyes and allowed her to meet a noble person. Once she reached Huai’an City, there would still be a chance to rise again.”

“Thank you, Madam, for telling me the truth. In a few more days, Niyun Pavilion will reopen. If Madam is willing, I have always kept the position of shopkeeper for you.”

Seeing Ding Yuelan shake her head and refuse, Mu Yunyao continued, “Madam, people must always look forward. To waste the second half of your life for people who are not worth it would be truly unworthy. I hope Madam will think about it carefully again.”

“…Many thanks, Miss. I will think about it again.”

Mu Yunyao smiled and nodded.

“Then I will leave first.”

After leaving the eastern side wing, Mu Yunyao’s expression cooled.

A noble person from Huai’an City. It must be Tan Bawang without a doubt. Then the earlier trouble caused by Ruyi Pavilion was most likely also his attempt to test her from behind the scenes. As for Cai Qin,g before her eyes, what connection did she have with Tan Bawang?

Cai Qing was taking care of Nan’er and A'Mao. When she saw Mu Yunyao walk in, she quickly rose and bowed.

“Greetings, Miss Mu.”

Mu Yunyao sat down on a chair to one side. Her clear, cold gaze landed on Cai Qing, carrying a heavy sense of scrutiny.

“Cai Qing, I heard that Tan Bawang took a fancy to you and seemed to intend to take you as a concubine?”

Cai Qing abruptly lifted her head. After meeting Mu Yunyao’s eyes, she lowered her eyes again as if frightened. Her gaze trembled violently.

“It was Tan Bawang who deliberately found fault and beat A'Mao. I stepped forward to reason with him. Who knew he actually harbored improper intentions? That was why…”

“Nan’er told me. I know all of this. It is only that I feel there should be some things within this matter that I do not know. What do you think?”

Cai Qing stood there. Her hand, hanging at her side, tightened around her skirt. Beads of sweat fell from her forehead.

“I do not understand what Miss means…”

“I heard Nan’er say that you also take care of a child named Li’er. I wonder where she is now?”

Cai Qing gritted her teeth. Suddenly, she took two steps forward and knelt before Mu Yunyao. Her eyes could not hide her guilt.

“Begging Miss to save our lives!”

Coldness spread through Mu Yunyao’s eyes.

Back then, when Nan’er had suddenly come forward to speak to her, she had not thought too deeply about it. But now that matters were surfacing one after another, she could not help feeling that Nan’er’s approach had been deliberate.

That child Nan’er had a pure mind, but he was timid and cowardly. How could he have had the courage to come forward and remind her on his own? The only possibility was that someone had instructed him from behind.

“Why should I save a liar?”

She had long grown used to seeing the Su family’s extremely hypocritical eldest miss. Looking at Cai Qing now, she felt that her story was full of holes.

Cai Qing quickly shook her head.

“Miss Mu, I am not a liar. I never wanted to deceive you. If I had not been forced, how would I dare come and provoke you? It was Tan Bawang. Earlier, he falsely accused A'Mao of dirtying his clothes and insisted that we pay one hundred taels of silver. If we could not pay, he would beat A'Mao to death.

“For people of our status, even if we were beaten to death, the matter would end with a little silver compensation. Even the authorities would not care. So, to save A'Mao, I could only obey his orders and have Nan’er approach you.”

Mu Yunyao’s expression remained cold. Hearing this, she gave a cold laugh.

“Nan’er treats you as an elder sister. He would rather go hungry and eat nothing himself than bring the only two pieces of pastry back for you. How could you bear to use a child who trusts you so much?”

“I was also forced into helplessness. If I did not do this, they would not even be able to keep their lives…”

As Cai Qing spoke, tears streamed down her face.

“Although we are not related by blood, I watched over them as they grew up in the Ciyou Bureau. To protect their lives, I had no other choice.”

Mu Yunyao frowned and said nothing.

Cai Qing moved two steps forward on her knees and kowtowed to Mu Yunyao.

“This morning, Tan Bawang brought Matchmaker Liu here. He grabbed me and forced me to press down my handprint, making me admit of my own accord that I wanted to enter his residence as a concubine. After that, he secretly signaled Nan’er to come here and beg you for help.

“He was certain that Miss would soften your heart and rescue me. So he took Li’er away and gave me a packet of poison. When he comes to make trouble at your door, he wants me to take the poison and kill myself, then use this to frame Miss. If I follow his instructions, he will release Li’er. If I refuse, he will think of every way to beat all of us to death. I truly have no way out. Begging Miss to show mercy…”

After Cai Qing finished speaking, she took out a packet of medicinal powder from her robes, then respectfully prostrated herself on the floor. Her appearance was extremely humble.

Mu Yunyao looked at Cai Qing, who was lying prostrate on the ground, and coldly lifted the corners of her lips.

“How do I know what you say is true? Who knows whether you and Tan Bawang are secretly colluding and deliberately came to harm me?”

“I would not gamble with Nan’er and the others’ lives. Miss Mu, every word I said is true. There is not half a sentence of deception!”

“If I had not come to ask you, what were you planning to do?”

Cai Qing’s face turned pale. Under Mu Yunyao’s gaze, she felt as if the thoughts in her heart had nowhere to hide.

“I… I would have found an opportunity to tell Miss…”

“You would not!”

Mu Yunyao stood. If not for the flicker still showing in Cai Qing’s expression, she would almost have believed those words.

“Aside from using Li’er to threaten you, Tan Bawang likely promised you quite a few benefits as well, did he not?”

“No. He wants me to take poison and kill myself. How could he promise me benefits? Even if there were benefits, I would have no life left to enjoy them…”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 131

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 130

Chapter 130: Taking Action to Save Lives

Mu Yunyao quietly looked at him. Seeing tears in his eyes and how anxious he was, almost to the point of crying, she could not help speaking.

“Although you are small, how could two pastries possibly sustain you for an entire day? Starting tomorrow, come to the garden and help sweep the paths. I will have someone prepare clothes for you. Every day, you will be given two meals and five wen besides.”

Nan’er froze completely. Then he hurriedly stood up and knelt before Mu Yunyao with a thud.

“Thank you, Young Miss. Thank you for your great kindness and mercy.”

Clothes to wear, food to eat, and money to earn. Such a life was something he had never even dared to imagine.

Seeing that Jin Lan had already wrapped up the pastries and brought them over, Mu Yunyao nodded slightly.

“Go back for today. Tomorrow morning, when Jinxiu Garden opens its gates, come again.”

“Yes.”

Jin Lan stepped forward and placed the pastries in his arms, then led him outside.

“Come. I will send you out.”

“Thank you, Elder Sister.”

Nan’er obediently lifted his head and thanked her, making Jin Lan unable to resist rubbing his head. It embarrassed Nan’er until his face flushed bright red.

Mu Yunyao had Jin Qiao inform Steward Qin that she would be recruiting a few people to help tidy the garden. When Steward Qin heard about Nan’er, he repeatedly praised Mu Yunyao for her kind heart and immediately agreed to have someone secretly look after him.

Yet the next day, Nan’er did not come.

“Miss, this servant went to the gate twice to wait, but I did not see him.”

Jin Lan reported this while secretly guessing in her heart. Could it be that Cai Qing was too guarded and had deliberately stopped Nan’er from coming to work in the garden?

Mu Yunyao’s hand paused over the account books she was organizing.

“Have Liu Liang go take a look. See whether something delayed him, or whether he is unwilling to come.”

Seeing that Mu Yunyao had not become angry because of this, Jin Lan could not help feeling relieved. She quickly went to find Liu Liang.

“Yes, Miss.”

Nan’er was truly a lovable child. She had feared Miss might be annoyed and directly refuse to let him come to the garden again.

Before Jin Lan had even walked out of the room, she saw Jin Qiao hurrying over.

“What happened?”

Mu Yunyao also lifted her head.

Jin Qiao reported breathlessly, “Reporting to Miss, that Nan’er has come. He is kneeling at the gate and crying!”

Mu Yunyao frowned.

“Let us go see.”

Su Qing had already led Nan’er inside and was personally wiping away his tears.

“Yao’er, you are here. This child was kneeling at the gate just now, crying without stop. He looked truly pitiful, so I had Si Qin bring him in. No matter what I asked, he would not say anything. He only said he wanted to find you.”

Seeing Mu Yunyao, Nan’er quickly crawled forward and knelt at her feet.

“Young Miss, I beg you, save Little Brother A'Mao. Save Sister Cai Qing!”

“What happened?”

Mu Yunyao saw the slap mark on his face at a glance, and her brows moved slightly.

“A few days ago, when A'Mao was begging on the street, he accidentally blocked a young master’s path. That man ordered his attendants to beat A'Mao. Sister Cai Qing stepped forward to argue, but that young master harassed her. He even said he wanted to take her as a concubine. Sister Cai Qing refused, so every day, that man sent people to the Ciyou Bureau to make things difficult for us.

“Today, that young master came in person and said Sister Cai Qing had stolen his silver. He said he would drag her to the officials, but in truth, he only wanted to use this method to force Sister Cai Qing to agree to become his concubine.”

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao fell silent, not daring to speak as they stood behind.

Su Qing’s expression also became troubled. She hesitated and looked toward Mu Yunyao.

Someone who dared use such methods to force others must have some status and backing. Although Niyun Pavilion and Buxian Tower now had firm foundations, making a great disturbance for a girl they had only met once still required careful weighing.

Seeing that Mu Yunyao did not speak, Nan’er trembled even more fiercely as he knelt on the ground.

“Young Miss, I beg you. I will kowtow to you. As long as you can save Sister Cai Qing, I will repay Young Miss as an ox or a horse for the rest of my life. I beg you. I beg you!”

He used all his strength. After only two kowtows, his forehead had already turned bruised and blue.

Su Qing could not bear it. She bent down and held him back.

“Child, do not be anxious first. Let us think carefully…”

“Madam, I am afraid that if we delay any longer, Sister will be taken away by that man. I… I…”

As Nan’er spoke, his face grew paler and paler. Then he fainted outright.

Mu Yunyao quickly stepped forward. The moment she checked his pulse, her expression sank. She directly opened the clothes at his chest and saw a dark blue-black footprint stamped there. His chest bones were also somewhat deformed.

“Liu Liang, go take a look. Bring them to Jinxiu Garden.”

Liu Liang nodded, turned, and walked out.

Su Qing was both troubled and worried.

“Yao’er, is it somewhat improper to do this?”

Jin Lan had already stepped forward and carried Nan’er to the soft couch nearby.

Mu Yunyao wrote a prescription and handed it to Jin Qiao. Seeing Su Qing’s brows knit tightly, she stepped forward, held her hand, and comforted her.

“Mother, do not worry. Nothing will happen.”

She needed to be cautious, but that did not mean she was timid and afraid of trouble. Moreover, now that her foundations were firm, within Jingling City, she truly was not afraid of causing trouble.

“What if we provoke someone we cannot afford to offend? Mother was muddleheaded too. Just now, I saw the child was pitiful, but I forgot our own situation.”

“Mother truly need not worry. We stand on the side of reason, so we will not suffer a loss.”

She could not explain more to Su Qing. She could only let her slowly come to understand it herself.

When Jin Qiao brought over the brewed medicine, Liu Liang also returned with the people.

The young girl named Cai Qing was covered in injuries. In her arms, she held a child even smaller than Nan’er. The child’s face was flushed red, his lips were bluish, and the rise and fall of his chest was almost imperceptible.

Seeing Mu Yunyao, Cai Qing knelt on the ground with a thud.

“Thank you, Young Miss, for saving our lives. I beg Young Miss to show great mercy and save Little Brother A'Mao.”

Mu Yunyao did not say much. She directly stepped forward and felt the child’s pulse. The moment she touched his pulse, her brows furrowed even more tightly.

“Jin Lan, go to my room and bring over the medicine chest under the bed. Jin Qiao, slice some ginseng and boil ginseng soup to keep this child alive.”

Cai Qing bit her lips tightly. Holding back her tears, she kowtowed heavily to Mu Yunyao and knelt to the side, not daring to make a sound and disturb her.

Seeing her like this, Su Qing’s heart softened.

“Miss, get up. Yao’er will certainly do her best to save your younger brother.”

“Many thanks, Madam.”

Jin Lan brought over the medicine chest. Mu Yunyao took out a set of silver needles, loosened the child’s clothes, and stabbed the needles toward his chest.

After inserting sixteen needles in succession and pouring down two bowls of ginseng soup, the dark bluish color on the child’s face slowly faded.

Mu Yunyao withdrew the silver needles, carefully checked his pulse again, then looked toward Cai Qing.

“These two days, you must look after him with great care. I will have someone brew medicine and send it over. He must drink it once every two hours. If he develops a fever, you must also use a cloth towel to wipe his whole body.”

“Many thanks, Young Miss. Your great kindness and mercy cannot be repaid. Cai Qing kowtows to you here.”

“First take good care of him. Nan’er was kicked in the chest, and two of his ribs are broken. If not for his pleading, I would not have taken action to save you.”

Seeing Nan’er had made her think of herself in her previous life, so a few traces of compassion had inevitably arisen in her heart. Added to that, when she had first met Cai Qing, her impression of the girl had been fairly good. That was why she was willing to take action.

But that was all.

The people had already been saved, but whether she would continue to interfere in the future still required further consideration.

Some blood had stained Mu Yunyao’s hands, making her feel especially uncomfortable. After giving instructions to Cai Qing, she returned to her own room and carefully washed her hands.

Liu Liang walked over and spoke from the doorway.

“Master, I saw the person you previously beat with an oil-paper umbrella in Huai’an City.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 130

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 129

Chapter 129: Good Deeds Bring Good Returns

“Speaking of it, there truly is one matter I would like to trouble you with. I simply do not know whether you can persevere.”

Nan’er’s eyes lit up at once, and his face immediately filled with excitement.

“Please give your orders, Young Miss. Do not look at how small I am. I am very strong!”

As he spoke, he deliberately pulled up his sleeve, revealing one thin, frail little arm. Perhaps feeling that this was not very convincing at all, he quickly pulled the sleeve back down again and revealed a shy smile. The small dimple by his cheek appeared faintly.

Mu Yunyao could not help smiling.

“All right. Come with me.”

Nan’er quickly nodded and followed Mu Yunyao’s steps into Jinxiu Garden.

As soon as they entered the garden and walked around the Xiangfei bamboo grove blocking the main gate, he could not help but let out a cry of amazement. Seeing Mu Yunyao look over, he quickly pinched the corner of his clothes.

“I was rude. Young Miss, please forgive me. This place is truly too beautiful. It is just like the immortal realm Sister Cai Qing spoke of. Those elder brothers and sisters are like immortals.”

As he spoke, he could not stop himself from sneaking a glance at the tea attendants brewing tea.

He was only a small orphan, yet his movements and speech were rather polite. Mu Yunyao grew even more curious about that Cai Qing.

“It is all right. Did Cai Qing teach you all your manners?”

“Yes. Sister Cai Qing said one must understand propriety and observe propriety. Only then does living have meaning. If one lives only to fill the belly, then one is no different from cats and dogs.”

“Your sister is quite an interesting person.”

Nan’er was small, and his body was thin and weak. Gradually, he began to fall behind Mu Yunyao’s pace. Yet he did not make a sound. Even when his face had gone pale, he still worked hard to keep up.

When they passed the winding nine-turn corridor bridge, Mu Yunyao stopped.

“There are many water birds by the lake, so in order not to disturb the guests, it must be cleaned regularly. If children like you were to do it, at least three or four people would be needed. Also, the tea sets used for brewing tea need someone specially assigned to clean and wipe them. That would require at least five or six people. In addition, the flowers, plants, and pathways all need people to tidy them. Take a look and tell me what you can do.”

Nan’er could not help widening his eyes.

“Young Miss, I can prune flowers and plants and sweep the paths. Could you let Sister Cai Qing help wash the tea sets?”

“You should know that washing tea sets is comparatively simple. Why do you not do it yourself and instead give it to Cai Qing? Clearly, she is older than you and has more strength than you.”

“Little Brother A'Mao was beaten and injured. Every day, Sister has to go help people wash clothes, and she is often bullied. She also has to take care of Granny and Li’er. It is truly hard on her. I want her to be able to have it a little easier.”

Hearing this, Jin Lan could not help feeling her heart ache. This child was far too sensible.

Mu Yunyao, however, did not immediately agree. Instead, she brought him to a garden that had not yet been opened to guests, pointed to a path, and said, “First go clean this path. I will see how well you do the work before deciding.”

“All right. I will go right now.”

Jin Lan helped bring over a broom, then followed Mu Yunyao to sit in a nearby pavilion.

“Miss, you seem to especially like this Nan’er.”

“His heart is pure. Being around someone like that always feels a little easier.”

Nan’er cleaned with exceptional seriousness. He carefully pulled out even the small grasses growing between the bricks, then swept the path clean. He even tidied the flower beds on both sides.

There were many flowers and plants in the flower beds that he did not recognize, so he did not dare touch them carelessly. He only carefully plucked away leaves that had yellowed or become damaged.

Seeing him work so earnestly, Mu Yunyao simply had Jin Lan bring over embroidery cloth and thread, then sat in the pavilion to embroider a beauty portrait.

Nearly an hour later, Nan’er finally walked over. Seeing that Mu Yunyao was busy, he did not dare speak or disturb her. He only stood carefully to the side, even making his breathing much lighter.

Seeing him like this, Mu Yunyao suddenly thought of the time when she had first entered the Su family’s Residence. She, too, had been this cautious, not even daring to breathe too loudly. Her heart stirred, and her expression became much gentler.

“Have you finished cleaning?”

“Yes, Young Miss. I cleaned it very carefully.”

Looking over from afar, Mu Yunyao could see that the little path was extraordinarily clean. Even the flower beds on both sides looked much tidier.

“Jin Lan, take him down to wash his hands, then bring him back to eat something.”

Although Nan’er was anxious to know whether his cleaning was acceptable, the moment he heard Mu Yunyao mention food, his stomach betrayed him and gave two loud growls.

In an instant, his face turned bright red. At a loss, he was led away by Jin Lan.

When Nan’er returned after washing his hands, the table was already set with many delicate pastries. Every single one was in a shape he had never seen before. Their fragrance filled the air and made one’s mouth water.

Mu Yunyao pushed the plates toward him.

“Sit down and eat. You helped me clean a path just now, so I am treating you to pastries. This is reasonable and proper. You do not need to worry about accepting rewards without merit.”

Nan’er could not help swallowing. His fingers rubbed helplessly against his clothes.

The pastries before him smelled so fragrant, and even the plates holding them were bright and gleaming. He was afraid that if he touched them, he would break them. Such exquisite plates. Even if he sold himself, he still would not be able to compensate for one.

Seeing that he did not move, Mu Yunyao picked up two pastries and handed them to him.

“Eat.”

Nan’er swallowed even faster, but he lifted his head and asked tentatively, “Young Miss, may I bring these two pastries back for A'Mao and Sister Cai Qing? A'Mao is covered in injuries. His whole body is burning hot, and he has not been able to eat for several days. Sister is unhappy every day too. Perhaps if they eat such delicious pastries, they will get better.”

“You eat yours. When you leave, I will have Jin Lan pack some for you to bring back.”

“Truly? Thank you, Young Miss!”

Nan’er could no longer hold back. Holding the pastries, he stuffed them into his mouth. Although he tried his utmost to restrain himself, he was still only a child. Having been hungry to the extreme, he could no longer care about manners and began wolfing them down.

Watching from the side, Jin Lan felt her heart tighten. She poured a cup of warm water and placed it by his hand.

“Eat more slowly. No one is fighting you for them.”

Nan’er’s mouth was stuffed full of pastries, yet his eyes reddened. He raised his hand and rubbed at his eyes, then worked hard to swallow the pastries.

“Thank you, Young Miss. I know you saw that I was pitiful, so you found an excuse to give me pastries. I only cleaned one path, and it took me a very long time. It is not worth the money for such delicious pastries.

“Young Miss, you are a good person. Good people will surely receive good returns.”

Seeing him like this, even Jin Lan could not stop her heart from aching.

Mu Yunyao smiled slightly and raised her hand to push another plate of pastries toward him.

“Eat until you are full before speaking.”

People always said that children from poor families matured early, but it was only because life forced them to. They experienced hunger and struggle too soon. Every step was filled with bitterness and hardship. How could they not mature early?

After eating two plates of pastries, Nan’er finally stopped, still reluctant. It was not that he did not want to eat more, but his stomach truly could not hold anything else.

“Thank you, Young Miss.”

Looking at the empty plates, Nan’er became uneasy again.

Would the young miss before him blame him for eating too much? Would she become angry and no longer be willing to let him come work in the garden?

“Young Miss, I usually do not eat much. Just two pastries are enough. If I eat two pastries, I can go a whole day without being hungry.”

It was all his fault for being greedy. Why had he not listened to Sister Cai Qing’s words and kept himself from being so greedy?

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 129

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 128

Chapter 128: Liu Liang’s Identity

When Steward Qin heard that she had arrived, he quickly came forward to welcome her.

“Miss, you have come. About the signboard…”

“I know. In a while, I will have Liu Liang bring the calligraphy over. You may have someone copy it and mount it into a signboard.”

“Good, good. I have already found the right person. He is the most famous mounting master in Jingling City. He will certainly make the signboard flawless.”

Mu Yunyao could not help smiling.

“Naturally, I trust your eye.”

Only then did Steward Qin realize that he had been far too anxious. He could not help chuckling.

“Miss, now that we have His Majesty’s signboard, the number of people coming to reserve seats today has suddenly more than doubled. Reservations are already lined up until a month from now. Also, early this morning, several traveling merchants came to order tea leaves. It is only that our tea garden is too small and cannot keep up with the supply.”

His tone was full of regret. Seeing people come to their door holding silver, yet being unable to take that silver into their hands, truly made one’s heart ache.

“Our tea garden is small, but the whole of Jiangnan is vast. We can purchase fresh tea leaves and roast them ourselves. For places where transportation is inconvenient, we can directly send over masters who have learned how to roast tea. Find a courtyard there, hang up a Buxian Tower sign, and both buying and selling will become convenient.

“In the future, when Buxian Tower grows larger and we wish to open tea houses elsewhere, we will already have a foundation there. Why not do it?”

Steward Qin froze for a moment, then slapped his forehead.

“Is my brain made of wood? Such a simple principle, yet I did not even think it through. I have made Miss laugh.”

“You simply did not think of it for a moment. However, if we go elsewhere, everything must be considered clearly in advance. The people sent out must also be reliable. After all, once the place is far away, trouble can easily breed.

“Our Buxian Tower hangs a signboard bestowed by His Majesty. The quality of the tea leaves must remain consistent from beginning to end. Even if we go elsewhere, we must strictly control it. We must never smash our own signboard.”

“Yes. I will certainly choose carefully. Miss, please rest assured. The account books will also be delivered on time. When the time comes, we will settle Miss’s share punctually.”

Mu Yunyao smiled.

“That is naturally good. In the future, I will be sitting at home while money falls from the sky.”

Steward Qin quickly went down to make arrangements. Mu Yunyao called Liu Liang over and asked him to investigate the beggars at the garden gate.

Jin Lan could not help asking, “Miss, why are you interested in those people?”

No matter the place, beggars were never few. Xiling in the Capital was the same, let alone Jingling City.

“I simply feel that they are somewhat interesting. If they can be used, then not only will we open a path of survival for them, but we will also effortlessly find people we can make use of. It would be killing two birds with one stone.”

“Miss wishes to use those beggars?”

Jin Lan could not help worrying.

“Although there are good people among beggars as well, many of them have already formed their temperaments. They only think of accepting others’ charity. Even if there is work for them to do, they may be lazy and slippery. I fear they may not be fit for great use.”

“For now, I am only taking a look. If they truly can be used, they will still have to be carefully selected.”

Now that Buxian Tower had gradually stabilized, and once Niyun Pavilion reopened, it would also bring in gold by the measure each day. It was time to think of a way to cultivate some people of her own. Later, when she opened embroidery pavilions and tea houses in other places, they would be useful.

Mu Yunyao handed the matter to Liu Liang, then felt at ease and went to busy herself with other things.

By evening, Liu Liang came back to report.

“Master, I have already found the place where the beggar you mentioned stays. Along with the young girl who spoke to you today, they both come from the Ciyou Bureau.”

Mu Yunyao was somewhat surprised.

“The Ciyou Bureau?”

“Yes. It is a place specifically used to take in the elderly without support and young children of Jingling City. The young girl is named Cai Qing. The child who spoke with you is called Nan’er. They only came outside the garden in the past few days.

“That Cai Qing also specifically learned embroidery before, but halfway through, something happened to a child at the Ciyou Bureau. She returned to take care of that child, and so she was delayed.”

“That is rather interesting. Let us watch for now.”

“Master, do you need people? I have already recruited some men under me. If you have use for them, simply give your orders.”

Mu Yunyao was somewhat astonished. After she had given Liu Liang silver before, she had let go and no longer asked about it. She had not expected that in such a short time, Liu Liang had actually found people he could use.

“Can they be trusted?”

“They can.”

Liu Liang nodded.

Looking at his certain expression, Mu Yunyao suddenly asked, “Liu Liang, speaking of it, I still do not know your real name. What did you do before?”

She could trust Liu Liang’s character because, in her previous life, she had seen him remain by Jin Wang’s side, loyal to him from beginning to end. But when it came down to it, whether in the past or now, she knew absolutely nothing about Liu Liang’s history.

Liu Liang’s entire body stiffened. Then, abruptly, he dropped to one knee before Mu Yunyao.

“I do not remember. But Master, please rest assured. Liu Liang will never betray you.”

Seeing such a strong reaction from him, Mu Yunyao, who had originally only asked casually, could not help developing a few more thoughts. Her gaze as she examined Liu Liang became unusually cool.

“If I did not believe you, I would not have entrusted my life and everything I own into your hands. Get up. If you do not wish to speak, then let it be. Why make up some story about not remembering?”

Liu Liang remained kneeling on the ground, his posture firm and stubborn.

Mu Yunyao frowned. Anger immediately rose in her heart.

“What? Are you no longer willing to listen even to my orders?”

Liu Liang quickly lifted his head, a hint of panic appearing in his eyes.

“Master, that is not what I mean. It is only…”

“Enough. When employing someone, do not doubt them. If you doubt them, do not employ them. You have followed me for no short amount of time. If I did not trust you, I would have driven you away long ago. I only asked casually, yet with you acting like this, it makes it seem as though you are hiding something.”

Liu Liang had never been good with words to begin with. Hearing Mu Yunyao speak like this, he became even less certain how to answer.

Looking at his wooden appearance, Mu Yunyao laughed helplessly in her heart. She had long known what sort of person he was. Why bother being angry with him?

“Get up. If you are unwilling to speak, then I will not ask. Since you have usable people under you, then help me watch Steward Qin’s movements. I imagine that in a few days, he will send people to other places to purchase fresh leaves and make tea. I need to understand some of the situation at least. I cannot completely let things go and allow them to proceed unchecked.”

Although she and Yue Wang were cooperating now, who could say whether one day in the future they might turn against each other? It was never wrong to take more precautions.

“Yes, Master.”

“Have your people be especially careful. I would rather they watch loosely than be discovered.”

“Master, please rest assured. I will certainly instruct them well.”

“Mm. You may go.”

After Liu Liang left, Mu Yunyao lifted her head. After thinking for a moment, the crease between her brows eased slightly.

For now, Liu Liang could still be considered trustworthy. She only hoped he would remain so.

Early the next morning, when Mu Yunyao went to Jinxiu Garden again, she thought of the child at the gate and specially took a detour to the main entrance.

At the gate, the child named Nan’er was indeed there. Seeing her, his face immediately showed restraint.

“Greetings, Young Miss.”

“Your elder sister is not here today. Would you like to come into the garden with me and eat some pastries?”

Seeing how thin and small he was, yet how especially clear his eyes were, Mu Yunyao felt a few traces of fondness arise.

When Nan’er heard this, his eyes lit up. After hesitating for a moment, however, he shook his head.

“Many thanks, Young Miss. But Elder Sister said that one must not accept rewards without merit. I have not helped Young Miss do anything, so I cannot eat your food.”

One must not accept rewards without merit?

This child was rather interesting.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 128

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 127

Chapter 127: The Little Beggar at the Garden Gate

Liu Liang wrapped an arm around Mu Yunyao and carried her directly up onto the branches.

She landed lightly among the osmanthus branches, and Mu Yunyao could not help laughing aloud. After finding a branch and sitting down properly, she directly broke off a spray of osmanthus and held it in her palm. Then she turned to ask Liu Liang, who was guarding her at the side.

“Is this one prettier than the branch I picked before?”

Beneath the moonlight, her ten slender fingers were luminous and white as jade, more beautiful than that cluster of osmanthus blossoms.

Liu Liang nodded. His mind had been dazzled by the beautiful sight before him, and he became even less certain how he should answer.

Only then did Mu Yunyao feel satisfied.

“Then I will take this branch of osmanthus back and give it to Mother now. As for the one I picked before, I will simply treat it as having been thrown away to hit a dog.”

As she spoke, she was about to jump down, startling Liu Liang so badly that he hurriedly stopped her.

“Master, be careful!”

Mu Yunyao burst into laughter.

“You used to have the temperament of a block of wood. Who knows how many times people scolded you for it? I did not expect that after following me, you would actually start speaking more. I truly wonder how angry that black-hearted devil would be if he saw it.”

Liu Liang did not understand.

“Master, you are drunk.”

“I am not drunk. I am perfectly clear-headed right now…”

Mu Yunyao lifted her head and looked through the osmanthus branches toward the night sky. Beneath the moonlight, everything before her eyes was bright and clear, as though the whole world had become much cleaner.

“Evening clouds have scattered, leaving clear cold overflowing;
The Silver River turns its jade plate in silence.
This life, this night, cannot long remain so fine.
Next year, where shall we gaze upon this moon?”

By next year’s Mid-Autumn, she should already have returned to the Su family. Even if she encountered such a beautiful moonlit night and such scenery again, she was afraid she would no longer have the mood to appreciate it.

Liu Liang looked at Mu Yunyao. He only felt that there was an intense emotion about her at this moment. He could see it, yet he could not understand it.

“Master, if you like the scenery here, you may still come admire it next year.”

Mu Yunyao gave a soft laugh. The emotions around her withdrew completely.

“I heard there is a kind of cinnabar osmanthus. When it blooms, the flowers are red, charming as blood, terribly beautiful. Tomorrow, have this golden osmanthus tree cut down and replace it with cinnabar osmanthus. If there is a chance next year, I want to see red osmanthus flowers…”

Next year, when she returned to the Su family, it would be the beginning of her revenge. On a Mid-Autumn reunion night, admiring blood-colored osmanthus flowers would suit the occasion perfectly.

“Yes, Master.”

When the night wind blew, the effects of the wine grew even stronger. Mu Yunyao only felt increasingly dazed. In her hazy memory, Liu Liang helped her down from the tree and sent her back to her own room.

When she woke again, the sky was already bright. She had only just sat up when Jin Lan, hearing movement, knocked on the door and asked, “Miss, are you awake? This servant will come in?”

“Come in.”

Osmanthus wine was light, but this body had never drunk wine before, so after only a few cups, she had become thoroughly drunk. Now that she had slept through the night, the smell of wine had completely faded, and she did not feel uncomfortable.

“Miss, you are finally awake. Shopkeeper Qin has already come to ask for you twice. He said he wishes to invite over the piece of calligraphy His Majesty bestowed, have someone copy it, and make it into a signboard to hang up. This servant replied that you were still asleep, so he did not let anyone disturb you.”

“Mm. After I finish washing and dressing, I will go take a look.”

After Mu Yunyao dressed, she walked around the screen and came out. She immediately saw the vase placed on the table.

Inside a jade hu spring vase was a branch of osmanthus. Its leaves were emerald green, and its blossoms were bright and flourishing. It suited the vase extremely well.

Jin Lan noticed her gaze and quickly said, “It was Liu Liang who asked me to find a vase. He said Miss liked osmanthus flowers, so this servant took the liberty of placing it here.”

Mu Yunyao stepped forward and examined it carefully for a long while. Then she smiled slightly.

“I do indeed like it very much. Later, carry it to Mother’s room.”

“Yes, Miss.”

After washing up and eating a little, Mu Yunyao finally went to Jinxiu Garden.

With the calligraphy bestowed by His Majesty, Buxian Tower’s business had become even more explosive. As soon as it opened today, the garden was already filled with guests.

Now that things had stabilized during this period, they no longer sent invitation cards outward. Anyone who wished to come to the garden for tea needed to reserve a place in advance. Moreover, after the time was reserved, if the guest did not arrive within half an hour, the seat would be given to someone else.

These days, outside Jinxiu Garden, there were always a few children of eight or nine waiting. Once they discovered that someone had not arrived, they would run nearby to find people dressed in fine clothes and ask whether they wished to come to Jinxiu Garden. If someone gained the seat through them, they would more or less give the children a few wen as a reward. If the children encountered someone generous, they would have enough food money for an entire month.

When Mu Yunyao arrived, a child happened to walk in front of her. Seeing her heading into Jinxiu Garden, he could not help running up and remind her in a small voice.

“This young miss, no one is late today. The guests in the garden are all seated for now. Even if you go inside, there will be no place.”

Mu Yunyao could not help but stop to examine the child before her.

He looked only seven or eight years old. The clothes he wore were patched, but they had been washed especially clean. Now, seeing her stop, he involuntarily retreated two steps, timidity showing on his face.

“Thank you. I am going inside to look for someone, so it should not be a problem.”

“So you are looking for someone. Then I have delayed Young Miss’s time…”

As the child spoke, his face suddenly reddened. He pursed his lips slightly, and a tiny dimple appeared on one cheek, looking especially adorable.

Mu Yunyao found herself somewhat interested.

“Do you wait at the garden gate every day?”

The child had not expected Mu Yunyao to ask him a question. A little unease appeared on his face.

“I… I only wait at the gate. I do not beg from the guests inside the garden. I would not dare disturb them…”

“Beg?”

Jin Lan stepped forward and explained to Mu Yunyao, “Miss, these days, some little beggars have gathered at the garden gate. They help run errands, watching to see whether any guests who reserved seats fail to arrive. If there are any, they send the news out. Whoever obtains the seat will give them some reward money.”

The child nodded and looked at Mu Yunyao somewhat nervously.

The young miss before him did not look very old, but she was the most beautiful person he had ever seen. Standing before her and speaking somehow made him feel ashamed of his own inferiority.

“That is indeed a good little business. I wonder who told you to come here?”

“It was our elder sister.”

The child did not dare hide anything and answered Mu Yunyao truthfully.

As they were speaking, a young girl ran over. In a fluster, she hurriedly bowed to Mu Yunyao.

“Greetings, Young Miss. My younger brother is still young and ignorant. If he has offended you in any way, please forgive him. Nan’er, quickly apologize to this young miss.”

“Sister, I…”

The child called Nan’er quickly lowered his head and twisted the front of his clothes.

“I… I am sorry…”

Mu Yunyao smiled and shook her head.

“Young lady, you have misunderstood. Your younger brother is very well-behaved. He only reminded me of something and did not offend me at all. May I ask if you have time? I reserved a seat in the garden. I can invite you and your younger brother to eat something and drink a cup of tea.”

A few traces of guardedness immediately appeared on the young girl’s face.

“There is no need. As long as we did not offend Young Miss, then we…”

“Sister… I am hungry…”

Hearing the mention of food, the child beside her filled his eyes with longing and tugged softly at the young girl’s clothes.

“Be quiet. We are leaving…”

After saying this, the young girl bowed to Mu Yunyao, pulled the little boy, and turned to leave.

Mu Yunyao smiled and did not mind. She brought Jin Lan with her and walked into the garden.

* The Mid-Autumn Festival Tune by Su Shi. The poem echoes the night’s fleeting beauty and Mu Yunyao’s awareness that next year will be very different.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 127

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 126

Chapter 126: Drunk on Osmanthus Wine

After Mu Yunyao changed her clothes, she had only just walked into the front courtyard when Jin Lan and Jin Qiao pulled her over to Su Qing’s side.

“Miss, everything is ready. We were only waiting for you to take your seat.”

Su Qing had been arranged in the seat of honor. Although her expression showed a little restraint, she was still able to steady herself. During this period, under the influence of Madam Ding and Madam Jin, her temperament had changed a great deal. At the very least, she could now handle a scene like this.

“Yao’er, come sit where Mother is.”

Mu Yunyao stepped forward, held Su Qing by the shoulders, and gently pressed her back down.

“Only Mother may sit in this seat. Just sit at ease. We still need to toast you.”

Steward Qin quickly echoed her.

“Indeed. Madam has worked extremely hard during this period. This first cup of wine should properly be offered to Madam by all of us.”

“What hard work is there to speak of? I have not helped much at all.”

Su Qing’s face flushed slightly, and she was extremely embarrassed as she tried to refuse.

After half a year of careful nourishment, Su Qing had changed greatly. Now, her face was fair, and her eyes were bright with spirit. Paired with the clothes and jewelry Mu Yunyao had personally made for her, her whole bearing was dignified and refined, carrying an indescribably gentle grace.

Steward Qin looked at Su Qing and kept feeling that there was something familiar about her features, as though he had seen them on someone before. But when he tried to look more carefully, he could not recall who it was.

Mu Yunyao lifted her wine cup.

“Who says Mother has not helped? If not for your support, Niyun Pavilion could never have opened. Your contribution is great indeed.”

Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others all echoed her one after another.

“Miss is right. Back when I was learning the pressing stitch and could never master it, Madam taught me again and again without the slightest impatience.”

“Yes. At that time, I kept pricking my fingers, and it was Madam who helped apply medicine for me.”

“And me…”

After spending so much time together, everyone had developed an affection for Su Qing. The words they spoke were all sincere, and for a moment, Su Qing was deeply moved.

In Su Qing’s eyes, she had only helped deal with a few trivial matters. Some of them were things even she had already forgotten, yet Jin Lan and the others remembered them clearly.

“The first cup is to Madam. May Madam be whole and fulfilled, and may all her wishes come true.”

“Wishing Madam good health and all things according to your heart.”

“Wishing Madam eternal youth and blessings as enduring as life itself.”

One blessing after another, each filled with joy, deeply touched Su Qing.

“Then let us drink this cup together. I hope that in the days to come, all of us may be whole and fulfilled, and may all our wishes come true.”

“Yes. Many thanks, Madam.”

Mu Yunyao watched from the side, her heart filled with joy.

To suit the occasion, they were drinking osmanthus wine. It was not very strong, but once it entered the stomach, it spread a warm, mellow feeling through the body.

Steward Qin rose.

“This second cup should be offered to Miss Mu. If not for Miss, none of us would have the life we have today.”

The moment these words left his mouth, they immediately drew agreement from everyone.

Mu Yunyao did not stand on ceremony either. With a smiling expression, she drank the wine down.

After a round of toasts, the courtyard was filled with endless laughter and cheerful voices.

Mu Yunyao was happy and could not help drinking two more cups. The light in her eyes immediately grew somewhat misty.

For some reason, she suddenly thought of the branch of osmanthus she had broken off and tossed into Su Qingwu’s arms. At once, she felt uncomfortable. Picking up a pot of wine, she headed toward Jinxiu Garden.

Su Qing noticed her and quickly reached out to stop her.

“Yao’er, where are you going?”

“Mother, I am going to pick osmanthus flowers for you.”

“What osmanthus flowers? Mother already had people buy them. Have you forgotten?”

As Su Qing spoke, she pulled Mu Yunyao back down to sit.

“Mother sees that your cheeks are red. Could it be that you have drunk too much?”

Mu Yunyao felt an inexplicable grievance rise in her heart.

“The osmanthus flowers I picked for Mother were taken away by someone hateful. I want to go pick another branch for you.”

“There is no need.”

Su Qing looked at Mu Yunyao, her eyes full of affection.

In another two months, Yao’er would turn fourteen. During this period, her figure had gradually begun to grow, and more than half the childishness in her appearance had faded. Her whole person was like a flower bud about to bloom, revealing a delicate beauty. Especially that face, fairer and softer than ever. Now, because of the wine, a thin layer of red had spread over it, giving the illusion that her skin might break with the slightest touch.

“Mother does not love me anymore.”

Seeing Mu Yunyao’s expression grow more and more dazed, Su Qing quickly called Jin Lan over.

“Yao’er has drunk too much. Help her back to her room to rest.”

“Yes, Madam.”

Mu Yunyao was supported back to her room, but in her heart, she was still thinking about that branch of osmanthus she had failed to pick. Her eyes moved slightly, and she said to Jin Lan, “I am going to rest. You may continue eating in the front courtyard. It is rare to have a little free time these two days, so you should also gather properly with your two younger sisters.”

“Miss, will you be all right alone?”

“Be at ease. I am only sleeping. What could happen?”

“All right. Then this servant will go to the front courtyard.”

Jin Lan poured water for her, then saw Mu Yunyao lying on the bed with her eyes closed. Only then did she slowly withdraw.

Once there was no sound left in the room, Mu Yunyao opened her eyes and sat up.

The wine had surged upward, making her thoughts slow. She thought for a while about the osmanthus flowers in Jinxiu Garden, then opened the window, stepped onto a stool, climbed up, and prepared to jump down.

“Master!”

Liu Liang’s heart jolted. He hurried forward and supported Mu Yunyao.

The window was not especially high from the ground, but Mu Yunyao was already tipsy. When she jumped down, the impact jarred her heels painfully, causing her to draw in a breath.

“Master, how are you?”

Liu Liang hated himself for following too slowly. If he had arrived even a moment earlier, he certainly would have stopped her from jumping out the window.

Mu Yunyao shook her head. She lifted a finger and softly shushed him.

“You must not let Mother find out.”

Liu Liang lowered his head and looked at the smile at the corners of Mu Yunyao’s lips. After a moment of hesitation, he carefully tested, “Master, are you drunk?”

“How could I be? I still need to go to Jinxiu Garden and pick osmanthus flowers for Mother.”

“It is late. Going over there now is too dangerous.”

Mu Yunyao would not listen. Her whole mind was fixed on the osmanthus flowers. The more he refused to let her do it, the more stubborn she became.

“If you are afraid, then wait here by yourself. I will pick the osmanthus flowers and come back.”

She pressed her lips together slightly. Because she had drunk wine, a trace of rosy color lingered on her lips, making them even more delicate and vivid than roses beneath the moon.

Liu Liang was now certain that Mu Yunyao was drunk, but he did not wish to go against her will. Seeing that everyone was in the front courtyard, he accompanied her through the wall entrance and into Jinxiu Garden.

The bright moon was like a silver plate, pouring clear radiance down upon the earth. It illuminated the scenery in the garden with perfect clarity, yet compared with the daytime, it added a few more shades of hazy beauty.

Mu Yunyao’s steps were somewhat unsteady. Afraid she might fall, Liu Liang carefully supported her arm all the way. By the time they reached the osmanthus grove, his palm was already damp with sweat.

Finally seeing the osmanthus flowers, Mu Yunyao became happy. She grabbed a branch and was about to climb up, just as she had during the day.

Liu Liang was startled and quickly stepped forward to support her.

“Master, which branch of osmanthus flowers do you want? I will pick it for you.”

Mu Yunyao tried for quite a while, but felt her arms soft and weak. She could not help furrowing her brows.

“Liu Liang, I want to go up. Can you not fly? How about you carry me up?”

Mu Yunyao lifted her head slightly. Her white-jade-like face seemed to glow faintly beneath the moonlight.

Liu Liang’s heart suddenly leapt. At that moment, he felt that no matter what order she gave, he would be willing to obey it without condition.

“…All right.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 126