Chapter 37 Chapter 37 See the Truth
Princess Baozhen showed little interest in the items in the common shop. She felt that aside from their novelty, there was nothing else worth her attention. She fiddled with them a few times, but her mind had already drifted to the previous incident.
After sorting out his thoughts, he didn't stay any longer and left without saying goodbye to anyone else.
Longshuo City had nearly a million inhabitants and 136 neighborhoods. The main street of the East Inner City was crowded with the rich and powerful, wide enough for three carriages to pass side by side.
The female members of Prince Ren's family traveled with dignified ceremony. The princess' carriage was always drawn by three fine horses.
Guards were on duty outside the gate, and the carriage was parked to the side. Before Princess Baozhen could even step outside, the carriage had already stopped in front of the gate.
The driver lowered his whip, set the step stool in place, and stood respectfully with his head bowed. Four maids, uniformly dressed in green and brown armor, with long skirts, stood on either side of the carriage, awaiting instructions. A personal maid held aloft a cyan silk parasol and treaded lightly, carefully supporting the carriage.
Princess Baozhen handed the cat to her maid and was about to board the carriage, lifting her skirt when a familiar, crisp female voice suddenly rang out from behind her: "Princess, please stay!"
Time was running out, and Lan Nongnong didn't care about the difference in status. She raised her hand to take off her veil and called out to the person in front of her.
The faces of the noble ladies waiting at the door were filled with surprise. Princess Baozhen also raised her eyebrows in amusement. She lowered her skirt, just as she was about to board the carriage, but she actually stopped and turned to look.
Seeing that she was alone with only one guard, Princess Baozhen looked slightly surprised: "You are looking for me?"
Lan Nongnong ordered the guards to stop and handed him the veil. Without even glancing at the noblewoman staring at her, she walked straight towards Princess Baozhen. Seeing her master made no comment, the maid at Prince Ren's mansion did not attempt to stop her.
As the saying goes, don't hit a smiling person. Even though they had a quarrel just now, Lan Nongnong still raised the corners of her lips. Her smile was bright and beautiful, which made people feel good about her.
"The princess is of noble status, yet she is magnanimous and generous, not fussy about trivial matters. It is I, on the other hand, who feel uneasy, and I have come here to apologize to the princess."
Princess Baozhen resembled her father in appearance, a strikingly bright woman with prominent brow bones and slightly sunken eyes that added a touch of sharpness. Her gaze carried a commanding intensity, making her seem unapproachable.
She was born into a noble family and has been the center of attention since childhood. It is inevitable that she has an arrogant personality. With such a face, she has indeed earned the reputation of being arrogant and domineering.
However, because of her sharp features, she had a particular preference for soft, docile, and non-aggressive things, such as her cat and the woman before her.
Her skin is whiter than snow, her cheeks are plump, her eyes are bright as stars, and her dimples when she smiles are so cute and sweet that it makes people happy to see her.
Her palms itched slightly, but she didn't show it on her face. She only raised her chin and snorted softly, "If you say so, then what you just said is a lie? You clearly have a dishonest heart, but you pretend nothing is wrong. Deceiving this princess is not something you can forgive with just an apology."
For some reason, despite her haughty expression, Lan Nongnong didn't feel intimidated. Instead, she felt she was as proud as a cat. She took two steps forward, her smile still etched on her face, and shook her head gently. "Your Highness, you misunderstood me. I didn't lie. I just deeply feel your open-mindedness, and I feel even more that my sincerity was lacking. Could you please step aside for a moment, so I can speak freely and express my feelings?"
Princess Baozhen's eyes fell on the dimple in her smile, and the corners of her brows and lips couldn't help but raise slightly. She suppressed it and hummed softly, "Get in the car."
Only after the two climbed aboard, the doors closed, and the carriage pulled to a stop did the ladies, who had been maintaining their proper manners outside the shop, finally come to their senses. For a moment, they didn't know whether to despise the woman's flattery or be astonished that Princess Baozhen had been so easily persuaded. They stared at each other, speechless.
Seeing this, the guards at the Qin residence felt a sudden pang of anxiety. Princess Baozhen was known in the capital for her arrogance, and they had just had an argument. If the young lady entered alone and was truly bullied, these attendants and guards would undoubtedly be held responsible for their dereliction of duty.
However, the young lady's strict orders could not be disobeyed, and the master was not present at the moment. The Prince Ren's palace was not something that a mere guard could intrude upon. He could only suppress his anxiety, quickly pace forward a few steps, and stop in front of the guards of the carriage.
I just hope Biyu can come back soon so that we can discuss countermeasures.
*
July and August are the months of abundant water and grass beyond the Great Wall, so it's inappropriate for foreign leaders to remain for long. According to past custom, upon leaving the capital, small nations and tribes returning to pay tribute are bestowed with generous gifts to demonstrate the Celestial Empire's generosity and enhance its prestige. However, this time, the foreign tribes have come under duress, creating unique circumstances, so whether to continue with these rewards requires further consideration.
While the emperor was not seriously injured, he was still in poor spirits. Deporting the foreigners from the capital was not a pressing matter, so the decision remained with the cabinet. Since Qin Jingyao was in charge, he naturally made the final decision.
"...Our Sheng Dynasty has won over people with virtue and has educated all nations. Although the Red Di were negligent, the culprit has been executed, and their leader has personally come to apologize. Our dynasty should show leniency. Tribute and rewards are ancient customs, and a slight reduction is sufficient. If they are allowed to return empty-handed, the foreign nations will probably accuse our Celestial Empire of being stingy. To damage the reputation of our nation for a group of rebels is truly unwise."
After the Ministry of Rites finished speaking, an official from the Ministry of Revenue followed up, saying, "It is only natural that the Celestial Empire should show leniency. However, the treasury's money and grain all come from the people's taxes, and every penny is hard-earned. Rewards must be measured and not encourage unscrupulous ambitions."
"The people of the northwest are working hard, but the weather is bad and the harvest is failing. I believe that instead of rewarding foreigners generously, it would be better to use this money to provide relief to the people and stabilize the country. This is the fundamental solution."
The military official said loudly, "The foreign tribes fear our might, not our virtue. Although they have submitted now, the abundant water and grass beyond the Great Wall are ripe for the emergence of powerful men. If we reward them too generously, I'm afraid it will only help them train their troops and become a threat to our borders in the future."
He paused briefly, his tone turning pragmatic. "I believe that rewards can be reduced, but defenses must not be relaxed. The most urgent task is to use this money and grain to strengthen border defenses, replenish military equipment and horses, and reward the soldiers guarding the border. This will not only demonstrate the Celestial Empire's tolerance, but also consolidate our territory. Combining kindness and authority is the key to long-term stability."
A military commander beside him spoke in a voice as resounding as a bell, adding, "Greed is insatiable, like a snake swallowing an elephant! Rather than nurturing a tiger as a threat, it's better to cut the grass and eradicate it completely! Beyond the Great Wall, there are abundant grass and water, and herds of cattle and sheep. It's an excellent place for animal husbandry and should be incorporated into our territory! Instead of using that reward money, it would be better to increase our military pay and sharpen our swords!"
His eyes were blazing, his voice resonating throughout the palace: "Though life outside the Great Wall is difficult, our soldiers are all brave and loyal! Wherever our swords point, we will expand our territory and bring peace to the people! Why reward a tiny tribe? We should rally our troops, pay them well, and conquer them once and for all, so that all under heaven shall belong to the king!"
"The late emperor achieved immortal merits, subduing the four territories. For years, he governed with both civil and military power, spreading his virtue far and wide, leading to the submission of all nations. Rebellion is merely an anomaly; those who truly submit are the majority. How can we generalize and ignite war again? If we cause panic among the nations, wouldn't that destroy all the years of hard work of the late emperor and the court?"
"Hesitating and timid, how can a great nation behave? Only by letting them smell the scent of blood will they understand the meaning of fear and dare not commit such a crime again!"
"You! You are a reckless man, not worth discussing with!"
"To be kind to the enemy is no different from aiding the enemy. It's clearly cowardice that harms the country!"
"You! You're being unreasonable and making up stories!"
"laugh."
"You, you, you! You are such a scoundrel! Lord Linggong, this matter concerns the national dignity. Please think carefully and make a wise decision!"
"Please let your Excellency decide!"
There was a lot of noise in the meeting hall, but finally everyone fell silent and turned to bow to the man in the main seat who was wearing a purple robe and sipping tea in silence.
Qin Jingyao was no mere scholar, a scholar of armchair tactics. He understood the principle that those who were not of the same race must have different hearts. He had even traveled on behalf of the Emperor, experiencing firsthand the customs of the lands around him and understanding the various aspects of people's lives. He even rode alongside border guards into the heartland of a foreign race.
Since Emperor Wu Sheng severely defeated the alien tribe, severing its lifeline, it has lingered for decades. Its tribes are scattered, their population smaller than that of a single tax-paying state during the Sheng Dynasty. However, they capitalize on the terrain's formidable terrain, and young and old are skilled in riding and archery. Furthermore, their subsistence as hunters has imbued them with bestiality, making them unruly, untamed, and full of ruthless ambitions.
There is no such thing as submission in my bones.
For decades, the imperial court has repeatedly implemented cultural education and attempted assimilation, but with little success. Their current submission is merely a temporary retreat due to their weakness. Once they sense the hunters' weakening, they will pounce like hungry wolves and tigers.
Rather than saying that the foreign races have been gradually influenced by the customs of the Sheng Dynasty over the past few decades, it is better to say that the people far away from the frontier and the officials in the court have been gradually blinded by the self-righteous achievements of education, and have instead developed an inappropriate tolerance for the foreign races' nature of eating raw meat and drinking blood.
However, the Sheng Dynasty had been at peace for a long time, and although the soldiers and generals had been training continuously, they had not seen bloody battles for a long time, and their spirit had gradually dulled, and their fighting spirit had gradually weakened. Although the barbarians were not to be feared, the army was no longer the fierce force it once was.
Military generals are promoted based on military merit, but how can they achieve merit without fighting? If this continues, the army's morale will be weakened, its combat effectiveness will gradually decline, and national defense will inevitably be weakened.
Kindness is only useful to those who know how to be grateful. When dealing with jackals, the only way to make them never forget is to break their bones and shed their blood!
Qin Jingyao lowered his eyes and placed the cup aside. It was a pity that the emperor's health was getting worse day by day. The more he thought about the stability of his country and his reputation in his lifetime and after his death, the more he was reluctant to start a war.
As he grows older, he claims to be a person who knows his destiny, and his heart becomes more conservative.
He raised his eyes and was about to speak when he suddenly saw Tongze bowing and asking for a meeting outside the palace gate. He also saw clearly the secret signal that the other party gave, which was only related to her.
A sense of foreboding suddenly arose in his heart. His eyes darkened, his shoulders and back suddenly straightened, and the aura around him suddenly became sharp and cold, but he remained silent.
"The Red Di tribe rebelled, and this time they came to the capital under the pretext of apologizing. Sparing their leader's life is already a great favor from Heaven. If we reward them further, what difference would it make between being bullied and resisting without hesitation? Only by using both soft and hard tactics, and using thunderous intimidation, can we demonstrate the magnanimity of the court."
Everyone's heart trembled, and no matter what they thought, they all responded in unison: "My Lord, I will judge for you!"
***
After everything was settled, Qin Jing had to report to the Emperor. Leaving the palace, he walked to an open area in the palace gardens. Without waiting for Tongze to report, he asked directly, "Did she notice anything unusual?"
One must be careful with what one says and does when walking in the palace, Tongze nodded in agreement.
Qin Jingyao did not ask where the mistake was.
Knowing that the lie was about to be exposed, he also knew that with her personality, she would never give up after learning the truth, and might even do something that he could not predict.
However, he still had no intention of leaving the palace immediately. With his back straight and steps steady, he strode towards the deep palace.
He only said, "Keep a close eye on the person and don't let him leave. Send someone to urge him to come here quickly."
*
The carriage was richly decorated, fragrant, and furnished with everything. However, Lan Nongnong had no interest in appreciating it. She simply sat by the window and smiled faintly at the woman who was waiting inside with her forehead propped up.
He took out another doll from his sleeve. It was black and white, and was hugging a green bamboo, peeking out from behind the bamboo. A six-sided glass was tied around its furry neck, and it was biting a piece of bamboo in its mouth, looking innocent and cute.
Lan Nongnong held it in her palm and handed it to the princess with a smile: "The princess is deeply loved by everyone, so the rare treasures in the world must have been commonplace. I come from a humble background, so I dare not show off my skills. I just like to make small dolls by hand. This one was just finished and cleaned yesterday. If the princess doesn't mind, I would like to give it to her as a token of my appreciation."
If she hadn't been fully aware of her own preferences and never mentioned them to anyone, Princess Baozhen would have almost thought she had deliberately inquired about them before catering to their preferences. Otherwise, how could both the person and the item be so perfectly suited to her heart, making her unable to let go?
Um?
When Princess Baozhen came to her senses, she found that the palm-sized teddy bear doll had its cheeks slightly sunken due to her pinching, and it was looking at her with a pair of innocent eyes.
She coughed lightly, her fingertips unconsciously rubbing the doll's ears, and said loudly, "Well, since you apologize sincerely, this princess will be magnanimous and let it go. By the way, what's your name?"
Although he was talking to people, his eyes were still glued to the teddy bear doll in his hand.
Only then did Lan Nongnong finally feel relieved. She had carefully considered her decision to seek out this princess from among the other noble ladies. Although she was of the highest status, those who showed their emotions so clearly were less likely to hold grudges.
The fact that the princess hadn't stopped her from approaching had already confirmed her suspicions. Allowing her to ride in the car with her made her feel a little more at ease. Even now, seeing her unable to let go of the stuffed toy, her face filled with an unconcealed smile of fascination.
Fortunately, she prepared two dolls, and fortunately, she gave the right one to the person.
After all, family status was very strict in ancient times, and she was afraid that she might be careless and end up making things worse.
"My last name is Lan, and my given name is Nongnong,"
Princess Baozhen looked up at her silently, her lips moving. Even her name was so cute.
She snorted softly, turned her face away and said, "Of course, this princess has no shortage of rare treasures, but the one I love most is on your head! Now you want to get rid of me with such a small thing?"
As he spoke, his gaze finally shifted from the doll to Lan Nongnong, and he raised an eyebrow and asked, "Tell me, what exactly brought you here to see me?"
Princess Baozhen, despite her arrogant nature, possessed a clear mind. Her expressions of gratitude and generosity, her sincere apologies, were merely pretexts. She experienced this kind of superficial flattery countless times a year.
It was simply because she was pleasing to the eye, had a sweet smile, and was pleasing to the eye. Even the doll he'd given her was just the right size. Even more remarkable was the fact that she dared to look him in the face, her dark eyes filled with sincerity. That was why he hadn't bothered with her for the time being.
Considering her many advantages, even if she really has something to ask for, such as asking me to advise the Empress Dowager to urge Lord Linggong to take her into the palace as soon as possible, it would not hurt to help her.
Lan Nongnong's eyes narrowed, and she subconsciously raised her hand to touch the lily of the valley hairpin in her hair. After hesitating for a moment, she took it off.
Even when she wasn't wearing it, she often held it in her hand and caressed it, her every detail, both inside and out, already familiar to her. Even now, she still lightly touched the ends with her fingertips, lowering her eyes to examine it carefully.
"Princess, please forgive me. This lily of the valley pink hairpin was made by my fiancé himself and given to me as a token of love. I really can't let it go. If you like it--"
"Wait a minute, fiancé?"
Princess Baozhen interrupted her before she could finish, startling her so much that her favorite doll fell onto her skirt. She sat up straight, her voice rising in shock.
"What did you say? Qin Jingyao? The second-rank Shangshu Ling, the Marquis of Cheng'an personally conferred by His Majesty, the one you married formally six years ago, is your fiancé? Ha!"
Princess Baozhen didn't hide her sneer and contempt. Even if the other person had a face that pleased her, their social status was still vastly different.
She is noble and she is humble.
This "like" has always been a condescending look, with scrutiny and criticism, and it is a playful joy that can be withdrawn at any time.
It is important for people to know themselves. You can have dreams and desires, but you must not be wishful thinking.
Princess Baozhen, after all, harbored some affection for him, which was why she only offered a warning instead of expelling him. The car remained silent for a moment, and she couldn't help but wonder if her words had been too sharp. Such words were like knives, a profound blow to a woman's dignity.
Her fingertips tightened, and the soft touch on her palms actually brought out a few traces of guilt. She rubbed her hands uncomfortably. She glanced at it casually, but was suddenly stunned.
She had thought she would be mortified and embarrassed, but she never expected that this woman with a sweet smile would remain calm?!
"you?!"
Lan Nongnong gave her a carefree smile. Her beloved, her fiancé, was named Yao Jing, not Qin Jingyao. He was a businessman, not a powerful official in the court.
It was undeniable that upon hearing that the names and identities didn't match, she felt a sudden sense of relief, and even a surge of guilt. He treated her so sincerely, doting and indulging her, taking care of her in every possible way, yet she had become suspicious and even risked probing him based on a few words from an outsider.
The world is vast, and people are similar. How much more so is a piece of jade of similar color? Just like the jade bracelet on her wrist, isn't it also pink and radiant, with silky threads inside like layered petals, just as beautiful as a dream?
So the princess's harsh words were misdirected, and she naturally had no need to feel ashamed of them.
She was certain in her heart, so she said frankly, "My princess has misunderstood. My fiancé is named Yao Jing. His family is in business. He only got engaged ten years ago, but he's not married yet. He's not the same person as the important official you mentioned."
At this point, Lan Nongnong no longer wanted to figure out whether her lily of the valley pink hairpin had any connection with the hibiscus jade they were talking about, so she just regarded all the previous strange behaviors as her own over-suspicion.
With her heart knot untied and Biyu about to return, Lan Nongnong didn't want to stay any longer. She was about to pin the lily of the valley pink hairpin back into her hair and say goodbye when her wrist was suddenly grabbed.
She looked up in surprise, only to see Princess Baozhen frowning with a serious expression, leaning in to carefully examine the pink jade bead on her earlobe.
"Let's not talk about your fiancé for now. Let me see the hairpin first."
Before she finished her words, her other hand had already reached for the jade hairpin. Lan Nongnong was afraid that the hairpin or the princess might be hurt during the argument, so she had to let go, but she still protected it with a thin protective hand, repeatedly urging them to be careful.
Princess Baozhen had no time to ridicule her for being petty. She simply held the hairpin in her hand up to the light, examining it carefully inch by inch with a burning gaze.
Though small, the hairpin's jade quality, the flossing, and even its quicksand-like vitality are impossible to replicate. If there truly were a second piece, how could it have fallen into the hands of a mere merchant, given the long-cherished desire of the noble ladies of the capital?
Although she had made up her mind, Princess Baozhen was unusually hesitant.
What about the merchant fiancé she mentioned?
Hibiscus Jade is famous in the capital and is known to everyone.
Even if a thief had the utmost courage, he wouldn't dare to break into the heavily guarded Shangshu Ling Mansion and steal. Even if he succeeded, who would dare to take such a valuable item, let alone have someone wear it out in public and show off?
Could it be that the merchant and Lord Ling Gong are close friends, and he obtained this jade specifically for his fiancée?
If this is true, it does make sense, although the reason is a bit far-fetched. After all, even Lady Ling has not been able to get a piece of jewelry in the past two years.
Princess Baozhen nodded secretly, suppressing her doubts, and handed the pink jade hairpin back to her. Just as she was about to speak, her expression suddenly changed, and she asked, "Where are you from? Did you go to the Liyuan Opera in the west of the city half a month ago?"
Lan Nongnong carefully took the jade hairpin. Surprise crossed her face, and a sense of inexplicable tension welled up inside her. She slowly raised her eyes and nodded, "I'm from Yuqing. I've been to the Pear Garden before. Could it be that the princess was there that day?"
The carriage suddenly fell silent at her words. Princess Baozhen's eyes widened, and her throat rolled slightly. The subtle sound was as clear as thunder in the carriage where you could hear a pin drop.
The jade matches, and the trip to the opera house also matches. With so many coincidences stacked up, who else could her so-called fiancé be except Ling Gong himself!
But why did Lord Linggong hide his identity, and why did he promise Miss Lan to be his wife?
No wonder she hadn't thought of this at first. With that man's status as the Minister of the Chancellery, no one would dare to say anything, let alone marrying one woman, even if he took in ten or a hundred women. Why would he need to hide his identity and go to so much trouble?
Concubines were of low status and could be despised and scorned by everyone. However, as the legal wife, even if she was a commoner, she could be respected and honored.
Besides, she seemed completely unaware of this. When Princess Baozhen looked at her again, the contempt in her eyes had disappeared.
"Princess?"
Lan Nongnong felt as if her heart had sunk into an icy cave, her blood stagnating. The hand holding the hairpin trembled uncontrollably, yet she persisted in asking, "Are you sure now that Mr. Qin has nothing to do with my fiancé? Is the resemblance between my hairpin and the hibiscus jade you mentioned just a coincidence?"
The woman in front of him had a forced smile, and her eyes, which were once as clear as spring water, were now looking directly at him rudely. Her stubbornness revealed a fragility that made him afraid to look at her.
Princess Baozhen parted her lips, but couldn't bring herself to speak. She didn't want to lie, but she couldn't tell the truth either. She was completely puzzled as to what Ling Gong was up to.
Even though she was a royal relative and a distinguished princess, she did not dare to offend the important officials of the court easily. Moreover, it was someone else's private matter after all, and if she rashly intervened, it would be a loss of dignity.
She had just said something seemingly unintentionally, and she felt a sudden surge of unease, like she was sitting on pins and needles, caught between a rock and a hard place. Deciding to throw in the towel, she assumed the dignity of a princess, turned her head, and snorted, "Who are you to dare question me? Allowing you to sit in the carriage for so long is already a special favor, so why don't you leave immediately!"
Sometimes, avoiding the question is the answer itself. Words can be deceiving, but expressions and eyes cannot hide their falsehood.
It was as if a hole had been opened in my chest, and cold air poured in densely, as if my heart was being gouged out. I was frozen unconscious, and only numbness remained throughout my body.
Lan Nongnong could no longer feel her heartbeat, and even the breath she exhaled was icy cold.
"How could he, how could he lie to me, how could he lie to me... I don't believe it, it's impossible, how could it be possible?"
She murmured to herself, her voice trembling, "I just accepted his proposal."
"I also, I even..."
But how could such a coincidence happen? The jade is both pink, with the same inner patterns. And she stopped me for no reason, revealing such shock. Most importantly, why would a princess of such stature lie to me?
Although she murmured in disbelief, Lan Nongnong was almost certain in her heart that she had been deceived. She was being played around like a fool!
Her head was rumbling, her eyes wide open but empty, as if she had suddenly fallen into a vacuum, a trance-like blankness. Her heart felt like it was being repeatedly stabbed by a knife, the pain so intense that she clutched her chest tightly and doubled over, unable to bear it.
My chest felt like it was clogged with cotton wool, suffocating and difficult to breathe. My entire body felt icy cold, as if I'd fallen into an ice cellar, yet cold sweat instantly seeped down my back and cheeks. My breathing became rapid and heavy, as if it would cease at any moment. Thick smoke burned my eyes, and tears welled up in pain.
But she still didn't give up. She raised her face, which was mixed with sweat and tears. Her eyes were red, and her lips and cheeks were trembling uncontrollably.
"Princess, can you lend me a pen and paper?"
Princess Baozhen was frightened by her sudden pain and tears. She no longer cared about keeping her composure and hurried forward, but she was at a loss as to how to comfort her.
"Hey, you, don't cry! Hey, you, hey, this, Ke Ke Ke," he said and was about to call for help.
Lan Nongnong suddenly reached out and grabbed her. Her fingertips were cold, but her grip was tight. She gritted her teeth and swallowed the sob, panting and whispering, "Please, Princess, don't tell anyone. If it's convenient, just tell me the location and I'll take it myself."
Her body was shaking so badly that if she hadn't supported herself, she wouldn't even be able to sit still, let alone get it by herself.
Although Princess Baozhen was secretly grumbling in her heart, she really couldn't bear to see her so frightened and sad, and felt sorry for her rough life, so she helped her sit down, turned around, took out paper and pen from the carriage drawer and handed it to her, and even started to grind ink for her without any instruction.
Although she had servants to serve her in every aspect, she was not above worldly matters. She was merely fetching a pen and paper, but out of pity for her, she felt comfortable enough to condescend.
But Lan Nongnong's heart was pounding, her hands trembling uncontrollably. How could she even hold a pen? Even with her left hand firmly gripping her right wrist, it still shook like a leaf in the autumn wind. Apart from smeared ink on the paper, she couldn't write a single word.
"ah!"
She gasped for air repeatedly, hating her own powerlessness at the moment, and finally couldn't help but cry out. She raised her hand to wipe away the tears that couldn't stop, and looked up at the princess who seemed to be stunned by the shock: "Excuse me, princess, is there any eyebrow pencil in the carriage?"
Princess Baozhen nodded blankly and took the entire box of extremely precious rouge and powder from the small shelf and handed it to her.
Lan Nongnong pinched her palms nearly to pieces before she managed to stop the violent tremors. She no longer cared about her manners, breathing heavily and slapping her cheeks with her cold hands. Then she grabbed some ice from under the fruit on the table and stuffed it into her mouth.
The biting cold caused severe pain in my head, which finally temporarily drove back the surging tears.
Lan Nongnong looked extremely embarrassed at this moment, but she and the woman in the car who was stunned by her series of actions had no time to care about it.
For Lan Nongnong, and even for future generations of students, drawing and sketching were ordinary skills that were not worth mentioning. When she was in the right place, she could sketch nearly ten portraits in half an hour at top speed.
The man's features were already etched in his bones, no thought required. Now, in a tangle of shock and rage, it felt as if divine intervention had been summoned. In just a few breaths, the outlines of his features were complete. Even if the brushstrokes were slightly sloppy due to hand trembling, the resulting portrait was still incredibly lifelike.
"May I ask, my lady, is the person in the painting the Lord Qin you just mentioned?"
With a swish, Lan Nongnong stretched the portrait towards the other party with shaking hands. Her lips, which had lost blood, were tightly pursed, and her eyes were wide open, fixed on every change on Princess Baozhen's face.
Her chest heaved violently, and every breath was long and heavy, as if it would stop in the next second, and as if it would explode in the next moment.
She had clearly returned to seek truth from lies and resolve her inner conflict, but when the time came, she couldn't help but deceive herself, cowardly and evasive, hoping to hear a negative answer from the other party.
In this way, her world will still be bright, joyful and sweet, and it will also prove that all the choices she has made so far have not been wrong.
At this moment of agonizing waiting, Lan Nongnong herself did not know what kind of answer she wanted because she still had a trace of sanity left and had not collapsed.
Princess Baozhen was witnessing such swift and realistic painting skills for the first time. While astonishment hadn't yet faded, a look of wonder had already quietly surfaced in her eyes. So much so that when the nasally, slightly hoarse female voice suddenly asked a question, she almost unconsciously nodded in response.
Fortunately, just as she was about to nod, she snapped back to her senses. Her neck stiffened, and she averted her gaze abruptly, raising her chin and saying arrogantly, "This princess has a lot of things to do. You'd better pack up quickly and get off the car. Don't let people think that this princess has insulted you."
Before she finished her words, she didn't give her a chance to speak again. She called someone in loudly. Without even glancing at her, she turned her back and ordered in a domineering tone, "Hurry up and tidy her up. Use the cosmetics on the table, but don't let anyone see any marks. It would make it look like I've bullied her."
The maid was genuinely startled by the young woman's devastated appearance, and she suppressed the urge to look at her own princess. Because the princess had invited people to the carriage to talk, the servants waiting outside had all moved away, so no one knew what was happening inside.
It looked as if the young lady had been severely bullied by the princess. But despite her haughty and unforgiving nature, the princess had never actually disciplined anyone. Even though there had been an argument, the princess, with her broad mind, shouldn't have held a grudge against her.
Although the maid secretly speculated in her heart, she did not dare to hesitate for a moment. She bowed slightly and then swiftly straightened her hair and wiped her face. When her fingertips touched the bright red marks on the woman's delicate cheeks, pity almost flowed from her eyes.
In the end, he only gently applied rouge to her. When she was done, she stood up to report. Princess Baozhen looked back and saw that the woman, aside from her red eyes, a blank expression, her chest heaving, and her cheeks trembling from time to time, was forcing herself to remain calm, without a trace of sadness on her face.
But it is precisely this excessive calmness that makes people feel uneasy for no reason.
"Thank you so much today, Princess. I am very happy and feel extremely fortunate to have met and interacted with you. Please rest assured, Princess, I only boarded the carriage today to resolve the previous misunderstanding with you. Apart from that, there is no other reason."
Princess Baozhen was startled, feeling a bit uncomfortable. She moved her lips, but the sarcastic words "Why does this princess need you to protect her?" never came out. In the end, she just waved her hand and ordered the maid to escort her out of the carriage.
When Lan Nongnong got out of the car, her feet felt weak as if she were stepping on cotton wool, and she felt no sense of reality. The scorching sun poured down, but it couldn't dispel the chill that seeped into her bones.
Biyu and a group of maids had already arrived and had been waiting anxiously outside with the guards for a long time.
As soon as they saw her get off the car, everyone rushed forward and carefully examined her body, their eyes flickering over her skin beneath her clothes, and they touched her arms and back inconspicuously, carefully checking whether she cried out in pain from hidden injuries.
The maids in Prince Ren's mansion were impeccable in their service, and the cosmetics they used were also extremely valuable. As long as they weren't scrubbing it off, even up close, one wouldn't be able to see any traces of makeup covering their skin.
She kept her eyes lowered the entire time, and the only thing that could not be concealed by makeup, the abnormality of her flushed eyes, was thus quietly hidden.
Biyu could smell the scent of her makeup, a different scent from when she left home. Her concern was tinged with subtle probing. "My lady, I've bought the Snow Mountain Pastries and peeled candied chestnuts as you requested. Since you've been traveling hard today, I took the liberty of calling for a carriage. Would you like to get in right away?"
"Didn't you promise to wait for me right here? Why are you here looking for Princess Baozhen again, and are you alone in the carriage with her?"
Biyu asked in a low voice with a hint of doubt, "Did the princess give you any trouble?"
Cherry, who had been sent to the car to get an iced drink, also stepped forward and said softly, "Miss, the mung bean iced drink is here. Would you like to enjoy it now?"
The embrace that had once felt so intimate now sounded harsh. Lan Nongnong's arms drooped as she silently regulated her breathing, her right hand tightly clutching the scroll beneath the cover of her wide sleeves.
She accidentally met the maid's inquiring gaze, and also glanced at the occasional glances from passers-by. Her fingers suddenly trembled as if in spasm, and her body suddenly straightened and stiffened as if it had been severely whipped by an invisible whip.
Seeing this, Biyu's heart tightened. She hurried forward to support her arm and asked repeatedly, "Miss, are you feeling unwell?"
Makeup can be used to fake appearance, but reactions are hard to fake.
Lan Nongnong has lived a life of twenty years, lovingly cared for by her parents and siblings, enjoying the harmony of her teachers, friends, and classmates. Despite being transported to this place by unknown circumstances, she has lived a carefree and peaceful life. She is optimistic, lively, brave, forthright, and open-minded. However, among all these qualities, she lacks the composure that only hardens through countless trials and tribulations can cultivate.
Only she herself knew how much effort it took for her to appear so nonchalant.
As the sound of the carriage faded away, Lan Nongnong's remaining sanity was on the verge of collapse. She shook her head and squinted her eyes to hide her flushed eyes. She also lightly brushed off her hoarse voice with the excuse that she had talked too much and her mouth was dry.
Biyu didn't know whether she believed it or not, so she didn't ask any more questions. She just silently poured her a glass of ice drink and handed it to her, her voice so soft and almost cautious, "Then drink a glass of ice drink to moisten your throat first. If you are tired, you can do what your aunt asked you to do another day. I will accompany you back now, okay?"
"No need, I can do it myself, you guys go back and don't follow me."
Lan Nongnong's throat felt like it was on fire, dry and stinging, but she didn't dare to take the glass of water. She was afraid that if she raised her arm, her trembling hands would completely expose her hard-earned composure.
Just one sentence had exhausted all her restraint.
The weather in Longshuo was too hot, making her dizzy, her vision blurred, and her feet sank into the mud, making it difficult to move forward. Only a faint hope hanging on the edge of a hair supported her, and she was determined to verify the fact that had long been destined.
Princess Baozhen was reluctant to speak openly, perhaps because it was inconvenient to reveal. However, as a prominent official of a nation, how could no one recognize him? Ordinary people might not be familiar with him, but the shop assistants and shopkeepers who often welcomed dignitaries would certainly recognize him.
She was in a state of panic, holding up a portrait of an important official, insisting on confirming his identity. Her behavior was extremely strange, attracting sidelong glances from others, who either treated her with deep secrecy or with shunning.
She just kept asking each family, promising them a huge profit, and eventually someone would be willing to speak up.
"...You are so bold, little girl! You dare to go around inquiring with the portrait of an important court official? Are you trying to save your life? Go away, leave immediately!"
"...Taiwei Qin, who returned to the court two or three months ago, is now the Minister of the Chancellery, personally appointed Marquis of Cheng'an by the Emperor. Who in the capital doesn't know him?"
"...Miss, you must be from another place, right? Judging from your attire, you must be from a wealthy family. How could you not even recognize Lord Linggong?"
"...I see you're pitiful, but do you have a grievance you'd like to seek the help of Lord Linggong? If so, you've come to the wrong avenue. Lord Linggong handles important military and political affairs of the nation, not something a mere girl like you can easily witness. I'm kindly offering you a clear path. Why not seek the help of the prefectural governor of Kyoto to redress your grievance?"
One shop, two shops, one person mentioned it, two people talked about it... In the end, Lan Nongnong herself could no longer remember how many shops she had entered, how many people she had asked, how much money she had spent, and how many cold stares she had endured.
She stood stunned in the middle of the long street, her ears shrouded by a film, buzzing and deafening. Yet, her mind felt like a relentless loudspeaker, blaring over and over again: Lord Linggong, Marquis Cheng'an, General Qin... The voices continued, like a demonic sound piercing her ears, endlessly.
Lan Nongnong raised her head, her eyes unconsciously scanning the surroundings, as if searching for something, but she was met with only a series of gazes that fell on her, intentionally or unintentionally. These gazes, which she usually hardly noticed, now felt like swords upon her body, making her unbearable.
How would they view her? Had they known all along? How would they look at her? They would point fingers at her behind her back, scorn her, and ridicule her for being shameless and smug about being a mistress!
As soon as the thought came to her mind, her body instantly went as cold as ice, and she wanted nothing more than to run away. However, just before her toes moved, she forcibly suppressed the urge.
She lowered her head again, and with trembling hands unfolded the portrait, which was almost broken from being shown to others and folded so many times. Hot tears fell, soaking the back of the paper and blurring the face of the person in the painting.
What Lord Linggong, what Grand Marshal, what Marquis? The one she painted was clearly the man she fell in love with at first sight in Yuqing, the lover she had traveled thousands of miles to find despite her aunts' advice! It was the man she had first tasted love and kissed, and the fiancé she had risked everything to abandon the past and calmly accept the marriage proposal!
Perhaps she had already harbored a premonition, or perhaps her initial shock and vulnerability had been worn down by repeated exposure. After the pain reached its peak, the anger and resentment of being deceived turned into a raging fire, raging and surging within her chest.
The rage burned ever more fiercely, drying up her tears and oblivious to the subtle discomfort in her body. It scorched her lips, chapped her cheeks, and imbued her heavy legs with immense strength. She ripped the portrait to shreds, but venting her anger didn't quell the rage in the slightest!
She knew that Biyu and the others had been following her. She suddenly turned around to look at them, stepped closer, her eyes like ice and fire, and asked hatefully, "Where is he!"
Biyu was so shocked by her rage that she was speechless and stepped back, "Slave, slave, I don't know."
"ha!"
Lan Nongnong sneered, her chest heaving violently as she nodded repeatedly, "My question was foolish. A high-ranking official, a dignified Minister of Chancellery, wouldn't be in the palace handling state affairs right now? Could he be in that shop used to fool me?!"
Biyu and the others knew they were in the wrong, and were stung by her sharp words. Fearing she might lose her temper in her rage, they hurried forward to offer gentle comfort, "Young lady, please don't be anxious or angry. You've been walking for so long, you must be tired. Why don't you get in the carriage and rest? If there's anything, we can discuss it with the young master when he returns."
Lan Nongnong sneered, her laughter full of sarcasm. She raised her hand and waved away the group of people who were trying to force her into the carriage. "Don't worry, no matter how impulsive I am, I will never dare to break into the palace. You go and tell him, I'm waiting for him!"
After she finished speaking, she suppressed her anger and left, but at this moment, her eyes were clear and determined, her head was held high and her steps were calm, no longer afraid of other people's eyes.
What is there for her to be ashamed of? Why should she be ashamed? The one who should be despised, criticized, and embarrassed is the liar who fabricated lies!
Some things are just a blind spot that you haven't noticed. But if you open a little gap, you will find flaws everywhere.
Her aunts had repeatedly told her how it was possible for him, given his age and family background, to be single. She was incredibly foolish, blinded by male beauty and love, believing his lies and falling headfirst into them. She even thought she was sane and rational, defending him in every way, but in reality, she was incredibly foolish!
How could she have forgotten that in later generations, being unmarried by thirty was common, but that was definitely not the case here! How could she have taken it for granted that it was normal for him to be single in his late twenties?!
Regret roared down like a raging wave, nearly crushing her. The anger and hatred of being deceived burned through her internal organs, causing her so much pain that she wished she could cut open her chest and rip her heart out!
Lan Nongnong walked faster and faster, with anger burning in her chest. Finally, she could no longer bear it and ran wildly to vent her anger.
On this day in Longshuo, the sun blazed brightly, and the streets were bustling with people. A woman, disregarding her dignity, sprinted down the street. Passersby could only see her passing figure. Although they couldn't see the tears on her face, they could sense the surging anger and hatred in the air as she passed.
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Author's words: Sorry guys, I had something urgent to deal with at work, sorry for the wait [heart][heart][heart]
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