Chapter 63 Chapter 63 Attending a Banquet and Giving Birth to a Daughter
Autumn is the season for crabs, with the saying "nine crabs are female and ten are male." Female crabs have a delicate flavor, while male crabs have a rich, savory flavor. The wealthy and powerful all privately stockpile seasonal produce, and with crab roe plentiful at this time, each government office celebrates crab feasts, also known as "crab fighting." After socializing, the competition becomes a competition of who can outdo the other.
Princess Baozhen particularly loves male crabs, and in previous years she hosted crab banquets, inviting the ladies to her mansion for a small gathering. Seeing the feast of beauties and hearing fresh anecdotes was a unique experience.
However, none of the noble ladies she had been friends with this year had received her invitations. Since it was impolite not to reciprocate, they decided to host a banquet themselves. However, upon sending the invitations, they learned that Princess Baozhen had already hosted a crab feast, but had invited no one else but the Shangshu Ling's wife, whom they had only heard of but never met.
And the lady who had refused all invitations regardless of their social status actually accepted the banquet.
Those who knew of Princess Baozhen's retreat to the Imperial Temple last year suddenly recalled a connection between the two. No one knew the specifics, but it was clear that Princess Baozhen had suffered a loss. Furthermore, given Lord Ling's deep affection for his wife, many speculated that the banquet might be a gesture of the princess's humiliation and apology.
I wonder how the lady will respond, and if, having agreed to attend the banquet, she will start moving around from now on. What is her appearance like, and what is her character like?
For a time, this private banquet attracted a lot of attention.
-
Although Lan Nongnong does not have the title and rank of a second-rank lady, in this world, a wife's status depends on her husband, and Lord Ling's power and rank are real.
Princess Baozhen was a royal relative, possessing her own rank. While she had to consider her position as Minister of State, they also had a personal connection. Moreover, she was the only one in the capital who had accepted the princess's invitation. Given this unique dignity and her genuinely bold nature, it was not excessive to personally greet her at the palace gate.
The Prince Ren's Palace was dotted with pavilions and terraces, a scene of extraordinary beauty. Princess Baozhen, raised amidst wealth and opulence, was not proud of it. Lan Nongnong, knowledgeable and experienced, showed no surprise. The two walked and talked, passing through flower gardens and stone gardens, over water bridges and verandas, to the banquet hall, a five-cornered, glazed, beaded, and white jade pavilion with soaring eaves and brackets.
Although it is late autumn, the weather has been fine recently, with clear blue skies and sunny days.
At 9:00 PM, the autumn sun was at its peak. According to Princess Baozhen's usual style, the crab feast should have been held in the pavilion in the middle of the lake. However, someone, who loved his wife dearly and feared she would be wronged by the feast, had barely arrived with a reply, followed by detailed instructions.
Princess Baozhen didn't feel offended. The fact that the Shangshu Ling had built a mansion for his beloved wife's frailty was known throughout the city. The powerful officials repeatedly declined social engagements to accompany her all day long. Now, who in the capital didn't know that the Shangshu Ling had bent over backward for a woman, loving her as if her life?
It was normal for me to be worried about whether she was feeling cold or hot when attending the banquet for the first time after marriage.
Besides, a banquet should be a place where guests are treated with all their heart, and knowing the taboos is actually a good thing. Thinking about how the usually arrogant and overbearing Shangshu Ling had to bow his head and try to please a woman, becoming the "wife slave" secretly criticized by the old men, I felt extremely happy!
"...If Madam Fu weren't pregnant, she could have enjoyed the crab feast with you and me today. Speaking of which, her due date is approaching, right?"
Lan Nongnong politely sat down with her. Upon hearing this, she tensed up almost imperceptibly, then nodded and smiled faintly: "According to the due date, there are still 58 days left."
Princess Baozhen glanced at her and smiled, "It seems you two are close friends, as you even remember the date so clearly. When I heard you fell into the water and disappeared, I couldn't believe it. Now that I see you're safe and sound, I imagine you must have gone through some hardships."
"I won't ask too many questions, but I have many ginseng and ganoderma lucidum health-preserving recipes in the mansion, and even gifts from the palace. If you still have any problems, please feel free to speak up."
The princess originally wanted to say that she seemed to have lost some weight, but under the bright autumn sun, her skin was radiant, her cheeks were fresh, her lips were delicate, her eyes were focused, and when she smiled, her tempting dimples spread out sweetly. She looked clearly in excellent condition, and the word "slim" was really hard to say.
Come to think of it, if that person fails to take good care of the child while holding him in the palm of his hand, how is he different from an incompetent mediocre person?
Her deep eye sockets and prominent brows gave her a sharp gaze. Her sharp words were even more forceful, almost overbearing. However, to Lan Nongnong, who had grown accustomed to watching her parents and siblings playfully and solemnly, the raised brows signaled concentration, while the forceful words conveyed a certain awkwardness, a seriousness tinged with the awkwardness of someone who wasn't good at expressing concern.
Listening to her previous sentence, it was clear that she was jealous of Sister Yingzi.
This was the third time the two of them had been alone together. The first time was to resolve doubts, the second time was to clear up past grudges, and this time, they truly treated each other as friends.
A friend who is proud on the outside but innocent on the inside, and who reaches out to you proactively.
Although it was a banquet for two, the expected pomp and ceremony was complete. They each occupied a table, while the long table in the middle was already covered with delicious dishes.
Lan Nongnong's shoulders relaxed, and she stood up. Under her puzzled gaze, she walked around the long table to her side and said with a smile, "Princess, could you please give me some seats?"
In an era of supreme imperial power, seating position symbolized status. Even the slightest covetousness was considered disrespectful, let alone a discussion. The servants of both houses were suddenly startled, their breath held in concentration, their nerves tense as if ready to snap.
Perhaps because her smile was too dazzling in the sunlight, Princess Baozhen didn't feel offended, but only confused. In a daze, she actually moved to the side.
The next moment, the sweet fragrance of peaches washed over me. My arms tightened, and my shoulders sank slightly. A soft sigh echoed from the side of my neck: "Thank you, Princess. You are so kind."
Princess Baozhen felt a tingling sensation throughout her body, her sharp eyes fixed on the horizon. She was the princess of the royal palace, her father obeyed her every command and loved her like a pearl. Within Prince Ren's palace, she spoke with even greater authority than her father.
Yet, perfection is rare. A mother's unique love is irreplaceable. As she grew older, she could no longer flirt in her father's arms like she had in her childhood. The Queen treated her with affection, but ultimately, their status was different.
She hadn't had anyone to cuddle with since she was seven years old, and never before had anyone been so close to her, leaning on her like she was now.
The weight on her shoulders wasn't heavy, but it made her feel an indescribable sense of being relied upon, satisfying and grounded.
Princess Baozhen blinked slowly, the corners of her lips curling up uncontrollably. She tilted her head and glanced down. The woman on her shoulder was smiling. Her skin was smooth and delicate, with a slight depression in her soft spots. Her nose was straight and her eyelashes were long and black, dense and trembling from time to time. It made one want to reach out and play with them.
"Ahem."
Princess Baozhen turned her head, and the hand that was unconsciously stroking raised up and paused, then patted the black hair tied in a bun. She dared not move her left shoulder and snorted and laughed, "This princess was just saying it casually, you are too easy to be fooled--"
She quickly changed her words mid-sentence, "Don't worry! Since I've accepted your kindness, I will take care of you in the future. With me around, I won't let you suffer any loss."
She had almost forgotten that she had been tricked into coming here by the Shangshu Ling. She turned too quickly and nearly bit her tongue. She felt a slight relief on her shoulder, thinking she had touched a sore spot, and suddenly panicked.
Lan Nongnong wasn't that fragile. She misjudged people and was deceived, and she suffered the consequences. It's a fact, and there's nothing to hide. Just learn from it and don't make the same mistake again.
And it was thanks to Princess Baozhen that I was able to discover the truth at that time.
"Then I would like to thank you first. It is impolite not to reciprocate. If you need anything, I will do my best."
She looked calm and her eyes were clear, showing that she had an open mind.
Princess Baozhen felt relieved, feeling she had never felt so at ease interacting with others. She ordered her desk to be brought over, and the two of them sat down, table next to table and stool next to stool.
The male crabs that can be served at the banquet are naturally rich in fat, so there is no need for two people to do it. The attendants of the two mansions will remove the meat with their clean hands and serve it on a plate.
Since it was a banquet, wine was essential. Crab meat is cold, while rice wine is warm; the two are a perfect match. They raised their glasses, looked at each other, and drank heartily. Outside the pavilion, the sky was high and the clouds were light, the wind was crisp and refreshing. The glass bead curtains tinkled softly. A few steps away, musicians in colorful costumes danced to the melodious music of the zither, and actors occasionally danced to the rhythm.
People chatted and talked about everything in the pavilion, speaking freely, enjoying the fragrant wine and delicious crabs, and drinking and chatting, getting drunk.
"...I just returned from a summer retreat at the mountain villa. If I had known you were in good health, I would have invited you to join me. But there's still time to go. When winter comes, we can go to the Tangshan Villa together to spend the winter."
"...I used to respect the Minister of the Chancellery for his youthful promise and exceptional talent. However, his talent is not equal to his character. Deceiving a decent young woman is a sin, and his behavior is unbecoming of a gentleman. Nong Nong is naive and unaware of the treacherous nature of human nature. Don't be overwhelmed by the endless favors he showers upon you. The Minister of the Chancellery holds a high position of power and influence, and his wealth is but a drop in the bucket compared to yours. Since he's forced his way in, you should do your best to please him. No amount of flattery is too much."
"Now that we're married, you must be given the proper status. Don't be so foolish as to refuse it. You'll be moving around the capital someday, and those high-ranking officials and noble families value status and family background above all else. Even if you don't care what others think, don't let them look down on you. If someone really comes across you who's too blind, don't be polite. People often bully the weak and fear the strong. If you don't want to get your hands dirty, then tell the Minister of the Chancellery. It's only natural for a husband to vent his anger on his wife's behalf. Otherwise, what's the point of having him?"
"...In the future, Nong Nong accepted my invitation today. Would you be interested in attending various banquets?"
Lan Nongnong smiled carefreely and said, "I don't worry about the future today. At least I have no intention of doing so now."
"Then when Madam Fu's birthday party comes, given your friendship, it would be inappropriate not to attend. How will Nongnong respond? The Prince's residence will also send a gift. If you are too busy to attend, I will go in person. You can come with me then."
"Giving birth is like walking on the gates of hell. I will definitely visit Sister Yingzi if she gives birth safely, just avoid the banquet. I want to thank the princess for her care."
"...it's a small matter, nothing to worry about. I'll be planning a marriage next year...you must come to the wedding day."
Princess Baozhen was slightly tipsy, but her mind was clear. It was just that the alcohol fueled her impulse, and especially when she looked at him intently with her bright eyes, nodding earnestly and looking so well-behaved, she couldn't help but say a few more words.
The people who stayed in the pavilion to serve were all his confidants, so it didn't matter if these words were overheard. Moreover, the ease of opening up to others and speaking freely was truly rare and comfortable.
Lan Nongnong wasn't known for her assertive nature. As the youngest in the family, it was her instinct to listen. Princess Baozhen's words were heartfelt and spoke to her heart, expressing things she couldn't share with anyone else.
My thoughts were temporarily liberated, without having to look back and forth. We shared the same hatred for the enemy, which was really refreshing.
The meal was cleared away, and seasonal fresh fruit and hangover tea were placed on the table. As the two leaned against the beauty's chair and chatted, the clear sky suddenly turned dark, the autumn wind suddenly picked up, and the pearl curtains jingled. The attendants inside and outside the pavilion hurriedly lowered the bamboo curtains, took umbrellas and brought clothes to the front.
"The storm is coming, please put on more clothes, madam."
"My Lady, the wind is rising and there may be rain. I have sent for the carriage to wait. Please come to the hall to talk with the Lady."
The two of them were both a little tipsy and lazy after drinking. The maid escorted them away from the railing and they felt the sky getting overcast and the wind picking up. The warm wine met the cool breeze, which was indescribably comfortable on their bodies and also blew away their slight drunkenness.
Lan Nongnong didn't dare to seek coolness. Biyu tied her cloak on her and pulled up her hood. She snuggled with Qingluo on either side. Looking at Princess Baozhen, who was standing with her hands on her hips facing the wind, she laughed and said, "You've just drunk some wine and are full of heat. You can't seek coolness now. Princess, please stop the wind."
The bamboo curtains had been lowered and tied, but the wind still blew in from both sides. In such weather, a slight breeze was not a big deal, and Princess Baozhen did not care.
I didn't want to look back, and was immediately stunned.
Everyone knew that Madam Ling was in poor health. Princess Baozhen had originally thought that the Minister's meticulous instructions were a sign of pampering, but seeing her looking so well today, she simply assumed that the Minister's love for her was excessive and she was overly nervous.
But now she was wrapped in a cloak, with a hood covering her head, and the maids on both sides were still not enough to support her, so the servants in her house even used their bodies to block the gaps in the bamboo curtains.
No wonder there was no wind in the pavilion. When he went forward to hold her hand, it was icy cold. Her rosy face and lips lost their color, and she exuded a sick air.
At this point, Princess Baozhen finally realized that no wonder the Minister of the Chancellery was so cautious and gave so many instructions, which were truly not excessive at all.
"Why are you so weak?"
After saying this, he raised his hand and pulled off the cloak on his shoulders, and covered her with it awkwardly. He frowned and was about to give her an order, but saw that the servants had already brought her a hand warmer with hot tea.
Suppressing the inexplicable loss in his heart, he asked, "Have you been treated for your chills? Which doctor prescribed the medicine? My doctor is also very skilled. I'll go to the hall later and ask him to take your pulse and prescribe some cold-relieving medicine. Don't catch a cold from the hot wine meeting the cold wind."
Lan Nongnong did not feel inferior because of her illness, but if she returned sick while visiting a host, it would be a burden to the host, so she did not refuse and replied with a smile, "Then I would like to thank the princess in advance."
She accepted it with grace and grace, which made Princess Baozhen feel relaxed and at ease. Her eyebrows raised, and the corners of her lips couldn't help but curl up. "Why thank me? My name is Huaijin, and my courtesy name is Mingluan. From now on, you and I can call each other by our courtesy names."
Lan Nongnong didn't hesitate and nodded immediately, saying, "I don't have a courtesy name, Mingluan, just call me Nongnong."
The two smiled at each other, their minds connected, needless to say.
The autumn rain came suddenly, and as soon as the carriage reached the pavilion, it began to drizzle. Biyu had just sent a maid from the mansion to fetch an umbrella. The distance was less than three meters, but the servants of the two mansions had already held eight umbrellas, completely blocking the road.
The two were surrounded by people and their shoes were not even wet until they got on the bus.
---
Imperial Palace, Metropolitan Hall
The young prince sat at the side of the desk in the central hall, flipping through the memorials he had reviewed. Since the beginning of summer, court sessions had been incorporated into his curriculum, but considering his young age and difficulty grasping them, he came every three days, and these memorials were presented to him in order of difficulty, starting from the most basic to the most complex.
As a teacher, my cousin was truly dedicated and selfless. However, while the young prince was intelligent, he was still young. Born to be admired by everyone, he hadn't experienced many hardships, so his mindset was naturally less mature and his understanding was limited.
As for intelligence, his talent was inherited from his parents, and his knowledge was imparted by the entire nation. He is certainly not the equal of ordinary people, but he is also no match for a child prodigy. Fortunately, although he is not extremely intelligent, he is upright and prudent, and is willing to learn. He will surely become a ruler who will maintain the status quo in the future.
However, people's livelihood, disasters, military reports, advice, national policies, taxes... these microcosms of world affairs are all contained in these memorials. Given the young prince's current experience, it is too complicated and obscure.
He could see the complex rhetoric, the rigorous or straightforward wording, but he had trouble grasping the deeper meaning, the sharpness, and the urgency within. He even racked his brains to decipher the annotations.
Inside the hall, clerks rustled their pens and moved quietly. Suddenly, a gust of wind whistled in the clear sky. Qin Jingyao looked up abruptly, then stood up and walked outside. He stood under the eaves with his hands behind his back, looking up at the sky.
After a few breaths, he turned and went back inside. He strode back to his desk but did not sit down. He handed off the urgent matters and collected several confidential memorials, handing them to the official for sealing. The clerk who delivered the memorials bowed and went forward to clear the desk.
The constant commotion caught the young prince's attention. His brow furrowed slightly, but he knew the rules and didn't ask. Before he could open his mouth, the visitor said, "Governing a country takes time. Your Highness, don't worry. I have received your Majesty's instructions and will do my utmost to fulfill them. The weather is changing, so please return to the palace before it starts to rain."
The young prince turned to look outside the door and saw dark clouds gathering. He nodded and folded the memorial on the table. He walked around the table and bowed slightly with both hands, saying, "Thank you for your help, Minister."
Then he stood up straight, raised his head and smiled, "In that case, I will return to the palace first, cousin, please stay."
After saying this, he nodded and turned to leave with the palace maid.
All the officials in the hall stood up and bowed, saying, "We respectfully send off His Royal Highness the Crown Prince!"
After the prince's carriage started, Qin Jingyao gave some instructions and then led his entourage out of the capital.
---
The doctors who run pharmacies in the capital are already highly skilled in medicine, so the doctors in the prince's mansion are naturally even better.
Lan Nongnong's illness wasn't a difficult one, and Mo Chou's medical skills were exceptional. After taking her pulse, the court physician nodded, then shook his head, saying the prescription was appropriate and needed no modification. He also advised her to put on more clothes and avoid catching a cold. He prescribed a "cold-dispelling and uterine-warming soup" and left.
The rain had turned from a drizzle to a shower, pattering against the eaves and branches with a rustling sound. Lan Nongnong had wanted to enjoy the rain, but the humidity was too strong, and Princess Baozhen, Biyu, and the others disagreed. She could only close the doors and windows and listen to the rain from a distance through the glass windows.
When the servant came to report that the Minister of the Chancellery had arrived, the two were sipping ginger tea and admiring Princess Baozhen's collection of three-color headpieces.
Whenever she saw this, Lan Nongnong would always sigh that it was a work of art beyond measure. Viewing it through the glass cover in the museum was already dazzling. She also had many gorgeous ornaments in her makeup box, but the beautiful headdress in front of her, a blend of white, purple and blue, was really dazzling.
Her eyes were free of greed, filled only with admiration and praise for beautiful things. Princess Baozhen was overjoyed to see her beloved jewelry praised so highly.
One of them has a profound background, the other has a broad vision. The two of them chatted with each other and felt that they had met too late.
But my excitement was suddenly interrupted, which was really disappointing. And now it's raining heavily, so even if I came to pick someone up, I should have waited until the rain stopped, which is too much.
Prince Ren was out fishing with a friend and hadn't returned yet, leaving Princess Baozhen as the only host in the palace. When such an important official arrives, it's imperative not to neglect her.
"Please wait for a moment in the front hall with tea, Lord Linggong. I will be on my way now."
After saying this, Princess Baozhen turned around and raised her eyebrows slightly, saying, "It's raining heavily now, how about a heavy downpour?"
Lan Nongnong also felt unsatisfied. The aunts were like elders, and they had a sincere relationship with Sister Yingzi, acting like both relatives and friends. However, there were some things she couldn't share with them. But with Princess Baozhen, it was like a close friend of the same generation. They shared similar thoughts and ideas, and there was nothing they couldn't talk about. It was a relaxed and carefree experience without any burden.
Lan Nongnong frowned. Whenever she went out, he would always come to meet her, disturbing her mood. She wanted to tell him to go back or ignore him, but her allergy had already affected Prince Ren's residence. If she refused to pay attention, it would make Mingluan feel awkward.
Just as he was about to speak, he heard another message from the Prince's Mansion. The Minister of the Chancellery said there was no need to rush, and asked the Madam and the Princess to enjoy themselves. The scenery of the Prince's Mansion in the rain was uniquely beautiful, and there was no need for formalities. If the rain had not stopped, and the host family was willing to make it easier, the Minister of the Chancellery's carriage could arrive directly outside the hall. He also asked the Princess to stay and not see her off.
After the visitor finished speaking, the hall fell silent. After a few breaths, Princess Baozhen chuckled softly and turned her head to say, "I didn't expect that Lord Linggong could be so knowledgeable and insightful. Nongnong, what do you think?"
Lan Nongnong really wanted to ignore him, but her upbringing wouldn't allow her to wait for others while she played around. It wasn't that she was soft on him, but she had her own persistence.
Then he took a deep breath and smiled carefreely: "I have bothered you for a long time today, it is time to go home. Next time we meet again, we must find good weather and have a good time."
Princess Baozhen made no further attempt to persuade him to stay. Although the man's words were respectable, the high-ranking officials of the imperial court were already seated in the front hall. Without the host to entertain them, it was already a form of neglect. To truly leave them alone was simply insane.
There is still a long way to go.
The two were chatting in the hall of Princess Baozhen's courtyard. The Shangshu Lingfu's carriage, which had been handed over to a maid from the Prince's residence, stopped in front of the door. The accompanying servants held umbrellas and set up curtains. Lan Nongnong, wrapped tightly in her cloak, tried to ask the princess to stay, but was politely declined, citing the importance of hospitality.
I wanted to ride out together, but unexpectedly I was surrounded by maids and went out. I saw two carriages parked there. There is no need to explain the purpose.
Lan Nongnong was suddenly furious and reached out to pull Princess Baozhen away. Was she even going to be deprived of her freedom to ride in the same car with others?!
Princess Baozhen had already stepped towards the carriage of the prince's mansion. Although she despised the Shangshu Ling for deceiving people first and then robbing them, she was also relieved to see that he loved her so much.
Although there were many divorced couples in the Sheng Dynasty, even the Minister of the Court had recently divorced. However, people were different. One was forced into marriage, while the other was forced into marriage with great effort. If the love ever faded, I'm afraid they would just ignore it and not get away with it as easily as Xu.
Therefore, the emphasis is on winning over neglect.
When the carriage reached the front yard, Lan Nongnong did not get out, and she only heard the two of them exchange brief greetings in the rain. When Zhiren got in, he did not even glance at her, but just as he was about to leave, he insisted on opening the window to say goodbye to Princess Baozhen.
While waiting in the front hall just now, the servant accompanying her had already informed her of the day's itinerary and mood. But now, her lips were tightly pursed, her brows were frosted, and she was obviously angry, and she was coming at him.
Qin Jingyao subconsciously reflected on his words and actions, but he really didn't know what he had done wrong to annoy her. He didn't argue, but lifted his robe and knelt in front of her, his face full of affection and a smile, and he admitted his mistake as soon as he opened his mouth.
"It's my fault for disturbing your elegant mood. I hope Madam will be magnanimous and forgive me for once."
Lan Nongnong moved her hand away in time, but the warmth of his palm against her knee made her feel even more uncomfortable. She couldn't push him away, couldn't move him, and perhaps the sudden change from warm to cold had aroused the alcohol, she felt anxious and angry, and kicked him in a fit of rage.
Still not satisfied, she threw away the hand warmer, grabbed his hand and bit it viciously.
A pair of clear, glass-like eyes glared angrily as he demanded, "Can't I ride in the same carriage with someone? Princess Baozhen and I agreed to go out together, yet you sent two carriages? Who are you trying to embarrass?"
Rather than biting, it was more like a kiss as her tongue and throat moved in and out. Qin Jingyao suppressed the smile in his throat, took a deep breath as if in pain, and still begged for mercy in a gentle voice.
"Nong Nong has truly misunderstood me this time. You are my beloved wife, and even if I am embarrassed, I will never allow you to suffer even the slightest humiliation. As for Princess Baozhen, Nong Nong's willingness to accept her banquet indicates her intention to establish a friendship. You and I are one, and if I embarrass her, wouldn't that be a loss of face for you?"
"As for the carriage, Nong Nong is afraid of the cold. Today, with the wind and rain, the carriage must be heated with a heater. Princess Baozhen is healthy. If she gets off the carriage after riding with her, the alternating cold and heat will make her susceptible to cold. If she gets sick from this, won't Nong Nong blame herself and feel uneasy?"
He patiently explained with a smile, his words making perfect sense and impeccable. Lan Nongnong couldn't help but ponder his words, and she felt they made sense. Sudden changes in temperature can easily cause imbalances in the body's perception of temperature, while maintaining a constant temperature can actually be a relief.
Her teeth relaxed slightly as she slowly straightened up, her eyes lowered to the two rows of clear, deep red tooth marks. Her thumb gently stroked them, the uneven texture beneath her fingertips inviting her to rub them involuntarily.
Looking back calmly now, the incident of taking the bus was insignificant. It was only because of the alcohol that I triggered my prejudice and magnified my sensitivity, which caused me to fall into the web of suspicion and unable to extricate myself.
She let out a sigh of relief, her mind gradually becoming clearer, and she secretly warned herself to take this as a warning, stay calm, and think twice before acting.
As the thought flashed through his mind, his brows furrowed again. It had been nearly a year since I'd caught a cold last year. It was bearable in spring and summer, but the slightest chill was unbearable, requiring me to rely on a hand warmer to keep my bed warm all day.
I don’t know when this chills will get better.
It's a good thing to always be wary, but it would be better if you didn't have to use that vigilance on him.
Her fingertips were soft and she unconsciously stroked the marks on the base of his thumb, causing a slight tingling sensation that went straight to her heart.
Qin Jing understood what he meant and felt a tenderness in his heart. He secretly sighed that his kindness was pure after all and that he tended to judge others by his own standards.
"Nong Nong doesn't need to blame herself, as long as you don't misunderstand me."
Lan Nongnong's heart trembled at the words. She had always been a person who took responsibility for her actions. Since she knew that the misunderstanding had hurt others, she should apologize. But when she looked up and saw his smiling face, the words of apology choked in her throat, unable to come out.
However, knowing one's mistakes and not correcting them is not her nature. Just as she was about to take a deep breath and speak solemnly, she was suddenly embraced in a warm embrace.
A joyful chuckle rang out from my ear: "To me, Nong Nong is never wrong. Even to me, there's no need to apologize. As long as you understand my feelings, that's enough."
His Nong Nong was so well-behaved, how could Qin Jingyao bear to ask her to apologize? Besides, he didn't want the place where they were alone to be contaminated by other people's traces, and her "consideration" made him happy instead.
Lan Nongnong's mind was clear, and having made up her mind, she wouldn't let his words lightly reveal her past. Otherwise, it would only make her look unreasonable. Still, she said sternly, "I was rash and shouldn't have made such unwarranted assumptions."
Qin Jingyao was helpless and had no intention of dwelling on the matter. After agreeing, he embraced her and whispered tenderly. This small disturbance was like a dragonfly skimming the water, passing through the lake of his heart, and the ripples lightly dissipated and disappeared.
-
The autumn wind is getting colder and winter is quietly approaching.
As the capital city experienced its first cold snap, the shimmering glazed roof of the Shangshuling Mansion once again covered the corridors. The first snow had just fallen, and the twelfth lunar month had arrived. Red lanterns were already hanging high in front of the Fu Mansion, and red silk was swaying freely. The servants passing by were all beaming with joy. Three days earlier, at the hour of Hai on the fifth day of the twelfth lunar month, Fu's wife, Wang Yingzi, had safely given birth to a daughter, and both mother and daughter were safe.
On the day she received the good news, Lan Nongnong personally wrote a letter and sent it to Fu's residence, promising to visit him three days later. She still remembered her cousin giving birth, and her mother went to attend the birth the very next day. Although medicine flourished in the contemporary era, it was still primarily male-dominated, and few medical records pertaining to women's childbirth were circulated.
She didn't dare to make any rash judgments based on her limited knowledge, so she asked Qin Jingyao to recommend a skilled nurse to Fu's residence. Although she heard that mother and daughter were safe, postpartum care was difficult, and she couldn't rest easy without seeing the real doctor.
She had intended to go the next day, but Biyu dissuaded her, saying that it was not appropriate to see visitors within three days of giving birth, and even if close relatives came to visit, they had to be cautious. Lan Nongnong could only suppress her emotions and wait until today.
The gatekeepers at Fu's residence were all shrewd people. Seeing the Shangshu Ling's carriage from afar, they had already reported it to the inner court. The housekeeper, upon hearing the news, hurriedly passed on the message. How could they dare neglect the arrival of the Shangshu Ling's wife?
Lan Nongnong had no intention of bothering her host with a welcome. Today was the third day of the lunar year, and the Fu residence was already busy. Just as she was about to disembark, Biyu Qingluo gently stopped her, saying, "Madam, your kindness is well-meaning, but you are representing the Shangshu Ling residence today. Your Excellency is a second-rank official, the highest among all officials. Even if you don't have an imperial decree, you still hold the dignity of Madam Fu. Since Madam Fu is unable to come out to greet you, it would be proper for Your Excellency to come personally."
Biyu added in a gentle voice, "Even if it's just an ordinary guest, Master Fu should still go out to greet him."
Lan Nongnong has always been self-aware. Interpersonal relationships are indeed her weakness. Since she knows her shortcomings, it is always right to listen to advice. She waited quietly in the car, drinking half a cup of hot tea, until she heard a sound outside the car.
"I have troubled Madam Linggong to wait for you for so long. I apologize for not being able to come and greet you. I hope you will forgive me."
Although Fu Zhirong held a fourth-rank official rank, he was also the heir apparent of a marquisate, a title that already placed him above ordinary officials. Even if he were a consort of imperial decree, he was still considered an outsider, and logically, his status was inferior to that of a member of the imperial clan.
Yet, he now referred to himself by his official title, humbly calling himself "Humble Official," lowering his status to show respect. This respect was half for her, and the other half for the Shangshu Ling, who treated his wife like his life.
Lan Nongnong got out of the car upon hearing the voice, nodded slightly in return, and said gently, "Master Fu, you are too kind. Your family is celebrating a great occasion today, and I am sorry to bother you by coming here."
Fu Zhirong didn't dare to look closely, only taking a quick glance. He sighed inwardly, the rumors about the Duke's wife being frail were indeed true. She was wrapped in a thick cloak with a pink base and white trims, an unknown source of precious material. Even her mouth and nose were covered with a velvet scarf, revealing only a pair of beautiful eyes and eyebrows, a look of grace and elegance.
"It is an honor for me and my wife to have you here, Madam. My wife has been looking forward to your visit for a long time. It is cold and it is not suitable for us to stand for long. Please come in and chat with me, Madam."
He led the way sideways until they reached the gate of the courtyard, then bowed and said goodbye.
The room was as warm as spring. Although Wang Yingzi had gone through the hardships of childbirth, she had been well-recuperated and had a good physical condition. After three days of rest, although her face was still pale, her eyes were bright and she was in good spirits.
When she saw Lan Nongnong coming in, her eyes suddenly lit up and she smiled and opened her arms: "It's so cold, it's hard for you to come see me! Come here quickly!"
Lan Nongnong was afraid that the cold air from her body would disturb the new mother, so she took off her cloak and warmed herself by the copper stove. Then she quickly approached her, held her hand and looked at her carefully: "Sister Yingzi, are you okay?"
His fingertips quietly placed her pulse, which, though slightly slow, was strong and steady. Her lips were pale, her cheeks plump, her eyes bright, her whole body clean and refreshed, evidently well cared for and not seriously injured.
Lan Nongnong felt a little relieved, thinking that if she could rest well during the confinement period, she would surely recover as before.
The Queen Mother had already stood up and stepped aside, and only then did she see the true appearance of the Lady Ling Gong, whose name she had heard of for so long.
Her skin was fairer than snow, making her eyes appear even brighter. Her nose was delicate, her lips slightly curved, and her cheeks were plump and radiant. While her features weren't dazzling, they were graceful and well-proportioned. Any more would be too much, and any less would be insufficient.
The most touching thing is the dimple on her cheek when she smiles, which is so shallow and sweet that it penetrates the heart.
Looking at her long black hair, unlike ordinary women who tie it all up, most of it falls behind her like a waterfall, swaying slightly with her steps. It is soft, black and shiny, and one can tell at a glance that it is the result of years of careful care.
Her hair was tied up in a loose bun, and she wore a hair crown carved from rare purple jade, inlaid with kingfisher feathers and gems. The gold and jade colors complemented each other, making it look extremely luxurious.
She wore a white jacket with purple and pink lining, the collar and sleeves trimmed with fluffy white velvet, which made her look like a piece of jade carved from ice, with an elegant temperament. Her back was straight, her movements were calm and graceful, but her expression was free and easy.
Meeting her gaze, I felt her eyes were clear and calm, clearly the kind of elegance cultivated through immersion in poetry and literature. If I hadn't known she was an orphan, based on just this one encounter, I'd have believed she was the pampered daughter of a distinguished family.
"Mother... mother?"
Seeing her mother staring at someone, completely oblivious to her formalities, Wang Yingzi suppressed a smile and called out softly. A maid nudged Madam Wang, bringing her back to her senses, nudged her. She saw Madam Linggong's wife standing before her, beaming. She quickly handed her granddaughter to the nurse and bowed, saying, "Madam, your beauty is truly breathtaking. I was momentarily distracted. I hope you will forgive any indiscretion."
Lan Nongnong blushed slightly at the words. She knew her appearance was merely delicate, at best, above average. But it was only because of her wealth and wealth that she had access to finery that she was adorned with extravagance. Sometimes, when she looked in the mirror, she noticed a change in her appearance and demeanor.
However, she knew very well that if one was surrounded by respect and served attentively by others, even an ordinary person would be able to exude some extraordinary demeanor, and it was not worth it to be proud of it.
On the contrary, Yingzi's mother, who was said to be over forty, was considered to be in good shape, with the exception of a few elegant lines at the corners of her eyes when she smiled, but her figure, appearance, and aura were all of a superior quality. Her every move and gesture exuded the dignity and grace of an official's wife, which was truly captivating.
"Aunt, absolutely not. Sister Yingzi and I are like sisters. How can I accept your gift?"
It was the first time that Lan Nongnong had been so close to the nobles here. Not to mention their appearance, just their demeanor reminded her of her mother. How could she allow an elder to salute her?
She was about to help him up with her own hands, but Biyu and Qingluo behind her had already stepped forward and lifted him up steadily.
When Mrs. Wang heard her calling herself a junior, she was slightly startled. She stood up and looked up, and saw that she was smiling softly, and her eyes were as clear as spring water, without any dust or impurities.
Such pure and open eyes allow people to see the sincerity and honesty in her heart at a glance.
Mrs. Wang's heart softened, and she stood up, a genuine smile unconsciously spreading across her eyes. "Since Madam is so kind, I will boldly accept the offer."
She took the baby from the wet nurse's arms, gently cradling it in her arms, and asked softly, "This is the daughter Yingzi gave birth to with so much effort. Madam, would you like to see her?"
"Of course I'll see."
Lan Nongnong leaned over to take a closer look. She had never paid much attention to Mr. Fu's appearance, but this little baby had clearly inherited the good looks of both his mother and grandmother.
The baby's hair was thick, black, and its skin was white, with a faint, ink-like down tuft between its brows. The baby was fast asleep, its eyes closed, yet its eyeliner was visible, its eyelashes curled like a butterfly resting. Its nose was straight, and its lips moved slightly, as if it were sucking in its sleep.
Two small fists as white and tender as eggs were clenched on the cheeks, and the delicate and soft look made people's hearts tremble.
Lan Nongnong's lips curled up unconsciously. It turned out that this was the "little culprit" who caused her to have nightmares for several days.
She had heard her mother tell her that visiting a newborn baby without food was forbidden, as it would be seen as "looking at something unpleasant." Although she knew that this custom did not exist in the Sheng Dynasty, the etiquette of "adding blessings and joy" still existed.
This year, the Year of the Sheep, she specially selected a piece of fine white jade, drew the design herself, and had a craftsman carve it into a charming jade sheep. She also hand-wrought and boiled the red string that holds the jade, making it flexible and gentle on the skin.
However, I didn't put it on yet, fearing that the baby's wrists would get tangled. I also had a set of rotating jade goat ornaments for the four seasons, each about the size of an adult's fist.
Biyu had already handed the Four Seasons Jade Sheep to a servant in the Fu Mansion. The jade was as smooth as cream, and the sheep, carved from the four seasons, was so precious that even someone unfamiliar with jade would recognize its value. This gift was not only valuable, but also showed the thoughtfulness of the gift.
The mother and daughter smiled at each other, both moved.
Lan Nongnong didn't dare to touch the baby at first, until Mrs. Wang encouraged her with a smile, then she carefully touched the baby's hand. Unexpectedly, the sleeping baby suddenly grabbed her thumb.
The feeling of a soft, warm embrace instantly overwhelmed Lan Nongnong, and her breath hitched. Though the baby's hands were small, their strength was not to be underestimated. The tender touch was like a subtle electric current, running from her fingertips to her heart, causing her whole body to freeze, even holding her breath.
She was so fragile that it seemed as if the slightest exertion would hurt her.
It was Madam Wang who came to the rescue with a smile: "Madam's aura is so pure that even babies feel close to her."
As she spoke, she gently brushed the baby's fingers away. Lan Nongnong was finally able to pull her hand away, forcing a smile. A tingling sensation still lingered on her spine. She unconsciously curled her thumb, which had been held, into her palm, but the fragile yet stubborn grip lingered.
She gently placed the smooth, warm white jade sheep into the baby's palm. The little hand instinctively closed around it, unconsciously clenching this auspicious gift, its expression so tender and innocent that it moved one's heart.
Knowing that she was here to visit her daughter, Mrs. Wang considerately made an excuse to change clothes and went next door with the child.
Lan Nongnong was finally able to sit down. She took out a hand-embroidered headband and tied it on Wang Yingzi. She then took the hot tea and asked softly, "Have you chosen a name?"
Wang Yingzi raised her hand and gently stroked the embroidery on her forehead, a warm smile spreading across her eyes. "My full name is Sirui, and my nickname is Xile."
"Joy, happiness, and prosperity, auspicious stars are shining brightly. What a good word."
Lan Nongnong praised her sincerely and asked her about her postpartum recovery. She was relieved to know that Mrs. Wang had taken care of her personally and that Wang Yingzi had not suffered much except for the pain during childbirth.
"I've been so busy these days that I haven't been able to see you. Actually, given the affection we have for each other, it wouldn't matter if you didn't come. It's so cold today, can you stand it?"
Lan Nongnong couldn't help but laugh: "How could I be that delicate? Sister, don't worry about me. But you are in confinement now, so you must be extremely careful. I heard that if you don't take care of yourself properly during confinement, you will easily develop chronic diseases in the future."
Wang Yingzi chuckled, and her pale cheeks actually showed some color. Looking at her delicate eyebrows and clear eyes, she was clearly still a girl, but she chose to adopt such a mature tone, which was really hilarious.
"Okay, okay, I'll do as you say. I'll definitely instruct my servants to take good care of it and won't neglect it."
Then he asked casually, "Will Lord Linggong take you to the palace banquet this year?"
Lan Nongnong shook her head slightly. She had never even shown up at a banquet at a wealthy and powerful mansion, let alone a solemn and formal occasion like a palace banquet.
Wang Yingzi didn't know the inside story. She just thought that the Minister of the Chancellery didn't want to take her with him, or that the palace didn't allow it. She couldn't help but frown.
While attending the palace banquet was ostensibly a celebration, it was in reality a symbol of status and favor. Those in the capital who could receive this privilege were undoubtedly the most powerful and influential. Although Nong Nong and the Minister of Chancellery had married, they had always used an assumed name and had never been summoned to the palace to pay their respects. Now, if she were not even allowed to attend the banquet, it would be a clear signal to the world that the Emperor and Empress did not recognize her status.
Even with the support of the Shangshu Ling, she was still not legitimate in the eyes of the public and was inevitably looked down upon.
With the Shangshu Ling's foresight, how could he not know the key to this? If he loves her so much, how could he allow her to suffer such injustice?
Wang Yingzi leaned on the soft pillow, thinking hard. When he looked up again and saw her nonchalant look, he couldn't help laughing, but it made him even more worried. You know, there are only more than twenty days left before the New Year's Day palace banquet.
"Nong Nong really doesn't want to go?"
Lan Nongnong did not hide anything and shook her head calmly: "Sister, you know I'm not good at socializing. The palace etiquette is complicated. I'm afraid I'll feel very uncomfortable if I go. It's better to be quiet and free."
Wang Yingzi suddenly realized that she had misunderstood. If Nongnong cared about her status, she would not have been willing to bear the title of "Mrs. Yao" in the first place.
She felt sad that the other party did not change his original heart despite being rich and powerful, and she couldn't help but worry about him. In this world, if you want to keep your original intention, you often have to endure more hardships than others.
"What if the palace issues an order that you must go?"
Before she could answer, Wang Yingzi took her hand and said earnestly, "Nong Nong is very intelligent. If you are willing to take the trouble, you can clearly understand the pros and cons of the world. I just hope you understand that retreating from the world is not always beneficial. Sometimes showing up appropriately may bring unexpected gains."
She sighed softly and said, "It's a pity that I can't accompany you this year. If you really want to attend the banquet, you might as well go with Princess Baozhen. The Queen has no daughters, so she is very fond of this princess."
Lan Nongnong knew that she was thinking entirely of herself, and she was grateful in her heart, but she just smiled and said that she would consider it carefully.
The third-day bath banquet was held at noon. Seeing that the guests were about to arrive, and seeing that Wang Yingzi was still weak, it was inconvenient to disturb her for long. He repeatedly told her to rest well and not to overwork herself, and then he got up to say goodbye.
In order to avoid meeting the guests in the front yard, he got into the car through the back door and left.
Qin Jingyao and Fu Zhirong were close friends, so he naturally accepted the invitation to celebrate the birth of a new child. However, he was late in leaving the palace, and by the time he arrived, all the guests had already arrived.
Facing the curious and disappointed gazes of the crowd around him, he calmly ordered people to present the gifts and exchanged a tacit nod with Fu Zhirong.
As the most respected person at the banquet, he naturally had an excellent view of the ceremony. The midwife, holding the baby, which was no longer than his arm, chanted auspicious words in her arms. The baby's loud cry drew cheers from the whole room.
The corners of his lips curled up slightly, but the jade piece between his fingers unconsciously closed slowly.
After the ceremony, Qin Jingyao shared a single drink with Fu Zhirong at the start of the meal before departing. Given his alcohol tolerance, a single drink would have been insignificant, but today's wine seemed to burn directly into his heart, igniting a sense of restlessness.
The carriage did not return to the capital, but went straight to the mansion.
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