The Prisoner of Beauty

East Chamber.

Madam Zhu sat on the couch, her hand resting on her forehead, her eyes vacant. Before her, the scene of sending her son off kept replaying: her son bid a solemn farewell to his grandmother, showing utmost respect. Yet, when it came to saying goodbye to her, he merely told her not to worry, with just a few words.

She had long known the place that old woman held in her son's heart over the past twenty years, and she had never expected to surpass her.

But just before he left, Madam Zhu noticed that his gaze lingered on Qiao Nü's face.

The way her son looked at Qiao Nü once again stirred deep anger and disappointment within Madam Zhu.

She dared not confront Madam Xu directly. However, she had no reservations about venting her frustrations on her daughter-in-law, who was naturally of lower status.

Why should the daughter of an enemy family surpass her in her son's eyes as well?

The more Madam Zhu thought about it, the angrier she became. Her head ached, and her chest felt tight. Hearing footsteps behind her, she turned to see Jiang Nao approaching.

Jiang Nao brought Madam Zhu a bowl of prepared snow frog soup. Madam Zhu took a couple of sips before setting it down.

Jiang Nao urged, "Madam, you've been working hard these days. Snow frog soup is excellent for calming the mind and nourishing the spirit. Have a few more sips."

Madam Zhu pushed the bowl away, shaking her head. "I really can't eat anything. Just seeing Qiao Nü putting on airs makes me feel suffocated."

Jiang Nao sighed, "I feel the same way. Who knows what she said to Elder Madam, but now Elder Madam only has eyes for her. Yesterday, Shi Nao from the storeroom came to complain to me, saying that although Madam hasn't removed her from her position as steward, she's already using someone else to handle the accounts. In just a few days, she's started meddling with Madam's people. Given more time, I fear Madam won't even have a place to stand."

Madam Zhu's heart raced as her worries were laid bare, and her expression grew even more grim. After a long pause, she said, "She has Elder Madam's backing. What can I do?"

Jiang Nao glanced behind her, then leaned in and whispered, "Madam, a few days ago, I went to visit Zheng Shu as you instructed. When I returned, there were some things I couldn't bear to tell you, fearing it would upset you."

Madam Zhu asked, "What things? Speak quickly!"

Jiang Nao sighed, "When Zheng Shu returned home, her aunt, fearing Elder Madam's pressure, hastily arranged a marriage for her. Her husband is rough and inconsiderate, and now Zheng Shu is living a very difficult life. When I saw her, she was crying uncontrollably. I didn't dare mention it when I returned, afraid it would sadden you."

Madam Zhu's face showed pain, "I've harmed my niece!"

Jiang Nao said, "How is it your fault? Zheng Shu still speaks of you with endless gratitude. It's just that when she mentioned..." She paused, then gestured toward the west chamber, "when she mentioned the one in that room, she was filled with hatred."

Madam Zhu gritted her teeth, "I hate her too! But what can I do?"

Jiang Nao's eyes flickered, "There might be a way. It depends on whether Madam is willing to go through with it."

Madam Zhu was startled, "What way?"

Jiang Nao leaned closer and whispered, "The great shaman knows the art of curses. I've heard that if you obtain someone's birth date and make a doll, the great shaman can cast a spell on it. With enough resentment, within ten to fifteen days, the person will fall ill and die. The best part is that there will be no signs, and no one will suspect anything."

Madam Zhu was shocked, "You're suggesting I kill Qiao Nü?"

Jiang Nao quickly knelt, "Madam, forgive me! I spoke out of anger and frustration! If Madam cannot bear it, please pretend I never said it!"Zhu Shi waved her hand, "I am not blaming you!" She was in a state of turmoil, finding it difficult to make a decision. Her breathing gradually became rapid, and her face alternated between red and pale. For a moment, she felt that Jiang Nao's plan was perfectly in line with her own desires. But then, she felt a sense of trepidation and dared not act.

Jiang Nao glanced at her expression and said in a low voice, "Madam, it's not that this servant is being presumptuous. The Qiao family has always harbored an irreconcilable enmity with you, wishing they could eliminate you to avenge the spirits of the late master and young master in heaven. Despite your kindness, the Qiao woman not only fails to be grateful but instead opposes you at every turn. Only someone as magnanimous as you could tolerate her, yet you are being forced to retreat step by step."

Zhu Shi clenched her fist tightly, her nails digging deep into her palm, and said through gritted teeth, "What you say is not without reason! If I continue to retreat, I fear she will eventually drive me into a corner!"

Jiang Nao replied, "It's not that you are intolerant of her, but rather that you are seeking revenge for the late master and young master who perished that day!"

At the thought of the pain of losing her husband and son, Zhu Shi felt as if her heart was being torn apart. She turned to look at Jiang Nao, "How should we proceed to ensure it is done properly?"

Jiang Nao lowered her voice even further, "To be honest, this plan was not my idea, but rather Zheng Shu's. If you agree, Madam, I will leave the residence once more and entrust this matter to Zheng Shu. She will handle it discreetly, ensuring it remains hidden from prying eyes. If it succeeds, no one will suspect it was your doing!"

Upon hearing that it was her niece's idea, Zhu Shi felt even more aligned with the plan and no longer hesitated. She nodded, "That is indeed good. In the next couple of days, find the right opportunity to go again and convey my words to her. Tell her to be extremely careful and not leave any evidence that could be used against her."

Jiang Nao acknowledged the order.

...

Near the city gate in the southern part of the city, there was a family surnamed Liu. Although their ancestors were not prominent and they were a modest household, they owned a three-sectioned house and over a hundred acres of land, with no shortage of servants. Last year, their son was recommended by the local authorities for his filial piety and became the chief clerk in the nearby Chang County government office. They were a respectable and well-off family, though not among the elite.

Half a year ago, a matchmaker came to propose a marriage between the Liu family's son and a niece from the Zheng family. The Liu parents learned that although Zheng Shu's parents had passed away, she had an aunt who was the mistress of the Wei family, a noble household. Zheng Shu had lived in the Wei residence for many years before returning to the Zheng family. Although they did not know why Zheng Shu had remained unmarried at such an age and had returned to the Zheng family alone, they saw this as an opportunity to forge a connection with the Wei family. Without hesitation, they agreed to the marriage, feeling that they were the ones benefiting from the match. Three months later, Zheng Shu entered the Liu household. The Liu parents, seeing Zheng Shu's exceptional beauty and generous dowry, were delighted. Moreover, due to her connection with the Wei family, they dared not act as authoritative elders in front of her, instead treating her with utmost care and respect. The Liu son, enamored with his new wife's beauty, was also deeply pleased.The Liu family had initially thought that a heavenly match had descended upon them, unexpectedly gaining a favorable marriage alliance. However, they never anticipated that in less than half a month, Zheng Shu would begin to show her true colors. Every day, she would either complain about the coarse and unpalatable food or punish the servants for their clumsiness and inadequate service. At first, the Liu parents endured it, thinking that she was accustomed to a life of luxury in the Wei household and that it was only natural for her to struggle with the adjustment to their modest home. They redoubled their efforts to cater to her needs. Little did they expect that Zheng Shu, confident that the Liu family would not dare to oppose her, would vent all her resentment and dissatisfaction from being expelled from the Wei household onto her in-laws. As time went on, she not only frequently scolded the servants but also began to defy her parents-in-law. As for her husband, she mocked him relentlessly, calling him useless. She would occasionally share his bed when she was in the mood, but when she was displeased, she would shut him out entirely. By now, the Liu parents were filled with regret, lamenting their earlier greed for wealth, which had sown the seeds of their current misery. Zheng Shu often invoked the authority of the Wei household's matriarch to intimidate them, leaving them with no room for resistance. As for the Liu son, he now feared his wife like a tiger and had taken to avoiding her by staying in the county town, rarely returning home. The household had become entirely Zheng Shu's domain.

One day, the sun was already high in the sky when Zheng Shu finally woke up from her drunken slumber the night before. She lazily got up and was being attended to while having her hair combed when the Liu parents noticed a green-felt mule cart stopping at their gate. An elderly woman with a slight limp stepped out, and they recognized her as the dignified old woman who had visited from the Wei household a few days earlier. Not daring to be negligent, they hurried out to greet her. Jiang Nao, however, barely acknowledged the Liu parents, giving them only a perfunctory nod before walking in as if she owned the place. Hearing that Jiang Nao had arrived, Zheng Shu's face lit up with joy, and she personally welcomed her into her room, ordering the maids to serve tea and snacks. She smiled and said, "Auntie, you just visited me a few days ago. I was wondering when I'd see you again!"

Jiang Nao responded with a few cheerful words and then gave her a meaningful look. Understanding that Jiang Nao had something to say, Zheng Shu dismissed the servants, closed the door tightly, and asked, "Auntie, you've come back so soon. Is there something you need to tell me?"

Jiang Nao beckoned her closer and whispered something in her ear. After hearing it, Zheng Shu's expression changed slightly, and she hesitated. Jiang Nao then said, "This is Madam's intention. Madam is currently suffering greatly because of that Qiao woman and has no choice but to take action. However, she cannot do it herself, so she has entrusted this matter to you, her most trusted confidante. Think about it—if it weren't for that Qiao woman, would you have been driven out of the Wei household and forced to marry into such a shabby family?" As she spoke, she cast a disdainful glance around the room's furnishings.

Zheng Shu, her heart stirred by these words, clenched her teeth and said, "Auntie, you're absolutely right!"

Jiang Nao smiled and said, "Madam has said that as long as this matter is successfully handled, she is willing to spare no expense. This time, she has even provided some initial funds for your convenience." With that, she pulled out a money pouch from her satchel and opened it, revealing gold ingots inside.

Zheng Shu had always harbored a deep hatred for Qiao. Being forced to marry into the Liu family, she had thought her life was over, but now her aunt had suddenly devised a plan to eliminate Qiao, which aligned perfectly with her own desires. Moreover, her aunt had sent her trusted confidante Jiang Nao to enlist her help—how could she refuse? After some consideration, she made up her mind and said, "I'll take the money first; it will be useful for dealing with the Great Sorceress. The Great Sorceress doesn't easily agree to such requests, but fortunately, I have some past connections with her. If I plead earnestly, she might just agree. You can go back and wait for my news."Jiang Nao was delighted. The two of them each emphasized the importance of keeping the matter absolutely secret, whispering and plotting repeatedly in hushed tones. Only after finalizing their plan did Zheng Shu casually escort Jiang Nao out.

……

Three days had passed since Wei Shao left Yuyang with his troops.

With Wei Shao gone, Xiao Qiao was relieved of her duty to attend to her husband, granting her much more freedom. Over these three days, apart from some household matters that required her attention, she would head to the north house as soon as she opened her eyes in the morning and only return after Madam Xu had retired for the night.

That evening, after Madam Xu had taken her medicine and was about to rest, she smiled and told Xiao Qiao that she need not keep such a close watch over her starting the next day.

Xiao Qiao replied, "With my husband away on the campaign, the west house feels empty and lonely. Staying there alone holds no appeal for me. I’d rather come here to keep you company, Grandmother. I only fear that my clumsiness might get in your way."

Madam Xu shook her head and chuckled, "How could that be? Your grandmother would be more than happy to have you by her side all the time. I’m just worried you might overexert yourself. Besides, keeping an old woman like me company can’t be very interesting, I know that."

Xiao Qiao smiled gently, "Grandmother, your kindness is something I can never get enough of. How could it be uninteresting? Once you’ve fully recovered, I’ll take it easy without you having to chase me away. I only hope you won’t blame me then."

Zhong Ao, who was standing nearby, chimed in, "The young mistress’s filial piety is commendable. And this is only right. Elder Madam, you needn’t feel sorry for her. Once you’re well, you can shower her with even more affection."

Madam Xu laughed and said, "Very well. With my grandson away, I’ll enjoy the blessings of having my granddaughter-in-law by my side."

Xiao Qiao helped her lie down and settled her comfortably. She stayed by her side until Madam Xu gradually drifted off to sleep, then got up and was escorted out by Zhong Ao. Returning to her west house, she felt exhausted. She went to the bathhouse for a hot soak, dressed afterward, and sat alone by the lamp.

It was already quite late. The daytime bustle had faded, and the vast Wei residence had settled into the tranquility of night.

Xiao Qiao slowly dried her long hair, lost in thought, when suddenly Chun Niang entered and whispered something in her ear. Xiao Qiao instructed her to bring the person in. Moments later, Huang Nao from the east house entered cautiously, bowing to Xiao Qiao upon entering the room.

Xiao Qiao motioned for her to rise and offered her a seat. Huang Nao repeatedly declined, saying she dared not.

Xiao Qiao smiled and asked, "Chun Niang said you have something to tell me?"

Huang Nao stepped forward and spoke in a low voice, "These past few days, following your instructions, I’ve been keeping a close eye on Madam and that Jiang Nao. This afternoon, after Madam had fallen asleep, Jiang Nao changed her clothes and quietly left the residence through the back gate. She didn’t take a carriage or bring anyone with her. Seeing her behavior as suspicious, I secretly followed her. Do you know where she went, my lady?"

Huang Nao paused. Seeing Xiao Qiao’s gaze fixed on her, she continued in a hushed tone, "She went to a grand mansion with high walls in the western part of the city. When I followed her, I saw her slip through the back gate as if someone was waiting for her inside, and she disappeared immediately. I couldn’t get too close, so I waited at a distance. In less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, she came out furtively and hurried back to the residence. The more I thought about it, the stranger it seemed. Remembering your instructions, I came to report this."

Xiao Qiao asked, "Do you know who owns that mansion?"

Huang Nao replied, "Having lived in Yuyang for decades, I know a thing or two. It seems to be the residence of a widowed Marquis Li."

Xiao Qiao had her describe the location and address in detail. After thorough questioning and ensuring there were no omissions, she instructed Chun Niang to give Huang Nao a reward. Huang Nao hesitated but eventually accepted it, expressing her gratitude profusely.Xiao Qiao smiled gently and said, "You did well today, Auntie. When you return, make sure not to let any news slip. If there’s any unusual activity, come and inform me."

Huang Nao hurriedly replied, "I dare not accept such praise from the lady. This servant’s only wish is to serve you well. I shall take my leave now to avoid being noticed."

Xiao Qiao nodded with a smile. After Huang Nao left, she pondered for a moment and then asked Chun Niang, "The other day, you helped me deliver a letter. Is that person still here?"

Chun Niang answered, "He should still be here. From what I gathered from the gentleman’s words, it seems he has some old acquaintances in Yuyang and plans to stay a few more days to visit them before returning."

After replying, Chun Niang noticed that Xiao Qiao had fallen silent, as if lost in thought. At first, she didn’t dare to disturb her, but eventually, she couldn’t hold back and asked, "I’ve noticed that the lady seems preoccupied these past few days. What exactly is going on? Why are you asking about that gentleman’s whereabouts again?"

The "gentleman" Chun Niang referred to was the man who, a few days ago, had delivered a letter from Bi Zhi and Da Qiao to Yuyang. In the letter, Da Qiao had mentioned that the man’s name was Zong Ji, a scion of a noble family from Xuzhou. His family had a long-standing feud with Xue Tai, and in his youth, his family was ruined. He later studied martial arts under a master and became a wandering swordsman, traveling far and wide. A few months ago, he returned to Xuzhou to assassinate Xue Tai but failed. Injured and in danger, he was rescued by Bi Zhi. As wandering swordsmen value their promises, and the two men admired each other, Zong Ji immediately vowed to serve Bi Zhi in gratitude for saving his life. When he learned that Bi Zhi and Da Qiao wanted to send a letter north to Yuyang, he mentioned that he had traveled there in his youth and still had a few old acquaintances in the area. He offered to deliver the letter for them.

In these turbulent times, the roads were fraught with danger, and communication between the north and south was especially difficult. Countless letters from separated families had been lost along the way. With Zong Ji’s promise, Da Qiao immediately wrote a letter and entrusted him to deliver it to her younger sister.

In the letter, Da Qiao also mentioned that if there was a reply, it could be safely entrusted to Zong Ji to bring back. That was why, the other day, Xiao Qiao had written a reply and asked Chun Niang to deliver it to the inn where Zong Ji was staying.

Now, hearing Chun Niang’s question, Xiao Qiao pondered for a moment and said, "Tomorrow, accompany me to meet that gentleman. I have a favor to ask of him."

Author’s note: The interaction between the Lord and Xiao Qiao in the last chapter was so much fun to write. Why is everyone so tense? It’s making me nervous too!

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Also, Grandma is doing fine!