After chatting for a while, Minglan took Hualan to Xuanzhi Garden to pay respects to the Grand Old Madam. The Grand Old Madam was very courteous to Hualan, speaking warmly and deliberately trying to build a connection. She even made a point to praise Kang Yima with phrases like "amiable" and "dignified and respectable." Unexpectedly, Hualan immediately lost interest and responded coolly, barely engaging in the conversation.
In her view, her younger sister Rulan had been led astray by that despicable aunt, causing her to abandon herself and fall for a poor, shabby scholar. What did it matter if he was a twice-selected imperial scholar? He still had to rely on the Sheng family. And what if he was a compiler in the Hanlin Academy? Her Wang family cousin, though only a xiucai, had already purchased an official position through ancestral influence and money. Marrying into the Wen family was uncertain—who knew how many years it would take to see any success? It couldn’t compare to the Wang family’s immense wealth and extensive network of relatives and friends. If they wanted to engage in business, they had connections; if they sought an official post, they had generations of family friends and uncles.
Wanting to take advantage of others while being quick to burn bridges, the Kang family was like a piece of sticky taffy to the Sheng family—impossible to shake off or get rid of. Yuanwenshao had finally secured a horse-breeding deal with pastures beyond the pass, but as soon as Madam Wang carelessly mentioned it, Kang Yima wanted to get in on the action. It infuriated Hualan to no end—these days, even one’s own mother couldn’t be fully trusted.
Seeing Hualan’s lack of enthusiasm, the Grand Old Madam spoke a few more words before dispersing listlessly.
After seeing Hualan off, Minglan noticed the fine weather and decided to step out of her sedan chair, strolling leisurely back to her residence. Lüzhi, walking beside her, fretted, "Madam, you’re heavily pregnant—why walk such a long way?" Xiahe said gently, "Sister, don’t worry. I’ve been counting—Madam has only taken about three hundred steps. It’s perfectly fine." Minglan couldn’t help but chuckle to herself. At six months, pregnancy was the most stable period; walking a few steps was no issue—it was hardly different from squeezing onto a bus.
As they walked and neared Jiaxi Residence, Minglan didn’t feel like announcing her arrival early and continued her slow pace. From a distance, she could hear what sounded like an argument inside the courtyard. Surprised, she glanced at the two maids beside her. Xiahe and Lüzhi were equally astonished—Jiaxi Residence was usually harmonious, and especially since Minglan’s pregnancy, disputes had become rare.
They heard Caihuan’s sweet, delicate voice from inside: "...Sister Danju, Sister Xiayu is still young. She only broke a few small trinkets, and you’re already talking about punishments—not just deducting her monthly allowance but even suggesting a beating. Isn’t that too harsh?"
Hearing this voice, Minglan unconsciously curved her lips slightly. This maid had become rather lively lately.
Danju’s voice held suppressed anger: "Xiayu is responsible for managing the daily utensils. Yesterday, she broke a Ru kiln bowl, and just now she smashed a jade porcelain gourd vase. These aren’t ordinary dishes—they’re valuable items. Shouldn’t she be punished?"
Caihuan laughed brightly: "Oh, Sister Danju, whether something is valuable depends on the context. In an ordinary, modest household, such items would indeed be too precious to break. But what family are we? These things are hardly worth mentioning. If no one pointed them out, Madam probably wouldn’t even notice."
Then came Xiayu’s ingratiating and humble voice: "Sister Danju, I’ve told you before that I’m naturally careless and not suited for managing utensils, but you wouldn’t listen. Now..."Danju’s voice was strained with suppressed anger. “You’re certainly quick with your excuses! When I assign you to sweeping duties, you claim you were among the first batch Mama Chang selected and refuse to do menial work. When I ask you to take up a stationary post, you say you can’t stand or sit for long. What exactly do you want to do?”
“Heh, isn’t it obvious? She wants to serve the master and mistress in their chambers!” That was the sharp voice of young Cuixiu. “Pah! As if she’s worthy!” A wave of giggles followed.
Xiahe hurriedly defended herself, “I wouldn’t dare! I’ve always been in charge of delicate tasks like arranging clothes and bedding. If Sister Danju would let me continue with that work, I’d surely make no mistakes.”
Caihuan’s languid voice chimed in, “Danju, didn’t you think this through properly when first assigning duties?”
Outside the door, Minglan’s expression darkened. She had never liked unfamiliar hands touching her personal garments. Moreover, since her marriage, intimate moments with her husband were frequent, making bedding items particularly susceptible to gossip. Xiahe was cautious, Xiazhu was honest, and both had been purchased from outside with no relatives in the mansion. Aside from them and a few others like Danju and Xiaotao, Minglan never allowed anyone else to handle these items.
Lüzhi, standing beside Minglan, was already fuming and itching to rush out and scold them. Minglan glanced at Xiahe beside her, and the clever maid immediately stepped forward, calling out loudly, “What’s all this noise! Can’t you see the mistress is here?”
The courtyard fell silent instantly. Minglan walked slowly past the assembled maids without a word, each one bowing their heads, not daring to speak. After Minglan entered the room, a moment later, Lüzhi emerged and summoned Danju and Caihuan inside.
Danju looked ashamed. As soon as she saw Minglan, she stammered, “Mistress, it’s all my fault. I didn’t manage them properly…” Minglan cut her off swiftly, “I’ve told you before—compassion is necessary, but indulgence is not. From what I heard today, this isn’t the first time Xiahe has behaved this way. I wasn’t aware that selecting competent maids from throughout the mansion was so difficult. Is she truly indispensable?” Danju’s eyes welled with tears. She had long wanted to discipline Xiahe, but every time she intended to, Caihuan would interfere.
In terms of seniority, Caihuan had entered the inner household even earlier than Danju and Xiaotao. In status, she was a first-rank maid serving Madam Wang. Back in the Sheng family, maids from Minglan’s side had to flatter Madam Wang’s attendants. Now, in the Gu mansion, she found herself subordinate to Danju, which naturally chafed at Caihuan.
“Caihuan.” Minglan’s sudden call made her jump, and she hurriedly responded.
Minglan’s expression was gentle, her smile warm. “I hear you’ve been visiting Concubine Gong frequently lately.”
Caihuan shuddered. She had prepared a whole speech to defend herself, never expecting Minglan to bring this up. “Th-that’s not true at all…” Minglan showed no anger at her denial, speaking mildly, “Yesterday, you spoke with her by the lotus pond for the time it takes two incense sticks to burn. Three days ago, you went to Concubine Gong’s room and drank tea for a quarter of an hour. Six days ago, you delivered new fabric to Rong Jie’er, then detoured to visit her and chatted for nearly half an hour.” Caihuan broke out in a cold sweat, her back quickly soaked. For some reason, her knees gave way, and she dropped to the floor with a thud, exclaiming repeatedly, “Mistress, this servant was foolish, this servant…”Actually, crafting a few items was trivial, and bickering among maids was also minor. What was truly vexing was Caihuan’s deliberate provocation, disrupting harmony. Minglan’s smile grew even gentler as she instructed Lüzhi to help her up: "Look how frightened you are. It’s nothing. Since Concubine Gong is idle and you two get along well, you may often keep her company and chat." Caihuan’s heart raced uncontrollably. Though usually quick-witted and aware this was insignificant, she still felt afraid.
"There are others to handle affairs in the courtyard. If you have free time, you may often visit Concubine Gong to amuse yourself." Minglan spoke gently, but her eyes held no warmth. Caihuan’s face turned deathly pale as she stammered denials, unable to articulate clearly.
Minglan glanced at Danju, who understood her meaning. Drawing herself up, Danju turned and left the room, loudly reprimanding Xia Yu outside. As usual, she deducted a month’s allowance, ordered a caning, dismissed her from her duties, and reassigned her to cleaning tasks.
"...I trust you won’t drop the broom handle too." Danju’s voice was firm and resonant.
Hearing the cries and pleas from outside, Caihuan bit her lip tightly. Xia Yu had always been close to her, and though she dared not speak up, she seethed with resentment inwardly.
She couldn’t believe Minglan was unaware of why Madam Wang had sent her as part of the dowry. Truthfully, she hadn’t been willing initially—her parents were doing well in the Sheng residence, and she herself held the status of a second-tier mistress there. Why bother going elsewhere? But after entering the Marquis’s household and witnessing such immense wealth and power, along with the young master’s vigor and handsomeness, and his utmost devotion to his wife, she couldn’t help but feel stirrings of desire.
During Minglan’s newlywed days, she hadn’t dared entertain any ideas. But now, seeing Minglan pregnant, she thought, "No matter how tightly she clings to him, can she keep him restrained for over half a year? If she’s to grant a maid the status of concubine, I should be the top choice."
Yet, day after day passed without any movement from the mistress’s chambers. Back in the Sheng family, everyone said Liu Guniang had a good temper and a gentle nature, but it turned out to be a facade. This jealousy was so severe—even after a year by Minglan’s side, she still wasn’t permitted to enter the main rooms, not even to serve tea or sweep.
To make matters worse, Marquis Gu was upright and never glanced twice at the maids. No matter how she adorned herself or applied heavy makeup, she never caught the young master’s eye, fueling her frustration.
Minglan watched Caihuan’s respectful retreat from the room, resting her chin thoughtfully.
Caihuan slowly returned to her room. She had barely closed the door and taken a few steps when she saw Ruomei sitting coldly on her bed, staring at her with indifference. "Your elder sister Caichai once spoke kindly of me before the mistress. Today, I’ll offer you a reminder."
Before Caihuan could speak, Ruomei said coldly, "I know what you’re scheming. You want to follow in the footsteps of your sister Caizan, who accompanied the eldest young lady. I suspect the mistress hinted at this too, didn’t she?"
Exposed, Caihuan flushed crimson and retorted resentfully, "What nonsense are you spouting?"
"You’d better wise up!" Ruomei’s gaze was mocking. "Back then, the eldest young lady had been childless for three years and faced a difficult mother-in-law—that’s why Caizan was elevated. What grounds do you have now? Do you think the mistress’s influence stretches that far?"Caihuan felt a surge of shame and anger, turning her head away in silence. Ruomei, with her unyielding nature, never spoke unless necessary, but once she started, she would see it through. She walked up to Caihuan and said firmly, "Don’t think Madam will hesitate to punish you out of consideration for the mistress. Do you know what happened to Mama You and Yancao before?"
Caihuan looked at her in shock and suspicion. Ruomei continued, "Mama You was greedy for money and fond of drink. Madam had long wanted to deal with her, but lacking a proper reason, she endured it for a full year. Finally, she gathered enough evidence, caught her in a major misstep, and settled the matter once and for all! As for Yancao, Madam was already displeased with her back then, but out of regard for their long-standing relationship, she still treated her generously. How could Madam keep someone so treacherous, disloyal, and faithless? It’s laughable! If you serve diligently, Madam will surely arrange a good marriage for you in the future."
Caihuan’s face shifted through several expressions as she silently cursed Minglan, thinking there was no generosity at all—just shamelessness. With such a large belly, she still clung to her husband without restraint, resting in the room and sometimes even engaging in intimate gestures. Those older maids were nothing but bullies, too. Apart from Cui Mama, who had tried to advise once, everyone else was too intimidated by their master to speak up. Caihuan had intended to report these matters to Madam Wang, hoping she would counsel Minglan to be more virtuous and magnanimous. But Liu Kun’s wife, having received favors from Minglan, obstructed her at every turn, making it impossible. How infuriating!
Unable to contain her displeasure, she couldn’t resist sneering, "Just because you want to marry a scholar, do you think everyone else does too?... Even if one becomes a proper wife outside, what good is it? If you can’t handle things, you’ll still be bullied. How could it be as comfortable as in the manor?"
Ruomei’s face flushed crimson. She let out a series of cold laughs, repeated "Fine!" three times, then turned and strode out the door.
In the early spring of the fourth year of Chongde, even the splendid spring scenery could not dispel the gloom hanging over the capital. The emperor was determined to enact reforms and redistribute power, but the task was exceedingly difficult. The imperial censor appointed by the emperor to inspect the salt administration had not even reached the Huai River region when he was attacked twice.
The first incident occurred in central Ji Province, where he encountered "bandits." Upon hearing this, Gu Tingye’s eyes flashed with murderous intent as he said bitterly, "If the emperor hadn’t urgently summoned me northward back then, I could have cleared out the bandits in just two months!" When he led troops to suppress the rebellion of the two princes, he had marched from south to north, leaving a trail of blood and severed heads, swiftly pacifying the region. Minglan, as usual, praised him but casually wondered, "Isn’t central Ji Province mostly flat plains with few deep mountains or dense forests? Where did such bold bandits come from?" Her middle school geography grades had been excellent.
Gu Tingye’s gaze turned dark and inscrutable. "...Indeed. Without mountains, where did these 'bandits' come from?" His tone was laden with pointed sarcasm, faintly tinged with a bloody undertone.
A few days later, another dispatch arrived: the imperial envoy and his party had encountered fierce bandits again in Xiong County, eastern Lu Province. Thanks to the desperate protection of the vanguard general Geng Jiezhong and others, Censor Lian Zhengcheng remained unharmed, but many accompanying soldiers were killed or wounded. Not long after, Comrade Lao Geng was carried back to the capital. Before a doctor could even be summoned, he was summoned to the palace by imperial decree—the emperor wanted a detailed account.That night, when Gu Tingye returned to the residence, he said in a deep voice, "The matter is indeed more complicated than it seems." Earlier in the day, Madam Geng had come with red-rimmed eyes seeking medicine, and Minglan had already grasped part of the situation. She sighed, "Just to obstruct the salt administration audit, they dare to be so audacious?!" Gu Tingye lightly stroked the black jade ring on his thumb, his tone laced with sarcasm, "Money can make the devil turn the millstone. Millions in salt tax revenue every year—who knows for how many years it's been going on." Minglan's mind swam with visions of glittering silver, and after a long daze, she finally said, "Oh, right. Sister Geng came by at noon today. I gave her all two taels of tiger bone left in our storeroom."
"Well done," Gu Tingye praised, then sighed. "Lao Geng's family has limited means and few relatives in the capital. We should help where we can." As he spoke, he noticed the girl across from him frowning slightly and asked, "What's wrong?"
Minglan bit her lip hesitantly, stammering, "Actually... Sister Geng went to the Imperial Uncle's residence first." She didn't know how to continue. Gu Tingye's expression turned stern. "What happened?" His tone was intimidating. Minglan sighed, "If we're talking about rare medicinal ingredients, naturally the Imperial Uncle's residence has the most. Unfortunately, Madam Zhang happened to be visiting her parents today. It was Concubine Zou who received the guest, and Sister Geng returned empty-handed." Gu Tingye slammed the table angrily. "Such a shallow woman! Congxing is too...!"
He forcibly swallowed the rest of his words and let out a long breath. "Ah, forget it!" Even an honest official can't judge domestic affairs—outsiders ultimately shouldn't comment. He quickly changed the subject. "Fortunately, His Majesty was wise to later dispatch Brother Chengyong with a battalion of troops as reinforcement. Otherwise, it could have been a disaster." If the Salt Control Commissioner had died before fulfilling his mission, the salt audit would have been delayed indefinitely.
Seeing her husband's displeasure, Minglan went over to soothe his arm and gently advised, "Don't let this upset you too much. These accumulated problems have built up over many years—how could they be resolved overnight?" She added self-mockingly, "Never mind major court affairs. Even managing our own household matters, I'm still taking it slow."
Gu Tingye placed his palm against Minglan's belly, his eyes suddenly softening. "You mustn't overexert yourself. If anything troubles you, tell me—I'll handle it for you." Minglan was deeply moved, though she noticed the man's affectionate gaze was fixed on her belly—since she was standing while he sat, she wondered whether his words were meant for her or the little one inside.
The little rascal in her womb was quite well-behaved, usually becoming active during three periods: after afternoon naps, after a cup of tea following dinner, and around midnight. Having identified this pattern, Gu Tingye would often come for father-child interactions according to this schedule, sometimes even interrupting conversations with Gongsun Xiansheng to return to their rooms. He loved pressing his cheek against Minglan's belly, carefully feeling the powerful kicks within. Minglan would lean against the headboard, gently stroking his coarse hair as lamplight warmed their intimate space, her heart filled with tranquil warmth.
With the external situation unstable and talent in high demand, a man of his fiery temperament would normally have gone out to make his mark. She knew he was staying in the capital unwilling to leave—all for her sake."If... there is a place where the Emperor can make use of you... you need not worry about me. Important matters always come first." Minglan felt her tongue weighed a thousand pounds; this short sentence came out stammered and broken, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. She did not want him to leave.
Gu Tingye lifted his head, his stern face softening unbelievably, like the sudden glow of spring slowly spreading across a frozen river in the distance. He caressed her belly and smiled faintly: "You are my important matter." The most important matter of his entire life.
He gazed steadily at her, noticing the flickering uncertainty in her eyes. Her delicate, fair skin seemed to carry a transient radiance, like a night-blooming cereus suddenly in full bloom. Her face held a dazed confusion, like a lost child unsure of where to go, even tinged with a hint of distress. As he stared intently, an aged figure suddenly surfaced in his mind. Everyone said that he and his father, whether in appearance or temperament, were strikingly similar. With just this fleeting thought, he immediately sensed an ill omen and quickly shook off the notion.
Outside, the rain fell heavily and the wind howled fiercely. He only wished to shelter her under his wing, to build a warm and safe nest with all his might, shielding her from the harsh winds and bitter snow, so that she could live a lifetime of joy and carefree happiness.
By mid-April, the struggles within the court had grown increasingly severe. Several censors jointly submitted a memorial impeaching the Marquis of Northern Valor, Shen Congxing, for abusing his power for personal gain. The charges listed below included encroaching on civilian lands, seizing property by force, forming factions for illicit purposes, and eleven other counts of misconduct. If it were merely false accusations, it might have been manageable, but even the impartial and upright Left Censor-in-Chief Liu Suyang had surprisingly submitted a memorial to launch an attack. The Emperor ordered Liu Zhengjie to conduct a strict investigation, and upon inquiry, it seemed there might be some truth to the allegations. Particularly egregious were the acts of Shen Congxing’s eldest son, who had abused his power to bully others, and his in-laws, the Zou family, who had engaged in usury, leading to loss of life.
For a time, memorials flooded in, and accusations never ceased.
"If it were an upright and impartial person, they would focus on the matter, not the individual. But if it were a villain intent on causing trouble, they would do the opposite—focus on the person, not the matter." Gongsun Baishi stroked his sparse beard as he spoke.
"This means that, in reality, those people are discontented with the Emperor’s series of measures. But constrained by the relationship between ruler and subject and the principles of righteousness, they cannot openly oppose them. So they simply direct their attacks at those closest to the Emperor." In simpler terms, if they couldn’t obstruct the policies, they would slander the executors to undermine the established course. Minglan, holding her belly, was deeply worried. The Emperor seemed genuinely angered this time and had already issued an Imperial Edict reprimanding the Shen family. Little Shen had come to weep once, so Minglan had no choice but to seek advice from Gongsun Laotou.
Gongsun Baishi nodded with a smile, his eyes glancing at Minglan’s large belly, hoping that the future young marquis would be just as intelligent.
"What on earth is so serious?" Minglan groaned, her head aching as if struck by a mallet. She remembered that Shen’s eldest son was only twelve or thirteen this year. Little Shen had repeatedly praised her nephew as honest and sincere—what kind of trouble could he possibly have caused?
"Nothing more than the division of profits." Gongsun Baishi’s lips curled into a mocking arc. "Salt administration, border trade, maritime shipping, the Bureau of Maritime Trade, and key positions across the Six Ministries and Nine Courts—all the lucrative posts. The Emperor wants them to vacate some positions so he can install his own people. On one hand, to fill the state treasury, and on the other, to ensure that future edicts and tasks can be carried out smoothly. They refuse to comply, that’s all."
"They should just give up some of those lucrative positions and part with some silver—what’s the big deal!" Minglan longed for a harmonious society where everyone could communicate reasonably.Gongsun Baishi let out a cold laugh. "Take the Duke of Qian as an example. His son married Princess Shengde Taihou, and together with a few other families, they have monopolized maritime trade for nearly fifteen years. Their annual income is no less than two to three million taels of silver. How much have they actually handed over? Hmph, do you think they’d be willing to let it go? Even if they did, with a new emperor comes a new set of officials—His Majesty has his own trusted followers to promote."
Minglan’s mind was once again filled with visions of glittering silver. She steadied herself and murmured, "After all these years, they must have had their fill. Why not just step back now?"
"If human hearts were ever content, would they still crave more after gaining an inch?" Gongsun Baishi concluded bluntly. Greed for money knows no end.
Minglan nodded helplessly. It was indeed rare for corrupt officials to awaken to their conscience on their own. Still, if Gongsun could see this clearly, surely others could as well. As long as Uncle Shen remained patient and had the staunch support of his in-laws, the Duke of Ying’s household, there should be little cause for concern.
However, flies don't bite seamless eggs. The reason Uncle Shen became a target was due to his lax household management. While some accusations were exaggerated or fabricated by his opponents, certain matters were indeed true. Gongsun Baishi casually mentioned that the Zou family had recently attempted to meddle in military grain procurement—truly audacious to the extreme. After expressing contempt for the Shen family, he wholeheartedly praised Minglan, commending her clear and fair household management and effective discipline of servants. Combined with Gu Tingye's notorious reputation for being ruthless even to relatives, the Gu clan members surprisingly hadn't been implicated in any investigations.
Old Man Gongsun, known for his sharp tongue and arrogant demeanor, rarely uttered words of praise. Minglan was overjoyed by the compliments and suddenly found the wrinkled old man much more agreeable. After inquiring warmly about his well-being, she divided the premium fresh walnuts delivered by Little Shen yesterday, giving him half, and retrieved a lingzhi mushroom from the storeroom to help improve his increasingly thinning bald scalp.
In high spirits, she strolled cheerfully back to her room. The hanging wisteria frames in spring carried the fragrance of grass and trees. Just as Minglan reached out to pluck a flower bud, Xiaotao swiftly picked a cluster beside her. Mistress and maid exchanged smiles. At that moment, Lüzhi hurried over from the other side, sweat beading on her forehead, her face a mix of shock and delight. She rushed to Minglan's ear and whispered, "Madam, we've caught that little wench's mistake." Minglan raised an eyebrow: "What happened?"
Seeing only Xiaotao nearby, Lüzhi lowered her voice: "She left her post while your snow pear and bird's nest soup was simmering on the stove."
Minglan closed her eyes briefly and sighed: "Alright, let's go over."
Unable to conceal her excitement yet hesitating slightly, Lüzhi asked: "But... what about Madam...?" She referred to Madam Wang.
Before Minglan could respond, Xiaotao exclaimed softly: "We've advised all we could! Madam has reminded her repeatedly too! If she refuses to change her ways, what more can we do? Even if Madam gets angry, there's nothing for it. Besides, we don't eat Madam's rice anymore anyway."
Lüzhi's eyes sparkled as she nodded vigorously. Her dislike for Caihuan wasn't new—she'd only asked that extra question to appear compassionate, fearing Minglan might criticize her for lacking tolerance. Having grown up together since childhood, they naturally found it hard to accept later arrivals as one of their own. Moreover, Caihuan's affected and flirtatious manner perfectly embodied the classic villain archetype from Mama Fang's teaching lessons, triggering their instinctive physical revulsion.
Minglan sighed, looking down at her swollen belly and gently stroking it. If it were just for herself, she might let things slide, but for the child's sake, how could she allow disloyal people near her resting place? She couldn't take that risk.
Walking slowly back to her room, Xiaotao first helped Minglan change into soft slippers and settle comfortably against the kang before Danju entered with the others. This time Danju showed no hesitation, marching proudly at the front while the aggrieved Caihuan and Xiayu trailed behind.
The moment Caihuan saw Minglan, she dropped to her knees with a thud: "Madam, I know I was wrong! Please forgive me this once!"While kowtowing repeatedly, she kept making excuses: "We were properly watching the stove, but someone came to talk to me, and coincidentally, Xiayu happened to be out relieving herself.".. I only left for a brief moment... Madam, please have mercy!"
Xiayu, also frightened, joined in kowtowing.Minglan sat quietly above, her gaze slowly shifting from the celadon jar on the kang table carved with Buddha's hand motifs and twin fish lotus patterns, down to the ebony table legs inlaid with silver filigree, until it finally settled on Caihuan. A trace of pity stirred within her—this time, it was deliberate. Disciplining a maid was no difficult task; all it took was for the mistress to harbor such an intention, seize upon a misstep, and the maid could be dismissed at once.
Caihuan nursed resentment in her heart and had recklessly formed connections with people outside the courtyard, making it all too easy for those with ulterior motives to take advantage. Now that Minglan was pregnant and needed to exercise extreme caution, she could no longer keep Caihuan—disloyal and filled with improper thoughts—by her side.
"Who came to speak with you?" Minglan's voice seemed to float in mid-air.
Caihuan wiped her cheeks, stammering incoherently. Danju sneered and answered for her: "A maid from Mama Xiang's side, named Linglong."
Minglan chuckled softly. Caihuan kowtowed vigorously, pleading repeatedly, "Madam, it was my fault. I was wrong..."
"I heard that in your private conversations, you often complained that I never let you serve closely, that I kept you at a distance and treated you coldly." Minglan spoke slowly. Caihuan’s pupils constricted, and she shot a venomous glare at Lüzhi and Danju. Xiaotao, observing this, honestly interjected, "I was the one who told Madam." Caihuan’s furious gaze shifted to her.
"Madam, this servant did harbor some unbecoming thoughts," Caihuan, seeing that pleading was futile, began to defend herself. "But when I served by the old madam’s side, I thought of remaining loyal to her and serving you well. I never imagined..." She wiped away tears, "that you would refuse to treat me as one of your own. That’s why I spoke out of turn..."
Minglan slowly straightened her posture, then leaned forward, staring directly at Caihuan as she enunciated each word: "You are clever. It’s been over a year since you entered the Gu residence. Do you truly not understand the current situation in this household?" Caihuan abruptly stopped crying, staring blankly at her mistress. Minglan curled her lips, "You keep saying you want to serve me on behalf of the old madam, but what I fear and what I guard against—after all this time observing, can you truly claim to understand none of it?"
The color slowly drained from Caihuan’s face. Aside from a few senior maids who regularly handled affairs, all the girls in the courtyard were cautious and respectful, avoiding any association with outsiders. Whenever someone from the Grand Old Madam’s side tried to cozy up to them, everyone steered clear as if avoiding a plague.
"I dislike outsiders knowing the affairs of this courtyard, but these past few days, how much information has leaked from your lips? You know it well in your heart." Minglan spoke unhurriedly, "It’s not that you were unaware of the consequences—you simply had other intentions." Caihuan had never truly regarded Minglan as her mistress and had instead sought allies and supporters everywhere, hoping to leverage them to climb higher.
Caihuan’s lips trembled like a sieve, and she shivered, unable to speak. Suddenly, she recalled Ruomei’s warning. Could it be... that Madam was about to dismiss her?! A wave of regret washed over her, and she hurriedly clutched at the hem of Minglan’s skirt, pleading loudly, "Madam, I truly know I was wrong! If you had spoken to me like this earlier, I would never have dared!"
Minglan shook her head: "You have the order wrong. It’s not for me to trust you first, and then for you to be loyal. Rather, you must first earn everyone’s trust and respect, and only then will I treat you as one of my own."
Caihuan’s face was a mess of panic, tears, and smeared makeup. "But... but...""But you couldn't wait any longer," Minglan finished for her. "You're not young anymore—you're even a year and a half older than Danju." She feared that before she could secure her position as a concubine, Minglan would marry her off.
"This truly puts you in a difficult position."
Minglan concluded leisurely, feeling no anger in her heart, only a sense of helplessness and melancholy. Caihuan had been cautious enough, making her wait carefully for over half a month before catching this mistake. The room fell into silence for a long moment, broken only by the sobs of Caihuan and Xiayu. Minglan composed herself and turned to say, "Ask Cui Mama to come in."
Cui Mama entered with two stout matrons. At a glance, Minglan noticed their sleeves bulging, likely concealing ropes and gags. The sight terrified Caihuan and Xiayu, who were already trembling.
Minglan adopted a stern expression and spoke formally, "Even punishment should be understood clearly. Cui Mama, please explain."
Cui Mama, who had been sharpening her knives for this moment, frowned deeply and spoke expressionlessly, "The rules here are clear: the mistress's health is precious, and all meals and medicines must be handled with utmost care." Minglan's three daily meals and snacks were prepared personally by Granny Ge, handed directly to senior maids like Danju without intermediate handling. Other tonics and medicinal brews were prepared on small stoves within the courtyard, supervised by dedicated personnel. Shifts typically involved two people, ensuring the stove was never left unattended—if one left, the other remained.
"Today, you two were watching the stove. Xiayu reported needing to relieve herself but slipped away to fetch snacks and chatted with other maids, delaying too long. Caihuan was even more at fault, daring to abandon her duty entirely." Cui Mama spoke methodically. "If we don't punish you today, we'll have no way to discipline others in the future. You can no longer stay in this courtyard..."
Before she could finish, Xiayu burst into loud, dramatic wails. In contrast, Caihuan steadied herself, straightened her posture, and declared loudly, "Cui Mama is right, but I was assigned by the madam to serve the mistress. If you dismiss me like this, how will you explain it to the madam when she asks?"
Cui Mama was furious and about to retort when a deep, authoritative male voice came from the doorway: "What's going on?!"
Everyone turned to see Gu Tingye standing there in his crimson official robes, holding his black-gold winged official hat, his face as calm as still water. Minglan was startled—she had chosen this early hour to address the issue precisely to avoid troubling Gu Tingye.
"The marquis has returned," she said, quickly slipping off the kang bed and trying to shuffle over in her soft slippers.
Gu Tingye strode forward with long steps, pressing Minglan gently back into place. "Sit down, no need to rush up," he said softly.
Nearby, Xiaotao cleverly stepped forward, took the official hat with both hands, and scurried off to put it away, firmly deciding not to return, instead peeking from the doorway to watch the scene unfold.
Gu Tingye sat beside Minglan, one hand resting on the kang table, his expression unruffled. "Mama, continue. How should they be punished?"
Cui Mama looked hesitantly at Minglan. After all, these were maids who had accompanied her from the Sheng family. Punishing them so severely in front of her husband might embarrass the Sheng family. Even Minglan hesitated, unsure how to proceed.Under Gu Tingye's intimidating gaze, Cui Mama had no choice but to report truthfully: "Caihuan went to inspect the empty rooms in the western corner, while Xiayu went to the second gate to run errands..." Her voice grew softer as she spoke. Seeing her pleading look, Minglan quickly took over, "It's not a grave offense, but if they aren't punished, it won't serve as a warning to others. Alright, you may leave now."
She bore no deep grudge against Caihuan. Truth be told, she lacked both the resolve and courage to destroy someone completely. Once she gave birth and had more time, she could simply find Caihuan a suitable marriage.
"Marquis!" Caihuan wept, her tears falling like raindrops on pear blossoms. Miraculously breaking free from the two matrons restraining her, she threw herself at Gu Tingye's feet. "I beg for your mercy! Please ask the mistress not to dismiss me. I swear I'll serve diligently from now on. It was Lady Sheng who sent me here! If I'm cast out like this, how will my parents ever hold their heads up again?" Her grip was so forceful that she actually tugged the hem of Gu Tingye's robe askew.
Cui Mama grew frantic, stepping forward to seize Caihuan's arm and forcibly drag her away. Lüzhi, enraged, grabbed Caihuan's other arm and pulled with all her might.
"Wait," Gu Tingye said, eyeing Caihuan with confusion. "It's you?"
Searching his memory, he vaguely recalled one evening when this maid had served him tea, only to be hastily called away by that maid named Taozi. Caihuan's face instantly lit with hope, her brows delicately furrowed in a coquettish manner. Just as she lifted her head to speak, Gu Tingye frowned and rebuked her, "Why is it you again?! Didn't I warn you last time? The mistress is with child and cannot tolerate the smell of cosmetics. No one in Jiaxi Residence is allowed to wear powder or rouge. Why are you like this again today?!"
At his words, Cui Mama and Lüzhi immediately loosened their grip. Danju, who had been anxiously worrying moments before, breathed a sigh of relief. Minglan glanced up at the skylight, sorely tempted to shout at Caihuan, "You're so unprofessional! If you want to seduce a man, at least study your target first!"
Take herself, for example. To better understand her husband and employer's preferences and habits for smoother work, she had diligently questioned several longtime servants of the marquis' household. She learned that, thanks to a considerate stepmother, Gu Tingye had already been surrounded by a flock of beauties by age fourteen—plump and slender, every type imaginable. Moreover, at nineteen, the young master Gu had spent a full half-month residing in a famous entertainment establishment in the capital. Not to mention the countless romantic encounters he'd had during his days roaming the jianghu.
Playing the delicate victim or feigning grievance—he had witnessed far more sophisticated performances. An amateur act from an inner household maid held no technical merit. Thus, Minglan never worried that Caihuan's tricks would succeed. What concerned her was that after repeated failures, Caihuan might either take initiative or be manipulated into causing her harm.
"Marquis..." Caihuan was dumbstruck, her mouth agape and face smeared with makeup, frozen in place.
Gu Tingye, displeased, turned to Cui Mama with a stern expression and said sharply, "Why keep such an incorrigible creature in the residence? Send her to the estate! If she still refuses to obey, sell her directly. I'll handle the matter with my mother-in-law."
Cui Mama felt as if granted a divine reprieve, overjoyed. The two matrons regained their vigor, promptly tying Caihuan up with rope and gagging her before dragging her stiffly out of the room. Xiayu didn't dare utter another word and hurriedly withdrew on her own.Lüzhi excitedly followed them out, intending to help pack their 'luggage'. Danju stood there dazed, still unable to process what had happened. Xiaotao, however, maintained her composure and emerged cheerfully from behind the door: "We have freshly arrived Lu'an Guapian tea today. Shall I brew a cup for the Marquis?" She then approached quietly and deftly pulled Danju away without drawing attention.
After everyone had left, Minglan glanced left and right before slowly moving to Gu Tingye's side. She asked softly, "What's troubling you today, Marquis?" He wasn't the type to meddle in household affairs; normally when Minglan managed domestic matters, he would retreat to the inner room to read. Today's situation clearly indicated he was in a foul mood, brimming with pent-up frustration.
"Nothing, just feeling irritable," the man replied, loosening his collar as he wearily collapsed into Minglan's embrace, closing his eyes to rest. Since Uncle Shen was confined at home for reflection, Gu Tingye had to take over some of his duties temporarily. The tedious and excessive workload had left him as gloomy as if he were mourning a loss, making everyone wary of approaching within ten steps.
Minglan gently loosened his hair bun, her fingers combing through his locks as she softly massaged his scalp. Gradually, the man's furrowed brow relaxed, and he emitted contented, comfortable breaths through his nose. Minglan murmured gently, "What happened? Tell me what's wrong."
Gu Tingye opened his eyes, revealing hidden anger. "Brother Chengyong has gotten into trouble."
"Bandits attacked again?!" Minglan was startled—the crime rate was alarmingly high. Wait, that didn't make sense; hadn't they heard that the imperial envoy had already arrived in Lianghuai?
"No," the man said through gritted teeth, pounding his fist on the kang bed. "Brother Chengyong fell into their trap."
Puzzled, Minglan watched as Gu Tingye slowly sat up and sighed. "According to the court bulletin, Brother Chengyong was invited to a restaurant for drinks. He got heavily drunk, and when he woke up, there was a woman lying beside him."
"What?!" An ancient honey trap? Minglan couldn't help but chuckle. "Perhaps someone noticed Young General Duan's handsome appearance and sought to climb the social ladder by marrying into his family."
"If it were that simple, it would be easier to handle," Gu Tingye said, his face turning cold with a murderous glint in his eyes. "The woman claimed to be a chaste married woman with a husband and children. She insisted that Brother Chengyong had defiled her virtue, leaving her no choice but to commit suicide."
Minglan was horrified. "A married woman?! That complicates things immensely." Even verifying her status would be difficult. "Wait, wait—Young General Duan was drinking at a restaurant. How did a chaste married woman end up there?"
"The woman said she was at the restaurant to collect payment for fish supplies. Brother Chengyong, drunk, passed by and, finding her somewhat attractive, dragged her into a private room."
Minglan was speechless. "It sounds like a storyteller's tale. Was the entire restaurant filled with corpses? How could no one stop Young General Duan? And how did the woman end up sleeping until he woke up..." Was it really that intense?
"Exactly—there are countless suspicious points," Gu Tingye agreed. "Brother Chengyong refused to admit guilt, but when he questioned her, the woman immediately slammed her head and died. Now, her family and husband are crying injustice, accusing Brother Chengyong of raping a chaste woman and driving her to suicide."
Minglan let out a long sigh. The opposing side had invested heavily in this scheme, undoubtedly having arranged everything in advance. Duan Chengyong was in serious trouble this time. The couple fell silent for a long while before Minglan asked, "What do we do now? The imperial envoy is investigating the salt administration locally, but without strong military support, it won't be effective."
Gu Tingye looked at her, hesitation flickering in his eyes. Understanding his thoughts, Minglan said clearly, "Do you want to go?""The Emperor hasn't summoned me yet," he said quietly. "To have things arranged so thoroughly, it likely involves more than just a few local officials—the local garrison is probably corrupt too. Someone needs to go and sort it out. For this matter, ordinary people won't be intimidated; we'll need to execute a few as a warning!" Since Uncle Shen couldn't go, he was the only one of the same rank available.
"Brother Duan has been kind to me," the man murmured, torn and indecisive.
Minglan asked woodenly, "How long will you be gone?"
"A month at the earliest, two months at the latest," Gu Tingye replied, rubbing her palms. "I have a lot on my plate too and can't easily leave. Once we rescue the Cheng Yong brothers, I'll send Zhong Dayou to take over the defense. By then, Lao Geng might have recovered."
Minglan breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "I thought you'd be gone for a year or more." Investigating the salt trade wasn't something that could be wrapped up quickly. "If it's only a month or two, what does it matter? As long as you return before I give birth, I'll be perfectly content."
Ignoring the wrinkles he was making in his official robe, Gu Tingye pulled her into his arms, gently rocking and holding her. In his heart, he didn't want to leave her side for even a moment. "You're with child," he said guiltily. "I shouldn't go."
Mustering her courage, Minglan pushed him away firmly and said seriously, "Your work is my concern too. Your affairs are my affairs." She had long been mentally prepared for this. The man before her was like a fierce, wild leopard—full of vitality and spirit—how could she keep him tethered forever? As long as he didn't go too far or stay away too long, it was fine.
"But..." Gu Tingye tried hard not to think of certain things, yet his mind wandered uncontrollably. He had always been decisive and sharp, quick to make judgments, but now he felt uncharacteristically hesitant. "What if something happens to you while I'm away?"
"Your Lordship," Minglan said, knowing what he was thinking. She pushed against his broad shoulders and spoke earnestly, "I am not that Lady Qin."
Gu Tingye remained silent, lost in thought. Minglan took a deep breath and declared, "Just leave me some guards. If anyone tries to bully me, if I can't argue with them, I'll fight them off. If things get worse, I can always run away, can't I?" Gu Tingye couldn't help but laugh.
Leaning against his chest, Minglan opened her eyes wide, her voice cheerful and clear. "Unless you plan to retire, you'll always have duties to attend to. Can you really stay by my side forever? In the future, we'll have more..." She blushed and couldn't finish.
Gu Tingye felt a sweet warmth in his heart. "Yes, we'll have many more children."
Embarrassed by his words, Minglan buried her face in his neck, nibbling playfully like a puppy. Gu Tingye laughed heartily and retaliated in kind, covering her neck with playful kisses.
After a while, their laughter subsided. Gu Tingye rested his head on Minglan's lap and suddenly said, "You really aren't like that Lady Qin."
He abruptly sat up, facing her. "If I were forced to marry another woman, what would you do?" This question had been weighing on his mind for a long time.
Minglan was taken aback and let out a silly laugh. "How could that happen?"
"You would remarry," the man said, staring intently at Minglan, his tone utterly certain.
"...How could...that be?" Minglan played dumb, though inwardly she thought it was entirely possible.
The shadow of his father's past lingered, and he couldn't help but compare himself. The comparison was rather disheartening. Though he tried hard not to think of the word "remarry," based on his understanding of Minglan over the past few months, if something unavoidable were to happen that separated them as husband and wife, that stubborn girl would likely mourn for just three to five days, and then, in all likelihood, she would find another man to marry.
"And you'd probably live quite well," he gritted his teeth inwardly.
"How... could that be...?" How had the topic shifted here? Minglan forced an awkward smile.
Gu Tingye's gloomy gaze made her skin crawl. Sensing danger, she quickly asked, "What about you, my lord? Surely you wouldn't really abandon me?" The best defense was indeed a good offense.
"..." Gu Tingye actually gave it serious thought. "I'd probably take one of two paths. Either I'd take you with me, hide to the ends of the earth, and live under assumed names for the rest of our lives; or, after catching my breath, I'd marry you again." And incidentally, dispose of that adulterer.
Minglan nearly blurted out, "The second option is better"—peaceful, harmonious, and trouble-free. Fortunately, her long-dormant sixth sense kicked in just in time.
She nestled into Gu Tingye's embrace, struggling to wrap her arms around his waist past her belly, and whispered, "Carry me away with you. Even to the deepest mountains and wildest forests, I'll follow you and be your wild wife." Her voice was filled with tender emotion, so soft it was almost inaudible. Gu Tingye's heart instantly melted. He held her tightly, showering her temples and cheeks with kisses. "Not even the underworld could part us."
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