Chapter 51

After not seeing her for more than half a year, Yan Yingqi noticed that Lady Jie had become thinner, looking even more delicate and pitiable. He immediately ran forward to support her: "Why have you lost some weight?"

"It's just that I caught a cold on the way back and didn't have much of an appetite. Actually, I've always been in good health," Lady Jie explained, fearing that her husband would worry too much.

Sure enough, when Yan Yingqi heard that she had caught a cold, he couldn't help but say, "I told you that you can't take care of yourself properly..."

Yao Niang had never seen such a nagging and overly worried father. Even she thought it was just a common cold; why was Father so concerned? It seemed to exceed what was necessary.

On the other hand, Shen Linfeng, who usually paid close attention to her every move, now seemed to want to stay as far away from her as possible. Yao Niang wondered why he was being so distant. Only Yan Jingzhao thanked Shen Linfeng. The two were of the same age, and Yan Jingzhao, being younger and quicker-witted than Yan Yingqi, asked with a bow, "Thank you, Brother Shen, for taking care of Mother and Sister on the journey. I wonder how you happened to be with them?"

Shen Linfeng thought that although he had mentioned it to his uncle in Henan, Yan family matters were complicated, especially with Yan Yingqi. There had been frequent conflicts between the two families, and he was more cautious than Yao Niang. Now, he couldn't afford to tarnish Miss Yan's reputation, which could make things difficult for both the Shen and Yan families.

So, Shen Linfeng smiled and said, "It was because Governor Yan knew I was returning, so he asked me to escort Lady Yan and Miss Yan back."

Hearing this from a distance, Yao Niang felt a bit upset. She thought to herself, "Does he not want to marry me? That's why he doesn't tell the truth. Humph!"

Yan Jingzhao thought that their grandfather wasn't a meddlesome person and wouldn't involve himself in such trivial matters concerning his mother and sister.

But in front of everyone, he didn't press the issue and only smiled, "Thank you, Brother Shen. I will definitely visit your home another day."

Shen Linfeng then said, "My parents have sent a steward over. I must go now."

"Please do," Yan Jingzhao smiled and made a gesture inviting him to leave.

After Shen Linfeng left, Yan Jingzhao quickly went to Yao Niang's side. Yao Niang was delighted to see her brother and affectionately told him, "Although you didn't go to the Peony Garden, I added you there and drew a painting for you."

"Really?" Yan Jingzhao was very happy to receive such a thoughtful gift.

Yao Niang whispered, "I also have a secret to tell you."

Yan Jingzhao feigned great interest, "What secret? Tell your brother."

"I helped Mother earn a Sixth Rank Lady's decree," Yao Niang smiled.

Yan Jingzhao's eyes widened in disbelief, "What did you say?"

Lady Jie, who was being warmly greeted by Yan Yingqi at the front, turned around to confirm, "It's true. Our Yao Niang is very capable. She drew portraits of criminals for the Kaifeng Prefecture and solved five major cases. According to our dynasty's laws, if it were a man, he would be granted a hundred households. If it were a woman, she would usually receive a reward. Yao Niang discussed with your maternal grandfather and the governor, and they gave the decree to me."

This was what Lady Jie truly needed, and something Yan Yingqi couldn't provide. His official wife was still alive, and he couldn't request a decree for a concubine unless Yan Jingzhao honored his birth mother in the future.

Yan Yingqi, who had been showing concern, suddenly felt a pang in his heart. But Yan Jingzhao patted his sister's shoulder, "I'm a step behind. In the future, I will work hard to get Mother a decree."

Yao Niang, noticing the heavy atmosphere after his words, joked, "What Brother probably wants most right now is a wife."

Yan Jingzhao pointed at his sister, "You love to tease me."

Of the four, only Yan Jingzhao was riding a horse, while Yao Niang was in a separate carriage. In front, Yan Yingqi accompanied Lady Jie in another carriage. As soon as they got into the carriage, Yan Yingqi embraced Lady Jie.

"I think of you every day. Don't leave me so easily again."

Leaning against him, Lady Jie felt very safe, "I won't. This time out, I was really scared and encountered many things."

"By the way, what's going on with Shen Linfeng? Didn't I say we don't need to ally with the Shen family? In the future, I'll find a good match for Yao Niang. You don't have to settle for less. I was wrong before," Yan Yingqi stroked her hair, feeling very content.

Lady Jie turned her head, "You've said that many times and apologized many times. But the situation is different now. They've become a couple."

"Cough, wait, what do you mean 'they've become a couple'?" Yan Yingqi thought he might have misheard.

Lady Jie then explained everything, adding, "Linfeng is indeed considerate and responsible. Look at our son, who is so grown up. When I'm not at home, I worry about him taking care of himself. But Master Shen took very good care of us on the journey. He is highly talented and well-mannered."

Yan Yingqi sighed in relief, "Are you saying Shen Linfeng is substituting for someone else? Is he doing this intentionally? Planning to run away after the wedding to get back at us?"

"No, why would you think so badly of him? What benefit would he gain from doing that?" Lady Jie believed that Shen Linfeng and her daughter were indeed a good match.

Yan Yingqi, always suspecting others, had initially thought Shen Linfeng was a decent young man. But the coincidental meeting and the way his wife and daughter behaved made him suspicious.

Seeing Yan Yingqi hesitate, Lady Jie pushed him, "Here's Father's letter. He wrote it for you."

But Yan Yingqi tossed the letter aside, "Uncle has always been away and doesn't understand the situation in the capital. Even if he approves, I might not."

"You—," Lady Jie was angry and found it hard to understand him, "Last time, Yao Niang and I were forced to go to Henan because you deceived us. Now that the two of them seem to be a good match, you refuse again."

Seeing her anger, Yan Yingqi tried to soothe her, "Alright, I agree. Whatever you say, I'll do it."

Actually, Lady Jie just wanted Yan Yingqi's approval. Seeing him agree, she felt much better and said, "Governor Shen has already written to Grand Censor Shen and his wife in the capital. If they come to propose, we can test the waters. If they don't, we'll let it go."

"What? Do they look down on my daughter?" Yan Yingqi knew that due to the incident with Yan Ningxin and the current strained relationship between the two families, this marriage proposal was difficult.

Indeed, times have changed.

Seeing him still so confrontational, Lady Jie tried to calm him, "Don't be angry. Our daughter is very capable. She can pass three tests to choose a husband, and some people even ran away in fear."

"That's true. Otherwise, how could she have earned a decree for you?" Yan Yingqi, feeling tenderly, held Lady Jie's shoulder, "In the future, I will definitely get you a decree."

These words were clear in both their hearts, but they never spoke of them openly. Lady Jie had her pride, and if she brought it up, she would feel like she was begging. Yan Yingqi, of course, had his own reasons. Being in a high position, he couldn't afford to give others leverage.

Now, hearing her husband speak thus, Lady Jie only lowered her head, "I'm fine. My life is good. I don't wish for too much anymore; otherwise, heaven would think I'm too greedy."

"You are truly too kind," Yan Yingqi couldn't help but feel moved, but he also feared for her health and restrained himself.

Meanwhile, Yao Niang was somewhat angry in the carriage. If someone who had always pampered and indulged her now ignored her, it naturally caused some turmoil in her heart. However, if she truly loved or liked Shen Linfeng, it hadn't reached that point yet. With nothing settled, she had to restrain herself.

Upon returning home, Zhen Li had prepared a welcome banquet. Everyone greeted each other, and Zhen Li noticed that Lady Jie's appearance hadn't changed; instead, she looked even more delicate and pitiable. Secretly, Zhen Li cursed her for being a fox spirit, acting like a young girl despite her age, without any shame.

Yao Niang, Qian Niang, and Ying Niang all brought gifts back, and the newly acquainted Zhen Li also sent a gift, treating everyone equally. Each received a box of exquisite peony silk flowers, a Bian embroidery, and two boxes of sugar-coated melon seeds.

When Qian Niang saw Yao Niang again, she felt that despite the long journey, Yao Niang looked radiant, like a well-nourished peony, even more beautiful. Even Zhen Li, upon seeing the new returnee, the third daughter of the Yan family, noticed her speaking with her head lowered, her black hair shiny and adorned with a crescent-shaped coral and amber comb.

She smiled and said, "We bought several pots of rare peonies in Luoyang. Once they are properly arranged, we'll invite you all over to take a look."

Ying Niang received her gift and then looked at Yao Niang. "How have you been faring in Henan, Sister?"

"There’s no place like home," Yao Niang replied. "When I was confined at home, I always felt stifled. But after going out for a trip, I realized how comfortable home is." Yao Niang's words were indeed sincere.

She once thought that life outside would be carefree and free-spirited, but she discovered that there was no such thing as a pure land in the world. Even many families of officials didn’t fare well. The reason they could live as they wished today was because of their father's high rank, which ensured they were treated with respect wherever they went.

In this vast world, there truly is no such thing as a paradise on earth.

Ying Niang smiled and said, "Sister, it's good that you're back. There’s good news about Second Sister that’s coming soon."

Yao Niang looked at Qian Niang in surprise. Qian Niang pinched her handkerchief and said, "Fourth Sister, what good news are you talking about?"

"Then, congratulations in advance, Second Sister." Yao Niang thought it would be unusual if Qian Niang's marriage hadn't been settled by now, considering she had already come of age. Despite the impact of Yan Ningxin’s situation, their grandfather had been promoted to Governor of the River, making their family full of high-ranking officials. Many sought to marry into such a family.

Qian Niang shook her head. "It's not yet settled. But you should tell us about your experiences and sights in Kaifeng and Luoyang."

Yao Niang then selected several fresh and interesting stories to share and laugh about.

Meanwhile, when Shen Linfeng returned home, both his mother and Shen Mo welcomed him in. His mother, of course, was most concerned about his marriage. "I heard from your uncle that something is going on between you and the third Miss Yan. What's the matter?"

Shen Linfeng explained the whole story. "Originally, it was my uncle who took a liking to Miss Yan, who was visiting relatives. He said she was extraordinarily intelligent, a rare woman."

"Your uncle thinks well of everyone," Shen Mo said with a pursed lip.

Shen Linfeng smiled. "Then my third younger brother slipped away, and my third uncle was really angry. I had to step in to prevent embarrassment at Governor Yan's place. After I passed the test, Governor Yan personally said he would write to the Yan family, and my uncle also thought it was better to resolve any grudges with the Yan family. Thus, both families agreed."

Shen Mo looked at her son. "You know, although the eldest Miss Yan did something scandalous, she is still of high status. This third Miss Yan is not from the main wife’s lineage—"

"Mother, the third Miss Yan is very filial to her mother and is elegant and dignified. It doesn’t matter if she isn’t from the main wife. Even if she were from a concubine’s line, what difference would it make?" Shen Linfeng had been with Yao Niang all this time and found her to be perfect in every way.

Shen Mo was very surprised. "Linfeng, you’ve never been like this before."

Shen Mo also said, "Brother, how can you talk to Mother like that?"

"Mother, I didn’t mean it that way. I just want to say that you shouldn't misjudge her because of what the eldest Miss Yan did. She has been kind to me." Shen Linfeng lied for the first time because, in reality, he had very little contact with Yao Niang, so it was not a deep relationship, but he didn't want his mother to misjudge her.

Noticing her son’s weariness from the journey, Shen Mo suppressed her displeasure and said to Shen Linfeng, "You should rest now. Later, your father and third uncle will arrive, and you can speak with them then."

"Yes, I am taking my leave now," Shen Linfeng bowed and respectfully withdrew.

After Shen Linfeng left, Shen Mo, who was most understanding of Lady Shen, smiled and said, "Brother always seems quite protective whenever the third Miss Yan is mentioned. It truly is fate."

Lady Shen sighed, "Actually, the third Miss Yan is less famous than the second Miss Yan, but her family is quite influential. Her grandfather is the Director-General of River Works, and her father is the Deputy Minister of Personnel. Her elder brother is Yan Jingzhao. Originally, I intended to marry you into his family."

Shen Mo was surprised, "Mother, what are you saying?"

"There’s no need to think about the Prince of Qi anymore. He holds no real power, and such a marriage would not be beneficial. I advise you to give up on those ambitions. Lady Gong has expressed interest in mediating a marriage between our families. You’ve met the eldest young master of the Yan family; he is truly a handsome figure, not unlike your brother," explained Lady Shen.

This was the reason behind their change in perspective.

Shen Mo was taken aback but still shook her head, "Mother, how can we decide such matters when even Uncle Yan, who is the Governor, is involved?"

"There has been no formal engagement between our families. A marriage alliance would be beneficial, but I do not wish for your brother to marry another daughter of the Yan family. The Shen family became a laughingstock because of the eldest Miss Yan, which has even jeopardized your brother's future. We have shown great magnanimity by not pressing the issue," Lady Shen said, having been thoroughly frightened by Yan Ningxin.

Shen Mo felt uneasy and somewhat guilty, "Years ago, I told you that Brother had a liking for Miss Yan. I thought her straightforward personality, as seen in her polo playing, was refreshing. I did not expect it to cause such trouble for Brother."

"How could you have known what would transpire?" Lady Shen still found the incident shameful.

Shen Mo smiled, "Mother, let us not dwell on the past. With the imperial examinations approaching, we should prioritize that."

Lady Shen nodded.

Meanwhile, after freshening up, Shen Linfeng joined his father and uncle for dinner in the evening and then quietly returned to his room. However, as he read, he missed the soothing melodies of the qin that used to accompany his studies.

He found everything unbearably dull. Rong An brought him a cup of strong tea, "Young Master, the tea is served."

Shen Linfeng took a sip and placed it aside. Rong An, curious, asked, "Young Master, did I not brew the tea well?"

"No, I'm simply not in the mood for drinking it. Leave it here," Shen Linfeng replied, reminiscing about the tea Yao Niang prepared for him when he visited her. She would mix fresh fruit with milk or create shapes like little rabbits or tigers. Though he visited her only occasionally, each visit was delightful.

Now, alone at home, he often thought of these moments. He wondered if his mother disliked Yao Niang and noticed how both Yan Jingzhao and Yan Shilang were quite guarded towards him. Could it be that his relationship with the third Miss Yan would face obstacles?

Three days after returning, Zhen Shi learned that Mrs. Xie had been granted the title of Sixth Rank Anren. Though she offered verbal congratulations, she felt troubled inside. Even though the sixth rank was inferior to her position as the wife of a third-rank deputy minister, holding an official rank makes a significant difference. At least now Mrs. Xie can attend social gatherings without the previous restrictions.

**

However, the immediate concern was not Yao Niang’s situation, but Yan Jingzhao’s marriage prospects.

First, Lady Xie needed to clarify her son’s feelings, as she was a mother who deeply respected her son’s wishes. Therefore, regarding her son’s lifelong marriage, she wanted to hear his thoughts, especially now, she needed to ask more clearly.

"Zhao'er, tell your mother, what kind of appearance do you prefer in a wife? An oval face or a round face, and what kind of mouth?" Lady Xie asked.

Yan Jingzhao replied, "Mother, how can I focus solely on someone’s appearance? As long as she is presentable, virtuous, and has good character, I would be very satisfied."

Lady Xie then asked, "What about family background?"

Naturally, Yan Jingzhao hoped to marry someone who was both compatible and from a respectable family background. After all, as his wife, she would become the eldest daughter-in-law, a position of great importance. The previous Miss Guan had a suitable background, but she was overly self-important.

"What do you think of a girl who is exceptionally beautiful, kind-hearted, and from a respectable, though not top-tier, family?" Lady Xie inquired.

Yan Jingzhao was skilled at getting to the point. "Mother, do you have someone in mind?"

Lady Xie shook her head. "I was just mentioning it in passing."

Yan Jingzhao smiled. "There’s no need to worry so much, Mother. People are taking care of me for now."

"Those servants can’t compare to a proper wife. You can’t stay unmarried forever; you need someone who truly cares for you," Lady Xie said.

Yan Jingzhao glanced at his mother’s desk and saw several portraits of beauties, all of whom were exquisitely beautiful. He couldn’t help but ask, "Mother, did you find these for me?"

"Ahem, these are your sister’s own imaginings of the Peony Fairy. I was going to have your father mount them later," Lady Jie said, speechless.

Yan Jingzhao awkwardly withdrew his hand, "My sister really has a divine brush; they look almost real."

"Of course, only a fairy could have such beauty. Ordinary people can’t compare. You know your sister; she always imagines things like the Peony Fairy, the Osmanthus Fairy, and even Immortal Lords. She wishes to write her own stories, so she draws whenever she has free time. Don’t take it too seriously," Lady Jie was afraid her son might think the people in the paintings were real.

Yan Jingzhao couldn’t resist taking another look, "Mother, Father is very busy now. Why don’t I take them back and have them mounted for my sister?"

Lady Jie seemed to see through him, "You just want to keep those beauties, don’t you? Your sister will ask for them later. Just be patient."

He had just been talking about choosing a virtuous wife and not being swayed by appearance, but it was all lies.

Disappointed, Yan Jingzhao left and then turned to visit Yao Niang. Today, Yao Niang was painting lotuses and was thinking about drawing a Lotus Fairy. She had heard that the spirit of the lotus was Xi Shi, and she was lost in imagination when she suddenly saw a shadow on her drawing board. She looked up sharply and saw it was her brother.

"Brother, you came in without making a sound."

Yan Jingzhao, who usually prided himself on his charm and had many admirers, was captivated by the few portraits Yao Niang had drawn. They weren’t the kind of court ladies painted by Gu Kaizhi, but rather the kind of fairy girls a young girl would imagine, which made his heart flutter.

"Good sister, your paintings are truly wonderful," Yan Jingzhao praised with a smile.

Yao Niang laughed, "I just put some effort into drawing people, but in other aspects, I’m far from the masters."

"Sister, I saw the portrait of the Peony Fairy at Mother’s place. It’s really well done. Did you draw it from a real person?" Yan Jingzhao asked, pretending he didn’t know.

Yao Niang, being clever, smiled, "No, I imagined it myself. Look at how noble and graceful the peony is. I thought the person I drew should have a beauty that makes flowers blush, like morning dew that one can’t bear to look at directly. For the skin, I followed what the Book of Songs says: skin as smooth as congealed fat, hands as delicate as tender shoots. So, I thought Brother likes plump beauties. Alright, I know what kind of future sister-in-law you’re looking for."

Hearing this, Yan Jingzhao playfully wrestled with Yao Niang and then whispered, "Sister, you must help me choose carefully."

"Brother, look at you," Yao Niang covered her mouth and laughed.

At dinner, she told Lady Jie about it, and Lady Jie was taken aback, "Your brother, who would have thought?"

Yan Jingzhao was quite a charming and carefree person, so Lady Jie always assumed he preferred refined and talented women. She never expected he would like such a delicate and plump beauty.

Yan Yingqi coughed twice, "What does he like this or that? He’s just a lecher."

"Father, how can you say such things about Brother?" Yao Niang was speechless.

Yan Yingqi shrugged, "We’re all men; we know each other well. Yao Niang, do you think hiding your paintings will help? Your big brother Jingzhao is already enchanted. If it were Yan Jingzhang and Yan Jingwen, those two little devils, they’d probably lose their appetite and forget to eat."

"Father, you’re exaggerating," Yao Niang couldn’t stand it.

Lady Jie also scolded him, "You’re an elder."

"Alright, I won’t say anything more," Yan Yingqi immediately sat up straight.

The room was filled with playful banter, but Lady Zhen accidentally broke a teacup for the first time because Lady Gong had sent an invitation to Lady Jie.