Chapter 76

Speaking of this year's imperial examination, Shen Linfeng was selected as an examiner. The chief examiner for this session was Vice Premier Gong. Yao Niang packed his luggage, saying, "You have always loved sleeping, unlike me, who is a night owl. I've packed some strong tea to keep you alert; if you feel sleepy, drink some. But don't stay up too late; it's not good for your health."

"I understand. While I'm away, take care of yourself. If there are any difficulties, wait until I return to discuss them," Shen Linfeng said in his official attire.

Yao Niang straightened his collar and smiled, "This official robe suits you well."

Shen Linfeng laughed, "You never seem to like the fine clothes I usually wear, but you favor this official robe."

Yao Niang patted the wrinkles on his back, "It's different. Some fallen nobles still secretly wear their ancestors' flying fish robes, but what does that matter? Though being indifferent is good, a man with power truly lives a life of flavor."

In fact, the couple often talked about literature and poetry or household chores. When Shen Linfeng heard this, he paused. It was the first time he had heard Yao Niang speak like this.

Unlike her sister, who dreamed of becoming empress, which Shen Linfeng saw as nothing more than a dream, since the empress had little real power, and her sister only craved the glory.

But his wife spoke of power, something tangible, while those empty titles were burdens.

She truly lived up to being Yan Yingqi's daughter, different from others. His father-in-law must have already sensed the changing winds, having placed bets on both Prime Minister Wen and Vice Premier Gong. If Prime Minister Wen lost, his in-laws would still be part of the Gong faction. If Vice Premier Gong fell first, then Prime Minister Wen would still be his in-laws. Even if both sides were defeated, he could come back and directly inherit the political resources of both factions, ensuring his daughters' futures.

He had already passed the imperial examination and entered the civil service through the special examination. His future prospects were certainly bright. Wen Qilang's father was a seasoned official, and even if Prime Minister Wen retired, his relationship with the emperor remained strong.

This was the worst-case scenario, where he, Shen Linfeng, and Wen Qilang would have to rely on the Yan family in the future.

Among the Yan family, only Yan Jingzhao stood out, but Shen Linfeng observed that his brother-in-law was stubborn and vengeful, yet eloquent and handsome. Some hated him, while others valued him, foreshadowing a life of ups and downs.

However, a son-in-law is half a son. With him around, the Yan family could still rely on someone.

But did Yan Yingqi really think so far ahead?

Seeing Shen Linfeng lost in thought, Yao Niang asked, "What's wrong? Still worried about home?"

"Mother is getting older and has become somewhat eccentric. Please bear with her," Shen Linfeng said.

Yao Niang smiled, "Of course. Mother treats me well now, so don't worry."

Shen Linfeng added, "Mother is very anxious about my sister's marriage. If she asks for your help, just stall. First, as a daughter-in-law, your opinion doesn't count much, and second, it's better not to get involved in such matters."

Yao Niang was surprised that Shen Linfeng would bring this up, knowing that he rarely criticized anyone. Now, he specifically instructed her, and she had no reason to meddle in Shen Mo's affairs, so she nodded in agreement.

After Shen Linfeng left, Lady Shen called Yao Niang over. Yao Niang thought she was concerned about Shen Linfeng, but unexpectedly, Lady Shen came straight to the point: "Good daughter-in-law, look at these marriage proposals. They've been troubling me these past few days."

Yao Niang picked up the proposals and read them. In fact, Shen Mo's prospects were quite good. Her family was full of officials, and she herself was bright and graceful. Although there were rumors about her early connection with Prince Qi's heir, they were limited to families like the Yans who had ties to Prince Qi, and outsiders might not know much.

Therefore, Yao Niang said, "As a daughter, I rarely go out. These proposals all seem to be from suitable young men of good families. Why should you worry, Mother?"

"But none of them truly match our Mo. Take Mr. Hu, for example. His father is a salt commissioner, and his uncle is a university scholar. He is three years older than our Mo, yet he has no official rank. Though we are such a family, what does it matter if one fails the imperial examination? But having an official rank means having true talent and ability," Lady Shen hinted.

Yao Niang knew very well that the era of the Nine-Rank System and aristocratic clans was long gone. Without passing the imperial examination, how could one hold high office? Even during the Northern Song Dynasty, many officials' children entered government through patronage, but those with real talent still took the special examinations to advance further.

Thus, the Shens, like the Yans, desperately wanted to find a young man with both an official rank and a good background, but such people were rare. Even the Gong family's daughter married into a humble family, let alone the Shens?

She said, "Good things come to those who wait."

Lady Shen held her head, "That's not entirely true. As the saying goes, success depends on human effort. Tell me, do you know anything about the fourth son of the Gu family, whom your brother brought home last time?"

It turned out Lady Shen wanted to arrange a marriage with the fourth son of the Gu family. Yao Niang naturally disagreed. Gu Si was a close friend of her brother, a free-spirited person. If Gu Si himself was willing, she wouldn't say anything, but she wouldn't facilitate the match. Given how Lady Shen and Shen Mo treated her, why should she help them?

Therefore, Yao Niang replied, "I don't know much about men outside our family. Though he is a close friend of my brother, he is seven years older than me. Perhaps Mother should ask someone else."

Mrs. Shen knew she had spoken out of turn, asking her daughter-in-law about matters concerning an outsider. Naturally, the daughter-in-law found it difficult to speak up, so she smiled and said, "In our Shen family, when we choose a son-in-law, we do not place much importance on lineage. I've only heard that this Fourth Son Gu is a fine young man, both talented and handsome."

She was, of course, hinting for Yao Niang to take action, but how could Yao Niang possibly do so? Someone who wouldn't step forward would likely step back after being used, so Yao Niang pretended not to hear.

Mrs. Shen couldn't help but lay her cards on the table: "Elder Madam, I am willing to entrust you with this matter. What do you think?"

It seemed she was forcing Yao Niang into a corner. Yao Niang still replied, "Madam, I am young and can barely manage household affairs, let alone arrange a marriage. Please find someone more capable."

Seeing that Yao Niang refused to comply, Mrs. Shen became sullen. Yao Niang thought to herself that Second Madam Shen had dug a pit for her several times; if she didn't retaliate, it wouldn't be like her. Thus, Yao Niang smiled and said, "Madam, don't worry. Although your daughter-in-law is young, there is one person who would be quite suitable."

"Oh, who?" Mrs. Shen looked up.

Yao Niang smiled, "How could you forget Second Aunt? She is respected and well-known within the clan. Now, as the wife of the National University's chief administrator, her status is sufficient. If she were to arrange the marriage, it would surely be more effective than me, a mere child."

"My dear, you're right," Mrs. Shen clapped her hands in delight.

Her daughter-in-law was indeed young, and although she was from the Yan family, she was too inexperienced. The matchmaker needed to mediate between both sides, and she thought Yao Niang's idea was excellent.

Yao Niang then said, "However, the imperial examination is coming up soon, and Master Gu will likely be studying in seclusion."

"Yes, we'll wait until he finishes his exams before I talk to your second aunt." Mrs. Shen hoped that Fourth Son Gu would pass the exam.

Yao Niang said no more. Having passed the buck, she wrote a letter to Yan Jingzhao informing him of the matter. After reading it, Yan Jingzhao sneered, "Old witch, you really have thick skin."

But power and wealth have always moved people's hearts. If Fourth Son Gu agreed, there was nothing he could do about it.

If the sky wants to rain, and the mother wants to marry, who can stop them? Her sister's letter also advised him not to interfere and not to ruin anyone's marriage because of her.

Her sister was truly too kind. Yao Niang suspected that Second Madam Shen had ulterior motives and wanted to use this matter to test her. If Second Madam Shen was sincere, she would put effort into this marriage. If she was jealous of others' happiness and was not genuinely harmonious with the main branch, it would indicate that Shen Mo's marriage would be difficult to arrange.

Keeping Shen Mo around meant that relations between Mrs. Shen and her would never improve.

When Shen Linfeng was away, Mrs. Shen busied herself with Shen Mo's affairs, making plans for both scenarios. If Fourth Son Gu didn't work out, she still favored the nephew of Minister Hu.

Although Yao Niang stayed secluded, she sent Zhou Wang's wife to gather information. Zhou Wang's wife, originally Yao Niang's companion, was unremarkable in appearance but had extraordinary skills. It was through her that Yao Niang learned of what happened at the Zhen residence. After marrying into the Shen family, Yao Niang kept Zhou Wang's wife close.

Qingdai specialized in learning from Mama Wang, while Hongxue managed the storeroom. Mama Gu oversaw everything, and although Yao Niang rarely saw Zhou Wang's wife, she provided her with a generous monthly allowance to gather intelligence.

One night, just as Yao Niang was about to sleep, she heard that Zhou Wang's wife had something to report. She perked up, "Bring her in quickly."

Zhou Wang's wife entered, and Yao Niang dismissed everyone else. She listened as Zhou Wang's wife said, "Today, while sweeping near the rockery as you instructed, I watched Miss Han. Guess what? In the small garden to the west, it was dark, and I saw Second Young Master and Miss Han acting intimately."

"Second Young Master? Shen Bangyan? Are you sure you didn't make a mistake?" This surprised Yao Niang. When she heard about it from Lady Shao, she thought it was Third Master Shen Linjiang and Han Ruohua.

Zhou Wang's wife said, "Absolutely certain. I may not dare to say anything else, but such matters would not be known unless I was watching day and night."

"Do not alarm them. Continue to investigate and try to get some leverage," Yao Niang smiled.

"Yes, I understand," Zhou Wang's wife replied.

"Good, but remember to protect yourself first. I remember you enjoy sweet wine. My brother recently sent me a batch he brewed himself. Qingdai, give Zhou Wang's wife a bottle, and cut a few yards of yellow and indigo silk for her children to make new clothes," Yao Niang smiled.

Zhou Wang's wife was delighted and bowed gratefully.

The servants who came with them from the Yan family were mostly disciplined, and the other servants saw the close relationship between their young mistress and master, knowing that Elder Madam would eventually hold power.

Yao Niang wasn't one to show weakness. Complaining frequently to friends would make them tired, and the same applied to servants. If she showed weakness, it would make the servants uneasy. Some might look down on their master and cause trouble, while others might seek new masters. This was why she agreed to marry Shen Linfeng; at least he treated her well before the marriage and had no concubines.

Mrs. Shen was not a devious person, though she liked to put on airs. But her straightforwardness made Shen Linfeng love her even more.

This Han Ruohua is indeed quite interesting; on the surface, she is more dignified than anyone else, but in private, she does not adhere to propriety.

But why does she behave so intimately with these married men? It’s truly a loss outweighing the gain.

As for the Shen family men, according to Yao Niang's understanding, their future should be greater than everything else.

The next morning, when she went out, she met Lady Wang, who had adorned herself with a new hairpin today. She called out to Yao Niang first: "Elder Sister-in-law."

"Little Sister-in-law, where are you going?" Yao Niang asked curiously.

Lady Wang said with a hint of pride: "It’s the Chengguo Duke’s Mansion inviting us to play polo. Sister Mo is also going with me. They originally wanted to invite Elder Sister-in-law too, but since you don’t know how to play polo, it wouldn’t work out."

Spring had just arrived, and although it was still a bit cold, the noblewomen who loved playing polo had already started to get active. This was also a way of socializing.

And most of the people invited by Lady Cao of the Chengguo Duke’s Mansion were skilled at playing polo. Except for Yan Ningxin, none of Yao Niang and her sisters knew how to play, so they rarely attended. Over time, the Chengguo Duke’s Mansion stopped sending invitations.

"Yes, I don’t know how to play polo. Have fun if you all go," Yao Niang said.

Lady Wang put aside her usual stubbornness, appearing somewhat girlish: "Thank you for your good wishes."

Actually, although Lady Wang felt some jealousy now, most of her grievances with Yao Niang were due to competition. It wasn’t as though they were mortal enemies.

A few days later, Shen Linfeng returned from the examination hall. Yao Niang had already prepared petals and fragrant herbs to remove the sour smell from his body. Shen Linfeng soaked for nearly an hour before he reluctantly got dressed and came out of the bathhouse.

Yao Niang was reading outside. Seeing his wet hair, she immediately said, "Quickly dry your hair. Why did you take so long?"

"It’s because the petals you prepared smelled so good. Bathing was especially comfortable, neither too strong nor too cloying. Now I feel like I’ve come back to life," Shen Linfeng said childishly.

Yao Niang hugged his arm and sat down: "I chose them specially, worried that you might think they weren’t manly enough."

Shen Linfeng smiled: "I really like them. Can I take a nap now?"

"Sure, what do you think I’m doing here?" She handed him a doll she had sewn, depicting a young man riding a white horse and carrying a sword.

The young man in a white robe carried a precious sword, riding a white horse. Shen Linfeng didn’t expect her to make a doll for him. He looked at Yao Niang: "Bowing to the rosy sky, the sword gleams with frost, riding the autumn wind out of Xianyang. Why even for me? Why go to such trouble, I’m not a child anymore..."

Seeing him like this, how could he not love it? He was utterly delighted.

He was just pretending to be childish.

Yao Niang laughed and patted the bed: "Lie down and dry your hair. If you don’t like it, consider it my overstepping."

Shen Linfeng held it tightly in his arms, seemingly drifting into a sweet dream.

This person, who appears highly intelligent on the outside, actually has the most childlike heart. He loves everything she likes, unlike others who might just pretend or find her too childish.

After the provincial examination, Lady Shen called Lady Shen Er, Bi Shi, over. As soon as Bi Shi entered, she laughed: "Sister-in-law, you’re so formal in inviting me. I wonder what it’s about?"

"There is something I need your help with." Lady Shen then explained Gu Si Lang’s situation: "You may not know the Gu family in Jin Ling, but they are extremely famous here. Gu Si Lang is only twenty years old and has already come to the capital for the provincial examination. Even if he doesn’t pass this time, he is still a talent. I heard that both his grandfather and father were jinshi (high-ranking officials), and although his father is currently the governor of Yingzhou, the family’s background is not something just anyone can compare to."

Hearing this, Bi Shi quickly replied: "It seems this young man comes from a family of scholars, making him a suitable match. Since Sister-in-law has entrusted this matter to me, I will certainly look into it thoroughly."

Gu Si Lang was originally a talented and unrestrained person. After the provincial examination, like all the other candidates, he went to the pleasure quarters to relax a bit. He had been extremely tense during the exam and couldn’t indulge in any romantic activities while staying at the Yan family. Although he wasn’t a libertine, seeking comfort and relaxation was quite normal.

Even Yan Jingzhao didn’t think there was anything wrong with it, as long as he didn’t linger in brothels and neglect his studies.

Yan Jingzhao didn’t say much to Gu Si Lang, as he had his own matters to attend to. The official selection was coming up this year, and he still didn’t know how to navigate the political landscape.

The day of the provincial examination results arrived. Although Gu Si Lang didn’t pass this time, he was a broad-minded person and told Yan Jingzhao, "In three years, I will see Brother Boying again."

"It's excellent that you think this way. It's rare for things to be accomplished overnight in the world, and I admire you, Fourth Brother." Yan Jingzhao raised his cup to him.

Gu Fourth Brother couldn't help but think of Miss Yan San again. She was doing well now, which made it all worthwhile. He also raised his cup, "I must thank you, Brother Yan, for your hospitality these days."

Yan Jingzhao waved his hand, "Gentlemen share their wealth; why speak of such things? When you return to Jin Ling, you can visit my father more often."

"If I pass the next imperial examination, there will still be time to visit. If I fail, I would have no face to show myself even to Uncle."

After Gu Fourth Brother said this, both of them laughed heartily.

Madam Shen Er mentioned the information she had gathered to Madam Shen: "This Master Gu Fourth did not pass the metropolitan examination. Not only did he fail, but he also left poems at some brothel. Although young men may act on impulse sometimes, when I hinted at it, he still behaved like this, Sister-in-law, what do you think about this..."

"What? This person is so frivolous," Madam Shen frowned.

Madam Shen Er said, "Elder Sister, perhaps my investigation was inaccurate. Why don't you investigate as well?"

Madam Shen waved her hand, "No need. Would you lie to me? Besides, many people seek to marry our daughter."

"Yes, that's what I thought too," Madam Shen Er replied.

When Master Gu Fourth returned home, Yao Niang asked Madam Shen, "Madam, last time you said you wanted Second Aunt to arrange a marriage. What did the Gu family say?"

Madam Shen didn't want to mention it, only saying, "The Gu family's status is still too low."

Yao Niang smiled, "Yes, naturally they cannot compare with our Shen family's prestige. But what did Second Aunt say?"

Madam Shen still blamed Yao Niang somewhat, "Your Second Aunt hinted at it, but he ignored it and went to a brothel, spreading tales. In our family's position, others should be seeking us, not the other way around."

From what Yao Niang knew, although Master Gu Fourth was a talented and romantic figure, if he truly intended to marry a Shen family daughter, he wouldn't act like this.

What Madam Shen Er said seemed problematic, but it confirmed Yao Niang's suspicions: Madam Shen Er was indeed plotting behind the scenes.

"Madam, I prepared some lavender incense today. Managing such a large household is indeed exhausting. If this incense can help you sleep better, it would be a small token of my filial piety," Yao Niang handed a sachet of incense to Madam Shen's attendant through Hong Xiu.

Madam Shen accepted it with a smile and said, "I heard from Linfeng that his quick recovery was due to your good care. In the future, if he is at home, you don't need to come to me."

Yao Niang quickly replied, "Madam, what are you saying? My husband often tells me to stay close to you and serve you."

Madam Shen found this acceptable. Yao Niang also felt that Madam Shen was straightforward, though easily swayed and somewhat naive. If she could command her in the future, it would be easy to manipulate her.

After a few words between mother and daughter-in-law, Lady Li from the Gong family arrived. One shouldn't underestimate the social interactions among these ladies; sometimes husbands find it inconvenient to discuss certain matters, so they entrust their wives to convey messages.

Seeing Lady Li's slightly anxious expression, Yao Niang wondered what had happened?

After the imperial examination, spring arrived in March. The third branch of the Shen family cleaned the courtyard, awaiting the arrival of Uncle Shen from the capital. Yao Niang, who used to be wary of any suspicious person, now remained calm and took preemptive action.

In mid-March, Yao Niang received an invitation to Liu Lady's peach blossom banquet. Her current network included her husband's colleagues at the Imperial Academy, guests introduced by her mother-in-law, and the connections through Liu Lady. Last time, Liu Ji promised to help her, and she trusted Liu Lady implicitly, so she never questioned the lack of a formal appointment.

This was her trust; she didn't doubt those she truly trusted.

Shen Mo's marriage was still undecided, and Madam Shen was being picky. However, at this point, Madam Shen agreed to the Hu family's proposal, but it turned out that the Hu young master had already married into the Fan scholar's family.

Amidst this atmosphere, Uncle Shen arrived in the capital with his delicate wife and several sons. Madam Shen ordered the kitchen to prepare a full table of dishes to welcome them.

The carriage of Governor Shen stopped at the Tongzhou inn. He dismounted first and then called out, "Madam, get down. Tidy up your appearance here in Tongzhou before we proceed to the capital."

A beautiful woman slowly descended from the carriage. It was Lu Shaner, followed by two concubines of Governor Shen. Both were in their twenties or thirties, older than her, yet they stood behind her.

Governor Shen originally deeply resented his third son, Shen Linyun, for being incompetent, causing him great embarrassment. Feeling his son was dull, he decided to look for a wife from a humble family. However, Lu Clan should have proposed to his son, and at his age, he would look for someone in her thirties, even a widow would do.

But this girl directly expressed her interest in him. Seeing that although she was young, she acted more maturely than most, and even saved his youngest son's life, he decided to marry her.

Naturally, it was normal for a young girl to admire him in his prime, or to seek something from him, which was even more common. Since ancient times, the moon goddess has favored young men. Since she chose him, she must value power and wealth, and he was willing to provide it. However, what pleased him most was that his eldest nephew, Shen Linfeng, was marrying a Yan family girl, thus mending the feud between the Yan and Shen families. Otherwise, Mr. Zhushan's list presented in the capital might include himself.