Chapter 99

"How can my daughter's letter be so thick? It’s almost meticulous." Yan Yingqi shook his head after reading it.

Jie Shi said, "I enjoy reading it; this shows that she is close to me. We don’t know much about her recent life, and if she doesn’t write more, I would worry. She mentioned that she didn’t expect me to have a younger brother for her, and she asked me to take good care of myself, even expressing surprise at the birth of the child."

She couldn't help but laugh as she spoke.

Yan Yingqi said, "Children are always children. Our Yao Niang still has such a childlike heart, which means she is living well in the Shen family."

"It’s not that she’s living well. Her sister eloped, and we hurriedly attended a funeral. How could her life be easy? Life in the inner quarters is just a matter of enduring." Jie Shi had endured enough hardship herself. The old lady of the third house was advanced in years, and the battle was already decided. Her husband and son were on her side, and she had a legitimate imperial decree. Now, with the birth of Little Jingci, the tide had turned in her favor.

As for Zhen Shi, the marriage arrangements with the Xu family had been ongoing for several years, and Jingwen’s marriage was still undecided. Yan Yingqi had been in mourning for nearly twenty-seven months, and the path to his reinstatement was not easy. Jie Shi didn’t mind; after all, the couple enjoyed their time together with their children.

Zhen Shi, however, was very anxious, but she had long lost her influence over Yan Yingqi. Initially, when Yan Yingqi was demoted, Zhen Shi was secretly pleased. But as time went on, the old man of the third house became the Minister of Works. As long as the old man was around, Yan Jingzhao’s career wouldn’t suffer too much, but Yan Yingqi’s reinstatement was difficult.

Yan Yingqi had a smooth career and was in his prime. He was quite strategic and willing to take risks, but human plans often fall short of divine will, and the changes in the political arena were no exception. He had to be patient, and staying at home to build his reputation was a good choice.

He didn’t need to explain these matters to Jie Shi, as she never thought about such things. They understood each other deeply.

There was even less reason to explain to Zhen Shi. Why should he discuss his future with her? Zhen Shi had already obtained a third-rank official’s wife title through him and had been an official’s wife for many years. He had nothing to feel guilty about.

Jie Shi, as usual, kept some of the items Yao Niang sent and gave a few bolts of cloth to the first house. When Zhen Shi received them, she snorted coldly.

"Is this small amount of goods worth sending?"

Mama Wei served tea and consoled her, "An old oyster giving birth to pearls, how shameless. At her age, being a grandmother, having a son who is almost the same age as her grandson."

Zhen Shi waved her hand, "I’m worried that Lord cannot be reinstated. The old man of the third house is so old and still refuses to retire, making it impossible for our lord to be reinstated. While the people of the third house are favored, our family is doomed. The mourning period is almost over, and I don’t know what to do."

Mama Wei suggested, "Why not ask the lord? See what he says."

"The lord never comes to our first house, spending all his time with that Jie Shi. How can I make her come?" Zhen Shi, now older, was less inclined to vie for his attention.

After the old lady’s husband passed away, she grew increasingly fond of her granddaughter Xin Wan and wanted to revisit the idea of marrying her to Jingwen. During his return for mourning, Jingwen and Xin Wan’s interactions under her watchful eye were not unknown to Zhen Shi. However, the lord’s attitude became ambiguous, seemingly not opposing Jingwen’s marriage to Xin Wan.

...

So, when Yao Niang received Jie Shi’s reply, it was the day before her birthday. The letter contained many amusing stories about her younger brother Jingci and mentioned that Jingwen’s marriage might still be tied to Xin Wan.

"This can be considered a happy ending for lovers," Yao Niang said.

Shen Linfeng asked, "Why did your father suddenly agree?"

Yao Niang smiled, "You know, my grandfather holds office in the capital, making it difficult for my father to return. After all, relatives cannot serve in the same city simultaneously to avoid favoritism, though there’s no explicit rule, it’s an unwritten one. Moreover, look at my brother’s two failed marriages. In such a case, why not choose someone familiar and compatible? This way, the relationship can last longer. But these are just my speculations."

Everything starts from emotion, and Shen Linfeng could understand.

Just like Shen Linfeng himself, before meeting Yao Niang, his requirements for a wife were simply to meet the standards of a household mistress. But after meeting his wife, he felt that being with the person he loved was the greatest happiness, because this person was his choice.

This year, she turned sixteen, not a milestone birthday. Yao Niang particularly enjoyed celebrating her birthdays when she was young, but now she wasn’t as enthusiastic. She accepted gifts from others and, in the evening, had a bowl of longevity noodles with Shen Linfeng.

That night, the couple stopped using contraception, and Yao Niang was well-prepared. When Shen Linfeng took the lead, Yao Niang also welcomed him. Outsiders didn’t know their plans, especially Lady Wang, who, despite her desire for a child, saw less of Shen Bangyan due to his intense studies.

Fortunately, Chunluo comforted her, "Even the eldest madam isn’t pregnant. She has more pressure than you, considering she is the eldest daughter-in-law of the main house."

"That’s true. If she’s not in a hurry, neither should I be," Lady Wang consoled herself, feeling better.

After speaking, she went to talk to Han Ruohua. Among her sisters-in-law, only Han Ruohua was considerate and kind. Previously, she had a lukewarm relationship with Han Ruohua, but now she found her to be a good person. Besides, they were both young wives, and Han Ruohua wasn’t as proud as the Yan family.

Speaking of Lady Yan, she was somewhat better in front of her mother-in-law, Lady Shen. Once Lady Shen left, Shen Linfeng seemed like a dead man, unable to control her at all. As a result, Lady Yan became arrogant and domineering, ordering her sisters-in-law around with a haughty attitude. Her words were often so sharp that no one could respond, and Lady Wang and the other sisters-in-law frequently visited each other, but Lady Yan rarely joined them.

Lady Wang brought people to Qingyi Garden's Third House, only to hear that Han Ruohua had gone to the First House.

Indeed, Han Ruohua had arrived at the First House, while Yao Niang was painting lotus ponds in the pavilion. She feared her skills would become rusty, not caring how good her paintings were, but determined not to regress.

"I guessed you would be here, Elder Sister Feng. Everyone says your brushwork is marvelous, but who knows the hardships behind it?" Han Ruohua spoke confidently.

Yao Niang smiled, "It's you. I wonder what brings you here today?"

Last time, Han Ruohua tried to take away Shen Linyi's portrait, which made Yao Niang suspect something unusual. It was possible that she liked Shen Linyi, and her relationship with Shen Bangyan might have been due to Shen Linyi. This wasn't impossible.

Their relationship had always been distant, especially after her wedding, where there had been some friction between them. Therefore, her smiling visit now was likely for that portrait.

Han Ruohua said, "It's nothing else. Since it's the Mid-Autumn Festival, and I just entered the family last year, I don't know what to give to our relatives. Both of our sisters-in-law from the Third House are busy, so I came to seek advice from Elder Sister Feng."

Yao Niang replied, "Your family is now managed by Elder Sister Qing. As a young daughter-in-law, you don't need to prepare these things."

"Really, I don't need to prepare?" Han Ruohua asked feigning surprise.

Yao Niang smiled, "Perhaps you can ask your elder sister. Now that each house visits their own relatives, I can't really help. Oh, I heard that Third Lady has gone to Henan, and Elder Sister Qing has leased out the garden?"

She deliberately asked this because Han Ruohua never spoke frankly. She liked to interrogate others but never revealed anything important herself. Thus, Yao Niang intentionally asked, knowing she wouldn't answer, hoping to make Han Ruohua leave.

Sure enough, Han Ruohua only shook her head and said, "If you don't know, I'll go back first."

After Han Ruohua left, she felt depressed. Auntie Xu hurriedly consoled her, "My dear, you're the most sensible. Why are you acting like this over this matter? You used the excuse of saving someone's life to avoid it before. Do you still plan to get the portrait? What will the clan say about you?"

Han Ruohua closed her eyes and shed tears, "I just can't help it. If Brother Yi were alive and became the top scholar, then I..."

Just as she finished speaking, she heard that Third Master had returned. Han Ruohua quickly wiped her tears with a handkerchief and gave Auntie Xu a look, then stood up gracefully to welcome him.

Shen Linyun finally returned home. The couple had quarreled before, and Han Ruohua wanted her husband to socialize more with officials, but Third Master didn't like such activities and would run away whenever she mentioned it. They ended up parting unhappily. However, he listened to his second brother, Shen Linjiang's advice and returned.

Being a young couple, Han Ruohua, with her excellent eloquence, took the initiative to apologize, "Although my words were for your own good, I didn't consider your feelings. It was wrong of me. These days, I've been sitting here, longing for your footsteps, hoping we could return to the way things were, finding a shoulder to lean on. Unfortunately, it was all a dream."

Third Master scratched his head, "I was also wrong. Don't be angry with me. I'm back, aren't I?"

Han Ruohua took his hand, "Let's not argue anymore, okay?"

"Okay."

Seeing her husband placated, Han Ruohua sighed in relief. She knew that although Third Master wasn't exceptionally talented, he was honest and sincere, a rare quality. How could she let such a husband go? Moreover, Third Master was very handsome, and she wrapped her arms around him, "I miss you, I really do."

Third Master, being younger than her, found it hard to resist her allure. Han Ruohua was plump and beautiful, and her seduction left him powerless. She was also satisfied with his performance, given his youth and vigor.

When they woke up again, Third Master wanted to continue, but she, though satisfied, said, "We haven't even had dinner yet."

After reconciling, Han Ruohua temporarily forgot about Shen Linyi. However, Third Master was not suited for studying, and at his age, his writing was very sloppy.

Elder Sister Qing was now pregnant and content. Regardless of whether she bore a son or a daughter, she could finally give birth, securing her position. She also arranged for a young maid to serve Shen Linqing, showing her love for her husband and desire to have a child, but most importantly, securing her status.

Therefore, she managed the household, hoping for family harmony, making it easier for her to manage. She now had a reputation for being virtuous, surpassing her younger siblings.

She planned to organize a grand celebration for the Mid-Autumn Festival, showcasing her capabilities to everyone.

The ladies of the household also prepared to show off their skills during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Fortunately, Yao Niang's family consisted of only two people, making it easier for her to prepare. However, sending gifts externally required careful planning. The festival gifts sent to Zhao Cifu, the Imperial Academy's Chancellor, and several high-ranking officials could not be generic.

But there were stewards specifically responsible for this, and Yao Niang and Shen Linfeng had to review everything. Sending the wrong gift could negatively impact their reputation.

The mooncakes were all ordered from Fan Tower, and the wine was of the finest quality. As for any calligraphy, paintings, or utensils, Shen Linfeng would select them based on his superiors' preferences, while Yao Niang would draft new lists beside him. After they double-checked everything, both felt much more relieved.

"Really don't want to be an adult, look at how many things there are!" Yao Niang yawned, seemingly a bit sleepy.

Shen Linfeng said, "You, why have you been so easily drowsy lately?"

"I don't know, sigh, maybe it's because of the pregnancy medicine. The doctor also said I have insufficient qi and blood," Yao Niang replied.

Shen Linfeng secretly took Yao Niang's arm to feel her pulse. Seeing that it was steady, he said, "Hmm, if you're sleepy, get more rest and don't overwork yourself."

Yao Niang nodded. She then asked, "Our painting has been sent back for about three months now. Your parents should have received it. They haven't replied yet; I wonder what they think?"

"As for investigating cases, my father once cleared ten thousand cases in a year at the Dali Temple without a single mistake. I wrote to them. If they really wanted to investigate, why would they need us?" Shen Linfeng said.

Yao Niang snorted coldly, "Forget it, what about the Bi family?"

Shen Linfeng said, "There are some leads with the Bi family, but since they are related to Second Aunt, we have to wait until they are truly out of money before we can ask certain questions. Besides, I am an official now and cannot use extreme measures."

The dead are gone, and Shen Linfeng needs to uncover the truth while also securing his position.

Yao Niang understood this. She then talked about her younger brother, finding it quite novel: "You say my brother is just over a year old, it's really quite amusing. I actually have such a young brother. My mother says my father now acts like a slave to his son, even getting up at night to hold the child, completely different from before. Hey, do you think your father and mother can still have children?"

"Cough, definitely not," Shen Linfeng had never thought about his parents' situation.

Seeing Yao Niang's confusion, Shen Linfeng added, "Think about it, my mother is fifty, and she mourned for several years after my great-grandparents passed away. My father is the eldest son and direct grandson."

A woman around fifty is almost menopausal and likely cannot conceive, but Yao Niang emphasized, "Who knows, your mother might still be able to."

Shen Linfeng was stunned by her imagination: "I've never heard of a woman giving birth at fifty. Stop it, I dare not imagine, please."

Yao Niang threw a handkerchief at his face, "Boring, as timid as a mouse."

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lady Qing miscarried, reportedly due to excessive exertion, which left her bedridden. This surprised Yao Niang greatly, who said, "I saw that Lady Qing valued the child in her womb very much, how could she miscarry?"

Mother Gu, however, knew something about it: "I heard from Zhou Wang's wife that Lady Qing took fertility drugs, not ordinary qi and blood tonics like you. People who take strong medicines are prone to problems. Some with strong constitutions can handle it, but those with weak bodies may suffer backlash. Sometimes, losing the child means the child was inherently unhealthy and miscarried first."

However, Mother Gu still advised Yao Niang, "Lady, you are currently trying to conceive, you must not follow her example. Take it slowly."

Yao Niang understood that these people genuinely cared for her. Unlike Lady Qing, who was ambitious and raised fierce and aggressive people, they would not truly care about their masters but only about their own achievements. When Lady Jiang became pregnant, Lady Qing soon followed suit.

In fact, in families like theirs, Lu Shaner, being a second wife, would not interfere in the affairs of her daughters-in-law. Letting things take their natural course is always best.

After saying this, Yao Niang stood up to visit Lady Qing but felt dizzy when she tried to stand.

Mother Gu thought that Lady's menstrual period was late and she was excessively sleepy, so she already had an idea. She said, "Lady, I advise you not to go for now. We should find a doctor to check if you are pregnant. If you are, it would be inappropriate to visit someone who has miscarried."

"Me? No way," Yao Niang knew her mother had a good constitution for bearing sons. Her mother indeed bore her brother and several other children upon entering the household. However, her menstrual cycle had been irregular, and she had been using contraception for over a year. She had only been trying to conceive for two months, so it shouldn't be that quick.

Mother Gu smiled, "Young Master is vigorous and capable. I'll go invite a doctor right away."

The doctor arrived quickly, feeling Yao Niang's pulse for a long time and asking about her symptoms. He stroked his beard and smiled, "It's almost certain that it's a pregnancy pulse, but it's still early."

For a moment, Yao Niang seemed overwhelmed by joy, yet she was also a bit anxious, "Doctor, am I really pregnant?"

The doctor nodded, "I've been practicing for many years. If I couldn't identify a pregnancy pulse, I'd pack my bags and go home."

Yao Niang couldn't help but smile, gently touching her belly. She listened to the doctor and Mother Gu discussing dos and don'ts: "Walnuts, beef, and milk can be eaten more often. If you eat fish, sea bass is best. But things like Job's tears, longan, and papaya should be eaten less."

"Can I eat oysters?" Yao Niang asked, as her family had sent many oysters this year.

The doctor smiled and said, "Of course, oysters are known as the milk of the sea. It's perfect for you to eat them now that you're three months pregnant."

Yao Niang spoke through the curtain to Mother Gu, "Mother, give this doctor double the reward. Also, have her tell you about what should be avoided. And, ask Little Qing to go to the Imperial Academy and inform Master."

Mother Gu replied joyfully, "Very well, very well, Lady, rest first. We'll take care of everything else."

...

Shen Linfeng was on duty at the Cabinet and usually had to report to the Imperial Academy. When he arrived today, he heard that his servant was urgently looking for him. He thought something must have happened, but it turned out his wife was pregnant.

Little Qing said, "Master, Lady has sent me to bring you good news. She just found out today. Since it's early in the pregnancy, she asked you not to spread the word yet."

"Should I go back now? But I still need to ask the Deputy Prime Minister for leave, so I'll return tonight. Good boy, here's your reward, take it." Shen Linfeng thought to himself how impressive he was, hitting the mark with just one try. He wondered if Yao Niang was carrying a boy or a girl. If it's a girl, he hoped she would be just like Yao Niang, adorable and lovely.

Seeing Shen Linfeng actually gave him a silver ingot as a reward, Little Qing bit into it and thought, no wonder Miss sent him to bring the news. Miss always thinks of him for good things. Back when they were in the northwest, Miss said she was the great general and wanted Little Qing to be the vanguard.

Shen Linfeng usually came early and left late at the Cabinet, but today he walked briskly. Deputy Prime Minister Zhao felt his eyes were playing tricks on him: "Wasn't Scholar Shen still here just now? How did he get almost to the palace gate so quickly?"

"Scholar Gongding usually walks with great composure, everyone says he has the demeanor of a noble family. But I heard his wife is pregnant, so he must be rushing home," the Chancellor of the Academy said.

The Chancellor of the Academy had a high regard for Shen Linfeng because he was very skilled at writing. Now, in the Cabinet, he also got along well with Chief Minister Zhao and Deputy Prime Minister Zhao.

What a promising young man, most importantly, he is tolerant, capable, and broad-minded.

Deputy Prime Minister Zhao couldn't help but nod.

The news of Yao Niang's pregnancy soon spread throughout the Shen household. Lady Shen Er personally came to visit, giving many tips on what to avoid. Yao Niang thought that no matter what, Lady Shen Er always handled things perfectly.

"Thank you, Aunt, for informing me. I'm young and don't know these things. It's good to have an elder around," Yao Niang said with a grateful expression.

Lady Shen Er saw Yao Niang lying in bed, wearing a pink nightgown, without any makeup, speaking with a wise and noble air. No wonder Shen Linfeng was completely charmed by her. In two years since she married in, not even a female mosquito could get close to her.

For a moment, she felt a bit envious that this girl had such good fortune. Without her in-laws around, she would usually have to take a concubine after three childless years, but she managed to get pregnant right at this critical point.

She then heard Rong An outside say, "Lady, Master specially invited a chef from Fan Tower to cook for you. He asked the kitchen not to prepare anything else for now."

"Fan Tower? He really went to great lengths. It's not easy to invite their chefs," Yao Niang couldn't help but smile.

However, this might offend Lady Qing, who wasn't someone to mess with. She had a miscarriage, while the main house was celebrating the pregnancy. This wasn't good.

Although she wanted to give some advice, Lady Shen Er thought it wasn't her business. Why should she get involved? Lady Yan usually had too much pride and didn't understand the dangers of the world. She thought that as long as there was no conflict of interest, others wouldn't harm her, which was wishful thinking. Lady Qing and Lady Shen had frequent correspondence, and her sister-in-law was quite foolish, having once placed great importance on Lady Qing. Recently, it was heard that Lady Qing's cousin, the Fan family, held the position of Left Censor-in-Chief, and they had a daughter still unmarried. If something happened to Lady Yan, the mistress of the main house might change.