ã€ŠThe Feastã€‹


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1: Foodie Cross Over

    A A AThank you for choosing to read this chapter at prosperous food dot.

    This chapter is a teaser chapter for the new novel. As mentioned, you need to vote if you like it to be a regr release at the end of the teaser.

    Su Nuan Nuan only lived for 23 years. For 23 years of life, she had dedicated her life to the pursuit of fine food. That''s right. She is more loyal to the fine cuisine than the ones who only talk rubbishes about food - the food critics.

    This is because she also cooks.

    She had travelled extensively all over the world to find the finest food, and she finally died in a bus that was on the way towards a fishing vige.

    But, as soon as you see this opening you will probably guess it. This is her previous life. That''s right, her new life is over here: A new world, in the great Yin dynasty, in the capital within the An Ping Hou mansion&h.e.l.lip;. An abandoned backyard.

    "Young Missy,&h.e.l.lip;. please do not attempt suicide&h.e.l.lip;. If Grandma knows about this, she will be heartbroken. Right now they could not help you, Young Missy. Everything depends on yourself now. Please do think it over! Even if your mother does not like you, Grandma dotes on you. You need to broaden your horizons! One day, you will definitely do well! Young Missy, you must see the positive side of things&h.e.l.lip;.."

    I can see it! I can see the positive side! I saw the red braised pork belly on the table! From here, I could even smell it!

    Cry, cry, cry! All you know is how to cry! Could crying solve any problems? Quickly bring that bowl of rice and the red braised pork belly over! If not, I will really starve to death!

    Aiyo! My G.o.d! Is there a person who is as unlucky as me when they crossed over? Why did you make me cross over into a body of a woman who died of starvation? Am I just a cannon fodder? Even if I am cannon fodder, at least let me finish this meal, then I will fight with my nemesis and eat more meals before I die.

    Su Nuan Nuan¡¯s eyes widened and she stared at the bowl of braised pork on the table not far from here. The maid next to her was obviously stupid. She only knew how to cry, and nothing else.

    ¡°Xiang Yun, don¡¯t cry! How is Young Missy? I had invited the doctor toe and take a look.¡±

    A calm and pleasant voice came from outside the door, and then a beautiful woman of about 18-year-old came in. The maid, who was sobbing uncontrobly immediately stood up, and choked as she out ¡°Sister Hong Lian.¡±

    Hong Lian acknowledged the greeting. She put down the curtains on the bed. After this, she allowed the doctor who was waiting outside toe in.

    Su Nuan Nuan felt her hand was ced on a cushion. Shortly after, a few fingers were gently ced on her wrist to take her pulse. A shortter, Su Nuan Nuan heard the calm voice of the doctor: ¡°Fortunately, the wife¡¯s body is quite strong. She is not in danger of dying yet. But she is very weak from hunger, and needs good supplements.¡±

    "Of course! How could I not be weak? This body of mine has not eaten for how many days before I cross over? If you do not feed me immediately I will really die of hunger arrrrhhhhhh&h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip;.," Su Nuan Nuan yelled in her heart.

    The next moment, Hong Lian lift up the curtains. The sad eyes of thisdy looked at her, with a powerless expression on her face. She just looked at Su Nuan Nuan, and with a bitter smile, she asked. ¡°Young Missy, do you me me for saving you? You must be! After all, the Master of the house had imprisoned you in this room to die!"

    "Just now I have used all my resources, endured all the sneers andughter before I was able to invite this doctor."

    "I finally understood. In this mansion, without the love of the Prince, death is more enviable than life. If you do not me your servant, let me struggle you to death. Then I will apany you on your journey to h.e.l.l. What do you think of this?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was shocked. She thought that Hong Lian seemed to be more sensible than Xiang Yun. What you could not tell what is one person thinking based on their behaviour. Who knows this big sister¡¯s att.i.tude towards life is not as positive as that of Xiang Yun?

    At least Xiang Yun did not even think of dying. She was advising Su Nuan Nuan to reconsider her decision to go on a hunger strike.

    All the foodies value their own lives. After all, they live to eat. Su Nuan Nuan is no exception to this rule. When she saw that she had just crossed over and is about to be struggled to death by her servant, she suddenly somehow managed to find the strength to call out loudly, "Rice! I want to eat rice&h.e.l.lip;."

    "Young Missy&h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip;"

    Hong Lian went out for a long time. This half-day encounter made her feel as if she had been struck by lightning, and she was devastated. At this time, she was crying with tears. Suddenly she heard that young Missy groaned. She immediately leapt up in fright. Su Nuan Nuan raised a hand and pointed to the bowl of stewed pork, whispered: ¡°I want to eat dinner&h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip;¡±

    "Young Missy&h.e.l.lip;. You want to &h.e.l.lip;&h.e.l.lip; want to&h.e.l.lip;.. want to&h.e.l.lip;.." You could not me Hong Lian for being stunned at Su Nuan Nuans''s request. For so many days, the Young Missy had gone on a hunger strike and refused to eat anything or even drink a drop of water. In the morning, she tried tomit suicide by hanging herself. If she had not discovered this in time, Young Missy would have pa.s.sed away.

    So how could a woman who wanted to die suddenly desired to eat? Hong Lian could not adapt to this drastic change.

    ¡°My elder sister, Young Missy said to eat.¡± At a critical time, the simple Xiang Yun showed her worth. The little girl didn¡¯t cry, and ran to pick up the food on the table. Then she returned with the bowl of rice and the red braised pork belly. She looked at Su Nuan Nuan with bright eyes: ¡°Young Missy, let your servant feed you.¡±

    ¡°Pour some hot water in the rice.¡± As a foodie, Su Nuan Nuan certainly knew that her body is weak and should not eat too greasy food for a few days. But she is too hungry to care. Even though the meal does not look very appetising, but she really needs to eat to live. Therefore, she had no choice but to make to do with whatever she had.

    She was too weak to stomach the rice, and could only pour some hot water into it so that it would be softer and easier to stomach - like that of porridge.

    After eating the bowl of porridge and red braised pork belly, Su Nuan Nuan finally felt refreshed. She could feel that she had some energy in her body.

    This first thing she did is to ask Xiang Yun to pick up a mirror for her. She wanted to see if her beauty had been destroyed. Of course, this is what Hong Lian and Xiang Yun thought. In reality, Su Nuan Nuan was more worried about her mouth.

    "Hu&h.e.l.lip;"

    After a short while, she finally heaved a sigh of relief. Her long, slender fingers touched her white colour lips. Heaven is really nice to her. This mouth is very hot and s.e.xy, and thick. This means that she could eat small bites or take big bites without difficulties. The most amazing thing is the pearl white teeth. It looks like it could crush anything and bite into tough meat without much effort. This is a mouth that is destined to eat lots of good food!

    "Young Missy, you are just a bit skinnier. But you are still as pretty as ever."

    Hong Lian saw that Su Nuan Nuan had sat up on the bed, and her face was grinning in happiness. She quickly came forward and praised her mistress.

    Pretty?

    At this time, Su Nuan Nuan then noticed her face. Oh, it is quite pretty. This face is much prettier than the her in her past life. Having a mouth that could eat anything is a very lucky thing. The only thing that is luckier than that is having a pretty face to go with the mouth.

    She nodded her head. She likes the body that she had crossed over into.

    In the modern world, there are no people who care about natural ingredients. Everything in the modern world is processed food or grown using chemicals. It is very hard to find organic food in the modern world.

    This ancient time should all be filled with pure natural ingredients. These must be even more delicious than modern food.

    There was a lot of information following into her mind. Su Nuan Nuan, who was half-full, finally had the mood to sort these out.

    Love thisedy novel? Then read it at prosperous food . and support the trantors.Food Mention in this chapter Previous Post Next Post This article is about Red Braised Pork Belly Recipe. It provides a step by step guide to making the dish, ¡°Red Braised Pork Belly ¡°. It includes a video as well as the recipe. Note that this recipe is a simplified version that is easier to ...

    February 26, 2018 / ,

 Chapter 2 Part1

    Chapter 2: Things are not looking good Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food dot.

    This a teaser chapter of the new novel, The Feast. If you like it, remember to vote.

    Su Nuan Nuan original name is Su Meng Nuan, but everyone is ustomed to addressing her by her nickname Nuan Nuan. This nickname is the same name she had on Earth, so it is easier for her to adapt to this world.

    Su Meng Nuan¡¯s is a daughter of a prominent and powerful court official Ping Guo Gong, andes from the Guo Gong Mansion. She was the youngest daughter of Ping Guo Gong. She had married prince Duan Tingxuan from An Ping Pce three years ago and became prince Duan Tingxuan¡¯s wife.

    An Ping Prince was the brother and only rtive of the current emperor.

    Duan Tingxuan is his eldest son. He was loved by the emperor and empress as a child, and he had a good rtionship with the Crown Prince and several other princes. Duan Tingxuan have two younger brothers and one younger sister.

    One of his younger brother, Duan Tingye, is the son of the Prince An Ping''s legal wife. Therefore, he is loved by Prince An Ping, but this man is somewhat gloomy. Duan Tingye''s wife is quite scheming;

    His youngest brother, Duan Tingfang, was born by An Ping Prince¡¯s concubine, Lin Xiongniang. Duan Tingfang is weak in health and unsociable.

    The younger sister is also the daughter of Lin Xiongniang. When she was young, she is often sick. Now she is 13 years old. She is described as ''medicine eating machine'' and not a girl.

    In short, the family chart looks like below:Organisation chart in An Ping Prince Mansion

    The rtionship between Su Meng Nuan and her husband, Prince Duan Tingxuan is not very good. Su Meng Nuan is a pampered woman who is used to a life of luxury. After marring into the family, she insisted on using gold or silver bowls and chopsticks. For this reason, the An Ping prince and his wife does not like her. Only the grandmother in the family did not find her troublesome.

    As for Duan Tingxuan himself, he had no love for Su Nuan Nuan. Their rtionship is highlyplex.

    You could say he is full of love, and that would be quite urate. He had too much love and he likes to fool around with pretty women. If not for his status, he would have captured all beauties in thend and build another mansion just to house these beauties. Even though he was restrained by his status and family, he had two wives and still fool around with the servants in the manor.

    To say that he is cold is also true. This man is very cold and heartless. In a fit of rage He had ced Su Meng Nuan under house imprisonment in the run down backyard, and ignored all the previous sweet memories that they had shared together.

    Of course, many people thought that Ding Tingxuan dared to imprison his legal wife is because the Guo Gong Mansion had lost all power. Because of there were some problems in delivering the rice to the army, the army was almost defeated in arge scale battle. In a fit rage, the emperor striped Ping Guo Gong of his status and power.

    The entire extended family of Ping Guo Gong were enved to atone for their crime. Only the few women who had married, including Su Meng Nuan, managed to escape this fate.

    After learning about what happened ordingly to Su Meng Nuan''s memory, Su Nuan Nuan felt that Duan Tingxuan is a scoundrel. Regardless of if the Guo Gong mansion had fallen on hard times or not, that rascal will still put her under house arrest.

    After all, that sc.u.mbag is quite proud and haughty, and has the favour of the emperor. If that rogue is angry, he even dared to rebuke the crown price. A man like him will not try to curry favour with Guo Gong Mansion, and is unlikely to treat her badly just because Guo Gong Mansion had lost power.

    Therefore, Su Nuan Nuan felt that the plight that Su Meng Nuan was in is due to her own haughty behaviour.

    In addition, Su Nuan Nuan looked down on Su Meng Nuan. Other than having a pretty face and a nice mouth, what else does she have? She had no merits at all. She was from a n.o.ble family, but the family had been stripped of its t.i.tle.

    Luckily Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, the two maids, are quite loyal. When Su Meng Nuan firste to this household, she had 4 maids. After 3 years, only 2 remained. From this you could see how much of a failure Su Meng Nuan was.

    Therefore, Su Nuan Nuan decided that this is a case of his words vs her words, and there is no right or wrong.

    Of course, right now the ''poisonous wife'' had died, and is reced by a ''huge eater wife''. Her att.i.tude towards Prince Duan Tingxuan is: What is Duan Tingxuan? Can it be eaten? If not, then she is not interested.

    From now on, she will live independently. Goodbye, prince! Walk slowly, I will not see you off! Oh, I almost forgot, that rascal never evene to see Su Meng Nuan even once. Then it is good riddance to bad rubbish!

    ¡ª Meanwhile in Prince Duan Tingxuan¡¯s study ¡ª

    "I heard that woman attempted suicide today?"

    "Yes, Lord. But I heard that she was saved." Duan Tingxuan''s henchman Si Ping looked at the prince. Seeing that the prince did not reveal any expression on his face, he smiled and continued, "I heard that Hong Lian, the maid, tried hard to find a physician for her. The physician did not discover anything serious."

    "She still loves to create trouble."

    Duan Tingxuan coldly sneered. He looked at the scroll that he will be submitting to the emperor tomorrow, then he ce it on the table. "All right, let her do as a she pleased. If she wants to die, so it be!"

    ¡°First she starved herself and refused to eat, now she tried to hang herself. She is full of tricks. Oh yes, please inform Jin Yun that her monthly allowance, food and clothes are not to be deducted. I want to see what else can she do. If she cane up with 108 different kinds of way to die, I will respect her. The 2nd prince is writing a book? I could send him some content about her attempts at suicide."

    "Yes, Lord."

    Si Ping dared not to say another word. He was thinking that Su Nuan Nuan had really angered the prince. Her maiden family is already in so much trouble, so why did she choose to create trouble at this time? If she had admitted her wrongdoings and changed, maybe the prince will consider their past rtionship and forgive her. But she tried to kill herself and even this chance at regaining the prince''s favour had flown away.

    Although he had thought in this way, he did not dare to say it out. After all, she is still the legal wife of the Prince. Even though she is a phoenix that had its wings crippled, she is still a phoenix. It is not his ce to talk bad things about her. Even if he is the favourite henchman of the Prince.

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 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2b Things are not looking good (continued)

    AAAThank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food dot.

    I released this chapter in advance to keep the vote fair. All other novels had 2 chapters. Except this novel. It is because this chapter is very long¡­. But here goes. Enjoy.

    "This is what the Prince had said?" Xi Jinyun was seated behind a table, and smiled as she asked Si Ping, "There is no deduction in her monthly allowance, clothes and food?"

    "Yes, Madam Yun. This is the instructions of the prince." Si Ping smiled back in return. This Madam Yun is the daughter of Earl Ming, another high-ranking court official. Her status is not inferior to that of Su Nuan Nuan. She is cunning and thoughtful and is much better at manipting people than Su Nuan Nuan. But she is just a concubine and she could not be addressed as Big Madam. Therefore, Si Ping has to address her as Madam Yun.

    Si Ping was very clear that Madam Yun controls things well within the mansion. She had a lot of eyes and ears within the mansion, and she had set her sights on being the legal wife. Today, Su Nuan Nuan had fallen, and she would not let go of this opportunity to force Su Nuan Nuan to death. In this way, she can be the legal wife.

    Su Nuan Nuan does not have the manpower or resources topete with her on equal grounds. Even if she had, she could not defeat Madam Yun.

    "All right, I know what to do. The prince really cared too much about his name. That crazy b.i.t.c.h had already vited all the virtues of being a good wife, and he is still worried that everyone will say that he had forsaken her when her family is down?" Xu Jinyun sighed.

    "All right, you return and tell the prince that I will do as he instructed. Tonight I will cook his favourite duck soup. If he has time, ask him toe over to drink it."

    "Understood, Madam Yun. I will immediately go back to inform the prince. The prince loves the soup you made the most, and tonight he will surelye over." Si Ping immediately ttered Madam Yun.

    Xu Jinyun smiled, "You really know how to make people happy with your words. All right, you may leave. Oh yes, wait a minute, Feng Xian, please give this man a string of coins for his troubles."

    Si Ping mouth may say, "No troubles, No troubles¡­" but he hands grabbed the money before he left.

    After he had long disappeared, Feng Xian curtsied as she asked, "Madam, what do we do? It seems that Master is still thinking of big Madam¡­"

    Before she could finished, Xu Jinyun coldly sneered, "What do you know. If he still has any affections for her, he would not have left her in that ce. Give her money for food and clothes? Humph, just give her 2 strings of coins each month. As a woman who is kept under house arrest, do you think she deserved more?"

    Feng Xian understood her mistress''s character. Giving Su Nuan Nuan two strings of coins is also a test of the prince''s character. If the prince did not ask or care about that woman, do not mention the two string of coins, even the two children would not see their mother.

    Su Nuan Nuan had no idea what is going on at the prince''s mansion.

    But she had prepared for the change in environment and a harsh life. After all, most modern day women are different from the woman in the past. They are more independent and do not depend on men as much as in Ancient China. She had never thought of having a monthly allowance or food or clothes. She only thought that since things havee to such a situation, she had to depend on herself.

    Each time she thinks of this, Su Nuan Nuan was very d to live in thisrge courtyard. From now onwards, this will her personal kingdom. She had the confidence to make a better life for herself and continue to eat the finest food this world can provide.

    "Madam, you have walked around the ce for 2 days. The kitchen did not even send the breakfast for this morning. How could you have the mood to walk around here?"

    Xiang Yun was following Su Nuan Nuan. She was curious. Even Hong Lian was worried sick. Howe her Missy who was very bad-tempered suddenly bes so easy to get along with? If it was in the past, her Missy will throw a fit.

    "Why shouldn''t I have the mood?" Su Nuan Nuan giggled, as she touched a nt on the ground, "Do you know what is this?"

    "Leek¡­?"

    Xian Yun was uncertain about this. She recalled that before she was sold to Guo Gong Mansion, she had seen this vegetable before. It seemed to be called a leek.

    "That''s right. This is a leek. Do you know how delicious is this thing? No matter if you stew it or fry it, it is a delicious thing. It can also be used to stuff dumplings, and can bebined with pork or mushroom and steamed¡­."

    Su Nuan Nuan excitedly exined. When she turned around and looked at her maid, Xiang Yun, she gave up trying to exin. Xiang Yun was looking at her with a dumbfounded expression, and her mouth was wide enough to stuff an egg into it. "Forget it, I don''t think you understand a word of what I''ve said. All you need to know is that: We will not starve!"

    Su Nuan Nuan was very confident about this. After observing for two days, she could confirm with 100% certainty that the backyard had been used to experiment with growing crops. There were about 7-8 mu used to nt food crops. Other than leeks, there were lettuces, spinach, radish etc. It is now spring time. When the weather bes warmer, she is confident that she would find some cabbages, carrots, mushroom etc.

    Heaven will always provide a way out of every problem. Especially for a foodie like her. As long she does not starve, everything else could be negotiated.Vote for your favourite new novels.

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 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3: Sn.o.bbish

    AAAThank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food dot.

    Please note the new schedule for releases. We are a bit overwhelmed and this helps us to bnce everything.

    "Madam, you¡­." Xiang Yun looked at Su Nuan Nuan''s sparkling eyes, and scratched her head, "I feel that you are different from before, but sister Hong Lian refused to let me say it."

    "Of course, how could I be the same? Do not forget that I almost died once." Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes, "How did you think I die ande back to life? The king of h.e.l.l said that my lifespan is not over, and I should not die. Topensate me for taking the wrong soul, they have given me some special skills!"

    "Howe I do not understand a single word you are saying?" Xiang Yun continued to look at Su Nuan Nuan with a dumbfounded expression on her face. She was thinking that sister Hong Lian is right, Madam is indeed different. The new madam is really nice. In the past, she dared not speak to Madam in this way.

    "En, it is all right if you do not understand me!" Su Nuan Nuan replied. Looking at Xiang Yun''s bewildered eyes, she immediately cough, and pretend to be strict, "All you need to know is that I am the phoenix reborn. Right now I have changed my bones and am totally different. Understand?"

    "It is all right if you do not understand. A rare one in ten thousand years genius like myself, how could a maid like you understand?" Aiya, thest sentence is really too sn.o.bbish. Su Nuan Nuan almost vomited at these words. But she had no choice but to say these words to convince her maid that she is still her Missy.

    "Haha, this is indeed Missy! Missy had often said this." Xiang Yun happily leapt into the air, "That''s great, it is really you, Madam! Your servant has been having nightmares that you have be another person!"

    Oh? Su Meng Nuan often says things like this? What a thick-skinned woman! Su Nuan Nuan wipes the sweat from her forehead as she heaved a sigh of relief. This girl is really easy to trick!

    But Hong Lian is much sharper and harder to trick. Since I have the memories of Su Meng Nuan, if she opts to test me, I should pa.s.s her test. The most important thing is, I got the divine mouth! This mouth allows me to eat anything! A woman whoes back from the brink of death, you should expect some changes right?

    "ÄÌÄÌ£¬Xiang Yun¡­¡­"

    "Missy, Xiang Yun¡­.."

    Hong Lian''s voice rang out from the back door. Su Nuan Nuan and Xiang Yun turned around and saw Hong Lian standing there. Her expressions shown how troubled she was.

    "What happened? You did not get anything from the kitchen?"

    Su Nuan Nuan dusted her hands on her clothes and walked over. Just one look at Hong Lian''s face and she immediately understood?

    "Missy, the kitchen asked me to inform you that they dared not to give us food. If the ounts do not tally, then the kitchen will be in trouble." Hong Lian sighed, and shook her head, "Let''s wait for a bit, we will go to find Madam Yun."

    "Find Madam Yun? Then you will be sneered and snickered at by her servants?" Su Nuan Nuan coldly asked. This is really too much. What does the phrase ''A fallen phoenix is worth less than a chicken?'' implies? This situation fits the phase perfectly.

    ""Or, we do not care? The kitchen dare not cut off our food supply? We eat whatever they give us?"

    Hong Lian was worried about her mistress. Right now they have fallen out of favour with the prince. The prince loves pretty women, and have a lot of power. He is also a favourite of the current emperor, and get along well with other princes. All the women in his mansion are thedies of distinguished n.o.ble family. As for her missy''s family, they have be ves. In this ce, they have lost all power.

    "Depend on them? All the finest ingredients and they can''t cook a d.a.m.n dish. This is a waste." Su Nuan Nuan frowned. "Luckily, it is almost summer. The vegetables in the courtyard may be eaten in a few days time. But what about the rice and noodles? I cannot magically snap my fingers and conjure these up. Kitchen¡­. Humph! Since when did the kitchen staff dare to treat me like this? "

    Hong Lian smiled bitterly. Not just the kitchen staff, even the cleaning staff, also red at her. How could the kitchen staff give them any face? Hong Lian admired her Missy''s optimism. In her opinion, in the next few days to half a month, the kitchen will not even give them any food. When that happens, they will starve to death.

    Su Nuan Nuan did not think that the situation here is so dire. She does not want to create a scene in the kitchen. But right now, she does not have a choice. If she does not do that, she could not even survive.

    "Do I have any jewellery or money from my drowy?"

    When they returned to the room, Su Nuan Nuan sat down on a chair, and asked her servants. An Ping Mansion is rich, Duan Tingxuan would not be so miserly as to keep his wife''s drowy? If she asked him for some, then she could solve the problem guing them.

    "Madam, you used to have a lot of drowy. But when your maiden home ran into trouble, you have spent them off to curry favour with the court officials. Otherwise, the emperor would have beheaded all members of your family instead of enving them. When you argued with the prince, the prince imprisoned you here. The prince had already informed you that to make sure they are not killed, An Ping mansion had already spent thousands of gold. And your drowy had already been spent, therefore¡­.."

    Su Nuan Nuan waved her hands, "Understood. This means that my drowy had been spent, right? And I even own Duan Tingxuan, that rascal, thousands of gold, right?"

    Looking at the stunned expression on her two servants'' face, she suddenly recalled that her words were inappropriate. She immediately knocked herself on her head, "Cough, cough, I just remember! This must be due to my suicide attempt. My brain is not as good, and sometimes, I forgot some things."

    "Madam, you can escape death is already a stroke of good fortune. Your memory loss is not very important." Hong Lian saw how frustrated her missy was, and immediately consoled. Su Nuan Nuan thought that she was a bad actress. It had been two days, and she had not eased into ying the role of Su Meng Nuan.

    "Madam, what should we do?" Xiang Yun hase to depend on her missy. She immediately asked Su Nuan Nuan andpletely forgot that these tasks are usually handled by Hong Lian.

    "What else can we do? I can only go to the kitchen and create a scene." Su Nuan Nuan mmed her palm on the table! Rascal, you forced me into this!

    Su Meng Nuan had married you for 3 years. Right now I just take a bit of food is not too much to ask for, right? It is just rice, flour, oil and salt! I actually made a big loss! Oh, I decided, I must take more. If not I will lose out! Although Su Meng Nuan is dead, I am her representative, and I will help her to get back what you owed her.Next Chapter:

    Su Nuan Nuan created havoc in the kitchen¡­. You can scold her, you can insult her, and she will not mind it one bit. But try to keep her away from food, and you will find out what she is capable of! Read more at prosperous food dot.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4: Havoc in the kitchen

    AAAThank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions.

    Happy April Fool¡¯s day! No, this is not a joke chapter. This a real chapter. Enjoy.

    Actually, she was quite embarra.s.sed when she said this.

    Su Nuan Nuan was very clear who sort of woman Su Meng Nuan was. Duan Tingxuan is a rich and handsome man. If they were to discuss thepensation for thest 3 years, it is unclear who has to pay who.

    But right now she has no choice. If she does not get the food, she and her two maids will starve. Therefore she hardens her heart and walked towards the door.

    "Missy, this is ¡­ not eptable. After all, you are the big madam. If you go to the kitchen and scold the servants, it is a drop in your status. I will ¡­ I will ¡­ go, is that all right? You just wait here for my good news." Hong Lian saw the Su Nuan Nuan was serious, and was frightened out of her wits. She immediately hugged Su Nuan Nuan.

    "Missy, do not make Ping Guo Gong Mansion embarra.s.sed. You are the missy from a distinguished and n.o.ble¡­.."

    "If I do not go and create a scene, then I will be a dead woman. Right now, you know the fate of the people from the Ping Guo Gong Mansion. What else do I have worry about?" Su Nuan Nuan pushed Hong Lian away.

    "All right, if you feel that this is very embarra.s.sing, then you need not go with me!"

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun dared not to let her go alone. They know that once Missy made up her mind, they cannot change it. The two of them also dared not to advise her any further.

    Right now, they could only pray that their Missy will respect her status as the Big Madam, and will not create too big a scene, and be theughing stock of the entire mansion.

    The distance between the courtyard and the kitchen is about 2 li away (1 km). Along the way, Su Nuan Nuan had managed to get herself worked up. Therefore, when she entered the kitchen, she is as fierce as a tigress.

    "Mad¡­. Madam¡­."

    All the kitchen hands and chefs were astonished. They blinked and thought they saw an illusion. Why is she so furious? She¡­. She¡­. She¡­.. why did shee here? Did she forget her status?

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun dared not meet the eyes of the curious kitchen staff. They could only lower their head in shame. Su Nuan Nuan did not feel any shame at all. Everyone needs to eat. If you dare to cut off my food supply, you are forcing me toe and fight.

    She folded her arms and showed her hands. The bangle on her right wrist was adorned with pretty jewels and looked very expensive.

    "Oh, so you know that I am your Madam." Su Nuan Nuan smiled, and hidden in her smile is a naked de. "Then why did you stop Hong Lian when I asked Hong Lian to get some food back? What? Now that I have fallen out of favour with the prince, you dared to bully me, is it?"

    The kitchen staff were very depressed. Stop mentioning this. You know that you have fallen out of favour with the prince. Looking at you, do you still think that you have not fallen out of favour? If you have the capacity, why not duke it out with Madam Yun. Why did you take it out on us?

    But they dared not say it out loud. They could only smile, "Madam must be joking! Your servants dared not bully you. The thing is, all the items in the kitchen are a.s.signed, and the prince had advised you to be quiet and reflect on your actions in the courtyard¡­."

    "The prince may have asked me to reflect on my actions, but he did not ask you to starve me to death?" Su Nuan Nuan did not want to argue with these kitchen staff.

    She grabbed a cleaver and stand in front of the counter. Then she mmed the cleaver down hard on the chopping block and said, "I tell you, the food that you send is not enough for me to eat. I am barely half full. If I depend on you, I will starve to death. Do you want toin that I am creating a scene? Great, report it to Madam Yun and Duan Tingxuan. If they have the guts, ask them to take back whatever I had taken from here!"

    "Madam¡­ you¡­."

    Looking at the cleaver in Su Nuan Nuan''s hands, the kitchen staff were cowed. They did not know what to do, Su Nuan Nuan immediately barked out an order at Hong Lian and Xiang Yuan, "What are you waiting for? Take these two big bags of rice. There is a cart outside right? Put it into the cart."

    ¡°¡­¡­¡­"

    At this time, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had lost all face. Hong Lian and Xiang Yun could only follow Su Nuan Nuan''s directions and razed the kitchen. There is some flour, load it into the cart. Oh, here are some eggs, load it as well. There are some oil, salt, soy sauce, sugar, tea as well. Whatever they have seen, they grabbed it.

    There is no stopping a shameless person.

    All the kitchen hands dared not stop them. They could only look at the two maids loading everything onto the cart helpless. Su Nuan Nuan was pleased. This is right, if you have food to eat, you can be shameless. To deal with these people, you need to be more shameless than them.

    Su Nuan Nuan saw that everything had been razed, and smiled. "Oh yes, this cleaver is not bad. I will take it as well. I recalled there are several baskets of chickens outside when wee in. Take two baskets and load it onto the cart."

    "Madam¡­ Madam¡­ you cannot do that. How could I answer to Madam Yun?¡± The kitchen staff saw that Hong Lian not only took two big baskets of chicken, she also grabbed 2 more baskets of duck. They immediately cried out in an attempt to stop her.

    Su Nuan Nuan coldly replied, "Just tell her that I took them. If she has any problems with it, ask her to find me." She is not afraid of the concubine. Even the idiotic Su Meng Nuan can fight with Madam Yun on equal grounds. If not for the fact that Su Meng Nuan did not know when to stop and caused a big ruckus, she would not have lost to Madam Yun.

    Looking at the scene of the 3 people pushing the cart and disappearing into the horizon, the kitchen staff finally sat on the floor and cried. They knew that the prince will not me Su Nuan Nuan and they will be med for this.

    "Prince, today the big Madam went to the kitchen to create a scene, and the news has already reached the ears of Madam, and your parents."

    Duan Tingxuan had just returned to the mansion when his servant, Shuangxi ran up, and immediately informed him of what happened.

    "Oh? Did she create a scene in the kitchen? Why?"

    The prince is a calm person, and not easy to anger. Therefore, he entered the room, washed his hands, and wiped it dry before asking. Then he epted a cup of tea from a maid in waiting, and took a sip as he waited to hear the reply.

    "Because she said she did not have enough food and could not fill her belly¡­." Shuangxi reported. Before he finished, the prince spat out the tea leaves in surprise.

    "Cough, cough, cough¡­. She could not fill her belly?" Duan Tingxuan was zing with anger. He asked, "Didn''t she refused to eat? Why did shein that she did not have enough to eat and fill her belly?"

    "This¡­ I don''t know. Maybe¡­. Big Madam do not want to starve herself anymore?" Shuangxi carefully replied.

    Duan Tingxuan impatiently waved his hands, "That''s enough! What did she do after creating a scene in the kitchen?"

    "I heard that¡­ I heard that she move half of the items in the kitchen. Even the cart was used to ¡­. Pull the foodstuff. She had not returned it." Shuangxi wiped the beads of perspiration from his head. He thought that Big Madam created a ruckus to attract the prince''s attention.

    "Trying to get my attention?"

    Duan Tingxuan paced around the round, and replied, "All right, I know. As long as she does not create a scene here, regardless if it is the kitchen or theundry area, even if it is where we raised chickens or pig, let her do as she pleased. Since she is not afraid of losing face, we will close one eye."

    "But¡­. Prince, ¡­. Your mother and the An Ping Prince¡­." Shuangxi was at a loss for words. Doesn''t the prince care about his face?

    "The An Ping prince will not care about these matters. As for Madam Yun and my mother, I will inform them. She had created havoc countless times already. Why are you acting so strange this time?" Duan Tingxuan sneered.

    "All right, go back to your work. In future, you need not inform me of such tiny matters."

    Shuangxi was thinking "Tiny matter? Who spat out the tea in surprise just now?" But he dare not voice his opinions aloud and retreated.

    Thank you for choosing to read this chapter directly from the trantors at prosperous food trantions.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5: FickleThank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions.

    This is a weekend release. Gentle reminder: There will be a scheduled maintenance today. Please do not be rm if our theme changes or something. We are improving to serve you better.

    "Tingxuan arh, mother could not understand this. That woman and you have married each other for 3 years. She is extravagance andvish in spending money, and she is the plotting type."

    "In the past, you do not want to offend the Ping An Gong mansion and give way to her. But today, the Ping An Gong mansion had fallen on hard times. To protect them, you have spent more than 10,000 taels of silver. You have already done your best."

    "So why do you continue to tolerate that woman and let her stay here? Look, her behaviour today is so embarra.s.sing."

    After leaving the grandmother''s home, the wife of the An Ping Prince, Princess Yang, immediately pulled her son towards her room, and advised him, "Your father loves your second brother the most. They are cunning and sinister people. Luckily you have capabilities and you have the love of the empress. Otherwise, I think that you cannot protect your position as a prince."

    "If that woman dared to create more trouble, and made your father angry, I am afraid that your future will be dark. Child, listen to your mother, divorce her. You have already done whatever you could for her."

    "Mother, things are not as simple as you think." Duan Tingxuan peeled an orange and chewed it. "Ping Guo Gong Mansion is really unlucky. Frankly, regarding that matter, Ping Guo Gong Mansion was not at fault - they only yed a minor role in this matter. The waters here are very deep, and I suspected that they were framed. I helped them because I am not willing to allow the mastermind behind their downfall to get his way, and not because of Nuan Nuan."

    "As for her, it is not your son dare not to drive her out. You have heard about it yourself, she dares to create a scent in the kitchen. If I were to drive her out, what she does not dares to do? If she had an affair, do you want me to kill them?"

    "It is not worth it tomit a crime because of this woman. Therefore I have put her under house arrest in the courtyard area. If she wants to create trouble, as long as she does not enter our living quarters, I will let her do as she pleased. If she dares to step into our living quarters, I will punish her."

    "I know thatpared to this woman, you prefer Jin Yun for her skills and Zn for her gentleness. But right now is not the time to drive her out or promote a concubine to the main wife."

    Princess Yang is an old fashiondy, and not one to insist on having her own ways. After listening to her son, she dropped the matter.

    After Duan Tingxuan left the room, he looked at the setting sun, and coldly sneered, "You want to create trouble? Then let''s see what troubles you can create! Su Meng Nuan, you better be smart and not force me to kill you! Did you really think that I do not know who was being the killing of He Xiang and my child in her belly?"

    When Prince Duan Tingxuan muttered these words, he did not expect that Su Nuan Nuan did not create any more troubles and be quiet. There was no opportunity for him to unleash his wrath on her.

    ¡ª- Meanwhile, in the courtyard ¡ª-

    "Missy, we have harvested the leeks. I have personally harvested from the garden. Look, there are at least 3 to 4 jins here."

    Xiang Yun excitedly shouted as she rushed into the kitchen and proudly show off the items in her basket. She ced the basket in front of Su Nuan Nuan, who was cooking some pork.

    "En, Hong Lian and you will wash the leeks first. After washing the leeks, we will cut them and use them to create dumplings. Do you know that these fresh leeks, whenbined with pork, and fried, the dumplings are very tasty!"

    Su Nuan Nuan used the wok to turn over the golden colour minced pork belly, and smelled the scent of the meat. She smiled in delight.

    "Missy, you take a rest, and let me do it." Hong Lian walked into the kitchen. In her hands were two apples, "This is the apples that we took from the kitchenst time. There are only 2 left. Yesterday, when I went to take the pork, I did not see any fruits. You eat these first. Maybe in 2 days time, there will be more fruits."

    "Aiya, you''ve been tricked. They must be hidden the fruits on purpose. The reason why you managed to get the pork and eggs is that they could not hide the eggs and pork." Su Nuan Nuanughed. They really got the nerve to hide the fruits!

    Then she smiled, "We have ovee the most difficult period. From now on, you do not need to worry about food. In our garden, other than flour and rice, we have everything. Oh yes,let see if we can go to the pigsty and grabbed 2 pigs here! This would be perfect!"

    "Regarding the fruits, I got a solution. The cherries on the trees in the garden are almost ripe. Later we will knock these cherries down, and use it to make a sweet cherry dessert. After eating the dumplings, we have a bowl of dessert. A perfectbination of sour [1] and sweet! At the same time, the cherry dessert will get rid of any greasy feeling in the mouth. This is a slice of heaven!"

    "Yes, if Missy says so, then the food is sure to be tasty!" Hong Lian smiled as she agreed. Then she nced at the face of Su Nuan Nuan as thetter was absorbed in cooking. Two beads of perspiration dripped from Su Nuan Nuan''s face.

    Hong Lian sighed. She knew it. This missy is not her missy. Their personalities are as far apart as heaven and earth. But this missy is much better than the missy of the past.

    The missy of the past used to be very haughty and fussy and often scold or beat them. She would never personally cook, and her cooking skills are terrible.

    This missy treats them well, and often cooks yummy food and shares it with them. With this missy, it is one cooking adventure after another, or the pursuit of one ingredient after another. The best thing is, the food she cooks is so delicious!

    Since it is like this, Hong Lian is contented to pretend that nothing is amiss, and her missy is still her missy. Life is so much better with this new missy.

    "Lord, if you continue to walk in that direction, you will reach the courtyard. Why not go back? Madam Yun had said that she will cook your favourite dumplings tonight."

    "No matter how good the food is, if you eat it too often, you will also be sick of it." Duan Tingxuan sighed, and shook his head, "Maybe I am lucky and did not know it. But today, I am craving for the dishes that I used to eat at the restaurant in town ¨C The duck soup and wontons are really good! Every few days, I would make a trip there just to satisfy my food cravings."

    Si Ping smiled, "Since you do not wish to eat at Madam Yun''s, why not visit your mother? I heard that there is roast mutton there."

    "Roasted mutton? No, thanks! Today I had lunch in the Eastern Pce. The imperial chef had prepared some stewed mutton for lunch. It is not tasty." Duan Tingxuan thought for a while, "Luckily, I am not a foodie. Otherwise, I will grab all the finest food in thend."

    "Oh yes, regarding that woman, after thest outburst, is there any more incidents? I have not heard any reports of incidents."

    Si Ping replied, "Your servant also did not hear that the Madam had created any trouble. Maybe after she had taken the food, she did not create any more trouble. She is from a n.o.ble family and knows how to behave."

    Duan Tingxuan sneered, "Behave? Since when did she know how to behave? In which month did she not create a scene? If not for the fact that she continuously creates trouble until I could stand it no more, I would not have put her under house arrest."

    After saying this, he closed the paper fan in his hand, and said, "Forget it, since I am here, let''s go the courtyard and take a look. Maybe they have pa.s.sed away? If this is the case, I have to bury them. After all, she is my wife."

    Si Ping was thinking, "Aiyo, Lord! You still know that you are husband and wife? Your words are so cold!"

    But as usual, he dare not voice out his thoughts, and just followed Duan Tingxuan as they made their way to the courtyard.

    ¡ª ¡ª

    Thank you for choosing to read this chapter at prosperous food trantionsNotes:

    [1] Sour - I think that the dumplings are dunked into the vinegar and hence are sour.Recipe for food mentioned in this chapterPrevious Post Next Post The jiaozi (½È×Ó) is amon Chinese dumpling which generally consists of minced meat and finely chopped vegetables wrapped into a piece of dough skin. Popr meat fillings include ground meat (usually pork, but can instead be beef or chicken), shrimp, and even fish. Filling mixtures vary depending on personal tastes ...

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 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6: Cross Swords

    Wee back! It is a pleasure to see you again. Please excuse us, we are upgrading the site to serve you better.

    In the afternoon in summer, the sun was scorching hot. Thankfully right now is evening time, and it is not so hot. asionally, a cool gust of wind will blow past, providing a much sought after relief from the heat.

    The prince and his servant walked out of the garden, and could see the door of the courtyard. When they crept nearer, they were surprised to see that everything in the courtyard was clean and tidy. There are nts and flowers in the garden, it is not as broken down or shabby as they had thought.

    The prince stepped into the courtyard and a table outside. On top of the table is arge bowl that was turned upside down. The bowl should be covering some food. The gentle wind pa.s.sed by and carried with it a mouth-watering scent.

    Duan Tingxuan immediately head towards the table and lift up the bowl. Under the bowl, there was a te filled with some food. He looked at these foods, and asked his servant, Si Ping, in puzzlement, "This shape. It looks like dumplings. But why is it so big?"

    Si Ping smiled and replied, "When your servant returns home, asionally my mother will cook this dish. This is not the dumplings that you have eaten frequently. This is a vegetable dumpling. See here? This is pan fried and not steamed. As you can see, one side of the dumpling is slightly overburnt."

    Duan Tingxuan looked at this hot and steaming vegetable dumpling. It does look very appetising. He did not say another word, and immediately picked up a piece and bite it. In the next moment, the soup and juices of the stuffing inside the dumpling spurted out.

    It is so tasty and delicious that he could not help eximing, "Oh, this is good!"

    "I thought that they could not live in this ce. But never did I expect that they were having a good life here, and have such delicious food to eat." In just 2 to 3 mouthfuls, Duan Tingxuan finished therge dumplings, and picked up one more.

    Then he smiled and asked Si Ping, "Go to the kitchen and search around, there should be other dishes. Oh, yes, where are the people living here? Where did they go?"

    Si Ping immediately grimaced, and whispered, "Lord, you know the Madam''s temper. If you let her know that you have eaten her food, she will be furious. May I suggest that if you love this dish, let''s grab this te and we leave this ce. Do not let Madam see us."

    "So what if she saw me taking the food? What can she do?"

    Duan Tingxuan continued to help himself to the dumplings, and eat until his hands were covered with the gravy. He licked his fingers and said, "She live in my house, eat the food from my house, wear the clothes that I paid for, and is my wife. Letting me eat the food that she cooked is making things difficult for her? Stop talking rubbish! Just do as I have told you. If any problems arise, I will back you up."

    In such a short span of time, he had already finished 5rge dumplings. There are less than ? of the dumplings in the bowl.

    With this order from his lord, Si Ping had no choice but to make his way to the kitchen. He had just taken two steps when he heard the sound of footsteps. He was so scared that he hid himself behind Duan Tingxuan, and whispered, "Lord, someone ising."

    Duan Tingxuan was annoyed, and immediately kicked Si Ping, "So what if there is someoneing? This is not a tiger. Look at you, you are so timid! You really embarra.s.sed me!"

    "No wonder Missy was so sure about it. This cherry dessert is really beautiful. Just now I drank a sip. This taste is even better the sour plum soup you made."

    Following the sound of the voices, the figure of Hong Lian and Xiang Yun appeared from within the kitchen. In each of their hand is a white colour bowl, and they were happily chatting and smiling.

    As if they had a sixth sense, they suddenly turned their head towards Duan Tingxuan and screamed. The bowl in their hands also dropped.

    "Be careful!"

    Duan Tingxuan shouted, and his movement were very fast. All the two girls saw was a shadow, then the prince bowed down and caught the two bowls of cherry desserts. Not even a drop of these desserts were spilled.

    "Oh, so that dumpling must be pair with this bowl of dessert. This is not bad! You two have some good things up your sleeves."

    Duan Tingxuan was carrying a bowl in each hand. He looked into the red colour dessert and ignored the stunned Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, and drank from the bowl. Then he smiled, "Oh, this is better than the sour plum soup. The only problem is that this dish is quite hot. If it is cooled down or served chill, this dish will be much tastier."

    "Lord, your servants greet you."

    Only when Duan Tingxuan had taken the bowls back to the table, sat down and eaten another dumpling, the two poor maids then regain their wits.

    They saw Duan Tingxuan waved his hands, "You may rise. There is no need to stand on ceremony with me. Quickly go to the kitchen and take the good food out. Let me guess, these dumpling should have some porridge to apany it? The porridge should be simple, and should be just sugared congee."

    What¡­ .what happen? Are we dreaming?

    This is what Xiang Yun and Hong Lian thought. But they do not have the guts to ask, and could only watch the shameless man pick up another dumpling and eat their dinner.

    At this moment, suddenly a lion''s roar reverberate, "Put down the dumplings!" Su Nuan Nuan appeared from the kitchen and seemed to fly down in a jiff. Then she kicked out at Duan Tingxuan''s face.

    Duan Tingxuan is a man of about 7 feet tall. This is about 1.83 meters in today''s term. If both of them are standing up, Su Nuan Nuan could not have aimed a kick at Duan Tingxuan''s face - she could not reach that height. But at this moment, Duan Tingxuan was sitting down, and this allow Su Nuan Nuan to attack him at a vulnerable spot.

    Duan Tingxuan is skilled in martial arts, and he immediately leapt up. Because he was shocked and escaped in a hurry, he dropped the dumpling onto the floor.

    "Stop it. Why did you attack me?" Duan Tingxun was very angry as he picked up the dumpling that was dropped onto the floor. He immediately shouted, "You¡­. you want to revolt?"

    "Xiang Yun, use this dumpling to feed the chickens." Su Nuan Nuan grabbed that dumpling from Duan Tingxuan''s hand and pa.s.s it to Xiang Yun. Then she looked at Duan Tingxuan, "Who are you?"

    "Missy¡­ Missy¡­, this is ¡­ Master .. .arh." Xiang Yun immediately stammered. Her face was pale and white as ghost. She thought that her missy had a rpse of ''after death memory loss'', and even forgot who her hubby was.

    "Master? My husband?" Su Nuan Nuan frown, and saw that Duan Tingxuan was furious. She slowly sat down and smiled, "Oh, it is you. Why didn''t you inform me before youe?"

    "Why should I inform you? So that you can think of a idea to run away or hide?" Duan Tingxuan sneered. In his eyes, her wild antics are ''normal''. But the kick was too much? When this woman learn martial arts?

    "Master, you must be kidding, to hide and not greet you is a low level tactic that I have not used in a long time." Su Nuan Nuan smiled, and immediately pa.s.sed the te to Hong Lian. "Oh, it looks as if Master wants to talk to me. Take this te of dumplings back to the kitchen, and do not let masterugh at us."

    Duan Tingxuan''s eyes were glued to the te as Hong Lian took it away. He want to say that they could chat and eat at the same time, but Su Nuan Nuan smiled, and remarked, "Next time, if you want toe, you must first inform me. Thismoner''s food is not suitable for a man of your status."

    "Are you angry because I ate therge dumplings?" Duan Tingxuan could not help mming on the table in anger. This woman¡­. How could she live here for just half the year and changed so much. She is not longer as rash as before, and her words are so sharp, he could not refute her. He was really annoyed.

    "Master, it is great that you know it."

    Regarding this thieving rascal that stole her fine dumplings, Su Nuan Nuan did not give two hoots about embarra.s.sing him. Since she can''t hit him, she can use her words to dig at him.

    Seeing that Duan Tingxuan''s face turned ck, she secretly felt very happy. ''How dare you steal my food, you shameless man! Even if you are the lord of this mansion, I will not let you eat!"

    "Today, you have a very sharp tongue, but you did not recognise me just now. What happened?

    Duan Tingxuan forced himself to calm down, and immediately tried to change the topic. He opened his paper fan and fanned himself as look more like a gentleman as he recovered somewhat and questioned.

    "After my near death experience, my memories be hazy. Also, I do not want to forget master, but who knows that just now, I really could not recall who you are?" Su Nuan Nuan immediatelye up with a lie.

    The powerful kick constantly reyed itself in Duan Tingxuan''s mind. He looked at Su Nuan Nuan. This woman had changed a lot, but he could not tell what had changed. She is still as difficult as ever, and hard to argue with.

    But why did he feel that when she sits there, she seemed to possess amanding aura? In the past, Su Meng Nuan was very pretty, but she did not possess thismanding aura.

    "It is not early, and time for dinner? Just now, I did not have my fill. En, you really knows how to eat. In this evening, moving the table outside and eating outdoors is really a luxury." Prince Duan tried to shift the topic back to the food that he could not have enough of. At the same time, he was examining Su Nuan Nuan''s expressions.

    But Su Nuan Nuan is not affected by this. Oh, so you want to use logic and reason to argue with me and eat the food I cooked? Hehe, in your dreams, prince!

    "Oh, we are not having dinner anymore. Thank you for your concern, Master. This is a bit too early for dinner. When the sky is dark, it is not toote to eat." Why should I let you eat? All these food are grabbed by me. You tried to starve me.

    "Just now, the temperature is just nice. If it is left alone for a long period of time, the taste will degenerate?" Duan Tingxuan could also tell that it not going to be easy to get the dumplings that he craved for. He is a schr and a gentleman and is not afraid to use reason and logic to argue with Su Nuan Nuan. As long as she is reasonable, the dumplings will be his!

    Thank you for reading this chapter from prosperous food dot.[Total: 2 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 7

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 7

    Chapter 7: Going home

    Wee back, dear reader. We are d to have you reading with us at prosperousfood dot

    "So what if the dumplings taste a little bad? If not for the fact that we went to the kitchen to create a scene there, we could not even eat pig''s food. Therefore, eating something that does not taste good is not a problem for us." Su Nuan Nuan remains unmoved as she retorts.

    When she saw Duan Tingxuan drink the bowl of cherry dessert that she had made, she could not help frowning and pouting in anger.

    Duan Tingxuan could feel a strong fighting spirit from his wife, and immediately readied himself in case his wife kicks out at him again. Her kicks are noughing matter. But the fighting spirit left as fast as it came.

    "You made these dumplings? As a daughter of a n.o.ble, since when did you know how to cook these? I heard that only themoners eat this type of dumpling?" Are you trying topete with me to see who is calmer? Did you think I, the prince, would lose to you? Duan Tingxuan sneered.

    At the same time, he could not help feeling something different about Su Nuan Nuan. It was she was different somehow after she had escaped death. Oh, it seemed that she is calmer and morebative now.

    While he was lost in his own thoughts, he suddenly heard Su Nuan Nuan''s voice, "During my visit to h.e.l.l, Yama, the king of h.e.l.l has granted me the ability to cook as an apology for s.n.a.t.c.hing my soul when my time is not yet up. He says, there are so many men in the world - now that you know how to cook, you will not starve wherever you go."

    "Bang!" The prince''s calm demeanour was shattered in an instant as he mmed on the table in the fury. The cherry dessert that he ate was sprayed all over the table. He red furiously at Su Nuan Nuan, and gritted his teeth as he said, "Are you joking with me?"

    "Luckily, we have kept the dumplings." Su Nuan Nuan remarked, and stood up. "Xiang Yun,e and wipe the table. It iste - see the prince out."

    Duan Tingxuan wants to say, "Give me a bowl of the dumplings and I will leave''. But he could not lower his status and face to ask for a bowl of dumplings. He tried hard to suppress his anger, and pped his long sleeves, "All right, today you win! Just you wait and see! I don''t believe that I cannot change you!"

    "Since things had already be like this, unless you kill me, you are wee to do your worst." Su Nuan Nuan sneered, turned around, and purposely said in a loud and clear voice, "Bye! Forgive your wife for not seeing you off!"

    ¡ª after Duan Tingxuan had left ¡ª

    "Missy¡­.. Madam¡­.."

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were scared out of their wits. They were almost in tears as they held Sun Nuan Nuan sleeves and cried, "Missy, how could you¡­. treat the Lord like this? What if he bes angry?"

    "If he is angry then let him fume! So what? The worse he can do is to divorce me. The outside world is so big, I have hands and feet, so why do I need to worry about feeding myself?" Su Nuan Nuan sneered. She can die, she can bleed, but ask her to bow down to this scoundrel? - In your dreams, mate!

    "But Missy, it is not so simple! The Lord seldom visits us¡­ but ¡­¡­" Hong Lian wanted to advise but Su Nuan Nuan immediately waved her hand, "Enough is enough! Stop mentioning him, do not spoil my mood! How many dumplings had that thief stolen? Forget it! Do not tell me the number, least I be heartbroken."

    ¡ª Meanwhile, outside the courtyard ¡ª

    "Lord, do not be angry. Madam was ced under house arrest, and therefore she is full of angst." This is the first time that Si Ping had seen anyone so shameless as to enter an adobe and helped himself to the food. Even the crown prince does not do this. But he dare not say a word.

    Instead, he ran after prince Duan Tingxuan, who had stomped off in anger, and tried to console him.

    "House arrest? If I really put her under house arrest, do you think that she and her two servants could go the kitchen to create trouble? Her expression of unhappiness and annoyance is just a show! It is just some dumplings! Does she think that I must eat the dumplings that she made? Humph! Who wants to eat those dumplings!"

    Duan Tingxuan was really very indignant at the treatment he had received from Su Nuan Nuan. But his mind was filled with the thoughts of the delectable dumplings. It was filled with the tender juicy meat and vegetables that enhanced the taste. Just thinking about the dumplings made him drooled and he swallowed hard.

    After walking for some time, he finally stopped moving and told Si Ping, "Didn''t you said that your mother knows how to make it? Go back and ask your mother to cook some dumplings for me! I want the vegetables and meat dumplings. I do not believe that I could not eat these dumplings once I left her ce!"

    Si Ping feels very weird - who was it that eximed, "Must I eat the dumplings that she made?" and "Who wants that dumplings?" just a moment ago? But he did not say a word and immediately agreed.

    Si Ping thought that Su Nuan Nuan is really stupid. This is a golden opportunity for her to get in the Lord''s good grace. If she were to make the prince happy with the food, and apologise, she would be restored to her former splendour and glory, and raise as a phoenix once more.

    But why did she have to annoy the prince? Sigh! She is destined to live in that courtyard for the rest of her life. A n.o.bledy - to have fallen to such a state! All of these are her fault!

    **** A few dayster ****

    At the dining hall, there were a wide variety of foods on the table. A bowl containing white colour sugared porridge was steaming hot. Xu Ran Yun sat in a chair and smiled as she faced her husband.

    Duan Tingxuan just nced at all the dishes on the table, and immediately asked, "That''s all?"

    "Arh?"

    Xu Ran Yun is a highly intelligentdy, but she could not fathom what her husband''s words mean?

    "Are these all the food for dinner?" Duan Tingxuan added more words as he rified.

    "That''s right! This morning, didn''t you mentioned that the duck is too oily and wanted to eat sugared porridge?" Xu Ran Yun smiled, as she replied. She looks very loving and gentle and gently asked, "Oh, yes, I forgot to cook you the milk porridge that you love to eat. Do you want me to make a bowl for you?"

    "No need." Duan Tingxuan suddenly felt very miserable. For all his life, he was spoilt. Whatever he wants, he gets. But at this moment, in his prime, the thing that he desires to eat the most, the dumplings, continued to elude him. What a killjoy.

    He picked up a spoonful of sugared porridge and ced it into his mouth. Then he frowned, and put down the spoon. "This is too sweet! The white sugar is quite expensive!"

    "Arh?¡­."

    Xu Ran Yun was at a loss for words. Since 3 days ago, her husband does not seem to like the food that she cooks. She had worked very hard these two days. But the duck that she had specially roasted was deemed to oily by her husband. Even the dishes that she had specially cooked today did not seem to attract him. Let''s not mentioned the dishes she that she had taken a long time to cook. Even the bowl of sugared porridge that she had prepared ordingly to his taste suddenly bes too sweet.

    She really did not know what to do.

    "Is the Lord''s stomach very ufortable, and he had no appet.i.te? Since when is he so picky about the food that he eats?" Xu Ran Yun knows her husband''s character. Even though he can be heartless at times, he is at least reasonable.

    Xu Ran Yun watched her husband left without eating anything.

    Then she stood up, and took the bowl of porridge and tasted it. "This porridge really tastes good! It is hot and not too sweet! Don''t tell me that the Lord does not like sweet stuff?"

    Thank you for reading this chapter from Prosperous food trantions.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 8

    > > The Feast - Chapter 8

    Chapter 8: Ominous premonition

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food.

    I apologise for the ads. I really need to break even instead of paying for web hosting costs from my pockets. So be a dear and ignore them if you do not like it, ok? Thank you.

    ***** Meanwhile, from Duan Tingxuan''s perspective *****

    "Well, forget it! I am not hungry anymore. I will be going to the study." Duan Tingxuan just tossed this sentence and immediately fled the dining room, leaving Xu Ran Yun wondering what had happened.

    Duan Tingxuan also knew that he was a bit unreasonable.

    His concubine, Xu Ran Yun, had spent hours preparing all these fine dishes for him.

    But he really did not have the appet.i.te for these dishes. When he looked at the various dishes filled with tantalising aromas and vours, the image of the dumplings somehow always popped out. Compared to the taste of the dumplings he had before, all the other food seemed tasteless inparison.

    He was really upset. He could not eat much.

    Instead of angering his concubine, he retreats to the safety of his study. Perhaps he would be hungry at midnight. When he is hungry, the food will taste much better.

    When Duan Tingxuan arrived at the study, he saw Si Pinge out from the room. His eyes brightened, and he smiled, "How? Did you bring the thing I asked you to?"

    Si Ping saw him and smiled - but his smile resembles more like crying, "Lord, spare my mother, please! A few days ago, she cooked some dumplings for you, and you said it is too oily. The day before, you said it is too mild and have no taste. Yesterday, you said that it is too salty."

    "Today, when I went home, my mother cooked one more stove. I took a bite, and discovered that there is no taste. My mother discovered that she had forgotten to add salt. Lord, my mother is very old and could not stand this endless cooking. If this goes on, in future, I will not be able to eat when I go home."

    "Is it as serious as you imed?" Duan Tingxuan''s face was ck as he red at Si Ping,

    "Didn''t you said that you can bleed rivers of blood for me, and is loyal to me? Right now, I did not even ask you to bleed. All I did is to ask you to go home and make some dumplings for me, and you wailed and sobbed like it is the end of the world?"

    "You are still worried that you could not eat when you go home? No problem! If you cannot eat, you can starve to death. Do not worry, I will bury you and handle your burial expenses on ount of your long service."

    Si Ping could not say a single word.

    Duan Tingxuan knows that he was taking his ire out on his innocent servant. The 3 earlier dumplings had already taught him that the taste of the dumplings does not depend on the dumpling name or type. It depends on who made those dumplings.

    "Tell me, do you think it is possible that woman really gained the cooking skill from Yama, the king of h.e.l.l?" Duan Tingxuan sat on the chair. Right now, his mind was filled with thoughts about the wife whom he does not want to meet.

    "This¡­. ghost and immortal stuff, it is not possible for me to guess if it is true or not. But ¡­. I feel that after Madam died ande back to life, she hadpletely be a different person. "Therefore, maybe, Yama the king of h.e.l.l, that matter, maybe it is true."¡£

    Completely be a different person.

    Duan Tingxuan mind was blown, ''That''s right, she hadpletely be a totally different person. It is just not her cooking skills. Her aura, the way she talks, her att.i.tude and character are totally different. Even if someone had just escaped death, they would not change so drastically.''

    This is interesting.

    Duan Tingxuan grinned and leaned against the chair. Is it the case of another soul in the body? Or is it a fox spirit that possessing the body. Maybe a ghost had possessed her? These legends are not unheard of¡­

    Oh, this is going to be fun. But he should be patient and watch quietly.

    Once he thought of these, he looked out of the window. It is quite dark now. He muttered to himself, "Forget it, I will let you sleep in peace tonight. But tomorrow¡­.."

    "What did you just say?"

    Si Ping was stunned at this weird behaviour, and asked.

    Duan Tingxuan appeared visibility annoyed as he sneered, "I was saying, what should I bury with you after you have pa.s.sed away from starvation!"

    Si Ping immediately bowed his head, and dare not to utter another word.

    **** Back in the Courtyard *****

    "Xiang Yun, help me watch the stove. Also, help to cut the two salted eggs. I will go to fetch some water from the well. Missy should wake up soon."

    In the kitchen of the courtyard, Hong Lian had already prepared everything. When she saw Xiang Yun, she immediately a.s.signed the rest of the ch.o.r.es to her.

    Hong Lian heated up some water and approached Su Nuan Nuan''s room. As expected, there are some voices muttering inside.

    Hong Lian knocked on the door, and enter, and poured the kettle of warm water into a basin. Then she smiled as she greeted, "Missy woke up so early today, and immediately muttered so many things in the morning. What makes you so happy this morning?"

    "Happy?"

    Su Nuan Nuan walked towards Hong Lian, and pointed at her right eye, "Look, look at my right eye. Did you discover anything?"

    Hong Lian looked hard and shook her head, "No, what happened to your eye?"

    "Look again! Try to be more observant!" Su Nuan Nuan looked at her with vexation. "How many times have I told you, you must be more observant! You are the eldest maid, and you must set a good example for Xiang Yun."

    "Missy, your servant could not see anything, you do not even have eye boogers. What exactly do you want me to see?" Hong Lian tried her best. Maybe her eysh had entered her eye? But try as she might, she could not see anything.

    "You did not notice that this eye keeps twitching?" Su Nuan Nuan heard Hong Lian'' word and sighed as she rubbed her eyes.

    "Your servant could not see it." Hong Lian widened her eyes. Su Nuan Nuan pairs of beautiful eyes were fair and even, and there was no twitching.

    "Sigh, you are right. It had stopped twitching." Su Nuan Nuan twisted her face, "This is really strange. Just now it is twitching like crazy!"

    Hong Lian immediately pa.s.sed her a towel to wash up, and shook her head as she remarked, "Even if it is twitching, Missy need not be so vexed."

    "Left eye twitch means fortuneing your way. Right eye twitch means misfortune ising! Did you not hear of this phase before?" Su Naun Nuan asked. She was surprised. This is an idiom in modern day that was handed down from the ages. Don''t tell her that there is no such idiom at this time?

    "Oh, I did hear about this when I was young, but I have not experienced anything weird, and I forgot about it." Hong Lian smiled. She looked at Su Nuan Nuan washing her face then sitting at the dressing table and immediately walked up tob her missy''s hair.

    "If it is a misfortune, what could be a greater misfortune than the time you starved yourself? Now that the misfortune had gone, and your servant feels that the days are quite good. Although life is a bit hard, it is much better than the period of darkness."

    Su Nuan Nuan remarked, "Men are men because they have aspirations. We are not animals, who feel happy just because we have some food and sleep well. You are so easily contented - what is the difference between you and beasts?"

    "Your servant feels that her life is pretty good and do not aspire for more. To have food to eat, and a room over her head - that is all she wants." Hong Lian thought and replied.

    Su Nuan Nuan was surprised, "What? You think this is good? No way? Don''t tell me that you are no different from a beast?"

    "Missy, what is your aspiration?" Hong Lian smiled as she asked.

    "My aspiration is to eat the world''s finest food!" Su Nuan Nuan proudly replied.

    Hong Lian whispered under her breathe, "Isn''t this the same as that of beasts?"

    Su Nuan Nuan looked at Hong Lian with eyes of despair, "How could that be the same? Do beasts know how to cook? Know how to cook the finest food? Know how to cut a fish so that the fish meat is tender? Know how gra.s.s¡­ Er¡­ They only know how to eat and s.h.i.t. How could they bepared to such a foodie like me, who desire to cook and eat the finest food in thend?"

    Hong Lian remains silent as she added a silver colour hairpin on the silky, ck hair.

    "Now, do you know the difference between me and a beast?" Su Nuan Nuan looked at Hong Lian proudly. Seeing that Hong Lian nodded her head slowly, she was unsatisfied and immediately asked, "En, then tell me, what is the difference between me and a beast in your own words. You are not allowed to repeat the words I used."

    Hong Lian almost cried. If she knew about this, she will ask Xiang Yun to serve Missy. That girl really knows how to tter Missy. Not like me, I can''t even lie well.

    She looked at Su Nuan Nuan and in very low voice, whispered, "Difference between Missy and a beast? ¡­.. Missy is a much stronger and more powerful beast than an ordinary beast?"

    "Choke! Cough! Cough!" Su Nuan Nuan did not have any water in her mouth, that''s why she could only spat out some saliva. But the rest of the saliva was struck in her throated and made her choke for a while.

    "It is hopeless! Hong Lian, you are hopeless!" Su Nuan Nuan shook her head and looked at Hong Lian with pity, "You could only drift around like this for the rest of your life."

    "Your servant is just a maid, and is content with her life. Don''t tell me you expect your servant to take the imperial examination and be a court official?" Hong Lian giggled, "Oh yes, speaking of the imperial examinations, you could converse with the Lord. The Lord had once hidden his ident.i.ty when he took the ¡­¡­"

    "Stop, shut up! Within this ce, that rascal name is taboo! Understand?" Su Nuan Nuan folds her arms in annoyance, "Do you know the story of the crow beak [1]? Do you know the story of the woman who invited the wolf into her home [2]? Hong Lian, do not mention this name, lest it invites trouble."

    "But this the prince''s mansion. This ce may be remote, but it belongs to the lord. If he wants toe, he could do so at any time. Your servant could not stop him¡­"

    "You still dare to say some more?" Su Nuan Nuan was furious. Then she immediately walked around in circles, "We are doomed! We are doomed! Just now my eyes keep twitching. And you added a crow beak! Looks like there will be big trouble! We cannot escape this cmity!"

    Xiang Yun suddenly shouted out, "Breakfast is ready, Missy! There is tasty porridge and fragrant salted eggs¡­."

    1 secondter, Su Nuan Nuan disappeared from the room.

    Looking at the fleeing shadow, Hong Lian remarked, "Didn''t she just said that the cmity cannot be escaped? Then why did Missy run so fast? Even in the face of a cmity she still wants to eat?"New Novel:

    For those who love boy''s love story, we have a new novel from an aspiring author, Gumihou, who wrote the novel, "" using the characters and scenes based on this novel. We wee her to the team.

    Fair warning: It contains gay stories and is not for everyone. So skip it if you do not like gay stories.

    For those who are wondering if I wrote it under another pen name. The answer is NO. I admit I love to write a novel, but not boy''s love. And I got no time to write. I trante 8 novels and deliver at least 3 novels every day, 5 on weekends. Try it and see if you can free time for writing.Notes

    [1] Crow Beak story. Summary: The crow speak bad things, and bad things happened.

    [2] The story of the woman who invited a wolf into the house: The wolf ate her.

    [3] The story of the aggregator site that stole my content: the readers prefer to read from my site prosperous food instead. The reading experience is better, they can turn off the lights, set the font size and y around as they customize it to their needs. And each chapter you stole contains my site url. Readers,e on over. The gra.s.s is greener here.Recipes for dumplings that even princes could not get their mind out of (aka food p.o.r.n):Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 9

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 9

    Chapter 9: That Giant Rat Prince

    h.e.l.lo, I will be a co-trantor with effect from today.

    Together with the current trantor, you can look forward to 4 chapters a week of this novel.

    Enjoy.

    "Master, I just heard that Madam Ran just had a new set of pce clothes made in thetest the imperial fashion. With Madam Ran''s celestial beauty, such a royal style would surely be amazing, won''t you go and take a look?"

    On the small path leading towards Mei Yue Court, Si Ping did his best to influence Duan Tinxuan''s heart. At the same time, he was wiping tears in his own heart. ''Do you think being a servant is easy? Especially for this Lord, do you think my five liang a month is earned just by sitting on my bottom?'' So many of you are jealous of my position, why don''t youe and try working in my ce, ah!

    "Hm, then let''s go spend the night at Zn''s ce." Duan Tingxuan absent-mindedly agreed, when he saw the corner of Mei Yue Court appeared in the distance between the trees, he clutched his stomach, trying to calm the locusts which had been rebelling inside for days.

    "Master, this one heard that Madam Yun had personally prepared duck soup in the afternoon¡­" If one scheme failed, Si Ping will try another, however before he had the chance to finish his words, Duan Tingxuan waved for him to stop. "Enough with the duck soup, just hearing about it makes me nauseous, alright?"

    "Oh, I heard that in addition to duck soup, there''s also roasted wild boar, grilled fish¡­" Si Ping was also looking at the far away Mei Yue Lou, where Su Nuan Nuan was ced under house arrest in, and knew what was in his master''s heart. He made the decision to use reverse psychology.

    "I''m sick of it." Duan Tingxuan finally made his way to Mei Yue Court which had once been quite dpidated, but looking quite neat and spotless now. The corner of his lips floated up into a strange smile. "The only thing I wish to eat now are thoserge dumplings stuffed with chives."

    As expected, he''s after thoserge dumplings.

    Si Ping gave his master a resentful look, thinking, what kind of person are you? No matter what you''re a member of the Imperial family. Ah, if anyone found out that you have allowedrge dumplings turned you into this¡­thing, what will happen to your face?

    "What kind of expression is that?"

    Duan Tingxuan asked unhappily, looking at his trusty servant''s unusual expression.

    "This servant is disying a frightened expression." Si Ping said truthfully, as he remembered the bitter encounter in this very court just a few days ago.

    "What are you scared of? The big madam is merely a woman and not a demon, there''s nothing to be scared of." Duan Tingxuan frowned as he made a harrumph sound.

    "It''s true, big madam is not a demon, she''s a monster, way scarier than a demon." Si Ping gave the absolute truth.

    The prince was greatly disappointed by this useless servant. Hoping to ''motivate'' Si Ping to work he aimed a kick at the servant''s b.u.t.tocks. "Whatever, just, just go and investigate for your master."

    Si Ping staggered a bit, thankfully he did not fell face down on the doorway or he''d be cursed to h.e.l.l; he''d just discovered that his master knowingly came here in hopes of a free meal, was all that bl.u.s.ter and big talk just made up to make himself feel better?

    Thankfully, the courtyard was all quiet, Si Ping very quietly called out, but no one came to investigate, so he turned to Duan Tingxuan. "Master, it looks like no one''s around, not sure where big madam and the others went?"

    As soon as he heard that Su Nuan Nuan was not around, Duan Tingxuan''s bright eyes gleamed like a yellow weasel''s that realized a bunch of geese had escaped their pen and were swimming around a nearby river. He gave a sinister he-heugh, and said, "Who cares where she went, let''s go, let''s see if there are any more of thoserge dumplings left."

    "Master, it has been three days since those dumplings were made, even if there are any left, it would only be fit for dogs. How could there be any left?" Si Ping continued to admonish his master. His lord swaggered way towards the kitchen, saying most confidently, "Can''t you say something nicer? It''s entirely possible that they maderge dumplings again yesterday, isn''t it?"

    Si Ping did not dare to say anymore, he only grumbled in his heart, big madam''s not you, how could she just eatrge dumplings every day? The fact that he was eventually proven right, made it even more obvious that the servant was the one with the normal brain.

    Since he could not find any dumplings, Duan Tingxuan was a little disappointed, but he quickly found other foodstuffs on disy that caught his attention.

    "What''s this? It looks like minced pork? Hm, this is quite delicious, this will go great with rice porridge, hold this, hold this."

    "Hm? What''s this snack? Let''s try some, mm mm, very good, very good. Oh, there''s more than ten of them, hold this, hold this."

    "Uhm? This looks kind of like leftovers? What is it? How is it possible to keep so many things on cooked rice? Hmmm, it''s all cold now, a vour''s a bit off, it should be delicious when hot, hold these, hold these."

    "Ah, rice b.a.l.l.s. Hm? Why are these rice b.a.l.l.s so fragrant? Here, hold these, hold these."

    Si Ping''s face was all‡å‡åas he watched his master plundered the kitchen for its foodstuff, there was only one thought running through his head: Lord and master, you want food, is it? Whatever is fine, right? These Chinese cabbages and shrimp soup, rice b.a.l.l.s, pork feet, minced meat or whatever, can all be cooked by the pce kitchen, ah. Why must youe to Mei Yue Court and steal? Once big madam make an uproar, you''ll really lose whatever stand you have, ah.

    "What are you standing there for? Take all these."

    Duan Tingxuan watched a stunned Si Ping, who held out his arms for inspection, saying. "Master, this servant only has two arms."

    "It''s all fine, I have two more here!" Duan Tingxuan pped his hands, and found that even with the addition of his two paws was not enough for the food he intended to rob. Thinking quickly, he shrugged and started filling his mouth with sesame oil dumplings stuffed with peanut and white sugar. One by one, in they go, still managing to speak with Si Ping, "Once these snacks are all eaten, our arms will be quite capable of carrying the other things away."

    In that very second, Si Ping realised that he really did not know his master after all, he really had to admire the thickness of his master''s face, ah. Why is it that after doing all this sneaking and thieving around he still spoke with such boldness and dignity? Not a single string of shame leaked out.

    "I just didn''t realise, all these years, how much good stuff I''ve missed out on. This Chinese toon (a type of vegetable) is unbelievably delicious when stir-fried with eggs, the preserved ones are great too, it''s vour quite unique, very unforgettable once eaten. Oh yes, preserved Chinese toon can be made into a refreshing soup with just a touch of soy sauce, just too delicious, Chinese toon can also be spread on sliced salted pork and steamed, that vour is just¡­ah¡­"

    His words were cut off by a loud shriek, Su Nuan Nuan still badly shaken by the appearance of these two giant rats, rushed into the room forgetting herself and switching immediately into battle mode.

    "And what kind of vour is that?"

    Duan Tingxuan who was still immersed in his Chinese toon world steaming together with sliced salted pork, looked inquiringly at Su Nuan Nuan. Then, he saw Si Ping ced himself in front his master, using his own body to protect the prince. There was a guarded look on his face as he faced off against Su Nuan Nuan, the prince was really touched by that protective stance.

    But, very quickly that touching feeling evaporated, because that so-called guard suddenly started yelling, "Big madam, it wasn''t me! Those snacks were eaten by the master, I touched nothing in your kitchen!"

    "You, scram!"

    Duan Tingxuan gave Si Ping a kick that sent him rolling away like a cbash (gourd shaped vegetable). Your mother! I really need to work on my people reading skills, how could I have kept such as traitor like you all these years. It was just a few snacks, you could have just taken the fall for your master. Do you think your master would have let you carry this guilt withoutpensation? There are servants who would die for their masters, yet here you are, betraying your master over a few snacks.

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions.Some of the food that Prince Duan Tingxuan stole Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 10

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 10

    Chapter 10: You Win!

    Here you go!

    The 2nd chapter on the same day.

    2 more chapters will be released tomorrow.

    Enjoy.

    ¡°Duan Tingxuan, do you even want your face?"

    Su Nuan Nuan stared at the rascal who still had crumbs of red bean paste sticking to the corners of his lips, and felt anger surging up. She rushed to the kitchen with an angry face. "Helping yourself to food, such actions might as well be called stealing, are you even a prince any more? Your mother, how dare youe here and steal food from a woman you''ve abandoned, do you even want your face any more?"

    Practically exploding with anger, curse words fell from Su Nuan Nuan''s mouth. The previous Su Nuan Nuan would never have resorted to such crude tactics, this behaviour actually horrified Si Ping, Hong Lian, and Xiang Yun to the point where they were scared to move. Si Ping, who was hidden to one side, was shivering and muttering to himself. "I already said that big madam is no demon, she''s a monster."

    Compared to the sadlycking Si Ping, Duan Tingxuan was a like general who had seen the tides of war turned, fully personifying the idiom ''A man who has no shame has nothing to lose''. He faced Su Nuan Nuan usations with folded arms and a sinisterugh, "Who said I stole anything? This is the pce, this Mei Ye Court is your lord''s Mei Yue Lou, how could I steal food from my own house? Su Meng Nuan, have you forgotten? I have not issued any divorce papers yet, you''re still my official wife, where is this abandoned wife you''re talking about?"

    This rascal had definitelye prepared.

    Su Nuan Nuan quickly calmed down. There''s no benefit to using hard tactics when facing down a shameless person. There''s no point going down this path, this kind of feudal society will never back a woman up. The more she wanted to leave, the more this man would never let her go.

    After considering it for a bit, she decided to abandon pointless argument and use action to convey her contempt for Duan Tingxuan. Quickly, she moved towards the dishes that Duan Tingxuan had grabbed and begun to very enthusiastically rain her spit at it.

    "Su Nuan Nuan, you have guts." Duan Tingxuan roared, his anger towering over everything, but only for a moment. He felt deted as he stared at the spit covered food.

    "Your mother, just because I want some of your dishes, must you be so poisonous? At the very least, you''re still getting an allowance from me, aren''t these dishes cooked using ingredients from my kitchen, you¡­ you, how could you be so petty? What happened to your face?"

    The trembling Si Ping, Hong Lian, and Xiang Yun stood stock still for a moment. The three of them quietly exchanged dumbfounded looks with each other, before carefully backing out from the kitchen which had somehow turned into a battleground for these leading male and female actors. They had no choice, on such a small stage, bystanders could easily be turned into cannon fodder if they are not careful.

    "As long as I can protect my food, why should I bother with face? Can I even eat it?"

    Su Nuan Nuan kept her face expressionless, her heartughing with glee: Well? Ready to give up, d.a.m.ned rascal? You''ve never faced such a brazen woman before, have you? Think the idiom ''A man who has no shame has nothing to lose'' can only be applied to you? Pei! Open your eyes, there are many more experts outside of your little kingdom.

    "Very good, you win this time." Duan Tingxuan never expected Su Nuan Nuan to be this unreasonable. Although he had faced her anger before, he had thought of it as just a temporary storm that would blow over in a few days after a ma.s.sive explosion. He especially came today, thinking that even if the other party was still unhappy, they would not dare to be too full of themselves, and would perhaps be open to a reconciliation.

    At this point, the prince had forgotten about his own ''A body taken over by a different soul'' theory and was just busy being angry. He was angry that this d.a.m.ned wife of his has the cheek to disobey him, her great and dignified husband. Is she trying to rebel?

    Nevertheless, no matter how angry he got, the prince''s eyes kept going back to the pile of green nts in Su Nuan Nuan''s arms. His anger was slowly being reced by curiosity: I seemed to have seen these before. Aren''t these saplings? Can they be eaten? Perhaps starvation had made this woman crazy enough to try and eat saplings, tree barks and gra.s.s. Oh, wait, the kitchen actually has more good things¡­

    Thinking about the good things in the kitchen, the anger in the princes'' heart began to grow again. Duan Tingxuan gave Su Nuan Nuan a long and gloomy look, before finally nodding his head, saying. "Very good." Having said this mysterious phrase, he left.

    Si Ping, Hong Lian, and Xiang Yun had never seen this proud and arrogant prince retreat like this, with his wings of pride thoroughly clipped off. All three gave a deep sigh of relief. Only Su Nuan Nuan had seen the gleam of danger in the prince''s eyes. The cheer of victory sank as she contemted the meaning of that look.

    "Madam, isn''t it a little wasteful to treat food like this?"

    Once thest of Duan Tingxuan''s shadow left their courtyard, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun sidled up to the spit covered dishes, their hearts aching from the pain from seeing such delicious food wasted. These were supposed to be their lunch. In reality, master and servants all have rather economical habits, having to see all these food potentially rot away after defending them so fiercely from food s.n.a.t.c.hers made it even more unbearable. Especially the jar of pickled minced meat. Madam actually spat into the jar, which was rather extreme of her. This jar was supposed tost them for a month as a breakfast side dish.

    "It''s better to suffer a short-term pain and avoid long-term suffering." Su Nuan Nuan looked at the food gloomily, gritting her teeth. "If we did not do this today, that rascal will develop a habit and keep turning up like an unwanted fly. Think you can just swat him away? It''s only with such decisive moves that we can make him understand that that fighting us would not benefit him. That we are willing to burn bridges to make him give up. This is all so that we could return to those tranquil days, ignored by his greatness."

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun could not understand Su Nuan Nuan''s bone-deep hatred for her own husband, but they realised that they could not change her mind. They carried the spit covered food to the yard to feed the chickens, quietly thinking that their master was not one to cringe from a challenge just because obstacles were thrown his way. Madam, if you think thank these tactics could get rid of the master, isn''t this just too naive of you?

    Actually, Su Nuan Nuan also realised that Duan Tingxuan would not be so easy to get rid of, which was why she spent the day cracking her brains trying to think up ways to deal with him. However, lunchtime pa.s.sed, followed by dinner, and no great idea present themselves for inspection. She could only me what happened today on Hong Lian''s inauspicious mouth, and proceeded to conduct a ''May only speak auspicious words'' training for her maids, and throw this matter to the back of her mind. They have to prepare for a future invasion, and to deal with the challenges the best they can under the circ.u.mstances.

    "Master, big madam is getting more and more out of hand¡­this¡­this one doesn''t know what she''s thinking."

    As they strolled on the small path through the garden, Si Ping sneaked a look at his master''s expression. He had deliberately used the ''Denounce the Mistress'' tactic to gauge the lord''s real opinions, and waited expectantly for the usual bitter words to fall from that n.o.ble mouth, hoping to use amon enemy to build a rapport with his master and perhaps get over the weird incident that had happened just now.

    Duan Tingxuan said nothing, still keeping his head lowered as he walked, looking like a defeated rooster: Shameful, this was just too shameful, what that woman did was nothing, but the way the master reacted, failing to achieve his goal, did not encounter therge dumplings, failing to bring the pickled minced pork home. To this prince, this was the most critical defeat he had ever suffered in his whole life.

    "Master, actually you¡­did not really suffer aplete defeat." Si Ping swallowed, and continued. "That, did you not managed to eat quite a few of her snacks? You¡­still have red bean crumbs on your lips."

    He had hardly finished speaking, when Duan Tingxuan perked up quickly, pping his hands once. "You''re right, your master did not lose his rice while trying to steal chickens, I''ve actually managed to eat some of those snacks, also, I did not bring any rice over¡­"

    So saying, he suddenly turned back and red at Si Ping with hateful realisation. "Your mother, you useless thing, how dare you bring this up? You''re already cowering at a mere Mei Yue Lou, what happens if we go to an actual battlefield? Can I still count on your loyalty and protection? Or should I count my lucky stars so long as you don''t sell me to the highest bidder?"

    Si Ping hastily pasted on his most ingratiating smile. "Master, you''re the one who most understands this servant. At Mei Yue Lou, wasn''t¡­ wasn''t this one just trying to tease big madam into a better mood? This one was just thinking, once big madamugh, she''ll be distracted, giving master an opening to say something. Who would have thought that big madam would be so angry, this one''s great performance failed just like that. If this was truly a battlefield, this one would have deserved to die in front of the great master."

    "Scram, scram, scram! You think your master will believe this nonsense?" Duan Tingxuan let out a kick, which Si Ping avoided, face still full of smiles, confident that this counted as getting away with bad behaviour.

    At the entrance of the garden, his master stood there, hesitating about where to go. Afraid that this was about to bring up bad memories, he quietly said. "Where does master wish to go? The study or Madam Yun''s ce? Or perhaps a visit to Madam Ran''s ce since it has been several since master''sst visit, Madam Ran never said anything, but she always asks about master whenever she saw this one¡­"

    "Yes, yes, I know, just how much money did you receive from them?" Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes. "I''m not going anywhere, I''ll return to the study."

    "Master, you have not had dinner yet, you had a few snacks earlier, how could that be enough? Why not visit Madam Ran and try some of her duck soup¡­" Si Ping did his best, money can''t just be taken without putting an effort, it does not matter on whose behalf he''s persuading for, the most important thing was that he''s doing his best in his persuasion work.

    "Tell the kitchens to send food." Duan Tingxuan mood was still a little edgy, without letting Si Ping say anything else, he took the path that leads to his study.

    Si Ping had no choice, he could only rush to the kitchen with his order. At this point, Duan Tingxuan had reached his study. He sat on his chair with a huff, and then started to sulk. Finally, he found the whole situation a little strange. He really did not want to credit Su Nuan Nuan with his mood swings, so he simply took out one of his books and began to slowly calm down.

    When, Shuang Xi who looked after the study, heard the noisesing from the room he became so nervous that he did not dare to breathe too loudly. Seeing Si Ping, he instantly grabbed the fellow servant and began to interrogate him on the day''s happenings.

    Si Ping waved his hands in despair and whispered, "Listen to me, absolutely do not go in there, the master had suffered a terrible defeat at the hands of big madam. At this point, whoever goes in gets it, I too am going to stay at your ce and hide for a while."

    Shuang Xi''s eyes almost popped out, he stared off in a daze. "Wh-what did you say? B-big madam¡­she¡­she who was thrown into Mei Yue Lou, actually made master suffer a defeat? You¡­you sure you don''t have a fever?"

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions. We will be posting 2 more chapters of this novel tomorrow. See you! Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 11

    > > The Feast chapter 11

    Chapter 11: Three StoogesAdmin Aka Trantor San

    h.e.l.lo, as mention, Gumihou and I will be jointly tranting this novel together. She will trante 2 chapters a week, while I trante 2 chapters, for a total of 4 chapters a week.

    Enjoy.

    Si Ping rolled his eyes, "You are the one who is having a fever! Haven''t you see with your own eyes the mood that our Lord is in recently? All these are because of Big Madam. You still dared to look down on her?"

    "Let me tell you this, our Big Madam is no longer a confused woman like in the past. Had you forgotten about the row that she had created in the kitchen? Today, after, she had been resurrected, she is very smart and resourceful."

    "For example, you know what Madam Yun is like. How many money do you think she will give Big Madam? Think about it, if you are just an ordinary person, you would have starved to death a long time ago. But today, if you go to Mei Yue Lou, the ce where Su Nuan Nuan is imprisoned in, you will find how well she and her two maids are doing!"

    "How could this be? What is going on? Did a ghost possess her?" Shuang Xi''s eyes were widened in surprise.

    Suddenly they heard the roar of Duan Tingxuan, "What are you two standing there chattering about? Come in quickly!"

    Si Ping and Shuang Xi immediately rushed in and smiled, "Lord, how may we serve you?"

    Duan Tingxuan did not have any tasks for them. He just suspected that his servant, Si Ping was gossiping to his maid, Shuang Xi about his ''failures''. Looking at the looks of dread that they were giving him, he knew suspicions were true.

    Duan Tingxuan was very annoyed. He wanted to kill them in a fit of rage. But he controlled his impulse with great difficulty.

    Each time Duan Tingxuan recalled how helpless he is against Su Nuan Nuan, he was even more fl.u.s.tered. Twice he had tried to eat the food, and twice he was rebuffed.

    These two idiots may not be the brightest mind in the world, but they are cunning and full of ideas. He controlled his temper and knocked against the table as he asked, "Shuang Xi, you heard about this issue? Tell me your opinions and suggest a way for me to go to the Mei Yue Lou to dine?"

    Shuang Xi almost fainted. She looked at Duan Tingxuan with tears in her eyes, "Lord, you are the husband of Big Madam! It is your right to go the Mei Yue Lou to dine. As your wife, shouldn''t she serve you?"

    Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes, "Of course! How could I not understand this? But¡­ cough, cough, it is me who first put her there and ignored her. No matter how many mistakes she had made, she would not admit that she was wrong. Therefore, she was angry at me and hated me for ignoring her. And today, she is so formidable! I have not pacified her rage yet, and dare not to let her return to the mansion. Therefore, I need a good excuse. Understand?"

    "What? Lord even wants the Big Madam to return to the main mansion?" Shuang Xi looked at the Lord in astonishment. In her heart, she wanted to ask, ''didn''t you say that if she stays there for some time and did not die, you will divorce her?''.

    If you did not say this, how could Madam Yun be so bold? Howe in the span of a few days, you wanted her to move back into the mansion? Don''t tell me that the food that Big Madam cook is heavenly dish? Is it that tasty?

    "I was just thinking about it, and had not decided yet." Duan Tingxuan waved his hand in frustration.

    Si Ping, who is more experienced in serving Duan Tingxuan, immediately knows that the Prince really wants to bring Su Nuan Nuan back.

    He thought of what he had said to Shuang Xi just now, and suddenly he had an idea. Si Ping whispered to Duan Tingxuan, "Lord, I have a suggestion. But if I say it out, you must help me to keep it a secret. Otherwise, your servant dare not to say it."

    "En, say it." Duan Tingxuan''s eyes lit up, and his picked up a piece of Kirin Town paper from the table and yed with it.

    Regardless of what Si Ping had suggested, as long as he could dine at Mei Yue Lou, it is a good n.

    Before this, he does not know that he is such a picky eater. Right now, he does notck good clothes or fine food. He had frequently dined at the best restaurants in the capital, and had even eaten the food from the imperial chefs, yet why does he crave for the food that was cooked by that woman? Was he under a spell or curse?

    While he was thinking, Si Ping spelt out his n, "Lord, after you have banished Big Madam to the Mei Yue Lou, Madam Yun''s disburs.e.m.e.nt of the allowance and the food are ¡­. Cough, cough, cough , not so timely."

    "I was thinking that Big Madam may not appear asfortable as she looked. Frankly, there are not many things left in the kitchen. When we visited that kitchen, you only scoured around for the food. I had seen the rice bucket. As expected, there is not much rice left, and there are not much fish, meat and eggs. If you want to dine that, why not take some ingredients from the kitchen and give her? If she epts the ingredients you give, surely she would cook for you?"

    Duan Tingxuan mulled it over, and his frown clear as he smiled, "Oh, you are full of good suggestions! I was too hasty. I took their limit food for myself without considering their situation. How could I forget to give them some food first?"

    Si Ping immediately tried to tter the prince, "Lord, your mind is filled with matters of the empire. Issues in the house are very minorpared to the importance of the empire. It is not strange that you have overlooked this."

    This ttery did not work as intended. Instead, Duan Tingxuan sighed and shook his head, "Just minor issues in the house? There is an idiom that says that a clear head official should separate issues of the house and state. But issues of the house are the mostplex. Without the ability to put the house in order, how could one be trusted to put the empire in order?"

    Si Ping smiled and immediately agreed. Then he hears the dreaded question from his lord, "Si Ping, just now you said that Madam Yun had not given the Big Madam her allowance, food and clothes. Is this true?''

    Si Ping cried in his heart. He was afraid that the prince will dwell on this matter. Right now he did not have a choice. Si Ping does not want to betray Madam Yun. But he really could not stand his Lord''s persistent order for his mum to cook more dumplings.

    These few days, he had enough of dumplings. Each time he goes home to eat, he had to eat the dumplings that the Lord had asked his mother to cook, but declined to eat it for one reason or another. Just the smell and sight of dumplings alone is enough to make him puke in disgust.

    "Er¡­, Lord, that¡­. Madam Yun had to take care of all sorts of matters in the household, and sometimes forgetting something ismon. She did not withhold the allowance on purpose." Si Ping tried to create excuses for Madam Yun.

    But Duan Tingxuan was having none of it, "Oh, so you are telling me that she could not take care of the household matters and forgets something? Then why she did not forget to send the allowance to my mother or grandmother?"

    He did not give Si Ping a chance to say another word, "Enough! You need not say good things about Madam Yun. I have married her so many years, and know her character well. She liked to be in power and is merciless on the fallen. The cause of this discord lies with me. Madam Yun is doing what she thought I want."

    Si Ping heaved a sigh of relief, and said in his heart, ''I am d you know''.

    He did not know that Duan Tingxuan was shaking his head in disgust and was thinking, ''I did not want to starve these people to death, and I am sure my concubine knows about it. In the past, I think she is a smart woman who knows how to make the right decisions. It seemed that I was wrong. She is just ame excuse.''

    Duan Tingxuan was disappointed in Xu Ran Yun, but was not disappointed enough to stripe her of her powers.

    Duan Tingxuan is someone who had a lot of love. Although the seed of love suffered a devastating snowstorm in the case of his main wife, the seeds of love were still growing vigorously when ites to his other wives.

    Especially at night, he wanted to visit his concubine, Xu Ran Yun. Even though the duck soup is bitter and he could not eat anything as tasty as what his main wife had cooked, she at least looks very pretty.

    Even if he could not eat the food she made, he could still ''eat'' her.

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food.

    From thements, I could tell you love thisedy novel. Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 12

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 12

    Chapter 12: A more considerate Prince

    h.e.l.lo, as mentioned, there are 2 trantors for this novel. While this helps to speed up the release, it also creates some problem, such as the consistency of naming terms etc.

    If there are any problems, let us know in thements section, and we will correct the inconsistency immediately. Thank you.

    While s.e.x may fill his l.u.s.t, it does not fill the belly and alleviate his hunger.

    Therefore, the next morning, the prince woke up early and took care not wake his concubine, who was sound asleep beside him.

    Duan Tingxuan rubbed his tummy and looked very miserable as he left the room, and washed up. Then he quietly left the quarters of his concubine and made a beeline for the kitchen.

    The kitchen is busy right now as they were preparing breakfast for the royal family. The women in the kitchen were smiling and chatting as they went about their task. The kitchen was filled with pots of congee, steamed buns and other dishes, and smell heavenly. Even the prince almost drooled at the smell - He was that hungry.

    Duan Tingxuan coughed as he entered the kitchen. There was a stunned silence as he looked like a fierce Kirin [1] among thembs. The middle age women and the grannies in the kitchen suddenly dispersed and stay away from the prince, as if he was a gue.

    Only one woman was left in the kitchen. She was rooted to the spot in fear and could not run away. She just stood there, shivering with fright, and asked in a trembling voice, "Lord¡­. Why are you here? This¡­. is not ¡­. a suitable ce for ¡­.. a man of your status?"

    Duan Tingxuan coughed, and he was fl.u.s.tered at the reactions of the chefs in the kitchen. He could not understand why the women working there fled from him and was displeased with their reactions.

    Duan Tingxuan thought, ''Hey, I am not a viin that grab women from the streets and force them to have s.e.x with me. Even if I were to be one, I would not be interested in you. Look at your figure and looks in the mirror.''

    Of course, he did not reveal his thoughts as usual, "That¡­. Nothing! I just want to see what new things the kitchen had. The winter is getting hot, and my mother is afraid of hot weather. Had you prepared some cooling stuff for her?"

    The woman could not understand what is going on. It may be almost the dragon boat festival [2], but the weather is not hot at all, and does not require cooling stuff to cool down from the heat of the weather. But since the prince had asked, she had to reply.

    Therefore, she smiled as she replied to the prince, "The An Ping princess had not indicated that we need to prepare cooling ingredients yet. However, these few days, there are some red beans that were delivered here from the viges. The An Ping princess seemed to like the soup that was made from these red beans. As well, there were some fresh wild chickens, rabbits andmbs from the viges. All these are very well loved by the royal family. May I inquire which ones are you interested in?"

    Duan Tingxuan then recalled that the viges will periodically deliver some food to the mansion. Although it is not as much as what they will give during the Lunar New Year, the live stocks from the viges are fresh and tasty.

    When he recalled Si Ping words, he smiled, "My needs are simple. Since we have some red beans, yellow beans and these foodstuffs, give me a few jins of each ingredient."

    "Ka Cha!" This is the sound of the woman''s jaw dropping in amazement. Her mouth was wide open as she looked at Duan Tingxuan in shock. Her look with the mouth opened wide was like a weasel that was caught stealing a chicken [3].

    She could not be faulted for being this surprised - who had heard of a high ranking princeing to the kitchen to steal some food? This is just as astonishing as the time that the Big Madam came here and ransacked the kitchen.

    "Why are you looking like that? I just want to take some beans? It is my ce and you are telling me that I cannot take them?" Duan Tingxuan was furious. As a prince, he had never been looked upon like this by a mere servant!

    All he wants to go to the Mei Yue Lou to have some breakfast. If not for the fact that Si Ping and Shuang Xi could not enter this ce at this time, would he, a mighty prince, need toe here to demand some food himself?

    The woman was frightened out of her wits by the fiery temper of the Prince, and realised that the prince is not joking. Her jaw was struck in that position, but it did not stop her from grabbing a few sacks of beans and shouting for some other servants to help her.

    After about 30 minutes, Duan Tingxuan hands were filled with several big sacks of food. He quickly escaped the embarra.s.sing situation at the kitchen and carried these sack of food towards the Mei Yue Lou.

    He calcted - at this time, they should be cooking their breakfast? The ce is so remote, and she need not wake up so early. So why did she not sleep more?

    As he thought about it, he was a bit unsettled. "I dumped them here in the past is for her to reflect. But howe it seemed that she had prospered and thrived here instead. Humphh¡­!¡±

    ¡°Even if she had prospered, the most important thing is that she refused to share even a morsel of food with me! This evil woman even spat her saliva all over my food. She would rather feed the chickens and refused to feed me! This ¡­. Does this make senses?"

    The more he thought about it, the angrier he bes. When he reached the door, his anger had been worked out into a fierce killing intent.

    But as soon as he stepped into the courtyard and catch a whiff of the mouth-watering aroma of the food, his anger and killing intent dissipated like the wind. What killing intent? There were none! Instead, it was reced by an intense curiosity.

    Oh, what is this? It smells heavenly! The prince easily lifted the sacks of beans and made a beeline for the kitchen. Then he heard the voice of Hong Lian''sughter, "Missy, if you want to eat this, your servant can purchase it from the streets. Do you need to go to all these troubles to make it yourself?"

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled as she replied, "No way! Our situation now is that we have some ingredients, but we have no money. Today I could meet these pulps is coincident. If not for the fact that the seller chose to hawk his wares on the side street, we could not purchase it so cheaply."

    While they were chatting with each other, Duan Tingxuan peered into the room: The big pot was filled with oil. Su Nuan Nuan took a long piece of dough and tossed it into the oil. In a short while, the dough will float up, and looks golden yellow in colour. The thick smell immediately made his stomach grows in hunger.

    "Missy, this time you have calcted wrongly. The cost of the oil used to fry this would be much higher than the price you pay if you have purchased it instead. We could not save any money."

    Xiang Yun felt that it is pity to waste so much oil. But Su Nuan Nuan just shook her head, "You are really dumb! After using this oil, we need not toss them away! We can use it again to cook, make dumplings and other delicious food¡­."

    Before she could finish speaking, she saw the rat Duan Tingxuan and immediately grabbed a dirty wet cloth and tossed it at him.

    Duan Tingxuan is well versed in martial arts and nimbly dodged. Then he gathered the sacks and entered the kitchen and smiled, "Oh, youdies are really hardworking! You woke up so early to cook some You Tiao?"

    Fried dough sticks (aka You Tiao) is not amon sight on the streets. At this time period, life is hard, and fewmoners are willing to use half a pot of oil just to fry some food. Even if they could use the oil to fry many You Tiaos, they would feel heartache.

    Also, You Tiaos are oily and greasy and are not as popr as the mild tastes of porridge and salted vegetables. A few stores do sell You Tiao, but it is expensive and considered a luxury snack for rich people due to the cost of oil.

    The prince mansion is a rich family and does not care about the cost of this bit of oil. However, they seldom eat this dish as the oily and greasy feeling is deemed as being bad for health. Like themoners, they prefer congee, salted vegetables and steam buns.

    Therefore, it is very rare that this snack is served to the rich men like Duan Tingxuan. Duan Tingxuan may have known about this snack, but he had not tasted it before. This smell is really aromatic. When he thought that this food is cooked by Su Nuan Nuan and is much tastier than the ordinary food he could eat on the streets, Duan Tingxuan begins to salivate in antic.i.p.ation.

    "Lord, what did you have in your hand?"

    Su Nuan Nuan did not care about this fox that keeps stealing her food and paid him no heed. Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were very enthusiastic as they greeted him and inquired about the bags that Duan Tingxuan had carried with him.

    "Cough, Cough¡­ Oh¡­.. Today I pa.s.sed by the kitchen and noticed that there are some fresh beans from the viges. I took some for you. See if you can use it. If you could not use it, just toss it away." Duan Tingxuan tried to sound nonchnt about it.

    Despite his thick-skinniness and his nonchnt demeanour, he could not help blushing red when he said these words. He looked at the sacks and sighed in his heart, "d.a.m.n it, I had to endure this embarra.s.sing situation so that I can eat. Sigh, it is really not easy!"

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were very happy as they received the sacks from the prince. Hong Lian immediately replied, "Lord, what are you saying? These are fine beans, of course, we will not toss them away. Heaven will punish us for wasting food like this!"

    Saying this, Hong Lian winked at Xiang Yun. Seeing that Xiang Yun did not understand her, she immediately grabbed Xiang Yun''s arm and dragged her out of the kitchen.

    After they have left the kitchen, she whispered as she chided, "Aiyo! You really do not know how to read the situation. It is not easy for Missy to be in a good mood. The Lord had also brought some things over. We should give them some privacy."

    Xiang Yun scratched her head as she whispered back, "Elder Sister, how could I not understand your thoughts? But Missy is different from the past¡­. I am afraid that they could not get along. What if a fight breaks out? Then wouldn''t the situation escte from bad to worse?"

    Hong Lian was stunned, and shook her head in dismay, "Oh, I am the one who did not understand the situation! How could I have forgotten about this?" She turned around and looked at the kitchen with anxiety.

    Within the kitchen, Su Nuan Nuan was much nicer to Duan Tingxuan as she busied herself frying the dough sticks. She sneered, "Prince, you have learnt to be more considerate. You finally understand the logic that there is no free lunch and knows how to bring some rice and beans over."

    Duan Tingxuan pouted at Su Nuan Nuan''sments. Then he thought, ''Forget it! I will endure these smirks for the sake of the fried you tiao. After all, a gentleman should not fight with ady.''

    "What are these round and circr things? I know the long things are called You Tiao (Oily sticks). What about the round ones? Don''t tell me they are called You Bing (Oily biscults)?" Duan Tingxuan wants to get in Su Nuan Nuan''s good grace so that he can eat the food that she cooks. Therefore, he endured her sneers and smiled.

    Of course, if you point out that he had given in to Su Nuan Nuan, he will deny it with every fibre of his body, and would not admit it even under the threat of death.

    "It is really called You Bing! Why? You have not seen it before?" Su Nuan Nuan was surprised at Duan Tingxuan''s question. She knows that You Tiao was avable in ancient times. But she did not know if the simr dish, You Bing, is invented muchter and is not yet avable in this time period.

    There are also a lot of rted foods, just as salted You Tiao, Sweet You Bing, etc. Without You Bing, there would not be a battle between the sweet and savoury vours [3].

    "It is really called You Bing?" Duan Tingxuan had never expected him to guess the name of this dish correctly. He was curious and peered at it, "Strange, howe there are no spring onions on it? I had eaten some You Bing before, and there are spring onions on them!"

    "That is called spring onion pancakes (Cong You Bing)!" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes and shook her head at her husband''s ignorance. He is a foodie as well, judging from the way he shameless grabbed the food that she made. But he is really a failure as a foodie and could not differentiate his food.

    "Spring Onion Pancakes ¡­. are not a type of You Bing?"

    Duan Tingxuan was suspicious. He loves to eat fine food, but he had no experience in differentiating them.

    "It is a type of You Bing, but it is different from the You Bing I made. The one I made is Sweet You Bing." Su Nuan Nuan is toozy to exin more to this ignorant man.

    Does she need to tell him the history of You Bing as well? Inform him that there are a lot of different You Bings? There is not just sweet You Bing, Spring Onion You Bing. There is also red bean You Bing, stuffed You Bing etc.

    Oh¡­ talking about that, stuffed You Bing is perfect. Su Nuan Nuan had not eaten this for some time and was craving for it. Now she had the flour, salted vegetables and pork. Once the bean sprouts are ready, perhaps she could make them¡­¡­

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions.Notes

    [1] Kirin, mythology creature from China. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qilin

    [2] Dragon Boat Festival, held on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Boat_Festival

    [3] The battle over the sweet and savoury vours is a battle as old as time and had existed since time immemorial. What''s more, the debate raged on to this day, with no clear winner.

    Just google [sweet vs savoury] and you will understand. Which type are you?

    Oh, I almost forgot, this is how big a weasel mouth is. That is the size of the jaw that the woman in the kitchen had.And now, my favourite part ¨C the food p.o.r.n Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 13

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 13 Greed

    Chapter 13: Greed

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food trantions.

    Here you go.

    By now, Duan Tingxuan himself had realised that going over the matter again will bring no benefit to himself or his proud, dignified image as a prince. After all, it''s just food, And eating. And eating food. Thinking too deeply about this topic would just waste his energy. Only, he knew that from the look of his wife''s eye that meal-time will be a battleground with her, he must fight hard for the right to eat delicious food.

    At this moment, Su Nuan Nuan was entertaining some really evil options, she really did not want to let that rascal eat the breakfast she hadboured over so much. However, the rascal was too clever and had realised the trick of bargaining for food with raw ingredients. For the sake of fresh ingredients, she may have to tolerate the anger in her belly a bit longer. It felt like she had swallowed a knife when she pressed that anger down, but for the sake of delicious food, she could swallow ten more such knives.

    Duan Tingxuan''s expected epic confrontation never came. All the way up to the time when he sat down, when he picked up a stick of You Tiao and took the first bite, felt the soft, fragrant, chewy sensation flood his mouth, when he swallowed, Duan Tingxuan kept his guard up. He could still remember that unexpected flying kick from that time he ate herrge dumplings.

    One fried bread stick down, Duan Tingxuan flexed his muscles and tensed up his limbs. Giving Su Nuan Nuan a neutral look, he said serenely, "If you''re waiting until my guard is down before attacking me, I suggest you drop that kind of thinking immediately."

    Su Nuan Nuan was a little surprised, it took her a while to realize what he was talking about. When she finally got it, she sneered. "You''re overthinking things. Surely you don''t expect me to get into a fight with you over soy milk and fried bread? If you die, I''ll be buried alive next to you, it''s just not worth it."

    Although this did not go in line with his imagined breakfast scene, Duan Tingxuan was not angry, he was actually feeling very lucky. Immediately however, he felt upset about hisck of negative feelings. When did this prince be like this? Isn''t this just a simple meal? What''s so great about food? Fine, fine, for themon people food is liken unto the heavens, food is actually very sacred and precious, he is part of the people, and therefore there''s nothing embarra.s.sing about wanting food.

    This prince unknowingly learnt, in a very short time, the ways of Ah Q** as heforted himself with this logic to exin his obsession, otherwise he would have been even more bitter about it. In short, he felt very fortunate as he ate at this bountiful table of delicious food. His good mood seemed endless as he swallowed two You Ping at once, and found himself falling in love with the taste.

    Perhaps, his pce kitchen could also produce these snacks, then he would not have toe here and endure her cold face.

    As he strolled out of Mei Yue Lou, Duan Tingxuan was busily making ns in his heart for his next attack. He could not resist a final look at the ce, but did not see Su Nuan Nuan or her two maids. He felt pained at being neglected by these people and vow to never step inside Mei Yue Lou again. Let those three horrible women starve!

    However, that bud of thought withered very quickly when he thought about that Chinese toon with salted meat dish mentioned by that hateful woman.

    Actually, regarding Su Nuan Nuan''sck of temper before the prince, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were both very surprised too. Naturally, they know that this was probably due to the offering of beans brought by the prince. However could mere beans really sooth Big Madam''s terrible hatred against their master, a hate that was like the curse of ten thousand knives, to simply vanish? This matter really made them nervous about what''s going to happen next.

    In the face of these two maids of hers, Su Nuan Nuan sadly lowered her head, wiped her eyes and said in a very depressed tone, "People who live in in the edges of life, though our hearts are as lofty as the heavens, our lives are thin as papers, aih! Even if we do not wish to, we must ept our fate."

    "Big Madam¡­"

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were shocked by Big Madam''s behaviour, but soon they saw her lift her head up, smacked the table and announced. "Since this rascal is determined to eat here and I don''t have an excuse to drive him away. Also, our martial strengths are almost at par, so a physical fight would not benefit us. Therefore, for the sake of long-term benefit, I must suffer in silence. For now."

    Hong Lian and Xian Yun''s heads are full of ck lines. An Dao''s Big Madam, ah, you should stop gilding your face with gold, what ''our martial strengths are almost at par''? With the master''s true strength, just one little finger is enough to destroy you.

    Of course, these were words they could never say for fear of provoking Big Madam, otherwise, she might just be enthusiastic and challenge the master into a fight to prove their strength¡­the two maids tried to imagine the scene with their minds, and found the imagined battle so exquisite that they were afraid to look too directly at it.

    Su Nuan Nuan was not bothered by the two maid''s epic internal battle with their imagination, instead she had taken up a brush and was busy putting things in order, all the while muttering under her breath. "Hm, that rascal will definitelye again, will just have to make a list for him, let''s see, what else do we need for the kitchen? Pork is all gone, must get him to bring us a whole leg or something, and at least ten jin (half kg) of streaky pork, with the skin on. Hm, asking for a rack of ribs won''t be too excessive, right? How aboutrge bones for soups? The best soups are made fromrge bones¡­"

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun both felt like they had been struck by lightning. They stood behind their mistress, stunned. Though they were both loyal to their mistress, seeing that piece of paper being filled up with neat tiny words, they felt that the level of greed in their mistress was just asking for the heavens to punish her. Mistress, are you asking the master to empty out the pce kitchen?

    As they were pondering this, Su Nuan Nuan suddenly lifted her head to look at them and said. "Oh, yes, I almost forgot. Those beans and rice your master brought in, it looks like they''re from a hamlet or something, so should be fromst year''s crops. The rain had been quite relentless the past few weeks, who knows whether the damp has gotten into the goods. Since the sun has been shining these past two days, let''s spread it out to dry, hmm, put in in front of the courtyard entrance. That''s where the best sunlight is."

    The courtyard entrance has the best sunlight?

    The two maids could only exchange helpless looks, Big Madam sure was full of obscure knowledge. At least, neither of them had noticed anything special about the sunlight near the entrance. However, Big Madam has spoken, as maids, it is their job to obey. Thus, the two of them wordlessly left to carry out the order.

    While Su Nuan Nuan was busy doing her best to squeeze out even more ingredients from Duan Tingxuan to put onto her increasingly crowded paper, thereby exposing her gluttonous nature that could only bepared to a snake spirit trying to swallow the world, a perfectly happy Duan Tingxuan with a stomach stuffed full of You Tiao, You Ping, and soy milk, was feeling very smug as he returned to his study. Because there''s no official business at the imperial pce today, he paid a casual visit to Madam Yang''s courtyard, greeted his mother properly and began to chat with her.

    Madam Yang smiled. "What made you get up so early today? Even your two wives haven''t greeted me yet."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled. "I wake up this early every day, even though the court is closed today I can''t bear to sleep in, so I thought I''d take this chance to chat with you."

    Madam Yang smiled. "I have your wives to keep mepany, so you don''t have to drag yourself here. If you wish to show filial piety, do so before your father. My child, you are very gifted, otherwise, the emperor would not shown his favour on you. However, you are too stubborn. You have a younger brother who''s good at schemes and acts the filial son well before your father. Sooner orter your father''s heart will feel that you are too proud and looked down on others. Even though you are the heir, your father favours your brother and may look for ways to make him the heir instead. Don''t think that this is an impossible matter."Notes

    ** Ah Q is a character from a book called The True Story of Ah Q, published in 1921

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_True_Story_of_Ah_QFood p.o.r.nDisimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 14

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 14

    Chapter 14: To Goad

    Thank you for reading this chapter from Prosperous food trantions.

    This chapter is brought to you by Gumihou.

    Every single time Duan Tingxuan visited his mother it was to rehash this very same conversation time and again, until he could hardly stand it anymore. However, he knew that his mother was worried about his future, and so he swallowed his annoyance and said. "Mother, I have my own ns for this. Father may favour Lin Yi Niang and younger brother, but he''s not not senile. Furthermore, I have the emperor and the empress on my side. This heir of yours will not be so easily discarded. So please don''t worry about it, all right?"

    Madam Yang sighed, and shook her head sadly. "Silly child, how would you know the true hearts of these people¡­" She stopped at this, unable to continue. After all, it is still indecent to exin about pillow talk to her son.

    Mother and son fell silent for a while, when Madam Yang''s personal maid who had apanied her from her maiden''s house appeared, and said. "Madam, today the Old Madam will be going vegetarian, so it is not necessary for Madam to go there and serve. The kitchen wishes to know if there is anything else Madam would like to eat, if there''s any special request they will be able to prepare it in the afternoon."

    Madam Yang said coolly, "Since Old Madam is going vegetarian, I shall do so as well. It is not necessary for the kitchen to waste their energy. Just bring the food in when it''s ready." So saying, she turned to Duan Tingxuan. "Since you''re up so early, I expect you haven''t had breakfast yet. Why don''t you have a meal here before you leave?"

    Duan Tingxuan smiled, "Your son has eaten his fill today, I''m stuffed with soy milk and You Tiao, mother need not worry about me."

    Madam Yang was surprised and confused, "Soy milk and You Tiao? You eat these things so early in the morning? Isn''t it just too oily? Which ingratiating person gave you these rubbish for breakfast?"

    Madam Yang thought that it was one of the concubines who, in order to gain favour with her son, did this ''good thing''. Thepet.i.tion for Duan Tingxuan''s affection was fierce, coupled with his own shrewd nature, it was not an easy thing to gain his favour. So, these women will resort to all kinds of tactics, whether overt or underhanded. Using food as a way to lure a man was amon tactic, Xu Ran Yun also favoured this tactic, seeing as her court always has duck soup avable all the time. This was because Duan Tingxuan loved eating duck. In fact, many ducks had been sacrificed at An Ping Pce, it would not be an exaggeration to say that this ce is a duck''s idea of h.e.l.l.

    "It has nothing to do with them. I''ve just been to Mei Yue Lou to eat." Duan Tingxuan absently informed her. He truly did came her to just greet his mother, however, the changes in his wife made something change in his heart as well. Because of this, he did not wish to see Su Nuan Nuan treated with the same casual contempt and hatred. Otherwise, it would cause trouble when he try to move her back to the Inner Court.

    As expected, Madam Yang was shocked, her face changed colour, she sternly said. "Mei Yue Lou? Didn''t you throw that woman away? I thought you hated that woman, why are you eating there now? My son, you''ve always been steady in your thinking, how could you do such an improper thing now? You cannot approach that woman rashly. These days, I thank Buddha that she had not caused any troubletely, but you have gone to her of your own will. Isn''t this giving in a mile once she had taken an inch?"

    Duan Tingxuan was about to exined when a servant appeared at the door to say. "Madam, Si Ping is at the second door with news, it seems there is a messenger from the crown prince asking for the master to see Him."

    At these words, Madam Yang stopped her line of questioning. She hurriedly asked Duan Tingxuan to leave for the Imperial Pce immediately. As for Duan Tingxuan, despite having a stomach full of words, there was no chance for him to speak them out, and he allowed himself to be shooed away.

    It went without saying that the prince left in a ck mood as he hastened his way towards the Crown Prince''s pce. He quietly swore that if the prince had called him in for a trivial matter such as fishing or catching birds, he will stew the crown prince into a soup and feed the remains to the birds and fishes. As for Madam Yang, after sending off her son, she made for the dining hall with a heavy heart facing a table full of food without much appet.i.te. A few mouthfuls of porridgeter, she bade the servants bring both Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan here.

    Both of them arrived very quickly, arriving together at the entrance joking with each other and making insinuating remarks at each other. Madam Yang heard them from her room and felt a little annoyed, and a little helpless. It could be said that the Inner Court of mostrge houses are quite simr, as long as the intentions stopped at the lips, it could be considered good enough. The worst type of situation was when jealousy andpet.i.tion escted to backstabbing with actual knives, resorting to evil tricks filling the Inner Court with murder and unexined idents. It made her feel sick. If only that Su family girl was not here to cause chaos, her son''s harem could be considered not bad, although there was jealousy aplenty to make the air sour, there were no evil tricks, this was enough to make Madam Yang satisfied.

    Both women entered and made their greetings. Madam Yang saw that even in her everyday clothes, Xue Zi Lan''s unparalleled .s.sical beauty and gentle movements made quite an impact, and felt happy and refreshed before such a sight. Xu Ran Yun noticed this expression, and could not help but feel unsettled knowing that in her mother-inw''s eyes shecked beauty. Swallowing her unease, she rushed to support Madam Yang to her seat, and said with a face full of smiles. "Since Madam has called us, is there anything you wish us to do? If it''s something trivial, please just inform this daughter-inw. Ever since little sister Lan has entered the Inner Court, she has given birth to three children, it''s best to let her rest quietly."

    Madam Yang smiled. "You have guessed correctly, I''m very happy with your concern." So saying, she allowed them to sit, before furrowing her brows. "You have served Xuan-er well these few years, and I have nothing much toin. These past few days, however, haven''t you been a little inattentive?"

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan exchanged a nce, not understanding Madam Yang''s words, and said together. "Daughter-inw wouldn''t dare, may we know the reason for Madam''s question?"

    "If neither of your are neglecting your duty, then why is it that none of you realize that Xuan-er has been visiting Mei Yue Lou? This was unknown to me as well, but this morning he casually mentioned that he breakfasted at Mei Yue Lou. He even said this with a smiling face."

    At this, both were shocked. Xu Ran Yun nced towards Xue Zi Lan, and said with wrinkled brows. "Yesterday night, the lord rested at your ce, did you not know this matter?"

    Xue Zi Lan answered. "The lord left when it was still dark out without alerting anyone, when I woke up there was no trace of him. When I questioned the servants, they said that the master informed them not to wake me up, and left after washing his face. I thought that he may have urgent business to perform, who knows he left for Mei Yue Lou?"

    Xu Ran Yun was about to say more, when she heard Madam Yang said. "Enough, having this discussion in front of me is pointless. It''s better to spend your energy figuring out how to capture Xuan-er''s heart. You of all people should understand that woman''s character the best. Once she enters the Inner Court, there will be no peace for me and more trouble for you."

    Both agreed to this. Seeing Madam''s unhappy air, they did not dare to say anything more and took their leave.

    Once outside, Xue Zi Lan said to Xu Ran Yun. "It''s been said that Madam Yun''s is good with strategies, but how is it that up till now the people in Mei Yue Lou are still hopping about happily? I never expected you to have such a merciful heart, unless you have some other ns in line. Be careful you don''t drop the rock you have lifted onto your own feet."

    So saying, she left without waiting for Xu Ran Yun''s answer, she stalked off towards her own courtyard. Her maid, Ling Long said. "Madam, you''ve always been warm hearted, although Madam Yun is not in the right, but we have endured it all these while. Why have you suddenly decided to antagonize her? This Madam Yun has an uneasy temper, who knows how angry she''s going to be."

    Xue Zi Lan smiled coolly. "That was deliberately done. If she can''t treat people nicely, there''s nothing much I can do since our lord has so many people in his harem. If we continue to hide our abilities, I''m afraid we''ll only be stepped on. We should show our teeth every once in a while. Moreover, there''s something fishy about this matter, why did the lord still wishes to hang about that woman in Mei Yue Lou? Since I cannot question the lord directly, let others figure it out for us. Madam Yun is a proud woman, she probably won''t be able to swallow this insult. I have just provoked her, she is now the rock that will open a path for us. Let''s just wait and observe the development."

    Once Ling Long heard this, she became entirely convinced of her mistress'' greatness and was about to shower her with praises when her mistress suddenly smiled and said. "Qing Yi Niang is here, from her happy expression something good must have happened. Come, let us go and find out for ourselves." Saying this, she immediately left to meet with the woman.

    Meanwhile, Xu Ran Yun, having swallowed Xue Zi Lan''s words, felt angry and restless as she returned to her room. Her trusty maid Feng Xian poured tea and soothingly said. "Madam, Madam Lan is usually so gentle and amiable, not sure what happened today to make her say those unpleasant words. Madam must guard against such behaviour in case she starts to rebel."

    Xu Ran Yun drank the tea, and felt its cooling effects on the fire inside her belly. She mmed the cup heavily onto the table and said with a cold sneer. "Even you saw it. Hmph! Think I did not know she''s trying to provoke me into doing her dirty work? Heh! Always gentle and warm in front of others, hiding a calctive and vicious heart, there aren''t many that could fight against her. Even I have suffered a loss under her hands, had I did not prepared myself to guard against her, my body would have been buried in an unmarked grave somewhere without my own knowing."

    Since her mistress insight, Feng Xian rxed a little and said with a smile. "Madam Lan actually yed a good hand, fortunately, mistress is sharp-eyed and clear-headed and would not fall into her trap. Let her walk this road on her own. Didn''t the master stayed over her cest night? She did not see the master leave, and had the cheek to be angry at mistress, she''s really shameless."

    Xu Ran Yun''s facial expression changed a few times, finally, she sighed and shook her head. "Whatever, don''t mention it any more. Even if she had not provoked me earlier, I would have gone to Mei Yue Lou all the same to have a look.

    Thank you for reading this chapter at prosperous food dot.Disimer

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 Chapter 15

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 15

    Chapter 15: Madam Yun is here

    Thank you for reading this chapter from prosperous food.

    Feng Xian was shocked. She could not understand why Xu Ran Yun knows that this is a trap and yet she still walks into it. She was about say something, when she saw her Missy held out a hand to stop her.

    Xu Ran Yun exined, "Right now, I am in charge of the household expenses. If there is a situation in Mei Yue Lou, the one who is the most pressurised is me, and not Xue Zhi Lan. If I were to engage in a game of endurance with her and give Mei Yue Lou the chance to gain the prince''s favour, then my loss will be bigger. Since this is the case, why should I hesitate? Xue Zhn may have nned everything out, but she had overlooked one thing."

    "Today, the prince''s mother had called us there and informed us this is to warn us. I heeded the warning and went to check it out, but she did not do anything. In the eyes of the prince''s mother, what does this mean? *Sneer*! If there is something to gain, there would surely be a loss. She just cared about serving the prince but ignore the prince''s mother? In future, the prince mother and her will drift apart."

    Feng Xian nodded her head and agreed, "This is indeed true. But the prince''s mother had always favoured Madam Lan. She will not change her mind just because of this matter. And the Lord himself is a cold-hearted man. If Missy thwarted his ns and offended him, then we will be at a disadvantage.

    Xu Ran Yun stood up and walked a few steps as she muttered, "The prince mother will not change her mind because one issue, but if continues on? Everyone bears grudges. She will count in her heart."

    "As for Xue Zhn, she is proud and haughty. She is also eyeing the role of the main wife. I do not believe that she would not reveal her fox tail for the rest of her life. She can''t fool the prince and his mother forever."

    "As for me, why would I offend the Lord? I am just paying them a visit, and is not out for war? These few months, I have forgotten to give Man Yue Lou their supplies. Since I had heard the prince mother mentioned them, I should pay them a courtesy visit, isn''t that right? If the Lordes back, I will tell him this, and he could not say another word."

    Feng Xian held out her thumb as she smiled, "Your servant is awed by your magnanimousness. Since this is the case, there should not be any problems. When will you pay Mei Yue Lou a visit?"

    "We should not dy. Get some silver, some cloth and get some rice and flour from the kitchen. Then we set off for Mei Yue Lou."

    Feng Xian thought that this is the best chance to curry favour with Madam Yun and puffed out her chest, "Missy, why not allow your servant to go there first to scout out the situation? The Big Madam had already been ced under house arrest in Mei Yue Lou, but she had the means to get the lord to visit her of his own ord. She is not to be sneered at¡­."

    Before she could finish, Xu Ran Yun broke out inughter, "What kinds of skills does that she had that I need to fear? If she had these kinds of skills, would she be confined to the Mei Yue Lou? This time, she had used some trickery to trick the prince to visit her. I do not believe that she could be a fox spirit and made the lord besmitten with her. *Sneer* There is no need to scout out the situation before going to Mei Yue Lou. I could not bear the embarra.s.sment this would cause if the servants know it."

    Seeing that her Missy had made up her mind, Feng Xian immediately made haste to prepare the items that Xu Ran Yun had instructed her to prepare, and get a few elderly maids to help to carry these. She, together with Zhu Yu, and 7-8 servants, set off with Xu Ran Yun towards Mei Yue Lou.

    At Mei Yue Lou, Su Nuan Nuan had just finished writing the long list of ingredients she wants from Duan Tingxuan. Looking at the pieces of paper that were filled with words, she smiled with glee.

    "Missy, the word you smile is like an evil fox." Xiang Yun looked at the way Su Nuan Nuan smiled, and often candidly speak her mind. She is simple and does not know how to honey her words.

    Su Nuan Nuan pouted and decided not to hold the issue against this dumb girl. Luckily she had a smarter maid by her side. Hong Lian looked at the pieces of paper and blinked at Su Nuan Nuan as she asked, "Missy, what are all these?"

    "Silly girl, didn''t we mentioned it earlier? This is the list. The list of what food ingredients we need for next month. The Lord is persistent like a c.o.c.kroach, no matter how hard you beat him, you can''t kill it. No matter how hard you chased it away, it keepsing back. Since we cannot drive him away, then we should make use of him to get more ingredients. Whatever he stole from us, I will make him vomit blood and pay us back two folds." Su Nuan Nuan looked at the blood debt that she had written and looked very pleased.

    "Missy, are you sure that this list is only enough for 1 month? It is not the list for the next 1 or 2 years?" Hong Lian asked dumbly. She was sure that Missy had made a mistake. So much food? Even if all the employees in the mansion were added together, they could not possibly finish so much food!

    "Oh! It is a bit much." Su Nuan Nuan felt a bit embarra.s.sed, but only a wee bit. She did not stay embarra.s.sed for long and kept the list, and even giggled, "So what if it is a bit much? We are well prepared and well stocked."

    "Missy, your servant feels that this list will not just make the Lord ''vomit blood''. This list will bite off a big piece of his flesh."

    Su Nuan Nuan merely giggled, "This list would bite off a piece of his flesh? Hong Lian arh, you must have underestimated this scoundrel? He is strong and can stand it. I tell you, this is only the beginning! Humph! Since he dared to try to get in my good grades, I will ept it. Duan Tingxuan, just you wait. You will surely regret it!"

    Seeing how greedy Su Nuan Nuan is, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun suddenly pitied the lord.

    Xiang Yun is curious and looked at thest piece of paper and asked, "Missy, since you have written so many things, why didn''t you fill this piece of paper as well? Why is this page so empty? This is such a huge waste."

    Hong Lian looked at Xian Yun and rolled her eyes. Xiang Yun is indeed as dumb as a piece of wood! Missy had already written a few hundred limits. All the ingredients had already been written. How could she possibly write more?

    She wanted to exin to Xiang Yun, but Su Nuan Nuan roared withughter and exined first, "Hahaha, these white s.p.a.ce are nk because I had only thought of these things at the moment. When I thought of more, I will write them down and fill up the pages."

    "Gu Dong!" This is the sound of Hong Lian copsing on the table in shock. She was thinking, "Missy, you are so thick-skin. How could you want even more? Are these still not enough?"

    While she was thinking this, Hong Lian felt that any grievance she had against Duan Tingxuan had disappeared like a whiff of smoke. Instead, she begins to worry about the lord. Will the lord be angered to death and have a heart attack after seeing the long lists of food?

    Su Nuan Nuan looked at Hong Lian and saw the looks of despair in her eyes. She shook her head. This.s.s is not vicious enough and must be trained.

    But before she could say anything, she saw Hong Lian stand up straight and murmured, ¡°Missy, your servant will go out to look at the beans. The sun is very hot today. I will check and make sure that the beans will not be scorched.¡±

    "If you want to go out, just go. Why did youe up with such a stupid excuse?" Su Nuan Nuan looked at Hong Lian with contempt. Hong Lian is really blurred.

    "Sunning the beans could scorch them? Did you think that the sun is your house stove? This is not even 3 days yet!"

    Hong Lian was embarra.s.sed by the ws in her speech and ran out. Xiang Yun followed her.

    Su Nuan Nuan took out the paper and appreciated her ''masterpiece''. She was about to keep it when she heard the sound of frantic footsteps running towards her. She raised her head and Xiang Yun immediately rushed in and leapt into her arms, while crying, "Missy is not looking good! Madam Yun is here with some people!"

    Thank you for reading from prosperous food.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 1 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 16

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 16

    Chapter 16: Look Bad

    Wee back to prosperous food trantions.

    Here you go. Enjoy theugh.

    "Stop saying inauspicious things! I am looking good!" Su Nuan Nuan tapped Xiang Yun on the shoulder and carefully kept the letter. Then she walked out of the door.

    As expected from the top of the sun deck, she could see a group of women making their way here. Su Nuan Nuan nced at the beans that she had scattered on the floor near the doorway to sun them, and shook her head as she muttered, "What a pity! These beans are prepared for Duan Tingxuan. But right now, someone else will fall into the trap that I had set for him, and allow that rascal to escape."

    Xiang Yun and Hong Lian were standing behind Su Nuan Nuan. They were pale and frightened because of Madam Yun. But when they heard these words, their face turned white as a ghost.

    Hong Lian stared at Su Nuan Nuan in disbelief. Her mouth quivered and moved, but no words came out. Her ''new'' missy is someone who dared to kick the prince himself. Of course, she dared to disrespect and y a prank on Madam Yun.

    The three of them just stood there and watch them from the sun deck. Xu Ran Yun wanted to pretend not to see them, but they were so obvious for all to see, and she could not do so.

    She frowned and was angry and upset, but one of the grannies did not know anything and more fuel to the fire, "That Big Madam had no manners. How could she just stand there? As an unwanted wife, does she expect Madam Yun to greet her?"

    Xu Ran Yun red at this granny in fury. On whose side is this granny is standing on? These words are just a stab in the back for her. Everyone knows that Su Meng Nuan is an unwanted wife. However, the prince had not divorced her yet, and she is still the Big Madam.

    The granny understood that she had said something inappropriate and immediately shut up. At this time, Feng Xian noticed that the great door is opened, and immediately asked, "Missy, the door is open, but we should mind our matter. Let me go and inform them that we are here and seek an audience with them."

    Xu Ran Yun was very angry, and her maid words only infuriated her further. If she seeks an audience with an unwanted wife, then wouldn''t she be admitting that her status is lower than Su Nuan Nuan?

    She sneered, "How long had Mei Yue Lou been abandon for? The door is spoilt. Do we need to seek an audience? Since she dared to leave the door open, it means that anyone can go in or out. We just directly enter." Saying this, she immediately took the led and puff our her chest as she stomped through the door.

    Su Nuan Nuan used her hands to cover her eyes and said, "I reckon that there will soon be a spectacle that will soon happen in front of us. But that scene is so pretty that I dare not look."

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun looked at her and rolled their eyes. "Dare not see? Howe your fingers are so wide apart that it does not cover your eyes? You are looking on with impunity. Only their Missy could do this. She is a weirdo."

    In the next moment, a piercing shriek rang out, and Hong Lian and Xiang Yun watched on in amazement. Madam Yun wobbled and pped around as she tried hard to maintain her bnce. Her clothes of all colours waved about wildly, like a rainbow in the cloud. But her efforts were in vain as she slipped and fell. But this is not the end.

    For Xu Ran Yun is a strong willed woman, and is unwilling to remain sprawled on the floor. So she struggled to get up and the cycle repeated itself.

    Looking at the pretty but vicious woman who repeatedly tried to stand up only to slip down hard again, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun opened their mouth and widen their eyes in amazement. They were so absorbed in watching the show that they had forgotten to rush over and help her up.

    "This scene¡­. is really beautiful. It is so lovely that I dare not watch." Xiang Yun muttered.

    On the door steps, it is not only Xu Ran Yun who was sprawled on the ground in an ungainly way. The maids and grannies also tried to help Xu Ran Yun up, only to meet the same fate as their missy.

    The round peas are round, hard and very slippery, and when stepped on and pulverised, they release their oil that made the floor even more slippery.

    The servants had a hard time dragging Xu Ran Yun out of the door. That this time, the beans are not as well organised as before, and everything is in a mess.

    Xu Ran Yun was so furious that she was practically fuming. She did not expect that she would be ''trapped'' and fall and lost her face. At this moment, she was shaking with anger and could not say a word.

    Suddenly she heard a voice said, "A tragedy! What a tragedy! Pui Pui! How should I say this? All was well but a moment ago, but suddenly all was eradicated to thest man! This is really a tragedy!"

    Xu Ran Yun looked up, she knows the owner of this voice. She looked at that woman like a venomous snake as immediately cried out, "You also know that this is a tragedy? Who caused this¡­.."

    But before she could finished, Su Nuan Nuan squatted down and touched the beans that were squashed into bits, and wailed, "My beans! They were sunning at my doorway! Who would be so evil as to kill them? This is my ratios for half a year. It is gone! Gone just like this¡­.."

    Xu Ran Yun was so angry that she found it difficult to breathe.

    The grannies with her also looked at Su Nuan Nuan who was wailing her heart out with stunned expressions. They had never seen such a shameless woman before. There are less than 5 jins of beans on the floor. How could say this is your half-yearly rations? Are you telling us that you eat only 1 bean at each meal. Howe you have not starved to death yet?

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had followed Su Nuan Nuan for some time, but they had not been with her for very long. Hence, their skins are not as thick as the 3-inch thick steel wall like that of Su Nuan Nuans. They bowed their head and dared not looked at Su Nuan Nuan.

    Only when Xu Ran Yun breathing was as loud as thunder did Hong Lian coughed and wake Su Nuan Nuan up from her inconsble wailing.

    Su Nuan Nuan is as cunning as a fox, and as soon as she heard the cough, she immediately stopped crying and stood up. She patted her hands to get rid of any dust and looked at Xu Ran Yun and demanded, "Why are you here?"

    "I recalled that elder sister had been living in Mei Yue Lou for half a year. I did not know how you are doing ande here to pay you a visit. But elder sister is indeed elder sister and living in this slum did not kill you. As your junior sister, I have nothing but the biggest respect for you."

    Xu Ran Yun is a cunning woman. She knew that she had already lost the battle once. If she were to create trouble, she will lose more face. In the pce, the one who remained calms and unfaded is often viewed as the victor, while the one who lost their cool is known as a troublemaker.

    Therefore, she suppressed her anger and said something more ''polite''. Based on what she knows about Su Meng Nuan character, Su Meng Nuan will be sure to jump out at her in anger. Then she could watch a show and have her revenge."

    Madam Yun had calcted well. But try as she might, she could not guess that Su Nuan Nuan is a totally different person.

    Other than when her food is stolen, Su Nuan Nuan seldom cares about the other stuff. Therefore, her words that are specially designed to provoke Su Nuan Nuan did not have the effect Madam Yun wanted.

    "Since you have seen me, regardless if you admire, respect, like or hate me, your objective had been achieved. Isn''t it time for you to leave?"

    Xu Ran Yun widened her eyes and looked at Su Nuan Nuan in surprise. What is going on? Why didn''t she stomped her feet in anger and try to create a scene? What had happened?

    Madam Yun is not willing to give up, at least not without making Su Nuan Nuan lose face first. She smiled, "Elder sister had set a trap for me and make me look bad. After you have harmed me, you are happy now? You wanted to chase me out so that you can clean up the evidence? Do you think that I will let you have your way?"

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed, and shook her head. Then she looked at Xu Ran Yun with eyes filled with pity and replied, "I could understand your desire to be the center of attention. But I must say that you have overrated yourself. Did you think that in order to trap you, I am willing to sacrifice 2 jins of beans?"

    "Frankly speaking, I am not so generous. To tell you the truth, we set this trap for the idiotic prince. Who knows that you havee here instead, and spoilt my n. Not only did I fail to trap him, you also wasted 2 jins of beans. My beans! Just thinking about these beans, my heart aches. All these are good quality beans!"

    The more Su Nuan Nuan exined, the more heartbroken she sounds, finally, she looked as if she had suffered a great loss. Then she directed Xian Yun," Since these beans have been stomped by someone, we don''t want them anymore. Remind to sweep them up and take it to backyard to feed the chicken. Remember, you are only allowed to feed the hens and not the roosters. The hens eat them and cany some more eggs. The roosters are practically worthless."

    Her words are a p in Madam Yun''s face. It means that the beans that Madam Yun stepped on are only suitable for feeding chickens? Why did she not mention anything about how Madam Yun almost broke her head when she fell? Madam Yun had really fallen down hard, and it is no joke.

    Regardless if it the grannies, maid of Xu Ran Yun, they all thought in the same way. They were also shocked by Su Nuan Nuan''s words. What does she mean when she said that the beans are a trap designed for the idiotic prince?

    This woman set a trap here for the lord? Does she want to revolt? Who dares to set a trap for the prince in this mansion? Even princess Min, the woman that the Ping An Prince favours, who hate Duan Tingxuan and his mother to the bone, dared not to openly do so.

    Xu Ran Yun immediately screamed, "Su Meng Nuan, do you have the guts to say it again? Who do you want to trap?"

    "Trap Duan Tingxuan arh! Why would I need guts to say this? Even if he is standing in front of me, I dare to tell him in his face that these beans are designed to trap him." Su Nuan Nuan shrugged and replied.

    Then she ignored Xu Ran Yun, who looked as if she had eaten some s.h.i.t.

    She instructed Xiang Yun to clean up the mess, and want to head back. From the beginning to the end, she had never even nced at Xu Ran Yun, as if Xu Ran Yun is unworthy of her consideration.

    Thank you for reading this chapter from prosperous foodDisimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 8 Average: 4.9/5]

 Chapter 17

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 17

    Chapter 17: The Big a.s.sault

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    On wards to the story!

    Once again, Xu Ran Yun was shocked speechless by a bold statement.

    Hong Lian, who had been ignored by everyone, quietly said. "Madam, that¡­the beans have all been swept up, would¡­would we need to bring more out to dry in the sun?" These maids had just realized the true intention of ''sunning the beans'', as expected, no one sane would actually dry beans at their front door, it was actually a trap for Master.

    ording to their mistress'' new att.i.tude, she should not be dismayed by such set backs, right? Therefore, Hong Lian took the time to ask, even though deep in her heart, she disapproved of such move a thousand times over.

    "What?" To everyone''s surprise, this statement caused Su Nuan Nuan to give a high pitch shriek. She jabbed a finger at Hong Lian, ring in a most dissatisfied way, saying through gritted teeth.

    "What nonsense is this? We have already lost 2 jins of beans, you want me to do this again? What if Madam Lan, Concubine Jing, and Concubine Jiang all decided toe? How much beans do you want me to waste? Having followed me for so long, have none of you learn how to economise? What a useless maid. Just give up, give up, quickly put everything away. I''ll think of other ways to deal with him. People who waste food will be punished by the heavens. As expected, my two jins of beans are gone, wasted, wuwuwu¡­ being punished by the heavens is really painful."

    Hong Lian was so embarra.s.sed that she wanted to crawl into a hole and bury herself, she could not bring herself to look at the enemy troops behind her whose expressions probably looked like they had been struck by lightning several times. She grabbed a broom and began to help Xiang Yun sweep up the beans.

    Presently, little Xiang Yun lifted her head carefully and said in a timid manner. "Actually, Madam, if you wish to trap the master, there''s no need to use new beans, we can just spread out these ones and reuse them for the same purpose."

    At these words, Xu Ran Yun who had just stood around spiritlessly staggered, unable to bring herself to trust her eyes as she looked at the little maid. Was this the weak and cowardly maid in her memory? The one who actually became feverish whenever Xu Ran Yun red at her too strongly? Just what had happened at Mei Yue Lou? Why is it that none of these women starved to death, but had all turned into cunning beasts? Even her maids are now creatures with belly full of evil intentions.

    Su Nuan Nuan was also surprised, she then covered her face in embarra.s.sment. "Aiyah, I''m so stupid, thinking myself into a corner like that, shameful, so shameful." She patted Xiang Yun on the shoulder, and showed her thumb in acknowledgement of her maid''s cleverness. This grand way of admitting her mistakes and praising other people''s cleverness once again caused the tens of people outside the gate to suffer from a few more lightning strikes.

    As a dignified official wife, a servant point out one''s fault is considered a serious crime, had this woman eaten some bad medicine or something? Not only was the bold servant not sentenced to death in order to maintain the illusion that the master is always right, she even inly called herself stupid, and praised the the little maid''s cleverness to high heavens. Just¡­just what on earth is happening?

    Su Nuan Nuan had not expected her little y to shock thedies of the Inner Court up to this degree. She did not even bother to look at Xu Ran Yun whose mood was as ck as the bottom of a pot, as she leisurely made her way back into the house with her hands sped behind her back, leaving Hong Lian and Xiang Yun to pick up after her. After exchanging a nce, the maids, before the very eyes of Xu Ran Yu and the rest, quickly spread out the stepped on beans in front of the court, putting the bean trap into ce.

    They did it, the maids actually did it, they really did remake the bean trap.

    Xu Ran Yun felt that her body was on the verge of copsing. Su Meng Nuan was bold, bossy, vicious and wasteful, but this type of att.i.tude was only shown to her love rivals and servants. In front of Duan Tingxuan, she was no different from every single womenfolk who had ever tried to win over her husband''s affections. Just what had happened to cause her boldness to grow to such a degree?

    Since she had be like this, what could her entourage do? Everyone of them watch as the bean trap was being set up, all of them felt very confused and uncertain. Once the bean trap was properly set up, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun stood to the side and watched the Madam with the other Inner Pce servants. After waiting for a long time and not seeing any of them leaving, Xiang Yun could not resist asking. "Madam Yun, this¡­do you have any other business with us?"

    Xu Ran Yun was startled, realising that she had been too shocked by the events and had forgotten to even leave. This att.i.tude was clearly throwing people out of their homes, even Xu Ran Yun cheeks turned red at the implication. Luckily, her maid Feng Xian was a smart one, after a brief consideration, she sneered. "You two standing there waiting, is there something you wish to report to our Madam? If you have anything to say, quickly do so."

    With these words, Xu Ran Yun''s foolish gaping around was suddenly turned into a superior supervising a bad subordinate and waiting impatiently for her report. The other servants around Feng Xian also admired her quick thinking in saving their faces. Even Xu Ran Yun gave her a look of approval, which made her heart proud.

    As soon as this prideful feeling rose, Xiang Yun interrupted in a confused tone. "We? What have we to say to Madam Yun for? Much less to report. We are just standing here waiting for you to scram¡­ah!" Xiang Yun cried out, covering her own mouth, imitating her own mistress'' actions.

    Then, remembering her Madam''s teaching of ''An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth'' lesson, she lowered her hands and smiled cheerfully at the women in front of her. "Apologies, this one has identally let out her real thinking. Madam Yun, if you and your entourage do not wish to scram, what are you waiting for?"

    She had hardly finished speaking when Hong Lian sent her a fierce re, drying up the words in her mouth. However, inside she was secretly gleeful: Our madam was almost killed by these group of women, if we don''t take this opportunity to say a few words back, it would be a terrible waste.

    Xiang Yun was still quite childish, this Hong Lian knew very well. The bad att.i.tude that An Ping pce''s rules andws had squashed down suddenly sprang up, if Madam Yun decided to take action against this little maid, perhaps even Big Madam could not protect her. This stupidly bold maid, did she really did not know the saying ''A loose tongue spells trouble''?

    "Y-you dare, a little maid like you, you dare treat me this way?" Xu Ran Yun had enough, she pointed at Xiang Yun and called to the servants beside her. "Grab that rude and shameless s.l.u.t, give her thirty beatings and throw her out of the pce. Clearly this wild andwless creature does not belong in this Inner Court!"

    "Yes."

    A few of the servants answered quickly and fiercely, clearly remembering the earlier insult. They pushed up their sleeves and was ready to step in.

    Xiang Yun was suddenly afraid. "You¡­you can''te in, this is Mei Yue Lou. Our mistress still hadn''t said anything, and y-you daree in? Also, you''ll fall t on your face due to the beans."

    The servants ignored her, the beans were slippery, but as long as one was careful where one stepped, walking would be fine. The servants kicked the beans aside, rendering this ''bean trap'' useless. With a smile at Xiang Yun, one of the servants deliberately curry favour in front of Xu Ran Yun by saying with a cold sneer. "Little miss, surely you don''t think that by hiding inside Mei Yue Lou that nothing could harm you? You think you''re some big house''s precious daughter that Madam Yun couldn''t touch?"Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 1 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 18

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 18

    Chapter 18: The Worst Result

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    On wards to the story!

    As the servant spoke, she reached out an arm to grab Xiang Yun, when another person suddenly appeared in front of her. It was Big Madam who stood expressionlessly in front of her. Her(SNN) movements were unusually fast, it was as though she had just appeared out of thin air. Whatever, so what if she appeared? This servant was not afraid of the Big Madam. That was not counting the two kitchen cleavers she had in each hand, naturally an armed enemy should be regarded as a different matter.

    Su Nuan Nuan held both cleavers as she stared expressionlessly at the fastest servant. ording to thews of wuxia novels, when it came to battles, one''s posture and bearing were the most important thing that would decide the oue of a fight.

    That expressionless face actually creeped out the servant, making her feel like she''s confronting a female ghost in daylight. She trembled with fear as she withdrew her arm and screamed. "B-big Madam, you¡­what are you trying to do?"

    Su Nuan Nuan hefted her knives, gave the servant a cold smile showing all her teeth, and said vaguely. "You have fast hands, and faster reflexes. You''re lucky, otherwise your hands would have been cut off by me. I do not eat human meat, but we have a pair of pigs in our backyard. I heard that pigs will eat anything, we''ve been feeding them nothing but chaff and wild herbs. If I reward them with a pair of hands, I do believe they will be really happy."

    "Aiya¡­"

    An expressionless face, coupled with a gruesome smile, and those really creepy words said in a barely there voice finally copsed the spirit of the three servants who had led the charge. Crying and screaming for mother, they ran back carelessly and were tripped up by the beans.

    Born and raised in arge house, it could be said that Xu Ran Yun was blessed with the unique skills and instincts to fight and survive in an Inner Court environment. However, when facing against ''actual strength'', all the skills and tricks in the world can''t win against true power. Take now for example, this shameless Big Madam who could even y the role of a vengeful ghost while threatening people was not one Xu Ran Yun could actually win against.

    Seeing the group of people flee with their tails between their legs and covered in the dust of defeat, Xiang Yun gave a loud cheer and grabbed Su Nuan Nuan by the arm saying. "Missy, you are too amazing. Hahaha, this servant has never seen Madam Yun in such a terrible state. She can''t even do anything against it, this is just too great!"

    The little maid was so happy that she forgot her ce, seeing Hong Lian ring at the hands that have grabbed hold of Su Nuan Nuan, she found that she had overstepped herself. She withdraw her arm, sticking out her tongue at Hong Lian, saying with a little grin. "I was just too happy, Big Sister Hong Lian. You should be happy too, and grab Missy''s other arm in celebration. Ever since we have been in Mei Yue Lou you have to suffer every time we beg something from Madam Yun, how much trouble has she given you? This counts as retribution for all our pains."

    Hong Lian gave another sigh, though she felt happy in her heart, the thought of Madam Yun''s potential revenge made her unable to be fully happy. She gave Xiang Yun a re and said through gritted teeth. "You are too simple minded, today we have offended Madam Yun to death, what do you think our life would be like in the future? Do you think that just because the master visited a few times, we can just run wild?"

    Xiang Yun''s little face turned white. Without waiting for them to say anything else, Su Nuan Nuan''s loud voice interrupted. "What? You consider this running wild? Hong Lian, from which angle did you see us running wild? These people came to our ce to pick a fight with us like a bunch of peac.o.c.ks and stepped into our bean traps. This is called suffering from your own stupid actions, and has nothing with us. At worst you may call this justice, how did it turned into running wild? Heh heh, you have never really seen your Big Madam when she decides to really run wild."

    At this point, even Hong Lian turned white. She anxiously grabbed hold of Su Nuan Nuan''s arm and said. "Our dear Missy, although what you said makes sense, but the Great Master and Great Mistress, perhaps even the Master won''t see it this way. This Madam Yun has great talent when ites to making mountains out of mole hills, once done, all she had to do is cry pitifully in front of the master and we''d suffer for it."

    "Say we suffer, what''s the worst thing that could happen?" Seeing Hong Lian so earnest, Su Nuan Nuan also felt that she had to take this thing seriously and wanted to know for real.

    "The worst thing?" Hong Lian felt a shudder went through her body, and quietly said. "The¡­the master could divorce you, and kick us out of the pce. We will be homeless, without shelter or protection from anyone."

    As she spoke, she thought about the three of them wondering the streets, starving, Hong Lian''s lips turned white. By her side, Xiang Yun was pressing her lips together, trying not to cry. Finally, she heard Su Nuan Nuan''s uncertain voice saying. "So¡­he''ll just divorce me and¡­drive me out?"

    "Missy, you don''t think this is bad?" Hong Lian''s tearful eyes gazed at her recklessly bold mistress and felt her heart crumbled.

    "So what? Why are the two of you so frightened?" Su Nuan Nuan breathed a sigh of relief, pped her hands and said with a smile. "If that Duan Tingxuan wants to divorce me, let hime. I''ve long tire of his shameless greedy faceing here to s.n.a.t.c.h our food."

    Having said this, she gave her dumbfounded maids a nce, and shook her head saying. "Looking at your expressions, I guess both of you think that it is impossible to survive without a man in this world? How despicable, I, your mistress, really felt that you two are very despicable."

    "Missy, if we''re really kicked out, how should we survive, ah?" Xiang Yun weakly asked. She''s fine being despicable, as long as there''s still hope to stay alive, she''s fine being despised by her mistress, in fact, she''ll be really happy.

    "Naturally, I, your mistress still have this body that is filled with cooking secrets. I still have many cards I have not shown yet. Once we''re kicked out, we''d simply find a random big restaurant, work a few days as chef and save enough money to open a small eatery. The two of you are good at sewing and embroidery. Listen to me, once we leave this pce, together we will not only survive, but we would eventually live afortable life together."

    Actually, it is impossible to live afortable life after leaving the pce for three physically weak women. They were like three duckweeds floating near the beach, an errant wave was enough to destroy their lives. Otherwise, Su Nuan Nuan would not have suffered the ''humiliation'' of letting Duan Tingxuan carry off her food while quietly living at the Mei Yue Lou. However, things weren''t as bad as how the maids were imagining, thinking that death would be a certainty once they left the doors of the pce. At worst, it''s just another obstacle she would have to ovee in order to survive in this world.

    As expected, after hearing her exnation, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were less anxious. Once back at the house, after catching sight of the neatly written up ingredients list, Su Nuan Nuan didn''t know whether tough or to cry. She narrowed her eyes at the paper and muttered to herself. "How annoying, if I had known earlier, I wouldn''t have put in so much effort into this list. Duan Tingxuan, what are you nning to do next?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was a genuine foodie. For the sake of good food there are many things that a foodie would bite their lip and suffer for. However, even a foodie has their bottom line. For Su Nuan Nuan, her bottom line was dignity. No matter how delicious the food, she would never kneel down and lick food off the floor.

    As for Xu Ran Yun''s fierce frontal attack against this nominal legal wife, bying over with her entourage to criticize Su Nuan Nuan, this actually touched upon her bottom line. This was the real reason why Su Nuan Nuan reacted the way she did, even with the threat of leaving the pce, she just could not swallow this insult.

    Mistress and servants, the three of them spent half the day talking about what they should do once they were kicked out, which restaurant they should try to go to, the amount of money needed to set up a small eatery, the type of customers they would meet as well as the type of food they would serve in this little eatery.

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun even started rummaging through the chests and cupboards, packing up Su Nuan Nuan''s few essories and clothing. Once they see the divorce papers, they could just leg it with their belongings as soon as possible so that these sn.o.bbish people would not have the chance to say that the Mei Yue Lou people dragged their feet when it came to leaving the pce.

    However, they waited until afternoon without a sight of the divorce papers. About this time, it was time to think about lunch, which still had to be made. Su Nuan Nuan pushed up her sleeves and entered the kitchen. She also took the opportunity to go through the entire kitchen for whatever sc.r.a.ps of ingredients left over. She would not even let a speck of rice go to waste in this ce.

    Evening came, the prince Duan Tingxuan came through the front entrance with two wild ducks in hand. The corner of his lips hooked up in a smile, it was unknown what beautiful thoughts were going through his head.

    "Master is back?" The doorkeeper immediately rushed up to greet him. Seeing the ducks, he immediately smiled, "This one did not hear that master is nning to go hunting, where did these came from?"

    "I was at the Crown Prince''s residence this afternoon. It just so happened that someone had sent a few cages of wild ducks, so I picked up two." Duan Tingxuan''s casual tone revealed the iron-forged friendship between him and the crown prince.

    As he spoke, he made his way towards the small road that lead to Mei Yue Lou. He was already sick of the pce''s duck soup. If he were to present these lively wild ducks to Su Nuan Nuan, who knows what kinds of delicacy she could create?

    "Master¡­"

    A voice from the entrance shook Duan Tingxuan from his beautiful daydreams, and he turned to nce at the gate. The gatekeeper rushed over with smiles firmly in ce. "Master, this road¡­it doesn''t look like it leads to the Inner Court."

    "Where this master goes, does he need to give a servant like you an exnation?" Duan Tingxuan snorted, scaring the gatekeeper until he fell over. The gatekeeper said in a timid voice, "Master is wise, how would this small one dare to question master''s movements. It''s just, Madam Yun had left instructions with this one to respectfully invite master to Madam Yun''s ce for a while, it seems Madam Yun has some very important news to impart."

    Just what is Ran Yun trying to do?

    Duan Tingxuan kept hisints in his heart, after thinking for a bit, he pa.s.sed the wild ducks over to Si Ping, saying in a low voice. "Send these to Mei Yue Lou, let Big Madam prepare, I will go over there for dinner. Oh, and tell her to prepare it however she likes, but no duck soup."

    Once Si Ping said yes, a pair of quacking ducks was soon carried away with a thump. By now, Duan Tingxuan had made it to the west side of Xu Ran Yun''s residence. As soon as he entered, he saw two of his four-year old sons at y, seeing him, both rushed over to greet him.

    Although as a husband, Duan Tingxuan was too romantic and tended to spread his love a little too much, as a father he was actually not bad. One can''t ignore his good points and focus too much on his bad points.

    Grabbing one son in each arm, he smiled at Duan Mao Chuan, "Is your mother here as well?" Duan Mao Chuan was the son of Concubine Jiang. Concubine Jiang was actually part of Xu Ran Yun''s dowry, therefore Su Nuan Nuan''s vicious bossiness from before was not without reason. No wife would be happy to see her husband marry again, certainly not two at once.

    The hurt she suffered must have been too much, especially when the concubine got pregnant after one night of activity while she was still childless after five years. Who would be able to remain at peace after this matter?

    Naturally not everyone would consider murder as a way to express her dissatisfaction. On top of that, it was against two lives, both mother and child. This was not right. However, justice was served even in the shadows, did not this vicious, poisonous woman died aftermitting suicide?

    Not only that, her body was taken over by a gluttonous foodie, this kind of miserable end was definitely fitting retribution.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 19

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 19

    Chapter 19: The Report

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    On wards to the story!

    Duan Mao Chuan nodded, as the shu born (illegitimate) son, he was quite simr to his cautious and timid mother. Even though he received his father''s love, he never thought of himself as a young master. In this manner, he was more simr to his third uncle than his own father.

    "Father, mother was bullied by someone today." Duan Mao Ming suddenly said. Compared to his brother who was younger than him by three months, this one has the characteristics of a world wrecking demon. His scoundrel-like att.i.tude was simr to his father''s. One could say that if this chick is not properly brought up, he could surpa.s.s his father (in terms of evilness) one day.

    "You mother was bullied?"

    Duan Tingxuan couldn''t helpughing. He lowered his two sons and absently knocked Duan Mao Min on the forehead: "What nonsense are you talking about? Who in this pce dares to bully your mother. Even your second aunt don''t have the guts to do such a thing."

    "It''s not second aunt, " Duan Mao Ming rubbed his forehead. He gave his father an indignant look, and said in aggrieved tones, "Mother went somewhere, when she came back her forehead was all green colour, and she was crying."

    "Are you sure?" Duan Tingxuan could see from his son''s earnest expression that these were words from the heart and felt a chill. The Inner Court has always been a nest of intrigue and people jockeying for power, but regardless, they had always yed within the rules.

    Who on earth had decided to unt the rules like this? Which nasty vixen had suddenly decided to use physical force like this? Detestable! This is the An Ping pce, which upstart suddenly decided to grow hairs on their chest and flip heaven and earth?

    As soon as that thought urred, an uncontroble anger rose against that upstart, he left his sons in the garden and entered the house. The maids quickly bobbed their greetings. Xu Ran Yun and Concubine Jiang who were seated together also stood quickly when they saw him. Xu Ran Yun''s eyes were slightly swollen, tears fell before a single word was said.

    She dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief, bravely sucked in a deep breathe before ordering the maid to prepare tea. Then, she invited Duan Tingxuan to sit on the left hand side of the Kang bed, she seated herself on the right side, Concubine Jiang, having read the situation, had already lowered herself onto a nearby stool.

    Duan Tingxuan was very satisfied with Xu Ran Yun''s ''dignified andposed'' act. Before this, she had a tendency to cry and tell tales, which was something only a spoiled, undignified insensible little concubine would do in order to gain favour. He looked carefully over this wife of his and saw the blueish forehead.

    Wrinkling his brows, he said. "When I got back I heard you want to speak with me, in the garden just now, Ming-er also said you''ve suffered a loss. I really can''t believe this, since rules and regtions are strictly enforced in this pce. Who knows you really did have a bruised forehead, just what exactly happened here?"

    Having said this, he gradually brought the teacup to his lips and took a sip. After all, he''s still the sessor, no matter what the situation, he still have to maintain an air of dignity and elegant atmosphere at all times.

    "My lord is asking me? Then, shouldn''t the lord think for a bit, aside from those in the Mei Yue Lou, who else in this pce dares to ignore the rules?" Xu Ran Yun gave a coldugh. Deep in her heart was a roiling mess of anger, I''ve said my part and will not give you a chance to back away, I want to see how you deal with that shrew now.

    "Puu!" the prince''s air of dignity and elegance disintegrated in an instance as tea exploded from his mouth. He raised his head, stunned eyes staring at Xu Ran Yun: "You''ve bee to Mei Yue Lou? Why would you suddenly go to that ce?"

    "My lord, even if you say this, that person had been cast away by you ito that ce. It''s probably fine for a few days, may be even a week or two, but it has been half a year. Though I have no idea what is in my lord''s heart, but I can''t just watch as she suffer all alone there, right? Therefore I decided on a whim to visit her. That''s not wrong, isn¡¯t it?"

    Just listening to these words on its own would make anyone feel touched by the level of generosity and kind heartedness. However, Duan Tingxuan naturally would not be fooled by this pretentious words. He lightly rotate the teacup in his hands, a well hidden sneer in his smile as he slowly said, "Didn''t you just said that those people don''t care for the rules? Where did this sudden concern for her healthe from?"

    Xu Ran Yun suddenly paused, she twisted her head away and sniffed coldly. "If she''s cruel, I have no choice but be unjust."

    "Stop, there''s no need to put on a show in front of me." Duan Tingxuan ced the teacup on the table, with a low heheugh. "You think I don''t know you hate her? Lay your cards on the table now, and tell me, just what is going on."

    Xu Ran Yun also knew that her husband was a shrewd one. It''s fine to y around with words a few times, but saying too much would turn her into a hypocrite, and her husband hated hypocrites the most.

    So she pouted and said, "You''re right, I do hate her, do you even know how much I''ve suffered under her hands? Even if your eyes did not see it, you heart knows. Therefore the day you banished her to Mei Yue Lou, I said nothing, to I say I gloated over it would be too much, but I was definitely relieved. After that, I just did not bother to think about them, and was starting to forget about her."

    "It was not until this morning that Tai Tai brought them up that I remembered them. In truth, after such a long time, those were still living people, though I disliked them, do you really think I have the heart to see them starved to death? These days I really hadpletely forgotten about them. So, after listening to Tai Tai, I felt ashamed and quickly brought some people with me to take a look, and in the end¡­ in the end¡­ good intentions are paid with ill, my lord, just look at my face, and look and my body¡­"

    Saying this, her voice choked up. Xu Ran Yun pointed at the bruise on her forehead and lifted her sleeves to reveal two more greenish bruises. She tearfully said, "This is what I got for my kindness. After so many days in Mei Yue Lou, not only did they do not reflect on their behaviour, but they have be even more destructive. I don''t believe that this pce could contain them any more. My lord, you must think of a way to deal with them, otherwise who knows what will happen."

    "Those women raised their hands against you?" Duan Tingxuan sucked in a cold breath. It would not surprise him to hear do this kind of things. That first time, she had kicked him over a few dumplings. He had dodged her attack, but a less martially inclined person would not have been able to avoid it.

    However, he was still curious. This woman was a high borndy after all, why is it that she always ended up punching and kicking people over the smallest things? She had never been like this before, or more like, ever since she became an abandoned wife, something in her broke and her real self emerged?

    "No, she did not." Xu Ran Yun did not dare to tell lies. She huffed. "They were sunning beans at the entrance, and I¡­ I identally slipped on them."

    Duan Tingxuan''s eyes bulged a little, unsure what to say, he finally snickered. "I see, that''s¡­ahem, Ran Yun, ah. It''s not that I want to lecture you, but as a person, one can''t be too proud. You like to strut around with your nose in the air most days, but sometimes it is a good idea to lower your head a little, if only to check your footing."

    "My lord, please don''t say good words for them." Xu Ran Yun, knew with just a look that her husband intended to smooth things over, and could not help but cast one more stone, gritted her teeth and said, "I have misspoke just now, they weren''t just sunning beans. They were actuallyying traps. Have you ever heard of anyone sunning beans at the entrance of a courtyard? Especially when they have a limestone balcony especially made for sunning things."Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 20

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 20

    Chapter 20: Single Snake Battle Formation

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    On wards to the story!

    "Eh, this¡­one man''s meat is another man''s poison. Is it possible that Su Nuan Nuan just likes sunning beans at the entrance?" Actually, Duan Tingxuan was aware that Su Nuan Nuan is full of evil intentions. However, since he had eaten her sweet You Ping that morning, he did not mind spending a couple of words in her defence.

    Xu Ran Yun''s phoenix eyes narrowed slightly. The reason why she had not revealed everything from the beginning was because she wanted to find out the depth of her husband''s true feelings. Now that she had found out, her heart can''t help but sink: Looks like Yang Tai Tai was right, G.o.d knows why but the lord had taken interest in the three women at Mei Yue Lou, enough to improve their pitiful living conditions. This can not be a good thing.

    Her gaze gently swept towards Concubine Jiang who had, until then did not say a single word. As soon as their eyes met, Concubine Jiang knew her role and leaped up to say. "Did master regret it? It looks as if master can''t stop talking about Big Madam? If that''s the case, then master really shouldn''t have banished them to Mei Yue Lou in the first ce. Her anger seems to have gotten even more potent, what should we do now?"

    "Who said I regretted anything? I was just being thoughtful¡­this¡­people have different types of hobbies after all, right?"

    Duan Tingxuan tried to cover hisme excuses by speaking with a loud voice. Actually, ever since he''d eaten those fragrant dishes at Mei Yue Lou, he bitterly regretted that day''s hasty decision more than once. Now he wanted the three of them back to the inner court, but was too ashamed to say so.

    Moreover, he could not bear to admit his own mistake here, right in front of his own wife and concubine. When ites to the matter of face, a prince must never own up to any mistakes no matter what, if he had to be a dead duck then so be it.

    Xu Ran Yun was felt infuriated by her husband''s stubborn dead duck''s expression, and said with a cold smile. "What is my lord yelling about? Please don''t vent your shameful frustrations at us sisters here, go and direct it at Big Madam. Who do you think those beans are for? Heh heh! Surely it''s not prepared for this lowly one? Big Madam don''t even know when I''ming. I''ll tell you frankly, those beans are prepared especially for you, that trap is created with you in mind. What ''one man''s meat is another man''s poison'', what ''Big Madam likes to sun beans at the entrance'', what ''thoughtfulness'', I almostughed to death at these words."

    "What? A trap for me? It can''t be." Duan Tingxuan jumped up like a cat whose tail was stepped on, shaking his head like a rattle, "It can''t be, this can''t be. I just sent them some rice and beans this morning, at that time Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were all very cheerful, so why¡­"

    The prince paused without finishing his words, feeling that it''s best that the rest of these words remained in his heart. As expected, the wife before him had eyes asrge as gold fish''s, mouth dropped open so wide that she could probably swallow a whole chicken''s egg. Clearly, she was very shocked.

    Without waiting for him to utter any face saving words, Concubine Jiang''s high pitched voice suddenly said. "Master, what are you saying? You''ve been to Mei Yue Lou, and even gave them things?"

    "Ahem¡­that¡­isn''t this having thrown them there for half a year, having suddenly thought to take a look because I was worried they''d starve?" Duan Tingxuan answered a little mechanically. His face sank as he felt that his image as a majestic and dignified husband copsed in the eyes of his wife and concubine.

    But then he hardened his resolved and decided to go on the offence. He gave Xu Ran Yun a serious look. "This an oversight on your part as well, Ran Yun. I heard that it''s been a long time since they received their allowance."

    Xu Ran Yun began to panic a little, her head drooped slightly as she said. "Does my lord me me? As mentioned, there are many things to take care of, and Mei Yue Lou is far away, it easily slipped my notice. What kind of a person is my lord? Have you ever considered that this day would not have urred if my lord did not send them over to Mei Yue Lou? What was the reason you sent them to that ce? And yet, here you are ming me."

    Duan Tingxuan was not really angry in the first ce, seeing Xu Ran Yun with her head down he felt that he should not pursue the matter. At any rate, the mistress and servants living at Mei Yue Lou seemed quitefortable. Sofortable that it made his teeth ache.

    He stood up and walked a few paces, then thought of what Xu Ran Yun had said. Unable to resist the urge, he turned a ck face at her and said. "What you said is true? Nuan Nuan''s bean trap¡­was set up for me?"

    "Could it possibly be false?"

    Xu Ran Yun saw that her husband was still stuck on this ridiculous route, and could not help her cold smile. "If my lord doesn''t believe me, you may ask her yourself. From what I can see, she has no fear of people. Earlier, I and a few other servants were there when she grandly dered that she is not afraid of you, and that the bean trap was prepared just for you. If it did note from her mouth, would this one would dare to frame her?"

    Duan Tingxuan, whose face was now as ck as the bottom of a soothy pot, couldn''t help himself as he angrily stamped his foot: "That bossy woman is getting too much, watch how I take care of her." So saying, he flicked his sleeves and left.

    At this point, Concubine Jiang breathed a sigh of relief, only to hear Xu Ran Yun gave a coldugh: "Heh heh! I knew it would turned out this way. Since that woman has acted in such an outrageous way, the lord would not just let this matter go. Otherwise, he''d not the lord any more."

    Concubine Jiang alsoughed, "Isn''t it? Our master may be a l.u.s.ty sort, but he had never let a woman climb over his head. Even that Madam Lan whose beauty could shatter cities also could not turn him into the docile sort. A bossy, jealous woman like that could never stand a chance. This is great, Madam can now rest easy."

    "Amithaba, let us hope so." Xu Ran Yun muttered as she pressed her palms together. From this behaviour, it was clear that she has underestimated the impact of delicious food on a closeted foodie, otherwise she would never have imagined that this little interference could ever remove future troubles.

    As for Duan Tingxuan, when he rushed out of the court, the sun has already reached the tip of the mountains. Normally this was time when he was supposed to go and greet his parents and grandparent, however he has more pressing business today. After getting a maid to send his excuses to his grandparent and parents, he set off for Mei Yue Lou.

    When he reached the entrance to Mei Yue Lou, he saw that chairs and tables had been arranged on the balcony. Su Nuan Nuan was sitting at one of the chairs, chatting with Xiang Yun and Si Ping. Even though she clearly saw him, she did not bother to stand up to wee him, instead she just smiled at his direction, her mouth busy chatting about this and that. Xiang Yun and Si Ping both looked a little anxious. The smiles on their faces obviously forced and looked more miserable than an actual crying face.

    Was such an abnormal sight a hint of what''s toe?

    After exchanging a few blows with Su Nuan Nuan, Duan Tingxuan immediately heightened his awareness and took a bold step in. His foot slipped a little. At this point, he remembered Xu Ran Yun''s words, and felt rage growing in his heart: Very well, this d.a.m.ned woman, looks like you haven''t given up your ways. So you''ve set your trap, but did not bother to change it even though it has been exposed. Clearly youcked forethought in your rush to trap this lord of yours, you think this lord is so stupid?

    The prince was getting angry: You dare look down on this lord? Hmph! Intolerable, this time I must let you know my power, otherwise I shall follow your surname.

    Though many things went through his mind, it actually happened in a sh. Duan Tingxuan stubbornly did not look at his footing. With eyes ring at Su Nuan Nuan he sedately entered the courtyard step by step. The beans that have been trodden by him all turned into bean powder.

    Clearly not expecting Duan Tingxuan''s martial power to be this extraordinary, Su Nuan Nuan''s face showed pure astonishment. Duan Tingxuan felt proud of himself. So you want to set traps for me, hmph! Hmph! So you want to flip the heavens and set traps, for what? To kill your husband? If I do not teach you a lesson today, wouldn''t you just climb to the top of my head? Uneptable, I can''t indulge this bad habit of yours.

    Thinking about it, he had a feeling that today he will finally get the opportunity to vent his frustrations on some righteous actions. As he was feeling pleased with himself, his gaze suddenly caught Si Ping''s anxious face and felt a chill down his spine. He was about to stop his advance, but it was toote.

    The sole of his foot touched something hard. A soft sound of a sensitive spring went off.

    At this critical moment, Duan Tingxuan''s finely honed martial arts, which he had spent years polishing every single day showed it''s best impact. In a sh, his body sailed to the air, flipping twice before finally seeing the mechanical device he had stepped on. Hended in a safe spot, cold sweat beading his brow. Turning around, he saw more than ten mousetraps glittering like frost on the ground, they wereid out in a line, their mechanical jaws open wide as though they were jeering at him.

    "You crazy woman." Duan Tingxuan shed up to the balcony like lightning. He pointed a finger at Su Nuan Nuan''s nose, yelling, "Just because I ate some of your food you want my life? Setting up just one trap was not enough, you even put up mousetraps in a Single Snake Formation, you¡­don''t go too far."

    The earlier surprised look may have been fabricated, but Su Nuan Nuan''s current astonished admiration for this rascally man was clearly real: Such a well calcted trap was avoided by this man, more importantly, was that the legendary qing gong?

    When she thought of this, her eyes lit up like hungry wolf¡¯s. She stood up with a warm smile. Without so much as a ''by your leave'', she grasped both of Duan Tingxuan''s hands, shaking it like she had just seen her most beloved rtive.

    Her face quivered, her voice excited as she said, "What was that skill just now? Eight Step Trapping Cicada? Single Reed to Cross River Jiang? Collect Duckweed to Cross Water? Tiny Steps Over Waves? Three Swallows Raid Water? Cross Snow Without Footprints? Aiya, what was it? Come let''s chat together about it."

    All Duan Tingxuan could do was blink, and blink some more, unable to trust his eyes as he stared at this crazy excited woman in front of him. He stammered, "You¡­you don''t think you can just confuse, I''m¡­I''m telling you, you¡­today have provoke¡­provoked me¡­this matter is not resolved, so don''t think just because you''re so friendly that¡­hm? What''s that smell? Did you stewed those two ducks?"

    Si Ping watched as his master did his best to reprimand Big Madam, though it was not going well, it still held some air of manly dignity of the head of house. Who knew that the man he worshiped suddenly switched character in the middle of his words. Master, you should at least finished what you have been saying, do you really think that Big Madam suddenly ingratiating herself to you is a good thing? And why did the topic suddenly turned towards the two ducks?

 Chapter 21

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 21

    Chapter 21: Bridging a Generation Gap

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    On wards to the story!

    It was only after the question left Duan Tingxuan''s mouth, that he realised just how forceful he sounded and felt shame p.r.i.c.kled his face. However, the disappointment he felt for lost of a good duck meal overcame any shameful feeling. The hidden foodie inside the prince had reared its head, desiring delicious food. Once the desire for delicious food was stimted, it became so overwhelming that he was unable to control it.

    "Oh, you mean the ducks, ah. How can it be ready so soon? Hong Lian is currently cleaning and gutting them in the kitchen, tomorrow you can try my roasted duck." Su Nuan Nuan''s deep seated hatred att.i.tude against this rascal had gone under a 180 degree change, she was positively warm towards him now.

    Her warm face was showing an amazing willingness to change and be a doting wife and mother, however, he could see her eyes twitching from the effort, showing her real emotions under that doting farce.

    "What are you trying to do? I''m warning you now, you better note up with any funny schemes, your lord''s patience has its limits." Duan Tingxuan was not an idiot, his suspicions rose even higher, staring at Su Nuan Nuan with eyes that said ''I can see through your schemes.''

    Normally, hearing such words from the rascal, Su Nuan Nuan would have sent a flying kick to his face. However, today she was being very abnormal, not only did she ignored those shameless words, but she also approached him with an excited face, asking, "Just now the kungfu that you used, the one that sent you into the air, what special move was it? Eight Step Trapping Cicada? Single Reed to Cross Jiang River? Scale Mountain with Duckweed¡­?"

    "What''s this nonsense?" Duan Tingxuan backed away with disgust. "It''s just regr qing gong, Flying Across Rooftops and Walking Up Walls, surely you''ve heard of this? I''m just slightly better at it than the standard robbers and thieves who favoured it. Are you making fun of me for being hungry enough to eat bugs now?"

    Generation gap, this was clearly a generation gap issue. In fact, this was no ordinary generation gap, but one that spans over at least two life times. For some reason, this rascal had connected the Eight Step Trapping Cicada skill with being greedy enough to eat bugs, Su Nuan Nuan had no words.

    She could only patiently exin, "I''m not talking about you being greedy, the cicada thing is about how difficult it is to catch one and, you¡­your qing gong, doesn''t it have any special names? In novels, all special moves have extravagant names."

    Duan Tingxuan finally understood her meaning. He felt cheerful at seeing this silly side of her, shaking his head as he said. "I see, those silly books are written for fun, who ask you to believe they''re for real? To think a simple qing gong ability can gather so many names, Eight Step Trapping Cicada, One Reed whatever River, aren''t these just qing gong?"

    As he said this, he felt puzzled. He gave Su Nuan Nuan a strange look, and could not resist stroking his smooth chin as he said. "You sure are talkative today, just now you set rat traps out to kill your husband. But now you did not even bother to mention that matter. In fact, you are positively warm today, hmph! Those who act nicely for no reason hid ill intentions. Speak, what is it that you wanted?"

    "I want to learn qing gong."

    This rascal was not stupid. Therefore, Su Nuan Nuan did not bother to mince words and went straight to the point.

    "Forget it."

    Duan Tingxuan did not even bother to consider before rejecting her. "As the heir''s wife, what need have you for qing gong? Surely you''re not thinking about bing a female thief? Let me tell you, don''t be cheated by those silly novels, do you think the life of a female thief is morous? These few years books like these have be popr, because of the money making opportunity more and more such rubbish have been published.¡±

    ¡°Young girls influenced by these books have ruined their own lives to the point that the women prisons have barely enough s.p.a.ce to keep these so-called female thieves. Granted, you''re a poisonous woman, but there''s still a brain in your head, you evenughed at these silly girls before, why this sudden interest¡­"

    "Who says I want to be a female thief?" Su Nuan Nuan gritted her teeth as she red at Duan Tingxuan. "Why would I chose such a high risk way to make a living? Consider my kitchen skills, do you think it''s impossible for me to make a fortune from cooking? Don''t use your dog eyes to look down on this grand ability."

    "Yo, those are fine fighting words from you." Duan Tingxuan smirked as he slow pped a few times. "Now I''m curious. Why would a Big Madam like you want to learn qing gong?"

    "To kick you in the head." Su Nuan Nuan had been provoked by the rascal into revealing her true intention. "Last time you sat at my table and ate myrge dumplings, Icked the ability to actually kick you out, this matter pains me to the bones. However, I am one who learns from their mistake, as painful as this is, I wish to learn kungfu, be as swift as fleeing hares and guard against all eventualities."

    As she spoke, Duan Tingxuan''s mocking smile became fixed on his face. His expression looked as bitter as though he had been fed s.h.i.t, the smile eventually melted off as he stared at the proud woman in front of him with her head held high, shoulders squared up and chest out. Each word sounded like they had been forcefully pulled from his mouth as he said. "So, you want to learn qing gong in order to kick me out. Since you''ve said this so openly, do you think I''d really teach you anything?"

    "Even if I did not say anything, you will still teach me," said Su Nuan Nuan with a sneer.

    "So, you believe that I won''t teach you, and therefore spouted all those nonsense?" That seemed to make sense to the prince. This woman did not seemed like she had been kicked in the head by an a.s.s. She''s smart, it all made sense now.

    "Wrong, you will teach me, regardless. Therefore, I''m not afraid of revealing my true motive." She was beaming with satisfaction as she said these words with utter confidence.

    "Have you heard from somewhere that my head is filled with nothing but water, or that I have recently been kicked in the head by an a.s.s?" No one can me Duan Tingxuan for being puzzled, he just could not figure out the reason for Su Nuan Nuan''s confidence.

    "Do you really think that I''m the type of silly woman that thinks it''s going to rain just because I heard the wind?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes, it was actually a vulgar move, but Duan Tingxuan had the strangest feeling that it looked cute when she did it. He did not ask any more, but looking at her confidence, surely there''s some scheme up her sleeves, he''ll just listen to her conditions first.

    As expected, Su Nuan Nuan held out a finger. "One month, I will let youe and eat and drink as you like, for one month. How about it?"

    "Have you somehow gone confused? This is the pce, and you are my wife¡­" Duan Tingxuan was starting to get angry. His voice turning into a roar.

    Not waiting for the full volume to develop, Su Nuan Nuan waved her hand casually. "Abandoned wife, lord and master, please pay attention to your words. Ever since you kicked the three of us to Mei Yue Lou, I was already an abandoned wife."

    "Have you seen the divorce papers?" Duan Tingxuan sneered, seeing Su Nuan Nuan pause, heughed loudly. His lips curled. "Without divorce papers how could you call yourself an abandoned wife? Your should take care of your words."

    "How could someone be so shameless?" Su Nuan Nuan pointed indignantly at Duan Tingxuan, "You d.a.m.ned rascal,"

    "It''s all the same, you d.a.m.ned poisonous wife." Duan Tingxuan refused to give an inch. He cupped his hands in mock salute as he sneered. "Understand now? There''s no such thing as ''letting'' this Lord of yours eat and drink here."

    "If I am not an abandoned wife, then the pce kitchens should prepare my share of meals, right? This is good, there''s no need for me to spend so much effort making my own meals. Lord and master,e whenever you like. I''ll inform the kitchen to prepare your share as well."

    You have battle tactics I have fortress walls, Su Nuan Nuan was perfectlyposed as she apuded herself. Hehe, do you really think it''s that easy to eat my delicious meals? That kind of thinking is too simple, you d.a.m.ned rascal.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

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 Chapter 22

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 22

    Chapter 22: Bargaining

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    PS: On a side note, I¡¯m going to keep putting the above message up, in order to make sure nasty thieving sites has more of a problem stealing our trantions. At the very least, they would have to delete my messages to our lovely readers, yeah?

    On wards to the story!

    ¡°You¡­ ¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan never expected this move from Su Nuan Nuan. For a moment, he waspletely speechless. He ignored Si Ping''s sobbing voice next to him, "Master, we should really return, it''s getting dark."

    This was true, the sun was already on its way down, only half of its red face could be seen.

    Duan Tingxuan desperately wanted to take this good advice and leave taking Si Ping with him, but the most hateful thing was¡­ ¡­just what was going on in the kitchen? What was this fragrance? How could this smell just get more and more fragrant? The prince had lost this fight. This was something he had never eaten, there was no doubt about it.

    This fragrance was just too distinctive. In his twenty years of existence, he had never smelled such a fragrance that clutched at the heart and liver, making one hate the fact that they can''t just swallow the pot along with whatever was in it into their stomach.

    "Teach me qing gong, and you''ll have a month''s worth of meals." Su Nuan Nuan could see Duan Tingxuan''s stinky expression, both legs fixed in ce in terrible indecision, and knew that this was the crucial moment to sway things her way.

    "One month? Do you think I''m a beggar you can just shoo away once fed?" Duan Tingxuan was angry.

    "Then¡­ how about two months?" Su Nuan Nuan could feel the pain in her flesh already. Letting this rascal eat her food for one month already hurt her heart, now she had to concede another month?

    "For a life time." Duan Tingxuan bared his teeth. "You dare treat me like a beggar?"

    "Hey! Don''t be too excessive." Su Nuan Nuan was starting to get angry too. "As a person you can''t be too greedy, you think I''m scared of you? The worst you can do to me is kick me out, this olddy still has her kitchen skills, no matter where I go in this world, I can survive. Three months, no more."

    "Until you actually learned the skills." This woman was not afraid of getting thrown out, there''s no point using divorce to threaten her. The prince finally realized this, so instead he yielded a step with a sigh.

    "What do you mean?" Su Nuan Nuan did not understand his point, and instead of pondering upon it herself, she just asked for proper exnations.

    "I agree to teach you kungfu, until the day you properly learn the skills, you will provide both food and drink. I will say this now, I will not tolerate rubbish food, every thing must be of top quality."

    "Kungfu is something that could only be learnt after about a year or so at the very least, isn''t it?" Su Nuan Nuan frowned, this condition was too harsh.

    "Surely you don''t mean to say that you''re unwilling to provide a mere year''s worth of food?" Duan Tingxuan was about to spit up blood. "Nuan Nuan, if you think about it seriously, having a dignified prince like me as a kungfu instructor, who else but you could enjoy this kind of special honour? If not for those delicious food, do you think this lord would ever be reduced to the position of an instructor? Even if you hire an instructor for yourself, you would have to provide for his food and lodging as well, wouldn''t you? Not to mention tuition fees. Are you trying to tell me that this prince can''t even bepared to a mere instructor?"

    "Very well, very well, let''s just leave it at that." Su Nuan Nuan finally relented. Even though she did not fear divorce, remaining married has its own good points as well. While nesting in this courtyard, she has endless ess to good ingredients, they surely wouldn''t starve while staying here. If the three of them really had to leave, three beautiful women alone in the world, it would be difficult to predict what would happen to them. Especially in this feudal society that takes advantages of the weak, as women they could be eaten up by society to the point that not even their bones would be left.

    After weighing in the consequences and considering her options, Su Nuan Nuan had to acknowledge that from a certain point of view, staying at the pce was the best option. Since the rascal depended on her for certain favours, she could face him on equal grounds, this certainly beats living outside as three weak women all alone in the world. Stories that involved cheats or golden fingers as well as h.o.a.rds of beautiful male protagonists were not actually reality after all.

    [Trantor Gumihou: Yes, I agree with this. Hear that, Mary Sue?]

    "Then, it is agreed." Duan Tingxuan could not resist getting a confirmation, seeing Su Nuan Nuan nod, he immediately recover his princely air. Rolling his eye, he sneered. "You''re certainly silly, even if I did not agree to teach you qing gong, surely husband and wife sharing a meal is something that''s perfectly proper in the eyes of heaven and earth?"

    "That depends on my mood." Su Nuan Nuan said coldly. "If I''m happy, the variety and number of dishes would increase; however, if I''m unhappy, I''d rather have in congee with pickles. If you''re willing to share all my sweet and bitter times, you''re wee toe."

    "You¡­" Duan Tingxuan was almost beside himself with rage.

    Su Nuan Nuan''s phoenix eyes shed. "I, what, what are you trying to say?"

    "It''s fine, it''s all fine, a good man does not b.u.t.t heads with women." The prince was clear headed enough to swallow the few derogatory words that had bubbled up in his chest: the smell from the kitchen was getting stronger and stronger, he would not allow the need to win a verbal fight destroy this opportunity to eat delicious food.

    "Very well, I shall go and take a look at the bone soup. It''s almost time for dinner." Having received the two wild ducks, Big Madam''s mood was extremely good, she was feeling particrly magnanimous and did not bother to pick a fight. Instead, she cheerfully went off in the direction of the kitchen.

    Seeing her willowy figure from the back, Duan Tingxuan could not resist the urge to snap his fan open and smiled: Hoho! What a naive woman, ah. Do you really think it is possible to learn qing gong after a year? Dream on! Duan Tingxuan learned from several masters ever since he was a child, with his abnormally high gift for martial arts coupled with gruelling training, plus daily relentless practice in order achieve his current level of mastery.

    For Su Nuan Nuan, whose skeletal structure had already matured andck of talent, without the aid of harsh training. If this woman really wanted to learn kungfu it would probably take her 10 years, no less, just to master the basics. Additionally, there is no end to learning when ites to martial arts, doesn''t this mean that he would be able to enjoy her delicious meals for a whole lifetime?

    The more he thought about it, the happier the prince became. Suddenly, Si Ping''s faint voice whispered. "My Lord, you should not smile too happily, if Big Madam sees this, she will be unhappy, if she''s unhappy then it is likely that you are not allowed to be happy either."

    That single sentence was enough to shatter his day dreams.

    Duan Tingxuan thought about his wife''s current stubborn personality and sighed: Looks like he can''t just depend on teaching kungfu as a way to get food. Otherwise, if this woman ended up unable to learn kungfu after three to five years, she might just leave the pce by herself in a fit of overwhelming fury.

    If he wanted to keep eating delicious food, he would have to put in more thought into his strategies, ah. However, there was something he had to admit, despite her being more unreasonable and shrewish in nature¡­this new Su Nuan Nuan was actually much cuterpared to the venomous and bossy personality from before.

    As he was busy thinking about this, the fragrance that had been teasing him all evening suddenly got stronger. When he looked around a bit more, he found that he had somehow wondered into the kitchen, and was currently facing the source of the smell. There was arge pot in front of him with its cover taken off. Steam bubbled and writhed from within the pot, making it difficult to see the what was inside. The sweet smell was enough to make a person drool all the way to his feet.

    "Just what is this thing?"

    Duan Tingxuan''s curiosity level was at its peak. He took a step forward to peer into the pot, and saw a reddish brown soup with severalrge bones floating inside. As he studied the soup, Su Nuan Nuan who was next to him said with a smile, "This is bone soup. Specially chosen good quality pork bones ys a big part, spine bones could be used too. Stewed together with herbs such as dang gui (chinese angelica), gouqi (wolfberry), lotus seeds, red dates, and peanuts. Too bad I don''t have more ingredients at hand, if we could add things like Chinese yams, tian qi (pseudo ginseng), red sage (salvia miltiorrhiza), or other such medicinal herbs it would be delicious and nutritious, perfect for body and spirit."

    "You can actually¡­stewrge bone soups this way?"

    Duan Tingxuan was surprised. He had only heard that bones are used to make high .s.s broths, which could then be used to enhance other dishes. He had not realized that such bone broths could be drunk as soups by itself. He saw Su Nuan Nuan ce the pot cover on the side, and was just standing in there drinking in the steamy fragrance and looking like she was getting drunk with happiness.

    "Once it cooled off a bit, we can skim off the oil on top and drink it. Hmph! We''ve been stewing this for two sichen (four hours)."

    Duan Tingxuan really wanted to drink some now, but after weighing his options for a bit, he decided that he was not prepared to try and see if his specially developed kungfu skills could protect his tongue against boiling hot soup. Therefore, he could only follow Su Nuan Nuan as they left the kitchen together.

    For once, husband and wife sat at the meal table peacefully. Duan Tingxuan saw Si Ping and Hong Lian busy collecting the rat traps and ttened beans, and felt his cheerful mood darken. Gritting his teeth, he said. "You are truly heartless, merely scattering beans in front of the entrance was not enough, you have to set rat traps as well, do you really hate me this much?"

    "Are you expecting me still feel some sort of attraction to you?" Su Nuan Nuan gave the rascal a sideways nce. "To tell the truth, I had wanted to arrange for a line of crossbows as well, but ended up only using rat traps. You should be grateful, otherwise the moment you set foot in this ce, you''ll be turned into a hedgehog."

    "Tch!" Duan Tingxuan sneered. "You n to make bows and arrows using books? You may have nned for it, but do you actually have the ability to make this dream true? Even I only own three sets of strong bows and arrows, and they were gifts from the imperial pce." As he spoke, he felt very dejected, "Do you really need to hate me to this level? I did not actually do anything bad to you, ah."

    "What are you trying to say?" Su Nuan Nuan continued giving the rascal with no self awareness a side long re. "Throwing the three of us into this Mei Yue Lou, you dare say that it was not to leave us to live or die by our own ability? I almost died from starvation, you know? If it were not for King of h.e.l.l giving me this special ability, would you actually treat me so well?"

    "Hmph! Youing here is actually to send divorce papers, is it not? Madam Yun suffered such a loss in my hands, would she actually let things go as it is? Since I''m about to be kicked out, what more do I need to fear? You should be grateful for my Bodhisattva heart that prevented me from harming you. Otherwise, I would not have bothered with the rat traps. Just think, what would happened if I were to put rat poison into your portion of the bone soup?"

    "Rat poison? This woman, you dare think about murdering your own husband?" Duan Tingxuan jumped, and saw Su Nuan Nuan wave her handzily. "Rx, rx, this is just random talk, in the end I did not do it, right? In truth, for the sake of a rascal like you, telling me to waste an entire pot of bone soup, I really can''t bear it, therefore in the end we just used rat traps. Oh yes, you''re are here to send us divorce papers, right? Let''s have a look. I heard that my Lord is well versed in both letters and martial arts, let me take a look at your handwriting skills."

    "What divorce papers?" Duan Tingxuan''s face did not look good. "Please don''t treat this as a real thing. It''s true Xu Ran Yun had said a few words in front of me, however, it had nothing to do with divorcing you. Don''t try to guess the thinking of a n.o.ble woman with yourmon mind."Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23: For the Sake of Gourmet Food

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    Gumihou

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    PS: On a side note, I¡¯m going to keep putting the above message up, in order to make sure nasty thieving sites has more of a problem stealing our trantions.

    Queue: Actually, that rascal Duan Tingxuan has four boys and two girls by three different women¡­

    Lao Niang: Wee! We¡¯re happy to have you here. Reviews are the best way to get rmendations!

    Kirindas: I look forward to your simple ¡®Thank you¡¯ message every time!

    Now, onwards to The Feast!

    ¡°Pei!¡± Su Nuan Nuan spat. ¡°You¡¯re telling me that she¡¯s of a n.o.ble character? Hehe! Do you even believe yourself? True, she never mentioned anything about divorce papers. If she is really that stupid, she¡¯d never be put in charge of your concubines. All she had to do is make you angry, and here you are, all righteously p.i.s.sed off and ready to fight.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, even in her dreams she would never have imagine that her husband is a closeted foodie who is weak against gourmet food. Thus, allowing me to leap over this obstacle. Kekeke, this is definitely a case where man proposes and G.o.d disposes. Hey, you tell me, when Madam Yun realizes this, do you think she¡¯ll die of frustration?¡±

    ¡°In just a few months your tongue has gotten this sharp and poisonous.¡± Duan Tingxuan has no other retort to make and could only turn his head away, just in time to catch Hong Liane out of the kitchen with a worried look on her face.

    She quickly rushed the few steps over to them, bobbed a greeting to Duan Tingxuan, smiled and said. ¡°Missy, the two ducks have been dressed and cleaned as per your instructions. We¡¯ve lightly salted it and hanged it up in the kitchen cupboard.¡±

    ¡°En, good, tomorrow get the kitchens to send an oven over.¡± Su Nuan Nuan nodded in approval. After thinking for a bit, she added, ¡°If that surname Xue woman refuses to give us what we want, just say the master is the one who wants it¡­¡±

    ¡°Wei!¡± Duan Tingxuan¡¯s face was all ck. ¡°Can you please don¡¯t use my name to embezzle for things? To say all this in front of me, do you think I¡¯m deaf?¡±

    ¡°Yi? Don¡¯t you want roast duck? Or duck soup? If not, then it¡¯s fine. Don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t inform you, my skills with roast duck is not too bad¡­¡± Su Nuan Nuan¡¯s face was expressionless.

    Without waiting for her to finish, Duan Tingxuan looked like he was about to choke, he forcefully swallowed and shouted. ¡°Wait a minute, who says I don¡¯t want to eat them?¡±

    ¡°You said it yourself, ah. Don¡¯t ruin your reputation with embezzlement¡­¡± Su Nuan Nuan watched him with her head tipped to the side, her innocent looking expression nearly driving him mad: This woman¡­your mother, is getting harder and harder to deal with.

    ¡°Fine, fine, just get the oven, just say that I want it.¡±

    In the end, the lure of roast duck was too great. Duan Tingxuan stared at Su Nuan Nuan with a face full of tears, he just could not understand how he was eaten up so thoroughly by the opponent. It¡¯s not like he never had roast duck before, he was even sick of duck soup. Why is it that when this woman talks about roast duck and duck soup, he had the feeling that the vours would be unique?

    The bone soup with the fat and impurities skimmed off was so delicious that Duan Tingxuan almost swallowed his tongue. The bright and fresh fragrance with just a hint of sweetness was truly unforgettable. And those bones, perhaps due to the long stewing process, the meat on those bones were so tender that it did not have to be removed by hand. With just a gentle poke with the chopsticks, the meat just fell right off. When he ced the soft meat on his tongue, it just melted away leaving a gentle fragrance without a hint of greasiness.

    The prince was actually in tears. He had never eaten such delicious meat in his life. The Hua Diau Fuling Pork [1] he had had at the Imperial Pcest new year could not even bepared. He really could not understand, just how this womane up with such cooking techniques? It was just too delicious!

    He drank tworge bowls of the soup in one go, ate the meat off three pieces of bones. At that moment, he did not bother with table manners. The only thing in his mind was the third bowl of soup. He had to finish the second bowl quickly in order to get the third bowl of soup. The pot of soup was notrge, he estimated that there was only one bowl of soup left in its depths. It was just too bad that he could not have the whole pot to himself.

    ¡°Hong Lian, bring your lord another bowl.¡± Duan Tingxuan was in the middle of destroying another piece ofrge bone, and did not bother to look up as he said this.

    However, he did hear when Hong Lian said. ¡°Master, thest bowl of soup has been given to Missy.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Duan Tingxuan felt like he had been struck by lightning. Looking at the full bowl of soup in front of Su Nuan Nuan, he gritted his teeth and said. ¡°Can you really finish such arge bowl of soup by yourself? Just quickly give me half, you¡¯re a woman, so should watch your figure or you¡¯ll turn into an ugly fatty.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter since I¡¯m already married, furthermore an abandoned wife. Who cares if I turned into an ugly fatty? It¡¯s better to just eat good things happily.¡± Su Nuan Nuan smiled as she continued to nibble at therge rib bone in her hands.

    Duan Tingxuan eyes looked like they were about to spew fire, he hated that he couldn¡¯t just s.n.a.t.c.h that piece of bone from her hands. However, as a man, his face wasn¡¯t quite that thick, so he could only reluctantly let go of the matter.

    After the soup was gone, Duan Tingxuan eyed the empty bowls on the table in front of him. He picked up a pair of chopsticks, tapped at the edge of one bowl and crossly said, ¡°The soup is gone, the bones are all gone, but I¡¯m still not full, now what?¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan had three little bowls of soup and three pieces bones and was actually quite satisfied. However, when she thought of Si Ping, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun who only had a single bowl of soup and one piece of bone each, most likely none of them were full yet, she sighed. While she did not care if Duan Tingxuan¡¯s dog, Si Ping, who could suffer for all she care for having such a greedy master, both Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were her personal maids, and she could not bear to show a cold face to them.

    After thinking for a bit, she suddenly remembered the 2 jin of beans she had been stewing to make bean paste buns. She had actually prepared those to make travel rations once the divorce papers were served. In the whole excitement, she had actually forgotten about the pork bone soup. When Si Ping appeared with the two wild ducks, Su Nuan Nuan had decided to settle on a wait and see approach, thus the red bean paste had not been used up yet.

    She had intended to make bean paste snacks. However snacks, whether steamed or baked, requires time, but seeing that rascally prince licking his empty bowl like a starving wolf, it¡¯s obvious that patience was not abundant in that one. She guessed that by the time the the snacks are done, it would be supper time. Even if Duan Tingxuan was willing to wait, Su Nuan Nuan was not willing to have this rascal hanging around Mei Yue Lou too long.

    Therefore, she decided to try a different recipe and frowned as she considered her options. Suddenly, the ideal recipe urred to her and she pped her hands in excitement,ughing, ¡°I have it, a delicious snack that¡¯s quick and easy to prepare. Normally, we won¡¯t be able to make this thing easily, but since the lord is here we could make use of him. Why don¡¯t we make that?¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Duan Tingxuan was immediately suspicious as he stared at Su Nuan Nuan. ¡°You better exin every thing properly and don¡¯t just see me as a coolie[2].¡±

    ¡°For this sort of snack, if you¡¯re unwilling to be a coolie, you won¡¯t get to eat it.¡± Su Nuan Nuan¡¯s eyebrows twitched. ¡°Either you be a coolie, or you scram. Which do you choose?¡±

    Too hateful and arrogant, actually telling me to scram. Duan Tingxuan bristled with anger, he was about to erupt into the king of all rages when Su Nuan Nuan continued, a yearning look on her face, ¡°Xue Mien Tou Sa (Snow Soft Bean Paste) snacks, ah. It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯vest tasted it. Just thinking about it makes it feels like my saliva is about to overflow¡­¡±

    The .u.mted energy fizzled out just like that. The prince¡¯s two eyes were full of stars: A snack that could make even this woman salivate, just how delicious is it? Also, Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks? Even the name sounds lovely and alluring.

    ¡°What do you need me to do?¡±

    The prince asked unhappily as he rolled up his sleeves. He had lost all hope for his tongue and belly. These two body parts no longer belonged to him. They were actually spies and hidden agents sent by Su Nuan Nuan. As long as there are good things to eat, no matter how he made up his mind to resist, he would be defeated by these two characters.

    Author¡¯s notes: Ha ha ha! It¡¯s all for the sake of gourmet food, ah. Please vote and bookmark, ou ou ou!

    [1] Hua Diau Fuling Pigs ¨C Pigs that are fed on expensive Hua Diao wine (a type of Xiao Shing wine) and Fuling fungus to make them delicious. Kind of like wagyu beef that¡¯s fed on beer and given ma.s.sages.

    [2] coolie ¨C cheapbour

    Here¡¯s a picture of what I imagined Su Nuan Nuan made,plete with peanuts! I got the image from eatingclubvancouver

    Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of Prosperousfood Copyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

 Chapter 24

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 24

    Chapter 24: The Coolie

    TRANSLATOR¡¯S NOTE: I¡¯m going to do my best to see if I can put out at least a chapter every two days. Admin and I have informally agreed not to trespa.s.s into each other¡¯s territory and this is a slight vition of our agreement. However, at this point, I will be very happy to receive a scolding email from Admin¡­

    Also, none of my posts contain any advertis.e.m.e.nt, mainly because I don¡¯t know how to fix it up, so if you wish to contribute something (or bribe me to update something, lol) feel free to go to the Donate section. I can¡¯t guarantee a fast update, but I¡¯m the responsible type, so if someone paid me to do something, I¡¯ll bust my b.u.t.t to fulfill my end of things.

    That said, I am really not good with technology, so please be patient while I blunder about here.

    Best regard,

    Gumihou

    Crystal Aris: So whipped.

    Nadywing: I had to Google Puchero, but it does look simr. Yummilicious!

    Ri Hikaru: As a foodie myself, I have to agree.

    Queu: ve is almost the right word!

    Strikerbeat: I couldn¡¯t quite believe my eyes when I tranted it.

    Kirindas: x.x.x!

    This novel is so great, I just can¡¯t leave it alone. Must share! Even though I waste¡­much apologies¡­

    On wards to the novel!

    That rascal was still quite dignified.

    Su Nuan Nuan gave Duan Tingxuan''s adaptable att.i.tude a positive evaluation. Then, with a wide smile, she led the lot of people into the kitchen. There she mixed a small tub of bean past with sugar, expertly split 20 or so eggs into yolks and whites.

    She gave the Duan Tingxuan an extrarge bowl of egg whites with a smile: "From now on, we''ll have to depend on your Lordship, otherwise even thebine efforts of myself, Hong Lian, Xiang Yun and Si Ping will not be able to achieve the desired results."

    Duan Tingxuan frowned at the extrarge bowl and the pair of chopsticks and muttered: "Surely you''re not telling me to beat egg whites?"

    "This kind of work, who doesn''t know how to do? Why must it be me? Nuan Nuan, even if it''s some kind of a revenge, can''t youe up with something less obvious? Can you not y games like this?"

    "Naturally, everyone know how to beat eggs. However, I want these egg whites beaten until they turn into bubbles. Aside from you no one else has this kind of strength.¡± Su Nuan Nuan was staring directly at Duan Tingxuan: "Also, your Lordship please don''t usemon man''s eyes to guess at a n.o.ble person''s intention and imagine that I still want revenge against you. As mentioned before, if I really had any intentions for revenge, a bottle of rat poison is more than sufficient, why should I waste my effort like this?"

    "You¡­ a good man does not b.u.t.t heads with women." Duan Tingxuan fiercely pointed at Xu Nuan Nuan''s nose for a bit, before shuffling to the side to beat the egg whites with a depressed air.

    As a long practising martial artist, he''s already powerful, coupled with the unspent temper which he could only unleash on the hapless eggs whites. In an instant bubbles began to form, more and more bubbles kept on forming, rising higher and higher in the bowl. Su Nuan Nuan, Hong Lian, Xiang Yun and Si Ping all stared in awe at this performance.

    "Is this fine?"

    He unhappily proffered therge bowl towards Su Nuan Nuan, and watched as she ced some flour into the bowl. Hmm, should be flour, right? It''s all white powdery stuff anyway. As someone who could not tell one grain from another, the prince had actually guessed wrongly. What went into the egg whites wasn''t all flour, she also added some starch as well. Naturally, this type of detail wasn''t something a prince would be interested in anyway.

    When the oil in the pot heated up, even Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were surprised. Neither of them had ever eaten such a curious snack before.

    They only saw Su Nuan Nuan scoop up adle full of the egg white, flour and starch paste, picked up one of the prepared b.a.l.l.s of bean paste, covered it with the egg paste before lightly dropping the little ball into the pot of oil. A white dumpling swelled up to bob on the surface, slowly turning golden in colour.

    Su Nuan Nuan''s movements were extraordinarily quick, rapidly filling the pot with over ten dumplings. Using a bamboo strainer, she stirred the dumplings, keeping a close eye on them. When she estimated that they were about done, she quickly scooped the lot out and transferred them into arge clean bowl. Then, she looked up at Duan Tingxuan''s creased brows and smiled. "Well, they''re done. Please try one, fragrant and sweet Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks. Guarantee you''ll love them."

    "Do you think I''m crazy? Putting one in my mouth now, only if I don''t want my tongue any more." Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes at Su Nuan Nuan. Will this woman die if she misses an opportunity to take a dig at him? Was there some kind ofpulsiveness that made her turn against him at every point?

    Now that he thought about it seriously, there''s a possibility that there''s an innerpulsiveness that made a woman''s resentment terrifying. Just a few days ago a case from Shun Tian court came in. Just because a man decided to keep a mistress on the side his wife ended up cutting off his vital thing with a pair of scissors. The woman was found guilty, of course, and as punishment was banished from Shun Tian. However, the man was already disabled for life.

    Just thinking about the case made the prince broke out in cold sweat. He gave Su Nuan Nuan, who was busily making more Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks, aplicated look. Now that he had something topare to, Nuan Nuan is still not quite the level of a resentful wife.

    That man had kept a single solitary mistress outside the house, while I have so many beauties beside me, ng! Speaking of which, should I thank her for not bringing out the scissors?

    As he continued to think, his gaze misted over withplex thoughts. Su Nuan Nuan was too busy to notice his gaze. It was Hong Lian who identally saw this look and the little maid''s heart skipped a beat. Oh, Amitabha, this is good. They need no longer fear getting kicked out of the pce any more.

    A few tens of Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks were out of the pot. The ones that were out first could already be eaten. Although they were still a little hot, as long as it won''t harm his tongue, the prince didn''t care. One after another they disappeared into his gullet. As he ate, he kept making noises of happiness and deliciousness.

    At this point, whatever dissatisfaction he had against Su Nuan Nuan was lost. Truly the power of delicious food was too strong.

    When there were less than 20 pieces of the Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks in the bowl, Su Nuan Nuan, seeing that Duan Tingxuan showed no signs of stopping his starving wolf performance couldn''t take it any more. She grabbed the wolf''s paw, gritted her teeth and said angrily.

    "Still eating? Is your stomach a ck hole? Not afraid to explode? Hong Lian, Xiang Yun and Si Pingbined didn''t even eat as much as you did. How shameful is it to call yourself a prince when you can''t even understand basic etiquette? Do you want to be the first prince in history who ate himself to death?"

    It was only when Su Nuan Nuan said this that Duan Tingxuan felt the fullness of his stomach. Just now he was only concerned with satisfying his tongue, where would he find the attention to bother about his stomach?

    Satisfied to see that he had awkwardly stopped, Su Nuan Nuan turned to Si Ping. "It''s now dark, take a few home for your old mother. Having an old parent waiting for their son toe home and eat is really pitiful. Since you got stuck with a master who did not know basic human kindness, it''s really a misfortune for you poor mother-son pair."

    After the initial shock, Si Ping felt a strange heat p.r.i.c.kle his eyes. He was but a mere servant. Though his various masters always gave him rewards in the form of money and things, in the end, aside from the prince, who else would really care about him beyond his usefulness as a servant?

    Unbelievably, Big Madam really had changed into a better person after her brush with death.

    When he nodded quickly in response, Hong Lian took out some brown parchment paper as makeshift takeaway packets and helped him put the snacks in. During all this time, Duan Tingxuan''s voice had been howling in the background with indignant and great wrath:

    "What do you mean I don''t know basic human kindness? You want to know how well I treat Si Ping? Just ask him, are there any other servants as well treated as he is? How many servants had to wait on their masters hand and foot, day and night? Si Ping''s mother was a servant who had once served the Old Madam, nowadays she is still given some odd jobs from the needlework house. How could they even be as pitiful as you said? You wish to bribe Si Ping? Hmph! I''ll ask you to give up this idea as soon as possible."

    "Is that so? So it turns out I''ve mistaken the situation?" Su Nuan Nuan creased her browse with a cold smile. "In that case, Si Ping there''s no need for you to bring those things home. Leave it all here."

    "Master," Si Ping gave Duan Tingxuan a resentful gaze. Oh master, ah, master. What kind of face are you trying to fight for? Though my old mother''s situation is not pitiful, I still wish to bring such good things back for her to taste. Aren''t you just spoiling your servant''s good thing?

    "Er¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan finally reacted. His heart was all annoyed, ah. I am so stupid, truly foolish. Si Ping is my servant, ah. The moment we stepped past the threshold of this ce, wouldn''t at least half of those Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks be mine?

    Miscalction, this is definitely a miscalction.

    When his thoughts arrived at this point, he thickened his face and back-peddled: "Nn, you''re not wrong, I just¡­that, hem, hem! I was just unwilling. You even thought about Si Ping''s mother, why not spare a thought for Old Great Madam and Great Madam[1]? They''ve never eaten anything like this, ah, why did you never mention anything about taking this bone soup or these Snow Soft Bean Paste whatever to show some filial consideration?"

    Su Nuan Nuan watched as Hong Lian and Xiang Yun lit the doorwayntern, and said with a cold sneer: "That day when I was banished into Mei Yue Lou, Great Madam never said anything. Which was fine, since she generally despises me anyway. Think I don''t know that? The less I show up in her face, the morefortable days she''ll have. If I were to suddenly appear to to show filial consideration, Great Madam would surely suffer from some mental distress. So why should I bother?"

    Duan Tingxuan sighed, and said in a soft voice. "You only say that mother dislikes you, but you never thought about the things you did in the past. Anyone would dislike a person with such terrible behaviour. Mother is not an unreasonable person, if you''ve truly have a change of heart, she would slowly notice your good points. Do you know why she likes Xue Zi Lan? Isn''t it because Xue Zi :an is a warm, generous and thoughtful? As long as you¡­"

    "Hold it."

    Su Nuan Nuan crossed her arms in front of her chest, shaking her head at Duan Tingxuan: "Just give up, even if you beat me to death, I could never turn into that kind of warm, generous and thoughtful little woman. Ever since my near death experience, I have had a great realisation. A person''s life can be summed up with two words. Food and Drink. Nothing is above delicious food. I am a proud gluttonous foodie, you go do your filial thing, if there are good things to eat, I''lle. This will be how we''ll get along in the future. I trust you have no objections to this?"

    "You¡­" Duan Tingxuan felt like there''s a mouthful of air stuck in his chest. Unable to swallow or spit out. After a long while, he smacked the table and red. "A couple one night, a hundred day''s grace, a woman cannot be too fussy."

    "It was once grace, but once broken there''s only disgrace. At best, I shall address you once as lord." Su Nuan Nuan''s lips curled. Want to do battle using idioms? Bring it.

    "You want to debate verses with me?" Duan Tingxuan gritted his teeth. "I mean it. Ever since you married me, we are joined as one body. Since I have already lowered my head, what else do you want?"

    Su Nuan Nuanughed coldly: "Don''t, my Lordship''s wife isn''t just me alone. If we''re going to talk about joined as one body, then just how many times can you split that body of yours? You talk about a couple one night, a hundred day''s grace? That day you tossed me into this Mei Yue Lou, where were these words? Did a dog ate it?"

    "The reason why you''re sent here, shouldn''t you know in your own heart? People outside the pce said I was dropping stones into a well due to your father''s matter, that I was favouring the concubines and looking to banish the wife."

    "However, the real reason you should know best, shouldn''t you?"

    "How did He Xiang and the child in her belly lost their lives?

    "Yue Yer being sold to a brothel was under who''s orders?"

    "When your father got into trouble, I spared no effort running around trying to fix the situation. You not only did not show any understanding, but stirred up trouble within the Inner Court instead."

    "You betrothed Yu Fu to a disabled man, annoying Great Madam until she fainted."

    "Even the children weren''t spared. Mao Ming falling into a pond was under who''s scheme? Who frightened Mao Chuan until he fell sick? Do you really want me toy out all these matter before you?"[2]

    Author''s Note: Come,e,e, collect rmendation tickets!

    Trantor''s Note: Dude, most of past Su Nuan Nuan''s crimes could be linked to your extreme l.u.s.tiness, ah. I think she just went crazy from you spreading your rain and dew all over the ce¡­I¡¯d probably bring out the scissors too, or a spoon. Yes, a spoon¡­

    [1] Duan Tingxuan''s mother ¨C I''ve decided to use Big Madam for Su Nuan Nuan, Great Madam for Duan Tingxuan¡¯s parent¡¯s generation, and Old Great Madam for the grandmother.

    [2]The seven paragraphs was originally one whole chunk, but I took creative licence and split them for dramatic purposes.

    Here¡¯s a picture of the Snow Soft Bean Paste snack I found on the. There¡¯s no equivalent English name for it. Gosh, I want to eat it!Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 25

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 25

    Chapter 25: To Part in Bad Terms

    Ooops, it looks like I identally skipped a posting date.

    As apology, I¡¯m posting out two chapters today, because I have a small stockpile and I can do this.

    *res at phone suspiciously* I thought I set you up to remind me of these things¡­

    Technology really is not my best of friends. Let¡¯s hope our readers forgive us.

    Please enjoy the chapter,

    Gumihou

    Crystal Aris, Maru and dy: Looks like we''re on the same page!

    Redsfable: Right? I''ve never seen this thing before, I''d love to try and make it, maybe next Chinese New Year when the oil budgetes in!

    The more Duan Tingxuan spoke, the more furious he became. Su Nuan Nuan who sat opposite him grew stiff as she listened to him speak, she muttered, "So I was such an evil woman? The sheer number of crimes seems too numerous to even record¡­"

    "That''s right, do you think you''re some sort of saint?" Duan Tingxuan was almost puffing with anger as he interrupted Su Nuan Nuan''s words. "So, have some awareness of your own character and don''t act as though the whole world is against you just for the sake of it. These crimes of yours, which one of them is not serious? All I did is lock you up in this Mei Yue Lou to reflect on your own mistakes, this could be considered giving face to our rtionship as husband and wife."

    "Since I''m such a terrible person, why don''t you just abandon me here? Why do you want me to make nice with Great Madam and pretend to make nice with you?" Su Nuan Nuan was no pushover, whatever Duan Tingxuan was nning, it''s better to nip the matter in the bud.

    "Isn''t it because¡­ I saw signs of you changing for the better and wish to give you a chance to rebuild rtionships?" Duan Tingxuan dered grandly, the matter rting to delicious food was something buried deep within his heart and not to be mentioned even at the pain of death.

    "Imagination, it''s all in your imagination." Su Nuan Nuan banged on the table sternly, saying, "Duan Tingxuan, I can tell you with utmost confidence that I am still that poisonous and sinister woman. The only thing that change is my kitchen skills. Due to various deals between us, I have allowed you to scrounge in my kitchen.¡±

    ¡°Don''t think of this as changing for the better, further more don''t even bother to think about repairing rtionships or whatever. Ever since I''ve returned from the dead, you''re a mere pa.s.sing breeze to me. From now on, there''s no need for you to direct any feelings towards me, just go run back to the bosom of your other wives and concubines."

    "What is this terrible reasoning?"

    Negotiations with his illogical wife just stop this way, there was just no reasoning with her and both parted in bad terms. The prince was left with only one impression, and that was: confusion and disorientation. It was all he could do to adapt to her weird style of thinking, no need to even bother counter attacking. Naturally, despite all the confusion, he did not forget to remind Si Ping to collect the paper bag of Xue Mien Tou Sa (Snow Soft Bean Paste) snacks.

    However, this reminder came at a cost for Si Ping. Having eaten a loss under Su Nuan Nuan''s hands, the prince was in a bad temper. As for Si Ping, he did not dare to even hint at his own share of the snacks from the sullen faced prince, not even at the pain of death. He could only hand over both paper bags full of snacks with tears in his eyes.

    "Su Nuan Nuan said that she''s still that same poisonous woman from before, do you believe it?"

    As he walked through the small garden path, Duan Tingxuan had a smallntern that was actually s.n.a.t.c.hed from Mei Yue Lou. Su Nuan Nuan already threatened to putxatives into his food if something bad happened to thentern, therefore Duan Tingxuan could not trust Si Ping with this important matter and held thentern himself instead.

    "Master, do you believe this yourself? Without mentioning anything else, today Big Madam allowed us to take some leftover red bean dumplings home, even Madam Lan would have some misgivings in letting us do that." Si Ping could not resist saying good words for Su Nuan Nuan, this shallow money pot had clearly been bought over by a few Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks.

    However, if Su Nuan Nuan had realized that her snacks have became sessful bribes, she would rather have fed the snacks to the chickens without letting Si Ping have a single piece.

    "As expected, even you saw through it." Duan Tingxuan obviously approved of Si Ping''s words, he was so cheerful that his eyes disappeared into lines as he said, "Now that she had turned over a new leaf, why did she refuse to be properly reconciled? Unless she ns to y hard to get? Hoho! Sure enough, a life and death situation is one that tested a person''s mettle most, having lived through such danger, the quality of her brain have also increased."

    The prince have identally fallen into the trap of unrequited love, he was in the process of being quietly proud of himself when he heard Si Ping said. "Um, that¡­Master, this small one just realized, Big Madam seemed to have loosen her hold quite a bit, did Master notice? She did not seemed to have any issue in offending Master, today''s weapon is rat traps, does it seem like someone who wants to hold onto a rtionship would do?"

    "Hngh!" Duan Tingxuan''s smile grew stiff on his face, with just a single line, Si Ping managed to burst his daydream. Helpless shame and anger made him aimed his feet at Si Ping''s b.u.t.t. "You nasty servant, if you had not reminded me I would have forgotten this matter. Though you saw her line those traps, you did not even bother to send a whisper of warning. You let your master, me, stroll in into the trap while you sit at the eye of the trouble waiting to see a good show, isn''t it?"

    "Master, it''s a lie, your servant has been framed to death! The Big Madam threatened this small one, ah. If she had just threatened this one''s small life, this one would have died for Master most peacefully and never yield. However, she was threatened this small one with delicious food, if this one dares to even breath a word to Master, she would risk everything including her life to kick Master out of Mei Yue Lou''s door and vow to never reconcile even if the both of you were to die from old age.¡±

    ¡°For the sake of Master being able to continue eating delicious food, this one was forced to endure such humiliation for this important mission. Master, surely you have noticed? As you endured the trials and your life hangs by the thread, this servant''s eyes were red from bitter tears."

    "You dog thing, are you telling this master to thank you? Without your contribution I would have died from starvation, is it?" Duan Tingxuan aimed another kick at Si Ping''s backside, and heard him said. "This small one does not dare, as long as Master is aware that this servant''s devotion is pure and true is good enough for this one. Actually, there''s no need for Master to be anxious, Master is a man of high birth with a lofty demeanour that stands head and shoulders above other people, although Big Madam is in a temper now, as time pa.s.ses she will eventually realise her feelings towards Master and eventually be a docile and obedient wife."

    "Pei! What docile and obedient wife?" Duan Tingxuan had been woken from his daydream, and said in sad tone. "Have you not realize yet? She is no longer what she used to be, if I want her to be the official wife again, I''m afraid the road to that goal is still quite far away."

    "There is no need to fear this road, after all Master it is quite familiar with it." Si Ping smacked his own chest as he said this. "Madam Lan, Madam Yun, Qing Yi Niang, which one of these are easy roads? In the end, did not Master managed to walk down these roads with sure footing and s.n.a.t.c.h victory back?"

    "In what way are they roads? At best, they are mere littlenes. Nuan Nuan is an actual road, at first, I was not afraid of this road, however, the more I walk, the more afraid I be. I''m terrified that there''s no end to this particr road." As he said this, Duan Tingxuan could not help but looked to the heavens and heaved a sigh, he looked as though he might actually cry.

    Seeing his master''s sad expression, Si Ping no longer dared toe up with any more funny moves. He could only rack his brains trying to find a way to help his master regain his spirits when he heard his master gave a shout, throwing both fists into the air. "I''ve decided! Even if this road has no end, I just walk it step by step, hmph, first, we must think of a way to get those three back into the Inner Court. It''s too worrying to let them continue staying at Mei Yue Lou, if something drastic happened and those birds decided to fly off the coop? It would be troublesome for me."

    As the prince finished saying this, he turned back to look at Si Ping. "Si Ping, don''t you think so? Did what I say make sense?"

    Si Ping have no words, his eyes fixed on thentern in Duan Tingxuan''s hands, after a long time he said in a trembling voice. "Master, broken¡­almost¡­broken¡­"

    "What almost broke?"

    "Thentern almost broke¡­ah! It really broke."

    "Oh, f***! Why do problems never end? Which shop made thisntern? This prince will go and smash their signboard. Ah, ah, ah, what should I do? I don''t want to eatxatives. Si Ping, in your opinion, if I offer up that pair of eight corner paintednterns that I had gotten from the pce aspensation, will that tigress be appeased¡­"

    [Trantor: Why do your problems never end? Because you are generating the problems yourself, you idgit.]Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 27

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 27

    Chapter 27: Putting on a Show

    Sorry for thete post, somehow I managed to skip tranting this chapter for some strange reason¡­Anyway, there¡¯s food p.o.r.n!

    Nadywing: All will be revealed here.

    Kirindas: He probably tossed and turned over thosenterns.

    Lily: x.x.x

    Megumi: x.x.x, thanks. I¡¯m a serialiner when ites to quality trantion, so gotta put in my best effort or bebelled a hypocrite!

    Please enjoy!

    Gumihou

    Duan Tingxuan smiled. "What is grandmother saying? It is a grandson''s obligation to show filial responsibility, what need is there for thanks? Your grandson cannot ept these words." As he spoke, he eyed the table full of food, and immediately instructed pointed out a few dishes that the Old Great Madam did not like. "Take these few dishes away, prepare a s.p.a.ce for me."

    The servants knew that the young master intends to show intended to express his filial consideration; thus two or three maids immediately came up with smiles on their faces to clear away the dishes that Old Madam did not like, leaving a s.p.a.ce in the middle. Duan Tingxuan turned and beckoned, Si Ping, Shuang Xi, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun came up, ced fourrge food boxes on the table and removed the lids.

    It turned out that each food box only contained one type of dish. Four person, therefore four types of dishes. Among them was arge bowl of the bone soup that Duan Tingxuan had especially requested for. The other three was left to Su Nuan Nuan to decide, even he did not know what the food boxes would reveal.

    Though there were only four dishes, the young master had actually spent a lot of effort to obtain them. The whole ofst night he loitered at Mei Yue Lou, trying to persuade Su Nuan Nuan to make something for dragon boat''s festival by promising to show her more kungfu moves. In the end she not only managed to extort over ten types of ingredients from him, but also forced him to sleep in the abandoned wing of Mei Yue Lou.

    The pitiful young master who had always lived in thep of luxury was forced to camp out in the empty room without proper bedding. Su Nuan Nuan naturally did not bother to give him any of her own bedclothes since he was the one who refused to leave. In the end, he and Si Ping spent the night on the hard stone kang [1] on some ragged cotton mattresses, trying to make do with what they have. After one night of that, his body was almost as stiff as a corpse.

    Though he had suffered, in the end the prince felt that it was all worth it. Though Su Nuan Nuan had warned him time and again to not open the boxes or to peek in, which made him worried about the possibility of her sabotaging the food. However, Hong Lian swore up and down with a hand on her chest that Big Madam had spent a lot of effort on the food, had even gotten up before dawn to start the preparation. Towards this steady and even tempered little maid, Duan Tingxuan felt he could still trust her. As for that Xiang Yun, he could see that she had turned as treacherous as her mistress. Luckily, Hong Lian still retained her steadiness as the head maid, and had not allowed her own mistress to dissuade from seeing the big picture.

    Therefore, the curious ones today weren''t only the rest of the family, but Duan Tingxuan himself was curious too. Just what did Su Nuan Nuan made today? Because he breathed in too loudly, all eyes were on him as he carefully removed the lid of one of the bowls. A sudden cloud of cold air wafted up, at a closer look, arge pile of white thing drizzled with pale yellow and red was revealed. As expected, this was nothing they had ever seen before.

    As he leaned in to study it more carefully, he heard Hong Lian started her exnation. "Our Missy said that this is called a ''smoothie''[2]. It''s made by grinding down ice blocks into fine pieces, milk is added first to the white part, cantaloupe juice, apricot juice and peach juice are added for sweetness. On top of that, there are the bearded gourds sent by the master yesterday, which madam really liked and had used two to make this dish. All that effort resulted in this one bowl only. Since today is so hot, Missy said that it''s the best time to eat it. Only, Old Madam is advised to try a just little bit due to her age. Just a bit to whet stimte the appet.i.te for other food."

    The ''bearded guard'' was actually musk melon, two small countries from the Western Region had brought a few dozen baskets of these as tribute. The emperor had granted twenty basket as reward to his officers. An Ping pce also received two baskets as a reward for their meritorious duties. Duan Tingxuan loved sweet things, and therefore really loved eating these.

    Yesterday, when he had gone to Mei Yue Lou to beg for gourmet food on behalf of his grandmother, he had brought a few of these as offerings, hoping to aim at her weak point. Looked like the result was really worth it. This bowl of smoothie really showed great thought and effort, though the rich already had a habit of eating ice during the summer months, it was only adding ice to wine or sweetened water. He had never seen people eat ice this way before.

    As expected, the moment such a thing appear, a sparkle lit up the Old Madam''s eyes. The children around them also stared with wide eyes, unconsciously licking their lips. Children are always interested in new things, especially for such a novel, delicious looking thing. There were not many who could endure the temptation.

    Immediately, Old Madam''s personal maid Qiu Ling scooped out a small bowl of the treat and handed it to the olddy. Unable to wait, the Old Madam took a spoonful and ced it in her mouth, carefully savouring the vour. She nodded and praised. "Delicious, very delicious. There''s the fragrance of apricots, the sweet taste of cantaloupes and bearded gourds. Also the creaminess of milk disguised the sharpness of the ice. The moment I swallow it, all that pesky heat just disappears. Very delicious, but who made it? Who was the one who made the effort to make such an borate dessert?"

    As she said this, she looked towards Hong Lian and said after a little hesitation. "If I remember correctly, you are that child Nuan Nuan''s personal maid? Did your madam made this?"

    Not waiting for Hong Lian to answer, Duan Tingxuan quickly said. "Old Madam is correct. This is Nuan Nuan''s new creation, since you like it, please eat a bit more. After we all have some, let''s try the other food." So saying, he gave the Old Madam a meaningful look.

    The Old Madam realised that there must be an exnation somewhere, her grandson''s expression clearly indicated that he will exin everythingter. She decided not to keep asking, and merely nodded with a smile. "Very well, very well, I''ll just have two more bites of this."

    As expected, after the little bowl of smoothie was gone, Old Madam''s summer heat seemed to have vanished with it. She looked at the table full of food with fresh eyes, and a keener appet.i.te When Duan Tingxuan saw his grandmother eating happily, he felt gratified as well. He quickly seized upon the second food box and found that it contained something green and white. The colours were very attractive, but he was not quite sure what he''s looking at. He looked up at Hong Lou, and saw her smiling.

    This time, Xiang Yun stepped forward with a smile to say, "Old Madam, our Missy said that this is Liang Pi''er[3]. It''s made using flour and water steamed into thin pancakes and sliced into broad noodles. It''s served with finely sliced cuc.u.mbers and could be eaten with sesame paste, garlic sauce, soy sauce, fragrant vinegar, sesame oil and other condiments."

    "This dish is good for stimting the appet.i.te and promotes good spleen health, please try it. This cuc.u.mber is actually quite difficult toe by, goodness knows how the master got his hands on some, otherwise, this dish would not have been made at all."

    "It''s nothing, there''s a green house in the West Pce, I got it from the crown prince actually." Duan Tingxuan casually exined in just one sentence, eyes on the Liang Pi. "This is also a new dish, Old Madam quickly try some, see if you''ll like it."

    Need they encourage more? Old Madam was a person of advanced age, her sense of taste and smell had declined over the years, whatever she ate seemed tasteless nowadays. This Liang Pi dish came with all sorts of strong sauces, sour and fragrant, good for stimting the appet.i.te. The olddy ate quite a few mouthfuls before pausing to say, "Aiya, I''ve identally eaten so much, yi, are there no restrictions on this?"

    Xiang Yun was puzzled. "Restrictions?"

    Old Madam said with some hidden bitterness. "I am an old woman, my body is weak. Didn''t your own madam said it? Because of my age, I cannot eat too much smoothie." though the olddy cannot afford to be too greedy, she still have some resentment against this.

    Author''s Note: After reading this chapter, do you feel that although Nuan Nuan is not in the scene, her presence could be described as ''Though sister is not in Jiang Hu, she lives on in the Jiang Hu¡¯s legends'' kind of feeling?

    Trantor''s Note: I don''t know about you guys but, I definitely felt Nuan Nuan''s presence in these hallowed halls (dining room). I wonder what the other dish is?

    [1] Kang bed ¨C heatable stone bed.

    [2] Smoothie ¨C I googled the word ±ùÉ³, which literally means ¡®ice sand¡¯ and smoothie came out.

    [3] Liang Pi ¨C Literally ¡®cool skin¡¯, which would be really weird to say in English, lol. I want to eat cool skin¡­Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

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 Chapter 28

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 28

    Chapter 28: Various Hidden Opinions

    Sorry for thete post, I¡¯m in the middle of (trying to) trante Kitchen Xiuzhen. There are just too many technical terms to keep straight.

    Maru, Who Cares, A Foodie: That''s what I thought too, but majority of the pictures kicked out by weibo is smoothie, so let''s go with that. Though I do wonder what technique Su Nuan Nuan uses to make actual smoothie without a blender.

    Kirindas: Thank''s for the head''s up on the typo! x.x.x

    Crystal Aris: Hehe, we''ll see.

    Daniel: You should, it''s a great experience.

    Manga Hunter: I wanted some too, hehe

    Kokorosy: Close to ice-cream without the actual cream, you mean.

    Queu: Cuc.u.mbers are cheap now, but apparently they are expensive then!

    For fans of Here Comes the Lady Chef, though I did say that I hated the characters, it¡¯s way easier to trantepared to Kitchen Xiuzhen, especially after I, ahem, utilized a super unique technique also known as trolling. That¡¯s right, I am a troll. I am a terrible person to sit beside during a movie because I would talk, a lot. I don¡¯t go to theaters anymore because they *gasp* don¡¯t allow talking.

    But, rest a.s.sured fans of The Lady Chef, I¡¯m going to make it troublesome to actually see my, ah,ments. (At least, I asked my technologically advanced friend to make it so). If you love the story, ignore the suspicious white s.p.a.ces. Also, as an added point of difficulty, the Lady Chef has actual poems in it. Which is really cool, but tricky to trante.

    Ignore this terrible person,

    Please enjoy!

    Gumihou

    "Puchi!" Xiang Yun identally let out augh. She quickly shook her head and said, "Since Missy did not say anything about it, then it should be all right."

    The Old Madam was so happy when she heard this that her chopsticks came up again, but was interrupted by Duan Tingxuan, "Grandmother, you really can''t eat more of these."

    "Why? Didn''t you bring this to me as filial consideration? Could it be that you secretly intend to keep this to yourself and is afraid that I''ll eat everything? Is this why you want to stop me?" Old Madam Fang red at her grandson, where''s the filial consideration you wish to show me? How is this filial consideration? Are you trying to bully this olddy?

    "Grandmother."

    Duan Tingxuan didn''t know whether tough or cry. Unexpectedly this strict grandmother of his who had always ced rules and customs above all else was actually a foodie. No wonder upon wondering into Mei Yue Lou he found himself unable to leave. So this was the source of it all. His parents had never ced any special importance on food, he''d been wondering just where had this bit of characteristic came from? Turns out it''s from this venerable Old Madam.

    "Hn?" the Old Madam snorted loudly, her meaning very clear. Just how are you going to exin yourself?

    "Grandmother, there are still two more dishes. If you eat all the Liang Pi, wouldn''t that leave you less s.p.a.ce for other to enjoy other dishes? Don''t say this grandson of yours did not warn you, the bone soup is almost too delicious to be true."

    "What a close call, I almost forgot about this." in front of gourmet food, even the stern Old Madam could joke around. She pretended to wipe her forehead, as if she had really been frightened into a cold sweat. Then, her suspicion arose once more. "Bone soup? Isn''t that stuff used to boil noodles or serve as extra seasoning for other dishes? Why? Can we really drink it straight?"

    Duan Tingxuan nodded with a smile. "Oh yes, your grandson guarantees that this bone soup can be drunk straight. Once you try it, you''ll be convinced that this is actually heavenly food, one that us humans could only sip a few mouthfuls."

    "Is it really that good? To the point where you rearranged the poems of your ancestors?" Old Madam Fang felt curious and amused. By now, Duan Tingxuan himself could not wait any more and reached out to remove the cover on the third pot, and found himself looking at a pile of ordinary ingredients. Stir fried bean sprouts and fresh bamboo shoots. This was something normally eaten at the pce. In the eyes of everyone, there was a vague sense of relief, thank goodness something normal finally appeared.

    It''s just some regr cooking, how could this Su Nuan Nuan be some kind of chef?

    Actually after many years of self polishing, Su Nuan Nuan had mastered the used of various seasoning to the point of perfection. Her grasp of heating technique was so perfect that even imperial kitchens could not bepared. How could a mere high official''s pce kitchens be able to beat her in terms of technique?

    Old Madam Fang grabbed a bowl of rice and ate half a te of the bean sprouts in one go. She was almost full when she realized that they have not officially started eating yet. It''s almost unbelievable how she had lost herself so many times in one day. With a slightly embarra.s.sed face, she said. "Let''s eat, let''s eat, just letting you watch me eat makes me really self conscious."

    The people around could not help themselves as they rolled their eyes. This olddy still have face to say this kind of words? Didn''t you just happily ate half a te? If you really have no self conscious, would you actually swallow the whole te? Really, it''s just some bamboo shoot and bean sprouts, do you really have to eat it like it''s some kind of special gourmet food? What kind of good food have not touched your lips before?

    Though they all thought like this, their faces still wore ingratiating smiles. Normally, in front of this venerable grandmother, Madam Yang would have little to say, but due to her son''s extraordinary demonstrations, she alsoughed along happily. "Why is Old Madam in such a hurry to send us away? What''s a little waiting for a good meal? In any case, let us take a look at this bones soup that could only be described as heaven''s food, where mere mortals could only sip a little before we leave."

    Hearing this, everyoneughed heartily. Even the Old Madam was swaying withughter as she pointed at Madam Yang, stillughing she said, "Yes, yes, very well, with such a splendid son, as a mother you have the right to be proud. Fine, fine, in order to prevent you all from calling me an old foodiedy, I''ll let you all have a look. I am curious myself. I know that bone soup could be fragrant and delicious, but could this stuff really be drunk directly? Never heard of this."

    As she spoke, Duan Tingxuan already removed the fourthrge bowl''s cover. Immediately, a powerful meaty fragrance emitted. Xue Zi Lan smiled, "It''s definitely fragrant, this is the bone soup mentioned by my Lord? It doesn''t look like it. What are those things inside? Those looks like red dates, and that''s¡­peanuts?"

    For a time, everyone spected on the soup and what it contained. Old Madam Fang immediately had a small bowl, and felt that it was not enough. Seeing the daughter-inws, granddaughter-inws as well as her many great-grandsons around her, she gave a little he-he chuckle and said. "Very well, very well, I can''t finish this all by myself. Chiu Ling, you portion this out for everyone. While it won''t make you full, you can at least try some. This really is a never seen before gourmet dish."

    Everyone''s curiosity had been arose. Hearing Old Madam Fang word it this way, they immediately thank her noisily. This made the olddy happy enough tough out loud. She turned to Chiu Ling, "Enough, I am very happy today. My appet.i.te is good too. Peel a Zong Zi (sticky rice dumpling) [1] for me, get me one with meat in it."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled. "Old Madam please don''t eat too much. They are wrapping Zong Zi over there too, but we could only try them at night. I heard that the zong zi are stuffed with all kinds of interesting things. Afterwards, I shall bring some for Old Madam to try."

    Old Madam Fang was stunned, for a moment. Then, she quickly replied with a smile and a nod. "They are? Oh, that''s good. What kind of fancy Zong Zi would theye up with?"

    The things brought over are not ungenerous, but since it was split among so many people, in the end it was not enough. The children were still young, and almostpletely surrounded the smoothie bowl. The adults only managed to try a mouthful each, though they all thought it was delicious and wished to eat more, they did not have the face to fight the children over it. They could only stare as the small children battle among themselves for the smoothie.

    Due to this pleasant surprise, the Dragon Boat Festival lunch was a cheerful sess all around. Once lunch was over, it was only with with the excuse that Old Lady Fang must rest her frail body that everyone dispersed, leaving only Duan Tingxuan in her house.

    As they walked away, the smiles on the various masters and mistresses of the house faded. All kinds of hidden thoughts could no longer be concealed as they floated up and colour their faces with all kinds of expressions.

    "Where did elder brother get those fresh and new dishes? For this Dragon Boat Festival, to make a good impression, we have prepared all kinds of rare spices in order to show our filial consideration. Who would have thought that he would grab the limelight with those few dishes and turn her head so quickly? All our efforts had been wasted, I just can''t take it, I just can''t!"

    Surname Shi entered the house, angrily muttering. When she did not hear her husband''s reply, she turned to look, and saw Duan Tingye pacing up and down slowly behind her. Unhappily, she said, "What are you doing walking around like that? Think of a good n, ah."

    Duan Tingye gave his wife a look, and said just as unhappily, "What if I stop walking around? Will a good n just appear?"

    Surname Shi stood up, "This kind of good food can''t just suddenly appear. I''m thinking, to give such an borated show coupled with cooking skills, a woman has to be involved. Knowing elder brother''s att.i.tude, perhaps he''s harbouring someone outside? Possibly because he can''t just bring her into the house, he sought to entice the Old Madam over to his side. As long as he could appease the old woman, everything will go smoothly for him.

    The more she talked about it, the more convinced she became. She directed a smiled at Duan Tingye, "Since you''re often outside, did you not hear anything? Follow any rumours you might hear, once we get to the bottom of it we can just drop it at the right time and watch a good show. By then, won''t the Old Master be even more disappointed with elder brother?"

    Duan Tingye shook his head. "You are thinking too much. Not only did I hear nothing. But that elder brother of ours, he''d even bought prost.i.tute in as a concubine, what could he possibly be worried of that needs the Old Madam''s approval? From what I can see, though this matter is curious, it''s not something out of the blue. Did you not notice the two maids? Even the Old Madam mentioned it, those two maids clearly came from Big Madam''s side, say¡­do you think it''s possible that those things were made by Big Madam?"

    Surname Shi curled her lips, and sneered. "How could that ipetent, poisonous woman have such a detailed mind? If she''s really that good, she have would never have been cast out into Mei Yue Lou. You listen to me, those two maids are just red herrings, he must have some s.l.u.t outside. You just pay careful attentions to the rumours outside. Whatever you hear could only benefit us."

    Hearing his wife made such an a.n.a.lysis, he could not help but felt some excitement too. There''s a saying that husband and wife tended to resemble each other after marriage, this was an especially significant point. Just look at this Second Young Master Duan, after having married such a greedy and scheming woman, with an imagination that could make her a sessful novelist, he also grew excited over the imagined oue. As such, Duan Tingye was swept up into this ''Duan Tingxuan has a kept woman outside'' theory and spent over half a month chasing after rumours. In the end, the result was like scooping water with a basket, a waste of time and energy.

    Naturally, Surname Shi was an evil woman and Duan Tingye was no virtuous bird himself. However, because these two are united in their hearts and mind, in their part of the pce, aside from two maids no other women resided there. We have to admit, in this regard, Second Young Master Duan good point was that he focused all of his attention on his wife and rejected the lecherous ways of his elder brother.

    In the end, it was due to theck of information that led Second Young Master Duan to chase after the rumours in Surname Shi''s imagination. For Xu Ran Yun, no such mistaken path was trodden upon.

    When Hong Lian and Xiang Yun appeared, her heart rattled like crisis drums. A few days ago she had thought that she and Duan Tingxuan had joined forces to eradicate that terrible woman. When no news of the three women''s fates came to her, she had already raised the danger level of Mei Yue Lou up by two points.

    However, because Dragon Boat Festival was just around the corner and there were just too many things to take care of, she had put that matter away, thinking to deal with them after the festival. She had to nip this me of interest on that woman as soon as possible.

    Who would have thought that in just these few days, that little me had turned into an inferno. Managing to even burn an impression upon the Old Madam. Who knows, perhaps this woman would even burn back into the Inner Court, how could this not make her furious?

    Author''s Note: Ask for rmendation tickets, don''t forget me, I''ll write more!

    [1] Zong Zi ¨C Glutinous rice (sticky rice) wrapped in bamboo leaves. May be sweet or savoury. Savoury ones may be filled with meat, salted duck''s eggs, crushed roasted peanuts, ck eyed peas, chestnuts or fatty pork, or all of the above. Sweet ones could be stuffed with crushed roasted peanuts and sugar or even red bean paste¡­I want one now¡­Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 2 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 29

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 29

    Chapter 29: Grandparent Grandson Chat

    Crystal Aris: Interesting theory, we''ll see how it pans out

    Maru: The chapter came at a perfect time!

    Who Cares: As someone who likes to collect cooking techniques, thank you for the tip!

    Kirindas: x.x.x

    Today is a little filler chapter, sorry for the wait!

    Please enjoy!

    Gumihou

    "No, we can''t allow her and the master to continue toe into contact any more." In the room, Xu Ran Yun spoke angrily to Jiang Yi Niang. "It wasn''t easy to get her out of the Inner Court into that Mei Yue Lou, I will not see my efforts wasted this way and see her traipse back in here."

    "But, Madam, if the master really have feelings for her again, even if you do not wish it, what could we do?" Jiang Yi Niang''s face was also filled with anxiety. This matter had happened too fast, so fast that it did not give them a chance to properly respond.

    Xu Ran Yun narrowed her eyes, sheughed coldly and said. "This is not only bad news for me. That Xue Zi Lan has always presented herself as a virtuous person, hasn''t she? This is why Great Madam Yang likes her, she will not risk her position in this round of battle. You think of a way to convey this matter to Jing Yi Niang. I will inquire for more news on my side. If this Xue Zi Lan really refuses to stick her neck out, I too will have to maintain my good wife and mother act. Once that woman arrive, we can all suffer from a series of mysterious bad luck. Let''s see how she keeps her cool after that."

    Jiang Yi Niang anxiously said. "Madam, you can''t! Though that Madam Lan will never go against you, when Big Madam was still at the Inner court, she was the only who was willing to take the role of a concubine in front of her. Though that Big Madam still bullies her, but because of her softer nature, Big Madam still hates you a bit more. Not to mention Mei Yue Lou''s allowances had not been given out these past few months. Wouldn''t Big Madam suspect you for this?"

    "If Big Madam reallyes back, she and Madam Lan would surely team up against you. I''m just saying this, but how would Madam Lan even stop her froming back? Not mention, ever since you''ve been put in charge of the household ounts, she had been pushed into a lower position."

    Xu Ran Yunughed coldly, " I don''t believe that she''d work with that woman just to get out of a lower position. Besides, she is not stupid, do you think that once Big Madam destroys me she would just let Xue Zi Lan go? Don''t you know the saying ''upying the same boat''? Moreover, based on the Lord''s att.i.tude, he has every intention of forgiving this woman. It''s likely that he has feelings for her again. If I were to make a move alone on this, wouldn''t the master hate me to death? She would have the fish as well as all the fish caught in it. At this point, we''re stuck between two bad choices, so we might as well pull her into the hot water with us."

    Jian Yi Niang stared nkly as she thought hard. Then, she sadly said. "What Madam said made sense, since it''s this way, this one shall go to Jing Yi Niang''s ce and pa.s.s on the message, Madam Lan would surely do the same?"

    Compared to all the furtive scheming and gossiping within the pce, conversation at the North Court was much more rxed.

    Duan Tingxuan and Old Madam Fang were exchanging some idle gossip when the Old Madam switched the subject, wanting to know about the origin of these special dishes. He decided toe clean at once. The Old Madam incredulous as she muttered. "When I saw those two maids, I had my suspicions. As expected, these dishes are done by Su Nuan Nuan, just when did she picked up these kitchen skills?"

    Duan Tingxuan smiled. "You''re not the only one curious, even I have no idea. ording to Hong Lian she always had these skills, but ever since she married into the family she rarely stepped into the kitchen due to her higher status. When Zi Lan came, followed by Ran Yun the next year, well, ahem. Your grandson''s att.i.tude, surely Old Madam understands the most. Su Nuan Nuan became angry at me, and so never revealed her skills¡­"

    Not waiting for him to finish, he saw the Old Madam shaking her head. "Aih! This time the one at fault is her, it is perfectly normal for a man to have three wives and four concubines. She should have worked harder in order to secure your affections, if she had utilized these skills earlier, then all these other nonsense would not have happened. Then, would she ever have any fear of you turning away?

    As Duan Tingxuan listened, eh? Even though he really liked Su Nuan Nuan''s cooking, but he could never let Old Madam see him as nothing more than foodie controlled by his giant stomach. Once the news gets around, his glorious image as a prince would be ruined. So he quickly said, "Grandmother, it''s not like that. This Su Nuan Nuan had done all kinds of bad things in the past, your grandson certainly won''t forgive her actions just like that."

    "Oh really?" The Old Madam raised an eyebrow, and quietlyughed at her grandson: "Then, why are you forgiving her now? Is it not because of those delicious food?"

    Duan Tingxuan turned red, and coughed to cover up his awkwardness and said firmly. "Grandmother have you heard that people changed when they encounter near death situations? That Su Nuan Nuan tried tomit suicide once, and almost died. Ever since that day she had changed a lot, had broke through a barrier and gained great wisdom, your grandson has personally seen that she is no longer that bitter poisonous person from before and thus have decided, after much consideration, to forgive her. Otherwise, surely your grandson isn''t someone who could be blinded by delicious food and could not tell a wicked person from good?"

    "I understand my grandson most." Old Madam nodded her head slowly.

    Duan Tingxuan breathed a sigh of relief. He grinned. "Right? Right? I knew grandmother knew me best."

    "Hm, my grandson is an outstanding child, always steady and cautious in his behaviour. When he speaks in such an overbearing tone, it is either that he has something important to convey, or that he has something to hide." Old Madam continued to nod her head slowly.

    "Grandmother, who says I have something to hide?" Duan Tingxuan didn''t know whether tough or to cry. "That said, why would I have something to hide?"

    "Once a person received an unexpected treat, they must pay for itter." Old Madam Fang looked at her grandson with a very meaningful gaze.

    Duan Tingxuan had lost. "Yes, yes, very well it is as you say, who ask me to be your grandson? As long as you''re happy I''ll treat you anything you like, I''ll cut my flesh for you to eat if you like."

    "Nonsense, whether it''s pork, mutton or beef I have restrained myself from eating those delicious meats, why should I eat yours? Furthermore, the folk tales have always said that human flesh tasted sour, unappetizing."

    Duan Tingxuan had thoroughly lost all sense of indignation, who would have thought that this Old Madam after having eaten a good meal would be such an excellent mood? He was in the middle of trying to think of a way to ease the matter of Su Nuan Nuan in when the olddy herself suggested arranging to have her move back in to the inner court. The old woman who had seen through his schemes, made a he-heugh as she said. "Since you said that Su Nuan Nuan has sincerely mended her ways, and since she could produce such excellent dishes, why not let her return to the Inner Court?"

    "Who said she has mended her ways?" Duan Tingxuan blinked confusedly at the old madam: That woman is fiercer now that ever, okay? Just for these four dishes, do you know how much she had extorted from him?

    "Didn''t you say so? That she had changed a lot, that she ''had broke through a barrier and gained great wisdom''?" This time, it was the old woman''s turn to be confused.

    "Well, it is true that she had gained great wisdom, but she definitely did not mend her ways." Duan Tingxuan sighed sadly.

    "Then¡­your grandmother do not understand. What is the meaning of ''have gained great wisdom'' but ''did not mend her ways''." The olddy was bing quite confused, especially since her grandson looked like a cabbage that had gone through drought season, his head drooping sadly.

    Feeling greatly wronged, he said. "Grandmother, why must you ask questions when you already know the answers? Though Su Nuan Nuan had gained better wisdom, but her hatred for me has not lessened a single thread. In fact, it had hardened into stone. Did you not see that though today is the dragon boat festival, she did not even bother to show her face?"

    Old Madam Fang was speechless. In her heart she muttered: My dear grandson, I was not questioning about things I already know, I really did not know anything, ah.

    Trantor: ¡­ when even the venerable Old Lady of the house encourages concubines (don¡¯t forget, she gifted her son a bedpanion) it¡¯s very difficult to me Duan Tingxuan too much.

    On another note, I have to admire Admin-san for being able to churn out so many chapters in one go at a time. I am¡­doing my best, using the only method I know which is hand tranting with the help of dictionaries and Google Trante (though most of the time I ended upughing at the results).Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 30

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 30

    Chapter 30: Dreams and Fancies

    This chapter is dedicated to those who thinks Duan Tingxuan paid too cheaply for the four dishes from the previous chapters.

    Please enjoy!

    Gumihou

    Crystal Aris: Lol, like Su Nuan Nuan would probably have to be dragged screaming and kicking.

    Queue: This is why I love the Feast, all those incredible imagery!

    Zea: Lol, it seems really easy until one actually tries it. Kind of like skiing.

    Meep: If you''re interested, I use a dictionary app called ''yomiwa'' for j.a.panese trantion

    Moto: Haha, he probably won''t feel it.

    Kirindas: x.x.x

    Daniel: I have no idea either, we onlymunicate via email and¡­I really want them to email me and scold me for ''stealing'' their trantion. Partly why I''m putting up a new page. More on that soon, I hope¡­

    Grandmother and grandson were silent for a moment, Qiu Ling who was next to them could not stand the silence any more cheerfully said. "It''s natural for Big Madam to be angry with the master. After all, the master had banished her to Mei Yue Lou to fend for herself, anyone in that position would be angry. But, speaking of which, didn''t master used to hate Big Madam to the bones before? Otherwise master would not have cast her out like that, but then why did master''s feelings changed? Why did master suddenly decided to visit Mei Yue Lou?"

    "When I first went to Mei Yue Lou, I was just curious to see if the three of them have starved to death¡­" As soon as he said this, the whole story poured out. From the very beginning with thoserge leek dumplings all the way to the You Ping and soy bean milk, also those minced pork whatever, when he finally reached the Snow Soft Red Bean Paste, he heard a ''gulu'' sound. The prince who had been caught up in his own story telling suddenly paused. He looked carefully at his grandmother and saw a pair of shining eyes staring back, like those of a starving wolf that had not eaten for days. The sound he heard was the olddy swallowing her saliva.

    "G-grandmother¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan couldn''t help but feel a faint tingling at his scalp, the Old Madam''s eyes were just too scary. Like, like she was about to leap at him and take a bite out of his flesh. He gave a frightened shout. At that sound the Old Madam pped him and burst out in full anger. "You disrespectful scoundrel, how dare you not bring these nice things to show your filial respect when you knew about them. Instead, you''ve eaten them all!"

    "No, no, grandmother, this grandson thinks of you all the time." Duan Tingxuan leapt away quickly.

    However, the Old Madam did not believe him. She gritted her teeth and said. "Lies, then why did I not see a single Soft Snow Red Bean snack? Aren''t they all eaten by you? How dare you call yourself filial, even Si Ping knows to bring those things home to his old mother, what bout you?"

    As Old Madam Fang said this, still in a temper, she reached out for her dragon head cane. The grandmother-grandson duo that had been in harmony just now had broken apart for the sake of a few Snow Soft Red Bean snacks. The maids were helpless as the Old Madam flew at the prince as though she wanted to kill him.

    On the other hand, the prince was still standing his ground trying to win with proper exnations: "Grandmother, this grandson of yours is really thinking of you, ah. Those Snow Soft Red Bean snacks were all cold by the time it was brought out. If you''ve really eaten them, you''d suffer from a stomach ache. Also, there were actually just a few of them, not enough to be split, in order not to cause disputes, your grandson has tearfully eaten them¡­"

    "You rascal, how dare you try and turn back to white? You think this olddy is easy to make fun of?"

    Old Madam Fang''s extreme anger could be heard all the way outside the house. The temper that burst out startled and delighted the servants. What startled them was why this olddy would suddenly lose her temper over a few snacks? Isn''t Old Madam the pir of all that was rule abiding and dignified? The delight was the energy she disyed, clearly this olddy was still vigorous enough live for another twenty to thirty years, this big mountain behind their backs will stay firmly in power for quite some time yet.

    "I don''t care, this whatever Snow Soft Red Bean snacks, I want at least two or three hundred pieces, otherwise I can''t go on living."

    At Mei Yue Lou''s balcony, Su Nuan Nuan who was in the middle of inspecting her newly arrived ingredients suddenly straightened up. She coldly said. "Here I was wondering why you''re so kind as to bring two baskets of eggs, so this is your real motive. Well? You want to use my goods to make nice with your other wives? I''m going to say this once, dream on!"

    "Do you really think I still have time for them, ah?" The prince was almost in tears: "Didn''t you hear? Yesterday the Old Madam, because she heard that I''ve eaten the Snow Soft Red Bean snacks without bringing her any, chased after me with her cane to beat me up. Ever since I was a child she had never treated me like this, I''ve never suffered such terrible misery, are you satisfied now? Isn''t it just a few red bean snacks?"

    Despite her hatred towards this rascal, hearing this sad tale was enough to make her speechless: Heavens, this An Ping pce is certainly full of crouching tigers and hidden dragons. It''s one thing to find out that this Duan Tingxuan has a hidden foodie side to him, but to think that venerable Old Madam was also an unexpected foodie who knows martial arts. For the sake of Snow Soft Red Bean snacks to reveal such unexpectedly powerful martial skills. That''s¡­arade, ah.

    "No matter what, please make those Snow Soft Red Bean snacks. Even my father, who''s usually a cold and aloof person, called me to his study pretending to want to inquire about this Snow Soft Red Bean thing." Remembering his father''s hypocritical face, which clearly showed a desire to eat the snacks but still pretending to be cool, Duan Tingxuan felt like pulling at his own cheeks, and tearing his mouth apart: Who told you to forget yourself and told the the Old Madam about the Snow Soft Red Bean snacks? At this point, even his dignified old man has fallen prey.

    This time Su Nuan Nuan did not give Duan Tingxuan too much grief and happily made a few hundred more Snow Soft Red Bean snacks. After all, the one who''s tired was not her. Have you ever seen a prince beat eggs until he couldn''t lift his arm any more? This is called retribution.

    Watching Duan Tingxuan order a few of the young boys carry away the Soft Snow Red Bean snacks, Hong Lian uncertainly asked, "Missy, why is your temper so good today? That''s a few hundred Snow Soft Red Bean snacks, ah. And the ones master has begged you to make, and you''ve them so happily. This is quite unusual."

    "What are you trying to say?" Su Nuan Nuan gave her a side ways nce. She heard Hong Lianughed behind her hand, saying. "Did Missy have a change of heart?"

    "I knew you''re day dreaming again." Su Nuan Nuan sneered, she waved a dismissive hand and said seriously. "I will say this once more. I have no feelings towards that rascal. As for why I happily agree to this, first, is topensate for his quality ingredients, second, don''t you think it''s funny to see how pathetic your lord and master look when he could hardly lift his arms? As for the third reason, he-he, let''s see, if I can use food to entrap the Old Madam and get her to beat up this rascal a three times a day, how wonderful that would be. Just thinking about it makes me happy."

    Hong Lian''s sweat all popped out, her mistress really was a poisonous wife. Beaten three times a day? Do you think the prince is a dog? She quickly tried to reason with her, "Missy, that''s impossible. Don''t take the Lord''s exaggerated words at face value. The Old Madam is clearly just scaring him a bit. How could she really beat up the prince? Furthermore three times a day? The prince is the Old Madam''s favourite grandson."

    "I know, I was just fantasising a little, cheering myself a bit." Su Nuan Nuan gave the wet nket of a maid a fierce re. "Hong Lian, you must remember this. A person must have their dreams. A person without dreams is no different from a dried fish."

    "Having the Old Madam beat up the Lord three times a day is¡­Missy''s dream?" Hong Lian cautiously asked.

    "Hm, my number one dream." Su Nuan Nuan smiled and waved her hands. "Enough, let''s not talk about him,e, help me move these ingredients into the kitchen. Hm, it looks like our kitchen is a little small. Let''s see if we can get Duan Tingxuan to bring in some people here to renovate. After all there are n.o.body staying in these rooms. We could just turn it into two big s.p.a.ces, one for the kitchen and the other can be our pantry."

    The things brought by Duan Tingxuan were many. Su Nuan Nuan with Hong Lian had only carried in tworge sacks of rice and were panting and sweating. Stretching out an arm, she said uncertainly, "Hong Lian, do you think that your master is toying with me? He told me to do the horse stance, and said would teach me some breathing exercises. It''s been three days howe I don''t see any improvements? I''m still pretty weak, ah."

    "It''s only been three days, what kind of improvement are you expecting? Being able to lift a thousand jin?" Hong Lian had no other words as she said this towards the mistress who did not seemed to have any self awareness.

    "That''s Chu Ba w.a.n.g''s[1] speciality, naturally I''m not that unrealistic. However, one hundred jin should be no problem, right?" Su Nuan Nuan flexed her arm again, gritting her teeth, saying. "I do believe that Duan Tingxuan may have been ying around with me."

    "Missy, you have no evidence for this, furthermore considering your age, and the fact that you''re a woman¡­"

    Hong Lian wanted to defend Duan Tingxuan with a few words, but before she was able to say anything else, her mistress broke her off with a stern "Stop!" Her mistress looked at her with a pained expression, saying. "Hong Lian, ah, Hong Lian, how could you change so quickly? Just because your master sent us this bit of ingredients, and you''re sold to his side? Just look at yourself, you''ve almost be his dog. Have you forgotten his hateful decision at that time, throwing us into this Mei Yue Lou in order to live or die by ourselves?"

    "Missy, this servant is just considering things¡­" Hong Lian weakly defended herself, it''s clear that Su Nuan Nuan would not believe her.

    Both mistress and servant were about to speak at the same time when warm tender voice carrying a hint of smile wafted from the door. "Elder sister, what is it that made you so happy?"

    Who was this? What is she saying? Which eye saw that I was happy? Su Nuan Nuan put her hands on her hips and turned to look. Suspicious of every female within the pce she had unconsciously taken on an aggressive stance, looking very much like an angry teapot. However, in the next moment her entire body went ck with amazement, she blinked stupidly for quite a while, muttering to herself: "A G.o.ddess, did I just see a G.o.ddess? Is that Luo Shen[2] or Chang E[3]? That''s not right, Luo Shen lives in the water and Chang E lives in the Moon Pce, also it is day time now, and we''re at the pce courtyard."

    "Why have Madam Lane?"

    Hong Lian''s voice allowed Su Nuan Nuan toe back to herself. A vague memory floated up in her mind, reminding her that this stunning beauty was Duan Tingxuan''s other wife: The niece of Government Officer Zheng, Xue Zi Lan.

    Pearl amongst pigs, it''s a pearl among pigs, ah.

    Seeing Xue Zi Lan slowly walk into the court, Su Nuan Nuan could not help but cast her eyes to the heavens and heave a deep sigh. I''m asking you, why such a wonderous, stunning beauty, lovely enough to topple cities like yourself would blindly marry such as rascal like Duan Tingxuan? So what if it''s as a second wife? Isn''t that just slightly better than a concubine? If you''re that willing to be a concubine why not enter the imperial pce instead? Just based on your looks, you could easily rise above the three thousand other beauties in the pce, why must youe here and be a second wife?

    You''re still a daughter of a government officer, isn''t this like poking flowers into dung, good cabbage eaten by pigs? Was your head kicked in by an a.s.s, or was your father''s head kicked by that a.s.s? Luckily your family didn''t involve themselves in the trading business, otherwise wouldn''t this kind of decision making skills make a huge loss?

    "It''s been so many days since I''ve seen elder sister, you''re still as elegant as ever, this makes younger sister happy." While Su Nuan Nuan was busy devaluing the other person''s family, Xue Zhi Lan had delicately greeted her, and was now sobbing out her concern.

    No matter where or when, this was still a world that values a person for their looks. For example, if Xu Ran Yun was in front of Su Nuan Nuan pretending to be all innocent, she would have kicked her as far as she could. Because although this Xu Ran Yun was pretty, her beauty was at the same level as Su Nuan Nuan, nothing at all like Xue Zi Lan''s other worldly level of enchantment.

    Trantor¡¯s Note: Su Nuan Nuan is so awesome, but I do wonder what the Xue Zi Lan is here for.

    [1] Chu Ba w.a.n.g ¨C A prominent warlord who lived in thete Qin dynasty

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xiang_Yu

    [2]Luo Shen ¨C G.o.ddess of the river Luo, described as a ''being of an utmost beauty and tenderness''

    Chang E ¨C From the Legend of Change E, usually a.s.sociated with the moon

    Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 31

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 31

    Chapter 31: Detective Work

    Crystal Aris: Looks like it.

    Moto: You seemed to have the same dream as Su Nuan Nuan.

    Tsuru: Your wish will happen tomorrow ^_^

    Who Cares: Thanks for the tip, I want to know how, just in case I got sent to the past and my life hangs on a smoothie.

    Maru: Hoho, are you a prophet?

    Kirindas: Yup, and Su Nuan Nuan would love it if more troublees to him.

    Apologies if the chapters seemed scattered and slow. I¡¯ve tranted at least one chapter for all the novels. It took a long time because I had to make notes on the Who¡¯s Who and What¡¯s What of each novel. It kind of eats into The Feast and Okonomiyaki trantions.

    As for when it will be out, well, it depends on my inte savvy friend. He¡¯s been a bit busytely and I¡¯m reluctant to pester him too much since he¡¯s doing me a favour. Nevertheless, I promise that the trantions are ongoing, and for every week that pa.s.ses, at least one chapter of all the novels are being tranted.

    Even the one I hated, which had been elevated to merely ¡®despised¡¯, since I found a way to work with it. And yes, I will post it in cl.u.s.ters, once the website is done.

    Enough of that,

    Please enjoy the Feast!

    Gumihou

    And so, faced with such a tearful beauty, Su Nuan Nuan could not bear to hit or kick her. She could only wave her hand back and forth, saying, "Fine, fine, aren''t I in excellent condition? What are you crying for? If you''re really that worried about me where have you been these past few months? Why haven''t you visit me then?"

    Xue Zi Lan answered with a choking voice, "It''s little sister who has offended elder sister, there''s nothing I can say. You know that I''ve always been meek. Ever since elder sister left the Inner Court, all matters had been left in the hands of Madam Yun. Little sister has to live under her pressure, and thus¡­"

    "Nothing to say but still end up saying a whole bunch of things." Though she could not strike a beauty, Su Nuan Nuan has no intention of controlling her tongue. As expected, this single line of hers has awesome killing power. It immediately killed off whatever tender speeches that Xue Zi Lan has prepared.

    "Did the Lord brought these for elder sister?" There was no way that Xue Zi Lan was going to just retreat like that, using a handkerchief to dab at her eyes, she cleverly switched the subject and pointed towards the ingredients.

    "Oh yes," Su Nuan Nuan happily admitted. She watched as Xue Zi Lan curiously bent over to inspect the ingredients. Her cute movements and expression set off her peerless face even more, nearly making her shine with brilliance. Nuan Nuan¡¯s contempt for Duan Tingxuan grew even more.

    That g male, that s.l.u.tty man wh.o.r.e, such a great beauty is not enough to ke your l.u.s.t. Still want to collect more women like pokemon cards[1]. You already have how many children? Were you a stud horse[2] in your past life? G.o.d in heaven, you tell me honestly, have you prepared the five coloured G.o.d-thunder[3]? This kind of g male who don''t know how to appreciate good things must be struck by lightning at least a couple of times, otherwise there won''t be any justice in heaven, ah.

    Letting the person into the house, this Xue Zi Lan, although enchanting and morous, did not have Madam Ran''s kind of aura. She sat there like a mistreated little wife, her voice was soft as she asked Su Nuan Nuan how was life in Mei Yue Lou? Has Duan Tingxuan bullied her recently? When will shee back to the Inner Court? Finally, she brought up a request to learn some cooking skills.

    Though Su Nuan Nuan liked looking at beauties, hermon sense still remained and she remained vignt and did not bother to answer Xue Zi Lan''s request to learn cooking skills. This allowed an anxiously hovering Hong Lian to rx a little. Finally, seeing the sky getting dark, Xue Zi Lan excused herself and left after a heartfelt farewell.

    "Hehe, when we''re in trouble at Mei Yue Lou, just where was this Madam Lan? Why did Missy even bother to speak nicely with her? Did Missy really thinks that she''s a warm and kind person, the type that could be squashed by mere unkind words?"

    "Am I such a stupid person in your heart?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes at Hong Lian. "Civility, this is called civility, understand? I just felt that she''s really beautiful, and enjoyed her presence like eye candy, but at the same time know that her flower like face hides a heart filled with scorpions and snakes. Rx, I''m not like that s.l.u.tty rascal Duan Tingxuan, stunned by a mere beauty''s presence."

    Hong Lian finally rxed. In the past, though Su Meng Nuan was bossy and domineering towards everyone including Xue Zi Lan, she had never bothered to guard herself against that woman, believing her to be a warm, gentle and good hearted great beauty. It was after they had been cast out into Mei Yue Lou to fend for themselves, that Hong Lou finally realised that this woman was no ordinary creature.

    When she saw the Su Nuan Nuan''s att.i.tude towards Xue Zi Lan had not change much, her worry became almost unbearable. The mistress from before was not a good person, however that person from before and this person now was different. Hong Lian really loved this sa.s.sy and good hearted mistress, and did not wish to see Su Nuan Nuan carelessly eaten up by that cruel and merciless woman who could swallow a human whole without spitting out any bones.

    "Actually, the master won''t necessary be stunned by Madam Lan or Jing Yi Niang. In this maid''s eyes, ever since the master came into this Mei Yue Lou, the master found it difficult to stay away from this ce." Hong Lian cheerfully said.

    Su Nuan Nuan waved a disdainful hand, "A dog can''t help eating s.h.i.t. Your master is just intrigued by my unusual cooking, once he had enough then that''s it. Therefore while the effect is still fresh, we must ckmail everything we can from him¡­wait, no, hmm, extort, that''s not right either, that is¡­the point is to grab as much ingredients as we can from him. It''s best if we can get silver or something, the future is uncertain after all, it''s best to be prepared. Oh yes, must learn more kungfu from him. As long as I have kungfu, where under heaven do I need to fear?"

    "If the master heard Missy''s words and knew that you have such ns, he would be even more reluctant to teach you kungfu." Hong Lian felt her mistress'' words were really odd and funny.

    Su Nuan Nuan retorted, "Hong Lian, why do you keep thinking that your master would have feelings for me again? Don''t you know the expression ''in times of hardship, feelings be thin''? Furthermore, he and I never had strong feelings in the first ce. We are now distant in feelings and apart in manner. We take what we need from the other without need to give face. This is good, a s.l.u.tty rascal and poisonous wife, this is how it should be. I advice you not to hold out dreams of your master and I joining together to form a whole mirror, otherwise the ones with shattered hearts will be you."

    She had hardly finished speaking when they suddenly heard Duan Tingxuan''s loud voice howling from the yard, "Oh yes, one more thing. Nuan Nuan, you prepare a few more roasted ducks for me. Just like the ones from a few days ago. Make more of those Lotus Leaf Bread[4]. I need to bring some to the East Pce tomorrow."

    "This rascal is getting too much, it''s not enough to just eat here, you want to take my food away too?" Su Nuan Nuan made and angry ''Humpf!'', stood and rolling up her sleeves she angrily stomped to the entrance, gritting her teeth and muttering, "Greedy, hope you get struck by lightning, just because I let you take some leftovers back you treat me like a pushover that you can order around."

    Hong Lian was stunned for a moment, and was a moment toote to pull her mistress back. A loud scream came from the yard. By the times she made it outside, Duan Tingxuan was being chased by Su Nuan Nuan as he dodged into the kitchen. He emerged with two Sugared Fried Dough[5] in his hand. Before he could make his escape, Su Nuan Nuan managed to smack his leg with a broom.

    The master''s level of kungfu was powerful, and therefore was not at all bothered by such minor injuries. Clutching the two pieces of Sugared Fried Dough he made for the entrance, aiming to escape with his prize. Seeing Su Nuan Nuan standing at the balcony and huffing with anger, he dared tough.

    "If you''re tired, two roast ducks would be enough, can''t be less. The guy''s still a crown prince after all. Just bringing one duck would make me look miserly, especially if I eat half of it, wouldn''t that be too stingy? Good Nuan Nuan, considering all the high .s.s ingredients I''ve brought over these few days, you should at least give me some face. When hunting seasones with autumn, I''ll bring in all kinds of deers[6] for you."

    "Pei!" Su Nuan Nuan spat on the ground. How could this be considered a kindness? This rascal thinks she doesn''t know the real intention in his heart? "You don''t need to bring me any game, after I''ve ved over them, those things would just ended up in your stomach."

    "Don''t say it like this, ah. Though some will enter my stomach, surely some would be eaten by you? We have such a perfect arrangement together, and you''re so clever, surely you can find a way to profit over this? Right?" Duan Tingxuan smile filled his face, he waved the Sugared Fried Dough in his hands. "Well, I still have some business, don''t forget about the ducks." So saying, he turned and was about to leave when he sensed a great force of wind surging his way. He ducked in thest minute, and a small stone whizzed past his ear.

    Author''s Note: The first book is almost finished, so there''s no need to get tickets. But, it looks like a great fight is brewing in the next few days¡­

    Trantor''s Note: Haha, I wonder who chucked that stone.

    [1] Pokemon reference ¨C Sorry, the trantor added that, couldn''t resist¡­

    [2] It was originally written as ''Are you an ancestor?'' but trantor believed it''s a typo since horse ''Âí'' and question marker ma ''Âð'' only has one single difference. Also, it made sense if it''s ''horse'' rather than just questioning his ancestry in general.

    [3] Five coloured G.o.d-thunder ¨C Can''t really find reference to this, but it sounds awesome and dangerous¡­

    [4] Lotus leaf bread ¨C Simr to the thin pancakes eaten with Peking Duck, except these are actually closer to bread in the form of a fan. Very pretty. Looks like duck burger, ahhh!!!

    [5] Sugar Fried Dough ¨C Tang You Ping, a variation of fried dough, kind of like doughnuts, but the dough is sugared before frying so quite difficult to make. Actually made with two different kinds of dough, the brown top part is sugared, while the bottom part is in¡­.no wonder Duan Tingxuan is willing to suffer Su Nuan Nuan¡¯s wrath for these.

    [6] He actually named the species of deers: Muntjac, David''s deer and roe dear, which I think meant little to us regr readers, lol.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

    Warning: This site is protected by DMCA.

    [Total: 1 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 33

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 33

    Chapter 33: To Instigate

    Crystal Aris: Sooner orter everyone bes a foodie, lol

    Moto: Oooh, what is this jamba?

    Maru: Aah, I want roast duck too. Not Peking duck, too fancy and delicate for me, but an actual duck with bones in it. I want to buy a whole duck and take it apart with my teeth.

    Kirindas: When I think about characters from the other novels I''m tranting, these women would have trashed the main protagonists and taken over the world.

    Enjoy thiste chapter,

    Gumihou

    Madam Yang was shocked. That day, when she had seen Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, she already felt that something was not right. However, when she did not hear anything movements from Mei Yue Lou, nor did Duan Tingxuan bring this matter up with her, she had actually forgotten to pursue this matter. It was only when Xue Zi Lan brought this up that she had this sudden realization. She nodded and snorted coldly, "Is that so, and here I was thinking that Xuan''er would never be so careless or neglectful. It seems that this matter is tangled up with that problem."

    She had just finished speaking when she heard Xu Ran Yun sneered. "Isn''t little sister too meek? You speak as though she really is a female tiger, how could this be? This is the An Ping Pce, how could she throw her weight around so easily? Also, kicking out the Lord? He-he! If she really dares to do this, how is it different from a rebellion? Not only the Old Master or Great Madam, even the Lord himself would not let this go."

    Madam Yang nodded, and said coolly. "Xu Ran Yun is right, no matter what kind of person she is, this is the pce, and all must obey the pce rules. Why was she sent to Mei Yue Lou in the first ce? Duan Tingxuan''s att.i.tude is too indulgent, she not only failed to properly reflect her own behaviour and changed for the better, instead have be even more domineering. This is the An Ping Pce, when did she be the master? Isn''t this just flipping the heavens?"

    "That''s right, Great Madam is correct." Xu Ran Yun quickly supported her words.

    Xue Zi Lan gave a bitter smile, "Not only Great Madam and elder sister, even I, who had witness the matter with my own eyes, could not believe that her arrogance had grown to this point. As for the Lord, who knows what happened to him? As a man who had always disliked being opposed to, in front of Big Madam he did not even have an ounce of dignity. Did not protest when she beat and scold him, evenughed with her."

    "What did you say?"

    Madam Yang fiercely stood up from the couch, and asked in a disbelieving voice. "You say your Lordughed with her? And also¡­also your Lord was beaten and scolded by her? This¡­how could this be? Is there no rules in this pce? How could Xuan''er turned into such a dumpling? How did I not know this? You¡­ you say you saw this with your own eyes?"

    Thisst reaction was certainly incredible, even Xue Zi Lan was shocked. She had not expected Madam Yang to have such an extreme reaction. Even her eyes were red with wrath. Joy filled her heart, knowing that her words have achieved the desired result. This thoroughly enraged mother-inw, as long as mother-inw is furious, that Su Meng Nuan will not have good days to look forward to.

    One can''t me Madam Yang for being so angry, what mother could remain calm after hearing that her son had been bullied? Furthermore this was a patriarchal society. At this point, Xu Ran Yun noticed that the fire had more or less stabilized, decided to add more fire wood. Pretending to be serious, she asked, "Little sister, this kind of thing cannot be simply said. Are you sure you saw it personally?"

    "Why would I lie about this?" Xue Zi Lan pretended to feel wronged, and proceeded to detailed everything she had seen yesterday. Only, the more she spoke, the more Madam Yang''s body tremble, she gritted her teeth, "Enough! Very good! This time she really wants to rebel against us, ah. That Duan Tingxuan is really childish, with just a few edible things he had turned into a good for nothing coward! Whatever, whatever, since my son is now a good-for-nothing, it is time for me as a mother to make a decision in his stead."

    "That woman should have already been divorced ording to the Seven Offences[1], should never have left her in this pce. However, Xuan''er was toopa.s.sionate and pitied her father and therefore have left her here to repent, perhaps to one day be a proper husband and wife again. Who knows she not only did not repent, had in fact gotten worse."

    When Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan heard these words, they nearly burst with happiness. On the surface, they continued to pretend to caution restraint. "Great Madam, you can''t do this, on matters of divorce, the Lord should still have a say. How could a mother-inw divorce a daughter-inw? Moreover, Great Madam said that the Lord had been trapped by a few dishes, but could this be possible? From my point of view, it''s possible that the woman had used some kind of strategy to wrap the lord around her finger. If Madam recklessly drove her away, who knows whether the Lord would be willing?"

    "He dares to be unwilling? So what if he''s unwilling? Unless he wants to kick out this mother of his? This is the An Ping pce, and he''s still just an heir, I don''t believe he''ll dare disobey his elders." Madam Yang pped the table angrily.

    Though Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan continued to hung on to her arms and murmured cautionary words, the happiness in their hearts were iparable. After urging for a bit, they noticed that though this mother-inw kept on making threats with her mouth, her feet never moved. At that point, both of them started to worry again, this mother-inw please don''t be all talk and no action, ah. Let''s go and get rid of this woman now, kick out that woman along with her two maids.

    As they continued to furiously think, they began to add oil to the fire. Naturally, they were both concerned for Madam Yang, what ''Keep calm and don''t be impatient, ah'', ''Don''t embarra.s.s the Lord, ah'' or ''Don''t let that woman ruin Great Madam''s reputation, ah'' type of things were said. Though their psychological techniques were clumsy, but with Madam Yang being in a fit of such extreme temper, both felt that this technique was the most suitable.

    Who knows, perhaps they were a little too enthusiastic with their tactic, Madam Yang suddenly paused. The angry flush on her face did not recede, but a hint of hesitation rose. After a long while, she sat down. "You''re both right, if I were to get rid of them like this, though Xuan''er did not dare to oppose me he would definitely be unhappy in his heart. No, we can''t do anything without proof."

    "Ah?"

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan both cried out, they almost went crazy. What kind of response is this? We''re already done with our performance and this is your response? Hey, mother-inw this is not the time to y jokes on us. You''re the Great Madam, ah. How could you just say retreat and immediately retreat? If you don''t beat them out of this ce, then wouldn''t our song and dance performance be wasted? Our voices are almost gone, ah. With just a ''we can''t do anything without proof'' and the matter is done? Are you seriously messing with us?

    These two women had underestimated Madam Yang''s ''wisdom''. Victory was already before their eyes only to suffer this shortfall in thest minute. This kind of immense hope being abruptly chopped up by despair just made people to want to spit up blood. The two of them were extremely angry, but neither dared to show it on their faces. Their eyes met, and saw each other''s ferocious resolve. The way forward is clear, since Great Madam is too soft hearted to act, let''s light another fire.

    And thus, Xu Ran Yun firmly said. "Great Madam is right, we can''t act without proof. The next time when that woman bites back again, it could ruin the rtionship between you and the Lord, it would be toote."

    Without hesitating, Xue Zi Lan from the side said, "Could the Lord be that confused and be under the control of Big Madam? If the word got out that our Lord is henpecked by his wife, then his reputation would be difficult to recover."

    As expected, these were the very words that made the uncertain Madam Yang stiffened up again. Xu Ran Yun, seeing her mother-inw getting flushed in the face once more, quickly fan the mes, "Little sister is correct, we cannot let her spread her evil around, also can''t let her ruin our pce''s reputation. However, the Lord must have a reason for this, this¡­is really difficult."

    Trantor¡¯s Note:¡­ tranting is tiring work, it saps the mind¡­ also, the stupidity of some characters in some novels really made me want to print it out and burn it. Gununununu¡­.

    [1] Seven Offences ¨C A husband may divorce his wife if she: 1. cannot have children; 2. is obscene; 3. disrespects the older generation ; 4. gossips a lot; 5. steals; 6. is too jealous; 7. has a foul disease

    Could only find Chinese references, hence the above summary. Oh, and for everyone''s information, the reason why no. 2. obscene, is reason for divorce is, get this, the ancient people believed that kinky s.e.xual acts will result in children with blood disorder. And of course, being s.e.xually wanton with other men also falls under this.Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 34

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 34

    Chapter 34: The Prince''s Hobbies

    Crystal Aris: Ahahaha, this trantor is just randomly saying stuff¡­

    Moto: Ah, they were hoping to bury somebody else in that hole after all.

    Kirindas: x.x.x, they''d make themselves right at home.

    Seawaterwitch mira: x.x.x

    You know what, I¡¯m going to just post whatever whenever I have the time to do whatever and not make any promises anymore. At the moment, I¡¯m kind of between jobs, so could focus on tranting, but even then it¡¯s taking a toll on the mind.

    Gumihou

    ¡°What''s so difficult about it? Since Xue Zi Lan personally saw it, then I wish to see it with my own eyes as well. I want to know just how this woman bullied my Xuan''er. Once I caught her red-handed, even if Xuan''er wants to protest, just what kind of face will he use to talk to me? It''s decided. Xu Ran Yun, you pay attention to Xuan''er''s movements these next two days, the moment he goes to Mei Yue Lou immediately inform me."

    At least our effort was not wasted.

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan were both waiting for this very words, and immediately breathed a sigh of relief. Theyughed secretly in their hearts: It''s true that the Great Madam has a mild temper, however there was no way she could keep from exploding when she sees Big Madam chase and bully the Lord like a dog that had gotten into her chicken coop. What mother would recognise such a cowardly son? By then, Su Meng Nuan''s role as a Big Madam in this pce woulde to an end.

    Duan Tingxuan had no idea what his mother and her daughters-inw were scheming. These few days the Lord was extremely happy, though Su Nuan Nuan was never happy to see him every time he visited at Mei Yue Lou. Husband and wife were always trading barbed words, fists and feet often went flying, he had actually developed a kind of weird joy through this very unique kind of interaction. It turned out that rtionship between men and women, aside from an unending perfect harmony of happiness, there was this unburdening kind of interaction where each take what they needed from each other in an equal manner. Bothughed and jeered, mock and screamed as much as they wish. This kind of feeling was unexpectedly beautiful and no less meaningful than a perfectly harmonious rtionship.

    Thus the prince really enjoyed his trips to Mei Yue Lou, aside from the delicious food, he had always felt more rxed and enthusiastic the moment he entered this ce. Through quarrelling and fighting with with Su Nuan Nuan, he could dpressed from the day''s stress that came from the cloak and dagger kind of scheming that came with his job with politics. Who cares that the one who usually crawled away from these fights shamed and embarra.s.sed was himself.

    There was no choice, a good man does not b.u.t.t head with women. As a dignified heir of the pce, it would not look good if he raise his hand against a woman, right? Furthermore, this woman is now his lifeblood, without her there will be no more gourmet food. Even the grand Old Madam had been bought over by this woman''s food. If he were to beat her up for real, the Old Madam would definitely never let him get away for it.

    Today, it just so happened that there was nothing much to do at the government office, so he left early. When he arrived at home, he saw one of the pce eunuchs, Eunuch Zheng, leaving his pce. This eunuch was the Empress¡¯ trusted confidant, and naturally was acquainted with Duan Tingxuan. Seeing him, the eunuch quickly jogged over to greet him. Duan Tingxuan smiled at him, "Oh, it''s Eunuch Zheng, what is it? Did her majesty make youe here to bestow something again? What did you bring?"

    Zheng w.a.n.g smiled back, "Yesterday, an officer from Jiang Nan ''s weavingpany entered the capital. He gave tribute in the form of garment fabrics, in all kinds of pattern up to tens of thousands of bolts. Among them was a light and delicate piece called cicada''s wing satin, very breathable cloth and refreshing, perfect for summer. Her majesty was concerned about the people here, and hadmanded this one to bring 100 bolts. On top of that, some other kinds of high quality brocade, some light snacks from the imperial kitchens and some small toys."

    At this point, Zheng w.a.n.g frowned in concerned. He leaned closer to Duan Tingxuan, "Young Prince, the Old Madam, has she been unwell these few days?"

    "Why would Eunuch Zheng think so?" Duan Tingxuan was puzzled as he questioned back. The olddy, unwell? Can''t be, ba? Last night when she fought with me over the Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks, her movements were really fierce. For each te I only ate 3 while she swallowed the other 7. This Eunuch Zheng used what eye to see that my grandmother is unwell? Or was it me who had been too careless?

    As he was thinking, he heard Zheng w.a.n.g said in a soft voice, "Old Madam loves sweet snacks the most, therefore whenever her majesty sent something over, she always got the kitchens to make some sweet snacks. Normally, when the old madam see them, she will s.n.a.t.c.h quite a few for herself first, and bragged about her wonderful daughter. However, when Old Madam saw the snacks today, she merely ordered the maids to put it who knows where, therefore, this one is truly worried. Young Prince, as you know, our empress has a filial heart, if she knew that the Old Madam is unwell, think how worried she would be."

    "Haih! So it''s this, ah. Luckily the one you encountered is me, if you had asked someone else, who knows what kind of misunderstanding would ur." Duan Tingxuan could onlyugh as he waved his folding fanzily. "Be at ease, the Old Madam is not at all unwell, it''s just the terrible weather that had shrunk her appet.i.te quite a bit. Last night, someone just happened to make some snacks, and she greedily ate most of them. Most likely she ate too much and therefore could not properly appreciate today''s snacks. You just inform the empress that the Old Madam liked the snacks very much, so that her majesty would not overly worry."

    Zheng w.a.n.g smiled, "So it''s like this, then this one is at eased. Knowing that the Old Madam health is unharmed will put her majesty at ease as well. With her majesty at ease, we who serve her from below considers it a good fortune."

    Having said these, he invited Zheng w.a.n.g in to have tea in the pce hall. After a few cups of tea and exchanging some gossip, Zheng w.a.n.g made to leave. At this point, Duan Tingxuan made his way to the North Court, on the way he heard Si Ping said, "What''s the rush, Master? The bolts of cloth that her majesty bestowed would definitely contain Master''s two wives and concubine''s share, there''s surely no need for Master to s.n.a.t.c.h any more for them? If Second Young Master''s wife knew about this, she will definitely bring it up in front of the Old Master. This will cost you some face."

    Duan Tingxuan himself was shocked by these words, he was surprised by his own thoughts. Why is it that the moment he heard about the good cloth, his thoughts immediately flew towards that fierce female tiger upying Mei Yue Lou? He hadpletely forgotten about the few beauties at his side, this shouldn¡¯t happen, ah. This is really unnatural, just what had happened to him?

    However, the young prince was not confused for long. A smart person will always be able toe up with reasons to exin his actions. He immediately sent a re at Si Ping, and snorted coldly. "You useless thing, only have thoughts about those two second wives and concubines? These days, the food that Big Madam feed you, would would have better if given to a dog. If I feed a dog, it would at least wag it''s tail at me."

    Si Ping was confused, and muttered. "So¡­so Master is now going to s.n.a.t.c.h cloth for Big Madam?"

    "Must you call it ''s.n.a.t.c.h''? The empress is my aunt, the things she bestow would definitely contain Su Nuan Nuan''s share. Nuan Nuan is still my official wife, since Mei Yue Lou is a bit far away, I''m just going over to help pick her share of things and send them over,"

    Duan Tingxuan spoke grandly, but before Si Ping''s stunned expression, this thick faced prince also felt a little embarra.s.sed, and said irritatedly, "What''s that look for? Yi? True, Nuan Nuan''s status appears to be somewhat simr to an abandoned wife, but she''s sill the Big Madam in name, ba? Furthermore, have you seen the things they were wearing?" having said this, his tone suddenly changed to one that was rather deep and full of benevolent sincerity, "Si Ping, ah. As human beings, we must bepa.s.sionate towards our fellow humans. Even a beggar on the streets will receive some coins from me. Your Big Madam is my wife, ''One night as a couple equals a hundred day''s grace''. You tell me, can I bear to see them walk around in those old rough clothes without lifting a finger to a.s.sist?"

    "Cannot." Si Ping resolutely nodded his head, doing his best to suppress the need to vomit: Your mother, did you not suffer a toothache from all these sweet words? If Big Madam is here, I guarantee that she will attempt tomit spousal murder.

    Naturally these were words in his hearth that he will never dare to voice out. On the other hand, Duan Tingxuan also appeared ufortable as he coughed. "As for the others, do they even need my help when ites to fetching fabrics? They''ve probably had all gone over to pick out the fabrics they liked already, absolutely no need for me to worry about them. There should only be Nuan Nuan left, furthermore it''s getting more and more difficult to negotiate better meals from her."

    "Hmpf! Trying to deceive me by serving those few same dishes over and over again..The ingredients at her ce took up half of the kitchen, clearly mere ingredients could no longer excite this female tiger. I just need to take a different approach, under this kinds of situation, cloth would certainly elicit better responses, don''t you think so?"

    "Yes, Master is wise." Si Ping raised his head slightly to look at the heavens: "This should be Master''s true intention, ba? Previously those words about how ''One night as a couple equals a hundred day''s grace'' whatever was just a convenient excuse, wasn''t it?"

    Duan Tingxuan cast an aggrieved look at Si Ping. "You want to die? Some truths can never be voiced out, you know?"

    "Yes, this one is too noisy." Si Ping lightly pped his own face. "In the future, this one will cultivate more tactful speaking skills."

    Seeing that Si Ping knew his wrong, Duan Tingxuan felt quite satisfied. After a short nod, he continued his way towards the North Court, acting like a perfectly reasonable husband who had let bygones be bygones. Whether others watching this little performance really believe that this was the case was unclear, after all the prince himself believed this to be true.

    The Old Madam was enjoying some tea that Qiu Ling had just prepared, she smiled as her grandson carefully picked out over a hundred good cloth, saying with a sigh, "This child, although you are considered an aplished talent in many things, you''ve never once shown an interest in these things before. Even when that great beauty Lan''er entered your harem you''ve never shown interest in her clothing or make-up before. Why the sudden interest in checking out good cloth material? Didn''t I already told you that your wives have already picked out their s hare, just who are you choosing cloth for? Surely it''s not for yourself?"

    Duan Tingxuan gave the Old Madam a crossed look, "Grandmother, you''re asking after things you already knew, ba? When have your grandson made decisions for my own sake? All this meticulous nning and effort was for the sake of this family¡­"

    "If you continue to be ridiculous, I won''t let you have even a piece."

    "Who else could it be for? Nuan Nuan and her two maids in Mei Yue Lou had not gotten their allowances for a few months, their clothes are all nearly in pieces. So I thought I''d pick out a few bolts of good material for them." Duan Tingxuan firmly made himself stop all the self praises, while sighing privately in his heart. This olddy is getting harder and harder to deceive, she''s getting less and less grandmotherly these recent days. Could it be that she has eaten too much of that female tiger''s snacks and was influenced by her? I''ve heard that pets would eventually resemble their masters, could the maker of food influence others in a simr way? That''s just too scary.

    The young prince had identally scared himself by a plot twist farted out by his own brain. After a bit, he calmed down: That''s not right either, there''s no one aside from me had eaten the most food from Mei Yue Lou, but you don''t see me bing unreliable. Hn, imagination, it''s all just my imagination.

    Once he calmed down, Duan Tingxuan focused on the work before him. He picked out another bolt of cloth in made of thin satin patterned withrge hibiscus over a lotus root coloured background. He held it out to look, and nodded to himself. "That Nuan Nuan''s a restless sort, this kind of calm colour should help her steady her nerves a bit more." So saying, he ced that bolt of cloth aside.

    Trantor¡¯s Note: ¡­. ¡­. ¡­. I is speechless ¡­Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    All tranted works are the works of ProsperousfoodCopyright (c) 2018 - Prosperous Food. All Rights Reserved

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 Chapter 35

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 35

    Chapter 35: You Do The Crime, You Do The Time

    Vun: That would certainly be an interesting turn of things!

    Crystal Aris: Profound words, and let''s hope things pick up a bit more before they slow down in the middle of August.

    Who Cares: It certainly looks like it!

    Moto: The stomach should never be underestimated.

    Rosas: so speechless¡­

    Queue: Thanks, I''m waiting for it too!

    Ca.s.s: It sure seems like it.

    Riz Yun: I have a feeling grandma saw through that grandson of hers

    Anonymous: Thank you!

    Kirindas: x.x.x!

    For your information, the ''ba'' ending is kind of simr to the the question tag after ama.

    For example:

    You can do it, right? You can do it, ba?

    She ate it, didn''t she? She ate it, ba.

    The ''ba'' in original Chinese is not used with ama, but during trantions, thema gets put in due to its simrity to the question tag. However, it could be use with or without the question mark.

    It''s less like an actual question and closer to a ''seeking for confirmation'' kind of tag.

    At least, this is what I concluded, ba.

    As a further note, and because I''m fickle. I''ve switched Great Madam to Elder Madam, and Old Master to Elder Master. Because they are husband and wife and should have simr t.i.tles and thus, Duan Tingxuan''s mom is now Elder Madam.

    Did I miss anything else?

    No?

    On with the story!

    Gumihou

    This Si Ping had followed his master into the house. He was already seventeen, and was really not supposed to enter the Inner Court. However, who ask his master to bring him in as a coolie? And thus, he was brought in. However, this lowly manservant knew the Old Madam was a stickler for rules, and made sure to keep his head down, not daring to breath a word.

    When he heard the master''s words, he quietly rolled his eyes. Master, you really knew how to stick gold on Big Madam''s face[1], restless sort? Using mouse traps to form a Single Snake Battle Formation against you is mere restlessness?

    You''ve already been kicked out, literally, from that ce how many times and you think that mere cloth would calm her nerves?

    Master, when have you be so naive?

    Duan Tingxuan did not have the slightest idea what the manservant beside him was thinking. The two hundred bolts of cloth sent by the empress were all good things. He saw that this bolt was good, and that bolt was not bad, by the time he had finished, there was about forty bolts of cloth by his side and it still felt inadequate.

    He was about to shift through the remaining bolts of cloth again when he heard the Old Madam faintly said, "My dear grandson, you still want to choose? Instead of tiring yourself this way, why don''t you just take the rest of these cloth to Mei Yue Lou and save your eyesight?

    Duan Tingxuan was a little shocked. He turned to look at the Old Madam, and said cautiously, "Grandmother, are you being sincere¡­or sarcastic?"

    "Let''s say I''m being sincere, do you really n to clean me out?" Old Madam Fang smacked the heatable kang[2] bed. "Disgraceful thing, wasted my love on you. I still haven''t gotten a single bolt of cloth yet, and you wish to carry off the whole lot? Do you n to dress the rats at Mei Yue Lou too? Pei! You little white eyed wolf[3]!"

    When Duan Tingxuan guiltily nced to the stack next to him, he was taken aback by the little mountain it made. Oh, oops, it seemes like he over did things just a bit. There was nothing to say. He felt his face grew hot, and could only remorsefully crept up to the Old Madam, and dered. "Grandmother, your grandson is also an oppressed victim, ah. Nuan Nuan''s att.i.tude recently became more aggressive, do you think it''s easy to wrest those snacks out of her hands for the sake of filial piety? Today, for the sake of a a few bolts of cloth, I have beenbelled a white eyed wolf? Your grandson will surely die from injustice. Especially when I have not touched a single piece of cloth with patterns that suit grandmother most."

    "Hmph! So you also expect me to be grateful?" Madam Fang gave her grandson a cold smile and pointed a finger at his forehead. "You think I don''t know? Naturally patterns that suit this olddy won''t suit young Nuan Nuan. Still want to deceive me? Want to give empty t.i.tudes? Uneptable!"

    "Grandmother, ignorance is bliss, ah." The prince was in earnest as he informed his grandmother. "People who are too smart have no friends¡­"

    Without waiting for him to finish, the Old Madam cut in, "Fine, fine, speak less of these nonsense. You''ve been very diligent with me, why aren''t you thinking of ways to bring Nuan Nuan back to the inner court? Sure you are not thinking of letting those three stay cold and hungry at that dested Mei Yue Lou?"

    "Cold and hungry? Them? Grandmother, just where did these wordse from? They are living a a carefree life there. Tch! Drinking Osmanthus honey with tiny snacks. Meat and vegetable dishes of all kinds, even I can''t live as luxuriously as them!"

    Duan Tingxuan wailed out, like he was about to strike heaven''s door. Beside him, the Old Madam said slowly, "So, you don''t n to bring them back?"

    "How could this be?" Duan Tingxuan inadvertently protested, and sighed. "Grandmother, this grandson of yours have long since decided to bring them back. I''ve already spoken to Nuan Nuan about this twice. The first time, she throw me out with a broom. The second time was worse. Perhaps it was my own inattention, but she was cutting meat when I suggested it and that female tiger chased me out of her kitchen and into the garden with her cleaver. Anyway, it''s difficult, ah. This matter is too difficult, I''m still racking my brains over it."

    "That Nuan Nuan girl never did have a good character, but there was never any indication that she would be this bad. How did she be like this?" Old Madam Fang frowned. Since she had eaten a lot of Su Nuan Nuan''s snacks, she tend to view this granddaughter-inw of hers quite positively, however, when it came to the matter of her grandson being chased around with a cleaver, this was still clearly uneptable.

    Duan Tingxuan gave a bitter smile. "It''s fine, I created this mess, it is right that I should suffer for it." talking about this matter, he suddenlyughed lightly, "Grandmother, though Nuan Nuan tends to quarrel and exchange blows with me, yet I still felt that this version of her is much more fun."

    "Is your skin made of cheap leather[4]?" Old Madam Fang gave him a re. "In the past, in order to gain your favour, Nuan Nuan had put in painstaking effort which you havergely ignored. Now she no longer wants you, you fall all over yourself for her?"

    Duan Tingxuan shrugged. "It''s not like I''m really a m.a.s.o.c.h.i.s.t. I just felt that the Nuan Nuan now ispletely different from the Nuan Nuan in the past. The Nuan Nuan in the past, before her father''s incident, never dared to raise her voice with me, let alone struck me, but she was proud, excessive and bossy, much too poisonous and scheming for my taste. However, right now though she never guard her tongue around me, she has a benevolent heart. I just like this contrary part of her."

    "In the end, you''re a m.a.s.o.c.h.i.s.t." Old Madam Fang snorted coldly. She waved her hand. "Fine, fine, I''d rather you don''t show this pointless side of you to me. Go and bring these cloths over to Mei Yue Lou, perhaps Nuan Nuan will feel touched and soften towards you a little. Really, if you''ve known earlier, none of these nonsense would have happened. I''ve already mentioned to you, with your parents like this, you should bend a little, care about that woman a bit more. In the end you were still stubborn and kicked her into Mei Yue Lou. Now here you are cracking your brains trying to get her back. A perfect example of ''One who sin must pay''."

    "This one will do as grandmother instructed, just wait for my good news. Though the future looks bleak, but is your grandson one who gives up easily? No matter how treacherous this path, I shall definitely gain victory in the end."

    This Duan Tingxuan was just bragging. He stood up andmanded Si Ping along with a few more maids to carry out the bolts of cloth. He was about to leave when he heard a muttered, "You should be able to barter for some good stuff with these cloths, ba? Inform Nuan Nuan that Fuling crackers[5] fromst time is certainly interesting, I wish to taste it again. Have her send some to me."

    "Aiyo, grandmother certainly knows how to chose. Those Fuling crackers are quite tricky to make." Duan Tingxuan stuck out his thumb, and heard Old Lady Fang snorted. "Enough, this olddy likes it, what''s wrong with having her show some filial piety to me? Also, that Mei Yue Lou is not a prison, why do they nevere out? You tell her, grandmother wishes to speak with her. When she is free tell here by. Those days when the rest of the pce people hated her, this olddy still treated her well."

    "No problem, I will certainly tell her." Duan Tingxuan could hear the unspoken message, this Old Madam nned to help him out, how could he not agree? Though that woman refused to give him face, but she actually has a heart of gold, with Old Madam out to campaign for him, sess rate is sure to rise.

    It wasn''t until Duan Tingxuan was out of sight that Old Lady Fang put away her smile. Next to her, Qiu Ling quipped, "Ever since the lord brought those dishes over from Mei Yue Lou, it sure has be lively over here."

    [1] Stick gold on someone''s face ¨C To attribute good characteristics to a person where there was none.

    [2] Kang Bed ¨C Heatable brick bed

    [3] White Eyed Wolf ¨C Ungrateful person, ingrate

    [4] Cheap Leather Skin ¨C Unafraid of pain, mainly derogatory, but could also be a friendly joke. m.a.s.o.c.h.i.s.tic type of meaning.

    [5] Fuling Crackers ¨C A variation of rice crackers with filling! Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    .

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 Chapter 36

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 36

    Chapter 36: Very Un-Exciting

    Kirindas: x.x.x!

    Megumi: x.x.x!

    Queue: Thank you for thements, I thought I''d keep at it here for the moment, since this site is run on ads and while I''m not sure how Admin-san is, I''d like to maintain it here for at least a year. As for the others, I''m tranting them (minus the j.a.panese one) without his permission.

    Seawaterwitch Mira: n.o.body likes the husband, but we''ll see if this will change, lol.

    Julie: I love this story so much!

    yne: Thank you for reading this. They are a fun couple aren''t they?

    Who Cares: The original is ''Fuling bing'' and Duan Tingxuan did say they''re difficult to make, so I''m a.s.suming it''s the super fragile one with filling.

    Lots of love,

    Gumihou

    Old Madam Fang smiled, "That''s right, each time I hear Xuan''er talk about the fun anecdote from Mei Yue Lou, though it''s all ''Flying Chickens and Jumping Dogs[1]'' stories. However, for some reason, it made me feel very contented. Additionally, all those snacks were certainly delicious, ah. I''ve already lived up to this grand age, these are the best snacks I''ve ever had. Being able to eat well on a contented heart is the best."

    Having said this, Old Madam sank into a serious contemtion. After a while a spoke in a soft voice, as though speaking to herself, "Do you think, that it''s really possible for a person to change after the brink of death?"

    Qiu Ling answered firmly, "Though this servant is young and knows very little, this lowly one knows the saying ''It''s Easier to Change Mountains and Rivers than to Change a Person''s Character''. This means it''s difficult and not impossible. There''s also the saying ''Word of a Dying Man Comes From the Heart'', having experienced such terrible terror, it''s normal that one''s character would change, ba? Otherwise, how could the saying ''To Lay Down the Sword and Be a Buddha'' exist? Old Madam, don''t you think this is true?"

    Old Madam Fang lowered her head and thought, after a while she looked up with a smile, "You''re right, though it''s not something a normal person would see, you still speak with insight. It''s fine, I''m already old, why should I care so much about such trivialities? Being able to eat and sleep well is considered a fortune. Hn, the amount of cloth Xuan''er took with him is quite a lot, I wonder what kind of good things he''ll being back to me?"

    Qiu Ling smiled, "Old Madam please be patient, though the cloths have been brought over, Big Madam still needs time to make the dishes. It should still take sometime, ah. So why don''t Madam take a little nap first? Or perhaps you''d like me to call a few people over to y mah-jong?"

    "No need, I''ll just rest for a while." Old Madam Fang waved her hand, and stayed where she was.

    "You saw this clearly? Your master really went to Mei Yue Lou?"

    "Yes, the master brought quite a lot of people with him. It looks like he is taking some cloth over to Mei Yue Lou. This servant waited until they actually went through the door beforeing over to report to Elder Madam." within the official wife''s East Courtyard, an approximately 23 year old maid was reporting to Madam Yang in a crisp voice.

    "Taking some cloth over?" Madam Yang frowned.

    Beside her, Xu Ran Yun gave a coldugh, "Madam, what is there to misunderstand here? Unexpectedly, our master who had never shown any interest in these things would personally pick out so many bolts of cloth to bring them to Mei Yue Lou. I''m afraid Big Madam would be so happy to the point that her mouth would not close properly."

    Madam Yang gave Xu Ran Yun a look, and said neutrally, "What are you saying? Nuan Nuan is still Xuan''er''s official wife, so what if he gifted her some cloth? She isn''t like any of you. Even without my permission, the two of you have already taken the initiative to carry off the cloth you like."

    A faint red stained Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan cheeks. Xue Zi Lan quickly smiled, "Actually, since madam is a little annoyed, we dared not bother you with such trivialities. Since madam said this, I shall send the cloth here and let madam help me choose. I''ve always trusted madam''s eyes to be good."

    Madam Yang waved a hand, "It''s fine, it''s fine, I''m just saying this in pa.s.sing. As long as you like it, why should I bother?" after saying this, she heard Xu Ran Yun say in a small voice, "Madam mistaken my meaning, I am not at all bothered by the Lord picking out cloth for Big Madam. It''s just, I was thinking, why has the Lord never showed any interest in such things before today? It''s possible that he wishes to request Big Madam for some things, who knows how Big Madam will extort the Lord this time."

    As the meaning of the words sank in, Madam Yang''s shapely eyebrows fell into a sharp incline. She coldly snorted, "Who cares about her, I just wish to see just what kind of power she has over Xuan''er to make him so servile."

    So saying, she angrily stood up. Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan exchanged a nce and breathed a sigh of relief. Xue Zi Lan quickly said, "Madam, please calm down. If the Lord is over there, it is not proper for you to appear. What if a conflict happens¡­"

    Madam Yang cut her off, "A conflict? If a conflict happens than I''ll have him divorce her and kick her out. This An Ping pce will not put up withwless and immoral women like her."

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan were just waiting for these very words. Though their faces were masks of worry, their hearts were dancing as they waited for Madam Yang to change her clothes and apanied her to Mei Yue Lou.

    At this moment in Mei Yue Lou, Su Nuan Nuan, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were looking through all sorts of satin, cotton and muslin fabrics and were singing praises all over them. All foodies have some love of beauty within them, the two parts do not conflict, especially when eating does not bring in unsightly weight gain. In both lifetimes, don''t know whether it''s by fortune or misfortune, her body always had trouble absorbing nutrition. Regardless of how much she ate, her body weight never increase. Luckily though the previous owner tried to starve herself, this body has not yet turned into skin and bones, otherwise it would really be a tragedy.

    [¡­trantor is jealous. Trantor is just 0.5 over average BMI¡­]

    After thinking for a bit, this was possibly the reason why despite Duan Tingxuan''s astonishing strength and l.u.s.ty vigour that Su Meng Nuan has yet to conceive. It was probably due to this body''s bad nutritional level. However, this was Su Meng Nuan''s secret distress, and has nothing to do with Su Nuan Nuan. In fact, she rejoiced over having such a poor const.i.tution. If you must know, this is the ultimate body const.i.tution that all the girls in the inte wishes to have, ah.

    "These are all for me?"

    As she softly stroked the slippery satin, Su Nuan Nuan could not help but be suspicious. How could this rascal have such a good heart? As the saying goes: Those who offer help for no reason is hiding evil intentions. Must be on guard.

    "Yes, the master has spent half a day picking these out for you. Saying that these patterns should suit Madam''s taste most. This is the first time that this servant has seen the master show any interest in cloths." Si Ping stooped his waist, smiling as he did his best to say good things for his master, and saw Su Nuan Nuan''s deep frown, "Why such care? Did he want me to sell these on his behalf?"

    "S-sell¡­behalf?" Si Ping stared nkly, he felt as though his brain could not follow Big Madam''s reasoning.

    "Yes, sell on behalf. Buying and selling. These forty-four pieces of cloth are all good things and would fetch good money. We could even make a big ssh in the capital." It was like Su Nuan Nuan''s mouth was running as fast as a steam train, Si Ping just got more and more confused. He was just about to say something when, she suddenly stood up with a loud screech, "Where''s your master? Where''s that rascal Duan Tingxuan? Didn''t hee with you? Where is that rat now!?"

    "That¡­as this servant understands it, at this very moment, the master should be¡­most likely¡­possibly¡­very close to the ki-¡­"

    Si Ping started off with a low voice, which got smaller and smaller under Su Nuan Nuan''s re which grew more and more furious. Finally the final syble ''-tchen'' was dragged out, and there was silence.

    "Arrgh! That rascal is stealing my food again." Su Nuan Nuan howled. Ignoring the piles of beautiful cloth and it''s money making potential, she moved her legs and ran. Si Ping wanted to stop her, but in the end did not dare. He could only twitched his eyes as he watch Su Nuan Nuan ran out of the room, before opening his mouth to shout, "Master, run away, ah! Madam ising!"

    Duan Tingxuan was having a time of his life in the kitchen eating on the sly. Don''t know what good mood Su Nuan Nuan was in, but there were several different kinds of good things to eat. This really made the prince understand most profoundly blessed feeling from the term ''A Mouse that has Fallen into a Rice Bin.''

    Who knew that this blessed happiness does notst, he was happily gobbling up everything in sight when Si Ping''s voice reached him. Shocking him to the point that he almost dropped the fried chicken in hand. Without thinking too deeply, he quickly stuck a chicken drumstick into his mouth, grabbed two fancy flower shaped steamed buns in each paw and hurriedly rushed outside.

    "Even cloth can''t distract you, Su Nuan Nuan, are you even a woman?"

    The prince clutched the drumstick with his teeth, running and looking back at the same time, and saw Su Nuan Nuan with arge broomstick raised over her head and was flying towards him with vengeance. He could not resist a frustrated cry and ran faster.

    "Duan Tingxuan you stinky food thief, do you even have an ounce of pride? Look at yourself, you don''t even look like a n.o.bleman any more, where did your precious n.o.ble dignity as a prince go?" Su Nuan Nuan screamed as she chased him, attempting to attack this rascal''s pride as a prince.

    "What''s this dignity you speak of? Can it be eaten?" Duan Tingxuan ran and retorted sarcastically at the same time. He even made time to take arge bite of the fried chicken and tried to think up other clever responses as he chewed and swallowed as quickly as he could. This was one of the first retort he had heard in those first few days at Mei Yue Lou. It was too bad he could note up with something original. The kitchen was the heart of Mei Yue Lou after all, guarded by this fierce female tiger called Su Nuan Nuan, if he''s not fast with his mouth there was no way he''d ever be able to eat anything from here. This was a unique skill he had poured his blood and sweat to learn, ah.

    [Trantor:¡­I has no words¡­]

    Su Nuan Nuan was p.i.s.sed off. To think that this rascal dared to use her words against her. She watched as that wretched Duan Tingxuan ran faster and faster in the yard, almost leaving after images. The Big Madam could not help but be angry and amused at the same time. She simply stopped running and brandished her broom, stabbing a finger at Duan Tingxuan and howled, "Aren''t you a grand and dignified prince, famous for his letters and kungfu? Why do you run away as soon as you see me? Are you really frightened of a weak woman like myself? Aren''t you a shameful one?"

    "Pei!" Duan Tingxuan spat out a chicken bone. "You, a weak woman? If you''re a weak woman, then there are no men in this world. A good man does not b.u.t.t head with woman, if I want to run, I''ll run, what can you do to me?"

    "Duan Tingxuan, as a seven feet tall man, if you dare to do then dare to admit. Why all this running away? If you have b.a.l.l.s stand still." Su Nuan Nuan continued to shout, however she did not hold out any hopes. This rascal of a man has gotten more and more shameless. His sense of shame wasn''t something that could be triggered with just a few words.

    As expected, Duan Tingxuan merely gripped the half eaten fried drumstick with his teeth andughed loudly, "Hahaha! Nuan Nuan, you save your breath, ba. You think the me who spent all my days at the government office dealing with those cunning old wolves and sly foxes would fall for your cheap tricks? Think again!"

    "If tricks are useless against you, shall we try pce rules?"

    An unexpected voice suddenly sounded from the front entrance, shaking both Duan Tingxuan and Su Nuan Nuan from their battle. Both looked up and saw Madam Yang standing angrily at the doorway. Her re burned a path towards them, her whole body emitting killing intent. Even the crows in the trees which had been enjoying the show below them scattered into the sky crying:

    -gua~ gua~ gua~¡­

    [1] Flying Chickens & Jumping Dogs ¨C A very messy and noisy situation, as though there are lots of frightened chickens and dogs jumping and pping about.

    [2] Flowered Steamed Bread ¨C Regr steamed buns shaped into flowers. Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 37

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 37

    Chapter 38: Brilliant Under Pressure

    I really shouldn¡¯t be doing this, but I found myself suddenly awake at 4:30 am and had the time. No editing and no reply toments, but I thought you guys would want to know what happen when Mummy arrives at the scene.

    Have fun you guys. I won¡¯t have much time for trantion from 11 ¨C 17 August since I have to be on call 24/7.

    Hugs,

    Gumihou

    "That''s right, mother. If there''s anything you wish talk about let''s do it inside." Duan Tingxuan was also doing his best to warmly encourage Madam Yang to enter the house. Only to hear Madam Yang said coldly, "No, I only want ton know, how do you n on dealing with these three?"

    Duan Tingxuan understood Madam Yang''s meaning, she wanted him to divorce this wife. However, is this possible? Let''s not even talk about the delicious food that this prince now depended on like tiger''s milk. Even if there''s no good things to eat, he could no longer live without that woman who dares to get into rowdy battles with him. He simply refused to live without this source of happiness. Even if he was beaten to death, he will not divorce this wife.

    Mind like zipping lightning, he immediately saw an opportunity within this crisis. Thus, pretending not to hear the dark hints under Madam Yang''s words, he made a he-heugh and said, "Nuan Nuan and the rest have been living in this Mei Yue Lou for quite a few months. As mother could see, this ce is quite remote, so your son is just thinking that in these next few days, once they''ve packed up this ce, they could return to the Inner Court."

    "WHAT?" Madam Yang and Su Nuan Nuan screeched in unison. Both directed ferocious res at Duan Tingxuan. Madam Yang grounded out, "You still wish to send them back to the Inner Court? Are you trying to say that our pce is not lively enough?"

    As her voice dropped to dangerous decibels, she directed her furious re at Su Nuan Nuan, who waved her hand quickly, "Elder Madam don''t look at me like that. This is decision was all due to your son, nothing at all to do with me. I have decided to reside in this Mei Yue Lou till my dying day, I won''t let anyone move me from this ce. Why should I go to that backstabbing and intrigue filled ce, when I could just stay here to continue my research on good food and drinks?"

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan couldn''t quite believe their eyes as they stared at Su Nuan Nuan. Is this woman not afraid of getting struck by lightning? You''ve already done so many bad deeds, what ''backstabbing and intrigue filled ce, research on good food and drinks''?

    No wonder the Lord has changed. From what they could see, it''s clear that her level of scheming has upgraded to an un-precedented level. Daring to use the ''let loose in order to capture'' technique and y around with the Lord to this point!

    As the two of them pondered upon this information, a feeling of doom loomed over them. As expected, Duan Tingxuan said to Su Nuan Nuan, "You''ll have toe back to the inner court sooner orter, why note back a little sooner, and¡­"

    ""Absolutely not, I forbid it." Madam Yang dered, "Want them return to the inner court? Over my dead body."

    "You hear that? Are you trying to curse your own mother? Already a g, you want to add unfilial too?" Su Nuan Nuan nodded fiercely, a finger pointing straight at Duan Tingxuan, as though she was Madam Yang''s personal defender of justice.

    "Very well, since mother already said so, the three of you can stay in Mei Yue Lou." Duan Tingxuan said decisively. Both Su Nuan Nuan and Madam Yang breathed a united sigh of relief and grinned over their victory. However, when they caught each other''s smile, a sense of awkwardness fell over them.

    "Since mother does not wish to enter the house, let son send you home, ba. Hong Lian, please go to your madam''s kitchen and fetch arge bowl of that smoothie." Duan Tingxuan ordered loudly. In a short while, Hong Lian appeared from the kitchen with food box and brought it over to Madam Yang. With a wordless bob of greeting, she handed over the box to Duan Tingxuan.

    At the word ''smoothie'', Madam Yang''s eyes brightened. She''d been obsessing over this thing for a few days. However, when she had heard that this thing was made by Su Nuan Nuan, she refused to lower her pride and ask for any. On the other hand, since the other side had personally send some over, there was no reason to reject it.

    Duan Tingxuan ced the flowered steam buns he had been carrying all this while into the box and slung it over one arm. With the other arm, he attempted to escort Madam Yang, only to be smacked by her. With a fierce harrumph, "Don''t touch me with your greasy hands, these are new clothes."

    Yes, yes, son is careless."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled indulgently, and made a respectful gesture for his mother to walk before him. Madam Yang turned, and stepped smartly made to step out of Mei Yue Lou. This almost shocked Xu Ran Yun to death. After seeing her huge hopes just crashed down like that, she haspletely forgotten Duan Tingxuan''s cold gaze from earlier.

    Neither did she noticed Xue Zi Lan''s drooping figure, the carefully cultivated gentle and agreeable air all gone: The moment they walk out of this door, they could not bring up divorce any more. She almost could not bear the anger in her heart, Elder Madam, ah, Elder Madam. Could you please take a look at how you handle this important matter? We came here with the intention to force the Lord to divorce this creature, you can''t just let the mention of ''returning her into the inner court'' frighten you into a retreat, ah.

    With such fury burning within her, Xu Ran Yun''s brain almost couldn''t take it. As such, she dashed towards Madam Yang''s side and cried out, "Elder Madam!" Before the echo of her shout disappeared, Duan Tingxuan suddenly turned to look at her, in a very neutral voice said, "Ran Yun, if there''s anything you wish to say, let''s go back first, all right?"

    It sounded like a gentle suggestion, but the weight behind it was almost overbearing. Xu Ran Yun felt a tingle on her scalp, her lips moved, but no words came out. She did not dare to speak any more and could only lower her head. At this moment, MAdam Yun''s mood was worse than if she had actually eaten a mouthful of flies.

    Madam Yang also sighed quietly, in the end, she would leave the matter of controlling the wives to her son, the Lord of the Pce. Though she had been stunned by her son''s att.i.tude just now, how could she not be reminded of the true reason they enter this ce at the sudden cry of ''Elder Madam!''? Only it looked like her son was determined to protect this woman of his.

    If that is the case, Madam Yang who had always indulged her son decided not to interfere. It was one thing to decide one something, it''s quite another to actually implement it. Actually, the two secondary wives had ced their bets on a ''Pig Team Mate[1]''. The moment they encounter a ''G.o.dly Opponent[2]'', her true nature was squeezed out, she retreated.

    Thus, Madam Yang pretended not to hear Xu Ran Yun''s true cry for a.s.sistance. She only gave her son a little re. Using her eyes to inform him: You better just find an excuse for me to let you keep that woman of yours, if you dare fool me again, I shall not be so lenient.

    When Duan Tingxuan caught this secret message from his mother, he breathed a sigh of relief in his heart. This prince had never thought his mother woulde right at this moment and see the way he battle with Su Nuan Nuan with her own eyes. This is fortunate, that female tiger''s arrogance had definitely angered his mother, that''s really bad, ah. If he really could not get over this hurdle, he still has Old Madam as back up. Since she had eaten so many good things from Su Nuan Nuan, surely she woulde up with some ways to mediate and sooth his mother''s temper.

    Ah, not good, Old Madam had specifically informed me to bring some snacks for her, how could he have forgotten?

    Wu! Thank goodness, he has those 2 flowered steamed bun in the food box. He could still cut them into pieces and made up 2 tefuls. As long as Old Madam never knew that he had clutched them in his paws all day should be fine.

    Duan Tingxuan continued to polish up this evil n of his as he escorted Madam Yang back. Su Nuan Nuan kept her eyes on that group of people until not even a shadow was left on her threshold. The, she turned towards Si Ping who was trying to quietly sneak away, "Why did you not appear when Elder Madam arrived? Why did you not go back with your master? Did you feel that he had not stolen enough from me and want to sneak out more food on his behalf?"

    "Madam''s words are heavy, this kind of immoral behaviour, only the thick faced master could do. This small one has a thin face, and a cowardly heart. How could this one dare to act under madam''s sharp eye?" Si Ping gave a little hei-heiugh as he tried to coax a smile. After all, the master was not around, if he did not curse him now, when would he have a chance?

    "Rascal, don''t think that just because you said some bad words against Duan Tingxuan I would let you off lightly. Birds of a feather flocks together, since you''re your master''s hand, you and he are the same." Su Nuan Nuan said with a sneer. Suddenly, she noticed Xiang Yun also sneaking out from the kitchen. She has no good feeling for these two maids and she angrily said, "I sent you two to guard against Duan Tingxuan in the kitchen. As a result, you not only watch him eat half a te of my stuff, but also take my food away. Still dare to appear? A pair of dogs is more useful than you two."

    Xiang Yun grinned, "Madam, please don''t say things like that. If not for this one and Hong Lian, would the master be satisfied with just half a te? I''m afraid a few of your tes would have be empty by now. To be able to manage this much, Hong Lian and I already did our best. As for the two dogs, I''m afraid the master would just kick them to death, and then eat and eat, and then what would you do? Therefore, we''re still more useful than dogs."

    "Still want to talk smart? Su Nuan Nuan was still p.i.s.sed off, but Si Ping was nodding vigorously from the side. "This small one can testify, What Xiang Yun said is correct. Our master never give much thought to animals, pets or otherwise. Once, at Prince Qi''s pce, there was this really fierce pure bred dog from the Western Regions. It bared it''s teeth at our master, barking as it charged at us. Our master gave it a swift kick in the head, and it ran away with it''s tail between its legs."

    A pce dogs should have its minders, how could it actually charge at Duan Tingxuan, barking and snarling? This Duan Tingxuan was also too violent, actually kicking a dog, really not giving face to its owner, ah. Oh, wait, it should be said that he was being merciful, otherwise, that kick would not have sent it running, away, it would have sent it to its death.

    However, Su Nuan Nuan was not all interested in picking out the plot holes in this kind of story. She just treated it as nothing more than fancy story telling. As a foodie, one should stay above all this underhand fighting and squash down one''s curiosity. If you investigate to deep into a matter, you will be the one squashed between two hard decisions. Too troublesome, ah.

    At this point, she decided to go to the kitchen to calcte her loss, when she saw Si Ping loitering around with shifty rat''s eyes, clearly up to no good. Su Nuan Nuan frowned and said, "Still not leaving? Are you waiting for an opportunity to do some thieving for your master? Afterwards when I fry some snacks, would you believe it if I say I''ll throw you into the hot oil as well?"

    Si Ping quickly smiled tteringly, "Madam has misunderstood, this servant would never dare to repeat the mistakes of this one''s master. Nor does this servant knew any 8 Steps Catching Cicada or Scale Across River on Duckweed qing gong. This servant was just thinking, Madam has just seen this one hide away and did not face the music with master. If master really sees this one right now, wouldn''t this small one be kicked to death, ah? Therefore, Madam please show somepa.s.sion and grant this small one some leftovers. So that this lowly one may use it to appease the master, thinking that this lowly ve has stayed behind in order to aplish his dirty deeds, and not have this poor ve beaten to death."

    "Pei! You sure have a big face[3], you think I don''t know that some of the stolen food ended up in your mouth? You''re not afraid that you''ll drown from your own bulls.h.i.t?" Su Nuan Nuan red at Si Ping''s ttering face, and felt amused and happy. When all was said and done, her heart was made of neither stone nor iron. After a brief hiss of fake displeasure, she still went into the kitchen and collected 2 tray full of things, and hallowed the incredibly joyful Si Ping to take them away.

    [1] Pig Team Mate ¨C Word originated from teamwork games, refers to stupid team mates.

    [2] G.o.dly Opponent ¨C Refers to powerful enemies or opponent

    [3] Big face ¨C Daring, lol Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 38

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 38

    Chapter 38: Brilliant Under Pressure

    For those who click chapter 38, go back and read chapter 37!! I''ve mistakenly skipped chapter 37 and went right ahead to chapter 38. So you guys have missed some of the most hrious interactions ever!!

    Click the previous b.u.t.ton!

    Kirindas: This is why I love this novel; x.x.x

    ArchersGoon: Hahaha, Tingxuan is a brilliant politician, see how he handles things; x.x.x

    Nadywing: I''m sorry you hit a cliffy¡­

    Angel: Love your little anecdote!

    Crystal Aris: Read Chapter 37 again, we missed out Mother-in-Law''s yelling; we''ll see the kids one day. They''re kind of fun too.

    Who Cares: Hehe, we''ll see how it turns out.

    Echo: Staying in the pce has its own problems, let''s see how Nuan Nuan deals with it.

    Queue: They do sound like they''re having fun; I snack when I trante, need the sugar rush, lol! Also, it''s a food novel, how can I not snack??

    Seawaterwitch Mira: I love that youughed; I needed a few days to recover, but now I''m back and trying to get back into the groove.

    Julie: So exciting that I read most of it with the aid of an electronic dictionary; Ahahaha, funny story, the ''fighting scene'' was left out¡­

    Moto: Food make good bribes, and they''re easy to dispose of.

    Shira: Haha, I love it when intelligent characters interacts!

    Go to Chaper 37!

    Gumihou

    "That''s right, mother. If there''s anything you wish talk about, let''s do it inside." Duan Tingxuan was also doing his best to warmly encourage Madam Yang to enter the house. Only to hear Madam Yang said coldly, "No, the I only want to know, is what you n to do with these three?"

    Duan Tingxuan understood Madam Yang''s meaning, she wanted him to divorce this wife. However, is this even possible? Let''s not even talk about the delicious food that this prince now depended on like tiger''s milk. Even if there''s no good things to eat, he could no longer live without this woman who charges into rowdy battles with him. He simply refuses to live without this source of happiness. Even if he was beaten to death, he will not divorce this wife.

    Mind zipped about like silver quick lightning, he immediately saw an opportunity within this crisis. Thus, pretending not to hear the dark hints under Madam Yang''s words, he made a he-heugh and said, "Nuan Nuan and the rest have been living in this Mei Yue Lou for quite a few months. As mother could see, this ce is quite remote, so your son is just thinking that in these next few days, once they''ve packed up this ce, they could return to the Inner Court."

    "WHAT?" Madam Yang and Su Nuan Nuan screeched in unison. Both directed ferocious res at Duan Tingxuan. Madam Yang grounded out, "You still wish to bring them back to the Inner Court? Are you trying to say that our pce is not lively enough?"

    As her voice dropped to dangerous decibels, she directed her re at Su Nuan Nuan who waved her hand quickly, "Elder Madam don''t look at me like that. Thsi decision was all your son''s doing, nothing at all to do with me. I have already decided to stay in this Mei Yue Lou till my dying day, I won''t let anyone move me from this ce. Why should I go to that backstabbing and intrigue filled ce, when I could just stay here to continue my research on good food and drinks?"

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan couldn''t quite believe their eyes as they stared at Su Nuan Nuan. Is this woman not afraid of being struck by lightning? You already did so many bad deeds, what right to you have to say ''backstabbing and intrigue filled ce, research on good food and drinks''?

    No wonder the Lord has changed. From what they could see, it''s clear that her level of scheming has upgraded to an un-precedented level. Daring to use the ''let loose in order to capture'' technique and y around with the Lord to this point!

    As the two of them chewed on this information, a feeling of doom loomed over them. As expected, Duan Tingxuan said to Su Nuan Nuan, "You''ll have toe back to the Inner Court sooner orter, why note back a little sooner, and¡­"

    ""Absolutely not, I forbid it." Madam Yang dered, "Want them return to the inner court? Over my dead body."

    "You hear that? Are you trying to curse your own mother? Already a g, you want to add unfilial too?" Su Nuan Nuan nodded fiercely, a finger pointing straight at Duan Tingxuan, as though she was Madam Yang''s personal defender of justice.

    "Very well, since mother already said so, the three of you can stay in Mei Yue Lou." Duan Tingxuan said decisively. Both Su Nuan Nuan and Madam Yang breathed a united sigh of relief and grinned over their victory. However, when they caught each other''s smile, a sense of awkwardness fell over them.

    "Since mother does not wish to enter the house, let son send you home, ba. Hong Lian, please go to your madam''s kitchen and fetch arge bowl of that smoothie." Duan Tingxuan ordered loudly. In a short while, Hong Lian appeared from the kitchen with food box and brought it over to Madam Yang. With a wordless bob of greeting, she handed over the box to Duan Tingxuan.

    At the word ''smoothie'', Madam Yang''s eyes brightened. She''d been obsessing over this thing for a few days. However, when she had heard that it was made by Su Nuan Nuan, she refused to lower her pride and ask for any. On the other hand, if the other side personally send some over, there was no reason to reject it.

    Duan Tingxuan ced the flowered steam buns he had been carrying all this while into the box and slung it over one arm. With the other arm, he attempted to escort Madam Yang, only to be smacked by her. With a fierce harrumph, "Don''t touch me with your greasy hands, these are new clothes."

    "Yes, yes, son is careless."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled indulgently, and made a respectful gesture for his mother to walk before him. Madam Yang turned, and stepped smartly for Mei Yue Lou''s main entrance. This almost shocked Xu Ran Yun to death. After seeing her huge hopes just crashed down like that, she haspletely forgotten about Duan Tingxuan''s earlier cold gaze.

    Neither did she noticed Xue Zi Lan''s drooping figure, carefully cultivated gentle and agreeable air all gone: The moment they walk out of this ce , they could no longer bring up the matter of divorce any more. She almost could not bear the anger in her heart, Elder Madam, ah, Elder Madam. Could you please take a look at how you handle this important matter? We came here with the intention to force the Lord to divorce this creature, you can''t just let the mention of ''returning her into the Inner Court'' frighten you into a retreat, ah.

    With such fury burning within her, Xu Ran Yun''s brain almost couldn''t take it. As such, she dashed towards Madam Yang''s side and cried out, "Elder Madam!" However, before the echo of her shout disappeared, Duan Tingxuan suddenly turned to look at her. In a very neutral voice, he said, "Ran Yun, if there''s anything you wish to say, let''s go back first, all right?"

    It sounded like a gentle suggestion, but the weight behind it was almost overbearing. Xu Ran Yun felt a tingle on her scalp, her lips moved, but no words came out. She did not dare to speak any more and could only lower her head. At this moment, Madam Yun''s mood was worse than if she had eaten a mouthful of flies.

    Madam Yang also sighed quietly, in the end, she would leave the matter of controlling the wives to her son, the Lord of the Pce. Though she had been stunned by her son''s att.i.tude just now, how could she not be reminded of the true reason they enter this ce by the sudden cry of ''Elder Madam!''? Only it looked like her son was determined to protect this woman of his.

    If that is the case, Madam Yang who had always indulged her son in everything decided not to interfere. It was one thing to decide one something, it''s quite another to actually implement it. In truth, the two secondary wives had ced their bets on a ''Pig Team Mate[1]''. The moment they encounter a ''G.o.dly Opponent[2]'', her true nature was squeezed out, and she retreated.

    Thus, Madam Yang pretended not to hear Xu Ran Yun''s cry for a.s.sistance. She only gave her son a little re. Using her eyes to inform him: You better just find an excuse for me to let you keep that woman of yours, if you dare fool me again, I shall not be so lenient.

    When Duan Tingxuan caught this secret message from his mother, he heaved a secret sigh of relief. This prince had never imagined that his mother woulde right at this moment and see the way he battle with Su Nuan Nuan with her own eyes. This was truly fortunate, that female tiger''s arrogance had definitely angered his mother, that''s really bad, ah. On the other hand, if he really could not get over this hurdle, he still has the Old Madam as back up. Since she had eaten so many good things from Su Nuan Nuan, surely she woulde up with some ways to mediate and sooth his mother''s temper.

    Ah, not good, Old Madam had specifically informed me to bring some snacks for her, how could he have forgotten?

    Wu! Thank goodness, he still has those 2 flowered steamed bun in the food box. He could cut them into pieces and made up 2 tefuls. As long as Old Madam never found out that he had clutched them in his paws all day should be fine.

    Duan Tingxuan continued to polish up this evil n of his as he escorted Madam Yang back. Su Nuan Nuan kept her eyes on that group of people until not even a shadow was left on her threshold. The, she turned towards Si Ping who was trying to quietly sneak away, "Why did you not appear when Elder Madam arrived? Why did you not go back with your master? Do you feel that he had not stolen enough from me and want to sneak out more food on his behalf?"

    "Madam''s words are too heavy, this kind of immoral behaviour was only something the thick faced master could do. This small one has a thin face, and a cowardly heart. How could this one dare to act under madam''s sharp eye?" Si Ping gave a little hei-heiugh as he tried to coax a smile. After all, the master was not around, if he did not curse him now, when would he have a chance?

    "Rascal, don''t think that just because you said some bad words against Duan Tingxuan I would let you off lightly. Birds of a feather flocks together, since you''re your master''s hand, you and he are the same." Su Nuan Nuan said with a sneer. Suddenly, she noticed Xiang Yun also sneaking out from the kitchen. She has no good feeling for these two maids as she angrily said, "I sent you two to guard against Duan Tingxuan in the kitchen. As a result, you not only watch him eat half a te of my stuff, but also take my food away. Still dare to appear? A pair of dogs is more useful than you two."

    Xiang Yun grinned, "Madam, please don''t say things like that. If not for this one and Hong Lian, would the master be satisfied with just half a te? I''m afraid a few of your tes would have be empty by now. To be able to manage this much, Hong Lian and I already did our best. As for the two dogs, I''m afraid the master would just kick them to death, and then eat and eat, and then what would you do? Therefore, we''re still more useful than dogs."

    "Still want to talk smart? Su Nuan Nuan was still p.i.s.sed off, but Si Ping was nodding vigorously from the side. "This small one can verify. What Xiang Yun said is correct. Our master never give much thought to animals, pets or otherwise. Once, at Prince Qi''s pce, there was this really fierce pure bred dog from the Western Regions. It bared it''s teeth at our master, barking as it charged at us. Our master gave it a swift kick in the head, and it ran away with it''s tail between its legs."

    Pce dogs should have their minders, how could it actually be given an opportunity to charge at Duan Tingxuan, barking and snarling? This Duan Tingxuan was also too violent, actually kicking a dog, really not giving face to its owner, ah. Oh, wait, it should be said that he was being merciful, otherwise, that kick would not have sent it running, away, it would have sent it to doggy heaven.

    However, Su Nuan Nuan was not all interested in picking out the plot holes in this kind of story. She just treated it as nothing more than fancy story telling. As a foodie, one should stay above all this underhand fighting and squash down one''s curiosity. If you investigate to deep into a matter, you will be the one squashed between two hard decisions. Too troublesome, ah.

    At this point, she decided to go to the kitchen to calcte her loss, when she saw Si Ping loitering around with shifty rat''s eyes, clearly up to no good. Su Nuan Nuan frowned and said, "Still not leaving? Are you waiting for an opportunity to do some thieving for your master? Afterwards when I fry some snacks, would you believe it if I say I''ll throw you into the hot oil as well?"

    Si Ping quickly smiled tteringly, "Madam has misunderstood, this servant would never dare to repeat the mistakes of this one''s master. Nor does this servant knew any 8 Steps Catching Cicada or Scale Across River on Duckweed qing gong. This servant was just thinking, Madam has just seen this one hide away and did not face the music with master. If master really sees this one right now, wouldn''t this small one be kicked to death, ah? Therefore, Madam please show somepa.s.sion and grant this small one some leftovers. So that this lowly one may use it to appease the master into believing that this lowly ve has stayed behind in order to aplish his dirty deeds, and not have this poor ve beaten to death."

    "Pei! You sure have a big face[3], you think I don''t know that some of the stolen food ended up in your mouth? You''re not afraid of drowning in your own bulls.h.i.t?" Su Nuan Nuan red at Si Ping''s ttering face, feeling both amused and cheered up. When all was said and done, her heart was made of neither stone nor iron. After a brief hiss of fake displeasure, she went into the kitchen, collected 2 tray full of things, allowing the incredibly joyful Si Ping permission to take them away. Pig Team Mate ¨C Word originated from teamwork games, refers to stupid team mates. G.o.dly Opponent ¨C Refers to powerful enemies or opponent

    [3] Big face ¨C Daring, lol Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 39

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 39

    Chapter 39: So It''s Like That

    Double chapters, because I love you guys and as an apology for the mix up. Muah!

    Gumihou

    "This really is a household of thieves." Looking at her messy kitchen, Su Nuan Nuan could not suppress the urge to sigh as she shook her head. When her watery eyes met Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, both lowered their heads in shame. They heard Su Nuan Nuan said, "It''s all fine, after all we still have plenty of ingredients. We''ll just make more. Ah, just now when Elder Madam came, why did the two of you went into hiding with Si Ping, ah? Were you really that frightened?"

    Xiang Yun covered her lips as she giggled, "It''s not that we''re frightened, it''s just Elder Madam''s timing was just too good, arriving just when Missy is at the most exciting bit with the Master in the courtyard. In Missy''s own words, how could this ve be able to deny knowing you? Therefore, how could we ever be willing to go out?"

    Su Nuan Nuan, "¡­. ¡­"

    Tch, apparently they really were not afraid of the Elder Madam, instead they were so ashamed of their own masters that they did not wish to acknowledge them. Su Nuan Nuan felt crossed, she was starting to think that she may have treated these two maids a little too well. These two really wanted to flip the heavens, ah. But, why did they not show these kinds of of rebellious behaviour against Duan Tingxuan? Is being too easy going and lenient a wrong thing?

    Tch, so they really weren''t afraid of the Elder Madam,

    "Sometimes, it''s not necessary to tell the truth." As she expressionlessly pour oil into the hot wok, Su Nuan Nuan slide her gaze over to Hong Lian. This maid seemed to understand the undertones of her gaze and hurriedly said, "As for that Si Ping, he really was afraid of the Elder Madam. Missy just think, seeing the Master act like that, Elder Madam would definitely get angry. However, no matter how angry she gets, there was no way she would ever raise her hand against the master, right? Therefore, the only way she could vent her anger is on Si Ping who is always at the Master''s side, isn''t it? Hiding from Elder Madam in the kitchen is just a way for Si Ping to protect his own hide."

    "Tcheh!" Su Nuan Nuan could not resist a sharpugh, "So he''s not at all afraid that his master will sell him for this?"

    "Unlikely," Hong Lian grinned, "Our Master''s temper is quite lenient, he treats people very well. Especially the servants, to the point that he sometimes cover up our errors from our masters. Perhaps Missy doesn''t know, Elder Madam was probably urged by those two secondary wives toe demand for a divorce. With just a few words, our master was able to protect Missy, but Si Ping''s presence would be difficult to exin, which is why he hid himself in the kitchens. The Master would only tease Si Ping for being too quick witted, how could he actually be sold? Missy should not underestimate the Master."

    "Who says I underestimate your Master? I''ve never looked down on that rascal, you understand? Don''t you dare nder me." Su Nuan Nuan lightly knocked on Hong Lian''s head. Then, she ced the White Sugar Cake[1] that had been prepared earlier into the hot oil. One by one they all slipped in and were fried into a golden brown colour. This was the first time Hong Lian and Xiang Yun saw her made these sweet snacks. The sweet smell was enough to make them salivate, Xiang Yun ventured, "Missy, what is this? This fragrance is so sweet."

    "It''s called White Sugar Cake, didn''t you see me put in those effort? First, the good glutinous rice has to be soaked, then properly washed¡­" without waiting for her to finish, Xiang Yun piped up, "That''s right, a few days ago, Missy had ordered me and Hong Lian to catch Si Ping and force him to grind those glutinous rice into flour, was it to make these?"

    "Clever." Su Nuan Nuan nodded with a smile, and heard Xiang Yun said, "Missy also did something to the rice flour this morning, but this servant did not managed to see. Just what mysterious technique is this? This shape is just too curious. Missy please teach this servant, in the future when Missy wishes to eat this snack, all you have to do is order this servant to make it."

    Su Nuan Nuan gave her a look, and nodded with a small ''tch'' sound, "Very well, I shall consider this as you being conscientious. The actual work is in the making of rice flour, once that is done the rest is easy. The rice flour has to be kneaded into dough with cold water that has been boiled. Then, stretch and twist the dough until it forms a long strand. Press the ends of two strands together and twist some more until they form a wavy circle. Fry them in the wok, then fish them out¡­"

    "Oh, I know, once they''re out, we can eat them, right?" Xiang Yun cried out from the side, looking at the te filled with the fried White Sugar Cake. It looked like she almost couldn''t help herself from s.n.a.t.c.hing one.

    Su Nuan Nuan merely rolled her eyes at her and said mildly, "Congrattions, you''ve managed to answer first. However, you''re wrong. I already told you these are called White Sugar Cakes, however, have you heard me mention white sugar even once?"

    "Oh!" Xiang Yun''s eyes widened, "These looked really fancy already, so this servant thought they''re ready to be eaten. Missy please don''t keep this one in suspense, what other steps are there? Please tell this one, this servant is dying to know."

    "Who''s keeping you in suspense? If you hadn''t stabbed your tongue in, I would have told you the whole process. Still daring to make false ims against me." Su Nuan Nuan made a harrumph sound, and said to Hong Lian. "Go to the kitchen and fetch thatrge basin. ce eight of these cakes on it, and sprinkle them with a mixture of white sugar and rice flour, and it''s done. This is the reason why they''re called White Sugare Cakes, understand?"

    Hong Lian smiled, "It really sounds quite troublesome to make. We already have something called white sugar cakes, but they''re not made this way."

    Su Nuan Nuan waved her hand casually, and smiled nonchntly, "Those white sugar cakes uses sugar as their stuffing, so the name ismon enough. My cakes also depended on white sugar as vouring, so they could also be called White Sugar Cakes. No matter what''s the name, the most important thing is that it''s delicious."

    "Yes, what Missy said is correct." Hong Lian was busy with her hands dusting the White Sugar Cakes in therge basin as she spoke, "Missy look, doesn''t this look like it had snowed a little here? Pleasing to the eye and seductive to the the nose, a very good dessert. Fortunately these were not yet made when the Master is around, otherwise there would be none left."

    Su Nuan Nuan was extremely angry, "You Master is just too greedy. Since these high grade sugar and glutinous rice are all provided by him, do you really think I would not let him have 2 or 3 pieces? However, he''s just too much. Every time he spots something edible he turns into a greedy snake, ready to gobble everything in sight, not at all afraid of choking to death. G.o.d knows where all that pretentious princely air went."

    "Whatever, let him eat. But he still has ideas about carrying off my food. While I''m fine letting that Old Madam eat my snacks, since there aren''t many people who don''t hate me in this pce, but those extra wives of his and those fox buddies and dog friends were just too much. Why should I tire myself out making good food for them? Hmph!"

    Hong Lian wiped a forehead full of cold sweat, and said softly, "Um, Missy, this one understands thement about the extra wives, but¡­ the fox buddies and dog friends are¡­?"

    "Those friends, ah. Aside from that East Pce crown prince, who else?" Su Nuan Nuan''s mouth twisted. Hong Lian stared at her in silence for a long time, before rubbing the sweat on her forehead again. "Missy, aside from the East Pce crown prince, the Master also counted a few other princes as his friends, as well as young officials and other aristocrats from good families. The Master would not actually a.s.sociate himself withckeys or other lower .s.s people."

    "Really?" Su Nuan Nuan was doubtful. That rascal really has fancy friends like that? What ever, the words were said and cannot be taken back. Even tears would have to be swallowed by this point. Thus, she nted her hands on her hips and said, "I don''t care, after all I don''t know those people. Since I don''t know them they might as well be dogs and foxes. What young official? The higher one sits, the more bad water is contained in their stomach, otherwise how would they be able to make it that far?"

    Hong Lian nodded like a chicken pecking rice, "Yes, yes, yes, what Missy says made sense. This servant is just curious why Missy still gets so angry and shouty even though the master has given you so many things. So it''s like this, this ve actually felt that the Master has been badly mistreated."

    Su Nuan Nuan said neutrally, "He''s not mistreated." So saying, she fished out thest few White Sugar Cakes. Xiang Yun quickly stepped forward with therge basin filled with the other cakes. Once the basin of cakes was on the shelf, she fetched a basin of water forward for Su Nuan Nuan to wash her hands in. "Your master and I, our rtionship as husband and wife is already broken apart, no matter what he thinks. He and I shall never reform that broken mirror in this lifetime. With this resolve, I am able to interact with him. This is good too. As long as he provides me with ingredients and teaches me kungfu, as thanks I shall provide him with good food."

    "This way, we are of use to each other. However, he insisted on making me go back to the Inner Court. I ask you, what do I do once I''m back there? Continue fighting those secondary wives and concubines for his attention? Scheme and back stab each other to death? It''s not easy tond such a nice leisurely life, why should I voluntarily go back into that suffocating environment? You think I''m stupid?"

    Sudden realization dawned on Hong Lian, and she said faintly, "So it''s like this, Missy no longer loves the Master and did not want to return, and therefore did all this to make the Master lose interest in yourself?"

    "That''s right, it''s just like that." Su Nuan Nuan wiped her hands with her handkerchief. She smiled at Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, "I know the two of you hoped that I would be returned. It''s just too bad that the official wife''s position is just an empty t.i.tle. A man''s affections is of no consequence. Ever since my near death, I''ve seen the light. In this world, the most important thing is to live life however you want to. Therefore, please don''t speak good things for your master any more. Even if you tell me that he''s be the deity Er Lang[2] is no use."

    Hong Lian nodded, "This servant understands. This servant and Xiang Yun are maids that have followed you from your parents'' house and will follow Missy till the end. However, Missy, please forgive this one for being presumptuous. This one wishes to remind Missy of the Master''s temperament, it won''t be easy to make him give up."

    Duan Tingxuan''s character, as his former wife how could she not know? Did she even need Hong Lian''s reminder? Therefore this statement from her maid was really curious. Su Nuan Nuan had some suspicion that these maids of her have probably realised that she had undergone aplete change. However, it''s a matter of neither party saying anything and the two of them have simply taken her for their master. In fact, they must have felt that she was better than their previous master. This was good. Some things need not be said to be understood, as long as everyone was of one mind it was enough.

    When the things that should be said have all been spoken, Su Nuan Nuan pointed at the te of White Sugar Cakes and said to Hong Lian, "Whatever, you send this to the Old Madam at the North Courtyard. Since we received so many cloth from her, it''s only proper that we should thank the olddy. These White Sugar Cakes are ky on the outside and soft on the inside. Filled with the fragrance and softness of glutinous rice, a perfect snack for older people. Only one warning, remember to tell her that glutinous rice is not easy to digest and that Old Madam should not eat too many of them."

    Hong Lian smiled, "If Missy wishes to show your filial responsibility, why not visit her yourself? Why send this servant instead?"

    Su Nuan Nuan gave her a re and said coolly, "Have you already forgotten my words from before? For me to personally go? What happens if Old Madam became too happy over my snacks and force me back into the Inner Court? Isn''t that just lifting a rock to smash my own feet? I''ve already ordered you to go, why all these questions?"

    Hong Lian did not know whether tough or to cry, "Surely Missy has thought too badly of the Old Madam? How could she do such a thing?"

    "It''s still better to be safe than sorry, only the careful would survive to finish the journey." Su Nuan Nuan was resolute in her feelings. That old woman was that ck bellied Duan Tingxuan''s grandmother after all. It would be best to guard against her. The apple couldn''t fall too far from the tree.

    "Master, what did Elder Madam say?:

    When he finally managed to leave Madam Yang''s courtyard, Duan Tingxuan found Si Ping sneaking about. All the grievances he had suffered ever since his mother''s sudden appearance finally has an outlet. He aimed a reckless kick towards Si Ping''s bottom, angrily snapping, "Where have you died off to all this time?"

    "From Master''s words, it seems that Master wishes to know where this servant has died off to? This small one knew that Master had not been able to eat to his heart''s content, and have thus begged Big Madam for tworge trays of edibles from her. They are now safely in Master''s study."

    Si Ping''s ability to tter was spot on. After hearing about the good things to eat, the prince''s temper instantly calmed down, his heart filled with good cheer, he was about to head over to his study when he paused. The smile on his face vanished. After a moment, he suddenly turned and made his way towards the west, where Xu Ran Yun''s Xiayu courtyard was.

    "My Lord, are you not going to the study to eat?" Si Ping was shocked. This was the first time he saw his Master steeled his heart against Big Madam''s cooking.

    "Keep the food safe. I will eat themter. I must first go to Xu Ran Yun''s ce. You return to the study and inform Shuang Xi, then you can go home."

    Hearing Duan Tingxuan''s words, Si Ping understood. Looks like Elder Madam''s visit to Mei Yue Lou was not a coincidence, ah. In fact, based on her character, it was almost a sure thing that Xu Ran Yun was involved. This time she would definitely suffer a loss. Though it was unknown how the master had cated Elder Madam, he would have had to eat some humble pie. This grudge, if not Madam Yun, who else should suffer for it?

    Author''s Note: Phew! After such arge fight, things finally started to calm down a little. Hope you guys will continue to support this silly couple¡­and also continue to send in a little more monthly tickets¡­my ie all depends on everyone''s help. Good bye for now!!! White Sugar Cake ¨C Basically a twisted Chinese donut made with rice flour, lol! Deity Er Lang

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eng_Shen Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 40

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 40

    Chapter 40: Settling ounts

    Author''s Note: Hope you have a wonderful time reading.

    Crystal Aris: Goodness knows why, you only appreciate things when they are out of your reach I guess.

    Seawaterwitch: Love you for your understanding and continuous support!

    Julie: Lol, the excitement trajectory is crazy!

    Kirindas: x.x.x

    Nayfa: x.x.x

    A little cliffy at the end, warning for my wonderful readers.

    Love,

    Gumihou

    The truth was, Si Ping hadpletely underestimated his master''s character. As a distinguished heir apparent with a reputation to defend, how could he allow himself to indulge in based impulses, and randomly vent his anger on one of his wives?

    However, Xu Ran Yun had really p.i.s.sed him off this time, so he still needed to at least knock her down a peg or two.

    Sure enough, the moment he entered her courtyard, Xu Ran Yun had trotted out to wee him. Upon seeing his unhappy expression, she also withdraw the smile on her face and said cautiously, "Did Elder Madam reprimand my Lord?"

    Duan Tingxuan gave her a look, and without a word strode into the house. Xu Ran Yun also did not dare to say anything, and just followed him in wordlessly. Her husband sat on one of the chairs, face as cold as a winter pond. This made her felt terrified, but at the same time wronged.

    Her thoughts flew to Mei Yue Lou, Su Nuan Nuan''s actions as a violent shrew had really upset Madam Yun who had always strived to maintain an image of loving wife and good mother. She felt stifled, as though she had been pushed into a corner, for what stupid reason that woman could scream and smack you around whereas I have to bow my head and y the obedient wife? Clearly I''m the wronged party here.

    The moment she reached this conclusion, a rush of daring made her lift her head. Xu Ran Yun''s naturally hot temper suddenly red itself as she stiffened her neck and sat down right in front of Duan Tingxuan. With a cold smile, she said, "Looks like my Lord havee to criticize me, since it is this way, since it is so, this lowly concubine shall not resist."

    Duan Tingxuan''s eyes narrowed, Xu Ran Yun''s stubborn att.i.tude was starting to annoy him. If he can''t control her today, wouldn''t she be even more wilful the next time? It''s fine if she had no intention of respecting him, but what if she tries to instigate the Elder Madam again, or try to find other ways to get rid of Nuan Nuan, that would be most unforgivable.

    Annoyed and p.i.s.sed off, Duan Tingxuan was not one to allow others to control him by force or by will. He gave Xu Ran Yun an indifferent look, and said, "From your words, it looks like you felt wronged somehow, why? Do you feel that what you did today was right?"

    "Just what wrong did this concubine do? If the Lord wishes to care about his abandoned wife it''s his privilege. However, why would my Lord allow himself to be bullied and chased around all over the courtyard by that shrewish woman? If word gets out, then, my Lord''s reputation¡­"

    The more Xu Ran Yun spoke, the angrier she got. Her face turned red, however, before she was able to finish, her husband stood up. With sudden anger, he said, "Who says that she''s an abandoned wife? I''ve never sent any divorce papers, so how could anyone say she''s an abandoned wife? As for her chasing me around, that''s up to me, how could a little tiff between between a husband and wife be something that ruins a man''s reputation? Whose tongue would be so busy as to leak this matter out? What happened to the family rules? More importantly, so what if it''s leaked out? Is my reputation based upon this matter alone? What sort of man do you take me for? An idiot who spends all his time hanging around his wife''s pants?"

    Xu Ran Yun was shocked. Duan Tingxuan had never lost his temper at her like this. She had a nasty feeling that she had said the wrong thing. However, this woman''s thoughts were very nimble, stubbornness would cost her her husband''s affections, therefore she immediately switched tactics.

    Her lips ttened, tears gathered in her eyes and fell like rain. In a voice choked with emotions, "I¡­ this concubine''s words are too hasty, how could this concubine consider so many things? I am nothing like my Lord, who is blessed with cleverness and wit. I am just a stupid woman, thinking that you''ve sent her to Mei Yue Lou because you didn''t want her any more. How could I know¡­"

    "Since you don''t know anything, don''t act rashly." Duan Tingxuan gave a cold snort. He red at Xu Ran Yu and said in a heavy tone, "I still remember how I''ve told Si Ping to inform you to continue with Mei Yue Lou'' allowance. At that point you were perfectly agreeable. However, what happened in the end? If Nuan Nuan had not gotten stronger, or if shecks her excellent cooking skills, she would have starved to death by now."

    Anger red up in Xu Ran Yun''s heart. That day when you threw them into Mei Yue Lou, wasn''t it to starve that poisonous woman to death? Now you turn this question back to me. Except, Duan Tingxuan''s arguments were all perfectly reasonable, leaving her wordless. She also realized that she could not allow her real thoughts to leak out.

    She could only leak out more tears and said, "The Lord knows, Big Madam never did treat me well in the past, my character is especially stubborn, so¡­I became really angry. When I was looking after the pce, there was so much to do and I sometimes¡­missed things out. My Lord, I did not intentionally try to get back at her. Please forgive me this one time, there won''t be a next time."

    In the end, she was still a secondary wife, not a mere bedpanion, which was probably why she dared to raise such trouble in the first ce. However, now that he had knock her down a few pegs, she probably would not dare to make trouble for Nuan Nuan, this should be enough.

    [Trantor''s Note: Hah, you think?]

    As soon as he thought of this, Duan Tingxuan allowed his expression to darken a little. He stood up and said neutrally, "Ran Yun, you''ve always been a clever one and have kept your true thoughts to yourself, until now. I know, you really hate Nuan Nuan, however, she is still my official wife, while you''re only the secondary wife. This is a matter of social rank, and as such, you must respect her as your superior. Everything that you did before, including today''s matter, I can overlook. However, you have better not try anything again, you understand me?"

    "Yes, this concubine understands." Xu Ran Yun felt her heart was like a ball of fire: No matter what, she''s a daughter of a Lord, why should she lower her head and voice while speaking to her husband?

    Just because she''s a secondary wife? The Lord really knows how to talk, what social rank, has he already forgotten the way he was chased around by that crazy shrew around the courtyard?

    However, no matter how indignant she was, in the end she had been caught red handed by her husband. Therefore, Xu Ran Yun could only bite her tongue and swallow this anger down.

    No matter how clever a man this prince was, he still did not understand women. If this anger was really that easy to swallow, the weather would forever be fair and cool, and there would be less houses damaged by typhoons. His little beat down on Xu Ran Yun had merely added anotheryer of resentment buried under ava like temper, waiting for an opportunity to erupt against Su Nuan Nuan. Nothing had been solved at all.

    The storm that pa.s.sed through Mei Yue Lou was like a grain of rice dropping into ake, barely a ripple disturbed them. Even Su Nuan Nuan was a little curious, only G.o.d knows what kind of ttery Duan Tingxuan had used on the Elder Madam and that bunch of troublesome wives and concubines.

    However, when she thought about it, this oue was not bad either: She did not have to leave the pce, and could continue to free load on all the good things to eat and drink. As for that man s.l.u.t, he probably won''t dare to simply swagger in and steal Mei Yue Lou''s food any more. He may have convinced Madam Yang to stop harping on about divorcing her, but things were probably still up in the air for the moment. From now on, Madam Yang and his many wives and concubines will have their eagle eyes here. How wonderful, what an excellent situation this was.

    As if to prove her theory, Duan Tingxuan was not seen at all for two consecutive days. This time, even Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had to admit that their Missy''s deduction was correct. The Lord probably did not dare to recklesslye to Mei Yue Lou any more.

    This made the maids sad. Though their mouths continued to say that this was a good thing, it was all to cate Su Nuan Nuan. Deep within their hearts, their master was still the best man in the world. Aside from his excessive love for beautiful women, he had no other bad habits. Furthermore, ''Everyone loves a beauty'', isn''t it? As a man of high breeding, good looks, well verse in military skills and letters, furthermore a prince with direct rtions with the imperial family, having three wives and four concubines is a normal thing, right?

    Don''t know why Missy keptining about this matter and refused to ept his affections. It''s clear that Missy and the Lord got along very well. So what if their rtionship stories were all ''flying chicken and jumping dogs''? It looked the Lord really liked this kind of rtionship, in fact, one could say that this was true love. If only Missy would soften her heart a little, wouldn''t they pa.s.s their days as a heavenly couple? When that timees, who cares about Madam Ran or Madam Yun, who would dare go against their mistress? Smartly spoken ttery would only go so far.

    These two maids had prayed that Duan Tingxuan woulde everyday to emit his hot pa.s.sionate feelings at her, eventually proving his true love and warm up that piece of ice in Su Nuan Nuan''s chest into a real heart. Once Missy''s heart is all warmed up, the long awaited love story could finally start.

    Who knew that before anything major could change, that dream broke apart like a soap bubble with the arrival of Madam Yang dousing the fires of love. Now that things havee to this, the two maids have nothing to say. They could only abandon their ns and prepared themselves to die of old age with their crazy mistress in Mei Yue Lou.

    "White flowers smell sweet in spring~ng li geng li geng~"

    It was evening now, but since it was the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, the sky remained bright even though dusk had already past.

    Su Nuan Nuan sat in her courtyard under a frame covered in grape vines happily eating a peach, as she pondered over watermelons, potatoes and sweet potatoes of this era. She had not any yet, she seemed to recall that these were produce that were recently introduced and wasn''t sure whether she would get to eat these familiar things. Thank goodness they still have peanuts, otherwise she would be heartbroken.

    "Oh, very good, ah. Though it''s scorchingly hot, you really now how to enjoy yourself. Hiding under the shade of this patio and eating peaches and not bothering to cook. Yi? There''s two more left, excellent, let me have one, ba."

    Theughter that suddenly floated over from the entrance gave Su Nuan Nuan a shock. For a moment, she thought she was hearing things. Then, a tall, confident silhouette floated in front of her. She still could not quite believe her eyes. Was this actually real?

    An illusion, ba? Surely this was an illusion? Her eyes followed a set of beautifully slender and graceful ws as it reached out to grasped one of the white peaches. She followed the ws up a powerful arm as the peach was brought up slowly and gracefully towards a wide open mouth. One bite, and only half of the peach was left.

    Not an illusion? Could this really be real? Her peach really had been s.n.a.t.c.hed away, really had been eaten. She could even see the sweat on that familiar and hateful handsome face¡­and peach juice running down from that mouth. But, even if this was true, how could it be true? Surely she had not imagined all that had happened that day? Was that Elder Madam made out of paper?

    "Wei! Nuan Nuan, what happened to you? Have you gone crazy? Surely this was not the first time you discovered that your husband is a prince as handsome as a jade tree, above meremon men, n.o.ble of bearing, confident and easy upon the eye, and thus have fallen under my charms?" From the moment Duan Tingxuan had taken the peach, his body was in a state of high awareness. However, even though he had taken arge bite out of the peach, this woman had not reacted in her usual crazy way.

    The prince could not help but be surprised, then a sliver of glee went through him. Could this mean that this Nuan Nuan had really recognised his worth and have once more fallen for him, ba? This would be the best news in the world!

    [Author''s Note: Au wu! It''s here, it''s here!¡­thank you everyone for their support!]

    [Trantor''s Note: Who wants to kick Duan Tingxuan?" Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    .

    [Total: 3 Average: 5/5]

 Chapter 42

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 42

    Chapter 42: Grievance Comints

    Echo: Let us all dream together.

    NovelAddictxD: Well¡­ let''s all cheer Su Nuan Nuan as she resist this dubious male character''s charms

    Aikucis: x.x.x

    Kirindas: Hahaha, that''s the main reason I read ahead

    Bookworm: Love your name, and yes, they are funny together

    Moto: I know right? Clear in porridge made from expensive rice and pickles, what''s not to love?

    F_J: Ohh, yes, watery congee. Though my mother prefers congee so thick that the spoon will stay upright when you stick it in the middle of the pot.

    Lots of Love,

    Gumihou

    ¡°But, you know that I must have meat!" Duan Tingxuan continued to howl like a distressed wolf. At that moment, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun appeared. They quickly ventured over to greet him, Hong Lian smiled, "Master hase? We thought that after Elder Madam''s visit, Master would not be able toe any more."

    "How could I?" In front of these two maids, Duan Tingxuan felt that he had to maintain some manly dignity. He waved his fanzily, but a tinge of desperate hunger gleamed in his wolfish eye, clearly hinting for some reports on the food conditions in the kitchen.

    Hong Lian was smart, she made sure to not even nce at him and respectfully faced Su Nuan Nuan, "Missy, the Eight Treasure Rice[1] is done, as for the Fried Tripe[2], this maid''s hand is too ipetent and did not know how to mix the dipping sauce properly. This maid begs your pardon, but could Missy handle this part personally? Also, this maid has noticed that the White Sealed Meat has been properly cooled down, would Missy like to have it tonight?"

    "What?" Duan Tingxuan jumped up suddenly, looking at Su Nuan Nuan he gave a nasty smile, "Very good, ah. Telling lies about pickles and porridges, so it''s Eight Treasure Rice. Fried Tripe? White Sealed Meat? And just what are those things? Also, dipping sauce? Has to be eaten with a dipping? These are all things I''ve never eaten before. You have been keeping a lot from me, as expected, if I haven''t been away for two days, making you think that I have been locked away, it''s almost certain that I would never be able to eat any of these. Nuan Nuan that''s too much even for you¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan''s spittle continue to fly. Though his face has ''Grief and Indignation'' written all over it, Su Nuan Nuan continued to block her ears against his grievances. She red at Hong Lian with gritted teeth, "You did this deliberately, you bunch of brats definitely did this deliberately, didn''t you?"

    Hong Lian showed a surprised expression, "What deliberately? Didn''t Missy said to inform you when we have finished with the meal preparations?"

    "You¡­fine, I did my best to defend against outside enemies only to be back stabbed by my own people." Su Nuan Nuan''s face was even cker than the marquis'', who had not stop muttering to himself about the unfairness of the world. She twisted back to shout bad temperedly, "Shut up, otherwise don''t even bother with the Eight Treasure Rice or Fried Tripe, I won''t even let you see a single grain of rice."

    "As long as you feed me." Duan Tingxuan firmly ignored an angry Su Nuan Nuan. He swallowed and hungrily made his way into the kitchen.

    One rice and two side dishes, in the end Su Nuan Nuan even made a Vinegar Bamboo Stir Fry[4] and added a duck bones soup[5] for their evening meal. Though the dishes were simple, to the point of being shabby, making it looked as though his status had suffered a critical blow.

    Whenever Duan Tingxuan ate within the Inner Court, there were usually no less than seven to eight dishes on the table. How could these dishes match up to a marquis'' status? Even when it came to the staple food, there were usually fresh steamed flower buns[6] or in steamed buns[7] in addition to rice. Nothing like in Mei Yue Lou, with only these few dishes in front of him, it was just too sad.

    Nevertheless, this small spread in front of the marquis caused his eyes to brim with tears of happiness.

    When Su Nuan Nuan sat down opposite him, he felt like a child whose candy had been nearly, but not quite, s.n.a.t.c.hed away by an adult. In a whispery voice, he said, "This is too wonderful, two extra dishes, and even a duck soup. I''ve been to your ce so many times, this is the first time you''veid out such a spread. As expected, you''ve been mistreating me all this while. When you knew I aming over, you only cook a small amount of food, I always get kicked out from this ce without even eating my fill¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan felt gooseb.u.mps rising all over her body. She narrowed her eyes and gritted her teeth as she s.n.a.t.c.hed a piece of White Sealed Meat with her chopsticks and dumped it onto Duan Tingxuan''s bowl. "You''re a fancy marquis daring to wear thin silk in this weather, even the east wind is picking up now. Do you actually like to suffer at my ce? Eat quickly, I hate it when even food won''t stop up a person''s mouth."

    This was actually the first time Su Nuan Nuan personally put food into his bowl. Wait, no, he should say this was the first time Su Nuan Nuan personally put food in his bowl in Mei Yue Lou.

    Duan Tingxuan''s heart brimmed with happiness and grat.i.tude. In his entire memory, this kind of pure happiness were not many. He quickly s.n.a.t.c.hed up the meat and put it into his mouth. Chewing thoughtfully, he said in surprise, "This is not any old chilled pork. Mm, Hong Lian called this White Sealed Meat, just how is it made?"

    "You just think about eating. Always asking about how things are made. So what if you know the recipe, do you think you can make them?" Su Nuan Nuan said crossedly. This Duan Tingxuan have a bad habit of asking about things he ate, even though he had no intention of making them. Therefore, even though he acted like a curious baby, Su Nuan Nuan found this habit uncute.

    "Tomorrow will be the 12th, in a few days it will be time to collect rent. Some of it wille from the coastal area so there will be fresh seafood. Why don''t you have a look and see what you like? Take anything you like back." Duan Tingxuan obligingly stopped asking, and tactfully switched the subject into something that would piqued Su Nuan Nuan''s gourmet interest.

    "Seafood?" Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes brightened. She had transmigrated to this ce for a few months, and had yet to see any seafood, though the river fishes and pond creatures were a plenty. However, she was still suspicious, "Since the weather is so hot, won''t the seafood be stinky once they reach here?"

    Duan Tingxuan gave her a meaningful look, thenughed lightly, "Using a wooden carriage, lined with quilt and half filled with ice, and keeping the fish and shrimps inrge jars filled with seawater, not only will they reach the court intact, most will actually make it alive."

    "I see." Su Nuan Nuan nodded, feeling a little bewildered. This is amon technique, why are you looking at me with those eyes?

    She soon knew the answer.

    Duan Tingxuan picked up a piece of tripe with his chopsticks, dipped it into a sauce made out of sesame oil, sesame paste, chives, some sichuan peppers, mushroom sauce and other seasoning before delivering the delicious morsel into his mouth. He nodded as he smacked his lips, then shook his head as he meditated over its taste, "Tender yet crunchy, delicious, the vour just lingers in one''s mouth. This is a very good dish to have with wine."

    He suddenly changed the subject. With a little he-heugh, he said. "Nuan Nuan, you''ve always loved seafood the best. Every year when it''s time for to collect the tribute, you''ll always personally oversee the process. In fact, this method of delivering seafood was thought up by you. At that time, both the Elder Lord and Elder Madam were quite angry, said that your behaviour was just too extravagant. Well? Have you forgotten this?"

    This b.a.s.t.a.r.d, so this was the trap he had set up. Su Nuan Nuan scolded herself privately in her heart, she realised now why Duan Tingxuan had been looking at her with those weird eyes. For Su Meng Nuan topletely forget about a special seafood transport method she had thought up was certainly suspicious.

    Though it was suspicious, there was nothing Su Nuan Nuan could do. Though she had received most of Su Meng Nuan''s memories, she had not bothered to go through it with a fine toothb. While she has a good idea of what the people within the pce looked like and their general characteristics, for information that were not immediately vital to her ident.i.ty, who has the time to go through all that? Now that Duan Tingxuan mentioned this matter, she had a vague impression that something like this really did happened.

    Surely this rascal hadn''t realised her true ident.i.ty as a transmigrator, ba?

    A sense of unease crept into Su Nuan Nuan''s heart, but after thinking it through, unlike Hong Lian and Xiang Yun who were basically her shadows and encountered plenty of inconsistencies, this behaviour could still be considered as a mild outlier. Let''s just keep using the near death encounter as an excuse to cover up. In short, this Big Madam did not dared toe up with an overlyplicated story, as Zheng Banqiao[8] had said, best to avoid aplicated story in case one gets tangled up in one''s lies. In this kind of situation, if a transmigrator tried to spend their lives understanding too much, they would ended up not living at all.

    Therefore, Su Nuan Nuan raised her head and confidently dered, "Oh yes, now that you mentioned it, I remember now. Ever since my brain suffered a shock, I''ve forgotten quite a lot of things."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled slightly, and did not say much. He also had no intention of investigating this matter too deeply. Thus, both husband and wife refrained from saying too much, and continued to focus their attention on the food. This Duan Tingxuan seemed really hungry, he wolfed down three whole bowls of Eight Treasure Rice before patting his stomach in satisfaction.

    "The Old Madam and I have spoken quite a few times, she really wants to youe over for a chat. She liked all the snacks you''ve sent over, especially that White Sugar Cake. Now that she has eaten your White Sugar Cake, the kitchens are forbidden from making white sugar cakes. ording to Old Madam, those did not even deserved to be called white sugar cakes at all. Just look at the disaster you''ve caused with just one tray of White Sugar Cakes, the snacks we''ve been eating all this while in this pce have even lost its name as well as it standing, how unjust, ah."

    "You should be saying these words to the Old Madam, how could I have anything to do with this disaster? I''m not the one who named those snacks ''White Sugar Cakes''."

    Duan Tingxuan smiled, "Your schemes are entirely transparent to me, want me to speak to the Old Madam about this, do you really think I''m that stupid to invite a beating? You listen to me, find some time to visit that Old Madam, take some of these White Sealed Meat. It''s an excellent summer dish, cool and refreshing. The Old Madam also loves eating meat, though her body could not take too much oily or fatty food due to her age, this White Sealed Meat is just perfect. Its transparent l.u.s.ter is just too inviting, the fat tender and not at all greasy, the lean meat not at all coa.r.s.e. The fragrance of alcohol and seasoning thick enough to leave a pleasant after taste. Old Madam is sure to like it."

    Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t resistughing, "You certainly have a gourmet mouth on you. Each word that poured out is a praise, moreover it''s all worded differently. You should take up a career as a food critique and write about all kinds of gourmet food. I''m sure that evenrge restaurants will invite you to dine for free in order to be featured in your writings."

    Duan Tingxuan''s mouth twisted, "In this Capital, I''ve visited if not all, then at least 80% of the famous restaurants. There''s nothing much to differentiate them. Especially whenpared to your radical style of cooking. Though you call me a glutton, not every kind of cooking is pleasing to me." As he spoke, he picked up another piece of tripe, after swallowing it he called out, "Hong Lian, bring out that Red Daughter wine, I want to drink it today."

    Hong Lian bobbed in answer and soon came back with a small earthenware jug. Duan Tingxuan broke opened the seal and poured out half a bowl of wine. He looked at Su Nuan Nuan, "Want some? This is a 30 year old Red Daughter, it''s made by the previous generation''s official who gave it to the emperor as filial consideration. The emperor rewarded me with two jugs since I managed toplete my duty beautifully. Thanks to your fried tripe, I am willing to drink it today, not just any side dishes could match up with this kind of wine."

    Su Nuan Nuan shook her head, she had no interest in wheat based wine. However, Duan Tingxuan''s words had just reminded her that in these few days there should be all kinds of fruits avable soon. She nned to make some fruit wine from them.

    Duan Tingxuan alternately drank a mouthful of wine and ate a piece of tripe, eyes closed as he bobbed his head in pleasure. When thest bit of tripe was swallowed into his stomach, he finally allowed Hong Lian to take away the half empty jug of wine. He suddenly looked square at Su Nuan Nuan, "There are news from your parents."

    Su Nuan Nuan was startled, it took her a while to react. In fact, she was not sure what to feel. Strictly speaking, these old couple had nothing to do with the modern her, however, they were still the parents of this body she now upy. In short, without them, there will be no Su Meng Nuan. In short, without them, it would be impossible for Su Nuan Nuan to transmigrate into this current body. Therefore, it was impossible for her not to act nonchnt against them.

    [Trantor¡¯s note: If you can¡¯t see the food pictures, please go to prosperous food dot and support the trantor]

    [1] Eight treasure rice

    [2] Fried Tripe ¨C (Cow¡¯s stomach, for those who aren¡¯t sure which part of the cow you¡¯re looking at, lol!)

    [3] White Sealed Meat

    [4] Vinegar Bamboo Stir Fry

    [5] Duck Bones Soup ¨C My favourite duck bones soup is using roasted duck bones. Like the one below. All the inedible dry bits, wing tips, neck, head and feet as well as the spines will turn into a wonderful soup with some winter melon¡­ah, I want some now!

    [6] Steamed Flower Buns (Hua Juan)

    [7] in Steamed Buns (Mantou)

    [8] Zheng Banqiao- Also known as Zheng Xie, was a Chinese painter from Jiangsu (1693-1765)

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zheng_Xie Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    .

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 Chapter 43

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 43

    Chapter 43: To Flee in Defeat

    Crystal Aris: I''m pretty angry at both of them. One for being a man wh.o.r.e, and the other for not being able to get fat¡­

    Ignatis: x.x.x

    Kirindas: x.x.x

    Warning: Short chapter, but fun.

    :>

    Gumihou

    "What are your conditions?" Su Nuan Nuan asked in a depressed voice, the lines between her brows deepened.

    "Am I such a petty person in your eyes?" Duan Tingxuan gave a bitterugh, "Could it be that until now you refuse to trust me? I told you before, did I not, that for your parents'' sake I had done my very best."

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had mentioned the matters at Ping Guo Government to Su Nuan Nuan. Right now she stared at Duan Tingxuan''s helpless expression, and felt that she could trust him in this matter, at least. Though she really did see this man as a rascal, it was only towards the matter between man and woman that he was a total g. On matters of business and politics, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun a.s.sured her that his work was meticulous and without fault: At this very least, this thing have some sense of responsibility.

    ''"I never said anything about not trusting you. On my parents'' matters, I thank you for your effort. In the end, I am only a woman, and as such I realise that for you to be able to secure my family''s life is already a miracle. At that time I was under great pressure and turmoil and did not know better. Those things that I said before, please don''t take them to heart."

    These were all major events that happened recently, Su Nuan Nuan also ''remembered'' how Su Meng Nuan had quarrelled with Duan Tingxuan over this matter many times. Though she had taken over this body, she still could not acknowledge the former owner of this body. That Su Meng Nuan was just too much of a trouble maker. No wonder even a thick face, shameless thing like Duan Tingxuan would eventually suffered an injury to the heart.

    Duan Tingxuan stared nkly at Su Nuan Nuan, after a long time he suddenly smiled, "Did you actually say this? Heavens, I never thought I''d live to see this day of seeing my sins all cleared away."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s stare suddenly sharpened into a re: This rascal would insist on grabbing a mile after granted an inch, wouldn''t he? She should beat this snake with a stick right now. When Duan Tingxuan finally noticed her female tiger''s gaze, he immediately knew that he should quite while he''s ahead.

    He quickly rearranged his face into a contrite expression and said in a sad voice, "A few days ago, your father encounter an ident at the quarry, he almost died while quarrying for rocks."

    At this, Su Nuan Nuan''s express paled. When Duan Tingxuan saw this, he quickly rea.s.sured, "Please don''t worry. He was more shocked than hurt. The day he was sent to Ox Head Mountain, I have already made all the proper arrangements. The supervisor for the Ox Head Mountain quarry is one of the empress'' people and I managed to lean on him to get your father a rtively cushy job. He would not dare to defy me. When the ident happened, he managed to use it as an excuse to find a ce for your family to rest and recover. They no longer have to do any more quarrying, and though it was not a luxurious lifestyle, they could at least eat their fill and keep warm."

    Su Nuan Nuan breathed out a sigh. She said in a low voice, "Then, I should thank you. It''s just, the matter of my father''s punishment was set out by the emperor. If you continue to intervene for them, wouldn''t it create trouble for you?"

    Duan Tingxuan stared intently at Su Nuan Nuan. It was as though it was the first time he encountered this woman. After staring a bit more, he suddenly smile, "Nuan Nuan, you''ve certainly gain a lot of sensibility these days. As for that matter, your father''s me was not great. He was most probably betrayed by someone. However, at that time the Son of Heaven was enraged, thus I could not say too much on behalf of your parents. Even getting preserving their lives wasn''t easy."

    "However, it''s been a long time, the emperor''s rage had receded and did not view your father with such negative light any more. More importantly, if there were schemes involved, the emperor would find out sooner orter. When that timees, your parents probably won''t regain their former social standing. If you think about it, it would take great effort for a normal person to admit their mistakes, emperor with his great pride would find it even more difficult, don''t you think so? However, I could still arrange it so that your family would not have to worry about food and clothing."

    "It would be best if it doesn''t create trouble for you. As a woman, even if I wish to a.s.sist my parents, aside from fruitless worrying, there''s nothing I could do. Their livespletely depend on you, so I shall formally request for you to take care of them." Su Nuan Nuan seemed intend on surprising Duan Tingxuan today no matter what, she even stood up and bowed seriously to him. For Su Nuan Nuan, she believed that this was something that she, as the new owner of this body, owed him.

    "I dare not receive such politeness from Madam."

    Respect should be mutual, seeing his wife bowing so low, the marquis also rushed to stand up and return the bow. The formal situation made him adopt the term ''Madam'' instead of ''Nuan Nuan'', while speaking, he stole a nce at Su Nuan Nuan''s face. However, the other party did not seemed moved by his words, which made the marquis a little disappointed, however, a thought urred to him: Since Nuan Nuan harboured such hatred against him, being able to reach this point probably has something to do with divine intervention. Surely there was no way that this small favour would repair their broken mirror? If things were really so simple, would she still be the Tigress of Mei Yue Lou?

    "It''ste, the master had eaten and drank his fill, shouldn''t he return? Otherwise, wouldn''t elder madam and his two other wives be worried sick?"

    As expected, the order to leave has been given out. Duan Tingxuan sighed mightily in his heart. However, this came as no surprise, and therefore he did not fall too far into despair. He even half jokingly said, "If I recall correctly, someone asked me for my conditions over this favour."

    "You recalled wrongly." Su Nuan Nuan''s phoenix eyes narrowed once more. "My question is what kind of conditions you have."

    "Yi, I may have some after all." Duan Tingxuan stroked his chin: "How about returning to the Inner Court? I can arrange for people to break down the walls of one of Chun Feng Yuan''s wing, turning it into a kitchen and store house, and even dig up an icehouse." The marquis sent out a generous lure for her.

    "Mei Yue Lou''s architecture is more suitable for an icebox, there''s also no need to break down any walls. All you have to do is send some people over to clear up this ce a little." Since this rascal was actually somewhat useful today, Su Nuan Nuan elected to use a more tactful tone when rejected his offer.

    "Do you know why a nice court like Mei Yue Lou is left to copse like this?" Duan Tingxuan lightly tapped on the table, and began talking in a story telling voice. "This was originally built during my grandfather''s time. It was a pet project of his and no expenses were spared. Later, however, he had to move out because there were ghosts. In the end, no one dared to even approach this ce, and it was left to slowly disintegrate¡­"

    "Could you please change the topic?" Su Nuan Nuan gave Duan Tingxuan a bored look, "If it''s ghost, I''ve already seen more than my share in h.e.l.l, you think I''ll be afraid of the whimps here?"

    Duan Tingxuan had nothing else to say, after huffing and puffing for a long while, he said, "That''s right, ghosts are nothing. However, the gra.s.s behind the courtyard is long, you''ll almost definitely see some snakes¡­"

    "Oh, will there really be snakes? That''s too awesome, I was just worried that I won''t be able to find the ingredients to make Snake Soup during fall, and was just thinking of getting you to catch some on your next hunting trip." Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes sparkled.

    As for the marquis, he looked a bit fl.u.s.tered, he even trembled a bit. He shook his head quickly, "That¡­during hunting season, most of the snakes are scared off by the sound of horses, how could I catch any? You¡­since you''re so daring, you go catch them by yourself in the backyard."

    After saying this, he quickly escaped, his heart filled with grief and indignation. Is that person even a woman any more? Could it really be possible that a random pa.s.sing soul had possessed her body? If that''s the case, not fearing ghost is fine, but snakes? Is that thing too brave or too foolish? Even I, a great martial artist, felt disgusted whenever I see those slinky, slimy creatures.

    [Gumihou: Hey, snakes are cool!] Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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    [Total: 4 Average: 3.3/5]

 Chapter 44

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 44

    Chapter 44: The ck Bellied Heir

    Angel: Yep!

    Alicia: Ooh, I''ll make the correction, and yes, it certainly looks like it.

    Kirindas: Have you actually eaten snake?

    Crystal Aris: I have a corn snake actually

    Shira: I love this story too

    Nayfa: x.x.x

    Ferry: x.x.x

    Dear readers,

    Thank you for yourments as always. I spend more time over at kitchennovel since I have 9 stories plus 1 fanfic (which I have not update for a long while T_T).

    I''m doing my best to upgrade my tranting skills, and at the moment, I''ve somehow managed to get amission to write poetries and a children''s book¡­ which I''m going to somehow keep up, and the recipes, ahaha, it''s a kitchennovel, but I''ve neglected the recipe part¡­

    anyway, the good new is my Chinesenguage have gotten lots better, and I have an actual system now. Basically I bookmarked all the stories I''m tranting and just keep updating those I haven''t tranted before clearing all the updates and start over¡­ which is why you get double chapters sometimes, because I have a tendency to procrastinate by doing other stuff¡­

    I''m sure you''re not interested in these little rants, so please, enjoy the two chapters.

    Lots of love,

    Gumihou

    Seeing how quickly the marquis'' back disappeared out the gate, Su Nuan Nuan could not help her disdainful smile. She turned to get Hong Lian and Xiang Yun collect some willow branches to make some wicker baskets in preparation for the fresh seafood, only to see the two girls clutching each other with pale faces, trembling. Seeing her turned towards them, Xiang Yun said in a trembling voice, "Missy, j-just now, the master said that there are g-ghosts¡­"

    "Just a old scene, and you''re both scared to this point?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes. "You can me your master for being narrow minded and unoriginal, trying to scare me with this kind ofme tricks."

    "What''s ''old scene''?"

    Xiang Yun and Hong Lian nced at each other, and heard Su Nuan Nuan said helplessly. "It means old tricks that''s been over used to the point that it doesn''t work any more. Your master wants me to move back into the Inner Court, I refused, and thus the ghost trick. This kind of scene had been perfectly ill.u.s.trated in the <higher level="" wife="">>, there''s no way I''ll be afraid of it."</higher>

    "And, what''s the <higher level="" life="">>" Hong Lian and Xian Yun looked at each other in dismayed, why was it that every word that came out of their mistress''s mouth were all unreasonable things?</higher>

    "It''s a novel, ah" After saying this, Su Nuan Nuan realized that she was thinking about a novel written by White Pear Blossom[1] from her past life. Clearly this book would not be avable here. However, there was no need to worry. Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had not been with their mistress since she was young, so shouldn''t be able to tell what books she had read, right?

    A scene from the book suddenly urred to her, and she quickly switched subjects and gently resolved her situation ording to that book, "Actually, without mentioning the book, we have been here for about half a year, have any of you actually seen a ghost? If there really were ghosts, wouldn''t it have appeared by now?"

    "What if it''s something that only appears after being mentioned?" These two were certainly typical girls, both Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were extremely anxious.

    "Then, we can be certain that those ghosts are actors hired by your master, or perhaps even your master pretending to be a ghost. With his extreme height it would be a simple thing for him to do." Su Nuan Nuan nodded her head gravely.

    "How can Missy be so sure?" Hong Lian and Xiang Yun clearly needed more rea.s.surances than this.

    "It''s all written in the <higher level="" wife="">>,"</higher>

    [Gumihou: d.a.m.n, now I want to read this novel]

    Since Su Nuan Nuan answered them so carelessly, there was no way for Hong Lian and Xiang Yun to convince her otherwise. Whatever, there was no way they could make Missy see reason with their arguments. However, there was still another issue, "Missy, master said there are snakes, snakes, ah! Those scary slimy things!"

    "The backyard is all vegetable garden, where''s your overgrown gra.s.ses and trees? If there are snakes, they''re probably introduced there by your master." Su Nuan Nuan was getting impatient. These two maid certainly were useless, why was it that until now, neither of them have seen through his true nature, still trusting his words to be gold?

    "Is that written in the <higher level="" life="">>?" The two maids have no concept of modern novels and the art of t.i.tle making, and had misread the name. Somehow mistaking ''Wife'' for ''Life''[2].</higher>

    "That''s right." Su Nuan Nuan nodded firmly.

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, "¡­ ¡­"

    "Yi? Second brother is up early today. What? You have some things you need to do?"

    It''s the five hottest days of the summer months, and Duan Tingxuan had to go to court early which meant he could not go scrounge for breakfast at Mei Yue Lou. Dawn came at around 3 to 5 am nowadays and that Nuan Nuan woman would only deign to wake up around 5 to 7 am. Thus, he allowed himself to be dragged onto a horse by Si Ping and both master and servant reached the front courtyard just in time to see Duan Tingye all gussied up and was speaking to the doorkeeper about something. Seeing that he was also about to go out, Duan Tingxuan quickly called out.

    When Duan Tingye heard this most hated voice, he curse himself for bothering to slow down and speak to the doorkeeper. Why couldn''t he have left just two steps sooner? He really hated this elder brother of his from the bottom of his heart. From the time they were children, that man had always been outstanding, making his own achievements looked miserable.

    Clearly his mother was father''s favourite, and he''s clearly the favoured son, however, with such an outstanding obstacle in front of him, no matter how much father favoured him, he could never be the heir. Why? Well that''s because the eyes of both the emperor and empress were watching.

    Thus, Duan Tingye hated, cursed and was jealous of this brother. The more he could not be the heir, the more he wanted the position. Even with the eyes of both imperial couple on them, so what? All he had to do was wait for this elder brother to make some big mistake and allowed his own mother to speak up for him, wouldn''t father find a way to make him the heir?

    However, the most hateful thing was that this Duan Tingxuan has a shrewd and oily character, as crafty as a white tailed old fox. Don''t bother mentioning big mistakes, even small mistakes could not be dug out. It''s been said that the fortunes within the political climate of the imperial courts are like the weather, rain and storm alternated in strange ways. It would not be difficult for a shrewd person to make a t.i.tle for himself, so why did this brother of his did not let go of the marquis t.i.tle and go make a bigger name for himself? Can''t you let this younger brother of yours inherit the t.i.tle?

    Naturally, this kind of thinking was a little extreme, but Duan Tingye had always seen this half-brother of his as a thorn in his flesh. However, no matter how much he hated this brother of his, Druan Tingxuan was still the elder brother and heir. Thus, no matter how much he cursed and hated in his heart, he dared not defy the other.

    As for Duan Tingxuan, he had little to no elder brother kind of feeling for this younger brother. Perhaps he could feel Duan Tingye''s hatred for him and have developed a habit of casually bullying him whenever he felt like it. How two-face was this man, ah? The pitiful Duan Tingye could only held in a belly full of bad intentions, but was unable to out smart his elder brother. He could only make some small schemes behind the scene.

    He had deliberately gotten up early to avoid this elder brother, so why did he have to meet Duan Tingxuan now? Nevertheless, Duan Tingye helplessly gave a greeting and said in a low voice, "Does brother have a task for me?"

    "No, not really, I just haven''t seen you for a few days, where have you been?"

    Duan Tingxuan smiled as he advanced and pped a hand on his brother''s shoulders and half dragged this brother out the door. Anyone watching this scene will feel touched, while brothers from other families were fighting for power, look how intimate and close this pair of brothers look. The brotherly love between them was very moving. None of them knew that Duan Tingye was actually frightened to the point of tears: Just what does this rascal of a brother want from small me? These days money have been quite tight for me too, ah.

    "Where could I go? I''m going to Bazhou for a trip, the horses there aren''t bad and father have asked me to pick out four horses for him." Duan Tingye forced a smile, and heard Duan Tingxuan gave a he-heugh, "Oh, is that so, very well, when you bring the horses back, I want two of them."

    "Elder brother, please don''t joke, for other things maybe, as for horses why would you want any? There are several Dawan breed in the stable, all given to you by the emperor and crown prince, ah. Why would you even have eyes for Bazhou horses?"

    Second Duan Master really couldn''t bear it: This rascal really liked to bully people too much, even if it''s about seizing opportunities, this was just too radical.

    In fact, even this Duan Tingxuan also felt that he was, perhaps, going a bit overboard. He did not actually have any thing specific against this younger brother of his today, he was just bullying the poor man out of habit. However, in the end he''s still the marquis with a thick face and even thicker skin. After a short pause, he loudly said, "The more the better, besides I want to know whether the Dawan breed arepatible with other good horse breeds, at any rate, make sure you send me two horses when the timees."

    Very well, being able to get away by just losing two horses was not bad. Duan Tingye agreed and was about to apply oil under his shoes and skate away[3] when the hand on his shoulder tightened again. Then, Duan Tingxuan''s creepy hei-heiugh floated over, "What''s the rush? I haven''t finished talking yet. Do you have any free time this afternoon? I''m feeling very happy today, so I''ll treat you."

    "And then leave the bill with me?" Duan Tingye looked askance at this elder fox brother.

    "You''re the money keeper of this pce, surely you don''t expect me to pay up?" Duan Tingxuan''s face was perfectly innocent, which nearly caused Duan Tingye to spit up blood: Your mom, you think I don''t know? You could barely touch the bottom of the allowance in your hand, the entire pce will eventually go to you and now here you are crying poverty in front of me? If heaven is really fair, why didn''t they make you poor for real?

    Naturally these were words that he had to choke back, just where did Duan Tingxuan''s moneye from? As the emperor and empress'' intimate confidant, a good friend friend of the four imperial princes, not to mention intimate friend of the crown prince, even in his teen years he had carried out missions for the imperial family. Moreover, there were the imperial family businesses and stocks, just the yearly bonus alone was incredible. Just how much this incredible sum was n.o.body really knew.

    If anyone were to ask, this fox would definitely deny it, there was absolutely no evidence to prove anything. Even if he had evidence he dared not confirm anything. After all though he was empress'' younger nephew, his existence could be summed up as ''unloved by auntie, disliked by uncle'', if he even dared to bring this matter up, wouldn''t they just take this opportunity to squash him like a bug?

    When Duan Tingye thought about this, tears almost fell from his eyes and resigned himself to the role of a viin. Originally, he was also someone who could ''Dance beautifully with long sleeves''[4] and was an ''Eight facet jewel''[5], however with Duan Tingxuan in front of him, the Imperial Family have no eyes for him. Therefore, how could he not hate this elder brother? Therefore, no matter how much trouble he make for that brother it was all deserved, people don''t just destroy heaven and earth for no reason[6].

    "Is there something you want? If so, please speak now." Duan Tingye understood Duan Tingxuan, that rascal of a brother had probably seen something about him that made him unhappy and just wanted a chunk of his flesh. Might as well get it over with quickly and save his lunch money.

    "I''m out of money, if you''re in a rush, just give me 1,000 liang of spending money first." Duan Tingxian opened his lion''s mouth wide and caused Duan Tingye''s vision to go ck for a moment.

    "1,000 liang? Where do I find such money?" Duan Tingye nearly fainted, this rascal was getting more and more out of hand. His demands just got worse and worse, ah. Wait, he said if I''m in a rush he wants 1,000 liang, what the- if I''m not in a rush would he want 10,000 liang?

    Duan Tingxuan looked at his second brother andughed, he said in a sincere tone, "Tingye, ah, we''re brothers, what''s a thousand liang of silver between brothers? Do you really need to look so shocked? Last time you did that job for the Hang Zhou Deputy Manager, dare you say that you did not use my name? After collecting the grat.i.tude money from those people I haven''t even said a word. Now I want just 1,000 liang, why are you so full of excuses?"

    The moment he heard the four words Hang Zhou Deputy Manager, Duan Tingye''s face turned white. He and the Hang Zhou Deputy Manager had business dealings between them, however the day the deal was supposed to be struck, those people had offended the four imperial princes. Duan Tingye, for the sake of his business had to appease the four princes, but having no clout of his own had used his brother''s name¡­

    [To be continue]

    [1] White Pear Blossom is the author of this novel too, she is plugging her own novel. How cute!

    [2] ''Wife'' is actually subst.i.tuted by''Chess Piece'', the joke doesn''t trante well and it''s meant to be a pun anyway.

    [3] Run away, lol

    [4] Someone with money and connections

    [5] Excellent at making connections

    [6] Won''t do harm for no reason Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    .

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 Chapter 45

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 45

    Chapter 45: ckmail Seeded

    Enjoy the second chapter!

    It had to be said, though Duan Tingxuan''s social standing was not at the level of these grand princes, but his name still held weight among the imperial brothers. It was through the use of his name that this matter was finally settled. He had thought that with this matter being a verbal thing, it was only a small matter and that Duan Tingxuan would have no way of knowing no matter how good his connections, but it looked like he had been too optimistic about this.

    Duan Tingye''s expression changed a few times, before finally concluded that he had to pay out this 1,000 liang of blood money. Only, he was still reluctant to pay and tried onest struggle, "Elder brother have always been generous, I understand this, but 1,000 liang is too much, I''ll have to check the ount books¡­"

    "Second brother why are you still saying these meaningless words?" Duan Tingxuan struck his folded fan against his palm a few times, "If I really want ess to the ounts, do you really think you can resist? Also, please don''t say there''s no cash in the coffers. There''s a good position in Jing Cheng that went to Third Yu Master, surely he would be clever enough to show you some filial respect? If not for you putting in a good word with father, he would never be able to sit on that chair."

    "Since you are so clear on the matter of the pce, you might as well take responsibility for them." Duan Tingye was getting frustrated, it was like someone was tugging at his braid all the time, no, tugging at all of his braids.

    "You''re surely joking, ba?" Duan Tingxuan revealed that smile that was not really a smile again. As such, Duan Tingye could only gnashed his teeth and lowed his head, and muttered, "Yes, I was just joking. Elder brother, aren''t you on the way to the early court? Please give me a day, I''ll have the money ready by this evening."

    "I knew that me beloved second brother really respect his eldest brother, I really did not waste my effort cherishing you." Duan Tingxuanughed heartily while smacking Duan Tingye''s shoulder. "Very well, you may go. It''s not easy spending all day doing business on behalf of the pce, do take care of yourself, ah."

    As long as you are not around, I will surely live till a hundred.

    Duan Tingye screamed over the breaking of his heart, then, clutching at his wound, he limped away. Si Ping waited until they could no longer see his figure, "Master, that''s a bit too cruel. It''s 1,000 liang of silver, ah. You don''t even allow him a path to escape, no wonder his hatred for you reached deep into the bones."

    "Even without extorting this 1,000 liang from him, do you think he won''t hate me? Though it is indeed cruel, more importantly I have the money now." Duan Tingxuan gave a coldugh, "Who told him to dare provoke me with bad intentions? Though he''s in a bad state, he still dares to investigate my whereabouts, trying to find an outside mistress in order to cast my inner court into chaos. Merely extorting 1,000 liang from him is considered cheap."

    There''s another reason that Duan Tingxuan did not inform Si Ping. Duan Tingye''s mother spent all her time fawning over his father while ndering him and his mother. You think he did not know? How many tears had his mother shed thanks to that woman? They were the heartless ones, so don''t even bother to cry injustice. To think they would even dare to covet his position as heir, do you think you could do all this and not expect to paypensation? Normally, he would pretend to show a confused face and to act out an intimate brotherly love in front of the family. However, this marquis was no saint. Though it could be said that he had a generous heart, that same heart could also be very, very petty.

    "Miss Hong Lian, Old Madam have just sent word this morning. The fresh seafood that just came in today should not be touched. Since it''s rare to get such good things, they want us to create some new recipes just for these seafood and not waste it by cooking it the usual way. So, though the master gave us instructions, we still don''t dare to let you take these away in case the Old Madam gets angry."

    In the kitchen, Dame Xue smiled at Hong Lian as she made her exnations, her att.i.tude perfectly respectful, to the point that Hong Lian could not help but sigh in defeat: a month ago when she tried to get the food portion for Mei Yue Lou, this woman actually dared to refuse them point nk, citing Madam Yun as an excuse to kick them out.

    Today this woman did not even dare to breath too deeply as she respectfully refused their request. This has nothing to do with their own Big Madam''s power, it was in fact, thanks to Duan Tingxuan. Those who worked as servants inrge houses must be mindful of where the wind blows, those who could not see how the marquis favour Mei Yue Lou were just asking to be sacked.

    Hong Lian was a sincere and generous person, and was not one to carry grudges. Hearing how Dame Xue phrase her words, she smiled, "If that''s the case, then I would not trouble Dame Xue, I will return and inform our Madam."

    At the mention of Big Madam, a sudden image appeared before Dame Xue''s eyes. A a beautiful woman squatting in front of a chopping board, a kitchen knife in hand smilingly whacking away at some pixted object. Dame Xue''s body trembled controbly as she seized Hong Lian''s hands, "Will miss please help us to properly exin everything, though we cannot defy Old Madam''s words, we do not wish to neglect Big Madam''s request either."

    "Dame Xue please be at ease, our Missy is not someone without reason." Hong Lian started to sweat, and did her best to put in a few ''good words'' for Su Nuan Nuan. In her heart, shemented: Missy, just look at the disaster you''ve caused, even such a strongdy like Dame Xue trembled at the mere mentioned of your name¡­you''ve definitely caused some mental scars there.

    Back at Mei Yue Lou, the moment Hong Lian finished with her exnation, Su Nuan Nuan was immediately suspicious. She kneaded the side of her face and frowned, "Why would that Old Madam hand down such a weird order? Hong Lian, are you sure you haven''t been cheated by that Dame Xue, ba? No, I shall personally go and see."

    She was about to take off her ap.r.o.n when Hong Lian quickly stopped her, the maid hurriedly said, "Missy, how could this maid be cheated? Also, unless Dame Xue had eaten leopard dder how could she dare? Still dare to cheat us? Last time when Missy entered the kitchen the lot of them still tremble at the memory of the incident. Would Missy please calm down and not scare them any more. There are young children and old people there after all."

    "Are you still my maid? What kind of talk is this? What freaking them out till they tremble? Am I such a scary person? Am I a tigress?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was angered to the point of poking Hong Lian on her forehead, but did not take off her ap.r.o.n. From her other side, Xiang Yun suddenlyughed, "Well, the master seemed to have mentioned this before and this maid felt it was a very goodparison, how powerful and grand is a tigress, ah."

    Su Nuan Nuan looked left, then looked right, when the punch line did note she finally realised that this Xiang Yun was actually sincere. She sighed, and smacked the girl lightly by the hair, and muttered, "Forget it, the brat is still young, no sense in that head, only hair."

    She had barely finished speaking when a warm and melodious voice called from outside, "Is Big Madam here?"

    "Who is it?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was a little stunned. Aside from that rascaling regrly to scrounge for food and drink, very few women would voluntarilye over. Those who came over never did carry any good intentions. Moreover, this voice was quite young, could it be possible that Duan Tingxuan''s little sister actually came to her door?

    Hm, her courage was not bad. She could understand those two second wivesing over, they were practically official wives in all but name after all, right? As for concubines, would any actuallye over to the official wife''s domain and bully her? You think you are Si''er?

    [Author''s Note: Si''er, one of the concubine of an emperor in the Qing Dynasty, she was about to achieve the impressive feat of being the favoured concubine over the actual empress when she met with a miserable end.] Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

    .

    [Total: 0 Average: 0/5]

 Chapter 46

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 46

    Chapter 46: Cannot Avoid

    Kirindas: I¡¯m a bit worried about eating snakes actually¡­

    As they were thinking about this, they all walked out together and saw a young girl dressed as a maid. The moment she saw Su Nuan Nuan, the girl bobbed in greeting. Beside her, Hong Lian called out in surprised and ran down the steps to meet her, "Elder sister Qiu Ling, why have youe? Is there something the matter with Old Madam?"

    Qiu Ling smiled, "Old Madam felt a little bored and asked me to invite Big Madam to y some mahjong to pa.s.s the time. Oh, and that if there are any snacks here, no matter what kind, please bring a few trays over. We have just gotten some fresh seafood today, and since Old Madam loves seafood sheins that the kitchen staffs'' skills arecking and kindly asked if Big Madam would go over and give them a few pointers."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s face actually turned ‡å‡å, looks like this Qiu Ling''s purpose was to investigate her kitchen. She could not resist asking, "Old Madam loves snacks and seafood, we also heard from the Lord that she loves eating meat. Ahem, very well, I shall not ask what Old Madam likes, what I really want to know is this. Is there anything that Old Madam doesn''t like?"

    "Missy¡­"

    Hong Lian and Xian Yun spoke up at the same time, they both looked crossly at Su Nuan Nuan. This showed just how much both of them valued that venerable olddy in their hearts. Su Nuan Nuan touched her nose and knew that she had acted too arrogantly, "Fine, fine, it''s just a little joke, can''t I make jokes now? Since Old Madams likes to eat, then I shall prepare things for her to eat. Though my reputation is bad, I still know the meaning of filial piety."

    Qiu Ling''s face, which had turned red with shame and anger from Su Nuan Nuan''s words slowly returned to its normal colour. She was slightly appeased by the follow up words, added to Nuan Nuan''s embarra.s.sed face, even this dignified, highly ced made could not restrain a ''puchi''ugh from escaping. She quickly reined in her expression and said, "It''s fine as long as madam understands. Our old madam had requested many times for the master to invite madam over, we thought perhaps the moment the master set foot on this ce only thoughts of eating was left in his head and thus forgotten to pa.s.s on the invitation. Therefore, old madam had no choice but to send this maid over to invite big madam toe over."

    Cannot avoid it any more.

    Su Nuan Nuan could onlyment in her heart: Having one glutton, no matter howrge its appet.i.te, sniffing around was nothing, but to have an old glutton appear now? Old madam, ah, someone who upied such a n.o.ble and dignified social standing, please show some dignity. Is it really fine for you to show such a gluttonous side in public? Aren''t you ashamed of being made fun of? Is this An Ping pce filled with foodies or n.o.bilities? Furthermore, though I have yet to set foot in your ce, I always send you something every few days to show my filial piety, ah.

    Though she was really unwilling, she had no choice but to enter her room and change clothes. Hong Lian rushed over to attend to her clothes, hair and essories. At this point, Qiu Ling smiled at Xiang Yun, "When the master informed Old Madam and myself that Big Madam was no longer as extreme as before, neither of us could quite believe it. However, now that I''vee here, I could believe Master''s words. Big Madam really is different now."

    Xiang Yun also smiled, "Isn''t it? Ever since Missy returned from the brink of death she was much easier to live with, and less incline to brood. The Missy now is very good, elder sister have just seen her for a few minutes, but wait until you get to know her a bit more, you''ll see even more of her good points. Didn''t elder sister Hong Lian and I just red at her just now? The Missy now is really too amiable."

    Qiu Ling nodded, but soon stated, "It''s good that she''s amiable, but you must never treat any other masters like that, ever. It''s not simple living in thisrge pce, though a benevolent Big Madam is a good thing, its possible that she may be a little naive. It''s best that you all treat this as a weak point."

    The advice may seemed a little casual, and indeed Qiu Ling did not think too much of it. Her main focus was on food. Just what kind of food would Big Madam bring out? Should be snacks, ba. As for Xiang Yun, she took the other''s words on face value and felt very moved by their concern, "Elder sister is right, please be at ease, our Missy will know what is appropriate."

    When Qiu Ling heard this, she felt understood and did not bother to go on a long winded lecture. In a short while, Su Nuan Nuan came out and Qiu Ling''s eyes brightened, only to see her stroll out in a long cheong sam in duck egg green brocade, underneath that was a pleated dress as white as ivory, her dark hair was put up in a cloud bun, decorated with only two pearl hairpins. Light powder covered her face, emphasizing her sweeping eyebrows. The clear and attractive elegance was matchless,pared to her previous rich madam style of thick make-up,yers of brocade and a head stuck full of hairpins, it was as though their big madam now and before werepletely different people.

    "Madam, your make up, isn''t it a little in?"

    Qiu Ling could not suppress her curiosity asked. Su Nuan Nuanughed, "People who already died once before knows what''s really important in life. Those heavy red and purple garments are just too hot and stuffy, how could theypare with simple dresses like this? As for hairpins, hehe, I''ve already been banished to this Mei Yue Lou, how many essories do you think I have? Even if I still have them, I won''t stick them all on my head, my neck might copse at the weight, what''s the fun in that? I can onlyugh at the past me who could not understand these simple logic and wasted so many years of my life. Ah, thinking about it still makes me regretful, ne."

    As they chatted, the group strolled out the front gate when Su Nuan Nuan stopped. She suddenly turned back and asked Qiu Ling, "By the way, what is our lord doing at this time of the day?"

    Qiu Ling was stunned, before saying hesitantly, "He should be at the government office, ba?"

    "So he won''t being back to the pce, right?" Su Nuan Nuan persisted, and saw Qui Ling nodded, "Naturally? Our master is very busy, unless there is a crisis at home how could he spent his days hiding in the pce? Madam should know this, ah."

    "Right, right, right, I know, I just want to make sure." Su Nuan Nuan nodded quickly and turned to Hong Lian, "All right, there''s no need to lock the door."

    Qiu Ling suddenly felt like something terrible and forbidden just just shed past her. What was that? Why was the master treated like a petty thief? Seriously?

    Seeing Qiu Ling''s stunned expression, Su Nuan Nuan cleared her throat and threw up her hands, "Miss may not know, but recently the lord''s appet.i.te had suddenly grown out of proportion. The moment something good is made in Mei Yue Lou, even a rat''s nose would lose to his. He would appear every single time, and each time devouring or s.n.a.t.c.hing everything away. Even I started fearing his visits."

    Qiu Ling has no words, this involved her old mistress too. Why had the master been eating and s.n.a.t.c.hing food from this ce? Wasn''t it to show his filial duty to the old madam? The way big madam puts it, why did it sound like the master was sharing his loot with the old madam? How could Qiu Ling just ept this lying down?

    When they reached the North Court gate, they could already hear sounds ofughtering from the house. Su Nuan Nuan gave Qiu Ling a suspicious eye, but this girl managed to maintain herposure. After some careful listening: Your mom, this kind of noise won''t happen unless there are over 10 people in one room together. What ''a little bored''? That old woman just want to deceive me and trick me here, isn''t it? And must you use snacks as an excuse? Must you?

    "This miss, just now you said that the old madam was feeling bored?" Su Nuan Nuan could not resist asking, she did not believe that Qiu Ling''s face could match Duan Tingxuan when it came to thickness.

    As expected, red suffused this maid''s face, however her smile widened even more, "Well, isn''t it true? Old madam felt bored, so she called everyone over."

    Incredible! This kind of chameleon like ability to flip ck to white, as expected of the old madam''s head maid. Su Nuan Nuan showed her thumb, her face filled with admiration, even as her mouth drawled, "Since so many people arrive, is there any need for me to be here? n.o.body here wants to see my face, surely the old madam also knows this."

    Qiu Ling choked for a bit, after a long while not knowing whether tough or cry, "Since we''re already here, why should big madam hesitate? No matter what, you are old madam''s granddaughter-inw, please be at ease, n.o.body will dare bully you."

    "I''m not afraid of being bullied, I''m merely concerned about giving trouble to the lord and the old madam." Su Nuan Nuan gave a small he-heugh, she tilted her chin up 45 degrees angle, stared at the sky and whispered.

    "The truth is I''m tired." Her voice was low, depressed and mncholic, surely this was good enough to fool that Qiu Ling, ba?

    At these words, she slowly ascended the steps. From behind, Qiu Ling stared at the slim confident back and murmured, "The heir is right, madam really has changed. She has be more powerful, people can''t help but like her."

    When Su Nuan Nuan heard this, she had to resist the urge to squat down in a corner and sulk. She had to refrain from sighing, the people in this pce are really not simple, really difficult to trick, ah.

    It could be said that Su Nuan Nuan''s arrival was the stone that stirred up a thousand waves. The people who wereughing in the room suddenly went silent. However, none of them were stupid enough to jump up and demand, "Who ask you toe?" Even Madam Yang was perfectly dignified as she sat still, not a single thread of emotion leaked out. Su Nuan Nuan was starting to regreting. Curse this whole family, not a single one of them was easy to deal with.

    As all eyes were glued upon Su Nuan Nuan, but all they saw was her moving at an unhurried pace over to the old madam to give her greetings. Then, she went over to greet the other elders, Madam Yang and Madam Min. Perhaps the others may be ignorant, but Madam Yang had personally seen this woman chase her son around her courtyard with a broom, a most shrewish expression on her face. To see a smile as refreshing as spring breeze on that same face really tested her mental capacity, really had trouble reconciling these two person together.

    Once Su Nuan Nuan was done with her greetings, Xu Ran Yun and co also had to ceremoniously greet her. Su Nuan Nuan said nothing as she sized up the rascal''s collection in front of her. She had already seen Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan, that docile looking woman behind Xu Ran Yun should be Concubine Jiang, ba?

    There''s also that pair of eyes to the side, staring with hidden hostility. Probably Duan Tingye''s wife, Yu Rou. Yi? Who''s that standing next to Xue Zi Lan? F***, why did it have to be like this? Surely the heaven is not such an unfair being, ba? To allow such a beautiful woman to exist, it would be better if all other woman just die off, ah.

    Su Nuan Nuan was cursing the heavens in her heart, this super beauty almost made her lose herposure. As her fiery eyesnded on that woman, she actually retreated a step. The woman touched her own face uneasily and said faintly, "Why is madam looking at this one? Is there something wrong with this one''s way of dressing?"

    "No, only it''s been a long time since I''ve seen you, and felt that your l.u.s.trous beauty has increased." Su Nuan Nuanughed, her praise was actually quite sincere. Su Meng Nuan''s memory still lingered in her mind and this person''s face was actually there. Therefore, she immediately knew who this Heavenly Beauty was. It''s the Queen of Flowers Duan Tingxuan had bought from a brothel for arge sum of money. The pce residence all address her as Jing Yi Niang. To be able to make it as a concubine of arge pce, moreover able to continue to maintain her status even without giving birth to a single child, this certainly proves the power of her charm. Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 47

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 47

    Chapter 47: Profound Words

    Aikucis: Thanks for thement!

    Unfair, unfair, ah! How could such a excellent cabbage be snorted up by that pig Duan Tingxuan?

    Just look at Xue Zi Lan and Jiang Yi Niang standing quietly together, these were high level women whose beauty could qualify them as the country''s best. It''s likely that one could not find two such Heavenly Beauties even within the emperor''s three pces and six courts. To think they both ended up as Duan Tingxuan''s second wife and concubine.

    She cast a nce at Xu Ran Yun and Jiang Yi Niang, though their looks could not bepared with the two Heavenly Beauties, their faces reflected the .s.sic flower like beauty of the time. Moreover, it was the higher grade flower like beauty. In her memory, those few women who served as that man wh.o.r.e''s bedpanions were also incredible lookers. Just thinking about this made Su Nuan Nuan sighed painfully in her heart. She really pitied those young pretty girls: with such fine beauty wouldn''t men just line themselves up to marry them? Why would they offer themselves to that l.u.s.ty carrot Duan Tingxuan?

    Looking at these women and pitying them, this big madam hadpletely forgot that Duan Tingxuan was considered the diamond of the first water, the n.o.blest of the aristocrat. Beyond his social position, his looks, height and intelligence alone set him apart from the tens of thousands of men around him, not to mention his talent with politics and the sword. How could anyone not love such a man? Just bing a concubine would be a grand wish, ah. As for l.u.s.tiness? Isn''t l.u.s.tiness a good thing? When did l.u.s.tiness be a bad thing?

    Su Nuan Nuan also knew that her modern way of thinking was too different from these ancientdies. That gap was probably as wide as the Milky Way, preventing Herder Boy from ever seeing Weaver Girl[1]. Thus, she kept herints in her heart and did not allow it to colour her expression. Instead, she spent her time secretly sneaking nces at Jiang Yi Niang and Xue Zi Lan, furtively admiring their top .s.s looks.

    Ah, great beauty, ah. With two such beauties around, to think that rascal would still go out and strive for social and political sess at court instead of spending his time between their soft bosoms, clearly he''s just a greedy demon.

    Even more hateful was the fact that he did not bother to hang out with his great beauties after work, but woulde everyday to Mei Yue Lou to steal food. Just what was he thinking? Had his brain really been soaked too long?

    "Nuan Nuan, it''s been a long time since you came to my ce. Since you''re here, why have you not spoken a word? Since when did you be so depressingly quiet?"

    Old Madam Fang smiled winsomely at the people in her living room. After allowing some time for everyone to size up each other, she finally opened her mouth to pull some liveliness back into the room.

    "The more one said, the more mistakes one made. This granddaughter-inw of yours did not know this before and suffered for it. How could I not learn from my mistakes?" Su Nuan Nuan smiled slightly as she came towards old madam''s side. After casting her eyes at the venerable olddy sheughed, and said, "Though it''s been a while since I''ve seen old madam, yourplexion actually gotten better."

    "Isn''t this all thanks to your efforts?" Old Madam Fang gave a heheugh and was still chuckling a little when she heard a maid said with a low voice, "Second miss is here?" A nce past the curtains revealed a girl with hunched up shoulders and lowered head.

    Su Nuan Nuan also looked, however because of the lowered head, she could not see the face properly. On the other hand, she did know that this was the only daughter of the old marquis, born of Concubine Lin. Liu Mei had a daughter just a year older than Duan Tingxuan. After marrying out to Jiang Ning, this daughter had died a year ago. Rumour has it that she had died from sickness. Because of this, Liu Min had cried her eyes out when they got the news.

    "Why is second miss sote?"

    Behind Madam Yang, Concubine Lin anxiously asked, with a little bit of rebuke in her voice. The girl lowered her head even more, and said softly, "I tripped on my way, and thus was dyed."

    "It''s fine, there''s no need to me her if she had tripped. This child is already too shy, if you all keep talking like that she''ll be even more frightened." Old Madam Fang said neutrally. Though her words were kind, she nevertheless did not ask Duan Xinqi toe over. Just from this omission, Su Nuan Nuan realized that the old madam did not actually like this girl. The source of the dislike was possibly due to her illegitimacy, or her weak character, no matter what this girl was also quite pitiful.

    This was only a small interlude, the rest of the peanut gallery could not be bothered to waste their attention on Duan Xinqi, they were all more interested in Su Nuan Nuan. Thus, after just a flickered nce, all eyes stuck back onto Su Nuan Nuan''s person, only to hear Old Madam Fang cheerfully said, "I had not known that you could cook so well in the past, all those things you''ve sent to me all suit my taste very well. The kitchen had just received some very good seafood. However, I''m worried that they don''t know how to deal with it and might just ruin good ingredients, so I called you over to have a look, and maybe prepared some good things for this olddy."

    Su Nuan Nuan finally understood: No wonder Hong Lian could not get hold of the seafood. This olddy had been holding the ingredients hostage in order to lure her in. As expected of Duan Tingxuan''s grandmother, sneaky as a fox and greedy as a snake. Already such an old person still want to eat, eat, eat, not afraid of exploding from being over stuffed.

    Big madam quietly cursed in her heart, but managed to maintain a gentle and agreeable expression. She smiled, "Is that so, then I shall have a look in old madam''s ce. However, there''s just one small problem. I''m afraid the condiments in our kitchens aren''tplete. There would be no way for us to cook a proper seafood meal. Completely, impossible." Hehe! There no such thing a.s.s a free lunch, well, surely old madam would understand, ba?

    "Hm! Not enough condiments? What interesting recipe do you have in mind? Never mind, you can just go to the kitchen and teach them the recipe. That way you can enjoy good food without lifting a finger, won''t that be good?" En, this was really unexpected, still dare to bargain with me. However, trying to exchange one lunch meal for all the seafood seemed a little too greedy, ba?

    "I don''t really have anything too special in my kitchen. Even if I do have some, it won''t be a lot, it would be a waste if I make too much and just leave it to spoil. Moreover, as people of the pce, we must all eat ording to very strict rules." Su Nuan Nuan''s smile was like blooming flowers.

    These words almost made Old Madam Fang choke on her spit. Curses, you really have the cheek to say all this? My precious grandson have already informed me that you value eating above all things, you actually dare to show a ''strict rules'' face in front of me?

    Though she was busy condemning this Su Nuan Nuan for being shameless, the old madam knew that she had been counting her chickens before they hatched. This granddaughter-inw clearly not going to release the hawk unless she sees the hare[2]. With no other choice, she could only smile and nodded, "Since you put it this way, then please take the seafood with you. Once you''ve prepared the meals, just remember to let us have some."

    This time the smile on Su Nuan Nuan''s face was genuine, her eyes curved into inverted crescents. She nodded, "Since old madam trusted this granddaughter-inw so much, it is only right for me to show my sincerity. Please sit and rx, I shall bring over more good things for you to eat." With that, she turned around, nodded at everyone and practically floated out of the room.

    Aside from the old madam, Concubine Lin and Duan Xinqi, the rest of the women in the room was stunned. To think that the old madam and that woman had battled back and forth such a long time just for the sake of seafood? Do you have to be so serious? This was a big house, ah. Moreover, one was the official wife of the heir, the other the old madam of this ce, must you exert so much energy on schemes over a few barrels of seafood? This¡­ this¡­ are we just props in your eyes? How would you exin this? How could this happen?

    Those caught up withplicated issues like honour and dignity were currentlyining in their hearts. However, Su Nuan Nuan could not be bothered with these kinds of people. Just thinking about how those barrels of seafood would soon be hers made her so happy she almost floated off into the sky.

    [Trantor''s Note: Clearly Su Nuan Nuan has got her priorities right!]

    [1] Herder Boy and Weaver Girl ¨C or The Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, here''s a little youtube video of the story. Enjoy!

    https://.youtube/watch?v=2Ig7yvM3GIU

    [2] Not release the hawk before seeing the hare ¨C Not going to show her hand until the most opportune time Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 48

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 48

    Chapter 48: Visit the Kitchens Again

    Uwaaah!! So manyments, I''m so happy!

    Thank you Abastika, Taetate, yane, Alicia, moto, Ferry, Kirindas and Nayfa for yourments!

    There are two recipes with this chapter, have fun!

    Buoyed by such happy and cheerful feelings, she arrived at the at the kitchen area. The moment she stepped into the courtyard, she saw two women busy washing vegetables and rinsing rice. When they saw her, both froze. Su Nuan Nuan, who never had the master-subordinate feeling in the first ce, gave them a cheerful wave, "Oh, busy?"

    "Oh no, it''s big madam!"

    The two women turned and ran for the building. This att.i.tude, it was as though they had just seen a carnivorous dinosauring to eat them, which depressed Su Nuan Nuan a little. Must you be so exaggerated? Have someone been smearing my name throughout the pce?

    It must be that Duan Tingxuan''s fault. No, it''s definitely that rascal''s fault, calling me a female tiger and what not, to the point that people just run away at the sight of me.

    This grand big madam haspletely forgotten that first day where she had re-enacted a powerful performance of ''Tigress Hunts for Food'' and conveniently pushed all the me on the little marquis'' head.

    Seeing the maid ran away from her managed to pop a little of her enthusiasm, and she calmly cleared her throat. To the left and right of her, both Hong Lian and Xiang Yun were hanging their heads, not daring to look up. She muttered in a low voice, "What''s with this att.i.tude? Perk up a bit."

    The moment she said this, a screeched was heard from the depths of the kitchen, "You stupid things, that''s big madam! How dare you just run in here without even a greeting, when did you turn into such irresponsible idiots?"

    As soon as the voice fell, that surname Xue woman appeared with a face blooming with smiles, behind her were a bunch of cowering olddies and little kitchen maids, each of them staring past Su Nuan Nuan, afraid to look away, even more afraid to make eye contact. Clearly, these people yed supporting characters during that time she enacted the ''Tigress Hunts for Food'' y.

    As expected of someone who made it as the kitchen manager, just based on her performance now, one could tell that she was made of much sterner stuff than the others.

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed within her heart, she reached out to pat surname Xue''s shoulders, saying sincerely, "As expected of a talented person, ah. With you in charge, I can be at ease."

    "Many thanks for big madam''spliment, in the future, do please inform Xiang Yun or Hong Lian to let us know your wishes ¡ª there''s no need for you to personallye over."

    The moment this surname Xue received such greatpliment from her superior, even the weight in her bones lightened. She;s a person with quick and flexible mind, who in this pce could not read the situation at hand?

    It''s clear that the marquis favours the big madam of Mei Yue Lou. Majority of the woman within the pce were the same, without a man''s protection, their lives would be quite hard. However, with a man''s favour, she would even gain the possibility of calling rain[1]. Up till now, she had been obeying the instructions of Madam Yun and have not been sending proper provisions over to Mei Yue Lou.

    However, now the situation has reversed. Big madam was in power again. If she did not rescue her position now and curry favour, it''s possible that she would be hated by this favoured woman. By then, would she even have a ce to stay within the pce?

    Seeing that this surname Xue was willing to y along and curry favour with her, Su Nuan Nuan was satisfied. It was the first time she experience the sweet taste of being fawned upon as a figure of power, it was very satisfying. Then, her eyes went to severalrge barrels containing giant prawns, each about 6 or 7 inches long. One of the barrels containedrge sea crabs, another one containing ribbon fish[2] as wide as a man''s palm, another barrel filled with foot long yellow croaker fish[3]. As for the next barrel¡­

    "This is¡­ swamp eel?"

    Su Nuan Nuan looked up in surprised, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun both cried out in shock and horror, they turned their faces away, unable to bring themselves to look at the barrel full of writhing snake like things lumped together in a wriggly pile[4]. Though madam called those things ''eel'', clearly these were snake-like things. How would anyone dare to eat this things?

    "Aiya, w.a.n.g momo, what happened to you? How could you leave such things around? Could you take the responsibilities if you give madam a scare?" Surname Xue shouted loudly. However, even as her loud voice rang out, she could still hear Su Nuan Nuan''s muttered, "What the heck, so this is what you call private benefit."

    P¡­ private benefit?

    Surname Xue was stunned, she really wanted to cry to the heavens. Instead, she repeatedly a.s.sured, "Madam, how could this ve dare to collect any private benefit? Moreover, this kind of thing could not be served on the table, such horrible ugly things. This is sent by one of the head vige''s wife Liu Erzhu. I heard that her daughter-inw just gave birth and was quite weak afterwards. She sent me these so that I could make them into nourishing soups for her daughter-inw. Madam is a n.o.ble person, dirty things like these should never touch you."

    That really gave me a shock, so these were sent by a head viger, then that''s fine. I thought that swamp eels in this world live in the sea. Su Nuan Nuan patted her chestfortingly. Speaking of which, that surname Xue woman was still nattering on and on, curses, could it be possible that people in this world don''t eat swamp eels? Do such stupid people exist? What a waste of delicious ingredients.

    "Fine, no need to be so panicky, I trust that you''ve not been privately benefiting yourselves." Su Nuan Nuan finally interrupted surname Xue''s river of words. She followed that up with, "However, I really like these swamp eels, how about you consult her about the price and sell them to me?"

    "Aiya, if big madam wants them it''s considered Liu Erzhu''s fortune, what''s all this talk about money? Madam may just take them. This ve guarantee that they would not protest against it."

    As surname Xue tapped her chest, Su Nuan Nuanughed, "Well, however it still doesn''t sit too well with me, so, Hong Lian, bring 5 silver liangs over to surname Xue." She smiled at surname Xue, saying, "These silvers are for women of Liu Erzhu, tell them to buy some tonic for the body so that she may breastfeed her baby properly."

    This barrel could probably carry about 30 to 40 pounds of swamp eels, they would consider it a blessing if it could be sold for 2 silver liangs in the city. Thanks to their horrible appearance, they were not at all popr with the people in this world. Surname Xue made some effort to decline, but Su Nuan would not hear of it, when she said that just 1 or 2 liangs would be enough, Su Nuan Nuan countered that the rest of the money was for that pitiful daughter-inw''s health.

    Finally, surname Xue epted on behalf of the Liu family. The rest of the kitchen staff all expressed their grat.i.tude heartily. If any of them still felt that this big madam had not undergone great changes, that person was probably made of wood.

    "Madam, what do you to do? This ve will definitely give you a hand." Surname Xue''s mood was high to the point of being excited, especially when she saw Su Nuan Nuan plucked at her own skirts, realizing immediately that the madam wished to personally enter the kitchen, she quickly fetched a new ap.r.o.n from the cupboard. With care, she said, "This is a new ap.r.o.n that I''ve prepared, n.o.body has ever worn it before. Would madam please wear this? It would be such a pity if madam''s dress is sttered in oil."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "Many thanks." Then, she quickly ordered the kitchen to prepare a few pounds of shrimp and swamp eels. When surname Xue heard this, she hurriedly asked, "Madam, what are these for?"

    "sh Cook Shrimp & Eel Noodle," said Su Nuan Nuan. "Today, I wish to let Old Madam have a taste of fresh seafood. In this hot summer day, the gut is especially weak so it''s best to eat a little noodle."

    When surname Xue protested, saying that swamp eels weren''t something the masters would want to eat, sheughed. With great confidence she said, "Rx, if they refused to eat it has nothing to do with you. I''m here, aren''t I? Just prepare everything ording to my instructions."

    When everyone heard this, they immediately calmed down. Very quickly several pounds of shrimp were peeled and de-veined. The swamp eels were cleaned, de-boned, and cut into pieces ording to Su Nuan Nuan''s instruction. The cleaned shrimps were ced in arge bowl, where salt, and the whites of several chicken eggs. With a pair of chopsticks, she stirred the shrimp mixture until it became sticky. A bit of sweet potato starch was stirred in as well to increase the tenderness of the shrimp. This step is called ''starching the shrimp''. Next, the shrimps were nched in boiling water until the colour turned jade white, and were scooped out, drained and set aside.

    On another stove, a roaring fire heated up some vegetable oil until it was quite hot, but not smoking. Next, slices of eel were slide in and flipped over a few times with chopsticks. When bubbles started to appear on the surface of the skin, they were quickly scooped out and ced on a basket to drain.

    Su Nuan Nuan has no clear soups at hand, however, by now surname Sue and the rest of the kitchen managed to collect their wits together to realise that this was a rare opportunity for them and were watching her every move with unblinking eyes. When Su Nuan Nuan instructed them to boil water to cook noodles, surname Xue immediately volunteered.

    As she cooked the noodles, her eyes continued to track Su Nuan Nuan''s every movement, who was currently spooning tworgedles ofrd into a wok, scallions and ginger were thrown in and stirred with adle, followed by the fried swamp eel, a ssh of soy sauce, wine, sugar, and finally the bone broth once the soy sauce had caramalized a little. The soup was reduced over a roaring fire until half its previous volume. Then, it was taken off the fire anddled into a silver bowl.

    By now, the noodles had floated to the surface of the boiling water, Su Nuan Nuan''s movement were swift as she scooped the noodles up and threw them into cold running water for a few seconds before draining it. The wok was then returned to the fire where broth was added, along with some soy sauce, she also strained some swamp eel liquid she had reduced into the mix. Then, noodle was added to the soup, while the noodles and liquid get to know each other, she skimmed off any foam that appeared. Just before the soup started boiling, she dropped 3rge pieces ofrd, when the soup started to bubble she ssh a generousdle of hot pork oil.

    Finally, therge wok of noodles were split into severalrge bowls, square pieces of swamp eel were ced on top of the noodles, followed by shrimp, and a final drizzle of good sesame oil. Like this, the fragrant and alluring sh Cook Shrimp & Eel Noodle was done.

    The wonderful aroma of noodles permeated the entire kitchen, all the nearby kitchen hand inhaled deeply andughed, "Old Madam really has foresight, no wonder she wants Big Madam to personally handle these seafood. We have been working in the kitchen for so many years, this is the first time I''ve smelled such fragrance, ah. If these weren''t for the masters, I''d pour the entire wok into my mouth."

    Surname Xue snapped cheerfully, "Pei! Look at your boneless tongue, you want to swallow the whole wok? Looks like you''re not afraid of burning your mouth." Then, she turned to Su Nuan Nuan, "Would madam please not bind these old biddies, your sh Cook Shrimp & Eel Noodle is just too fragrant."

    "What''s the use of just sniffing it? Eating is much better. Be at ease, I''ve made more. Old Madams and the rest won''t be able to eat it all. So why don''t youdies split it among yourselves?" Su Nuan Nuan said carelessly, not at all bothered by it. On the other hand, the kitchen staffs were overwhelmed by happiness as they sped their hands in front of them in thanks.

    At this point, Hong Lian said, "Missy, just noodles seem a bit in, why don''t you add some side dishes?"

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "That''s right, there should be some simple dishes that goes well with these noodles. I saw some boiled pigs ears as I came in, serve that thinly sliced with some sliced cuc.u.mbers, make a dish of stir fried celery with peanuts. Oh, and you go to Mei Yue Lou and grab a te of our pickled mustard. I''ll make some tea eggs[6] as well, hmm, that should do it."

    "What''s tea eggs?"

    Someone whispered loudly, shocking Su Nuan Nuan a little. Then, she sighed deeply, just what kind of terrible world was this ce to have no tea eggs? How do people even survive like this? Could the food here even be considered edible? Too pitiful, much too pitiful, ah.

    Thus, she quickly rallied the kitchen staff to collect star anise, tea leaves, tangerine peels, table salt, rock sugar, rice wine, soy sauce, as well as a few other items together with enough water topletely cover the eggs. Boil, adjust vour, and leave it to cool.

    In another pot, fill with enough water to cook several tens of eggsa low fire until the water started bubble vigorously. The eggs were then taken out, and the sh.e.l.ls cracked with a hard spoon for the spiced liquid to prate.

    ced the cracked eggs into the spiced liquid.

    [1] Ability to call rain ¨C Ability to ask for the sky

    [2] Ribbon fish

    [3] Yellow croaker fish Yellow Croaker Fish

    [4] Lots of swamp Eel ¨C Creepy, or yummy?

    [5] sh Cooked Shrimp & Eel Noodle ¨C Come over to for the tranted recipe!

    [6] Tea Eggs ¨C Here''s a recipe from , it''s a modified version that uses j.a.panese egg boiling technique that resulted in softer yolks Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 49

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter

    Chapter 49: Turning an Enemy Into a Friend

    Thank you Kirindas, Abastika, moto and F.J for yourments!

    [Gumihou: I''ve been waiting for this chapter~ though it''s a little shorter than the rest.]

    They spent just over a little half a shichen over the meals, just in time for lunch. As the rest of the kitchen staff all happily ced the noodles and side dishes into food boxes, surname Xue continued to stick to Su Nuan Nuan''s side and peppered her with questions. Clearly, she intended to steal as much knowledge as she could from her.

    Su Nuan Nuan was not at all stingy, she did not bother to hide anything as she bluntly revealed all her tricks. Furthermore, she did it all quite naturally, which really touched surname Xue''s heart. In this world, don''t bother mentioning one''s master, even one''s teacher probably would not be as generous, ah.

    Just what her own station was, how could she not know? Was there any reason for Big Madam to b.u.t.ter her up? This was clearly done out of sincerity, the purest type of sincerity!

    Su Nuan Nuan never even dream that what she considered as normal sharing would actually gained her a loyal follower that would follow her for life. From this day onwards, the somewhat sn.o.bbish surname Xue now stood firmly at her side. Naturally, as a true and faithful servant, she intend to hug Su Nuan Nuan''s thigh as tightly as possible, refusing to let go even at the threat of death. Unfortunately, the little marquis also intended to curry favour with Big Madam, otherwise she would have ordered the kitchens to send all the ingredients the madam wanted over to Mei Yue Lou. She was torn between two masters, what if she offended Big Madam and was denied ess to these wonderful recipes?

    When the food were all properly packed up, personal maids of the various madams came over. Since most of the people dining at Old Madam''s North Court, their appearance were all very neat and presentable.

    Su Nuan Nuan took off her ap.r.o.n, and was the first to leave the kitchen, followed by Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, behind them trailed the maids carrying the boxes of food. A train of 20 people trooped by with their fancy appearance and ornate food boxes, looking very grand and majestic, were trooping out of the kitchen when a ''meow'' was heard. A ck shadow dashed out of the gra.s.s and ran straight at Su Nuan Nuan.

    Su Nuan Nuan was caught off guard, she leaped up with a sharp, ''ah!'' and fell backwards. Luckily Hong Lian managed to catch her. Her movements were lightning fast, even as she caught her mistress, a hand shot out to grab the culprit. Su Nuan Nuan felt something soft and furry touching her and grabbed on as well. It took her a couple of blinks to realized that she was looking at a ck and white stripe cat, arge and fluffy cat, with two freakishlyrge eyes that were watching her every movement carefully. Su Nuan Nuan knew in her bones that if she were to offend this great cat, this creature would not hesitate to swipe her face with its ws.

    "Miao¡­"

    Cat and person stared at each other, the cat meowed again, it''s body began to arch up. Though the cat wasrge in size, it was clearly thinner than it should be. However, instead of seeming weak, the lean built looked agile and powerful, like an old veteran with strong battle experience. Su Nuan Nuan guessed that this wondering cat was probably a pack leader in its past, otherwise it would not have exuded such aura.

    "Surely this cat doesn''t belong to the pce, ba?" Su Nuan Nuan was not the least bit afraid. She grabbed its two front legs and held it up, and just sort of held it out for Surname Xue. Domesticated cats within the pce would not be so thin or dirty, this beast had to be a wild roaming one.

    "Meow meow meow¡­"

    Therge tortoisesh.e.l.l cat[1] was puffed up with anger, its tail waving side to side dangerously. However, no matter how it struggled, it could not get away from Su Nuan Nuan''s grasp. Just as it opened its mouth to bite, a sharp scream was heard. One of the maid, dressed in red with green patterns, ran out from the group maids gathered together. She fiercely painted at therge cat, "To think this beast actually dares toe back, our madam has been looking for it all this while."

    "Madam?"

    Su Nuan Nuan, looked at the maid, who quickly bent her body in greeting. "Big Madam, this fierce cat originally belongs to second miss. Last month, it bit our madam''s Persian cat. Madam was so angry that she wanted to have it beaten to death, who would have known that it would actually escaped so the servants so quickly. To think that it would show itself right now, clearly this thing has been hanging around stealing fish from the kitchen. Would madam please hand over this cat to our madam, our madam would surely thank you."

    "So you have such a record behind you?" Su Nuan Nuan stared at therge tortoisesh.e.l.l cat with some amazement, then she said curiously, "The second miss? Your master certainly has a soft nature, no wonder you escaped from her. Hmph! They say that the pets would resemble their masters, who knew how your master managed to bring up a fierce thing like you, I can see that you''re a restless sort, independent and strives for improvement.."

    "Big Madam¡­"

    The maid felt faint at her words, she was even more shocked to find the Big Madam speaking to a random cat this way. Just what is going on, ah? From her words, it sounded like this Big Madam was praising this cat for bullying her mistress'' Persian cat, surely she was not thinking about taking in this beast, ba?

    When this thought urred to her, the maid''s eyes widened. Then, she finally noticed Su Nuan Nuan staring at her calmly, "Hey, did you said that this cat escapedst month? So is second miss not nning to keep him any longer?"

    The maid''s lips curled in disdain, "That beast bit our madam''s beloved Persian cat, how could second miss still dare to raise it? Wouldn''t keeping a creature like that just provoke misfortune for themselves?"

    Su Nuan Nuan made a show of nodding her head, "Is that so, very well, since second miss dare not raise it, I''ll take it in. I''m not afraid of provoking misfortune. This beast kind of reminds me of myself, I really like it." She then handed therge cat, still dangling by its front legs, to surname Xue. "Find some water in the kitchen and give him a bath, after running around outside for so long, he probably has lice. After giving him a bath, just get someone to send it to me. This cat is really cunning, so make sure you don''t let it escape."

    Surname Xue nned to hug this Big Madam''s thigh, so how could she refuse this trivial mission. Thus she quickly smiled, "Would madam please leave it to this servant, we''ll feed it with a little rice and fish broth first, guarantee it would refuse to leave after that."

    "Good thinking." Su Nuan Nuan nodded in approval, and reached out to scratched the big tortoisesh.e.l.l cat by the chin. She gave a slightly sinister he-heugh, "Once you''ve eaten my food, you''ll be my person, ah no, my cat. Once I''m done with my duties, I''ll bring you back to Mei Yue Lou, there will be even more good things to eat there, I''ll guarantee you''ll turn into a fat cat after two months."

    "Big madam¡­ this, our madam¡­"

    The maids were all stunned by Su Nuan Nuan''s action: Not only she did not bother to give face to the madam, ah. This was just actively pping someone''s face, ah. You want this cat''s life? Hehe, the more you want his life, the more I want to raise it, moreover, I n to spoil it so much that it turns into a fatty, think you can prevent me, huh?

    Though everyone was thinking about this, none of them dared to let a slip of word out of their mouth. It was only maids who serve Shi''shi who could not smile at this, they could only watch with their mouths dropped open in horror. Before they could persuade her again, Su Nuan Nuan suddenly pped her hands, and said mildly, "Oh, by the way, do tell your madam, it''s perfectly normal for cats to fight. It would be nice if she were to give me some face and let the two cats turn their hostilities into friendship, ba."

    This was clearly bullying, ba.

    The maid''s eyes turned red with agitation: Just what do you mean by letting the two animals to turn hostilities into friendship? This is clearly pping our madam''s face, ah. The action taken by Big Madam this time was too much, even if you''re angry with our madam, you should still take status into consideration, ah. How could you take the side of a wild animal and dirty our madam''s face?

    However, these were all words that roiled and churned within their stomach. To be honest, so what if Shi''shi knew about this? She could not do anything to Big Madam, what could shrimpy little maids like them do? Aside from swallowing the teeth that had been knocked out by the blows[2], what could they do?

    [1] Tortoisesh.e.l.l Cat ¨C Just to give an idea what I think Nuan Nuan¡¯s new cat looks like. Hehe [2]Swallow the teeth knocked out by the blows ¨C Swallowing one''s anger Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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    [Total: 9 Average: 4.6/5]

 Chapter 50

    > > The Feast ¨C Chapter 50

    Chapter 50: unting Seniority

    The special lunch was enjoyed by everyone. Even Madam Yang, with her bone deep hatred of Su Nuan Nuan, could not deny her exceptional skill with cooking. Especially when she heard that the sh Cook Shrimp & Eel Noodle was made from swamp eels taken from paddy fields, sc.r.a.p fish that not even the servants deigned to eat. Since they always received a few of those creepy looking swamp eels every year from their tenants, those were normally used to feed the chickens and ducks.

    Just what did she do to it to make them taste so good?

    As for this pickled mustard, just how did she make it? Why is it so refreshing and delicate? Had carrots and bamboo shoot ever tasted so good? The tea eggs were even more amazing. Just a simple chicken egg, something that the masters of the pce have at least one or two each morning. Perhaps ordinary peasants would regard eggs as something valuable, but aside from a gentle fragrance, it has no particrly inspiring vour.

    To think that she could imbue such vour just by seasoning them, but just how was it seasoned? With tea? But what kind of tea was drunk by the servants? Just some cheap powdered stuff. Could cheap tea really produce such deliciousness? If they were to use the fine teas from the masters'' house, just what kind of vour would appear?

    However, no matter how delicious everything was, they still have to maintain a shred their image. Only, that Su Nuan Nuan seemed to have forgotten what image meant and was gulping down huge mouthfuls with relish, her chopsticks shing like rain, as she attacked the bowls of food.

    An entire table ofdies, from the most venerable Old Madam to the most junior Concubine Jiang had unconsciously set aside their manners and were busily sending noodles and side dishes into their mouths without stopping. Right now, no one had any interest in making fun of others.

    Normally, the women of the house did not drink alcohol, but the Old Madam was too happy today and ordered Qiu Ling to bring out a few jars of osmanthus flower mead for everyone to try. After a satisfying meal followed by good wine, the maids brought in some tea and took away the empty dishes. Old Madam Fang leaned back against her couch, a wide smile on her face. "How many years has it been since I''ve eaten so happily. If Nuan Nuan hadn''t stopped me, I would have probably eaten 3rge bowls of rice."

    Xu Ran Yun quicklyughed with her, "Old Madam, I''m really d Big Madam stopped you, otherwise, 3 bowls? Your body might not be able to take it."

    Old Madam Fangughed and said, "That''s right, I could only curse my appet.i.te for being too small. Otherwise I would not care about my age or waistline and eat and eat until I turned into a fatty. Nuan Nuan, you must tell me, that pickle, pickled mustard was it? Just how did you make it? Also, these tea eggs, ah, to think that eggs could be made into something so delicious. I''ve eaten three, but it''s still not enough, too bad it''s all gone now."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "Old Madam, please don''t worry. I''ve already taught the kitchen head, surname Xue, how to make these tea eggs. So, you can ask the kitchen to make them whenever you like. I''m worried I won''t have time to make it whenever you want, so please consider this as my way of filling my filial responsibilities. As for the pickled mustard, it''s very simple, just some sliced radishes and carrots pickled in a special sauce."

    "That''s right, there''s also cuc.u.mbers in it too. I''ve already asked surname Xue to get some twisted cuc.u.mbers for me, she said that these tiny, out of shaped cuc.u.mbers aren''t worth a lot of money in the city. Those people really did not know a good thing when they see it, these tiny cuc.u.mbers are really toothsome."

    Old Madam Fang said, "Is that so? I''ve always loved pickled carrots, cuc.u.mbers and all that. If you make any let me have some."

    Su Nuan Nuan grinned, "Very well, this granddaughter-inw will remember."

    "You better don''t forget, I know your memory hasn''t been very goodtely. I''ve already mentioned that White Sealed Meat[1] is very good, but I don''t see you sending any my way." Old Madam Fang sniffed coldly, before saying curiously. "That''s right, just how did you make that? How did you make it so that both fat and lean meat are so delicious? It''spletely different from the pork I''ve had in the past."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "Naturally it''d be different. That dish is made bybining regr pork meat and the meat from pork trotters. In the words of the lord, this leads to the a texture where ''The fat is not greasy while the lean is not dry'', isn''t this the special point of pork trotter meat?"

    At this point, everyoneughed together. Theirughter were like the chimes of silvery musical instruments¡­ which was interrupted by someone calling from the outside, "Big Madam, the kitchen has sent someone with the cat."

    "Yo~ they''re really efficient." Su Nuan Nuan quickly stood up and rushed to the entrance, in a short while, she came in hugging arge ck and white tortoisesh.e.l.l cat.

    Everyone in the living room stared with amazement, most of them did not know why Su Nuan Nuan had brought her cat over. However, there was two people in the room withpletely different expressions from the rest. The first was Shi Yurou[2], she''d already heard about the little incident from her maid earlier and was feeling alternatively annoyed and bitter. The other was the weak and cowardly Second Miss, Duan Sinqi. When she saw her beloved cat in Su Nuan Nuan''s arms, she could not help her little cry of surprise.

    She sped her hands over mouth, but it was toote, her voice was just a little too loud. Old Madam Fang gave her look, Liu Min said. "What''s wrong with this Qi brat? What''s with the random shouting? Nearly scared me to death."

    Concubine Lin''s face changed, she immediately pulled her daughter''s sleeves and smiled gamely. "Madam Min, this child also kept a pet cat which was ran away. So, when she saw the cat with Big Madam, she just cried out." Then, she turned towards her own daughter, "You''re really too bold, have you no sense of the rules? Still not apologizing to Madam?"

    Liu Min quicklyughed it off, "It''s fine, it''s fine, what''s the big deal? What''s all this need for apologies?" She turned to Su Nuan Nuan, "Does this cat belong to Nuan Nuan?"

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "No, when I was just leaving the kitchen this wild thing just jumped into my arms. I felt that like we''re like kindred spirits, everyone look, don''t you think he''s quite simr to me? Terrified but filled with resolved, he reminded me of the time I first entered Mei Yue Lou, it was terribly bleak and depressing, with no help in sight. Thankfully, I managed to held on after all this time. Therefore, when I saw the cat, I fell in love immediately. From now on he will live with me at Mei Yue Lou."

    "I asked surname Xue to clean him up a bit and to bring him over here so that everyone could have a look. Now that everyone knows that he''s my cat, if you see him in the future, please give him some face on my behalf. Do consider this meal as mypensation for future indiscretion."

    This remark was a show of force that was neither too weak nor too heavy. Old Madam Fang nodded on the side. Madam Yang, Xu Ran Yun and the rest felt terribly awkward, as for Shi Yurou, she was so p.i.s.sed off that her chest heaved up and down furiously. However, she really did not know what to say. For a moment, the dining hall sank into silence.

    Su Nuan Nuan eyed the people in the room coldly, why on earth do you think I''d bother to treat you all to such good food? If I don''t step on you all a little, some of you might think I''m easy prey. Especially that olddy, want subjugate me with fresh seafood, hmpf! No matter what I want all you to suffer a little.

    She was just thinking about this when Old Madam Fangughed heartily, "Nuan Nuan is certainly right. When I think back to that time you were sent to Mei Yue Lou, it certainly was a rash decision on Xuan''er''s part. I pleaded him to think trice, but the words of an old biddy with no influence meant nothing and that little brat refused to listen to me, and so, the three of you pitifuldies were sent to such a dested ce. My heart can''t rest easy thinking of you suffering there, it''s better to just move back, ba."

    Su Nuan Nuan nearly spat out a mouthful of blood, she gave Old Madam Fang a bitter look. Curses, is this old woman some kind of evil spirit? I''ve already released such a venomous snake in this room, only to see it smacked silly by this old woman? What old biddy with no influence, this is clearly lying through your teeth, you''ll be struck by lightning, ah. Finished, I''m finished. I''ve identally fallen into a trap. This old demon''s power is strong as that rascal Duan Tingxuan. I''ll be buried at this rate, what should I do, ah?

    Hard as she tried to think, no good idea came to her mind. However, wasn''t this just a test to see whose face was thicker? That Old Madam Fang already openly dered herself an old biddy, therefore Su Nuan Nuan gave a pained smiled and said "Old Madam''s good intention really touches this unworthy granddaughter-inw''s heart. Only, our Lord''s heartless actions have badly scarred this very same heart. Rather than going back to the Inner Court and be confronted by those grievous memories, it would be kindness to let me live as I wish at Mei Yue Lou."

    A murmur of voices exploded in the wake of this speech. The olddy was shocked as she starred at Su Nuan Nuan, unable to believe the wordsing from this woman''s mouth. This silly woman clearly wants to just stir up trouble, ah. This olddy already stuck out her neck and bet everything for her, only to be rebuffed without a thought by this daring troublemaker. No wonder her grandson, as brilliant a man as there ever was, could not win against her. How could this cunning evildoer be so easily subdued?

    My beloved grandson, your granny could only do so much, the rest depends on you. Please work hard, your granny will support you from the shadows. Hum, this sh Cooked Shrimp & Eel Noodle is certainly delicious, ah. I wonder if there''s any more in the kitchen? I''ll send Qiu Ling over to investigateter, if there''s any left she''s to bring it back here and hide it, otherwise once Xuan''eres back there won''t even be a drop of soup left.

    In the end, Old Madam Fang was an elderlydy and after half a day of excitement she was a little tired out. Everyone took the hint and soon bid their farewells. Su Nuan Nuan cuddled therge cat in her arms and was about to leave when a voice spoke from behind.

    "You''re too insensitive, even if you do not wish to return to the Inner Court, you still have to say it in a more tactful way. How could you just turn down Old Madam''s good intentions? What happen to your sense of filial responsibility?"

    Su Nuan Nuan turned around and saw Madam Yang staring at her. Without panicking, she smiled, "Madam''s words are a little exaggerated, haven''t this daughter-inw shown her filial responsibility through those noodles and side dishes? Even Elder Madam seemed to enjoy them, how could madam use this daughter-inw for being insensitive? Could it be that Elder Madam also wishes me to return to the Inner Court? If that''s the case, if Elder Madam misses this daughter-inw so much, than it is this daughter-inw''s fault for being too hasty."

    "In order to not disappoint Elder Madam, I shall inform the Lord of this good news and ask him to prepare the Chun Feng Court for me and pick out a good date for me to return. Well? Shall I do that for Elder Madam? In order to fulfil my filial responsibility?

    [Trantor''s Note: Shameless people are scary¡­]

    On that note please check out the kitchennovel for !

    [1] White Sealed Meat

    [2] Shi Yurou ¨C The wife of Duan Tingye (Duan Tingxuan''s younger brother) ¨C For some reason, they like to refer to the wife of various male characters with the wife''s surname using ''shi'' at the end. Basically, Shi''shi means ''the wife surname Shi''. I guess it''s to indicate wife numbers A''shi, B''shi. C''shi etc?

    I''d like to know too, so if anyone knows about this please let me know in thements section.

    The kitchen hand Xue is also addressed as surname Xue, but the characters used was different and literally trantes as ''surname Xue'' without any indication of her status as wife of whoever. Therefore I''ve decided to go with ''shi for the wives. Disimer

    The works tranted here are works of fans of the novels, and are not in anyway a.s.sociated with the authors of the novels, Qidian and Qidian International. Readers are encouraged to support the author of the novels using the links in the novel page.

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 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51: Cats Over Guys

    Madam Yang''s whole body trembled from suppressed anger, she knew that this Su Nuan Nuan didn''t really want to move back to the Inner Court, so what''s all this ''doing mother-inw a favour'' talk? For a moment, she was tempted to just call this horrible woman''s bluff and order her back into the Inner Court, that would serve her right, right? However, a sudden thought urred to her, what if this was all just an borated reverse psychology trick? What if this was all just an extremely roundabout way of getting back to the Inner Court?

    A sudden vivid image of her dear son being chased about noisily by this woman with her broom within the sanctuary of the Inner Court shed through her mind''s eye and she shuddered. What if word got out to her own family''s ears? Wouldn''t she lose face for making this womane into the Inner Court?

    At this terrible thought, Madam Yang forcefully squashed down her impulse to just stir up some trouble and merely lightly harrumphed, flicked her sleeves and went away. Whatever, she did not care any more, let this woman do whatever she likes. As long as it is all done away from her sight.

    "This is steamed fish, don''t you think it goes really well with rice? You go on and enjoy it slowly, make sure not to choke. Just how many days have you been starving?"

    Su Nuan Nuan stroked the now fluffy and clean cat''s back. Therge cat''s eyes narrowed with pleasure as itsrge head bobbed within arge blue and white porcin bowl, speedily eating the steamed fish and rice. Su Nuan Nuan felt extremely gratified. This cat clearly meant to be hers, look how greedily the way it eats, just like Nuan Nuan herself.

    "Hm, what should I call you?" she touched her chin as she gave this matter a serious thought. After pondering over this important question for some time, she decided, "I''ll call you Zhao Chai[1] (Weing Wealth)."

    "Zhao Chai?" Hong Lian, who had been minding her own little duties nearly stumbled, she muttered, "Missy, surely you''re just joking, ba? Zhao Chai is¡­ just too inelegant, how about calling it Kitty?"

    "Zhao Chai is a male cat," Su Nuan Nuan looked at Hong Lian seriously, "does the name Kitty really suit him?"

    "W¡­ well, we still shouldn''t call him Zhao Chai, ah. It''s just not something that a wife of an heir would call their pets. Wouldn''t people who know about itugh at us?"

    "What''s so bad about Zhao Chai? Even the heir''s wife needs allowance money, ah. Having a name that wees lots of money and wealth into the house is lucky, let whoever wants tough justugh. I like money, so what? Is there really anyone in the world who dislikes wealth? There are plenty of sn.o.bby people who pretended that it''s elegant to turn up their noses at the stink of money, pei! A bunch of hypocrites. I, am a truemoner at heart, unlike them. It''s decided, he''ll be called Zhao Chai, how nice it is to have my own Lucky Cat (Zhao Chai Mao), ah? Aren''t I lucky? En, let''s call you Zhao Chai."

    Hong Lian looked at therge calico cat with pity in her eyes, she said on a soft voice, "Dear Kitty, it''s not that sister did not help you, but I am just a ve with no power against Missy''s decisions. How pitiful, from now own you will be known as Zhao Chai."

    "Miao¡­" therge cat looked up from his bowl with a brief mew and went back to his food. He did not seemed bothered by the name, Su Nuan Nuan could not resistughing, "That''s right. Who cares about names? As long as there''s good food to eat, being called Doggy or Kitty is all the same."

    Hong Lian smiled helplessly and shook her head. "This thing is clearly no ordinary cat."

    She had hardly finished speaking when a loud yell burst out from the kitchen. "Su Meng Nuan. You poisonous woman aaaaaaahhhhh!"

    Hong Lian leapt to her feet in fright, Su Nuan Nuan was unmoved. She neutrally said, "What''s with that reaction? It''s not like it''s the first time your master sneaked into the kitchen like a giant rat."

    Hong Lian said an anxious voice, "This ve knows that the master likes to visit the kitchen, but, just what was that loud scream about?"

    Su Nuan Nuan gave a coldugh, and stood up slowly to her full height, stretching her back. She drawled, "There''s nothing for him to steal in the kitchen. For a rat who developed a taste for my food, isn''t that something to scream about?"

    At the end of her statement, Duan Tingxuan suddenly appeared in front of her like a shooting star and cried, "sh Cook Shrimp & Eel Noodle? Pig''s ears? Snacks? Howe there''s not even a sc.r.a.p of pickled mustard left? Are you moving house?"

    "Where am I supposed to move to, ah?" Su Nuan Nuan gave Duan Tingxuan a smile that was clearly not a smile. "Man s.l.u.t, you best just get that thought out of your head. I did not even relent in front of Old Madam, I''ll never move back to that Inner Court to y intrigue games with all your other women."

    Duan Tingxuan sank like a ball with a leak onto the floor, he gloomily said, "I knew it, not even granny could convince you. It''s just, how could you not even give her a little face? Fine, fine, whatever, let''s talk about something else. I''m asking you now, where are the things in the kitchen? Why did it looked like someone have cleaned it out?"

    Su Nuan Nuan, "I made lunch at the big kitchen and told surname Xue to just take whatever looks edible to serve thedies. I''m toozy to cook at night so there''s only a bit of rice and two steamed fish¡­"

    Without hearing the rest, Duan Tingxuan''s eyes brightened, he began to drool, "There''s no need for anything fancy; since the fish are made by you, they must be delicious, where are they now? Quick, bring me some."

    Su Nuan Nuanughed, amused. "Just look at the sky, it''s already dark. Do you think we''d actually wait for you? It''s all eaten up."

    "What? All eaten up?" the little marquis'' eyes glowed like a starving wolf''s. "Is¡­ is there none left? Not even a little bit?"

    "Well, there was a bit of rice and half a fish¡­" Su Nuan Nuan drawled. Without waiting for her to finish Duan Tingxuan seized her sleeves. The rascal''s eyes filled with stars as he hopefully asked, "Where? I''m fine with leftovers, we''re husband and wife of 5 years after all. Haven''t we shared all kinds of things together? I''m fine eating your leftovers."

    "Let go." Su Nuan Nuan''s face grew red, this Duan Tingxuan really has no sense of shame to say all these nonsense in front of the maids. Even if he did not want his face she still liked to keep hers.

    "Where is it? Speak," the little marquis really could not stand it any more, his killing aura started to brew up. After working all day outside he was really hungry now.

    "There!" Su Nuan Nuan jerked her head, Duan Tingxuan looked eagerly at the direction she indicated¡­ only to see Zhao Chai, therge calico cat. He was distracted for a moment and said without thinking, "You like cats? You should say so earlier, I''ll get a Persian cat for you, those are nicer looking, much better than thesemon¡­ cats¡­"

    The rest of his words trailed off as his brain finally caught up with what his eyes were truly seeing. Thatrge expensive bowl with blue patterns¡­ like a hungry tiger he lunge over and pointed a trembling finger at the content of the bowl. Even his voice started to vibrate as he stared at Su Nuan Nuan, "This¡­ this is¡­"

    "The leftover rice and half a steamed fish." Su Nuan Nuan spread out her hands to indicate helplessness. "Our master is the heir of a rich house, surely you won''t quarrel with a cat over food, ba?"

    Duan Tingxuan really could not bring himself to s.n.a.t.c.h food from a cat. However, the expected re of killing intent did note, the little marquis was like a man whose bones had been ripped out of him. He sat paralysed on a chair at a slightly tilted angle, "I work hard outside everyday running errands, working myself to the bone for the prosperity of this family. For the prosperity and ease of all members of the family I have sweated blood and tears. To think, to think that my position is actually¡­ lower than a cat?"

    As he spoke, the little marquis lifted his head and stared straight at Hong Lian with tears glistening in his eyes. "Tell me, am¡­ am I such a despicable person? To the point that you''d rather give leftovers to the cat and not me? I¡­ fine, it looks like my sincerity might as well be spilled water to you. If that''s the case, I bid you all a good night, I shall take my leave¡­" [Trantor: ¡­ I''m kind of sorry for the man s.l.u.t now.] [1] Zhao Chai ¨C Weing Wealth or Calling/Inviting Wealth

    [2] Zhao Chai Mao ¨C Lucky Cat

    <>

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53: Lightning Fire

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "I do believe that Zn and Jing''er won''t see it that way." Duan Tingxuan couldn''t help butughed. He gave Su Nuan Nuan another look and said. "Since you like it that much, keep it. Wear it for me one day, don''t just admire other people''s beauty, you too are at the best age of your life. A wonderful flower whose looks is more than a match for this pin."

    "I guess the rain will be red[1] tonight, ba? Looks like even a dog like you can grow elephant tusk[2]." Su Nuan Nuan sneered as she tucked the pin back into its box. Since that Duan Tingxuan already said that she could have it, she did not hesitate to take it. Let''s consider it the price of today''s meal as well as all those things he had stolen.

    Unexpectedly, as soon as she uttered these words, light shed outside the window. It was followed by loud grumbling sounds from the sky and the unmistakable ''shla'' of rain. Xiang Yun called from outside. "Missy, it''s raining."

    "Yi? Quickly, go check and see if it''s red." Su Nuan Nuan was in a good enough mood to joke as she eyed the little marquis.

    It was the summer rain, and therefore quite a heavy downpour. Duan Tingxuan had just eaten too much and was now finding it difficult to move. He saidzily. "Since it''s raining, I shall stay here and sleep at Mei Yue Lou."

    "If you want to sleep go to the side room. I''ll tell you know, there are no good beddings to spare so it''s up to my Lord to make do." Su Nuan Nuan said carelessly as she leaned over to pick up Zhao Chai, and began to stroke his smooth and shiny back.

    "Surely you''re not that pitiful? I''ve already sent over so many cloth and things, and you still haven''t made more beddings?" Duan Tingxuan was astonished. Su Nuan Nuan merely shook her head in mock regret. "None. Stay if you like, leave if you don''t like it here. In fact, I''m sure that Madam Yun and Madam Lan will be more than happy to wee you."

    Duan Tingxuan looked at Su Nuan Nuan with a frown, love and hate wrestled within him and a sudden, demonic smile wreathed his face. "Madam has just reminded me of something, it''s true that they are my wives, however, you are my wife too, ah. It''s perfectly natural for husband and wife to share a bed, in fact it''s practically heavensw. I will sleep in your room tonight, and nowhere else."

    "You dare."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s brows, which had been smooth from stroking the cat, creased up immediately. Duan Tingxuan smirked as he stroked his chin, and said arrogantly. "Why would I not dare? You think you can fight me off with your few weeks worth of kungfu?"

    It was true that Su Nuan Nuan was no match for Duan Tingxuan in a physical fight, however, this first madam still has a special killing move, ah. Sheughed once and said with a sneer. "Well, I guess this means you don''t want cream snacks anymore? Let me tell you, my cream snacks are nothing like those dry abominations you call milk pastries. Ever heard of cream cakes? They are soft and springy to the touch and melts in your mouth, leaving nothing but a beautifully sweet fragrance¡­"

    "Fine, that''s enough. I''ll be sleeping in the side room." The little marquis gave a tight harrumph and left in defeat.

    When Duan Tingxuan was out of sight, Su Nuan Nuan finally released a sigh of relief. She lifted Zhao Chai to eye level and muttered. "Who knows how many times I can use this strategy? That man s.l.u.t still keep insisting on making me go back to that hateful inner court. What do you think I should do to make him forget about this idea once and for all?"

    From somewhere behind her, she overheard Xiang Yun t.i.ttered. "Sister Hong Lian said that if Missy moves back, the master would stop pestering about it once and for all."

    "Pei pei pei!" Su Nuan Nuan spat several times, gritted her teeth and snarled. "Really, I''ve never expected that Hong Lian, with herrge eyes and innocent face, to curse me so openly. Just wait, I''ll sew up your crow beak of a mouth one day." She stomped angrily to her room and threw herself in font of her dressing table and snapped. "Enough, remove my make-up, time to sleep."

    Outside, the rain slowly receded, though the crash of thunder remained constant. Su Nuan Nuan sank into a deep sleep with Zhao Chai in her arms.

    After an indeterminate amount of time, she slept too sweetly to know, a loud crash shook her awake. Su Nuan Nuan was shaken from her sweet dreams, even Zhao Chai leapt awake, his body curved into an arched as he mewed fiercely in the dark.

    "What a loud thunder." Su Nuan Nuan patted her chest. Suddenly, it urred to her that ancient houses didn''t have things like earthing or other simr lightning prevention safety things. What would happen if lighting struck one of the houses?

    The moment the thought flitted through her mind, a sh of light split the sky, followed by a powerful crack of thunder. It was like an explosion had shook the grounds of Mei Yue Lou and Su Nuan Nuan could only gape through the window as arge fireball erupted in front of her.

    In a sh, the paper screens of the window was devoured by orange mes. The curtains vanished in a foomph, then, the hungry fire began to reach for her dressing table.

    "Could¡­ could this be considered¡­ punishment by lightning?" Su Nuan Nuan looked bemusedly at the roaring mes before her. Her brain had shut down from sheer disbelief and shock. As someone from the 21st century, she never had to fear thunder or lightning. However, she was now a spirit inhabiting a body without permission, was she an evil spirit? Should she fear retribution from the heavens?

    "This isn''t right, ah. It''s not like I deliberately did all this on my own. How could a transmigrated woman be considered an evil spirit? I''m human after all, could it be that the G.o.d of Transmigration and the G.o.d of Thunder were disputing? Or am I suppose to die earlier and the novel is now correcting itself?" Su Nuan Nuan held Zhou Chai to herself, she was so stuck in her own mind that she never noticed her cat squirming and howling for attention.

    "Missy¡­!"

    The shouts of Hong Lian and Xiang Yun finally startled Su Nuan Nuan from her thoughts. She blinked hard and only now realized that the fire had encircled the room and was licking at the bottom of her bed.

    "Ah!"

    The threat of being burnt to death finally roused her, she threw of her bed covers and saw Hong Lian and Xiang Yun trying to make their way in. She screamed, "Go away! Run away now! Otherwise you''ll be burnt to death too, leave now and don''t turn back."

    "If Missy dies, how do we maids live?"

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun screamed back, tears running down their face. Su Nuan Nuan felt her own face and her fingers came off wet and she thought, I''m so sorry, I should never have used you of being traitors. I don''t need loyalty like this, ah. Stupid, stupid, what if we all die together? You''ve only been with me for a few weeks, how am I pay for your death?

    As their lives hung at a bnce, a loud yell came from outside. Duan Tingxuan appeared behind Hong Lian and Xiang Yun. Without a word, he grabbed them by the back of their clothes and threw them out of the house, one after another.

    Su Nuan Nuan breathed out slowly and smiled bitterly in the dark. Well, it''s not a bad thing to be a bit cold and calctive. Especially under these kind of circ.u.mstances, at the very least Hong Lian and Xiang Yun did not have to die. You silly things, your own Missy have died long ago, I too am supposed to be dead. Dear G.o.d of Death, I don''t mind leaving this world, but could you please change my manner of death? Death by fire seems really painful, you know?

    As these thoughts ran through her head, something suddenly through the door. Before Su Nuan Nuan could suck in a startled death, the thing rushed to her bedside and a very familiar voice howled. "You stupid woman, why are you still in bed? Do you really want to die by fire?"

    Who else, but Duan Tingxuan? [Gumihou: ¡­plot device! *points usative finger at fire*] [1] Red rain ¨C something that''s impossible

    [2] It''s a ce on the saying ''A dog won''t sprout ivory tusk'', basically it means amon person would not show good quality. Su Nuan Nuan used ''Even a dog would sprout ivory tusk'', meaning she looks down on Duan Tingxuan as a person, who sometimes gives good performance.

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 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54: The Rescue

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Where am I suppose to hide? And why are you here? Do you want to die too?" Su Nuan Nuan kicked her feet at Duan Tingxuan''s direction. She squinted her eyes at the man and noted that he looked less like his tall and lofty self and more like a round dumpling. A huge dumpling. Ah, he was holding a sopping wet nket over his head.

    "With me around don''t think you can die so easily." Duan Tingxuan snorted angrily. He refused to banter with a certain ''crazy woman'' anymore and leaped onto the bed. Without so much as a by your leave, he enveloped Su Nuan Nuan in his arms, and heard an irate ''miao!'' between them.

    Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes, whatever, he''ll deal with the catter. He wrapped all three of them with the nket, making sure that both he and Su Nuan Nuan werepletely covered before facing the sea of fire. There was hardly a clear area to step on. Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes were wide with fear, she really had no idea how Duan Tingxuan nned to get them out of here.

    "You should just leave me here." weighed down with guilt and shame, Su Nuan Nuan blurted out, only to hear Duan Tingxuan sneer. "It''s not like you to say dumb things like this. Just hold on tight." Suddenly, he scooped up her ceramic pillow, threw it hard into the mes and dashed after it. His entire body was almost level with the floor as he flew like an arrow into the sea of fire, following the pillow like a shooting star. They barrelled out of the building and into the courtyard, sparks red and dispersed as theynded safely in the yard.

    Everything happened so fast that it took Su Nuan Nuan''s brain some time to process the fact that she had cheated death once again. As she stepped away from Duan Tingxuan, the house made a loud crackling noise. She turned, and saw that one of the supporting beams had fallen, the entire house was starting to crumple in on itself under the roar of the hungry fire.

    "Ah! My things, my jewellery, my silvers, my cloth¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan cried, and subconsciously rushed towards the fire. Perhaps she intended to throw herself into the mes to save her goods? Anyway, Duan Tingxuan snagged her by the waist and growled furiously. "Don''t you want to live anymore? Still want to throw your life away for material things? This is a lightning fire, count yourself lucky to have escaped with your life. Just forget about those things, I can give you a hundred more of it."

    "But, I haven''t even worn that plum blossom hairpin yet. And¡­ it''s just gone. I can''t bear it." Su Nuan Nuan really liked that plum blossom hairpin. That thing was a national treasure, ah. Not only would it be a museum piece in the future, but it could be the centre of attraction, ah. To think that it''s now gone even though I''ve never even worn it.

    "It''s just a plum blossom hairpin. If you like it I can go see the fourth prince and get him to order the Imperial Household Department to make one again."

    Obviously, a little marquis has no power over the Imperial Household Department, but Duan Tingxuan had plenty of friends in high ces. Just listen to this man, for the sake of pacifying his wife, the fourth prince''s name was dragged out.

    "No need, as you''ve said, it''s good enough that one''s life is preserved." Su Nuan Nuan, who had finally became clear headed, said glumly. "This ce is too dangerous, let''s move away from the building. Why is this rain not stopping? It''s too annoying."

    "It had actually lessened quite a bit." Duan Tingxuan said. Then he lead the three women down the stairs, the nket tucked under one arm. It was a special nket Su Nuan Nuan had prepared for winter use, and was fairly rain and wind proof. Today it had be an important rescue item. Otherwise, no matter how powerful the little marquis was, it was impossible for him to escape with Nuan Nuan unscathed.

    Part of the reason why the fire was so out of control was because the rain had lessened quite a bit, otherwise, it''s possible that the fire would have been put out before it became an inferno it was now. They all looked towards the fire as it started to spread towards the other areas of the house. They couldn''t help but feel anxious, Mei Yue Lou was located in a remote area, even if the ze was spotted by someone, it would be toote for them toe and help. They could only sit and watch as the fire spread towards the back of the house.

    "Ah! The seafood are still in the kitchen!"

    The little marquis who had just reprimanded Su Nuan Nuan for being rash suddenly howled like someone had stepped on his tail and bounded towards the kitchen. Su Nuan Nuan looked at Duan Tingxuan''s disappearing back and could not bring herself tough at him. Instead, she tossed Zhao Chai away and began to run towards the kitchen as well. Hong Lian and Xiang Yun exchanged a look. Well! Their two masters were already braving into danger, what else could they say or do? Aside from trailing after them to rescue those seafood.

    Perhaps even the heavens took pity on these two extreme foodies and did not entirely crush their hopes. Masters and servants actually managed to move all the seafood out of the kitchen before the raging fire burned it down. The little marquis once more revealed his incredible qing gong in front of these threedies when he moved several hundred kilo worth of water jars into the rtive safety of the yard. Su Nuan Nuan and her two maids could barely move even one jar.

    "Experience, this is truly experience, ah." Su Nuan Nuan surveyed the jars of seafood with Hong Lian and Xiang Yun. "In the future, we must remember that the jars of seafood must not be ced inside the kitchen. If anything were to happen to the kitchen, at least it would not effect our seafood."

    "Well, you''re still concern over this, ah." Duan Tingxuan was a little crossed as he wiped the sweat off his forehead and panted. Though his martial arts was exceptional, he did just moved over 10 water filled jars, ah. Who knew why his esteemed father had ordered the kitchen to put so much water into the tanks. Did he think that the added water would actually help the sea creatures live longer?

    "What else should I be concern about?" Su Nuan Nuan looked at the man s.l.u.t''s wolfish gaze. Surely all that effort he made to save the seafood was not fake, right? No, she could tell that his actions was sincere, and she, Su Nuan Nuan, was not someone who could not tell right from wrong. It''s rare for them to be in such a harmonious mood, so why this weird question?

    Duan Tingxuan''s face settled into a satisfied smile, then he turned to look at the s.p.a.ce where the house used to be. Without a sc.r.a.p of pain or grief over the loss of an entire house, he cheerfully said. "What else indeed? Surely you don''t need me to spell it out? Then, tell me this, do you still n to stay in Mei Yue Lou?"

    The grat.i.tude in Su Nuan Nuan''s heart vanished. Never would she have believed that this Duan Tingxuan would be so insensitive and calctive as to use the fire to force her back into the inner court, right in front of the burning pile of her home, and so say it all so cheerfully too. "Young master heir, this is a fire, ah. No matter what, Mei Yue Lou is still a mansion building, aren''t you even a little distressed to see a whole building burnt down?"

    "Not at all, as long as I could get you to myself, day and night within the inner court. Losing an old building like Mei Yue Lou is nothing, you count yourself lucky I''m not gloating withughter now, alright?"

    "Alright? Alright? You¡­ are you still a human? What''s this about gloating andughing, you¡­ just because you''re a rich man, you think it''s alright for you to behave this way? At the very least you should try and fake your remorse."

    At Su Nuan Nuan''s furious words Duan Tingxuan paused to consider her statement seriously, "Wu, so you''re saying that it''s only human to show remorse? Well, if you insist, I shall do my best to fake it. En, I''m so upset, ah. Though we have many houses in here, they''re all build on the blood and sweat of my esteemed father, now it''s all burned down¡­ hahaha! No, no, I can''t even fake it. I''m too happy with this fire, it''s a sign that heaven is on my side. Just look, Nuan Nuan, even the heavens are willing you toe back to the inner court, hahaha¡­"

    "You wretch." Su Nuan Nuan was almost crazy with anger. She dashed forward and kicked Duan Tingxuan in the sheen. The agile little marquis did not even bother to avoid her, he was clearly so sunk in the clutches of happiness that his vignce against the world had lowered to unprecedented level.

    "Nuan Nuan, I''m too happy, ah. After all, you''re perfectly safe, so what''s the loss of a few broken down houses?" despite his words, Duan Tingxuan stoppedughing when Su Nuan Nuan kicked his shin. His happiness soured when he saw Su Nuan Nuan stare at the burnt remains of the house, tears br.i.m.m.i.n.g her eyes and sliding slowly down her cheeks.

    "Nuan Nuan¡­"

    The little marquis was truly stunned, to him, Mei Yue Lou was but one of the mansion''s building. Furthermore, it was situated in a bad corner that no one visits. Having this kind of miserable ce go up in mes was nothing to him. He had thought that with Su Nuan Nuan''s att.i.tude, she would quickly bounced back from this obstacle. Perhaps, she might even see that the only logical move was to going back to the inner court, back under his protection. Instead, Duan Tingxuan was bbergasted to see that instead of thinking logically, she was just standing there, crying.

    At the sound of her own name, Su Nuan Nuan finally could not take it anymore, with a loud ''Waah!'' she sank to the floor and cried bitter tears. Her tears were so bitter and terrible that Hong Lian and Xiang Yun grew depressed, so hard were her sobs that the little marquis was at a lost. Something squeezed that cold, hard, dirty thing he called a heart.

    "Don''t cry, Nuan Nuan." Duan Tingxuan pulled her up, an unprecedented tenderness in his voice.

    "My longed for free leisurely life, is gone, it''s all gone now. There''s nothing left, wuwuwu¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan was really upset, Mei Yue Lou may be a broken down nothing in the eyes of the other residents here, but to her, this was her only constant, her only escape in this strange and hostile ancient world. Here, she could live a carefree life unrestrained as a dream. Who would have know that the heaven would be so cruel and wrenched away the sole constion in her life. She really did not want to return to the inner court to battle against those sour women for the affections of a man she did not even want. The only thing she wanted in life was to live a quietly as a foodie, ah.

    "Nuan Nuan, if the old don''t leave, the new won''te. Isn''t this your motto?" Duan Tingxuan tried tofort his heartbroken wife. By now the rain had stopped, and somehow Su Nuan Nuan''s wet, tear-stained face was even more endearing.

    "Are you saying, that you will rebuilt Mei Yue Lou for me?" Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes brightened, she looked up at Duan Tingxuan with hopeful eyes.

    "Yes!" as though bewitched, Duan Tingxuan blurted out. However, his wits soon caught up and he realized how close he was to the goal of getting Su Nuan Nuan into the inner court. The heavens themselves had pushed her into hisp, was he going to sabotage himself just like that? Duan Tingxuan, ah, Duan Tingxuan, have your brain be waterlogged?

    The word was out, but Duan Tingxuan bulldozed his way through to fix his error, he gamely said. "That''s impossible."

    "What do you mean?" Su Nuan Nuan, who was just starting to smile narrowed her eyes at Duan Tingxuan. "Are you messing with me?" [Gumihou: Su Nuan Nuan, kick Duan Tingxuan for me!]

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 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55: Wish Fulfilment

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Think whatever you like, no matter what, Mei Yue Lou will never be rebuilt." Duan Tingxuan hardened his heart and turned his head away from Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes. For the sake of long term happiness, he must endure this trial to the end.

    "Very well, don''t rebuild Mei Yue Lou. Don''t expect to eat my delicious food. I''ll tell you now, I have plenty of other hands I have not shown yet. Ever heard of Beggar''s Chicken? Or Stuffed Eggnts? Also¡­"

    "I''m fine not eating your cooking for a day or two. In fact, I''m sure I can withstand up to ten or twenty days without it." Duan Tingxuan shed his hand down, cutting off Su Nuan Nuan''s words. He smiled, and said, "But, tell me this, Nuan Nuan, how long can you live among the ruins of Mei Yue Lou? Though it is summer time, there are plenty of mosquitoes around, ah. If you light too many mugwort to get rid of the mosquitoes, you could drive yourself crazy. Moreover, even the kitchen is gone, how on earth are you going to cook? While it may feel charming and romantic in the first couple of days, do you really think you can stand camping out over ten days? How are you going to shower or bath? Where are you going to sleep? In the morning, the sun will be unbearable¡­"

    "b.a.s.t.a.r.d, rascal, beast¡­" Su Nuan Nuan was so angry that her fists came up. However, it did her no good, she knew that everything Duan Tingxuan said was true. There was no way for her to continue living at Mei Yue Lou. The only option was to move back to the inner court, and face the watchful eyes of those other wives and concubines.

    "Go ahead and yell whatever you like, call me an animal or beast for all I care, as long as you move back." Duan Tingxuan shrugged, he really did not care. Those political enemies he face in the morning court have called him worse things, if he really cared what other people called him he would have died long ago.

    "Missy, what should we do now?" Hong Lian and Xiang Yun approached her cautiously, worry on their faces. Of course they hope that Su Nuan Nuan would move back to the inner court, however, with their mistress looking so sad, and their master so overbearing and condescending, the two maids really don''t know what to think.

    "What else could we do? Move out, just move out, my greatest fear is being annoyed by others. If anyone dares to disturb my peace, I''ll just drive them back ruthlessly. Who''s scared of them?"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s practical foodie side finally revealed itself, she shook her fist against the heavens. Curses. Why is it that other transmigrated women could change the currents of history just by waggling their golden finger? By just showing their face, beautiful men of all kinds fell at their feet like dominoes. When will her turne? Why is it that the only man she have is this male s.l.u.t, this single rascal whom she could barely defeat? Now he was about to chomp his teeth on her neck and squeeze her under his power. No, there was no way she could just go down like this, ah.

    "Nuan Nuan, so you really agree?" the little marquis was so happy that a nauseatingly ttering smile appeared on his stupid face. This increased the dissatisfaction in Su Nuan Nuan''s heart. No matter what, she was still condescending to this g man''s desire to drag her back to the inner court, not something she would ever be willing to do.

    "I can agree toe back, but I have a condition." Su Nuan Nuan snapped, there was no way she was going to just allow this man to get her back so cheaply. Anyway, she had just thought of the condition, and sure enough. Duan Tingxuan was all smiles as he nodded quickly, "I''m fine with this. You may have it, in fact, you may have a hundred conditions if you like."

    "I don''t need a hundred conditions." Su Nuan Nuan sniffed coldly. She pointed at the still smouldering Mei Yue Lou and said, "Since you refused to rebuild Mei Yue Lou, make a greenhouse there. I want to have our own vegetables in winter.

    "No problem, just leave it to me." Duan Tingxuan''s eyes sparkled. There were actually quite a few rich families who had their greenhouses. The Duan family never really paid attention to their meals in the past and never bothered to build one for themselves. However, things were different now. Now that they have Su Nuan Nuan, so of course they must have a greenhouse. Just think, he would be able to eat stir fried shiitake mushrooms with greens, leek dumplings, grilled eggnts¡­ [Gulu] the little marquis swallowed audibly, and made up his mind to have contractorse here as soon as possible. He had just thought of this when the pattering of footsteps was heard, soon someone was banging on their font entrance. Hong Lian rushed over to open it, and in poured a number of night watch grannies, as well as a.s.sorted other male and female servants. All were eximing loudly at the sight of the fire, but even the fire was rendered as a background effect against the dramatic sight of Duan Tingxuan and Su Nuan Nuan standing together, backlit by the firelight.

    Though the fire had consumed pretty much everything, Duan Tingxuan still sent people over to put out the fire and save whatever they could. Su Nuan Nuan''s small reminder to the worker to ''Be careful'' earned an irritated look from Duan Tingxuan, which she ignored with a roll of her eyes.

    Finally, Madam Yang and Xu Ran Yun have also arrived. Duan Tingxuan was uninjured, but since the fire was pretty strong, his hair was slightly singed and the sleeves of his shirt was scorched. As he had been running around with a soaked woollen nket, his entire person was dyed grey and brown by it. He looked more like a ferocious wolf than an aristocratic heir. On the other hand, not even a single hair or clothes on Su Nuan Nuan was singed, clearly she had been fiercely protected.

    Madam Yang felt distressed as she stared at her beloved son''s appearance and turned usative eyes at Su Nuan Nuan. However, the knowledge that her son might take this woman''s side against her stayed the curses on her lips. Xu Ran Yun was filled with regretful misery, why did the heavens not help me? If my husband had not slept here due to the rain, perhaps she would be standing over the ckened corpse of Su Nuan Nuan even now. Not only did the woman not die, she might even want to move into the inner court now that her shabby building had burnt down. This was certainly the worst of the worst news.

    Madam Yang was simrly miserable, however, she had a much kinder nature. Furthermore, if they refused to allow Su Nuan Nuan back to the inner court, where was she and her two maids supposed to stay? Outdoors? How could she just let them?

    "Mother, it''s barely pa.s.sed midnight. I shall bring Su Nuan Nuan and the rest to grandmother''s ce to stay the night. I''ll get someone to properly clean up Chun Feng Yuen tomorrow before they move in, what do you think?" Duan Tingxuan had noticed her looks of course, and went on the attack with this inquiry. Madam Yang answered mildly, "Why do you want to disturb your grandmother for? Just let them stay with me for a day, once Chun Feng Yuan is sorted out they can move in."

    Duan Tingxuan gave Madam Yang a doubtful look, his eyes casting about, trying to read her intentions. He muttered, "Let them stay with mother¡­"

    "What''s that look for?" Madam Yang was starting to get angry, she snort coldly. "Are you afraid that I might turn into a tigress and eat them up?"

    "How could such thoughts crossed your son''s mind? Mother is a virtuous woman of great warmth and tenderness, how could you be a tigress? If anyone''s qualified to be tigress is that shrew Nuan Nuan." Duan Tingxuan quickly realized that he was very closed to p.i.s.sing off his mother and quickly favoured her with an ingratiating smile. His words were not an insult to Su Nuan Nuan either, she was a shrew of a woman after all. The little marquis knew that his wife had zero illusions about her own behaviour and would understand.

    "Humph!" Madam Yang ignored her son''s ttery and cast her eyes around Mei Yue Lou. People were still bringing in buckets of water to throw on the embers. Next to her was Su Nuan Nuan and Xu Ran Yun, she gave her son a straight re and said. You tell me honestly now. Were you the one who set fire to this ce? Your motive of course, forcing this daughter-inw of mine back to the inner court." [Gumihou: Go, Madam Yang!]

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 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57: To Take Pity

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "It''s a visit to the older madam''s ce, therefore I dare not appear in casual clothing." Duan Xinqu said, her voice choking a little. It was her one and only new set of clothes. Kept especially for meeting with the elders, it''s not like she ever got to go out, so who cared what she was wearing? What''s more, though they did not short change her monthly allowance, it was all given over to her mother to help out her mother''s family. Naturally, these aren''t things they could just say to outsiders, what else could she do but swallow all her words down and just take the insults?

    "You need to take care of yourself not just during visits to the old madam''s ce. You''re already thirteen, two more years and it''s time to talk about your marriage prospects. Are you still going to be this unkempt?" Su Nuan Nuan stood up, pulling Duan Xinqu with her by the hands and smiling down at the girl''s doubtful face. "Your brother has given me some very nice cloth, unfortunately it''s now all gone in the Mei Yue Lou fire. Just thinking about it pains me to no end. However, your brother have given some more cloth, but there''s no way I can wear it all, right? You might as well just pick out a few and I''ll get the sewingdies to make a couple of dresses for you. Also, this is something I''m doing for you so no one could say anything against it."

    "This¡­ what¡­ but why?" Duan Xinqu waspletely stunned, she was never someone worthy of a second look from anyone of importance. For someone to actually treat her so warmly now, how could she not be suspicious?

    Su Nuan Nuan also knew what Duan Xinqu was worrying about, but said nothing. She really wanted to help this poor girl, no matter what anyone thinks. Well, time will reveal even the deepest human heart in the end.

    She really wasn''t some overly good-hearted person. It''s just, Duan Xinqu was such a sad character that she had this overwhelming desire to protect this miserable weakling against the male specie of this horribly backward world. To see this fragile little flower bullied and stomped down by life just did not sit right with her. It''s not easy to be born as a human, she just could not bear the thought that someone was born to be bullied, that''s just uneptable!

    Naturally, there would be some resistance. However, Su Nuan Nuan had already made up her mind and was now utilizing the force of her personality make ''second young miss'' ept her ''kind offer''. When the sewing people heard that the first madam had sent for them, how could any of them dare to drag their heels? The head sewingdy personally came over with two of her most efficient helpers. However, when she heard that she was to measure second young miss for a fitting, her face turned into ‡å‡å. Still, she kept her thoughts to herself and did her job quickly and efficiently, and left with the specified cloth.

    After the fitting, the sisters-inw retired to the sitting room and settled down with tea and snacks. When Su Nuan Nuan urged Duan Xinqu to try something, she shyly looked up and said, "I heard from mother that old madam really liked your snacks. Even elder madam and Madam Min have nothing but praises for them. I''ve always wondered what they might be like, I can''t believe I would have the good fortune to try some now."

    "Piffle, what''s all this talk about good fortune? You just pop by here every now and then whenever you like. In a few days I will be making cream snacks. You cane over and try those."

    "I¡­ I cane over again?" Duan Xinqu couldn''t believe her ears, she stared fixedly at Su Nuan Nuan, hope br.i.m.m.i.n.g in her eyes. "Sister-inw¡­ you, you really don''t hate me?"

    "In the past, I was the one with the bad att.i.tude, and couldn''t get along with anyone around me. After my near death experience, I have learnt to let go of a lot of things. What''s a special aristocratic status worth? It''s all empty pride, the most important thing in life is to have enough food and clothing. Perhaps a few trustworthy friends for heart to heart chats. I really don''t care for those cloak and dagger scheming and would much prefer a free and easy life."

    This was a rare opportunity to test her cover story on someone new and Su Nuan Nuan was br.i.m.m.i.n.g with enthusiasm as she awaited Duan Xinqu''s reply. Before the girl could say anything however, Cong''er called out, "Missy, the master is here."

    "It''s not even noon yet, what is he doing here? How dare he ys hooky from work!" Su Nuan Nuan shot up in astonishment, Duan Xinqu also stood, the amazed look on her face draining into fear.

    Duan Tingxuan pushed past the curtains and came in, pausing at the sight of Duan Xinqu. He stared for a moment and said, "Why is second sister here?"

    "Yes, I¡­ I, mean, I¡­ I was just¡­"

    Duan Xinqu was so nervous that her hands kept fluttering about, her voice stuttering non-stop. Finally, Su Nuan Nuan cut in, "Second sister is here for a chat with me. As for you, what are you dong here so early? Is this the att.i.tude of a good government official? Leaving court early?"

    "Hehe, you''re even more anxious than Lord Liu." Duan Tingxuanughed. Then, he narrowed his eyes at Duan Xinqu and frowned, "Why is a youngdy of the house such a shrinking violet? And that dress, have Concubine Lin been neglecting lessons on how to dress properly?"

    Duan Xinqu''s little face paled, Su Nuan Nuan was on the verge of losing her temper. She rushed over to hug the young girl and sneered at Duan Tingxuan. "You have great cheek to say such things. As the older brother, where is your sense of responsibility? All I see is you bullying your sister over her appearance. Never mind, I have already sent for the sewing house toe and take her measurements. She''ll have two sets of new clothes soon."

    Duan Tingxuan was taken aback and was about to make some smart retort when he noticed Duan Xinqu''s fearful face and couldn''t bring himself to say it. In the end, he merely looked away and muttered, "I was just making a random remark. Since you wish to take care of her, I have nothing to say."

    This was the first time Duan Xinqu saw someone go against her powerful brother so openly, what''s more, she had just seen her brother give in, and¡­ was that a hint of fear she saw in his eyes? Stunned, she blinked huge eyes at her brother¡­ who was currently staring greedily at the te of Snow Soft Bean Paste Snacks. Her curiosity level increased, didn''t this elder brother of hers used to dislike sister-inw most? However, seeing their interaction just now, no matter what angle you look at it, aren''t they a little intimate? This was really quite unbelievable.

    "I heard you''ve taken one box of snacks away, who did you give it to?" Su Nuan Nuan already noticed Duan Tingxuan''s starving wolf stare at her precious snacks. That''s right, I know exactly what you''re thinking, thought Su Nuan Nuan sneeringly.

    As expected, this tigress of his knew that he had taken a box of her snacks and was now prepared to stand guard over her remaining snacks. Chances of getting a share: Close to Zero.

    "Thest time I visited the fourth prince, I treated him to two pieces of of the Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks. He dered it delicious and have been pestering me for days to bring him more. Anyway, he''s the key person to speak to regarding your hairpin. I really had no choice but to bring him all the snacks we had from yesterday. When I checked the cupboard this morning, there was only one box left. Where did you get this second box from?" [Gumihou: I just love how Duan Tingxuan managed to sound usative even though he''s in the wrong.]

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 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58: Be More Motivated

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    As Duan Tingxuan spoke, he swiped one of the snacks and threw it into his mouth. At Su Nuan Nuan''s disdainful snort, he suddenly remembered that Duan Xinqu was still in the room. Sudden embarra.s.sment suffused him, but he forced his lips into a rictus of a smile and said to her, "You eat some too, it''s not easy to sample your sister-inw''s culinary products. I can''t even get her to make an extra te when I hadn''t have enough."

    Duan Xinqu squeaked something that sounded vaguely agreeable. Under her brother''s heavy stare she grew panicky, unsure of what message he was conveying with his eyes. Finally, after some frantic debate with herself, she stood up, only to hear her brother say, "Stupid girl, I''m telling you to help yourself to the snacks, if my dear wife sees me eat all the snacks she''ll give me even more grief about it."

    Finally understanding her brother''s meaning, she could not decide whether tough or cry. In the end, she picked up one of the snacks and proceeded to eat it very slowly. At this, Su Nuan Nuan remarked, "Since it''s rare for second sister to visit me, I had these especially made for her. Why are you making such a fuss over nothing?"

    "You''re just trying to mess with me now." Duan Tingxuan''s lips curled. "I know you, you''ll make a fuss over snacks even if there are a lot of it." Ignoring Su Nuan Nuan, he turned to Duan Xinqu, "Why are you here anyway?"

    "Nothing, I''m just here to see the cat." Duan Xinqu said nervously. After a while, she stood up again. "Elder brother, elder sister-inw, I''ve been out too long already, it''s about time I go home. Mimi has a really sensitive temper, so please take care of him well. If he runs off again he might get into trouble."

    "He''s just a cat, what kind of trouble could he get into." Su Nuan Nuan could hear that this young girl have something more to say and kept her tone light.

    As expected, Duan Xinqu grew agitated from her casual att.i.tude, she poked the floor with the toe of her shoe and said, "Elder sister-inw, I beg you to treat this seriously. If Mimi bites second elder sister-inw''s cat again he might not live another day."

    Without waiting for Su Nuan Nuan to speak, Duan Tingxuan cut in suspiciously, "Which second sister-inw?"

    "It''s second sister-inw, ah." Duan Xinqu looked at her brother as though he was an idiot. That was when the penny dropped and Duan Tingxuan sneered, "Oh, so it''s Tingye''s wife, ba? I really can''t see her picking fights over pets."

    Duan Xinqu was stunned by her brother''s att.i.tude over this matter, but then Su Nuan Nuan smiled rea.s.suringly and said, "Don''t worry your head over it, little sister. Come over whenever you like to see him. I have nothing much to do most days anyway. With you here, I''ll be less bored."

    When all was said and done, Duan Xinqu was still a daughter of an aristocratic family, though Su Nuan Nuan did not say much, there were plenty of underying messages under Duan Tingxuan''s words. Her heart rate calmed and a rare, beautiful smile bloomed across her face as she said, "Thank you sister-inw. I shalle see you again when I can, please excuse me now."

    Su Nuan Nuan personally sent her out, and saw the young girl walked home with lighter steps. She turned and saw Zhao Chai sitting solemnly at her feet. With a smile, she smoothed down the fur on his back, "Looks like your people skill is not bad. Second sister must have been worried sick over you this whole time. She braved this ce just to see you after all."

    "So, what''s the story behind the cat?" Duan Tingxuan was ambivalent about Duan Xinqu''s good mood, and had not bothered to send her out. He merely blurted out that remark at Su Nuan Nuan''s words.

    "This cat is originally taken in by second sister, since he took a bite out of your brother''s cat, he was nearly beaten to death. Luckily for me, he escaped."

    Su Nuan Nuan sat down on her chair and red at the food stealing Duan Tingxuan, who was still popping the Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks into his mouth. "You''re a real failure of a brother. That girl is your only sister, other people hold their blood rtionships like precious jewels, but your stupid aristocratic mansion is really something else. Such a pretty girl, but look how depressed she is. As the older brother and heir of this family, how could not take an interest in her situation? She dependspletely on you for everything, but here you are, ignoring her, ming her for her situation. It''s too much to bear. Give me back my food, I''d rather feed the dogs than nourish such an unscrupulous cad like you."

    "Watch your words, what''s all this talk about unscrupulous cad? Just look at how I spend my days, have you ever seen me sitting idly by? There are already too many people depending on me, furthermore second sister is the one who kept to herself, not to mention I have other brothers and sisters to take care of. Take my third brother for example, he''s an anti-social recluse who sets his eyes above his station. As for my second brother, he''s a poisonous snake aiming for my position as heir, it''s thanks to my own wit and intelligence that he hadn''t taken a bite out of me yet. That husband and wife pair have no regard for anyone but themselves. You''d better not treat second sister''s remark as nothing, by taking in that cat you''ll put yourself in their path."

    His little speech over, the tray of Snow Soft Bean Paste snacks also disappeared. Su Nuan Nuan strongly suspected that this rascal had deliberately talked on and on just to give himself enough time to eat all the snacks.

    "Your second brother and his wife are no good people, but I still think that second sister and her mother are not bad people, just weak. As for your third brother, his reclusive nature could be the result of ack of attention and was put up as a way of protecting himself against the world. As a brother, you should care more for him. He is from the same generation as you after all, if you can get him on your side, your second brother would be more hesitant about going against two brothers at once."

    Su Nuan Nuan was thinking through the social and political situation within the An Ping household as she half muttered her thoughts out loud. When silence followed her remark, she looked up to see Duan Tingxuan''s surprised expression. When their eyes met, he smiled brilliantly at her, "Nuan Nuan, it has only been three days but you''ve gained great insight. In the past, you''ve never given any thought to matters like this, but now that you''ve move back to the inner court, you actually care so much about me."

    "You''re over thinking things again." Su Nuan Nuan gave a cold snort, only to hear Duan Tingxuanugh. "Ah, your words are so cold, but I know your heart is warm. You really care about me, otherwise you wouldn''t say these things."

    "I''m really not thinking of you," Su Nuan Nuanughed ironically. "I''m just advising you for my own convenience. No matter what, I''m stuck as the heir''s wife. My future is tied to your future, as long as you''re the heir and you canmand all kinds of resources. With you in power, I will be able to eat seafood as well as all kinds of other delicacies. However, if you ever fall from grace, I expect I''ll have to give thanks for yam porridge and dry bread."

    Over the sound of his grinding teeth, Duan Tingxuan red at Su Nuan Nuan, his finger tapping agitatedly against the table. "You know your situation too well. Since that''s the case, do look after the hour properly. As husband and wife we, we are a team, and our honour depended on each other. Therefore, please make sure to properly greet the old madam and the elder madam now and then to show your filial piety. My position as the heir might be rtively secure, but as the saying goes, ''A virtuous wife makes a happy home''."

    "Do you really see me as a virtuous wife type?" Su Nuan Nuan shook her head. "Aren''t you the one who''s always calling me ''that shrewish woman'', ''violent tigress'' or whatever?"

    "You sure know yourself." Duan Tingxuan remarked, narrowing his eyes at Su Nuan Nuan. Their gaze met and electricity seemed to spark between the two. Hong Lian and Xiang Yun flinched at the crackling sound of electricity popping between the two. Master and missy are about to fight again. They threw themselves bravely forward and said, "Missy, it''s almost noon now, we should make lunch."

    "Don''t bother, just look around the kitchen and bring me whatever is there." Su Nuan Nuan said crossly, only to see Duan Tingxuan smiled as he sat backnguidly in his chair, "Hmmm, it''s really not easy to even cross the entrance of the fourth prince''s pce, ah. I had to expand great effort to even get a nod for the him to find a craftsman good enough to remake that Pearl & Plum Blossom Beauty, ah. Tsk, tsk, he mentioned in pa.s.sing that it should be done in a few days.

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun had no idea what the ''Pearl & Plum Blossom Beauty'' was, but Su Nuan Nuan immediately thought of that silver hairpin she had nearly threw her life away for. To be honest, she really liked that silver hairpin. What woman doesn''t like pearls or precious stones? However, if this man s.l.u.t thought that she could be moved by this kind of trick, well, he had put his money on the wrong horse.

    Without waiting for her to say anything, Duan Tingxuan continued with augh and a stretch, "It''s that time again, the fruits down south should be ripe soon. The weather 800 miles away is quite different, the grow some really exotic fruits called bananas, pineapples, coconut and apples in their orchard. Who knows what kind of tribute they might give to the emperor this year."

    Bananas? Pineapples? Coconuts? Apples?

    Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes suddenly lit up, she searched her mind and sure enough, every summer and autumn someone from the Ling Nan from the south will send these tropical fruits to Beijing on fast horses. Though it was not quite ''But for a concubine''s smile, no one would know the taste of lychee'', it was still quite extravagant.

    "Very well, no need to hunt around the kitchen, Hong Lian." just as the little marquis could not resist her cooking, Su Nuan Nuan could not even bother to manufacture a pretence of resistance against the lure of rare ingredients. She was, after all, just as much a foodie as the little marquis.

    "Haha, I knew that my lovely wife have her priorities right." Duan Tingxuanughed heartily as he snapped open his fan, waving it elegantly. "What are we having for lunch?"

    "Beef ball soup with Chinese cabbage." Su Nuan Nuan levelled a Look at Duan Tingxuan which made him falter.

    That look of hers meant ''I need your a.s.sistance in the kitchen'', it was not a s.e.xy look. It was a look that meant ''I need a coolie in the kitchen ande help me if you want to eat something good or leave''.

    Duan Tingxuan sighed quietly in his heart, looks like it was his turn to y his part. Su Nuan Nuan nodded approvingly at his easy capittion, "Since my Lord is unwilling to freeload off me, I shall gratefully ept your a.s.sistance to mince up the beef. Many thanks for your help." [Gumihou: That''s the stuff, Su Nuan Nuan, don''t let him walk all over you.]

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 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59: Treacherous Thoughts

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    ¡°Oh, there''s no need for my to wife to be so considerate. These days I find myself busy all day, and in truth that has really tired me out. So if my lovely wife wishes to let me freeload, I''d be more than happy do so." Duan Tingxuan said hopefully as he stared up at Su Nuan Nuan, pping on a puppy dog expression over his thick face.

    "If that''s the case, I can only offer you pickled radishes. This one has been making her meals all by herself, and her arms are really tired." Su Nuan Nuan said sweetly as she settled back into her chair. Humph, do you think I''d really let you off so easily?

    "Mincing meat, is it? Let''s go, we might as well mince a bit more so that old madam and the Lord marquis could try it too." Duan Tingxuan snapped his fan closed and stood up smartly. Since he could not sit and enjoy himself, he might as well let his parents and grandmother benefit, consider it his filial consideration, ba.

    "Fine with me." Su Nuan Nuan smirked, the one who had to do the mincing was the man s.l.u.t after all. Mince up as much as you like, in fact, the more the better. I have close to 20 jin (nearly 10 kg) of beef, mince until you die.

    Next to them, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun groped the floor for their jaws, just what were they hearing, ah? It''s just beef ball and Chinese cabbage soup, how many bowls of it have you had, ah, master? Do you really need let yourself be needled by Missy over this? Surely this was a pitiful att.i.tude for their brilliant and charismatic master, right?

    "That elder brother of yours is difficult enough to deal with even with his over stuffed inner court scheming and fighting against each other. It was the only thing that marquis was dissatisfied about him since those women tend to scheme and quarrel over the smallest thing. I''ve even heard from his lips that elder brother has no business trying to run a country when he could not even deal with his own backyard squabble. This was his mainint about elder brother."

    "However, now that elder sister-inw has suddenly changed, even the old madam could not leave her snacks and food alone. That time we met was not the first time old madam had praised her. That woman even dared to move back to the inner court, well that has nothing much to do with us, really. However, the moment she took that cat in, I just know that she has no intention of giving me face, what is my life going to be like from now on?"

    Within Chun Yu Court, the second master of the Duan family let his wife nag on and on, before remarking, "Since you already know she has changed, you better watch your steps. Look after that cat of yours, don''t go and annoy her over that cat. Otherwise, she''ll have been bitten for nothing. That elder brother of mine knows everyone''s secret, I''ve never been able to pull wool over his eyes. Perhaps he already know everything in my heart, but is just ying cat and mouse with me. We have to bide our time, keep our strength up, endure and not show our hand, alright?"

    Ms. Shi stroked her Persian cat and sneered, "Endure, endure, endure, that''s all you know how to do. We''ve endured up till now, for what? I don''t believe that the little marquis have turned into spirit who could see into your heart. You''re just careless, how could you just let him catch you? That man just took a thousand silver liang from us, a thousand liang, ah. That''s enough money to support ten mid size families for three or four years."

    "Isn''t it because of your rotten idea in the first ce? You''re the one who kept insisting that I go out looking for his non-existing mistress. It was a waste of my time and what p.i.s.sed him off in the first ce." anger rumbled in Duan Tingye''s stomach every time he thought about this. How could Ms. Shi be happy to have thisid upon her feet? Husband and wife began to quarrel in earnest when someone cleared their throat. It was Gui Zhi, Madam Liu Min''s personal maid, she came trotting in with a smile, "Second young madam, our madam mentioned that the lord marquis will be dining at her ce tonight, and invited you to dine there as well."

    "Oh, very well," delight appeared on Duan Tingye''s face. It''s so convenient to have a well favoured mother, this gave him plenty of opportunity to curry favour and please his father. He and Ms. Shi quickly changed their clothes and left for Liu Min''s courtyard, as expected, the lord marquis soon arrived.

    Father and son exchanged some gossip with each other. When the marquis inquired after his son''s activities, he heard that his son had been going around making connections of several dignitary families, and frowned. "There are no outstanding individuals among the next generation Beijing n.o.ble families, no good wille out of a.s.sociating with these people. Does your brother knows you''re doing this? What did he say about it?"

    Duan Tingye''s heart shook, then he looked up helplessly: That''s right, no matter how much his father loved his mother, no matter how he might disapprove of his brother''s l.u.s.ty ways, deep down in his heart, Duan Tingxuan was his pride and joy. From the very beginning, that older brother of his was the favoured son. No matter how much effort his mother put into pleasing his father, in the end he could not measure up against that brother of his. He may be his mother''s favoured child, but he certainly not his father''s. The marquis clearly had no intention of making him the heir.

    When he thought of Duan Tingxuan''s ability to deal with the wily foxes that popted the imperial court, Duan Tingye became disheartened. A short whileter, he heard his father''s sombre voice saying, "Never mind, that''s what you''re good at after all. Even your brother can''t beat you at this. It''s good that you''re doing business with these people. They''re all young masters with rich parents, as long as you don''t get roped into their drinking and whoring habits, it''s all fine."

    This single remark raised the hopes in Duan Tingye''s heart, he felt, perhaps his father did not entirely favour his older brother, and that he was being encouraged to engage in trade and make business connections. Was this true? Was the marquis subtly telling him to prepare himself? That instead of facing his older brother head on, he should continue making business deals, ama.s.s money and eventually rece his brother as the heir?

    As soon as the thought urred to him, his chest grew hot with excitement. Marquis Duan Ni never would have thought that his offhanded remark would have inspired all these expectations in his son. The marquis eyed the sky and said to Liu Min, "Sister Liu, tell them to serve us, ba. I''m feeling a little hungry now."

    Liu Min smiled and sent Gui Zhi to the kitchen. After a short while, three maids came in bearing food boxes. They set down four cold dishes, eight warm dishes and two soups before withdrawing. Here, Duan Ni lead Liu Min and the rest over to the table. Of the four cold dishes, there was sliced cuc.u.mber mixed with pigs trotters, pork liver with garlic sauce, cold pork skin and preserved eggs with tofu. Of the warm dishes, there''s a whole roasted chicken, grilled pork ribs, stir fried pork, steamed fish et cetera. There was also arge bowl of really strong chicken soup, and a bowl of meat and tofu soup.

    The old marquis frowned, but he smiled when Liu Min said with augh, "My Lord always says that meat makes a proper meal, so I had the kitchen make these. How about some wine?"

    Duan Ni gave a bitter smile, "I overindulged at Old Zhang''s ce a couple of days ago and have been nursing a headache since. I shall be abstaining from wine for a few days. In this kind of weather, it''s better to have some light soup instead."

    Ms. Shi quickly jumped in to say, "Oh, since my lord likes soup, do let second young masterdle some of this chicken soup for you. This soup contain quite a few whole ginseng and is quite nutritious."

    Duan Ni shook his head and said, "No need, the kitchen staff here really seems to get more ignorant each day. On such a hot weather who wants nourishing? It''ll all turn into a bonfire in my belly. Also, what''s all these horribly greasy things on the table, just looking at them makes me lose my appet.i.te. Where''s Gui Zhi, tell her to find some white fungus in the kitchen and make something light for me."

    The entire room was stunned. Just when did this meat loving Duan Ni turned into this heat sensitive person? They had no way of knowing that the marquis and his friends had been feasting and drinking heavily on huge sea fish and roasted meat for days. Just looking at meat made him sick, right now he had a strange craving for light and crisp vegetarian food. [Gumihou: Haha, Duan Ni reminded me of that time I manned a grilled chicken wing stall for one day. Had to wash, marinate and grill almost 400 pieces of chicken wings. I could not even look at meat for a whole week without throwing up after that¡­]

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 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60: Came True with a Word

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "That''s, well, if my lord doesn''t like it, there''s no need to eat it. Gui Zhi, tell the kitchen to prepare two bowls of sweet soups." Liu Min was quick to cater to her husband''s whims. Gui Zhi gave a quick bob of acknowledgement and set off towards the kitchen.

    The family at the table were chatting idly as they waited for the sweet soups to arrive when they heard one of the maids outside called out, "Master, madam, first madam''s Hong Lian is here. The first madam has sent over some beef ball and Chinese cabbage soups for master and madam.''

    "Oh? Tell her toe in."

    Duan Ni called out a little excitedly, his mood, which had been dragged down by the cloying smell of thick chicken soup and greasy meat, was immediately buoyed up at the thought of the light and gentle vour of Chinese cabbage soup, perhaps punctuated by a bite of a juicy beef ball¡­

    Liu Min''s brows creased lightly, Duan Tingye and Ms. Shi exchanged a look. A feeling of unease rose in their hearts.

    Hong Lian soon appeared with a food box. She came over to properly greet Duan Ni and Liu Min before setting the box on the table. She lifted the bowl of soup with a smile and said, "The master came over to our Missy''s ce early since he had nothing much to do at work today. The master was feeling the heat a bit and thought it would be a good idea to have Chinese cabbage soup tobat the heat fatigue. Both he and Missy made this beef ball and Chinese cabbage soup together. The master felt that the result was quite tasty and refreshing and bade this made to bring some for my lord master and madam to taste."

    Duan Ni nodded as he stroked his beard, "Have they sent any to some to old madam?"

    Hong Lian smiled, "Of course, the old madam loves our Missy''s cooking. Therefore, no matter what she makes, she will send a portion to old madam."

    Liu Min gave a chuckle, and turned to Duan Ni to say, "It''s true, I do believe the first madam has learnt a lot during her stay at Mei Yue Lou. She came out less domineering and bossy, and is now very filial. I''d say she''s even more filial than the heir now. I do wonder though, just how did she manage to convince the heir to work in the kitchen? I''m sure he''s being forced in some ways."

    Hong Lian bristled at her words, her master''s warning was on point. Madam Min really did use this information to make trouble. As expected, Duan Ni frowned and asked, "Why have the heir decide to personally enter the kitchen with his wife?"

    Hong Lian quickly smiled and delivered the the line Duan Tingxuan had given her, "This maid is not sure. The master has never entered the kitchen before. He really insisted on going today, said something about how running a country is like the process of cooking. When he heard Missy said she was about to make something new, the master insisted in joining in, until Missy had no choice but to let the master do as he liked."

    With this, Duan Ni''s suspicion evaporated. He gave a little snicker and said, "Oh? He said that, did he? Well, this is very good. Could it be that he has realized something?"

    Hong Lian smiled back, and said, "How could this one ask the master, ah? But, this one had has overheard the master say to Missy, that the fire had given him a new level of understanding. As for what kind of understanding, this one knows nothing about it."

    Duan Ni nodded, "To be able to understand this much. Well, it''s not easy. Go back and tell your master toe to my study after lunch. Ye''er, youe too. Let''s go find out what new understanding your brother hase to. It''s beyond running a country is like the process of cooking, you can apply this even to your business deals. You could probably learn a lot from your older brother."

    "Yes." Duan Tingye said respectfully, fire burned hotly in his eyes. Ms. Shi kept her eyes down, snorting quietly into herp. The only happy person at the table was Duan Ni, who did not notice of the little dramas happening around him.

    Hong Lian made her excuses and left. Liu Min personallydled a small bowl of soup for Duan Ni. Duan Ni excitedly took a sip, and his eyes brightened. He chased out a meatball and popped it into his mouth. The unexpected burst of vour made him closed his eyes, missing Liu Min''s ugly expression. Ms. Shi snorted, catching his attention, but when he looked over there was nothing but a beautiful smile on her face as she said winsomely, "My lord marquis must have not eaten anything good these past few days. To see you actually shut your eyes from sheer happiness at just a bowl of cabbage soup. This daughter-inw really can''t understand, is it truly that delicious?"

    Duan Ni did not notice his daughter-inw''s dissatisfaction as heughed out loud, "It is very good, why don''t you all try some. I never know that cabbage soup could be so sweet. That alone is surprising enough, but just how did they make this meatball? Not only is it so delightfully chewy, it''s actually really juicy too. The meat juice inside is just incredible. Ah, my skills in words is not adequate to even describe it properly. Quick,e and have a taste, I guarantee you won''t regret it."

    Liu Min and Ms. Shi really didn''t want to praise anything made by that woman, but now that the Lord Duan Ni had said this, what could they do? Moreover, the Chinese cabbage and meatball soup was really incredibly delicious. The three of them sipped and pondered over the soup, full of curiosity over how it was made. Just what kind of tricks have Su Nuan Nuan employed to tease out such vours?

    At the same time, at Chun Feng Yuan, the little marquis was seated at the table with a huge bowl of Chinese cabbage and meatball soup in front of him. He rubbed his hands eagerly and looked up impatiently as Su Nuan Nuan walked in. "Surely we can eat now? It''ll get cold soon."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "So what if it cooled down? Summer is the time for cooled down soups, especially when it''s this hot. En, let me think, we''ve sent one to everyone, right? We haven''t missed out anyone?"

    Duan Tingxuan gritted his teeth, and said, "Yes, yes, it''s all sent out. You''ve even remembered Concubine Lin. At this point who else you still want to send to? I''ve never known you to be so thorough before. There''s only the two of us left, we''ve spent all day making a whole pot of soup, I''m almost tired to death and still haven''t tasted the soup yet. My lovely Nuan Nuan, please don''t tease me anymore, otherwise please don''t me me if I drool into the soup."

    "Alright, alright, go on, eat up." For a dignified little marquis to use such ame threat was¡­ well, she has no words. When she finally sat down at the dining table, Duan Tingxuan was alreadydling out the soup and ced the first bowl in front of her. He smiled, and said, "For the lovelydy who had been ving in front of the hot stove all day. Here, let your husband serve you as thanks for all your hard work."

    "This one give thanks to my lord. My lord have also expanded quite a lot energy mincing up the beef. Here''s a bowl of soup from this one, as thanks for your hard work." Su Nuan Nuan also smiled as she served up a bowl of soup for Duan Tingxuan. Normally she would never ept this kind of thing from this guy, however, while they were making soup just now, she had loosened her blouse cor, only to feel some odd eyes on her. She had immediately regretted the move.

    Hong Lian, Xiang Yun, Cong''er and Hua''er all looked on at this scene with pleasure. They felt that both master and Missy were definitely a pair of mutually respectful and loving husband and wife pair. Naturally, all four felt very happy with this development. Duan Tingxuan took a sip of the soup and began raising his praises to the high heavens. Phrases like ''Though Life Could be Bitter, A Thousand Obstacles Cleared with Soup'' started to appear. Hong Lian happily said, "Master, please save your praises and drink the soup first. What if some unexpected problem pops up, how could master properly deal with it on an empty stomach?"

    "What are you talking about? How could such thing happen?" Duan Tingxuan rebuked Hong Lian. "Stop talking nonsense, I, your lord, is not so unlucky."

    He had just finished speaking when the rapid thread of running footsteps was heard. Duan Tingxuan and Su Nuan Nuan had just set down their chopsticks and were in the middle of standing up when Si Ping suddenly lurched into sight. He was panting from exertion as he gasped, "Master, Eunuch Chang have just arrived with summons from the empress to enter the pce."

    "What happened?"

    Duan Tingxuan stood perfectly straight, ignoring the unfinished bowl of soup. Sudden summons from the empress like this was umon, and his heart pounded uneasily.

    "This ve has no idea. Eunuch Chang is now catching his breath at the courtyard, he came over on a fast horse, nearly copsing when he got off the horse. This all points to something incredibly urgent."

    "Very well, I understand." Duan Tingxuan immediately got busy. He hadn''t changed his clothes when he got back, and left with Si Ping with whatever he was wearing. Su Nuan Nuan looked at his disappearing back, and sat there for a long moment before addressing Hong Lian and the rest, "Your master is gone, there are no outsiders here now. Come, let''s eat everything here, otherwise it would be wasted."

    "Missy, just what''s going on at the pce? For the master to leave so suddenly¡­" Hong Lian and Xiang Yun understood Su Nuan Nuan''s character best. They pulled Cong''er and Hua''er to sit at the table and leaned over with anxious faces.

    "How would I know? From Si Ping''s report, it can''t be anything good." Su Nuan Nuan sighed as she muttered. Perhaps it was the knowledge that her fate was intertwined with Duan Tingxuan, the food did not taste as good to her. After a sip, she put down her spoon and said quietly, "Speaking of which, your master is really not simple."

    "That''s right, therefore Missy must treat master a little better. It''s true that master was quite ruthless in the past, but Missy must also understand that you were in the wrong that time." Hong Lian immediately pounced on this one positive remark from her mistress'' lips and began to eagerly talk him up.

    After getting to know him for so long, Su Nuan Nuan also realized that Duan Tingxuan''s personality was not apletely evil man s.l.u.t. On the contrary, aside from his tendency to gather beautiful women and scheming nature, he was actually quite an excellent man, for ancient China. The heir of an aristocratic family, a man of letters and great martial skills. One only need to look at Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zi Lan to know how great this man was for them to attach themselves to him as second wives.

    It fact, it was exactly this ''Outstanding Romantic'' ident.i.ty that made him irresistible to women in this ancient world. It was also the very thing that made it unbearable for Su Nuan Nuan to be his wife. She was a spirit from the modern world, it was not at all possible for her to share her husband with a whole bunch of women. Ever.

    After some serious consideration, Su Nuan Nuan decided to treat Duan Tingxuan as a friend. However, it was clear that the other party did not see her as a friend, she was seen as a wife. Duan Tingxuan''s officially wedded first wife in fact. Moreover, from his att.i.tude, it was clear that he had no intention of treating her as a mere friend. This was the main reason why Su Nuan Nuan dare not treat him too well, fearing that this rascal would take a mile for every inch she gave.

    If your n is to get along well first, then exercise your husbandly authority over your wife and take her to bed for some s.e.xy times, this little wife can''t bear it, ah. [Gumihou: That''s right, Su Nuan Nuan, don''t give in. Stay strong!]

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 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61: Trauma

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    It was dusk when Duan Tingxuan finally came back, his expression was not good. For once, Su Nuan Nuan did not give him trouble, merely went to kitchen to prepare more Chinese cabbage and meatball soup the moment he announced his all day starvation. The little marquis'' spirits soon bounced back to it''s normal annoying level when presented with his meal, which p.i.s.sed off Su Nuan Nuan. Oh, how she hated the fact that she could not use qing gong to fly up and kick him in the head. Glowering, she said, "What are you looking for?"

    "That Hong Lian is not around, it seems?"

    The little marquis'' voice was br.i.m.m.i.n.g with fear, this kind of feeling was so rare that he almost did not recognise it. His att.i.tude made Su Nuan Nuan smirk as she personally scooped more rice for him, "No, she''s not. The mansion kitchen sent a rack of ribs over, I was thinking of getting them to give me some string beans as well and make pickled pork ribs. I''ve asked Hong Lian to cut and salt the ribs in preparation."

    "We have plenty of fresh meat, there''s really no need to make pickled pork rib with green beans." Duan Tingxuan regained his state of mind quite quickly.

    Su Nuan Nuan merely huffed and said, "Fresh meat is good, but when ribs are chopped to bite size pieces and pickled with potatoes and green beans in arge y pot, it''s apletely different experience. You''ll know when you eat it. By the way, what do you want Hong Lian for?"

    "Haih, she''s just a maid after all. I just want to give her a little fright. This afternoon, after that little remark from her, I had to leave for the imperial pce without even a single sip of the soup. I ended up running around without stopping all day. Why did you not tell me that maid of yours has a Crow''s Beak on her? If she continuous to speak this way, I might actually starve to death!"

    This caused Su Nuan Nuan''s lips to curl up, even as she nodded in sympathy, "You''re right, that girl has a terrible Crow''s Beak, and bad thing she said came true thus far. However, there''s no need for you to be afraid, I''ll make sure she doesn''t appear in front of you."

    Without waiting for her to finish, Duan Tingxuanughed, "No need, it''s not like the girl is a true Crow''s Beak. I don''t believe that every bad thing she said actuallyes true. Hong Lian is a nice girl, it''s not like I have a trusted maid around me aside from Cai Yun, but she''s is in charge of my study and can''t move around freely. As for Si Ping and Shuang Xi, none of them can enter the inner court except under special circ.u.mstances. I hope to depend on her more."

    The little marquis understood that this wife of his have no feelings for him, which was incredibly inconvenient, since he was starting to develop feelings for her. In order to nurture proper man and wife feelings between them, he still needed the sharp as whip Hong Lian to help him out in the background. Therefore, he could not let that careless remark from earlier keep him away from this very useful maid.

    Su Nuan Nuan had no idea what was going on in Duan Tingxuan''s heart. What she was most interested in was, "By the way, why have the the empress called you to the pce so suddenly? Since no one had told the lord marquis about your sudden departure, he sent someone over to ask why you haven''t gone over to his study as instructed. When he found out that you entered the pce, he wants you to see himter in the evening."

    Duan Tingxuan drank down an entire bowl of soup in one go, and held out the empty bowl for Su Nuan Nuan to refill. While she was refilling his bow, he delicately patted his lips with a with a handkerchief and said lightly, "Nothing much, the emperor fainted while he was at the empress'' ce. She panicked and had the crown prince call for me. But not long after we arrived, the emperor woke up, even the imperial physician said he was fine."

    "So, it''s heatstroke." Su Nuan Nuan nodded knowingly, immediately calming down at this. However, Duan Tingxuan shook his head, "How could the emperor get heatstroke? He enjoys excellent health, and is actually more afraid of the cold. There is no way he could have gotten heatstroke, those imperial physicians are just stupid. Whatever, lets not talk about it anymore. By the way, it''s one thing for you to know, but please don''t spread the news around."

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded as she studied Duan Tingxuan''s face. Then, she said lightly, "As you''ve said, it''s not a big deal, but if there''s really nothing going on, what''s that awful expression on your face?"

    Duan Tingxuan cast his wife an astonished look. Then, he smiled, "Nuan Nuan, you''ve really changed a lot. You''ve gotten sharper too, I really can''t hide my true feelings from your eyes."

    Su Nuan Nuan coughed, she thought, you''ve just overestimated your own acting skills. Also, that Su Meng Nuan was just too dumb and selfish, how could she bepared to the me who have seen countless number of Chinese movie featuring professional actors? Furthermore, thisdy have even acted at the actual Forbidden Pce grounds you know. Granted, it was as one of the extras, but I''m good enough to be given a few actual speaking roles. Humph, you want to fight me in terms of real acting skills?

    Naturally, these were not something she could actually say. Husband and wife remained deep in their thoughts as they ate. Duan Tingxuan downed two bowls of soup before letting out a sigh of satisfaction. Then, he noticed there were a few more meatb.a.l.l.s left in therge bowl and proceeded to shift them into his own bowl. With a satisfied he-he, he said, "These are all made from the beef I minced, no wonder you want to borrow my strength for this. The texture is really something else. It''s incredibly bouncy and chewy, and yet filled with meat juice and very fragrant. To think, you can only eat these thanks to me, without me you probably won''t be able to make these."

    Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes as Duan Tingxuan enthusiastically blew his own trumpet. She narrowed her eyes as he set down his chopsticks and red meaningfully at the meatb.a.l.l.s in his bowl. "What''s the meaning of grabbing all those meatb.a.l.l.s and not eating them?"

    "Who says I''m not eating them? I''m just too full right now, I can hardly move. I just need to walk around a bit and digest some of the food in my stomach, once I have some s.p.a.ce I''ll eat them." True enough, the man stood up and began to pace around the dining room. The bowl of meatb.a.l.l.s cradled protectively in his hands. Su Nuan Nuan bristled with anger at this stupid man''s behaviour. She was this close to throwing therge bowl at his head.

    "I''ve been doing the horse stance for many days now, and my legs and centre of gravity is very stable. When are you going to teach me proper kungfu?" Su Nuan Nuan confronted Duan Tingxuan after swallowing thest grain of rice in her own bowl. From her own estimation, she could feed the man s.l.u.t the rest of her life and never learn anything beyond some fancy footwork and useless kata that never amount to much.

    "Impossible." Duan Tingxuan rejected Su Nuan Nuan''s request in one breath. "You''ve only spent a few days doing the horse stance and breathing exercise. Even I, who had beenplemented by several martial arts masters as a great talent, had to spend one whole year on those two exercises alone before learning any real kungfu."

    "Then, by your estimation, I will never be able to learn kungfu for the rest of my life." Su Nuan Nuan finally pa.r.s.ed out Duan Tingxuan''s true meaning and was now crying without tears: Was her dream to be a ''Female Knight'' now shattered? How was it that other female transmigrators could easily learn all thoseplicated skills and gain power by leaps and bounds while she''s stuck doing breathing exercises?

    "Oh, you probably will never reach my level of mastery. But if your goal is to climb walls, run over rooftops and such, it''s still possible." the little marquis finally noticed his wife''s ''bitterly heartbroken'' expression and, anxious for his future meals, began to throw a few strings of hopes at her. [Gumihou: I swear, this is the most realistic transmigrator ever. Seriously, the way some protagonist gain special skills, it''s like the skills grow everywhere or were sold next to Chinese cabbages at markets or something]

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 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62: To Change the Subject

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "What''s that supposed to mean? Whatever, I guess I don''t really have a talent for martial arts¡­" the first madam saw through her husband''s cating words for what they were and waspletely disheartened. Presently, Duan Tingxuan said in a low voice, "You remember your father''s case?"

    "Oh?"

    Su Nuan Nuan blinked, not really understanding why Duan Tingxuan had changed the subject, she hadn''t said anything that could be considered threatening to him, right?

    "Your father was most likely framed." Duan Tingxuan paused dramatically in the middle of his pacing. His face serious as he looked up the sky, and sighed deeply. If possible, he really did not want to bring up this matter with Su Nuan Nuan, a lot of the things regarding her father''s matter was guesswork, however the idea that he could miss out delicious food if the wife threw a tantrum over not being able to master kungfu was too great. He must do his best to divert her attention.

    "So, someone really did framed him!"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s voice was high pitched as she cried out. She was actually really excited about this matter. Of all the memories she had from the original body, the case stood out the most. Su Meng Nuan herself had been sure that her father was falsely used, feeling that Duan Tingxuan had not done his best to protect her father. Her feelings came from the depth of her regard for her father, and not from any actual evidence. Because of this, Su Nuan Nuan had mostly dumped the knowledge to the back of her mind, dismissing it as unimportant to the day to day fight for survival. Now that she had time on her hands, she spent some time pondering over the matter out of boredom.

    Now that Duan Tingxuan had personally brought up the matter, she suddenly burst out in excitement. Ever since she had taken over Su Meng Nuan''s body, she had a nagging feeling that she owed this woman some sense of grat.i.tude. Vicious shrew though she was, the woman had truly loved her father. She figured that she should at least ensure the safety of Duke Ping''s safety so that the woman could find some peace even in the depths of h.e.l.l. Perhaps she could even turn over a new leaf and devote herself to self cultivation and be reborn as a good woman in the next life.

    "So, what''s going on? Did you find out something?" Duan Tingxuan''s change of subject yielded unexpected result, Su Nuan Nuan hadpletely forgotten about the bitterness of not being able to learn kungfu and came several steps closer to Duan Tingxuan, impatient curiosity on her face.

    For some reason, Duan Tingxuan felt that his wife''s impatient face was really¡­ cute? Have those dark eyes of hers always been so bright? Even the best ck diamonds could not match the allure of those beautiful eyes .

    The l.u.s.ty and romantic little marquis stared at his wife of five years in front of him, a sudden surge of feeling bloomed within his heart. As though under a spell, he approached his wife, and gently kissed Su Nuan Nuan''s forehead.

    "Ah!"

    Su Nuan Nuan leaped back in fright. She s.n.a.t.c.hed a handkerchief out and rubbed her forehead furiously. She snarled, "Just what is that?"

    "What''s a kiss between husband and wife?" Duan Tingxuan spread out his hands innocently. "Nuan Nuan, have you forgotten that I am your husband?"

    "Pei! Ever since the day you sent me to Mei Yue Lou, you''re no longer my husband." Su Nuan Nuan spat at the floor. She red at the over s.e.xed wolf in front of her, "I tell you now, don''t try to use my parent''s case to make forget everything that had happened. I''ll never give in so don''t even dream about me getting back with you again. Duan Tingxuan, you''ve never loved me, have you? Don''t think I''ve forgotten how soon after our marriage that you gotten another woman into our life. The only reason why you want me now is because I no longer want you, and your male pride just can''t take it. Want me to throw myself at your feet? Pei! Pei! Pei! You can forget about it, if you think that I''m not grateful enough for your condescension, just divorce me. Some wrongs can never be righted, some sins can never be forgiven."

    As she spoke, Su Nuan Nuan''s voice lose its initial emotional fire, hardening into stone cold seriousness. It was then that Duan Tingxuan finally understood: He hadpletely lost this woman''s heart, or, if he were to believe his transmigration of spirit theory, he never had held this woman''s heart in his hands. He could see the clear dislike and rejection on his wife''s face, it was clear that nothing about her behaviour was false.

    Another man might have stormed off at this point, or forced himself on this woman, perhaps they might even divorce her. However, little marquis was no such weak character. He was a sharp and wily fox who earned the respect and hate of the men at imperial court. The distinguished and handsome idol in the hearts of countless women. At the age of 20 women of all ages practically throw themselves at him. He had collected the best of the bunch and installed the most luscious of the crop in his own inner court. In fact, two of his best flowers could be consider national treasures. If he was someone who could be put off by such crude talk, how could he be admired by so many women? How could the distinguished men of the court respect him?

    He breathed in deeply and sighed, once he had collected himself, he said sincerely, "Nuan Nuan, you''re not wrong. I have hurt you quite badly, however, I don''t regret my decisions in the past. If you were to look back now with your new understanding, perhaps you would also realise that it was your past beastly and violent behaviour thatnded you in Mei Yue Lou. I truly felt that if you had starved to death at that time, it would be proper retribution."

    Su Nuan Nuan squawked, and looked away. She could not deny Duan Tingxuan''s words. Su Meng Nuan really had threatened the lives of the people in the inner court, and at least two or three idental deaths could be linked to her. Though Duan Tingxuan was a heartless sc.u.m, she could not im her host body to be any good person. Under these circ.u.mstances, she had to admit that Su Meng Nuan really had gotten her just desserts.

    Having no proper retort to make, she remained silent. Duan Tingxuanughed and said, "Nuan Nuan, you''ve really changed. You''re so much cuter now and I feel much closer to you than before. However, I can tell from your words that you really do not wish me to press you as a husband. I, Duan Tingxuan, may be a l.u.s.ty, fickle man, however, I am also a man of dignity and grace. Nuan Nuan, let us be friends for now, if I ever develop feelings for you as a woman, I shall warmly woo you to the best of my abilities. I will dly call you my wife in every sense of the word the day you willingly give yourself to me. I look forward to the day we meet each other with dignity and pride."

    "Pei! Stop your day dreams now, spilled water can never be retrieved. Don''t you know that?" Su Nuan Nuan naturally did not bother with Duan Tingxuan''s absurd words: Want her to ''give herself willingly'' over to a man s.l.u.t? Hahaha, that''s the joke of the century there. A modern woman like her would never ept s.l.u.tty man with three wives and four concubines into her life. Moreover, even if she happened to ever develop feelings for Duan Tingxuan, she would never be his wife. What kind of pride and dignity was she suppose to have while sharing a man with those other women? I say, pei! Shove your day dreams where the sun don''t shine.

    Duan Tingxuan''s face grew a solemn as he said seriously, "Nuan Nuan, please don''t speak like that. If one day I give my whole heart over to you, I will throw myself at your feet to fulfil every little whim of yours. I don''t believe you could remain stone hearted, a heart is made of flesh, after all. When that timees, you will be able to feel the heat of my love¡­" [Gumihou:¡­ *gags*]

    "Nothing woulde of it." Su Nuan Nuan coolly broke Duan Tingxuan''s little speech. "Little Marquis Duan, just give it up. Forget that I was ever your wife. I have changed too much, I am above such based ttery. I will never let a man s.l.u.t like you, who have copted with countless women, to touch me. Never in this life time, and not in the next ten life times. I will never give in, so you had better give up." [Gumihou cheers Su Nuan Nuan]

    Who knows whether Duan Tingxuan really give up at this point or not, however, he ceased to press his suit. He stared dazedly at Su Nuan Nuan as he searched his mind for a proper retort. His lips opened, then closed, without letting out a single word.

    "You say my father had been falsely used, so who''s the real culprit behind it?"

    When Duan Tingxuan continued to remain speechless, Su Nuan Nuan pulled the subject back to this. She was also secretly relief: She had been pestered too long by Duan Tingxuan to take up her role as his wife, to the point that she really didn''t know how tomunicate with him. She had no intention of testing his much vaunted feelings for her, except as ast resort. As long as she remained within the walls of this mansion, she was the official wife of the heir; the cost of this t.i.tle was too much for her to pay. Thankfully, the matter had been brought up and they had both made their positions clear. Su Nuan Nuan was d that Duan Tingxuan pride as the heir was enough to keep himself from forcing her, looks like she had escaped a rather sticky situation quite well.

    "The man who framed your father covered their tracks well, there was not much evidence to be had. However, I have been secretly investigating the matter for a long time and though it was nothing much, I have my suspicions."

    "What kind of suspicion? Can you really not speak about it? What''s all this suspense for? Are you deliberately withholding information to force me into something?"

    Su Nuan Nuan bombarded him crossly. Duan Tingxuan gave a bitter smile and said, "Am I such a despicable person in your mind? Do you really think that I would need to use such tricks to bed a woman? I can tell you what you wish to know, but you must keep calm and not cause trouble. If we let on that we know something, you might never get the enemy in this lifetime."

    "Yes, yes, yes, I promise not to stir up trouble. I''ll just listen quietly and keep all the hate in my heart. At most, I''ll just make a voodoo doll and stab it now and then to relieve my feelings. Nothing will leave my lips, do you want me to swear?" Su Nuan Nuan was putting up her hand up when Duan Tingxuan lunged forward to cover her mouth with his hands and whispered urgently. "My greatdy madam, didn''t you just say you won''t say anything? Why are you talking so loud? Don''t you know that someone could take control of your life with just your name and birth date?"

    Su Nuan Nuan blinked, then blinked again. She squinted her eyes at Duan Tingxuan''s hand, a clear hint for him to take it away from her mouth. After sometime, the hand was removed, and she snorted coldly, "Since you''re under emotional stress, I shall overlook this for the moment. The next time you try to s.n.a.t.c.h my tofu I will bite you. Though I might have teeth like a wild dog, I have no problem tearing off a chunk of your flesh."

    "Isn''t that a bit too wild? Wanting to tear a chunk of my flesh away?" Duan Tingxuan actually trembled a little, when his wife narrowed her eyes, he quickly said, "Do you know King Xiangyang?"

    "He was the one who framed my father?" Su Nuan Nuan really had no impression of this King Xiangyang. She had to search deep into her memories to find some general details about this man. However, Duan Tingxuan did not question her. Instead, he nodded and said, "All of my investigation pointed towards his direction."

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 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63: Secret Couple Discussion

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "Why? Surely my father had no grudges against him?"

    Su Nuan Nuan puffed up with indigence. Duan Tingxuan nodded agreeably and said, "As for the reason, I wish to know too. Not only did your father have no enmity against him, they were in fact good friends. If your father did not trust him so much, he would not have fallen so low."

    "Your father had been in charged of the army rations. The amount of grain that went missing was about one million litres. Only soldiers and army officers have ess to the grains in the north. If not for Duke Dong Liao''s speedy a.s.sistance with provisions and foot soldiers, the battle against the Northern Huns would have gone quite differently. If the Huns had managed to storm into the Central ins, the people would have suffered a great catastrophe."

    "But, why would King Xiangyang want the army provisions for? Even a woman like me know that his actions made no sense. Isn''t he the Imperial Younger Brother? Could it be that he''s been conspiring with the Huns?"

    "He can''t be conspiring with the Huns." Duan Tingxuan said with certainty. "No matter what, he''s still part of the royal family. Having the Huns storm Central ins won''t benefit him. Unfortunately, the people your father put in charged of the provisions were now dead, making it impossible to discern King Xiangyang''s goal. However, we can draw some clear deductions on why he would want a million litres of grain."

    "And what deductions could those be? He''s already part of the royal family and have his own territory to rule over. Are you saying he''s not happy with what he has? Even if he ns to revolt, the country is at peace and the people wealthy. Who would be stupid enough to throw their lives with him? Even if he really ns to revolt, why hasn''t he made any move yet? It has already been two years, how long is he nning to wait? Are you trying to say he needed the food for a hundred thousand soldiers? Even if it were so, surely some officials would have noticed it by now, right?"

    "You''re unexpectedly insightful, thus far." Duan Tingxuan slow pped twice, and said. "You''re not wrong, therefore, we may draw only one conclusion from this. The provisions had been sold off."

    "What does he need all that money for? As a member of the imperial family, what kind of business is closed to him? He should have all kinds of money pouring in from countless businesses, right? What''s the point of messing around with risky things like stealing army provisions? Moreover, there haven''t been any famine or natural disasters in the past two years, would he even be able to sell off the one million litres of grain?"

    "The borders of the country is well sealed, there is no way he could simply sell those grains outside. If he tries to bring it across the borders, it''d be tracked down immediately. However, I''ve heard that the Eastern Seas have been restlesstely, in addition to civil conflicts, there had been quite a few natural disasterstely. It''s likely that they''d suffer from extremeck of food. The king might have sold off the grains to them, especially since they produce a great amount silver. As you''ve said, the profits would be pouring in."

    Every single question from Su Nuan Nuan were treated like precious gems by Duan Tingxuan. He spent an unprecedented amount of time in front of her, earnestly discussing matters of the state. It was especially rare for him to even bring up things like army matters to any woman, this was an unprecedented ''feat'' for the little marquis. Content of the discussion aside, it was a rare thing to see her open up like this in front of him.

    "Just as you''ve said, that King Xiangyang was just too suspicious." Duan Tingxuan''s words reminded Su Nuan Nuan of Prince of Ning. A historical figure who had gained great wealth as a feudal lord. The man had then used his wealth to bribe city officials to prepare a coup. Coupled with Emperor Zhengde''s weak character, his plots had not been discovered until the day he rebelled against the emperor. This King Xiangyang probably won''t dare to be as reckless as Prince Ning, since the current emperor was nothing like that useless spendrift Zhengde. Which exins the wholeplicated plot of stealing army grains, framing the theft on Duke of Ping, and then secretly exchanging it for silver. This way he reaped all the rewards while someone else took the fall perfectly ill.u.s.trates his vicious character. That man was clearly a first .s.s crook.

    "Too hateful, horrible scoundrel. Clearly a man who bites without leaving blood, kills without using knives." Su Nuan Nuan smacked the table angrily. "My lord, you must promise me, this scoundrel must be punished, we must¡­ well, no matter what, we can''t let him get away with this."

    Duan Tingxuan eyed his wife as she abused the table. The meatb.a.l.l.s in his bowl trembled at each smack. If she had more power behind her strikes, the whole bowl might actually leap off the table. He quickly stride forward to lean casually against the table in support and cried out, "Naturally! Moreover, even if your father had not been involved in the matter, I shall ensure that the scoundral goes to prison for this."

    "Just prison? At the very least we must slice him up with a thousand knives, this is an actual attempt to revolt, ah. But¡­ I guess we don''t have to go as far as exterminating his entire family¡­" Su Nuan Nuan muttered under her breath. As a modern woman, she really hated it when dramas ended up pulling the ''exterminate the whole family'' card, all kinds of innocents often got caught up in one bad egg''s schemes like this.

    "Pu¨C!" Duan Tingxuan nearly choked on his spit, luckily he hadn''t been drinking anything, especially that delicious soup. Otherwise, he''d be hard pressed to decide whether to spit or force himself to swallow. He knocked his knuckles against the table and tried to pull Su Nuan Nuan back to reality. "That¡­ Nuan Nuan, I don''t think you need to worry about that particr punishment. You do realize who King Xiangyang is rted to? Extermination of the whole family¡­ that means the emperor, the emperor, you know?"

    "Aiya¡­" Su Nuan Nuan cried out in surprise, she covered her mouth and nced around hastily, afraid that someone might actually heard their sphemous talk. When she saw no one in sight, she finally lowered her hands and hissed at Duan Tingxuan, "Hey, you''re the one who said it, not me."

    "Hahaha, Nuan Nuan, just how old are you? Why are you still so cute? Such a maidenly reaction." Duan Tingxuanughed out loud, he eventually subsided and beamed at her. "I must say, your maidenly reaction is really cute."

    Su Nuan Nuan scowled at the little marquis. This, she thought, is the most horrible thing about the feudal society. Women have too little power, she was only 20 years old and was not allowed to be ''maidenly'' anymore? Was she a middle age woman already? Disgraceful, absolutely disgraceful, she couldn''t stand it. Luckily she had no children, if she did have any children, would she be treated as an elderly woman?

    "Whatever, let''s go back to the original matter. Surely you haven''t just decided to bring up King Xiangyang and my father''s matter all of a sudden, right? What has this King got to do with the emperor''s fainting fit today?" Su Nuan Nuan had not forgotten what Duan Tingxuan had mentioned earlier, there had to be a reason why he was talking about the King just now.

    Duan Tingxuan''s expression grew serious, after a long silence, he said in a low voice, "King Xiangyang had been the doted son of the previous emperor and though he was bestowed the t.i.tle of a king, he was not granted leave to govern his own fiefdom. When the current emperor ascended to his throne, he continued to take care of this little brother of his within the imperial pce for a further three years before letting him move out¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes widened in disbelief and she cut in, "Wait, wait, are you saying this King Xiangyang had been living in the pce all this while? How old is he now? A man over 15 would have to be ''snipped'' if they want to hang around the pce, won''t they?" She twitched two fingers making snipping motion. ck lines appeared on Duan Tingxuan''s face, he gritted his teeth, "What the heck are you talking about? Have you forgotten that I too enter the pce often? If it is as you say, wouldn''t I have been snipped over a thousand times already?" [Gumihou: Snip!]

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 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64: No Choice But to Self Deceive

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "That''s different, ah. You''re a visitor to the pce while King Xiangyang actually lives there."

    "It''s not like he lives within the inner pce. He has his own mansion within the pce grounds. Do you really think that people who live in the pce will have easy ess to the inner pce?" Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes. However, after some consideration, he had to admit that it was actually quite improper to have the King popping in and out of the inner pce to visit the previous empress. On the other hand, better not say anything about this to Nuan Nuan or she might develop some weird ideas about what went on in the pce.

    "Oh, is that so? Very well, let''s return to the original topic. So, what happened next?"

    "What else? Once the dowager empress pa.s.sed on, King Xiangyang pet.i.tioned the to leave the pce. Since then, he had never set foot into the Capital. Quite a lot of people suspect that some sort of disagreement must have happened between the emperor and the king, but I get the impression that the emperor was prepared to let bygones be bygones, and did not even reprimand the king. While there might have been some minor infractions, it can''t be anything too bad."

    "So, you never bothered to investigate what this ''minor infraction'' was?" Su Nuan Nuan was even more curious now, she had always been extra interested in the back stories of the historical television dramas .

    "Do you think I have nothing better to do than poke around minor things like this?"

    The little marquis rolled his eyes. Tonight, he had rolled his eyes more than he had in a whole year. Well, there''s no helping it, Su Nuan Nuan just have this unique talent of making him helpless with anger.

    "How could you not be curious? That''s not logical, not logical at all, ah. Looks like the people in ancient China really aren''t as curious as all that." Su Nuan Nuan muttered under her breath, she still have enough presence of mind to keep her voice down so Duan Tingxuan couldn''t hear her properly.

    "What are you talking about?" as expected, the little marquis edged closer inquiringly.

    "Nothing, I''m just talking to myself. Please don''t avoid the matter anymore, let''s seriously consider whether the emperor''s fainting fit has anything to do with King Xiangyang." Su Nuan Nuan tapped her fingers on the table. Duan Tingxuan was a little exasperated by this insistent behaviour, why she insisted on hounding after this matter? He had to redirect her, otherwise they''d be here until daybreak.

    "There''s nothing much to think about. It''s all guesswork at this point. The emperor is perfectly fine, so how could there be any problem? When King Xiangyang was in the pce, their rtionship was pretty good. While it''s impossible to say that King Xiangyang had not been cultivating rtionships for nefarious reasons, we can''t actually say that it waspletely innocent either."

    Duan Tingxuan said mildly, however there was a faint sense of killing intent in the air. One could tell that if this King Xiangyang had evil intent, the little marquis had no problem taking the man down.

    Su Nuan Nuan tucked her chin in her hand as she examined the situation through her modern, historical drama goggles, and said slowly, "It''s not like the emperor has no heir, if anything happens, the throne won''t go to this little brother. Not with the crown prince and several other adult sons. As you''ve said, they''re all excellent in their own field of expertise, so unless a huge disaster were to happen, the throne won''t fall to him."

    "I said it already, it''s all spection only." Duan Tingxuan said gloomily. "It''s been 10 years since King Xiangyang has set foot into the capital, even the cab ministers were busy praising him as a virtuous king who knows to keep out of the way. However that''s all rubbish, do we even need him to step back for a prosperous and peaceful country? Moreover, if there were no evil intention behind him, is there any need for him to cover his tracks this way? Isn''t this evidence of a guilty conscience?"

    "Also, what was the point of taking such risk getting his hands on army provision? People don''t act like this unless they have some kind of hidden agenda. Unfortunately I have no evidence of his foul y, nor could I locate any of the hidden threads that connect him to this matter. Therefore, in the end, it is all guesswork."

    Su Nuan Nuan finally looked up and nodded in realization, "I understand, it''s possible that this King Xiangyang had never caught your attention until my father''s incident. Moreover, you have to be extra careful when investigating this king, it''s not like you can tell the emperor that you''re investigating his imperial younger brother after all. However, I think you must have dropped a hint about this matter to the empress. She''s your aunt after all. You''re the first person she sent for when the emperor fainted. I say, didn''t she have the crown prince to depend on? Isn''t she relying on you too much?"

    "Hehe, my dear wife has really gotten a lot sharpertely. However, even if I hadn''t let the empress in on this matter, she would have still relied on me. Not only the empress, even the other princes and even the crown prince viewed me as a reliable man, or do you think that my ability is all faked?"

    "Fine, fine, there''s no need for you to keep tooting your own horn." Su Nuan Nuan smirked. After such a long speech, Duan Tingxuan patted his stomach. It felt like he had worked up some s.p.a.ce within his belly, and sat down facing the bowl of meatb.a.l.l.s. In a sh, the little marquis heroically demolished the final bowl of meatb.a.l.l.s.

    Su Nuan Nuan was really worried about the matter. Whether they could revive the Duke of Ping''s social status depended on whether they could take down King Xiangyang after all. She was doing this not for the sake of Su Meng Nuan, but for the Duke of Ping''s entire family who had suffered under a great injustice. Su Nuan Nuan really wanted justice for them, not to mention, if the Duke of Ping could regain their former social footing, she would also have her maiden family to depend on if anything unexpected were to happen, right?

    If this rascal dare to provoke her, she could just pack her bags and return home. From Su Meng Nuan''s att.i.tude alone, she could tell that this woman was a spoiled and beloved daughter with plenty of influence in her hands.

    Naturally, she must never let Duan Tingxuan sniff out her thoughts. Since the matter was like this, she had to admit that this person was not the useless man that she had imagined, he was actually pretty broad minded, especially considering all the things Su Meng Nuan had pulled in the past. While it''s impossible to actually mind read someone, she still have to guard her thoughts well in order not to let him catch on her backup ns and just let him continue pursue the matter on her behalf¡­ it''s better to be safe than sorry after all.

    Every time this thought crossed her mind, Su Nuan Nuan felt her cheeks reddened with shame. She had the feeling that though she said nothing, Duan Tingxuan must have some inkling of what she was really thinking, but was currently not saying anything.

    In the end, though this man normally liked to steal her food and picked fights with her, when it came down to serious matters, he could actually be quite dependable. The more she saw of him, the more outstanding he became. Su Nuan Nuan had previously dreamed of spending her life with this kind of man, who would have thought that she would immediately achieve this dream the moment she transmigrated. However, as luck would have it, she could not really allow herself to feel anything for this excellent man, no matter what she can''t be tempted. She instinctively knew all this and had treated the Duan Tingxuan as a sc.u.m male to avoid burning herself against his me. Self deception was the most effective defence, sometimes.

    News of what happened following the emperor''s fainting fit came quickly. After thorough examinations and consultations with the imperial doctors, three dayster they finally had a diagnosis. The emperor had suffered a minor heart attacked, which had sent him into a minora. Luckily, it was not too serious, as long as he was careful with his food, he should regain his health soon.

    Imperial concubines and pce officials who had been wringing their hands over this matter could finally set down the worry in their hearts. Even Duan Tingxuan heaved a sigh of relief. Though the news was not well known, the fact that Duan Tingxuan had been sent hither and thither by the pce had caused a mild tremor of worry through the mansion. However, since the little marquis had the backing of both the empress and the trust of the crown prince, one could say that his future would be quite secured once this crisis pa.s.sed. Within the celebratory air of the mansion, hatred crawled within the hearts of Liu Min and Duan Tingye, though they forced themselves to present a cheerful face, ''swallowing both blood and teeth'' after taking this metaphorical punch in the face.

    With the crisis over, Duan Tingxuan took a break and spent the day resting at home, he was now hanging around Chun Feng Court awaiting lunch when he suddenly remembered that Su Nuan Nuan''s request for milk. He inquired, "Hey, you requested a whole lot of milkst time, saying that it''s for some kind of cream thing we''ve never seen before. Just what is that? Howe I''ve never seen anything? Is it not done yet? Isn''t it too long? Isn''t it taking longer than wine making?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was swaying slowly in her rocking char, fanning herself as sweat beaded on her forehead. She saidzily, "I was nning to make cream with it, but all that milk had been made into snacks. Now that I think about it, making cream was just asking for trouble, snacks made with cream will go rancid in just one day in this ridiculous weather. What''s the use of wasting my efforts like this? I really can''t believe you still remember that, are you actually a greedy cat?"

    As she spoke, Zhao Cai came trotting in, the scruffy looking cat from before had plump up a lot. Thanks to its daily bath, its fur shone in the sunlight. Even the little marquis could not help but admire it, even as he crossly said, "You treat Zhao Cai better than you do me, you are always feeding it meat and fish, you even personally bathe that thing. Even a dignified heir like me could not bepared to that cat, what would people say?"

    Su Nuan Nuan ignored him, the fan waving getting slower as she grew sleepier, suddenly her eyes shot open. An unexpected weight had fallen onto her stomach, she blinked and saw Zhao Cai staring solemnly back at her. With a small shriek she pped at the cat, "Go away, get off me now, you fatty! Don''t you know how hot your fur is? I''ll suffocate!"

    It was not quite an exaggeration, there was no such thing as short sleeve clothes in this era, especially not for women. Even the thin clothes women wore were extremely stifling, moreover, with Duan Tingxuan popping in an out all the time, how could Su Nuan walk around less than fully clothed? Right now with the sweat sticking to her back and pooling around her neck, Zhao Cai felt like a hot stone on her stomach.

    "Are you an idiot? Look at you, you can hardly move that fan on your own, what''s the purpose of being so stubborn? Just call Cong''er or Hua''er over to fan you and sleep already, why don''t you?" Duan Tingxuan''s voice grew sharp with concern, unable to see her suffer even from something as minor as excessive heat. He looked at Su Nuan Nuan''s stubbornness with some helplessness, just what was she thinking? What''s the purpose of being stubborn over something so minor?

    In answer, Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes, she finally lifted Zhao Cai and set him down. With a cold snort, she said, "Do you think Cong''er and Hua''er won''t feel hot in this kind of weather? If I make them fan me while they remained hot, how could my heart bear it?" [Gumihou: This is a .s.s gap, ah]

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 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65: Perfume & Make-Up

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "Isn''t that the maids'' job? If you don''t give them work they will be terrified and wonder whether you''re somehow dissatisfied with them. Wait, are you ying some kind of mind games with them? They''ll be terrified and think you n to throw them out you know, there''s really no need to mess with them like this."

    "What nonsense are you talking about? I tell you now, we do things differently here at Chun Feng Court. Don''tpare our rtionship with your usual master and servant arrangements." With a chattering Duan Tingxuan on one side and a persistent Zhao Cai pawing for attention on the other, Su Nuan Nuan helplessly gave up on sleep. When Zhao Cai leapt onto herp the third time, she reluctantly sat up and pet its fur properly.

    Duan Tingxuan looked at this scene with amus.e.m.e.nt. He came over to sit next to Su Nuan Nuan and sighed loudly at her wary re. "Can''t I touch your cat now? There''s no need to look at me like that, it''s not like you''ll lose anything if I touch your precious pet." Then, he reached over and began to run his hand down Zhao Cai''s sleek and supple fur.

    Zhao Cai''s eyes narrowed with pleasure as both masters gave their full attention. In the silence, punctuated only by purrs, Duan Tingxuan finally noticed the unusual quiet. He said, "Speaking of which, you don''t have many servant girls here. Aside from Hong Lian, Xiang Yun, Hua''er and Cong''er, there are only 11 others, is it really enough? Moreover, don''t you need helpers with your food research? Leaving Zhi Lan and Ran Yun aside, even Jing and Ping[1] have at least four personal maids each. As my official wife, how could you have the same number of personal maids as the concubines? What would people say?"

    "Just see it as me helping you save money, alright?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes. However, she knew that Duan Tingxuan was right. Though she was a spirit from the modern world and hated the restricted and unnecessarily luxurious life of a feudal n.o.ble, she knew that she had to do as Romans do. Or, in this case, do as the official wife of a n.o.ble lord do.

    After a short paused, she continued stiffly, "There''s no need for you to remind me all this. Whatever, I have enough maids here for now, if I need more in the future I''ll just get moreter."

    Duan Tingxuan only nodded at her words, he did not bother to press her further. He switched attention to the cat, admiring its ck and white colouring. He smiled, "Don''t you think this cat looked like one of those milking cows? Do you think it''s some kind of special crossbreed?"

    "What nonsense are you saying now?" Su Nuan Nuan said crossly. "If you have nothing good to say just keep quiet. This is a purebred cat of our great country. Look how gorgeous his fur is, could a milking cow ever be so beautiful?"

    She was still speaking when they heard Cong''er''s bright voice, "Second Miss, you''re here? Ah, you''re so pretty today, looks like the sewing house did an excellent job with your clothes. It fits you really well."

    Duan Xinqu''s voice was quiet, "As you say, even my mother could not help but praise it. As I am indebted to madam for the materials, I havee to present myself to her. May I know if she''s at home?"

    "Oh yes, and so is my master."

    The curtain lifted, revealing Cong''er and a hesitant Duan Xinqu. Su Nuan Nuan''s cheerful voice called out, "Second sister, you''re here with your new clothes? Come, let us have a look."

    Duan Xinqu finally came in, her steps as cautious as a frightened animal. In her heart, shemented: Brother, in the past it''s rare to see you visit elder sister-inw even once a month, why are you always here now? Have you nothing better to do?

    The moment she stepped into the room, Duan Tingxuan and Su Nuan Nuan saw a girl dressed in an eye catching sakura pink jacket, with a little trail of embroidered sakura flowers flowing along the neckline. The actual dress was pale green, with sakura petals scattered tastefully down the skirt. It really enhances her fresh and youthful look. Duan Xinqu was naturally beautiful, when dressed appropriately, one could see her potential to be a great beauty, a diamond of the first water.

    Duan Tingxuan looked upon this normally shy and una.s.suming sister of his with some surprise. This little marquis was no stranger to great beauty and for him to have never notice his own sister''s looks was¡­ well, perfectly normal of course, but still, one would have thought that he of all people would have noticed his sister''s potential beauty, in a perfectly tonic brotherly way of course.

    Just then, Hong Lian, Xiang Yun and Hua''er arrived, Su Nuan Nuan pulled Duan Xinqu closer and looked her up and down. She smiled and said, "I''m right, you certainly have some very good foundation, this dress certainly fits you well. Don''t our second young miss look beautiful when properly made up?"

    Duan Xinqu''s little face flushed brightly. No one had ever praised her like this in her life, happy and a bit anxious, she whispered, "Would sister-inw please don''t tease me anymore, how could I be more beautiful than you?"

    "While I certainly am beautiful, we both possessed a different kind of beauty. We each have our own good points." Su Nuan Nuan chuckled gently as she dropped her voice. When she saw Duan Tingxuan standing aside, lips curling, she sniffed and put her hands on her waist, "Well? Does my Lord disagreed with something I said?"

    "How could I dare? Madam wife is correct, you are both diamonds of the first water¡­"

    The little marquis really hadn''t expect Su Nuan Nuan to pay attention to him, he immediately smiled ingratiatingly at her, ttery dancing on his tongue. Without waiting for him to continue, Su Nuan Nuan cut in, "Is there any need to say those things? My little sister has youth and freshness on her side, but I, heh! Next to Madam Lan and Concubine Jing, I am an only aspire to be ordinary, who would waste the word ''beauty'' on the likes of me?"

    "Really, my madam wife is a true beauty. However, these are words that should be said by us. It''s called blowing your own trumpet if you call yourself a beauty." Duan Tingxuan leaned forward to touched her nose, the maids all giggled at his yfulness, even Duan Xinqu couldn''t suppress her amus.e.m.e.nt. Embarra.s.sed, Su Nuan Nuan cast around for something to talk about and seized upon Duan Xinqu again. "Wu! Little sister, your face! Your make up is too thick. You''re at the age where the bloom beauty is the freshest, just the lightest touch of make-up should be fine. Right now you looked like you''ve been dropped into a jar of white paint."

    Duan Xinqu''s face flushed red, she said in a small voice, "I too feel that the make-up was a bit thick, but it can''t be helped. The good rouge from the capital is just too expensive.

    Duan Tingxuan frowned, Su Nuan Nuan was also perfectly aware of the situation, but neither of the couple said anything. Instead, Su Nuan Nuan waved Hong Lian over, and smiled at Duan Xinqu, "Now that little sister is dressed so nicely, we should properlyplete the look. Look through some of my stuff, the ones your master gave me. I have no idea what those things cost, but bring some of the good stuff over."

    As she spoke, she pulled Duan Xinqu by her wrist into her rooms. With nothing else to do, Duan Tingxuan made his way out of the mansion and began to make a small circuit around the gardens. He was deep in his thoughts when voices floated over from main entrance, cheerful as a set of ringing bells. "Oh, master is at first madam''s ce. What good timing, the old madam had just woken up from her afternoon nap. She was feeling a little bored and bade us to invite first madam over. Perhaps master would like toe over with madam?"

    Duan Tingxuanughed, " I have already sent my greetings to grandmother earlier and won''t be joining everyone. I was about to go to the study anyway." So saying, he bade Cong''er over and informed her to inform Su Nuan Nuan, and left Chun Feng Court for his study. [1] The concubines ¨C it''s prefixed with ''Ah'', as in Ah Ping and Ah Jing, but it sounds too cute? So I left it out, apparently, the lower your social status, the more childish your name bes.

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 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66: Storm in the Study

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Within the study, Shuang Xi and Si Ping were dozing in chairs, doing their best to flight off sleep. It was personal maid Cai Yun, who had been dusting and putting the bookshelf in order, who saw their master first. Surprised, she ran up to greet him and said, "Did master not say that you''ll be spending the day at Chun Feng Court? You''ve also declined Madam Lan and Madam Yun''s invitation to admire the flowers, so why¡­? This maid have not prepared any snacks, even if we have any prepared, how could it bepared to anything from Chun Feng Court?"

    Si Ping and Shuang Xi were both astonished, when Duan Tingxuan caught sight of them he suddenly asked, "Who is in charge of the stock purchase for the mansion?"

    Just why was this master asking all this all of a sudden? Though he did not know what was going on, Si Ping answered carefully, "In answer to master''s question, it''s been a long time since the elder madam and Madam Min handled the finances. The financial matters long since been handed over to second madam and Madam Yun. May this one know what stock master is asking after?"

    "Perfumes and make-ups."

    Duan Tingxuan got to the point immediately. It''s not like he''s being petty over small expenses likedy''s perfumes and powders, however, as a wily fox himself, how could he not know the idiom ''Clear water did notck fish''? The face powder on Duan Xinqu looked rough and clumpy, almost like wall ster. It was white, but rather than a white that enhances a young girl''s face. Even the brotheldies would not deign to use this kind of powder, not without extra rouge for the cheeks, definitely not something that should be bought by a marquis house. Whoever was in charge of the stock purchases clearly did not respect the masters of the house at all, Duan Tingxuan have no tolerance for people who nned to fool him like this.

    "Make-up and perfume, should be under second madam''s responsibility." Si Ping said, carefully studying his master''s expression. Was master suffering from some kind of sickness? Developing a strange hobby? Or, was he going to use this opportunity to reduce second madam''s power within the mansion?

    "So, she''s the one?" a slight frown creased Duan Tingxuan''s brows, this was a bit tricky. Though it did not look like much from the surface, it was still a scam. The problem now was how to resolve the matter without treading on his brother and sister-inw''s faces? Moreover, aside from Duan Xinqu, he hadn''t seen this kind of powder on anyone else''s face. If there was another reason behind this action, would he look a fool if he blew the whole thing up. His parents, especially his father, would just think that he''s being too frivolous.

    All of this shed through his mind at once. He turned to Si Ping, "You''re a sharp one, go and do some investigation for your master, find out who''s buying up these trash goods those make-things are¡­"

    Before he could finish, Cai Yun chimed up, "Surely there''s no need for master to send Si Ping out for this? This maid knows about it. The people behind the purchase of make-up items are a greedy lot. With second master''s backing, they do provide the required number of goods, but padded up the amount using low quality powders and things."

    "It''s that uncontrolled?" it was Duan Tingxuan''s turn to be surprised. "Then why are the make-up on your faces still fine?"

    Cai Yun smiled cheerfully, "Just who are the people master have seen? Madam Lan and Madam Yun? Or the maids at their ce? Naturally their faces would be fine, the agents knew whose face they had take care off. How could they dare to mess around with Madam Lan or Madam Yun? Madam Lan aside, Madam Yun was not someone who would just take thingsying down. Once she digs her ws in them, they would not die an easy death, how could they risk their profits this way?"

    "Aside from those maids, the ones directly serving the elder madams and above were all provided with good quality products, those who served in the background were not so fortunate, even I am allotted low quality products. However, how could this maidin to master about make-ups of all things? How much could master look after anyway? And, could this really be considered a real problem? This maid is not someone who doesn''t understand the world. My sry is two silvers a month, and I buy my own make-up. Most of the maids, whether inrge or small positions, did the same. If master had not bring it up, this maid would never dream of speaking out."

    Duan Tingxuan''s expression grew ugly. After a while, he said, "Even the maids have money to buy better face products, so why is second miss still using those low quality face powder?"

    "Second miss?" Cai Yun was. .h.i.t by a sudden realization. She thought, so, this was why their master, who had never cared about these kinds of things before was suddenly asking so many questions. The tea was done brewing, so she carried over the tea tray and poured Duan Tingxuan a cup, saying, "Second miss and Concubine Lin¡­ please don''t think of this maid as a tattler, but, this one do believe that master knows. Has anyone in this house ever treat them as a significant members of the family? Any money they received, well, Concubine Lin still have two financially dependent brothers on her maiden family''s side¡­"

    "This maid also heard that both third young master and second miss'' monthly allowances all went to Concubine Lin. Therefore, how could they have money for frivolous things like make-up? Also, don''t look down on something as simple as make-up, there could be all kinds hidden connections to it. If this maid could venture a suggestion, it would be best for master to not show his hand in this matter first, though Concubine Lin and second miss'' situation is pitiful, it''s better to just keep an eye on the situation for now."

    Though she felt that her words were sound, Duan Tingxuan was still the heir, who was she to advice someone like him? Moreover, was there really a need to watch the situation at all? The only reason why Cai Yun spoke up at all was because she knew that Madam Yang was heartsick over the fact that Liu Min was the lord marquis'' true love and, though she did not look at Concubine Lin as herpet.i.tion, elder madam would naturally be upset if she knew that her son had gone to the aid of thosedies. Cai Yun was sure that her master would see reason and did not try to persuade him further.

    Duan Tingxuan remained silent for some time, thinking deeply to himself. Finally, he looked up and said to Cai Yun, "Who is normally in charge of my small warehouse?"

    "Naturally, it would be Madam Yun, the financial matters of the heir''s family are all taken care of by Madam Yun." Cai Yun said with a smile, even as she wondered what her master was thinking. When he finally spoke up again, Duan Tingxuan''s voice was resolute, "Tomorrow, you go over to Ran Yun, tell her you''re there under mymand. Instruct her to hand over the warehouse keys. From tomorrow onwards, your first madam will take over responsibility of the warehouse."

    "What?"

    Not only Cai Yun, even Si Ping and Shuang Xi were shocked. To the point that they all cried out in unison. Duan Tingxuan''s ''small warehouse'' was only small in name, the treasure within it could rivalled the entire coffers of the main house. Even the second master, the one in charge of the overall financial and business ventures for the family, was not as wealthy as the heir.

    More importantly, Duan Tingxuan would naturally want to have the most trusted person to look after this treasury of his. Even during the early days when first madam married into the family, the master had not given the keys over to her. Madam Yun had served him for over three years before she was allowed to manage some smaller ch.o.r.es before finally she was finally given the keys to this warehouse. To her credit, Madam Yun had never abused her privilege, never tried to steal or pilfer anything within the treasury. Therefore, the moment first madam was cast out to Mei Yue Lou, she naturally stepped in to take control of the inner court''s finances of the entire mansion.

    As she considered this, Cai Yun could not help herself as she said, "Master, this¡­ surely this is too rash? Madam Yun has done nothing wrong, and did a good job looking after the warehouse as well as the overall finances of the main family. For master to suddenly hand the keys over to first madam, surely Madam Yun will be very disappointed, ah?"

    "I have my views on this matter, and will speak to Ran Yun about them. You just make sure to get the keys for your first madam."

    After that, Duan Tingxuan dismissed all three servants. He went over to his bookshelf and selected one specific volume, looking perfectly at ease with life.

    "Madam Lan, Madam Yun is here."

    Long Yan called in from outside, however, the moment she stepped closer to Madam Lan, she lowered her voice, "Madam Yun''s expression did not look good today."

    Xue Zhi Lan smiled slightly, and said in a mild voice. "It''s rare for her to look cheerful, it''s fine. I shall wee her personally, I don''t n to provoke her today." As soon as she said this, she stood up gracefully and made her way to the living room. A smile reminiscence of a gentle spring breeze wreathed her face, "What wind have blown dear sister to my ce today?"

    Xu Ran Yun forced a smile and said coldly, "I was feeling cooped up in the house, and decided to visit you for a bit. Well? Are you in the middle of sewing?" her eyes cast over to Xue Zhi Lan''s fingers where a silver thimble sat.

    "Oh yes, we''re nearing the hottest season of the year, and I wish to make some light house cloths for our lord. It is kind of elder sister to visit me, have you also been making clothes? I do believe Concubine Jiang is a deft hand at making clothes." Xue Zhi Lan had been leading Xu Ran Yun into the house as she spoke, waving a hand to bade one of the maids to prepare the good tea.

    She was unsurprised to see Xu Ran Yun turned back and red at her with red eyes, and said, "What''s the use of wasting your energy this way? Right now the only one in our lord has eyes for that person in Chun Feng Court. What house clothes? Even if you manage to make a cloak out of dragon hide for him, he''ll probably won''t even look at you."

    Xue Zhi Lan''s lips pouted into a smile, "Dear sister, there''s no need to speak like that. I know that first madam brought the second miss to old madam''s ce and spent the day praising her to high heavens. Even elder madam said she had changed a lot, she''s now much more kind hearted. Only, though there are plenty of people of who would praise her, there were probably quite a lot who thought otherwise. Elder madam is wise, she shouldn''t be so easily taken in."

    Xu Ran Yuughed coldly, "Do you actually believe the words you said? Hehe! That''s right, you''ve always been gentle and soft spoken in front of elder madam, which is why she likes you. With the elder madam on first madam''s side, calling her kind hearted and whatever, well, how does it feel like to lose such a major support, eh? Without the lord''s love and protection, what are you? How long do you think we can depend on elder madam''s protection? A lifetime?"

    Xue Zhi Lan was unsettled by these words, she said uncertainly, "What''s that about the lord? While it''s true that the lord likes to visit Chun Feng Court, isn''t it just for the first madam''s cooking? Even the old madam couldn''t resist it, the lord marquis and elder madam also like it very much."

    "That''s not all. You know that the lord visited my cest night, he told me¡­ he said that¡­ now that she''s back in the inner court. He didn''t want her to have nothing to do. As she expressed no interest in the running of the main house, he ns to give her the keys to his warehouse. The reason he gave was¡­ was that the care of the storeroom was something that wouldn''t stress her out, and that he trusts that she would be able to make full use of whatever money and things she finds in the warehouse."

    "The lord even said that this woman was able to take care of some things that he had never noticed before. I wished I had just bang my head against the wall and die in front of him when he said that. I ask you, who was the one who had been taking care of the main house all this while? I dare not slip even once, it''s been years, but have I ever touched a single thing within the warehouse? I may have used some of the allotted money to do business, but in the end all ie came back to the Duan house. How could the lord treat me like this? And what''s all this talk about ''making full use'' of the warehouse? The lord treated me as though I''m useless for not being able to make full use of his resources."

    Speech done, she burst into tears. [Gumihou: I feel kind of sorry for Xu Ran Yun¡­]

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 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67: Borrow a Knife

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    When Xue Zhi Lan heard this, tion and apprehension surged in her heart. Her decision to act the a meek and gentle person had backfired upon her. Though it earned her the good opinion of both elder madam and her husband, the opportunity to take on proper responsibilities like managing the household finances, since that parent and child duo was of the opinion that gentle people should not be overly burdened by responsibilities.

    When she realised this, she nearly spat up blood out of sheer frustration. Though the act was done in order to secure her future here, she really had no intention of enduring the indignity of being stepped on for the rest of her life. She had had to endure Xu Ran Yun''s high and mighty att.i.tude this past half year, to the point that she could not even bear to swallow her food. Therefore, while it was quite unexpected to see Xu Ran Yun sob so heartbreakingly in front her, how could she be anything but delighted?

    Though she was secretly delighted, Xu Ran Yun was no fool. The woman knew that they''re not friends, but she had still ran over to her ce and basically made a fool of herself in front of her. Though she wished to revel in the pleasure of Xu Ran Yun''s misfortune, she knew that this was actually Xu Ran Yun''s way of sending a message: That woman in Chun Feng Court has began to show her teeth, the master had also handed over the warehouse key over to her. Can you not see how much love and trust the lord is giving to that woman?

    Though the woman had been his wife for five years, he never once talked about handing over any kind of responsibilities to the first madam, even Xu Ran Yun had to handle various small responsibilities for Duan Tingxuan for three years before the key to the warehouse was handed to her. To be honest, for the sake of this proof of love from her lord, it could be said that Xu Ran Yun had exhausted all her strength and mental powers for it. For the key to be taken out of her hands like that, when she had been so careful to never take a wrong step was like having her heart torn out of her. No wonder she was so devastated. The lord could be incredibly ruthless indeed.

    Xue Zhi Lan was quick with herforting words, she followed it with anxious exmations of, "But, what could we do? First madam have really taken over our lord''s attention. The lord probably didn''t even have us in his eyes anymore. Thest time we urged elder madam over to Mei Yue Lou, I heard that the lord gave elder sister a talking to. Our lord is an intelligent man, whatever we do, we can''t evade his eyes."

    Xu Ran Yun wiped her eyes with a handkerchief. A new tranquillity having taken over her face. This time, her voice was calm, there was even a hint of coldughter as she said, "Our lord have handed over the warehouse key over to her, most likely it''s over those few dresses she had made for second miss. I heard she even gave second miss some of her own rouge and powders when she noticed the poor quality stuff she uses. Our lord, who had never noticed that branch of the family before, somehow decided to act all benevolent towards them. When I first brought the matter up to our lord, he told me not to bother with people who had nothing to do with us."

    "However, when first madam paid attention to them, she was praised as a benevolent and kind and caring person. This was the excuse he gave when he demanded the warehouse key for her. Have little sister not noticed yet? It''s like the first madam is apletely different person, they are all saying that she had turned over a new leaf. Even old madam and elder madam had been tricked, we heard nothing but praises for her for ages now. Hehe! Isn''t it just some clothes and make-up? For her to get a whole warehouse in exchange, what a great bargain!"

    As she spoke, a chilling shiver shot through Xue Zhi Lan''s heart. Curses, she was under the impression that the An Ping family were an incredibly benevolent and forgiving lot. This time, the first madam not only managed to escape death, she had even taken hold of the minds and hearts of the elders in the house. Not only that, she was also making move towards the people in the same generation.

    This could not be good for herself, ah. Xu Ran Yun had always been shrewd, and never bothered to try and make nice with the elder madam. However, if that Su Meng Nuan, first wife and the beloved of the lord, someone who could buy older madam and the lord marquis'' heart with snacks were to suck up to the elder madam¡­

    The more she thought about it, the more worried she became. When she suddenly heard Xu Ran Yunughed in a low voice, "There''s no need for little sister to worry. She wants to fake at being a good person, but after having chased our lord around Mei Yue Lou with a broom, there is no way she could pretend to be anything but a shrew in front of elder madam. However, her righteous anger have lost a lot of power after that shrimp dish. If only we could somehow find some way to make elder madam suspect that woman, no amount of charitable clothes giving will be any good."

    "Elder sister knows I have no brains for this kind of thing, why not just tell me what to do?" Xue Zhi Lan said with a smile. She now understood why Xu Ran Yun hade. So, this woman wants to make me do her dirty work? Let''s see who makes use of whom in the end.

    Xu Ran Yun took a sip of tea, she knew that Xue Zhi Lan was being wary. She would have to reveal something in order to motivate that other woman. Even a fool would have to show some teeth if she did not want to be shoved aside. Who was she going to cry to when she''s bullied?

    In a while, she smiled around her tea and said, "If you have no brains for this matter, I have to admit at being stupid. Ah, I''m so upset, what should I do? Whatever, let''s not talk about this anymore. I''m here to chat with you out of boredom. Did you know who''s the most beloved at Chun Feng Court?"

    What an abrupt change of subject, Xue Zhi Lan was suspicious, but could not see the reason behind the subject change, "The most beloved? Isn''t that the first madam?"

    Xu Ran Yun shook her head with a smile, "No, no, I have heard that the most beloved thing in that ce is arge tortoisesh.e.l.l cat. I heard that it even have its own set of bowls and dishes. It''s fed with carefully cooked fish, meat, chicken and rice, and was given a bath every single day. Hahaha, little sister, don''t you think that''s funny? A cat being treated like a precious daughter of the house. Did you know that our brother and sister-inw also love cats?"

    "I heard they once tried to beat up a cat that had bitten their precious Persian cat. It turns out that beast of a cat belonged to second young miss, who was too weak to say anything, but was still daring enough to smuggle the cat away. Our brother and sister-inw are still quite unsettled over this matter. The beast had the luck of the devil and is now the favourite of Chun Feng Court. No matter how bitterly they gnash their teeth over this matter, there''s nothing they can do about it, ah."

    Xue Zhi Lan''s heart shook, she raised her head and looked at Xu Ran Yun. Sure enough, her eyes were filled with meaning, Xue Zhi Lan finally understood and chuckled slightly, "How funny, to be quarrelling over pets. I wonder, how interesting it would be to see first and second madam fight over cats."

    When Xu Ran Yun saw that Xue Zhi Lan had understood her meaning, the shackles around her heart fell away. They sat and chatted for a while, Xu Ran Yun seemingly having forgotten her heartbroken situation earlier.

    As soon as she left, Cai Sang and Long Yan rushed over to Xue Zhi Lan''s side. Cai Yun whispered, "Madam, it''s clear Madam Yun wants you to stick your neck out, this is too much. Why should you risk yourself? What happened to her cunning att.i.tude? Is she nning to y the good woman this time?"

    Xue Zhi Lan was also very bitter over this matter. The crumpled up the house clothes that she had been making for Duan Tingxuan into a ball and threw it aside. She said through gritted, "There''s no choice, did you not hear what she said? The lord had just handed over the warehouse key to the first madam without making her take over the financial matters of the house."

    "But what about us? It had been days since the lordst visited me or even Concubine Jing. I''m lucky to have elder madam on my side, however, what if that woman manage to win over elder madam? Do I even have a leg to stand on? Thanks to my looks, there are too many people in this ce who hated me. Once I lost power, they will all rush over to stomp on me."

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 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68: What Happens When You Nitpick

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    Long Yan said, "Madam, please don''t speak like this. The master isn''t that kind of person¡­"

    She hadn''t finished when Xue Zhi Lan cut in with a sneer, "An overly pa.s.sionate man might as well be heartless. You know your master is the l.u.s.ty type, and therefore just as heartless. Though he might be protective of me, after the first, second, third or fourth blow, I shall still be the one who suffers a loss. Even if I were toin to him, do you think he won''t be sick of my nagging one day? When that timees, I shall really have no way of saving myself. Am I to lose favour even before my looks have faded to age? No, no matter what, I cannot allow this to happen."

    Cai Sang sighed, "Madam is right, because of this, you will have to step bravely into Madam Yun''s snare."

    Xue Zhi Lan''s emotionally twisted expression gradually cleared, leaving nothing but a weightless serenity. She said mildly, "So what if I were to act as her tool? This is a good opportunity for me to prevent first madam and elder madam from getting closer. I shall continue to y the dutiful daughter-inw in front of elder madam, we should be able to cross this obstacle safely. Moreover, can a tigress really change its stripes?"

    "The first madam can''t be doing all these acts of charity for nothing, she was trying to make people overlook her past. Madam Yun can''t see the truth from the grit in her eyes, when the timees the fight for power, fame, profit and the lord''s heart willmence, we shall sit here and quietly enjoy the drama."

    Long Yanughed as she pped her hands, "What excellent points, in the end who was the one first madam hated most? The one she was in conflict with most? Who would believe that first madam really had no intention of taking back the housekeeping duties? It was the main reason she had been causing trouble all this while, after all."

    Xue Zhi Lan nodded solemnly, and said through clenched teeth, "You''re right. Though I lower my head now and endure this humiliation, as the saying goes, ''Heaven would not overlook aborious heart''. One day, the G.o.ds shall reward my patience."

    Leaving Xue Zhi Lan''s hopes for the future aside, which could only be termed as very positive, Xu Ran Yun too was feeling incredibly good. The moment they stepped out of Qiu Yun Pavilian, personal maid Feng Xian looked all for directions before smiling at her mistress, "Looks like Madam Lan also understood her position well, madam did a good job pushing her."

    "What''s the use?" Xu Ran Yun did not look even a little bit happy. "In the end, it''s not like we can ever banish first madam back into Mei Yue Lou. Moreover, her rtionship with me is still the most fraught, if not for this, do you think your Madam Lan would ever agree to this scheme?"

    "This maid was just wondering, could it be that madam is just over thinking things a bit? The master already said that first madam had no intention of interfering with the household matters¡­" Feng Xian prompted her mistress quietly, she was really worried that Xu Ran Yun would try and make trouble for Su Nuan Nuan over this matter. If the master caught wind of this, he''ll definitely reject her even more. Everyone knows just how much the master favoured the first madam right now."

    "Pei! If she has no interest in household matters, then what does she want with the warehouse key? The lord''s warehouse is not only the most valuable, it could even rival the public warehouse in terms of value. The second family had been salivating over it for a long time, thinking up wilder ways of getting their hands on it. If not for me, who knows what would happened to the warehouse? To see her just s.n.a.t.c.hed it just like that, and still trying to say that she has no ns to take over the household responsibilities? Hehe, who are you trying to cheat? As the saying goes, A dog can''t help eating s.h.i.t[1], you all just mark my words."

    Feng Xian dared not say anything else. Xu Ran Yun was already working herself up to an amazing state, especially since she could do nothing to change things. She was stomping off into some random direction, when she heard Xiang Yun called after her, asking where she was going. Xu Ran Yun sneered, "I''m going to have a look at the kitchen. I heard that Ms. Xue have been clinging tightly to first madam''s thigh. Humph! She certainly knows how to pick sides, if not for my intervention, would she havended that choice job in the kitchen? What a bunch of white eyed wolves, biting the hand that feeds them."

    Feng Xian continued to listen, well, madam seemed to be bubbling over with anger. She had heard that Ms. Xue''s daughter-inw had also became closer with the people at Chun Feng Court. Isn''t this a perfect target to spend her wrath on? To be honest, that Ms. Xue seemed to have muddled up her priorities, three quarters of the kitchen was under Madam Yun''s control. For her to ignore her true master and treated this matter as nothing, it served her right to be smashed down.

    However, how could madam personally show her face over this kind of matter? Either she or Cui Bing will go and denounce these herd of betrayers, and send Ms. Xue and her family packing. Since the kitchen was such a juicy post, there will be no shortage of people vying to take over the position as head of kitchen. Feng Xian continued to make ns, but did not mention anything to her mistress. She knew that it would not do to provoke her mistress while Xu Ran Yun was still nursing the fire in her belly.

    Mistress and maid soon arrived at the kitchen, and saw a dozen overdies busily shuttling about with their own work. Xu Ran You cleared her throat, catching everyone''s attention. As expected, Ms. Xue was the one who came out to wee them. Xu Ran Yun lifted her chin and said deliberately, "I have been very busytely, and have not been visiting the kitchens as often as I should. Ms. Xue, you have always been a fairly reliable worker in the past, however, a person''s heart cannot easily be seen. Ms. Xue, let me ask you, it''s been some days since Ist inspected your work. Tell me, just what kind of rotten matter have you been indulging in? The ounts showed that money allocated to the kitchen have risen like the tide, have you been shifting the silvers from the kitchens into your own house?"

    Ms. Xue had always been an intelligent one, she realised that this matter had risen because Madam Yun was unhappy over her closeness with the first madam. However, the ck pot[2] that Xu Ran Yun tried to shove on her head was too big. If she was not careful, she might actually be crushed to death by it. Ms. Xue smiled quickly, "Does Madam Yun not know? The budget increase was done at the order of old madam and the heir master. They said that first madam''s cooking is unusually delicious and novel, which is why the budget was increased a lot."

    "The masters basically gave first madam free reign on the budget. Everyone is on tenterhooks over what unexpected inspiration first madam might be inspired with. The masters were afraid that there won''t be enough ingredients, therefore we decided to err on the side of plenty instead. This one have been meaning to report to madam, however, old madam''s Rong''er informed me that the master will discuss this with madam. Perhaps the master has forgotten? This servant really have no intention of¡­"

    Xu Ran Yun gave a coldugh, Duan Tingxuan had in fact, informed her of this matter. Which was the maid reason why she had appeared to make trouble. Even so, how could she just let the matter go like this?

    She drawled, "I know of the matter you speak of, however, there is no escaping the fact that the kitchen expenses have gone overboard. I suspect you''ve conveniently made used of old madam and the lord''s word as a cover for your reckless spending. Not only that, the kitchen had been spewing smoke everywhere. Surely there''s no need to for me to say more ¡ª you''re a senior staff member, it would be a pity to drive you out just like this. I see your facecks colour, well, perhaps I was a bit harsh. Whatever, pack your things. Remove yourself to theundry room right now. Ms. Wu has been feeling unwelltely, there are times she can''t move well. You go and lend her a hand, perhaps you might even take over theundry department one day."

    A cold shiver stabbed through Ms. Xue''s heart, just when did this Ms. Wu be unwell? That woman is as strong as an ox, just how long am I supposed to wait before I could be the head of anything there, ah? This Madam Yun was just too poisonous. The reason why I''ve gotten closer to first madam is because I sensed that she''s a good person, a woman without arrogance, who treated me and the ones below her station with kindness. Moreover, she treated me well even though I haven''t given her any incentive to do so, ah. The master only have eyes for first madam, no matter how you bully me, the master probably won''t even notice, ba?

    Though Ms. Xue''s heart nearly bled with hatred, she dared not let any of her feelings leak across her face. The moment she saw Xu Ran Yun, she knew that something like this would happen. Therefore, she quietly bowed her head, and went to her rooms to pack up her things. As she enter the kitchens, she could hear Xu Ran Yun''s arrogant voice berating the women. The more she scold, the more vehement she sounded. When n.o.body present themselves to be shouted at, she grew even more resentful.

    As she tried to ignore the strident voice, Ms. Xue''s eyes suddenly caught sight of a brilliant red rooster, its feathers were glossy and bright, with long green tail feathers. It was glowering at her with beady ck eyes. Ms. Xue didn''t know what came over her at that moment. She casually walked closer and utched the cage door, letting the bewildered c.o.c.k out. She then gave it a firm little kick, making the rooster bounced towards the door. As she had expected, gave a loud ''wuwuwuwu'' cry of joy. Therge c.o.c.k was sharp enough to grasp the fact that it had been granted a golden opportunity to escape with it''s life and began to p it''srge wings and dashed out the door.

    Xu Ran Yun was in the middle of lecturing the maids before her. It gave her great thrill to be above all these lowly people. The act of lecturing was like a balm to the soul that had been hurt by Duan Tingxuan. It was at this moment that the rooster roared its battle cry, all of the maids turned to look, dread falling over them: Hey, it''s that rooster everyone had spend half the day chasing after. Weren''t they suppose to put him into a stewter? Who was the idiot who let it out?

    With this new distraction, no one could really pay attention to Xu Ran Yun''s lectures anymore. With a battle cry of their own, the maids rushed over to capture the rooster. Over a dozen older women ran about, chasing and intercepting the rooster, disying amazing teamwork to capture a superior enemy. At this moment, the rooster who was ''facing impossible odds'', could only cry out ''wuwuwuwu'' while leaping and pping about. The group of running people, the brilliant c.o.c.k dancing and pping about, it was like watching some kind of borated y.

    Somehow, there was a crack in the trap that was closing in on the rooster. Spotting the weakness, it made a break for freedom.

    A high pitched scream rang out, piercing their ears, making all the maids jump in fright. Just what was that sound? The rooster was simrly shocked. He increased his speed, spread his wings and stabbed his ws into the threat.

    "Aaah! Stupid beast!"

    The most unlucky Madam Yun was still screaming as she tried to protect her face from the knives stabbing at her body. The rooster''s ws actually managed to rend her skin, causing her to bleed. Though, she was more shocked than hurt, she could no longer maintain her madam like dignity. She could only point at the pping rooster, and screamed. "Catch it, stab that thing, stab it a thousand times, ah!!"

    Her final scream was filled with dread. Unfortunately, when the maids renewed their efforts to catch the rooster, it turned, and fled back towards Madam Yun. Xu Ran Yun was so shocked that she took a step back and nearly fell over. Fortunately, Feng Xian was there to catch her. Mistress and servant cried out, pping their arms and screaming, trying to make the rooster go away.

    In the end, it was still a chicken, no matter how strong it was, it still wasn''t an eagle. Under everyone''s collective effort, the rooster was finally captured. Once it was shut inside a cage, the maids finally slumped to the floor, panting. Xu Ran Yun and her maid were both covered in sweat, their fine and colourful silks all scratched to ribbons.

    It was all extremely embarra.s.sing. [1] A dog can''t help eating s.h.i.t ¨C bad habits are hard to change

    [2] ck pot ¨C wrong doing, sin

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 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69: Understanding a Situation

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "Kill! Kill it now!" Feng Xian shrieked, pointing at the pping rooster, offended beyond all reason on her mistress'' behalf. Therefore, she was shocked when Xu Ran Yun''s cold voicemanded, "Wait."

    "Ah?"

    All the servants paused in their activities as they stared at Xu Ran Yun under their sweaty brows. Hey, they thought, this c.o.c.k hadmitted a ''grave sin'' against Madam Yun, was she actually going to spare it? Since when did their mistress turned into this kindhearted person? Furthermore, didn''t you just coldly banished Ms. Xue to theundry house just for siding with someone other than you, ah?

    However, the mystery was soon cleared up when Xu Ran Yun gave a sinisterugh, and said, "Did I not hear that first madam wants lots of fresh ingredients? This rooster looks pretty good to me, fat and magnificent, very good for soup or roasting. Make sure you send it to Chun Feng Court."

    Having had thest word, Xu Ran Yun turned her back on the kitchen drama, and stalked off with as much dignity as she could muster. How embarra.s.sing, ah, she was rather afraid that the longer she stayed, the more stupid she would be.

    Her departure was so swift that the rest of the maids weren''t quite sure what to do with the basket of rooster in their hands. They looked at each other, trying to use eye signals to make someone volunteer to send the rooster over to Chun Feng Court when Ms. Xue appeared. She said calmly, "Theundry house is just past Chun Feng Court, let me take this rooster to first madam, alright?"

    Everyone knew that this was basically a pretence to see first madam, but let the matter go. Most likely she intended to warn first madam about the rooster, so that it won''t cause as much trouble when sent over to Chun Feng Court. Everyone knew that this really went against Madam Yun''s true intention. On the other hand, who really dared to stop her? If Ms. Xue wanted to tattle to first madam, well¡­ she of all people should know that Madam Yun was not someone easy to dealt with, on the other hand, first madam was not one to take things lying down either, ah.

    Therefore, everyone could only step back and watch as Ms. Xue left with the rooster. As for Xu Ran Yun, she hadpletely forgotten about Ms. Xue, and the imagined chaos at Chun Feng Court never happened. Well, that''s the thing about schemes, isn''t it? You can n for it, but luck could sometimes over turn things just like that.

    "Your master is definitely harbouring some evil intentions up his sleeves. Who knows how many eyes are stabbing at me right now thanks to this warehouse key, hehe! Very good, a sign had been painted on my back, now. Your Madam Yun must really hate me now."

    Feng Chun Court. Su Nuan Nuan stared bitterly at the string of keys in her hands.

    Hong Lian couldn''t stand to look at her madam''s expression now. This set of keys represents how great the master''s trust and love is for you, ah. The thing that most people couldn''t even hope to achieve is now in your hands, ah. She shook her head, and said, "Missy, you''ve schemed and plotted for these keys for so long in the past, to think that you''re now treat it like some sort of threat. Since you dislike it so much, why didn''t you reject it when the master handed it the keys to you earlier?"

    "I¡­ I, that is¡­ wait, did I just identally stepped into your master''s trap?" Su Nuan Nuan poked at the keys on the table, before saying bitterly. "He made a great speech about how much gold, silver and precious stones was in the warehouse, how full of precious old books and artefacts and other things¡­ humans are endlessly greedy, ah. I am human too, you know? To tell the truth, I managed to resist the lure of gold and silver. Then, he heunched into a grandmentation about n.o.ble houses being as deep as the sea or something with special focus on the suffering poor he simply had no time to help.

    There was some ttery about how I did a good job helping people, and some random excuses about how I have too much free time in my hands, and how he had made sure I had all I could eat and wear or whatever. There was even something about how he was unsure what would happen to me if he were sent out for long term work, how the poor would suffer here while he''s away, and before I knew it, the sted, cursed key was in my hands."

    The more she spoke, the more angry she became. Then, Xiang Yun just had to open her stupid mouth, "But, Missy, the master is not wrong, ah. If master really didn''t mean all the nice things he said, he wouldn''t really have handed over the key, right?"

    "That''s true, however, he only described all the good things about having these sted keys, not a single word about the evils of it. I¡­ I had been too greedy, and did not think things through at the moment." She was ashamed and angry at the same time, and pped the table, "You are not to address him as ''master'' in the future, just call him a Big Liar¡­ ow, my hand, ouch, ouch, ouch, ugh, it hurts."

    Hong Lian found herself crossed and amused at the same time, she looked over where Cong''er was humming to herself as she practised her lucky knots[1] before shaking her head, "Missy, you are the mistress, ah.It''s your duty to be a good example for us, right? Aren''t your words a little inappropriate? You might identally influence the younger servants, you know? Cong''er is still young, what if she really treated your jokes as the real thing¡­"

    Without waiting for her to finish, Su Nuan Nuan cut in, "So what? It''s true isn''t it? Your b.l.o.o.d.y master is a Big Liar, am I not allowed to say the truth now?"

    Xiang Yun said in a small voice, "But, Missy, to be honest, you really did lucked out this time. No matter what, the key in your hand is really a good thing. Master even said that you can freely use whatever you find the warehouse, especially after how you''ve looked after second miss. This is also a way of showing his love for you, ah. For you to talk bad about him now, this maid really felt that it''s kind of unfair, ah."

    Su Nuan Nuan was not a truly hard-headed person. After being presented with all these arguments, she sat back to ponder upon the matter more closely, and had to admit that her behaviour had been a little unreasonable. A really good thing had fallen onto herp, and here she was sneering at the gift horse. If this was truly a novel, with herself as the main character, readers would probably start to unsubscribe out of sheer indigence and frustration, ah.

    Only¡­ she sighed, and gave a bitter smile, "But I really don''t want to deal with those women, ah. My greatest dream in this life time is not men, not power, but peace and quiet so that I could conduct my food experiments, ah. Time spent b.u.t.ting heads with those women is time taken away from my precious eating time, don''t you think so?"

    "But, Missy, even if you did not have the warehouse key, do you think you''ll be able to live a peaceful life now? From what this maid knows, it''s really kind of unlikely, right?" Hong Lian smiled as she cheerfully burst Su Nuan Nuan''s dream bubble. "You''re born into a rich family, and married into one of the most powerful family in the Capital. Now that you''ve gotten the master and old madam''s approval, more than a few people have developed green eyes over your good fortune.

    Do you think that if you tell people that you''re content to be left alone to your research they''ll really believe it? Even if they do believe it, it did not change the fact that you have already gained the elders'' approval, and became the obstacle for other people''s ambitious rise to power. Would the others really not bother you? Isn''t this a kind of day dream?"

    "Hong Lian¡­" Su Nuan Nuan wailed, she red at the maid for a moment, before saying. "Can you please not be so honest? Are you the mistress of me? Just what the heck are you doing?

    "Please be at ease, Missy. This maid is just helping you to recognise the real situation." Hong Lian quickly held out a handkerchief for Su Nuan Nuan. "So, please, don''t say things like this anymore, otherwise you''ll really die without leaving a corpse, ah." [1] Lucky knot ¨C Chinese knotting

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 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70: Man vs Rooster

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Aih! In the end my fate is sealed the moment I was born, ah. If I hadn''t been born into a rich family, I wouldn''t be facing all this problem, right?" Su Nuan Nuan sighed loudly. The rest of maids t.i.ttered at this remark, amused by their baffling mistress. Said mistress turned to re at them, "What are youughing about now? Is it really that funny?"

    Hong Lian giggled, "Missy, that is such a typical rich young miss deration, ah. Look, even Cong''er is amused. If you haven''t been born into a rich family, do you think the life of a poor citizen is fun? That aside, how many family could look after that mouth of yours? Even if your family could afford to feed you, you''d be challenged by the dangers of sickness, lecherous men, or bankruptcy¡­ there are lots of distressing things in life, ah. Why don''t we just consider it as every family, no matter how rich or poor, have their own problems? All we can say is that, a rich family have their own problem, but at least they don''tck money."

    "Hehe! Hong Lian, you might be young, but you sure have a good understanding of life. Could this be the fabled natural intelligence? Perhaps one day I should send you to the temples to be a nun, with your great intelligence, you might even take over the whole temple one day." Su Nuan Nuan muttered through gritted teeth.

    Hong Lian knew that her mistress understood everything before she voiced out herments. Su Nuan Nuan was merely angry and embarra.s.sed when it was said out loud, because it meant she couldn''t avoid reality anymore. Sheughed, pping her hand cheerfully at her mistress, "No way, no way, this maid is too attached to the mortal world, and havemitted too many atrocities to warrant entry to holy grounds. Just a couple of days ago this maid have just wrung the necks of two ducks, there''s no way they''ll ept an animal killer like me into the temples."

    "Whatever, go and prepare for dinner. I n to make something new today, I guarantee it''ll be so delicious that you want to swallow your tongue with your food[1]." Su Nuan Nuan eyed the sun, which was rapidly dipping down the western mountains, and stood up, tucking the keys close against her chest. Hong Lian was right, she thought, to be able to transmigrate into such a position was her good fortunate. She just have to take the good with the bad. Let''s consider this key as anotheryer of defence against those scheming women and not be too proud about it. However, that Duan Tingxuan surely knew how this key was going to trouble her. Humph! Clearly the man wanted to mess around with her! Well, well, though she could not curse him with capital punishment, just watch how she make his life difficult.

    As she pondered over various punishments, she made her way out the house. At the mention of delicious food, the maids cheered and trotted eagerly after their mistress'' backside. Cong''er giggled, "Missy''s cooking are all amazingly delicious, I almost swallowed my tongue a few times. I''ve only been here a few days but, this ve consider herself lucky that her tongue is firmly attached, otherwise it would have been swimming in my stomach already. If that happens, wouldn''t it be quite troublesome to fish it out?"

    The othersughed at her words, even Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t resist a smile, "Pei! ''if you''ve really swallowed your tongue you''d be dead, there''s no need to fish anything out, ba?"

    They joked with each other as they went down the steps. Before they could reached their little personal kitchen, Si Ping suddenly came trotting in. He gave them all a wide smile and said, "First madam, our master have just gotten a few pounds of good bird nests from the fourth prince. Aside from old madam and elder madam''s portion, the rest are yours."

    "Where is your master?"

    Su Nuan Nuan allowed Hong Lian to ept the bird''s nest even as she smiled coldly at the grinning servant.

    Si Ping looked at that beautiful and gentle smile, gooseb.u.mps raising at the back of his neck. Our master? How could our master dare toe within 50 steps of this ce? He''ll probably onlye in after making sure I haven''t been kicked out.

    In truth, Duan Tingxuan already knew that by handing over this warehouse key to Su Nuan Nuan this morning, he had presented her with a double edged sword. This woman had endlessly dered how true happiness in life was eating and sleeping well, and showed a clear disdain against arge house''s typical power struggle and in-fighting. She would definitely not let him off easy. Best case scenario, he might have to abstain a few days worth of Chun Feng Court''s meals.

    At worst, she might actually get really angry and chase him out of the house with her kitchen knife. This was not Mei Yue Lou after all, if he was seen as the rat in this ''Beauty Chases Beast'' show, where could he ce his face after this? While it was unlikely that any high born woman would actually dare to do this, the spirit within that body might not have such¡­ restraint. If she were to overreact, well, he''ll just have to take his lumps in silence.

    As he continued to consider the matter from several angles, the little marquis finally decided to send Si Ping, his number one dog to investigate the situation. Let''s use Si Ping to gauge first madam''s mood first, if his dog servant wasn''t kicked out of the house, he''ll consider it a sign from heavens that all was well. After all, his personal warehouse was actually quite impressive. In fact, one might even say that the heavens have just dropped several meat pies right in front of Su Nuan Nuan. It''s possible that she would understand this point and not be too angry.

    Thus, Si Ping stepped into Chun Feng Court, a weather vane to gauge the direction of first madam''s mood. From first madam''s scary smile, he could only recite ''The winds brought cold and misery upon its wings, your servant, he goes and returns not''. There was no way he could give Su Nuan Nuan the truth, instead, he smiled gamely and said, "The master is busy with some work, he should be here soon."

    "I see." Su Nuan Nuan nodded calmly, then turned to Hong Lian. "Bring out thatrge c.o.c.k from this morning. Our new dish will depend on him tonight."

    At the words ''new dish'', Si Ping''s eyes glowed like two littlenterns. He had to sit on his impulse to yell: Master,e quickly, madam is making a new delicious thing tonight.

    "Missy, are we to¡­ kill the rooster here?"

    As expected of Hong Lian, no wonder she''s Su Nuan Nuan''s closest maid servant. Able to guess her mistress'' intentions with just these few words. Su Nuan Nuan merely nodded expressionlessly and said, "That''s right, bring it here. I shall personally do the deed."

    "Oh¡­"

    Si Ping was shaken into sudden awareness. He quickly realized that things had turned out Not Good for his master. This servant was about to rush out to warn his master when Su Nuan Nuan smiled coldly at him again. She said with a chilling grin, "Yes? Is there anything the matter, Si Ping?"

    "Ah¡­ um¡­ that is, something is¡­ um¡­" Si Ping''s face pulled into all kinds of directions, hoping that first madam will allow him to leave so he could give his master some warning."

    "You''re not allowed to leave, not even for a ''something''." Su Nuan Nuan immediately crushed his hopes, how could she allow this male dog time to warn his dogpanion?

    "Then, why did madam ask me anything?" Si Ping nearly wailed at the injustice, to which Su Nuan Nuan smirked, "I just want to see you squirm. Humph! Might as well get my fun where I can."

    Si Ping dropped his head into his hands and muttered, "The master is cunning, madam is crafty, the two of you are clearly a heaven made pair."

    "En? What was that, dog?" Su Nuan Nuan looked over her kitchen knife at Si Ping. The servant took involuntarily leapt back, and hurriedly said, "Nothing, nothing, this ve''s mouth is merely leaking air, this lowly one never said anything."

    "Humph!" Su Nuan Nuan epted the basket of rooster from Hong Lian and sat down on a stool provided by Cong''er. She grabbed the rooster by the neck in one hand, the knife in other, and waited. As expected, Duan Tingxuan soon strolled in, a schr''s fan waving indolently in his hand. Su Nuan Nuan gave a bark ofughter at the man''s confident posture, even as she brought the knife to the rooster''s neck.

    A swift jerk of the knife should have ended the c.o.c.k''s life, however, the bird pped it''s powerful wings and pecked fiercely against the knife.

    Of course, Su Nuan Nuan was the one who deliberately allowed her knife to slip, allowing the rooster panic under her hands. Her grip tightened on the rooster until it was struggling for real, beating its wings and kicking wed feet fiercely for its life. The moment Duan Tingxuan entered the kitchen, she ''identally'' dropped both rooster and knife with a loud "Aiya!".

    Freed atst, the rooster threw itself towards the direction of a certain unguarded little marquis.

    Duan Tingxuan, who had noted the quiet atmosphere and Si Ping not being chucked out yet, judged that all was well within Chun Feng Court, and rxed his guard. Well, well, it looked like this Su Nuan Nuan had finally learned how to be a proper wife, I must reward this sensible att.i.tude with lots of loving.

    Excitement bubbled in his heart, as he strolled past a flowering hibiscus nt and beamed happily. Ah, how lovely Su Nuan Nuan''s dark hair would look with a flower in her hair? Tender feelings beat within his breast as he plucked a fewrge flowers, and made his way into Chun Feng Court.

    He crossed the empty courtyard and was about to enter the kitchen when gorgeously coloured creature came flying towards him, beak opened and howling its dissatisfaction to the world. The little marquis jumped, and yelled out, "Just what is this thing?" His hands automatically flicked out into the Eagle w andshed out, ready to twist the creature''s neck when Su Nuan Nuan called, "Alive! Catch it alive!"

    Perhaps it was guilty conscience, but even at his most arrogant moment, he dared not disobey Su Nuan Nuan''s directmand, ah. ¡ª At the words ''Catch it alive'', he wanted to abort his attack, but it was toote. Straining against instinct and training, he could only twist his body aside and redirected his hand, nearly twisting his shoulder out of alignment.

    Su Nuan Nuan was a sharp one, how could she not know how amazing Duan Tingxuan''s kungfu was? Setting a rooster at a martial artist, no matter how ferocious, was just too hrious, ba? Hence, the order to ''Catch it alive''. As expected, a most magnificent battle between man and roostermenced. Perhaps spurred by a powerful desire to survive, the rooster seemed to have developed incredible fighting strength. Even a master martial artist like the little marquis would be hard pressed to capture this desperate rooster alive. He had to chase it around the courtyard three times before the culprit was finally stuffed back into the cage.

    After that little adventure, thest bit of dignity seemed to have deserted the little marquis. His silk sleeves were all torn up by by vicious ws, and though he had managed to protect that handsome face of his, it was now ck as the bottom of a pot as he red at the struggling rooster in the cage. He howled, "Who''s vicious rooster is this? Su Nuan Nuan, why do you even want that thing alive?"

    "To raise, of course. What Mei Yue Lou had beencking all this while was a spirited fellow just like him. He''ll be an excellent guard for the hens there, even ferrets would run at the sight of such a warrior."

    Su Nuan Nuan came over and smiled winsomely at the rooster, praise falling like rain from her lips. She clicked her tongue affectionately, and said, "What a great fellow you are, even the little marquis have suffered a loss under your ws. You are a great warrior rooster."

    "What warrior rooster nonsense are you talking about." the little marquis who had swallowed a loss grumbled. "If I hadn''t been caught off guard, or had to take that thing alive, it would have died with just a twitch of my little finger."

    He suddenly narrowed his eyes at Su Nuan Nuan, "I say, Nuan Nuan, this is a deliberate move on your part, right? You just want to watch me humiliate myself catching that beast alive." [1] To swallow one''s tongue with food ¨C Unbelievably delicious

    [Gumihou: Hahahaha, Su Nuan Nuan is so brilliant!]

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 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71: Lacking Ambition

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "No, no, you''re just being over-sensitive." Su Nuan Nuan declined with righteous indignance. "How dare you judge a n.o.ble character with such pettiness. My lord, really, such injustice is unbing of you."

    Si Ping could not resist squinting his eyes at this, could first madam''s face be any thicker? How did you managed to say all those things without even batting an eyelid? Your face don''t lose of our master in thickness, ah.

    Duan Tingxuan was looking at his beloved wife with a suspicious eye. Finally, he gave a coldugh, "Me, unjust? Surely not? What was it you called me? A lord? Just when did you turn into such a virtuous woman anyway?"

    "Do you know the origin of this c.o.c.k?" without bothering to answer Duan Tingxuan, Su Nuan Nuan threw this curious question at him.

    "Hmph! What''s so great about its origin?" Hmph! Hmph! Want to change the subject? Too gullible, show me what you''ve got. The little marquis straightened his sleeves and narrowed his eyes.

    "After my lord granted me this warehouse key, your Madam Yun suddenly decided to pay a visit to the kitchen. Where she then forcefully transferred Ms. Xia to theundry house, and had some people sent me this marvellous rooster. Naturally, in view of this rare generosity, I had my people investigate into the matter, and it turned out that this gorgeous c.o.c.k had soundly fed Madam Yun a great defeat. I really hadn''t expect my lord to fall prey to this rooster as her, even when caught off guard."

    "Ran Yun made trouble at the kitchen?" Duan Tingxuan frowned, and slowly tugged at his sleeves. He heard all that was unsaid: Your stinky second wife tried to mess with me by sending this creature, hehe, but the one who suffered was you. How could he miss such an obvious message?

    "Surely it''s not making trouble, right? After all, she has the right to inspect the kitchens. Ms. Xue had been looking after the kitchen for so many years without any major incident, for her to be transferred away so suddenly, who would ept it lying down? Naturally, she has to go and do this dirty job herself."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s voice was perfectly calm. She turned to Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, "You two, go with Si Ping to Mei Yue Lou. Kill and dress a few roosters, make sure you get rid of all excess fat before bringing them over."

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun answered quickly, gave Si Ping a nce and trotted out of the kitchen. Si Ping was about to follow when the little marquis said sourly, "Bring this beast with you. Didn''t you hear your madam? This fellow is a protector of the nest, how could you just leave it here to waste away? Idiot."

    "Yes, yes, yes."

    Si Ping hurriedly picked up the basket and jogged off, b.u.t.tocks bouncing from his enthusiasm to get away. Su Nuan Nuan eyed the little marquis'' sorry figure, and felt the anger in her heart disappeared with a sigh. She made her way calmly to the stone bench under the grapevine arch, and ordered Cong''er to bring some tea and snacks over.

    Just what manner of intelligent man was Duan Tingxuan? How could he not know that this wife of his was angry with him for dragging her into the inner court power struggle? Only, she was a harmless, if greedy glutton who would not be able to resist the warehouse treasures, especially with the permission to do as she like with the contents. He was fairly sure that this would be thest time she vent her displeasure at him over this matter. To be honest, being wed up a bit by a rooster was nothingpared to what he had gained. He and Su Nuan Nuan were now much closer via their shared ownership of the warehouse.

    "If Ms. Xue had been doing a good job all this while, why was she sent to theundry house? Ran Yun''s action was just too biased. I shall speak to her and make her transfer that woman back." said Duan Tingxuan as he sat down next to Su Nuan Nuan. Though she had made a fool out of him, at least she hadn''t thrown him out. The much abused little marquis felt incredibly contented with thistest development in their rtionship.

    "That''s a good idea, ah." Su Nuan Nuan smiled sincerely at him, satisfied with his reply. What a clever solution, she''ll just throw every little conflict at this man to solve. So what if these women all flocked together against her? I have this wonderful little marquis to be my meat shield. After all, it''s his job as husband to protect me while I enjoy a good life and delicious meals¡­ Phew! Ah, life is so sweet and wonderful!

    "Ahem¡­" Duan Tingxuan coughed exaggeratedly. He really hadn''t expect Su Nuan Nuan to use him so callously. In truth, a smart man avoids the inner pce conflict at all cost. Also, Nuan Nuan, even if you n to use me, you should least pretend to decline first, ba? How could you just ept my aid so calmly? Don''t you want to stabilize your own position and status in the mansion? If you need my help for small matters like this, what would people say? Was she expecting him to handle all conflict on her behalf? Surely this wasn''t right, ba?

    After some thought, however, the little marquis finally understood.

    Lacking ambition. This was a saying that he had known since young, however, this was the first time he had ever seen a live example of it. Su Nuan Nuan was the perfect representation of someone whocked ambition. To this woman, the marquis house was nothing, to her, being sent out from the house would be seen as an opportunity to explore the boundless world.

    Starving would be impossible with her cooking talent, right? The old madam and himself were ready to shed tears of grat.i.tude that she consented to stay within this mansion. In the end, they were the ones who could not live without the White Sealed Meat, White Sugar Cakes, Smoothies and other a.s.sorted delicacies they were now addicted to. Not to mention all those other incredible delicacies he haven''t tasted yet.

    As for him, the husband, heh heh! That Su Nuan Nuan already dismissed him as a g male, would a woman who had dismissed his existence care about ''husbandly affections''? She deigned to treat him as a friendly a.s.sociate only because of his efforts in securing her parents'' safety. Perhaps she had once valued status and power, enough to try and establish her position through inner court struggle. However, after returning from the dead, she had undergone an incredible change, gain some kind of enlightenment that allowed her to not care one bit about status or power. As for the Ms. Xue matter, if he were to ignore it, there was no real reason to think that she would actually do anything about it.

    The only thing Su Nuan Nuan valued was a happy and rxing life. Also, that Ms. Xue became unlucky because she got involved with Su Nuan Nuan, he had to make sure nothing happen to that woman or his wife''s status would decrease even more, ah.

    "What''s the matter?"

    Su Nuan Nuan eyed the deeply thinking Duan Tingxuan with some curiosity, at her question, her husband looked up and smiled, "Nothing, nothing, what are we having for dinner?"

    "Didn''t I just sent Hong Lian and Xiang Yun to kill some chickens? We''re having Beggar Chicken tonight. I guarantee you haven''t had this before, I''ll send one to old madamter¡­"

    "Elder madam loves chicken best." Duan Tingxuan was quick to interrupt, doing his best to help her to gain an advantage via her cooking.

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled at the eager little marquis and drawled, "Oh really? If remembered correctly, thest time I made stewed pork shoulder, you said the elder madam loves pork best."

    The little marquis was someone with astonishingly thick face, but even he had to cough behind his fist and shed his fan out to hide the red tint on his cheeks. Heughed loudly, "Nuan Nuan, there are some things that though we both know, but can''t be said you know? A ha ha ha ha¡­" [Gumihou: ahahaha¡­ sure, whatever]

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 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72: Overwhelming Favour

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Whatever, since you''re generous enough to take this trouble off my hands, I shall send one to the elder madam as thanks."

    "Are you saying that if I don''t do anything about this matter, you still n to help Ms. Xue gain justice?" Duan Tingxuan was truly surprised. When he had a.n.a.lysed Su Nuan Nuan''s temperament earlier, he had the impression that she was a rather indifferent person. Even if Ms. Xue had gotten into trouble because of her, she might not do anything that would rock her peaceful life, however¡­ had he been mistaken in his a.n.a.lysis?

    "Wu, even if she were to annoy me, as long as she doesn''t test my limits, I can''t be bothered to care. Ms. Xue did a good job taking care of the kitchen all this while and was a very dependable person ording to Hong Lian and Xiang Yun. While at Mei Yue Lou, the kitchen never failed to send us food. I managed to w back to life thanks to a bowl of red braised pork sent by them, I do believe that she''s a good and honest sort. When I went to the kitchen to appropriate ingredients, she cried and practically beat the floor in despair, but that''s mostly out of fear for Madam Yun''s power. I just can''t bear to see this kind and capable person struck down from mere a.s.sociation. At the very least, I intend to everything clear."

    As Su Nuan Nuan muttered to herself, Duan Tingxuan suddenlyughed, "That day you stormed the kitchens, are you sure the one Ms. Xue feared is Madam Yun? People still talked about it, you know. That day first madam marched into the the kitchens to s.n.a.t.c.h ingredients was like an incredible tornado had just past through."

    "Wei, men who love their wives would not bring up bad history." Su Nuan Nuan said with some embarra.s.sment, she kicked Duan Tingxuan''s ankle crossly. "Also, what''s all this talk about storming a ce? The only people I brought with me was Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, hardly enough people to actually ''storm'' a ce. How shameful, as the lord heir, you should at least be able to use your words properly."

    "Yes, yes, yes, I shall stop now." Duan Tingxuan yfully covered his mouth.

    After a while, Si Ping and Hong Lian came trotting in. He was about to question Su Nuan Nuan further about the new cuisine when thumping sound of someone running towards the kitchen reached him and Cong''er popped her head in. "Master, Shuang Xi is outside with a message. There''s a Lord Long here with some urgent matter."

    "Long Mingchang."

    Duan Tingxuan suddenly grew more dignified. He turned and said to Su Nuan Nuan, "I''m going to see what Lord Long wants, if I''mte you eat first. No need to wait for me." and he was off.

    "Who is this Lord Long?"

    Si Ping had also gone off with his master, so the only person Su Nuan Nuan could ask was Hong Lian, who frowned and said, "This maid did not know, the master never spoken about court matters in front of us before. However, from the master''s urgency, it must be something serious. Aih, Missy, though the master might act carefree in front of us andugh a lot, he is still a great man with great responsibility, he often end the day exhausted."

    "That''s right, ah. Otherwise why would I let him eat so much of my good things." Su Nuan Nuan said with a sigh, however, it''s not like she can do anything to help Duan Tingxuan. The best she could do was feed him up when he came home exhausted.

    Once the Beggar''s Chicken was done, Su Nuan Nuan kept three of them to be eaten at home and sent the rest away. One went to the old madam, of course, and one to Madam Yang. Liu Min was someone she had no great opinion of, but, thinking about Duan Tingxuan''s position as the heir, well, if she didn''t send one there, that woman might go to the old marquis'' ce to make trouble. It''s not worth it to court this trouble, with him going around doing important stuff outside the mansion, there''s no need for him to be troubled by matters within the mansion. Moreover, her clothes, food and living expenses were all covered by him, no need to cause unnecessary trouble for her money tree.

    On top of that, she had also sent one to Concubine Lin''s ce. The little family of mother and two children were all but invisible within the marquis family''s social structure. For her to send something like this would be seen as showing them great favour. Duan Xinqu were not as shy and reserved in front of her own mother and elder brother. She happily peeled off the lotus leaf and hardened y of the Beggar''s Chicken, proudly dering, "Didn''t I tell you? Eldest sister-inw haspletely changed. Brother, I know you don''t believe me and thinks that she''s just trying to win people''s hearts, humph, well, what do you think now?"

    Duan Tingfang had just reached 18, though his looks lost to his two elder brothers, he still had strong, sword like eyebrows and bright eyes. A handsome young man with straight white teeth and perfectly formed lips. The only thing that marred his looks was the stressed lines in the corner of his eyes and the stiff, expressionless, face, making it hard for anyone to approach.

    At his sister''s remarks, he gave a cold sneer and said, "A single Beggar''s Chicken to buy your loyalty, how cheap. As someone who grew up in a marquis family, you still don''t know what evil looks like. How are you going to get on in the future I wonder."

    "Mother, brother''s trying to talk like an old man again. And who says I don''t know what evil looks like? Did you not see me avoid second sister-inw and the rest? The only one I like is eldest sister-inw. She treats me very well. As for trying to gain favours, what kind of favour could she get from us? Also, it''s not just this chicken, the lovely new clothes in my trunk are all from eldest sister-inw. Not to mention those exclusive snacks we''ve been eating these past few days."

    "Fine, fine, that''s enough from you. Second young miss, you''ve certainly turned into a twittering little sparrow after first madam paid attention to you."

    Concubine Lin smiled as she gently cut in. She cast a slightly worried eye at her son, in a soft voice she said, "Third young master, there''s some sense in second miss'' words. Though the inner court is rife with schemers, it''s not all evil people here. The second young master is not someone simple to deal with, so it''s right for you to avoid him. On the other hand, the lord heir is a great favourite of the emperor and the crown prince''s confidant. Surely there''s no need for me to tell you the kind of future you could have if you are to a.s.sociate with him more.

    With his support, the effort you put into your studies these past three or four years will be noticed. You know, people who wish to gain an official post would do everything they can to stick themselves to such a brother as yours. As for you, not only do you treat him as though he lives over a hundred thousand miles away, but you runaway whenever you see him, aren''t you just making trouble for yourself?"

    "Since concubine mother knows that I am a schr, you should also know that schrs are men who make their own destinies. In the future, I shall also strike out on my own without depending on my famous brother. He''s a great man with important things to do, what would he as as the heir, what could he want with a b.a.s.t.a.r.d brother like me? Also, why should I stick my hot face to his cold b.u.t.tocks[1]?"

    "Oh, so you do know what a cold b.u.t.tock is." Duan Xinqu wrinkled her little nose and retorted, "I''ve only seen elder brother twice, but I think he''s really nice, nothing like what you said. He has his own reason for not liking second brother, but he won''t treat you warmly if you don''t approach him first. Eldest brother is really busy, so don''t bother sitting around hoping he''ll notice you."

    If anyone else had said this to him, Third Young Master Duan might have gotten angry. Since it was his beloved little sister, he merely stared at her for a moment and turned to his mother in mock despair, saying, "Concubine mother, look, little sister had been bought over."

    Concubine Lin smiled, "Your sister might be young, but what she said made sense. Even if she had been bought over, I''m grateful that first madam is willing to cast a second eye over us." At Duan Tingfang''s dark expression, she sighed and said gently, "I know that third young master is a n.o.ble man, unfortunately, you are born of lowly me. It''s not wrong for you to maintain your pride, but third young master, you must also remember that to seed in life you needrades andpanions. You must never treat other people''s good intentions like rubbish."

    Duan Tingfang was incredibly sensitive to criticism, but he was also very close to his mother and sister, at their remarks he lowered his head wordlessly. At this point, Concubine Lin suddenly produced a pair of cloth shoes, beautifully embroidered with cotton rose hibiscus. She smiled, "Recently at old madam''s ce, the sewing house people happened to be there and the old madam granted two bolts of cloth for me, so I''ve made these for the first madam. It''s nothing much, and I''m sure she has plenty of shoes, but these are my way of showing my grat.i.tude. The lord heir is always visiting Chun Feng Court these days. Tomorrow, you shall go with second young miss and bring these shoes and convey my thanks to her. If you happened to speak to the lord heir, that would be the best, in the end you''re both blood brothers. The lord heir won''t look down on you for depending on him."

    Duan Tingfang really did not want to go, the skin between his eyes brows were tightly wrinkled, but he also knew that his mother meant well, moreover, his sister was right next him thumping her chest and dering, "Concubine mother, don''t worry. If brother doesn''t want to go, I will drag him by his clothes like a stubborn bull over there."

    Duan Tingfang red at his sister and thought, very good, this little sister of his had only been to Chun Feng Court for a few days and turned into this chattering bird of a person with smart retorts. To the point that she dared to reprimand him, just who was the one who turned her into such a bold thing? Did that arrogant and wasteful elder sister-inw of theirs have such charm? To the point that she had turned into such a vivacious person?

    At this point mother and daughter started chatting with each other about the makeup they had received from Chun Feng Court. There was talk about how some buyers have been fired, perhaps others won''t be able as unscrupulous in the future. Mother and daughter duo really admired Su Nuan Nuan, to the point that even Duan Tingfang''s curiosity was piqued. Well, surely there''s no harm visiting Chun Feng Court for a bit. It''s not like he needed to really meet up with that elder brother of his, he was just curious about what kind of person that sister-inw of his really was after having rumoured to have turned over a new leaf.

    Members of the marquis family who have received a Beggar''s Chicken were all beaming with joy as they ate, unfortunately not even a sc.r.a.p of it touched the lips of the little marquis. After departing from Chun Feng Court, he never came back. Even Su Nuan Nuan, replete with chicken and lyingfortably on the the bed, was a little bit concerned. While she couldn''t care less about the safety of the g man, the fact that she, not to mention the fate of her parents, and herself were in his hands. So, it''s perfectly normal for her to worry, okay?

    Now that the first madam hadtched onto a most convenient excuse, she had even greater trouble falling asleep. Finally, she got up to get herself another bowl of rice dumpling in sweet rice wine soup. It was pa.s.sed midnight before she finally got drowsy enough to try and sleep.

    Though she had moved back to the inner court, Madam Yang still did not like her, so there''s no need for her to go and give her greetings. As for the old madam, well, that olddy had been bought over the delicious food a long time ago. As long as delicious food kepting, she could not be bothered with minor matters like proper etiquette. Such was the special situation that the people of the Chun Feng Court enjoyed. Thus, when the sun rose the following day, the maids did not bother to wake their mistress. More often than not, their mistress tended to get out of bed with a bad temper. [1] Stick one''s hot face to a cold b.u.t.tock ¨C Using other people''s fame to your own advantage.

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 Chapter 73

    Chapter 73: Badly Injured Zhao Chai

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The morning was gettingte when a faint noise sneaked into Su Nuan Nuan''s dream. The noise grew and grew until she suddenly shuddered awake. She sat up and c.o.c.ked her head, and guessed that the noise actually came from her own courtyard.

    Su Nuan Nuan yawned and sat up, sleepily stuffing her feet into embroidered soft shoes. She thrust her arms into a thin robe before finally calling out to her maid.

    "Hong Lian, what''s going on out there?"

    Without waiting for an answer, she shuffled out, in time to hear a pattering of footsteps running towards her. Hong Lian, Xiang Yun, Cong''er and Hua''er all appeared, all four maids were red in face and panting with fury. There was a b.l.o.o.d.y bundle in Xian Yun''s arms. With a sudden thump, the maid fell onto her knees and said in a choked voice, "Missy, Zhao Chai¡­ Zhao Chai had been beaten half to death."

    Su Nuan Nuan stopped, she had beennguid with sleep, but was instantly awakened at the news. A murderous intent suffused her, the maids could practically see the anger fairly steaming off her trembling body. Hong Lian had not seen this degree of anger from her mistress since Mei Yue Lou. Normally, her mistress was the source of anger for others, not the other way round.

    "What happened?"

    Her voice was low and tightly controlled, surprising Xiang Yun by her apparent calm. Hong Lian on the other hand, could hear the bitterness underlying her mistress'' voice. Missy is really angry now, this time she definitely won''t take things lying down.

    "Zhao Chai is always running about, but since everyone in the mansion knows he belongs to Missy, no one dares to make trouble. When he ran out this morning, we maids thought nothing of it. Who would have thought that he woulde back all bloodied up. We were terribly shocked when he came in and copsed before us, just look at this¡­ someone has almost beaten him to death."

    Su Nuan Nuan said nothing, she reached out a hand to gently stroked the bloodied and dirty fur. Zhao Chai made a weak ''meuwoo'' sound. His granite ck eyes were steady, there was a gleam of fury in those bottomless depths. Thisrge cat was a wild thing at heart, and unlike those pampered domesticated cats, won''t bother with charm to get his way. He was a sharp one, and knew who was good to him and who was not.

    The excellent food and special pampering from the maids had made him more gracious towards the inhabitants of Chun Feng Court, he hadn''t scratched anyone for a long time, only letting out the asional mew of pleasure to express his satisfaction for their services. He was especially pleased with Su Nuan Nuan as well as his former mistress, Duan Xinqi.

    The maids were alright of course, and he tolerated strokings from the little marquis, but if he were to sense any ''mischief'' from the man, he would not hesitate to retaliate. For some perverse reason, this actually made Duan Tingxuan liked the cat more. Naturally, what the man liked most was to y tricks on the cat, and was scratched up quite a few times for his bad att.i.tude. Thankfully, the little marquis was a highly skilled martial artist, and managed to avoid attacks on his face, or he would have be theughing stock of the entire country.

    Zhao Chai had to swallow such a huge loss today and nearly lost his life to boot. The natural wildness that had been m.u.f.fled by recent good life spring back up even more fiercely than before. In the arms of Su Nuan Nuan, he waved his tail back and forth agitatedly, letting out an asional disgruntled mew. It was as though he was saying: Though it''s unbing for a cat to entertaining vengeful thought, just you wait until my body has recovered.

    "Hong Lian, go and find a physician you know well and asked him for the name of a physician with the most experience with animals. Bring him here for Zhao Chai." said Su Nuan Nuan after a cursory investigation of Zhao Chai''s injuries.

    The bleeding had stopped, and it looked like there was no life threatening injuries, however, she still wanted to have a good vet to clean and bind his wound, and prescribe some medicine for faster recovery. There were a lot of aristocrats and rich madams in this world who loved their pet animals, but thus far there were no actual physician specializing in animal care. So they''d have to make to with physicians experienced in animal treatment.

    "Yes," Hong Lian bobbed once and rushed to the door. Then, she suddenly turned around an rushed back to her mistress. In a low voice she said, "Missy, you must not be rash, whatever your decision, please think thrice. This maid is truly angry over Zhao Chai''s misfortune, and we must not let the evil doers get scot free, nor we lose our head over this matter. If Missy still wishes to lead a carefree life and not stick your hand into inner court politics, you may only stay in within your own courtyard and not do anything. If¡­ if you were to strike out strongly, I fear¡­ Missy''s peaceful days will be over."

    "You do your thing, I have ns of my own." Su Nuan Nuan knew what Hong Lian was going on about. No matter what, for her to rock the boat for the sake of a cat, if the elders were to hear about this unsightly behaviour, she might not be able to cate them with good food. With people fanning mes in the background, whatever good will she had gained might just disappear from this act. Who knows how many people had stuck their hands in to orchestrate this situation she was in. If she really wished to live a peaceful life in this mansion, she could not swallow this disgrace quietly. She would havee down hard on the culprits and instil the fear of acting against her. Moreover, she would have to do it without falling into someone else''s trap and be cast into the role of a shrewish wife again. While she didn''t care about offending people, being out of favour with the elders would drag her back into the middle of the family political struggle.

    In reality, Su Nuan Nuan just couldn''t take it anymore. Though Zhao Chai was just a cat, he was as close as family to her heart. To see a family member literally beaten half to death was like taking a knife to her own flesh. If she could still endure this insult, could she still be considered human? Did those women think that she, Su Nuan Nuan, would duck her head and swallow her anger for the sake of a conflict free life? Only a nun would be able to do this, not her.

    Humph, these people were just too naive, ah!

    With Zhao Chai held securely in her arms, she sat down and gently petted his injured body. Su Nuan Nuan sighed privately: Just when she thought she could just chuck whatever problems she had to Duan Tingxuan and be a peaceful foodie here. The original n to serve up a new dish now and then to cate the elders and her ''rivals'' would not be enough. Now that she had entered the inner court, there was no way she could stay aloof from the mucky family politics. Duan Tingxuan was the heir after all, and was responsible for goodness knows how many important matters. Why, just yesterday he was called outte in the evening to see that Lord Long and she still haven''t seen a hair of him. So, it''s not like she could just tie him to her belt like a protective charm and expect him to deal with every trivial problem. Even though the man''s a male s.l.u.t, she still shouldn''t bully him that way.

    "Missy, are¡­ are we just going to leave things like that?"

    Xiang Yun, Hua''er and Cong''er nced at each other, the maids were all fairly sure that their mistress was no shrinking violet, but¡­ if this was not an act of cowardice, why was she just sitting here and petting Zhao Chai? Why hasn''t she gone off to beat up those people who had hurt their Zhao Chai?

    "Of course I''m not going to leave things like that."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s voice was uncharacteristically cold, killer intent filling the air.

    "That¡­"

    Xiang Yun was shocked, and Su Nuan Nuan continued softly, "We''ll wait until Zhao Chai is well before I collect our pound of flesh. It''s not like those b.i.t.c.hes are going anywhere, so what''s the rush?" [Gumihou: Erm, seriously? You beat up the cat? Have you never watch John Wick?]

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 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74: First Madam has Arrived

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Nearly half a day had pa.s.sed before Hong Lian came rushing in. The middle aged physician behind her stayed in the yard, respectful of therge house rules.

    "Missy, Physician Mei from the capital is here. Housekeeper Lin said that he''s the best when ites to healing injuries and sent people out to fetch him when I told him of our dilemma."

    "Good, bring him in quickly." Su Nuan Nuan got up to gently ced Zhao Chai on the bench.

    Hong Lian straightened from her bob and rushed out to invite Physician Mei in. Seeing the capital''s most famous physician, one that was often seen entering and leaving aristocratic houses, all kinds ofplicated feelings brimmed in her heart.

    Not long ago she had gone around the mansion, begging the marquis, the elder madam, servants, anyone she could think of to get a physician for her dying mistress and was ignored by everyone. In the end, a young boy servant took pity on her and managed to get hold of a halfpetent physician in to see her. At her most disheartened state, her mistress had undergone aplete personality change, managing to even s.n.a.t.c.h her life back from the brink of death. In fact, their good days started from that moment onwards. To see the capital''s most famous physician being called in to look at their injured cat was¡­ well, one really can''t predict how one''s life would change in the future.

    "This cat has great tenacity."

    Physician Mei muttered after taking a look at Zhao Chai''s injuries. He skilfully wrapped up Zhao Chai''s wounds and instructed them not to give him too many good things to eat and to feed him in porridge while he recuperates. Xiang Yun made a mulish face and objected, "He''s already so badly injured, are we supposed to starve him on top of that?"

    Physician Mei stroked Zhao Chai and gave a little he-heugh, "This cat is nice and fat, so it will be fine. Moreover, we''re not actually starving him, you can still give him some thin rice porridge. However, cats are greedy things who can''t control themselves. It''s up to us as their masters to make sure they keep to their diet. Madam, you might actually have to bind up his mouth to make sure he doesn''t gorge himself on good food."

    Su Nuan Nuanughed at the physician''s remark, she nodded agreeably and said, "Looks like you are a lover of cats too, you sure know a lot about their behaviour."

    Physician Meiughed heartily and said, "I have three in my home, they are my precious treasures." He wrote down a prescription for them and prepared the medicine himself, and adding it to some thin rice and fish porridge. The maids watched with wide eyes and tsked, "Look how human like this cat is, even the medicine is prepared the same way."

    Physician Mei, who was a rather good tempered person, turned to say, "Naturally, though cats and humans are different creatures, a cat is about five-sixth simr to a human. What benefits us should benefit them too. Though I must say, he''s lucky to have escaped without any heavy injuries, he should still rest and take medicine to heal his internal injuries. The only major problem when it came to healing cats is the feeding of medicine. This one have no problem now he''s weak, but the rest would depend on Madam''s skills."

    Su Nuan Nuan epted the prescript solemnly, handed it to Cong''er and said, "Go to the main court and fetch one of the more dependable boys here. Get him to go back with Physician Mei to pick up this prescription."

    After some acupuncture treatments Physician Mei took his leave. Su Nuan Nuan lightly stroked Zhao Chai until the asional ''Miwoo'' stopped before she stood up. "Hua''er, you and Cong''er stay here and look after Zhao Chai. Hong Lian, Xiang Yun, let''s go."

    "Missy."

    Hong Lian looked at her mistress'' deceptively calm face and knew that she was about to take action for Zhao Chai''s sake. It looked like her earlier advice had fallen on deaf ears, she let out onest desperate warning call and watched as Su Nuan Nuan turned around and said fiercely, "I was wrong. I had believed that as long as I showed these people goodwill they would leave us alone. Instead, they spat upon my benevolence just to test my patience. Today, it was Zhao Chai who suffered. If I stay my hand now who will they target next? Hua''er? Cong''er? Perhaps you or Xiang Yun willst a little longer, but in the end I will be left to stand alone.

    No, the time to act is now. There are too many ways they could hurt me. Rather than depending on your master to act as a protective charm, it''s better for us to depend on ourselves. They''ve taken the first step. We will counter attack now. Let''s go."

    "Do you have a n, Missy?" though Hong Lian had cautioned Su Nuan Nuan not to act rashly, she had done it in order to protect her mistress'' desire to not partic.i.p.ate in the dirty business of family politics. However, it looked like Missy had finally understood the hidden dangers of the inner court politics and was prepared to fight back. She was actually quite pleased as she thought: Well, this att.i.tude is more befitting of the heir''s official wife.

    "Of course." Su Nuan Nuan nodded, "The person in charge of housekeeping is that Auntie. Lu, right? Let''s go look for her now."

    Hong Lian hurriedly protested, "Missy, please don''t be mistaken. Though we address her as Auntie Lu, she still has to give you face as the heir''s official wife. There''s no need for you to damage your standing and go look for her personally. Do sit down. I shall fetch her myself, she''ll not dare to disobey you."

    Su Nuan Nuan shook her head, "Though I am the heir''s wife, I am not the one in charge of the household affairs. As long as I just stay within this courtyard, the ones below us would only pay us pretty lip service. Do you really think Madam Yun and the seconddy will really let her a.s.sist us? No, we must make our move now and not give her any room to twist her way out. Else we''ll be theughing stock of the day."

    Hong Lian thought for awhile, this actually made sense. If Missy were to personally go, those socially below her would not dare to beat around the bush. If Missy got angry with them, even the old madam and the little marquis wouldn''t back them up.

    She exchanged a look with Xiang Yun as they trailed after their mistress, both shared the same excited thought: Missy was really going to take the initiative, with this act, she would plunged herself fully into inner court life and, who knows, maybe she would even sincerely fight for the master''s affections. The two maids looked towards the future with shining eyes.

    Ms. Zhang was currently resting in her room enjoying some tea. As she had married into the Lu family, most of the people in the mansion addressed her as Auntie Lu. Because her grandmother was one of the old madam''s dowry maid, her position within the mansion was not low. This meant her family lived quitefortably with her husband managing the outer court, while she took care of the inner court. Though this arrangement looked quite perfect from the outside, in reality, her position was rather precarious. Just one wrong step, and her carefully built up life coulde crashing down.

    Luckily, Ms. Zhang was a sharp, cunning individual and after five years as housekeeper she never had any major blunder. While the main house''s wives and concubines battled against each other, she managed to handle their demands diplomatically and have actually gained a rather major influence. With Madam Yun and seconddy sharing the financial duties, one being a second wife and the other the official wife of the second young master, they appeared equal in strength and dared not cause trouble for each other. In truth, undercurrents of of a power struggle surged violently beneath this calm surface. It was only through her grandmother''s connection that she was able to deflect the most serious trouble.

    In fact, the one that gave her the most headache was the young master heir''s wife. Not only was she a high borndy, the woman was also vicious and cruel. She herself had suffered under that woman''s hand, and she thanked the heaven and earth everyday the that woman was sent to Mei Yue Lou. Though, she had unfortunately been reinstated back to the inner court and was rumoured to have won over the hearts of old madam and the little marquis with her culinary skills. Ah, well, in the end she was just a failure of a woman, she should be busy counting her lucky stars and wouldn''t dare to even dream of making trouble for fear of being sent away.

    A peaceful life was sure wonderful, ah.

    With her daily scheming done, Ms. Zhang sipped her tea and sighed happily.

    At that point, rapid footsteps was heard. She blinked and saw her a.s.sistant, Ms. Dong the a.s.sistant housekeeper, racing over. When she saw Ms. Zhang looking over, she cried, "Elder, first madam hase with her two maids, what should we do?"

    Ms. Zhang''s heart trembled. Surely this was just too coincidental, right? Just when she had dismissed the woman out of her mind, that creature just had to materialize in person? Just what was going on? Still under shock, she said, "You''re certain first madam is looking for us and not just pa.s.sing through?"

    "No," Ms. Dong frowned and stepped forward quickly to whisper down Ms. Zhang''s ear. "I''ve just heard thatrge wild cat from Chun Feng Court had been beaten half to death. It''s entirely possible that first madam wille by to look for us."

    Ms. Zhang was even more surprised by this news, and muttered, "So what if first madam''s cat was beaten up? I didn''t do it, so why would shee looking for me?"

    "Elder, you''re not thinking the right way. Just think, who would have the best motive for beating up the cat?" Ms. Dong nearly rolled her eyes. She thought, everyone knew you haven''t beaten up the cat. Come one, you''re a smart one, why are you so stupid now? There''s only one reason why they''reing for you.

    It looked like Ms. Zhang still couldn''t wrap her head around this matter and said, "Everyone knows it''s probably seconddy who went after that beast, so why is first madam here and not going after them?"

    Ms. Dong spread her fingers out helplessly and said, "Elder, not even the audacious first madam could just see seconddy without reason, ah. Clearly she''s here to get us to a.s.sist her."

    "Hoho, isn''t she making trouble for no reason now?" in the end, Ms. Zhang remained too pigheaded to realize that her impression on Su Nuan Nuan was stuck on Su Meng Nuan. Her inability to make sense of the news around would be her downfall. Look, even Ms. Dong had a better grasp of the situation than her.

    Ms. Dong tried to squeeze in a few more words of advice when Xiang Yun''s voice rang out, "Is Ms. Dong here? First madam has arrived. If you still refuse toe and greet her¡­"

    Ms. Zhang and Ms. Dong jumped, they nearly scrambled over each other trying to reach the living room first. They burst into the living room bearing smiles, "First madam, surely there''s no need for you to personallye to such small and dirty ce? Wouldn''t it be better to just send a maid over? These lowly ones do not deserve your presence, and to make madam wait, ah, this one should just die, ah."

    Su Nuan Nuan stared down the two babbling maids with narrowing eyes. On the way over, she encountered quite a few maids and noticed a few of them darting discreetly ahead of her. So there was no way these two didn''t know that she wasing. However, she had no interest in highlighting their impertinence and got to the point immediately, "My cat was nearly beaten to death today. Ms. Dong, as the housekeeper of the inner court, I want you to spread the word. I am giving out 10 silver liangs for any information on this terrible a.s.sa.s.sin. Firste first serve."

    Ms. Zhang leaped back in shock: 10 silver liangs? For a cat? Surely that''s a bit to extravagant even more a madam, ba? She quickly bring up her drooping smile, "Madam, surely there''s no need to use such arge amount for a mere cat-" she trailed off at Su Nuan Nuan''s narrow eyed re. The madam said, "Are you in the opinion that I do not have the ability to settle things for my cat?"

    "How could this maid imply anything as such, this maid will surely be struck by lightning for such thoughts." Ms. Zhang felt her liver shrivelled up even as she denied it.

    Su Nuan Nuanughed coldly and said, "Oh, I know why. Ever since I''ve stayed over at Mei Yue Lou for a few months even the housekeeper has forgotten me. Not to mention, since I am no longer in charge of the household finances, people no longer think I''m important anymore. Well, it can''t be helped, I have no choice but toe here personally to beg favours. Thanks to the lord''s benevolence my presence have been restored into the inner court, though I still do not have any real authority, surely shrimps such as yourself still need to respect my position, or am I wrong?"

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 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75: Intimidate with Power

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    The words stabbed through Ms. Zhang like an array of knives, tearing her witty charade to bits as she copsed to her knees and shrilled, "This ve does not deserve madam''s kindness. Madam is the first wife of the heir, your word isw. How could this ve dare disrespect your word. As long as madam orders it, this ve will make it happen, even if this lowly one has to squeeze out her brain to dust toplete it."

    As she spoke, tears dripped off her face: Curse your mother, using your position as the heir''s wife to squash me. This is beyond smashing a mosquito with a hammer, you''re smashing a mosquito with heaven''s sword, ah. First madam, even if you don''t care about the rules, how could you just fling your weight as the heir''s wife about so casually? Have you no decency at all?

    "It''s good that you respect me." Su Nuan Nuan smiled slightly, before wrathfully dered. "Well, since you respect me so much, carry out my orders! I trust you shall not bring me nonsense like Zhao Chai was beaten up outside the house, right?"

    "Wouldn''t dare, wouldn''t dare, even with ten more guts, this lowly ve wouldn''t dare." Ms. Zhang babbled. Su Nuan Nuan nodded, and said, "Very good. It''s too bad the lord isn''t at home, otherwise I wouldn''t be here to bother you. Very well, make sure you investigate this matter properly for me. I shall await your news at my house. If, by the time the lord came back, you still haven''t any news for me, I won''t be needing your services anymore. I''ll just get the lord deal with the matter directly." Humph, that Duan Tingxuan''s name was certainly a convenient thing to throw around, it would be a pity not to use it.

    Wei, are you saying that bullying me with your first wife status is not enough, you want to intimidate me with the master''s name? Can''t you at least let me have a bit of wriggle room?

    Ms. Zhang watched Su Nuan Nuan''s disappearing back through tearful eyes. Her liver was not the only thing trembling, all the organs in her body were shivering from this one encounter: Lost! s, all is lost! Everything is gone, gone, herfortable life had swirled down the drain. To think, she had just been gleefully revelling over the thought that first madam had been tamed. Who would have thought that although that woman might be content to lie low when things were quiet would actually rear up, all ws and teeth extended, to tear your throat out.

    Ms. Dong allowed Ms. Zhang some time to settle her feelings before opening her mouth, "Elder, what should we do now?"

    "What else could we do?" Ms. Zhang hauled herself from the floor with a low growl. "Tch. Send out the word. First madam''s reward will go to whoever brings us news first."

    "Do we really need to do investigate? This matter is clearly seconddy''s doing." Ms. Dong gave a bitter smile and thought: This woman better not be so muddled by first madam threat that she had forgotten that seconddy was not an easy opponent to deal with.

    "What do you expect me to do? Surely not wait for the master toe home and handle the matter himself?" at this, Ms. Zhang suddenly started and looked at Ms. Dong anxiously, "I say, do you really think the master will stick out his neck for her? Didn''t the master use to find her really annoying and naggy?"

    "Aiyo, my dear elder, that''s all in the past. Things are very different now with the first madam. Not only the master, even the old madam were incredibly indulgent with her. ording to Miss Qiu Ling, the old madam didn''t mind even though she skipped her greetings for two or three more days. In fact, the old madam often call her over to apany her. The old madam enjoyed having her over so much that the olddy often eat an extra bowl of rice whenever she''s there.

    Ms. Zhang sighed mightily, starring up at nothing as she said, "Then, what''s the use of you cautioning me about investigating into this matter? Whatever, first madam, seconddy, I can''t afford to offend any of them. The only thing I can do now is to be as impartial as possible."

    When Su Nuan Nuan returned back to her house, Hong Lian rushed out to say, "Missy, for you to personally go but leave after just a few words¡­ do you think it''s a good idea? She''s still the house manager, though her authority is nothing like Madam Yun''s, you can''t treat her lightly, but you can''t disrespect her either."

    "Heh heh, Duan Tingxuan vs seconddy who do you think the servants fear more?" Su Nuan Nuan eyed Hong Lian for awhile before saying, "Moreover, I''ve already paid them a personal visit. Do you really think Housekeeper Lu would dare to see me empty handed and tell me no one saw what happen?"

    Hong Lian was speechless, then her face grew distressed again, "But, though the master treats Missy well, he only did so within the inner court. Outsiders might not know, ah."

    Su Nuan Nuan waggled her finger at her, "Nope, nope, nope, what''s the most prominent gossip going around now? Everyone is still talking about how your mistress is like a dried fish that came back to life. It''s possible the servants are the still enthusiastically talking about it now. Did you not notice how many maids randomly turn up just to chat with our Hua''er and Cong''er for no good reason? They are sent to find out what Duan Tingxuan really felt about me. With such efficiency, everyone in this mansion would know your master''s feelings for me within a day, and¡­ heh heh, we''ve already in this ce for about a half a month already, didn''t we?"

    Hong Lian nodded slowly. What Su Nuan Nuan said was not wrong, Ms. Zhang knew that she only had bl.u.s.ter on her side and dared not offend the first madam. Especially when she knew that the lord heir was the mountain behind the first madam, ready to back her up any moment.

    Less than an hourter, an older maid came over to solemnly swear that she had seen Zhao Chai beaten up. As expected, it was done by the maids and female servants under Ms. Shi. The maid had a rather agile tongue and it would appear that she had been telling the truth. Looked like she really had witness the incident and was not afraid to im the reward for herself.

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded and said, "Very good, I am a woman of my word so, Hong Lian, bring the 10 silver liangs for this good mother. Also, go and send word to Madam Yun, tell her I am in need of a night duty servant and wish to have this good mother as my maid."

    The maid stuck out her neck for the reward money because she had a seriously ill person at home and needed the money. Also, she had seen the way first madam treated her existing maids now and was more than grateful to be taken in as part of the staff. At Su Nuan Nuan''s words, she fell to her knees and began thanking her new mistress gratefully.

    Su Nuan Nuan rose majestically, "Now that we have a witness, let''s go and pay a visit to seconddy''s ce."

    "Missy, you can''t"

    Hong Lian cried out, shocked by her mistress'' crude and simplistic tactic. Su Nuan Nuan gave a cold snort at her protest, "What are you fussing about? This is a simple matter, is it not? I intend to give her a piece of my mind and a good p or two. There''s no need to yplicated mind games with her over such a straight forward thing. The straight forward way is the best, let''s go."

    Hong Lian wanted to say that inner court battles were meant to beplicated and insidious, Missy, if you challenge this matter head on aren''t you just stomping on years of unwritten rule? Even the old madam wouldn''t be able to help you. However, Su Nuan Nuan''s resolute face caused the words to die in her throat. Her mistress had already made up her mind, if the master tried to dissuade her, she''d probably swallow the man alive.

    Su Nuan Nuan stormed out with her maids trailing behind her, just in time to encounter Duan Tingfang and Duan Xinqi. The brother''s face was expressionless, his eyebrows sharply inclined and proud. Duan Xinqu grabbed her brother by the sleeves and hurried forward eagerly to greet her favourite sister-inw, utterly undaunted by her grim look. "Sister-inw, where are you going with that fierce look on your face?"

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 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76: Crude Violence

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Zhao Chai was almost beaten to death. I, as his mistress, could not overlook this matter. I am on the way to teach those hateful servants a lesson, does little sister want toe?"

    Duan Tingfang''s proud and aloof expression copsed, he looked like he had just seen a ghost, all huge eyes and dropped open mouth. Duan Xinqu was also stunned by the news. However, her concerned was on the safety of her beloved former pet, "How is Zhao Chai?"

    "I''ve already had a physician look at him, there are no truly serious wounds, but his life was in danger for a while."

    At Su Nuan Nuan''s words, second young miss'' face flushed red, her little fist clenched, tears of anger and frustration brimmed in her eyes as she said through gritted teeth, "Those people are too awful. Zhao Chai wasjust minding his own business when second sister-inw''s cat came and provoked him. After that, second sister-inw came over with a group of servants to our door and tried to grab Zhao Chai, luckily he was sharp and managed to escape them. To think they still¡­ this is just too much."

    "Isn''t it? They even dared to disrespect me, how could they even be bothered with the you back then?" Su Nuan Nuan snarled as she snapped her sleeves angrily. "Let''s go. Second sister, you maye if you like. Otherwise stay back and look after Zhao Chai."

    "I will go with elder sister-inw." Duan Xinqu said through clenched teeth. The young woman was no fool, she and her mother were like shadows in this mansion. In fact, aside from elder sister-inw, no one else had ever given them a second look. If she were to hide away now, isn''t this just like kicking her benefactor in the teeth? Also, she really wanted to personally score some points for Zhao Chai.

    "Little sister, have you gone crazy?" Third Young Master Duan pulled his little sister aside, trying to stop her from going off with Su Nuan Nuan.

    Duan Xinqu snorted, "So what if I''ve gone crazy? My life as a sane person was grim and unhappy, now that I''ve gone crazy with sister-inw, I''d say I''ve not live my life in vain. You menfolk better stay out of this matter, just stay here and wait for older brother toe back."

    With that, she threw off her brother''s hand and ran off after Su Nuan Nuan.

    Third Young Master Duan could only watch as his beloved little sister run after Su Nuan Nuan, ready and eager to be the first madam''s disciple. He really wanted to go after them, but men were not supposed to get involved with women''s political struggle. The helpless third young master could only pace around the courtyard like a trapped animal. When Cong''er and Hua''er invited him to enter the house for a drink, he ignored them. In fact, when Duan Tingxuan appeared at the entrance, it was like seeing a knight in shining armour. Third Young Master Duan dropped his proud fa?ade and ran forward, calling out, "Elder brother! You must go after elder sister-inw, she had gone to second sister-inw''s ce to make trouble, and she has taken second sister with her. You must think of a way to stop them!"

    "Third¡­ brother?"

    Even the normally sharp and agile minded little marquis was struck dumb at the sight of his anxious third brother. Is this really his third brother? His gloomy and antisocial brother who always looked like everyone owed him 10,000 silver liangs? How long since he hadst seen this brother of his? Months? Half a year? How had he suddenly turned into such and emotional being in such a short time?

    Duan Tingfang too found himself way too fl.u.s.tered, nothing at all like his carefully cultivated icily arrogant image. Spots of red appeared on his cheeks, but luckily Duan Tingxuan didn''t spend too much time staring at him. Instead, he turned to the Cong''er and Hua''er to ask, "Just what is going on?"

    Cong''er and Hua''er wasted no time telling him what happened. Duan Tingxuan''snguidly smiling face grew ashen as they continued their tale. He cast a wordless gaze to the spot where Zhao Chai was recovering from his injuries, then stood for a while, thinking. Finally, he turned to Cong''er and said, "When will we hear from the messenger maid?"

    Wei, wei, wei, brother, surely you''re focusing on the wrong thing, ba?

    After hanging about outside for awhile, perhaps worried that he might attract the attention of another brother, Duan Tingfang rushed into the house after his eldest brother. After nearly knocking his head into the door in his rush, he heard Cong''er telling his brother how the first madam had gone out the second time aftering in just an hour earlier. Duan Tingxuan nodded, and said mildly, "Looks like that Lu woman knows the rules."

    This¡­ just what does this mean? That Lu woman knows the rules? If the news had came inter, it would mean she disrespects her masters? Hey, you''re the heir you know, are you really sure about throwing your authority around for the sake of your wife''s cat? What happened to your dignity? Your status?

    Third Young Master Duan''s eyes grewrger, andrger until a headache started brewing behind his eyes. Then, he heard Duan Tingxuan continued, "How many people did your mistress bring?"

    "Only elder sister Hong Lian and Xiang Yun, and that Granny Zou, when second young miss arrived she went with them too." Cong''er said shyly. When her mistress had stormed off earlier, for the sake of a cat, she had thought that her mistress was incredibly awe inspiring. However, now that she had to report the matter to her master, she was starting get the impression that her mistress'' actions might have been a bit inappropriate.

    As expected, the skin between Duan Tingxuan''s wrinkled up. Beside him, Duan Tingfang breathed a sigh of relief: Good, very good, in the end his brother was still the heir and it wouldn''t do for his wife to to be seen doing all this for a mere cat.

    "Si Ping." Duan Tingxuan straightened up and called for his manservant. "Bring two men with you and take a look at the situation. Nuan Nuan didn''t bring a lot of people with her so make sure you back her up no matter what." [Pu tong] the always cool and icy third young master had copsed to the floor. He had been too naive, ah, to think that his brother was sending Si Ping over to bring sister-inw back. To think that his brother''s major concern was that sister-inw hadn''t brought enough backup with her. Fine, whatever, the whole mansion knows that you love your wife, but¡­ but.. isn''t this a kind of sickness? Are you not afraid that woman will step on your head?

    Si Ping too couldn''t stand seeing his master this way, he muttered, "Master, it''s already against thew for me to be here, yet you want me to bring two more men to confront the branch house. First madam might be able to do it, but this ve can''t. The old madam herself set down the rules, manservants can''t be in the inner court. If master is really concerned about first madam, why don''t master personally visit them? You are the heir after all, if you go, who would dare to stop you?"

    "What foolish words is this! You too know that I am the heir, no? How can I just storm into battle with the women? Where am I to put my face afterwards? Stop your nonsense, I''ve ordered you to go, so go! Just, go and represent me, with you there the branch house won''t dare to act too impudently. You don''t worry about the old madam, with me to back you up what are you afraid of? Even if I''m not here to back you, don''t you have the first madam?

    The old madam had been talking about the your first madam''s stuffed eggnts for a couple of days now, and the farms have just sent in thetest produce and I just happen to see some very nice eggnts. Once the olddy had one or two of first madam''s famous stuffed eggnts, there''s no way she''d ever remember such trivial matters, right?"

    Third Young Master Duan, who had just managed to crawl up to his feet, flopped down again at this shameless remark: He really had no idea how to describe this brother of his. Cunning was certainly one very apt descriptor, ah. No wonder second brother was bullied to the point of death. Though second brother was no good egg, and mostly had himself to me for the sc.r.a.pes he got into, why was he suddenly feeling sorry for that second brother of his?

    In the end, Si Ping epted the order to go. Duan Tingxuan turned to see Duan Tingfang still sitting near the doorway and looking nothing like a young master of arge house. He was about to reprimand this young man for hisck of .s.s when Su Nuan Nuan''s words suddenly sneaked up on him. This third brother of his was a sensitive sort with an inferiorityplex, he was supposed to treat him with tender warmth and encouraging words. Therefore, he swallowed the first and second burst of criticism down before clearing his throat, and said, "Third brother, it''s rare for us to meet like this, what are you doing down there? Come and sit on this chair, I promise it''s morefortable here. Hua''er, go brew us a pot of tea, use that special oolong tea I brought overst time. Oh, and look through the kitchen and see if there are any new snacks made by your madam. I''m pretty hungry now. En, how was school? Were your teachers any good?"

    As expected, the third young master was struck dumb by this ''gentle and instructive'' elder brother.

    Back to Su Nuan Nuan and her procession of second young miss, her two maids and Granny Zou. As the group stormed towards the branch house, they picked up several tails behind them, all of which she pretended not to noticed. However, when they reached the branch house, Su Nuan Nuan immediately pounced upon the first maid she sawing out of the house and dered, "Go and inform thedy of this house to bring her servants out, I have a bone to pick with some of them."

    The maid was about to smile and deflect them with a few clever phrases, but a look at Su Nuan Nuan''s darkening face dried up the words in her mouth. She suddenly realized that the less she involve herself in these two t.i.tan''s fight, the better her chances of survival. Therefore, she quietly backed into the house to make her report, and was reced by a widely smiling Ms. Shi who called out loudly, "Aiyoyo, what wind blew blew sister-inw to my doorstep today? Come in,e in, my lord just gotten his hands on some very nice oolong tea, I''ll get the maids to make some so sister-inw could try them too."

    "Oolong tea is it? Our lord brought a couple of packets back from the pce recently, said something about it being some top quality stuff. I''ve already tried it twice, it''s just some regr tea with a fancy name." Su Nuan Nuan all but stuck out her tongue as she sneered, heheh! Want topare precious things with me? You ought to know better than to try and one up against me, ah. No matter how rich or influential Second Young Master Duan was, how could he match up against Duan Tingxuan?

    As expected, Ms. Shi''s smile froze, but then she gave another thrill ofughter and said, "That''s right, how rude of me. I should have known that elder brother being who he is, what good thing escapes his hand? But no matter, since sister-inw is here, I can''t let you just stand around, doe in so we can chat¡­"

    "No need, I am not here to drink tea with you. Someone nearly killed my cat, my heart was so devastated that I shed nearly two jars of tears¡­ heh, now that I think about it, it sure was funny, right? But, little sister, you must surely understand my feelings, I heard that Zhao Chai took a bite out of your Persian cat the other day and you sent people over to Concubine Lin''s ce to beat Zhao Chai to death. Unfortunately, my Zhao Chai had suffered even more than your cat. Little sister, as fellow pet lovers, you must surely understand the why I, as mistress, would demand justice for my cat? Otherwise how could I ever held my head high in this mansion? Don''t you think so?"

    Shi Yu Rou really hadn''t expect Su Nuan Nuan to drum up so many support for the sake of a cat. Even more unexpected was that she was saying all these nonsense in front of so many witnesses. Was she not afraid of her words reaching old madam or elder madam''s ears? This¡­ this is not right, ah. This is not the way inner court battle is done, ah. You really can''t use my dealings with Concubine Lin as precedent, ah. She''s a mere n.o.body who was ignored even by the servants, whereas I am a proper first wife of the legitimate son of the marquis, and am in charge of the household finances with Xu Ran Yun. Even if you want justice for your cat, surely you could havee to my doors on some trumped up excuses, right?

    To say that you''re here because someone beat up your cat¡­ what sort of game is this?

    I don''t know how to y, ah. [Gumihou: Looks like people who likes to battle in the dark didn''t like it when light shone upon their heads.]

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 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77: To Compromise

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    For a moment, thedy of the house was stunned. Hidden in nooks and crannies around them were eavesdropping maids and servants from various factions, whispering away to each other. After a long time, Shi Yu Rou finally grew aware of her surroundings. From Su Nuan Nuan''s chilly expression, she knew that there was no way she was going to get away unscathed. Therefore, she could not afford to hold back and risk losing this confrontation in front of all these people. If she were to admit defeat to Su Nuan Nuan, it would be like losing to the first madam''s cat, how was she to hold her head up high within the mansion in the future?

    "Do sister-inw really not want toe in for tea?" Shi Yu Rou''sst hope to settle this matter in private was brutally shot down with a brusque ''No'' from Su Nuan Nuan.

    "Very well, I''m sorry to inform that you have wasted your timeing here. After all, I do not even know heads or tail of the matter, therefore I shall not stand in the way of your business." Shi Yu Ran pulled out her most dignifieddy in charge manners and made to leisurely stroll back into the house. Humph! You might have begun a fierce opening move, however, I will not y. So, what are you going do about it? Don''t tell me you''re going to just barge into my house to look for the culprit?

    However, when she re-thought her words, Shi Yu Rou suddenly realized that she had used the worstbination of wording. Behind her, Su Nuan Nuan howled, "Have you all heard her? Thedy herself said that she will not stand in our way! This is it! Granny Zou, go in there with Hong Lian and Xiang Yun. When you spot those disrespectful evildoers who bullied my cat, drag them out!"

    "What? You dare!"

    Shi Yu Rou turned around with a screech, her normally dignified and stately manner evaporating. However, there was no choice, panting hard she red, thinking: This woman actually dared to deliberately misinterpret her words. If she were to correct them, wouldn''t it looked like she was just waffling?

    "Is sister-inw questioning the depth of my courage and feelings?" Su Nuan Nuan''s phoenix eyes narrowed. "Is that how you speak to an elder sister-inw?"

    "I¡­" Shi Yu Rou was speechless for a long time before she finally found something to say. "Sister-inw, you''re after people who beat your cat, so what are you doing at my ce?"

    "Surely you''re joking? I''m here because the people who beat my cat came from your courtyard. I nned to enlighten you on what happened since you don''t know what''s going on, but then you don''t seem interested to know. Which is perfectly fine, since you obviously had nothing to do with it, why should you care? Since it''s like that, I shall not trouble you anymore, I will only grab those despicable servants and punish them."

    "Do you actually have evidence to back your words?" Shi Yu Rou said through gritted teeth. She had considered the matter from all angles for a long time beforemitting herself to this scheme. She would be able to kill Su Nuan Nuan''s authority and take out her anger against that beastly cat with this one move and there had been no disadvantages that she could see. After all, who would be stupid enough to go against ady of the branch house just for a cat?

    Surely even Su Nuan Nuan wouldn''t dare? Surely she wouldn''t want to loose the goodwill she had gained from the elder madam and older madam?

    Who would have known that Su Nuan Nuan had no intention of arranging her ying pieces and picked her fights, but had yed her most powerful piece immediately and personally fight against Shi Yu Rou, loudly dering to the world that she was seeking justice for the cat.

    Everything that Shi Yu Rou had thought would never happen all materialized too suddenly, shocking her stupid. She was still reeling from the impact, when her true nature rea.s.sert itself and she began to bl.u.s.ter in order to cover up her weak point.

    "Naturally, I have a witness with me. I would never have stormed sister-inw''s ce for no reason. How would I ever dare to go against the rules and and break in? Well now, I already know that you have nothing to do with it. You and I are family, and you clearly know that this is my cat. So obviously you''re not the one who did this evil deed, right? Since it''s like this, you too wish to get rid of any evildoers in your household, right? I really don''t want to make trouble for you."

    This¡­ Shi Yu Rou nearly spat up blood. To hear herself being scolded as an ''evildoer'', this woman clearly wanted to step on her head, ah. How dare she say ''not want to make trouble for you''? Who was the real evildoer here, ah?

    However, these were all things that she could never say out loud. Shi Yu Rou nearly turned purple from choking down these words. In the end, she could only say, "How could sister-inw just believe this woman? What if this ve wants to harm me?"

    "Harm you?" Su Nuan Nuan widened her eyes, pretending to be shocked. "How can this be? Granny Zou never said that youmanded those people to beat my cat, only Granny Yang, Granny Fang and Granny Liu along with Tao''er, Li''er and Xing''er were seen going after my cat."

    Three grannies and three young maids were quickly brought out, one of the young maid had a swollen face and was limping along as though she had been recently injured. Shi Yu Rou red at the maid called Xing''er before feigning calm and turned her head away, saying, "This Xing''er girl has sticky fingers. I caught her stealing from my room and have punished her ordingly. I expect that she must be the one who incite the others and attacked your cat. Since I''ve punished her, surely it''s clear that I had nothing to with them harming your cat?"

    A sincere smile finally floated onto Su Nuan Nuan''s face. Shi Yu Rou eyed the smile with some suspicion, surely there was no way that this woman would just smile for no reason? As expected, Su Nuan Nuan drawled, "Dear sister-inw, I never said anything about you inciting anyone, why are you suddenly taking up this responsibility? Are you trying to tell me that you''re the one behind all this?"

    "You¡­ you¡­ stop your nonsense!" Shi Yu Rou was hopping mad, she had been battered by Su Nuan Nuan to the point that she no longer knew her own mind. Otherwise, how could she have been so careless as to reveal her hand just like that. She hatefully gritted her teeth and snarled at the servants kneeling around her, "First madam said you all had a hand in beating up her cat. Speak, who was the one who incited you? Who was the one who caused me to lose this face?"

    The maids and servants began to kowtow and wail, Shi Yu Rou twisted around to face Su Nuan Nuan, "Look at them, these servants all insisted they had nothing to do with the matter. It''s their word against your Granny Zou, how are we to decide who''s telling the truth?"

    Su Nuan Nuan ignored her, fixing her eyes upon Xing''er. She could tell that there were no hidden anger behind those bruised eyes, after some thought she gave littleugh and said to the girl, "Granny Zou told me that Zhao Chai was able to escape because you took a tumble at the most critical moment. I trust your injury is from that fall, am I right? Are you sure you still wish to stand with these people and deny the truth? There are some things you can endure¡­ and others¡­ you cannot."

    Shi Yu Rou''s heart pounded out a loud ''no!'' As expected, the girl lifted her head and said loudly, "Madam, the cat was beaten by these women. This ve was on her way from the kitchen when they caught me up in their scheme and was dragged in. I dared not go against them, and could only follow¡­"

    "That moment when you realized that it was my cat they are killing was when you slipped, am I right? That was when you created an opportunity for my darling to escape?" [Gumihou: Tsk, tsk]

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 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78: Total Victory

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    The moment Su Nuan Nuan stormed towards the branch house in fury, the eyes of ever busybody in the mansion fixed upon her. They followed with bated breath as the show neared its climax. Thus, when Su Nuan Nuan began to leisurely question the young maid, some folks in the peanut gallery, including Shi Yu Rou, nearly spat up blood.

    "This maid knows the cat belongs to first madam. However, this maid did not let it go for first madam''s sake. This ve belongs to the branch housedy so how could I betray my mistress? Only¡­ only¡­ the cat is an innocent living thing, so how could I¡­ this ve could not bear to see it die and decided to give it a chance to escape. However, this ve had to be careful and choose a critical moment to act. Only, this maid didn''t know that Granny Zou saw through this maid''s actions and was punished for it."

    It was unclear whether this Xing''er was an artless innocent or a cunning schemer, but Su Nuan Nuan saw that she clearly had a spine on her. Perhaps being a servant had taught her to conceal this pride, but in the end had found it difficult to go against her own nature. Clearly, Su Nuan Nuan''s words had provoked this poorly concealed pride to rear up.

    With a shallow sigh, Su Nuan Nuan nodded at Xing''er, "You have done a good deed." With that, she turned to Shi Yu Rou and smiled grimly. "It looks like everything has been properly revealed. Well, Granny Liu, what do you have to say for yourself?"

    Granny Liu''s face paled, she fell silent for a long while before kowtowing in panic, "First madam have mercy, this ve is in the wrong. It is us who beat the cat, but we have no idea it belonged to first madam, ah. We only know that Concubine Lin''s cat had taken a bite out of thedy''s Persian cat and wanted to beat him to death. This¡­ this ve was just trying to gain thedy''s approval and acted on our own, but, but this ve really did not know this cat belongs to first madam, ah. If we know, this maid would never have dared, not even if beaten ten times, to even harm a hair on its head, ah. Would first madam, please understand, ah."

    "What a bunch of nonsense."

    Xiang Yun could no longer stand it. She stepped out and pointed at Granny Liu and said, "The entire mansion knows that second young miss'' cat is now under the care of our first madam. Even the master adores him. You are high .s.s ves with connections, and knows every mouse hole in every corner of this ce, how could you not know this? You have the guts to beat Zhao Chai because you never thought Missy would strike out on behalf of a mere cat, ba? Now that our Missy is here, you dare to lie to her face and say you did not know our courtyard''s cat? Trying to confuse us? Pei! You wish!"

    "Yo~! This maid sure has a mouth on her, too bad she''s born a girl. If she had been a boy, she could probably be a great judge or prosecutor, no?" Shi Yu Rou gave a little thrillingugh, cutting off Xiang Yun''s speech. The maid grew angrier and clearly wanted to say more, but subsided unhappily at Hong Lian''s slight tug on her sleeve.

    Hong Lian''s meaning was clear: thedy was trying to provoke them. While they could mouth off as much as they like in front of first madam, it was actually against the rules speak in such a way to one''s masters. Su Nuan Nuan had spoiled them too much, as expected, their mistress began to defend them. "Sister-inw, surely there''s no need to belittle the maid this way? She was just emotional over the fact that our dear Zhao Chai almost died."

    Then, Su Nuan Nuan turned towards Granny Liu and came a few steps closer looking very thoughtful. When she judged that Granny Liu was sufficiently panicked, she said, "Now, I want you to answer a few questions from me. No need to think too deeply, just say the first thing thates to your mind. Once you''ve answered all my questions, I shall consider you as someone who didn''t know better and won''t hold this against you. How about it? Are you ready to answer my questions?"

    Granny Liu did not want to answer anything at all, however, she dared not say it. Instead she gritted her teeth and said, "Would madam please ask your questions, this old servant will answer."

    "Good." Su Nuan Nuan nodded, "I shall start now. What''s the colour of your mistress'' cat?"

    "White."

    "What''s its name?"

    "s...o...b..ll."

    "When did she got into a fight with second miss'' cat? You may give an approximate time."

    "Wu! About three months ago."

    "Who were the ones who went to Concubine Lin''s ce that time?"

    "Me, Granny Fang, Tao''er, Bi Yu and two young manservant, Da Xi and Er Xi."

    "So many people and yet the cat escaped?"

    "The cat was quick on his feet and cunning."

    "When I took in the cat, what did the servants thought about it?"

    "We all thought that first madam did not give face to the branch house¡­"

    Her voice trailed off, face turning pale as she pped her hands over her mouth. However, it was toote. In a state of panic, she had answered too quickly and inadvertently blurted out the truth. Su Nuan Nuan gave a sneeringugh and looked calmly at Shi Yu Rou. She said almost gently, "You''ve heard it, have you not? What do you have to say to that?"

    Shi Yu Rou''s face was the colour of pig''s liver. The way she was ring at Granny Liu was almost like she was about to swallow the woman whole. Su Nuan Nuan too looked down at Granny Liu, she snarled, "So, you felt that by taking in Zhao Chai I don''t give face to your branch house, and thus schemed against me. Heh heh! Your n isn''t to kill my cat, is it? You just want to p me, the first wife of the main house, in the face! If I don''t punish you today the people of the mansion will think that my face can be stepped on and that pping me in the face will incur no consequences. Seconddy, what do you say to this?"

    "Sister-inw''s words make sense." since the matter had gone out of hand like this, Shi Yu Rou had no choice but to cut her losses. She could only grit her teeth and snarled out each word, "These servants¡­ have clearly overstepped their bounds. Sister-inw, take them away, and punish them as you see fit."

    "Madam, please don''t do this, ah¡­"

    Madam Liu was nearly senseless with fright. Who doesn''t know how fierce and vicious this first madam is? She even dared to secretly plot He Xiang''s death when she was found pregnant with the master''s child. How could a mere old servant like her even get out alive once fallen into this woman''s hand? Fear addled her mind and she cried out desperately, "Lady, we were only carrying out your orders, we¡­"

    "Shut up." Shi Yu Rou was so angry that her eyes turned red. She had thought that once Granny Liu and the rest have pa.s.sed through this trial, she would be able to devote some time to nurture more loyal servants by her side. After all, it''s not easy to find truly loyal servants. Who would have thought that this old bat would crack at such a crucial moment. If it was at all possible, Shi Yu Rou really wanted to kicked this woman to death.

    "Sister-inw, looks like this old servant really couldn''t be relied upon. First, daring to presume what I am thinking, then acting on her own to gain favour and trying to create conflict between us sisters-inw. Right now, she even tries to frame me for her actions, this kind of crafty shameless ves could not be tamed, we should just have her beaten to death with nks as a warning to others."

    Shi Yu Rou''s killing intent was fairly steaming off her body, her beautiful face had taken on a rather sinister cast.

    "Well, it does seemed unreasonable to beat someone to death over a cat. Sister-inw, please be at ease, the punishment will be in ordance tomon sense."

    For Su Nuan Nuan''s benevolence to suddenly appear right now p.i.s.sed Shi Yu Rou so much that her whole body trembled. She thought, curse you, now you want to act in ording tomon sense? Where was yourmon sense when you storm my ce with a whole troupe of people? Where was yourmon sense when you needed it? Why is yourmon sense appearing now when it''s the least needed? Are you messing with me?

    In the end, Su Nuan Nuan had the maids publicly smacked with wooden nks. The older women were given ten smacks, and half a year''s worth of their sry docked. The two younger maids were given five smacks and had three months of sry docked. Which should be enough, the first wife announced to all and sundry, to teach the young ones a lesson on proper behaviour and moderation. She also took the time to remind them to be honest and goodhearted, to follow the rules of the court and that a hateful and vicious behaviour will only bring them bad karma.

    News of this singr lecture reached the ears of various master eliciting different reactions. Madam Yang had been enjoying a spot of tea when the news reached her ears, causing her to spat out a mouthful of tea. She wiped her mouth and muttered, "The sun must be rising from the west now, the most vicious and hateful woman is now giving out sermons about kindness and goodhearted behaviour. Had she truly repented, or was this a mere show for others? I really can''t tell."

    Old madam was ying dominoes with her personal maid when the news reached her, she said nothing for a long time. Finally, she waved the messenger away, leaving only herself and Qiu Ling within the room. Sheughed as she took the dominoes apart, saying, "Looks like this child really couldn''t bear the slightest provocation. Just a bit of teasing and she nearly lost her head. Then again, by crushing her opponent like this she had just ensured that everyone now understands her position."

    Qiu Ling sneered, "Well, she never could take the slightest provocation, ah. Otherwise, how she would never pluck up the nerve to storm the branchdy''s ce? Only, I''d never have expect her to dole out such a light sentence, especially when she has the moral high ground."

    Old Madam Fangughed, "Well, it was the right thing to do. Tingye and his wife''s behaviour had been getting quite disappointing this past two years. As for those old maids, though their behaviour had been quite despicable, we still can''t kill them over a cat. That would be literally overkill. The punishment matches the sin, by docking their pay and smacking them a little, they would at least behave themselves for a few months. It''s fine, they weren''t the real source of the evil deed, which was why Nuan Nuan took it easy with them."

    Qiu Ling sneered again, "Old madam''s words made sense. However, this maid felt that first madam''s action was too rash this time. Just wait, the next few days will bring a lot ofints to your door. For her to use such a big move over a cat, I can''t imagine how many people would would be mulling over this matter."

    Madam Fang answered lightly, "It''s true that this whole drama is over a mere cat. However, don''t forget, there have been many eyes on this cat for many days now. It''s been years since I''ve looked into matters within the inner court and it looked like the people there are starting to act in most unreasonable ways. Everyone knows how much I valued the rules and regtions, therefore they all tried to look pious on the surface and pretended to get along with each other even as they scheme in the background. Some schemes I know, while others escaped my notice.

    Most of the time I was just couldn''t be bothered to really look into what they''re doing. It''s not like they could do real harm. In reality, the women of this mansion don''t really understand me. What''s the use of giving me all these surface performance? Only the feelings in the heart really count, ah. This is why I''ve never really said anything about Su Nuan Nuan''s wilful behaviour. All of you probably thought that I was in love with her cooking and ignored her behaviour. How could this be the reason? I like her att.i.tude, but I know from how she treats her maids that she''s a good girl who keeps the rules in her hear. This is why I like her." [Gumihou: Well, we all saw this a mile away]

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 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79: Imperceptible Influence

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Qiu Ling pursed her lips into a smile, "Since old madam has determined that the first madam is truly a kindhearted person, this maid shall believe you. Since she now values the rules of the mansion, perhaps she has finally understood the value of love and family bonds?"

    "You little hussy, what love and family bond? Just say that I am just greedy for her cooking." Old Lady Fangughed heartily. Qiu Ling quickly said, "Naturally, this maid is young andcking in experience, unable to see a person''s true nature like old madam. Since old madam says that the first madam is someone who values the rules, then naturally first madam is someone who values rules. Who dares say other wise?"

    "That''s more like it." Old Madam Fang leaned back on her couch, picked up one pastry stuffed with fruits, and ced it in her mouth. She carefully rolled the taste within her mouth and nodded happily, "Tastefully bnced sweet and sour filling, gently king crust that melts in my mouth. Su Nuan Nuan''s snacks are even better than the imperial kitchens, how could I not favour her?"

    "In other words, first madam saw through the real intentions behind this matter?" Qiu Ling said as she carefully read old madam''s mood.

    The old woman nodded and said, "Because of this, Su Nuan Nuan''s actions was seen as punishing a few disrespectful servants. As the heir''s wife, she has the right to decide the life and death of servants, who dares say that she acted out of bounds? I have always been fairly amiable and wished to spend the rest of my life quietly. By the way, make sure you don''t let those petty wives and madams bother me. I want to eat good things in peace."

    "Aiyo, my dear old madam, you had better not eat anymore. The first madam already instructed us not to let you have too much sweet food. It''s not good for your teeth or body." cried Qiu Ling when old madam reached out for another piece, she quickly seized the half empty tray and saw the old madam pouting like a child. Sheughed, "Madam must be more patient as you age. Haven''t you heard first madam? There are still lots more good things you haven''t tried yet, you must protect your body and teeth in order to enjoy them."

    "Is that so? Then, take that tray away now, if you leave it here, greedy me definitely can''t resist." Old Madam Fang''s face was ck as she turned away from the snacks, waving a hand away in a grand show of ''look how pious I am resisting this''. Qiu Ling could only stifled augh as she took away the tray.

    Back at Chun Feng Court.

    "Yi? The lord is back? And you''re chatting with third young master?"

    Su Nuan Nuan stared at the brothers Duan Tingxuan and Duan Tingfang seated most harmoniously together in their chairs. Only, while Duan Tingfang was upright and proper in his chair, the supposedly dignified older brother Duan Tingxuan sat like he had no bones to support his frame. What a hooligan! The most hateful part of it was how this ugly way of sitting did not diminish an ounce of his n.o.ble and princely aura.

    "Well? I heard you''ve been to second brother''s ce, surely you haven''t suffer a loss, have you?" Duan Tingxuan looked his wife over before standing up for a closer look. Su Nuan Nuan''s glowing face and triumphant eyes told him all he needed to know.

    Hong Lian and Xiang Yun exchanged a look, and thought: Master you be asking after the branchdy. I have a feeling she''s still bawling away in her room. With just a few words she had managed to get the servants singing out their confessions. This is enough fodder for half a year''s worth of jokes.

    "The rational will always triumph over the irrational. I have logic on my side, how could I lose?" Su Nuan Nuan scowled, her inner tigress rearing up as her eyes fell upon Zhou Chai who was still resting upon the couch. She stroked the bandaged cat, only somewhat cated when a low ''miwoo'' answered her.

    "That¡­ elder sister-inw, it''s already midday. Sister and I should be taking our leave now. I wish to present this gift to sister-inw. Our concubine mother personally embroidered these shoes with her own hands. Please ept them as a token of our appreciation." Duan Tingfang stood up stiffly, presenting the shoes to Su Nuan Nuan. He really wanted to get out of this ridiculous situation and quietly lick his ruffled feathers at home.

    "Aiya, how exquisite." Su Nuan Nuan eximed, seizing the shoes and proceeded to stroke and sigh over them. After a while, she said, "Oh, but how could I? Such excellent craftsmanship, she must have poured her heart and soul into it. Let second sister wear them."

    Duan Tingfang said nothing. Duan Xinqu beamed and said, "Would elder sister-inw please ept them. As long as you like them, concubine mother will be happy. Thanks to your kind benevolence, our lives have improved a lot. You have no idea how happy I was to see the way you take care of Granny Liu and the lot. When those servants stormed up to our doors thest time, my mother dared not¡­"

    "Enough, sister." Duan Tingfang cast a helpless re at his sister, thinking: It''s over now, my pure and weak sister have turned into a blood thirsty beast aftering over to Chun Feng Court. For her to look up to this violent shrew of a woman as a role model, what was to be of her? Could she even get married in the future?

    Duan Xinqu also knew that she had slipped up and bit her tongue, "We, we came here to send you these shoes. Now that you have received them, brother and I will depart. It''ste now, we dare not disturb your lunch time."

    "What''s the hurry? It''s rare for me to see you. Now that you''re here, stay for a meal. Did you not see the eggnts they brought in? Your brother has been antic.i.p.ating this for more than a day or two now. Sit, sit, it''s not like we''ll starve from ate meal. You sit too, third brother. How old are you actually? And where did you pick up that fuddy old att.i.tude from? Look at your older brother, his stiff official att.i.tude is all gone now that he''s here. Rx a bit, don''t you know that sitting stiffly like that is tiring? If you sit like that every day who knows what your joints will be like when you''re older. Learn this one good thing from your brother, he''s a cunning old fox who knows when he should take advantage of opportunities."

    "Ahem, ahem, my dear wife. Would you please leave me some face before my dearest brother and sisters?"

    The little marquis could no longer listen further anymore. As he spoke, he gradually sat up straighter and beamed unrestrainedly at Su Nuan Nuan who was herding Duan Tingfang and Duan Xinqu into some chairs. Then, she abruptly left the room with Hong Lian and Xiang Yun in tow.

    Duan Tingfang sat uneasily in his chair, but when his brother said nothing to him, he slowly rxed. Though he was usually rather cold and aloof, he was still a mere 18 year old youth, how could he not thirst for affections? That bustling care disyed by Su Nuan Nuan was something he had only received from his mother, he had never been treated with such warmth by anyone else before.

    "Elder brother, when¡­ when elder sister-inw called you a fox, I think she was just joking. P-please don''t be angry." Duan Xinqu had no time to worry about her brother''s personal crisis. Her only concern was elder sister-inw, she was afraid that they had identally caused trouble for the couple.

    Duan Tingxuan eyed this little sister of his before grinning, "That''s nothing. In fact, I''d say I''ve gone up socialdder in her eyes. When she was still at Mei Yue Lou, I was but a greedy rat in her eyes. Now that I''m a cunning fox, I''ve clearly been promoted a few species up." [Puu!]

    Duan Tingfang who had just taken a calming sip of tea, sprayed said tea from his mouth. Unfortunately, some went down the wrong pipe, and he began to choke. Duan Xinqu leapt up to a.s.sist her brother. Si Ping and Cong''er also rushed forward to help. [Gumihou: Haha, Duan Tingxuan is hrious here. At least he''s been promoted from rat to fox.]

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 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80: Invite for a Meal

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Once the mess was cleaned up, Duan Tingxuan proceeded to subtly grill Duan Xinqu about the earlier matter. This little sister of his told her tale most enthusiastically, her little face animated and her story line clear. The little marquis listened and watched, feeling very moved by her liveliness. Thanks to his wife''s quick witted kindness, this once weak and cowardly sister of his had bloomed into a vivacious creature.

    He was still feeling thankful when Xiang Yun came in, followed by a young maid with swollen cheeks. The unknown maid immediately knelt at the sight of Duan Tingxuan.

    Xian Yun exined, "Mistress said that master had once remarked upon theck of servants in Chun Feng Court. This one is called Xing''er, she used to work for the branchdy, but as she was unable to get along with those people''s way of thinking we might as well have her work here. We beg for master and second master''s understanding, it would be bad to have a maid who could not go along with existing servants and disturb branchdy''s eyes. Please don''t think that our Missy was being overbearing, this is all for seconddy''s sake. If a servant doesn''t match well with their master, they could be easily angered¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan waved at her words, "Fine, fine, your mistress is too good with her words. Even her servants follow in her footsteps. Since the branch housedy doesn''t like her, and your mistress thinks she could get along with that maid let her stay. If things don''t work out, we can always sell her off."

    Xing''er immediately kowtowed in thanks. Xiang Yun smiled and led her away, leaving Duan Tingxuan frowning.

    Before long, a wonderful fragrance drifted out. Hong Lian came to the living room to invite them to the dining hall. Duan Xinqu smiled, "Sister Hong Lian, what wonderful thing did sister-inw made this time? The smell is so fragrant and irresistible, almost like chive stuffed dumplings, but not quite."

    "We do have chive stuffing, but it''s not dumplings. Young miss will know soon as you enter. This maid will not spoil the surprise for you." Hong Lianughed lightly as she led the them into into the dining hall. On the table were four hot dishes and two cold dishes, in the middle of the round table was a huge tter of something golden and freshly fried. There was also a huge bowl of vermicelli soup topped with tofu and bok choi.

    Duan Xinqu smiled, "As expected of sister-inw. What are these bright golden things here? Surely you haven''t fried the chives?"

    Su Nuan Nuan warmly bade everyone to sit, pulling Duan Xinqu over to sit next to her. Her quick chopsticks snagged one of the golden things, plopping it into Duan Xinqu''s bowl. With a smile, she said, "Naturally, we can''t fry chives, these are stuffed eggnts."

    She was still exining when the little marquis howled, "Delicious! Delicious! Sss, Nuan Nuan, what''s this whatever thing? It''s so delicious, it''s even more delicious than stuffed chive dumplings, ssss." Clearly the little marquis was too impatient to wait for the eggnts to cool down and was now hissing like a tea kettle.

    Duan Tingfang still haven''t reached out with with his chopsticks yet. He was too busy staring at this normally dignified and restrained elder brother transforming into a this devourer monster who shouted out every little feeling into the world like amonbourer. This young and tender third young master once more suffered another shock to the heart. He looked over at Su Nuan Nuan, and thought: It''s one thing for elder sister-inw to have change so much after her near death experience, but, the way eldest brother and second sister change along with her is nothing short of magical. Surely even a fox spirit couldn''t do such an incredible job?

    "Slow down, you. n.o.body ispeting with you for the food. And what''s all this shouting and screaming? Isn''t it just too shameful, ah?" Su Nuan Nuan threw a thin handkerchief at Duan Tingxuan, who ignored it to s.n.a.t.c.hed up another stuffed eggnt.

    He smiled, and said, "Who said no one ispeting with me? There''s you and now second sister and third brother. Aren''t these mypet.i.tors? Luckily that greedy cat is currently out ofmission, otherwise that thing alone will swallow ten of these. I''ve told you to restrain yourself when feeding that thing. It''s all meat and fish and sausages and ham all day, everyday. No wonder it turned into a fatty in just a few days. Humph, very good, even a dignified, hard working heir like me never had it so well. Isn''t it unfair for a cat who never did any work or made any contribution to the house topete over food with me?"

    Clearly the little marquis was still harbouring some semnce of envy and grievances against Zhao Chai. Duan Tingfang and Duan Xinqu were nearly shocked silly by this remark. Su Nuan Nuan cut through the silly atmosphere, "Right, right, everyone eat quickly. Your brother is like a starving wolf, anything that he likes will disappear in seconds so be quick about it."

    As if to prove her right, Duan Tingxuan swallowed another stuffed eggnt whole. Suddenly, his head popped up and he struck his the bowl with his chopstick, "We haven''t sent any to mother and grandmother."

    A dangerous smiled appeared on Su Nuan Nuan''s lips, she pointed at the greedy, rascally man with her chopsticks, nearly stabbing him in the mouth, "Just focus on eating. I you have the brain s.p.a.ce to think about others, you may give your portion as filial consideration. I am not a G.o.ddess, I can''t create stuffed eggnts from thin air.

    We need stuffing, eggnts, and other ingredients. Though the recipe is not asbour intensive as dumplings we still need actual ingredients. We can only send whatever is left on the table to them."

    Duan Tingxuan immediately smiled, "It''s been such a hard week for my wife. I will be free the next two days, if you have anybour intensive jobs need doing, I will bepletely at your disposal."

    "That''s better." Su Nuan Nuan harrumphed. She turned to Duan Xinqu and asked, "Is it good?"

    "Very delicious." Second miss nodded enthusiastically, her head bobbing like a pecking chicken. "Sister-inw, please teach me how to make this, I want to learn from you."

    "This thing is called stuffed eggnt. The most important part is the stuffing, the ingredients are simple, minced pork, chives and table salt only. No other seasoning is needed, or you will destroy the fresh taste of chives and pork. Thickly cut the eggnts, then make a slit on the side, make sure you don''t slice it through and put the stuffing here. Roll the eggnts thickly in flour, you have to make sure it''s thickly covered in flour before frying them to get this golden colour."

    Su Nuan Nuan held nothing back as she casually handed over the recipe to Duan Xinqu, who listened raptly.

    After lunch, Duan Tingfang and Duan Xinqu made their excuses. Su Nuan Nuan wanted an afternoon nap, and did not stop them. At the door, she said to Duan Xinqu, "We''re short of time today, so didn''t make a lot of the stuffed eggnts. Aside from old madam, we didn''t send any to anyone else. Not even elder madam. I''ll make more tonight, and send some to your mother as thanks for those lovely shoes."

    Duan Tingfang was expressionless, "I dare not, the shoes are concubine mother''s return gift for you, if you grant us something else she''ll be troubled."

    "We''re all one family, and it''s just a bit of side dish, what''s to trouble over?" Su Nuan Nuan looked over at Duan Tingfang and frowned. "Third brother, your entric manner of speaking will one day get you beaten up. Lucky for you I''m much more good natured than before, otherwise there''s no way I''ll ever let you cross my doorway again. Now, I hear you are a schr. When at school be sure to speak modestly and with care so as not to be targeted. Do you expect your brother to bail you out when something happen? The one who will it the loss in the end will be you."

    Duan Tingfang''s cold and gloomy expression disappeared in a sh. Though he dearly liked to argue back, he really didn''t know where to begin. In a few blinks, he had lost his opportunity to speak up since Su Nuan Nuan was already striding away.

    At this point, Duan Xinqu quickly and discreetly tugged her brother away. Third young master fairly oozes with icy gloom and directed a half hearted re at his sister. "Just what right did your sister-inw has to call me entric? Just how am I entric? And how dare she calls herself good natured? Would a good natured person storm up to someone''s ce and and beat up their servants over a cat? If she''s good natured, then elder madam and Madam Min are Guanyin. Humph, no self awareness at all."

    He had just finished his angry speech when a light sparkle ofughter reached his ears, Duan Tingfang looked at his sister with disbelief, "You, you, what are youughing at? Is it funny to see your brother mistreated like this?"

    Duan Xinqu immediately swallowed herughter, but her eyes were like crescent moons as she said, "I just discovered that my dear elder brother looks quite good when he lost his temper." When Duan Tingfang rolled his eyes at her remark, she continued, "If elder brother really thinks that he''s being mistreated, I wish for brother to be bullied like this everyday and not suffer elder madam and Madam Min''s Buddha like kindness."

    Duan Tingfang still felt wronged, "I, I was just making aparison. How could I not know that elder madam looked down on us, or that Madam Min hates that she could not stomp us into the earth."

    "That''s right," Duan Xinqu sped her hand behind her back, her fair cheeks, smooth as an egg, raised up to admire the sunlight filtering through swaying leaves overhead and said quietly, "Elder madam has her reasons. Madam Min is the most hypocritical, one moment treating us like worms that had just crawled out from the mud, and then shedding crocodile tears over our plight next. Brother, don''t you think elder sister-inw''s words are refreshingly frank? I like the way she speaks.

    I even like the way she reprimands you. It''s not like what she said is wrong, ah. Didn''t concubine mother adviced you to make friends in school so that you may have a better future? You''ll have to depend on friends once you start making your way in the future. I know that you have one or two so-called friends, but even I can tell that they are merely sticking to you for your connections as the marquis'' son. Surely you know this too, could it be that you''re happy to call these people friends?"

    "Enough." Duan Tingfang''s face was pale, his voice curt. Duan Xinqu wisely stayed silent, she thought, this brother of mine had always been sensitive. In the past, she had not dared to give voice to her concerns even as it pained her heart. Under sister-inw''s influence, she had finally gathered the courage to open her little mouth. Enough was said for now, her brother had nurtured this att.i.tude of his for 18 years as the b.a.s.t.a.r.d son of the marquis, it would take time to change things. The fact that he was willing toe to sister-inw''s ce was good enough.

    After a short, tensed silence, Duan Xinqu waved her little hand quickly, dispelling the gloomy atmosphere, "Fine, fine, fine, please stop that. Come to think of it, don''t you think eldest brother treated you very well today?"

    "Still want to talk." Duan Tingfang levelled a menacing eye at his sister. When it looked like his sister had finally ceased to answer back, he gave a cold harrumph and marched home. However, his brain never stopped whirring: Eldest brother said he will gift me a good ink stone. Whether it will happen or not remains to be seen. It''s entirely possible that it''s just a great heir''s careless remark, to be forgotten as soon as it was uttered. Duan Tingfang, ah, Duan Tingfang, it''s just an ink stone. Do you really think it really meant anything? [Gumihou: Poor Duan Tingfang, he must have been burnt too many times. I want to cuddle him]

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 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81: Rare Tender Moment

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Let''s leave the two siblings to their own thoughts for now and focus on Spring Breeze Court[1]. Su Nuan Nuan was currently standing in the middle of the room, her eyes cast in shadows as Duan Tingxuan swayed back and forth in his rocking chair. The man''s eyes blinked slowly, clearly about to fall asleep. Finally, she turned away from thezing wolf and made for the couch. Su Nuan Nuan had just made herselffortable on the couch and closed her eyes when Duan Tingxuan''s voice drawled, "I see why you like that couch so much. That''s a very good ce for a nap. From the way the curtains dance, this lord could tell that there''s a good breeze there. That ces catches the most sun as well, making it the warmest ce during the cold season. You sure know how to enjoy yourself."

    "Your chair still has the best fengshui." Su Nuan Nuan huffed coldly. Sure this shameless beast was not about to s.n.a.t.c.h her best location, right?

    Duan Tingxuanughed, "I can feel you thinking low brow thoughts again. Be at ease, this lord is just making a pa.s.sing remark. I have no intention of usurping you from your best fengshui location. Your delight with that couch just reminded me of something. There is a good white tiger skin in the warehouse, it was a gift from the emperor during ourst hunting season. He actually gave me two sets of tiger skin, but mother likes the yellow skin better, whereas grandmother declined the skins, which is why I still have the white one on hand. Take it if you like."

    "Want me to spread a tiger skin out during summer? What, am I afraid of the cold now?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes. Luckily this idiot was not born in modern times, otherwise he''d probably gve women with yellow chrysanthemums[2].

    "You can bring it out during autumn or winter. Who ask you to take it out now?" Duan Tingxuan remarked lightly as he closed his eyes. "And that Xing''er girl, I can tell that she''s not the docile type. Now that you''ve taken her in, are you sure she won''t provoke your temper?"

    Su Nuan Nuan blithely waved this concern away, "What''s to provoke? So what if that girl is not the ttering, spineless type? As long as she gets the job done and not betray me, it''s all fine."

    Duan Tingxuan said, "I know your personality well. Your Spring Breeze Court is too rxed. That Xing''er will definitely take advantage of your habit of giggling andughing with your maids and climb over your head one day. She has a proud streak and has gone through several masters. I''m worried that yourx att.i.tude will only encourage her to rebel one day."

    "I don''t believe she''s that kind of person. Don''t worry about it. I have my own ways dealing with the maids. As you''ve said, I can get rid of herter if she really annoys meter."

    At Su Nuan Nuan''s dismissive remark, Duan Tingxuan smiled, "Since it''s like this, I shall not say anything else. It''s just a friendly warning from my side anyway. Though you do not disy the dignity of a mistress, I can see that your four maids get along quite harmoniously together. Though this outsider might still turned out to be a dark cloud in your paradise."

    "Enough. Are you saying that Ick the ability to control even a single maid?" Su Nuan Nuan turned her back to him. "Can''t you just shut up and let me sleep now? Also, didn''t you say you''ve busied yourself a whole day and night already? Still not tired?"

    Duan Tingxuan wisely kept silent. In contrast, Su Nuan Nuan was suddenly reminded of his abrupt departure and could not resist asking, "Hey, what''s with the business from before? And who''s that Lord Long person?"

    "You''re the one who told me to shut up, and here you are bringing up a new topic." Duan Tingxuanughed cheerfully as Su Nuan Nuan humped coldly. "Fine, fine, I''ll shut up. Rest now, you have to fry some more Stuffed Eggntter." After that he subsided. Nothing else was heard in the room except for the even breathing of the people in the room.

    Duan Tingxuan was not at all sleepy. He sat in his rocking chair, staring dazedly at his wife''s chest as it rose and fell with each breath. Her waist was slim, her silhouette feminine and graceful. After a few minutes, he approached the couch and was about to lean over to look at his wife''s sleeping face when she muttered, "It''s going to get hotter soon, we should make ice-cream. We must have cream for that."

    The little marquisughed silently to himself. After a while he sat on the couch, and slowlyy down next to Su Nuan Nuan. Though the couch was not wide, the little marquis utilized his qing gong ability to keep the top half of his body on the couch even as most of his legs dangled off the furniture.

    Footsteps was heard outside, who knew which of the maids had poked her head in, before swiftly withdrawing. After all, how long has it been since the master and mistress hadid next to each other without strife or loathing? This was a rare tender moment and peace that must be preserved. Duan Tingxuan basked in the peace and quiet, letting the stress and exhaustion of the past day and night ease out of him as he slowly drifted to sleep.

    Some timeter, who knows how much timeter, a loud piercing scream shocked Duan Tingxuan awake. Completely forgetting his precarious position on the couch, a swift kick from Su Nuan Nuan sent him to the floor.

    "You. What are you doing on my couch?" Su Nuan Nuan snapped through gritted teeth. Herrge round eyes narrowed into a shrewish gaze as she red down at the little marquis. The eyes matched well with the shapely eyebrows, thought Duan Tingxuan, very cute. In fact, it was so cute that the fire that had burst into existence at being literally kicked off the couch immediately extinguished. He climbed to his feet, saying in a befuddled manner, "You''re right, ah. Why was I on the couch? How curious. I''ve clearly fallen asleep at the chair, ah. Just what is going on?"

    Duan Tingxuan even have the cheek to rub his head and turn a slow circle in front of her. Su Nuan Nuan sneered at this poor performance, "Still want to act, humph, think properly now. Why are you at my ce?"

    "Nuan Nuan, don''t be too excessive. We are husband and wife, so what if I share a couch with you?" The little marquis was getting angry: What husband could only look and not eat his wife? Not only did he not get to eat, he had just beenying next to her, he didn''t even take a nibble! Su Nuan Nuan''s att.i.tude was just too much, too much, ah¡­

    "So what?" Su Nuan Nuan leaned her elbow against the arm of the couch. She sneered, "I was about to fry up some stuffed eggnt, but now¡­"

    "I was sleepwalking! Surely¡­ surely you know this, ba? I have this habit since young." Duan Tingxuan yelled out. No choice, no choice, he had to bow down and obey the mistress of the house. There just wasn''t enough Stuffed Eggnts during lunch, and none left for dinner. This was not the time to test this tigress'' patience.

    "That''s more like it." Su Nuan Nuan knew that she could not let Duan Tingxuan off easy for sleeping next to her. She knew very well that in this patriarchal world, there was no way she could prevent him from forcing her if he wanted to. How unfair, ah! Therefore she had to be forceful and not give an inch, else she''ll be pressed into an unfortunate situation.

    She stood up and stretched, and was about to leave the room when Hong Lian''s cheerful voice drifted over, "What is dear sister Qiu Ling doing here?"

    Su Nuan Nuan did not wait to hear Qiu Ling''s reply before sticking her head out the window and called out, "What is it? Old madam just had Stuffed Eggnts for lunch, surely she hasn''t sent you here for snacks? Can her belly take all this food?" [Gumihou: Ahh, the way to a grandmother-inw''s heart¡­] [1] Spring Breeze Court ¨C I''ve decided to change it from Ching Feng Court to Spring Breeze Court

    [2] Yellow chrysanthemums ¨C a symbol of neglected love or sorrow

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 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82: Mutual Anger

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Qiu Ling looked up at the voice, when she saw Duan Tingxuan in the room she did note into the house. Instead, she smiled and said, "As madam guessed, but isn''t this a little rude to old madam? As though the only thing she had in mind is food."

    "Oh? Are you saying I''m wrong?" Su Nuan Nuan frowned, before smiling. "Ah, maybe I was just being sensitive. What is Qiu Ling here for?"

    "Eh¡­" Qiu Ling''s face flushed red as she muttered, "Old madam said that the Stuffed Eggnts were not bad. She had nned to leave some for dinner, but then who would have thought that a few of the little masters turned up for a visit. Naturally, old madam wouldn''t hide good things from her great-grandsons, right? Therefore¡­ hehe, surely big madam understands?"

    "In the end, isn''t it about food?" Su Nuan Nuan muttered. Still, she smiled and said, "Understand, of course I understand. Be at ease, old madam shall have a whole tray of fried Stuffed Eggnt, as well as a tray of Hawthorn Cakes[1]."

    Qiu Ling smiled, "As expected, big madam is very filial. After eating greasy fried food, having some sweet and sour Hawthorn Cake is the best." with this, she left them quite happily. Duan Tingxuan remarked, "Luckily I behave sensibly and did not offend you earlier. Even grandmother can''t live without your food now. Su Nuan Nuan, right now as long as you y your cards right, you can stick your hands out and open the heavens."

    "Is that so?" Su Nuan Nuan gave a little heheugh. "Since my lord says so, then I shall not fail to live up to your expectations. Xiang Yun, go to the kitchens and bring two women from there to be my a.s.sistant."

    "What is the meaning of this?"

    Duan Tingxuan was a little surprised. As he understood it, Su Nuan Nuan was not someone who just simply say things for no reason. Just what was she nning now? Surely she was not really going to stick her hand out and open the heavens, right? Was she nning to flood the marquis pce?

    "Nothing, nothing, no special meaning. It''s about the previous marquis, but, well, now that I think about it, perhaps it''s best not to trouble you about it. You''re a busy man after all, how could I bother you over inner court matter. It''s not something you should get involved in." Su Nuan Nuan said mildly. Duan Tingxuan finally understood, this was actually a counter attack. While it might not necessary bring a flood of trouble into the marquis house, this was an indication that Su Nuan Nuan was slowly getting more involved with inner court politics.

    "My thanks to dear wife for thinking of me. However, what brought this warm consideration into being?" Duan Tingxuan said.

    Su Nuan Nuan said gloomily, "It''s not a warm consideration, it''s a sudden realization. Whatever, there''s no need for you to bother me. Hurry up and leave, go take a stroll or something."

    "What''s with this sudden change? I know every de of gra.s.s and every tree in this ce, there''s no need for me to go strolling." The little marquis had no intention of leaving this ce. However, his wife''s phoenix eyes shed coldly. With a sneer she said, "Don''t think I don''t know your real reason for staying here. You just want to steal my food."

    "Fine, fine, fine, I''m leaving. I have something to speak to father about anyway." Duan Tingxuan knew that the number of fried Stuffed Eggnt required was quite a lot, and that his wife would be quite tired from all the work and decided that now was not the best time to press his views.

    "No matter what, big madam really went overboard this time. Madam Min is not someone who could take a loss easily. Do you really think that branchdy would leave matters alone just like that? Though daughter-inw understands that big madam is in the right this time¡­ only¡­ does mother-inw think that Madam Min would report the whole story properly to the Lord Marquis? This one is concerned that she would embellish the story andy the me at our lord''s feet."

    At Madam Yang''s ce, Xu Ran Yun had made special effort pay her filial greetings in the afternoon. Without bothering to beat about the bush, she summarized Su Nuan Nuan''s cat issue with just a few words. When Madam Yang''s reply was a mild, "I see." she realized that something was not right. She knew that grandmother-inw and Liu Min had not gotten along for many years. Now that Su Nuan Nuan had acted out so overbearingly, grandmother-inw would most probably back that woman up. After a while she grew agitated again, and began to re-a.n.a.lyse everything once more.

    A crease finally appeared between Madam Yang''s brows. After a while, she sighed , "Whatever, what can we do about it? Let her say whatever she likes. Do you think if Nuan Nuan is not around she won''t say anything? However, you''re not wrong, Nuan Nuan should have thought things through properly. I''ll ask Xuan''er to reprimand her."

    Xu Ran Yun thought, you want the lord to reprimand her? In the end who reprimands who remains to be seen. Only, from the way Madam Yang spoke, she knew that it would be obvious if she were to embellish the story. Perhaps it would be better to drop the subject. She bowed and made to leave when she spotted Madam Yang''s personal maid trotting up the hallway, Mu Dan. She quickly and discreetly grabbed the maid aside and whispered, "The smoothie I sent yesterday, how did elder madam find it?"

    Mu Dan smiled, "She liked it very much, ah. She said that there was not much difference between the one big madam made and knew Madam Yun put a lot of effort into it. Considering your housekeeping duties, the fact that you would trouble yourself so really touched her heart."

    Only then did Xu Ran Yun''s mood turned for the better. With a smile, she nodded, "What''s all this talk about trouble? This is nothing, elder madam''s happiness is of the utmost importance." With that, she gleefully left her mother-inw''s courtyard. Heheh! At least she had managed to please elder madam''s heart. Su Meng Nuan, you think that just because you know a few recipes you could buy people''s heart? Humph! Too short sighted. Right now the kitchen is all staffed by my people, whatever tricks you pull, I can match it too. Once good food is aplenty, there''s no reason for the lord to cling to you alone. Who wants to forever be stepped on just for a few morsels of food, ah!

    The more she thought, the happier she became. When she got back to Autumn Rain Pavilion, Cui Bing, one of her maids rushed over to whisper, "Madam, the kitchen just sent a message over. They said big madam wanted two servants to help her fry Stuffed Eggnts. Surname Qin knows your aim and sent two quick witted maids over to help. This way we can steal all of big madam''s skills without expanding any of our own effort."

    Xu Ran Yun hehe-d, "Looks like this Qin is pretty tactful, I''m d to see she did not waste her promotion. She had always been a sharp one, unlike that stupid Ms. Xue who ended up as abourer at theundry house." She was feeling very pleased with herself as she sailed into her living room. She bade her maids to bring in the good tea and settled down to wait for good news. Xu Ran Yun only sat up from herzy sprawl when several female servants in charge of housekeeping came in and stood in a line before her. Xu Ran Yun sat erect and proper in her chair facing the row of house maids with their bent waist and lowered eyes. When n.o.body said anything, she inquired mildly, "It''s almost sunset now, if you have anything to say spit it out. What''s so important that you have to bother me at this time?"

    One of the housekeepers, surname Chang, smiled ingratiatingly up at her, "With respect, when the master found an excuse to cast out Liu San, the poor man spent a whole day trying to drink his problems away and had his leg broken due to a carriage running over his foot. The physician said he''ll probably gome from this injury. His wife came and knelt in before of this servant and cried the whole afternoon begging this servant plead leniency with madam. They begged to remain in the mansion and were willing to take up any odd jobs as madam saw fit. This servant took pity on them and only dared to plead their case knowing madam''s merciful heart, and how old madam and elder madam often fast to show their sincerity to great merciful Buddha."

    Liu San was that scheming servant who lined his pockets by selling those bad make-up products to the servants and less favoured family members. Which was why Duan Tingxuan had cast him out. Now that she thought about it, this matter had its roots with Su Nuan Nuan. Naturally, Xu Ran Yun did not want to go against her husband, moreover, that Liu San acted on his own. However, when she thought of Su Nuan Nuan, a fire ignited in her heart. She said indifferently, "Oh, if it''s like that, clearly we cannot be too merciful. When his injuries have healed and could walk without pain, ask hime to the manager''s room and have him do some minor odd jobs to learn the ropes. However, if he does anything to embarra.s.s me, I shall not hesitate to throw him out."

    Surname Chang immediately gushed her thanks with many bows and ttering words. Xu Ran Yun allowed her to go on a bit before saying, "Now that he''s injured, isn''t it difficult for him to make a living? I understand his wife is with theundry house. That job is tiring and earned very little. Whatever, take her with you and make sure to train her properly. Give her some simple duties first, and let her¡­"

    She hadn''t managed to finish her speech when Cui Bing appeared suddenly. Xu Ran Yun had sent this maid of hers to investigate the Su Nuan Nuan situation, and the expression on the maid''s face made here heart go ''thump''. Without waiting for a proper greeting, she bade Cui Bing in and asked, "What happened?"

    Cui Bing looked left, then right, and the rest of the servants took the hint to back out of the room. When they were alone, she said indignantly, "Madam, big madam threw a huge tantrum at Spring Breeze Court[2]. She imed hat the servants sent by the kitchen werezy and foolish and demanded them to sent Ms. Xue over, but when they told her that Ms. Xue no longer work in the kitchen, big madam grew angrier and dumped flour onto the floor, dering that she refuses to cook."

    Xu Ran Yun shot up, anger turning her face red as she gritted her teeth, "What is she trying to do? Want to challenge me? Hehe! Who does she think she is?"

    Cui Bing sighed, clearly this mistress of hers hadn''t caught on to the actual situation. In a low voice, she reminded her, "Madam, of course we all know who and what kind of person she is. She''s not a cook, she''s the big madam, however¡­ right now old madam cannot seem to live without her cooking."

    "And so she dares to challenge me?" Xu Ran Yun sneered. "She already stormed the branch house and now wants to handle us as well? In the future, is she going to use the same method against everyone who goes against her? Hehe! What kind of ce did she think the marquis mansion is? There are rules here, rules specially created to curb unruly behaviour like this.

    No matter how unreasonable she acts, the kitchen is still under mymand and I refuse to let that Xue woman back in. What is she going to do about it? If the lord is too greedy to maintain his face, let him tell me so himself. I wish to see just how low this lord heir will stoop."

    "Madam, surely this is unnecessary? Just for sake of the kitchen head¡­"

    Cui Bing knew that her mistress was really p.i.s.sed off. From where she stood, she could clearly perceive that her mistress was making a mountain out of a molehill. She was about to advice her when Xu Ran Yun said sharply, "Enough from you. I want to see just how the wind blows in this wretched mansion. It''s already weird enough when no one seems to care when she picked a fight with the branch house over a dirty cat. Right now I want to see just how her cooking had bought over the people in this mansion.

    Are the people in the mansion really going to side against me just because of her cooking skills? If that''s the case I don''t want to care about the mansion business anymore. If I have to go through the big madam over every little thing in the mansion, is there any meaning to being her puppet?"

    When Bing Cui heard this, she knew that Xu Ran Yun had had enough. It''s not like her mistress'' arguments were unreasonable. Without a word, she backed out of the room. [1] Hawthorn Cake ¨C É½é«¸â

    [2] I''ve decided to use Spring Breeze Court instead of Chun Feng Court [Gumihou: Ohohohoho¡­ though I feel somewhat sad for this cannon fodder, we really can''t have drama without anyone volunteering their necks for sacrifice.]

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 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83: Put Forward Your Ideas

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    The moment Cui Bing came out of her mistress'' rooms, the female servants stopped their gossiping. As female servants in charge of general housekeeping, what gossip escape their ears? The moment Cui Bing disappeared into the room, they''ve already sent in secret spies to find out what had ckened their mistress'' mood. It''s always important to know your master''s moods, ah!

    When Xu Ran Yun noticed how much more respectful the bows from the female servants were, she knew that these people were of the same heart as her. They were all people in the same boat, fighting against those from from Spring Breeze Court. If Ms. Xue really returned to the kitchens, the respect and acknowledgement she had fought so hard for these past few months would plunge a thousand feet. She could not help but gritted her teeth, thinking: I don''t believe it, I can''t believe it. Even if the senior madams knew that I had deliberately nitpicked Ms. Xue''s work and sent her away, surely they would still allow me to keep my face? Would they really take that woman''s side? Impossible, impossible, not the elder madam!

    With these thoughts upying her, she could not bring herself to rest peacefully. Since there was nothing urgent for the female housekeepers to do, she sent them away and retreated into her room to pace nervously as she waited for news.

    In the end, she waited in vain. No news came that day. Xu Ran Yun was too anxious to sleep and woke up with a headache. She had to struggle to put herself together into some semnce of dignity before setting out for her daily greeting at Madam Yang''s ce. When she arrived at her mother-inw''s ce, Xue Zhi Lan and Concubine Jing were already there. Thedies were allughing and chatting with each other most cheerfully.

    For a moment, cold sweat popped out of Madam Yun''s skin and she shivered: How could she be so reckless as to lose her cool that day? She could have just waited a little longer, waited for that woman to show more of her hand before acting, right? Right now, by acting so obviously against that woman, hadn''t she just put herself in a Crane vs Crab Battle[1]? With Xue Zhn set to be the ultimate winner of this struggle?

    While Xue Zhi Lan and Xu Ran Yun paid their filial respect to Madam Yang, Duan Tingxuan was currently advising Su Nuan Nuan on her campaign. If these two poor secondary wives knew what was going on, they would probably cried themselves to bits in the toilet.

    "Naturally, I am not out to conquer anyone. I just felt that Ms. Xue had been unfairly treated just because she was a.s.sociated with me. This just isn''t right. If I were to repress my feelings over this matter, who knows what kind of tricks Madam Yun might pull in the future. Would she bully my personal maids next? Furthermore, just because I regrly send food to them, these madam wives of yours now saw me as the resident cook."

    Thus was Su Nuan Nuan''s counter against Duan Tingxuan''s suggestion to ''Conquer Old Madam Fang through her stomach'' at the breakfast table. She was not at all impressed by thisme idea. She had no intention of climbing the slippery social pole of harem politics nor did she want to conquer or coerce people. On the other hand, how could she willingly swallow true injustice? So, the mansion kitchen intended to pay mere lip service, is it? Very well, she will just put a stop to all her cooking. Thisdy is the heir''s wife and not your d.a.m.n cook. Thisdy gave you her food out of a sense ofradeship and familial ties, I am not obligated to give you food.

    "I know you have no intention of coercing people. However, others don''t know this. Right now, everyone in the mansion has their eyes on you. The moment Ms. Xue re-enters the kitchen, Xu Ran Yun would lose a lot of face. There is no way she could continue to manage the house after that. Furthermore, if old madam were to show favour to you over a mere kitchen hand, wouldn''t people use her of being a glutton and lose face? Even if everyone knows that Ms. Xue had been unfairly treated over her good rtionship with you, she still cannot overtly favour you just like that."

    Duan Tingxuan did his best to exin everything thoroughly before swallowing a mouthful of milk. Next, he reached for a fruit pastry and stuffed the thing whole in his mouth.

    Su Nuan Nuan continued to think as she ate. Without something like a [System] to guide or train her, there was only Duan Tingxuan to advice her. To be honest, what the man said was true. Her way of thinking had been absurdly simple. With a mulish expression, she said, "Surely you already knew about this? Why didn''t you say something earlier?"

    Another mouthful of milk went down his throat before Duan Tingxuan gave a little heheugh, and said, "Actually, this problem is not that hard to deal with. I have a feeling that the old madam too had been waiting for this opportunity."

    "Well, what should do I do?" Su Nuan Nuan had a bad premonition. As expected, Duan Tingxuan spread out his hands and smiled, "It''s really simple. Why did grandmother, mother and I did not say anything when the Xue thing happened? That''s because Xu Ran Yun is the person in charge of housekeeping. No matter what, we still have to give face to the chair if not the person sitting on it. Once she no longer has a say on household matter, things will be different. Naturally, Ms. Xue will have a better chance of getting back into the kitchen."

    "You¡­ what are you trying to say?" Su Nuan Nuan said challengingly, whole heartedly hoping that Duan Tingxuan was not suggesting what she thought he was suggesting.

    "Do you really need to ask?" Duan Tingxuan had no intention of letting Su Nuan Nuan wriggle out of this. He deliberately looked towards the hills and said, "If you are willing to look after the household duties, what could Xu Ran Yun do? It is your right as the heir''s wife after all."

    As expected.

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed. She cast a sarcastic look at Duan Tingxuan, "My lord is certainly merciless, ah. That day you dump me in Mei Yue Lou, you handed housekeeping duties to Madam Yun. Now, for the sake of my cooking, you wrench that power away from her¡­"

    Duan Tingxuan shook his head with a smile, "You sure like to cast me in the role of a good for nothing. Do you really think that I''d really hand over control of the house to you over food?"

    "Are you saying you''re not?" scepticism was thick on Su Nuan Nuan''s face. Just because that Xu Ran Yun was a bad egg, it''s not like her reputation was any better.

    Duan Tingxuan looked at Su Nuan Nuan with amus.e.m.e.nt, "Nuan Nuan, I do believed that you have be quite interesting after your near brush with death. You''ve gone against quite a lot ofmon sense practices, your casual treatment of the maids is one such prime examples. Not to mention your treatment of me."

    "Don''t change the subject." An ominous thump resounded in Su Nuan Nuan''s chest. She sighed deeply. She also knew that she could notpletely avoid the social obligations of this society. As Duan Tingxuan said, this was the type of thing that could not be changed no matter what. Now that he had a hold of her weakness, the best she could do is mitigate the damage.

    "I''m not changing the subject." the little marquis muttered under his breath as Su Nuan Nuan stared at him suspicious eyes. For a moment, nothing could be heard within the house.

    After a long while, Duan Tingxuan looked up and said sternly, "Nuan Nuan, you know that heaven granted men the right to have three wives and four concubines, right? Even if it is not a right granted by the G.o.ds, thews and customs have been in existence for years, has it not? As for women, it is their duty to obey Confucius'' Law for Women, to honour the three men in her life (Father, husband and son) and to faithfully follow the four virtues of women (physical charm, proper speech, needle work and housekeeping)?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was tempted to scream no, no, no, h.e.l.l no you dog s.h.i.t. Men and women are supposed to be equal. Why is it that men could have three wives and four concubines while women had to obey three men and keep four virtues?

    She could only swallow all her words down. Far from being stupid, she knew that these kind of earth shattering words could not be casually blurted out. Once they''re said, never mind a crafty fox like Duan Tingxuan, even an average vige idiot would know view her as an evil spirit. Her transmigration status was a secret that she had to defend to death. Time, blood and tears of previous transmigrators had shown her that revealing her secret is folly, it is the one thing she must never divulge. [1] Crane vs Crab Battle ¨C A battle where both party suffer significant losses

    [Gumihou: Er, Duan Tingxuan already realized that she was not the original goods though¡­]

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 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84: Scammed to Death

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    In the end, Su Nuan Nuan could only bite her lip and said nothing. Leaving Duan Tingxuan to continue, "Ever since you, Ran Yun, Zhi Lan and Jing''er married me, you of all people should know deep in your heart how I treated each of you. I freely admit to being a l.u.s.ty romantic who loves a beautiful woman. As soon as a beauty crossed my path, I could not repress the desire to possess her. However, it''s been two years since I have had all of you, and with the Imperial Court keeping me busy, I did my best to curb this bad habit of mine and haven''t added to my harem."

    "Then, I shall thank my lord for his loyalty."

    Su Nuan Nuan still sounded quite sarcastic. However, Duan Tingxuan did not mind, instead he said, "I am really fond of all of my lovely wives, including you, my earliest darling. Though I dare not dere myself in love, as love is faithful, constant and unwavering in loyalty, all things I am not. However, the moment I brought any of you into my house, I was determined to treat you all well. However, the future is uncertain, the moment the woman I chose entered my house they somehow differ from the first impression. Therefore, Nuan Nuan, it''s not like I cast you out to Mei Yue Lou to perish because I became bored of you.

    Today as well, I did not intent to curry favour with you and ruin Xu Ran Yun''s future. In the end, I only took action when you crossed certain lines. In the past, Nuan Nuan, you must admit that you were proud, arrogant, and too excessive with your spending. Though I am far from stingy, there was no way I could sustain your extravagance. That was the start of the time we gradually grew apart. Other reasons began to crop up, and I eventually lost my feelings for you. I suspect you might have been disappointed in me as well. If not for that fateful evening at Mei Yue Lou, I''m afraid we might really grow old without meeting one another."

    "What fateful meeting are you talking about?" Su Nuan Nuan was really confused now, she definitely didn''t have any impression of whatever nonsensical meeting, ah.

    "The Leek Dumplings." Duan Tingxuan''s voice held a grain of bitterness within them, clearly he was still holding a grudge over how much he''d suffered for so few of them.

    "You sure like to remember your food." Su Nuan Nuan had no words. Naturally she remembered the event. That fateful evening was the first time she encountered this Duan Tingxuan character.

    "As for Ran Yun and Zhi Lan, it was during the time when we drifted apart that they treated me especially well. Which was why I grew closer to them. Moreover, ever since Ran Yun took up the household responsibility, her natural talent for organisation slowly revealed itself, to the point that she could influence mother to visit Mei Yue Lou in person. However, the way she had removed Ms. Xue over petty reasons showed just how narrow minded she was. This kind of petty maniptive behaviour showed hercked the ability to managed a household justly. As for gentle Zhi Lan, she was just too gentle and agreeable, that kind of att.i.tude would not suit a proper manager. If this gentle characteristic was actually faked, it brought up all kinds of other problems. I definitely can''t trust such an aplished actress as household manager, can''t I?"

    What a sneaky fox. Even these beauties can''t befuddle his brain. His self awareness was almost creepy, was this really intellectual intelligence or animal instinct?

    Su Nuan Nuan resisted the urge to spit out her opinion, and continued to listen as Duan Tingxuan continued, "As for Concubine Jiang, she came as part of Ran Yun''s dowry and therefore perfectly devoted to Ran Yun. It was for Chuan''er''s sake that I closed one eye against their shady business. As long as no major crimes ismitted, I am prepared to let things go, now however¡­" at this, he shook his head and smiled.

    He went on softly, "Jing''er grew up in a brothel and saw too many schemes and in fightings tost her a life time. In her own words, if not for her looks which drew money like a honey drew flies, she would have died in a ditch long ago. She is very proud and considered such underhanded schemes beneath her. Though I brought her in as my concubine, she never develop much feelings for me, nor did she consider herself a rival for my affections."

    "Surely not? Even a lofty and aplished little marquis like yourself could not touch Concubine Jing''s heart? Are you joking with me?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was not being sarcastic right now, she was truly shocked by this revtion. Duan Tingxuan smiled self deprecatingly, "Why are you so surprised? Even the most beautiful and elegant man could not snag the hearts of all women around him. Moreover, I am far from the best man in the world. Not only Jing''er, even the you now hold me in disdain, do you not?"

    "My heart has turned to dust from ghastly disappointments and would not beat for any man, including you." Su Nuan Nuan humph coldly, once more having to reiterate her position on the matter.

    Duan Tingxuan already knew that she would say something like that and continued after a sigh, "You are only disappointed by me, Jing''er had most probably been disappointed by all men in the world."

    "Are you sure? Didn''t she grew up in a brothel?" Su Nuan Nuan was curious now, after the words escaped her mouth did she realized how gossipy she sounded. How could she be so nosy over such a serious matter. She''s such a ninny!

    "It''s true that she grew up in a brothel, however, ording to her, from the moment she understood the world, she knew that she was destined to hold out her arms to a thousand men and feared for her future. Since then, she had always paid close attention to her surroundings and kept looking for a way out of this dead end life. She was able to press on for ten years in the brothel, selling all her skills, her smiles and her voice for money, somehow managing to keep her chast.i.ty thanks to this conviction. All in the name of making enough money to redeem herself. However, no matter how much money she made, she could not get the amount needed. Though there were many men who wished to redeem her, she refused, knowing their reason for redeeming her."

    "Surely it''s because those men were inferior goods, right? If an outstanding man like a certain little marquis, graceful, confident and easy on the eyes were to appear, I trust Concubine Jing would have jumped ship early on." Su Nuan Nuan sneered, only to catch a condescending re from her husband. "Did I just not say that Jing''er had given up on all men? How could I stand out among those men as a man? Do you really think there were no outstanding men trying to bid for her?"

    "Then how did she fall into your sticky hands?" Su Nuan Nuan was even more intrigued, to the point that she hardly noticed that Duan Tingxuan had sat down next to her.

    "That''s because¡­ ahem, your husband has developed a bit of a reputation in the capital." Duan Tingxuan coughed a little shame facedly. "Word has it that I worship Jing''er as a celestial being, and spent a great deal of money to redeem her for her golden presence. In truth, I had only met her once, and that was when Second Prince dragged me to the brothel."

    "So you went to the brothel with the second prince? Then, how did Concubine Jing fall into your hands?" Su Nuan Nuan looked at Duan Tingxuan with suspicion. "Are you trying to say that second prince is made of wood, and not the fun kind?"

    "Heheh! He might as well be made of wood. The only thing he l.u.s.ted after are books. You think he went to the brothel for carnal delights? Nonsense! He''s just there to collect data on brothels. That man is in the middle of making a book of records for all the things he sees and hears. Only, he was still self conscious about going to that ce alone which was how I was dragged into it. It was a terribly tedious experience, which was why I introduced him to another friend. That guy is also incredibly intelligent and a.n.a.lytical, though he was not some high minded schr, his worldly experience was great and the two had a fine time together collecting data andpiling their little book of experiences. That friendship is still going strong now, and second prince have yet to disturb me after a whole year."

    "So the prince likes the new and hates the old?"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s nose for gossip scented another interesting subject. Luckily the little marquis was able to maintain his cool and gently steered the subject back on track with a mild, "That day we met up with Jing''er and spent the evening chatting and drinking together. We were about to leave, Jing''er suddenly knelt before me and implored me to redeem her, saying things like ''If you don''t redeem me there is only death in my future.'' That¡­ ahem, well, you should know this as well. If a great beauty were to suddenly beg you for favours with tears in her eyes¡­ moreover, I could tell that she was truly desperate, so how could I harden my heart against her?

    In the end, I moved half content of my personal warehouse to redeem her. The total was 20,000 liangs of silver, ah. It''s¡­ I cried tears of blood that fateful day, I only managed to revive the fortunes of that warehouse recently¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s face turned ‡å‡å. 20,000 liangs of silver? What kind of fictional historical China was she in that such an expensive flower exist? Author? Where are you author? Do you actually know your ancient money denomination? Even a fictional world should not be so exaggerated. Didn''t you previously mentioned that 1,000 liang of silver could support the lives of several tens of families for three or four years, ah. [Comment from Ben Jiu (Not sure who this is): Silly woman, the lovely Miss Jing is a beauty akin to an immortal, ah. In Europe didn''t someone wage war with a country for ten years over a woman called Helen? What''s 20,000 liangs of silver?]

    "I guess, since Concubine Jing is really beautiful, 20,000 liangs of silver is¡­ not a loss." Su Nuan Nuan said, even as she tried to calcte just how much ingredients she could buy with this kind of money. The final conclusion was¡­ how could this be a loss? It''s a scam, ah. Did that brothel have the emperor as a backer? How daring of them to scam Duan Tingxuan.

    "Heheh!" Duan Tingxuan let out another stiffugh. "How could it not be a loss, it''s a great loss for me! Nuan Nuan, let me tell you something. It''s something I''ve said before but you refused to believe me, perhaps you''ll believe me now. Jing''er has entered the family for over two years now, she and I¡­ we¡­ the times we, ah¡­ ahem, could be counted on one hand."

    "Pu!" Su Nuan Nuan spat, though she had no tea in her mouth, several drops of saliva sprayed from her lips: This¡­ this sc.u.mmy male was the type who like to get his own way¡­ surely this scam was a little too excessive? No, this was beyond the word ''scam'' this was cheating people to death, ah.

    "Go ahead andugh, make fun of my misery." Duan Tingxuan had no need to save his face. If this had been in the past, the little marquis would not have let this information leave his lips on the pain of death. Now, for some reason he felt much closer and more intimate with Su Nuan Nuan. So what was a man''s face when it came to the closest and dearest? The most important matter now was to slowly reduce those sharp thorns in Nuan Nuan''s heart. [Gumihou: ¡­. hahaha, this chapter is hrious.]

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 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85: Alternate Interpretation to a Cold Dish

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Duan Tingxuan spread out his hands helplessly, "I don''t know either. However, I did get the feeling that she had not interest in those kind of activities. Or rather, it made her anxious, perhaps the time she spent at the brothel created a deep trauma against such kinds of activities. To the point that she had developed a fear against it."

    "That''s entirely possible. I heard that childhood trauma could haunt a person for life. Concubine Jing must have feared such acts ever since she knew about it¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan trailed off as she frowned, wait a second, there''s something wrong with this picture. Why was she agreeing with this g male? And why were they sitting so close together?

    "What are you doing?" Su Nuan Nuan snapped. Duan Tingxuan, who was about to scoot even closer, shifted direction.

    "Aih! I''ve really gotten old. I''m no longer as suave as before. How shameful it is to be discovered even before I reached my goal, ah." Duan Tingxuan sighed dramatically. Now that he had been discovered, he could only sit properly and not sneak into his wife''s personal s.p.a.ce.

    "Enough with your dramatics. What you''re saying is that I have to take over the household responsibilities in order to return Ms. Xue to the kitchens? That if I don''t take over the household responsibilities, Ms. Xue can''t return to the kitchens?"

    "That is so." Duan Tingxuan nodded gravely. "Also, I do believe that old madam would be very happy if you to take over as the head of housekeeping. The olddy is someone who values rules a lot, and it is only right that the official wife of the heir should be responsible for the household."

    "There you go again, what''s it to you whether rules are being kept or not? I don''t see the old madam bothering you about it." Su Nuan Nuan''s lips curled. "I don''t wish to manage this household, but I still want Ms. Xue back into the kitchen. What do you say to that?"

    "A cold dish."

    "And what''s that supposed to mean?"

    "It means there are no other ways."

    "Really no other way?"

    "Really no other way."

    "What if I want you to think of a way?"

    "Unfortunately, I''m still a man not a G.o.d."

    "If you can''t think of a way you''re a pig not a man."

    "Then I shall be a pig. A pig''s life is good. I can eat and sleep my fill and not worry about life, ah."

    "Wrong, a pig can only eat pig slop. The food I make are meant for people."

    "En! What''s a cold dish anyway? As long as you serve me delicious cold meats and vegetables, this lord will think up one or two perfect solutions for you."

    After a series of verbal cross swords, the little marquis once again raised the white g in the face of delicious food. He sighed inwardly, Su Nuan Nuan was getting harder and harder to fool. As long as she has her culinary skills, it was like she had my b.a.l.l.s in her hand. Who would have thought that in my prime I would be stepped on by my wife. If this information were to leak out, who would believe, ah?

    "That''s more like it, as expected, my lord is most considerate of me." Since the little marquis had finally given in, Su Nuan Nuan could afford to be benevolent. She granted the man a charming smile, "Well, what shall it be? Something you haven''t had before. Something you''ll definitely like."

    "It''s a deal. Also, if you give us a kiss, I can live with one dish less." Duan Tingxuan thickened his face and pursed his lips, trying to pull his wife closer.

    "No need. In fact, if you scram now, I''ll serve you an extra dish everyday." Su Nuan Nuan pushed the g man off, and stepped aside for good measure.

    "That''s fine, the current number of dishes is good." Duan Tingxuanughed heartily. At his wife''s re, he coughed and said, "Actually, since I''ve said so much, you should have picked up something by now. Though Lan''er is not suitable for housekeeping duties, Jing''er, for all her pride and arrogance is actually quite capable. More importantly, she and Ran Yun are both quite ambitious and desired power. However, while Jing''er wants power for protection, Ran Yun wants power for its own sake and p.r.o.ne to use said it as a tool for inner court struggle."

    "So you''re saying that I should entice Concubine Jing over to my side?" Su Nuan Nuan suddenly saw the light.

    ck lines suddenly appeared on Duan Tingxuan''s forehead, "What are you talking about? What entice her over? You''re the official wife, isn''t right that she should a.s.sist you as the concubine?"

    Su Nuan Nuan stayed silent, how could she have forgotten that Duan Tingxuan was a man of ancient China? A man deep-rooted in social .s.s system? On the other hand, she could well believe that Duan Tingxuan was using this opportunity to make use of the very expensive beauty he had redeemed, but only bedded a few times as some sort of revenge against Concubine Jing.

    Whatever, who cares what the real reason was. This g male''s suggestion was still the most reliable. In the end, she still had to be reasonable, right? This mansion was b.l.o.o.d.y huge. If she didn''t want to take over the household responsibilities, refused to find someone to take over, but still expect the old madam to help her p Xu Ran Yun''s face¡­ this kind of arrogant behaviour was not something a foodie should have, ah.

    With Su Nuan Nuan deep in contemtion, Duan Tingxuan took the opportunity to quickly vacuum up all the leftover snacks on the tes and swallowed everything down with two gulps of milk. Next, he quietly swept all the leftover crumbs together and sneakily inhaled it with the help of more milk. Before Su Nuan Nuan could discover what he had done, he stood up and dered, "I have some business outside. I shall leave first. You go ahead and think about things properly before deciding what to do."

    Speech done, he disappeared like smoke. Su Nuan Nuan narrowed her eyes at Duan Tingxuan''s disappearing back. Humph, even if he really did have something to do outside, surely there was no need to run away like an escaped wolf, right? When she turned to reach for a snack, she encountered nothing but empty tes. She clearly remembered there was still 3 or 4 pieces of Sichuan Pepper Salt[1] Pastries left, why was it all empty now?

    A short momentter, a powerful scream rattled the windows, "Duan Tingxuan you food thief! Rat! Stinky fox! Disgraceful thing! Are you trying to p.i.s.s me off?"

    "Madam, the lord and old madam both appeared unexpectedly firm. Big madam also lost her temper, but still Ms. Xue was not sent back to the kitchens. Looks like she has met her limitations." Feng Xian smirked as she fawn over Xu Ran Yun.

    Finally, a smile appeared on her mistress'' face after a long restless night, Xu Ran Yun waved a round fan andughed, "Old madam and the lord both liked big madam, however there are limits to their affections. How could they have forgotten the disaster she had wrought few years ago when she had been in charge of the household? And that horrible att.i.tude of hers, who could trust a tigress like that? To be honest, it''s not like I or the branchdy were terribly good at housekeeping. I''m sure there were plenty of things we overlooked. However, no matter what we still did a better job than her, heheh!"

    Feng Xianughed too, "Madam is too modest. However, now that things are like this, surely big madam should understand that she cannot depend a bit of cooking skills to stir up trouble. It looks like her influence will diminish from now on."

    Xu Ran Yun sneered, "I like to see her go on making trouble like this. That kind of violent behaviour might attract the lord now, but we''ll see how long he enjoys being treated like this before kicking her back to Mei Yue Lou. With the main building all burnt up, they can still huddle together in a shack somewhere against wind and rain. She''s a strong one after all. I''m sure she can survive off what wild vegetable and rats they kept there."

    The more she spoke, the better her mood became, until Xu Ran Yun finallyughed out loud. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps was heard from outside and a low ranking maid appeared. In a small voice, the maid reported, "Madam, this maid just came from the outside. This maid had just seen big madam making her way towards Madam Lan''s ce." [1] Sichuan Pepper Salt ¨C A special blend of salt consisting of sichuan pepper or huajiao and salt

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 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86: Hit Off at First Sight

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    "Xue Zhi Lan?"

    Xu Ran Yun''s voice went high pitched as she copsed into her chair. "What did she want Xue Zhi Lan for?"

    Feng Xian also grew agitated as she muttered, "Big madam used to have a good rtionship with Madam Lan. Since Madam Lan had always lowered her head in front of big madam, that woman had gone over to join hands with her? Especially now that she knows that she can''t win against you alone. Madam, this is not good, ah."

    Xu Ran Yun was also growing agitated, however, she stiffened her spine and said, "I don''t believe it. Xue Zhi Lan have always shown a warm and gentle face tothe people around her. The lord made me the household manager because of her weak impression. Even if she want that woman to manage the house, the lord would never agree. Moreover, if she really wanted to cause trouble, why didn''t she just shoulder the housekeeping responsibilities herself? Why would she pull Xue Zhi Lan over?"

    "Madam also mentioned this before, the way big madam did things was unclean, which was why even old madam was hesitant to support her, ah. If she manage to pull Madam Lan to support her, elder madam and old madam might not be able to stand firm against her." Feng Xian continued to prattle on tteringly to Xu Ran Yun, doing her best to a.n.a.lyse the situation to the most agreeable view for her mistress.

    The more they discuss, the more anxious Xu Ran Yun became. Finally, she said in a firm voice, "You go and check out what''s happening at Autumn Cloud Pavilion. See what kind of movement big madam and Madam Lan are making and report to me."

    After speaking to Feng Xuan, she turned to a lower ranking maid and said, "You may leave off normal work for the moment. Right now, I want you to make contact with the people within the mansion. Did you not have plenty of sisters in working in different ranks? Think of a way to infiltrate Autumn Cloud Pavilion. As long as you bring me some useful news, this madam shall reward you. Go now."

    The lower ranking maid immediately agreed and left for Autumn Cloud Pavilion. Just as she arrived, she encountered a girl called Qiao''er with whom she was quite friendly with. When the girl saw her, she hailed, "Mei''er, what are you doing here? How are you so free now?"

    Mei''er smiled back, "Our ce is really leisurely. Aside from heating up water, I don''t have much else to do. It gives me time to stroll about, but what about yourself?" as she spoke, she went up to the maid, casting a wary eye at the pearled curtain of the main house. trying to decide if it was safe to speak here. It''s entirely possible that someone might be listening in on them.

    "How could I dare topare? Did I not just prepared the bird food for today? Now that you''re here, let''s have a little chat." Qiao''er said as she approached a small collection of birdcages next to a fountain. It was time to change their water.

    This could not have gone better than Mei''er had antic.i.p.ated. With her ears peeled, she listened to the other maid''s chatter. Unfortunately, she was unable to gain any useful information and eventually grew confused. Could it be that big madam and Madam Lan never said anything to each other when they met up? Or were they speaking in riddles? Could it be possible they knew that I wasing?

    After awhile, she heard a surprised ''Yi?'' from Qiao''er, "Why is big madam there?"

    "Here? Where?"

    Mei''er gasped and looked towards the direction Qiao''er was gazing at, and saw Su Nuan Nuan walking out of a side room with Concubine Jing. Both of them were leisurely strolling towards the inner court, causing her to gape. Since when did those two get together? Could it be that big madam was here to see Concubine Jing instead of Madam Lan?

    In a rush, Mei''er said, "Oh, I just remembered I need to find Little Yu for something. She should be at the inner court now, right? I''ll go see her now." Without waiting for Qiao''er to reply, she quickly rushed towards down the corridor. As she left, Qiao''er sneered, but did not expose her as she continued to water the birds.

    "If madam wishes to make use of the rose petals, the season is quitete for them. Beginning of spring is the best time for roses. That''s when their fragrance is the best, however, if you want to make tea, syrup of rose, soup or rouge, these are still quite good."

    The Autumn Cloud Pavilion garden was Concubine Jing''s favourite. It was filled with nts, flowers and herbs of all kinds, a gentle breeze would bring a cloud of fragrance over to the front of the house. In fact, the moment Su Nuan Nuan stepped into this sea of flowers, she immediately fell in love. As she studied the rose vines covered in colourful roses, she bobbed her head agreeably, "These are very nice, I can make Fresh Flower Pastries from them."

    "Fresh Flower Pastries?" Concubine Jing smiled, "I keep hearing about madam''s culinary skill. Old madam never cease praising the snacks you made, and now you wish to make new ones? I must say, though I have eaten snacks decorated with fresh petals, this is the first time I hear of Fresh Flower Pastries."

    Su Nuan Nuan grinned, "Naturally we can''t just roll up some fresh flowers in dough and bake them as is. It''s quite time consuming. I''ll let you have some when I''ve made them." As she spoke, her eyes travelled over the rose vines over towards st.u.r.dier rose bushes with mixed feelings. Time and s.p.a.ce seemed to warped as she unconsciously walked towards the rose bushes, they reminded her of thest time she had walked among such flowers before.

    "Does madam likes these wild roses?"

    Concubine Jing watched as she leaned forward to sniff deeply at the wild roses. With a smile, she said, "These flowers are everywhere. When I first nted them, Madam Lan said they were not fit for the refined halls of this mansion. However, I do love their subtle fragrance. Their beauty are the kind that inspire pity rather than awe, moreover, these are the type with thorns. Though many admired the flowers I have here, everyone tended to ignore these. So, why have madam taken a liking to them?"

    "What fit for elegant halls? Are things that fit elegant halls all good things?" Su Nuan Nuan sighed deeply. Her fine hands stroked the familiar looking petals gently, "I used to have these in my previous home. Though they did not inspire much feelings then; the sight of them now make me yearn for something dear to me."

    The roses that Concubine Jing spoke of were the ones that Su Nuan Nuan had grown up with in her past life. Though she never knew their scientific name, they were always Th.o.r.n.y Rose to her. The fragrance was simr to the Damask rose[1]. Because they were a wild type, they flowered all year long and needed little care. Which made them popr with regr gardeners. Nearly every house in her street had a few of these in their front garden. However, due to theirmoner status, most aristocratic families despised them.

    The reason why Concubine Jing nt them here was probably because it reminded her of hermoner roots. When the beauty spoke of their thorns, Su Nuan Nuan felt she could somehow understand her feelings. These thorns were like the cloak of pride she had wrapped herself in order to keep others away. Like a Th.o.r.n.y Rose, she stood erect and proud, aware that she could be snap down at any time.

    Concubine Jing was someone who loved flowers. Su Nuan Nuan''s love for flowers in her past life was so great that she took up flower arrangement courses, researching all kinds of flowers and gra.s.ses ardently to understand them. Her original motive to investigate Concubine Jing was forgotten the moment she found their mutual love for flowers. The more they talk about flowers, the better they got along. Their conversation peaked when they reached the topic of ikebana and flower arranging.

    Finally Concubine Jing called for her personal maid, Zhu Xiu, "Go to my room and bring me the Beauty''s Vase over."

    As Zhu Xiu ran off, Concubine Jing smiled, "From what I hear, madam is a great expert in this area. Would it be possible for this lowly one to widen her horizon at madam''s ce?"

    "Of course, ah." Su Nuan Nuan happily agreed. Though she was a foodie, one can''t spend all day eating and cooking. Even a foodie should have some other hobby, right? Since Concubine Jing already offered, she happily invited her over topare notes.

    Zhu Dan quickly came back with the Beauty''s Vase. Su Nuan Nuan saw that this maid was quite a pretty one, she''s certainly prettier than most other maids she had seen in the mansion. Her liveliness gave her a certain unconscious charm too. Su Nuan Nuan thought she understood, this must be Concubine Jing''s maid while she was still at the brothel. Well, it made sense. That stupid amount of money to redeem one person was too ridiculous. Having a buy one free one, or even buy one free two situation was much fairer.

    The two studied the vases and then looked closely at the oceans of flowers around them. Each of them going after a particr flower that caught their eyes. Even then, it was still a cooperative effort with Su Nuan Nuan saying earnestly, "Little sister, you''re paying too much attention to flowers. For a more bnce effect, you must also include leaves, gra.s.ses and little branches. For example, these Baby''s Breath, I see none in your basket. Perhaps they are too in in your eyes, but for a greater impact you must have them as side characters so that your main flowers looked better¡­"

    Concubine Jing nodded at the instructions, she was filled with high spirits as she said, "Madam is right, it does look better this way. This one shall instruct people to fetch me more seeds soon. Would madam please have a look and see if there are any nts we''recking. Let me know and this one shall nt them immediately. This one has very little skill, but is still good at gardening."

    "Since that is so, let''s find a time to visit Mei Yue Lou. The lord has already sent people to tten the grounds there. There should be about 20 or 30 mu (1/15 hectare per mu) ofnd there. I n to have arge portion converted into a hothouse. Aside from vegetables, let''s nt flowers and gra.s.ses there. That way we can feast our stomach and senses, right? It''s not a waste of we can strike two birds with one stone."

    Concubine Jing grew happy at Su Nuan Nuan''s words. She nodded, "This one thanks madam. This one has heard that thend has been properly ttened two days ago and had gone over for a look. It really is a good ce. However, when this one heard that madam wishes to nt vegetables, this one dared not say anything. However, since you have spoken it yourself, this one is shall do her very best¡­"

    As the two chatted, their hands moved along, putting flowers and gra.s.ses together. Suddenly, a cheerful voice interrupted, "Yo~, what is big madam and little sister Jing chatting about so happily? Do include me too."

    The twodies turned, and saw Xue Zhi Lan approached. In her light coloured clothing, she looked like a flower amongst the sea of flowers. When a breeze blew, it was like the flowers were bowing down to their deity. Su Nuan Nuan stood up from where she was crouching by a vase and smiled, "Though you wish to listen, I''m afraid we have finished speaking. Could it be that our chattering has disturbed you? And wished to give us a talking to?"

    It was rare for Xue Zhi Lan to see Su Nuan Nuan speak so casually. For a stunned moment, she did not know what to say. Then, with an ingratiatingugh, she said, "Madam''s words are too heavy. How could this one think such things? I heard the maids say you''re looking for Sister Jing and dared note for fear of disturbing your business. This one nned to wait until the business is over before approaching. However, since this one did not see youe out of the garden, this one begin to feel anxious and went to investigate."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled at Concubine Jing, "You hear her? Clearly she wants me to leave. Don''t tell me the two of you have some secret ns together? Am I being a bother?"

    Xue Zhi Lan immediately came forward and grasped Su Nuan Nuan''s arm. "Madam really wronged this one. This one looks forward to your arrival, yet never saw you. Now that you''re here please don''t leave. These days I''ve eaten a lot of your things, let this one prepare some small snacks from my kitchen to serve you for lunch. Though it could not bepared to the style of and vour of your cooking, to this one''s estimation it''s still edible. Would madam please grant this favour."

    Her affectionate and humble approached shocked Concubine Jiang. Hey, while that woman had fawned over big madam in the past due to her violent temper, social status and connection with the Duke of Ping, didn''t she immediately abandoned her deferential att.i.tude the moment Duke of Ping lost power?

    Even when big madam moved back into the inner court, I don''t see you fawning over her. Why are you doing it now? [Gumihou: I''m¡­ kind of scared of Xue Zhi Lan¡­] [1] Damask Rose ¨C one the most ancient strain of roses

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 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87: Life is Like a Field of Snow

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    Though she had no idea what Xue Zhi Lan was thinking, Su Nuan Nuan could faintly guess the reason for this weird att.i.tude. Or, perhaps it was as that fox Duan Tingxuan guessed, this Madam Lan was not weak at all, and that deferential att.i.tude was all an act. With Su Nuan Nuan and Xu Ran Yun b.u.t.ting heads over Ms. Xue, she must have decided to throw her lot with big madam. Otherwise, there''s really no reason for her to warm at this point.

    As she was pondering over this, Xue Zhi Lan also started to feel awkward. Though her face did not show her feelings, she gave off a littleugh, "How could I¡­"

    Before she could finish, aughter cut her off from a distance, "That''s right, how could Lan''er even think about showing her skill in front of Nuan Nuan. This is such a rare chance, we should all try and get her to make something for us."

    The three women turned to see Duan Tingxuane striding in. The man was dressed in light green men''s long gown made of silk. He looked especially graceful with his good looks and confident air, like a tall bamboo in a sea of flowers.

    After waving their greetings to the lord, Xue Zhi Lan smiled at Su Nuan Nuan, "This shade of green is rather difficult to wear. However, our lord look especially good in it. The heavens do love him, is it something madam made for him?"

    Su Nuan Nuan shook her head, "Most likely made by Concubine Jiang. Didn''t someone say her feminine arts are exceptional? As for me, cooking just about covered all I can do. How can you expect to make clothes? Even having three heads and six arms won''t help me."

    Concubine Jing lowered her head to cover her smile as Xue Zhi Lanughed, "How nice, though Concubine Jiang is good with her hands, only the lord could receive such wonderfully made clothes." At that, she turned towards Concubine Jing. "Sister, I thought that you have a good pair of eyes, why do I never see you praise our lord? If our lord goes to your ce more often, I''d bask in some reflected glory too, don''t you think so?"

    Concubine Jing smiled wordlessly. Su Nuan Nuan could see that Duan Tingxuan''s presence brought her no pleasure. It was more like having an unwanted friend dropping by without a warning. Looks like this g male was right, this woman really have no good feelings for men. Even an outstanding specimen like Duan Tingxuan could not move her. Heaven, ah, she''s not a lesbian, right? I live so close to her, would I be in danger, ah?

    After considering matter for a bit, she dismissed this as pointless fears. Clearly her rtionship with Concubine Jing was a pure kind of friendship. As she pondered over this, Duan Tingxuan finally reached them. He nced at the two vases with bright eyes andughed, "Looks like Jing''er is practising her practice flower arranging again? The empress really liked thest arrangement you sent over. How about you give me this pair? The empress will surely be happy to receive them. If the empress rewards me, I''ll be sure to split it evenly with you."

    Concubine Jing smiled, "The lord really knows how to tease this one. This one could show her filial piety this way. How could this one expect to expect rewards? Also, these flowers are not arrange by this one alone. One is done by big madam, I find that it has a fresher appearance than my own. If my lord wished to take them, my lord must ask big madam for it."

    Duan Tingxuan looked at Su Nuan Nuan with some surprise. Heughed, "You are certainly multi-talented. Well? Surely you''re not going to begrudge me a vase of flowers?"

    Su Nuan Nuanughed, "Are you going to leave it alone if I begrudge it? Enough with your nonsense. The flowers are arranged by me, yes. However, the vase and flowers belong to Sister Jing. Take it if you want, but you must send her a few nice vases aspensation. Also, make another hot house at Mei Yue Lou. Sister Jing and I already talked about it, she wants flowers, I want vegetables, the benefits are clear."

    Sister Jing?

    Duan Tingxuan nearly choked on his own saliva. Didn''t Su Nuan Nuan used to hate Jing''er the most? When did they get so close? Also, sister? Wu! I know, this was like that famous saying ''Birds of a Feather Flocks Together''. They must have bonded over the fact that they despised me.

    For a short moment, the little marquis felt that life was as lonely as a scarecrow in the middle of a field of snow. Luckily, when he looked away from the twodies, he caught Xue Zhi Lan gazing yearningly at him. His heart stabilized a bit at the sight. He thought bitterly: Clearly Lan''er has feelings for me, but I still wanted to embarra.s.s myself at Nuan Nuan''s feet. Turns out I am no different from other men, a miserable wretch.

    Whatever, let''s just go ahead and be a miserable wretch, ba.

    With this resolved, the little marquis heaved a long sigh. It''s not like he could really fight against this, even if the fault was not on his head he knew that there was no way he could persuade them otherwise. Since he knew there was no point to it, why should he waste his time? A little smile curved his lips.

    With the vases of flowers put away, the little group made their way to Autumn Cloud Pavilion. Xue Zhi Lan naturally refused to let go of this opportunity to ingratiate herself. Duan Tingxuan was also concerned about allowing Su Nuan Nuan to just wonder into Concubine Jing''s ce. That would be too unreasonable. They all made their way towards a small seating area, and after some light chat, Xue Zhi Lan bade the people to bring forth the dishes.

    Naturally, Su Nuan Nuan wouldn''t really enter the kitchen here. For the official wife to cook for a second wife and concubine was too unreasonable, something against heaven''sw or something. Having Duan Tingxuan pester her to cook was one thing, it''s quite another to make her cook for those with much lower social status. Finally, everyone ate whatever was sent over by the kitchens. Since the kitchen hands knew that Duan Tingxuan was there, the food was prepared with extra care. The four of them were unexpectedly confronted with an extremely full table.

    Xue Zhi Lan bade a maid to bring in a jar of wine, which Su Nuan Nuan had no intention of drinking. However, when she heard that it was chrysanthemum wine, she graciously epted a cup. Then, she spent her time picking through the food with a frown. Duan Tingxuan said, "Who''s in charge of the kitchen now? Why is the food here getting worse each day? It''s still somewhat edible two days ago."

    Xue Zhi Lan''s heart skipped a beat and she flicked a nce at Su Nuan Nuan. Concubine Jing spoked up, "I too feel that the vour has worsen. The lotus root soup I had two days ago was not quite as mushy or overcooked, perhaps there''s some unexpected changes at the kitchen?"

    Concubine Jing never did like to partic.i.p.ate in the political games of the inner mansions. Moreover, as a brothel bride and concubine, she had nothing to back her up aside from her looks, which was why Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zhi Lan never did bother her much as they did not see her as a threat. Even if Duan Tingxuan paid her more attention, she was still a mere brothel girl. Thus, herments were something straight from the heart, and was meant to be treated as nothing more that idle chit chat. She might not even be aware of the Ms. Xue and Xu Ran Yun kitchen drama.

    On the other hand, Xue Zhi Lan could not be more sensitive about this matter. She kept a subtle eye at Su Nuan Nuan, who onlymented, "How could the food not get worse? The original kitchen head, Ms. Xue, was modest, studious and interested in self improvement. She learns whatever recipes I gave her with only a couple of hints to guide her. Even old madam praised her sh Cook Eel & Shrimp Noodle, though it was not quite like my own, she could recreate whatever I taught her up to 3 quarters close in taste. Here I was, thinking I could catch a break from kitchen work when would you believe it? That Madam Yun suddenly transferred her to theundry house. With such a sudden change in staff, what could they do but make all the old dishes from before? And made them badly too." [Gumihou: Ouch, ouch. Who else felt the burn?]

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88: A Frightening Omen

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The moment the words were spoken, Xue Zhi Lan understood: When big madam threw a fit at Spring Breeze Court, no one took noticed. Ms. Xue was not able to return and nothing changed. Therefore, she escted. The people in the mansion thought that she had been cowed by theck of response and dared not do anything. Heheh, Xue Zhi Lan really wanted to inform these ignorant people: You''re too naive, too naive, ah! You think big madam would just throw in the towel like that? Just wait.

    But, why had shee over to look up Concubine Jing for? There was no way Concubine Jing could support her, whether through money or connections. Could it be that she was here purely for fresh flowers for her Fresh Flower Pastries[1]? This was actually entirely possible. The flowers under Concubine Jing''s care were the best after all. More importantly, Concubine Jing was practically worthless as an ally. So what if she''s beautiful? The lord was never infatuated with her, so her looks were useless.

    Xue Zhi Lan considered this carefully. The meal today was not too good, which meant there were a lot leftover. Before leaving, Su Nuan Nuan once again pulled Concubine Jing aside to speak to her, inviting her toe over to Spring Breeze Court for a chat whenever she had the time. This kind of talk was extremely intimate, even Duan Tingxuan felt a little envious of their close proximity.

    "Even if you wish to ''rope'' Concubine Jing over, surely there''s no need to utilize such effort?" Duan Tingxuan said sourly as they made their way back to Spring Breeze Court.

    "This one has her own consideration." Su Nuan Nuan shed him a re. "And what''s all this about roping her in? I just find that we hit off really well, we have so much inmon that we might as well be kindred spirits. That kind of intimacy cannot be faked, it alles from the bottom of the heart."

    "How is that useful to you? As the official wife, to say that you share kindred spirit with a mere concubine? If anyone found out, you''d lose face, ah. Moreover, don''t say I didn''t warn you. Though Jing''er is not high born, she has the arrogance of a queen. You might find yourself frustrated from sticking your face at a cold behind[2]."

    The little marquis wasted no effort to ''incite disharmony''. Though it was a man''s desire to have his wives and concubines to get along with each other, he felt somewhat uneasy about seeing those two together: How could Nuan Nuan be like this? I did my best to scheme and conspire for her sake, the only thing I have in my heart and eyes are her. To think that she would treat a mere concubine so well and still give me the cold shoulder. This is called biased, ah. It''s prejudice, ah.

    "Wei, do you still want your face? You''re jealous just because I''ve spoke a few more words to Concubine Jing?" Su Nuan Nuan squinted her eyes at the scoundrel. She had no time to deal with this man''s nonsense.

    With his secret heart seen through so easily, the little marquis flew into a humiliated rage. He''d already put up an uncaring, to think that he was unable to escape his wife''s palm even with this performance. He switched expressions, this time going for disdainful, "Tcheh! Who''s jealous? Me? Jealous of you? Heheh, how strange your brain works. I was only concerned over you wasting your affections on an undeserving person andin at meter."

    "There''s no need for you to be concerned. Little Sister Jiang and I got along like a house on fire. She dreads the very existence of men. As for me, ah, before you arrived, we were chatting quite cheerfully with each other. Problem only crop up when you appeared, you make her nervous¡­"

    "Su Meng Nuan!"

    Without waiting for her to finish, Duan Tingxuan suddenly howled. Su Nuan Nuan jumped, and stared at her husband''s red face, "You¡­ what do you want, ah? What the heck? Are¡­ are you possessed?"

    Duan Tingxuan''s face sank into deep gloom. His eyes nced over at the pa.s.sing maids and servants, grabbed Su Nuan Nuan by the arm and began to march them quickly towards Spring Breeze Court. The moment they entered the living room, he immediately threw Cong''er and Hua''er out before turning towards Su Nuan Nuan and said in a low voice, "You''re not allowed to visit Jing''er anymore. The two of you aren''t right together."

    "What''s not right?" Su Nuan Nuan asked: The person who got her to rope in Concubine Jing was this guy, now he was telling her not to go look for Concubine Jing. Just what is going on in his head?

    "I heard that among the imperial concubines, there were those who, for some reason or other, was unable to gain the emperor''s favour. These group ofdies who did not dare dally with imperial eunuchs had turned their affections towards their imperial sisters instead¡­" Duan Tingxuan said in a low voice.

    The more he spoke, the more fearful he became. This knowledge was a double edged sword. He had no idea how Su Nuan Nuan would react, but the more he thought of it, the more depressed he became. After all, Su Nuan Nuan had absolutely no interest in him at all, what does he have that could attract her? How would she react to the knowledge that she now has options?

    The little marquis had sunk into a self made delusion, he was seriously thinking about casting Concubine Jing into an outside residence. Perhaps he could send her to a different country. It took him a long time to nurture even a shred of good will in Su Nuan Nuan. He had been harbouring a secret hope to one day fix the shattered mirror that was their rtionship. What if he had just ruined his own chance by introducing his wife to his concubine? What''s the use of living anymore? He should just smash his head in with a tofu.

    "Are you talking about¡­ love between women?" Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t quite bring herself to believe what Duan Tingxuan was saying: Hey, this guy seemed to have some skill with novel writing. Is this man really that intelligent and super rational alpha male of An Ping heir? Just because she got along with his own concubine, this guy''s brain started to fart out ridiculous dog blood love plots?

    "Surely you haven''t fallen for her? Didn''t I tell you already, Jing''er has no interest in¡­" men, Duan Tingxuan was about to say ''men'', but the word evaporated in his mouth. His wife was not a stinky man. She was a gentle, warm, beautiful woman. Concubine Jing had suffered hardships ever since she was a child, for her to suddenly meet up with such a warm, wonderful and sincere person¡­ if Su Nuan Nuan were to hook her fingers a little, she would fall deeply, right? Right?

    After some more thinking, the little marquis'' mood actually worsened. He shook his head vigorously and blurted, "You know what, Jing''er never did like living in the mansion. It just so happens that our hot spring ce at Zhuang Zi is almostpleted, I think I''ll send Jing''er over to live there."

    "Wait, why Concubine Jing and not me?" Su Nuan Nuan felt that this Duan Tingxuan''s att.i.tude needed a whole research facility to understand: That Concubine Jing is like an immortal from a painting. To think that he would reject an immortal beauty for a tigress to cause trouble at home, just what was going on in his mind, ah?

    "Why should I send you out? So that you can fly over the sea and sky?" Duan Tingxuan stared at Su Nuan Nuan nkly for a moment, before grasping her by the arm. In a fierce, never heard of before voice, he said, "Don''t you even dare consider it, how could I let you get away from my side?"

    What''s all this snarling about? Is he being weird again? Could a scheming man with a belly full of nk water really be so emotional? Is he afraid that I will leave him? Is that why he''d rather send Concubine Jing away and not me¡­ wait, for real? He really fell for me? Wu! He probably just didn''t want the source of his good food to get away.

    "Really, if good food is all you want, Ms. Xue is actually really talented. I can transfer all my skills¡­" She knew she was ying with fire, but Su Nuan Nuan was feeling particrly daring and out of control now.

    "No matter how greedy I am, I wouldn''t actually get down to this level." Duan Tingxuan looked at Su Nuan Nuan with earnest eyes. "My favourable impression certainly came from the food, at first, but after all this time can you not tell? My love for you is different from my love for food. Even if you suddenly can''t cook anymore, I will still love you and wish to stay with you. Nuan Nuan, do you still remember my words? If one day I fell in love, really fell in love with you, I will care for you and pamper you and protect you, and slowly earn back your heart."

    As he spoke, he quietly stepped closer. By the time Su Nuan Nuan realised what was happening, they were so closed they were practically breathing the same air. She immediately panicked and pushed Duan Tingxuan aside. Shaking her head, she demanded, "So what if you love me? What happens to your other wives and concubines?"

    Duan Tingxuan puzzled over Su Nuan Nuan''s answer for a moment before understanding: His wife must havee from a culture with different societal rules. If people were to love one another, importance was not ced on a harmonious marriage, but a monogamous one. Though this was something that was unusual for his social status, if he could not fulfil this cultural baseline, she would never consider him as a partner.

    "I don''t know." Duan Tingxuan sighed. "If I had met you earlier. That is to say, if we had reconciled earlier¡­ perhaps, we might not encounter this issue."

    "Or perhaps, nothing changes." Su Nuan Nuan''s mouth quirked up briefly: She had enough of ying with fire. Let''s stop before this turned into a forest fire she can''t put out. Yes, let''s stomp out this small me first.

    "What do you mean nothing changes?" the little marquis looked at his wife curiously, and saw her rubbed her forehead with a sigh. "Ah, men. You all share the same inferior thinking. Oh! What I meant to say is that, this is fine. We don''t need to be husband and wife. We make reasonably good friends. Moreover, I can tell you this now, Concubine Jing and I might well be great friends in the future, but will not be that thing you fear most."

    "How could you be so sure?" Duan Tingxuan was depressed. "You don''t like me, Jing''er also dislikes me. The two of you got on like a house on fire, as for the future¡­ hump! Who could say?"

    "People of the same gender could also be good friends." Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes. "Like you now¡­ wu! Wait, let me see, it''s been more than half a month since you''ve visited Madam Lan or Madam Ran, right? Are you going to tell me that your options now is to either be a monk, or to get into a same s.e.x rtionship with the crown prince, or the fourth prince, or that second prince¡­"

    "How could I?!" Duan Tingxuan howled. Then, he spat. "Pei! Pei! Pei! This lord have been very busy these few days, and, what''s this about me bing a monk? Su Nuan Nuan, even if you hate me, there''s no need for you to curse me like this, ah."

    "Are you happy now? I''m just drawing aparison. If I want to curse you, I''ll have my expert do it." Su Nuan Nuan frowned. Luckily she had managed to distract him from a rather tricky topic. Lucky!

    "Expert?" the little marquis was suspicious.

    "Hong Lian, ah. Her crow''s beak is incredible. If it doesn''t work, don''t need to pay." Su Nuan Nuan dered, putting up her thumb, apparently very proud of her maid''s unusual ability. The little marquis'' face was so ck that it looked like a bunch of crows had shed their feathers over him.

    "Since it''s like this¡­" Duan Tingxuan once more found himself relieving some especially bitter memories. The unconcerned big madam had no interest in his tales of woe and quickly pull the topic back on point. "Anyway, I''m about as interested in women as you are interested in men."

    "Make sure you it is as you say, I''ll be keeping a close eye on you." Duan Tingxuan felt much more relieved with Su Nuan Nuan''s guarantee, but nevertheless still left her with a warning. [1] Fresh Flower Pastry ¨C Here''s a video of this incredible pastry is made. Very soothing¡­

    Fresh Flower Pastry

    https://.youtube/watch?v=b1d7galCVDE [2] Stick a warm face to a cold b.u.m ¨C Wasting one''s affections [Gumihou: Oh, Master Duan, care to think where you are sticking your warm face into? Or wish you''re sticking your face into anyway¡­]

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 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89: Enter the Pce

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    On the heated kang bed, Old Madam Fang sipped thest of her noodles and sighed.

    "Old Madam Fang''s palette is certainly amazing, just one taste and you realised it." Qiu Ling said with a smile as she spoon more soft tofu for her. "When this maid was at Spring Breeze Court, big madam was just preparing to enter the pce. When she saw this one, without waiting for me to say anything, she immediately told me fetch the noodles she had especially made for old madam.

    She regretted not sending more side dishes though she had nned to prepare noodles and side dishes for old madam, the lord marquis, elder madam and concubine Lin. The lord heir came back unexpectedly early with summons from the emperor. Therefore there was no choice but to leave quickly. Since there was not much made, naturally it was sent to old madam. Even the lord marquis did not have such luck. This maid quickly brought the noodles back before it became too plump and mushy to eat. If we were to wait until lunch time, the noodles won''t taste good anymore."

    The old madam leaned back with a satisfied sigh and gleefully said, "I thought that child would be angry at me and refused to send good dishes my way anymore. Who would have thought that child not only did not throw a fit, but still give me all kinds of good snacks to show her filial respect to me. Now that the kitchen situation was so unstable, I really don''t know how Su Nuan Nuan ns to resolve the situation. That''s right, do you know what the empress want with her?"

    Qiu Ling said, "ording to the master, her majesty''s appet.i.te had been rather poortely. It''s been a few days since herst proper meal, and thus Su Nuan Nuan was called to the pce to make something that might tempt her majesty."

    When Old Madam Fang heard about her daughter''s ill health, she put down her chopsticks and sighed, "Her majesty took after me, cursed with a body that fears the heat and likes the cold. However, I''ve never heard herin all these years, why now?"

    Qiu Ling smiled, "Old madam please be at ease, this one guessed that this year is special because we have a big madam in the house. The master himself must have suggested it."

    This reasoning made sense, Old Madam Fang immediately calmed down. Suddenly, she recalled something Qiu Ling had said, "That''s right, whenever you mention your big madam sent food out, you keep mentioning Concubine Lin''s name. Well? Are they very close?"

    Qiu Lingughed in response. "It''s not that she''s close to Concubine Lin, big madam is actually fairly close with the second young miss. Ever since second young miss started frequenting Spring Breeze Court, this maid heard that Concubine Lin herself had also visited twice. To be honest, ever since big madam returned, she treated them very well."

    Old Madam Fang had nothing to say to that. Concubine Lin used to be a her son''s concubine''s maid. She took advantage of Duan Ni''s drunken state to climb into his bed, which did not endear her to the family. Never mind that she had been sure that Lin had been incited by the concubine then. No one had bothered to confirm her suspicions, even Duan Ni saw this as a low point in his life and therefore rarely visited Concubine Lin. Who would have thought that this person''s belly would have the luck to bear two children. But, so what? Ever since that concubine died, this woman had turned into an invisible person due to her weak personality. Even the servants ignored her existence. If not for Su Nuan Nuan''s sudden change of heart, who knows what would have happened to these three mother and children.

    After some time, Old Madam Fang sighed again, "That child, though she''s a bit on the wild side, she has a kind heart. Wu! Has the branch house stop trying to make trouble for her?"

    Qiu Ling smiled, "After suffering such a loss, branchdy''s servants are naturally resentful, but none of them have the guts to retaliate. To be honest, they''re quite happy as long as big madam did not trouble them. Otherwise, if big madam really lost her temper, even Madam Min would be troubled."

    Old Madam Fang said, "Isn''t it so? Therefore, how could they say this child does not know the rules? Isn''t this quite well done?" with that, she slurped up thest of the noodles, patted her lips dry and said, "Very well, clear this away. Once the child is back, tell her toe over for a visit."

    Qiu Ling agreed. She knew that Old Madam Fang was actually quite concerned about her majesty''s health. Madam Fang was getting on in years and could not move about easily. Since her majesty could not leave the pce, the only thing these mother daughter pair had were memories, and news of each other.

    During this time, Su Nuan Nuan was currently standing just outside of the Kunning Pce, doing her best to process her shock.

    The imperial family was really powerful, the empress pce alone covers nearly 1,000 acres ofnd. The architectural structures and designs here different from the ones Su Nuan Nuan remembered from the Forbidden City she had visited in her past life. It was actually even more amazing.

    "By the emperor''s decree, we bade An Ping Marquis heir and his wife enter the pce."

    The eunuch''s high pitched voice shook Su Nuan Nuan from her daydreams. Duan Tingxuan''s hand tightened over her own, and she was more or less marched pa.s.sed the huge doors into the imperial pce. Her first impression was of a long and wide road, jade white in colour and nked by artfully ced stones mimicking mountains and hills. Green trees and red flowers were ced between the rocks, lending warmth to the cold white feel of rocks and white gstones. The scene changed from rocks and trees to vermilion pirs. They pa.s.sed gorgeously dressed pce maids, all young and at the first blush of youth. Their looks were good enough to be main characters of any modern TV dramas, but these beauties were all part of the background scene here. This made Su Nuan Nuan silently curse the imperial family for indulging in an unnecessarily luxurious lifestyle.

    "Wait, aren''t we at the Kunning Pce? Why is there an emperor''s decree at the empress'' ce?"

    They were almost at their destination, Su Nuan Nuan finally came back to herself enough toment, tugging at Duan Tingxuan''s hand. The man smiled at her and whispered, "Nuan Nuan, you just noticed? Isn''t it toote?"

    Su Nuan Nuan''s cheeks flushed, and she said crossly, "I¡­ I was just¡­" she was about to say that this was the first time she entered the imperial pce, but her mouth filter quickly stopped her and she hurriedly said, "I was just a little excited, so, so¡­ reacted a bitte?"

    "It''s fine if your reaction iscking here, after this we''ll go to a small kitchen closes to this ce. Just make sure to not becking there." it''s rare to see his confident wife in such a predicament, Duan Tingxuan''s heart felt as sweet as though he had just eaten the best bowl of smoothie. As he leaned close to Su Nuan Nuan''s ear tough gently, the envious eyes of the pce maidens stabbed at her back as she was escorted in.

    The moment they stepped past the ornately decorated doors, Su Nuan Nuan felt a little faint. There were seven people in total waiting for them, young and old, male and female, they looked nothing like what she had expected. Especially those piercing, expectant eyes. Having so many royal eyes staring holes into her body nearly scare the life out of her heart.

    "Greetings to his majesty."

    Duan Tingxuan pulled Su Nuan Nuan down to kneel. However, before their knees touched the ground, the emperorughed and said, "No need to be so formal,"

    Duan Tingxuan straightened from his almost kneeling position and said, "At your majesty''smand." before dragging Su Nuan Nuan up. [Gumihou: It''s¡­ it''s the emperor, what''s going to happened!!?]

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 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90: The Imperial Family

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    People watching this performance would know that this was probably all an act. However, as one of the lead characters, Su Nuan Nuan herself could not see it, ah. Moreover, it was all over in a blink of an eye. She could only re at Duan Tingxuan impotently: Hey, bro, this is too much, ah. Though I don''t like to kneel, suddenly pulling me up like this is just testing one''s waist, ah. Though I''ve practised standing and kneeling with you for a few days, you can''t just pull something like this suddenly.

    Her reaction was perfectly natural, and yet it attracted the interest of those major characters seated in front of her. The empress was first to smile, "Xuan''er has been saying that Nuan Nuan is so much fiercer than before, but I never believed him. However, I see now that this is true."

    F¡­ fierce? ck lines appeared on Su Nuan Nuan''s forehead: Has the rascal been giving out false information on me? You called me a tigress, but are you not ashamed to be married to a tigress? Haven''t you heard of never airing one''s dirtyundry in public? As a man with a belly full of schemes, how can you not know this?

    Big madam was so p.i.s.sed off that swear words nearly erupted from her mouth. Duan Tingxuan''s face also turned into ‡å‡å. Dear beloved aunt, we''ve just arrived and you''ve sold me out. Auntie, you can''t be like this, ah. You haven''t even tasted Nuan Nuan''s cooking and yet you''re already like this, once you''ve eaten her food wouldn''t I be stepped on endlessly?

    He was thinking all this, but none of his heart''sment showed on his face. Duan Tingxuan leisurely turned towards the two women seated on the west side, both were dressed in imperial clothes. He smiled and said, "Imperial Concubine Jing, Imperial Concubine Duan are here as well?"

    Imperial Concubine Jing smiled, "We were just here to visit her majesty when we heard that a great chef will be visiting at noon. We thought we''d stay and freeload off some good food and thus stayed."

    Duan Tingxuan turned to the east side where three young men were seated. This time, his tone was not so respectful, "Crown prince, second prince, and fourth prince, may I know why you''re here? Were you visiting the empress too?"

    The crown prince was a huge fatty. Su Nuan Nuan''s expert eye estimated his weight to be something above 250 pounds. Lugging this kind of weight around, is life still worth living? Curiously, the other two princes were slim, handsome beauties of the traditional kind. The emperor himself was also a heroic and wise looking middle age man bearing the image of a benign shifu. So, how did a mutation like the crown prince happened? Surely this was too much of a tragedy, right?

    The crown prince was a chatty fatty who liked to tell jokes. With a heheh kind ofugh, he said, "I was here this morning to visit imperial mother. We lost ourselves chatting together and the sun had gone up high, making it too hot to walk around. And you know how I despised ending up all sweaty. That''s why I''m here, I don''t know about the other two."

    Attention was then turned towards the remaining two princes. Second prince was unperturbed by their gazes, "I intended to look up Tingxuan for some business when I overheard him speaking to a manservant about bringing some nice things he and his wife nned to bring for imperial mother to eat. So, here I am."

    "Weren''t your energies all spent on organizing your encyclopaedia? Why are you interested in food now?" Duan Tingxuan asked bluntly, not bothering with manners.

    "So what if I am? Even a serious schr needs to eat, ah. To themon people, food is the blessing of heavens. Moreover, the information I''m collecting featured both ancient and modern information. When I heard that your wife''s culinary skill is the most cutting edge of innovations, how could I miss this research opportunity? It just so happens that Icked information ontest food trends. This the perfect opportunity to collect information. Also, I would like to invite her over to my ce and disy some of her skills in order for me toplete the <food as="" blessings="" of="" heaven="">> chapter of my <exotic tales="" of="" ancient="" &="" modern="">>."</exotic></food>

    "Surely there''s no need, ah. Moreover, my wife is still the official wife of the heir, how could you just make her go over and cook for you?"

    Duan Tingxuan was not even a bit courteous with the second prince. His gaze fell upon the fourth prince, who spread out his hands carelessly, "I''m just here with second brother." At his cousin''s fierce re, he quickly changed the subject and gestured at the pearl hairpin in Su Nuan Nuan''s hair. "The hairpin that cousin chose for his wife really suits her, ah."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s face twitched twice, before finally turning her gaze towards the emperor. She was dumbstruck by this ridiculously affectionate royal family. Though Duan Tingxuan liked to ther on about these royal connections of his, Su Nuan Nuan had always sniffed disdainfully at his boast. What royal connections? The emperor was the emperor, a fierce and ruthless ruler of the heavens, being close to the ruler can be as perilous as riding on a tiger. The moment you fall out of favour, those royal connections might as well be dog farts.

    Now that she had actually met them though, her entire conviction copsed: Are these really the great imperial family of ancient China? The greatest and mightiest of families? Aren''t you guys just too casual? Even the An Ping Mansion isn''t half as sloppy, ah. Madam empress, ah, what''s that benevolent smile on your face? Your nephew is practically dissing your imperial sons, ah. The crown prince is your son, ah. Ah! He''s just turned his evil tongue onto the second prince, and wait, why is the fourth prince talking about my hairpin? Oh, right, he''s in charge of the Imperial Household. This Silver Plum Blossom Pin is the one Duan Tingxuan ''bought'' using two roast ducks and four bags of Snow Soft Bean Paste Snacks, as well as arge te of my White Sealed Meat. Imperial Concubine Jing, your son had practically confessed to embezzling, can you please not smile so cheerfully, ah.

    When Su Nuan Nuan saw the emperor''s indulgent face as the fourth prince and Duan Tingxuan began to argue over the value of the Pearl & Plum Blossom Pin, she nearly lost it: Just what are those two idiots were discussing, ah? The fourth prince was justining that it took two master artisans five days and nights to make this hairpin, surely two roasted duck, four tes of Snow Soft Bean Paste Snacks and a te of White Cut Meat is too little, right? Especially since half of the White Cut Meat was eaten by the masters. At the very least, they should add two Beggar''s Chicken to make it even a little bit fair.

    In response, Duan Tingxuan sneered, "Beggar''s Chicken? Fourth prince, you sure have a mouth of a lion on you. For the sake of Beggar''s Chicken, my face was nearly wed to bits by a rooster. Even the wooden hibiscus pin I gave to Nuan Nuan was scratched to bits, you dare to covet two Beggar''s Chicken with just one silver pin? Well? At the very least you must hand over a golden pin."

    Su Nuan Nuan really couldn''t bear it anymore, the only problem was, aside from herself, everyone else was listening to this with great interest. She could only stand there like a wooden dummy as Duan Tingxuan continued to push her ''violent shrew'' att.i.tude as an excuse to coerce more things out of the fourth prince. Just as she was about to throw her hands up in despair, the emperor cleared his throat pointedly.

    Oh my heavens, ah. Dear majesty, even you finally can''t stand it anymore? Thank you, thank you for being a reasonable person. As expected, an emperor was an emperor, this lowly one is in the wrong. I should not have criticise the great emperor as someone unreasonable. Look how peaceful and happy themon people are, clearly you are a great emperor, ah.

    Su Nuan Nuan was just tearfully praising the emperor when his majesty''s eyes suddenly sharpened with interest, "Wait a moment, what''s this Beggar''s Chicken you''re talking about? And how did Tingxuan ended up nearly scratched up by a rooster? Quick, tell zhen what happened."

    Duan Tingxuan was stunned. He had just realized that his little ''discussion'' with the fourth prince was basically entertainment for the others. He was just gathering his wits to think his way out when a [gu dong] was heard. He turned, and saw that Su Nuan Nuan, who could no longer take the royal family''s weird att.i.tude, had finally copsed to the ground.

    "Aiya, what happened to madam heir?" Imperial Concubine Duan cried.

    Duan Tingxuan immediately came over to support Su Nuan Nuan. He smiled winningly, "Su Nuan Nuan was just a little unworldly. Unfortunately, we have embarra.s.sed ourselves in front of your majesty and your highnesses. En, I think it''s time for us to get started, it''s almost noon now. It''s time for Nuan Nuan to get things ready in the kitchen, ah."

    Nonsense, who is unworldly here? The whole lot of you put together can''t possibly as worldly as great me, you know? The problem here is that you royals are just too weird. We''re in ancient China, you know? In the whole of China''s history, there is no such family like you, alright? You are the strangest of a strange lot. You are royalties, ah. Can you please not be so warm and happy together, royal families are supposed to be cold, scheming and jealous. Also, what happened to your royal air? Your dignity? Your arrogant, lofty position at the top of the food chain? Aren''t you contradicting the very air your imperial pce imposed?

    Su Nuan Nuan rubbed her aching waist as she silently cursed Duan Tingxuan. When he started talking about going to the kitchens, she nodded quickly: Better to retreat into the world she understood than to stay in this weirdly friendly royal pce. If she identally saw anymore weird sights, she might actually faint for real next time. Let''s get far away from here.

    As expected, even the emperor hadpletely forgotten what she was here for in the excitement of pursuing gossip. Luckily, he nodded agreeably enough at Duan Tingxuan''s suggestion.

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed with relief and was about to excuse herself when the princes all stood up. She blinked: Wait, are they leaving? Aren''t you all here to b.u.m food off the empress? Are you really going to leave when I''m about to enter the kitchens?

    "Imperial father, we shall a.s.sist thedy."

    For a moment, Su Nuan Nuan''s vision went ck. Her legs felt weak, and she staggered in ce.

    A¡­ a.s.sist? Have the princes a.s.sist her? Her imagination tried to conjure up images of the fat crown prince carefully measuring spring onions before cutting them. She imagined the second prince happily washing vegetables and letting worms crawling up his arms, the fourth prince setting the wok on fire as he tried to fry up a picture perfect noodle dish. Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes went fuzzy even as she trembled in fear.

    "There''s no need for you to go, we don''t need food stealing a.s.sistants. Crown prince, you''re trying to get your hands on the fishb.a.l.l.s, aren''t you? Second prince, I still remember you trying to get me to cough up rice dumplings stuffed with bacon. As for you, fourth prince, I knew you were lying when you told me that the roasted ducks had been gifted to others. Your personal eunuch already told me that you''ve swallowed both ducks all by yourself in one night and had to run around your own courtyard eight times to digest them."

    Duan Tingxuan heartlessly revealed his cousins ''wild and greedy hearts'', causing great embarra.s.sment and resentment among the princes as they cried out, "Imperial father, there''s only one reason why Tingxuan is so good at spotting our true intent. He''s the ultimate king of food thief. Your imperial sons n to be at the kitchens to prevent his bad behaviour, would imperial father grant this favour."

    Are you seriously begging the emperor to grant this stupid favour? Su Nuan Nuan had to mentally swallow a huge mouthful of blood. Thus, she nearly choked when the emperor smiled, and said, "The crown prince has spoken with great justification. Very well, you shall all go, ba."

    "Imperial father is wise."

    The princes all chorused together like good choir boys. Duan Tingxuan thought about stopping them, but a nce at his wife''s ''I can''t take it anymore'' expression caused him to abandon the idea. Ignoring the actions of the royal men, he supported Su Nuan Nuan to the door, when he heard the emperor said, "Tingxuan, you stay. Go to the study. I have something I need you to do." [Gumihou: Stay strong Su Nuan Nuan.]

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 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91: No One Dare Manage

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Your majesty, aren''t you just providing the princes the opportunity to steal food?" Duan Tingxuan said bitterly.

    The emperor scolded, "Shameful thing, how could you judge these n.o.ble men with such low eyes. Even if the princes were to steal, the food they ate belonged to zhen*, so what''s the fuss? I trust your wife shall not be bothered by something so trivial. Come here quickly."

    * zhen ¨C the royal ''I'', you should know this by now if you''re regr readers of ancient China stories

    Unable to refuse, Duan Tingxuan could only let go of Su Nuan Nuan''s hand with and earnest parting of, "Mydy wife, do take care of yourself. Remember, whether they a.s.sist you or not, you must remain vignt and not let them pilfer your food. Otherwise you''ll tire yourself making more. These three here are all giant gluttons."

    As her husband disappeared behind a screen with the emperor, Su Nuan Nuan really don''t know what kind of expression to make. The people left within the room, the crown prince and et cetera, were all making cheerful urging noises when she suddenly remembered Duan Tingxuan telling her about the rebellion cooked up by King Xiang Yang. She had asked him about this matter, and this was what he told her:

    After the emperor gained power, not only were his reign peaceful but his princes all outstanding individuals. Short of causing a public rebellion, King Xiang Yang had no other way of bing an emperor. However, since the country was at peace, if an open rebellion were to happen, anyone with half a brain would realize the ones who would suffer most were themon people.

    Duan Tingxuan also said that he had no idea what the man was thinking, trying to incite such unrest. But now that Su Nuan Nuan hadid eyes on this weird imperial family, well, she could suddenly understand the unfortunate King''s feelings. Just what the heck is with this royal family, ah? Nothing but a bunch of crazies gathered together, right? Could it be that King Xiang Yang wanted to rebel because of this crazy family? Also she heard that it''s been a long time since this old brother had set foot into the Capital, could it be that he was too p.i.s.sed off by this weird family and was ashamed to be a.s.sociated with them?

    Well, to be honest, Duan Tingxuan did mentioned that the emperor and the princes were all pretty outstanding people. En, wait, that Duan Tingxuan was also cut from the same cloth. It''s possible that he can''t actually judge these royal rtives of his objectively.

    Now that her image of the royal family had been destroyed, Su Nuan Nuan had no way of stopping herself from thinking the worse. Thankfully, cooking was something she could do almost by instinct. It was the only way she could properly control the kitchen without vomiting blood midway.

    Naturally, the princes were not there to help. They were not there to actually pilfer food either. The princes were more interested in Su Nuan Nuan herself, and had settled themselves to properly observe this mysterious person, and her cooking techniques of course.

    However, that was before they were confronted by candied fruits, luxurious chicken wontons[1], lotus leaf rice, pork lettuce rolls and something called Ants Climbing a Branch, which was basically rice noodles stirred into minced meat sauce. The way the sticky meat clung onto the noodles looked like ants climbing up twigs. When the Bruised Cuc.u.mber Sd with Peanuts[2] appeared, the princes couldn''t control themselves anymore.

    As the crown prince, Jiang Changyue was happy to ''set an example'' and bear the responsibility of ''taste tester'' as he reached for a chicken wonton. Who knew after eating one, his chopsticks reached another, and then a third, then a fourth¡­ his chopsticks fell like rain until his brothers asked, "Brother, are those wontons really good?"

    "Wu! It tasted kind of ordinary, nothing special."

    Said the crown prince through two wontons crowding his mouth.

    "This is how you eat ordinary tasting things?" The other two princes were not idiots. They have eyes you know. The crown prince had abandoned both face and dignity in favour of stealing food, to the point that such inferior quality excuse actually cralwed out of his mouth. That thing had to be delicious, definitely. Second prince Jiang Changning seized his chopsticks and went after a rolled lettuce. He stuffed the entire thing into his mouth and chewed a few times before yelling, "Delicious! Wu! This is too delicious! To think that pork and lettuce go so well together, how interesting. What are the spices that went into it? Oh yes, how is this t cake thing made? There''s not a trace of oil on it, the taste is incredibly fresh and crisp. Crown prince bro, is this the Lotus Leaf Bread you told me about? It''s too delicious¡­"

    "Really? Let me have one. I love Lotus Leaf Bread best. The fragrance of wheat in that bread is strong yet delicate, the reason why it''s so delicious, the simplicity of the ingredients best show cased in such unexpected elegance." The crown prince cried out, this time decisively aiming his chopsticks elsewhere.

    Fourth prince Jiang Changjing also started crowing, "Hahaha, you guys go on and eat those, ba. I''m only interested in this fruit tter, what did cousin-inw call it? Candied fruits? Aiyo, these arest year''s hawthorn fruits, ah. Sweet and sour at the same time, it really whets the appet.i.te. It''s been days since imperial mother has had a proper meal, this would certainly stimte your appet.i.te."

    "Your mom, since you know it''s for imperial mother, why are you still eating it non-stop?"

    Su Nuan Nuan could no longer take it anymore. She stared hopefully at the dozen over kitchen hands who were there to help, sidling closer to poke the imperial chef, "I say, aren''t you guys going to say anything? Don''t you think¡­ having those princes eating our hard work like that is unfair?"

    The imperial chef wiped his forehead, and stared back at Su Nuan Nuan, "Madam''s meaning is¡­ you want us to stop the princes from eating the food?"

    "That''s right, if we don''t stop them, everything will be eaten up."

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded her head seriously, only to see the imperial chef pull a bitter melon face and whispered back, "Madam, this kind of thing¡­ isn''t something that this servant could do. If anyone were to say anything, surely at least someone at madam''s social level is better suited? How could a mere kitchen hand manage them? Moreover, to ask them not to keep eating? Not unless this ve did not want to keep his head anymore."

    Su Nuan Nuan pped a hand over her face: She''s an idiot, an idiot. She''s definitely an idiot! What was she thinking, trying to get an imperial chef to manage the princes?

    Looks like the only thing they could do was watch these royal pigs eat their hard work. Su Nuan Nuan muttered angrily as she smacked her spoon against her wok with an audible [Teng]. She sneered, go ahead and eat, see if I care.

    She was still thinking dark thoughts when someone pped their hands. The second prince shouted, "Cousin-inw is certainly certainly original. Wonderful."

    As his voice faded, the fourth prince''s voice rose, "She certainly has a lot of tricks up her sleeve. I heard from Tingxuan that he had been teaching her a few martial moves. Looks like he''s had trouble eating her food because her increased defensive power."

    Su Nuan Nuan noticed that the crown prince said nothing, and thought that the royal heir apparent was somehow different from his other royal sibling. However, when she looked closer¡­ well! Looks like the reason he didn''t yell out like his siblings was because he couldn''t. The crown prince''s mouth was so full of food that his cheeks stuck out like hamster''s. This prince clearly has excellent looks, unfortunately, when it was all blown up by fat. Those fine features were definitely wasted on that dough like face.

    Su Nuan Nuan gloomily looked away. She should never have had any expectations of these greedy foodies. Princes? Pei! These were pigs, all three were pigs, what do they have inmon with royalty? [1] Wontons ¨C wrapped dumplings-Here''s a .s.sic Wonton Soup Recipe

    [2] Bruised Cuc.u.mber Sd with Peanuts ¨C Find the Recipe

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 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92: Each to Their Own

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "Madam, are you not going to control them?"

    The imperial chef nudged her with an bemused smile, Su Nuan Nuan narrowed her eyes at him, "You want me to control them? You want me to throw my own life away? Are you sure there''s nothing wrong with your mind?"

    The imperial chef smiled, "The An Ping heir had always been on good terms with the princes, therefore, if madam were the one to say something. Their highnesses might¡­"

    Before he could finish his sentence, Duan Tingxuan stepped into the kitchen. "Aiyo, speak of the devil and he will appear. Little Marquis An Ping, you''re here? Please ept this servant''s greetings."

    "At ease." Duan Tingxuan stride through the kitchen as though he was walking on magic wheels. In a sh he was in front of the princes.

    The imperial chef ''s eyes, it was like a meteor of hope had arrived. The little marquis was here to save them, to save madam''s cooking from the hungry ghosts! He was just thinking this when Duan Tingxuan yelled, "How dare you, is this what pa.s.ses for brotherly loyalty now? How dare you not leave anything for me?" As soon as he was done speaking, he leapt in and joined the line of big eaters.

    The kitchen hands'' knees suddenly shook, and a few of them actually fell to the floor. The imperial chef looked up at Su Nuan Nuan with tears in his eyes: Another starving wolf had arrived, would they actually be able to serve lunch today?

    Su Nuan Nuan cast a sidelong nce at the imperial chef, how could she not understand this person''s feelings? With a sharp ''heheh'', Su Nuan Nuan sneered: As expected, if one did not have the correct information at hand, one would definitely eat a loss. This madam never had any expectation for that Duan Tingxuan. This madam had always wondered where did such a dignified heir learned the habits of a hungry rat. Looks like it was here.

    At any rate, she never really did have much respect for Duan Tingxuan. Being forced to look at four grown men with oily lips and bulging cheeks certainly did not increase her sense of respect. Though ateer, Duan Tingxuan made up with enthusiasm. When she started seeing empty tes, Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t take it anymore. She banged an iron pot onto the stove and snarled, "Duan Tingxuan, do you still want lunch to happen? You just tell me now. I''ve already agreed that to make two or three dishes for the empress, but now? Look what''s leftover? Are you prepared to take responsibility if her highness lost her temper?"

    The princes had actually been ribbing Duan Tingxuan all this time about how warm and gentle Su Nuan Nuan had been. They were starting to suspect that Duan Tingxuan had been pulling their legs about his wife''s aggressive behaviour. This was the first time they heard the tigress roar.

    Duan Tingxuan felt wronged at being treated thus, he really hadn''t expected his wife to fully reveal her stripes so thoroughly. He forced himself tough loudly, and began dragging the other three away, "Let''s go, ba. Let us not offend Nuan Nuan anymore, otherwise she''d chop us up and cook us for lunch."

    The crown prince was obviously reluctant to leave the good food. He dragged his feet and muttered, "Imperial mother wouldn''t me us, even if she gets angry I am prepared to take responsibility for it."

    You''re as fat as a pig already, still dare to brag about taking responsibility? Eat, eat, eat, eat more and you''ll turn into a cripple.

    Su Nuan Nuan was generous with her curses as she privately sneered at the crown prince. The crown prince must have felt the stabs from her eyes or something as he rubbed his nose a little shamefully. He finally let himself be hauled out of the kitchen by Duan Tingxuan.

    Now that peace had returned to the kitchen, the dozen or so kitchen hands all breathed a sigh of relief. Majority of the kitchen hands here were eunuchs, and the one next to Su Nuan Nuan was their leader. They started talking and Su Nuan Nuan found out that this guy used to be a restaurant cook. As to how he ended up here, some rich, persistent dandy tried to s.e.xually a.s.sault his wife, whereupon he had attacked that dandy with a chopper, nearly cutting off the man''s arm. To avoid prosecution, he entered the pce, suffering self castration and climbed the ranks with his cooking skills and some strategic schmoozing. It took him years to reach this position.

    "What happened to your wife and kids after you enter the pce?"

    Su Nuan Nuan chatted with this cook as her knife moved rapidly. In a sh, the small basket of cuc.u.mbers became a pile of cuc.u.mber sticks. At the sight of this madam''s knife skills, heughed, "I entered the pce after sending my wife and child back to my native homnd. I told them to treat me like a dead man, that if she ever meet a good man she should marry him. Who would have known that wife of mine refused to give up on this worthless one.

    When my position in the pce became stable, I sent people out to discover what happened to them. Turns out they were still living in the countryside on their own. This servant then begged the empress'' indulgence to bring them back to the Capital. I manage to purchase a small house for them, and even meet them every few months on my free days."

    "You sure are lucky, how many eunuchs could im to have a wife and child?" Su Nuan Nuan chattered as she selected a piece of steamed rice pancake and began slicing it to ribbons. As expected, the eunuch chefughed, "Right? I always say, I must have done some great deed in the past to be so lucky as to be her majesty''s chef."

    The two worked even as they got to know each other, in a short while the Five Colourful Noodle Sd was soon ready. The chef admired the colourful dish and said, "To get such colour from ordinary ingredients, if this servant haven''t been working next to madam all this while, I''d find it difficult to believe that this hadn''t been made from some mysterious ingredients. Madam is certainly incredible."

    "Enough with your ttery. This is nothing. Since her highness has little appet.i.te, these are appetizers to tease her appet.i.te, nothing special really." As she spoke, she looked through the spice cupboard regretfully. Curses, could it be that there were really no chillies in this era? What a headache, my precious hotpot, chilly paste, and my delicious steamed fish with m oil. Aih! They have huajiao pepper here, but it''s still not true spiciness, ah.

    After busying themselves for another shichen (2 hours) in the kitchen, Su Nuan Nuan was so hungry that she felt as though her heart was stuck to her spine bone. How could she not be hungry? It was past noon now.

    The emperor and empress both looked forward to lunch time. So much so, that the high level servants offered to prepare the royal dining room with all the pomp and rituals for the imperial family to dine in. Naturally, there was a hidden reason behind this offer. People who took care of their majesty''s meals would naturally grew closer to them. So how could they just allow a stranger to potentially grow closer without even a single royal taster around? Unfortunately, this loyal dedication was utterly rejected by the imperial family.

    They were still arguing (politely) over this matter when a line of imperial maids came in bearing food boxes. The boxes were set upon the table with much ceremony and were simultaneously opened. A cloud of fragrance wafted out. The empress immediately looked over at Su Nuan Nuan and nodded approvingly, "Your majesty, though it took a bit of time, but looking at this splendid sight and wonderful fragrance, chenqie[1] believes the wait is worth it."

    Took a bit of time? Su Nuan Nuan thought, don''t me me for anything. me your greedy sons, ba. As soon as one dish is done, it was done in by your feral wolves. In fact, she really wanted to call those princes feral wolves, however, those hungry dogs were still the crown prince and royal princes, therefore she could only offer her best smile.

    "Nuan Nuan, just what is this? Howe I''ve never seen this at home before?"

    Duan Tingxuan courteously got up to guide his wife into her seat. He was pointing at arge te of bright green noodles, glistening with clear oil.

    "Green Jade Noodles[2], it''s perfectly ordinary." Su Nuan Nuan answered thoughtlessly. She added, "It''s just regr noodles."

    "You''re making fun of me, how could noodles be so bright green?"

    "Don''t be ridiculous, if you use vegetable juice instead of water in noodles, you''ll have green noodles." Su Nuan Nuan made sure to turn away from the royals to privately roll her eyes when the empress said, "These noodles looked interesting. Xuan''er, fetch me a te. Your majesty, would you like some?"

    The emperor smiled, "No need, zhen is more interested in that bowl of soup. I''ve never seen its like before. Tingxuan''s dear wife, ah. What sort of soup is this?"

    Tingxuan''s dear wife? What a simple and intimate way of address. For a moment, the emperor transformed into a busybody next-door-uncle in Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes. She cleared her throat carefully, and stood up, "In answer to your majesty, this is amon family dish, it''s made from pig''s blood, cubed bean curd, chopped pork, fresh oysters and seasoned with chopped spring onions. The stickiness came from rice flour, stirred in once the soup is done."

    This was one of Su Nuan Nuan''s favourite dishes when she and her friends visited the countryside for a wedding banquet in her past life. The soup was served from a huge pot and was there were three pots of it. At the end of the banquet, you could see the bottom of all three pots. Even Su Nuan Nuan, who had eaten all sorts of food from all over the world, really loved this soup; to the point that she begged the chef to teach her the trick of it. Who would have thought that she would be serving this country soup to the royal family today.

    The emperor took a sip, cried out ''good'', and immediately swallowed two full bowls down. If the empress hadn''t reminded him there were other delicious food to try, he would probably have filled his stomach with thismon soup.

    The empress normally had little appet.i.te, but for some reason she was really hungry today. Perhaps Su Nuan Nuan''s cooking really suited her taste. She really enjoyed the Bruised Cuc.u.mber Sd with Peanuts and the Green Jade Noodles. She also ate quite a bit of the Colourful Rice Noodle Sd[3]. The Candied Hawthorn[4] was quite well received too, especially by Imperial Concubine Jing who had always been partial to cherries. As for Imperial Concubine Duan, the gentle and calm looking mother of the second prince, she nearly cleared an entire te of nched Tofu Strings[5] all by herself.

    No need to mention the performance of the crown prince, second prince or third prince. They were all bottomless pits. If Duan Tingxuan hadn''t told her about their true abilities, Su Nuan Nuan would have dismissed them as good for nothing parasites. Rice weevils. Spongers. Rats in rice bins.

    After the hour of continuous eating, silence fell as the incredibly empty dishes were cleared away by the maids and eunuchs. The servants were all in shock. When had the imperial tables ever in this state? Just what was on this te? There weren''t even dregs of soup left? As for this silver te, it''s so shiny that I could see my own face, has someone on that royal table really licked it with their royal tongue?

    Even the imperial family had the grace to blush at the state of their own greediness. However, true to his ability to smooth things over, the emperor said, "Haha! I''ve never had such a wonderful meal in my life. Tingxuan''s dear wife keep saying these are allmoner''s food. Zhen really can''t understand, if themoners had been feasting like this, had we been fed pig slop all this while?"

    "Your majesty, that''s impossible." Duan Tingxuan said, a little awkwardly. If you want topare your imperial chefs with my wife, wouldn''t most of them be sent to the chopping block? No, no, he had to change the subject, there was no way he''s going to allow his emperor to be the first head of country to order the deaths of his chefs over such trivial matters.

    Su Nuan Nuan supported his attempts, and spoke lots of good words on behalf of the chefs. She had no intention of causing the humiliation of local chefs, just because of her status as a transmigrator. [Gumihou: Lots of delicious food in this chapter, click on the pictures for the trantion of the recipes!] [1] chengqie ¨C how royal wives and concubines refer to themselves in the third person

    [2] Green Jade Noodles

    [3] Colourful Rice Noodle Sd

    [4] Candied Hawthorn

    [5] Shrewded Dry Tofu

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 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93: Have Support Now

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Naturally, the emperor was mostly joking when he made that remark. The day was getting ratherte, his majesty got up to make his way to his study to read the day''s report. As for the empress and Imperial Concubines Duan and Jing, after some discussion, they bade someone to invite Concubine Yu over to y mahjong. At this, Duan Tingxuan also took the opportunity to make their excuses. Thus, under the reluctant eyes of the imperial family, Su Nuan Nuan escaped amidmentations of ''Madam, you must visit us often'', ''Tingxuan must care for his wife well'', ''If anyone bullies you,e find me~''¡­

    The princes escorted them all the way to the pce entrance. On the way, second prince smirked, "Isn''t this great? Sister-inw, now that you have imperial father and mother''s care, you may hold your head up high and strut about the mansion like it''s your own now."

    "Humph! Our Nuan Nuan is nothing like that." Duan Tingxuan red at him disdainfully. Then, his shoulders copsed, "She already struts about the mansion like she owns it. Surely there''s no need for the emperor or empress to show her any favour?"

    If this c.r.a.p male were to live in the modern world, he''d probably be a wonderful atedic performances, ah. Just look at how he switches behaviour at a drop of a coin, I wonder where he learned it from? Su Nuan Nuan secretly rolled her eye,pletely forgetting that she herself was the source of this weird behaviour.

    Once everyone at the pce gate, everyone went on their separate ways. Su Nuan Nuan quickly entered the carriage and pulled the curtains closed, hoping for a little relief from the sun''s rays. She looked away, only to catch Duan Tingxuan''s eyes, who smiled at her, "Well? Is it too hot? There''s an herbal tea vendor just up front, shall I get you a bowl?"

    "Very well," Su Nuan Nuan''s eyes brightened at the mention of herbal drinks. As expected, a little while after leaving the great gate, the carriage rolled onto a busy street. Duan Tingxuan appeared quite familiar with this ce as he rode his horse past a few vendors and stopped at a specific one. Heter returned with arge bowl for Su Nuan Nuan, ignoring a fuming Si Ping who had been cheated out of an opportunity to curry favour with their big madam. He smiled, "Have a taste. I find it a little odd, but it''s very good against excessive heat."

    Su Nuan Nuan took a sip, and nearly spat it out. This little marquis sure knows how to understate. This thing is ''a little odd''? This thing is just too weird, ba? Just what''s in it, ah? She had never tasted anything like this in her life. Could it possibly contain things that no longer exist in the modern world?

    "I don''t want it, it''s too horrible." Su Nuan Nuan handed the bowl back to Duan Tingxuan. "Let''s just forget it and go home. I really want to take a cold bath now, and then lie down with a fan."

    "Very well, let''s go home now. I trust old madam and elder madam are missing us too." Duan Tingxuan called out an order to the coachman, and in an instant the carriage lurched forward in a rush. Su Nuan Nuan yelled, "Slow down, slow down! Don''t run over people."

    "Be at ease, we''re not the type to endanger themon folk this way." Duan Tingxuan grinned at her from his position next to the carriage. Secretly, he thought: Just when did Nuan Nuan started caring about innocent bystanders? If the soul within his wife really had been changed, should he burn incense and give offerings in thanks to Buddha for this transmigrated soul? [G.o.d of Transmigration: This is all my doing, ah, nothing to do with Buddha. Young man, you''re giving thanks to the wrong deity.]

    Since the An Ping family was an ill.u.s.trious n and close friend of the imperial family, their mansion was quite near to the pce. After a short carriage ride, they were approaching the corner of the An Ping mansion. After Su Nuan Nuan got down from the carriage, she caught sight of a carriage making its way out. When the coachman spot them, he quickly leapt down to kneel as he grinned up at them, "Greetings to the lord heir and big madam, have you both just came back from outside?"

    Su Nuan Nuan did not recognise this person, but Duan Tingxuan was all too familiar with him. He waved his folded fan lightly and smiled, "At ease, how many times have I told you there''s no need for all this ceremony. Let me ask you, have you sent milk in? Is it fresh?"

    "Master please be at ease, it''s all freshly squeezed. Recently, there has been an interest in fresh milk amongst all the masters, therefore this lowly one sends in at least 10 catty everyday." The man rose from his kneeling position, his face beaming with the pleasure of doing business.

    Duan Tingxuan nodded, and fished out a gold teal from his money pouch and tossed it over. "Very good, we shall need more milk in the future. If your few cows aren''t enough, use this to buy at least two more."

    A single gold leaf was equalled to about two or three months worth of milk. The milk man happily epted his reward, bowed his thanks once more before leaving. Su Nuan Nuan turned to Si Ping, "Go to the kitchen and ask them to send five catty of milk over to Spring Breeze Court."

    "Are you nning to make that cream thing?"

    Duan Tingxuan''s eyes brightened. cream was something that Su Nuan Nuan had mentioned quite a number of times. His ears were almost worn off from all the cream rted talk, unfortunately he''d never seen this miraculous food yet. From his wife''s vivid and colourful description of its many uses and how one could not get hold of it without proper strength; the little marquis nearly flooded Spring Breeze Court with his saliva.

    "That''s right, let''s make it since you''re free today. By the way, your work is kind of idle, isn''t it? This should be a typical working day for you, right? Since we have been summoned by the emperor, you can ck off the rest of the day after kissing up to your superior. Tsk, tsk, such a wonderful arrangement, it would be too bad if I were to spread it around."

    "Heheh, so you only have eyes for bad behaviours. Are you telling me you never noticed my hard work, the nights where I don''t return until muchter? When Sir Long came that time, I spent all night running about." Duan Tingxuan waved his fan and sighed sorrowfully.

    Su Nuan Nuan knew about all this, but she had never bothered asking after the matter. However, since Duan Tingxuan took the initiative to bring up the subject, she took the chance to say, "Just what''s going on? Are you really that busy? You look so free that I thought you must have taken care of it."

    Duan Tingxuan said lightly, "Nothing much, he had something to do at Hang Zhou at the moment, so I''m not in contact with him."

    "Hang Zhou?" Su Nuan Nuan shivered. Curses, isn''t that King Xiang Yang''s territory? Looks like there''s really something mysterious going on. When it came to things rted to King Xiang Yang, better not to get involved.

    Back in her room, after a shower and changing into her house clothes, Su Nuan Nuan wanted nothing more than to flop face down onto her bed, tired out. Before she could do so, however, she caught sight of Duan Tingxuan, who had also showered and was now wearing light green house clothes. With his dark hair spread damply down his back, a feeling of sensual charm and casual elegance added to his normally outstanding appearance.

    Su Nuan Nuan''s heart sped up, she quickly turned away away, not daring to look too long. Luckily, Duan Tingxuan hadn''t noticed anything. He made his way to the window, looked over the garden, and smiled, "The kitchens have just sent over the milk, how are you going to handle it?"

    "It came?" Su Nuan Nuan floated over expectantly. "Very well,e with me, my lord. I''ll have to depend on you from now on."

    The little marquis seemed to know his ce at the Spring Breeze Court. Aside from being the master of this ce, he was also a coolie. For the sake of delicious food, he was fine with this lowly position. He trailed after Su Nuan Nuan to the side kitchen, as several female servants carried arge pail of milk between them. Su Nuan Nuan bade Hong Lian to reward them with a string of coins.

    Then, she got out arge pot and started crack some eggs into it. Next, she added sugar and a little milk. She set the pot over a weak fire and stirred, when the milk mixture started to warm up, she pa.s.sed it over to Duan Tingxuan. It''s time for her coolie to work. [Gumihou: ¡­ I have no idea what she''s making. b.u.t.ter? b.u.t.tercream? Whipped cream? Frosting? She said she''s making ÄÌÓÍ which actually refers to all three. The highest hit for ÄÌÓÍ is cream, but, but, making cream from milk don''t need eggs or sugar¡­ what it requires is time, a clean container and a strainer. Author, what are you trying to make!!!

    b.u.t.ter is °×Ã“, a loan word from English, p.r.o.nounced as bai tuo.

    As far as I know, eggs, milk and sugar makes pudding. Whipped egg whites, milk and sugar will turn into frosting¡­]

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 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94: Huge Sess

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The little marquis leaned his bottom against the stove, huffed and puffed as heboured over the pot. In fact, one could even say that he''s working hard withoutining. He did such a good job that Su Nuan Nuan could not help but be suspicious. She shoved a chair over, forced him to sit, saying, "Sit down here, how about we taste test it now? If it''s good, we can make more."

    "It''s definitely going to be delicious." When it came to the happiness of his mouth, the little marquis did not ck off. There were only the two of them in the kitchen, so Su Nuan Nuan felt free to say, "I see that the emperor and the crown prince both love meat. Could it be that these two can''t bear a meal without meat?"

    Duan Tingxuan said, "Of course? Not only the emperor and crown prince, everyone in the pce love meat. However, none of them were as fierce as those two, especially that crown prince. You can tell just from his body. He became like this from eating lots of sweets and meat as a child. He used to be very weak and did not practice martial arts either. After a while, he turned into that."

    As he said this, his hands paused, and worry crossed his expression. "You''ve seen it too, right? After walking that bit of road, he got out of breath almost immediately and could hardly say anything. I also heard that he was. .h.i.t by heatstroke a few days ago. That man is highly intelligent and personable, his character is impable and he has a good heart¡­ It''s just too bad that his body is¡­ I''m worried that he won''t live very long because of this."

    "Then, why don''t you put him on a diet? From what I can see, it''s just a problem of habit." Su Nuan Nuan was musing over this matter out loud when Duan Tingxuan said curiously, "A diet? What''s that?"

    "A technique to lose excess fat and restore his body to a more natural shape. Nothing like your slim self of course, but at the very least he should look like a regr person, right? It''s fine if he''s a bit plump, but if we don''t get rid of those excess fat now while he''s young; in a few more years, even if we did get him to slim down, he''ll look terrible with ugly excess skin."

    Duan Tingxuan gave a bitter smile, "What''s all that about ugly excess skin? It''s fine as long as he could thin down. Anything is good. Do you have a way? He definitely can''t let go of meat or sweets; just a bit of extra movement made him gasp like he''s dying. Moreover, he''s the crown prince, if something were to happen to him¡­ also, who could force him?"

    "Even you can''t?" Su Nuan Nuan was truly curious now: After all that ribbing and bullying she had seen at the pce, she really didn''t believe it if he said he couldn''t take up this responsibility.

    "Me?"

    Another bitter smiled shed Duan Tingxuan''s face, "Who do you think I am? I have no time to discipline the crown prince. My job is to carry out his instructions outside the pce. If I were to watch over his progress, who would carry out the duties outside? If I don''t look after things personally, who would supervise matters? Even the emperor''s most trusted eunuch''s dare not carry this responsibility."

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded, and said in a low voice, "I''ve also noticed, aside from that soup, the emperor only ate the Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs[1], Cherry Blossom Pork[2], and Sweet &Sour Pork Strips [3]. His chopsticks never touched anything that looked remotely like a vegetable. After his meal he only had half a cup of tea. I feel that there''s something not quite right with the dishes in the pce, how could they live off such oily and fatty food everyday? Didn''t the imperial physician said he suffered from weak heart? That he had to eat lighter food?"

    "The imperial physician said that? Heheh, that''s just some empty words. Eat lighter food, get proper nutrition, anyone could say these words. Why would the emperor care what they say?" Duan Tingxuan sneered, but then he blinked and turned to Su Nuan Nuan. "Wait, Nuan Nuan, are you saying that the emperor''s heart condition is connected to his food?"

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "It''s entirely possible that the imperial physicians was just giving some empty talk. But this time I do believe they are right. I remember reading about this in a book somewhere. People who ate nothing but meat and fish everyday suffer from all kinds of diseases. Just take a look around you, don''t you think people from n.o.ble houses never seemed to live very longpared the themoners who lived a moderate life? Most living up to 80 years old?"

    At this, Duan Tingxuan''s face grew solemn. His hands continued to stir the milk mixture when a sudden thought urred to him. Didn''t his imperial aunt say that the previous generation emperor and empress also love fatty meat? She even said that it''s part of the imperial family characteristic. It seems like several generations of the emperors all died young, could this be the reason?

    "Then, what should we do?"

    Duan Tingxuan had absolute trust in Su Nuan Nuan, and did not hesitate to ask for her opinion. But, Su Nuan Nuan only said, "How should I know? It should be fine as long as they eat less meat and take more vegetable, ah. Things like mushrooms and bamboo shoots are fine too. They''ll be fine as long as they are not too picky about their food."

    "This is the big problem, ah." Duan Tingxuan smiled bitterly. Su Nuan Nuan countered with, "Surely it won''t be a problem for you? You get along with them quite well, so well in fact that I almost got a heart attack from it."

    When she said this, Duan Tingxuan suddenly remarked, "By the way, you''ve never hesitated to yell at me when you saw me stealing food. But why do you never say anything when the princes stole food? I almost couldn''t believe my eyes when I entered the kitchen. Were they really three princes? It was like watching a bunch of feasting locust."

    "Don''t say locust, even if they were feasting leeches, they''re still royalty. One of them an actual crown prince. If, I, the mere wife of somebody, were to step in¡­ well, let''s just say I''m not bored with life yet." Su Nuan Nuan pped her fan vigorously, "You''re the untouchable popr guy, not me."

    Duan Tingxuan blinked, then began tough heartily. He shook his head, "Heheh, are you for real? Though you appeared intelligent, you do have your cute moments. Have you really not noticed the emperor and empress att.i.tude towards you? The gathering that day was nothing less than a little family gathering. Have you really not seen how all social ranking and formalities had been disregarded? The emperor addressed me as Tingxuan, and you as Dear Tingxuan''s wife. As for the princes, have you not seen them do their best to bargain with me for your favours? If I truly had any hesitation about their true intentions, would I dare act so casually with them?"

    "But, traditionally a royal family only has rulers and subordinates, with little to no familial kinship, right? Isn''t our emperor too unusual in this?" Su Nuan Nuan cried desperately. She really couldn''t take it anymore, this imperial family was just too weird: What nonsense is this? History has already proven that though people at the peak of power oftenmented about their loneliness and how they want people to treat them like ordinary people, these people were just being smug boasters. What being treated like ordinary people? If they don''t want to be treated like kings they wouldn''t have climbed so high up. If you truly believe this ridiculous statement, you''re not far from death.

    "Wu! His majesty is certainly unique. During court session and meetings in his study, he is our honourable monarch, but when he''s at the inner court, he''s just a regr husband and father, and my uncle of course. Didn''t you noticed that I didn''t actually kneel down?"

    Duan Tingxuan continued to smile, his manner clearly show admiration towards his emperor. Then, his gaze moved towards the milk he was stirring, it seemed to have firmed up and lumps of fat had appeared. He called out, "Yi? Nuan Nuan, look! Is it done?"

    "En, just about, continue to put your back into it." Su Nuan Nuan said carelessly as she eyed the mixture. Her mind was still on the shocking description about the royal family. In fact, she felt that she might actually be able to get along with this kind of emperor. It was kind of wonderful to be in a noisy, heart warming family gathering, the emperor''s next-door-uncle''s nosy behaviour was especially endearing.

    Duan Tingxuan put his back into his work for a few more minutes. He only stopped when Su Nuan Nuan said ''That''s enough''. He wiped the sweat off his forehead with his sleeves and took a closer look at the fatty lumps. Could this be theuded cream thing? His eyes brightened and he grabbed one of the lumpy pieces with a pair of chopsticks and ced them in his mouth. His movements were quick, obviously premeditated. Greedy as he was, Duan Tingxuan was quick to shove arge piece of the cream thing into his mouth before his wife could stop him.

    Nom, nom, nom. Sweet, fragrant and full bodied, but somehow it did seem to worth all the ravings Su Nuan Nuan heaped onto this food. The little marquis licked his lips and considered, could it be possible that his tongue had been too pampered by his wife''s wonderful cooking and was now being overly critical? In the past, if he had been offered milk sweetened with sugar and thickened with egg, he would probably have leaped three feet into the air in happiness.

    "Just look at yourself, where is your dignity?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes at him before getting up. She headed towards a corner of the kitchen and picked up something that looked like a wooden bucket with a lid. When the lid was popped opened, a most intoxicating fragrance rushed out. It was rum made with raw sugar cane juice.

    Duan Tingxuan sniffed and muttered, "It''s sweet? Is it a kind of honey wine?"

    "No need for you concern yourself over this, it''s still not done yet." said Su Nuan Nuan as she sc.r.a.ped out the milk mixture onto arge pan and added b.u.t.ter*. When she heard Si Ping''s voiceughing outside with the maids, she called out, "Si Ping, youe in and help too." [Possible fake fact alert: ¡­ when did you make the b.u.t.ter? Don''t you know you need to whip the milk first to make b.u.t.ter? Or, you know, make the cream first before whipping it into b.u.t.ter?]

    Si Ping leapt up eagerly, and rushed over to ept a clean rolling pin from Su Nuan Nuan. "Go and help your master," she pointed at therge pan, "work with your master. Put your back into it, the faster the better."

    "Yes. Madam, is this thing cream?" Si Ping nodded happily, not at all offended at being ordered around. In fact he was happy to be named coolie number two, the rewards were excellent after all. Who in this mansion could boast to have such a wonderful mistress as he? Having the opportunity to eat all the best things first, this ced her in the same rank as the old madam in his eyes.

    "That''s right, ah." Su Nuan Nuan nodded as the two men worked. The milk and b.u.t.ter mixture were quickly whipped together, until a small whirlpool was formed. Next to the hard working duo, a line of maids cheered them on.

    As everyone watched, the mixture in the pan started to double up in volume. It was quite incredible to watch the small amount of liquid cream and b.u.t.ter grow right before their eyes. Su Nuan Nuan stood on the side as the men worked, now and then pouring spoonfuls of rum into the mixture. When the mixture looked like it was about to burst out of the pan, Su Nuan Nuanmanded them to stop.

    At that, Si Ping copsed, the rolling pin falling out of his cramped hands. In contrast, the little marquis managed to maintain his dignity even after all that work. Well, he was a martial artist after all, and a powerful one at that. However, he had to admit that both arms felt weak after all that work.

    Su Nuan Nuan came over with a spoon to scoop up a bit of the cream and held it near his mouth, smiling, "Here! It''s been hard on you, have a taste. This is real cream." [¡­ I''m seriously thinking of using ''b.u.t.tercream'' instead of ''cream'' because that''s what they just made]

    Duan Tingxuan carefully opened his mouth, and closed his lips around the spoon. The faint scent of Su Nuan Nuan''s ''rum'' hit his nose first, followed by a rich and mellow sweetness that melted in his mouth. He nodded slowly and held out his thumb. "Nuan Nuan, to think that you can make such a wonderfully delicious thing. I am in awe again. By the way, are you sure that you''ve been sent to h.e.l.l after your death? You''re sure you haven''t been to heaven? This should be something that only the Queen Mother of the West[4] would have on the table, isn''t it?" [Gumihou: I have a feeling that author had mixed up cream, b.u.t.ter and b.u.t.tercream making techniques¡­] [1] Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs ¨C Youtube video shows recipe from Chef w.a.n.g Gang

    https://.youtube/watch?v=6RzyOsnzQ3o [2] Cherry Blossom Pork ¨C I included this youtube video because the instructions looked easy to follow, and I like the cutting technique

    https://.youtube/watch?v=7D88LVfhaFA

    Click on the picture for the tranted recipe! [3] Sweet & Sour Pork Strips ¨C Youtube video shows recipe from Chef w.a.n.g Gang

    https://.youtube/watch?v=8oWzeh7ghno

    Click on the picture for the tranted recipe! [4] Queen Mother of the West or w.a.n.g Mu Niang Niang ¨C Chinese Tao G.o.ddess of life, fertility and immortality. Originally presented with the teeth of a tiger and as a G.o.ddess of gue and disaster. She waster reformed and is now known as a benign Tao deity¡­ kind of like Su Nuan Nuan¡­

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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    <><>

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95: Irrational Rage

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "It''s just cream and you''re already this happy? Have you forgotten the tiredness in your arm?" Su Nuan Nuan smiled. Everyone loves to hear ttery, and she was no different. Moreover, this little marquis was very good at b.u.t.tering up people. On his side, the little marquis practically lit up at thement as he flexed his arms lightly. This was practically doting behaviour from his wife, ah. He was nearly overwhelmed by this great favour.

    He was just about to take advantage of this rare indulgent moment to sneak more food when Su Nuan Nuan said, "Alright, everyone have a little taste. We must save the rest. I''ll using those to make Snow Cream. Summer is the best time to have Snow Cream." Naturally, she was referring to ice-cream, but that name was just too weird in this era, so let''s go with Snow Cream. [Gumihou: Hyoko, you''re right, they ARE making ice-cream. But, I''m still curious why the b.u.t.ter? Do people make ice-cream with b.u.t.ter?]

    Duan Tingxuan swallowed, since Su Nuan Nuan had put it this way, he could only squash down that gluttonous worm living in his stomach. Soothing it with promises of Snow Cream. He also did not forget to extract a promise, "I''ll be going to the government office tomorrow, be sure to save some for me, ah."

    "Rx, considering how much effort you''ve poured into this, I will not neglect you." Su Nuan Nuan promised willingly. Without modern era''s beaters and electrical tools, it''s better to have this conveniently strong little marquis around. She should nurture this tool properly for future use.

    There''s a small ice-house just behind the kitchen, and Su Nuan Nuan bade Hong Lian to ce the pot of cream there. She''ll deal with it tomorrow. A nce outside showed that it was gettingte, it was time to make dinner. Because she had pretty much exhausted herself at the pce kitchen that day, today''s dinner was a pot of Eight Treasure Congee, with a few small side dishes: Bruised Cuc.u.mber Sd with Peanuts, Pig''s Ear with Sauce[1], Five Spice Duck Eggs[2], and Century Egg Tofu[3]. Everything had been arranged on the table when Qiu Ling appeared with a winsome smile, "Old madam had been thinking of madam. The old madam wished to invite the master and yourself to her ce, but then changed her mind thinking you might be tired from today''s visit. This one had been sent to convey her feelings. Since dinner has been prepared, do pleasee and visit the old madam after your meal. The old madam dearly wishes to hear news about the empress."

    Su Nuan Nuan noticed that as Qiu Ling''s mouth move to deliver her lengthy speech, her eyes never left the bowl of Eight Treasure Congee[4]. There was no doubt about it, all that talk about tiredness and what not, her true intention was to investigate their dinner. Well, there''s no need to point this out. Su Nuan Nuan graciously stood up, and smiled, "Very good, would this sister please inform old madam that I shall visit her after dinner. Ah yes, since I''m a little tired today, we''ve only prepared a simple Eight Treasure Porridge. Do you think old madam would be interested in trying some?"

    "Oh my, as it turns out, old madam suffered from ack of appet.i.te this afternoon. A bowl or two of sweet congee would be just the thing."

    Qiu Ling smiled so widely that her eyes turned into crescents. The master of the house sneered, "Enough, Qiu Ling. There''s no need to put on such show in front of me. You''re clearly here under old madam''s orders to raid the kitchens. With Eight Treasure Congee in sight, old madam has a sudden craving for sweet congee. If we happen to have steamed bread, old madam would crave sweet breads, is it not?"

    Qiu Ling''s smile remained perfectly professional. "This maid has no answer to master''s remarks. Perhaps it is best for master to convey the message directly to old madam, is it not? However, since this maid has been made to shoulder the t.i.tle of kitchen raider, would madam please allow this sc.u.m of a maid to carry off some side dishes as well? Our old madam really enjoys madam''s duck''s egg with its unique fragrance." [Gumihou: This maid is bada.s.s, me likey.]

    Su Nuan Nuan''s face twitched in several different directions. Finally, her ire fell upon Duan Tingxuan as she gritted out, "What''s the use of your meddling, huh? Useless thing, now we have to hand over side dishes as well as the main dish. We don''t have many duck eggs to begin with, since it''s your fault, you may show your filial consideration to the old madam and forfeit your share!"

    Duan Tingxuan leapt up in fright, with a swift movement, two of the eggs on the table disappeared up his sleeves like magic. His head shook like a rattle as he cried, "No, no, no, aren''t there some left? You give yours to the old madam, I shallmand the kitchen to send 100 eggs over tomorrow."

    Su Nuan Nuan snorted, but still bade Hong Lian bring food boxes and bowls over. She personally packed up the porridge and side dishes, handing the loot over to a smiling Qiu Ling. Once that little drama was over, she settled down to eat, only to be treated to the sight of Duan Tingxuan wolfing down the eggs he had hidden away. After swallowing his prize, he said casually, "In five day''s time, it will be old madam''s birthday. See if you cane up with something special to congratte her? Old madam really enjoyed the Milk Rolls[5] fromst time. Surely making the same thing in the shape of peaches would be easy for you. Well, what do you think of this idea?"

    "Old madam''s birthday, is it?" Su Nuan Nuan stroked her gold and jade bracelet thoughtfully. This old madam had treated her really well, even during the time when she was Su Meng Nuan. While this rtionship was forged upon their simrities as foodies, she still need to repay the old woman''s kindness to her. She nodded, "Very well, I''ll know what to do. I shall make my own arrangements, there''s no need for you to know too much. Oh yes, in three day''s time, send for more milk. Make sure you''re here to make cream for me."

    "Of course, as long as you are willing I shall be willing too." Duan Tingxuan grinned winsomely. "Since you''re sincere in your filial consideration towards the old madam, how could I not a.s.sist you? If it is my birthday in five days time, would you give me simr consideration?"

    "If you wish it, I shall give it. It is but a trivial matter. You are my main source ofbour after all. If there is no such consideration between friends, what kind of friendship is that? We might as well call ourselves enemies." Su Nuan Nuan smiled enigmatically.

    Duan Tingxuan sighed, he muttered, "You know exactly what I''m talking about. You know what? It''s fine, it''s all fine. It''s just me being greedy, for a scoundrel like me, having the privilege of calling you friend is too good for me, isn''t that right?"

    Su Nuan Nuan continued to smile, "The lord has improved much."

    "Where have this lord improved?" Duan Tingxuan was actually shocked by this positivement.

    "The lord understood his position in life and his own personality, ah." Su Nuan Nuan''s smile grew even more mysterious, even as Duan Tingxuan''s face stiffened. Then, he turned around to yell at Si Ping, "Just eat! Can you not be quiet when you eat?"

    Si Ping''s face turned into n‡åshape. He thought, master, ah. This ve has nothing to do with whates out of big madam''s mouth, ah. How could you turn your ire not upon the source, but on this ve instead? This ve knows that you''re angry, but¡­ but, isn''t it a little unreasonable tosh out on this lowly one? This ve is just standing behind you, I don''t even have a chopstick or spoon in hand, so how can I eat? This lowly one felt wronged, ah. Although, to be fair, this one felt worse for you. For a great master to disy such ungentlemanly behaviour, even Hong Lian and Xiang Yun are trying not tough at you, ah.

    ¡­ please read this at kitchennovel dote ¡­

    "I just made this Snow Cream today, please try some, sister."

    In a small sitting room just next to the sleeping quarters, Su Nuan Nuan and Concubine Jiang were seated on the kang bed together. After Cong''er and Hua''er served tea, Hong Lian personally carried a porcin tray over. Concubine Jing looked on curiously as Su Nuan Nuan gave directions to her personal maid.

    "Snow Cream? Just the name itself is curious, but it certainly sounds refreshing, especially on such a hot day."

    The tray was brought over, and when the lid was taken off, a little bowl was revealed. A light mist lifted, and three little b.a.l.l.s were revealed. Concubine Jing closed her eyes, and leaned in to take a sniff, "How sweet and refreshing it smelt, old madam and elder madam would certainly love this. The colour is wonderful too, white, light green and lemon yellow, just looking at it makes me feel cooler." [Gumihou: The little marquis being bullied is always a good day for me. Also, since Chinesenguage Ñ©¸â and ±ùä¿ÁÜ trantes as ice cream¡­ let''s just go with Snow Cream since Ñ© means snow ] [Gumihou: Also, I found a recipe for , lol! It uses pretty much the same ingredients as Su Nuan Nuan''s ice-cream. Although she didn''t melt her b.u.t.ter, or separate her eggs (as far as we know¡­)]

    Do click on the food pictures for the tranted recipes ^_^ [1] áuØi¶ú¶ä ¨C Pig''s Ear with Sauce

    [2] ÎåÏãø†µ° ¨C Five Spice Duck Eggs [3] Æ¤µ°¶¹¸¯ ¨C Century Egg Tofu

    [4] Eight Treasure Congee ¨C There are actually loads of Englishnguage site for this recipe, so here''s a link from Medicine Tradition for your information. It has 6 sample recipes and even a table on the type of things you can mix together

    [5] Å£ÄÌðzî^ ¨C Milk Rolls

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 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96: Beauty Speaks

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Hong Lian grinned, "Concubine Jiang, please don''t just admire the colour. You must taste some. Our madam has been looking forward to your opinion. Though our mistress was pleased with our ttery, us lowly servants'' opinions matter little. No matter how much we praised her, we''re no longer allowed another mouthful of this."

    "Surely you''re exaggerating?" Su Nuan Nuan red at Hong Lian. "Why don''t you just tell everyone how you swallowed down four or five pieces of the Snow Cream b.a.l.l.s in one go? How you ate until your teeth and stomach couldn''t take it anymore? Also, how much of this had been sent to the elder madams? Not to mention your greedy master who stormed this cetest night just for this? Don''t think I don''t know the master got up early in the morning and forced you to hide some away for him. Still dare to show your thick face to me?"

    Concubine Jing, who had been smiling at this little exchange suddenly looked up with shock at thest remark. Hong Lian blinked at the suddenly re, touching her own face curiously as she asked, "Is there something offensive on this maid''s face?"

    "Sister has gifted Hong Lian to the lord?"

    Concubine Jing did not mince words as she questioned Su Nuan Nuan, who blinked stupidly at her. "Gifted? Give what to the lord?"

    Hong Lian caught on to her meaning quicker, she blushed up to the tips of her ears and squirmed in ce, "What¡­ this?¡­ This ve¡­ the master¡­ how could it be? Our madam¡­" At this, the sudden image of her mistress and master in apromising pose bloomed in her mind, and the maid ran out of the room, shamed by her own imagination.

    By now, even Su Nuan Nuan had realized what Concubine Jing was talking about. Sheughed heartily, "Oh, so it''s this. How can this be? Hong Lian is a good girl, and I n to find a good husband for her in the future. There''s no way I''d let her suffer the attention of that man. Also, didn''t Duan Tingxuan already collected several cabbages on his own? Even you and Madam Lan, the best blossoms in the bouquet, couldn''t satisfy him. Any other man would have gone on their knees thanking heaven and earth for one of you, but that guy is still not satisfied. Really not afraid of being struck by lightning, ah."

    "Madam tters this one, how could this onepare? This one dare not receive madam''spliments, moreover, did madam not know? A woman''s beauty is as fleeting as a flower''s bloom. Looks onlyst between twelve and twenty years old."

    "Nonsense, how can a woman''s beautyst less than a decade? A woman''s youthsts between 15 up to 30 years, that''s 15 years of beauty; at 30 to 40 years old she''s a vivid flower at its peak, that''s another 10 years of beauty; between 40 to 50 the flower gains maturity along with elegance, her beauty is like the sun just before it sets, her gaze most pleasing andfortable to look at.

    That''s almost 50 years of beauty. Though a woman may grow older as the years pa.s.sed her, what she lost in youth, she gains in tranquility and joy. Surrounded by grandchildren in the twilight of her years. A life long lived is a lifetime of happiness gain. A woman''s beauty is in her life, and the happiness we bring upon others."

    Concubine Jiang stood there, stunned, looking at Su Nuan Nuan with her mouth opened: To think, a woman''s life could be interpreted this way. Surely this¡­ this was some kind of false teaching? But¡­ there was some undeniable sense in her words, and, what''s this stirring in her heart? It was as though her feelings had emerged, like a fish leaping out of a calmke to create ripples: To think that a woman''s life could be like this?

    "This undeserving one finally understood why the lord loves to spend his days with madam." Concubine Jiang lowered her head reverently. "When madam spoke just now, it was like a light had shone into this unworthy one''s eyes. The light is so bright that it pierces this ve''s heart, which this one had thought had turned to dead water the moment this one set foot in this mansion. This one thought she had gained peace atst, but the truth is her heart was dead. This one had believed herself content, but then these words of yours¡­ it was like, like this one had gained insight on what true happiness might be."

    "What''s all this silly talk? What dead water heart? And what insight have you gotten? You¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan was just too bewildered, she scratched her head, causing Concubine Jiang to giggle at this cute gesture. Concubine Jing gave a beautiful smile, "Madam has not experienced what this lowly one had, therefore it is natural that you won''t understand my heart. When this one was rescued by the master from that h.e.l.l, naturally this ve is grateful¡­ being able to escape that fate calmed this one''s heart, erasing all that endless worrying and anxiousness was enough to make this one content.

    Living in this mansion, under the protection of the lord, this one never saw suffering again, but nothing excites her heart either. Gardening was just something to pa.s.s the time without any real pa.s.sion behind it. After hearing madam''s words, this one understood that her life was like empty water, tasteless, in, though schrs might call an ordinary life is true to life, mine was just too dull. If it''s at all possible, this one would like to be just like madam, and live life to the fullest with confidence and ease."

    Su Nuan Nuan blinked. Well, it''s not like she didn''t understand what Concubine Jing was talking about, but she couldn''t quite believed how her words were being taken. Also, Concubine Jing''s worshipful gaze¡­ ah, but Su Nuan Nuan was a simple foodie who didn''t likeplicated thoughts. Let''s ignore this, thought Nuan Nuan as she said, "It''s all fine, you seem to have heard something you like from my speech. Well, if that''s the case, please do your best to live your life to the fullest. If a great beauty like you were to spend the rest your days depressed, I have a feeling the heavens will revolt. Do you really think that the heavens really intent for you to live like a nun after granting you a face like that? What kind of wastefulness is this?"

    Concubine Jing could no longer hold back herughter, she shook her head, "Madam is too witty for me, such ttery is too much. What do you mean living like a nun? This one was just living a quiet life, look, I still have my hair¡­"

    She was just speaking when a clear, youthful voice called across the courtyard, "Sister-inw, sister-inw, just how did you make that Snow Cream? Heavens, it''s just too delicious. My brother and I almost got into blows fighting over thest bite. Concubine mother also thought it was delicious. So much that she got together with brother to urge me toe over to ask if you have any left."

    Following this little speech, Second Young Miss Duan Xinqi ran in with a bright flush on her youthful cheeks. Her cheerful pattering stopped when she saw Concubine Jing. For a moment, she fluttered about anxiously before calming down at the sight of Su Nuan Nuan. Though she was now used to Su Nuan Nuan''s bossy presence, she still sank back to her timid behaviour in front of other people.

    "Oh, it''s the second young miss." Concubine Jing got up with some surprised: Was this really that timid second young miss in her memory? Has she always been this lively and pretty? Why has she never seen this side of the girl?

    "Pei! As expected, those who had gotten an inch wants a mile. I managed to get hold of your brother yesterday to make cream. It takes time to make that into Snow Cream, you know? Also, I''ve given a portion to old madam and elder madam, there''s no more you know? No more."

    Su Nuan Nuan had also stood up, reaching out to tidy up Duan Xinqi''s clothes as she said, "Did you really run all the way here? Aren''t you worried about people seeing you?"

    Something p.r.i.c.kled within Concubine Jing''s heart. She had always a.s.sumed that Duan Xinqi was naturally gloomy creature. A pitiful girl who could not stand raised voices. Seeing this cheerful and upbeat Duan Xinqi nearly made her eyes popped out. Especially when she pouted and said sa.s.sily, "Sister-inw, quickly make more when you can. This thing is just too delicious in summer. Give me a bit more next time, alright? I''ll get mother to embroider the most exquisite purse for you, how about it? Mother''s embroidery is the best, even professional embroiderers can''tpare."

    "Your mother, your mother, everything is from your mother. You''re already 13, when are you going to personally make something for me?" scolded Su Nuan Nuan even as she herded Duan Xinqi into a chair. Duan Xinqi said sadly, "Surely sister-inw knows how poor my womanly arts are? Even mother has been urging me to learn them properly, and I''ve been practicing, truly, but so far I can only make rough, basic things. Sister-inw, please be patient, I''m sure in two years time I can make something respectable for you."

    "Very well, very well, I shall await that day." Su Nuan Nuan said indulgently. She turned to Xiang Yun, "Where''s that hussy Hong Lian? Find her and tell her second young miss is here. I''ve reserved a few rolls of silk just for the young miss, tell her to bring them out."

    Xiang Yun bobbed in acknowledgement and left. Duan Xinqi was beaming her thanks at Su Nuan Nuan a bowl in Concubine Jing''s hand caught her eye and she cried out, "Why haven''t you eaten them, concubine mother? You don''t like them? But, but, if you don''t like them, what do you like?"

    "Oh, it''s not like that." Concubine Jing shook her head in surprised. Su Nuan Nuan red at the girl, "What nonsense is this? Your concubine mother didn''t have the chance to eat any yet because she''s busy chatting with me. I can guarantee that she''ll like it."

    Concubine Jing watched as Duan Xinqi''s cheerful little face fell and knew the reasoning behind her little inquiry. However, who was she to quarrel with a young miss over food? She was about to offer her dish of Snow Cream when Su Nuan Nuanughed heartily, "Ignore her, she''s just pretending to be pitiful. I sent quite a lot to Concubine Lin''s ce. You eat yours quickly, or it will melt into a snow puddle before long."

    Concubine Jing could only chuckle and scooped a tiny bit of the cream into her mouth, she carefully tasted the cream and nodded, "This is certainly delicious, no wonder second young miss ran over here so quickly. If there were any extra left, this one would love to bring some back too." After eating two more bites, she smiled at Su Nuan Nuan. "This one shall bring the rest back home to eat. If madam don''t mind, this one shall take this te with me. But this one shall bring it backter, of course."

    "What nonsense is this? What kind of person are do you take me for?" Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes. "It''s just te and not something valuable. Take it, take it."

    "This one knows that madam is generous." Concubine Jing smiled. Just then, someone called from outside, "Is big madam here? Old madam bade you toe over." It was Qiu Ling''s voice and as expected, the person who came in was none other than Qiu Ling. [Gumihou: Ohohoho, any guesses as to why Qiu Ling is here?]

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 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97: Unspeakable

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Concubine Jing and Duan Xinqi immediately stood up. In old madam''s eyes, their status could not bepared to her personal maid Qiu Ling. A little smile appeared on Concubine Jing''s face as she inquired, "Why is Miss Qiu Ling here?"

    Qiu Ling was a little shocked too, but then she smiled back and said, "Oh, it''s Concubine Jing and second young miss. What good timing, pleasee over with first madam. Old madam had been feeling bored for half a day now, she would be so happy if you would alle over to chat with her."

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "Of course we can go. Only, Miss Qiu Ling, please don''t tell me to conveniently bring some Snow Cream over. Because I really don''t have any left. Second young miss also came asking for more. I''ve told her there''s none, and I''m also telling you there''s really none left."

    Qiu Ling smiled at them, "First madam is certainly insightful, this servant''s heart is transparent to madam. If madam says there''s none, then there''s none left. When I brought some over to old madam''s ce, I even pretended that it didn''t taste good. That it was too cold. However, it was all gone as soon as I turned around."

    Su Nuan Nuanughed, "I really don''t have any left. Whatever is in the ice room is reserved for the lord. He already made us promise a thousand times to keep it for him. He expanded the most energy making this cream yesterday, he''ll be furious if it disappears. More importantly, I won''t be able to make use of himter."

    Qiu Ling''s eyebrows twitched. Wait, was this first madam way of putting the master in her heart? The old madam would be ecstatic when she hears this.

    Thus, she happily abandoned the topic. After Concubine Jing bade her personal maid to carry her te of Snow Cream to her house, they all set out for the North Court. Old Madam Fang did not really care two hoots about Concubine Jing and Duan Xinqi, but since their quiet and gentle beauty was soothing to the eyes, she allowed them to stick around as interesting background decorations. In fact, her mood was so good that she actually pulled Duan Zinqi over to sit next to her and proceeded to ask her after her family''s situation.

    When Duan Xinqi mentioned how her brother had been doing quite well at his Government College, and one of his essays were even chosen as an excellent example just yesterday. Old madam nodded agreeably, "That''s very good, a child who''s an able schr will make some something of himself. By the way, why is he studying at the Government College? As a child of our house, shouldn''t he be attending the Imperial College? Even brats without a schrly bone from n.o.ble families could attend the Imperial College, surely he could get in with both lineage and brains on his side?"

    All this was said with meaningful looks at Su Nuan Nuan, who clearly didn''t know whether tough or cry. Curses, just what does his studying have to do with me? But, luckily she had just talked over this matter with Duan Tingxuan a few days ago, otherwise she''d really be stuck.

    "Old madam, you might not be aware of this, but that Imperial College is actually infested with bad apples. Especially the teachers, quite a few of them are blockheads who are only interested in climbing the society pole through their students. Just a few days ago third brother came to my ce and chatted with the lord for a good long while. When he left, the lord shared the matter with me too. ording to the lord, with third brother''s virtuous and n.o.ble temper, he''d be bullied and ignored by those at the Imperial College.

    Worse, he might even learn bad habits from the schemers there. The n now is for him to work hard at home. Though the Government College has less prestigious teachers, the lord said that third brother could bring his essays over for a look whenever he''s free. As long as third brother works hard and put his good brain to use, he could take the imperial exams next year and make something of himself."

    "Oh?" Old Madam Fang sounded pleased. She nodded to herself, "I am old now, and can''t pay so much attention to many things. I can''t even manage the people at home, to think that you two still thought to care about your third brother. Not bad, not bad, Xian''er is often busy with imperial work, I have a feeling that it was you who reminded him, is that right?"

    "Nothing of the sort, third brother is a hard worker and our lord noticed his sincere effort." Su Nuan Nuan''s words nearly caused Shi Yurou to crack a tooth, she was clenching her teeth so hard¡­ Just what are you talking about? The lord recognised the third brother for his sincere effort; are you implying that second brother hasn''t been recognised because his efforts was not sincere enough? This Su Meng Nuan is just too poisonous. That single line was like a fine needle stabbing a vital point, a cruel and powerful killing move.

    The more Shi Yurou thought of it, the angrier she became. When she recalled her husband''s words, it really felt like she had identally swallowed a fly. She tried several times to say something cutting, but her mouth just wouldn''t open, not even when a servant girl came over to whisper into her ear. The old madam saw this and said, "Tingye''s wife, you better go. Since you''re supposed to be in charge of house keeping, there''s no need for you toe and chat with me all the time."

    There was nothing Shi Yurou could do but take her leave. Back at her courtyard, she proceeded to handle the report first, before asking one of her maid where Duan Tingye was. When they told her he was in his study, she made her way there and was just in time to see Duan Tingye teasing his bedpanion. When they saw her, the maid shrank away, an awkward expression descended on Duan Tingye''s face. The bedpanion wordlessly shuffled out of the room to escape the tensed atmosphere.

    Shi Yurou was angry, but was still holding onto her temper. She coldly said, "Unfortunately, the matter entrusted to this one had failed."

    "Why? Is the first madam unwilling?" this scheme was clearly very important to Duan Tingye, there was dismay on his expression.

    "Whether she''s willing or not I have no idea. Just the sight of her high and mighty airs p.i.s.ses me off. We haven''t even exchanged words when she started making fun of us. If I were to speak up about this matter, wouldn''t our status drop another foot in her eyes? To just stand and listen to her make fun of me, I¡­ I just can''t."

    "You¡­ you, must you be such a madam?" Duan Tingye was nearly vibrating with agitation. "Is pride more important or money? The reason why you can throw your weight around now is not due to your pride or social status. It''s because I am currently in charge of the family business. The old man gave me face because of my money making skills and granted you this authority. To throw away such a huge business opportunity just because you can''t swallow a small insult is just¡­ isn''t this cutting your nose to spite your own face?"

    "It''s¡­ it''s not like I could say anything! If my lord really wishes to do business, you are wee to speak to the first madam yourself." Shi Yurou harrumph coldly, and turned to stare out a window.

    "I? I am but a younger brother-inw. What right do I have to speak with my brother''s wife in her own territory? Are you worried that I have lived too long, is that it?"

    "Why are you so worried? Didn''t your third brother visit that ursed ce and came out in one piece? Not even the younger servants said anything about it." Shi Yurou kept her eyes fixed outside, the fan in her hand waving gently.

    "How could Ipare myself with third brother? He was dragged over by second sister, everyone knows that they''re there to thank that sister-inw of mine for something. Also, elder brother was there when they went over, what reason do I have to drop by? This is just asking elder madam to scream me to death."

    "Then you''re wee to speak with elder brother."

    "Are you crazy? You want me to speak with that crafty fox of a brother? Am I suppose to make money for him or for myself? Do you really think he''d let this opportunity go? I''d be doing the donkey''s work while he reaps the rewards. Are you happy to just drink the broth while he devours all the meat?" [Gumihou: ¡­ you know, I still don''t like this Duan Tingxuan¡­ If Duan Tingye ever betrayed the family, it''ll be because you bullied him too much, ah, ah, ah!]

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 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98: Understood Too Well

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Can''t do this, can''t do that, so what do you want me to do? Anyway, I refuse to speak to that woman anymore, I hate her." Shi Yurou gnashed her teeth and stomped over to sit on a nearby bench.

    "Well, why don''t you just hang around the Spring Breeze Court for a while? See if you can worm your way into the confidences of the people there and the recipe for cream?" Duan Tingye really was a business animal, though he tended to cringe before Duan Tingxuan, he was full of ''creative'' ideas to make money.

    "Do I look stupid to you? Isn''t setting a foot anywhere near Spring Breeze Court means admitting defeat?" Shi Yurou was getting p.i.s.sed off. She was just thinking about scratching her husband''s eyes out when Duan Tingyeughed gently, "You''re right. However, I am under the impression that elder sister-inw trusts her personal maids implicitly. Why don''t you send a few of your maids over to befriend them, see what you can get. What do you think?"

    "That''s not a bad idea. I don''t have to show my face, and since that Xing''er brat used work here, I know she''s friendly with at least two girls here. I''ll use the ''Injure Oneself to Gain Advantage'' tactic and get them to seek her help on ater date. What do you think? Also, her two newest maids, Hua''er and Cong''er aren''t known for their smarts, so this should work."

    "Aiya, my wife is so clever!" Duan Tingye ttered his wife happily, nting a kiss on Shi Yurou''s cheek.

    Shi Yurou, too, felt incredibly cunning and quick-witted foring with such a good n in so short a time. She gave viinousugh and pushed her husband away with a sneer, "Don''t touch me so familiarly after petting one of your toys." with that, she grandly sauntered off, leaving second young master to stew in a pot ofplicated feelings.

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    It was evening when Duan Tingxuan finally came home. When happened to encounter Duan Tingye making his way out. The evil in his heart snicggered, he was about to head over and pick on this brother of his when Duan Tingye himself hurried over with a warm smile, "Oh, you''re home, elder brother? I take it that you''ve had a hard day?"

    "Oh¡­ not bad." seeing his despicable, cunning, stomach full of schemes second brother taking the initiative to greet him took the wind out of Duan Tingxuan''s sails. For a moment, he could only rub his head distractedly.

    "Unfortunately, I can''t speak with elder brother long, I am just leaving for a dinner party." Duan Tingye cupped his hands in greeting, skittered around his brother and hurried out. Duan Tingxuan stared at the direction where his brother had disappeared for a long time. Then, he turned to the gatekeeper. "Has something happened at the mansion?"

    "Nothing, ah."

    The gatekeeper tilted his head curiously, why did the lord heir suddenly ask him this question?

    "How curious." Duan Tingxuan stroked his chin. As he made his way towards Spring Breeze Court, he said to Si Ping, "Don''t you think that Tingye is a little odd today?"

    "Not really," Si Ping smiled broadly. "Speaking of which, Second Master Duan is no longer a child, after suffering my master''s teasing for so long, surely something would stick in his head? Since he cannot avoid my master, he might have decided to face his fears and challenge my master directly. Well, I say challenge, but he was perfectly respectful and warm even. Perhaps he had gained enlightenment?"

    "Humph! What you said made sense, however, I don''t believe his actions are so simple." Duan Tingxuan fanned himself gently for a moment. "People who did something for no obvious gains must be scheming something."

    "It''s not like Second Master Duan was doing this for no reason, ah." Si Ping felt that his master just like to over think things, be careful you don''t scheme yourself into a corner, ah.

    "Even if he has reasons for whatever he''s doing, I still think it''s strange for him to greet me without prompting. Humph! I know that Tingye too well, there''s no way he''s doing this for no good reason. I won''t believe it. Heheh! Not bad, it looks like he''s managed to nurture a few brain cells in his head. To be able to pull wool over my eyes like this, hah! Let''s see what kind of scheme you''vee up with."

    "Master, this one knows that master is clever. However, it''s not good to bully people like this, ah. Since it''s nothing major, perhaps master should allow second master some leeway? Seeing second master in such despair, even this lowly one feels sorry for him, ah."

    Duan Tingxuan grinned and whacked Si Ping lightly on the head, "You little rascal, your ttery skill has improved. You can say such things without batting an eye now." he continued on his way and just happened toe across Xu Ran Yun and her maid. The two women were obviously pretending to admire flowers in front of him.

    When she ''caught sight'' of him, Xu Ran Yun ran up cheerfully, "Oh, the lord is back? How lucky for this lowly one."

    "Hm, are youying in wait for me, Ran Yun?"

    Duan Tingxuan expected her to feigned ignorance, but Xu Ran Yun brightly replied, "Oh, this one guessed that my lord must be in a hurry to visit Spring Breeze Court. So, this one thought to enjoy the flowers here to see if this one could catch my lord on his way. It has been quite a long time since this onest saw my lord."

    The resentful feeling was obvious behind the lightly spoken words. Duan Tingxuan''s female in distress senses were tingling, and he could not help but softened. Thanks to her unreasonable actions from before, he had been quite cold to her for quite a few days now. Now that Nuan Nuan and Jing''er had gotten closer, the time for Jing''er to take over the household duties drew ever closer. When that timees, wouldn''t Ran Yun be even more depressed? Perhaps he should go over tofort her a little.

    He smiled down at her, "I''ve been quite busy these past few days, and have neglected you a lot. Not only you, but I''ve neglected everyone here. You look lovely in this light red dress, wait for me tonight, alright?"

    Xu Ran Yun beamed, she quickly bobbed in thanks for her great fortune and said, "As my lord said, this one shall be sure to get ready. If my lord does note, this one shall be very sad."

    "Be at ease, I will keep my word." Duan Tingxuan said absently, his mind already on the Snow Cream. Once Xu Ran Yun left, he hurried over to Spring Breeze Court. Feng Xian and Xu Ran Yun, who had hidden themselves away, watched their lord''s disappearing back with mixed feelings. Finally, Feng Xian said, "Madam, are you at ease now? Though the lord might covet first madam''s cooking, she could not force him to neglect yourself."

    Xu Ran Yun sneered, "So what if she tries to force him? Your master has a soft heart, as long as I am willing to lower my head, he would not let me lose face. This is called ''Retreat a Step to Conquer the World''. Humph! Humph! Now that the lord stuck himself Spring Breeze Court all day, even the servants look down on us with their dog eyes, even daring to ignore mymands. Today, we shall let them all see, the lord still holds me in favour. It''s still to early to decide who will win just yet."

    As she spoke, Xu Ran Yun leisurely strolled home in satisfaction.

    ¡­ please read this at kitchennovel dot ¡­

    At this very moment, Duan Tingxuan was anxiously making his way towards Spring Breeze Court. He hadn''t even crossed the threshold when it opened, and Xing''er came out with a strange maid. The maid had clearly been crying; she was still scrubbing her eyes tragically with a handkerchief when they both saw him. Both maids stiffened, and quickly bowed their greetings. Duan Tingxuan waved for them to stand up. He looked closer at the crying girl and asked, "Who is this? Is this a new maid?"

    Xing''er quickly answered, "In reply to master''s question, this is Chun''er, she''s from the branchdy''s court. The branchdy had her beaten over some minor infractions, so she came here to talk to me for a bit." In fact, there was no need for her to exin all this, but Chun''er''s tear stained face was a little ostentatious, which was why she thought she ought to at least give some exnation.

    "Oh! So it''s Chun''er, ah."

    Duan Tingxuan looked meaningfully at the low ranking maid, before nodding. He then rushed through the door to howl, "Hong Lian! Where''s the Snow Cream? Did you reserve any for this lord?"

    "From my lord''s tone of voice, if Hong Lian really had forgotten to reserve any for you, are you going to tear open my court?" Su Nuan Nuan was seated in a wide garden bench like a queen. In fact, with Zhao Chai in her arms, she looked more like an evil woond queen smiling condescendingly at a miserable mortal. The little marquis felt his heart sank.

    "Could it be¡­ you really didn''t leave me any?" against Su Nuan Nuan, Duan Tingxuan realised that he could not fight fire with fire. He widened his eyes and proceeded to stare pitifully in her direction.

    As expected, this was the best weapon against his wife. Said wife had prepared to spit more venom at this sc.u.m male, but seeing this grand and dignified heir who even dared to quarrel with the crown prince staring up at her with with those pitiful puppy eyes was just¡­ Su Nuan Nuan felt her heart softened.

    "Did I not say that good coolies are hard toe by? How could I not leave any for you? Hong Lian already left to get the Snow Cream the moment she saw you. Look, here she is with your treat."

    Su Nuan Nuan jerked her chin at Hong Lian''s direction, her hands never stopped stroking Zhao Chai. However, at the sight of Hong Lian, Zhao Chai let out a low ''Miao'' and leapt out of her arms. Hended softly and bounded energetically towards Hong Lian.

    "Dratted cat, you dare fight me over this? I''ll p you to death." he was on the verge of losing his temper. It was one thing to yield over fish, he could have fish every other day if he wanted to. But this was a never eaten before Snow Cream, ah. That cream alone was already too delicious, that Snow Cream thing had to be out of this world, right?

    Afraid that his Snow Cream would be s.n.a.t.c.hed away, the little marquis pushed the limits of his qing gong and, like a ''Starving Tiger Pouncing on Its Prey'', hended next to Hong Lian and s.n.a.t.c.hed the te off her hands. Holding the te protectively against his chest, he red triumphantly at Zhao Chai. Actual killing intent leaked out as he red at the cat: This master dares you toe over and s.n.a.t.c.h my Snow Cream I''ll skin you and wear you as a hat.

    Su Nuan Nuan stared at this incredible show in front of her with some incredulity and muttered, "Well, I guess this guy is a true foodie, ah. To use powerful kungfu to get his hands on food is just too amazing. Looks like even I lost to Duan Tingxuan when ites tobative ability."

    Duan Tingxuan proceeded to eat his Snow Cream as he made his way into the house. He did not even sit down when he stepped past the threshold, preferring to prowl around restlessly as he ate. Su Nuan Nuan was at a loss as this tall and dignified master of the house nibbled slowly at his Snow Cream. "Why aren''t you sitting down? Also, don''t you normally just swallow your food like a starving wolf? Why are you eating so daintily now? Have you found your dignity on your way here?"

    "This is my way of showing my love and grat.i.tude towards the Snow Cream. I feel morefortable eating this while standing and walking around. Nuan Nuan, I do believe that this wonderful creation will be my salvation in the future." [Pu~] tea exploded from Su Nuan Nuan''s mouth. She red at Duan Tingxuan, "Are you for real? You just want to see me spit my tea, don''t you?"

    "No, no, no, nothing like that." afraid that his wife would think that he was concealing malicious intentions, the little marquis quickly pped his hand catingly. "I''m being serious, Nuan Nuan. Every word came from the bottom of my heart. From the first mouthful of this treat I know, I have fallen deep, I''m finished. Aside from the summer months, I want to taste this delectable ambrosia in fall and winter too. If I''m troubled by anything that makes me boil with anger, this salvation would cool the fire in my belly. Nuan Nuan, don''t you know what kind of impact this thing has for a sweet tooth foodie¡­"

    "Fine, fine, whatever, for a dignified lord heir like you to fall all over your feet over Snow Cream is just too ugly. It''s just some frozen snack." Su Nuan Nuan shook her head despairingly. "In short, you really like it, right? So why are you eating so daintily? Are you giving Zhao Chai a chance to s.n.a.t.c.h your food?" [Gumihou: Whatever, sc.u.m male. This is why polygamy is not a good idea. Suffer, you wretched man! Nuan Nuan, feed the Snow Cream to Zhao Chai!]

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 Chapter 99

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 99: Poor Second Young Master

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "That dratted cat," Duan Tingxuan sneered down at the creature. But he quickly ceased when Su Nuan Nuan glowered at him. This creature was his wife''s beloved pet after all, and has a higher position in her heart that he. Duan Tingxuan could only reigned in his temper and smiled ingratiatingly at their mistress, "Don''t you think he''s a little too fat? It''s not good to overfeed small animals, he might find it difficult to move and could even die from too overeating. I just don''t want you to be sad if he died."

    Su Nuan Nuan rubbed her arms and shivered, "Enough, I can feel gooseb.u.mps from that disgusting tone of voice. You think I didn''t see it when you stole half of the fish meant for Zhao Chai? A liar and a thief, that''s what you are."

    "Ahem, ahem, well, you can''t really me me. The fish was really delicious that day." the little marquis muttered shame-facedly. He scooped another dainty bite of Snow Cream into his mouth, "I''m eating this slowly because there isn''t much of it. Once it''s gone there will be none left."

    "That''s just a dessert, are you not going to have a proper dinner?" Su Nuan Nuan was feeling crossed now. "We''re having Sweet & Sour Fish, Pork Bone Soup with Fresh Lotus, Lotus Leaf Sticky Rice¡­" before she could finish listing the food, Duan Tingxuan had swallowed down the rest of the Snow Cream, licked the te clean in two sweeps of his tongue and was now primly seated at the dining table.

    "Now that dinner turned out to be more delicious, looks like Snow Cream is no longer my master''s salvation. Also, master''s mood change too quickly, ah." Xiang Yun was clutching her sides while trying to remain upright, letting out the asional [pu chi]. Thanks to Su Nuan Nuan''s influence, no one pretended to have dignity at Spring Breeze Court anymore.

    "What does a maid like you know?" the little marquis said a little embarra.s.sedly to Xiang Yun, he could only pretend to be angry and rebuke the maid before suddenly turning to Su Nuan Nuan. "Oh yes, dear Nuan Nuan. Who have you sent the Snow Cream to?"

    "You should be asking who I haven''t sent to." Su Nuan Nuan counted off the people with her fingers. "I''ve ordered servants to send it to the old madam, elder madam, Madam Lin, second branch¡­ aih, no choice. Who ask me to be the heir''s wife? The heir''s wife had put on an act magnanimity, otherwise I would have skipped Madam Yun and Madam Lan altogether. Sister Jing was just here today, so I get to personally serve her. Well, is my lord happy with this arrangement.?"

    Duan Tingxuan ced the empty te on the table before sitting down to look interestedly at Su Nuan Nuan, "So, you''re saying that you''ve sent this to second brother''s ce?"

    "Yes, even though I don''t like that husband and wifebo. You don''t like them either, but unfortunately we can''t be too tant about not liking them." Su Nuan Nuan had already been warned by Duan Tingxuan about this couple''s ambitious nature. Therefore, in order not to allow them any opportunity to retaliate, they couldn''t do anything that would attract the old marquis'' attention. Otherwise, if the two branches of family started fighting, the old marquis might change his mind about maintaining Duan Tingxuan as the heir.

    "I see," Duan Tingxuan pped his hands andughed out loud. "When I saw Tingye earlier, he actually came over to greet me. And then there''s that maid, Chun''er, who suddenly appeared with tears in her eyes. I thought that it was all too odd a coincidence. Looks like second brother had set his sights on your Snow Cream. Hahaha! Clearly these people have a hidden scheme up their sleeves."

    "Why are you so happy about them scheming?" Su Nuan Nuan asked curiously. Normally, most people would be wary about this, so why are you grinning like you''ve just received a mountain of silver?

    "Of course I''m happy, someone is about to waste their efforts trying to make money, what''s not to be happy about?" Duan Tingxuan smile grew even more cunning. He turned to Xiang Yun and said, "Call Si Ping and a few other maids over, this lord has some instructions for you."

    "Yes."

    Xiang Yun said and trotted away. Su Nuan Nuan soon caught wind of his scheme and said in a hushed tone, "So, you have a counter move for this couple''s n to seal the Snow Cream recipe?"

    Duan Tingxuan nodded, "Of course. In fact, I have a feeling that that second brother of mine has been eyeing your recipes for quite a while now. In this peaceful era, themoners have plenty of money to burn, it''s the best time to make money through luxury goods off of rich merchants and upstart middle .s.ses. With your recipes, a restaurant would have customersing in all day, and perhaps even travel a long way just to taste your cuisine.

    He''d been trying to make money through the shipping business, unfortunately that route is fairly saturated with red rapes and bureaucrats looking to make a quick buck. Even if a ship manages to reach the harbour safely, by the time the goods went through all hands, the profit margin bes very thin. However, this is not the case for food business. All one would have to do is hire a few cooks and a get a good location. However, their pride is toweringly high, which is why they haven''t made a move yet. Now that Snow Cream has appeared, well, looks like they can''t bear to sit on their hands any longer."

    "Snow Cream is just a small dessert, how could it bepared to proper restaurant dishes?"

    From Su Nuan Nuan''s modern person point of view, the Snow Cream was the cheapest thing she had made yet ever sinceing over to this ancient world. A stick of ice-cream would only earn a few cents in the modern world after all. So, how much of a profit could it bring?

    "A small dessert!" Duan Tingxuan couldn''t contain his own excitement, he stood up and shuttled over to sit next to Su Nuan Nuan, "You think this is just a small dessert? That''s aplete misconception. Why do you think Tingye has restrained himself until now despite all your delicious creations? That''s because no matter how delicious they are, they''re still considered earth bound food. Food which could still be made after much effort or imagination. However, this Snow Cream, heheh. To be honest, until you''ve made it, I''ve never even imagine that something like Cream could exist. The way we''ve used cow''s milk had always been the same, it''s either mixed in desserts or poured over a dish.

    Your Snow Cream, however, I bet even the Imperial Kitchens never came up with something so amazing. Though your Milk Smoothie captured the hearts of the whole of the royal family, emperor, empress, crown prince and the other princes included, it is also adored by the people in our mansion. That dessert is loved because of its simplicity, but this Snow Cream is different."

    Su Nuan Nuan was stunned by Duan Tingxuan''s long exnation. She had always thought that this guy was just a bureaucrat who didn''t know where money came from. To hear him talk about business opportunities in such a clear cut and logical manner was incredibly jarring. The way he put it, it was as though running a country was just like running a business. By the way, do you have to be such an amazing all-rounder? To the point that you''d actually bully Duan Tingye to death? Poor guy, to be the younger brother of such an amazingly talented brother was just pitiful, ah. How sad to be the background character to your brother for the rest of life, ah.

    The little marquis was beaming with delight at whatever thoughts brewing in his head. Until even Su Nuan Nuan pitied the Second Young Master Duan so much that she decided to say something in his defence. "Surely there''s no need to do this? Though second brother is a little greedy, majority of the money earned would go into the Duan family coffers. Also, it''s not like this Snow Cream is anything special, it''s just some cold snack thing. Why not let him have it? You''re already the lord heir, an important political figure who could influence the country''s major decisions. So why are you picking fight with him?" [Gumihou: Because Duan Tingxuan is a bully, that''s why. Humph!]

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 Chapter 100

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 100: Elder Brother''s Pains

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Duan Tingxuan sighed, then he regarded Su Nuan Nuan contemtively, "Nuan Nuan, do you believe that I bullied Tingye because I look down on him and his birth mother?"

    "Isn''t that so?" Su Nuan Nuan countered. Surely this sc.u.m male s.l.u.t was not going to say that he bullied Duan Tingye for his own good or something equally righteous and ridiculous? If he really say something like that the heavens would really open up and strike him down.

    "Of course¡­that''s part of it." the little marquis had probably concluded that his wife had saw through him and paused between his exnation. But, then he quickly followed up with, "But, the most important reason, the reason why I did this was to help Tingye¡­ to prevent brotherly discord¡­"

    He hadn''t finished speaking when Su Nuan Nuan clutched her chest and cried out dramatically, "You really said it, Duan Tingxuan! You''re really inviting heaven''s wrath. Whatever, just stand away from me. This kind of despicable and hypocritical words actually came out of your mouth, do you really don''t want to grow beard in yourter life? Second brother will cry if he ever heard this."

    Duan Tingxuan didn''t know whether tough or cry. "You really think I''m a hypocrite? Just think for a moment, if I were to allow his wild behaviour to grow unchecked, or to a.s.sist him to gain power. What do you think would happen? Tingye''s nature is just like his mother, their greed knows no bounds. If I don''t block his way or suppress him, our family would have split off a long time ago.

    It''s because I am here to suppress him, and stop him from getting the capital or opportunity to grow his money that he dared not move too rashly for fear of me smashing him down. Right now, though he could not achieve great wealth, he could still eat well, dress well and live the life of a rich young master. You tell me, am I not a thoughtful and benevolent older brother?"

    "I really never saw it this way¡­ so you''re actually a good brother?" Su Nuan Nuan was shocked. She could feel that Duan Tingye was not joking around, he really thought he was doing his brother and family a huge favour. Had she been looking down on him too much? Was this sc.u.m male a much more benevolent person that she had thought?

    "Ahem¡­ you''re thinking that, since I''m such a good brother I might as well let him be the heir. After all, a great and talented man like me would have no trouble making it big wherever I go." the little marquis'' face suddenly flushed with anger as he continued. "However, I refuse! This is my right, so I''m keeping it. After his mother s.n.a.t.c.hed away father''s love, I''m not going to let him s.n.a.t.c.h my rightful ce as heir. Nor can I just destroy this brother of mine by personally sending him to h.e.l.l. Therefore, the only thing I can do is suppress him. Suppress him so much that he would forever be the little brother. If he suffer for it, heheh! Well, he could only me his own wild ambition for any unfulfilled feelings!"

    "Second brother truly is pitiful, however, I approve of your tactic." Su Nuan Nuan did pitied Duan Tingye, however, she still extended her thumb towards Duan Tingxuan.

    "I can only say all this to you, only you would approve of my methods." Duan Tingxuan sighed. If anyone else were to hear of his n, they might reprimand him or persuade him to do something else with their mouths while keeping their own thoughts to themselves. Only Su Nuan Nuan would speak her mind frankly to him. Fortune really knows how to y with people, when all was said and done, Duan Tingxuan''s true confidant in this world was his first wife. Though she was as beautiful as a flower, she was also as distant as the clouds. He was not at all sure if would every be able to hold this flower in his arms in this lifetime.

    As soon as the thought urred to him, the little marquis sank into deep contemtion. For a long while, silence reigned within the house. Presently, Hong Lian came in, along with Xiang Yun, Cong''er, Hua''er and Xing''er. Duan Tingxuan leaned back against his chair, crossed his leg, and drawled, "The ones who made the Cream and Snow Cream with your madam are all here? No one else?"

    Hong Lian hurriedly answered, "In reply to master, it''s just us. No one else."

    Duan Tingxuan nodded, "I see. Well then, listen to this master well, I shall not repeat myself. If anyone were to vite my orders, they will be beaten to death."

    Duan Tingxuan had always acted like a doting husband at Spring Breeze Court, and had always mimicked Su Nuan Nuan''s careless, indulgent way of treating the servants. This sudden change was like seeing a tigerzily stretching its back, indolent, but frightening at the same time. The maids all trembled in fear, gooseb.u.mps rose on their skin and they could only nodded in unison crying, "This lowly one shall obey master''s orders."

    Su Nuan Nuan frowned. She didn''t like this att.i.tude of Duan Tingxuan. It''s not like it was some big deal or something, to use ''Beaten to Death'' so carelessly, just what was he thinking?

    She was about to say something when her husband gently met her eyes, the look in his eyes were gentle, but firm. Stunned, she swallowed her words and thought: That''s right, Spring Breeze court will be targeted by many factions soon enough. Her maids, the first line of defence would receive the brunt of these attack through thebination of bribery and coercion. Whatever, if the recipe for Snow Cream really escaped this ce, I''ll kick the maid out, that way Duan Tingxuan could still maintain his face without needing to actually kill anyone, right?

    After all these consideration, she decided to maintain her silence. From the maid''s point of view, it looked like their Missy had been shaken up by Duan Tingxuan''s fierce att.i.tude. Each of them vowed silently in their hearts to never let anyone wrench the recipe from their mouths, they did not want to put their beloved mistress in this horrible situation.

    Xing''er was a stubborn and forthright character, simr to Su Nuan Nuan actually. She was also exceptionally intelligent, at Duan Tingxuan''s solemn threat, she cried out, "No wonder! I was just thinking to myself how odd it was that Chun''er came running over to my ce to cry. Looks like the second young master has his eyes on the Snow Cream recipe and the seconddy decided to use the trick of ''Injuring Oneself to Gain Enemy''s Confidence''. So, she wants to steal the recipe through me, heheh! Those people looked down me too much, even without master''s advice, I will never disclose it at the point of death. I will never forget how the branchdy had treated me. If I were to ever hand such a precious thing over, I might as wellmit suicide by mming my head into a block of tofu."

    "Alright, alright, as long as you know it. Let''s not curse ourselves unnecessarily." Su Nuan Nuan was crossed and amused at once. She looked over at Duan Tingxuan, "Since you''ve taken the trouble to call everyone over, does my lord have any other instructions? If not, let''s all have dinner. I''m hungry."

    "Yes, yes, yes, let''s eat." At the mention of dinner, the serious and threatening little marquis suddenly became an eager little boy with sparkling eyes again. There was not a single trace of the heroic and dignified master left, he''d once again turned into a loud mouth idiot in the face of a good dinner.

    ¡­ please read this at kitchennovel dote ¡­

    They were halfway through with dinner when one of the older female servants announced that someone had came to the mansion looking for Duan Tingxuan. Si Ping himself was waiting at the door. This really angered the little marquis, he hurriedly stuffed two pieces of Steamed Pork with Rice Flour into his mouth as he red eerily at Hong Lian. Hong Lian started, and stammered, "M-master? W-why is master looking at this one? This unworthy one never said anything, ah."

    "You bring bad luck just by standing there. Nuan Nuan, next time don''t let Hong Lian serve us, I can never finish a meal peacefully with her here."

    After the vaguely threatening words, the little marquis stormed off, leaving Hong Lian gaping after him in surprised. After a long while, she stamped her foot andined, "Missy, did you see that? Master is being totally unreasonable, just what had this maid done? He used this maid for being a crow and now wants to take away my duty of serving you. If I really am a cursed crow, what''s all that begging and pleading to save him some Snow Cream from this morning? Humph, I shall not let him use me like this again."

    Su Nuan Nuan howled withughter. She nodded approvingly, "Now you see? You''ve finally seen just what kind of b.a.s.t.a.r.d he is, right? Wu! At any rate, the sun has long set by now, I wonder what''s so urgent? Moreover, they got Si Ping to personallye find him, can''t be anything good."

    Duan Tingxuan never returned the rest of the night. Though Su Nuan Nuan was a little concerned, she was never really worried. After all, it''s not like she really wanted that ''beloved'' husband of hers to visit her bedchamber. The one who was really suffering right now was the hopeful Xu Ran Yun, who had been promised a visit by Duan Tingxuan. After so many days, she''d finally managed to grasp an opportunity to see her husband. She had thought that her husband''s ire against her has lessened a lot, and was quite prepared to beg him prettily to soften his heart. Once he visited her, she would be able to show those servants that she still holds the lord''s favour and the rest of them would not dare to utter those wretched words anymore!

    In truth, Xu Ran Yun was someone who was very good at creating opportunities for herself. Yesterday''s little performance was tailored to rouse the little marquis'' pity for her. This Duan Tingxuan was just too unromantic, though he loved beautiful women, he''d always ced his work above them. Because he left in a hurry, or perhaps he didn''t antic.i.p.ate staying out all night, he''dpletely forgotten to ask someone to inform Xu Ran Yun that he wasn''ting.

    Poor Xu Ran Yun ended up waiting for him half the night, tormenting herself with the thought that Su Nuan Nuan had once more stopped Duan Tingxuan from visiting her. She gritted her teeth and cursed the world for more than two hours before finally falling into uneasy sleep. She woken upter from a nightmare, and couldn''t sleep anymore. In a temper, sheshed out at the maids at the slightest infractions, causing the people at Autumn Rain Pavilion to walk on eggsh.e.l.ls that day.

    It was soon evening again, neither hair nor shadow of Duan Tingxuan was seen. Not only him, even Si Ping could not be seen. Xu Ran Yun sat at the window overlooking the lush flowers and trees in her garden, a bitter winter blowing through her heart: In the past, even if Duan Tingxuan could note over to personally inform her of his business, he would send Si Ping over to notify her. Who would have thought that her husband would have neglected her to this extent? Was there really no room in his heart for her anymore?

    She was immersed in her bitter musings when loudughter reached her ears. No such sounds had been heard within her courtyard all day until now. Did someone a.s.sume that she was not around and was making fun of her?

    Temper fraying, Xu Ran Yun stood up and stomped over to the garden, and saw that the personughing was her own precious son, Duan Maoming. Her son grinned up at her and said, "Mother, I was just ying with third brother. That guy is too stupid, he fell out of a tree while trying to run away, so funny!"

    Xu Ran Yun has had enough, seeing Duan Maoming with his clothes covered in dirt and leaves was thest straw. Those clothes were made of satin, what was he doing climbing trees while dressed in satin? To see the expensive cloth in such a condition, she became so angry that she snarled, "ying around all day, is that all you do? What happened to your studies? What''s so good about climbing trees? What if you fall and injure yourself? Or worse, bitten by insects? Just scram now and change your clothes, do you even know what you look like now?"

    Duan Maoming had always been a pampered child. From a young age he''d been spoilt by his parents and his att.i.tude was basically simr to a devil incarnate. Therefore, how could he be cowed by her mother''s scolding? Instead, he set his teeth and snapped, "If you''re angry about fatheringte, why don''t you go confront him?! Why scold me?" [Gumihou: Hohoho, spoilt child syndrome. Tsk, tsk] [1] ·ÛÕôÈâ ¨C Steamed Pork with Rice Flour

    https://.youtube/watch?v=FvKh2U1h0cA

    a tranted version of a recipe from meishichina.

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 Chapter 101

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 101: To Grasp One''s True Nature

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Duan Maoming''s words might as well be a knife plunging cruelly into Xu Ran Yun''s heart. She raised her hand high, but somehow could not bring herself to strike the child. Presently, a beautiful woman dashed forward and folded Duan Maoming into her arms. She smiled up tremulously at Xu Ran Yun, "Madam, the child is still young. Surely there''s no need to take his words seriously."

    It was Duan Maoming''s wet nurse, Mi''shi[1]. Her own child had died young, so she loved Duan Maoming like her own. Therefore, how could she bear to see the little young master struck? Unfortunately, her fate was like a moth flying into mes. Normally, it pleased Xu Ran Yun to see this woman shower love upon her child. However, for some reason, this same expression of love p.i.s.sed her off today. The hand came viciously down Mi''shi''s face. She shouted, "You good for nothing woman. So, you''re the reason for my boy''s bad att.i.tude. How dare you barge in while I''m educating my son, you dare y the doting parent to make me look bad?"

    How could Duan Maoming restrain himself when someone hit his beloved wet nurse? He pushed Mi''shi aside and stood protectively between the two women. Though his was still quite little, he had quite a manly air about him as he stood in front of his wet nurse. However, this only made things worse. Xu Ran Yun felt that the entire world was against her, veins throbbed on her forehead as she muttered, "Wrong, wrong, This is all wrong. Are you my son or her son? Feng Xian, Feng Xian! Throw this disrespectful b.i.t.c.h out! Who knows what unfilial habit she ns to incite my son into."

    Feng Xian hurried over, but before she could say anything, Mi''shi had thrown herself to her knees by Xu Ran Yun''s feet. Face pale, tears falling from her eyes, she implored, "Please spare this servant, madam. This servant dared not anymore. This servant is just afraid that the young master would be beaten. He''s such a small child, it''s normal for him to be a little naughty¡­"

    Before she could say anything more, Xu Ran Yun had kicked her away. Her voice was cold as she sneered, "You still dare to talk? You think I don''t know your tricks? You''re just trying to nt ideas into my son''s head with all this pitiful excuses. Making me out as the evil mother while you, and only you, are the one who truly loves him, am I right? Still dare to pretend? Why don''t you take a look at your own moral standing? Hah! I''m lucky to have found this out so quickly. Feng Xian, get Madam Lu to throw her out now!"

    "Mother is being unreasonable, I refuse to let Mother Mi go."

    Seeing that the situation had deteriorated to this point, Duan Maoming stuck himself against Mi''shi''s waist and refused to let go even when Feng Xian tried to pull him away. She said, "My little devil, please don''t make trouble now." She turned to the rest of the maids who were still standing around, watching and called them, "Why are you still standing there? Go get Madam Lu now, didn''t you hear madam''s order? You useless bunch¡­"

    Her words ended in an incoherent stutter. Because standing at the gate, expressionless with fury, was Duan Tingxuan. At her sudden pause, the rest of the maids all swung their gazes in the direction she was looking at and all stiffened. Someone yelled ''Ah!'' and everyone hurriedly sank into a greeting and quickly made way for Duan Tingxuan.

    "F- father¡­"

    Now that support has arrived, Duan Maoming tearfully ran over to him. He clutched at his father''s clothes and cried, "Mother is being unreasonable. She is so angry and yelled at my, and even want to send Mother Mi away. Father, I don''t want Mother Mi to go, wu wu wu¡­"

    As a four year old child, he still hadn''t properly absorbed the ''A Man only Shed Blood Not Tears'' mindset, but had already learned to not show weakness in front of his mother. At the sight of his father, however, he quickly copsed under the weight of feeling wronged by his mother and was blubbering freely like the little child he was.

    While Duan Tingxuan was not exactly a model husband, he was still a good father to his many children. He gently picked up his second child and began to his face with a handkerchief. He smiled at his son and said, "Your mother is just having a bad day. And since you''re such a naughty monkey, of course she''s get angry. It''s alright now, it''s all just things said at the heat of the moment. Don''t cry, father will take you to first mother''s ce to eat Snow Cream soon."

    At the mention of Snow Cream, Duan Maoming''s eyes brightened. He nodded quickly, "Is it that thing we had at grandmother''s? Ah! That''s really delicious. I had to s.n.a.t.c.h some from big brother for third brother to eat, otherwise he''d have just eat everything."

    Duan Tingxuan had been feeling guilty about missing his appointment with Xu Ran Yun, which why he came to Autumn Rain Pavilion the moment he could. He had arrived just in time to overhear Xu Ran Yun and Duan Maoming talking about the tree climbing thing. He had been preparing himself to scold his son over this reckless behaviour when Xu Ran Yun unexpectedly lost her temper. Duan Tingxuan held himself back to observe the situation, choosing to step in at a critical moment.

    He had seen all that needed to be seen and could deduce the rest. When he heard his son''s protective deration, he nodded approvingly, "It''s good that you look after your third brother, but you must also respect your first brother. You must also be consistent with your chivalric att.i.tude. When third brother fell from the tree, why were you not concerned for him andughed at his misfortune?

    Duan Maoming found himself lost for words. He lowered his head and said quietly, "This son knows he''s wrong. This son should notughed at third brother, I shall go and see him now."

    "Go."

    Duan Tingxuan put his son down and watched as Duan Maoming disappeared like smoke towards the side room. Finally, he stepped forward and stopped before Xu Ran Yun. He turned towards the still crying Mi''shi and said, "Go and make sure the boy changes his clothes."

    At this, Mi''shi knew that her position was safe. Feeling like she had just s.n.a.t.c.hed her life from death''s door she kowtowed her thanks, knocking her forehead against the floor several times before scuttling after Duan Maoming. Xu Ran Yun, too, knew that her position has fallen drastically at this action, hadn''t she just shown a vicious, poisonous side of herself to her husband? Was Su Meng Nuan''s previous fate of being ignored by the lord about to befall upon herself?

    "Maoming is still young, and bound to be a little wilful. You used to indulge him all the time, what happened today?" Duan Tingxuan decided to give Xu Ran Yun face and an opportunity to exin herself. Also, he had no intention of airing this matter in front of all the servants, it''s better to solve this matter peacefully and behind closed doors.

    Xu Ran Yun was still feeling bitter, "What about it? My lord should know best, doesn''t he? Last night, I found that I have wasted my happiness for nothing. I waited and waited until dawn as my lord spent his evening cheerfully at Spring Breeze Court. Have you never thought of this lonely woman waiting anxiously by the window for the sight of my lord? People who said ''Wax Will Turn to Dust, Tears Will Dry'' is absolutely right. Last night, I faced the red candle and felt my tears mirroring the wax that slid down the candle¡­"

    "Enough, these are things Zhi Lan would say, I expected better from you. Why are you throwing a feminine temper like this? Also, I know you''ve spent most ofst night cursing my name when I missed out on our meeting time." Duan Tingxuan shook his head, revealing Xu Ran Yun''s ''tragic acting'' with this one line. Feng Xian quietly lowered her her head awkwardly, just how did this master knew of this? It was not like they this information all spread around.

    Xu Ran Yun suddenly felt cold, she had intended to act pitiful in front of her husband, to p.r.i.c.k her husband with the needle of guilt. She had always hated it when Xue Zhi Lan used this tactic, but who would have thought that the first time she tried it it just copsed on her? No longer able to control her face anymore, she resentfully said, "No matter what, didn''t my lord say that he wille see mest night? It still did not change the fact that my lord hadn''te. Well? Have my lord been seduced by the Snow Cream and could not bring himself to leave Spring Breeze Court? It''s one thing to allow yourself to be seduced but to drag Ming''er into that fox''sir. Humph! No matter how delicious that thing is my son is not amon thing. If she has the ability, let her make her own son and feed that thing to it¡­"

    "Ran Yun."

    Duan Tingxuan did not snap at her, but his quiet voice might as well have been a whipsh. Xu Ran Yun shivered, she had been happily listing out her grievances and had identally touched upon a taboo matter. No matter what, no secondary wife had the right sneer at a legal wife for being unable to have children, especially in front of their husband. [Gumihou: Ara, ara, family drama. Not that I don''t understand Xu Ran Yun, but you showed your hand too early, ah] [1] ''shi ¨C basically ''nee. However, since this novel uses both jia (family name the woman married into) and shi (maiden name), I thought I''d differentiate it using Ms. and ''shi.

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 Chapter 102

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 102: p Your Own Face

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Last night, the crown prince fainted and I was ordered into the East Pce. I couldn''te back home until this morning. When I thought about how I''d left you alonest night, I came over here as soon as I could to console you and was unexpectedly treated to this ugly scene. Are your refreshing and generous nature all a lie? It''s one thing to me me, but must you take your temper out on the innocent?

    Have you not considered the pain you might have caused Maoming if you''d actually thrown Mi''shi out? No matter how much Mi''shi loves Maoming, how could shepared to you, his own mother? To hit someone over such a petty matter, do you still have the dignity of a madam in charge of arge household?"

    "What? You- you were called into¡­ the East Pce?"

    Xu Ran Yun''s face went white, then it turned purple and she snapped, "Then why did the maids at Spring Breeze said that my lord was so happy with the Snow Cream that he stayed overnight when I sent Feng Xian over to inquire this morning?"

    Duan Tingxuan too was surprised by this. Feng Xian took the opportunity to chime in, "It''s true, master. When I saw Xiang Yun early this morning, she said that master enjoyed the Snow Cream so much that you decided to stay at Spring Breeze Court. She was really convincing, too."

    "How could you carelessly believe the word of mere maids? If you''re really concerned about me, why didn''t you ask Nuan Nuan directly?" Duan Tingxuan looked helplessly at Xu Ran Yun and Feng Xian: Aren''t you two pretty clever? Why are you acting so stupid now? It''s one thing to be stupid once, but to act so stupidly right in front of me so many times, this lord really don''t know what to say to you.

    Xu Ran Yun and Feng Xian blushed fiercely at this. Perhaps they had been hanging on the edge of anxiousness too long and the stress was getting into them. There had hardly been a day they haven''t spent specting and wondering and predicting bad oues. Now that they have essentially turned themselves into jokes in front of the lord, they really felt ashamed of themselves. On the other hand, Xu Ran Yun could not help but to rush over to Spring Breeze Court and throttle Su Nuan Nuan to death. Privately, she thought that Xiang Yun had been incited by Su Nuan Nuan to deliver false information to Feng Xian.

    "Enough, now that you''ve aired things out, make sure to properly calm yourself and think things through. I''m heading over to Spring Breeze Court now. "Duan Tingxuan sighed, he knew that he should remain by Xu Ran Yun''s side to console her. However, he really wanted to consult with Su Nuan Nuan about the crown prince''s condition. Moreover, when he recalled how Xu Ran Yun had viciously kicked Mi''shi aside, it felt like he had identally swallowed a fly. Finally, without even sitting down for a cup of tea, he made to leave.

    "My lord."

    Xu Ran Yun was frantic. She tugged at Duan Tingxuan''s sleeves and implored pathetically. "It''s this servant''s wrong today. But, old madam''s birthday is in four days and this one has made some arrangements. Would my lord please see if you have time to take a look? If there are anything displeasing, would my lord please advice this one?"

    When Duan Tingxuan heard this, he halted his steps. After muttering to himself for a while, he turned to Xu Ran Yun''s beseeching face and sighed again. His heart grew tender again. sping Xu Ran Yun''s hands, he gently said, "Very well, I shalle over and help you look it over. As for other matters, this lord advice you to let it go. Also, you might consider restoring Ms. Xue back to her original position in the kitchen as soon as possible."

    "Why?"

    Anger red up within Xu Ran Yun again and she forgot her intention to appease her lord. With a sharp cry she shook off Duan Tingxuan''s hands and snarled, "I''ve already suffered for so many days, thinking that theck of movement from the old madam and the lord marquis meant that you still remember to spare my face. To think that it was all my imagination. Each and everyone of you only care about the first madam. Even my lord, do you even care how much face I''d lose? Do you have any idea how even the lowliest servants areughing at me behind my back?"

    Duan Tingxuan''s sympathetic expression grew cold, until he finally said, "If I really don''t care about your face, Ms. Xue would have returned to her original position in the kitchens by now. Do you still remember the reason why she was sent to theundry rooms? It was clear to everyone it was done as a retaliation against Nuan Nuan. You found fault with that woman and made up some excuses to transfer her, have I ever confronted you over that?

    If not for your previous hard work managing the house, would I even give you face? In the end, what was the result? Old madam had been enduring all this while, as have I. Do you think that I haven''t tasted the food from the mansion kitchens since I''ve been dining at Spring Breeze Court? If this goes on, neither I nor Su Nuan Nuan need to do anything, old madam herself would not stand for it. When that timees, where would you put your face?"

    Angered by her husband confronting her with the question of transferring that wretched Ms. Xue, Xu Ran Yun grew frantic and defensive, she snarled, "Since it''s like this, fine, fine! After all, I have no face to look after this household anymore. Since there are so many people in this mansion, just pick anyone of them to manage it. The seconddy had always been bothered by theck of responsibility and was always looking to carry off half of my duties anyway."

    Duan Tingxuan said coldly, "If you think to threaten me with the branch house, you may save your breath. Naturally, I have no intention of handing the household duties over to the branch family. However, don''t think that main branch will be troubled without you around. The good thing about having plenty of wives and concubines is that even if Nuan Nuan has no interested in managing the household, there''s still Zhi Lan and Jing''er. Now, you decide for yourself, who''s at a disadvantage over here?"

    With that, he stormed off. Xu Ran Yun shivered in ce for a long time before she groped her way onto a bench. Feng Xian watched franticly as her mistress gasped in great gulps of air and knew that the matter had gone beyond serious. "Mistress, you''ve always been calm and collected, why is it when you''re in front of the master you can''t restrain your words? There are certain things that must never be said ¡­"

    "You think I don''t know that? But¡­ but just now, well, he said it himself. I was just, so, so angry and couldn''t help myself." Xu Ran Yun cut off Feng Xian''s impatiently. Scrubbing her face with a handkerchief, she sat down on the bench for a long time. Feng Xian too, did not say anything. After a long time, her mistress suddenly stood up and snapped, "No, I can''t let things go just like that, I cannot lose this household management duty, I can''t."

    "Does mistress have any orders for this one?" Feng Xian''s eyes brightened, thinking that her mistress must have thought up some solution.

    Xu Ran Yun gritted her teeth, and said,"You''ve already heard what your master said. He gave me a chance to do my job properly, the thing with Ms. Xue was a test, which I had failed. The moment he stepped in I have lost all power. I had been wondering why that woman gave in so easily, and even got closer to Concubine Jing. Looks like the person she intends to back as the household manager is not Xue Zhi Lan but Concubine Jing. Heheh!

    How clever, she knew that Xue Zhi Lan is closed to elder madam and ran the risk of that woman climbing over her head. Concubine Jing is different, not only did she not have any family backing, her background was cheaper than dirt. There was no way a dirty woman like her could ever go over an official wife''s head. Obviously, she wants to oppress myself and Xue Zhi Lan. This tactic is too clever. No, I can''t let her win just like that. Feng Xian, tomorrow you go and transfer Ms. Xue back to the kitchen. Say it''s under my orders and that the matter from before had been properly investigated. Make something up and install her back as the kitchen manager."

    "Madam, is it possible that you might have over thought the matter? If first madam really wants to oppress you and Madam Lan, she could just take over the household management duties herself. Why would she involve Concubine Jing?" Feng Xian felt that her mistress must have suffered too many shocks. She was the one who banished Ms. Xue, if she were to personally ordered Ms. Xue to transfer back to the kitchens, isn''t it just like pping her own face? Feng Xian tried to advice her mistress, unwilling to let that first madam grow too powerful.

    "What do you know? Do you know why she was an abandoned wife before? That''s because she was too arrogant and prideful. Who in this court did not hate her? She has learned her lesson well, and look, how many days has she been back to Spring Breeze Court? How many people are on her side now? Concubine Lin and second miss, and now that Concubine Jing. Feng Xian, she is bing too clever. She already said to the lord''s face that she didn''t want to manage the household. If she were to go back on her word, what would the lord think That she had just ''Loosened the Reins Only to Grasp Them Better[1]?

    In order to protect her reputation, she can''t be seen wanting control over the household. Even if she were to take control over it, it had to happen slowly and gradually. It''s true that by letting Ms. Xue back to the kitchen is basically pping my own face, but it''s better than letting her p me in both cheeks. By doing this, old madam and the lord would see it as me turning over a new leaf. As long as I have the authority over the household, she can''t stomp me to death. If the servants are disobedient, I can still order them around. I can even have them beaten or thrown out. I can s.n.a.t.c.h my face back. Without the authority over the household, I''ll be finished."

    "Madam, you are most far sighted. Now that madam understand what''s happening, we should arrange our movements carefully in the future. Like King Gou Jian lying on firewood and Han Xin enduring humiliation as part of a vital mission, we shall turned the tides of fortune and s.n.a.t.c.h victory from the jaws of defeat. Madam must not be downhearted over this minor setback."

    Xu Ran Yun eyed Feng Xian for a moment, and said gratefully, "Right now, the person closest to me is you. There''s no need for you to console me. If I am really downhearted, I would not have chosen to move this way. It was my own fault that the woman managed to change her fortunes and established her castle so quickly. I will learn from this mistake. One day I will pull her down from her high horse and stamp her into the abyss, never to have any way of redeeming herself. Only this will appease the resentment in my heart."

    Feng Xian sighed gratefully at this. She said, "If that''s the case, this maid shall go and order Ms. Xue back to the kitchen. Only¡­ what should we do about Ms. Qin? For the sake of the kitchen manager position, she had shown madam great filial respect."

    Disgust coloured Xu Ran Yun''s face, "If she had shown half the attention fawning over me to properly manage the kitchen, would today happen? In the end, it was because of her poor management skills that I have been scolded by the lord and have to p my own face. Even I have to lower my pride, does she want me to give her face too? Whatever, just send her to the sewing room, she can manage the purchase and collection of cloth there."

    "Yes, this maid understands." Feng Xian said gently, and backed out of the room.

    please read this at kitchennovel dot

    As he had mentioned before, Duan Tingxuan left the Autumn Rain Pavilion to make his way towards Spring Breeze Court. The moment he entered the court, he spotted Xiang Yun watering some nts in a corner and called out, "Xiang Yun,e over here."

    "Kya!" Xiang Yun nearly jumped out of her skin. She came forward shiftily. She had been nervous ever since she had told Hong Lian how she had teased Feng Xian that morning. Hong Lian had scolded her soundly for making trouble out of nothing. If it was found out by either the master or Missy, she''d definitely be punished. Therefore, when she heard Duan Tingxuan called out for her, Xiang Yun''s heart nearly leapt out of her mouth. She froze in ce, wishing she could run, but didn''t dare to actually do it.

    "Why have you mislead Feng Xian this morning?" [Gumihou: So much backstabbing, ya''ll need a hobby.] [1] Loosened the Reigns Only To Grasp Them Better ¨C Pretend refuse something in order to better tightened your hold on something

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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 Chapter 103

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 103: Golden Age Birthday Menu

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The more she tried to stammer out her words, the more Xiang Yun panicked. Finally, with tears rolling down her eyes, she copsed to her knees in front of Duan Tingxuan, who said, "What are you talking about daring or not daring? In the future, be sure to make it clear to anyone who asks how loving and harmonious your master and mistress are, understand? This way n.o.body would dare to look down on your mistress. Rejoice, for when your mistress gain power, as personal maids you shall walk with your head high and n.o.body would dare to mistreat you."

    "Ah?" Xiang Yun raised her head to look uncertainly at Duan Tingxuan. "M-master does not¡­ me this maid?"

    "How could this lord me you? The way you do things fits right into this Lord''s ns. Here! This jade is for you. Ah, but make sure your mistress doesn''t know about this, otherwise¡­ well, surely you do not need me to spell it out? If something were to happen, even this lord would not be able to save you."

    As he spoke, Duan Tingxuan removed a precious and expensive white jade pendant from his waist and handed it over to Xiang Yun. It was high quality Hotan Jade[1]. It felt very slippery to the touch and was exquisitely carved. The whiteness of it was very pure, not even a tiny speckle mar its crystal like surface. It was clear how much Xiang Yun''s little lie had meant to the little marquis.

    "Yes, this maid understands. Would master be at eased, this maid shall speak many good things in front of Missy." there was no happiness like the sudden reversal of bad fortune to good. Xiang Yun happily tucked the jade pendant away, she had now be Duan Tingxuan''sckey.

    "Good little maid, you sure know how to speak well." Duan Tingxuan nodded approvingly. Spotting the tear stained face, he said, "Go and wash your face, otherwise your mistress would think that I''ve bullied you. How did a cowardly little thing like you dared to y a joke on Feng Xian?"

    He shook his head, muttering to himself as he made his way into the house. Su Nuan Nuan was seated at the table recording something onto a piece of paper. Curious, he came over for a look, and saw that it was all cooking recipes.

    Su Nuan Nuan had clearly heard himing, but she did not bother to look up as she said, "Hong Lian said you''ve called Xiang Yun over to you the moment you got here and spoke to her at length. What did you you two talk about? Are you trying to instigate something? Heheh! You''ve misjudged my personal maid''s loyalty."

    "Mydy is being overly suspicious, I only called Xiang Yun over to ask what''s for dinner tonight." Duan Tingxuanughed. He thought: Hey, you ced too high an opinion on your maids'' loyalty. Did you know this lord has secured your Xiang Yun to his side with just one jade pendant? Naturally, this is not something I''ll ever tell you.

    "Pei! How could a lord heir like you speak such shameful words?" Su Nuan Nuan did not bother to raise her head. Duan Tingxuanughingly replied, "Aren''t these your recipes? Be careful not to lose it. Or you''ll suffer a major loss."

    "It''s just some ordinary home cooked food. Since it''s the old madam''s birthday, I n to make sure Ms. Xue gets back to the kitchen by then. These recipes are written for her. I want her to oversee the kitchen duties for the banquet to make sure old madam has a wonderful birthday feast."

    Duan Tingxuan looked at Su Nuan Nuan with astonishment. Heughed gently and said, "And how did Ms. Xue earn your regard? To be given such great responsibility and trust, Ms. Xue would probably fall to her knees in grat.i.tude if she knew."

    "No matter what, she was transferred into theundry house because of me. I even boasted that I''d have her back into her original position in two or three days, but look how many days have already pa.s.sed. I heard that things at theundry house isn''t good either, First, some of those looking to curry favour with Madam Yun would bully her. Secondly, that sted Madam Yun hinted that she was there to take over Ms. Wu''s position, so how could anyone on Ms. Wu''s side not hate her?

    She''d done her best to endure all this trouble and never came to see me about it. It was only when I felt things were not right, and decided to plunder the kitchen again that I first noticed that she wasn''t there. Who would have thought she''d have such a backbone on her?"

    Duan Tingxuan smiled in reply, "A servant takes on the att.i.tude of their master. Before, when she tter Ran Yun to climb up the ranks, her att.i.tude was so flexible that you''d think she has no bones in her body. However, now that she sees you as her master, your tough and arrogant att.i.tude must have stirred up some sense of pride inside her. This is not bad, if she really sees you as her true master, she would not sell you out for her own sake no matter what.

    Such is the att.i.tude of a truly intelligent person, unlike those who follow where the wind blew them. If two strong winds happen to blow the opposite direction, those following the winds would end up confused and unable to escape the storm."

    "Alright, alright, enough of your fancy talk. As expected of the shameless fox of the imperial courts." Su Nuan Nuan smirked, waving a piece of paper under Duan Tingxuan''s nose. "Take a look at the menu. If you''ve nothing to add or change, we''ll need to start gathering the ingredients soon, otherwise we''d be in trouble.

    Duan Tingxuan paid close attention to the menu/recipe list and immediately noticed four luxury dishes right at the top, "Stewed Shark Fin[2], Braised Sea Cuc.u.mber[3], Bear Paw with Beeswax[4], Stewed Deer Tendon[5]." It was followed by, "Sweet & Sour Yellow River Carp[6], Steamed Lion Head[7]¡­" he pointed excitedly at the Steamed Lion Head and cried, "This one, what is it? Why have I never heard of it before?"

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled at his excitement, "It''s something you''ve never had. A very delicious dish, you''ll know on that day."

    "I think, in order to make sure that all these dishes are up to standard, it''s imperative that I taste test everything first." Duan Tingxuan said solemnly. Unfortunately, the unholy gleam in his eye gave away his true feelings.

    "Is that so? For the sake of grandmother''s birthday banquet?" Nuan Nuan frowned, then dipped her brush deep into the ink pot, ready to ruthlessly blot out the list with her dripping brush. "If that''s the case, we can just cancel everything. No need to trouble you¡­"

    She hadn''t finished her speech when the little marquis leapt back, the list clutched protectively against his bosom. "Nuan Nuan, I think it''s a good idea to collect all the ingredients as soon as possible. From the names alone, I can tell that everything is going to be delicious."

    "You certainly know how to talk, make sure don''t talk s.h.i.t in front of me." Su Nuan Nuan smirked, lowering her brush.

    "I was just thinking, would it be possible to leave me with just a little male dignity? No matter what, I''m still a little marquis, if you treat me like a greedy cat just because I asked to taste a few dishes, surely it won''t look good, right? Also, Nuan Nuan, women can''t be too clever, a clever woman is¡­" Duan Tingxuan said coaxingly, at the gathering lines between his wife''s brows, his heart stuttered and he quickly switched tracks. "A really clever woman is too attractive, ah. I''m worried that many men would fight me for you, so, could you pretend to be just a little dumb?"

    "The dumb one is you! You want me to suddenly be so dumb that I forgot how to make this Lion Head Soup?" Su Nuan Nuan was crossed and amused at the same time: What is this idiot talking about now? This man s.l.u.t''s reputation shone brighter than a well cut diamond outside, what loss is he eating? The way he tter people, it''s like his mouth is filled with nothing but sweet things, is there no justice in this world, ah?"

    "No, no, no, my wife is the world''s smartest and most beautifuldy in the world." Duan Tingxuan obligingly ttered her with a coaxing smile. "Let me look again¡­ aiyo, there are four more dishes I''ve never heard of before. What''s this Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Sauce[8]? And this Shrimp & Bamboo Shoot Rolls[9], what kind of prawns will you be using? The ones from the sea? We''ll definitely need make preparations for those. En, and this Rolled Tips[10]?"

    Su Nuan Nuan patiently exined everything to the little marquis, who became more and more excited. Finally, Su Nuan Nuan murmured, "Too bad it''s blisteringly hot now, so we can''t get our hands on southern fruits. Otherwise we''ll be able to make two more dishes with pineapple." [Gumihou: Oooh, so many delicious sounding food. Although, everyone, please don''t eat Shark Fin or Bear Paw. Shark fin has no nutritional value, and is only good for showing off wealth. As for bear paw, please pity the poor bears and don''t eat their paws, or their gall dders, or buy any kind of bear products.] [1] Hotan jade or Hetian jade ¨C White jade, very gorgeous

    [2] Stewed Sharks Fin ¨C üS Fô~³á

    Check out my personal recipe for Faux Sharks Fin Soup. My grandmother and sister loved it, so I recreated the taste from memory. [3] Braised Sea Cuc.u.mber ¨C ¼tŸýº£…¢

    I choose this video by Spice N'' Pans because they took the time to exin the individual ingredients. A lot of prep work had to be done before the actual braising.

    https://.youtube/watch?v=XbQmU5NKJZ4 [4] Bear Paw with Beeswax ¨C ÃÛÏžÐÜÕÆ

    Interestingly enough, there are no records for this recipe except for this really short clip from The Chinese Feast, a 1995 Hong Kong Film. Since it''s aedy, well¡­

    Here''s the trailer

    https://.youtube/watch?v=c1pkS3dt0ok [5] Stewed Deer Tendon ¨C ŸýÂ¹½î

    https://.youtube/watch?v=JID9UOVTrrI

    [6] Sweet & Sour Yellow River Carp ¨C ÌÇ´×üSºÓõŽ

    https://.youtube/watch?v=h-pN_9av8G0

    Specifically this carp, it has a ck dot an inch behind its eye. [7] Steamed Lion Head ¨C ÇåÕôª{×Óî^

    [8] Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Sauce ¨C ¾©áuÈâ½z

    https://.youtube/watch?v=u5Ddvkq8qxM [9] Shrimp & Winter Bamboo Shoot Rolls ¨C ¶¬¹SÎr¾í

    [10] Rolled Tips ¨C ¾í¼â ¨C The direct trantion is ''Rolled Tips'' lol, what the heck? Anyway, when I looked it up, it''s kind of simr to the Hakka Chun Ken (¿Í¼Òµ°¾í) or Hakka Egg Rolls. The main difference between Hakka Egg Rolls and these ''Rolled Tips'' is theck of spiral. Also, ''Rolled Tips'' have more meat and appeared to be from the Henan Province, specifically Feng Qiu (·âÇð).

    Here''s an Englishnguage website with the Hakka Chun Ken Recipe

    A lot of the dishes here are very traditional and restaurant grade. In other words, very high level difficulty, so enjoy the videos, lol!

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

    For anyone who wants to chat with me, doe over to discord !

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    Fufufu, the next chapter is for Patreon readers. I shall be upfront and confess, the chapters will be unedited. I normally leave tranted chapters alone for at least 24 hours before editing it.

    If you love my trantions, do consider supporting me via Patreon~

 Chapter 104

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 104: Retreat

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Oh no, no, we don''t need that many dishes. This is more than enough, I don''t want the whole family to suddenly turn up at our doorstep begging for food. As for the pineapple whatever dish, we can have it during winter. We shouldn''t be too greedy and eat everything at once. It''s better to restrict the supply and enjoy your cooking gradually."

    "Still want to restrict supply?" Su Nuan Nuan sn.i.g.g.e.red as she lightly smacked Duan Tingxuan on the head. "When you started popping over to Mei Yue Lou to eat my food, I had a whole list of ingredients I want from you. But, Hong Lian and Feng Xian both told me I was too greedy. However,pared to you, I must admit my lost. The real greedy ghost in this house is you."

    "Yes, yes, it is I. I am incredibly greedy. As long as there are good things to eat, who cares aboutbels? My dear, you''re wee to call me a greedy rat, a cunning fox, or a gluttonous snake, as long as I have good food. Hahaha!" Duan Tingxuanughed heartily with his hands on his waist, when Su Nuan Nuan cut in with, "Why were you called out so suddenlyst night?"

    "Erp!"

    With his heartyughter suddenly cut off, Duan Tingxuan choked on nothing. He gave his ''dear wife'' a bitter look, "You did that deliberately, didn''t you? Can''t you even wait until I''veughed to my satisfaction before throwing this wet nket at me? I''ve just managed to forget about this, why do you have to bring it up?"

    After his little rant, he set the sheaf of recipes on the table, and looked gravely at Su Nuan Nuan, "The crown prince suddenly lost consciousness yesterday. A good half an hour pa.s.sed before he finally woke up. Nuan Nuan, his health might be in more danger than we''d imagined. Since this is most likely food rted, I implore you, madam wife, for advice. What should we do now?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was shocked, after a long time she frowned and said, "For a young man like the crown prince to suffer a heart attack, this is not good. He has to lose weight now, otherwise I really can''t predict any good oues." Su Nuan Nuan really can''t help but be anxious for such an important member of this unusually loving and intimate royal family. Though he''s a fatty, and his greed for delicious food was terrible to behold, he still listened to Duan Tingxuan and stopped eating Su Nuan Nuan''s food when told off. He''s truly a good crown prince, if possible, she really did not want him to die young.

    "In fact, I have some suspicion that the crown prince''s weight and King Xiangyang might be somehow rted. This is all my conjecture, of course." Duan Tingxuan said anxiously. "Nuan Nuan, you really must think of a way to help me. Royalty aside, he''d always been a good cousin to me, treated me more like a blood brother. I want him to live a good and healthy life. Heir apparent aside, he''s a good natured, even-tempered and clever man who would continue to lead this country as a wise and peace loving monarch. Therefore, no matter what, we must prevent misfortune from falling onto his head."

    "Didn''t I say there''s nothing I can do, ah? The only answer is to lose weight. Otherwise he will continue to suffer attacks like this. His heart attack will only be more serious from now on." Su Nuan Nuan too began to worry over this.

    Duan Tingxuan muttered, "I''ve spoken to the imperial physician today, he said the same thing. After reporting the matter to the emperor, he ordered me to spend at least two hours at the East Pce to encourage the crown prince to practice his martial arts. However, I must implore your help when ites to food. See if you can somehow make vegetarian food look good and get him to eat less meat."

    "Leave it to me. There are actually a lot of delicious vegetarian food, as long as it is properly prepared, it could be incredibly tasty. Moreover, we could also make mock chicken and mock ducks." There were not many temples or monasteries in this ancient era and while most people practised ascetism, none of them would have known the super luxurious vegetarian food that featured mock chicken and mock ducks[1]. Therefore, at Duan Tingxuan''s plea, Su Nuan Nuan immediately had a few recipes in mind. As long as she gets the seasoning and texture right, she could make vegetarian dishes taste like meat.

    At his wife''s deration, Duan Tingxuan gave Su Nuan Nuan a solemn gaze. In a serious voice, he said, "Then, I shall depend upon madam wife."

    "No problem." Su Nuan Nuan gave a creepy little hei-heiugh and said. "We can also encourage the crown prince with a special meat dish everyday. If he eats his vegetables like a good boy, he could get five mouthfuls of my special meat dish. If he can''t finish his vegetables, you may eat the meat dish in front of him."

    "Heavens, ah! Su Nuan Nuan, you''re too¡­" mean, Duan Tingxuan was about to say mean, but at the sight of his wife''s smile that was not really a smile, he blinked himself into consciousness and gave her a thumbs up. "Exactly, what an excellent idea. Madam wife is cleverer than Zhuge[2] himself, this husband admires your wit and cunning. Even I could not havee up with this scheme."

    "Why do I feel like there''s something wrong with yourst sentence? Are you mocking me?"

    "How dare I? Nuan Nuan, please do not use unjustly." Duan Tingxuan''s voice was unnaturally loud. For some reason, after his wife narrowly escaped death, he felt more and more like Dou E[3], his day was notplete unless he suffered at least one unjust me a day.

    "Whatever, I can''t be bothered to argue with you." Su Nuan Nuan stood up, and stretched, then swung her arms for a bit, and dered, "Alright, let''s cook."

    "Are you making that Steamed Lion Head?" Duan Tingxuan''s eyes sparkled. One arm came up to wipe his mouth, to make sure there was no drooling out. He was really concerned about losing his dignity before Su Nuan Nuan. Though he knew that he was lower than rats and foxes in her eyes, he should still try to improve his image in front of her, right?

    "I definitely not making that one now. I''m going to make a braised dish, you have something to say against that?" Su Nuan Nuan sniffed coldly.

    Duan Tingxuan t.i.ttered, "As long as it''s delicious, I''m happy. Who cares whether it''s a steamed or braised dish? Nuan Nuan is the best. Just say it and I, your husband, shall lend you my strength."

    "Enough, you think I don''t know your true aim? Go and sit in your study, you food thief. You''ve been spending too much time hanging out at my ce, have you been neglecting your work? If you''re too free, go and flip through

    Duan Tingxuan smiled back winsomely, "Is that what worries you? I''ve already made arrangements for the court, the only thing I can do now is wait."

    Since Duan Tingxuan said it like that, she decided not to bother with it and went on as usual. Though this Duan Tingxuan character looked like an unreliable rich young master, he actually carried a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders. Few enemies could counter this man''s wit and calmness in the face of trouble. This was why he was trusted as the left and right arm of both the emperor and crown prince.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    A spatter of light rain drizzled through the night and into the next day. It gradually slowed to a stop in the afternoon, bringing a bit of relief to the hot summer''s day.

    Ms. Xue hurried through a tiny alley bordered by red flowers and green leaves washed clean by the rain. The sight, though simple, was so refreshing and beautiful, that cleaners and pa.s.sersby actually paused to admire them. Unfortunately, Ms. Xue has no mood for such sights as she hurried along the path towards the garden gate.

    "Yo~, isn''t it Ms. Xue? What''s going on? Where are you going so early in the morning? Has some master ordered a rush on their clothes?"

    Behind her, a voice drawled tauntingly, causing Ms. Xue to stop, and turned to look at the speaker. It was Ms. Liang, the warehouse manager, along with two or three other followers. They were justing out of a sidene and were all gleefully sneering at her.

    This Ms. Liang had never gotten along with her. This particr hatred had developed since their youth. Ever since Ms. Xue had been banished to theundry house, she had taken the time to jeer and shame her with her little group of followers. This time, they ambushed her at this little garden. As expected, people who had been minding their own business suddenly p.r.i.c.ked up their ears at this challenge.

    If this was in the past, Ms. Xue would have retaliated fiercely with a few choice words of her own and ridicule Ms. Liang. If only to sooth the fire in her heart. However, her mood was exceptionally good today, and therefore she calmly replied, "Which eye of yours saw me carrying clothes? Let me tell you now, from today onwards, I am back as the kitchen manager. In fact, I''ve been informed not to even bother collecting my things at theundry section. Feng Xian guniang told me to hurry over to the kitchen to make sure that lunch is properly prepared for the masters."

    Ms. Liang was stunned. Not only her, the people around them were surprised too. How could they not know about Ms. Xue''s situation? They''d heard that first madam even made a great fuss over it, but was unable to get her transferred back in the end. Thus, they thought that Ms. Xue had clung onto the wrong thigh and would never return to her original position again. However, fate worked in mysterious ways and this first madam had, without a single word or action, once again rose from the ashes and sessfully rescued Ms. Xue from theundry section. Wait a moment, Feng Xian guniang? Feng Xian personally asked her to return to the kitchens? Could it be that even without first madam making a single move, Madam Yun had taken the initiative to lower her head? Just what is going on?

    The servants began to whisper among themselves, Ms. Liang never thought that she would suffer such a big face p. Her cheeks flushed and she red at Ms. Xue, "Humph! Don''t be too proud of yourself, that ce is a hot seat. You''ve been kicked out once, you think you can''t be kicked out a second time?"

    "This, well, there''s no need for little sister to be so concerned about me." Ms. Xue smiled, not bothering to kick this drowning dog in front of her. Instead, she turned and calmly continued on her way. Feeling the numerous eyes on her, her chest rose proudly: I am one of first madam''s people, I shall be as magnanimous as her. I shall not drag first madam''s name through the mud by behaving badly.

    As she pondered over this, her steps quickly brought her out of the garden and she was soon approaching Spring Breeze Court. A few more stepster, she spotted someoneing round one of the fake stone mountains. A closer looked told her that it was the little marquis. Ms. Xue quickened her steps and nearly ran forward to give her greetings. Duan Tingxuan spotted her and paused, his eyes looking her up and down before smiling, "First madam says that you''re not bad, are you on the way back to kitchens?"

    "Yes, thanks to master, Feng Xian guniang bade this one to return to the kitchens. Please ept this one''s humble thanks." though Feng Xian made it sound like the master had pleaded for Madam Yun to allow Ms. Xue to return to the kitchens, what kind of idiot did they think she was to believe that lie? What nonsense, would a master, this master especially, beg Madam Yun on behalf of a lowly kitchen worker like her? Surely this is just looking down the lord heir, right? If the lord heir found out how you''ve smeared his reputation like this, youdies only have yourself to me.

    However, no matter what, Duan Tingxuan must have had a hand in her getting her job back. Which was why she was determined to properly thank him. Duan Tingxuan grinned, "What does it have to do with me? You should thank your first madam. If she hasn''t bent my ear daily for your sake, would I even know who you are? Alright now, you''re here to see first madam, right? Well, go on, go on. I''ll give you a heads up first, you have a good thing waiting for you there." [Gumihou: Who else is excited for the birthday banquet?] [1] Mock meats ¨C Soybean based products that''s supposed to imitate meat. Personally, I find this offensive, if I want meat, I''ll eat proper meat. If I want to go vegetarian, for the love of G.o.d, Heavens and Earthly beings, give me something like vegetables or squash that still looked like the original thing. I''m perfectly fine with vegan dishes, they are delicious, but vegetables that has been mashed, mixed with flour and deep fried is just..

    [2] Zhuge Liang ¨C Very famous for his intelligence [3] Dou E ¨C from the Chinese y <the injustice="" to="" dou="" e="">> it''s also known as <snow in="" midsummer="">>

    The story follows a child bride turned widow, Dou E, who is wrongly convicted of crimes by a corrupt court official for actions perpetrated by a rejected suitor, Zhang the mule. After her execution, three prophesied phenomena ur to prove her innocence, including blood raining from the sky, snow in June and a three-year drought¡­ Here''s the wiki link

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Injustice_to_Dou_E [4] prehensive mirror="" for="" aid="" in="">

    A vast chronological general history, written by Sima Guang (1019-1089) covering the period 403 BC to 959 AD, 294 scrolls worth of writing.

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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 Chapter 105

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 105: Incredibly Touched

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    When has the honourable lord heir ever bequeathed so many words to lowly a servant like her? Ms. Xue''s heart thumped loudly in her chest. If only she could throw herself to the ground and knock her head against the floor in grat.i.tude. However, Duan Tingxuan''s final words intrigued her to death: Something good is waiting for her? What is this good thing? Isn''t returning to the kitchens already an incredibly great thing?

    Filled with apprehension, Ms. Xue entered Spring Breeze Court. She encountered Hong Lian who was feeding birds at the corridor. Hong Lian smiled at her, "Yo~, Ms. Xue is finally here? Our Missy talks about you often, wondering when you''ll finally lose your cool ande over. Now that you''re finally here, let me give you some good news. Old madam''s birthday is around the corner and you should be back at the kitchen these two days. Come over and see us whenever you like."

    Ms. Xue smiled eagerly, "For your information, miss, Madam Yun has already ordered me to transfer back to my original position in the kitchen. I know that first madam must have a hand in it somehow and came over to give my thanks."

    "Really? Madam Yun sure knows how to see where the wind blows." Hong Lianughed mockingly at Xu Ran Yun''s swift actions, before personally pulling back the curtains and calling. "Missy, Ms. Xue is here."

    "Yes, yes, I heard you two chatterboxes all the way from here." Su Nuan Nuan came out with Zhao Cai tucked in her arms. She eyed Ms. Xue up and down several times beforeughing, "Yourplexion is not bad, I thought that you might have turned wan and sallow from boiling clothes all day at theundry house."

    Ms. Xue bobbed in greeting, and smiled back ingratiatingly, "If this one had been cast out to such a ce in the past, this one might have lost all hope and be choked to death by despair. However, when this one thought about how first madam had suffered with such equanimity at Mei Yue Lou, this ve is but a sapling when it came to true suffering. So, what is there toin about? Although washing clothes is tiring, there''s nothing especially terrible about it. It''s true that the manager didn''t like me, but the rest of the staff treated me fairly."

    If your peace of mind is due to this mistress of yours, consider your loyalty rewarded." Su Nuan Nuan dered, heading towards the stone bench situated under the grapevine perg. She sat down and patted the bench, hinting for Ms. Xue to sit next to her, "You must know how many prominent people could not achieve the state of ''Spoiled Yet Humble''? For you to achieve this bnce, do you realise how amazing you are?"

    "Everything this one knows is gained from first madam." Ms. Xue perched gingerly at the edge of the stone bench. This ttering line came from the bottom of her heart.

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, and said nothing more. She allowed Zhao Cai to escape from her arms to amuse himself before diving intoa more serious topic, "Old madam''s birthday would be here soon. I shall be spending the next two or three days in the kitchen and teach you several different kinds of recipes. Theing birthday banquet will be your first big challenge since going back to the kitchen. You must ensure that everything is as it should be, understand?"

    Ms. Xue nodded repeatedly. It''s old madam''s 68th birthday, ah. Though it was not exactly the major milestone of 70 years old, it was still very close to it. After all, how many olddies could actually live to see their 70th birthday? Moreover, old madam is the empress'' blood mother. On that day, the ones who woulde and give their greetings would be, at the very least, high ranking ministers, and at least one of the princes. If the banquet is not properly organized, the ones who would lose face would be themselves.

    "Very well, you go back to the kitchens now and prepare yourself. I shall see you in about an hour. Here''s the menu, it''s all new dishes so make sure to study it properly. Some of the ingredients would have to be fetched by your master and had to be cooked on the actual day or it won''t be fresh. Since this is arge banquet, you may need to hire some temporary workers. Luckily, you''ve been with the kitchen for so many years now and this should be familiar work for you. You might have to work non-stop for several days, so be prepared. When this is over, the lord will reward you for your efforts."

    "Yes, this one thanks first madam."

    Choking with emotions, Ms. Xue stood up, and then knelt down to kowtow three times before Su Nuan Nuan. Su Nuan Nuan was too shocked to do or say anything until after it was all over and said, "What is that for?"

    "Nothing, this one is just¡­ too¡­ that is to say¡­ after¡­ after all¡­ a thankless deed is, thankless. Madam, please leave everything to this ve!" Ms. Xue stammered, all her cleverness and wit having abandoned her. No one could me her as she too emotionally overwhelmed. Tears poured down her eyes. New recipes? She just knew that these had to be never seen before cuisines. All these recipes are first madam''s treasures, ah, recipes that she could have kept for herself as insurance for a good life. She had thought getting her supervisory job in the kitchen back was something amazing. To be given new, never seen before recipes on top of that, how could a simple ''thank you'' convey the full measure of her grat.i.tude?

    "What now?"

    By the time Ms. Xue left, Su Nuan Nuan was left with a head full of question marks, causing this confident woman to doubt herself. She was still pondering over this when Hong Lian came over and with a knowing smile, "What''s there to puzzle over, Missy? You''ve just given her several incredibly valuable recipes such as the Steamed Lion Head, naturally she should at least knock her head on the floor in thanks."

    "What was that? You''re saying that she''s thanking me for mere recipes? Is getting recipes like these that difficult?" Su Nuan Nuan came to a sudden realization. As expected, Hong Lian nodded, "Of course, for Missy to just hand over the recipes like that, it''s like getting a pie falling from the skies. Moreover, it''s a meat filled pie stuffed with boiled eggs, so how could she not be grateful?"

    "Surely everyone''s over thinking it?" Su Nuan Nuan really didn''t know whether tough or cry. "The reason why I handed the recipes to her is because I want to rest too, ah. Otherwise, I''d be stuck in the kitchen all day and night. There are days that I just can''t bring myself to move, ah. Just think, if my auntes for her monthly visit[1], how wonderful it is to just send word to the kitchens that I wanted a Steamed Lion Head and justze in bed waiting for it toe? I''m really look forward to days like that, ah."

    Hong Lianughed, "Even if that''s Missy''s true intention, Ms. Xue will still be grateful for your favour. By the way, Missy mentioned that you''ll be visiting the kitchen these next two days, what about the Snow Cream you''re nning to make? If you n to make Cream and Snow Cream as well as the banquet preparations, you''ll be incredibly busy, ah."

    "What of it? The old madam treats me well, also¡­ your master is not too bad either. At the very least, I should return the favour of those who are good to me."

    Hong Lian said nothing. She realised that Missy''s ''Those who are good to me'' had to be taken at face value, there was no point in a.s.signing any deep meaning to it.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dote, or the trantor will be sad.

    "I can''t, I can''t, I just can''t anymore. Tingxuan, I¡­ I have just recovered from a heart attack, I''ve even fainted. You¡­ you cannot treat me like this. I will not let you go even if I die¡­ disgraceful beast. I am the crown prince! You¡­ huff, huff, cough¡­ you¡­ cough, huff¡­ some¡­ someonee¡­"

    Within the East Pce, a dozen over eunuchs formed a circle their backs facing out. All of them were staring at their boots, not a single one dared to look over as their master huffed, and puffed, and called for them: Just what kind of joke is this? This was the emperor''s orders, ah. If any of them dared toe over to help, well, chances were they''d just end up as the little marquis'' punching bag. Your highness, please endure it, who ask you to be a fatty? Just seeing your fat tremble makes us shake in our boots, ah.

    This is for your own good, we can do nothing to help you. [Gumihou: Do your best to lose weight, your highness!] [1] auntie''s monthly visit ¨C menstruation period, lol

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 Chapter 106

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 106: Harsh Training

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    ¡°That''s enough. Please rest, your highness."

    Seeing Jiang Changyue gasping for breath, his clothes all soaking with sweat, Duan Tingxuan dare not push him further. Even though it was now close to evening, the day was still warm enough that the crown prince had gotten all flushed and sweaty after running ap and half around the small courtyard. This was far below what he hoped to achieve today, but¡­ well, he can''t expect miracles to happen over night, right? Better to build his highness'' endurance slowly.

    The crown prince copsed in ce at this announcement. He red at Duan Tingxuan who was still holding that slim willow stick and ground out, "You sure have guts, still know to address me as the crown prince¡­" then his eyes zeroed in on the teapot in Duan Tingxuan''s hand. A blinkter he coughed and feigned disinterest as he said haughtily, "Don''t think that I''d just forgive you over a pot of wine."

    "Who says anything about wine? The emperor and empress will have my head if I give you wine." Duan Tingxuan smirked. He poured out arge bowl of the liquid and handed it over. "This is cooling tea, have a taste."

    "You might as well give me a bowl of in water. This cooling tea might just send me over to the yellow river[1] just from the stink, you know? I only drink those as medicine, it stinks even more than Huoxiang Zhenqi Liquid[2]."

    The crown prince stared fearfully at therge bowl. If he hadn''t ran out of strength already, he would have done his best to crawl away from that foul thing. Duan Tingxuan grinned down at him, "You really don''t want it? Don''t me me for not telling you, when Nuan Nuan heard of your highness'' attempt to slim down, she made this special cooling tea just for you. As you know, she¡­"

    He hadn''t finished speaking when the crown prince stretched out onerge paw. Duan Tingxuan helpfully ced the bowl onto the trembling hand and watched as the crown prince took in arge gulp. After swallowing down, the crown prince smacked his lips andughed, "Delicious, very delicious. It''s sweet and cooling at the same time. Now this is what cooling tea should be like! Not bad, not bad, this is incredibly good. As expected of cousin-inw."

    As he spoke, he drank down the rest of the tea. He was still singing praises when someone called out, "Brother crown prince, we''re here to see you. Well? We heard that imperial father had sent out an edict to get Tingxuan to train you up. We''re here to see what you and Tingxuan are up to now."

    Both crown prince and Duan Tingxuan turned, and saw second prince, Jiang Changning and fourth prince, Jiang Changjinging in together. Among all the other princes, these two got along with the crown prince best. Seeing the crown prince sitting on the floor, his two silk shirts nearly transparent with sweat, both reared back with surprise. Though they both were mentally prepared to see their brother sweat a bit, they were still shocked. "Tingxuan you beast, he''s too cruel, ah. Just what kind of horrible training has he put you through?"

    "I''m really exhausted, but it''s still not too bad. Luckily I have this cooling tea as a reward. Unlike those rubbish sold on the street, this is made by cousin-inw. It''s very good, try some." the crown prince gestured over to Duan Tingxuan, and was taken aback by the sight of the little marquis clutching the teapot like a precious baby to his bosom. He snorted, "What are you hugging that for? It''s not even a maiden, why haven''t you poured any for your brothers yet?"

    Duan Tingxuan sneered, "I don''t think that''s necessary at all. After all, as my cousins aptly said, I am a beast. How could a beast be willing to a.s.sociate with these lofty humans?"

    Jiang Changning and Jiang Changjing stepped forward together, but when Duan Tingxuan showed no fear, their eyebrows twitched. Duan Tingxuan grinned slyly at them, "Well? Are these two brothers of mine going to s.n.a.t.c.h this from me by force?"

    Unlike the fat crown prince, the second and fourth princes have some skills with martial arts. The princes weighed their chances against Duan Tingxuan, and finally decided that it was not worth it. Who ask this brat to be so overwhelmingly talented? Finally, Jiang Changning coughed and said lightly, "A joke, surely a dignified son of a n.o.ble family could take a joke? Also, how would we dare to use force against such a man? Sir Duan¡­"

    He hadn''t finished speaking when Duan Tingxuanughed, "Are you trying to use your position as prince to oppress me? Look over there. See that? That person sitting on the floor just tried to use his position as crown prince to oppress me, well? What are you going to do now?"

    "Just how did we fell in with such an evildoer?" the second prince pressed his chest dramatically. "Brother crown prince, this is provocation, ah. If you don''t crush this behaviour quickly, you''ll be oppressed by him in return. Brother please think thrice, ah!" this kind of talk was basically treated as nonsense between the princes and Duan Tingxuan, this showed just how epted Duan Tingxuan was into the royal family.

    As expected, the crown prince began to snort and below like a pig from the side, "You think I''m stupid? You dare borrow my strength to do your dirty work? My little life is now in Tingxuan''s hands. I dare not offend him, especially not when he''d promised me more of cousin-inw''s cooking."

    "Tingxuan, how could you be so bias? Aren''t I your cousin too?" the second prince immediately turned sad, solemn eyes at him. Only to see the little lord marquis dered, "I am but a beast."

    "Haha! So what? Aren''t we all beasts here? ording to Confucius, Man is but a higher level beasts. Therefore, we are all beasts!" Jiang Changningughed as he heartily smacked Duan Tingxuan''s shoulder.

    Duan Tingxuan cast a side way nce at him, "You dare say this in front of the schrs of Cai university? Just when did Confucius ever said this? Why don''t you just run your mouth a bit more?"

    "That¡­ I just know it," Jiang Changning awkwardly coughed twice into his fist. Cai University was equivalent to the Imperial Hanlin Academy[3]. Moreover, Imperial Teacher Fang Zheng was an extremely serious individual, if the fourth prince ever spout such nonsense in front of him, he would have been beaten until his face resembled a bun.

    "Your highness, it''s meal time now. Would your highness be taking your meal here or at the Autumn Water Pavilion?" the court eunuchs approached for instructions. The Autumn Water Pavilion was situated in a luxurious pavilion in the middle of a smallke in the garden. With all four sides facing water, it was the best ce to have a meal in the middle of summer.

    The crown prince wiped his sweaty face and said, "Let''s just have it here. Who wants to walk another two or three miles over to Autumn Water Pavilion?"

    The eunuch bowed and left to ready the meal. Soon, servants came over with arge bathtub and several screens. With the bathtub screened off, the crown prince took his bath. Under the emperor''s edict, even the crown prince''s bath water was infused with medicinal herbs that would rx the muscles, relieve fatigue as well as reduce the stink of sweat.

    Once he was done with his bath, a table had been set up inside the small training ground. Under the setting sun, a table full of dishes could be seen. The prince rubbed his tummy and thought that this was certainly the best time of a meal and came forward.

    He sat down, and blinked. Well, the table certainly was filled with bowls and tes of food, but, what''s this, ah? Vinegared Chinese Cabbage [4], Carrot & Wood Ear Stir Fry [5], Leek Omelette, Spinach Sd¡­ he peered into the soup, and saw nothing but bamboo shoots swimming in the depths. Not a single piece of meat was to be seen.

    "This¡­ is this the vegetarian meal cousin-inw made for me?" the crown prince nearly flipped the table in anger: This is taking a joke too far, right? This ispletely different from the food served from Kunning Pce''s kitchen, isn''t it? Moreover, anyone could tell at first nce just what these are made of. Where is the mock chicken? The mock duck? And the mock beef? Is this all there is?

    "These are all vegetarian food from the East Pce kitchens. The day after tomorrow is my maternal grandmother''s birthday. Nuan Nuan is now so busy that her feet barely touched the floor. When would she have the time to make mock ducks or mock chicken? Your highness, please endure, once grandmother''s birthday is over, she''ll definitely make them for you." Duan Tingxuan smiled bitterly as he eyed the table full of vegetarian dishes and thought: You still want to grumble? I''m the most unfortunate one, you know? Why do I have to eat this thing with you? Wu! I better leave quickly once the meal is over, I might be able to catch a midnight snack at Spring Breeze Court. Ah, I hope we have little wontons tonight. En, Meatball Soup is good too.

    He was still dreaming about his midnight snack when Jiang Changning and Jiang Changjing both exploded, "What kind of excuse is that? Even if we''re both frequent guests here, you can''t serve us nothing but vegetables, right? No, no, no, how can this be consider a meal? There''s not even a single crumb of meat. Crown prince bro, you hang in there, we''ll leave first."

    "What''s with that self righteous tone?"

    The crown prince was so angry that he was close to losing his temper. Duan Tingxuanughingly interrupted him. "Your highness, you just let those two go, ba. Once they''re gone, we can have the Snow Cream all to ourselves. If they''re here, we''ll have to share. I really don''t want to do that, ah."

    The two princes who had just stepped out of the courtyard suddenly rushed back in with a ''bang!''. "Snow Cream? What''s that thing? Could it be the Smoothie? Hehe, well, well, my chefs can make that too."

    "That''s right, that''s right, it''s just Smoothie. So, you two just go away, ba. We''re nning to have a bowl of Smoothie after dinner to cheer ourselves up." being an intelligent person, there was no need for Duan Tingxuan to further borate his n to the crown prince. Unfortunately, he was surrounded by foxes. Foxes young and old. How could he hope to brush these sly, cunning, clever, witty things with just words?

    The two princes sat down excitedly. They eyed the table full of East Pce vegetarian food and began to force themselves to gobble up the spread: What kind of joke is this? Cousin-inw already proven her skills through Smoothie, Roasted Duck, Beggar''s Chicken, White Sealed Meat, Snow Soft Bean Paste Snacks¡­ which one of these line up is not amazingly delicious? Now that a mysterious character called Snow Cream had shown itself, how could they miss out this opportunity to greet it?

    The crown prince too forced himself swallow the much hated vegetables. How disgusting, ah. But what could he do? He, too, realized that his body weight was a liability to his health. If he didn''t take steps to fix it now, he might not live long enough to take over the throne. How could he just fail imperial father and all the court official''s expectations?

    Thus, for his son, for imperial father, for his subjects and the people he would rule over in the future, he must persevere. With such thoughts in mind, the crown prince''s chopsticks flew like a storm of flying spears as his teeth mashed through carrots and cabbages as though he was crushing the bones of his most hated enemy.

    For a bunch of ancient men who had no knowledge of what Cream was, just the barest hint that there was some new sweet treat to eat was enough to grab their stomachs. The charm of ice cream could not be pinned down, especially in this hot, sweltering weather. They all sat around the newly cleared table, daintily scooping tiny spoonfuls of Snow Cream into their mouths as they idly chatted.

    "Tingxuan, ah. How''s the preparation for your maternal grandmother''s birthday? I haven''t heard you mention anything about it, surely it''s not going to be some simple affair? How could you be so unfilial?" said the crown prince casually as he nibbled another mouthful of Snow Cream. The Snow Cream had negated the resentful fire in his stomach caused by those awful vegetables. [Gumihou: The crown prince is truly pitiful, ah] [1] yellow river of death ¨C to die

    [2] Huoxiang Zhenqi Liquid ¨C Made from Chinese .s.sic herbal form, good for reducing heat and regtes the spleen and stomach ¨C You can actually buy these online

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huoxiang_Zhengqi_Shui [3] Imperial Hanlin Academy ¨C Founded in the 8th century andsted until 1911 when a fire severely damaged it during the Siege of Foreign Legations

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanlin_Academy [4] Vinegar Chinese Cabbage ¨C by Chef w.a.n.g

    https://.youtube/watch?v=jjyd_l0S85E [5] Carrot & Wood Ear Stir Fry

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 Chapter 107

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 107: Birthday Banquet Day

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Just because I didn''t say anything doesn''t mean I haven''t been preparing. I''ve already asked for leave, I won''t be going to court from tomorrow onwards until grandmother''s birthday." said Duan Tingxuan absently as he looked up the sky, his heart already flown all the way to Spring Breeze Court''s little kitchen.

    "Hehe, surely you don''t have to be so serious about it? Though you''re a man of talent, there are plenty of people in the mansion to organize this banquet. Surely you don''t have to personally oversee matters? Moreover, this should be an inner court matter." Jiang Changjing said cheerfully.

    Duan Tingxuan said, "Who said I have anything to do with the inner court matters? Nuan Nuan wants to give grandmother a memorable birthday banquet. So, I''ve been tasked to source out some special ingredients; that''s why I''ll be busy these next two days. Also, I must help her make arge amount of Cream the day before the banquet."

    "Cream? What''s that?" Jiang Changning immediately sat up in attention. His sensitive nose for unusual and intriguing facts triggered, he immediately knew that this was a good candidate for his book of <weird &="" wonderful="" records="">>.</weird>

    "That Snow Cream you''re eating now is made from Cream. Why do you think the texture is so soft, smooth and fragrant?" Duan Tingxuan smiled, recalling how Su Nuan Nuan had specifically mentioned that she wanted to gift this to old madam on her birthday. His heart throbbed at a sudden p.r.i.c.kle of emotion and he muttered, "Nuan Nuan said that she ns to make something extra special on old madam''s birthday. Birthday gifts aside, the menu was also unspeakably¡­ I must say, the dishes are incredibly fragrant, exquisitely textured and exceptionally¡­ no, no, let''s not talk about it anymore. I''m about to drool¡­ Wu! Since there''s nothing else for me to do here, I shall take my leave. Your highnesses, do excuse me. I must go home and receive Nuan Nuan''sints. If I''m lucky, I might even score some midnight snacks."

    "Just look at you, all mature now." the princes allughed at him. Duan Tingxuanughed too, "What maturity? This is called happiness, you people can only look on jealously, hahaha!"

    At his unselfconsciousughter, the princes exchanged looks with each other for a long while. Finally, the fourth prince muttered, "He seems to have a point."

    "That''s right, ah!" the crown prince sighed, his nostrils ring as he grumbled. "It makes me angry just thinking about it."

    "That''s right, we''re all princes here, and brother is the crown prince. How could all the luck in the family flow into this shameful person? The G.o.ds surely loved him too much." second prince was unhappy too. As Duan Tingxuan had said, they were all jealous of him.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot!

    26th June xx year. It was the day of An Ping Marquis'' Old Madam Fang''s 68th birthday.

    That morning, before the first rays of sun came out, Su Nuan Nuan was already up. First, she visited the kitchen and saw Ms. Xue and a dozen other kitchen hands rushing about in therge kitchen. Though it looked rather exciting and lively, there was an order to their movements. One after another, all kinds of ingredients were being brought out from the back.

    Catching sight of Su Nuan Nuan, Ms. Xue quickly came forward with a smile and said, "Madam, please be at ease. This one has everything under control. Aside from the four special dishes from your personal recipe, the rest of the dishes here will be taken care of by chefs hired from famous restaurants. Swallow House''s Chef Cao is especially capable with n.o.ble dishes using expensive ingredients. He should be able to execute those first four valuable dishes well. I shall personally handle madam''s special recipes"

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "I''m not worried, you''re better than me when ites to coordinating the workers. Since everything is being handled so well here, I shall go and look after my own kitchen. The lord actually asked after the birthday presents this morning, and nearly panicked when he heard that I haven''t started on them yet."

    Ms. Xueughed, "Yes, yes, yes, first madam, please leave everything here to me. My only worry is that Madam Yun mighte over to critique my work. Well, I shall strive to ease her heart and make sure everything is ready for her inspection."

    Su Nuan Nuan looked at her with some astonishment, beforeughing out loud, "I''m not sure whether you''re being sincere or sarcastic now."

    Ms. Xue, "Naturally, this one is perfectly sincere. To be honest, this one is a little resentful after Madam Yun banished this one to theundry house for no reason. It''s clear that she was just searching for bones inside an egg. If this one really had been in the wrong, how could this one just kept quiet all this while? There''s no benefit for this one to stay silent."

    Beside them, Hong Lianughed and said, "To be fair, I doubted sister''s ability to handle the birthday banquet. However, now that I''ve seen your abilities, I now realize why Missy favours you. Missy, you certainly have an eye for good people."

    Ms. Xue was happy too, "That''s right, when this one was at theundry house, it was the memory of madam''s forbearance and strong nature that kept this one going."

    "Alright, alright, that''s enough ttery from you. What''s the time now? Still have time for all this nonsense? Whatever, you do your thing, Ms. Xue. I need to go back and work on my part too." Su Nuan Nuanughed as she good naturedly pped Ms. Xue on the shoulder before leaving with Hong Lian.

    On the way, Hong Lian sighed, "Ms. Xue used to be such a sn.o.bby character, for her to be like this is surely thanks to Missy''s great influence."

    Su Nuan Nuan smirked, "Rivers and mountains can be moved, but a man''s character is difficult to change. Ms. Xue''s character is not at all bad, which is why she could tell right from wrong. In the past, she had to adapt to the current environment in order to survive and climb the ranks, her sn.o.bbish behaviour was probably just a front. People who could adapt to situations are the smartest."

    As they chatted together, Spring Breeze Court soon appeared in front of them. They stepped past the threshold and saw Duan Xinqi sitting in the courtyard with Zhao Cai in herp. She was absently stroking the luxurious fur when she caught sight of them and jumped up, "Sister-inw is back? Concubine mother had gone over to old madam and elder madam''s ce. Since I have nothing to do, I thought I''de over see if sister-inw needs any help."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled back, "That''s good, I am in need of helping hands today. Have you had breakfast?"

    Duan Xinqi grinned cheekily, "Knowing that I will being here, wouldn''t it be silly to have breakfast first? I had nothing at all. Also, I''ve had Xue''er bring my clothes over. When it''s time, I shall change into my clothes here and go to the banquet with you."

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded, "I see, well, let''s go to the kitchen first. Your brother got here earlier than you, he specifically said to wait for him before I start breakfast." They entered the house, and Su Nuan Nuan spotted Duan Xinqi''s new clothes and asked her to put it on. The dress was a gentle goose yellow colour, made of thin satin and decorated with embroidered birds and flowers. Su Nuan Nuan nodded approvingly, "Not bad, only young girls like you can wear such bright colours. Hmm, but your silver hair pins don''t match the dress. Hold on, a few days ago your brother gave me this hairpin decorated with rubies. Let''s see how it would look."

    "A ruby hairpin?" Duan Xinqu shook her head frantically, "that''s too precious for the likes of me, especially since it''s a gift from brother to sister-inw."

    "What''s the fuss?" Su Nuan Nuanughed. "Where''s that thick face when you beg food from me? Where has that face gone now?" In fact, she knew that Duan Xinqi had always acted appropriately, though she yfully pestered Su Nuan Nuan now and then for good things to eat, the girl never asked for cloth, essories or money from her. Those was all freely given to her by Su Nuan Nuan.

    Moreover, Concubine Lin would often send some small gifts her way every two or three days. Though it was all things of little value, such as embroidered money pouches, embroidered handkerchiefs and handmade shoes, they were all beautifully made and sincerely given. This caused Su Nuan Nuan to look favourably upon this branch of mother and children. [Gumihou: Well, it''s the day of the banquet~ Also, Duan Xinqi is so cute~]

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 Chapter 108

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 108: Those Who Touched Ink Will be Stained

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Ignoring all protestations, the set of ruby hairpins were taken out and ced in Duan Xinqi''s hair. Xiang Yun chirped, "The red rubies really set off a most elegant and n.o.ble air. I used to think that rubies are meant of married n.o.bledies, who would have thought that it could look so fresh and pretty on young miss. Especially in that light coloured dress, it reallyplemented on young miss well."

    "Is it too shy?" Duan Xinqi eyed herself in the mirror as she fidgeted. Is that elegant young miss in the mirror really herself? She really couldn''t believe it. After spending so many years as an invisible person in her own house, she couldn''t get use to seeing this side of herself.

    "So what if it''s shy? You''re the marquis house only young miss, and at a marriageable age too. So, of course you have to dress nicely."

    Duan Xinqi stared at her nkly for a long moment. Then, light began to dawn in her eyes. She was 13 this year, an age that was considered marriageable among aristocratic members of society. Thepet.i.tion for good husbands was quite stiff, some might even struggle for years and still not be able to marry well. Girls her own age should have started expanding theirwork by now, she was the only exception. That was because of her former invisible status within the marquis house, aside from her secretly anxious concubine, no one else even thought of a.s.sisting her in this matter.

    She knew that elder madam and Madam Min asionally gave a stray thought to her well being, but dismissed the matter with a ''Well, it''s not like she''s anything special, we can just find a man for her from some random family when she''s of age.'' who would have thought that the sister-inw who was only interested in eating would actually give so much thought about her future.

    "Sister-inw," Duan Xinqi snuggled up to Su Nuan Nuan''s side, and said in a choked voice. "How old am I? What''s the rush? When the timees, sister-inw can help me matchmake. It''s fine if we can''t find a match. In fact, that''s even better. I can be an old maid and spend the rest of my life with sister-inw. In the future, the t.i.tle will be inherited by first brother, and I know that sister-inw won''t kick me out."

    "That''s for sure. Our second miss is so sweet and pretty, if we can''t find a good family for you, even if your concubine mother allows it, I refuse to let you waste your life with a stinky, undeserving lowlife. Be at ease, your home will be yours forever, you can count on me as your refuge. However, I''ve already spoken to your brother about finding some good matches for you. Next year will be a crucial year for our country and there will be lots of talented young man flocking into the city, so you can keep your hopes up a little.

    Su Nuan Nuan patted Duan Xinqi''s hair into ce and looked her up and down. Then, she pulled up the girl''s hands to study the pair of bracelets decorating those fair wrists. Suddenly, a gentle thrill ofughter came from outside, "Dear me, I came here thinking I shoulde and give elder sister a hand, I never thought that second miss would be a step ahead of me."

    Concubine Jing''s beautiful form floated in, as a frequent guest of Spring Breeze Court the maids hadn''t bothered to announce her arrival or block her from entering.

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled up at her, "Sister is the best person to ask about make-up. Quick,e and have a look at second young miss. I feel that having just a pair of bracelets is toocking, with so many important people and their n.o.ble wives visitingter, we must make sure that our youngdy be decked out properly today."

    Concubine Jing paused. However, she soon understood Su Nuan Nuan''s meaning, smiled, and made a show of studying Duan Xinqi''s outfit and nodded, "It''s rare to see such promising beauty on one so young. Moreover, she speaks well, is capable and elegant. The outfit is unique too, only second miss could pull it off. The most striking part of it is the ruby head essory, it''s dazzling brightness really highlights the overall outfit. As for the wrist¡­" she paused, as though in deep thought, then smiled. "Yes, I see. If she wears ruby essories all over, it would look tacky, but this jade bracelet looks out of ce too. Perhaps red corals, yes, a red coral bracelet wouldplement the overall look better."

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "I''ve never liked red corals, so I don''t have any here. Hong Lian, go fetch the key to your master''s warehouse. See if there are any red coral bracelets there¡­"

    Duan Xinqi anxiously cut in, "Sister-inw, we musn''t touch brother''s warehouse. This is good enough, surely there''s no need to be too perfect?"

    Concubine Jingughed, "I must agree that it is a little excessive. If anyone found out, tongues would wag. Even if sister isn''t afraid of gossip, you might consider of second sister''s sensibilities. It just so happen that the bracelet on my wrist isst year''s birthday gift from the lord. Though I dare not say that it is anything valuable, if second young miss does not mind, please wear it."

    With that, she lifted her sleeve and removed the bracelet from her wrist. Su Nuan Nuan studied the bracelet. It was made from good quality red corals and its l.u.s.ter was moist and bright as stone gems. It was clearly an incredibly valuable item. She smiled at Concubine Jing, "Sister is too modest, how could the lord give anything poorly made for your birthday? This is quite excellent, if you are willing to lend this to second young miss, I shall ask the lord to gift you something of your choice."

    Duan Xinqi was shaking with fear now, even as Concubine Jingughed merrily, "Just wear it, dear. First madam is right, this is the time for you to shine. Both of us arest season''s chrysanthemums[1], it''s fine for us to remain as background scenery." seeing the youngdy still conflicted face, she stamped her feet and said, "Second young miss really can''t see sense. Can''t you tell what my true intention is? Must you force me to say that I wish to get a new set of essories from first madam before you''ll ept this one bracelet?"

    This little statement garneredughter from everyone. Duan Xinqi, too, finally rxed. Concubine Jing took the chance to slip the bracelet onto the young girl''s wrist and made a great show of looking at her from all sides and dered, "Well, there''s nothing else, right? It''s gettingte, we should really busy soon. Oh yes, I''ve arranged some flowers and had them sent to old madam yesterday, does madam have any idea if she likes it?"

    "Of course she likes them, what''s not to like? Old madam especially liked the basket it came in, said it was an incredibly original approach to flower arrangement. She even said she''ll disy thatrge basket of flowers at a prominent ce tomorrow and enjoy bragging about it to everyone."

    "The basket is first madam''s idea, what does it have to do with me? Even the design of the basket was drawn by you, I only found someone to weave it together."

    The three continue to chat idly as they made their way to the kitchen. When she saw that only Hong Lian and Xiang Yun came in after them, Concubine Jing lowered her voice and said, "Sister-inw, when you make that Snow Cream next time, please be mindful. The seconddy has been by my ce a few times already, all she could talked about is the Snow Cream. I think there''s something not quite right there, and thought you should know about it."

    "Be at ease, I will deal with it." Su Nuan Nuan smirked as she hefted up two bags of flour. "Today we shall be making Chiffon Cake. You must keep this cooking method a secret too. In the future, when I make money from this, you two will get something out of it too."

    "Chiffon Cake?" Concubine Jing''s eyes brightened, her lips perked up and she smiled, "I really can''t tell where first madam gets all these odd ideas from. And what''s this Chiffon Cake? Please tell us."

    "You''ll know soon enough. I have plenty more weirder ideas, this is nothing." said Su Nuan Nuan. Then, she proceeded to separate several jins of the two different bags flour into severalrge bowls. Duan Xinqi looked on curiously, "What kind of flour are those?"

    "This is wheat flour, that one is starch. When mixed together we''ll get low gluten cake flour. Cake must be made from low gluten flour for it to be soft and delicious¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan continued to exin even as she ordered her willing helpers around. In her past life, she used to enjoy reading transmigrator novels, and had often wondered how they''d get their hands on modern snacks and desserts. Because of this, she did a lot of research on ancient ingredients and resources. What she found out was, things like tapioca flour and cream of tartar did not exist in the ancient past, however, it was possible to rece it with existing ingredients. While it would take some trouble, it was not impossible with her cooking skills. Therefore, when Duan Tingxuan mentioned old madam''s birthday feast, she was determined to make a birthday cake. Not to buy her way into the old madam''s heart, but to give the olddy a memorable and happy birthday.

    After some time, the prep work was done and everyone was wiping sweat off their foreheads when Duan Tingxuan''s voice was heard from outside. The little marquis was back and he wanted his breakfast.

    Breakfast that day was Steamed Chinese Bread Roll and thin congee made by Hong Lian. For side dishes, there was Fermented Tofu[2] Pickled Mustard Tuber [3] and Salted Duck''s Egg [4]. When he heard that Su Nuan Nuan even managed to sneak time to fry up a dish of Firm Tofu with Eggs[5], the little marquis was beyond touched.

    Breakfast was quickly consumed, and thedies were soon back to work again. Duan Tingxuan too wanted to enter the kitchen, but was chased out by Su Nuan Nuan with a loud, "You better forget setting foot in this ce. Have you forgotten what today is? Go and wee the guests, what are you doing here anyway? Still don''t know how to differentiate the important from the petty?"

    She had just finished speaking when Cong''er came in, "Master, third young master is at the door. He said that the lord marquis is looking for you. He also said there''s no need for you to supervise whatever first madam is doing and to receive the guests with him. Marquis of Jinxiang, Marquis of Changsheng as well as Senior Uncle Shou Ning had already arrived."

    "As he lives, Man is never satisfied, the following day, skiffs are sent out once more."

    Duan Tingxuan sighed as he looked up at the sky, and gloomily made his way out of the house. On his way out, the silveryughter of his wife tickled his ears, "Did you hear that? He''s still not satisfied, under what circ.u.mstances did Li Taibai[6] wrote this poem? You darepare with him? Your greed will earn you a lightning strike one day."

    As it turned out, Duan Tingfang was just outside. From the look on his face , Duan Tingxuan knew that his third brother had heard Su Nuan Nuan remark. Somehow, a sense of embarra.s.sment still managed to creep up his face as he coughed into his hand, "Your sister-inw''s temperament has always been like this, don''t mind it."

    Duan Tingfang''s cheeks were flushed red, he huffed and puffed for a long time, but still unable to spit out his words. Finally, he managed to say, "How could I mind it? I should be saying this to elder brother instead."

    "Third brother, are you always this honest even at school?" Duan Tingxuan gave his third brother as ''fierce look'', but the third young master onlyughed lightly and said, "How could I? If I act like this in school, I would have been beaten up ck and blue all over by now."

    This third brother of his¡­ he seemed to be little different today. How odd, he hadn''t been that close to Nuan Nuan, so how was it that he too was dyed by her ck att.i.tude?

    Duan Tingxuan sighed as he considered. He never foresee that Duan Tingfang could turn out this way. At best, he had merely sent this brother of his some good ink and praised his work randomly. Third young master Duan might be prideful and aloof young man, but he treated the gifts of ink stone and little praises as Duan Tingxuan acknowledging his existence. This caused him to develop some feelings of intimacy with this great brother of his.

    No matter how antisocial he was, he was still craved a maturing young man craving acknowledgement. It was lucky that Su Nuan Nuan transmigrated into the time when this third young master was still at his developing stage. Otherwise, his antisocial behaviour would have gotten more serious and difficult to change, even with the little marquis'' intervention. [1]st season''s chrysanthemums ¨C outdated goods, lol

    [2] Fermented Tofu ¨C ¸¯Èé- I can''t believe there''s an Englishnguage website featuring this recipe!

    [3] Pickled Mustard Tuber ¨C Õ¥²Ë -People don''t normally make this, they just buy it at the market.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zha_cai [4] Salted Ducks Egg ¨C ûyµ° ¨C Tranted Recipe ! [5] Firm Tofu with Eggs ¨C ŽÖ¶¹¸¯ëuµ° ¨C Basically stir fried tofu with scrambled eggs

    [6] Li Taibai, also known as the poet Li Bai ¨C one of the three most famous poets in ancient China. The poem Duan Tingxuan quoted is the final line of a poem called ''Little Boat'' I did my best tranting it ^_^, but I''m afraid I didn''t do it justice.

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 Chapter 109

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 109: The Whole Gang

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Isn''t second brother there?"

    The brothers followed the path towards the front court. Duan Tingxuan was unhappy to find that Duan Tingye was not standing by the main entrance. Curse that shameful thing, where has he gone to hide now? Could it be that I, your older brother, haven''t oppress you for a few days you''re now strutting about with your tail up?

    "Quite a few guests have already arrived, the old marquis is now speaking with the duke. Second brother is looking after the marquis and lower officials. The chancellors haven''t arrived yet, so, the marquis asked me toe look for you before they''re here. We''re expecting one of the princes toe as well, and of course, older brother is the best person to receive them."

    After hearing Duan Tingfang''s exnation, Duan Tingxuan knew that he had wrongly used Duan Tingye. He nodded, and said, "Since it''s like that, youe with me. There should be quite a few schrs from the Imperial Hanlin Academy, it''ll be good for you to get to know them. You may ask them for advice on how to properly write your essays at the very least. That should help you get a conversation started, right?"

    "Ah? B¡­ but, I can''t¡­"

    Duan Tingfang was fl.u.s.tered. Duan Tingxuan eyed this younger brother of his and said, "And why can''t you? Just make use of that att.i.tude when you ridicule me earlier. Do you really think those bookworms from Hanlin Academy are harder to deal with than me?"

    Is this brother''s revenge against my att.i.tude just now? How petty, just because I made fun of him a little.

    Third young master''s face reduced to ‡å‡å as he stared at the little marquis: Why had he never seen this side of his brother before? He had always thought that this brother was a calm, brilliant man with a cold disposition. Whenever this thought popped up, he felt like he had been blind these 10 over years. Just how had he spent all these years imagining this petty man as a magnificent and heroic man?

    The sun moved steadily across the sky, and soon it was an hour before noon. Duan Tingfang stood next Duan Tingxuan, his legs almost cramping from standing so long, his cheeks had started to stiffened from smiling so much. He looked at the sun and muttered, "The prince should be here soon, if they aren''t here by now they probably won''t being at all. Brother, shouldn''t we go in now?"

    "Wait a bit more." Duan Tingxuan frowned, and heard his brother said, "Even if they don''te, there''s no need for brother to look so grave, right? How many of the n.o.ble families here have some sort of rtionship with the royal family? None of them gave even half as much face as we did, so there''s no need for us to do so either."

    Duan Tingxuan lowered his voice, "Are you worried that I''ll be upset? What a joke, what kind of man is your elder brother? How could I be upset over a small matter like this? The reason why I look so grave is¡­ well, I have a bad premonition¡­"

    He had hardly spoken this when a smallmotion caught their attention. He blinked, and narrowed his eyes at the dozen or so people who had suddenly appeared at the gate. He tugged at Duan Tingfang''s sleeves and said, "Second brother, ah. Do you see those peopleing in? I somehow felt like my eyes are a little dazzled."

    "My¡­ my eyes seemed to be dazzled too. That¡­ is that his highness, the¡­ crown prince?"

    Duan Tingfang normally sported an aloof and cold aura. However, at the sight of the people before him, his legs wobbled. Not only him, but Duan Tingxuan too felt the fight or flight instincts coursing through his blood. Even someone who got along well with the princes suffered from gooseb.u.mps at this sight, how could Third Young Master Duan stand against this a.s.sault?

    "Elder cousin."

    "Elder cousin."

    "Elder cousin."

    The chorus of greetings finally shook Duan Tingxuan out of his shock. He wordlessly stared at the group of princes ranging from age 8 to 20. Somehow, he managed to dredge up a smile and said weakly, "Your highnesses¡­ you have all¡­e?"

    "Second brother and imperial mother said that today is maternal grandmother''s birthday. Also, cousin-inw is really good at cooking. Imperial concubine mother said that since she could not leave the pce, she bade us toe and bring some takeaway for her." Eight Prince, Jiang Changxun, age 11 said. He was the liveliest of the lot and the most daring among the princes, as he honestly answered Duan Tingxuan''s question.

    Your mom, can''t you at least pretend to make up some excuses for your presence? What kind of face do you think you left Imperial Concubine Duan?

    Duan Tingxuan could onlyin silently in his heart at this. However, against Jiang Changning, he had no intention of concealing his feelings, "Second prince is most filial, however, I don''t understand why you brought all 11 princes over if your intention is just to take some food home for Imperial Concubine Duan?"

    Jiang Changning turned to look left, then right, as though looking for someone. It was clear that he was not paying any attention to Duan Tingxuan''s sarcastic remarks. Just as Duan Tingxuan was about to lose his temper, the prince smiled and waved at someone, "Over here, Qing Hu, this way."

    "Coming,ing," an elegant young man carrying a scroll under his arms arrived. He was gasping for breath, clearly having rushed over. As he approached, Jiang Changning said, "I did say I''ve prepared a gift, surely there''s no need for you to bring anything? Moreover, do you think you could even enter this ce if I''m not here?"

    "Are you joking with me? Tingxuan and I graduated at the same year at school. Even without your highness here, don''t think I can''t enter Marquis of An Ping''s pce." the person called Qing Hu answered with a warm smile. The smile was then redirected at Duan Tingxuan. "Tingxuan, it''s been awhile."

    Duan Tingxuan''s gaze darkened: It was one thing for Jiang Changning to bring his litter of brothers here with the flimsy excuse of taking food away for their imperial concubine mother, did he have to bring his friends over as well? Unfortunately, this man was his friend too. Otherwise, he would have kicked the man out.

    "Tingxuan, what''s everyone doing standing about at the gate? Are you afraid that someone might miss the fact that the Marquis of An Ping is having a celebration?"

    Jiang Changjingughed, and was immediately stabbed by Duan Tingxuan''s eyes: So, you too know that the Marquis of An Ping is having a celebration today? Can you please reconsider your social status? How can youe over here like a swarm of bees to a pic? How could we, a marquis family, bear the presence of so many princes?

    However, no matter how the fire roiled within his belly, none of it show on his face. He felt pressured by the eyes of the little princes sticking on him. While Duan Tingxuan had nopunction about bullying the crown prince or second and fourth princes, he could not bring himself to mistreat these little princes. Social status aside, have you heard how those little guys warmly called him ''Elder cousin''? How could he bully them?

    He sighed deep in his heart and pulled the statue like Duan Tingfang aside. With a forced smile, he said, "Your highnesses, please, doe in."

    "Crown prince brother, I think elder cousin isn''t happy with us."

    The pipe like young voice belonged to who knows which little prince. The crown prince said ndly, "That''s perfectly natural. When a fierce wolf has a juicymb in his sight and was about to pounce, but is interrupted by a pack of strange wolves, naturally he''d be unhappy. Especially when he knows he''s outnumbered and out .s.sed by them."

    "Is that so, ah. Then, should we all eat more? Since elder cousin''s temper is already bad, we''d lose out if we don''t stuff ourselves, right?"

    "Hahaha, not bad, not bad. In the future, you can a.s.sist your fourth brother in the Imperial ounting department."

    The sound of cheerfulughter caused Duan Tingxuan''s face to turn cker with rage: Which beastly little prince is that? Somehow that little brat has a talent for p.i.s.sing off people with just words. [Gumihou: Ah, ah, ah, how adorable are the princes? Duan Tingxuan, you''re certainly out numbered and out .s.sed here. Trololol]

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 Chapter 110

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 110: Raising Expectations

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    There was a tug at his sleeves, and Duan Tingfang''s anxious face appeared in front of Duan Tingxuan. "Elder brother, your face. Your expression is too unsightly, no matter what you must smile."

    "That''s too difficult, ah. How could I when a bunch of hooligans who called me a wolf is about to enter my house?" Duan Tingxuan muttered hatefully. He looked up at the heavens again, the sun shone down bright and hot. He suddenly grinned hurried over to stand in front of the crown prince. A fake smile bloomed on his face as he said, "Today is terribly hot, isn''t it? Why have your highness, the crown princee? Don''t you normally don''t leave your pce during the summer months? I heard that even the empress excused you from your daily greetings in summer. This is only maternal grandmother''s 68th birthday, so why have you personallye?"

    The crown prince smirked as he snapped his fan open and waved it slowly. Though he was fat, and a little clumsy, the n.o.blest of blood still run through his veins and confidence practically oozed from his pores. Heughed, "Speaking of which, I must credit Tingxuan for my presence here. Thanks to youing over to the East Pce everyday for the past two days, well, though I don''t appreciate it at the time and nearly spit foam from exhaustion, I must say my body has been feeling better than ever. Look, I came all the way from the East Pce and barely sweated. Speaking of the heat, let''s go inside now and you can give me two bowls of cooling drink. Make sure the bowls arerge."

    Duan Tingxuan staggered, and nearly fell t on his face. Is this the feeling of ''Dropping a rock onto one''s own feet''? Crown prince, you''re the heir to the throne, ah. How could you be so evil? Where did you learn this bad habit from? [Gumihou: Lol, what the heck Tingxuan? Where do you think?]

    Jiang Changningughed, "That''s right, that''s right, since it''s so hot, it''s the best time to drink cousin-inw''s cooling drink. Also, you should get us a private room, so as not to attract too much attention. It''s best that not too many people knew that we''re here."

    "IS the second prince worried about too many people knowing you''re all here?" Duan Tingxuan sneered, "well, too bad. Your presence is too charismatic and amazing, how could you not attract attention just by wishing it?"

    He hadn''t finished speaking when inquisitive faces poked themselves out from the reception area and soon, people were all rushed out to rub shoulders with the princes. For a moment, it was incredibly noisy at the gate,ughter rang out in the courtyard, and it was a long while before the greetings eventually petered out. It was then that Duan Tingxuan caught sight of a few servantsughing and chatting with each othering round a corner. Seeing these carefree servants, he was so shocked that he did nothing for a few moments. Then, he angrily strode over and growled, "Come here, you. What are you doingughing and talking there? You, go to the inner court and inform them that the princes are here. Get your madams to send more people out to serve tea and drinks."

    "Yes." the servant who had been singled out vanished like smoke, leaving the others to awkwardly exchange nces with each other. Duan Tingxuan began to order them about, "The princes carriages are still outside, get some others to see to that. That''s right, what were you talking about just now? What''s going on at the inner court?"

    One of the servants quickly bobbed a greeting and answered, "To answer master, we had been sent by Auntie Lu to Spring Breeze Court. First madam had made something really huge. Something called Birthday Cake that is seven tiers tall. This lowly one haven''t seen it yet, all we did was help move the thing onto a small wheel barrow. It is probably being wheeled to the north court right now."

    "Birthday Cake?"

    The crown prince called out eagerly, there was a mad gleam in his eye. It was really impossible to see the ''Steady, Wise and Farsighted Man of Matchless Benevolence and Righteousness'' praise granted by the emperor. This unsteady fatty swivelled his neck over to look at Duan Tingxuan, "I think there''s no need for us to find a private area to rest. Since we are all here, we might as well go and give grandmother a very happy 68th birthday greeting. We can also have a look at this Birthday Cake thing made by cousin-inw. Seven tiers? Is she trying to build a paG.o.da?"

    The rest of the guest have also heard about how this notorious shrew of a wife had turned a new leaf and was now unrivalled in her cooking skills. Most of them came in hopes catching a glimpse of this woman, and perhaps taste some of her unusual cooking. After hearing the servant''s announcement, they all itched to find out even more. Now that the crown prince had openly dered his intention, they all gathered around him like eager clouds around the eye of a storm. Even the old marquis was urged by this mob and could only hustle his three sons along with 70 or 80 guests towards the north court.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dote, if you don''t, the trantor will be very sad and might even drop the novel.

    At this very moment Su Nuan Nuan, Concubine Jing, Duan Xinqi as well as a few other maids were heading towards the north court, unaware of what was happening on the other side. The mistresses of the family watched with anxious eyes as the maids slowly pushed the towering cake along. Hong Lian kept pace, interjecting with the asional ''Be careful!'' or ''Watch your hands!''. Even though the cake was supported by frames, it was incredibly tall and it was all too easy to imagine a disaster happening now.

    "Calm down, Hong Lian, you don''t have to be so anxious. Everyone is moving at a very steady pace. If you keep nagging them like this, even the steadiest hearts would tremble." Su Nuan Nuan pped her round fan at Hong Lian, shooing her away from the hara.s.sed maids. The maids looked like they were on the verge of bursting into at tears any moment.

    "Was this ''Cake Frame'' something that the lord had custom made outside?" Concubine Jing could also tell that the maids'' state of mind were not good, and sought to change the subject. Quite a few of the maids immediately heaved a sigh of relief at the change of subject.

    "That''s right, your lord is terribly unreliable. He said he''ll make it himself five days ago, but then got involved with something and couldn''t do it. Luckily, he''s good friends with the fourth prince and managed to get the craftsmen from the Imperial Household Department to make this frame for me. Though it''s a little different from what I expected, it is st.u.r.dily built and quite borated. If not for this frame, we won''t be able to achieve this impact."

    "Sister-inw, I really can''t wait to see everyone''s reaction to this Birthday Cake. I''ve lived so long and yet have never seen flour made into something like this, it''s just too amazing."

    "Not only second miss, even I¡­ well, madam should know my background. It is a world where wealth, excess and beauty reigns, and the wealthy indulged in every imaginable luxury, but I''ve never seen food turned into sheer delicacy and art like this."

    Even the normally calm and collected Concubine Jing was moved to speak in such flowery tones. Su Nuan Nuanughed lightly, "No need for all that praise. You should know what kind of person I was in the past. The lord called me an arrogant woman with extravagant taste, now you know just how extravagant and excessive I am. I am disguising my desire for extravagance as filial piety, how clever is that?"

    "Is that so?" Concubine Jing really didn''t know whether tough or cry at this. She blinked, and¡­ no, it was not her imagination. Several maids were rushing over to them, the look on their faces were joyously weing as they cried, "Why is madam so slow? Old madam''s north court is bursting with people. The north court is so packed that not even water could trickle in. Everyone is waiting to see madam''s Birthday Cake."

    "What?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was shocked. "Why are there so many people? Didn''t they say there would only be about a hundred or so guests? I''ve already estimated the amount of food, surely the n.o.bledies in the Capital can''t be that many?"

    The female servantughed , "There certainly is about a hundred female guests, but when the princes came, they insisted on personally greeting the old madam. With them were the male guests, heirs of n.o.ble houses, officials, marquis and dukes of other houses also came and another hundred is added on top of that. That''s about all that can fit into the north courtyard."

    For a moment, Su Nuan Nuan only stood there like a boat without sails. She felt confused and harried: Your mom, another hundred guests? This cake¡­ is there enough for everyone? Have pity on me, ah. My shoulders are all stiff, ah. Don''t tell me that stupid Duan Tingxuan can''t control his own guests? For so many guests to suddenly appear, even an immortal won''t be able to deal with it, ah.

    "Who told them first madam made Birthday Cake?" Concubine Jing caught onto the crucial point of this whole insanity. The female servants smiled awkwardly, "How could this lowly one dare ask? Anyway, it''s best for first madam to go there quickly, old madam is waiting anxiously for you."

    When Concubine Jing heard this, she started: How could they let the old madam wait for them on her birthday? She turned to Su Nuan Nuan and said, "Sister, since the situation is like this, we should hurry."

    Su Nuan Nuan shrugged, spreading out her hands, "I, too, wish we could go faster, but we can''t go faster than we have been, ah." she waved the huffing and puffing servants pushing the cart. "They''re already walking like they''re on thin ice. If we increase the speed, what if something happens?"

    Concubine Jing didn''t know what to say to that. The servants cried out over each other, "We can''t go any faster, ah. Madam, what if this giant Cake thing falls over?"

    The newly arrived servants blinked stupidly at them, and Su Nuan Nuanughed, "If you want us to be faster, go and tell your masters toe and help us. Otherwise, just sit there and wait, ba."

    The servants nodded and left to carry out her order. Less than 10 minutester, they saw the little marquise flying towards them. He muttered and grumbled all the way, "I''m so furious I could die. I thought I''d get to eat something good today, but that crown prince, second prince and fourth prince brought the whole gang of princes over. I still haven''t seen their birthday gift yet, but nothing they bring could possibly make up for this. Some of those so-called adults even shed their dignity at the mention of Birthday Cake and stretched out their necks to look about like country yokals. Nuan Nuan, where''s your Cake thing¡­ oh, my heavens. That''s tall! Is it really seven tiers?"

    Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes and snapped, "Of course it''s seven tiers. Since there are so many guests today, I deliberately made extra. This would just about allow one piece per guest. However, now that you have another hundred guests over, well, I don''t care anymore. You can split it out yourself."

    Duan Tingxuan immediately smiled ingratiatingly, "No, no, if Nuan Nuan is the one who allocates it, n.o.body can say anything. If I were to split it, well, I still have to face half of those people in court, you know. Some of those stuffy officials could be really petty, it would be a headache to decide who gets what. So, would you please do the honours? Wu! Also, there''s no such thing as too many people, ah? They are all our honoured guests. As long as Nuan Nuan is fair and not serve thedies only and forget about the men, all is fine! Jing''er, please don''t smile like that¡­ this is part of your secret n, right?"

    Concubine Jing had been maintaining her Mona Lisa smile through the exchange. Who would have thought the little marquis would suddenly target her? Her mouth dropped opened and she turned to Su Nuan Nuan, "Madam¡­ I¡­ the lord, he¡­. I ¡­ When did I smile? I was just¡­ it''s just my normal smile, ah¡­ Do you want me to cry on such a day?"

    "Look how you cause Sister Jing to stammer," Su Nuan Nuanughed out loud and said kindly to Concubine Jing. "It''s alright, don''t fret. Our lord is just hangry, that''s why he''s so anxious."

    "That''s right, I''m just too anxious. If I had known, I''d have asked her to make a seventeen tier frame¡­"

    He hadn''t finished speaking when Su Nuan Nuan''s foot kicked at him. The little marquis dodged out of instinct, and was treated the sight of his wife ring at him. "You try and say that again? Seventeen tiers? You think we''re ying with building blocks here? For just seven tiers we''ve busied ourselves all morning, even with second miss, Concubine Jing and the rest of the maids helping we barely made it. We''re already exhausted and you still dare ask for seventeen tiers?! You want me to die?!" [Gumihou: Ohoho, little marquis, some things are better left unsaid.]

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 Chapter 111

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 111: All Eyes on You

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Duan Tingxuan immediately grinned apologetically at Su Nuan Nuan, who sniffed and said, "Whatever, stop with your nonsense. Has old madam sent you here just toin? You go stand next to the wheelbarrow and steady the cake frame. The servants should be able to push with more confidence with you there to steady the thing."

    The cake frame stood tall in its wheelbarrow and was covered in cloth. Unable to see inside, Duan Tingxuan pursed his lips and said, "So, the reason why you asked me toe is to literally provide support, ah. Surely anyone can do this, right? Why must you ask me specifically?"

    Su Nuan Nuan snorted, "What nonsense is this? Who else has a more stable stance than my lord? I''ve asked you to go, just go. Do you want old madam to keep sticking out her neck and watching for our arrival and be a long neck goose?"

    Sudden realization dawned on Duan Tingxuan''s face, and he smiled broadly, "Oho, so, you have now realized how stable my stance is? Could it be that my dear wife have trained her horse stance enough to understand what a strong stance is like?"

    This was just provoking talk, Su Nuan Nuan had only been doing the horse stance for a little over two months. She also did the breathing exercises every night, but never saw any improvement. To hear this now, humph, this rascal actually dared to bring this issue up this moment¡­ she narrowed her phoenix eyes at him and snarled, "You''re right, I have almost forgotten this. What say we talk about this and check our ounts, hey? I''ve already been doing the horse stance for over two months now¡­"

    The little marquis'' cheeky grin disappeared, he quickly about faced and said seriously, "Let''s not talk about this now, priority must be on getting this to the north court. We don''t want old madam to turn into a long neck goose, right? Right." he then practically leapt to stand next to the wheel barrow. He ced one hand against the cake frame and another twitched to lift up the cloth, muttering, "Let''s have a quick look first, I wonder what this Birthday Cake thing looks like?"

    "Don''t you dare, or we''ll be stuck here all day!"

    Su Nuan Nuan was perfectly aware that if the little marquis'' wild appet.i.te was unleashed, it would be difficult to suppress. Duan Tingxuan''s hand twitched, but he finally let go of the cloth and pouted, "Whatever, whatever, I won''t look. I''ll get to see itter."

    With that, the group of people and the wheelbarrow of cake was speedily sent over to north court. The little marquis stood on the edge of the wheelbarrow like the captain of a ship as he held the frame in ce. As the wind picked up his floating hair and sleeves, he looked kind of ''heroic''. Well, about as heroic as a character in aedy sketch. He would rather not be a yer in this act, ah¡­ but, it''s all toote now. He could only hypnotise himself by saying over and over again: Not embarra.s.sing, not embarra.s.sing at all. This is all grandmother. I am being a filial son, no one can make fun of me over this¡­ they better not! Or, no, better yet, let them make fun of me, then I can beat them up with justice! So what if he is put on disy like this? As long as he didn''t feel embarra.s.sed, then he won''t be embarra.s.sed, ah!

    It soon turned out that the little marquis had over thought things. While it was true that eyes were all fixed in his direction, the people were more interested in the tall, cloth covered thing next to him. Everyone was curious about the Birthday Cake , who wants to spare an eye to look at him, ah?

    "Old madam, there are so many people that there''s barely any standing room at the reception hall. Why don''t we got to the courtyard and see what this Cake looks like?"

    Madam Yang proposed with a smile. Her resentment against Su Nuan Nuan had lessened a lot: Though the unforgettable sight her son being chased around Mei Yue Lou was something that p.i.s.sed her off every time she thought about it¡­ Well, to be honest, ever since that woman moved back to the inner court, not a single unsightly news reached her ears. The only interesting thing she did was cken the branch house''s reputation a little. Since this also satisfied her own resentment, Madam Yang found herself looking upon this daughter-inw with a little more favour.

    Even her husband, the old marquis, never brought up the branch house matter to her. Perhaps, he too, understood that the unsavoury businee conducted by his second son and daughter-inw had been resolved nicely without his intervention and was secretly pleased by it. Additionally, the steady a.s.sault in the form of gourmet food, and snacks soon wore down the rest of her defences and her disgust against Su Nuan Nuan had practically disappeared by now.

    "Let''s go with that."

    Old Madam Fang was so pleased that she was ready to be agreeable to any suggestions: Ever since this granddaughter-inw came back from the brink of death, she had unexpectedly became such a warm and loving person. After having lived so many years, this was the happiest birthday in her memory. She gripped her dragon headed cane and was personally escorted by the second and fourth prince as well as Madam Yang to the courtyard. The entire ce was filled with guests, the women milled around the porch while the male guests hung about the wide limestone path. All eyes were fixed upon the tall cake stand on the wheelbarrow as they whispered fervent spections to each other.

    Under the direction of Captain Duan, the servants carefully pushed the wheelbarrow into ce and slowly moved the cake stand down. It turned out that the stand was also fixed with wheels on all four corners, which made it easy to wheel it to the centre of the courtyard. Old Madam Fang smiled at the second prince, and said, "It''s alright now. Tell them to leave it there and get Tingxuan to remove the cloth. I really want to see what kind of curious thing Nuan Nuan had made this time."

    Jiang Changning nodded and went off to inform Duan Tingxuan. At the little marquis'' direction, the servants removed the bamboo pole that held up the cloth, and slowly, the entire seven tiers of Cake was slowly revealed. The crowd held their breath, and then sigh together at the sight. It was like watching Mt. Lushan[1] at dawn when sunlight slowly revealed the splendour of the mountain.

    Old Madam Fang and Madam Yang were stunned too. The fact that the cake was seven tiers tall was incredible enough, at the top of the highest tier was a sculpture of the G.o.d of Longevity[2] holding a peach in his hand. The G.o.d was dressed in cheerful red with a benign smile on his face. In one hand was a dragon headed staff, and the other arge immortal peach. The peach was so realistic and delicious looking that just the sight of it made the audience drooled.

    The cakes below that did not have an amazing sculpture on it, but the flourishing pattern of cherry blossom branches that blooming down the tiers did not lose in terms of beauty. The cake at the bottom most tier was thergest, one person could not hope to encircle their arms around it. On the surface of the cake was a painting of beautiful white cranes with elegant ck wings and neck. The yful cranes were surrounded by drawings of pine trees, abstract white clouds and flowering trees. This paradise like art was clearly an ill.u.s.tration of the Longevity Cranes meant to convey good luck and long life.

    Someone began to p, and soon the courtyard was flooded with apuse and cheers. Old Madam Fang trembled as she approached therge cake, too emotionally moved by it. It took a long time for her to master her emotions enough to look at Su Nuan Nuan and said, "Good child, did you really made all this just this morning? But¡­ but how could it be? Even if you have three more heads and three pairs of arms¡­?"

    "Old madam, this granddaughter-inw acknowledges your praise, but surely you don''t have to so surprised? Only Nezha[3] has three heads and three pairs of arms, not I." Su Nuan Nuan said cheerfully. Everyoneughed at this.

    The crown prince sighed, "It certainly is stunning. Well, if it''s not because of having extra arms or heads, how did you make this amazing thing in just one morning? As the person in charge of the Imperial Household Department, fourth brother, you should find out if your craftsmen and artisans have such a skill."

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "Though it''s all put together this morning, preparations work started three days ago. If your highness don''t believe me, you may ask our lord. I''m sure his shoulder is still sore from spending half a day making Cream. Thanks to him, we managed to get 20 to 30 jins of Cream, otherwise we would not be able to make this so well. Just one of him is worth several strong workers."

    Old Madam Fangughed out loud, "Well now, I know Tingxuan had always been a filial child, there''s no need for you to tter him on my behalf." [Gumihou: Huhuhu, Duan Tingxuan is certainly a high quality kitchen appliance, ne?] [1] Mt. Lushan ¨C A real mountain in Liujing, famous as a summer holiday spot

    [2] G.o.d of Longevity ¨C ÀÏ‰ÛÐÇ [3] Nezha ¨C A protection deity. There''s even a film about him!

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 Chapter 112

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 112: When Joy Turns to Sorrow

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Su Nuan Nuan hurriedly said, "Old madam, please don''t misunderstand. Granddaughter-inw is just speaking the truth. I have no intention of bragging about our lord''s contribution. The ones who have truly contributed are here."

    With that, she turned and pulled Concubine Jing and Duan Xinqi forward, with a sigh she said, "This granddaughter-inw originally intended to just make the cake, and depended on the cake frame surprise you with sheer size. The painting of blossoms was all done by Sister Jing and second sister. The painting of the cranes on the biggest Cake is done by Sister Jing. Second sister is even more amazing, she carved the miniature G.o.d of Longevity, as well as the exquisitely detailed immortal peach and dragon headed staff.

    I saw it myself, how second miss had, with just a few swift strokes of a knife created the outlines, a few more strokester details are seen and then further refined. It''s really too bad we don''t have more time, otherwise, I''d have her carve a pair of male and female immortal attendants for the G.o.d of Longevity."

    Concubine Jing and Duan Xinqi really hadn''t expected to be singled out by Su Nuan Nuan in front of so many important and aristocratic people. Their cheeks flushed red, and Duan Xinqi did her best to hide behind her sister-inw. Finally, it was Concubine Jing, no stranger to being in the centre of attention, who stepped forward with a refreshing smile to say, "First madam is really modest, without her cake, how would we get to show off our skills? I must say, second miss have certainly surprised me, I must admit defeat when ites to aparison of skills. I never thought she has such talent."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "That''s why people say that talent is G.o.d given. She must have taken after Concubine Lin, whose embroidery skill is without par. I heard that she drew paintings for her concubine mother to embroider, and would asionally carve flowers out of wood when bored. Who would have thought that she''d disy these skills today? Well, what does old madam think? Isn''t the G.o.d of Longevity exquisitely made?"

    As a sophisticated old madam of an aristocratic family, how could Old Madam Fang not know what Su Nuan Nuan was up to? Sigh¡­ what a goodhearted, attentive and generous child. Her lips opened to agree when her sharp eyes caught sight of several n.o.bledies lingering at the corridor paying close attention to Duan Xinqi. Quite a few of them were whispering to friends and rtives next to them.

    Madam Yang eyed Concubine Lin hovering in the background, that weak and beautiful woman kept dabbing her eyes with her handkerchief, beads of tears kept dripping from her eyes. Finally, the elder madam said mildly, "Enough, now that Nuan Nuan had stuck out for that child, you don''t have to worry about her future. It''s not that I wish to say anything, but, don''t you think you should pay more attention to your daughter? Look brilliant she is today. I never knew that she is such a beauty. Normally you won''t even let her wear make-up, but have you considered how old she is now? In a blink of an eye, she''ll reached marriageable age. To think that you''d just let Nuan Nuan do all this for her."

    Madam Yang was the type to stand around and judge people without doing anything about it. However, it was not like she was being hypocritical. It''s been many years since shest bothered herself about the household matters. Towards the two women, Liu Min and Concubine Lin, who had s.n.a.t.c.hed her husband from her, she could only show an indifferent face. How could she have known what kind of life Concubine Lin and her two children was like? Therefore, when she saw Duan Xinqi sparkling next to Su Nuan Nuan, the conclusion she came to was that Concubine Lin had been neglecting her daughter or even actively preventing her from using make-up. She never thought that even if Concubine Lin wished to dress her daughter well, how was she to get her hands on make-up, essories and good cloth?

    Concubine Lin did not resent Madam Yang for her careless remarks. As a weak willed woman with little power, she conversely felt honoured to be spoken to by the official wife. She nodded repeatedly and said, "Yes. Madam is right. Second miss really¡­ owes a lot to first madam¡­"

    She hadn''t finished speaking when Liu Minughed lightly, "Now, now, look how emotional you are. Those in the know will realise that those are tears of joy, those who didn''t know better will wonder why you''re crying on such an auspicious day. Who knows what people might think."

    This shocked Concubine Lin so much that she immediately shut up and muttered, "Madam Min is right, this one has forgotten her manners."

    Madam Yang eyed Liu Min for awhile before saying mildly, "It''s rare for her to see her daughter shine so brightly, what''s the harm of letting her forgot her manners? Who in this ce is not currently staring at that big Cake? Must you frighten her like this?"

    Liu Min''s lips pursed up into a smile, and said nothing. The resentment in her heart overflowing enough to block the sky. The moment she knew that Su Nuan Nuan was making a Birthday Cake for Old Madam Fang''s birthday, she knew that the limelight will be on the main house couple today. She had resigned herself to the reality that there would be no way for her own son and daughter-inw to shine during this banquet, however, she never thought that gift would be so exquisitely beautiful, s.n.a.t.c.hing the eyes of everyone around. Leaving no breathing room for her own son to even show off a little.

    As she thought of this, her gaze travelled irresistibly towards Marquis Duan Ni. He was surrounded by important n.o.bles, and they all looked like they were having some kind of cheerful talk. Two of the men even held up their thumbs. As for her husband, he was casting broad smiles at the huge Cake and stroking his beard in a satisfied manner. No matter what, he looked incredibly pleased by this development.

    Liu Min''s eyes cast into shadows. Could it be? All her efforts this past 20 years had been flipped aside by a single food item? Ever since that woman came back to the inner court, not a single thing have gone smoothly for her. Why couldn''t that woman just die at Mei Yue Lou?

    Why did she have toe back?

    What happen to your backbone?

    Didn''t you say you''re going to oppose Duan Tingxuan forever?

    Just when did you turn into this loving wife?

    Just when did a descendent of the Duke of Ping turn out to be such a jellyfish?

    Madam Min sunk into deep resentment against the whole world. Her displeased expression, even if no one else saw it, how could Madam Yang not see it? Secretly gleeful, she thought: The heavens have eyes, I cannot win against you for our husband''s favour, and my son''s heir status is unstable thanks to your interference. How I''ve suffered these 20 years, but, fortune rises and falls. A river that flowed east for 30 years might flow west 30 yearster. Now that your son and daughter-inw have been suppressed to death by MY son and daughter-inw, how does it feel , ah?

    How does it feel like to have all your hopes dashed to pieces, ah?

    Hahahaha¡­

    Please read this at kitchennovel dote. Or Gumihou will be sad.

    Compared to the old marquis'' wives, Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zhi Lan were the ones who were suffering from even more resentment. However, who has the time to bother with their tender feelings now? Everyone was busy wondering when they would get to eat this huge Cake.

    Old Madam Fang was excited too. Finally, she figured that everyone had admired the cake enough and cleared her throat. She said to Su Nuan Nuan, "Alright, now, how do we eat this? We should let everyone have a taste, ba. Since everyone is so kind to visit this olddy on her birthday, we can''t let them leave without at least a taste."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled, "That is simple. My lord, since you''re so tall, please go and fetch the topmost Cake down."

    Duan Tingxuan nodded, "No problem. Qiu Ling, get someone fetch a table here. I expect we''ll be splitting the cake here, right?" thest question was directed at the old madam. When the olddy nodded, he took a watermelon knife[1] from Su Nuan Nuan and spotted servants carrying a table over. Then, he stood on tiptoe and carefully eased the topmost cake off the frame.

    He quickly brought over cakes number two to six to the tables prepared by the servants. The six cakes filled tworge square tables that seated eight people each. Duan Tingxuan turned to Su Nuan Nuan, "Let''s split these first. We can cut thest er."

    "Very well, you do it." first madam is only in charge of making cake. Honourable husband can take over the responsibility of splitting them. Hong Lian, quick on her feet as usual, had prepared a white ap.r.o.n for her master the moment she saw him took the knife from Su Nuan Nuan. He cut the first piece, and personally brought it over to Old Madam Fang and knelt before her. "May your happiness be as vast as the Eastern Seas, may you live as long as Mt Zhongnan. Grandmother, this is your grandson and Nuan Nuan''s filial consideration, please taste it."

    "Good! Very good! Very good!" Old Madam Fang nodded many times and took the te. She picked up her spoon and paused, ahem, it would probably not good to take big mouthfuls in front of so many people, right? She reluctantly reigned herself in and cut a small piece of Cake and tasted it carefully. After a reasonable time has pa.s.sed, she nodded abruptly, "Very delicious, Nuan Nuan, ah. This Cake won''t lose to the Snow Cream in terms of taste. Very delicious, it''s too delicious. Xuan''er, ah, quick, cut a piece for everyone to try. This taste is clearly something unique and novel, let their highnesses and the honourable guests here all have a taste."

    Duan Tingxuan nodded in agreement, but before that he handed the entire first tier cake, along with its carved figurine to Qiu Ling. With a little '' hei-hei''ugh, he said, "Since it''s grandmother''s birthday, this Cake with its auspicious G.o.d of Longevity is all yours."

    Thus sc.u.m certainly knows how to manoeuvre things to his advantage, no wonder his political career was so smooth sailing, to the point that even the emperor treated him as one of his own people. Su Nuan Nuan silently curse this sc.u.m husband of hers. As expected, Old Madam Fang was smiling so widely that her eyes could not be seen. She nodded gravely and said, "Good, very good, as expected, my beloved grandson loves me best."

    Finally, the cake was cut and shared out among the guests. It turned out that the little marquis was quite deft with the knife. He was able to calcte the size of the cake against the number of guests and within an hour everyone soon had a piece. Though it was quite a small piece, it was a small miracle that everyone managed to get a share, considering that there were about 200 over guests in attendance. Everyone treated their piece of Cake like it was a cherished goods, and there was nock of praises for it.

    As the day continued on, the courtyard grew cooler as the sun moved west. However, it was still the height of summer, so it was still quite hot. Duan Tingxuan wiped his brows, and looked across the table now empty of cakes. Somehow, he had a feeling that something was not right. He looked at the cheerful guests enjoying the birthday banquet and wondered what could be wrong.

    He was still pondering over this mystery when his wife came over. Su Nuan Nuan stretched her face over, as though about to whisper some secrets into his ear. The little marquis was delighted, all thoughts about this odd feeling was thrown to the back of his head. Could it be? For Nuan Nuan to be so close to him and speak secretly in public, could it be possible that she no longer hate me as much as before?

    His heart thumped loudly, he felt like he was floating among the clouds. The plump lips approached him as though in slow motion and began to form words, wait, he had to hear what she was saying. The little marquis strained his ears and heard, "Idiot, you forgot to cut yourself a piece of the Cake." [2]

    A crack of thunder deted his cloud and the little marquis was sent wailing back to earth.

    The little marquis was an aplished martial artist, and his hands were essential to him. No matter whether it was a piece of paper, a goose feather or imperial weapons such as the few hundred jin ck Shooting Star Hammer, they were as stable as Mt. Tai. However, right now, the slender watermelon knife trembled within his hands. His hands trembled so much that it was shaking like crab caught in. His originally cheerful face copsed into utter despair.

    "Calm down, Duan Tingxuan you must calm down now. Don''t forget, this is your grandmother''s birthday. Are you really going to lose your dignity as the heir over Cake?" [Gumihou: I''m starting to feel a little sorry for the little marquis¡­ not!] [1] watermelon knife or Î÷¹Ïµ¶ ¨C is a straight de knife with a t tip. It''s actually called watermelon knife in English or straight de knife. You can buy it at Alibaba, lol! [2] I rearranged the sentence for more impact. The original sentence doomed DTX even before Su Nuan Nuan said anything.

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 Chapter 113

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 113: Can''t Hold It Back Anymore

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Su Nuan Nuan''s reminder came just before Duan Tingxuan went mad and jumped up s.n.a.t.c.hing food from others. His entire body was rigid from trying to control himself, he turned to his ''good-hearted'' wife and said in a trembling voice, "Nuan Nuan, I can''t control myself anymore. I want to cry¡­ what should I do? I¡­ I''ve been looking forward to this for so many days¡­ and never got to eat any¡­"

    His voice grew even more choked towards the end, giving Su Nuan Nuan a shock. She never thought that this husband of hers would actually be defeated by a mere piece of cake. She hurriedly whispered, "Calm down, calm down, I have reserved 2 pieces at Spring Breeze Court. When the banquet is over, you can have both of them."

    "But, I want to eat it now." the little marquis dered childishly.

    "Don''t try to grab a mile just because I gave an inch, otherwise I''ll give both Cakes to Zhao Cai. I''ve already let him help me clean up most of the cake batter away, I''m sure he''ll be more than happy to have the finished cake."

    At the mention of his socially superior rival, the little marquis immediately sobered up. He managed to say calmly, "Hehe! How could I lose myposure over such insignificant matters? Nuan Nuan, you look down on me too much." with that, he flounced off to socialize with the crown prince.

    "What did the lord want?"

    Concubine Jing asked as she came up to Su Nuan Nuan. In fact, neither she nor Duan Xinqi had any Cake, luckily they already had a taste of it at Spring Breeze Court. Moreover, they realize that at this kind of banquet, most of these people were their social superiors and had eaten some first so that they wouldn''t be too sad at not being given a piece. She had came over to Nuan Nuan after catching sight of her lord''s grim expression, he wore a face like a warrior facing down an overwhelming battle with a broken arm, and was therefore concerned.

    ck lines appeared all over Su Nuan Nuan''s face as she looked at the direction Duan Tingxuan was marching towards. She gritted her teeth, "Please let me guess wrong. Surely he''s not going to s.n.a.t.c.h food from the crown prince?"

    However, it turned out that Su Nuan Nuan really deserved the t.i.tle as Duan Tingxuan''s closest confidant. He really was going to do such a despicable thing.

    The lord heir stopped next to the crown prince, and carefully ced his lips close to the man''s ear, "Your highness, sweet food like this are the ones that make people fat. I think you''ve had enough, why don''t I help you deal with the rest." [Gumihou: 0.0 So, the crown prince is lower than Zhao Cai in the man s.l.u.t''s eyes?]

    Heaven was just too cruel, because the crown prince loved eating, he held himself back and daintily ate his cake in tiny bites. He had been slowly ascending to heaven when a wild Duan Tingxuan appeared. He knew that this savage wolf was here to s.n.a.t.c.h his food and carefully backed away from it. Eyes on the alert, he said, "Don''t joke with me, if you dare to s.n.a.t.c.h my Cake, I shall break off all rtionships with you."

    "Are you saying that our brotherhood cannot bepared to a piece of Cake?"

    The little marquis made a pitiful face and clutched dramatically at his heart. However, the wise crown prince, who already saw through him, sneered, "Naturally, our brotherhood is more important than this Cake. That said, let me finish this first, and we''ll talk again." without further ado, the rest of the Cake was swallowed down within three bites. The little marquis was so angry that he nearly exploded.

    "Alright, my dear excellencies, we have all greet the old madam and tasted the sweetest and most unique dessert, isn''t it time for us to enter the hall? To be honest, a single piece of Cake is not enough to satisfy me. In fact, I think my appet.i.te has been revved up!"

    A schr from the University Cab, Liu Mingyang, proposed with a smile. Thus, Duan Ni called his three sons over and together they led the male guests over to therge hall at the outer court, where dozens of tables had been set up just to amodate these distinguished guests.

    The inner court was where the women gathered, 15 tables were enough to amodate them. However, all the little princes less than 10 years old were left to loiter around the women''s area. Goodness knows whose idea it was to let them stay. The main problem was that they have now surrounded Su Nuan Nuan and were calling ''Cousin-inw'', ''Cousin-inw'' like a bunch of twittering birds. It was all just too intimate, ah.

    Duan Maoming looked at them with narrowed eyes, thatdy was his first mother, you know? Why are these royal princes so sticky with his mother, ah? Frowning, he recruited his elder brother, Duan Maofan, and together they collected their younger brothers, Duan Maochuan and Duan Maosen over to pester Su Nuan Nuan to hug them. The scene was incredibly chaotic and lively as Su Nuan Nuan was surrounded by children asking to be hugged.

    Having dedicated her whole life to eating and cooking, Su Nuan Nuan never married or had children in her previous life. However, this did not prevent her from being the neighbourhood favourite. Perhaps it''s because this auntie somehow always have some good snacks with her that children, young and younger, always surrounded her. Even wildest, snottiest brats would turned tame in front of her. Therefore, Su Nuan Nuan was absolutely fine when it came to dealing with children. However, there were just too many of them this time, furthermore there were actual princes in the mix. Even if she had been a nine-tailed fox, all nine tails and limbs won''t be enough to control them, ah.

    Luckily she has Concubine Jing and Duan Xinqi with her. At first, these two were still worried about social statuses and didn''t dare toe forward, but at Su Nuan Nuan''s obvious distressed at being surrounded by the tiny hooligans, they could not just stand by and not do anything. At first, they tried using words. Luckily, the children saw them as major contributors to the Cake and mistakenly believed that these were the correct people to fawn on (possibly to get more Cake). Thus, they ignored their own dignity and allowed themselves to be led away. Two little princes were led astray by Concubine Jing, who began telling stories, and never looked back at Su Nuan Nuan again.

    Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zhi Lan had quickly busied themselves rubbing shoulders with the n.o.ble madams as soon as the opportunity rose. Both were daughters of aristocrats, and due to their good looks and talents, were famous even before they were married. They dove into the social interactions like fish into water, exchanging anecdotes and gossips, andughing together most harmoniously. A whileter, they deemed that it was time to show off their sons for inspection, after all, connections made now might be valuablemodities in the future!

    However, when they turned to look for their children, not a single one was in sight. They were still surprised when a maid pointed out the location of the little young masters. At the sight of their sons begging Su Nuan Nuan for attention, fire red within their hearts: These white eyed wolves, to think that you''ve all gone over to first mother''s side. Don''t you know that I, your mother, am bitter enemies with that woman? What are you doing currying favour and pretending to be sweet children there? Pei! A piece of Cake is enough to tame all of you? How are you going to grow up to be like your father? [Gumihou: They''re really their father''s children]

    Naturally, they don''t dare to say anything. As the official wife, Su Nuan Nuan was for all intents and purposes, their ''real'' mother. For children to be close to her was beneficial for their future, n.o.body would fault them for trying to curry her favour. Not only could they not say anything, they still have to force out a pleased and happy expression for their guests. When remarks like, "The children really got along well with their di[1] mother, ah", they had to nod and smile agreeably. Even with her high level acting skills, Xue Zhi Lan nearly cracked under the pressure.

    As for their cursed ''Promiscuous as F**k'' father, he was currently being treated like amon Chinese cabbage. After dashing about arranging socially appropriate seating for everyone, Duan Tingxuan was finally able to heave a sigh of relief. He was just about to find himself a seat when he spotted Duan Tingye hurrying over to him.

    At the sight of his elder brother, Duan Tingye cast down his eyes for a moment before lifting them with renewed determination, if was as though this brother of his was girding himself for a fierce battle with a broken arm. Duan Tingye reached his brother''s side and said in a low voice, "Brother, since there''s some time before the official start of the banquet, this younger brother of yours have something to request."

    Oho¡­ can''t hold it back anymore?

    Duan Tingxuan sneered inwardly. He understood why this brother of his would suddenly make such a request. The Snow Cream from before had shaken his resolved, but had not yet conquered his head. However, the sight of this giant Birthday Cake today being unveiled in front of so many people was just too much. There was no way he was going to stand back and not make a move. [Gumihou: Duan Tingye, you''re currently my favourite character, don''t let me down now] [1] ''di'' ¨C official, as opposed to ''shu'' illegitimate or secondary

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 Chapter 114

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 114: The Great Change

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "What is it? Can''t it wait?"

    While ridiculing his brother inwardly, the little marquis faked an expression of confusion, he even allowed Duan Tingye to pull him aside. As expected, after barely checking around for eavesdropper, second brother urgently whispered, "Elder brother, sister-inw''s recipe for Cream hadn''t been leaked out, right? Also that Snow Cream, and the Birthday Cake this time, surely the recipes haven''t been leaked out?"

    "What about it?"

    Duan Tingxuan privately ridiculed Duan Tingye, wondering just what kind of excuse this treacherous brother of his was going to use in order to pry the recipe out of him. Humph! Well, what should he do to ruthlessly destroy this man''s ambition, hm? Now that opportunity had been sent to my front door, there''s no way I''m going to let you off easy. It''s fine if you call me cruel or ruthless, this lord will never allow you a chance to be c.o.c.ky.

    He was just pondering over this when Duan Tingxuan looked down at his feet again, this younger brother seemed to be struggling with himself. This went on for some time before he suddenly sighed, looked Duan Tingxuan in the eye and said in a low voice, "Brother, you are the most intelligent person I know. I trust you saw the business potential in these two dish''s value. It''s possible that in the future, birthday celebrations in aristocratic families will not beplete unless there''s a Birthday Cake. The women who came today spent most of their days racking their brains thinking up ways to win favours from their elders and husbands. How could they be willing to let this opportunity go?

    Brother, you must tell sister-inw to never let anyone have this recipe, no matter who asked for it. Just tell tell her to demure, and say that there will be a Cake shop in the capital soon, and they will be able to buy their Cakes there."

    Duan Tingxuan''s rtionship with his brother in this past 20 years was aplicated exchange of mutual scheming and deception. However, this time Duan Tingye had changed his attack style. Not a single thread of dishonesty was used, he had basically bared himself and voluntarily spoke out his motives. The little marquis was so taken aback that he could only run on auto pilot and said stupidly, "Just¡­ what are you talking about?"

    Duan Tingxuan was also in shocked: Was this really his crafty wolf of a big brother? This violent brother who would kick him down for no good reason would actually¡­ Why was this brother of his acting so shocked when spoken inly to? Had he somehow hit his head? Or was it all faked?

    However, he soon dismissed his weird guesses. It would not be an exaggeration to call the little marquis a genius. As expected, Duan Tingxuan soon recovered from his temporary bout of shock and smiled benignly at his brother, "Why? Is second brother interested in this business?"

    "Yes,"

    Duan Tingye nodded eagerly. Though he haven''t yet worked out exactly how he was going to make money out of these recipes, there was no doubt that the potential was immense. In the past, no matter how he had schemed and plotted, he had never won against this brother of his. However, now that opportunity had dropped itself in front of him, Second Young Master Duan threw caution to the wind and decided to try one tactic he had never tried before. He basicallyid himself bare in front of his brother and begged to be granted this business opportunity.

    It turned out that being straightforward had actually threw Duan Tingxuan out of the loop. How was it put again? With opportunity one could be made used of. This was how he had always controlled Duan Tingye. He knew that Tingye would definitely approach him, and thought that the man would scheme for the recipes. He had nned to y with this brother of his, letting him taste some sweetness now and then before brutally cutting him off or taking the man''s profits away. What kind of brute was he to bully an earnest man looking at him with shining eyes like this?

    "Hmm, it''s not that I can''t let you have the recipes, but your sister-inw¡­ well, you should know what her parent''s situation is like. I had nned to find a couple of shops for her so that she could have some money of her own. However, now that second brother has spoken to me¡­ moreover, you are the business manager of our family, there''s no way I could deny you. But, your sister-inw''s situation¡­"

    "I understand. This venture would never happen without sister-inw anyway. Therefore, I''d like to discuss this properly with brother first. Once the portion for the public coffer has been deducted, let''s split the remaining profits between ourselves, naturally, we should report this to father properly. Shall we say, a 70 ¨C 30 split? Of course, brother and sister-inw should have the 70% cut. Naturally, majority of the profits would go to the public coffers, since the Marquis of An Ping household have many nsmen aside from us."

    This brat really haspletely changed, ah.

    Duan Tingxuan stroked his chin thoughtfully: The terms Duan Tingye had mentioned were all pretty clear cut. Aside from splitting the money, he also nned to properly report the matter to the marquis. In other words, he had no intention of hiding it from father and h.o.a.rding the money. Could it be possible? That, for the sake of this business venture he''d decided to abandon all petty schemes and tricks? Just when did making money be something so important to him?

    "If elder brother feels that it''s not enough, I''m willing to go 80-20. I''ll also personally report the matter to father." nervous at Duan Tingxuan''s silence, Duan Tingyepromised even more, and took another huge step back, anxious about losing this business venture.

    Duan Tingxuan''s eyes narrowed as he stare wordlessly down at his brother. His heart was beyond shocked when Duan Tingye pulled a bitter face and said, "Elder brother, I really can''t go any lower than this. Surely you realise that a business require more than just recipes? Aside from setting up the shops, hiring people and arranging for supplies, there are many other things to consider. I am only asking for a percentage. Any less than 20% won''t even cover my initial capital. Surely even you won''t ughter me that badly?"

    "You little brat, it certainly is rare to see you like this."

    Duan Tingxuan suddenly smiled. Seeing Duan Tingye sighed with relief, he said mildly, "How about you tell me the truth? Why are you being so frank today? Is this business venture really that important to you? Though it is certainly a curious product, the profits can''t be all that amazing to sink to this level, right? At the very least, the shipping venture wouldn''t lose to this in terms of profit, as long as all your ships arrived safely, that is."

    Duan Tingye was caught off guard by this remark, after a long while, heughed bitterly and said, "What else could I do but be frank? Can I actually pull wool over your eyes? Until now I still haven''t managed to get my hands on the Snow Cream recipes, at this rate, what if sister-inw identally revealed her priceless recipes to some outsiders? What do I do then? As for the profits, of course I know the value of both businesses. But for some reason, I really want to try my hand at this venture. It is as though I''ve been bewitched, I just can''t stop thinking about it.

    I''ve been in charge of the family businesses for so long but have never pioneered any kind of venture before. Just imagine, how grand it would be to have thousands of people from all over the country visit our Cake shops in the Capital? No, not only within the country, people from outside will travel far and wide just toe and taste this unique treats.

    As long as we can maintain keep the recipes a secret, our profits will be a.s.sured for a good dozen years at least. Just thinking about it send shivers down my back. So what if the shipping business brings in huge profits? It has never touched my soul like this. Perhaps every man has their own dream, a desire to do something unique that only they can do."

    "What are you going on about? The real unique person here is your sister-inw, the recipes are all hers." Duan Tingxuanughed as he yfully tapped Duan Tingye on the head with his fan. Duan Tingye gave him dark look and said, "What about it? As long as I manage to build this business up, wouldn''t that make it unique? What''s the harm of basking in sister-inw''s reflection?"

    "Enough, looks like you know yourself well enough. I won''t tease you anymore. Let''s split the profit at 50-50. Also I suggest you open up a few restaurants as well. You''ll know what I mean once you''ve tasted this banquet''s Steamed Lion Head. I''ll warn you now, you might just be overwhelmed by emotions when you eat that."

    Duan Tingxuan gave a finalugh and turned to enter the hall, leaving Duan Tingye to stand there like an idiot. It was a long time before he turned his face up to look at the sun, which was still shining brightly overhead. It hasn''t turned green or blue or purple, ah. Next, he bit his thumb, ''Aiya!'' So painful, so it really isn''t a dream, ah. But¡­ but, that fellow just now, did he just disyed some elder brotherly consideration towards him?

    Was that really the evil fellow who always found joy in pushing him down? No, it can''t be, there must be something wrong with his eyes. But¡­ the 50-50 split¡­ was there something wrong with his ears too? But, but his ears and eyes can''t be broken at the same time, right? Then¡­ then just what is going on, ah?

    Still in a muddle, Second Young Master Duan sat down for the banquet and absently epted a te of Steamed Lion Head. One bite and he was thrown into a befuddled ecstasy for the second time that day. Should he go into the restaurant business too? Of course he should, ah.

    Only¡­ only, why was big brother suddenly so nice to him? Is there really no traps in this? How could it be? But, how could he just ignore this opportunity out of fear? Could such a wonderful opportunity strike twice? Ah, ah, ah, ah! Whatever, whatever, let''s give up on thinking. If I can''t be the heir, perhaps this is a chance to make something of myself. In the future, a hundred, no, a thousand yearster people will a.s.sociate Second Young Master Duan with Steamed Lion Head and Cream Cake. My business sense won''t lose to brother anyway¡­ So, heavens, should he do it? Should he?

    Aside from Shi Yurou, the distress Duan Tingye was suffering from was unknown by others. Duan Tingxuan and Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t care less about his feelings. As far as the little marquis was concerned, once the recipes were handed over, they would split the profits when the timees. Duan Tingye wouldn''t dare to mess with the ount books anyway, since he never knew when Duan Tingxuan would check them.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot, or Gumihou will be sad.

    Back at Spring Breeze Court, the little marquis was like a wild, untamed horse bounding for the kitchen. In an instant, howls of ''Miao-oo'' and ''Dratted Cat!'' punctuated the air. Su Nuan Nuan sighed bitterly, head in her hands. She mumbled through her hands and asked Hong Lian, "What''s the possibility that Zhao Cai, that dratted creature born with too much guts, have eaten ourst two pieces of Cake? The lord might well beat him to death."

    "Why don''t Missy hurry over to take a look?" Hong Lian''s lips trembled from holding back a smile. Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes and dered, "What''s there to see? One is a giant rat, the other a greedy cat. Just let them battle it out."

    To be honest, though Zhao Cai was a gluttonous creature, he still knew enough to preserve his cat lives. He had indeed s.n.a.t.c.hed one of the two pieces of Cakes, leaving thest one for the little marquis. Thus, he was able to preserve all nine (maybe seven or less) lives, for the moment.

    "You''re too much, isn''t it just a piece of Cake?" Su Nuan Nuan stroked the utterly defeated cat tenderly. Though her eyes held no me as she looked at the little marquis, who was currently (finally) eating his piece of Cake in a very satisfied manner.

    "This cat ought to be taught some manners. Otherwise, he wouldn''t know the Horse Lord has three eyes[1]" Duan Tingxuan sniffed, absolutely secure in his righteousness. "But, I say, Nuan Nuan. This cat is so much more talented than you, I have to spend quite the effort to catch him."

    "What is that supposed to mean? More talent in what?" Su Nuan Nuan was suspicious. Her husband sn.i.g.g.e.red, "More talent in martial arts, ah. This cat''s ability to dodge and run is nearly at par with the standard martial artist. So, please don''t say I haven''t been training you properly. It''s clear that you''re the one whocks talent. Look, Chai Cai had even learned up to level five, as for yourself, you haven''t even reached level one¡­ Aiya¡­"

    The final cry was caused by Su Nuan Nuan suddenly throwing a peach at the still talking little marquis. Caught off guard, and seated on a rocking chair, the little marquis'' reaction had slowed down just enough that he was unable to doge the fruity missile. [Gumihou: ¡­ wut¡­ Duan Tingxuan, you never learn, do you?] [1] Literally ñRÍõ ” or Horse Lord. Not sure of English name, possibly originated from Lord Shiva (Hinduism) andter a.s.simted into Buddhism culture. Lord Shiva and the Horse Lord looked really different though.

    The original idiom is simply ''The Horse Lord has three eyes'', meaning ''If I don''t show them my greatness, I''ll be looked down''. Chinese idioms are so cool.

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 Chapter 115

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 115: Splendid Delusion

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "Duan Tingxuan, you''ve had enough of the Steamed Lion Head, Snow Cream, and Cake, is that it?" Su Nuan Nuan threw Zhao Cai angrily stood up, dropping Zhao Chai to the floor. It''d been a long time since he had seen this shrewish, violent side of her. However, like a Pavlovian dog, the little marquis leapt away , nearly flopping to the ground as he yelled. "Joking, Nuan Nuan, I was just joking. Actually, your potential is still not bad. Just a little inferior than mine¡­ ah! Aiya! Please don''t hit me anymore¡­ the f**k, are you even a woman? Aren''t you tired from making Cake all morning? Why are you so energetic now?"

    As the husband and wife duo acted out their performance together, Hong Lian and Xiang Yun continued on as though nothing was wrong. In contrast, the three new maids, Cong''er, Hua''er, and Xing''er stared with their mouths wide opened. Their tough as nails madam quickly gain another awesome level in their hearts.

    They were still in this lively chaos together when a loud crash interrupted them. The people in the courtyard all turned towards the entrance, and saw Second Young Master Duan standing there in in a daze. He looked as though he had caught sight of something unspeakably horrifying. There was a case next to his feet, presumably the source of the crash.

    "Nuan Nuan, stop."

    Duan Tingxuan yelled, then hurried over. He stopped in front of his brother, looked up at the sinking sun, then said, "Tingye? Why are you here at this time of the day? The sun has almost set, what''s so important that can''t wait till tomorrow?"

    "Oh¡­ ah¡­ that is, I couldn''t sit still at home, so I thought¡­ I''de talk to elder brother about the business." Duan Tingye said in a rush. When he saw Su Nuan Nuan walking over, a faint sense of fear crossed his face and he quickly took two steps back, "That is¡­ the matter we talked about, has elder brother spoken to sister-inw about it? What¡­ what does she think?"

    "Your sister-inw has no problem with it." Duan Tingxuan was more interested in the fallen box. "What''s this? It''s nice that you''re visiting us, surely there''s no need to bring anything? Really. Just when did you learned false courtesies like this?"

    Duan Tingye''s lips quirked up a little, "That¡­ is not something particrly precious. A little while ago someone sent me a few lengths of cloud brocade cloth. Since the embroidery is particrly delicate, I thought I''d let brother and sister-inw have a look."

    "Just a look?" Duan Tingxuan frowned.

    "Oh¡­ that is¡­ certainly not only that, if brother takes a liking to it, please have them." Duan Tingye''s mouth curled up again, not only that, even his eye lid started to twitch. This business venture was a good thing, right? Why was he feeling a suspicious niggling in his gut?

    "Let''s talk inside,"

    Cloud brocade[1] was something that Su Nuan Nuan knew. In her past life, she had seen an actual specimen at some old teacher''s house. The cloth was half a meter long and five meters wide. Since it was purportedly a Ming Dynasty cloud brocade, it was incredibly priceless. Thus, at the mention of ''cloud brocade'', her face immediately beamed. Duan Tingxuan smiled, "Cloud brocade, ah. Every thread of is worth its weight in gold. For you to gift this to us is too generous, ah. What is it? Are you not satisfied with the 50-50 split?"

    "Oh no, that''s not it." Duan Tingye waved his hands repeatedly. "I am just¡­ really grateful for elder brother and sister-inw''s support. If there are any simr ventures in the future¡­ I do hope that brother will continue to advice." Suffocating. This was just too suffocating, ah. No wonder Yurou refused to speak to sister-inw no matter what. This kind of feeling was just to oppressing.

    "Since second brother is looking for you, you two go on ahead. I shall get Xiang Yun to send you two some snackster." Su Nuan Nuan was all smiles as she grabbed the box off cloud brocade from Duan Tingxuan and ran ahead into the house.

    The little marquis was feeling gloomy. Why did it felt like Nuan Nuan was a mistress of a host club, a greedy one at that, who pushed him out to receive customers the moment money reaches her hands? He thought that he could put off the business discussion for a few more days but¡­ well, since Duan Tingye was here with good intentions, there was no point dragging it out any more. He resentfully stomped out of the courtyard, pretty much going nowhere before looking back: Well, that treacherous brother of his was still standing there like an idiot.

    So, even this treacherous snake was dominated by Su Nuan Nuan, huh? Though he really didn''t want to admit it, it looked like¡­ this was surely the case.

    This knowledge made the little marquis even more annoyed: After 20 years I still haven''t manage to control this guy, but my shrewish wife had pecked this guy down so thoroughly that he''s now even more cowardly than a chicken. He''s a quail, a frighten quail¡­ tsk, what is this sense of disappointment?

    "Let''s go, what are you standing there like an idiot for?" Duan Tingxuan snapped unhappily. Duan Tingye shook himself and hurried over, trailing after the lord heir like a beaten dog to the study.

    Since this was a serious matter, the brothers talked business for a good part of an hour, managing to hammer out most of the crucial details. Finally, Second Young Master Duan could feel a bit more at ease. Exhausted by the nerve wrecking day, he hurried back to Spring Rain Court, and managed to catch Shi''shi reprimanding one of her younger maids. At the sight of him, she left the girl to whisper, "Well? Did brother and sister-inw really agree to it? A 50-50 split? No take backs or regrets?"

    Duan Tingye nodded. In truth, he still felt like he was dreaming. Before him, his wife''s lips slowly curved up into the happiest smile he had ever seen. Suddenly, the memory of Su Nuan Nuan mercilessly chasing his brother around the courtyard struck him, and he immediately said. "That''s right, in the future¡­ do your best to provoke sister-inw as little as possible."

    "Yo~ whatever for? The shops haven''t even been set up and you''re all set to be herckey?" Su Nuan Nuan was the thorn in Shi Yurou''s heart. Therefore, she was naturally unhappy to hear her husband speak like this. A sinisterugh escaped her, "Moreover, so what if the shops are set up? Her only contributions are the recipes, we still have to provide ingredients, workers, carpenters, source suppliers and entertain guests¡­ aren''t we taking all the risk here? Is a 50-50 split a lot to you? So much so that you''ve be a scaredy mouse?"

    "You don''t know what you''re talking about." Duan Tingye was getting annoyed. "Do you still remember how you had her cat beaten? How she just turned up at our door? If she really forced the issue, I''m afraid you might still be recovering in bed until who knows when. You haven''t seen what I''ve seen. Today, I saw elder brother running away from her like a wretched creature, like, like a mouse being yed around by a cat. I only caught a glimpse as I entered the courtyard and my legs practically weakened at the sight. Heavens, could that thing even still be considered a woman? Even lioness and tigress aren''t as fierce as her."

    Duan Tingxuan''s martial skills was something that Shi Yurou was familiar with, and her face whitened drastically at this news. In a shrill voice she cried, "You''re saying¡­ first master was chased by her to a corner? How¡­ how could this be? The first master might be a bit of a skirt chaser, but, but, there are rules that the main house must obey. That woman had always been violent, but, never to this point. Are you certain? You''re sure you''re not mistaken?"

    "How can I mistake it for anything else? Anyway¡­ just¡­ try to refrain from provoking the first madam. To be honest, I must admit I kind of enjoyed seeing elder brother''s miserable face¡­ Whatever, just stop whatever you might be nning, for me if nothing else. Let sister-inw take out her violence against elder brother. As long as those two go at each other''s throats, we, as spectators, can ready ours to catch whatever opportunities that flies up. Isn''t this better?"

    Shi Yurou pondered upon the image of Duan Tingxuan as a miserable rat being chased around by a fierce tigress Nuan Nuan. A loud explosive ''pu chi'' was heard, soon she was holding her waist andughing until tears rolled down her face. Duan Tingye, too, began tough. Together, the coupleughed like a pair of crazy people as all the resentment, hurt and bitter feelings of being blocked and stepped on by this brother of theirs was reced by this splendid delusion. Who cares whether it was true or not? This imagery was worth more than anything gold could buy.

    If Su Nuan Nuan knew what the branch house had been thinking, she would definitely have scolded Duan Tingxuan while jabbing a finger at his forehead: Look what a great big bully you are. See how terrible you made these people''s lives?

    Note from the Author, White Pear Flower.

    PS: Second Young Master Duan certainly is a little pitiful, ah. Though he kind of deserved it, hahaha! [Gumihou: I''ve always liked good supporting characters. I''m d White Pear Flower gave the branch house couple an opportunity to be better people. Unlike that kid in Super Chef Reborn. Tsk, tsk, I still have hopes, though it''s faint, for Sun Yi to be a better man] [1] Cloud Brocade

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 Chapter 116

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 116: Brewing Trouble

    Tranted by Gumihou

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    "You just came from the Capital? What''s the situation like there?"

    Within the pce of King Xiangyang, the man himself was seated upright on a chair, dressed in rich brocade and looking very solemn and majestic. The question was directed to his trusted aide, Liu Qiang.

    Liu Qiang stepped forward, bowed his head and said in a low voice, "In answer to my Lordship, the situation is¡­ probably out of my Lordship hands."

    "What do you mean?" King Xiangyang''s hand, which had been resting on the table clenched into a fist. The antic.i.p.ation he had felt for this interview was nowced with anxiety. The thing he hated most was also the thing he feared most, to lose control over a given situation. Because what he was nning was something that could potentially get him killed. To lose control meant failure and death.

    "After the emperor fainted, there was no major changes to him. Two months ago, the crown prince also fainted once, but three days after that, the emperor ordered Marquis of An Ping''s heir, Duan Tingxuan to enter the pce to supervise the crown prince in martial arts practice. The report mentioned that the heir''s wife was a deft hand at cooking. With her miraculous ability, she was able to create vegetarian dishes that convinced even the crown prince to forego meat. Just before this one left the Capital, this one was able to catch sight of the crown prince from a distance, and saw that he had had indeed thinned down a bit¡­"

    Liu Qiang trailed off at this. [Bang!] King Xiangyang mmed his fist against the table. It was clear that he was angry, "Hateful, despicable, this king has conspired for close to 20 years now¡­ how could I allow this n to just copse in his hands? No, this king will never allow it."

    Liu Qiang stayed silent for some time, listening to the King''s harsh breathing, finally he asked, "My Lordship, what should we do next?"

    King Xiangyang looked down without speaking. Liu Qiang dared not interrupt the man''s thoughts. After a long while, the king seemed to have collected himself and lifted his head to say coldly, "Duan Tingxuan''s wife, was it the woman who made the Birthday Cake?"

    "Yes." Liu Qiang nodded. This news travelled really quickly, even my Lordship knows about An Ping heir''s wife''s abilities."

    "How unexpected. For her to suddenly stand out after the entirety of the Duke of Ping''s house had copsed. Didn''t I hear that the Duan family had renounced her? And here I thought she''s dead." King Xiangyang half muttered to himself.

    My Lordship, surely this is not the time to discuss this, right? Thought Liu Qiang privately, outwardly he said, "What tricks she used to worm her way back to the the Duan heir''s embrace is currently unknown. But this woman is clearly not simple. She never left the mansion, but it is said that she s a straightforward one. There is also a rumour going on about how the An Ping heir obeys her absolutely. The emperor and the empress also took a liking to her. She had thus far introduced a new cooling tea. Something called Snow Cream is also bing very popr at the Capital. The trickiest issue is that we have no idea how she had gotten the information on those vegetarian recipes. Both the crown prince and the emperor who had never been happy without meat at every meal now ate her vegetarian food happily. Thest this one heard, warm congee with salted vegetables was the breakfast of choice at the imperial pce¡­" [Dong!] the great fist of King Xiangyang struck the table once more. Eyes burning with killer intent, he grounded out each word bitterly, "In other words, we cannot let her stay alive."

    "My Lordship meaning is?"

    "Send a.s.sa.s.sins after her." said the king coldly.

    "But, she never leaves the mansion." Liu Qiang had no intention of making trouble, he was just stating a fact.

    "Then we wait. I don''t believe that she will stay within those doors for the rest of her life. If she doesn''te out voluntarily, find a way to lure her out. Surely there is no need for this king to teach you what to do?"

    "Yes, this subordinate epts the mission." Liu Qiang shivered, and quickly bowed in acquiescence. But then, King Xiangyang said, "Wait, let me think over it for a moment." he stood up and paced about the room a few times before standing still. "What was it you said? Duan Tingxuan trusted this woman?"

    "Yes, this one saw it with one''s own eyes. There was even talk that the heir neglected the two legendary beauties in his harem for this woman."

    "Duan Tingxuan has always been merciless, sharp and kept his cards close to his chest. If he had really fallen for this woman, we won''t be able to bear the repercussion of her death. Moreover, he has the trust, and therefore the resources, of both the emperor and the crown prince. Her death might appease my anger, but the consequences is not worth it."

    Liu Qiang saw that the his Lordship was embarra.s.sed about suddenly changing his opinion, and quickly covered up the awkward moment by saying, "My Lordship is wise, this one too felt that it is better to think thrice over the matter."

    King Xiangyang nodded solemnly, "That is so, find a way to capture her alive. That way, we can pin down Duan Tingxuan as well. Who knows, we might even be able to make use of him and neutralize a threat at the same time."

    "My Lordship is wise, this one will do as you say." Liu Qiang gave his master a thumbs up, ttering the king from the bottom of his heart. He was about to straighten up when the king added, "It''s good to have as many bargaining chips as possible, if there''s an opportunity to capture the old granny, get her as well."

    Liu Qiang fell back to his knees in shock: Kidnap the old madam? Your Lordship, ah. Can you please refrain from being greedy? How could these words pa.s.s so casually from your lips? He sighed inwardly and said, "In answer to my Lordship, the old madam''s movements is restricted by her health, it might not be easy to get her."

    "It''s fine if you can''t get the olddy, go kidnap the marquis'' official wife. That woman is Duan Tingxuan''s blood mother after all, so how could he ignore the matter? Once his beloved wives and mother are with us, he will have to do all of our bidding."

    The mission parameters have increased in difficulty, however it was still slightly easier than kidnapping the venerable old madam¡­ just by a little bit. Liu Qiang dare not try to find an excuse to get out of this mission. He knew that his Lordship was not particrly good tempered, he counted himself lucky that this master had not started killing people in a temper yet.

    Once out of the study, Liu Qiang raised his head to the star studded sky, and sighed gustily, before turning his brain over to pondering how he could pull off this ridiculous mission. [Gumihou: *pats Liu Qiang* that''s what you get when you serve an unreasonable master]

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot, or Gumihou will be sad¡­

    "Time sure pa.s.sed quickly. It felt like I''d just blinked, and it''s autumn already."

    At Spring Breeze Court, Concubine Jing and Concubine Lin were chatting together with Su Nuan Nuan under her grapevine perg.

    "It''s still hot even though it''s autumn." Su Nuan Nuan pped her round fan crossly, causing Concubine Lin tough, "It''s still early autumn yet, moreover, we might still experience the asional Indian summer. It might still be hot for another 10 days."

    "10 days¡­ that''s almost half a month," Su Nuan Nuan sighed dramatically. Concubine Jingughed, "This summer we have sister''s Snow Cream to help us get through the heat, it''s already much more bearable than other years."

    Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes, "Easy for you to say, do you know just how tiring it is to make Snow Cream?"

    Concubine Jing said, "Since it''s so tiring, why don''t you just let the kitchen maids make it? You can save on ingredients expenses too."

    Su Nuan Nuan sank down her chair, "Don''t bring it up anymore. Your master and second master have money in their eyes. Aren''t they nning some big business venture at the Capital soon? Both of them refused to let me give out the recipe, not even to Ms. Xu, leaving me to do it all by myself. How infuriating, if not because of money, I would have refused to do anything this tiring."

    Concubine Jing and Concubine Lin couldn''t helpughing. Finally, Concubine Jing said, "Sister is right, but aren''t you too have fallen in l.u.s.t with money? Otherwise, why would you bother what master and second master say?"

    Having her secrets burst out like that made Su Nuan Nuan even more resentful, "You''re not allowed to speak the truth, this is Spring Breeze Court''s rules, how dare you disobey it? Zhao Cai!"

    At the call, therge cat yowled, and leapt into Su Nuan Nuan''s arms. Then she quickly threw Zhao Cai into Concubine Jing''sp and said, "Heat her up, heat her up, otherwise I''ll throw you away."

    "Zhao Cai seems to have gotten fatter." Concubine Jing gently stroked Zhao Cai. It was clear that she loved animals. Even Shi Yurou''s Persian cat would let her cuddle it, whenever it was nearby.

    "Hasn''t he? But luckily he seems to be even more agile than before. Otherwise, he''d have died under your lord''s evil hands. The man''s a true foodie, if anyone dares to s.n.a.t.c.h his food, well! He might give face to old madam and elder madam, and he doesn''t seemed to beat people up, but Zhao Cai is a cat, ah. Everyday he''s here, my Spring Breeze Court bes chaotic. Man and cat just seems to rub each other wrong."

    Concubine Jing smiled, "Madam sure knows how toin. Just the other day I heard Madam Lan and Madam Yun talking about getting a cat. They thought that the lord''s daily visit was due to Zhao Cai on top of your cooking."

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "Let them raise the cats, I shall recruit those cats when the timees. Let your lord battle it out alone with my battalion of cats, we can all take bets to see which side would win. However, the branch house'' Persian cat is a useless thing, it dare not breath deeply at the sight of Zhao Cai. That waste of s.p.a.ce would be useless against your lord."

    They were still chatting andughing together when Duan Xinqi entered. Concubine Lin got up and said, "Why are you sote? Did you really need all that time to change your clothes?"

    "Oh no, on the way here, I encountered Madam Hua, who pulled me over to talk nonsense." Duan Xinqi''s cheeks were pink. The rest of thedies immediately knew what the ''nonsense'' was about. Su Nuan Nuan said, "Our second miss'' prospects is quite good, I heard there are quite a few families who sent representatives over to old madam and elder madam. What about yourself? Has anyone caught your eye?"

    Duan Xinqi''s cheeks reddened, and she stamped her feet, "Sister-inw is making fun of me again. I shall not speak to you anymore." She then flounced over to pick up Zhao Cai from Concubine Jing and sat by herself with a huff.

    At this point, Concubine Lin spoke up gratefully, "Thanks to madam for your guide, this child finally managed to have this day. I had always worried over which household she might be married into. Just some time ago, the marquis told me that there were quite a few families sending in inquiries. Among them, there were two that really stood out¡­"

    Before she could finish speaking, Duan Xinqi shrieked wordlessly from her corner, and Concubine Linughed, "Alright, alright, we''ll stop talking about it. Now, let me ask you. Just what did Madam Hua wants anyway?"

    "She said she''s here to see Madam Min, said something about lightingnterns." Duan Xinqi said casually. Suddenly, she sat up, "That''s right, sister-inw, concubine mothers, have you heard? There had been some unrest in the suburbs and quite a few viges plundered by horse bandits. But see, I''ve been thinking, why would horse bandits attack towns at the edge of the Capital?"

    Su Nuan Nuan said, "Your brother spoke to me about this before. Be at ease, they won''t be able to rampage about soon. The Judicial Office have been working with the Ministry of Justice on this case. The emperor have also moved some of the Imperial Army over as support. Their speciality is suppressing horseback opponents. Humph! Humph! In my opinion, they''re lucky they haven''t set foot into the Capital, anyone who tries to take our Capital would be captured like turtles in a jar."

    Concubine Jing said, "The Capital had been too peacefultely. Just a rash of banditry turned into big news. It was still quite ways away from the new year, so why would these thieves and bandits just not hold themselves back?" [Gumihou: Ooooh, looks like we''re going into a different arc now. I''m so excited!]

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 Chapter 117

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 117: To Urge On

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    She had just finished speaking when Old Madam Fang''s maid, Hu Po, came in. She seemed to have caught the tail end of the conversation and startedughing. "Our Old Madam was about to send someone to call all of you over for a chat when Granny Hua Dao happens to visit. Old madam mentioned that we should also include first madam in the Lantern Lighting Ceremony."

    "Why do I need to lightnterns for? Don''t those things cost a lot of money?" Su Nuan Nuan was curious. Her life now was very good. She could eat well and sleep well without any worries, what more could she want? Also, those Lucky Lanterns cost quite a pretty silver coin, you know? If she wants to throw money away, might as well throw them at the poor.

    Hu Po, Concubine Jing and the rest allughed. Concubine Lin shook her head and said, "The whole mansion is worried for first madam, but it turns out you''re the only one unconcerned. You''ve been married to the heir for five years now, but your belly''s been quiet. How could old madam not be anxious?"

    Hu Po giggled and said, "Madam need not worry about spending your silvers. As long as you dished out something good to eat, others will be d buy thenterns for you."

    "What kind of talk is this? Are you saying I''m a skinflint? Since everyone wishes it, I shall go with you. Tell that Granny Hua Dao to prepare my share." Su Nuan Nuan said with some embarra.s.sment. She was already famous in the whole Capital as a huge foodie, and really did not want to add skinflint as her t.i.tle.

    They all set out for Old Madam Fang''s ce, and was just in time to catch Granny Hua Dao expounding upon the virtues and advantages of the Pushan Temple expedition. Madam Yang, Liu Min and Shi Yurou were there too. All thedies were listening with keen interest. Finally, Old Madam Fang said regretfully, "I''m old now, otherwise I''d be happy to join this expedition. It would be fun to look at all those sights you''ve just mentioned."

    Liu Min smiled, "If old madam wishes to go, it''s not too far. The horse carriage could set out early and reach the foot of the mountain by mid morningtest; for the mountain trip, we can hire porters to carry us up in sedan chairs. I heard that Pushan Temple''s chrysanthemums are most beautiful in autumn. After the Double Ninth[1], let''s pick a good day to go. We can admire the scenery and drive away all our cares by enjoying the flowers. What do you think?"

    Shi Yurou also urged on from the side, "What an excellent idea, Madam Min. I shall sent word to the temple a few days early and let the monks prepare the temple for our arrival. Once we''re there, the temple could also block out other visitors, allowing old madam to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the temple properly."

    Granny Hua Dao too appeared most cheerful. She pressed her hands together and murmured, "I, too, wish to appeal to old madam. Normally, temples are quite crowded, especially the famous ones. With so many people around, it''s hard to even a quiet ce to pray, let alone stroll about peacefully."

    Old Madam Fang was tempted by their persuasion, and that was when Su Nuan Nuan and her group arrived. She looked up and said, "Nuan Nuan, it''s been a long time since you''ve been out, right? How abouting with us on this lovely crisp autumn?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was stunned for a moment, curses, just why is the old madam talking about this so suddenly? But¡­ to be honest, it was quite tempting, ah. After transmigrating into this world, I''ve never left the Capital. Moreover, ording to Duan Tingxuan, this country was currently experiencing its best years. Peace and prosperity reigns and the citizens were enjoying life. Humph, from the way he talks, he made it sound like the people in the past were living better than modern China. How can this be? I must confirm this with my own eyes.

    With that, she smiled and said, "Why have old madam suddenly bring this up? If you really wish to tour about, this granddaughter-inw must of course apany you. So, where are we going?"

    Old Madam Fang immediately cheered up, she repeated the itinerary from Granny Hua Dao and sighed, "When I was younger, I too apany my mothers and grandmothers to pray at Pushan Temple. At that time, the temple was not that famous, and their gardens not very big. I wonder what it''s like now?"

    Granny Hua Dao immediately chirped in, "That ce is incredibly wonderful now. I''d say it''s at its peak of beauty now, set against a wonderful flowering backdrop. It certainly won''t lose to the temples backed by imperial families. I heard that several w.a.n.gfeis[2] often visited that temple. If old madam and first madam were to visit, it would be even more famous."

    "Nonsense, aren''t we a mere marquis family? How could we have such arge impact? Don''t over do it, you old sweet talker." Old Madam Fang scolded happily. Granny Hua Dao answered, "It''s the absolute truth, old madam is our honourable empress'' blood mother after all. Who in this Capital could dere themselves to be more impressive than old madam? This one heard that the Birthday Cake have received endless praises from the imperial couple.

    Moreover, this one heard that the An Ping house n to set up Cake Shops and restaurants? Let me tell you this, the shops haven''t opened yet, but everyone is already anxiously waiting for it. It is said that the food served would be simr to those eaten at the marquis house. Wondrous delights that not even a thousand, ten thousand teals of silver could buy."

    This sort of ttery made Madam Fang even happier, as part of the rich, aristocratic n.o.bles, who doesn''t understand the benefit of making money? Therefore, about a hundred over years ago, thew that deres ''No officers shall involve in business ventures'' was basically an emptyw. Even the emperor have people doing business under his name, so, of course the rich n.o.blemen have no qualms about getting into business as well. However, the businesses they engaged in must be of appropriate nature. A certain standard must be adhered to, businesses that exploited the weak or harmed themon people in any way would be punished, their names ck listed and their sins exposed to the general public. In short, with just a stroke of a brush, the Ministry of Finance could ruin your life. Not even the meanest establishments will do business with you.

    Still on cloud nine, Old Madam Fang said to Su Nuan Nuan, "We still haven''t decided whether to go or not by the Double Ninth, my health, well, I might not end up going. But, Nuan Nuan, no matter what you must go. For the sake of our new business ventures you must offer thanks to the Buddha. Also, your near death experience at Mei Yue Lou, why, Buddha must have looked out for you at that time, right?"

    Privately, Su Nuan Nuan thought, Buddha did not save your granddaughter-inw, the one he protected was me ¡ª a foodie from the 21st century. But, no matter what, since old madam already said it like this, Su Nuan Nuan couldn''t very well insisted on staying within the mansion. Also, the thought of having some light hearted fun after the Double Ninth Festival was appealing as well, so she happily agreed.

    With this trip to look forward to, everyone within the marquis mansion all fought to be picked by their masters to go to Pushan Temple. The maid who would apany Old Madam Yang would Qiu Ling, of course.

    In a blink of an eye, it was the Double Ninth. Shi Yurou had already sent people over to Pushan Temple to give their greetings. The temple abbot knew that the An Ping Marquis her and his official wife were currently the most talked about couple in the whole of the Capital. If they were to personallye to the temple to pray, wouldn''t the temple joss sticks burn non-stop? When the timees, even the Huguo Temple wouldn''t be able topare to them. Therefore, the entire temple began to make preparations, all very careful preparations, of course.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot~ Gumihou invites you to kitchennovel to check out recipes in this novel~

    It''s all yum here, soe over~

    "How unexpected, this is certainly a big event. Not only us, but the some of the first madams of heir lords who got along well us would being as well. Looks like this Pushan Temple trip is going to be livelier than expected."

    The sun had already sank out of sight, but the sky still glowed with the soft light of dusk. The dining table of Spring Breeze Court had been set up at the sun deck along with two chairs. Duan Tingxuan sat in one and Su Nuan Nuan the other. They were chatting leisurely together as they ate, enjoying the asional cool breeze that blew their way.

    This was a habit Su Nuan Nuan started ever since she transmigrated to Mei Yue Lou. The little marquis also fell in love with this dining arrangement after free loading food from her all this time. Now that she had moved to Spring Breeze Court, she would dine outdoors whenever the weather was judged suitable for it. With the spectacr sunset as backdrop and the cool breeze at her back, dinner became even more delicious. Life was good, meals were delicious and she was as happy as a fairy in the clouds.

    Author White Pear Flower: Hohohohou, everyone should know what happens next, right, right? It''s dog blood drama! Lla¡­ [Gumihou: Oh shoot, temples are the worst ces to go in an ancient world novel. It''s infested with a.s.sa.s.sins, funny incense, and intrigue of all kinds!! Whoever thought temples are peaceful ces had to be deluded!!] [1] Double Ninth ¨C 9th of September

    [2] w.a.n.gfei ¨C Generally the wives of princes

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 Chapter 118

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 118: Sudden Change

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Exactly! I never thought the old madam would actually be so interested, and here I thought it was just a pa.s.sing fancy." Su Nuan Nuan picked up a piece of Fishy Eggnt[1] and ate it quickly. If she doesn''t move fast enough, the food would all be eaten by Duan Tingxuan.

    "A pa.s.sing fancy?" the little marquis looked up curiously, and heard his wife said, "Nothing, basically it means a temporary obsession."

    Duan Tingxuan did not question further, instead he smiled and said, "The old madam has always enjoyed a little excitement. Unfortunately, she tires more easily now, but it''s good to let her enjoy herself as much as she can."

    "Whatever, I''m fine with that, but what about the situation around the Capital? I heard there had been some bandit action recently, well? Have they all been caught?" this was something that Su Nuan Nuan had been worrying about. If public security is not guaranteed, she really did not want to march over to Pushan Temple with a big troupe of important n.o.bles and aristocrats. After all, the womenfolk of the Marquis of An Ping were like fat sheep towless men. In fact, they were the tender, slow roasted kinds, speckled with seasoning spices and dripping with fragrant oil. Anyone with a lick of bad intention would not be able to resist this lure.

    "No problem, we''ve caught over a hundred of them by now. Apparently, Chong Country had been suffering from war and famine, which exins the sudden influx of banditry, majority of them were running for their lives." Duan Tingxuan quickly snapped up thest few pieces of Fishy Eggnt and swallowed them down. "In order to do this, the Judicial Office, as well as Ministry of Justice even the Home Guard had been mobilized non-stop this past two months. At first, I''d suspect that this might be a diversion for something bigger, diverting our resources for one thing while aiming for something else. However, thus far the bandit actions had all but disappeared, and nothing more had happened. Maybe it was just me being overly worried."

    "A careful boatmaster sails for a thousand years. As an Imperial Councillor, it''s your job to be cautious." Su Nuan Nuan lowered her bowl. "Since it''s like this, then I shall set my heart at ease. Everyone has been looking forward to this trip so much, I really hate to throw cold water all over it."

    "What''s all this about throwing cold water? For the women folk of an important household to collectively leave their home with only servants with them, what ambitious bandit or criminal wouldn''t be tempted? Of course, I''ll be going with you as well."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled brilliantly, "True, with your martial skill, what need do I have to worry? The ones I should be worrying for are the monks of Pushan Temple. If those ambitious bandits actually appeared with their swords, wouldn''t the grounds of the temple be washed with blood? That''s right, surely Pushan Temple don''t actually own the entire hill the temple is standing on, right?"

    "Though they might act like it does, it''s just wishful thinking. In history, how many countries where its entire citizens dedicated wholly to a religion of some kind ended up in poverty due to their unwillingness to earn a living? The current emperor is wise and far-sighted, instead of fostering a country of professional beggars, he encouraged everyone to go into business." Duan Tingxuan seemed to have finished speaking, and was now stretching his spine and smacking his lips in satisfaction before saying, "What''s today''s steamed fish? The taste is not bad."

    Su Nuan Nuan red at him, "You''re doing this deliberately, aren''t you? You know good and well that fish belongs to Zhao Cai and you still s.n.a.t.c.hed a piece. Isn''t it just a normal barracuda? What''s so interesting about it? How like you to just s.n.a.t.c.h fishes from cats."

    As she finished speaking, there was a ''Miao-oo'' from Zhao Cai. Duan Tingxuan picked out a piece of fish bone and flicked it at Zhao Cai, hitting him right in the middle of the forehead. Sn.i.g.g.e.ring, he said, "I''ve only eaten one piece of your fish, and here you are meowing so pitifully. How many of my things have you eaten? You think just because your Missy helps you to conceal it from me, this lord won''t know? You''re only alive thanks to this lord''s benevolence.

    Moreover, didn''t I let you have half of that roasted intestines earlier? As a Spring Breeze Court Cat, you must learn to be charitable and magnanimous, and do meritorious deed to gain your master''s favour. It is a sin to forget who your master is. As an intelligent cat, you must respect the customs of this house."

    "How can someone be so shameless?" Su Nuan Nuan covered her face with her hands while the surrounding maids did their best not tough.

    Do read this at kitchennovel dot~

    "Look Missy, the Pushan Temple just ahead. It certainly looks very majestic. The temple is actually built halfway up a mountain."

    Xiang Yun pushed aside the carriage curtains and looked out, causing Su Nuan Nuan to automatically stretch up her neck to look as well. The only thing she saw were mountain ranges, but upon a closer look she saw, built halfway up the tallest mountain, was an impressive series of building structures. That was when she heard the tolling of bells, the sound added to the mystical feel of the entire atmosphere.

    So, that was the Pushan Temple.

    "I guess we''ll have to be on foot after this. The carriages definitely won''t be able to go up the mountains." Su Nuan Nuan alighted from the carriage, followed nimbly by Zhao Cai. Therge calico cat was wearing a brocade vest, its four paws sheathed in cute little brocade boots. Zhao Cai strode forward confidently, like a well pampered young master. He looked especially eye catching among the group of people.

    Several dozen porters came over with sedan chairs. Duan Tingxuan was in the middle of sorting out sedan chairs for thedies when rapid hoof beats was heard. He turned, and saw four riders rushing over to him.

    The riders slowed as they neared the group, and one of them leapt of their horse, and hurried over to Duan Tingxuan to whisper in his ear. Somehow, the normally unppable little marquis suddenly paled.

    "Grandmother, we have reached the Pushan Temple, with the abbot and martial monks here you will be safe. Your grandson must rush back to the Capital for urgent business, please pray with a tranquil heart at the temple. Wait until I''m back to escort you home. If I''m not back by nightfall, just stay the night at the temple."

    "What happened?"

    Old Madam Fang asked anxiously, sping the hand of her grandson. From Duan Tingxuan''s expression, the old madam could tell that something serious must have happened. No matter what it was, it can''t be anything good.

    "Nothing much, it looks like a few of the bandits had gotten into their heads to go after the crown prince, they''ve all been killed." said Duan Tingxuan soothingly as he patted the old madam''s hand. Then, he turned, and was about to leave when he saw Su Nuan Nuan, Xu Ran Yun, Xue Zhi Lan and the resting over. He went over to grasp Su Nuan Nuan''s hands and said in a low voice, "Nuan Nuan, something has happened with the crown prince, I must return to deal with the matter. Please look after old madam, elder madam and the rest of this group. Wait for me at the temple, understand?"

    "I understand, go now." though they were not real husband and wife, they were more than mere acquaintances. Now that their fate were intertwined, Su Nuan Nuan knew that she must be Duan Tingxuan''s pir of strength right now.

    As expected, her solemn expression did not disappoint Duan Tingxuan. Though her looks were not as devastatingly gorgeous as Xu Ran Yun, Xue Zhi Lan or some of the other women in his harem, some how this four simple words from her eased the little marquis'' mind like nothing else. He nodded and looked deep into his wife''s eyes once more. Suddenly, he stepped forward and enveloped her in a tight hug, he whispered into her ear, "Then, I shall leave everyone to you."

    The embrace was incredibly short. So short that Su Nuan Nuan was unable to properly react and Duan Tingxuan was already rapidly striding away. Her gaze followed as the man leapt easily onto a horse. Under the bright sunlight, his figure looked incredibly nimble as he caught up the reins and turned the horse''s head. The other riders gather round the main character and, just like an expensive movie set, red cloaks red from their backs with the wind, creating an incredible scene as they all rode away and disappeared from view.

    "Old madam, elder madam, there''s no need to worry. As long as our lord is the one to act, whatever it is would be resolved easily enough." Su Nuan Nuan shook herself from the half daydream she had fallen into, and proceeded to rea.s.sure her elders with a smile.

    "I don''t know why, but, my heart throbs really quickly now." Old Madam Fang held Su Nuan Nuan''s hand andmented, "Aih! This is all my fault, I''m already this old, what''s the purpose of running around like this? To think that I''ve now be part of Xuan''er''s worry¡­ surely the crown prince would be alright? He''s the empress'' only son."

    "What''s all this nonsense? Old madam is just over thinking things." Su Nuan Nuan''s smile was like a blooming flower. In Old Madam Fang''s eyes, the smile appeared very confident and rea.s.suring. She nodded and, at the sight of Pushan Temple''s monks and helpersing over, calmed down enough to greet them with a smile.

    Pushan Temple was certainly magnificent. Once they have settled in their rooms, the family went with Old Madam Fang on a tour of the grounds. Halfway through, old madam dered that she was tired. Unsurprising, since they had had a long journey that day. Though most of the time was spent sitting in carriage or being carried up in a litter, those with poor const.i.tution will tire out more easily. Moreover, with the added worry in their heart about Duan Tingxuan''s sudden departure, who would not be tired?

    Madam Yang and Liu Mei escorted Old Madam Fang back to the guest room to rest. Xu Ran Yun and Xue Zhi Lan followed them, after all, opportunities to get close to their seniors like this was rare, so naturally they would not let it slip by.

    Su Nuan Nuan had no such interest. Instead, she called Concubine Jing over and together they sat under arge tree in the courtyard. Su Nuan Nuan began to speak in a low voice, "I heard there are quite a few other families who wanted toe with us to this temple, howe I don''t see a single shadow of them?"

    Concubine Jing, "I expect it''s merely polite nothings, no one actually mentioned that they will travel with us. Sister, you''ve always been rather casual when it came to this kind of social niceties, why bring this up now?"

    Su Nuan Nuan looked gloomy, "Before leaving, the lord entrusted the family to me. I thought it''s better to be safe than sorry. No, we must send scouts down to see what''s going on. The Marquis of An Ping''s old madam is already here. Therefore, anyone who wishes to curry favour should be here by now. The fact that no one is here is just too strange."

    As the person in charge of household, when Concubine Jing heard this she, too, looked worried. She called her maid, Zhu Xiu, over and ordered, "Go to the front hall, get the house manager to send some fleet footed servant boys down the mountain to investigate. If they see anything unusual or not right, and immediately report to us."

    "Yes."

    Zhu Xiu answered shortly and rushed off. Concubine Jing said, "Don''t worry, sister. The house of Marquis of An Ping has quite the prestige within the Capital, I don''t believe just anyone would dare act rashly against us."

    She haven''t finished speaking when Su Nuan Nuan said darkly, "They''ve already made an attempt at the crown prince, can you dare to im our An Ping household has more prestige than the crown prince? Moreover, before leaving, the lord told us to wait at the temple for his arrival. If he didn''te by nightfall, we must stay within the temple. We can''t go back to the Capital on our own. I have a feeling that he might have some suspicions on what is really going on."

    Concubine Jing sighed, she knew Su Nuan Nuan was probably right. Only, she really couldn''t quite believe that anyone would be so daring as to raise a hand against the house of Marquis of An Ping. She lowered her voice further and said, "Sister, let''s keep this between ourselves. No one else must know it. Otherwise, who knows how the servants would react. Also, there''s no need to overly worry the senior madams."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled at this, "Be at ease, you don''t have to remind me. Moreover, this is only a suspicion of mine. I really can''t think why anyone would target the weak and old like this, but, there''s no harm in being careful. It''s best that we''re wrong of course, but it''s better for us to be prepared for a danger that will nevere than to be caught unprepared." [Gumihou: Huhuhu, how many of you already guessed this far?] [1] Fishy Eggnt ¨C Chef w.a.n.g Gang has a youtube with English subt.i.tles

    https://.youtube/watch?v=bJLjJ-qF89I

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 Chapter 119

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 119: Escape Route Blocked

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Sister is right."

    Concubine Jing knew from Su Nuan Nuan''s tone and choice of words that the woman was perfectly calm, and her own feelings settled down as well. It was almost noon when the two concluded their talk. The abbot personally lead people in to serve the senior madams their meals. After thanking their host, Old Madam Fang bade the inws to eat. The maids and female servants all ate outside the reception hall or in the courtyard. They too were were served two tables worth of vegetarian food.

    As they picked up their chopsticks, Old Madam Fang said jokingly, "When ites to vegetarian food, I''m afraid these are far too inferiorpared to Nuan Nuan''s. I should have gotten Nuan Nuan to make prepare of my favourites for me, I really don''t know how I''d eat some of these."

    Su Nuan Nuan smiled back, "Old madam, no matter what let''s all endure together. Otherwise, people would say that our An Ping house looks down on other people. If we even had to get our vegetarian food tailor made, how bad it would sound outside, ah? We should pay attention to how our behaviour influence outsiders."

    "That''s right, I was being childish." Old Madam Fangughed out loud as she picked up another piece of wild fungus and ate it. She nced towards the door and said, "Isn''t Tingxuan back yet? Isn''t he taking a long time?"

    At this point, Xue Zhi Lan said, "Old madam, please do not fret. The lord must be handling some very important matters right now, how could he be back so soon? Even the lord was not sure if he could be back by today. Didn''t he say to stay over night at the temple?" then, she turned to Xu Ran Yun and said, "That''s right, if there''s a possibility that we might be staying here, wouldn''t it be a good idea to make preparations now?"

    Xu Ran Yun said, "No need to fret, little sister. When we left this morning, I''d already made the arrangements for staying a night or two, just in case old madam is tired out from the journey or wish to enjoy the scenery a little longer."

    Liu Min''s eyes shed over, and her lips curved, "Xu Ran Yun had always been so thoughtful. No wonder the housekeeping within the mansion had been so smooth and orderly these few months. I must say, even Rou''er cannot bepared to you."

    ttered, Xu Ran Yun''s heart shivered with pleasure and she quickly smiled back. "Madam Min exaggerates. I am, but, doing my best within my own capacity, how could I bepared to the branchdy¡­" she hadn''t finished speaking when she caught sight of Madam Yang''s chilly gaze. It was then that she realized that she had fallen into Liu Min''s trap. She knew that she was not in the olddy''s good books, and her status had just decreased significantl before the olddy''s eyes. Moreover, her husband had always stand on the side of the old mada, and had never got on well with the second branch family or Liu Min. With just this one line, she had just¡­

    Cold sweat popped up on Xu Ran Yun''s forehead, she dared not think, dared not speak anymore. Liu Min and Xue Zhi Lan privately cheered at her blunder. All these little shift and moves were observed by old madam, but she never said anything. As for Nuan Nuan¡­ this foodie was in the middle of carefully tasting the Stir Fried Tofu with Wood Ear Fungus. She was too busy a.n.a.lysing all the merits and demerits of this dish, immediatelying up with five different ways to improve the current dish. She nned to contribute a few vegetarian recipes to this temple, hopefully Buddha and Bodhisattva would ept this as her offering and grant her wish for a peaceful and prosperous life.

    Though n.o.body waspletely satisfied by the vegetarian lunch, Old Madam Fang''s mood was already much betterpared to this morning. After a short rest, she decided to go for a stroll to admire the chrysanthemums. Madam Yang, Liu Min and the rest all followed, an incredibly lively group was soon found strolling,ughing and chatting among the blooming flowers.

    Pushan Temple chrysanthemum''s fame was not in vain. Su Nuan Nuan was soon spotting varieties simr to the ones in her past life, while Concubine Jing pointed out famous breeds as though introducing precious family members. In the midst of this cheer Su Nuan Nuan felt someone tugging at her sleeves, it was Concubine Jing. When turned her head away, and Su Nuan Nuan followed her gaze[1], and spotted the young man Concubine Jing had sent out earlier, he was standing quite far away at the end of a corridor looking anxiously at their direction.

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded and the servant backed away out of sight. She then went over to where Old Madam and Madam Yang was admiring a cl.u.s.ter of chrysanthemums and smiled, "Old madam, elder madam, please continue your stroll. I had a small .s.s of the vegetarian wine today and felt a little dizzy. I think I might go ahead and take a rest first."

    "What''s this? Still so young and can''t keep up with this bag of old bones? Surely you''re not thinking of goofing off, are you?" Old Madam Fangughed. Su Nuan Nuanughed along and said, "Old madam may say whatever you like, but dear madam, do let me off this time. I promise to make something good for you when we get back."

    "Did anyone hear this? This granddaughter-inw of mine sure knows how to soften me up." Old Madam Fang said happily to the people around her. Naturally, everyoneughed at this little joke. However, jokes aside, old madam still allow her to ''escape'' her duties.

    When she got back to the guest room a.s.signed to her, the boy servant was there waiting for her. After getting Hong Lian and Xiang Yun to act as looked out, she said in a low voice, "Well? Did you get any information about the Capital? Is there anything strange going on?"

    "To answer madam," the boy servant looked very excited, "this one and a few others went down the mountain safely, but did not travel far down the road when they saw tworge tree trunks as well asrge stones blocking it. When they questioned nearby farmers, someone said that a cart from Sichuan province had over turned, spilling therge ceder tree trunks and white marble stone all over the ce. Apparently, it is still possible to go around on foot, but carriages can''t get pa.s.sed. It looks like, carriages from other n.o.ble families did not reach Pushan Temple because they were stopped by this roadblock and went back home."

    Su Nuan Nuan''s face turned white, and her body swayed for a moment. But then, she steadied herself and whispered back, "Are there other roads to the Capital from here?

    The servant boy shook his head, his voice trembled, "N¡­ none, this is the only road from the Capital to Pushan Temple. We have to travel down the same road quite awhile before it splits into four other paths to the Capital."

    "Missy¡­ this is¡­ this seems very deliberate¡­"

    Hong Lian too began to tremble, only to be scolded by Su Nuan Nuan. "Quiet, this is not the time to lose your head." She spoke again to the servant boy, "Did anyone spot you leaving?"

    "No. We did as Concubine Jing ordered. We encountered two woodcutters and told them we''ve been ordered by Missy to buy some mountain goods from a nearby vige." since Su Nuan Nuan was well known as an entric foodie, this excuse was not out of the norm.

    Don''t panic, Su Nuan Nuan, you must not panic. Even without incredible kungfu like that man s.l.u.t, you must not panic and bring shame upon your ancestors.

    After taking a deep breath, Su Nuan Nuan forced herself to calm down and paced about her room a few times. Then, she suddenly stopped and said to the servant boy, "When you were at the roadblock just now, did you see any suspicious people?"

    "Not really." this servant boy was quite quick witted, his answers were sure and to the point. "This one specifically looked around a bit, and saw that both sides of the road was all rice paddy. Most of the crops had been harvested by now and there were only a few farmers milling around clearing up the dried gra.s.s and straws. If there had been strangers around them, I''m sure they would have been silent and unsettled. But the farmers were all singing andughing as they worked together. Looks like they all knew each other very well.

    Aside from the two fallen tree trunks on the road, there was no other ces to hide. Madam, please forgive this one for speaking out of turn, but, the ceder trees are extremelyrge and heavy. As for the white marble stone, the biggest piece is about man height. If anyone wants to block the road, this is more than enough, there''s no need to leave any lookouts."

    White Peach Flower-sama: Fu~ Danger is knocking at their door, what would Su Nuan Nuan do next? [Gumihou is very excited too!] [1] I fixed this sentence, it was originally a) Su Nuan Nuan felt a tug, b) Su Nuan Nuan spotted the maid far away. The heck, can that maid tug at your sleeves with her eyes?!

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 Chapter 120

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 120: Emergency Response

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Su Nuan Nuan replied with a simple ''Um'' and looked up at the sky. Curses, if someone really wanted to harm us, they would attack either at dawn or nightfall, right? It''s alreadyte afternoon now. ording this boy, those bandits were really confident that their roadblocks can''t be easily prated. More importantly, they probably never thought I''d be suspicious enough to send people out to investigate. We still have a chance.

    It''s better to consider the matter carefully: Although there are martial monks at the Pushan Temple and a few dozen bodyguards brought by the marquis family, the bandits must have taken them into consideration and still decided that they could over power us. In order words, better not count on the martial monks and bodyguards to protect us.

    After pondering over the pros and cons of several ns, Su Nuan Nuan finally determined the best route to take: The time to act is now. They would have to take some risks. There was no way they could move those white marble stones and trees away by themselves quickly enough to escape the bandits in time.

    After muttering to herself for awhile more, she said to the servant boy, "When we came over this morning, I noticed there are a few hamlets around, is that right?"

    "Yes. Madam is right, there are a total of eight hamlets." the servant boy had already investigate the area thoroughly and were confident in his answer.

    "I shall send some guards with you. Go to these vigers and get some of the people to move those trees and stones away¡­"

    Before she could finish, the servant boy shook his head, "Madam, I''m afraid it''s no use. This one had just spoken to the vigers just now, to see if they could lend a hand in moving the things away. However, they heard that these were tribute materials meant for the emperor. ording to them, a eunuch riding along the carriage told them that anyone who dared to touch the tribute will be sentenced to the 9 Degrees Punishment[1]."

    Su Nuan Nuan sneered, "That''s even better, the enemy thought they had frightened the vigers into submission for sure and never thought that we''d be able to find this matter out so much earlier. Whatever, now let them see how we rouse themon people''s power against them."

    Her next words was even moremanding, "You take a few guards down. I will get the abbot to find a couple of monks familiar with the vigers to go with you. Tell them this: The n.o.ble house of Marquis of An Ping wish to return to the Capital immediately, but found the way blocked. They must clear the way as quickly as possible, break the rocks, smash them, it doesn''t matter. Whatever they may salvage from those roadblocks consider it theirs. The Marquis of An Ping will personally speak to the emperor regarding this matter and bear all responsibilities. With the monks with you, the vigers will surely trust your word."

    The servant boy''s eyes brightened, and gave her a thumbs up, "Madam is wise and cunning. How clever it is to turn the enemy''s tactics against them. Won''t the vigers who had been cowed by the emperor''s name scramble to help us remove those precious logs and stones? Moreover, who doesn''t know that our old madam is the empress'' blood mother or that the lord heir is the favourite of the emperor? With the monks to back us up, this n will definitely work."

    "Good, youe with me." from what Su Nuan Nuan could tell, this servant boy was incredibly sharp, and brought him with her to see the abbot. Once they informed the abbot about everything they had discovered, he felt a headacheing up: He had just been celebrating the good karma of having such ill.u.s.trious visitors to the temple, who would have thought that everything would suddenly turned into a huge disaster like this? If anything were to happen to the old madam while under the care of the Pushan Temple, they would incur the wrath of the emperor as well as the lord heir. There mighte a time that the entire Pushan Temple be reduced to nds.

    Therefore, without hesitation, he quickly had two monks most familiar with the vigers sent down with the servant boy. Then, he turned to Su Nuan Nuan and said, "Madam, what should we do next? It would take a lot of time and manpower to clear those roadblocks away. Also, our movements might be discovered any time."

    "Great master is right. Therefore, we must move quickly. We should take a headcount of all the monks and staffs in the temple. Once that is done,we can gather the people in one ce for a proper briefing."

    At Su Nuan Nuan''s speedy answer and resolute expression, the abbot said, "Madam is concerned that enemy might have infiltrated this temple? With the a.s.sa.s.sination in mind?"

    Su Nuan Nuan shook her head, "I think, it''s not as simple as a.s.sa.s.sination. If it is a.s.sa.s.sination, I believe we would all be dead by now."

    The abbot, who was also someone with great life experience, nodded in agreement. Privately he thought, that''s right, there''s no need to go through all this trouble if it was a simple a.s.sa.s.sination, right? Also, it made sense for them to infiltrate the temple rather then the servants of the An Ping group since we have more people here.

    Thus, decision made, he did not hesitate and ordered people to shake down the temple monks. At this time, Su Nuan Nuan made her way through the temple grounds towards the garden, where Old Madam Fang''s group were exchanging stories with some visiting monks. She smiled at the olddy and said, "Old madam must be tired, how about we go inside for a rest? I have some good news for you, we''ll be staying the night, so we can take our time and leisurely return home tomorrow."

    Old Madam Fang''s initial reaction was to say ''Not tired'', but at the sight of Su Nuan Nuan''s expression, she said with a mild smile, "You''re right. Since I''m tired out, let us all return to our rooms."

    Everyone felt a little puzzled over this strange exchanged, but since the old madam had spoken, they decided to go along with it. Thus, arge group of people migrated towards the guest rooms. They were halfway there when bells began to toll. Old Madam stopped and wondered, "Why are they ringing the bell at this time of the day? Master, had something happened?"

    The two young monks escorting them were surprised too, they said, "That is the signal for everyone to gather. Honourable guests, please return to your rooms first, I shalle see youter."

    Old Madam Fang did not say anything, but continued on her way deep in thought. She nced at Su Nuan Nuan, and calmed down at the her granddaughter-inw''s serene expression.

    Once everyone made it to the guest rooms. Old madam dismissed all irrelevant people leaving only Su Nuan Nuan with her, she even made Qiu Ling act as a lookout before saying in a grim voice, "Nuan Nuan, you better speak the truth with this old granny, just what is going on?"

    Su Nuan Nuan gave a bitter smile, "Old madam, this granddaughter-inw of yours also do not know what is going on. I only know that our way back to the Capital had been blocked¡­" as she continued to speak, Old Madam Fang''s expression changed. Her hand tightened on her walking stick, "Who is it? Who in the world hated our An Ping house so much that they would do this? Just what do they want? To wash Pushan Temple in blood?"

    "Before leaving this morning, the lord says that there are martial monks at Pushan Temple. We also brought our bodyguards with us. If those people want bloodshed, we can give as good as they can." a fierce look shed across Su Nuan Nuan''s face. "But, no matter what, now that we are in this situation, we must n our strategy well. I don''t care about throwing my life away, but we cannot let them kidnap us and use our lives to threaten the lord¡­"

    Before she could finished, Old Madam''s face, which had flushed red with anger, paled suddenly. So she stopped speaking. She knew that this shrewd old woman understood the situation well: For the enemy to scheme to keep all the women within the Pushan Temple, it had to be for more than just their lives. As for what they really wanted, well, that wasn''t too hard to guess.

    "You''re right. Xuan''er had spoken to me about this before. I''m afraid the banditry within the Capital had been nothing more than a diversion, it''s possible that everything had been nned, including the those bandits that had been captured or killed in order to make us lower our guard. When I heard that the crown prince had met with a mishap, this olddy felt that something was not right. How could bandits, of all people, would be so daring as to try and a.s.sa.s.sinate the crown prince? However, it looked like that was all an borate deception hiding the malicious intent. Their true target is us."

    "If they could really a.s.sa.s.sinate the crown prince, why would they even need to deal with us?" Su Nuan Nuanughed bitterly. "I really don''t know what the people behind this plot is thinking. Maybe they have been kicked in the head by a donkey."

    "An a.s.sa.s.sination might not be sessful, but it is not difficult to have us kidnapped. If not for your suspicion and sending servants down to investigate, we might not have discovered anything amiss. This olddy merely thought of bringing you up the mountain for some innocent fun. If those people wanted to subdue us, they only had to poison the well and we''re basically sitting ducks."

    Clearly Old Madam Fang deserved her t.i.tle as a woman who had weathered through all kinds of strife, even in the face of major danger, she did not panic. After asking Su Nuan Nuan to exin her n in brief, she nodded to herself and said, "Yes, I do believe we must leave this ce as soon as possible. Nuan Nuan, let''s all set out for the Capital. We don''t have enough guards for a proper security detail, find out if the abbot could lend us a few of his martial monks."

    "This granddaughter-inw have considered this too, we''re now waiting for the abbot to finish screening through his people. It''s best if we can pull out any nts among them, otherwise all our ns will be for naught." Su Nuan Nuan stood up right. Her figure was stern and she looked ready to fight without fear of dying. The old madam looked at her granddaughter-inw appreciatively and smiled, "Good child, you have certainly changed for the better, though I really haven''s expected this kind of courage and resolve."

    Privately, Su Nuan Nuan thought: That''s because she''s already died once, what is there to fear? After breathing the fresh air of ancient China these many months and eaten so many good organically grown food, everyday is basically a gift from G.o.d. My dying in the past life is definitely worth it.

    As she was pondering over this, she went out to look for a young servant to saddle a horse. Meanwhile, the old madam decided that it was time to reveal the matter to the others. The women were called in and were given a summary of what was happening. As expected, after hearing this, Liu Min, Xu Ran Yun, Xue Zhi Lan and a few other mansiondies with great social powers grew timid and frightened. The cowardly Concubine Lin began to cry. If not for Duan Xinqi and Duan Tingfang doing their best tofort her, she would have fainted away to the floor.

    Su Nuan Nuan soon returned after giving her orders to the servant. When she saw the servants milling about outside whispering to each other, she knew that the old madam must be in the middle of exining their grim circ.u.mstances to the otherdies. Instead of going in, she opted to stay outside and arrange her thoughts.

    Zhao Cai suddenly appeared from nowhere, and began to coil about her ankles going ''miao-oo''. Then, when he made to leap away, Su Nuan Nuan grabbed him, tucking therge cat against her bosom and smiled grimly down at him, "You little beast, don''t go running around all over the ce. If I can''t find you anywhere, don''t expect me to abandon the others just to look for you, ah. If you do that, you can find your own way back to the An Ping mansion, or just stay here as a wild cat."

    Zhao Cai stretched himself in her arms a couple of times, mewing loudly before settling down. As though to tell her that he was not so dumb as to be left behind. Su Nuan Nuan chuckled, and stroked him gently. For a while, master and pet yed for a bit, but in truth, she was in no mood for fun. Soon, she saw the abbot and a few dozen monks making their way over. She hurried towards them and whispered, "Well, great master?"

    Author White Pear Flower: The battle of wits have begun, auuhh! [Gumihou: Aaaah!!! Next b.u.t.ton! Wait, I''m the trantor, uuuh, I shall work hard!]

    ¡­ or you can be my Patron! Huhuhuh ~ [1] 9 Degrees Punishment ¨C Execution of close and extended family members. Kind of like Nuan Nuan''s. Basically the criminal''s parents, maternal grandparents, paternal grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, siblings-inw, uncles (and spouse), aunts (and spouse). Hence, the 9 degrees.

    Nuan Nuan got out of being punished on a technicality, she''s no longer a ''child'' of a criminal since women who married away are like ''Spilled Water'' and hence had nothing to do with the original family.

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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 Chapter 121

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 121: Step Forward Bravely

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Amitabha, thanks to madam''s warning, we managed to secure two spies. Both recently infiltrate the temple. We found psychotropic drugs on their persons." said the abbot with a frown. Just thinking about those spies with their high level martial arts made him broke out in sweat: Luckily, Buddha had preserved them, otherwise there was no way Pushan Temple could survive this kind of crisis, ah."

    "Good, they didn''t get away with it."

    Su Nuan Nuan heaved a long sigh of relief, but very soon a servant boy was seen running over. He waspletely fl.u.s.tered as he said, "Madam, the carriages we left a the foothills have been damaged. There were only two that could actually moved at all. As for the two guards we left to look after the carriages, one is dead and the other is still missing."

    "What?"

    This kind of abrupt change of plot lines nearly caused Su Nuan Nuan to see spots in front of her eyes. It hasn''t even been a full day yet, but surely that''s still way too much drama? Dear G.o.d in heaven, please don''t y this kind of joke with me, please.

    However, since the matter already happened, they could only deal with the shortfall. Su Nuan Nuan quickly calmed herself down, and was about to speak with the rapidly paling abbot when Madam Yang, Liu Min, Xu Ran Yun and the rest came out of the room. At the sight of them, Madam Yang whispered urgently to the abbot, "We must leave quickly for the Capital. It''s too risky to stay here any longer. Abbot, you must lend us a few high level martial monks to escort us back. The An Ping house will definitely reward you for your a.s.sistance."

    The abbot quickly answered, "Amitabha, one who has left their home[1] carries no desires for material wealth. We are obligated to carry out our charity work as the situation demanded. Only¡­" he looked over at Su Nuan Nuan, this old monk really didn''t know how to break it to thedies that there were only two carriages left.

    Thus far, Su Nuan Nuan had been making all the decisions and he left it to her to tell them or not. As expected, when she revealed that only two working carriages remained, a great rm rose. Liu Min was the first to point a finger at her and denounced, "How could you mess up such a simple thing? What kind of official wife are you? Clearly the lord heir wasted his breath putting you in charge."

    This olddy, nothing had happened yet and you''ve already pped a ck pot on my head? Su Nuan Nuan was getting angry. Though this was a critical and time sensitive matter, she really could not afford to allow anyone to undermine her authority now. What if the lower ranking people decided to listen to Liu Min instead and walk blindly into danger following an idiot? No matter what, she could not let that woman gain an upper hand.

    However, before she could say anything, someone else already beaten her to it. Madam Yang red coldly at Liu Min, "Little sister, your words are too excessive. What does any of this have anything to do with Nuan Nuan? The people who organized this trip is Xu Ran Yun and Tingye''s wife. Xuan''er only entrusted a few words to Nuan Nuan before he left, have you forgotten all this?"

    "I¡­"

    Liu Min had nothing to say. Su Nuan Nuan looked at Madam Yang with some surprise. She knew that this olddy did not like her, but apparently she could still be fair during critical moments. Looks like all the good food she had fed this woman had not gone wasted, ah.

    As she was pondering over this matter, Madam Yang said in a low voice, "If there are only two carriages left, not many people can fit in. Old madam must go, of course. As for the rest¡­" she nced around the rows of pleading eyes and desperate faces. She sighed privately: At this point, anyone who stayed back might be dead by morning. She might as well have been tasked to decide who lives or dies at this point, ah.

    "Sister is right. Old madam must go, therefore sister and I must be there to look after her and make sure she gets back home safely." Liu Min was really afraid that Madam Yang would leave her behind. The official wife never liked her, so it''s possible that she might take the chance to leave her behind to die, ah. In the end, she really didn''t want to die, ah.

    Madam Yang eyed her for a moment, but only said, "Little sister is correct. Why don''t you decide who else shoulde with us." Since there is no way for her to abandon Liu Min, she might as well hand this hot potato over to this eyesore.

    Liu Min went nk. She understood immediately that this was Madam Yang''s condition for letting her leave this ce alive. This kind of thankless, resentment inducing job had to be done no matter. How could she have the mind to properly consider the delicate bnce of who to offend or which rtionship to preserve under this urgent circ.u.mstances? Bitterly, she gritted her teeth and said, "There are two carriages only, so aside from sister and I, first madam and Tingye''s wife must be there to attend to old madam in the first carriage. Ran Yun, Lan''er, Jing''er and Tingfang as well as the little children in one carriage. We can''t take anymore people. The guards had to be seated outside the carriage to protect the carriages. If we have more people the horses wouldn''t be able to move."

    Madam Yang''s heart was bitter. She too realize that this was the best arrangement. Though the woman before her has her own selfish motives, she had arranged for Tingxuan''s wives and concubines toe with them. Though this move was considered a betrayal to herself and her own son, it had also preserved the main branch line. By doing this, she earned good will points for Duan Tingye in this ongoing struggle for gaining social upper hand.

    Though she knew all of this, there was nothing she could say: In the end the lord heir was Tingxuan, an outstanding and well respected man of the imperial court. He was currently the most important man in the family, though as a mother she might be biased, there was no way she was going to avoid being cruel in order to protect her son.

    Behind them were several cries as the servants realised what this meant. However, they knew that this was what being a servant meant. A master''s well being alwayses before their own lives. Therefore, no matter how bitter or frightened they might be, none of them dared to utter a single protest.

    Concubine Lin clutched Duan Xinqi''s hand, her face were dead white. Just yesterday she had been so d and happy that her social status had risen to the point that the mother and daughter pair were included in this mountain outing. Who would have thought that after getting to this point with so much difficulty, mother and daughter would be sent to deaths door today? For disaster to fall from the sky like this, how cruel is fate, ah?

    "No."

    While the servants were bitterlymenting their fate in whispers, a sudden powerful voice rang out, shocking everyone out of their private reverie. The one who had spoken was Su Nuan Nuan, the person who had the most critical role to y, their very own first madam.

    "Why not? If first madam has a better suggestion, do inform us."

    The fire in Liu Min''s belly red up. Has this cursed creature stepped out to y a good Samaritan role now? Well, have at it. No matter what, I refuse to remain here. If you have the guts, you can have elder madam stay. Humph! Humph! Stupid, pigheaded creature, the final two carriages have been stuffed to the maximum, your brain must have been soaked with water to be this stupid.

    Madam Yang let out a sigh. She had heard from many people that this daughter-inw of hers had change for the better, but this was not the time to showpa.s.sion. Right now, we must break off all unnecessary baggage so that the most important people could survive. This was not the time to y the poprity game.

    "Second miss must go, she''s the daughter of the marquis house. If she is left in this temple, well, I don''t have to tell you what will happen once the bandits found her, do I?"

    Su Nuan Nuan still haven''t finished speaking when a sneeringugh was heard. She looked up and saw Xu Ran Yun smirking mockingly at her, "Dear sister is indeed good with words. Second miss is certainly pitiable. Only, if she gets on the carriage, surely someone must stay back? Who is sister nning to leave behind?" [Gumihou: Okay, who else wants to punch Xu Ran Yun in the face? She sounds like she has a punchable face. Let''s punch her, ah ah ah ah!!] [1] the term is ³ö¼Ò, literally ''leave home'' to be a nun or monk

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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    Fufufu, the next chapter is for Patreon readers. I shall be upfront and confess, the chapters will be unedited. I normally leave tranted chapters alone for at least 24 hours before editing it. Thus far we are 2 chapters ahead!

    If you love my trantions, do consider supporting me via Patreon~

 Chapter 122

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 122: Live How I Want To

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "Who should stay back? Need you even ask? The one most suitable to stay back should be you, sister. As the household manager for all matters,rge and small, you''re exactly the person they need here. The people who stayed back would need someone calm and capable to rea.s.sure them and to take charge of the situation." Su Nuan Nuan sneered back: You still dare to mock and ridicule me at times like this? Are you trying to die? Tsk, tsk, how selfless of you, does Duan Tingxuan knows that his secondary wife is someone so kindhearted that she bordered on stupid?

    Xu Ran Yun went white. It was then that she realized what a huge mistake she had made. Her hatred for Su Nuan Nuan had gone to her head, causing her to forget that she was dealing with the official wife. How easy it would be for the official wife to pinch out the life of a secondary wife? Moreover, she was the one who stuck out her neck first.

    How could she have forgotten this crucial fact?

    "Sis¡­ sister¡­ I was just joking, I¡­ I really can''t bear this responsibility," Xu Ran Yun''s face was stark white. The smile she managed to force on her face was uglier than if tears had rolled down her face. "Sister is not wrong, second miss is a precious daughter of the family. We really musn''t leave her behind, what if she''s disgraced.. our family name would be ruined. But, as it happens, Concubine Jing had been doing a rather good job handling household matters¡­"

    Xu Ran Yun knew she had to find some scapegoat, otherwise Su Nuan Nuan would really leave her here. After desperately calcting her options, she finally settled on Concubine Jing as the most suitable piece to sacrifice. No matter what, she was still the daughter of an earl, no matter how well this violent shrew got along with Concubine Jing, there was no way she would not give face¡­

    "I will stay. You all go back."

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed, regret filling her chest: Is this the extent of Xu Ran Yun''s cleverness? Didn''t she knew that if the first madam were to insist, there was no way she could resist? Too bad, it looked like this is the extent of your cleverness and moral strength.

    "You? Stay?"

    Everyone''s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. No matter how Madam Yang disapproved of this daughter-inw, she couldn''t help yelling, "Nonsense! How could you stay? Just¡­ just what position are you in? What if you''re attacked by those¡­ those¡­"

    "Save your words. If the bandits broke into the temple, I shallmit suicide." Su Nuan Nuan withdraw a dagger from her waist with an audible swish. Light nced of the de, shining across Madam Yang''s figure. She said calmly, "This dagger is a gift from my lord. He had taught me some kungfu this past few months. Though it is mostly some impractical skill, I am deft enough with a knife to make sure the deed is done properly. If I''m lucky, I should be able to bring one or two bandits down with me."

    For a moment, not a single sound was heard within thatrge courtyard. Everyone had been shocked silly by Su Nuan Nuan''s action: They all knew that this first madam was an amazing person, but they really had underestimated how amazing she really was. For her to talk about taking her own life so lightly¡­ everyone knew about her generosity and benevolence, but never thought that her benevolence would reached this level. For the sake of a second young miss, who could not possibly hope topare in terms of social status, she would be willing to die in her ce?

    "Sister-inw, I''m not leaving this ce. You must go. Just give me the dagger. If those bad peoplee at me, I''ll just slit my throat."

    Duan Xinqi let go of her mother''s hand to tug tearfully at Su Nuan Nuan''s sleeves, "Sister-inw¡­ just leave me here. This past few months with you have made me really happy, I''m already at the peak of my happiness."

    "Stupid melon[1], life is very beautiful. You''re a budding flower who hasn''t even experience life yet. So, how could you just give it up so soon? Be at ease, this sister-inw of yours knows kungfu, so I''ll be fine. Enough, let''s stop with all this dog blood[2] drama. The sun is about to set, the moment we don''t see the sun, everyone must leave."

    As Su Nuan Nuan wiped Duan Xinqi''s eyes, she saw Concubine Jing stepped forward from the crowd of people. With a beautiful smile Concubine Jing said, "Madam, this servant is one who should have been dead many years ago. If not for the lord''s kindness in rescuing me from that pit of h.e.l.l, my bones would have been dust. That fateful day, he spent 20,000 silver teals on this servant, an amount of money this one could never hope to repay. So, how could this one be so shameless as to insist on taking the ce of someone so much more precious? Madam, you leave with second miss. You must be there to safeguard her future. Let this servant stay. This servant has no particr skill, only the courage not to shy away from death."

    "I cannot leave, if they knew we''ve all left, they might not bother with the temple anymore and spend every effort chasing us down instead. If that were to happen, we would all be in danger. Someone important must stay at the temple in order to at least split their forces of make them hesitate in order to give the fleeing party a fighting chance to get to the Capital alive."

    Su Nuan Nuan said all this in a low voice. In truth, she was not at all that selfless. However, she was clear minded to see up to this point, which was the true reason why she had decided to stay. After all, she was the true person who ''should be dead by now''. She really had died. The fact that she was able to spend these extra time enjoying delicious food and afortable life was grace enough from the heavens.

    Concubine Jing was stunned by her exnation, but then her smile returned, and she said, "That year when the lord spent those money on this servant, he suffered a lot of ridicule for it. At the very least, if this servant is to stay by madam''s side, it may reduce some of that ridicule, if only a little. Please give my ce to Concubine Lin. As second miss'' blood mother, she will be a greatfort to the child in the future."

    "No¡­ sister-inw, concubine mother, I don''t want to go¡­"

    Duan Xinqi began to cry again. By now the servants had been shaken to the core by all this disy. Even the abbot could only nod thoughtfully to himself as he chanted sutras under his breath for Buddha''s protection.

    Suddenly, the door behind them opened, and Old Madam appeared. She was being escorted by Duan Tingfang. The servants quickly moved away, opening a path for her. When she reached the area where Madam Yang and the rest were gathered, she stopped, and said in a no nonsense tone, "You all go. If it''s for the sake of distraction, my status outweighs all of you. Moreover, I am but an old bag of bones with one foot in the grave. There''s no need to preserve my life while young girls perish in my stead. It''s foolishness to throw young life away to preserve the old and dying."

    When Madam Yang heard this, she paled and dropped to her knees. With tears in her eyes, she said, "Old madam, you musn''t, you absolutely musn''t! If we all leave while you stay, how would we face life? Old madam musn''t¡­"

    "What is the time now? Still trying to fake filial affections? What happened to your survival instinct from just now? Enough talk, just leave. This is mymand, if you dare to disobey you will be dishonoured as unfilial ingrates. Still dare to face life after that?"

    "Old madam¡­"

    Madam Yang dared not speak anymore, but refused to get off her knees. No matter what, she dared not leave Old Madam Fang here and escape on her own.

    "Old madam, please don''t make things difficult for them."

    Su Nuan Nuan gave a bitterugh and came forward to hold Old Madam Fang''s hand. The olddy huffed, and turned her head away, "Are you nning to disobey me too? It makes sense for me to stay, I don''t believe that you can''t see that."

    "Yes, when ites to status and age alone, old madam, you certainly are the most qualified¡­"

    "You bad creature! Just what nonsense are you speaking?" Madam Yang cut in before Su Nuan Nuan could finish. She really couldn''t believe that the daughter-inw who had insisted on sacrificing herself for the rest of them had suddenly turned into this poisonous viper in a sh.

    Su Nuan Nuan ignored her and continued, "But, old madam, we are not just talking about status or age here. Surely you understand that filial piety is as good as a hundred good deeds? Just think about it. If you''re the daughter or granddaughter-inw, would you really leave your elder to die while fleeing with your life on the excuse that they''re too weak and old?

    If you can''t do it, surely you can understand why this daughter and granddaughter-inw of yours can''t do it either? Old madam, the sun is about to set. We really cannot spend more time debating over this. You must lead everyone to safety. If you still remain stubborn here with me, n.o.body would be able to safely escape."

    "But¡­" Old Madam Fang knew that Su Nuan Nuan was making perfect sense. She was so angry that she stomped her feet and said, "So you won''t even give this olddy a chance? How could you let this olddy miss out a chance to be heroic? The words you and Concubine Jing said just now was too inspiring, why won''t you let this olddy try her hand at it?"

    "Don''t you dare." Su Nuan Nuan feigned a lightughed. "We were just being unnecessarily dramatic. In truth, since there martial monks here, those bandits won''t be able to break in so easily. By dragging out the time a little, the lord will surely be in time to rescue us. Otherwise, why would I be so daring as to volunteer to stay? Do you think I''m really all that altruistic?"

    "This child¡­"

    Of course Old Madam Fang knew that Su Nuan Nuan was in fact, really that altruistic. These words were spoken in order to rea.s.sure this olddy. Her heart suffused with warmth and she really did not know what to say. That was when Duan Tingfang spoke up. "Sister-inw, please go with grandmother. As a man, I can''t have you face death while I run away with my life. As long as you can let concubine mother and second sister safely leave this ce, even if I am cast down to the nine h.e.l.ls, I will still be grateful to you. "

    "What nonsense is this? Third brother, don''t forget. You''re a man of the An Ping household. You might face even more danger on the road than here. When that timees thedies only have you to depend on. You think I''m letting you escape your duties? Wrong, you''re absolutely wrong, I am giving you the ultimate responsibility, perhaps the most important responsibility in your life thus far. Third brother, the lives of old madam and madam are in your hands, don''t let your elder brother down, don''t let down the An Ping name."

    Su Nuan Nuan stared at him as she spoke, her voice serious, until Duan Tingfang backed down without a word. The abbot and the a few of the martial monks looked on, their hearts moved by this wonderful disy of courage, filial piety and familial bonds. When it looked like no one was about to protest anymore, the abbot stepped forward, "Amitabha, old madam, please be a.s.sured. This humble monk have many people within this temple, we shall all do our utmost best to protect the lord heir''s wife."

    When journey down the mountain was about to begin, another festival of tears started. Needless to say, Su Nuan Nuan disyed incredible resolved, no matter how much Concubine Lin, Duan Xinqi and the rest pleaded and begged, she firmly ordered Xu Ran Yun, Xue Zhi Lan and the rest of thedies to more or less manhandle the tearful women into the carriages. The abbot picked out over a dozen of their strongest martial monks to escort the carriage, and finally, the carriage departed. Luckily, though the other carriages had been damaged, most of the horses had escaped injury and readily came when called by the horse handlers. The vigers in nearby hamlets also kept horses, and though they were not especially good breeds, it was a relief to have them.

    The log and stone roadblock had been removed. When nearby viges heard that the house of An Ping wanted the roadblocks removed no matter what, and would bear all consequences of the loss or damage of the precious logs and stones, the farmers felt like a great meat pie had just fallen onto theirps. They swarmed like locusts over the roadblocks. After all, even if the emperor wished to punish someone, the house of An Ping had already given their word to bear all consequences. With the An Ping house''s backing, surely their benevolent emperor would not bother to rain down his wrath upon their small heads?

    Thus, they left their homes armed en ma.s.s, armed with hammers and pickaxes. The huge rocks and hardwood trees were soon broken down within four hours. Since no one was greedy enough to h.o.a.rd all the precious wood and stones by themselves, the wood and stones were broken into easily transferred pieces and shared out among the viges.

    It was quite a sight to see the gleeful vigers hurry away with their loot.

    Author White Pear Flower: I know that some people imagine that Nuan Nuan is a saint, but I don''t think so. She is a courageous, kindhearted, decisive person who could be summed with the words: Live How I Want To. Perhaps, if I were to face the same situation as Nuan Nuan, I won''t have the same courage, but that won''t stop me from making difficult decision. Because I truly respect courage tempered with kindness, and that a person with this kind of character is a treasure indeed. [Gumihou: Ms. White Pear Flower certainly put a lot of thought into this chapter] [1] Éµ¹Ï- ''sha gua'' ¨C is correctly interpreted as idiot or fool, but since the first word means ''stupid'', and the second ''melon'', I thought it would be a cuter nickname for small children and those you''re affectionate with.

    Observe:

    Idiot, don''t you know how much I love you?

    Vs

    Stupid Melon, don''t you know how much I love you?

    Lol, just some inane thoughts going through Gumihou''s head at 11pm, ahahahahaha¡­ [2] ¹·Ñª- ''gou xie'' ¨C literally ''dog blood'', but the correct interpretation is melodramatic or contrived. But, isn''t ''dog blood'' more interesting? It''s basically vernacr by now within #ChineseLightnovels, lol!

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    Tranted by Gumihou from kitchennovel dot.

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 Chapter 123

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 123: Bandits Made Their Move

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    While Old Madam Fang and the rest were being escorted down the hill by martial monks on their way to the Capital, lurking in a nearby hill were a group of bandits. One of them finally could not stand it anymore and approached Boss Bandit anxiously, "Boss, when the roadblocks were being taken apart, you said that it can''t be help. Fine, we ignored it. But, but this time the An Ping women are about to run away and you''re still ignoring it? You''re just going to watch them run off to the Capital? If the Chief Boss knows, he''ll tear us alive, ah."

    What was supposed to be an easy job had turned into this huge,plicated mess. Chen Jing was really annoyed and angry. Therefore, when he was questioned by someone he had always considered as a subordinate, he lost his tempered and snapped, "You think I want to just stand here and watch them? You think I don''t want to do this job properly? Use your head, how many people do we have in total? What am I supposed to do with so few people? You think I''m the Monkey King[1], able create clone armies of myself with my hairs? Liu Er Niu, don''t just stand there andin. If you have any ideas speak up, we''ll go with your n."

    "Boss, this Er Niu is just anxious. The reward for this job is very good, if we can pull it off we can also get recognition from the Chief Boss. We might even gain entry to the Mingyu House and control all of the southern territory. If that happens, we''ll be able to hold our heads high wherever we go." a good for nothing advisor hurried over to say, doing his best to sooth the tempers between these two persons in charge.

    "Your mom, it''s like we''ve been cursed with bad luck or something. How could something so well nned suddenly fall apart like this?" Chen Jing pped his thigh as he red at the group of people escorting the women down. Suddenly, he shouted, "Doggo, Doggo, youe over here for a moment. Look close and see if the most senior old bags, old madams, marquis'' wife madam and that heir''s wife madam is all gathered together? If they are, we can just get ahead of them and cut them off."

    "Must you really make Doggo investigate this? Since they''ve all smelt a rat, surely they would all run away together?? Since there are only two carriages left, obviously only the highest level mistresses and masters would be in there. That''s why I told you to destroy all the carriages and trap them in the mountain. But, no, you just have to y a Sandpiper vs m [2] game with them while you y the Fisherman. Now look, they are surrounded by all those body guards and fighter monks.

    If they all work together we''ll have a hard time breaking through to thest two carriages. We''ll basically have toy a siege against them while they y for time. The best time to strike is now. If they manage to drag out the time, that marquis heir would arrive from the Capital and then we''ll be the one caught between a rock and a hard ce." Liu Er Niu continued to nag.

    Chen Jing, who couldn''t take it anymore yelled, "Shut up! Even if the women all got into the carriage, it doesn''t mean that those people will defend them all to death. When the timees we''ll just kill everyone. Egg Two[3], check the horses again, get ready to move out."

    "Yes."

    Someone answered from the back. Then, Chen Jing and trusted adviser, Top Dog, began consult each other. When it was almost time to set out on horseback, they heard Doggo yell out from behind them. He turned and saw the half grown youth nearly hopping in ce with excitement as he said, "Boss, there seems to be two person less in the carriage group. The heir''s wife and that really, awesomely, to die for beautiful brothel sister, Beauty Jing''er are not there."

    "You idiot, have you nothing in your brain but that brothel woman? She''s already married to the marquis heir three years ago." Liu Niu Er pped Doggo''s head. When he looked up at Chen Jing, he noticed that the Boss'' face had gone all red. The Boss stamped his foot hatefully and ground out, "Just what are those two women ying at? Have someone broken their survival instincts? Do they think by leaving the heir''s wife and one concubine we wouldn''t tear that temple down?"

    "Could it be that they were in such a hurry that they had forgotten those two? Well, I guess abandoning a concubine under these circ.u.mstances is pretty normal." Top Dog stroked his lush goatee with an enigmatic look on his face. This, coupled with his straight posture, he exuded a slight military air about him. Unfortunately, he looked too unkempt to be properly ''distinguished looking''.

    Liu Er Niu snapped, "What are you talking about? The concubine is one thing, but what about the heir''s wife? I heard that An Ping heir''s wife is as fierce as a tigress, if if she did not allow it, do you think anyone would actually dare to leave her behind? They should know that if the heir''s wife fall into our hands, what kind of mud would stick to the An Ping name?"

    "Boss, look. At the mountain side. That''s the heir''s wife and one of his concubine, they really didn''t leave."

    Doggo called out excitedly, pointing at the direction of the temple entrance. Chen Jing, Liu Er Niu and Top Dog all stared with wide eyes.

    Sure enough, there were two women standing together at the mountainside. Though they could not see details of their faces, from the extravagantly dyed cloth and borated embroidery, as well as therge group people behind them, there was no question that these two women were people of some importance. Perhaps it was the contrast in terms of clothing quality, but the two women looked like fairies descending to spread goodwill among the unwashed ma.s.ses.

    "Doggo, are you sure? Could it be possible that those women are merely servant girls dressed in their mistresses'' clothes?"

    Chen Jing asked while everyone was still staring like idiots. n.o.body could understand why these two women was left behind. Fine, let''s say they were left behind or stayed behind for some reason or other, but, shouldn''t they be crying their eyes out at their misfortune? Or huddling in some corner of a darkened room? What were they doing hanging out here in the open? This had gone beyond mere bravery, it''s stupidity, stu-pi-di-ty, ah.

    "Boss, please be at ease. My eyes are excellent. From a kilometre away I can tell whether a fly is male or female. Those two are definitely the little marquis'' official wife and concubine. Guaranteed." the half grown youth thumped himself on his puffed up chest. Chen Jing, too, was familiar with this youth''s eye power, otherwise, why would they include him in this elite ughter Dog group?

    "If that heir''s wife did not lose her mind, it''s possible that she had seen through our n and deliberately stayed back in order to force us to split our manpower, giving the carriage group a chance to escape."

    Chen Jing rubbed his bald head, sighed, and heard Liu Er Niu sneered, "Or so she imagines. Humph, no matter how Duan Tingxuan dotes on her, how could she be worth more than the old madam and elder madam of the marquis housebined?"

    "You''re the one imagining things." Chen Jing snorted. He red at the second inmand and said. "Though her social status is not as high as the escaping women, but considering the situation now, would you still dare to go after those carriages? Not afraid of people attacking you from the back?"

    This made Liu Er Niu started. After hemming and hawing for a moment, he stamped his foot and said, "Whatever, I''m just following orders. Whatever youmand, we''ll do it, alright?"

    "Of course you must do as Imanded, what foolish talk is this? Everyone prepare yourself. We''ll leave the horses here. We will concentrate all our resources on Pushan Temple. Remember, we must aplish our mission before daybreak. When dawn hits, someone from the Capital will definitely arrive. Whether we aplish our objectives or not, we must hustle off by then.

    If you happened to be captured¡­ well, you know what to do." [Gumihou: Ahaha, the bandits all have such funny names] [1] Monkey King ¨C Son Goku or Son Wukong

    [2] Sandpiper vs m ¨C An idiom about two sides refusing to give in and is finally taken advantaged of by a third party, the Fisherman. [3] ¶þµ° ¨C Er Dan, literally Second Egg ¨C I had a hard time choosing between Pinyin, Er Dan (boring and unmemorable) or Egg Two (lol!). Actually I didn''t spend a long time choosing, Egg Two is just too funny to pa.s.s up.

    [4] Actually Chen Jing''s name is also a joke. While ê¾° carries the meaning of Bright Disy or Brilliant Chen of Southern Dynasties, it''s also the onomatopoeia for ''Has Been''¡­ sn.i.g.g.e.r, Mr. Hasbeen¡­

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 Chapter 124

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 124: Deploying Troops to Distract

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The final line was not a real question at all, but the fierce bandits all howled their answer. "Honour before life, never give up our leaders!"

    "Good, move out."

    Chen Jing let out a loud yell and bandits hidden in the woods rushed out to stand in a straight line, all facing Pushan Temple. Liu Er Niu trailed behind Chen Jing, all the while twisting his own hands as he sneered, "Boss, I do believe you''re being too serious. It''s just a little temple, even if they do have martial monks, how many are there left? If our brothers all work together, they would copse in a short time."

    Chen Jing''s lips twitched: This second inmand really have a bad way with words. Of course he knew that the Pushan Temple people are basically pushovers, but doesn''t he know anything about style? In this line of work, coolness is important, you know? We must rev up our troops with charisma.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot, or the trantor will be sad.

    As this murderous looking bunch of bandits ''march'' towards Pushan Temple, Su Nuan Nuan and Concubine Jing, who were still standing at the entrance, spotted them almost immediately.

    "Have we disyed ourselves long enough? If we stand here any longer, won''t they take it as provocation, or think we''re up to something?"

    There was a faint smirk on Su Nuan Nuan''s face as she eyed the group of bandits that were about 2 kilometres away.

    Concubine Jing said mildly, "Those poor, fierce and murderous bandits probably couldn''t help themselves anymore after seeing old madam run off. They''re probably worried that we might escaped as well." She then turned to face Su Nuan Nuan and slowly withdraw a long golden hair pin from her hair. In a low voice, she said, "Sister has a dagger from the lord, I too have this hairpin. The lord gave me this gold pin the day he redeemed me. I owe him a debt I could never repay, therefore, with this pin, I shall shed my blood in repayment¡­"

    "Sister, what are you doing? Stop this nonsense at once!" Su Nuan Nuan was rmed by Concubine Jing''s resolute expression and quickly s.n.a.t.c.hed the pin away from her. She than looked for a ce to stash this dangerous weapon, but saw nowhere safe to keep this thing. Finally, she just stabbed the offending pin into her own hair bun, she loudly eximed, "I''ve always thought you''re the calm and rational type, so why are you so muddle headed today? If you''re feeling depressed, you should have left with the senior madams, why stay here with me?"

    Concubine Jing, "¡­ ¡­"

    "Didn''t¡­ sister say that¡­ we''re sacrificing ourselves here?"

    "I was just speaking randomly, you actually believe me?" Su Nuan Nuan red at Concubine Jing and poked her fiercely in the middle of the forehead. " Better a bad life than a good death, don''t you know this idiom?"

    Concubine Jing, "¡­ ¡­"

    The servants watching them, "¡­ ¡­"

    At least Su Nuan Nuan was not so oblivious that she not realised just how weird the atmosphere had be. She realised of her words could demoralize the servants reflect badly on her, so she immediately coughed before turning to stare gravely at the few dozen or so female servants and said, "Though the words ''sacrifice my life'' had been randomly said, it still remains true. However, this kind of negative thoughts is not useful when ites to aplishing things in critical moments. All of you keep this in mind, even if we have to die, we must pull at least one of those evil bandits with us. That way we will not sustain a loss, if we manage to drag down two, we''ll count it a profit. Remember, our lives are valuable, we must not let them simply take it from us."

    "Yes, we thank first madam for her teachings.."

    When examined closely, these were merely words of encouragement meant for those struggling against death. Though they were touched by Su Nuan Nuan''s earlier performance, deep down the servants felt a sense of fury against the mistresses who had just abandoned them to their fate. In the end, everyone ced a very high value upon their own life. If this mistress did not value their life, which were like ants in the eyes of most masters and mistresses, would she even waste her breath to say these encouraging words to them?

    Everyone here, mistresses, monks and servants all face one equal dilemma. Will they live to see the next dawn?

    Therefore, when Su Nuan Nuan''s voice finally fell, it was as though there was a little more heat in their blood. In fact, their answer was so loud and heartfelt that she nearly leaped back in shock. Looking across at Concubine Jing, this foodie privately wondered: Just what did I say just now? Why is everyone acting like they just had a shot of chicken blood[1]? Or perhaps I have some hidden potential as a TED talk speaker or actress?

    "Madam is a woman amongst all other women, this servant is ashamed of being so inferior."

    Concubine Jing beamed admiringly at her, which only caused more sweatdrops to pop out of Su Nuan Nuan''s forehead. This modern spirit had no idea that what she considered as normal and right in the modern world, that everyone''s life was of equal value, was something that was considered novel to these ancient women and ves.

    However, this was not the best time to ponder over everyone''s odd reaction. Those bandits were almost upon them. Su Nuan Nuan said to the abbot, "Great master, let''s go into the temple first. We''ll do everything as nned."

    "Amitabha, this way please, mistress." The abbot''s respect for Su Nuan Nuan had gone up another level after seeing her inspire these dispirited group of people into a bunch of high spirited people. He bowed, and waved his hand to indicate for Su Nuan Nuan to go ahead of him.

    Half of the martial monks had gone with the carriage group heading towards the Capital. Because of this, there were only a dozen or so martial monks left. This was not the Shaolin Temple after all, where every monk practice martial arts. In fact, they were lucky that a few Shaolin monks happened to be visiting their temple today, and thus bulked up their martial power quite a bit.

    Thus, with these dozen or so martial monks, Su Nuan Nuan and her ragtag group of servants and monks, make a stand at the rear hall of the monastery.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot.

    They had expected to face a bitter fight to get into the rear hall from the back gate. However, the expedition turned out to be more like a half-hearted game of hide and seek. Afterbing through the obvious areas where thedies might have hidden themselves, the ughter Dog Gang eyed the tall gate with its st.u.r.dy door. Instead of being shut tight, asmon sense dictated, it was slightly ajar. Just wide enough for one grown man to go through. It was incredibly suspicious.

    "d.a.m.n it, they''re looking down on us."

    Chen Jing studied the heavy door. Somehow, it looked like the small opening in the doorway was grinning mockingly at them. Angered, he raised his hand and was about to order people to charge in when Top Dog came over to caution him, "Boss, please think thrice. There has to be a reason why the temple had been emptied out and the door left like this. There must be some kind of n behind it, we must not be rash."

    "What if there isn''t any n? Are we just going to just stand around here and wait forever? Have you forgotten that Zhuge Liang''s Empty Fort Strategy[2] has been made into an excellent y recently, I bet you anything that at least some of the women in there had seen it." snapped Cheng Jing as he grabbed Top Dog up by the cor of his shirt.

    The truth was, even Cheng Jing himself was feeling a little anxious. He paced about a few times like a trapped animal, but in the end he could not fight his instincts as a bandit. He stopped, and red at the slightly ajar door. He ground his teeth and said, "Your mom, I don''t care anymore, what could a bunch of women and monks do anyway? Egg Two, Long Horse, go and scout." [Gumihou is sn.i.g.g.e.ring inappropriately at the names]

    The two named bandits saluted loudly and strode towards the doorway. They peered through the crack and saw that the entire temple looked like it had been abandoned. Not a single sound could be heard. For some reason, these normally fearless bandits with guts that could engulf the sky suddenly felt a tingling numbness creeping up their scalp. However, they could not disobey the Boss'' orders. The two of them exchanged a look, as though to gather strength from each other and pushed open the door.

    They tiptoed in anxiously, their necks twisting about to try and look in all directions at once. The kept close to the wall like thieves, when suddenly, a rush of wind sounded behind them. They turned to look, but it was toote. [Thump, thump.]

    One strike each on the head with a st.u.r.dy stick and both bandits fainted dead away.

    Please read this at kitchennovel dote ~

    "Did we get them? Brother Dong, did we¡­ really get them?" it was the servant boy, Shi Qi[3], that had gone down the hill to investigate matters under Su Nuan Nuan''s orders. He looked down at the fainted bandits, unable to believe his luck.

    "Don''t talk nonsense, of course we got them. However, we''ve also vited madam''s orders. Let''s tie them up first and get instructions from madam on what to do next." senior servant w.a.n.g Dong was not as excited as Shi Qi. He unwrapped a strong rope that had been wound around his waist and tied the two bandits up. They each grabbed one bandit and quickly made their way towards the rear hall where Su Nuan Nuan and the rest were hiding.

    As expected, Su Nuan Nuan eyed the two bandits the way one might eye a rat brought in by the cat. Surprised, but not at all happy. She frowned at w.a.n.g Dong, "Weren''t you out investigating the situation? Why did you bring these two back? What if you rouse the ire of those fierce killers? Moreover, neither of you know kungfu, still daring enough to attack these two, don''t want your life anymore?"

    "Madam, we really had every intention of carrying out your orders. We really had no intention of doing anything to these two. However, when they were sneaking about, walking along like crabs just two or three steps in front of us the opportunity was too great. This one''s hands began to itch, so, after exchanging a look with Brother Dong, we attacked them, and came back with sess."

    As the witty Shi Qi made his exnation, he even imitated the two bandit''s sneaky way of walking, craning his neck to look about like demented bird, causing everyone to stare at him in aghast, unsure whether tough or cry. Qiu Ling stepped forward and said frostily, "You''ve ignored madam''s orders and still have the cheek to boast. Why don''t you hurry off and do your job properly now? What if someone reallye when you''re not on lookout? Our deaths will be on your heads."

    Shi Qi grinned, "Didn''t madam say it''s fine if theye in? Our job is to stop their retreat, since our monk friends haven''t made a move yet, that means the bandits haven''t done anything yet. I''ve just helped reduce the number of enemies by two. Who dares toe in now? Aren''t they too daring if they doe?"

    "Enough, stop it now. Go back outside and keep watch."

    Only after Concubine Jing had ordered him to, Shi Qi and w.a.n.g Dong cheerfully went out. Concubine Jing leaned towards Su Nuan Nuan to say, "Madam''s strategy of Deploying Troops to Distract has seeded. The enemy will be overly cautious now. Our chances have increased."

    "It''s not enough with just this tactic."

    Su Nuan Nuan rubbed the crease between her eyebrows and muttered, "These bandits are used to killing. Once they''ve decided to simply use overwhelming force, we will lose a lot of people. We cannot frighten them too much and cause them to overreact. However, as you''ve said, we''ve bought some time."

    She had just finished speaking when the abbot said with a smile, "Madam, Mo Ji and Hui Ming are here."

    Sure enough, sounds of peopleing in was heard. Then, several monks appeared at door dragging something that looked like firewood through. Concubine Jing studied the items they brought in and saw that it was the branches of Wild Jujube she had seen earlier while admiring the chrysanthemums. Because these type of trees were covered in little thorns, they were also called Th.o.r.n.y Jujubes. Country folk use these to make barricades around fruit or vegetable patches to guard against thieves. [Gumihou: Oh no, you didn''t! Nuan Nuan, that''s so cruel!] [1] A shot of chicken blood or Chicken-blood therapy ¨C a pseudo-medical therapy popr in China during the Cultural Revolution. Here''s the wiki on it!

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicken-blood_therapy [2] Zhuge Liang''s Empty Fort Strategy ¨C Here''s a clip from the Three Kingdom on this strategy

    https://.youtube/watch?v=tSIQvswk4sU [3] Shi Qi or Ê®Æß ¨C literally Seventeen.

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 Chapter 125

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 125: Ready, Set¡­ Eat!

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Everyone stared, Concubine Jing looked at Su Nuan Nuan curiously, "What is madam nning to do with these?"

    Su Nuan Nuan smirked, "These were originally meant for the kitchen fires. Pushan Temple monks are really full of surprises. They like to practice their Iron Palm techniques while setting up the cooking fire. However, for now these branches will be useful to us in a different way. We''re going to weave it." she turned to the monks. "Masters, please weave these together and ce them around the walls. It''s fine if it''s visible to outsiders, in fact, it''s better if they could see it."

    "Madam''s meaning is¡­?" the monks were confused by this order. Su Nuan Nuan grinned, "We''re using the Paper Tiger method. Those bandits have just lost two guys to us, so they know the front door is b.o.o.by trapped. They should turn their sights on our walls next, the Th.o.r.n.y Jujubes should make them hesitate."

    "I see, madam is well versed with battle tactics." The monks all smiled at each other. Though they were martial monks, they were first and foremost peace loving monks, if there was a way to keep peace without causing injury, that would be the best. This was better than having to kill people and dirty the temple grounds with bloodshed.

    As the monks hurried out with their Th.o.r.n.y Jujubes, Concubine Jing, Qiu Ling and the rest of the people looked up at Su Nuan Nuan with shining eyes. Qiu Lingughed, "This one had always known that first madam is an amazing person, but never have I imagine just how amazing. The way you devise strategy is like¡­ like, seeing a general making ns in his tent while the battle is, uh, is happening five miles away!"

    A little [pu chi] sound asughter escaped Su Nuan Nuan. She shook her head and said, "Elder sister[1] should refrain herself from ttery since she''s so bad at it."

    Qiu Ling flushed red with embarra.s.sment, but knowing Su Nuan Nuan''s att.i.tude, she immediately stiffened her neck and retorted smartly, "Who''s ttering? I was just at a loss for words for the moment. If first madam don''t believe me, just ask anyone here. Who doesn''t think madam''s action is just like a majestic heroine? Military strategies aside, how many women would be able to look into death in its eye and spit into its face?"

    "If you praise me anymore, I shall float away into the sky." Su Nuan Nuan shook her head with a smile. The sun had long since set, leaving only a faint glimmer of dusk light in the sky. Concubine Jing couldn''t help herself as she stuck closer to Su Nuan Nuan. When asked what was wrong, she answered, "The Four Heavenly Kings[2] in this hall, they looked kind of¡­ frightening in the dim light¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan finally understood. The faces of the heavenly kings were fierce and sinister. Even she had a scare when she looked up at them for the first time.

    A sudden thought urred to her, and she quickly rushed over to the abbot to whisper a few words to him. The abbot blinked at her for a moment before smilingly widely and nodded his agreement. Su Nuan Nuan happily pped her hands and announced, "Alright, since it''s getting dark, let''s make dinner." [Pu-] there just happened to be quite a few people in the middle of drinking their tea, and now their drink was spread out all over the ce courtesy of Su Nuan Nuan. Servants and maids who had been worshipping this dynamic mistress of theirs were now holding their heads in their handsmenting: Madam, we know you''re a foodie, but¡­ but¡­ is now really a good time? How could you just have eating in your mind?

    Look, even the great master is shocked, ah. And the monks, we can see their back teeth, ah. The unppable and unjudgemental monks were all shaken to this level. How¡­ how embarra.s.sing, the An Ping house was already famous in the Capital for being foodies, we''re known as walking stomachs, alright? Wu! If we think about it, we''ve already been known as the Foodie Family ever since old madam''s birthday banquet.

    At this thought, all the servants felt a little relieved. Still, they could not help their judgemental stares as they tried to re at Su Nuan Nuan from the corners of their eyes. Su Nuan Nuan countered their side eyes with raised eyebrows and said coldly, "Where have all of your thoughts gotten to? You think I would actually risk our lives just for a meal? How stupid could you be? It''s all part of the strategy. Just think, how bewildered the enemies would be if we floated out some nice cooking smells for them? Heh! Those bewildered bandits will be stuck outside, too frightened toe in and suffering from hunger pangs while we are warm, toasty and full. Hei-hei, just thinking about it makes me happy."

    "I see, I see, madam has even taken food into calction." Concubine Jing had bought the whole exnationpletely and was now busy sticking gold onto Su Nuan Nuan''s face, "what is madam nning to make? This isn''t the kitchen after all, and aside from water, there isn''t much else. Not a pot, te ordle in sight. Should we make another expedition to the kitchen?"

    "No need, I shall let you taste somethingpletely unique, t Stone Cake." Su Nuan Nuanughed. This recipe was something she saw in one of Bi Shumin''s[3] novels where a group of characters made while camping in the wild. Attracted by the delicious description, she had used a t bottom pan to try and recreate the recipe a few times. It was certainly delicious. She really had not expected to attempt the real thing now that she had transmigrated into the past.

    A roaring fire was lit, warming up the cold rear hall by several degrees. They managed to find four pieces ofrge t stones in the rear hall and ced those on the campfire, held up by smaller stones. Everyone watched curiously as she ordered a bunch of young monks to fetch flour, oil, a few rolling pins and clean brushes. A little monk rubbed his ears and asked, "Just these? You don''t want us fetch other things? We''re pretty quick on our feet, we could go fetch other stuff now."

    "No need, these are enough. How could I ask you little masters to risk your life twice?" said Su Nuan Nuan as she folded up her sleeves and began mixing flour and water together.

    The others stared, wait, something did not seemed right. That water¡­ isn''t that a lot of water? How could you make dough with that? It''s basically a slurry now.

    Since it''s food for a few dozen people, Su Nuan Nuan quickly began to work up a sweat stirring just one bucket of slurry. Even then, it was quite hard work and she recruited a few female servants to a.s.sist her. In a short while, severalrge buckets appeared, all filled with flour slurry, everyone began rushing over to help stir the slurry with rolling pins. However the question remained, how was this was supposed to be eaten?

    "That''s easy to answer."

    Su Nuan Nuan said as she picked up a brush, dipped it in oil and gave the t stone the lightest sheen of oil. Next, she pour onedle full of the slurry onto the hot surface. making a sharp [zhi] sound. A savoury smell of hot oil and cooking flour immediately filled the room. Working quickly, the other three stones were soon given the same oil and slurry treatment. She worked smoothly and gracefully, not a single wasted movement to be seen. Moreover, the slurry formed a perfect circle each time. It was almost like watching a kungfu performance. Because the t Cakes[4] were very thin and stone bs very hot, several pieces of the Cakes were made very quickly. There was no need to even flip over the cakes, as it was ready as soon as it began to bubble and crisp up. The sight of those crisp t Stone Cakes, coupled with the smell in the air, soon begin to make everyone''s mouth water.

    A few of the female servants wiped their lips, but no one dared toe forward and be first to ask for a piece. Naturally they weren''t worried about first madam getting angry at them, everyone knew that though first madam was a little fierce, she was not the kind of person who would lose her temper over such trivial things. Only¡­ there were a lot of monks around, how could they ruin the dignity of the An Ping house by acting like greedy pigs? It was one thing for their masters to be known as the Great Foodies of the Capital, but as servants they should maintain the An Ping dignity, right?

    "Amitabha, madam is both skilled and benevolent. This cooking method is simple and straightforward, yet looks delicious and filling. This humble one would be d to learn from madam."

    At the abbot''s remark, Su Nuan Nuan handed a piece of the t Stone Cake to him. "Enough talk, have a taste, great master. If you don''t eat, n.o.body would dare to start before you." after speaking, she took a piece for herself and took a bite. "Hmm, not bad, fragrant and crispy. Alright, everyone please wait a bit longer, there will be plenty for everyone. Sister Jing, find a few more helpers for me. Surely I don''t have to exin how to make this, right?"

    Author White Pear Flower: Well? We have both food and a campfire here. Isn''t it just like a foodie to include food in her strategy against her enemies? Even under these critical circ.u.mstances, who else would have the guts to think about food, but a foodie? Wakakakaka! [Gumihou: Lol, what happened to the tensed atmosphere? It had suddenly turned into a cooking show.] [1] Since Qiu Ling''s mistress (old madam) is two generations above than Nuan Nuan, Nuan Nuan courteously addressed her as Elder Sister. [2] Four Heavenly Kings, four Buddhist G.o.ds originate from the Indian version of Lokaps. Here''s a wiki for it ~

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Heavenly_Kings [3] Bi Shumin ¨C A real writer! One of the most unusual and powerful female writers in current literary scene.

    [4] t Stone Cake ¨C Erm, Some kind of thin crepe, I think? I think Su Nuan Nuan had exined the cooking method quite well here. Lol!

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 Chapter 126

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 126: The Brain Goes Haywire Under Pressure

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Before Concubine Jing could order them, several female servants immediately volunteered themselves. They smiled winsomely and said, ¡°We humble onesck skill, but still think better than pigs. If we cannot manage this much, we might as well buy tofu and m our heads into it and die.¡± With that, they took over the job of greasing the stone bs with brushes and pouring the slurry.

    The abbot and his monks lined up properly for their share of hot t Stone Cakes. In fact, they ate the cakes with such relish that the other servants nearly could not endure it anymore, but somehow they still managed to quash down the urge to swarm and properly lined up for food.

    Su Nuan Nuan sighed with relief. How lucky it was that these servants are not like their masters. Look how well mannered they are, unlike their mannerless masters who would thicken their own faces and literally begged food from Nuan Nuan.

    Naturally, when her thoughts turned to the foodies of An Ping, a certain thick faced foodie rose in her mind. Her hand, which had just scooped up some flour slurry paused. She nced towards a window into the darkened sky and wondered: Who knows what the situation is like for those people leaving in carriages. Surely the senior madams have reached the Capital by now? Would they encounter an ambush partway? Duan Tingxuan that man s.l.u.t¡­ surely he might have suspected something by now and was making his way here, right?

    Aih! Though it looked like we have the upper hand now, but the night was long and this might be thest peaceful hour they have. It''s not easy to keep the bnce between threat and retreat, ah. The moment those bandits decide to stop ying around and storm in, a lot of lives would be lost. Will I be able to see the sun rise tomorrow? Will I be able to return to the mansion and live my free and easy life teasing that Duan Tingxuan?

    ¡°What is sister thinking about?¡± Concubine Jing whispered, pulling Su Nuan Nuan back into reality. When there was no one else around, bothdies will drop the formal addresses and treat each other like true sisters.

    Su Nuan Nuan looked into the face next to her. That face, whose beauty could shake men''s hearts and ruin cities hid a tragic soul. She remembered Concubine Jing''s words: ¡®I owe him a debt I could never repay, therefore, with this pin, I shall shed my blood for him.'' Su Nuan Nuan suddenly smiled and said lightly, ¡°I was just thinking, though our lord is a bit too l.u.s.ty, aside from this weakness, he was actually not bad as a man.¡±

    Concubine Jing smiled back, ¡°Sister, you only know this now? I thought you knew this already and was just holding back because the lord broke your heart. Only¡­ allow me the privilege to speak the truth today of all days. About your parents'' matter, it isn''t that the lord did not wish to spare no effort to a.s.sist them, but he really had no choice on the matter. Since the decision had been thrown down by the emperor, how could our lord just risk his life for a lost cause? Since sister knows our lord''s secret troubles, perhaps sister might treat him a little better in the future. I really do believe that, towards sister, the lord is¡­¡±

    ¡°Wait just a moment.¡± Su Nuan Nuan held up a hand. ¡°I was just remembering his treatment of you. Just how did the topic swing towards me?¡±

    ¡°Of me?¡± Concubine Jing was surprised. ¡°But, what of me?¡±

    ¡°You were quite prepared to die as repayment to his kindness, have you forgotten all about that already?¡± Su Nuan Nuan said as she continued to cook, pouring batter over the hot stones as soon as a maid whipped the t cakes away. She sighed, and said, ¡°Didn''t I say it already, though he''s a little s.l.u.tty, his own personal charm is not low. Which was mainly why I thought he had overspent when he paid 20,000 teals of silver to redeem you. But after thinking about it, I have to say that it''s not expensive at all. To be able to redeem such an excellent flower like you who thinks so well of him, I''d say he''d probably gotten you too cheaply.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan''s candid answer shocked Concubine Jing to the point that she really didn''t know whether tough or cry. After blinking and shaking her head, she finally managed a bitter smile, ¡°To spend 20,000 silver teals on what is basically a flower vase and sister still call that cheap? He''s clearly made an unimaginable loss.¡±

    ¡°So what if he bought a vase? If this vase happened to be made in the previous dynasty, would 20,000 silver teals even be enough as a deposit? Moreover, you''re more than a vase, you''re a living person. How could you bepared to a vase? It''s such a waste to see someone like you humble yourself so. Your beauty puts my face to shame. If you''re someone with a terrible personality I''d still be able to dere myself the better good, but you just have to be the straight forward, clean living type. So much so, that the only thing I could do is bite my handkerchief and admire you jealously from a dark corner.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan muttered all of this half to herself with clenched teeth, pulling Concubine Jing from her slightly mncholic mood. She looked around and saw the people sitting around eating and chatting quietly with each other. An air of positive cheerfulness had reced the gloom from before. She even heard lowughter from somewhere. Concubine Jingughed too, ¡°Sister is too brilliant. I expect those bandits outside must be about to cry now, right?¡±

    Please read this at kitchennovel dote ^_^

    The elite members of the ughter Dog bandits outside really were about to cry. Especially the lower status members. While keeping watch, a sudden fragrant smell floated out from the monastery grounds to a.s.sault their noses. Cheerfulughter and light chatter filled their ears. As for them? Huddling in the dark, clutching their stomachs or elbows, the three or five groups of bandits did their best to resist the cold and hunger. September was the time when the wind blows cold and hard. A few of them sniffled as snot dribbled to their chins.

    ¡°Boss, we¡­ we can''t go on like this, ah. Just look at our brothers'' sad conditions. As for those women and monks, don''t¡­ don''t they want their lives anymore? To enjoy food andughing like they don''t have a care, aren''t they just looking down on us?¡± Liu Er Niuined bitterly at Chen Jing.

    Before Chen Jing could say anything, military advisor Top Dog muttered, ¡°Are they really women from n.o.ble families? Are n.o.ble family women all like that? My mother told me that these well-breddies never set a foot outdoors, their voices are like mosquitoes and their most important quality is their ability to walk beautifully in order to show off their slim waist and weak body¡­¡±

    Before he could finish, Liu Er Niu sneered, ¡°That''s right, that''s how women of n.o.ble houses are like. When we stormed in to corrupt officials'' houses to kill them, didn''t we encounter a few of these so called n.o.bledies? They''re all weak, spineless good for nothings only fit to be looked at. But these? The creatures inside can''t be n.o.ble women. Only Heaven knows what they are. I can tell they''re even fiercer than us bandits. I think that the house of An Ping is basically a bandit nest¡­¡±

    ¡°Enough.¡± Chen Jing snapped. He couldn''t keep hearing this anymore, just- what were their situation now? What''s the use ofining withouting up with a proper n? Even if you continue to curse them with that mouth of yours, will your target even feel a tickle?

    ¡°Boss, what should we do? What say we just charge in and start killing people?¡±

    Liu Er Niu really couldn''t take it anymore and blurted out the simplest, most straightforward idea, and was red at by the seniors.

    ¡°Stupid thing, you only know how to act rashly, don''t you know how to read the situation? Did you not see what they have put up on the walls? Those are Th.o.r.n.y Jujube branches, and why do you think they do that, huh?¡± Chen Jing growled, jabbing a finger angrily at Liu Niu Er''s forehead. He really hated this subordinate of his for being so stupid.

    This useless thing cowered away, hand over his forehead mumbling, ¡°It''s, um, it''s to¡­ prevent us from getting in over the walls?¡±

    ¡°Their front door is already wide open, why would we jump over the walls? Is your brain broken?¡± Chen Jing became more and more angry, ¡°Those Th.o.r.n.y Jujube branches are there to prevent us from getting OUT, not to prevent us from getting IN. If we rushed in at them, we can expect them to beat us like a dog.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± Liu Er Niu was muddled now. ¡° aren''t they just a bunch of women and monks? How could they have such ability? Are they really not afraid of us storming them? Even n to beat us up?¡±

    ¡°Boss is right, second brother, you must keep your guard up.¡± military advisor Top Dog immediately supported Chen Jing. His sudden appearance and words caused Liu Niu Er to rub his head in puzzlement, however, this time he did not dare to say anything. They waited in silence for another hour, during that time, the smelling from the monastery became even stronger and he swallowed. ¡°They¡­ should be full by now, right?¡±

    ¡°Rumour has it that the House of An Ping heir''s wife has no peer when it came to kitchen skills. To think that she would still cook even under these dangerous circ.u.mstances, I wonder what she has made? Surely she hasn''t ordered them to move a whole kitchen in there, right? Who would actually have such foresight?¡± Top Dog stared listlessly at the nearest temple door, his mind obviously a thousand miles away.

    Looking at the sad circ.u.mstances of his brothers, Chen Jing could not help but be moved. He looked around and saw his bandit brothers all crouching and huddling together miserably against the cold, hands over their growling stomachs. Tucking his hands into his sleeves, Chen Jing stretched out his neck to look at the two imposing doors for a moment. Their image now was no better than stupid old farmers stretching their necks, looking at pa.s.sing carriages containing mysterious n.o.bles. They looked nothing at all like the most feared elite ughter Dogs, whose very name would cause corrupt officials to shake in their boots.

    No, this can''t go on. He would lose everyone''s respect at this rate.

    Now that his thoughts have reached this point, Chen Jing abandoned his original ¡®Wait and Observe'' strategy. Moreover, it''s not like they have all the time to wait, it''s closer to 7 or 8 at night now. If they wait anymore, who knows what kind of weird tricks those women might pull?¡±

    ¡°Er Niu, you bring a few brothers with you and storm in. Kill anyone that gets in your way, I will support you from the rear.¡±

    Liu Er Niu was stunned by the sudden order from Chen Jing, but was soon overjoyed. He was about to leap to his feet and move to obey when military adviser Top Dog interrupted, ¡°Boss, second brother is too reckless. He might fall into a trap. Why don''t you let me take a fewrades over for a scouting trip first? If there are any changes, we may adjust our ns ordingly.¡±

    ¡°Very well.¡± Chen Jing nodded

    A tearful looking Liu Niu Er said, ¡°Good brother, you must be careful. If you happen to fall into an ambush, be sure to call for help. This elder brother of yours will immediately bring a group in to rescue you.¡±

    ¡°Be at ease, second brother. I am not the type to act for no reason.¡± Top Dog patted his own thin, dried up chest with a smile. Then, he surveyed the group of bandits and selected three people who used to work as farmers. These three men ended up in their group after theirndlord set up false charges against them, causing the death of their families. Thanks to their high level martial arts, the three managed to kill thendlord and escaped with their lives. More importantly for this mission, these three men were incredibly strong and therefore were taken in as members of the ¡®Glorious'' ughter Dog Gang.

    Aside from that, they were simple minded and obedient. Thus, would not be easily led astray by whatever tricks those temple people might pull.

    Naturally, under these critical moments, Top Dog must take the opportunity to show off some of his skills, otherwise how would he disy his usefulness as a military advisor? After clearing his throat, he dered in a deep voice, ¡°Strong Zhang, Daring Zhou, Pockmark w.a.n.g, the three of you wille with me on this scouting mission and open a path for our army."

    The three men got up quickly. Pockmark w.a.n.g sniffed in a long drip of snot back up his nose and grinned, ¡°I say, military advisor. Where''s this army, ah? Our numbers don''t even reach 100 men. If the monks in the temple haven''t split off, I''m afraid this army will be wiped out."

    ¡°Nonsense, how dare you try to shake our men''s moral? It''s militarynguage, we¡­ use it for convenience sake.¡± Top Dog was so p.i.s.sed off that heshed out a kick at Pockmark w.a.n.g. You think that military strategies aren''t useful for bandits? Humph! As expected, you can''t educate an idiot. [Gumihou: Lol, what an odd group of bandits. Lol!]

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 Chapter 127

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 127: Battle of the Weird

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The three cowered back, but when Top Dog ordered them to follow him, they drew their knives out and proudly held their heads high as they entered the temple gates. Top Dog even let Strong Zhang kick in the door, that''s right, show those monks we''re not scared. Yeah.

    The entire rear court was quiet. The moon had gone behind the clouds, leaving only a weak, dappled light for them to see with. They could barely make out the faint impressions of arge courtyard, filled with severalrge things. Top Dog guessed that thoserge things were probably just trees and shrubs. There was no way that those monks and women could have the time to make any pit traps or anythingbour intensive. Horse tripping ropes wee easy to set up, but then, the bandits didn''te in with horses.

    Several thoughts went through his mind as he led Strong Zhang and the rest further into the courtyard. From their position, they could see campfires and oilmps burning within the monastery. Arge group of people were sitting or standing around, talking andughing together. It looked like they were having a fun camping trip instead of a siege. Anyone looking in would never believe that this bunch of crazies were in a life and death situation.

    Even Top Dog himself could not believe his eyes, which made him doubt himself even more.

    Why were they like this? What could be the reason for their utter calmness? They should only have about 20 over martial monks at most, but surely this isn''t enough to give them such courage? Was there some other hidden reason? What could this hidden reason be? Have we stumbled into a trap? Was it possible that a whole army had surrounded us and was just waiting for the signal to strike? That can''t be right, even if the army was deployed, they would have used special ops to take us out through gueri tactics than an outright fight. After all, if an army were to appear from the outside, they should know that the ughter Dog Gang will kill or take everyone in here hostage out of desperation, especially the heir''s wife and that brothel woman.

    No matter how he tried to make sense of the situation, Top Dog still ended up causing himself a headache. Suddenly, he heard a faint ¡®omm¡­'' sound, his heart trembled and all the hairs on his body stood up. A sudden light appeared before them and when they squinted their eyes, they saw the fierce, sinister face of a giant leering down at them.

    ¡°Ah! Mummy! A¡­ a ghost!¡±

    Never before in Top Dog''s life had he ever produced such a high pitched scream. He was not the only one. Hispanions, too, screamed like little girls. In fact, Strong Zhang, Daring Zhou and Pockmark Wong were crying now. Back when they killed that corruptndlord, Pockmark Wong never even blink, but today his legs were so weak that they couldn''t hold him up, and he ended up t on his bottom.

    The three of them were so stricken with fear that the only thing they want to do now was flee, but their limbs refused to obey them. The only fortunate thing was that their fear did notst long, martial monks sneaked up behind them and with a knife strike to the neck, all four frightened men ended up as a pile of fainted men. The monks quickly trussed them up, and carried them off like fowls to the ughter,

    ¡°To think they''d actually pick up a career as bandits with only this much guts.¡± Qiu Ling looked over the four fowls, ahem, men, the martial monks had brought in. The men were put away in the side room along with the other two bandits. She couldn''t help but feel slightly gleeful. When she was left behind, the only thing she could feel at that time was terror and despair. Now, well, how lucky was she to be able to see such a show? If she had left with the carriage group, she would have missed this amazing performance that was a hundred, a thousand times better than any professional opera. [Gumihou: Lol, wut, Qiu Ling?]

    ¡°Their courage is not bad really, considering that they didn''t faint dead away, or pee in their pants. Or do you think you can see a giant spectreing at you in the dark and not scream?¡± Su Nuan Nuan grinned. She was very satisfied with the pitch these four had reached, that should keep those bandits still hanging about outside guessing. Daybreak will arrive another 10 hours, they all have to hang on until then. Well, who knows whether Duan Tingxuan will actually appear on time.

    Su Nuan Nuan did not guess wrong. When the rest of the ughter Dog Gang heard the screams of the scouting party led by their unppable military advisor, followed by that ominous silence. The scalps of all these murderous bandits grew numb. Liu Er Niu was shocked for a good long moment. Then he grabbed his knife and roared, ¡°Top Dog has been ambushed! Boss, I must rescue them, I can''t stand it anymore!¡±

    ¡°You stupid thing, do you want to be ambushed too?¡± Chen Jing was p.i.s.sed off. Just what kind of situation were they in now? To think that his foolish, reckless brothers still want to charge in blindly. He stormed about in ce furiously, thenshed a kick at Liu Er Niu''s backside and growled, ¡°Fine. You go in. Don''t go into the building, just shout at those people from outside. Tell them that we''re hungry and cold, and are prepared to pay them money for whatever it is they''re eating. Oh, and some nkets too.¡±

    Liu Er Niu staggered, nearly falling on his face before thisrade of his. He rubbed his ears, not quite believing what he had heard. Finally, he stammered, ¡°B-boss, you¡­ you''re not saying¡­ what I think you''re saying¡­ right? Are we¡­ buying dinner?¡±

    ¡°Stupid thing, are you trying to say I''m greedy? We must know what''s going on, this is just another way of investigating, understand?¡± Chen Jing was really angry now: Was he such an unreliable person in his brother''s eyes?

    ¡°S- surely there are other methods of investigation, ah.¡± Liu Er Niu scratched his head but did not say it too loudly. Even if his brother was not ashamed, he still wants his face, ah! How could he face his other brothers next time? What was he supposed to say about this mission? Oh, that time we went to Pushan Temple, we bought bread from the An Ping heir''s wife. I manage to eat 100 pieces and did not belch even once, wouldn''t this kind of stupid boast shame him back to his ancestor''s home?

    ¡°What do you know? Unusual situations should be dealt with using unusual methods.¡± Chen Jing said coldly. ¡°It may seem ridiculous to you, but have you consider the situation we''re in right now? Clearly we can''t investigate them using normal means, therefore we must fight fire with fire, poison with poison. Humph! Dare to use weird methods with me? I shall be 10 times weirder than you. At the very least, even if we didn''t find out anything, we can still make them scratch their heads a bit.¡±

    ¡°Boss, you¡­ you really want to do this?¡±

    No matter what, Liu Er Niu still felt that there was something wrong with this n, however, as a rough, uneducated person, he couldn''te up with anything better¡­ So, whatever, he grudgingly made his way towards the monastery gate and called out loudly, ¡°Hey¡­ uh, Baldies¡­¡±

    He hadn''t finished speaking when Chen Jing appeared behind him andunched a kick at him. In a low voice, Chen Jing growled, ¡°You idiot, we''re buying stuff from them, not robbing them.¡±

    ¡°Oh, alright. Um, g-g Chapter 127: Battle of the Weird

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The three cowered back, but when Top Dog ordered them to follow him, they drew their knives out and proudly held their heads high as they entered the temple gates. Top Dog even let Strong Zhang kick in the door, that''s right, show those monks we''re not scared. Yeah.

    The entire rear court was quiet. The moon had gone behind the clouds, leaving only a weak, dappled light for them to see with. They could barely make out the faint impressions of arge courtyard, filled with severalrge things. Top Dog guessed that thoserge things were probably just trees and shrubs. There was no way that those monks and women could have the time to make any pit traps or anythingbour intensive. Horse tripping ropes wee easy to set up, but then, the bandits didn''te in with horses.

    Several thoughts went through his mind as he led Strong Zhang and the rest further into the courtyard. From their position, they could see campfires and oilmps burning within the monastery. Arge group of people were sitting or standing around, talking andughing together. It looked like they were having a fun camping trip instead of a siege. Anyone looking in would never believe that this bunch of crazies were in a life and death situation.

    Even Top Dog himself could not believe his eyes, which made him doubt himself even more.

    Why were they like this? What could be the reason for their utter calmness? They should only have about 20 over martial monks at most, but surely this isn''t enough to give them such courage? Was there some other hidden reason? What could this hidden reason be? Have we stumbled into a trap? Was it possible that a whole army had surrounded us and was just waiting for the signal to strike? That can''t be right, even if the army was deployed, they would have used special ops to take us out through gueri tactics than an outright fight. After all, if an army were to appear from the outside, they should know that the ughter Dog Gang will kill or take everyone in here hostage out of desperation, especially the heir''s wife and that brothel woman.

    No matter how he tried to make sense of the situation, Top Dog still ended up causing himself a headache. Suddenly, he heard a faint ¡®omm¡­'' sound, his heart trembled and all the hairs on his body stood up. A sudden light appeared before them and when they squinted their eyes, they saw the fierce, sinister face of a giant leering down at them.

    ¡°Ah! Mummy! A¡­ a ghost!¡±

    Never before in Top Dog''s life had he ever produced such a high pitched scream. He was not the only one. Hispanions, too, screamed like little girls. In fact, Strong Zhang, Daring Zhou and Pockmark Wong were crying now. Back when they killed that corruptndlord, Pockmark Wong never even blink, but today his legs were so weak that they couldn''t hold him up, and he ended up t on his bottom.

    The three of them were so stricken with fear that the only thing they want to do now was flee, but their limbs refused to obey them. The only fortunate thing was that their fear did notst long, martial monks sneaked up behind them and with a knife strike to the neck, all four frightened men ended up as a pile of fainted men. The monks quickly trussed them up, and carried them off like fowls to the ughter,

    ¡°To think they''d actually pick up a career as bandits with only this much guts.¡± Qiu Ling looked over the four fowls, ahem, men, the martial monks had brought in. The men were put away in the side room along with the other two bandits. She couldn''t help but feel slightly gleeful. When she was left behind, the only thing she could feel at that time was terror and despair. Now, well, how lucky was she to be able to see such a show? If she had left with the carriage group, she would have missed this amazing performance that was a hundred, a thousand times better than any professional opera. [Gumihou: Lol, wut, Qiu Ling?]

    ¡°Their courage is not bad really, considering that they didn''t faint dead away, or pee in their pants. Or do you think you can see a giant spectreing at you in the dark and not scream?¡± Su Nuan Nuan grinned. She was very satisfied with the pitch these four had reached, that should keep those bandits still hanging about outside guessing. Daybreak will arrive another 10 hours, they all have to hang on until then. Well, who knows whether Duan Tingxuan will actually appear on time.

    Su Nuan Nuan did not guess wrong. When the rest of the ughter Dog Gang heard the screams of the scouting party led by their unppable military advisor, followed by that ominous silence. The scalps of all these murderous bandits grew numb. Liu Er Niu was shocked for a good long moment. Then he grabbed his knife and roared, ¡°Top Dog has been ambushed! Boss, I must rescue them, I can''t stand it anymore!¡±

    ¡°You stupid thing, do you want to be ambushed too?¡± Chen Jing was p.i.s.sed off. Just what kind of situation were they in now? To think that his foolish, reckless brothers still want to charge in blindly. He stormed about in ce furiously, thenshed a kick at Liu Er Niu''s backside and growled, ¡°Fine. You go in. Don''t go into the building, just shout at those people from outside. Tell them that we''re hungry and cold, and are prepared to pay them money for whatever it is they''re eating. Oh, and some nkets too.¡±

    Liu Er Niu staggered, nearly falling on his face before thisrade of his. He rubbed his ears, not quite believing what he had heard. Finally, he stammered, ¡°B-boss, you¡­ you''re not saying¡­ what I think you''re saying¡­ right? Are we¡­ buying dinner?¡±

    ¡°Stupid thing, are you trying to say I''m greedy? We must know what''s going on, this is just another way of investigating, understand?¡± Chen Jing was really angry now: Was he such an unreliable person in his brother''s eyes?

    ¡°S- surely there are other methods of investigation, ah.¡± Liu Er Niu scratched his head but did not say it too loudly. Even if his brother was not ashamed, he still wants his face, ah! How could he face his other brothers next time? What was he supposed to say about this mission? Oh, that time we went to Pushan Temple, we bought bread from the An Ping heir''s wife. I manage to eat 100 pieces and did not belch even once, wouldn''t this kind of stupid boast shame him back to his ancestor''s home?

    ¡°What do you know? Unusual situations should be dealt with using unusual methods.¡± Chen Jing said coldly. ¡°It may seem ridiculous to you, but have you consider the situation we''re in right now? Clearly we can''t investigate them using normal means, therefore we must fight fire with fire, poison with poison. Humph! Dare to use weird methods with me? I shall be 10 times weirder than you. At the very least, even if we didn''t find out anything, we can still make them scratch their heads a bit.¡±

    ¡°Boss, you¡­ you really want to do this?¡±

    No matter what, Liu Er Niu still felt that there was something wrong with this n, however, as a rough, uneducated person, he couldn''te up with anything better¡­ So, whatever, he grudgingly made his way towards the monastery gate and called out loudly, ¡°Hey¡­ uh, Baldies¡­¡±

    He hadn''t finished speaking when Chen Jing appeared behind him andunched a kick at him. In a low voice, Chen Jing growled, ¡°You idiot, we''re buying stuff from them, not robbing them.¡±

    ¡°Oh, alright. Um, g-great master, Mr. Monk person? That is¡­ have mercy on us sinners, in this, uh, cold and windy night¡­ that is, we are very cold and hungry. May we venture to ask great master monk, sir, if you would sell us something to eat? We have money. If¡­ if it''s not too much trouble, a few nkets will be nice too¡­ We can''t thank you enough.¡±

    Once Liu Er Niu stammered through his request, he looked back at Chen Jing. ¡°Boss, is this alright?¡±

    ¡°En, good.¡± Chen Jing nodded. He actually didn''t hold out much hope for anything. If he was the one under siege, he would not have bothered with people trying to negotiate things from him. However, since everyone had to wait around in the cold like this, time will pa.s.s very slowly indeed. They''ve already lost men and morale was at its lowest. If he couldn''t find a way to increase morale, they would really fail this mission, and possibly offend the Mingyu House.

    If that were to happen, the ughter Dog Gang would have no leg to stand on in the whole of six provinces. [Gumihou: Aww, I''m starting to feel sorry for these puppies.]

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 Chapter 128

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 128: The Bandit Cat

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    As expected, Liu Er Niu''s unusual request caused quite a shock to those hidden within the monastery. Surprise soon turned toughter: The kidnappers actually wanted to buy food from their victims? Isn''t this the weirdest thing ever? Surely nothing like this had ever happened before, right? Even the benevolent, non-judgemental monks had to smile at this.

    Afterughing herself sick, Su Nuan Nuan gave an order to one of the female servants, ¡°You go and yell back, tell them it''s five coppers per piece of bread, no negotiations. Take it or leave it.¡±

    The servant happily run toply. Everyone was more or less treating this like an borated y they were partaking in by now. She was about to reached the door when a young monk stepped forward to caution in a low voice, ¡°Madam. it''s better to be careful, let this humble one go instead.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded appreciatively. Privately, she thought: The monks of Pushan Temple aren''t quite as enlightened or clean living as other monks in this era. These guys seemed to enjoy money and certain worldlyforts. Nevertheless, the root of Buddha''s teachings and apa.s.sionate nature were all here. They even thought about other people''s lives even under these dire circ.u.mstances. Looks like the money donated to this temple was not wasted.

    As she was pondering over this, the young monk had gone over to the gate to yell out Su Nuan Nuan''s ¡®offer'', putting poor Liu Er Niu into a very difficult position. He turned and looked helplessly at Chen Jing, ¡°B¡­ boss, they¡­ they''ve given us a price. are you sure we really are going to spend money on¡­ bread?¡±

    ¡°Buy, of course we''re buying.¡±

    Chen Jing stamped his foot crossly. Matters had developed beyond his expectations, however one thing was clear. The thought of the unappetizing dried rations in his bag only made him more determined to beat these women at their own game. The fragrant smell was muddling his head. For a kidnapper like them to carry out this type of transaction with their victims, isn''t it just too ridiculous? But, then again, this could be seen as a trick or a strategy, right? Right. That''s right, the moment someonee out with the goods, we can nab them, and then interrogate them on the real situation inside. Humph, who then will question Chen Jing''s decision?

    The more Chen Jing thought about it, the more reasonable his n appeared. Whatever doubt he might have harboured had all but disappeared. He even puffed up his chest and held his head high as he thought: Wow, I''m clearly a genius. And look there, those people inside immediately went quiet after Liu Er Niu agreed to their terms.

    A short whileter, the same fragrant smell that had haunted them all evening waft into the air.

    ¡°Boss, boss¡­ they''re¡­ they''re really making it. They''re¡­ making the bread thing.¡± Liu Er Niu''s face became ‡å‡å as he stared at Chen Jing in shock. He thought: Isn''t this the most ridiculous, unreliable and silly kidnapping in the entire history of kidnappings? For the kidnapper to pay money to the victim for food is just, just¡­ just what kind of situation is this, ah? Won''t our reputation go down after this? No, no way. I don''t want to be remembered as one of the world''s most ridiculous kidnappers after a hundred, a thousand yearster, ah.

    ¡°Since they''re making it, good. Once it''s done, someone must bring the bread out. When that happens, we''ll grab that person immediately.¡± Chen Jing said fiercely. Then heughed sinisterly, ¡°Once we have that person in our hands, that bag of bread is ours for free as well. How lucky.¡±

    ¡°Boss, aren''t we here to kidnap someone?¡± Liu Er Niu wanted to cry. Where was his sharp minded boss? Has he been provoked so badly that he''s starting to lose his mind? To think that he''d be so happy over getting a bag of free bread.

    ¡°Nonsense, of course I haven''t forgotten.¡± Chen Jing felt a little embarra.s.sed about his glee. It''s not like he could help it, alright? He was d.a.m.ned hungry. When he first received the mission parameters, he thought that this job would not take them too long and there will be plenty of things to plunder from the Temple. Who would have thought that it turned out to be so full of twists and schemes? He kind of regretted ever taking up this troublesome mission.

    An hourter, someone from the inside yelled something. The first batch of 100 pieces of bread was done, money should be prepared for the exchange.

    ¡°How is it possible to make a hundred pieces of bread in so short a time? They can''t have a hundred woks and a hundred workers working at the same time, surely?¡± Liu Er Niu brought up this reasonable point, only to hear Chen Jing said, ¡°Who cares how they did it, more importantly, someone wille out of the monastery with it.¡±

    Liu Er Niu nodded carefully and yelled to inform those people that the money has been prepared. Nowes the time to make the exchange. They all widened their eyes, waiting to see who would appear. Under the dim moonlight, the lithe figure of a cat slunk out of the shadows and began padding towards them. Liu Er Niu muttered, ¡°Your mom, even cats want to make trouble for us. Of all the times for it to appear, why does it have to be now?¡±

    The cat moved very fast, when it got closer, Liu Er Niu finally noticed the pouch clutched in its mouth. He could see steam wafting off of it, and the smell¡­ Liu Er Niu''s eyes nearly dropped out of its socket. He pointed a trembling finger at the cat, ¡°B-boss, they¡­ they sent a cat out to¡­ to¡­¡±

    ¡°What the %^&*%^¡­¡±

    A whole string of curses fell from Chen Jing''s mouth. Liu Er Niu''s ire too began to bubble over. The two wordlessly stared as the cat bounded over with the bag in its mouth. It dropped the bag before them and waited expectantly. A wonderful smell wafted out of the bag.

    Chen Jing gritted his teeth, ¡°Whatever, we still have those hundred pieces of bread, once we''ve eaten our fill we¡­ wait¡­ one hundred¡­ pieces¡­?¡±

    It was then Liu Er Niu too noticed what was wrong. For a bag that was supposed to contain 100 pieces of bread, the thing carried by the cat was too small and light. When he opened the bag, well, Liu Er Niu did not faint right away, but it was a near thing. No wonder they could fit all 100 pieces of ¡®bread'' into such a small bag. Are these really¡­ bread? Aren''t these just the scorched pieces of rice sc.r.a.ped up from the bottom of a pot? It was much thinner than any pan-fried bread he had ever seen, and the wide of the circle was about half of an ordinary pan-fried bread.

    ¡°Profiteer, cheat, unscrupulous!¡± Liu Er Niu stomped about in rage, he was so angry he could not stay in ce. Which was probably why he did not notice the cat still sitting before them. After waiting a while it arched its back, fluffed up, and began to hiss.

    ¡°A curse on profiteers, a curse on cheaters, may they be struck by lightning. Those bunch of nannies¡­¡±

    Liu Er Niu continued to curse, he lunged at the cat, aiming to catch it. Whatever, whatever, so what if it''s not a human, they could still take their anger out on the cat. Once it''s dead, he will throw its mangled corpse back to those evil women and monks.

    All these thoughts shed through his head as he lunged forward. A shadow shed pa.s.sed him, and there was a strange pressure against his waist. When he turned to look, the pressure moved to his back, and he knew, just knew that the horrible ck cat had jumped onto his body.

    ¡°Your mom, a beast like you dare to bully me?¡± Liu Er Niu was p.i.s.sed off, he howled and clutched at his waist, but the cat had already climbed its way up his back and was now sinking its ws into his head. Liu Er Niu screamed in pain, he iled his arms and somehow managed to grab the cat. But the creature was like greased lightning, it somehow managed to twist out of his hands and jumped down to his shoulders. ws scratched up his face so badly that he felt warm liquid flowing into his eye. Clearly the creature had drawn blood.

    ¡°Ah¡­ ah¡­.¡±

    Liu Er Niu almost went crazy with rage. To think that he couldn''t even deal with a single measly cat. Second inmand aside, how was he supposed to raise his head to look at his brothers in the face?

    As for that Zhao Chai, a fierce creature who dared to fight the little marquis for food, what tricks hadn''t it employed against Duan Tingxuan? Do you think it was easy to go against that high level martial arts, Nuan Nuan''s support or no? Humph, what''s this stupid cow against a seasoned bandit cat like him?

    The ughter Dogs were all stunned as they watched their second inmand struggle against the cat. They were all so in shocked that they forgot to a.s.sist him. It wasn''t until Chen Jing rouse himself from his own shock and saw that his secondmand nearly dying by the cat''s paw that he finally yelled, ¡°Go and help, ah! What are you all standing there stupidly for?¡±

    It was then that they all rushed forward with a yell to a.s.sist their brother. A few of them could not help but cast slightly usative eyes at Chen Jing ¡®Boss, you are also one of those standing stupidly around, ah''. However, since Chen Jing was fairly smoking with anger, n.o.body dared to say anything. They all put on a serious face and rushed forward to help.

    Zhao Cai seemed to have realized that he had shaken up a ho''s nest, and, as a veteran of many battles against Duan Tingxuan, knew how to read the circ.u.mstances around him. His powerful survival instinct told him that it was time to leave. He leapt off Liu Er Niu''s back andnded on all fours on Chen Jing''s face. After leaving a few souvenirs (scratches) on hisnding pad''s face, Zhao Cai smoothly eeled down the man''s back, rolled onto his feet, and made a dash for the monastery gate.

    Immediately, two angry and reckless bandits chased after Zhao Cai. These two were swiftly captured, knocked out and trussed up very efficiently. Just like their other brothers. Fortunately, their captors were benevolent monks, and these trussed up bandits were given a few pieces of t Stone Cakes for their dinner. Apparently, the moral integrity and loyalty of these ughter Dogs could not hold out against the mouth-watering deliciousness of Su Nuan Nuan''s cooking.

    The fact that Zhao Cai did not manage to bring any money back from the sale of their t Stone Cakes was all within Su Nuan Nuan''s estimation. She had never intended for Zhao Cai to y any role in tonight''s drama, and this unexpected adaptation filled her with anxiety as she listened to the shouts and howls of the bandits outside. Therefore, when her beloved cat came in all smug and a little ruffled, she quickly hugged him against her chest, stroked his luxurious fur back in ce as she sang his praises. ¡°You did wonderfully, Zhao Cai. As expected of a cat trained by Duan Tingxuan. Even these bandits couldn''t escape your fierce ws. Once we''re back at the mansion, I shall reward you with lots of fish.¡±

    ¡°The little marquis¡­ trained this cat?¡±

    A young monk, clearly a visiting monk from his clothes, looked at this cat curiously, his eyes bright with the desire for gossip. Unfortunately, the abbot cleared his throat pointedly and the young monk retreated, slightly shamed by his curiosity. However, others had already p.r.i.c.ked up their ears, so Su Nuan Nuan smiled and said, ¡°Our lord likes to y with Zhao Cai whenever he has nothing to do at home. This cat is already pretty nimble with his feet, but he actually became even swifter and fiercer after their little games together. I jokingly called it training, but it''s just one of their little games.¡±

    The maids and servants all could not help themselves as they stared at her. Just when did the lord heir have nothing to do at home? Do you think we don''t know you''ve somehow managed to make the lord heir your coolie? As for training? You know that''s a cat, right? There are already five different rumours about Spring Breeze Court''s cat, you know? Each one is more amazing than thest.

    When the noise from the outside gradually went down Concubine Jing slipped closer to Su Nuan Nuan to whisper, ¡°Sister, do you think they''ll eat those bread?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? It''s fine if they ate it. It''s fine if they don''t eat it, they can starve for all I care.¡± Su Nuan Nuan smirked.

    Concubine Jing sighed disappointedly, ¡°Well, it will be nice if they eat it, then sister will be able to y that next trick on them. It might actually turn the tide for us.¡±

    Author White Peach Flower: Hahaha, Zhao Cai made an appearance here!! [Gumihou: Uwoooh, Nuan Nuan, what horrible n is brewing in your head? Also, it looks like ughter Dogs = 0, Bandit Cat = 1]

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 Chapter 129

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 129: The Attack Begins

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    ¡°Little sister, you can''t look down on these bandits, even though we managed to get the best of them a few times.¡± Su Nuan Nuan really doesn''t know whether tough or cry at this unexpected show of vehemence. Human beings are greedy creatures after all, even the calm and rational Concubine Jing was susceptible to this desire. Just a few hours ago she was worried about preserving her life, now that she has tasted sess, she wanted to capture all the bandits and delight in their misery.

    Concubine Jing blushed, and admitted, ¡°I really have gotten greedy, I know. But, after seeing how sister had so masterfully control the situation and causing those bandits to eat a loss every time excites me so much that I just can''t help it. Sister, you say that we shouldn''t look down on these bandits. I say, it''s fine to look down on them a little. How could a bunch of idiots like them ever be an opponent to someone like sister? The woman with a hundred strategies and a thousand tricks?¡±

    ¡°Little sister, are you praising me or setting me up for a loss?¡± Su Nuan Nuan thought that being described as someone with ¡®a hundred strategies and a thousand tricks'' was just too much of an exaggeration. At most, you can credit her for liking lightnovels a little too much in her previous life.

    ¡°Of course I''m being sincere.¡± Concubine Jing''sughter was like the tinkle of silver bells, under the dim light, her beauty was exceptionally alluring. So much so that Su Nuan Nuan had to quickly turn her head away, ¡°Please don''tugh at me, I have low self-esteem and could not bepared to women who are born beautiful and multi-talented.¡± [Gumihou: I nearly face nted at this remark]

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot.

    At this time, the ughter Dog Gang was currently studying the hundred pieces of t Stone Cake. Someone proposed to throw the whole lot away, after all, how could they eat anything given to them by the enemy? Have you forgotten how they had nned to poison the well before their nts were discovered?

    However, there were more people who were against this sensible approach: Before them were a hundred pieces of warm, fragrant thin biscuits¡­ so thin and so crispy, even before it reached their mouths, they could already imagine the crackle-crunch of its crisp, brittle texture. For these few dozen hungry, windblown, simple minded young men, it was undoubtedly a great temptation. Naturally, they have all kinds of reasons why they should eat those biscuits: Monks are merciful, benevolent people, so how could they poison the food? As for the women, they were here this morning to pray, so why on earth would they carry poison with them?

    Conclusion, the biscuits can''t be poisoned.

    As the two sides quarrelled endlessly, Chen Jing and Liu Er Niu looked on: This can''t go on, ah. To think that the enemy managed to cause internal strife within their gang with just a hundred pieces of thin biscuits. If they were toe up with some actual food, wouldn''t they have civil strife in their hands? They''re all members of the ughter Dog Gang, ah. How could they just fall apart just because of food? Isn''t it just too embarra.s.sing if someone were to find out?

    ¡°Alright, alright. Stop quarrelling. Those who want to eat may eat, the ones who are afraid of poison, just don''t eat. Why quarrel over such a small matter? Have you not shamed yourself enough?¡± Chen Jing snapped exasperatedly. The ones in favour of eating cheered, and rushed towards Liu Er Niu to grab the biscuits. They were halted by their second inmand''s re, who growled, ¡°Who says I''m not eating? Your mom, I''m really hungry, you know? I''d rather eat this then chew on those b.l.o.o.d.y rations. Now, line up! I''ll hand it out one by one.¡±

    At the sight of hisrades'' grinning faces, Chen Jing felt like the moral integrity of the ughter Dogs had been badly tarnished. It would be difficult to gather back whatever face they have already scattered. He sighed a long sigh, and knew that he had once more over thought matters and ended up egging his own face. Just look at this bunch of grinning faces lining up for bread, do they still look like elite members of Jianghu? They looked more like famine refugees lining up for porridge¡­

    As he sat listlessly next to the campfire, Chen Jing really hated the fact that he couldn''t pull all of these brothers down the mountain by their ears, away from all this craziness. This job was just too troublesome, whatever, anyone who wants to continue with the job may do so, he didn''t care anymore. Unfortunately, he couldn''t just give the order to just pack up and leave. After all, ever since the formation of the ughter Dog Gang, the one thing he had always emphasized was the Spirit of Loyalty. So, how could he just leave when he knew full well that a few of his brothers had been captured? He really couldn''t bring himself to say it, ah.

    He was still lost in thought when someone tugged at his sleeves. He turned and saw that it was Liu Er Niu, holding out three pieces of the thin biscuits. There were still crumbs sticking onto those grinning lips, ¡°Boss, do try some. They''re really f*cking delicious, ah. No wonder that An Ping heir''s wife is so famous for her cooking. Some even say that she is the reincarnation of the Food Deity. Look at this thing, though it looked ordinary, it''s super fragrant and crispy, it''s super dope. The brothers and I have eaten them, and we''re all fine. This is thest three pieces, I saved them just for you. Well? Aren''t this brother of yours loyal?¡±

    ¡°I know you''re the most loyal.¡± Chen Jing gave a bitter smile. He grabbed the three pieces of biscuits and ate them in three bites, before standing up. In a low voice, he said, ¡°Brothers, I don''t care anymore. Who cares what traps they have in there. We''re going in. Let''s rescue our brothers, grab that heir''s wife and make her cook for us. Come, let''s move out!¡±

    Grab the heir''s wife and make her cook for them. This clearly motivated them even more than money or getting into Mingyu House. The bandits all howled their ord and together they stormed the gates of the monastery.

    They were greeted by a young monk, standing all alone in the middle of the courtyard, his palms pressed together in prayer. The very air around him was as tranquil and peaceful as a senior monk, but his young features gave him a rather heroic bearing, especially when the wind obligingly picked up his robes and swirled them about dramatically. The effect was so great that the ughter Dog Gang actually halted their steps, as though they have encountered Buddha himself.

    ¡°Amitabha, does our dear benefactors enjoy the t cakes earlier?¡±

    The monk smiled, it was clearly a merciful and tender smile. However, for some reason, Chen Jing and Liu Er Niu found themselves covered in cold sweat and gooseb.u.mps sprouting all over their bodies. Not only them, even the bandits who had been fired up by the idea of making Nuan Nuan their personal cook had their me of pa.s.sion snuffed out. It was as though hail hade down on their parade, freezing them in their steps.

    ¡°Don''t be misled by those stinky monks! What can you do to biscuits that thin anyway?¡± Chen Jing yelled, but his feet refused to move. Even he never noticed that this was actually the nth time that his gang had been obstructed by something. Morale was an incredibly fragile thing. ording to the 5th-century military strategist Cao Gui[1], ''in the matter of soldier''s militant qi (morale), it will be roused at the first roll of drums, dwindles at the second, and exhausted at the third.'' This theory had been tested for thousands of years by numerous battles (and athletes), so, how could the ughter Dog Gang be any different? Therefore, though Chen Jing''s battle cry was just as loud and l.u.s.ty as ever, the gang members'' morale was already beyond saving.

    ¡°Whether or not we have yed a trick on you, why don''t my dear benefactors press down hard on the middle of your chest and find out?¡± the monk remained all smiles and looked perfectly calm, but his heart was thumping away rapidly: Could this trick of madam heir really work? If one were to press down onto the Tanzhong point[2], even if it didn''t injure them, it would still hurt, ah.

    As expected, Chen Jing and his ughter Dog Gang members still dare not bet with their lives. They thumped themselves hard on their chest. Though their general abilities varied, the gang members all have some skill with martial arts. Thus, their hands instinctively moved towards their Tanzhong point and thumped down. In an instant, screams of fright and pain filled the air. Sweat poured out of gang leader, Chen Jing''s, forehead as he tried to brace himself against the pain in his chest.

    Author White Pear Flower: En, en, how many people reading this t.i.tle chapter would have guessed this ending? Wahahaha! [Gumihou: ¡­Nuan Nuan is evil¡­ or should I say, White Pear Flower, you''re too evil, ah] [1] Military Strategist (a real one, lol) ¨C Cao Gui

    https://books.google.my/books?id=STOIDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA126&lpg=PA126&dq=military+theorist+cao+gui&source=bl&ots=EVnoXJq9gV&sig=ACfU3U1F-wRrDVhqUCKCOUgd1MqYgwqmJA&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiEi5Kw4-7oAhUeILcAHa92AhcQ6AEwAXoECAwQKQ#v=onepage&q=military%20theorist%20cao%20gui&f=false [2] Acupuncture Point ¨C Ren 17

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 Chapter 130

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 130: Melee

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    One could tell from military advisor Top Dog''s ability that the overall physical strength of the ughter Dog Gang was not low. However, their brain power was a littlecking. The main reason why Strong Zhang and his farmer friends were initiated in the first ce was due to their strong bodies and not so clever minds. The reason for having this kind of people in your gang was simple, the stupid are less likely to betray you once caught, especially if you indoctrinate them properly.

    With this level of brain power, further shaken by the devastating setbacks on what should have been a walk in the park mission, really caused him to doubt his own mind. As for the gang members, well, how could they have known that ''Anyone who pressed their Tanzhong point will feel pain''? As the saying goes ''The expert is the one in doubt'' and then there''s ''It''s darkest under themp[1]''. In other words, sometimes the most obvious trap gets the most victims. Moreover, the atmosphere of fear and doubt created by Su Nuan Nuan earlier was more than enough to scramble theirmon sense.

    Thus, with the ughter Dog gang members pretty much frightened out of their wits, Liu Er Niu stomp his feet furiously and howled, "Sly! Cunning! Those crafty, stinky monks are too cunning! If you have the gutse and fight us! How dare you poison us, too shameless! Oh, oh, oh! I don''t ept this, I refuse to ept this no matter what!"

    Hoho, listen to that, a little retaliation and already you''re talking about death?

    Chen Jing, too, looked gloomy. He said, "They say that Buddhist monks are merciful and benevolent, to think that you would sink so low as to poison people. Are you not afraid of being cast out by Buddha himself?"

    Upon Buddha''s name, we''ve actually pulled off the bluff.

    Heart hammering with emotion, but taking care not to show it on his face, this young monk meant to prove his worth at being chosen by Su Nuan Nuan for this critical task. He smiled benignly at Chen Jing, "Though Buddhism requires us to be merciful and benevolent, we are also granted the power to punish the wicked. Dear benefactors, you too should understand your own hearts best. The monks of this temple has an obligation to protect the An Ping household from being poisoned by yourself. Therefore this humble one''s conscience is clear, and is not afraid of punishment from Buddha."

    Chen Jing''s expression darkened. When he turned to look at his brothers-at-arms, he saw that their faces were deathly white, their eyes lifeless. It was already a great blow to be told that their food had been poisoned. However, to have even lost their moral high ground was a bigger blow and they did not even have the face to kneel and beg for forgiveness. Thus, they could only stand there awkwardly like a group of fools.

    Up to this point, Chen Jing had always tried to establish an air of righteousness within the ughter Dog Gang. It helped that the deeds they had done were in line with this thought. Though it was not easy to im righteousness in every instant, he managed to pa.s.s off some innocent blood as coteral damage towards a greater good. This unorthodox method caused his gang to rise up quickly with strong members and high moral sense. Theck of doubt and a feeling of righteousness was the reason members remained loyal to the group.

    Perhaps sess and self-satisfaction had made himcent, he''d thought that the reason why his group had stagnant within the Jianghudder of sess was because of ack of opportunity. He had always imagined that one day, their group would be given an important mission, pull it off with flying sess, and gain recognition from all six southern provinces, perhaps even from the great Martial Arts sector. And from then on, the ughter Dogs would grow from strength to strength.

    Instead, what had begun as a simple mission had inevitably shaken out the weak foundation of their gang, showing the true face of the ughter Dogs. A group of sloppily put together men, a pile of mud so useless that it can''t even stick to the wall[2]. This earth shattering knowledge depressed Chen Jing so much that he could only smile bitterly at the monk and said, "Let me guess, you have the antidote, right?"

    "But, of course."

    The monk smiled gently. But a sense of unease was rising within him. It turned out that his instincts were on point. Chen Jing suddenly turned to hisrades and roared, "Brothers! Are you thinking that you will live just because you kneel before them for the antidote?"

    For a moment, no one answer. In fact, everyone was actually thinking this when Liu Er Niu, a slightly more experienced bandit understood Chen Jing''s meaning. He howled, "How could it be? We''re the bad guys. We''re here to kidnap the An Ping house'' people, and that''s a death penalty crime. Even if they give us the antidote, what kind of ending will we get once they captured us?"

    The ughter Dog members were stunned, but then the creaky wheels in their mind began to turn: That''s right, ah. Even if they give us the antidote, would we actually leave this ce alive? Those people are full of tricks, still daring to try and make us hand ourselves in for the ughter? Once captured, we''ll be tortured for information. Rather than being tortured to death, let''s die as free men and take a few of them down with us.

    In an instant, the ughter Dog gang, which had been wilting like frost stricken eggnts immediately stood up straight. Liu Er Niu howled, "Boss, give us yourmands. We have followed you all these years, ate the best meats, drank best wines and enjoyed the favours of beautiful mistresses enough tost us a lifetime. Ever since we joined the ughter Dogs, our lives are no longer our own. Heh heh! We''re not afraid to die, let''s be brothers again 20 yearster."

    "Good bro!"

    Chen Jing himself was inspired by the rousing enthusiasm of hisrades. He sneered at the monk. With an audible [Shing] he withdrew his sword and yelled, "Brothers, let''s destroy them. Let''s choke the antidote out of them. Attack!"

    The ughter Dogs howled as they rushed forward. The people who had been watching the show interestedly became rmed. Su Nuan Nuan''s lips pulled to a bitter smile as she shook her head, "These idiots. To think that they still retain some brains in their head. How hateful, ah. To think ourst trick didn''t work, well, we can only me them for being too stupid. If they have a few more braincells to rub together, they would have tried to tease the antidote out of us and just run away from this ce. Well, I say we''re finished, we''ve just smashed our feet with a rock we''ve picked up[3]."

    "Madam, please stop mumbling to yourself, what should we do now?" Concubine Jing urged. Su Nuan Nuan spread out her hands helplessly and said, "What is there to do? We''ve already reached this point, we can only depend on heaven''s will."

    She was still speaking when all the martial monks rushed out. The change in them was just as rapid as the one that came over the bandits just now, a fierce glint shed in their eyes as they rushed forward to help theirrade.

    The ughter Dog Gang had helped many people into power, and their martial strength was not low. There were only a dozen over martial monks in the temple, and the fight soon descended into a huge melee. Even though Su Nuan Nuan did not understand martial arts or fighting formation, she could see that their side was not doing well. She drew in a deep breath, hefted arge rolling pin and screamed, "We''re all going to die if this goes on. Let''s back the masters up and bash these good for nothings to pieces. Don''t wait for death, fight to live!"

    Without wasting another word, she dropped Zhao Cai to the floor and charged into the melee. Concubine Jing felt like she had lost consciousness for a moment. It was as though she had blinked, and then lost the best time to hold Su Nuan Nuan back. Face deathly pale, she turned desperately to the servants and shouted, "What are you waiting for? Of anything happens to the first madam, this will be thest day you breath. The lord heir will never let you off. What''s more, would any of you have the the face to look first madam in the eye?"

    Her words seemed to shake them out their nightmare. Everyone left within the temple were all An Ping ves and servants. People that were most likely to s.n.a.t.c.h any advantage in to climb the socialdder. They were also the type to look out for number one. However, with Su Nuan Nuan as an example, and Concubine Jing''s sudden unexpectedmanding tone, these cowardly, selfish servants were all triggered into action the moment they saw Su Nuan Nuan rushing into trouble. After all, if any of them stayed back because of cowardice, they will definitely be executed by the lord heirter.

    The dozens over female servants, maids, boy servants and senior male servants shook themselves, grabbed whatever weapon within reach, rolling pins, bits of st.u.r.dy sticks and charged after their reckless mistress. Naturally, there were a few cowardly ones who dared note out. Those tucked themselves into hidden corners and shivered uncontrobly, thinking that if everyone died, they could still throw themselves at the feet of the bandits and begged for their lives. Even if they ended up suffering a hard life, surely that''s still better than dying, right?

    Following the so-called ''Beat the master during the confusion'' concept, the servants all ran out helter skelter, their screams high pitched with fear as they swung their weapons about randomly. They smash their sticks and rolling pins at anyone that got into range, whether friend or foe.

    As for the ughter Dog Gang, they had no problem ughtering monks as they were killers already psyched up for the job. But, when the female servants and young maids rushed out with their tear stained faces, even these hardened bandits could not bring themselves to attack them. As for the older female servants, how could anyone be evil enough to attack women old enough to remind them of their old mothers, ah. For a moment, the fierce ughter Dog Gang''s resolved was shaken up by these group of women and half grown children.

    Su Nuan Nuan had also rushed out with the resolved to die. However, when she spotted the enemy''s resolve faltering, how could she let go of this chance to stick a spoke into their wheel? Though she had tried to learn kungfu from Duan Tingxuan this past half a year, her horse stance was not quite as stable as it should be. However, she had still managed to learn a few fancy moves, surely she had to be better than the cat at least, right?

    Luckily, the moves Duan Tingxuan taught her was just perfect for this kind of melee fight. Moreover, the purpose of those bandits were to capture her alive, and therefore none dared to use any killing moves, allowing her the chance to attack. Like a fierce tigress, her rolling pin swung left, right and bashed about until the nearby ughter Dog''s noses were broken and their faces ck and blue with bruises.

    Zhao Cai backed Su Nuan Nuan up as her personal little swordscat, his ws shing like miniature knives. Who knows whether this cat really recognised his own name, or was just taking his cue from Nuan Nuan and took advantage of the enemy''s momentary weakness. Perhaps he was angry at not receiving payment after handing over the bread and was now taking out his anger in this melee to seek revenge upon these ''Eat and run'' customers. His w attacks were particrly vicious, no less fierce than Su Nuan Nuan''s rolling pin. Any ughter Dog attacked by him were left with a scarred face, some nearly lose their eyeb.a.l.l.s, all were left rolling on the ground screaming in pain. This created even more confusion on the bandit''s side.

    Naturally, while the bandits were reluctant to raise their hand against Su Nuan Nuan, they had no suchpunction against Zhao Cai. However, that cat was just too slick and fast for them. As the bandits tripped over their own feet trying to catch the cat, Zhao Cai merely swam about among the fighters, dealing w attacks about as casually as you pleased.

    Chen Jing looked at the people fighting around him, and knew that things can''t go on like this. Nearly the entirety of the ughter Dog Gang turned up for this mission, but they still can''t take down a group of women and monks? Losing one''s reputation was, but a small issue, if things went on any longer, they might lose even their lives at this rate. In the end, he was a leader responsible for a number of men''s lives. In a desperate moment, he finally identified the problem and shouted, "Brothers! We only need those two women. ughter the rest!"

    The ughter Dog Gang was shocked. Though they were fierce bandits, until now their victims were mainly corrupt officials, Little Napoleon government officials, and rich dandies making the lives of themon people miserable. They had neverid a hand against a bunch of unarmed and defenceless women, and were very disturbed by the order, ah.

    Oh, but wait. These women aren''t defenceless or unarmed at all. They were strong enough to force a group of fierce men with swords into a corner. This was a life or death situation after all, either they die or those women die. Do they really want to throw away their lives for that ambiguous thing called conscience? Are they bandits or monks? [Gumihou: This is so exciting!] [1] Darkest under themp ¨C See picture

    There''s even a song by the same name ŸôÏÂºÚ

    https://.youtube/watch?v=kjWmrXqa1D0 [2] Mud so useless that it can''t even stick to the wall ¨C Chinese idiom for incredibly useless.

    Another of my favourite is ''A pig that doesn''t even yield grease also Chinese for incredibly useless, since pigs are generally useless for anything aside from being walking organic garbage disposals and being food. What use is a thin pig after all? [3] Smashed your own feet with a rock you picked up ¨C When your n backfired on you

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 Chapter 131

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 131: The Calvary Arrives

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    When their thoughts reached this point, the ughter Dog Gang picked up their motivation again and were about to sh people up in all four directions when-

    "Charge! Get every single bandits!"

    The motivation the ughter Dog Gang had gotten hold of earlier dribbled out of their hands like water. They turned their fearful gaze towards the courtyard door, and saw a dozen people poured in, lead by a heroic looking young man. The young man must have been shocked by what he had seen. He suddenly stopped, and stood stock still right in the middle of the courtyard. It was not clear whether he was the one who gave themand just now. Looking at the way he just stood in the middle of the courtyard like a lost goose, probably not. So, who was the real leader?

    Second Young Master Duan looked nkly around the courtyard at the remnants of the ''battle''. The thing mesmerized him with horror was a single woman sting through the fierce bandits like a hot knife through b.u.t.ter. It was none other than the most feared and most loved sister-inw who could basically turn regr metal into gold. Though he already knew that Su Nuan Nuan was a fierce, violent, shrewish woman, he never thought she was THIS fierce. The sight of her bashing arge group of bandits w.i.l.l.y nilly with a rolling pin would never leave Second Young Master Duan''s mind.

    While he was busy nking out, a figure flew past him. Second Young Master Duan thought he was seeing things. He blinked and the number of bandits still standing had been reduced by more than half, the area around Su Nuan Nuan was conspicuously empty. Another blink and he thought: Oh heavens, when did elder brother arrived? Weren''t he at the East Pce with the crown prince? It can''t be that he''d just dumped the crown prince the moment he heard that Duan Tingye was on his way to a.s.sist sister-inw, right? No matter how much you favour sister-inw, you''re still a court official of the country, you know? How could you do something so selfish?

    "Duan Tingxuan?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was so surprised that she stopped swinging her stick around. No matter what, she was still a woman with barely any martial arts training. Gasping for breath, she looked nkly at her rescuer. She hadn''t actually managed to spot the moment when he arrived, he was basically like a destructive shadow, mowing down the bandits like a scythe through wheat. Yes, there was no doubt about it, this was Duan Tingxuan. That nominal husband of hers who seemed to do nothing but trip over cats and lounging around waiting to be fed of the time, was actually a powerful and efficient little marquis.

    Though Duan Tingxuan made a habit of stealing food and appeared to be careless and indolent most of the time, when push came to shove, he was incredibly reliable in a crisis. Without bothering to negotiate or speak to anyone, he proceeded to ruthlessly beat up or outright kill. It was a testament to his skill that he managed to do all of this without shedding blood. Not that he was at all concerned about staining holy ground with blood, but he did not want Su Nuan Nuan to see him with his hands covered in blood. Therefore, instead of a sword, his weapon of choice today was a fan, which became an invincible weapon that seemed to literally sweep the enemies away.

    Duan Tingxuan only put away his fan when not a single bandit remained standing. He finally turned to look at his wife, who had stayed where she was when he had arrived to her rescue, rolling pin still clutched firmly in her hand. She looked majestic and heroic, her posture straight and tall as she surveyed the scene before her. There was no a single line of defeat in her stance. She stood like a heroine from the ancient stories, like a general in a battle field. However, her eyes betrayed her true feelings.

    A warm feeling welled up within the little marquis'' heart. From the moment he''d received information about the bandits, his heart had frozen over with fear. It only came back to life now that he knew Su Nuan Nuan was safe. It took him less than three strides to reach her. Without a care for the eyes on them, he pulled his beloved wife into a tight embrace, his voice trembled, "Nuan Nuan, you¡­ you really scared me."

    "You''re the one who scared me." Su Nuan Nuan muttered absent mindedly, clearly still in some kind of shock.

    "It''s alright now, everything is alright. There''s no need to be afraid, husband is here now and will never let you be hurt again." Duan Tingxuan a.s.sumed that his wife must have suffered some kind of incredible scare and was doing his best to rea.s.sure her. "There, there, no need to be afraid."

    "Who''s scared? If I''m really scared do you think I''ll be able tost until now?" she looked past her husband''s shoulders to the stupefied servants and the praying monks. When she caught sight of Second Young Master Duan, who was currently looking anywhere but at their direction and discreetly coughing into his fist, she frowned and though: It''s one thing to be a thick face foodie, she was thest person to judge someone like that, but this? She pushed Duan Tingxuan away and frowned at him, "What are you doing here? What''s the crown prince''s situation?"

    "The crown prince is fine." this time, it was Duan Tingxuan who frowned. "I''ll tell you the detailster, but Nuan Nuan, what about yourself? Are you hurt? Let me look at you."

    Because of the adrenaline high, Nuan Nuan only thought about caving in skulls and beating the bandits up. At the very least, she was not going to make it easy for them to take her second chance at life away. It was only at Duan Tingxuan''s prompting that she finally felt the aches and pains on her back and arms.

    Naturally, Duan Tingxuan immediately spotted her difort and his face became so gloomy that it looked like he might cry any moment. Su Nuan Nuan''s back and arms were covered with thin strips that were beginning to swell. It was likely that the bandits had struck her with the back of their swords to try and subdue her, Duan Tingxuan dared not think what the result could have been if the enemy had wanted Su Nuan Nuan dead¡­ the terrible fear that came with this thought nearly choked him up once more.

    "Amitabha, Lord Heir Duan please be at ease. The madam did not suffer any major injuries. This humble one have treated the injuries with ointment for bruises. Madam''s injuries should disappear in a day or two."

    The abbot of the temple had no martial skills, however, in order to protect the servants of the An Ping household, he too rushed out of the rear court to fight against the bandits. Perhaps it was thanks to the karma he had .u.mted through prayers and meditation everyday in his long life, but he managed to survive the encounter. When he saw Duan Tingxuan looking anxiously over Su Nuan Nuan''s injuries, he limped over to rea.s.sure the little marquis.

    "Thank you great master for your trouble." Duan Tingxuan immediately thanked the the abbot. He was not an unreasonable man after all, and though the matter had happened at Pushan Temple, nearly half of his family would have died or kidnapped if the temple monks had not offered their shelter and a.s.sistance. No matter how strong or powerful he was, without them to buy time and give a.s.sistance, it would have been impossible to save anyone.

    He cast his eyes around and noticed the eyes of the the An Ping servants looking up at him dazedly. They were suffering from a triple hit shock. It was already traumatizing enough to dash out after their reckless mistress into a fight for their life situation, then the lord heir had arrived, as though out of thin air, and started his killing spree. From the timing of his arrival, they could hardly imagine just what kind of strange power the lord heir must have possessed in order to arrive so quickly and still have the energy to dispatch a group of people so easily.

    It was only Duan Tingye, who hated him like an old enemy, and Su Nuan Nuan, with her nearly telepathic intuition, who could understand what drove the little marquis to push himself to this level.

    The servants, however, only saw an incredibly powerful and scary master. Who among them weren''t a little frightened?

    When Duan Tingxuan''s eyes fell upon them, shivers ran down their backs, and they all automatically fell upon their knees. Some of them were finally conscious enough of their own mind to shed tears from the horror of it all. Even more had to step on their desire to scream ''Lord heir!'' and threw themselves at his feet, already wondering what kind of major credit or punishment they might get out of this event.

    Their thoughts were interrupted by Duan Tingxuan''s mild, "It''s been a hard on everyone, it''s good that you all made it alive, otherwise I''d have a hard time exining your fate to your family."

    A warm feeling bloomed through the hearts of all the servants at these words. Duan Tingxuan then looked towards Duan Tingye and said, "Second brother, gather those bandits together. The Imperial Army will be here soon. Just hand the lot over to them when they arrived."

    "Oh, alright." Duan Tingye finally recovered some of his senses enough to reply. Privately he thought, why do I have to do this? I''m not the one in charge of this matter, you know? I''m only the guy nominated by grandma to lead all these people here, alright? I''ve never handled official matters like this.

    Also, since you''re the oldest AND an actual court official, surely you should be in charge?

    Author White Pear Flower: Ou! It''s time for the little marquis to disy some dog blood drama! [Gumihou: Just¡­ how did everything go from DEATH!!! To dog blood drama, ah, ah, ah!]

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 Chapter 132

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 132: Deep Love Confession (Part 1)

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Though he had a belly full ofints, a nce at Duan Tingxuan told Second Young Master Duan what his brother nned to do. The hero wanted tofort his wife, and therefore pa.s.sed off his responsibilities to Duan Tingye. Treacherous, too b.l.o.o.d.y treacherous! Abusing public position for private interest! Don''t know where priority lies! Crooked brother, crooked official¡­

    Second Young Master Duan continued to curse privately in his heart, but dared not waste anymore time. He ordered his people to gather up the bandits to one spot. To be honest, it was not a really difficult job. The ughter Dog Gang were a fierce group, and were not likely to sit around and let themselves be bundled up just like that. However, even though their hearts protested, their limbs refused to obey them. Duan Tingxuan''s folding fan had mercilessly struck precise areas at joints and acupuncture points, causing no fatal wounds, but leaving them whimpering in such extreme pain that they were unable to get up.

    It was quite surreal to see these fierce bandits rolled up into a row of whimpering dumplings right next to the wall. The Pushan Temple monks and An Ping household servants could finally breathe a sigh of relief at the sight of these bandits being so obviously subdued. The monks were taking it quite well, all things considered, especially for a group of people who devoted themselves to prayers and meditation. Though their hearts were not quite as tranquil after such an event, they still managed to maintain a serene expression as they dealt with the aftermath of the event. Floors had to be swept, broken things moved away and other daily duties attended to. Thus, aside from the temple abbot and a few other high level monks, the rest have gone away to busy themselves with work.

    However, things were a bit different for the marquis household servants. From what the lord heir had said, everyone knew that once back at the mansion, they could expect to receive some silver teals for their pains. A low hum of chatter could be heard as they whispered excitedly to each other. It was just then that a few female servants began to emerge from various hidden corners. Their heads lowered and their general demeanour miserable as they slowly approached the excited group ofdies. Everyone went quiet as they watched this gloomy group: They knew immediately that this was the bunch of cowards who had hidden themselves away while the rest of them risk their lives beside first madam. They chose this time to appear while the lord heir was busyforting and pampering the first madam, hoping to mix in with the group and go unnoticed by the master.

    However, who in their right mind would let these cowards take credit for no good reason? As the ones who had bravely charged forward despite their own fear, how could they not despise these cowardly creatures trying to mix in with them? What if, for argument''s sake, they themselves were pulled into this coward''s group and was tarnished by the same brush? Who wouldpensate them?

    Thus, as the group crept closer, the rest stood up and moved away on their own ord. One of the more vocal and aggressive female servants snapped, ¡°All of you vanished when we were fighting for our livea. What were you doing at that time, huh? Trying to save your own skin by defecting over to the other side? Now that the lord heir is here, you''re scared of punishment?¡±

    The faces of those people went white. They had always acted ording to how the wind blew and did their best not to offend anyone. Therefore, even if they had identally offended someone, their presence were normally so insignificant that the offended side couldn''t be bothered to punish them. However, the current situation was different. The people here have basically earned this reward by risking their life. Who in the world would share this reward with a bunch of cowards who hid themselves away during a crisis?

    Naturally, the loud voices soon draw Duan Tingxuan''s attention. He did not bother to ask questions but continued to listen as the servants argued and quarrelled among themselves. The little marquis soon understood what was going on. There was an ugly expression on his face as he came over, Su Nuan Nuan pulled along by the hand behind him. In a serious voice, he said, ¡°You there, all of you. When even the first madam has thrown her life on the line, you have hidden yourselves. What were you thinking then?¡±

    ¡°Master, please spare this one''s lives, ah. This lowly one is¡­ we were just¡­ frightened¡­¡±

    The cowardly female servants all fell on their knees. They were literally shaking with fear, tears fell freely, mixing with their snot to create a rather pathetic scene. This time, they dared not quibble with the facts. But they dared not admit anything, their sentences left hanging as they continued to cry and struck their foreheads on the ground. ¡°This lowly one is wrong. This lowly one will never dare anymore. May the lord heir please have mercy, ah¡­¡±

    ¡°Tingye, you round up these ves. Once we''re back at the mansion, just beat them to death.¡± Duan Tingxuan coldly threw down thismand, causing Su Nuan Nuan to widen her eyes in shock. She stared at him half disbelievingly. For a moment, this familiar person beside her suddenly felt like aplete stranger. Her flesh grew cold at hisck of mercy.

    However, everyone else around her, Duan Tingye, the other servants and even Concubine Jing did not find this abnormal. In fact, it was as though they had expected this oue. After all, they were not punished because of their cowardly nature. They were punished because of their possible betrayal. By abandoning their mistress and hiding themselves, they have disyed a desire to betray their masters and join the enemy camp. If any such disloyalty was discovered within the mansion of An Ping, death was the only punishment. This was to protect the prestige and reputation of the An Ping household. After all, one disloyal ve was worse than facing a hundred a.s.sa.s.sins from outside.

    Therefore, the moment Duan Tingye answered his brother''smand, several loyal maids leapt up to grab the sleeves of these disloyal servants, excitement sparkling in their eyes. It was human nature after all. They had just disyed utmost loyalty to Su Nuan Nuan by hurling themselves after her into the jaws of death. It was only right that they swiftly dealt with their own disloyal fellow servants harshly. There was no mercy in their eyes as they red fiercely at the cowardly maids.

    ¡°Hold it.¡± Su Nuan Nuan could not stand it anymore and just had to say something. However, Duan Tingxuan quickly cut her off, saying, ¡°Nuan Nuan, you''ve just had a shock. There''s no need for you to bother yourself with this matter. Let''s go, we''ll speak inside.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan had no intention of going inside to speak, she wanted to say her piece now. However, when she caught sight of Duan Tingxuan''s gaze, which seemed as deep as the seas, containing infinite amount of affection¡­ she knew somehow that this was not a warning tone. This sc.u.m really thought he was doing something in her favour.

    The pale face servants were quickly bundled away, even as Su Nuan Nuan was purposefully escorted by Duan Tingxuan into one of the private rooms. Su Nuan Nuan decided to dismiss her initial questions of how Duan Tingxuan managed to arrive so quickly and pulled his sleeves to say something else instead, ¡°It''s normal for people to be afraid of death. Even though those maids did note out to fight, surely there''s no need to beat them to death. Duan Tingxuan, you can''t just sentence people to death like this.¡±

    Duan Tingxuan looked at her earnestly. In a gentle voice, he said, ¡°Nuan Nuan, you must understand, they are punished not because of their cowardice, they are punished because of their intention to betray their masters to the enemy.¡±

    ¡°Surely there''s no need to sentence someone to death over this?¡± Su Nuan Nuan persisted. ¡°An eternity of hardship to end in death, how sad is Madam Xi? Madam Xi remarried to King Chu Wen, for the king to defend her.[1] Those women are servants, you and everyone else always point out their humble origins, and yet expect them to act like n.o.bles when their lives are in danger. Isn''t it quite unfair when not many true n.o.ble borndies could look death in the eye and die n.o.bly?

    Duan Tingxuan went quiet for a long time, before saying in a soft voice, ¡°Nuan Nuan, who are you exactly?¡±

    The words were gently said, if others were to hear, they might not catch the full meaning of it. However, to Su Nuan Nuan''s ears, they might as well be a thunderp. Her heart began to pound wildly and she stared up stubbornly, wordlessly at Duan Tingxuan, determined not to let out even a shred of weakness.

    As they continued to stare at each other, Su Nuan Nuan''s stubbornness eventually reduced to helplessness: Heheh, looks like she did not have the abilities of senior transmigrators, ah. She was someone who could not live without good food, which was why she had carelessly created so many of those fancy dishes. However, even if she could refrain from delicious food, there was no way she could hide the fact that she was a transmigrator. Leaving aside the fact that she had transmigrated partway into someone else''s life, even if she hade to this world as a baby, she would not be able to change the fact that she had 10, 20 years of education, culture and knowledge seeped into her very bones and spirits.

    This Duan Tingxuan was just too treacherous and cunning. It''s possible he had suspected something right from the start, and had only held off questioning her for some reason. However, if you want to y ignorant, just go all the way, ah. Those are just some random servants, aren''t they? Surely you can just let them go without me touching your bottom line?

    ¡°If you''re not willing to say, I shall not press you.¡± Duan Tingxuan smiled suddenly. He raised a hand and smoothed down Su Nuan Nuan''s hair, which had gotten a bit wild from the fight earlier. Then, he tucked her back into his arms and whispered, ¡°You only need to know, that I like you. I really, truly like you from the bottom of my hear. Nuan Nuan, I don''t care if you''re a ghost, a demon spirit or the devil. In my heart, you''re only my Nuan Nuan. I thank the Heavens that you''ve found your way to my side. In my 23 years of life, you are the greatest, most precious treasure in my life.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan stiffened, to be given such a big confession after knowing that her status as a transmigrator had been discovered was too much of a shock. Furthermore, it was such a spicy confession too. Finally, unable to think of a proper response, she could only mumble, ¡°But, Duan Tingxuan, I can''t love you, I can''t.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡±

    Duan Tingxuan sighed. Although he did not want to think too deeply about Su Nuan Nuan''s possible origin, he could at least glean some understanding of what her life might have been like. At the very least, there was a deep cultural divide between her world and this one. He knew that as long as he has three wives and four concubines, she would never fully give herself to him.

    As for Duan Tingxuan, it was impossible for him to devote himself fully, no, it was not that it''s impossible, but he could not do so. His wives and concubines might have the odd quirks here and there, but he had married these pure and innocentdies with the promise to love and provide for them for life. The selfish love brewing in his heart devoted to Nuan Nuan was already an unfair thing to his other wives and concubines. How could he just divorce them for no reason and kick them out, thereby ruining their reputation when he was the one in the wrong? It was not something he could ever do, even at hisst breath.

    ¡°I see, this is good news for me.¡±

    After breathing a soft sigh, the little marquis finally let go of Su Nuan Nuan. He smiled, he sounded incredibly happy for someone who had been given a rejection. Which made Su Nuan Nuan suspicious. Could my rejection had made this male s.l.u.t lost his mind? Please, G.o.d, no. If I happen to make this talented man into an idiot, I would bebelled as a sinner forever.

    ¡°Be at ease, I have not gone crazy.¡± Duan Tingxuan could tell from his wife''s suspicious eyes just what she was thinking and really did not know whether tough or cry. He sighed again, and gave a bitter smile, ¡°You''ve just said, you ¡®can''t love me''. Not ¡®you don''t love me''. So, I still have a chance, right? No matter how many years might pa.s.s, Nuan Nuan, I will wait for that chance.¡±

    ¡°So, it turns out that you''re the easy to please type, is it?¡± Su Nuan Nuan was impressed. In the past, she had really looked down on Duan Tingxuan''s moralpa.s.s, hadn''t she? To think that this l.u.s.ty, fickle man-s.l.u.t could actually make this kind of deration. Was he actually a great sage?

    This was too horrifying. Su Nuan Nuan really couldn''t believe what she was seeing and hearing now. Rather than her senses being wrong, it was most likely that this Duan Tingxuan actually has double personality disorder.

    Author White Pear Flower: These past two days I''ve been feeling rather weak and fragile, and had no mood to write. I thought I must''ve worn myself out somehow, it was only after mother looked at me this morning and told me that, ¡°You have caught a cold.¡±

    Wu! Looks like mother is right. Although I don''t have a headache, but my nose is itchy all the time. So, that''s a cold? To think I''m actually so stupid? [Gumihou: ¡­ my vote is for the double personality disorder. Alo, White Pear Flower is so cute.] [1] The Madam Xi idiom ¨C I can only find Chinese sources, and there''s a very dog blood drama behind it. Very long and involved, there was betrayal, bride s.n.a.t.c.hing (of sort) ML falling in love with FL first (only to find out her story after two kids and a year of silence). ML decides to wage war against the country that caused her to lose her first husband, and yeah, basically another small novel at least.

    If you guys are really interested, I''ll try to track down the mostplete story (there are several versions) and trante it for you.

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 Chapter 133

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 133: As Long As You''re Alive

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    "I am not at all content, ah." Duan Tingxuan said sorrowfully. "Appet.i.te and l.u.s.t are the most basic of desires. Even the sages said that l.u.s.t and appet.i.te are simrly important. You''re my wife, but you won''t let me near your *cough, cough* body no matter how well I treated you. So, I asked myself, was there something undesirable about me that you absolutely could not tolerate? No matter what kind of person you might have been, surely you couldn''t have objected to a man of high status and talent, good family background and intelligence? Moreover, I do believe we got along quite well, except, no matter how good the chemistry became, you''ve always slipped away like a fish at crucial moments. No, not like a fish, more like a tigress. Every time we got too close, you would kick this lord away like an unwanted cub."

    The more the little marquis spoke, the more miserable he sounded. Su Nuan Nuan frantically pped her hand to stop him. "Stop it, stop it now. Let me ask you, you have you your suspicion all this while, why chose today to confront me?"

    Duan Tingxuan''s exaggerated miserable face slowly disappeared, leaving a serious look behind. As Su Nuan Nuan watched that handsome face, she could detect a trace of fear within those peach blossom eyes and thought she understood the man a little.

    As if to prove her right, Duan Tingxuan said solemnly, "Why today, you asked. Because today I almost lost you. When I heard that Pushan Temple had been attacked by bandits, I nearly copsed. Why do you think the crown prince let me leave at this crucial time. It''s because I''m very nearly useless at the East Pce. I grabbed their fastest horse and made it here in less than two hours, but it was the longest, most painful hours of my life. I dared not think about what might happened to you, but my brain just¡­ I kept seeing you lying in a pool of blood. Nuan Nuan, I nearly went crazy.

    That was when I realized that what I want is not a mere physical rtionship. As long as you''re beside me, I''m happy. The most important thing for me is for you to be alive. So, what if you''re injured or scarred, if your face was destroyed or if you lost your mind, it''s all fine as long as you''re alive. That way, I could still be there to treat you well, and that''s enough for me."

    "Wait, wait, wait, enough with the scarring, and injuring and me going crazy. Can you please not think up so many unlucky things about me, ah?"

    Su Nuan Nuan was so angry that she shook her little fist at him. Her eyes bright with life as she red at him: How hateful, this Duan Tingxuan is just too cunning. To think that he could actually spout such dog blood sentiments without batting an eye, humph! He sure knows how to shake a woman''s heart. Su Nuan Nuan, you better not be taken in by such sweet talk. Stay strong, you should have some immunity against such sweet talking after all those dog blood dramas you watched.

    "Of course, I never thought you''d be so tough. To think that you could actually hold of nearly a hundred over bandits with just a dozen over martial monks on your side until the cavalry appears." Duan Tingxuan had always known that his wife has a strong character. If she actually broke down and cried at his touching words, he knew that she would definitely take it out of his hideter when they got back. For some reason, that thought made him even more emotional, so much so that he nearly teared up. Better change the subject now.

    "These bandits are way too inferior to you, tsk, tsk tsk. You''ve basically just blown them all away the moment you arrived." Su Nuan Nuan pursed her lips as she nced around at miserable state of the ughter Dogs. They were in too much in pain toment.

    "What are you joking about? This lord nearly lost all reasoning trying to get here in time. It was only the sight of your magnificent presence that this lord managed to recover in time to not kill every single one of these bandits. Even then, it was relief at seeing you well that the fire in this lord''s belly dissipated enough to just incapacitate them. Now that you know your lord has always yielded to you, you must know how much this lord favours and indulges you."

    "En." Su Nuan Nuan narrowed her eyes in an approximation of a cat''s smile. While her husband tried to hide his tion, she broke his bubble of happiness by saying, "You''re right, these bandits are much too inferior to me. If it weren''t for my pity towards them, they would not have gotten this far. If they are anything like you, all I have to do is get the maids, servants and monks to help me cook up something good to appease them."

    "You really do think I''m an incurable foodie who would do anything for food." Duan Tingxuan sneered, trying to show that he was a man who could stay calm in the face of temptation. If he were to drool at the sight of pickled vegetables, fish and meat hotpot, that was his own business. He must never let Su Nuan Nuan see this side of him.

    Author White Pear Blossom: En, isn''t it an incredibly moving love confession? To be honest, I''m not toofortable about writing such touching scenes. [Gumihou: This chapter is only 2 pages long. Lol, I''m disappointed too. Next b.u.t.ton!]

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 Chapter 134

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 134: Familiarity Breeds Contempt

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    ¡°Duan Tingxuan, you may give whatever excuse you like. Call me bossy and domineering. Say that I pester you endlessly, whatever, I don''t care. It''s true that those women wanted to live. It''s not wrong to think that way, is there anyone in this world who really wants to die? Even if they wanted to throw their lot with the enemy to survive, that''s not wrong either. They''re just ves, it''s not like they could do anything too treasonous to the country.¡±

    Since it looked like the soft touch wasn''t working, Su Nuan Nuan stuck her hands to her waist and threw out her best violent shrew impression. This little marquis was normally amenable to coaxing but not coercion, but this might be the better tactic this time?

    ¡°Since it''s just a few ves, why do you care so much?¡± Duan Tingxuan gave a bitterughed. From the environment he grew up in, he really couldn''t understand transmigrator Su Nuan Nuan''s point of view.

    ¡°Those aren''t just a few ves, those are people''s lives. Living people.¡± Su Nuan Nuan said, the edge of her eyes glimmering with unshed tears. ¡°You''re the master and they''re only ves, but the reality is that everyone have only this one life to live. They too have feelings, and family. They have no intention to sell out anyone, they just want to continue living. Every living thing in this world seeks survival. Sister Jing said that she wished to pay you back with her life for saving her back then. As the heir''s wife, I would have been given a proper burial with all the dignity, pomp and a team of mourners. But these women have no such privilege. They would be lucky to be buried in a ma.s.s grave¡­¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright, alright¡­¡± Duan Tingxuan''s iron heart softened at the sight of his wife''s shining eyes, he quickly rushed forward to wipe her tears and sighed. ¡°You keep insisting on saving them, but have you ever thought of what happens next? Even if I were to spare them, what their future would be like? The punishment for abandoning their master is death, on top of that they intended to beg the enemy to spare their lives. Once back at the mansion they would be criticized to death. There would be no way for them to escape what they have done, this is not something that you or I could suppress.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan sank into deep thought: That''s true, words have a way of killing people without des. These women''s momentary weakness might well haunt them for the rest of their lives. However, Su Nuan Nuan did not hesitate, her voice was perfectly decisive, ¡°No matter what, I don''t want them to die.¡±

    ¡°Fine, once we''re back to the mansion, I can still send them away to work at the farmstead. This is as much as I can do, the rest is beyond my power.¡±

    Duan Tingxuan spread out his hands. When his wife smiled, he shook head and sighed, ¡°It''s just a few ves, must you be so happy??¡±

    ¡°It''s not just the ves. I never thought I''d ever hear you say the words ¡®beyond my power'', and here I thought the little marquis is all powerful.¡± Su Nuan Nuan''s smile was like the blooming of spring flowers, her beauty seemed to be amplified under that smile.

    Duan Tingxuan felt his heart in his throat, and his heart was thundered away rapidly. A certain part of him was beginning to stir too. This plucky, foodie wife of his looked as foxy as a vixen, her beauty was just too alluring. So much so that he felt like he couldn''t look at her directly. Even when Xue Zhi Lan yed the rare, bold seductress to provoke his l.u.s.t, he never felt nearly as out of control over his own physical reactions.

    He quickly turned his head away from the subus in front of him and took a deep breath. When he felt like he had better control over himself, he said, ¡°Am I an immortal? Even immortals aren''t all powerful.¡±

    ¡°Alright, whatever, let''s talk business.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan had sensed the odd atmosphere just now, but she never guessed just how precarious Duan Tingxuan''s hold on his self-control was. She grinned happily to herself, unknowingly turning into a tease. At this rate, Duan Tingxuan became further convinced that her original spirit was most probably a subus. Which was just too unfair, ah.

    Though it was getting ratherte, neither felt sleepy, so they spent some time leaning against the headboard talking to each other. When he heard all the things they and the monks had done to keep the enemy at bay, Duan Tingxuan''s eyes nearly popped out: Was his wife even human? While facing these fierce bandits and not knowing whether she will live or die the next day, she still has the mood to make t Stone Cakes? Wu! From the descriptions alone, thin watery flour on stones so hot that it cooked in a sh, it really made his mouth water. [Gu du] The little marquis swallowed. He stared down seriously at his wife and said solemnly. ¡°This t Stone Cake of yours, once we''re back at the mansion, you must make it for us to eat. I will get some people to move a few pieces of smooth white marble into Spring Breeze Courtter.¡±

    ¡°Why white marble? Is there something wrong with your brain? If you''re really keen on this just get some craftsmen to make a t bottom pot is fine, you know?¡± Su Nuan Nuan rolled her eyes, ¡°This is actually something simr to pancakes. It''s only especially tasty under these unusual circ.u.mstances. If you want it so much, I can make a few hundred pieces and string them into a ne for you to nibble on.¡±

    ¡°I''m not quite thatzy.¡± Duan Tingxuan smiled happily. ¡°But your suggestion for a t bottom pot is not bad, I shall get the fourth prince to get right on it.¡±

    At this happy news, Su Nuan Nuan cheered up considerably. It was then that someone called out softly, ¡°Elder brother.¡± To which Duan Tingxuan said, ¡°It''s Tingye, who knows what he wants with me. It''s almost daylight, try to get some sleep.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan whispered back, ¡°That''s right. I almost forgot to ask you, how did Tingye arrive so quickly? Even earlier than you?¡±

    Duan Tingxuan spread out his hands, ¡°How should I know? I expect that grandmother must have gone back to the mansion first and he immediately came over after getting the news.¡±

    ¡°No, what I meant is, since when did he be so proactive? Isn''t he and that sister-inw of yours¡­ you know¡­ against us¡­?¡± Su Nuan Nuan''s eyebrows rose, as she looked up at Duan Tingxuan. ¡°You know what I mean.¡±

    Of course Duan Tingxuan knew, he shook his head and smiled, ¡°I''m puzzled by this too. Perhaps he was struck by conscience? Or perhaps you still have some value to him. After all, the restaurants and cake shops raked in an incredible amount of business. If you have more of such incredible recipes, it would be a pity if you died, right?¡±

    ¡°This exnation makes sense.¡± Su Nuan Nuan nodded. ¡°ording to your estimation of those pair, they''ve probably fed their conscience to the dogs. And dogs definitely won''t leave even a shred for them to keep.¡±

    Duan Tingxuan sighed, ¡°Well¡­ they¡­ might not actually¡­ be so bad¡­¡±

    ¡°Unless your estimation is wrong¡­¡± Su Nuan Nuan raised her eyebrows.

    ¡°No, my estimation is of course, spot on. Therefore, they are really ck-bellied, evil, and a bad lot.¡± Duan Tingxuan immediately put on a righteous expression. Naturally, this was the time to make himself look good, even if there were some parts of this second brother was somewhat white, he must still paint it as ck as he could.

    After throwing down this terrible remark, this heartless older brother went out to meet the younger brother. Duan Tingye just happened to be standing in a pool of moonlight in arge overcoat, at the sight of his older brother, he forced a stiff smile and came over, ¡°I¡­ that is, I hope I haven''t interrupted brother in anything? How is sister-inw? Aside from the bruises, is she alright?¡±

    ¡°No, she''s fine. Thank you for your concern. It''s already sote, why aren''t you asleep? What do you want me for?¡± Duan Tingxuan''s own conscience had clearly been fed to the dogs too, but apparently he still has some dregs of it left, at least enough to be p.r.i.c.ked by some guilt after bad mouthing this brother of his.

    ¡°Oh, nothing much. I was just here to check up on brother and sister-inw. I''m a little worried since she has suffered such a major shock today.¡± Duan Tingye stammered, his eyes darted about, settling nowhere.

    ¡°If you have something to say, just say it. It''s not like you could hide your intentions from me.¡± Duan Tingxuan said coldly. His disdain for his brother''s IQ obvious.

    ¡°Ever since sister-inw returned from Mei Yue Lou, brother, you''ve be even more annoying. Has anyone at court ever said that they want to beat your face in with a stick?¡± Duan Tingye said with a scowl. He had originally thought that this two-faced brother of his was annoying enough. To think that he could up that level and be even more annoying. This ¡®honest'' brother of his really made him want to break something, preferably that smug arrogant nose. Not that he would actually be able to do it, ah.

    ¡°Whether someone at court wants to beat me up, I wouldn''t know. I only know that if I want to beat you up, I only need one finger to do it.¡± Duan Tingxuan too was losing his temper. When did this hypocritical brother of his started to spout these too honest words? Moreover, it''s all unpleasant honesty. Was he itching to get beaten up?

    ¡°I really have no other business. I''m here to ask after sister-inw''s condition. If she had suffered any major injury, I n to send someone down to the mountain to fetch a physician.¡± Duan Tingye''s expression smoothed out as he yed the role of concerned younger brother-inw.

    ¡°There''s no need, your sister-inw is fine. If there''s anything serious, I''d have sent for the imperial physician.¡± Duan Tingxuan sniffed at his brother''s ¡®concern''. ¡°Well, is that all? If that''s all, please go away.¡±

    ¡°Well, it''s just¡­ my mother and Yurou were frightened and confused by the situation, and went with grandmother leaving sister-inw here alone. They kept thinking about the matter and couldn''t rest easy¡­¡± Duan Tingye lowered his head, finally revealing his true concerns. The one he was most worried for was his own wife and mother.

    Duan Tingxuan rolled his eyes and sneered. ¡°I knew you weren''t actually all that altruistic. You''re really afraid that old madam and the lord marquis would punish Madam Min and your family. Heheh, I can''t help you there, you should know that this was all their own doing. No one forced them into anything.¡±

    ¡°The situation then was very tense, they were only¡­¡± Duan Tingye stammered, trying to think up a reasonable exnation, but he really didn''t know what to say: In the end, no matter what he said, the reality was that his wife and mother loved their own lives enough to abandon Su Nuan Nuan behind. If this news were to get around, who knows how the rest of the family would feel? Naturally, they would praise the heir''s wife for her n.o.ble character and sense of justice, but condemn the marquis'' secondary wife and daughter-inw for being cowards.

    Moreover, Duan Tingxuan was not someone easily fooled. Which was why Duan Tingye found it difficult to open his mouth. He also knows that this elder brother of his disliked his blood mother. How was he to set down this big rock he had just picked up without injuring himself? If this news reached his father, the lord might be displeased with mother and drift apart from her.

    As he continued to think, nothing appropriate came to mind. Of course, Duan Tingxuan was not going to help this brother of his out, he still could not forgive everything Liu Min had done against himself and his mother with just these few stammered words. [Gumihou: Oh no, my Tingye baby is going to be bullied again. This man s.l.u.t is too merciless, ah]

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 Chapter 135

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 135: Distinguished Right From Wrong

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    Finally, even Duan Tingye could not stand the pressure of this awkward atmosphere anymore. He stiffened himself to make his excuses and leave, but before he could do so, the door behind Duan Tingxuan opened with an ominous [zhi ya]. Su Nuan Nuan looked out from the doorway, her figure backlit byntern light. She studied them for a moment before saying mildly, ¡°What happened had happened. For today''s matter, Madam Min and sister-inw are not in the wrong. It''s natural to fear death, there''s no shame in it. It''s not like they were soldiers who deserted their armies. I will speak to old madam as well as the other n.o.ble women about this matter. Second brother, you may be at ease.¡±

    Duan Tingye cheered up, he quickly gave Su Nuan a grateful bow and ran off before his older brother could say anything. At this, Duan Tingxuan just pulled Su Nuan Nuan back into the room, muttering, ¡°What are you doing out here bother yourself over such a small thing? The weather''s getting colder. What if you catch a cold? You''re still injured, bruises are injuries too. Do you think you''re like me, able to just walk off a flesh wound?¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan merely muttered back, ¡°I just don''t want to make unnecessary trouble for people. No matter what, I was the one one who made the decision to stay back. Moreover, if I don''t say anything for Madam Min and the branch couple, Concubine Lin and second sister would also suffer a bacsh. If we''re going by status alone, those two would be the ones left behind, right? For second brother to have arrived so quickly, that''s already a great consideration. I''m not going to bother myself with the details.¡±

    ¡°You even care about the lives of those few ves. Fine, I won''t make trouble for them, alright?¡± Duan Tingxuan sighed. He reached out a hand to lightly stroke Su Nuan Nuan''s face, ¡°You''re too kind-hearted, I really worry how you''re going to survive the schemes of the inner court.¡±

    ¡°Don''t I have you as a backup?¡± Su Nuan Nuan shed a smile, but then a frown appeared on her face as she said. ¡°Also, I don''t think I''m all that kind-hearted. I was just doing my duty. If anyone dares to provoke me, I shall not let them off easy. It doesn''t matter whether it''s Madam Yun or the branchdy, both definitely won''t leave me alone.¡±

    When she said this, Duan Tingxuan finally recalled his wife''s cunning, and had to smile. ¡°You''re right, it''s this unrestrained att.i.tude of yours that really made you irresistible.¡±

    ¡°En, therefore, it''s better for me to drive you out, just for my own safety. Otherwise, if you find me too irresistible, how could I, as a weak and helpless woman, fight you off?¡± Su Nuan Nuan wrapped her arms around herself, feigning a fearful expression, causing the little marquis to freeze into a sculpture with a ‡å‡å expression.

    Nevertheless, Duan Tingxuan still had the presence of mind to realise that his situation was not wholly unfavourable. With this thought in mind, he left the room. After all, he really had quite a few other matters to take care of anyway. After some thought, he decided to check out the area where they had detained the bandits. They had not managed to obtain much clues from the robbery at the Capital or the a.s.sa.s.sination attempt of the crown prince at the East Pce. Perhaps he could shake some information out of these bandits.

    As for Su Nuan Nuan, after such an exciting day and receiving those sudden confessions from Duan Tingxuan how could she sleep? She spent a few minutes lying down on the bed before finally getting up. Su Nuan Nuan threw on a cloak and, noticing that both Hong Lian and Xiang Yun still awake, she said, ¡°Xiang Yun, take me to the ce where they''ve locked up those female ves. Hong Lian, look after the room. If something happens, just send someone to find me.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Hong Lian answered quickly. Though she had not heard what Su Nuan Nuan and Duan Tingxuan were discussing, this maid understood her mistress enough to know that she intended to save the lives of those female ves. Buddhism encourages people to deliver all living creatures from suffering, and her mistress level of mercy was probably enough to earn her a sainthood. Only, she had no idea how her mistress intended to rescue those women. Does she intend to secretly release them? That''s entirely possible. Although those people still has family within the mansion, they were on the verge of making deals with the enemy to preserve their lives, so what are family ties to them?

    As Hong Lian continued to ponder over this, the closing of the door caused her to slip out of her reverie. It was then that she noticed that Su Nuan Nuan had already left with Xiang Yun.

    It was really the middle of autumn now, the wind was chilly as they made their way down winding pathways bordered by blooming chrysanthemums. They haven''t arrived at the room where the women were being kept when wails and sounds of crying reached them. Su Nuan Nuan paused outside to listen. She sighed and thought: She really could not understand it. Why are ves so badly treated in this era? She heard that in harsher n.o.ble houses, over a dozen ves would be killed in a year just like that, and no one ever question this kind of practices. Even Duan Tingxuan, a man who was supposed to think for themon people, treated these ves like livestock. He really did not think of them as living people.

    ¡°Missy, it''s best if you go in quickly. It will get really cold soon. If the master bes angry, these ves would be the ones to suffer.¡± Xiang Yun prompted gently. Su Nuan Nuan nodded, and Xiang Yun walked up the steps and pushed open the doors. She waited for Su Nuan Nuan to enter first, beforeing in behind her and gently closing the door.

    Three grannies were there as guards for the ve women. They were chattering in excited voices with each other when Su Nuan Nuan came in. The chatter quickly stopped, and all three stood up to give their greetings with warm smiles. ¡°Why is madam here? Please be at ease, with us grannies here to watch, they won''t be able to run off even with eight legs.

    One of the granny snapped at the crying women, ¡°Enough with that! Your crying is starting to annoy people. Only know how to cry, you should have known where your traitorous thoughts will lead you that time.¡±

    Su Nuan Nuan said, ¡°It''s been hard on momo[1]. I have something to say to them. I shall leave after that.¡±

    The more quick witted granny smiled and said, ¡°If that''s the case. We shall wait outside¡­¡±

    Before she could finish, Su Nuan Nuan said, ¡°No need. It''s very cold outside, what I''m about to tell them is nothing secret. You may stay and listen.¡±

    ¡°Yes, this old maid thanks madam for her kindness.¡± the grannies echoed, feeling the warmth of grat.i.tude in their hearts. Not for just letting them stay, but for letting them stay because it was cold outside. If it were some other master, who cares whether you''re cold or not? If I can''t dismiss you from my sight whenever I want, how else do I show my status as a master?

    Su Nuan Nuan made her way towards the miserable maids. She cast her eyes over their sad faces and had to admit that these women were all beauty of some sort. The oldest was only in her early thirties, they were truly in the best years of their lives.

    ¡°I''ve pleaded with the lord to spare your lives, and he has agreed to do so.¡±

    The maids who had been sobbing into their sleeves and handkerchiefs froze, they all looked up at her in shock. Their movements were so sudden that it made Su Nuan Nuan suffer phantom whish. Looking into those trembling eyes and shaking lips, she knew what they wished to ask, yet did not dare to do so. She nodded solemnly and answered their unasked question, ¡°I have not brave the cold just to tease you. The lord had promised me to spare you.¡±

    There was still a look of disbelief on the ves'' faces. Suddenly, they all began to cry again. All raced to be the first to kowtow to Su Nuan Nuan, fresh tears washing their faces as they sobbed, ¡°This ve thanks madam¡­ thank you madam for granting such great kindness. Wuwuwu¡­¡± [Gumihou: Su Nuan Nuan is spreading the love (to everyone but you-know-who)] [1] momo ¨C actually mama, but momo is probably less confusing since it''s used to addressed old female servants.

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 Chapter 136

    <center><noscript></noscript></center>Chapter 136: Grat.i.tude

    Tranted by Gumihou

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot

    The three grannies were stunned. They exchanged nces with each other, then stared hard at Su Nuan Nuan. All three strained their ears to hear what Su Nuan Nuan said next.

    Su Nuan Nuan cleared her throat pointedly and said, "Don''t thank me yet. You''ll know what I mean when you go back to the mansion. Sometimes, it''s better to be dead than to suffer life. There are many witnesses to what happened today, so there''s no way for us to hide it. The lord can stay his hand and not take your life, but he cannot stop tongues from wagging. Have you considered what your life will be like once back at the mansion? Are you mentally prepared on what you will face? You will be ridiculed, mocked and criticized, rumours and nders will follow you wherever you go. Even those who had nothing to do with this matter will take the chance to spit on you. Well, are you ready to face that?"

    The ves turned pale at this. Clearly they haven''t thought so far ahead. Su Nuan Nuan sighed, then said gently, "I am not here to tell you that you''ve escaped the death penalty, but to tell you certain principles of life. None of you are soldiers, nor are you an army deserter. If you run away from a war, that''s an act of crime that deserves death penalty. Last night''s incident, even if you havemitted a wrong, does not deserve the death penalty.

    Life is very precious. Therefore it is perfectly natural for everyone to do their best to survive. The fact that you did not put your life on the line for your master must of course be punished, but the fact that you have done so to protect your own life is something that I can sympathize with. However, because you havemitted a wrong, you must pay for it. The nders and criticism you''ll face in the future will be your punishment.

    In the face of a great enemy, you havemitted a crime in order to continue living. I hope that in the future, you may bravely bear the cost of this action and continue to live courageously under the shadow of your action. Don''t be like today and try to take the easy way out. If you do so, you will just die under the knife of other people''s tongue."

    "First madam¡­"

    The ves were shocked. Even the three grannies were shocked: What master would say this to their servant? Would any master or mistress waste their spit to encourage their ves to live on like this? That''s the heir''s wife, a mistress of great status, ah. They might as well be the gra.s.s which she stepped on everyday, they were the humblest of the humble. So¡­ why?

    Su Nuan Nuan looked at the nked out ves, their tears still falling like translucent beads, but not a single one of them raised a sleeve to wipe their tears away. Her heart ached. In truth, she had no idea whether she did the right thing or not. The only thing she was sure of was that she could not just stand back and watch as the lives of these women were snuffed out over such a trivial matter.

    After another sigh, she said, "Life is hard, I have no idea whether I did the right thing pleading for your life. However, no matter how harsh life is, it had to be better than death, right? You all have family, parents, husband and children. If you die, how many people would mourn your death? So, if you ever felt like things are too much, think of the people who will miss you.Keep your family in mind, time is the world''s best healer. As long as you can endure the next few months, people will slowly forget about this. This too shall pa.s.s, and one day you will live with ease."

    "We humble ones¡­ thank first madam for¡­ for her great mercy. We humble ones¡­ will not fail first madam''s expectations. No matter how poisonous the words or cruel the curses, we shall endure. We will live well even under the worst insults. As first madam has said, this is our punishment. We humble ones dly ept first madam''s grace."

    One of the ves bravely stammered out her word of thanks. Then, she sat upright, and formally, deferentially kowtowed to Nuan Nuan. The rest of the ves also sat upright, and kowtowed, "We humble ones know that we have sinned and dly bear our punishment. We humble ones know that we live because of madam''s kindness, we shall do our best to live even at the threat of the sword."

    "Very good, since you know have this kind of resolution, I''ve clearly not wasted my effort in preserving your life."

    Su Nuan Nuan nodded approvingly, then turned to leave. The three grannies hurriedly escorted her out. One of the grannies t.i.ttered and said, "Madam certainly has a heart of the Buddha, surely there''s no need to save them from their own heinous actions? They hadmitted an unpardonable crime after all¡­"

    Su Nuan Nuan shed her a look, and the granny swallowed the rest of her words down. Su Nuan Nuan''s voice was soft as she said, "An unpardonable crime? Just because they wanted to live? Well then, can you say for sure, when you rushed at the enemy yesterday that you have absolutely no fear in your heart? If you happened to be at their age, can you guarantee that you would have no such selfish thought in your head?"

    The granny''s face went white. When she thought over Su Nuan Nuan''s words, cold sweat popped out all over her body. Su Nuan Nuan continued speaking in that soft, almost gentle tone, "People are not sages, who had notmitted a wrong in their life? Today, I rescued them from death. In the future, if the lord for some reason orders your death, I shall plead for you as well."

    Please read this at kitchennovel dot.

    The grannies stood together at the stairs, watching until Su Nuan Nuan and Xiang Yun disappeared into the night. None of them really knew what to say for a long while. But, after some time, one of the grannies sighed, and said, "You''re getting muddle headed with your age. Shouldn''t we celebrate having such a kindhearted master? Must you really show yourself as a heartless old grandma? You''ve really made a bad impression upon the first madam."

    "I was just saying it for madam''s sake. How is she supposed to properly keep the house when she''s so gentle and lenient?" this granny was actually quite shaken by Su Nuan Nuan''s quiet words, but there was no way she was going to admit it in front of her colleague. The third granny sneered, "Gentle and lenient? Think carefully who you''re describing again. Have you forgotten what she was like in the past? No matter what she has be now, she will never be the ''gentle and lenient'' type. I don''t know about others, but I do know that Auntie Lu would inevitably shrink down whenever first madam is mentioned. If first madam gives an order, she''d be the first to jump into action. Even though both Madam Yun and the seconddy are still the official managers, I''ve never seen her treat those two with that much fear and respect."

    "Enough, as far as I can see, we should follow the first madam from now on. You can''t find such a benevolent and virtuous yet strong and intelligent master even if you try for years. You two listen to me, in the future the whole of mansion will be ruled by first madam. Everything else aside, who do you think those maids inside will be loyal to from now on? They are all intelligent people, perhaps too intelligent for their own good, but for first madam they would have died. Furthermore, after speaking to them like that, do you think they will be loyal to anyone aside from her? I tell you, this kind of loyalty is something that neither Madam Yun or the branchdy would ever achieve in their lifetimes."

    This was said by the second granny. The other two, even the mouthy first granny, nodded in agreement.

    By now, Su Nuan Nuan had left the side hall and was strolling under the moonlight with Xiang Yun.

    The night looked almost bleached out. Everything was bone white or in deep shadows. Xiang Yun shivered a little, the maid really wanted to return to her room, but mindful of her mistress'' mental burdens, she continued to walk on. She dared not say a word, afraid that she will interrupt whatever Missy was thinking.

    "Xiang Yun, do you think I did the right thing?"

    At Su Nuan Nuan''s sudden question, Xiang Yun was caught off guard. The maid scratched her head, thinking: How would I know whether Missy did is right or not? I only know that we should return to our rooms soon or we''ll catch a cold.

    Xiang Yun opened her mouth, but then hemmed and hawed, not knowing what to say. Suddenly, a figure appeared from the dark to say in his clear voice, "You were absolutely certain when arguing with me earlier, what''s with all the doubt now?"

    Su Nuan Nuan and Xiang Yun both turned and saw Duan Tingxuan smiling at them from not too far away. Though he was not close enough for them to see his features properly, the moonlight was incredibly ttering upon his tall and n.o.ble figure. When he saw that he had their attention, he strode forward in a few quick steps and reached for thentern in Xiang Yun''s hand. In a warm voice, he said, "Xiang Yun, you go back first. I shall walk with your mistress and ease whatever problem she has."

    Xiang Yun happilyplied and ran off. Su Nuan Nuan stared at the maid''s disappearing back with askance. Feeling a little awkward, she pouted and said, "She sure runs fast, what''s that about? It''s not like she''s being chased by a dog."

    "It''s getting ratherte and cold, but you still drag her around for a heart-to-heart chat instead of letting her cuddle up in her warm bed. Even I would run off, I''d run even faster than that Xiang Yun." Duan Tingxuanughed as he exined Xiang Yun''s action, only to see his wife roll her eyes. She snapped, "Since it''s like this, why haven''t you run off yet? Want to have a heart-to-heart?"

    "It can''t be help. It''s part of my duties as a husband. I have to at least do better than a maid, right? I must show my love and consideration for my darling wife, ah." said the little marquis, as he removed his cloak and swirled it around Su Nuan Nuan''s shoulders.

    What an amazingly romantic move, ah.

    Su Nuan Nuan muttered crossly in her heart. However, the woollen cloak was really warm and it blocked off the sharp wind that had been cutting into her bones earlier. She looked up at Duan Tingxuan and saw that he was only in his regr clothes and felt a little embarra.s.sed. She muttered, "I have my own cloak, so I''m not cold."

    "The air is coldest here on the mountain, your cloak is mostly decorative anyway, There''s no need for you to worry about me, after 20 years of breathing exercises and training my inner energy, a bit of wind like this is nothing to me."

    "This cloak doesn''t look like the one you had on earlier. Could it be? Surely you haven''t s.n.a.t.c.hed this off second brother, right?" Su Nuan Nuan cast a suspicious eye at her husband. She knew her husband well enough that this was definitely an awful thing he would do.

    Duan Tingxuan''s expressions seemed to crunch up together as he snarled, "Even if you don''t see me as a good older brother, surely you may see me as a good husband? Why would I put Tingye''s clothes on you? This is something Si Ping brought up for me." [Gumihou: Lol, irony, we the readers don''t think you''re a good husband at all. Am I right gals and guys??]

    "Si Ping is here?" Su Nuan Nuan sighed with relief. If Duan Tingxuan had really put his brother''s cloak on her, she reeeeally did not know how to react to that.

    "That''s right, when I dispatched people over to the mansion to inform them of the situation here. Old madam and elder madam immediately sent Si Ping over with clothes and news from home. ording to Si Ping, the senior madams were doing their best to keep their emotions under control; Concubine Lin and second young miss cried so much that their eyes were like swollen peaches. Third brother kept insisted oning, but luckily father was able to restrain him. Otherwise who knows what would happen if he just rush headlong over. Though I disliked Tingye, I have to say that he''s much more reliable when ites to this kind of thingspared to third brother."

    Author White Pear Flower: Actually, I''ve pondered over a long time whether to let these female ves live. As Su Nuan Nuan had said, the ability to survive is a human trait. The feudal society is so harsh with its rules and careless ways with human lives that it could possibly wipe out the human race.

    A certain little marquis: Who said that? Who said that? What''s this about wiping out the human race? Rules are the backbone of human society

    Author White Pear Flower: Ahem, however, as you can see Su Nuan Nuan can''t live with this kind of rules, and insisted on doing things her own way. However, though these people managed to escape the death penalty, they still have to pay for their crime. Calling on everyone to support me! [Gumihou: I really like how White Pear Flower put so much thought and effort into her characters.]

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