Li Manniang said, “Her temperament is quite different. At least in front of me, she was very gentle and obedient, and her appearance was not bad either. Madam Pei was also very polite, even taking the initiative to talk about the incident where Xingzhi was wronged and the children were punished, expressing many apologies. I suspect their family might have other intentions.”
Madam Cui smiled slightly, with a mix of pride and dismissiveness: “Marrying up or down, our position as a secretary in the prince’s mansion can’t compare to their Remonstrance Official. Our merchant background can’t match their generations of official lineage.” Even though her son was currently just doing business outside, some perceptive people had recognized his excellence and potential, which was indeed something for a mother to be proud of. It was precisely because of this that she was even more determined to carefully select a good marriage for Li Xing.
Li Manniang understood clearly that Madam Cui’s words were mainly due to her low opinion of Madam Qi’s character and her concern that Qi Yuzhu might be similar. It’s worth noting that the families Madam Cui had been considering for Li Xing recently were not inferior to the Qi Changlin family, and character was of utmost importance. However, Li Manniang didn’t intend to discuss this matter in depth with her sister-in-law. She had already brought this information to Madam Cui’s attention; how to choose a daughter-in-law was Madam Cui’s and Li Yuan’s own business.
It was only a pity for Mudan, such a generous and kind girl, and one that Li Xing liked, yet Madam Cui looked down on her…
The two women chatted idly about other matters until they heard that Li Xing had returned home. Li Xing, who was usually cool and composed, was now covered in sweat. Seeing the pile of congratulatory gifts in front of the two women, he frowned and asked, “Mother, are you going to send congratulatory gifts to Prince Ning’s mansion? Has the baby been born?”
Madam Cui laughed heartily, not minding that Li Xing was a man unfamiliar with these matters, and said directly, “How could it be so quick? Labor only started this morning. It’s the consort’s first child, and she has a delicate constitution. It would be good if she could deliver by tonight.”
“These noble ladies, if they were the type who loved horseback riding, archery, and polo, it might be different. But for those who are delicate and pampered, childbirth is a major hurdle,” Li Manniang said with some pride. She had never experienced much difficulty in childbirth herself. Her body was healthy and strong, and she was always active. She didn’t make a big deal out of it, and childbirth was relatively easy for her. Most women on the frontier were like this. There was even a woman who gave birth alone, and afterward, craving the ripe green walnuts in the courtyard, climbed the tree herself to pick them. How many women in the capital could do that, even though they loved horseback riding and such?
Hearing this, Madam Cui thought of another matter and hinted, “So, when choosing a daughter-in-law, good health is the most important factor.”
Li Xing remained silent, his mood worsening. Seeing this, Li Manniang quickly changed the subject, “Xingzhi, did you find out about the house I asked you to inquire about last time?”
Li Xing forced himself to focus and replied, “I’ve asked around, but there’s nothing suitable recently. I’ve asked people to keep an eye out, and as soon as there’s something appropriate, I’ll buy it immediately.”
Madam Cui, understanding Li Manniang’s intention to change the subject, followed along, “You must take care of this matter for your aunt properly.”
However, Li Xing didn’t respond, only nodding silently. After sitting for a moment, he suddenly stood up and walked out, saying, “I won’t be having dinner.”
Madam Cui chided, “This child…” But before she could finish, Li Xing’s figure had already disappeared beyond the window. She turned to Li Manniang helplessly, “I admit that girl is not bad, and I originally didn’t mind her background, after all, our family also started as merchants. But it’s just her health, she seems like she could be blown away by the wind, and her looks… I always feel that, you know, a full moon wanes, too much beauty is not a good thing.”
Li Manniang didn’t join in commenting on Mudan, only saying mildly, “For a marriage to work, both parties must be willing.”
Madam Cui let out a long sigh, “Sister, you don’t know, his feelings for her aren’t just a matter of a day or two. He’s been thinking about her for a long time. If it weren’t for that child falling deathly ill and needing a marriage to dispel the bad luck, catching him off guard, he probably would have proposed long ago. Do you think he went out for these two years just for those two dancing horses and some business? It’s not that.
Just when things were getting better, this incident happened. If something were to happen to that child in the future, he would be ruined!” She gritted her teeth, a flash of determination in her eyes, “Rather than that, I’d rather cut off his hopes from the very beginning! He can help her out of the fire, he can help her get revenge, all of that is fine, but marrying her is the one thing I absolutely won’t allow!”
Li Manniang couldn’t say much, she just shook her head and let out a long sigh.
Li Xing changed into a casual fish-belly white robe and reclined in the tea pavilion, his gaze unfocused as he watched the courtyard gradually darken. Crickets chirped melodiously from behind the grass, the cherry plums in front of the pavilion were almost ripe, and the dozen or so peony plants under the corridor swayed gently in the night breeze. The fragrance of brewing tea wafted through the air. Everything seemed so beautiful, yet his heart was filled with endless loneliness.
Mudan didn’t know that he had always been silently watching her from behind.
He had known her since they were very young. She had always been beautiful and lovable, with a generous and kind nature. Every time he went to the He family, he would see her, sweet and obedient, leaning against Madam Cen, blinking her beautiful phoenix eyes at him, softly calling, “Cousin…” When she was in a good mood, she would playfully imitate adults and call out his courtesy name loudly: “Xingzhi…”
He liked her from the first time he saw her, though, at that young age, he didn’t understand much about such feelings. When he grew older, around eleven or twelve, he was already a shy teenager who understood more. He would always steal glances at her when others weren’t paying attention.
He knew how beautiful and captivating her eyes were under those thick eyelashes; he knew how particularly sweet her voice was when she was acting coy, how thick-skinned she could be, nuzzling against people’s arms like a kitten, melting their hearts bit by bit into a pool of water; he knew she didn’t like needlework or cooking, but loved reading miscellaneous books and growing peonies; he knew how heartbreaking it was to see her cry; he knew how sensitive she was, always feeling that she was a burden to her family.
At fourteen, she was a radiant and fragrant young lady. Although frail, it couldn’t diminish her beauty at all. He didn’t want to be just her cousin anymore. However, they were destined to be apart. Fate played a cruel joke on him – her illness suddenly worsened, then there was that fortune teller’s inexplicable words, and she inexplicably became Liu Chang’s wife.
She didn’t know how upset he was that he couldn’t be the one to bring her good fortune through marriage, but he always hoped she could live on well. Knowing that she had survived the crisis between life and death, knowing that she had fallen in love with that person, he thought he could eventually forget. No matter what, life had to go on. In this world, he wasn’t just living for himself; his parents, his family, and the missions he shouldered were too many and too heavy, and he couldn’t let go of any of them.
But could he forget? No, he couldn’t. Once he saw hope, he couldn’t help but rekindle that hope.
Li Xing gazed wistfully at the dozen or so peony plants. These rare peonies were all prepared for her, yet she had never seen them bloom even once. The only time she came here was after the flowers had already faded. She certainly didn’t know what was in his heart. She had said such things to him, yet he couldn’t blame her.
Bishui sat quietly to one side, her beautiful white hands skillfully and elegantly manipulating the tea kettle, silver spoon, and bamboo tongs. However, her mind wasn’t on her task. She secretly observed Li Xing, seeing his furrowed brow and dark gaze. Unable to bear it any longer, she finally spoke up, “Young Master, did everything go well with your official duties today?”
Li Xing had always treated his servants well, even when he was in a bad mood, he wouldn’t scold anyone. Although distracted, he still answered her kindly, “It was fine.”
Bishui wanted to ask if something had happened, but Li Xing had already said, “When the tea is ready, bring it over. You go and have your dinner. Let me be alone for a while.”
Bishui hesitated, silently placed the teacup on the table in front of Li Xing, adjusted the incense to repel mosquitoes, bowed silently, and withdrew. Just as she reached the middle of the courtyard, she saw Zhenlong, who was by Madam Cui’s side, standing at the courtyard gate beckoning to her.
Bishui walked over gracefully, smiling and bowing to Zhenlong, “Sister Zhenlong.”
Zhenlong smiled and said, “The madam personally made dumplings for the young master and asked me to bring them over. How is he now?”
Bishui worriedly replied, “He’s lying in the tea pavilion drinking tea, not wanting us to attend to him, just staring blankly at the courtyard. Do you know what’s wrong with him?”
Zhenlong sighed, looking around before saying, “It’s still about that matter.”
Bishui grew even more worried.
Zhenlong handed her the tray, “Alright, I’m going to report back to the madam now. Take care in serving him.”
Bishui took the tray and stood silently for a moment, biting her lip before walking towards the tea pavilion. “Young Master, the madam has sent some food for you.”
Li Xing said softly, “Put it down.”
Bishui was delighted to hear this and immediately placed the steaming bowl of dumplings in front of him. “Young Master, these were personally made by the madam for you. They smell delicious. Please eat them while they’re hot.”
Li Xing didn’t say much, just picked up the chopsticks and began eating. In a moment, after finishing, he put down the chopsticks and said, “Take it away. If there’s any news from Prince Ning’s mansion, come and tell me immediately.”
The city gates were about to close, what news could come? Bishui twisted her fingers, wanting to say a few words of comfort, but in the end, she just sighed silently and withdrew quietly.
After finishing a bowl of delicious hot wonton soup, Li Xing felt lighter in both body and spirit. He gently tapped the tea table with his fingers, carefully considering his situation. His parents’ rejection of Mudan stemmed from their hope for his greater career prospects. He decided to prove to them, step by step, that he could achieve great things without relying on his wife’s family connections. By the time he attained success and fame, surely they would be less critical of Mudan. Therefore, whether the Ning Wang’s wife had a smooth delivery or bore the first legitimate son became irrelevant. He would proceed slowly and steadily, aiming to accomplish even greater feats.
As night gradually fell, a few cold stars twinkled in the sky. The evening breeze carried the fragrance of honeysuckle, which was incredibly soothing. Having come to a resolution, Li Xing stood up, stretched, and called out loudly, “Bishui, have someone bring me bathwater.”
The long night passed, and before dawn broke or the morning drums sounded, Li Xing awoke. Frowning, he put on his clothes and got out of bed, gently pushing open the window. He saw a dazzling river of stars flowing across the sky, unusually brilliant. Viewing this as a good omen, he decided to send the pearl first.
Since he was going to see the Ning Wang, he needed to dress properly. By the time he was ready and headed to his parents’ main residence, it was already the third watch of the night.
The golden, round pearl gleamed with a dreamlike radiance in the candlelight. Li Yuan nodded repeatedly, “This pearl will surely please the Wang Fei.” Then, looking at Li Xing suspiciously, he asked, “You had this prepared all along, didn’t you? Why are you only showing it to us now? What are you planning this time?”
Hearing this, Madam Cui immediately set down her chopsticks and frowned at Li Xing, her face full of displeasure. Only Li Manniang continued eating attentively.
Li Xing smiled slightly, “I’m not planning anything. I just want to accomplish more significant deeds so that His Highness will entrust me with more important tasks.”
Li Yuan pondered for a moment, then said with a wry smile, “Your mother and I are relieved to see you so ambitious.”
Li Xing solemnly replied, “Son will certainly not disappoint you, Father and Mother.”
As father and son were about to leave before they could descend the steps, an old woman rushed in, her face pale: “Someone from the Wang’s mansion has come. The Wang Fei has passed away.”
Li Xing and Li Yuan’s eyes met, both seeing shock in the other’s gaze. Li Xing’s heart raced. Although he had already decided not to propose to the Ning Wang at this time, the Wang Fei’s death introduced significant uncertainties. However, one thing was certain: Ning Wang wouldn’t have the mind to deal with his marriage affairs anytime soon.
Not only Li Yuan and Li Xing but also Madam Cui and Li Manniang inside the room were startled to their feet. Li Yuan and Li Xing hurried out. As the chief historian of Wang’s mansion, Li Yuan had numerous responsibilities and probably wouldn’t be able to return home for several days. Li Xing, too, needed to prepare various items for the funeral and would be extremely busy.
Madam Cui rushed to the door, taking three steps in two, and asked urgently, “When did this happen? What about the child?”
The old woman, matching her mistress’s mood, put on a deeply sorrowful expression and said, “The young heir was born at the first quarter of the Hai hour, but the Wang Fei suffered from postpartum hemorrhage and passed away at the third quarter of the Yin hour.”
Tears immediately fell from Madam Cui’s eyes. Li Manniang patted her shoulder and asked, “How is the young heir’s condition?”
The old woman hesitated for a moment, then said in an almost inaudible voice, “I heard it’s not too good. The child took a while to cry, and after finally being fed, vomited everything. The Wang Fei’s body was simply too delicate.”
The death of a mother and the poor condition of a newborn child would be a tragedy in any family. The two women fell silent. Madam Cui wiped her tears and went inside to call for people to prepare things, getting ready to go to Wang’s mansion to pay respects. She became even more determined to find a healthy daughter-in-law for her son.
That day, Mudan rose early and, accompanied by Wu Lang, went to Fayou Temple to pick up Monk Fuyuan before heading to Fang Garden. Monk Fuyuan, undeterred by the scorching sun, looked around thoroughly. After asking Mudan which area she wanted to keep as a nursery, he smiled and said, “What this place has in abundance is water. We can create meandering waterways to integrate various landscapes. There will be paths around the pond and bridges across the river, and we’ll build pavilions, waterside kiosks, terraced bridges, and pavilions. Islands will be scattered about, and decorated with seasonal flowers, bamboo, unusual trees, and unique rocks. When it’s done, you’ll be able to take in the scenery of all four seasons just by boating around.”
Without waiting for Mudan’s approval, he went inside, took a brush, and started drawing rapidly on Mudan’s sketch. Like Mudan, he only made rough marks and outlines, adding small notes here and there.
Mudan stood quietly watching. She noticed that Monk Fuyuan, dressed in a plain white monk’s robe, had an intense expression, his ordinary features exuding an undeniable charm. She couldn’t help but think to herself, “Is this the unique allure of a wise person?”
This time, Atao behaved differently from before. Without being told, she obediently brewed tea and brought in some freshly washed early-ripening plums from the back grove. Then she respectfully withdrew with Yuhe and Madam Feng to prepare a vegetarian meal.
Wu Lang chuckled, “This girl doesn’t seem as difficult as you all described earlier.”
Mudan replied, “She just entered our household. If she couldn’t even manage this much, I’d have no reason to keep her.” Her eyes, however, were fixed on Monk Fuyuan’s drawing, which included the peach and plum grove at the back of the garden and introduced a river channel. She was pleased with the idea of boating through the grove in spring when the peach and plum blossoms were in full bloom as if entering a fairy realm.
As the sun neared its zenith, Monk Fuyuan finally put down his brush and smiled, “Is the female patron satisfied?”
Mudan asked a few questions about areas she didn’t quite understand, and after receiving clear answers, she gratefully bowed to thank Monk Fuyuan. As Monk Fuyuan went with Wu Lang to have the vegetarian meal, he noticed Mudan frowning as she carefully studied the drawing. He said, “Female patron, there’s no need to worry. Since this poor monk drew this plan with you, I’ll naturally come to check on the construction several times to ensure everything is done properly.” After all, the garden would bear his name, and he couldn’t allow his reputation to be tarnished by a poorly executed garden.
Mudan was overjoyed and pressed further: “In that case, could I trouble the master to recommend some skilled gardeners as well?” For building this garden, a capable construction team was crucial. Rather than searching herself, it would be better to ask Monk Fuyuan, who surely knew some trustworthy craftsmen from his years of garden design.
Monk Fuyuan looked at her, saw her serious expression, and graciously agreed, “Very well. Tomorrow, this poor monk will send someone to inquire about their schedules, and then have them come discuss wages with you.”
Wu Lang naturally had someone bring out vegetarian wine to thank him again.
As the siblings escorted Monk Fuyuan back to Fayou Temple and were returning home, passing through An Yi Ward, they saw various carriages and a constant stream of people flowing into the ward, creating an unusually lively atmosphere. With a businessman’s keen sense and curiosity, Wu Lang sent an attendant to inquire about the situation. Moments later, the attendant returned and reported, “The Ning Wang Fei has passed away.”
Mudan immediately recalled the plump, jade-like woman with a gentle expression whom she had encountered on her way home before. She quickly asked, “What was the cause?” Although she guessed it was probably related to childbirth, she wanted to know the details.
The attendant replied, “That, I didn’t manage to find out.”
Yuhe, who had overheard the conversation between Mudan and Li Xing the day before, thought this matter was of great importance to Mudan and Li Xing’s affair and needed to be investigated thoroughly. She volunteered, “Let this servant go and inquire.” With Mudan’s tacit approval, she rode into An Yi Ward. Soon, she returned on horseback, sighing, “It was indeed a difficult birth. The young heir is safe, but it’s truly pitiful.” Seeing Mudan’s silence, she felt immense sympathy for Mudan and Li Xing.
Wu Lang didn’t take it to heart, as the affairs of the royal family seemed too distant from him. He only remembered that Li Yuan was the chief historian of the Ning Wang’s mansion and that the Ning Wang had once spoken up about Mudan’s matter: “Uncle Li’s family will be quite busy for a while now.”
Mudan thought to herself that while Ning Wang had indeed spoken up for her before, albeit unsuccessfully, it was still a gesture. Given the current circumstances, they couldn’t go to pay respects, but they could send funeral gifts. “The Ning Wang once spoke up for your matter. Although it didn’t work out in the end, he did make an effort. Now that this has happened, we can’t go to pay our respects, but we should at least send some funeral gifts.”
Wu Lang thought that there would be thousands of people sending funeral gifts, and their own might not even be recognized. Even if they asked the Li family to deliver it, it might invite ridicule from others, suggesting that Li’s relatives were trying to curry favor. So he said, “It’s the thought that counts. Why don’t we use this as an opportunity to make a charitable donation instead? Praying for the young heir’s safe growth might be more meaningful.”
Hearing her brother’s suggestion, which implied he didn’t want others to know, Mudan thought for a moment and felt that since it was just a gesture and not for show, she agreed, “Alright, let’s do as you say.”
Wu Lang was about to advise her that with the garden construction underway, there would be many expenses, but seeing her serious expression, he decided not to press the issue.
When the siblings returned home, the doorman came to take their horses and said with a smile, “Aunt Li has come.”
Mudan guessed that Li Manniang had probably accompanied Madam Cui to pay respects at the Wang’s mansion but didn’t want to stay too long, so she came to rest at their home. Since Li Manniang wasn’t a picky person, Mudan didn’t bother to change her clothes. She just handed her riding crop to Yuhe and went in with Wu Lang to greet Li Manniang.
Li Manniang was telling Madam Cen stories about the border towns. Seeing Wu Lang and Mudan arrive and pay their respects, she smiled and pulled Mudan closer, holding her hand and examining her closely: “You seem to have tanned a bit compared to a few days ago.”
Madam Cen chided, “How could she not tan, riding horses out all day?”
Li Manniang said, “This is good. Health is the most important thing.” She then asked about Mudan’s garden construction project, which Mudan answered in detail.
Wu Lang thought to himself that while Mudan preferred to quietly do good deeds, it was important for the Li family, who had asked Ning Wang for help, to know about this. It would prevent them from thinking that their family was ungrateful. So he naturally steered the conversation to Ning Wang Fei’s funeral and mentioned Mudan’s intentions.
Li Manniang sighed, “You’re a kind and thoughtful child. But alas, that child was unfortunate. I just told your mother that the poor thing didn’t make it.”