If something can’t be figured out, it’s best not to dwell on it for now. No need to strain one’s mind.
When soldiers arrive, we’ll deploy generals; when floods come, we’ll build embankments.
Shen Yunying decisively abandoned further contemplation and turned her thoughts to more immediate pleasures, asking Yinzheng, “Are the sesame potato cakes ready yet?”
After working up a sweat, one craves something fried, crispy, and tender. The potato cakes made by the kitchen were soft, chewy, and springy, with sesame seeds fried to a fragrant crispness. Shen Yunying had tried them once during breakfast the previous day and had taken a liking to them ever since.
Yinzheng replied promptly, “Please wait, Madam. This servant will go to the kitchen right away to hurry them along.”
Yinping was still immersed in Shen Yunying’s earlier remarks, greatly astonished. When had Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng developed such rapport? How was it that neither she nor Yinzheng had noticed? On the day of the bridal return visit, she had even praised the young master repeatedly to Third Madam! Had she known earlier, she would never have spoken so highly of him!
Seeing that Yinping was still troubled, Shen Yunying knew she was concerned for her sake and decided to let the facts speak for themselves. She fixed her clear, apricot-shaped eyes on Yinping. “Yinping, look at how comfortable I’ve been these past few days. How does it compare to my life back in the Shen family?”
Yinping couldn’t bring herself to lie against her conscience. Shen Yunying’s complexion was fair with a rosy glow, and she was beaming with joy—clear signs of great contentment. The Yan household had neither Shen Yunzhi nor Shen Yunman, nor Old Madam Shen. In all matters, Madam could make her own decisions.
Take this vegetable planting, for example. If Madam wanted to do it, she only needed to give the order, and no one in the mansion would raise any objections.
Back when Third Madam had planted vegetables in Jingyuan Studio, she had been visited by both First Madam and Second Madam. The former had subtly hinted that Taishi Mansion could afford to support the third branch, so there was no need to engage in activities beneath their status. The latter had come purely to mock, ridiculing Jiang Wensheng—the esteemed Third Madam of Taishi Mansion—for stooping so low as to till the soil herself like a common peasant woman.
Refined people grew flowers and plants, and only the most precious varieties at that. When Jiang Wensheng first started planting vegetables, Taishi Mansion was rife with gossip, criticizing Third Madam for willingly degrading herself, no different from lowly peasant women.
At that time, Shen Yunying was still young and well-protected by Jiang Wensheng, so she had no memory of the incident. But Yinping, as a servant, remembered it clearly.
It wasn’t until the following year, when word spread that Princess Jiarong had cultivated land in the Rear Courtyard and used the harvested grains to aid disaster victims, that the gossip in Taishi Mansion suddenly ceased. After all, if anyone were accused of slandering Princess Jiarong, being expelled from the mansion would be the least of their worries.
Seeing Yinping deep in thought, Shen Yunying pressed on. Yinping was excellent in every way—reliable and steady—but she worried too much about the marital relationship between Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng. That was not something to be encouraged.
Shen Yunying seized this opportunity to make Yinping give up on such concerns. With that time and energy, she could instead help oversee the Yan family’s stewardesses or keep an eye on the businesses from her dowry.
“Setting aside distant matters, just look at Second Madam. Isn’t it true that the tighter she grasps, the more she cares, the further she pushes Second Master away?” Shen Yunying asked with a smile.
“Like my mother, I’m content as long as I have food, drink, and a carefree life. As for Yan Peifeng,” Shen Yunying paused, “I hope he lives a long life.”
Since ancient times, officials who toil diligently and devote themselves wholeheartedly to the welfare of the people have not lived long lives. Her father, Shen Fengcheng, could be considered one of them. In his efforts to save more commoners, a prefect lost his life.
Shen Yunying sincerely wished for this, because once widowed, she would no longer be able to go out as she pleased.
Yinping’s heart skipped a beat. It might actually be better for Madam this way. If the master passed away first, she could live a good life like the Third Madam.
Thinking this, Yinping decided to put her mind at ease and no longer dwell on ways to improve the relationship between Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng.
But then Shen Yunying suddenly remarked, “It’s already the fifteenth today, time flies. We must prepare well to welcome our guest.”
Yinping was puzzled. “What guest?”
Shen Yunying shook her head, not bothering to explain the twisted logic that Zhengran Residence was Yan Peifeng’s inn. She simply instructed Yinping to go prepare for dinner. The weather was hot now, and just walking outside made one break into a sweat, easily stirring irritability.
Recalling Yan Peifeng’s performance in bed last time, it was essential to make him comfortable at Zhengran Residence and help him cool down. Shen Yunying had no desire to repeat that experience.
It wasn’t until Yinping left the courtyard that she realized the “guest” Shen Yunying mentioned was actually Yan Peifeng! For a moment, she felt both exasperated and amused. Well, as long as Madam lived her life well, that was what truly mattered. In her heart, Yinping began treating Yan Peifeng as an honored guest, meticulously overseeing all food and utensils.
Shen Yunying picked up a warm sesame sweet potato cake, listening to the various tidbits Yinzheng had gathered, finding the taste even more delightful!
“Madam, do you remember Yang Mingyue, the maid from the front courtyard’s Study?”
Shen Yunying nodded. It had only been a few days, of course she remembered. Yinping had previously warned about guarding against someone taking advantage of their proximity. Smelling the fragrance of white sesame, Shen Yunying asked, “What happened to her?”
Yinzheng said excitedly, “I heard that Nanny Yang is arranging a marriage for Yang Mingyue, but she refused and fell ill from anger. Everyone’s eyes are sharp—who in the front courtyard doesn’t know she’s been pining for the master? Of course she wouldn’t agree to marry just anyone.”
“Last night, Yang Mingyue and Nanny Yang argued again. Nanny Yang accidentally let slip that it was actually the master who told her to arrange Yang Mingyue’s marriage as soon as possible.”
Yinzheng’s eyes crinkled with delight. “The master didn’t want Yang Mingyue serving in the Study anymore. Out of respect for Nanny Yang, he gave her the pretext of marriage to leave. But Yang Mingyue ended up exposing it herself!”
She then whispered, “Though no one knows why the master wanted to send Yang Mingyue away.”
Shen Yunying hummed in acknowledgment, recalling a plot from a storybook. “Could it be that Yang Mingyue was bold enough to force herself on him, turning raw rice into cooked rice?”
Though it was just a string of guesses with a few key phrases, Yinzheng immediately understood what Shen Yunying meant.
“If that were really the case, even if she were Nanny Yang’s granddaughter—or even a princess or noblewoman—the master would have gone to the palace to file a complaint, wouldn’t he?” Yinzheng found it unlikely. Yang Mingyue wouldn’t have had that much nerve.
Shen Yunying immediately lost interest. That was true—if Yan Peifeng were a man, he wouldn’t be so merciful as to spare someone who harmed him.
With Yan Peifeng’s order and Nanny Yang personally carrying it out, Yang Mingyue’s marriage was inevitable. Shen Yunying had little interest in the marriage of a maid in the household, even if she had served in Yan Peifeng’s Study.
Late in the Xu hour, the candles in the front courtyard’s Study were still burning brightly.
During the day, Yan Peifeng had been at the Hanlin Academy, studying the historical notes and records stored there. Just before his shift ended, an urgent report arrived from Jiangnan, like a drop of hot oil hitting a pan. The Emperor summoned the Ministers of Personnel, Revenue, Justice, and Works to discuss the matter.
Yan Peifeng was also called to the Qianqing Palace.
It turned out that floods had reappeared in the south. The embankments newly built along the Xunyang River and Jingjiang River sections last year had actually failed to withstand the first plum rain flood season. News had just arrived that this year’s plum rain season had arrived early. After several days of heavy rain, continuous overcast and rainy weather followed, causing the river embankments to collapse. Three counties in Yuezhou and two in Jingzhou were flooded.
Even a three-year-old child wouldn’t believe there was no foul play involved.
The Emperor was furious, demanding a thorough investigation with no leniency. Additionally, funds and grain were to be allocated, and discussions were held on sending officials to provide disaster relief and rebuild the infrastructure. Yan Peifeng stood quietly to the side, listening to each minister’s remarks and gauging their stances.
When the discussion turned to selecting officials for disaster relief, Yan Peifeng volunteered to go but was rejected by the Emperor. Leaving the palace, Yan Peifeng felt somewhat disheartened. He hadn’t volunteered to lead the relief efforts but to assist as part of the team. He hadn’t expected the Emperor to deny him even the opportunity to accompany the mission.
Upon returning to the mansion, Yan Peifeng went straight to his study to delve into books related to water conservancy. Today’s discussion in the Qianqing Hall had only covered matters such as allocating funds and grain. The selection of the imperial commissioner to investigate the case and the officials for disaster relief had yet to be finalized.
Tomorrow’s minor court assembly would be his opportunity.
Yan Peifeng believed that the more he understood, the better his chances would be, so he gathered all the books on flood control and water conservancy projects. By now, a thick stack of books had piled up beside him, clearly indicating his intention to read through the night.
Siqi, who was standing by his side, checked the time for the third time and finally whispered a reminder at the last moment, “Master, today is the fifteenth. It’s almost the hour of Hai.”
After speaking, Siqi glanced up and noticed Yan Peifeng frowning in silence, wondering to himself if his master had forgotten.
Yan Peifeng had indeed forgotten. He remembered during the day, but after learning about the collapse of the Jiangnan embankments, he became preoccupied with how to join the imperial commissioner’s team and momentarily forgot about Shen Yunying in the Rear Courtyard.
Yan Peifeng paused briefly while turning the pages of his book but quickly made a decision. “Let’s go.”
He visited the Rear Courtyard only twice a month. Shen Yunying stayed quietly in Zhengran Residence, so he naturally couldn’t break his promise.
Zhengran Residence.
Shen Yunying usually kept a regular routine and slept well, so whenever she stayed up late reading storybooks or travelogues, Jiang Wensheng indulged her.
By the hour of Hai, as the night deepened, Shen Yunying would already be resting if she had no other distractions.
Tonight was particularly different.
It was Yan Peifeng’s first visit to Zhengran Residence since their wedding.
Yinping had long since instructed people to light candles along the bluestone path outside the courtyard and had the kitchen prepare light, non-sweet midnight snacks, all to ensure Yan Peifeng felt comfortable in Zhengran Residence and noticed Shen Yunying’s thoughtfulness toward him.
Even if it was just verbal instructions, it still counted as thoughtfulness. Yinping thought without a hint of guilt, for with Shen Yunying’s temperament, she wouldn’t even bother to say anything otherwise.
Not wanting to wait idly for Yan Peifeng, Shen Yunying took Yinzheng for a walk along the back corridor to decide where to plant mugwort for mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes were abundant in summer, and Shen Yunying’s constitution seemed to attract them. Every summer, Yinping and Yinzheng would place a pot of mint under the windowsill and hang mosquito-repellent sachets or incense balls at the corners of the bed.
The herbs inside were prescribed by the pharmacy, but Shen Yunying always felt they carried a medicinal smell, which she disliked. She wanted to plant mugwort, lemongrass, and other natural mosquito repellents around Zhengran Residence, just as she had done in Taishi Mansion, to keep mosquitoes away without the scent drifting indoors.
“Plant some under the windowsill, you can move the small potted plants away,” Shen Yunying instructed Yinzheng. The scent of mint could become cloying after prolonged exposure. She wanted something fresh.
Yan Peifeng had just stepped inside when he heard this. Following the direction of Shen Yunying’s voice, he looked toward the windowsill where a small patch of ground held two low-trimmed gardenias. It was June, the season when gardenias bloomed, their petals layered like bowls, plump and distinct in white and green, pure as jade.
And Shen Yunying stood beside them with a gentle smile, radiant and graceful. Under the moonlight, her skin resembled warm, soft white porcelain, carrying a faint, shimmering glow.
It reminded him of the luminous pearl he cherished as a child.
Yan Peifeng recalled the luminous pearl path outside the peach grove in the palace. He was three or four years old then, with both parents gravely ill and unable to care for him, so the Emperor brought him into the palace to look after him.
The palace bedchambers were vast and spacious, and a young child far from his parents naturally felt afraid. Coincidentally, among the toys Princess Jiarong had ordered to be prepared was a luminous pearl.
It was then that Yan Peifeng grew fond of luminous pearls.
The following night, overwhelmed by fear and unable to sleep, he tossed and turned before clutching the luminous pearl and hurrying to the Qianqing Palace to find his uncle, the Emperor. Later, that luminous pearl path was created.
Over the years, this path had been meticulously maintained, along with the peach grove and the pavilion.
Every time Yan Peifeng saw it, he could feel the Emperor’s deep affection for him. The only drawback was that the Crown Prince would occasionally bring it up as evidence to mock him for this childhood embarrassment.
Hearing footsteps, Shen Yunying turned to see Yan Peifeng already standing before her, silent, his gaze gentle and distant, filled with emotions she couldn’t decipher.
Shen Yunying could only offer a slight smile and say, “Husband, you’ve arrived? I’ve prepared light bamboo leaf tea and lotus seed and foxnut porridge in the room. They’re perfect for a bowl before bed—soothing, nourishing, and aiding sleep.”
The key point was that these two items helped dispel restlessness, reduce irritability, and calm the stomach.
The gatekeeper had already sent word earlier: when Yan Peifeng returned to the residence today, his expression was stern, lacking its usual gentle elegance. He had hurried straight into his study upon entering, not even stopping for dinner.
All this was information Yinzheng had gathered early on. Upon hearing it, Shen Yunying had briefly hoped that Yan Peifeng, faced with urgent matters, might not come to the Rear Courtyard tonight. But thinking it better to be prepared, she had ordered a few light, calming midnight snacks to be prepared.
As for the other snacks, Shen Yunying hadn’t paid close attention to Yinzheng’s report. She had forgotten them, so she simply mentioned two items—after all, Yan Peifeng wouldn’t know the difference. Shen Yunying stood calmly, her posture relaxed.
Having missed dinner, Yan Peifeng hadn’t felt hungry, but now, hearing Shen Yunying’s soft, gentle mention of midnight snacks, his appetite suddenly stirred. He nodded and said, “Good. Thank you for your trouble, my lady.”
The kitchen worked swiftly. As soon as Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng sat down, a variety of midnight snacks were promptly laid out on the table—about seven or eight dishes, all easy to digest and unlikely to cause discomfort. There was also a plate of chilled, sliced watermelon, vibrant red and clearly bursting with juice.
Shen Yunying personally poured him a cup of light bamboo leaf tea and said with a smile, “Husband, since you missed dinner tonight, please have a bit more now.”
Yan Peifeng wasn’t surprised that Shen Yunying knew he hadn’t eaten. Instead, he deeply appreciated her thoughtfulness—his wife’s care was both considerate and attentive. Remembering that Shen Yunying’s father, Shen Fengcheng, had died while rescuing flood victims, he couldn’t help but sigh inwardly, his handsome face revealing a touch of sympathy.
He took the teacup and spoke gently, “No need to busy yourself, why not sit and eat together?”
Shen Yunying gave a slight nod. The kitchen had been clever, including a plate of crispy sesame balls and chilled water chestnut salad. At the sight of them, Shen Yunying wanted to try them immediately.
Yan Peifeng’s dining etiquette had been cultivated in the palace—composed and dignified, every movement exuding an air of noble refinement. Shen Yunying, however, was much more casual, especially in her own home. When she bit into a sesame ball and tasted the sweet, soft taro inside, she smiled with delight, her eyes crinkling.
Seeing Shen Yunying eat so heartily, Yan Peifeng unconsciously had an extra bowl of almond tofu pudding. His wife was different from his usual impression of women from boudoirs—she was slender but ate well.
Shen Yunying always enjoyed her meals.
After the meal, Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng stood up almost simultaneously. Though a full stomach might stir other thoughts, neither could dive straight into the matter. Yan Peifeng recalled Siqi’s report about Shen Yunying growing vegetables in the Rear Courtyard.
Lowering his gaze, warm as jade and without a hint of pressure, a faint smile graced his handsome face. “I heard you’ve cleared a plot in the Rear Courtyard to grow vegetables?”
Shen Yunying straightened nervously, looking up in surprise. Could it be that Yan Peifeng didn’t allow it?
Sometimes, Shen Yunying’s emotions were as transparent as paper, easily read at a glance. The moment Yan Peifeng met her eyes, he understood her thoughts.
He said gently, “If you don’t wish to, you don’t have to. There’s no need to grow vegetables just because of the rumors about Mother.”
Shen Yunying stayed quietly and sensibly in the Rear Courtyard and cared about his meals, so Yan Peifeng naturally wanted to return the kindness. He knew many households in the capital emulated Princess Jiarong by growing grains and vegetables, especially during his marriage discussions. Quite a few ladies had even hinted to the Empress that their daughters were willing to join Yan Peifeng in the fields.
At the time, Yan Peifeng found it laughable. Now, seeing Shen Yunying do the same, he reminded her that she didn’t need to do these things—she could do what she truly enjoyed.
“Rumors about Princess Jiarong?”
Yan Peifeng suddenly mentioning the princess’s rumors left Shen Yunying puzzled. Her round, bright eyes reflected pure innocence, which in turn made Yan Peifeng curious.
Shen Yunying suddenly understood and shook her head. “No. My mother liked it, and I learned from her. It’s a way to pass the time and fill the stomach.”
She recalled warm childhood memories. “When I was little, my mother often cooked. Her skills were excellent—even the meals sent from the main kitchen couldn’t compare. When she was too busy to cook, I went hungry for a few days before I got used to the kitchen’s fare.”
Jiang Wensheng had started honing her culinary skills back then, but once she mastered them, she didn’t cook often. Little Shen Yunying’s palate had already been spoiled, and she would pester Jiang Wensheng to cook. As Shen Yunying grew older, Jiang Wensheng would cook whenever her daughter felt wronged, comforting her with food.
Shen Yunying was in high spirits now, a warm smile lingering at the corners of her mouth as she turned to Yan Peifeng. “When my vegetables are ready, I’ll save some for you too.”
Yan Peifeng raised an eyebrow. “Who else needs to receive them?”
Shen Yunying replied matter-of-factly, “My mother.” After a pause, she added Jiang Gao Xin. “And my eldest cousin.”
Before Jiang Wan left, she repeatedly reminded Shen Yunying that if she had any delicacies she couldn’t send to Jiangnan, she should send a portion to her elder brother. Her aunt had also entrusted Jiang Wensheng to look after her son, so Shen Yunying thought, since there would be extra vegetables, she might as well send some to Jiang Gao Xin.
Yan Peifeng recalled the situation of the Jiang family. In March, the Jiang family’s eldest madam had brought her son and daughter to the capital to handle the trivial matters of Jiang Gaoxin’s enrollment in the Guozijian (Imperial Academy). They had also made it in time for the birthday banquet of the Shen family’s elderly matriarch, though for some reason, the Jiang family’s eldest madam did not attend.
“I heard from the instructors at the Guozijian that Jiang Gaoxin is exceptionally talented and is sure to pass the imperial examinations with distinction in the future,” Yan Peifeng hinted meaningfully. He believed that the Jiang family’s hopes for advancement likely rested on Jiang Gaoxin.
Shen Yunying nodded repeatedly. She had heard Jiang Wensheng say the same thing since she was a child, and over the years, it had proven true.
Seeing Shen Yunying naively nodding in agreement with his words, Yan Peifeng chuckled and shook his head. Well, there was no need to spell it out; doing so might only remind Shen Yunying of the difficult times in her childhood.
In Yan Peifeng’s view, his mother-in-law, Jiang Wensheng, was the daughter of an official family. Her cooking skills, which she personally took charge of, had made young Shen Yunying eagerly anticipate the next meal. Without a man to support the household, Jiang Wensheng and Shen Yunying had struggled to even eat their fill in the Shen family’s Rear Courtyard. Life must have been hard for them.
The Jiang family’s status was far inferior to that of the Shen family, unable to back their married daughter. But fortunes change. By the grandchildren’s generation, the Jiang family had produced a talent like Jiang Gaoxin, capable of managing worldly affairs, while the Shen family only had Shen Chujun, who merely maintained the status quo.
In a few more years, when the Jiang family rose to prominence, Jiang Wensheng and Shen Yunying would effectively have their maternal family as a support.
Thinking of this, Yan Peifeng coughed lightly, feeling somewhat uncomfortable. He was Shen Yunying’s husband and Jiang Wensheng’s son-in-law. Why wait for the Jiang family to provide support? He, Yan Peifeng, was the pillar for the mother and daughter.
Yan Peifeng’s brow relaxed as he glanced at the increasingly dark sky outside the window. He naturally took Shen Yunying’s arm and led her into the inner room.
What followed felt like a natural progression.
When their clothes were shed, Yan Peifeng wrapped his arm around Shen Yunying’s slender waist, his other hand caressing her long, willow-leaf-like eyebrows. As he leaned down to press against her, he paused abruptly, his fervent gaze frosting over with a layer of ice.
Shen Yunying had been waiting for the sword hanging over her head to fall. She thought that since it would hurt either way, it was better to get it over with sooner. But tonight, Yan Peifeng was dawdling, refusing to enter.
She heard Yan Peifeng’s increasingly heavy breathing, her heart pounding. After a while, the man pressing down on her still hadn’t moved.
Shen Yunying opened her eyes. At such close proximity, their noses almost touching, they both saw a flicker of regret in each other’s eyes.
Yan Peifeng was surprised. He quickly leaned down and pressed against her, gently biting her soft lips. The intimate atmosphere once again filled the bed curtains.
Afterward, both Yan Peifeng and Shen Yunying felt it had been rather forced and unsatisfactory.
Yan Peifeng sighed. It seemed he needed to add thoroughly studying the spring palace manuals to his plans. Because he hadn’t paid much attention to it, he often forgot about it whenever he got busy. On his first day back at the Hanlin Academy after his wedding leave, the Crown Prince had even come specifically to ask if his married life was harmonious and blissful.
Yan Peifeng shook his head disinterestedly and told the Crown Prince to focus more on state affairs. The Crown Prince, however, said he must not have grasped the essence of it, calling him a blockhead. It seemed marriage couldn’t change Yan Peifeng. Shaking his head, the Crown Prince imparted advice on how couples should get along, finally telling Yan Peifeng to read more manuals, as blindly groping around and working behind closed doors was no good.
In the end, he left the Eastern Palace with a cold expression.
But tonight, those words resurfaced in Yan Peifeng’s mind, and he thought the Crown Prince’s suggestion might be worth a try.
Shen Yunying hesitated silently; she could not spend her entire life like this with Yan Peifeng. Her mother was right—harmony in bed greatly affected the relationship between husband and wife.
She had originally thought she could tolerate this flaw in Yan Peifeng, but now it seemed too early to say so.
In order to enjoy the pleasure of pre-sleep activities, Shen Yunying decided to take action. Tomorrow—no, tomorrow would surely be exhausting. The day after tomorrow, then. Early the day after tomorrow, she would dig out the booklet hidden at the bottom of her trunk and study it until the first day of the next month.
Shen Yunying refused to believe she could not grasp its true meaning!
In short, the newlywed couple leaned intimately together, contemplating the same matter, displaying remarkable harmony.
Early the next morning, Yan Peifeng rose at the break of dawn and freshened up in the adjacent room.
“Madam, would you like to rise?” Yinping tiptoed to the bedside, whispering softly. She had entered the room while Yan Peifeng was away.
Shen Yunying could barely open her eyes, her voice muffled from within the bed: “No.”
Since Yan Peifeng seldom visited the Rear Courtyard, not only had Shen Yunying never considered rising to attend to her husband, but even her maids, Yinping and Yinzheng, had not thought of it.
It was only today that Yinping suddenly remembered: as Yan Peifeng’s wife, Shen Yunying should rise with her husband in the morning, offering a warm towel, helping him dress and fasten his buttons, or hang his jade pendant—that was how an affectionate couple should be!
Anxious to remind her, Yinping directly said to Shen Yunying, “Madam, you must get up and attend to the master as he washes and dresses!”
Shen Yunying struggled to clear her foggy mind. It seemed that before her marriage, the matrons had indeed mentioned this. But they said what they said; whether to do it or not, and to what extent, was entirely up to Shen Yunying herself.
Shen Yunying chose not to attend!
“Then perhaps have breakfast together?” Yinping suggested an alternative. Since Shen Yunying and Yan Peifeng lacked marital affection, and if they were to follow Yan Peifeng’s plan of visiting regularly twice a month, they should seize every opportunity to nurture some feelings.
Yinping thought to herself: even if they couldn’t be an affectionate couple, they should at least treat each other with respect.
Before Shen Yunying could respond, Yan Peifeng entered wearing a pine-and-crane green official robe. Seeing Shen Yunying speaking with her maid, he said, “There is a minor court assembly today. I must enter the palace and will not have breakfast at the residence.”
Shen Yunying raised her voice, “Alright.”
Her voice was low, hoarse, and strained. Shen Yunying quickly coughed twice and asked Yinping to fetch some tea.
Seeing this, Yan Peifeng advised her to rest more before hurrying off. He needed to persuade the Emperor during the minor court assembly to allow him to accompany the delegation to Jiangnan.
Exhausted from the previous night, Shen Yunying wanted to sleep longer. Not only did she not attend to Yan Peifeng’s washing and dressing, but she also did not see him off when he left. Since Yan Peifeng would not discuss court affairs with her, she naturally had no idea why he was in such a hurry to enter the palace.
In any case, if it were urgent or important, Yan Peifeng would surely have mentioned it. Since he didn’t, it must be nothing.
Shen Yunying waved her hand at Yinping, “You may go and rest as well. I’ll rise around lunchtime.”
Yinping noticed the dark circles under Shen Yunying’s eyes and, looking further down, saw faint bruises scattered across her fair neck. She thought to herself that attending to the master must have been exhausting for her mistress. She must nourish Shen Yunying’s health!
With concern, she said, “Madam, please continue resting. This servant will oversee the kitchen in preparing a nourishing soup.”
Shen Yunying murmured in agreement and soon drifted back to sleep.
The minor court assembly this morning was convened in the Qianqing Hall.
Given Yan Peifeng’s official rank, he should not have been able to participate in such a high-level discussion. However, the Emperor valued him and intended to cultivate him as a key minister. Moreover, Yan Peifeng was tactful yet principled, possessing great talent for governance. The senior ministers not only did not obstruct him but occasionally offered guidance.
After a full two hours of discussion, a decision was finally reached on how to handle the flooding in Jiangnan.
Yan Peifeng still failed to secure the opportunity to accompany the delegation to Jiangnan. However, the Emperor assigned him another task.
The flood season in Wangjiang occurs during the “seven down, eight up” period—the latter half of the seventh month and the first half of the eighth month. Every year at this time, the floodwaters are abundant, the water levels high, and flooding is most likely to occur.
The Wang River flows from west to east, passing through multiple provinces along its course before finally emptying into the sea. Over a hundred dams, both large and small, have been constructed along its banks, including one built simultaneously with those on the Xunyang and Jing Rivers. This particular dam primarily spans the section between Bianliang and Cao Pu.
Since the dams on the Xunyang and Jing Rivers had encountered issues, the Emperor grew concerned that the Wang River dam might also have been compromised by corner-cutting and embezzlement during its construction.
Apart from the flood season from late July to early August, the Wang River also experiences a unique ice-jam flood. Every year from November to March of the following year, discrepancies in the freezing and thawing times between the upper and lower reaches cause ice to block the river channel, leading to rising water levels. If not properly guarded against, another flood season could potentially occur.
Thus, the Wang River dam was of great importance.
Yan Peifeng was appointed by the Emperor as the River Inspector, tasked with examining the quality of the dam through both overt inspections and covert investigations.
Upon hearing the Emperor’s appointment, Yan Peifeng bowed and cupped his hands in gratitude, saying, “Your humble servant obeys.”
“Good. Return early to prepare and set off within the next couple of days. The journey from the capital to Bianliang will take about seven or eight days.” The Emperor waved his hand, dismissing the other ministers to their duties, but kept Yan Peifeng behind for further instructions.
Considering the travel time and the historical flood season schedule, Yan Peifeng had little time to spare.
The Emperor then shifted into his familiar, nagging mode of concern. “You must also bring along capable officials well-versed in water conservancy, so you won’t be fooled by those below. Oh, and since you’ve just married, take your wife with you on this trip. It’ll be a good opportunity to nurture your relationship.”
Yan Peifeng, thinking of the arduous journey and his official duties, wondered why he should bring a woman along. He immediately declined, “Your Majesty, the journey will be taxing. There’s no need to bring a female companion.”
The Emperor’s face instantly hardened, and he snorted coldly. “Don’t think I don’t know—you neglected her just three days after your wedding. If your grandparents hadn’t already reprimanded you, I would have had you punished.”
“Let me make this clear: the matter is settled. An emperor’s word is final, and I have spoken.”
The Emperor’s firm stance, coupled with the mention of his neglect of Shen Yunying after the wedding, left Yan Peifeng momentarily speechless. Reluctantly, he conceded, “Very well, Your Majesty is right.”
Seeing Yan Peifeng yield, the Emperor was greatly pleased and dismissed him.
Once Yan Peifeng had left, the Emperor picked up a memorial from his desk but paused, his vermilion brush hovering. He promptly rose and headed to Kunning Palace to see the Empress. Not long after, the Empress’s personal maid was dispatched from the palace to the Princess Mansion.
Meanwhile, Shen Yunying had just awakened. Yinping retrieved the pearl cream from the dressing table and carefully applied it to Shen Yunying’s face to maintain her radiant complexion. Yinzheng went to the kitchen to fetch breakfast, having earlier sent someone to Yipin Zhai to purchase pastries. Some of the pastries had cooled and were waiting to be reheated in the kitchen once Shen Yunying was up.
After eating her fill, Shen Yunying lounged lazily on the daybed. Yinzheng, holding a new storybook from Boxue Shuzhai, read it aloud word by word. Yinzheng had a lively personality, and Shen Yunying enjoyed listening to her recite stories.
This was because Yinzheng, like a storyteller, would mimic the tones and manners of the characters in the book, making the listening experience delightful.
If it were Yinping, she would only read the words plainly and rigidly. Thus, Shen Yunying usually asked Yinzheng to read the storybooks.
“Scholar Liu’s face flushed red as he hesitantly stepped forward and asked, ‘I dare to be so bold, but may I ask the young lady’s name?’ As soon as the words left his lips, Scholar Liu clenched his hands tightly together, not daring to look up at the elegantly dressed young lady.”
Yinzheng was reading about Scholar Liu’s first encounter with the Wang family’s young lady, and Shen Yunying was listening with great interest when suddenly there was a commotion outside the door. A maid hurried in to report, “Madam, Matron Chu from Her Majesty the Empress’s side has arrived. The chief steward is currently receiving her in the front hall.”
Shen Yunying’s eyes snapped open. “Her Majesty the Empress?”
The maid nodded emphatically, her voice excited. “Yes, a matron from Kunning Palace.”
Shen Yunying took a deep breath, her heart drumming a little. Why would the Empress send someone out of the blue? She quickly ran through her affairs in the Yan household and felt slightly reassured.
As long as they weren’t here to cause trouble, Shen Yunying wasn’t afraid.
“Ah, it was easy enough to be perfunctory in front of the old madam before. But now in the Yan family, the people I have to deal with are even more distinguished.” Shen Yunying wasn’t afraid of interacting with the Empress, but she genuinely didn’t want to deal with someone of such high status, an elder, and someone who could order the extermination of nine clans at any moment.
She was just a small person who wanted to eat, drink, and live a happy life.
Only her two personal maids, Yinping and Yinzheng, heard Shen Yunying’s muttering. Yinping hurriedly comforted her mistress, “Perhaps she’s just here to deliver a reward? The sour plum soup in the kitchen is almost ready. It’ll be perfect for you to drink when you return.”
With Yinzheng’s skillful hands, the Lingyun hairstyle was quickly arranged, adorned with hairpins and accessories. Thinking of the sweet and sour plum soup, the corners of Shen Yunying’s lips curved into a perfect smile. The bronze mirror clearly reflected the beauty with a face like a flower.
Arriving at the front hall, Shen Yunying wore a light purple ruqun dress, walking gracefully with light steps and a gentle smile. “Matron Chu.”
Matron Chu was a serious woman, standing solemnly with a stern expression. Seeing Shen Yunying approach, she hurried forward to bow. “This servant pays her respects to Madam Yan.”
“Please, Matron Chu, no need for such formalities. What matter has the Empress sent you for?” Shen Yunying timely revealed a hint of confusion, asking with slight apprehension.
A rigid smile appeared on Matron Chu’s face. “Madam Yan, by the Empress’s oral decree, you are to enter the palace immediately.”
Shen Yunying took out a light pouch from her sleeve containing one hundred taels of silver and probed, “Could Matron give me a hint as to why Her Majesty the Empress is summoning me to the palace?”
Matron Chu accepted the pouch and said bluntly, “Madam need not worry. It is a good thing.” She refused to say anything more beyond that.
Knowing it was a good thing, Shen Yunying stopped overthinking. This trip to the palace would either be to receive a reward or to be praised. Instantly calmed, she entered the palace with Matron Chu.
Perhaps because she knew how the Emperor nagged and fussed in front of Yan Peifeng, Shen Yunying felt much better about entering the palace this time. Following Matron Chu, she went straight to a side hall of Kunning Palace to wait as soon as they entered the palace gates.
The Empress was gentle and dignified. Today, she happened to be wearing a deep green “Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix” long skirt. As she entered from the doorway, the white birds on her dress seemed to come alive, vibrant and full of vitality, adding a touch of liveliness to the quiet and steady Empress.
“I pay my respects to Her Majesty the Empress.” Shen Yunying hurriedly bowed, and Yinping, who had followed her into the palace, knelt and bowed as well.
The Empress chided gently, “Has Yunying forgotten how to address me after just a few days away from the palace?” She gestured for Matron Chu to help Shen Yunying up and said with a smile, “Yunying, rise quickly. I summoned you this time, firstly to see how you and Peifeng are doing, and secondly to give you some instructions in person.”
The Empress did not speak in riddles but got straight to the point. The Emperor was worried about Yan Peifeng, and she too was concerned that Yan Peifeng, on his first official assignment away from the capital, might encounter difficulties.
Yan Peifeng brought Shen Yunying along on this trip, ensuring that daily trivialities would be taken care of.
Shen Yunying smiled shyly and curtsied, saying, “Aunt.”
“Please feel free to give me any instructions, Aunt.”
Though she said this, Shen Yunying’s eyes still held an unmistakable unease. Her delicate face was tense, and her voice seemed to carry a slight tremor.
Clearly, she was struggling to maintain her composure.
The Empress smiled gently and beckoned Shen Yunying to sit beside her. “There’s no need to be nervous. I just want to give you some advice about traveling.”
Shen Yunying was genuinely surprised this time, her eyes widening. “Traveling?”
The Empress paused, then explained, “I was too hasty. Peifeng hasn’t finished his duties yet, so he hasn’t had the chance to tell you.” She then detailed how the Emperor had appointed Yan Peifeng as the River Inspector.
“This is his first long-distance assignment, and the journey will be far and rushed. You and Peifeng must be vigilant at all times. On this trip, the husband handles external affairs, and the wife manages the household. Just make sure he doesn’t go to the riverbanks on an empty stomach.” Having accompanied the Emperor on inspections before, the Empress covered a wide range of scenarios in her advice. Shen Yunying nodded repeatedly, taking in as much useful experience as she could in this sudden situation.
“Of course, you must also take good care of your own health. Having children is a significant matter, so you two should make the most of your time.” The Empress teased with a smile, thinking that with Shen Yunying’s figure, pregnancy should come easily. She then added in a knowing whisper, “Spend more time with Peifeng on the road. Feelings deepen with time spent together.”
Shen Yunying’s cheeks flushed, and she lowered her head, murmuring, “Aunt is right.”
Her shyness and restraint as a new bride were perfectly displayed.
Satisfied, the Empress nodded inwardly and retrieved a box from behind her. Softly, she instructed, “This is a peace talisman I had someone fetch from Xiangguo Temple. It was blessed before the Buddha and is very efficacious. This one is for you—keep it with you at all times. The other one is for Peifeng.”
Like any elder sending off a younger family member, the Empress carefully offered her advice and blessings for a safe journey, hoping for their safe return.
Shen Yunying couldn’t help but think of Jiang Wensheng. As soon as she left the palace, she would go to Taishi Mansion to see her mother.
“Thank you, Aunt. I will take good care of my husband,” Shen Yunying promised bashfully, her expression tightening with seriousness and determination.
The Empress smiled. “That’s good.”
Having said all she needed to, the Empress asked Shen Yunying how she was adjusting to life in Princess Mansion before letting her leave.
Shen Yunying had planned well: leave the palace, go to Taishi Mansion, and return to Princess Mansion just before Yan Peifeng finished his duties, arriving ahead of him. Unfortunately, as soon as she stepped out of Kunning Palace, she saw someone standing at the entrance—tall and dignified, like a crane among jade trees, unmistakably Yan Peifeng in his official robes.
Shen Yunying hurried over, her voice gentle. “Husband?”
“Hmm,” Yan Peifeng had just rushed over from Hanlin Academy, his breath still uneven. His narrow eyes were clear and gentle, like the sky after rain, bringing warmth to the heart. He spoke slowly, “I’ll escort you out of the palace.”
Shen Yunying didn’t know why Yan Peifeng was waiting outside Kunning Palace but softly agreed and walked beside him.
Yan Peifeng, however, glanced back discreetly and spotted a bright yellow figure hiding behind the corner of the wall. The Crown Prince stood there, winking and making faces at Yan Peifeng, completely devoid of his usual dignified and humble demeanor.
Yan Peifeng shot back a faint, warning look that said, “Just you wait.” He truly did not know how he had fallen for the Crown Prince’s trick, rushing over from the Hanlin Academy to Kunning Palace to find Shen Yunying.