Chapter 48 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

Translating Chinese Historical Dramas for your enjoyment... and mine! :)

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 48:

Scumbag Meets Scumbag

The maidservants brought water for everyone to wash their hands, and then served the soup quietly. The ladies chatted and laughed while the young ladies were served their meals by those around them. After the meal, everyone moved to the side hall to have tea.

Once the tea was finished, they all sat in the warm pavilion set up in the courtyard, with several long couches arranged inside. In front of each couch were various fruit platters and snacks. Everyone sat according to their rank, and the young ladies surrounded the ladies.

Old Madam Li handed the playbill in her hand to Old Madam Ning and said with a smile, "I think all the plays are good. I'd like your opinion on which one to choose."

Old Madam Ning, being the most respected, politely declined at first, but eventually accepted it and flipped through it briefly. Then she asked Madam Shen beside her, "Is there any recent play that's particularly good?"

Madam Shen glanced at the gilt-edged playbill in her hand and smiled, "Mother, there's a good play called 'The Legend of Zhao's Family' recently. However, today being a joyous occasion, this play may have a somewhat melancholic tone..."

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The theater manager, who was kneeling respectfully nearby, quickly explained, "Madams, please rest assured. Originally, this play had a sad ending, but when it was presented to the Empress Dowager, she didn't like it and personally ordered changes. Now it has a happy ending!"

"Oh? The Empress Dowager has seen this play too? In that case, let's go ahead and perform it. There's nothing to worry about," Old Madam Li said with a smile.

Although Ouyang Nuan wore a modest smile on her face, she couldn't help but understand in her heart. Her grandmother was someone who loved to take credit for things. It seemed she was superstitious and wary of bad omens. Just hearing that the Empress Dowager had seen the play made her want to watch it immediately, as if her status would be elevated after seeing it.

With the sound of drums and gongs, the performance began on stage, capturing the attention of all the ladies and young misses. The story unfolded in the previous dynasty, narrating the rise and fall of the Zhao family, who had gained prominence through military achievements. Due to their high status, they incurred the jealousy and resentment of General Jia, who falsely accused them of treason and orchestrated the massacre of the entire Zhao family, leaving only one surviving orphan.

As the first and second acts unfolded, everyone was deeply engrossed in the fate of the Zhao family, drawn in by the gripping storyline. By the time the third act, the scene of entrusting the orphan to Doctor Cheng Ying, arrived, and the nursemaid was singing, "Raise the Zhao orphan to adulthood, and let him avenge his parents!" a maid came to report, "Old Madam, Madam is here."

The entire audience fell silent for a moment, and Ouyang Nuan was the first to stand up, smiling as she said, "Grandmother, let me go and welcome Mother."

Old Madam Li's expression remained neutral as she nodded and said, "Your mother is unwell. Since she's not feeling well, she should rest properly. Why bother coming out to catch a chill?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and then saw Wang Mama and Lixiang accompanying Madam Lin as they walked in. Under everyone's gaze, Madam Lin's smile was very gentle and sincere.

Old Madam Li remained seated until Madam Lin greeted her with a bow, then slowly spoke, "If there's anything to discuss, just say it. Why bother with unnecessary troubles? With you being pregnant, it's important to take good care of yourself."

Before anyone else could speak, Madam Jiang chimed in, "Exactly, Wanru. Look how caring Old Madam is towards you. She's right. With your delicate health, you should focus on taking care of yourself."

Madam Lin made a slight bow and flashed a smile. "On Old Madam's auspicious birthday, with all the noble ladies present, I had to come and pay my respects."

Afterwards, she walked solemnly to Old Madam Ning's side and bowed respectfully. Old Madam Ning gave a faint smile, a hint of sharpness glinting in her eyes as she said, "We're all family here. Let's skip the formalities."

"Yes, Mother, you should focus on resting. Your health is the most important thing," Ouyang Nuan's smile was very gentle. Madam Lin also smiled and patted her hand affectionately, giving the impression to onlookers that they shared a deep mother-daughter bond, unaware of the underlying tension between them.

Madam Lin sat down, and Ouyang Nuan personally poured her tea. "Mother, you've arrived just in time for the most exciting part."

As the performance on stage reached its climax with vigorous and powerful tones, suddenly the drumming abruptly stopped. Everyone heard the orphan from the Zhao family swear fiercely in front of the memorial tablet, "He exterminated my entire clan, I'll slaughter his nine generations!" Madam Lin's heart skipped a beat upon hearing this, but when she regained her composure, she saw Ouyang Nuan smiling at her. She couldn't help but feel a chill run down her spine, and she broke out in a cold sweat without realizing it.

After the third act finished singing, Old Madam Li instructed someone to reward the performers. At that moment, Ouyang Nuan noticed that Madam Lin had been gazing anxiously towards the door. Her expression seemed somewhat agitated. Ouyang Nuan pondered silently. Since becoming pregnant, Madam Lin had been holding her breath, hoping to give birth to a son to assert her dominance. However, her plans had been disrupted by Ouyang Nuan's actions. Now, her situation was awkward and uncertain. Given Madam Lin's temperament, she would not easily accept this fate. Ouyang Nuan feared that she might take action today... but what would she do?

The performance on stage was still concluding, and a little maid ran in and stood outside the warm pavilion, peering inside but hesitating to enter. Wang Mama, who was beside Madam Lin, watched and quietly approached the maid. She whispered a few words to her before hastily returning to whisper something in Madam Lin's ear. Finally, a faint smile appeared on Madam Lin's face.

Madam Lin stood up and loudly addressed Old Madam Li, "Grandmother, Madam Su from the Su family happens to be in the capital. She heard about your birthday banquet and wishes to come and pay her respects!"

Upon hearing the words "Madam Su," Ouyang Nuan's facial expression remained unchanged, but inside, she felt like a storm was brewing. The Su family of Jiangnan, engaged in traditional Chinese medicine, silk, and tea trade, controlled the commerce along the Jiangxi River, and their wealth was vast and well-known. However, no one understood the Su family better than Ouyang Nuan, because in her past life, she was ruined by them! She couldn't believe that Madam Su, who should have been far away in Jiangnan, would come to pay her respects at Old Madam Li's birthday banquet. No wonder Madam Lin had been restless since earlier; she had been waiting for her!

Madam Su and Madam Lin had been close friends since before their marriages, and Old Madam Li was aware of this fact. However, Madam Su's sudden appearance in the capital raised some doubts in her mind. She couldn't show her suspicions in front of everyone, so she smiled and said, "Then, please invite Madam Su to come in."

Ouyang Nuan watched as several maids surrounded the radiant and graceful Madam Su, who entered with an air of elegance. Her smile remained gentle and serene, concealing any trace of anger. Yet, deep within her eyes, there lingered a coldness as if emerging from the depths of hell. "Come," she thought, "what must come will come. All of this has happened two years earlier than in my previous life. It seems that Madam Lin has been driven to desperation by me and can no longer wait any longer!"

Madam Su walked all the way across the big red brocade felt and bowed to old Madam Li with a flourish．

By her side stood a girl in red. Seeing these two familiar faces again. The corner of Ouyang Nuan's mouth involuntarily hooked up with a trace of irony.

Madam Su had an outstanding appearance, with radiant eyes that sparkled brightly. With a vigorous and spirited demeanor, she greeted everyone and then seated herself beside Madam Lin. Pointing towards Ouyang Nuan, who was beside Old Madam Li, she smiled and asked, "Who is this?"

Madam Lin replied with a smile, "She is the Nuan'er I've mentioned to you several times, the eldest young lady of our household."

Madam Su carefully observed her for a moment, a hint of admiration flickering in her eyes, and remarked, "She is indeed a remarkably beautiful woman! I came in a hurry today and didn't prepare any other gifts for our first meeting. Here, take this as a token." With that, she took out a heavy red embroidered purse from her bosom and handed it to Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Nuan observed the situation and without waiting for Madam Lin to speak, she immediately moved forward with respectful steps and politely bowed, "Madam Su, greetings." Madam Su glanced at her, a smile playing on her lips. Madam Lin also smiled and said, "This is Ke'er." Madam Su nodded slightly, not saying much. Instead, she removed two pearl-inlaid gold bracelets from her wrist and gently put them on Ouyang Nuan, saying, "Good child, this is for you."

Ouyang Ke glanced down at the gold bracelets and then at the embroidered purse in Ouyang Nuan's hand. She couldn't help but feel envious as she found the purse dazzlingly magnificent with its intricate pearl and gem embroidery, without even considering its contents. Just the purse alone was undoubtedly valuable, causing her eyes to widen with jealousy.

However, Ouyang Nuan remained unfazed. She knew that Madam Su was scheming, naturally intending to offer a generous gift. In her past life, she foolishly believed in the other party's kindness, never realizing that it was all premeditated! With a faint nod of acknowledgment, she prepared to return to Old Madam Li's side.

Yet, Madam Su continued to hold her hand, gently touching her face and expressing admiration, "This child is truly well-behaved and refined, unlike my wild daughter, who behaves like an untamed horse without reins."

Ouyang Nuan inwardly sneered, but her face remained gentle and submissive. The exquisitely beautiful girl who had come along with Madam Su smiled and said, "Mother, you're really biased. When did I misbehave? Now Nuan sister will have anything to tease me about!"

Ouyang Nuan certainly recognized this girl. She was Madam Su's younger daughter, Su Yunniang, the sister of Su Yulou. Back then, during the affair between herself and Su Yulou, Su Yunniang had been busy playing the role of matchmaker, exerting quite a bit of "effort" in the process.

Later, when Ouyang Nuan was sent away to be drowned in the river, this seemingly innocent girl had already been married off. Yet, she had deliberately rushed back from her husband's home overnight to witness this spectacle.

The people of the Su family were truly a bunch of hypocrites with pleasant faces and ruthless hearts! However, Ouyang Nuan remained composed, wearing a friendly smile as she inquired, "And who might this younger sister be?"

"This is Yunniang. You two should also get acquainted!" Madam Su said.

So Su Yunniang walked over with a smile, took Ouyang Nuan's hand, and whispered softly, "Elder Sister Nuan, I've heard so much about you. We can play together often from now on."

As Su Yunniang held her hand, Ouyang Nuan smelled the rich fragrance emanating from her, enveloping her sleeves. She also noticed the dazzling jewels adorning her and the radiant aura she exuded, prompting a cold sneer in her heart.

While the people from the Marquis of Zhengguo's residence remained composed, the young ladies from the household of the Minister of Personnel already showed mocking expressions. While the Su family might hold sway in Jiangnan, in the circles of wealthy officials in the capital, they were sometimes viewed as nouveau riche.

Yet, Su Yunniang seemed overly ostentatious, as if afraid that others wouldn't recognize her wealth!

After the greetings were exchanged, everyone took their seats. Su Yunniang repeatedly tried to persuade Ouyang Nuan to sit together, but she politely declined and instead sat with the daughters of the Marquis's household.

Su Yunniang then attempted to join the daughters of other officials, only to be subtly driven away. She had never imagined that the circles of high society in the capital would be so difficult to penetrate. Feeling frustrated, her eyes reddened with anger. Clenching her fists tightly, she reluctantly stood back behind Madam Su.

Madam Su had noticed her daughter's reddened eyes but chose to ignore them, smiling as she spoke to Madam Lin, "Since I got married, it's been many years since I last visited the capital. Although Jiangnan is pleasant, it's not my hometown. I've always dreamed of returning to the capital. Last year, my eldest brother persuaded my husband, and since we're now considered a wealthy family, we shouldn't give up on aspirations for officialdom. So, we brought our family to the capital this time, intending for Yulou to focus on his studies."

Madam Lin replied with a smile, "You're right. It's about time you returned. But there's no need to be formal. I'll have them prepare the three spacious parlors outside, and you can stay there. Although I'm not as wealthy as your family, I can still manage this hospitality."

Ouyang Nuan had been earnestly watching the performance onstage. However, since she was seated nearby, she couldn't help but overhear their conversation. A slight smirk appeared on her lips. Madam Lin's bold offer was quite unexpected. When did it become her place to make decisions for the Ouyang family without consulting Old Madam Li? Did she think that Grandmother didn't exist? Just a sidelong glance revealed Old Madam Li's stern expression, with a hint of coldness in her eyes.

Madam Su chuckled, "It's not like that. We have about seventy to eighty servants, from maidservants to footmen. It's not feasible to accommodate everyone in an ordinary house. We would rather ask the Master to take the trouble of buying a house for us. The price of the house doesn't matter much, as long as it's comfortable to live in." Then, she turned to Old Madam Li and said, "Grandmother, don't you agree? We're not planning to leave in a hurry. Perhaps we'll stay here for a long time."

Old Madam Li's smile was neither warm nor cold as she replied, "Madam Su is right. The Capital is indeed a good place. I'm just worried that once you settle down here, you won't want to leave."

Old Madam Ning, the elderly matriarch, smiled faintly and said to Old Madam Li, "I think Madam Su has this intention. She wants to settle down in the Capital!" The other ladies couldn't help but suppress their laughter. In that momentary glance exchanged between them, there was a trace of mockery. Land in the Capital was extremely precious. Buying property here wasn't simply a matter of having money; it also depended on one's influence and ancestral roots. For a merchant family like the Su's to think of buying a courtyard here was nothing short of wishful thinking.

Madam Su knew full well that the others were mocking her, but she kept her inner anger in check, not showing the slightest hint of displeasure on her face. Instead, she smiled and said, "You're right. I must admit my ignorance. Buying a courtyard isn't urgent. We can start by renting one for the time being." Then, Su Yunniang, who was standing beside her, suddenly leaned in and whispered a few words into her ear.

"Yulou wants to pay his respects?" Madam Su deliberately feigned surprise. "But wasn't he in the front hall?"

At this celebration hosted by Old Madam Li, all male guests were gathered in the front hall, even the young masters from the Marquis of Zhenguo's residence. For Su Yulou to come in and pay respects at this moment seemed quite laughable, revealing Madam Lin's and their intentions. Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but sigh, reflecting on how easily she had been deceived in her past life, falling victim to manipulation and schemes.

"This might not be in line with propriety, as this is mainly for the family members," Madam Su pretended to look conflicted.

"Let him come in! There are no outsiders here anyway!" Madam Lin smiled and said to Old Madam Li, "Young Master Su has come from afar and heard that everyone is here. He simply wants to pay his respects!" Ouyang Nuan's gaze shifted, her mind racing with countless thoughts.

Old Madam Li chuckled, her eyes showing strong disapproval but her face happily saying, "Let the child come in."

Others joined in the laughter, but only the elderly matriarch flashed a hint of sharpness in her eyes. Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but let out a soft sigh. Perhaps Grandmother had already seen through Madam Lin's actions long ago! She smiled gently and said, "Grandmother, there are no outsiders here, so there's no harm in letting him in. However, the young ladies from the Marquis's household and the Liaos are already grown up. Young Master Su is a guest, after all..."

Madam Li nodded. "That's true." Then, she turned to Zhang Mama and said, "Take the young ladies to sit behind the screen."

Madam Lin, upon hearing this, showed a hint of anxiety in her eyes, but Madam Su suddenly reached out and gently held her hand, patting it soothingly. Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but smile faintly. It seemed that Madam Su was even more composed than Madam Lin, her stepmother.

Behind the screen was a resting area where everyone settled down. They heard the servant outside shouting loudly, "Young Master Su from the Su family has arrived!"

Ouyang Ke happened to be sitting right next to the screen and leaned closer to peek through its gap. The other young ladies remained silent and still, but Ouyang Nuan's face bore a friendly smile, while her eyes betrayed an indescribable coldness.

A voice, as gentle as a spring breeze, pierced through the screen and touched the hearts of those within. "Greetings to all the elders."

The voice was still as soft and refined as before, stirring emotions within. Suddenly, a surge of resentment welled up in Ouyang Nuan's heart, accompanied by a sharp, bone-deep pain. But she didn't cry. The tears shed for him had long dried up, leaving behind only rusted remnants. She would never shed another tear for him! Let the past remain in the past forever.

Those once cherished days of happiness were gone, never to return. No, it was all just a play, a play that had intoxicated and ensnared her, never to return from the abyss. His tenderness had once ensnared her, but it ultimately turned into a cold, cruel blade that left her battered and bruised. The more she had once been enchanted, the more bitter she felt in her final moments, to the point of wishing to destroy the world in her hatred!

"Su Yulou, Su Yulou... Su Yulou, do you know how much I wish to feast on your flesh and drink your blood? Yet here you are, daring to come knocking at my door. Well, well, well... This is just perfect!"

Everyone was drawn to the soft voice from outside, completely unaware of the bitter coldness lurking in Ouyang Nuan's eyes, akin to the icy depths of a bitter well or the chill of a thousand-year-old iceberg.

Ouyang Ke rarely encountered outsiders, so he leaned closer to the gap in the screen to get a better look outside. There, he saw a handsome young man strolling in. He was dressed in a dark red flowing bat-patterned robe, trimmed with dark golden brocade, and draped with a snowy white fox fur cloak. His mesmerizing starry eyes, affectionate gaze, and rosy lips exuded elegance and charm. He carried himself with grace and confidence, an indescribable aura of refinement and nonchalance. As Ouyang Ke laid eyes on his strikingly handsome face, all his movements seemed to freeze, as if he had been struck with paralysis.

"Please rise!" Madam Li's voice was gentle. "Young Master Su, coming from afar, is indeed an esteemed guest. You should join us in the main hall and have a few more drinks."

Su Yulou's voice was calm and confident, giving off an air of composure. "Yes, thank you for your kind invitation, Madam. I heard that all the esteemed ladies were gathered here, so I came to pay my respects."

Su Yulou's appearance caused quite a stir among the ladies present. No one had expected the Su family to have such a charismatic young master. Ouyang Nuan slowly lowered her eyelids to conceal the coldness in her eyes. The handsome face of Su Yulou was still fresh in her memory. Who would have thought that behind that charming facade lay cunning and ambition?

While there was chatter outside, the young ladies inside couldn't sit still anymore.

With a pair of bright, beautiful eyes, Liao Xiaoju, who was sweet and naive, couldn't resist asking first, "Ke'er, what does Young Master Su look like?"

Ouyang Ke was still lost in thought, staring blankly outside, unable to snap out of it. Ouyang Nuan smiled as she poured tea from the red clay stove, personally serving Miss Liao a cup, and softly said, "Please have some tea..." Miss Liao suddenly realized her indiscretion, embarrassed that she had asked such a question in front of everyone, her face flushing red.

Dressed in a six-paneled colorful skirt, exuding dazzling radiance, Miss Ke from the Ministry of Personnel's household giggled softly, "We are all friends here, no need to be so restrained. I heard that this Young Master Su is a renowned beauty in Jiangnan!"

"Yes, yes..." there was a flurry of excited chatter.

Miss Shi from the Ministry of Personnel, holding a hand warmer, smiled and said, "A beauty? There are plenty of handsome men in the Capital. The most famous is the Commandary Prince Ming. Unfortunately, he rarely makes public appearances. Otherwise, he would have charmed all the women in the city..."

"Miss Shi, have you ever met Prince Ming?" asked a young lady who couldn't even recall Ouyang Nuan's name.

"I only saw him from a distance during the annual ceremony that year, couldn't see clearly..." Miss Shi's eyes had a dreamy look, as if recalling something. Her cheeks flushed crimson, and she couldn't help but let out a sigh.

"Ah... even if the Prince is exceptional, he will still need the Emperor's approval for marriage. Ordinary families cannot aspire to such heights. Miss Shi, perhaps it's best not to harbor unrealistic fantasies!" Lin Yuanrou smiled faintly, her eyes carrying an indescribable mockery.

"You're talking nonsense!" Miss Shi almost jumped up, but Ouyang Nuan stopped her with a light remark, "Ladies, remember, this screen is quite thin. If someone outside were to overhear..."

Everyone fell silent, pondering the implications. Su Yulou outside had already left unnoticed. Ouyang Ke resumed her seat, and Miss Ke beside her, without hesitation, directly asked her, "Have you met this Young Master Su? What is his appearance like?"

The young ladies all perked up their ears, and Ouyang Ke seemed a bit distracted. After a moment's thought, she replied, "Excellent."

"What's excellent about it?" Miss Ke pressed on. Ouyang Ke shook her head, chuckled lightly, and said, "Difficult to describe." Despite further inquiries from the other girls, she refused to elaborate any further.

After Su Yulou left, the young ladies returned to their original positions to watch the play. However, Ouyang Ke seemed increasingly indifferent. At this moment, Madam Lin suddenly spoke up, "Let's not confine the children to listening to the play here. Let them take a stroll in the garden."

No one chimed in, especially Ouyang Nuan, who sat gracefully with a faint smile, showing no intention of leaving. Old Madam Lin couldn't help but feel anxious and gave Ouyang Ke a pleading look.

Ouyang Ke stood up and playfully pleaded with Old Madam Li, "Grandmother, I don't want to watch the play. I want to go play in the garden."

Old Madam Li smiled and replied, "Go ahead, don't sit here with us. I know you young folks can't sit still and don't enjoy these sentimental plays."

Everyone laughed, and Lin Yuanrou stood up with a smile, saying loudly, "Grandmother, I want to go too!" Subsequently, most of the young ladies stood up one after another, expressing their desire to join.

Old Madam Li nodded and asked Ouyang Nuan beside her, "Nuan'er, are you going with them?"

However, Ouyang Nuan smiled and replied, "Grandmother, I'm curious whether Young Master Zhao can take revenge or not! I'll stay and keep you company to watch the play." Her tone was filled with longing.

Old Madam Lin's expression subtly changed, and her gaze towards Ouyang Nuan became uncertain.

Ouyang Ke smirked, went up to link arms with Ouyang Nuan, and asked Old Madam Li with a smile, "Grandmother, Nuan'er is reluctant to leave you but wants to go. She doesn't enjoy these plays. Can you grant her the favor of letting her join us to play?"

Lin Yuanrou quickly added, "Yes, that's right. Let's have Nuan'er sister come with us. Otherwise, it wouldn't be good for us to wander around the garden without being familiar with it!"

"Since that's the case, Nuan'er, you accompany the young ladies and take a stroll outside. Take good care of them," Old Madam Li nodded and said so.

Ouyang Nuan looked at Ouyang Ke, who was pretending to be lively and adorable in front of everyone, with a smile that was not quite a smile. Ouyang Ke felt a tingling sensation on her scalp as she was looked at with such inexplicable eyes by her sister. As soon as they were out of sight of the ladies, she involuntarily let go of her hand.

Once in the garden, Ouyang Ke suggested going to sit in the pavilion. The other young ladies followed her lead, but Lin Yuanxin held onto Ouyang Nuan's sleeve and said, "Ouyang Ke is acting strangely. You should keep an eye on her."

This reminder was undoubtedly sincere. Ouyang Nuan looked at Lin Yuanxin and smiled faintly, "Sister Yuanxin, rest assured, I won't let Old Madam worry about me." Whatever their motives were, she would make sure their plans came to nothing!

The octagonal pavilion of the Ouyang residence was built on a rockery, and the young ladies ascended the steps to sit inside. Fruits and snacks were already prepared, and they could enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful garden scenery. Just then, they heard lively noises coming from not far away, with cheers and laughter constantly drifting over. Miss Shi suddenly exclaimed, "Look!"

To the west side of the garden, there were rows of banquet tables set up, where young gentlemen were casually seated, surrounded by the aroma of wine and continuous laughter. All the young ladies seemed somewhat alarmed by this sight.

Ouyang Nuan glanced calmly and said with a smile, "Miss Shi, there's no need to be surprised. Father set up additional seats in the garden to ensure our guests have a good time. We are in the pavilion, and there are maidservants below guarding, so outsiders cannot easily enter."

Hearing her explanation, the young ladies relaxed slightly and looked over in curiosity. About a hundred paces from the banquet tables, a stone shield was erected with two servants standing on each side, while behind the young gentlemen stood maidservants holding bows and arrows.

Ouyang Nuan could see her brother Ouyang Jue among them from a distance, and she couldn't help but smile. Young gentlemen from noble families often enjoyed organizing small archery competitions. Was Jue able to handle the bow and arrow as a child?

Seated at the banquet table were not only Ouyang Jue but also Lin Zhiran, the legitimate son of the Marquis of Zhengguo, Lin Zhiyu, the son of the Minister of War, Liao Hefeng, the son of the Minister of Personnel, and others. The last to arrive was Su Yulou.

Su Yulou casually glanced toward the pavilion. Although he couldn't discern which young lady among them was Ouyang Nuan, he knew she must be among this group of women. For him, winning the affection of a young maiden was an easy task. Since his mother had repeatedly urged him to do whatever it took to capture the heart of the young lady from the Ouyang residence, he was determined to act accordingly!

At that moment, Liao Hefeng's arrow hit the lion's head target, and everyone applauded and cheered. With a smile on his lips, Su Yulou lazily stood up, took the bow and arrow from the hands of his maid behind him, and pulled the bowstring. After testing the tension slightly, a relaxed smile appeared on his face. With a "swoosh," the arrow was released, heading straight for the lion shield. Immediately, the sound of the arrow piercing through the wooden shield rang out. All eyes turned to see that it had hit the lion's nose directly.

The young ladies in the pavilion exclaimed in astonishment, none of them could have imagined that the young master from the Su residence possessed such extraordinary archery skills! Their gazes involuntarily focused on him, with Ouyang Ke being particularly enamored.

Initially, Madam Lin had brought Ouyang Nuan here to witness Su Yulou's grace, hoping to create an opportunity for them to cultivate feelings. However, at this moment, Ouyang Ke had completely forgotten Madam Lin's instructions.

Ouyang Nuan whispered softly to Lin Yuanxin beside her, not even glancing at Su Yulou. At that moment, Lin Yuanrou interjected, saying, "Nuan'er, it seems that Jue'er also wants to participate!"

Ouyang Nuan suddenly raised her head and looked towards the field. Indeed, she saw Ouyang Jue holding a bow and arrow, seemingly exerting all his strength to draw the bowstring. Ouyang Nuan stood up slowly and involuntarily approached, thinking to herself that it was too much for a child to handle such a bow and arrow. She thought, "Jue'er shouldn't have been so reckless..."

Just then, Ouyang Jue released the arrow. The servant guarding the shield screamed and fled to the side like a frightened bird. The arrow missed the target completely, let alone hitting the lion's nose. If it weren't for the servant's timely escape, he might have been shot on the spot! The young masters burst into laughter, their unrestrained mockery causing Ouyang Jue's face to flush red.

At just ten years old, he had never touched a bowstring before. This time was merely an attempt, but he hadn't expected to be ridiculed like this!

"Sister, I didn't expect brother's archery skills to be so poor!" Ouyang Ke covered her mouth and laughed.

Ouyang Nuan, however, smiled nonchalantly and said, "Jue'er is still a child, with limited strength. I'm already surprised that he could draw the bowstring on his first try." She just hoped that he wouldn't feel too hurt in his pride because of this. Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but think so.

Just then, a young man approached. He took the bow and arrow from Ouyang Jue's hand and smiled slightly, saying, "Nephew, let me give it a try."

"It's my eldest brother!" Lin Yuanxin's eyes were sharp, showing a pleasant surprise on her face. Lin Zhiran? Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but feel surprised. The eldest son of her maternal uncle, Lin Zhiran, had always been proud and distant from her siblings. Why would he step forward to help Jue'er?

Su Yulou walked over to him and smiled faintly, "Master Lin, are you also interested in archery?"

Lin Zhiran looked at him with a smile and replied slowly, "I have some knowledge of it, but as long as it's something I'm interested in, I will surely win."

Su Yulou's smile faded a bit. "I'm the same. Whenever I want to win, I have never lost. Master Lin, are you sure you can come out on top today?"

Lin Zhiran smiled faintly and said, "Let's see who has the better skills."

"Alright. In that case, let's have a little contest between you and me," Su Yulou said slowly, extending his arm outward. Someone behind him handed him the bow. He swiftly strung the bow and shot an arrow. As the arrow left the bow, he quickly retrieved another arrow from behind him, strung it, and shot it out. The whole process was as fast as lightning, clean and effortless, as if it were done in the blink of an eye. Before anyone could react, the two arrows raced against each other towards the lion shield, one from the left and one from the right, hitting the lion's nose simultaneously!

The young masters were stunned for a moment, then erupted into enthusiastic applause. During the Great Li Dynasty, emphasis was placed on both literary and martial arts. All the children of prominent families were not only required to study literature but also practice archery. Su Yulou, with his remarkable beauty and merchant background, was initially thought of as just a pretty face, but nobody expected him to possess such exceptional archery skills. He was truly a rare handsome man in the world. This time, even the ladies in the pavilion stood up to watch the contest, their faces showing admiration involuntarily. For a moment, all eyes were on Su Yulou.

Only Ouyang Nuan had already returned to her seat in the pavilion, calmly pouring herself a cup of tea. After Ouyang Jue shot his arrows, she no longer paid attention to the others. Instead, it was Lin Yuanxin who nervously clenched her handkerchief. Ouyang Nuan glanced at her and smiled faintly, "Is Sister Yuanxin worried?"

Worried! Of course, she was worried! No matter how outstanding Su Yulou was, he was still from a merchant background. On the other hand, her elder brother Lin Zhiran was a young master from the Marquis's residence. The difference in status was significant. If he were to lose to Su Yulou in front of everyone, wouldn't he become the laughingstock of the entire capital?

"Yuanxin, there's no need to be nervous. You know my cousin Zhiran's personality better than I do. He wouldn't engage in a battle without confidence," Ouyang Nuan reassured with a smile, though she wasn't entirely convinced herself. She knew Su Yulou very well; he was indeed talented in both literary and martial arts, far more than just a facade. As for Lin Zhiran, she realized she didn't understand him well enough.

Ouyang Jue approached Lin Zhiran, looking up at him with some concern. "Cousin, maybe we should just forget about it—"

Lin Zhiran gave a faint smile. His sharp phoenix eyes narrowed slightly as he took the bow and arrow. His demeanor became extraordinarily calm, lips pressed tightly together, muscles tense. In that moment, the elegant young master transformed completely. A cold aura emanated from him, chilling even the warmth of the sunlight.

The ladies in the pavilion watched intently, the atmosphere growing quieter, with all eyes fixed on Lin Zhiran. A strange feeling welled up in their hearts; this was bound to be an exceptionally thrilling contest.

Suddenly, with a cold glint, the arrow flew out with a "whoosh." Before anyone could react, Lin Zhiran swiftly released another arrow, following closely behind the first one. The ladies in the pavilion instinctively leaned forward, some almost forgetting their composure as they leaned over the railing to get a better view...

With a sharp "crack," one of Su Yulou's arrows was split in half by Lin Zhiran's arrow and fell to the ground. The other arrow, shaken by the intense impact on the wooden shield, dropped with a "buzz." Before anyone could gasp in shock, Lin Zhiran's second arrow fell like a meteor, landing perfectly in the arrow pit left by Su Yulou's shot, hitting the lion's nose dead center.

This scene was beyond the description of exquisite marksmanship! Everyone watched in disbelief as Su Yulou's arrow was split in half and another one was shaken off the shield by the tremendous force. The sheer strength required for this was astonishing! Lin Zhiran not only demonstrated exceptional archery skills but also extraordinary arm strength. The spectators gasped in amazement, unable to find words to express their astonishment. The silence that followed was so profound that it seemed even the dropping of a pin could be heard. Then, like a tidal wave suddenly surging, everyone erupted into cheers, far more excited and fervent than before!

The ladies cheered along with excitement, and even Lin Yuanxin, who was always composed and gentle, was now flushed with excitement. She pulled Ou Yangnuan to the edge of the pavilion and shouted, "Big brother, you're amazing! So amazing!"

This group of graceful ladies, standing above, had already caught the attention of many. They had pretended not to notice before, but now, their outburst drew the gaze of countless young men.

However, Ouyang Nuan's gaze couldn't help but linger on the young man in the silver-white brocade robe with golden edges. Despite his young age, he stood tall and distinguished, standing out conspicuously among the crowd. Sensing her gaze, the young man turned to meet her eyes. His face was as fair as jade, and his black pupils reflected a faint gloss, clear and translucent like flawless black gemstones. His appearance was simply impeccable, like a refined sculpture, every detail perfectly proportioned, resembling an unparalleled work of art. It made people feel deeply intoxicated while involuntarily feeling ashamed of their own shortcomings.

Ouyang Nuan didn't evade the gaze and smiled faintly, and Lin Zhiran also smiled back at her, his smile particularly radiant in the sunlight.

Just then, a servant came to report that the master invited all the young gentlemen to a banquet in the main hall. Hearing this, the young gentlemen turned to leave. Seeing this, the ladies in the pavilion knew they were going to the main hall to accompany the adults for drinking, and since the competition was over, they lost interest and decided to leave.

However, Ouyang Nuan smiled at them and said, "Ke'er, since everyone wants to go back, you take them back to watch the play."

Ouyang Ke looked at her with a strange expression, while Lin Yuanxin asked curiously, "Isn't Nuan'er going back?"

Ouyang Nuan shook her head slightly, and the ladies looked down to see everyone leaving. Only Ouyang Jue was still in the garden. Knowing that her brother and she might have something to discuss, they nodded in understanding and followed Ouyang Ke to leave.

Ouyang Ke initially didn't want to leave, but Lin Yuanxin deliberately linked her arm with her's to give Ouyang Nuan and her brother some private time together, so she pulled him away.

Ouyang Jue reached for the bow. The bow was quite heavy for his age, but he still held the bow and arrows with his left hand, while his right hand struggled to pull the string. He took a deep breath and exerted force to draw the string, but it seemed like his strength was failing him.

Seeing this scene, Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but worry for him.

Ouyang Jue made several attempts, and because of the effort, his fingers on his right hand became swollen and red.

Ouyang Nuan stood quietly nearby, watching without intervening. Ouyang Jue's forehead was covered in sweat, but there was no sign of frustration on his face. He forcefully released an arrow, but it fell short of the lion shield before hitting the ground. He clenched his teeth, bent down, seemingly trying to lower his center of gravity, and then attempted to draw the bowstring again with all his might.

Ouyang Nuan's eyes were filled with concern but she remained silent. However, halfway through, Ouyang Jue couldn't sustain the effort, and his feet slipped, causing the bowstring to snap back into place with a whooshing sound. Ouyang Jue stared blankly, a hint of frustration on his face as he contemplated how to try again.

Ouyang Nuan finally couldn't hold back anymore. She walked up and took the bow from Ouyang Jue's hands. Ouyang Jue was taken aback and asked, "Sis, why are you here?"

Ouyang Nuan's heart was touched, but she still said, "Jue, you don't need to force yourself like this." She dropped the bow, took his hand, and saw that both of Ouyang Jue's hands were purple and his fingertips were oozing blood from exertion. Ouyang Nuan held back her tears and smiled as she gently patted his head, "Silly child, does it hurt?"

Ouyang Jue's eyes were hidden behind his long black eyelashes. He pleaded, "Sis, let me try again. I'm sure I can do better than Cousin."

"Nonsense, Jue. Sister already told you not to push yourself too hard. What does it matter if you can't pull the bow as well?" Ouyang Nuan replied with a smile.

Ouyang Jue shook his head firmly and said, "Sis, I will definitely surpass everyone. I won't let you down, trust me."

Ouyang Nuan looked into his determined dark eyes, opened her mouth to speak, but ultimately closed it. She had always felt that as long as Jue became a motivated and successful person, he didn't need to excel in everything. After all, he was only ten years old. Just a child who shouldn't be burdened with too much pressure prematurely. However, she seemed to have forgotten that this child had a stubborn pride in his bones. Today's events must have had a significant impact on him... She had overlooked it.

"Jue, sister believes in you," Ouyang Nuan said with a smile.

"Yeah! In the future, I will be ennobled and become a prime minister. I'll make you a noble lady, so those petty people won't dare to mock us again. I'll make you and Mother proud! Sis, watch me. I'll definitely make it happen!" Ouyang Jue said as he pulled the bowstring once again.

Ouyang Nuan stood a few steps away, silently watching as Ouyang Jue repeatedly pulled the bowstring. Ennoblement, appointment as a prime minister, noble lady... Jue, is this your wish? Do you know that my greatest wish is to see you happy? What does fame and wealth matter? If that's what you want, I'll fight for it with all my might.

"Why is Master Ouyang still practicing?" At that moment, a young man emerged from the nearby flowers.

Exquisitely handsome... These four words perfectly described Su Yulou. Coupled with his proficiency in both literary and martial arts, his mastery of various arts, any woman who laid eyes on him couldn't help but be infatuated. Madam Lin's efforts to lure her in might have been quite considerable, Ouyang Nuan thought, with a hint of disdain in her heart.

"This gentleman is..." His gaze fell upon Ouyang Nuan, accompanied by a warm smile, his eyes carrying a charming allure.

•••

**A Note From the Author**

"Scumbag alert! The scumbag has arrived!" Finally got to this point, and Qin is trembling with excitement. Lalalala!

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