Chapter 59 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

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

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Family

Chapter 59:

The Young Miss is Quite Resourceful

The Grand Princess stepped into the sedan chair and Ouyang Nuan watched her leave. Then she heard someone shout "Sister!" Ouyang Jue came running over, calling out anxiously, "Sister, are you alright? I was so worried just now!"

"You're already this old, yet you're still so reckless. What could possibly scare you like that? There are much bigger things in the world," scolded Ouyang Nuan, while gently tidying up her brother's disheveled hair. "Did Sister's words upset you just now?"

"Just forget it, I was afraid Sister might get into trouble," Ouyang Jue pouted. "The Prince of Qin is not a good person. You should avoid him in the future. Let's go back quickly."

Ouyang Nuan smiled and gently tapped his hand. "You always panic when something happens. You should think about what we would have done today if the Grand Princess hadn't come."

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"You're right, Sister. I am not a child anymore. From now on, remember not to stir up trouble," at that moment, Old Madam Li walked over. The siblings quickly bowed to her. Old Madam Li sighed, looking at Ouyang Jue. "Jue, the heir to the Prince of Qin is not someone to provoke. How did you offend him?"

"Grandmother, I was just wandering in the fields today and somehow ended up in the hunting grounds..."

"Jue, how dare you lie in front of your grandmother? There are guards at the hunting grounds. How could a child like you get in?" Ouyang Nuan frowned. Just a moment ago, the Grand Princess and Old Madam Li entered the hunting grounds with guards stationed at the entrance. How could they not have seen them? If he claims he accidentally wandered in, wouldn't it raise suspicion for Old Madam Li?

"You hear that? Speak the truth," Old Madam Li deliberately frowned.

Ouyang Jue's face turned red, embarrassed. "Actually, we entered from the back mountain. I heard there were exotic wild animals inside and out of curiosity, I sneaked in. But I didn't know Prince Qin would be hunting in there."

"Well, it's better to avoid dealing with such people as much as possible in the future," Old Madam Li sighed with relief after hearing the explanation. "Although the Grand Princess helped you out today, she's also unpredictable and not someone to offend. Today really tired out this old bone of mine. Luckily, I had a chance to talk to Master Huian just now, so our trip to Ningguo Temple wasn't entirely in vain..." She seemed to suddenly realize that her granddaughter and grandson were present, hesitatingly stopping herself mid-sentence.

Seeing her expression, Ouyang Nuan knew this matter must be related to Madam Lin's unborn child. She pretended not to notice and calmly asked, "Grandmother, you don't look too well. Is there something bothering you?"

Old Madam Li was ill with shock, feeling a cold sweat drenching her back. Her limbs turned icy cold, and she shivered all over. Zhang Mama hurried over to support her. "Miss, Old Madam Li rushed over in a panic as soon as she heard that Young Master had been detained."

Ouyang Nuan nodded, looking at the pale face of Old Madam Li with concern. "Grandmother, let's go back first and then have the doctor check on you."

Old Madam Li nodded, and the group got into the carriage and returned to the Ouyang Residence.

That night, Old Madam Li fell seriously ill. She had intermittent low-grade fevers, her body burning up, and she almost passed out several times. The doctor who came to see her said it was very dangerous; the elderly were most afraid of such fierce cold diseases. If not handled properly, it could be fatal. This news frightened everyone in Shou'an Hall.

Ouyang Nuan attended to Old Madam Li day and night, carefully administering each dose of medicine and tasting every bowl herself. She had hoped that Old Madam Li would quickly recover, but to her dismay, Madam Li struggled for three days and three nights, unable to escape the terrifying high fever and semi-conscious state.

Old Madam Li fell into a coma, surrounded by countless grotesque faces hovering around her. She wanted to scream loudly, to push away the terrifying nightmares that entwined her tightly. But in reality, she couldn't even move her fingers, and her lips moved so faintly that they were barely perceptible. A soft breath barely formed audible words: "Don't... please... go away, quickly..."

After enduring a bout of intense headache, her forehead covered in cold sweat, she fell into an even deeper coma.

In her dreams, the flood roared, rushing wildly from somewhere unknown, unstoppable, sweeping away everything in Shou'an Hall and the Ouyang Residence. Old Madam Li urgently called out the names of every person—her son, grandchildren, granddaughters. Yet, amidst the vast flood, there was nothing, not even a trace of a human figure.

Finally, the flood surged over her, roaring overhead. She shivered uncontrollably, drenched in sweat, a sudden chill awakening her from her coma. She struggled to open her eyes, seeing the dimly lit room, with a person sitting by the bed, resting with eyes closed, hands propped under the chin.

With a soft groan, the person by the bed immediately became alert and hurriedly went out to fetch a warm purple clay teapot. Holding Old Madam Li carefully, they gently fed her the tea. Old Madam Li, with half-opened eyes, looked around and said intermittently, "Nuan'er... you're still here?"

Ouyang Nuan quickly spoke softly, "Grandmother, please rest assured. The doctor said you'll be fine with some rest."

Old Madam Li shook her head with effort. "No... I feel uncomfortable... I can hardly open my eyes. I'm afraid I won't make it."

Ouyang Nuan knelt beside the bed with a thud. "Grandmother, please don't say that! You can't leave! I'd rather be sick in your place. Jue'er can't live without you!" Tears the size of soybeans rolled down Ouyang Nuan's cheeks, expressing indescribable sincerity.

Old Madam Li forced a smile and said, "Nonsense. Why is it just you here?"

Ouyang Nuan replied, "Father came to see you this afternoon, and Jue'er has been by your side. He was just persuaded by me to leave. Zhang Mama said she went out to check if the medicine was ready."

Old Madam Li nodded, about to say something when she felt Ouyang Nuan's face becoming blurrier. Eventually, she drifted back into a sweet, dark slumber, unable to express the fear in her heart.

Another night passed during this slumber. The first rays of sunlight in the morning pierced into the room, awakening Old Madam Li. She felt clear-headed and much more comfortable, albeit still weak. She called out, "Zhang Mama!"

Though her voice was soft, it resonated in the quiet room, causing shadows to stir everywhere - by the bed, on the low stools, by the door, and in the corridor. Joyous voices and laughter filled the air. Zhang Mama hurriedly approached, exclaiming, "Old Madam is speaking!" "Old Madam is awake!"

Ouyang Nuan, who had been lying on the soft couch, suddenly woke up, rushing forward to open the curtains for Old Madam Li. Tears filled her eyes as she smiled and said, "Grandmother, you finally woke up..."

Zhang Mama also smiled and said, "Old Madam, Miss has been by your bedside for three days and three nights."

"My good child," Old Madam Li couldn't help but exclaim. Ouyang Nuan bent down, and Old Madam Li pulled her into her arms. The two of them shed tears together.

While Zhang Mama wiped her tears, she instructed someone to inform the master.

Ouyang Zhi rushed over upon hearing the news, catching sight of the grandmother and granddaughter chatting affectionately. Ouyang Zhi's face lit up with joy as he said, "Mother, you've scared your son! If you don't get better soon, what will your son do!"

Speaking from the heart, Ouyang Zhi wished for Old Madam Li to live longer. Her sudden illness had genuinely frightened him. The doctor had warned that due to her advanced age, there might be a danger to her life, which had startled him greatly.

He feared that if Old Madam Li passed away suddenly, he would have to resign from his official duties and return home for three years of mourning. Who knew what changes would occur in the capital during those three years? By the time he returned, everything might have changed!

Old Madam Li smiled and said, "It's thanks to Nuan'er's attentive care! By the way, where are the others?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and replied, "Auntie Li went to the temple to pray for you, grandmother."

Old Madam Li nodded, a hint of smile on her face. "She's filial too," she said. Then, she turned to Ouyang Zhi and asked, "And where is your wife?"

Ouyang Zhi was momentarily taken aback, unsure how to respond. Ouyang Nuan's face remained respectful as ever as she softly replied, "Due to the heavy snowfall these days, Shou'an Hall has been in chaos. No one had the chance to inform the Furui Courtyard. Mother may still be unaware of your illness, grandmother."

Old Madam Li's expression darkened instantly, as if a blanket of dark clouds had descended upon her. She cast a displeased glance at Ouyang Zhi.

"She doesn't know?" she repeated, her gaze shifting to Zhang Mama. "It's been three days. Shouldn't she have sent someone to inquire by now?"

Zhang Mama dared not look at Old Madam Li's face filled with dissatisfaction and anger. She lowered her head and said, "This servant has already sent someone to inform Madam, but she has not come over nor sent anyone to inquire."

Old Madam Li's complexion grew even darker. "Not even once?"

Everyone fell silent. Ouyang Zhi didn't know how to explain. Madam Lin, due to her anger over Old Madam Li confining Ke'er, had closed off the Furui Courtyard tightly and showed no concern for what was happening in Shou'an Hall.

Ouyang Nuan smiled reassuringly and said, "Grandmother, perhaps Mother is afraid of catching a cold in her pregnancy, or she's wary of the slippery roads in the snowy weather..."

"Humph. You're always making excuses for her," Old Madam Li's eyes showed deep disdain. "Now this woman is becoming more and more audacious, even disregarding me. She's clearly defying me, an old woman!" She slowly closed her eyes and said coldly, "A daughter-in-law who doesn't inquire about her mother-in-law's illness, there's no one like her in the entire capital!"

"Grandmother, please don't be angry with Mother. This time, she was also concerned about her daughter and acted impulsively without considering everything thoroughly. Just think about it, Mother has always been filial and attentive to you for many years. We should forgive her for this one mistake..."

Old Madam Li sighed heavily, interrupting Ouyang Nuan's words: "You don't need to say anymore. Ever since this woman got pregnant, she's become more and more clueless, completely ignorant of propriety! Nuan'er, you're such a good child, yet there are so few sensible ones like you."

Ouyang Zhi gritted his teeth, his nostrils flaring intensely as a flush suddenly spread across his face, coloring his cheeks and eyes. His thick eyebrows knitted together into a frown. He clenched his jaw and said, "This woman is too disrespectful. If she provokes me further, I'll divorce her!"

He was cut off as Old Madam Li coughed heavily. Ouyang Nuan smiled and said, "Grandmother, I'll go check if the medicine is ready."

Old Madam Li nodded, and Ouyang Nuan tucked her in before straightening up and walking out of the room.

Old Madam Li watched her granddaughter leave before scolding, "You should be more careful with your words. If you anger someone, what will happen? Can you just say whatever you want?"

You yourself are complaining about your daughter-in-law's lack of filial piety in front of the children. Ouyang Zhi's face reddened, feeling somewhat embarrassed, but he didn't dare to express these words directly. Instead, he cleared his throat and changed the subject, saying, "Old Madam, I heard that you caught a cold after going out to pay respects at the temple. Please take better care of yourself in the future."

Old Madam Li shook her head and sighed, "It's not just that. I encountered quite a few things while I was out." She glanced at Zhang Mama, who immediately understood and recounted the events at Ningguo Temple and the hunting ground to Ouyang Zhi.

Ouyang Nuan had already briefly reported these events, but she hadn't mentioned the favor shown by the Grand Princess or the intentional troubles caused by Prince Qin. Listening to Zhang Mama's version, Ouyang Zhi became even more surprised, "The Grand Princess intervened to resolve the situation? Is that true?"

Old Madam Li nodded, saying, "Yes, it is. People say it's difficult to please the Grand Princess, but I can see that she seems to really like Nuan'er. Otherwise, she wouldn't have personally come to the hunting ground to intervene. But after this incident, I feel that Nuan'er is grown up now, and she's also so outstanding. You should start planning for her marriage."

"Nuan'er is still young. Old Madam seems to be in a hurry," Ouyang Zhi actually had been planning this already. Upon hearing Old Madam Li's words, he intentionally showed a surprised expression. Old Madam Li sneered, "The one in a hurry might not be me. There may be someone else. On the day of my birthday banquet, your good wife intentionally invited Madam Su to be our guest, and Madam Su has shown signs of favoring our Nuan'er multiple times. She can't possibly be thinking about someone else, can she? Does she expect everyone to be blind?"

"Don't worry, Old Madam. Your son knows what's important. Even though Ouyang Nuan is just an ordinary official's legitimate daughter, there's no reason to casually marry her off to a merchant's son. Even if they make a big fuss, I won't be foolish!"

Old Madam Li nodded, saying, "I'm afraid your wife won't give up easily. Nuan'er has shown her face in front of the Grand Princess this time, so you should be more attentive."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zhi hesitated before saying, "Old Madam, your concerns are not unfounded. Since the last birthday banquet, many people have been inquiring about Nuan'er's affairs openly and secretly. The other day at a banquet I attended, Master Zhu from the Xuan Chen Mansion showed some intention of having Madam Zhu meet Nuan'er. From my perspective, there seems to be some meaning behind it."

"The Xuan Chen Mansion? Please don't mention them. I have a low opinion of that family. When I met Madam Zhu the other day during the incense offering, she always had a smiling face but spoke with ulterior motives. If Nuan'er were to marry into that family, she would probably have no place to stand. What benefits would you gain from it, my son?"

"It won't be that bad, Old Madam. The Xuan Chen Mansion is still under the leadership of the patriarch. The relations between the branches have always been strained. When the old master passes away, they will naturally split the family. Master Zhu's health is not good, and the title will eventually pass to his son. By then, if Nuan'er marries into that family, she will be the Madam of the Xuan Chen Mansion. I think it might still be acceptable."

"Hmph, that family may look glamorous on the outside, but inside, they are filthy and disgraceful. It's their misfortune. If the Empress Dowager were still alive, they wouldn't have been neglected all these years. But their descendants are not ambitious either. I heard that the eldest son of the Zhu family hasn't even gotten engaged yet, but there are three or four maidservants in his room. It's simply outrageous! Even if you only consider the future, you should also think about Jue. They share a deep sibling bond, and Jue is a man of deep emotions and integrity. If he finds out his sister is marrying someone like that, wouldn't he resent us?"

Old Madam Li spoke slowly, and Zhang Mama couldn't help but glance at her. In her heart, she knew that Old Madam Li was using Master Jue's concerns as a pretext. In reality, Zhang Mama had also noticed how diligently Miss had been serving. Despite Old Madam Li's heart being as hard as iron, she couldn't help but feel somewhat touched.

Ouyang Zhi hesitated for a moment and then said somewhat sheepishly, "Old Madam Li is right. It's just that among the noble families in the court, many either have lost their former glory or have wealthy backgrounds but lack capable heirs. Both situations are common. They have arranged marriages since childhood. If our Nuan'er had shown promise earlier, she might have been married off by now."

"And you dare to say that! It's all because of your good wife. She's so afraid that others won't know there's a second young lady in the Ouyang family. Whenever there's an opportunity, she shows off everywhere, but she keeps Nuan'er hidden away. Not only has she spoiled K'er, but she herself is also suffering from it. It's truly outrageous! Don't just think about noble families; are there any suitable matches among the officials and bureaucrats?"

“This... Shangshu Liao also mentioned it to me,”

Old Madam Li said, frowning. "Shangshu Liao?" Old Madam Li's expression grew more concerned. "That's a bit tricky."

Liao Yuan was Ouyang Zhi's immediate superior. It would be unwise to refuse him.

Ouyang Zhi clearly understood this too. He wore a troubled expression as he said, "I vaguely dodged the topic by citing Nuan'er's young age and immaturity. I emphasized that there's no rush to find her a husband. But with Shangshu Liao proposing a marriage, we have to swiftly consider this matter. Once Nuan'er comes of age, we'll either have to accept Shangshu Liao's proposal or provide a plausible explanation for declining."

"Are you suggesting—" Old Madam Li looked at her son, her expression subtly complex.

Ouyang Zhi sighed. "Shangshu Liao has been quite helpful to me. If he persists with this proposal, I may indeed have to agree to marry Nuan'er into his family." After pondering over it for days, he realized that while it might be difficult to forge a connection with a prince, the situation with the Liao family was different. Liao Yuan was his superior, and aligning with his family would likely bring benefits in the future. However, it felt like a waste to marry off his talented and beautiful daughter, Nuan'er, in this manner.

Old Madam Li leaned against a duck egg blue embroidered python pillow as Zhang Mama handed her a white porcelain teacup with floating patterns. Taking a sip, Old Madam Li remarked, "Indeed, Master Liao is a suitable match for our family. We are of comparable status, and Nuan'er wouldn't suffer any grievances if she were to marry into his family. But Nuan'er is both talented and beautiful, known to all. To match her with someone from the household of a Ministry of Personnel official is somewhat regrettable. Moreover," she glanced thoughtfully at Ouyang Zhi, "moreover, I heard from someone that during the birthday banquet, Master Liao seemed to be quite close to Prince Qin. Is there any truth to this?"

Ouyang Zhi was taken aback, seemingly caught off guard. "Close to Prince Qin? What do you mean by that, Mother?"

Old Madam Li smiled faintly and replied, "After serving as an official for so many years, you should understand better than this old lady. Crown Prince is gentle in temperament but frail in health. Prince Qin, on the other hand, has always been strong-willed, and his military achievements are remarkable. However, don't forget, the Crown Prince has another crown prince under his knee. Although he's just a grandson, he has always been favored by the emperor. Considering the emperor's robust health for now, in the future, if... if anything were to happen, the competition between the Crown Prince and Prince Qin remains uncertain. Master Liao seems to be too hasty."

Ouyang Zhi nodded, surprised that Old Madam Li seemed to be well-informed about court affairs, which she typically didn't concern herself with. He said, "I've considered this too. But Prince Qin's chances of success are indeed greater. I've also had similar thoughts... No wonder Brother Liao..."

Old Madam Li shook her head. "I used to pay little attention to these matters. They didn't concern our family much. But after the incident at Ningguo An, I realized how unpredictable and terrifying the Prince of Qin can be. It's understandable for officials like you to make connections for future opportunities, but you must not get involved in matters of succession. The Old Madam Ning subtly reminded me of this during the recent birthday banquet. With so many noble families in the capital, no one dares to meddle casually. Even though it's likely that Prince Qin will surpass the Crown Prince, but... but..."

"But nothing is set in stone until the coffin is nailed shut!" Ouyang Zhi interjected, nodding in agreement. He realized he had been too impatient recently. Climbing the social ladder and aligning with powerful figures was not something that could not be rushed. Even if one couldn't hit the jackpot, it was essential to be wise and protect oneself.

"You're right in thinking that way. The struggle for succession is no trifling matter. Brother Liao is already well-established and prosperous. Why must he involve himself in this gamble? Therefore, we cannot agree to the marriage proposal from the Liao family. They may be willing to gamble, but we cannot afford to take that risk. If things go awry, our entire family could be implicated," Old Madam Li pondered.

Ouyang Zhi nodded repeatedly, silently acknowledging that experience indeed brings wisdom. In truth, anyone with a bit of sense understands these principles. However, nothing can withstand the allure of power and authority. Once the prince they support ascends the throne, they become significant figures, with riches, honors, and even noble titles potentially within their grasp! Such temptations explain why so many people, despite knowing the numerous pitfalls, are willing to brave the thorns and tread the perilous path to their goals!

Old Madam Li said calmly, "I've already considered these matters. If Nuan'er has earned the favor of the Grand Princess, it might indeed be a fortunate turn of events. Securing a good marriage for her would be greatly beneficial."

Ouyang Zhi's expression revealed hesitation. "But the Grand Princess is also close to the Crown Prince."

"The Grand Princess is, after all, the late Emperor's legitimate daughter. Raised under the current Empress's care after the late Emperor's passing, her bond with the Crown Prince is undoubtedly special. However, as a woman and the sole legitimate eldest princess, even if Prince Qin were to ascend, he couldn't openly mistreat his elder sister. Moreover, there are many young ladies in the capital seeking to associate with the Grand Princess, which is entirely different from the political stances of their fathers. Therefore, Nuan'er receiving the Grand Princess's favor can only bring benefits to us," Old Madam Li explained slowly, smiling at Ouyang Zhi. "It's unexpected that Wanqing, with her aloof temperament, would give birth to such a clever and bright girl. It's quite rare. You've been in office for many years. Do you have anyone suitable in mind?"

Ouyang Zhi chuckled, "Well... not yet, for the time being. With Nuan'er's looks and talents, it would be somewhat regrettable for her to marry into an ordinary official's family. Besides, her status isn't high, and it's also difficult to broach the subject with Brother Liao."

"Neither noble nor ordinary officials' families?" Old Madam Li squinted her eyes and interjected, "Are you implying...?" She paused suddenly and gestured upwards, indicating the royal family.

Ouyang Zhi's inner thoughts were exposed, making him feel a bit awkward. "Old Madam, Nuan'er is my eldest daughter. How could I ever let her suffer? Of course, I'll try my best to arrange a good marriage for her. If it really works out... we'll all have reason to be pleased. Jue's future prospects will also be promising."

Old Madam Li nodded thoughtfully, "I've had similar thoughts before. However, I always felt it was quite challenging. But now that Nuan'er is close to the Grand Princess, half the battle is won. The rest depends on how you, as her father, strategize. But when it comes to choosing a candidate..."

"Rest assured, this son knows better than to make hasty decisions. Luckily, Nuan'er is still young. We'll observe the situation and then decide," Old Madam Li affirmed.

As the mother and son conversed, their rapport seemed to grow stronger. Zhang Mama sighed inwardly as she watched. The old madam, despite her earlier criticism of Brother Liao's connection to the Crown Prince, was now discussing how to marry the eldest daughter into the royal family. It seemed that ultimately, she found Brother Liao's family inadequate.

Meanwhile, Ouyang Nuan went to check on the medicine but instead headed towards Ouyang Jue's courtyard. Since that day, Jue had been melancholic. Ouyang Nuan understood that her brother felt deeply guilty, which led to his gloominess. However, regardless of what trouble Ouyang Jue might have gotten into, she was determined to find a solution for him.

Taking advantage of Ouyang Jue's time at school, Ouyang Nuan had prepared many interesting things. She was confident that her efforts would cheer him up. So, she went ahead to set everything up in his courtyard.

Ouyang Jue returned from school to find his courtyard completely transformed. He was greatly surprised and hurriedly approached Ouyang Nuan, who was standing on the veranda. "Sister, what's going on here?" he asked.

In the courtyard, two shiny iron rings had been prepared, each with a diameter twice as large as a normal man's wrist. They were suspended by ropes, hanging down. Ouyang Jue walked over and tried them out, astonished to find that the rings were as tall as his shoulders. He examined them carefully for a while but couldn't figure out if they were decorations or tools, let alone their purpose.

Ouyang Nuan smiled but remained silent. With a gentle clap of her hands, a servant opened the side door of the courtyard, and then stepped back to give them space. What used to be a bamboo grove outside the side door had undergone a remarkable transformation. Bamboo poles of various heights stood erect, with the tallest towering over a grown man and the shortest only half a foot off the ground. The thickness of the bamboo poles varied greatly, from as thick as a man's arm to as thin as a thumb. Their shapes were also diverse: some were straight, some were curved, some had pointed tops, and some even had branches. The poles were arranged at various distances, extending from a dozen yards away to the base of the wall. Ouyang Jue was increasingly amazed by the sight, unable to understand why his sister had ordered the perfectly fine bamboo grove to be cut and arranged in such a manner.

"This is the archery range! Those bamboo poles standing upright are targets for archery practice," Ouyang Nuan explained with a smile. "Starting from today, you can designate a different bamboo pole as your target each day. Among these poles, those that are far away, too high, too low, or curved are more challenging to hit. You must start with the ones that are close, straight, and of moderate height, progressing from easy to difficult, gradually improving your skills. When the day comes that you can consecutively hit three arrows on any bamboo pole, you'll have mastered excellent archery skills. On that day, not only your older cousin but perhaps no one in the entire capital will be able to surpass you!"

Ouyang Jue stared blankly at Ouyang Nuan, almost unable to believe his eyes. When did his sister prepare all these things? Why hadn't he received any notification? And where did his sister learn so much about these matters?

Unaware of his astonishment, Ouyang Nuan continued, pointing to the two iron rings. "Jue, as a beginner, it's crucial to maintain the correct posture for shooting arrows to ensure accuracy. Pay attention to the position of your arms; they shouldn't be too high or too low, but just right to hold the bow properly. Though it sounds simple, mastering it is quite challenging. You'll need to put in the effort yourself. These two hanging iron rings are excellent aids! Give them a try."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Jue threaded his hands through the iron rings, positioning them perfectly at shoulder height. A servant quickly approached to adjust the height of the rings, ensuring they were just right, before handing him the bow and arrow. Ouyang Jue suddenly realized that his sister intended for him to practice under the constraint of these two iron rings, repeatedly learning from his attempts.

He took a deep breath and released the arrow. It flew out of the side door, but before reaching any bamboo pole, it fell to the ground.

"No need to rush, just make sure you have the right posture at the beginning. After a while, once you're accustomed to the constraints of the iron rings, it will become natural, and you can focus on learning archery without them!"

"But why did you suddenly prepare these iron rings and targets?" asked Ouyang Jue.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and said, "You ventured into the hunting ground because you wanted to experience it firsthand, didn't you? I understand what you want, brother. Once you've mastered real archery, I'll make sure your wish comes true!"

Whatever Ouyang Jue desired, Ouyang Nuan would do everything possible to fulfill it. It was her way of repaying her debt to him from their past lives. Now, she was determined to protect him at all costs.

"Older Sister..." Ouyang Jue's dark, shining eyes were filled with profound emotion, yet he didn't know what to say.

"Master, there's more!" The servant beside them interjected excitedly.

Following his gesture, Ouyang Jue looked over and saw a vividly crafted wooden horse standing in a corner of the courtyard. Its size and height were indistinguishable from a real horse. Its four legs were deeply embedded in the brick soil, and it even had a complete saddle on its back.

"I know we have real horses in our family, but with your busy schedule, it's impossible to go out to the countryside every day. This wooden horse is specially designed for you to practice riding! Have you seen the soldiers in the Marquis's army? You can observe how quickly and agilely they mount their horses. Archery and riding skills go hand in hand; I hope you remember that. Don't focus only on archery and forget about horse riding technique."

If Jue were to leave her one day and pursue his dreams of glory, whether in building achievements or in military expeditions, these skills would be indispensable. Though this was what Ouyang Nuan thought, she said, "You must practice diligently, but don't neglect your studies. Do you understand?"

Ouyang Jue's excited black eyes gleamed brightly. He nodded vigorously, almost like an eager puppy, and with a tone tinged with solemnity, he said, "Sister, I understand your intentions, and Jue will remember them all."

"No, you don't understand. I support you because it brings you joy. I cannot confine your wings for a lifetime just because I wish for your safety. I want you to learn to fly on your own. That's all." Ouyang Nuan felt a pang in her heart, but her smile on her face grew warmer and more affectionate.

Hongyu, standing nearby, was amazed. Miss went to great lengths to prepare all these things. During the day, she took care of things at Shou'an Hall, and in her spare time, she researched ancient texts, drew designs for craftsmen, and worked tirelessly day and night to complete everything in just three days. Even Fang Mama said that Miss doted on Young Master too much. There was no other sister like her in the entire capital...

At Furui Courtyard, Wang Mama brought a steaming cup of tea and cautiously said, "Madam, why don't you go to Shou'an Hall and take a look? I heard that the old madam hasn't been able to get up for three days."

"What are you suggesting! That old woman has confined my daughter, and now you expect me to rush over to see her? Does she think I'm easy to provoke? If she pushes me too far, I'll go and smash that temple!" Madam Lin's anger remained unabated, her face full of displeasure as she banged the teacup heavily on the small table, her expression so dark it seemed as if water could drip from it any moment.

"Madam, please don't speak in anger like this. It'll only hurt both parties. Isn't it better to maintain harmony with the master? How will you two carry on in the future?" Wang Mama hastily advised, waving her hands in concern.

Madam Lin gritted her teeth and said, "Then what do you suggest? Who would have thought that soft-hearted Ouyang Nuan would become so capable? She brought Li Yiniang and Jiaoxing, two little vixens, to the master one after another, and he happens to dote on them greatly. Now, for a whole month, I can't get him to even enter my own room once. No matter what I say, he doesn't listen. Meanwhile, our daughter is locked up in the temple with no way out. It's really frustrating me."

"Madam, please have a cup of tea to calm down," Wang Mama said gently and soothingly. "Think back to when Madam first arrived here. Everyone in the mansion was watching closely. Madam, you took care of everything meticulously, showed great filial piety to the old madam, treated Miss and Master as your own, and were tender and considerate to the master. Over the years, things have been getting smoother and smoother. Not to mention, the old madam treated you with courtesy, and the master was loving and affectionate towards you in the beginning. If I may speak bluntly, if Madam still acted as cautiously as before, Eldest Miss wouldn't have so easily gained the upper hand. After all, you're her mother. Your status is there for all to see. Would she dare to treat you disrespectfully? That's unthinkable. Just one word of filial piety from you could crush her."

Wang Mama drew a deep breath and said, "But Second Miss is too impulsive. Madam, when you didn't advise her, she even went to cause trouble for the old madam. That only made matters worse. Moreover, in the past, you treated the master so tenderly, but now, for the sake of Second Miss and the little master in your belly, you've repeatedly made the master lose face, undermining his authority. How could he still be intimate with you, how could he not develop feelings for someone else?"

Madam Lin slumped back in her chair, feeling a pang of bitterness as she recalled the years of her glory and pride. She couldn't help but feel that she had been too careless. Unexpectedly, Li Yiniang emerged out of nowhere, and from then on, she made one mistake after another, allowing Li Yiniang to rise in power day by day. She didn't know when it started, but Ouyang Zhi became increasingly indifferent to her, no longer speaking intimate words to her. In this mansion, the most important thing was to capture the heart of a man. If he were willing to help her, she wouldn't be struggling so much in this mansion now.

Wang Mama felt relieved and picked up the tea to offer it again. "Madam, you are a clever person, and I don't need to say much. But you didn't expect those fox spirits' tricks. Take the matter of Jiaoxing, for example. Even if Madam wanted to marry Jiaoxing to Miao's steward's son, there was no need to rush. After all, she's just a maid, and you could handle it however you liked. You could have quietly sent her away. But you chose to alarm her first, and then it escalated to the master's attention. Since the master had thoughts about her, Madam could have just agreed to take her into the household, but you insisted on refusing. In the end, you ended up creating a concubine, falling right into Miss's scheme, didn't you?"

Madam Lin listened in silence, her expression almost one of regret.

Wang Mama continued, "Madam, now that Master and you are estranged, you need to be even more careful. As the daughter-in-law, it's only natural to set rules in front of the mother-in-law and manage the household affairs. This month, you haven't visited her even once, letting the servants gossip about your lack of discipline and courtesy. Isn't this more harm than good? Furthermore, with Madam's illness this time, you haven't visited her, which is considered highly disrespectful. Madam, you must think carefully about this!"

"Why should I go and face her cold demeanor? You know very well how much she despises this child in my womb. What's the point?" Madam Lin couldn't help but interject.

"Regardless of how unreasonable Madam may be, you should always fulfill your duties of respect and filial piety. This way, no one can criticize you!" Wang Mama advised.

Madam Lin fell silent. Wang Mama's words struck a chord. Seeing Madam Lin's uncertain expression, Wang Mama continued persuading, "Do you know, Miss is there every day, and now everyone praises her filial piety. Madam, by quarreling with Old Madam so openly, you're just giving away your good reputation to Miss! Even Li Yiniang takes every opportunity to inquire about Madam's health, showing her concern. This time, she even mentioned going to the temple to pray for Madam's well-being! If you continue to quarrel with Madam, you're just benefiting Miss and Li Yiniang. Are you willing to do that?"

Madam Lin nodded slowly, her furrowed brows gradually relaxing. She pondered for a moment before saying, "You're right. I have been negligent."

Wang Mama quickly added fuel to the fire, "Madam, it's good that you've come to your senses today. Let's not dwell on past matters. From now on, we must plan carefully. We can't afford to be caught off guard again. The more Madam shows you a cold face, the more you should smile. It will make you appear virtuous and gentle. Over time, the servants will notice how harsh Madam is, and you can find other opportunities to get rid of those fox-like women. Once Master's heart softens, everything will fall into place."

Madam Lin nodded, her gaze fixed on the flickering lamp, and said, "Tomorrow, I should go and pay my respects to Madam."

Wang Mama hurriedly smiled, "Good. I'll make the arrangements right away."

"Wait!" Madam Lin paused and suddenly said, "Also, help me send out an invitation. Say that we're inviting Madam Su to visit."

"Madam, what is this about?" Wang Mama wondered if Madam Lin was still plotting. Upon hearing Madam Lin's cold laugh, she said, "Master wants me to give up? Hmph. It's not that easy! Just wait and see!"

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