Chapter 71 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

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

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 71:

Wives and Concubines Gathered Together, Restless Day and Night

Madam Lin became increasingly anxious. This time, her unconsciousness felt like falling into an endless nightmare, struggling and entangling within it. She exerted immense effort to open her eyes, feeling a momentary softness in her body, realizing she was lying in a room at the Furui Courtyard.

Upon seeing her awake, Ouyang Ke's expression was filled with joy and urgency. "Mother, you've finally woken up!"

Behind her, Wang Mama also breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank Heavens! Madam waking up is such a relief! You really frightened this old servant."

Madam Lin was about to speak when she felt a sharp, stabbing pain in her throat, as if tiny blades were cutting into her. The pain gradually brought her back to consciousness, and she found it extremely difficult to articulate. "That accomplice..."

Lying on the bed, her mind was still fixated on the unsuccessful plot to frame Ouyang Nuan.

Wang Mama lowered her gaze, unable to meet her eyes. Ouyang Ke exclaimed in frustration, "Mother, Ouyang Nuan is truly too cunning! How did she manage to escape again this time?"

Madam Lin muttered angrily, her fingers curling stiffly — she refused to believe it! How could it be possible? She had painstakingly persuaded her brother to agree to help, meticulously planned this strategy, and had been waiting to see Ouyang Nuan fall into a trap. Why had everything fallen apart in just one day?

Summoning her strength, Madam Lin sat up almost upright, panting heavily. "It didn't succeed! Are you sure you didn't hear it wrong?"

In the end, she still couldn't believe it. Everything she had carefully planned had gone to waste.

Wang Mama, seeing her expression, appeared somewhat fearful and advised, "Madam, let's discuss this matter later. Your health is the priority!"

Ouyang Ke's face was filled with undisguised anger as he viciously remarked, "Mother, the people Uncle sent couldn't even distinguish who was inside the carriage. It was clearly the young lady from the Wu Duke Mansion sitting in the carriage, yet they actually thought they had succeeded. They even dared to come back to report to you for rewards, truly a bunch of fools!"

Madam Lin was also gnashing her teeth in frustration. She had indeed dispatched someone who had seen Ouyang Nuan among them, but she didn't know why such a mistake had occurred.

In fact, Madam Lin didn't know that if it had just been the ten guards from the Ouyang family, they would have been easily dealt with. However, the Wu Duke Mansion had a total of thirty guards. After a fierce skirmish between the two sides, coupled with the chaos of that evening, and with all the young ladies being equally beautiful and splendid, how could they possibly discern who was who in the dark?

Madam Lin grew more and more infuriated. She forcefully pounded the headboard, only to feel a sharp pain emanating from her abdomen, causing her to cry out in alarm. Wang Mama hurried forward to support her, urgently calling out, "Doctor Qian, come quickly and look at Madam!"

Madam Lin felt as if her abdomen was being twisted, the waves of pain almost suffocating her. Disregarding her decorum, she cried out as if her heart was being torn apart, startling Ouyang Ke, who instinctively took a step back. Wang Mama turned around and said, "Miss, quickly go call for help!"

Ouyang Ke hesitated for a moment before realizing the urgency of the situation. However, instead of going to call for help, she stayed put and shouted at the top of her lungs, "Someone, come quick! My mother is feeling unwell!"

Wang Mama glanced at Ouyang Ke, shaking her head inwardly. The young miss was so concerned about maintaining her image that she would rather not expose her own weaknesses in front of others. Wang Mama didn't hesitate any longer and hurried out to call for assistance.

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Initially, when Madam Lin fainted, they had summoned Doctor Qian, who prescribed medication in the outer chamber. After a while, Wang Mama brought Doctor Qian into the inner chamber. Upon seeing Madam Lin sweating profusely and writhing in pain, Doctor Qian hurriedly administered acupuncture. Madam Lin endured the pain for quite some time before finally feeling it subside. She lay there, drenched in sweat, weak and exhausted.

Wang Mama didn't exchange pleasantries with Doctor Qian and went straight to the point, asking, "Didn't you say that the pregnancy at seven months was stable? What could be the reason for Madam's current condition?"

Doctor Qian didn't reply immediately; instead, he pondered for a moment before slowly saying, "Has Madam come into contact with anything harmful to the child?"

Wang Mama's expression turned troubled as she said, "Last night, Madam... she... accidentally fell and then was frightened. Could it have affected the pregnancy?" She couldn't bring herself to mention that Madam Lin had been punished by the Old Madam and had a fit of anger. Instead, she offered this somewhat ambiguous explanation.

Doctor Qian shook his head, his expression growing more serious. "It seems more like the result of medication..."

Madam Lin, just catching her breath, was startled to hear these words. She immediately asked, "What kind of medication?" Her usual demeanor of causing harm to others changed drastically at this crucial moment. "Madam, it's not that I'm unwilling to say. It's just that there are too many harmful medications in this world. Even if I were to name one, I might not be able to identify it immediately."

Doctor Qian looked up, a hint of pity flashing in his eyes. "From Madam's pulse, it seems that this medication is extremely potent and harmful to the child in Madam's womb. If Madam weren't so robust, the child might not have survived. However, this time, it may be difficult to hold onto the pregnancy..."

Madam Lin's expression shifted, her features displaying a mixture of disbelief and shock. Despite having schemed against pregnant women favored by the Ouyang family in the past, she never imagined she would face such a situation herself. She knew that some medications could damage the body's tissues and veins, even rendering one infertile, let alone someone carrying a child. Fear crept into her heart. "Is my child truly going to be okay?" she asked anxiously.

Doctor Qian hesitated. "It should be fine. I will do my best." After a pause, he added, "However, Madam must be cautious in the future. If such a situation arises again, I cannot guarantee the outcome."

Madam Lin's mind raced rapidly. Normally, all expenses were carefully scrutinized, and everyone in the Furui was under her control. It was impossible for someone to tamper with anything without her knowledge. The only possibility was last night at the Shou'an Hall... She was indeed a cunning individual and quickly realized this point. No wonder the old lady had ordered her to kneel for an hour! No wonder she insisted on changing the incense! No wonder she felt something was amiss with the fragrance! Everything was premeditated by that malicious old woman!

Wang Mama, seeing Madam Lin's fluctuating expression, said, "Doctor Qian, please do everything you can to ensure the safety of Madam and the unborn child."

Doctor Qian nodded. "I will do my utmost." He hesitated for a moment before continuing, "However, the nature of this medicine is aggressive. Although the child may be temporarily unharmed, I cannot be completely certain. It might weaken the body, leading to a miscarriage, or..."

"Or what?" Madam Lin lifted her head abruptly, her gaze intense.

"Or... give birth to an unhealthy child. That's also a possibility," Doctor Qian said with hesitation.

Madam Lin and Wang Mama exchanged worried glances before urgently asking, "An unhealthy child? What do you mean by that?"

"It's possible that the child born may have congenital deficiencies or fail to thrive. As for... I don't know how much of this medicine was used, and I can't predict if you'll experience any abnormalities or discomfort in the future. There's no need to worry excessively, but... individual constitution varies, and it's hard to say," Doctor Qian said vaguely.

These ambiguous words infuriated Madam Lin, filling her with frustration. Her face turned pale with anger. "What do you mean by 'hard to say'? Can't you even determine if there will be any issues? What's the point of having you as a doctor?"

Doctor Qian had never been openly insulted like this before. He blushed and seemed at a loss for words. Wang Mama hadn't expected Madam Lin to speak like this. She quickly intervened, trying to defuse the situation. "Doctor Qian, Madam is just anxious. Please don't take offense. Could you please go out and prepare the prescription? We appreciate your help." With that, she escorted Doctor Qian out.

When Wang Mama returned, she saw Madam Lin's furious expression, with Ouyang Ke standing beside her in silence, her face equally displeased. Wang Mama sighed inwardly and approached them, trying her best to console Madam Lin. "Madam, don't be so upset! Thankfully, Young Master has temporarily managed to keep quiet."

Madam Lin's eyes glinted with intense hatred. "It's all that old hag's doing. How dare she lay a hand on my child?!"

Wang Mama was deeply shaken by these words. Ouyang Ke's heart skipped a beat, surprised. "Mother, are you saying Grandmother wants to harm you?"

Madam Lin sneered, her hand falling on her abdomen as she seethed with anger. "Who else could it be if not her? I've been cautious and vigilant all along, never giving those scoundrels a chance to get close to me. It was only yesterday in Shou'an Hall— it must be that old hag! Despite my past filial piety to her, she treats me like this! She chants Buddhist scriptures, but she's nothing but an old witch!"

Wang Mama tried to console her. "Old Madam's heart is indeed too malicious. After all, you're carrying the bloodline of the Ouyang family, yet she's capable of such cruelty. Fortunately, you're blessed with great fortune. They say fortune favors the bold. It seems this young master is also fortunate." She paused, offering reassurance and affirmation. "From now on, Madam, focus on nurturing your child. There will be plenty of opportunities to deal with the young miss and young master in the future. Don't ruin everything because of a moment of impatience."

Ouyang Ke was stunned by these words. But she couldn't afford to dwell on them, nor did she want to. She cried out, "How can this be? Mother, you promised to avenge me! How can you only care about my brother and not at all about whether I live or die?"

Wang Mama was taken aback, feeling resentment towards the Second Miss for her selfishness, but she dared not say it directly. Instead, she said, "Second Miss, now is not the time for seeking revenge. Madam almost miscarried, which was not a natural disaster but a man-made calamity. It shows that the old Madam no longer wants to keep the young master. If anything were to happen to the Young Miss or Young Master now, it would only confirm the young master's bad reputation. Even if he were to be born safely in the future, he would be despised by others. By then, neither Madam nor the Young Miss would benefit. Please bear with it a little longer."

Ouyang Ke's expression turned cold in an instant, filled with frustration. "Bear with it, bear with it, bear with it. That's all you ever say! Look at me now, look at what I've become. What else is there to bear with?" After saying this, she limped out hastily, ignoring Madam Lin's urgent calls from behind. She didn't even look back as she left.

Madam Lin leaned back against the pillow, her complexion sallow and her face worn. After a long sigh, she expressed disappointment, "This child, becoming more and more unreasonable. It's all my fault for indulging her excessively. Wang Mama, you've been through a lot. I know these days I've been misled by Ouyang Nuan's schemes and have acted impulsively. Thanks to your presence and guidance, I've realized that Ouyang Nuan is more ruthless and cunning than I thought. Rest assured, from now on, I won't be so rash."

Wang Mama hurried to her side, wearing a comforting smile, "Madam, hearing you say that puts my mind at ease. There's a banquet tonight. You must summon up the energy to attend."

Madam Lin smirked at the thought of the evening's event, "Talking about being a family and having a meal together, but in the past, even when I was well, I never saw the old Madam being so attentive. Clearly, she wants to trouble me, praising Li Yiniang and Jiaoxing in front of me! She's hoping this won't kill me but rather drive me crazy."

Wang Mama nodded and said, "Madam, now that you understand the old Madam's intentions, it's easier to handle. No matter how they provoke you, you must endure it and think more about the young master. If things get unbearable, just say you're not feeling well and won't attend."

Madam Lin shook her head, saying, "It's not appropriate. I simply didn't pay my respects, and that old lady has already found a pretext to punish me. If I don't go again this time, who knows how she'll discredit me in front of others!"

"But Madam, your health..." Wang Mama's face still held concern.

Madam Lin touched her swollen belly and smirked coldly, "I'll be fine. Anyway, I can't give those people any more leverage. Hurry and get ready."

Wang Mama agreed wholeheartedly and called out, "Lixiang! Come in and attend to Madam's grooming!"

Madam Lin, propped up by cushions due to her seven-month pregnancy, sat with a heavy reliance. The thick layer of makeup on her face couldn't conceal the exhaustion of pregnancy. The pale complexion and dark spots made her once radiant face appear dull. She angrily swept the hairbrush off, scolding, "Useless servant! What kind of powder is this? How can I face anyone like this?"

"The servant deserves death, please forgive me, Madam," Lixiang exclaimed in fear, quickly kneeling down, feeling extremely distressed.

"Stop it!" Madam Lin's anger surged, sweeping everything off the dressing table to the ground. When she lowered her head and saw the trembling but delicate Lixiang, her anger intensified. She viciously grabbed a hairpin and stabbed it towards Lixiang's body! Lixiang was terrified but dared not evade, crying as she endured Madam Lin's fierce stabbing, sustaining numerous injuries!

Wang Mama hurriedly rushed in, seeing the situation, and immediately grabbed the hairpin from Madam Lin's hand. She scolded Lixiang repeatedly, "You wretched thing! How dare you provoke Madam's anger! You can't even handle such a trivial matter properly. Get out of here!"

Lixiang stumbled out, and Wang Mama approached to support Madam Lin, advising, "Madam, you're pregnant now. The maid made a mistake, and punishment is appropriate, but there's no need to get so angry. You'll only end up hurting the young master!"

"How can I not be angry?" Madam Lin pointed at the woman with a sallow complexion in the bronze mirror. "How can I face Master like this? Are you trying to make me lose face?" Madam Lin couldn't help but express her resentment.

Wang Mama sighed inwardly. Despite her mistress being favored for many years, she still couldn't let go of these matters. "Madam, no matter how much favor Li Yiniang and Jiaoxing receive, they are merely using their looks to manipulate people. Beauty fades, and love wanes. There will come a time when they will taste bitterness. You are the legitimate wife, the rightful mistress of the Ouyang family. As long as you don't make major mistakes and safely give birth to the young master, no one can shake your position. Why bother competing with them for temporary gains? Remember what you said just now, to calm down and plan for yourself."

Madam Lin waved her hand to stop Wang Mama and said bitterly, "You don't need to say anymore. All of this was given to me by that despicable Ouyang Nuan. Every time I see Li Yiniang and Jiaoxing's faces, it's like seeing Ouyang Nuan mocking me!" She wiped her tears with a handkerchief, sneering twice. "I really don't believe it anymore. How long can those two fox spirits be favored? I am not useless. When I give birth to my son, I will settle scores with them one by one!"

The banquet was held in the main hall. Before Madam Lin became pregnant, she used to dine with everyone else. However, due to her weakened condition during pregnancy and her deep fear of being harmed, she had been dining alone at the Furui Courtyard.

Due to her earlier outburst and the hurried change of attire, Madam Lin arrived after everyone else. Ouyang Zhi sat beside Li Shi, with Li Yiniang and Jiaoxing standing behind him. Ouyang Nuan and Ouyang Jue sat at the lower end. They were all chatting with the old madam, and the atmosphere was quite relaxed. Old Madam Li nodded repeatedly, smiling with contentment.

Ouyang Nuan had a slight smile on her lips, her gaze gentle, and she was dressed very simply. A pair of red coral hairpins adorned with double knots rested in her hair, with pearls trembling delicately at their tips, adding to her charm. It was unclear what Ouyang Jue had said, but she turned her head to look at him, her smile becoming even softer. Her naturally stunning face emitted a radiant glow due to this warm and gentle expression, making it impossible for anyone to look away.

From a distance, it appeared to be a warm and beautiful family portrait. However, this portrait did not include myself, the legitimate wife...

Madam Lin was dressed in a bright red embroidered gown, adorned with lotus flowers, double happiness symbols, and bats. She wore a matching inlaid golden hairpin with a pair of harmonious immortals on top, symbolizing abundant offspring and good fortune. At that moment, being pregnant only added to her radiance, making her look even more resplendent and noble. She suppressed her anger and smiled as she respectfully greeted Old Madam Li at the head of the table, then naturally sat beside Ouyang Zhi.

Ouyang Nuan stood up, smiling slightly as she greeted Madam Lin. Ouyang Jue also bowed his head respectfully in greeting, while Ouyang Zhi looked satisfied as he gazed at his son and daughter, appearing quite content.

Li Yiniang, dressed in a gown reminiscent of a purple lotus in embroidered silk, was charming and graceful, smiling as she returned Madam Lin's greeting. She then respectfully stood behind Ouyang Zhi, followed by Jiaoxiang, imitating her actions. Old Madam Li glanced at the two of them, her gaze cold.

Ouyang Nuan revealed an extremely gentle expression and casually remarked, "The jade bracelet on Aunt Li's hand is truly beautiful!"

Madam Lin's eyes scanned the scene and suddenly froze. Li Yue'e wore a jade bracelet on her hand, with a warm texture, clear jade, and a watery emerald green color, dripping with luster. Madam Lin's face changed drastically. This jade bracelet had been hidden by the Old Madam, something she had desired and repeatedly asked to borrow to no avail. Who would have thought it would appear on Li Yue'e's wrist!

Li Yue'e immediately showed a humble expression, but Old Madam Li smiled and said, "Nuan'er has sharp eyes indeed. I just gave this jade bracelet to Yue'e as a congratulatory gift for her upcoming addition to our Ouyang family!"

Upon hearing this, Li Yiniang's face immediately lit up with a humble and happy expression. Li Yiniang's cheeks flushed, and her face was filled with happiness. Her shy and bashful gaze glanced at Ouyang Zhi, as beautiful as a lotus flower.

The expressions of the women present varied, Jiaoxing, who had been standing at the back, looked jealous; but Madam Lin's face turned pale.

The news of Mistress Li's pregnancy hadn't reached the Furai Court, indicating a surprising weakening of Madam Lin's influence. Wang Mama felt anxious, sensing a looming sense of decline in their power. But she heard Ouyang Nuan's laughter, "Is it true? Then congratulations to Grandma and Father. Jue, why don't you quickly toast Father?"

Ouyang Jue smiled and, seemingly pleased, raised a glass to Ouyang Zhi. There was not a hint of other emotions on his face. Wang Mama felt even more anxious. If Mistress Li bore a son, there would be another contender for the family property in the future. How could he not show any signs of displeasure? When did the Eldest Young Master become so composed?

Madam Lin's expression turned extremely unpleasant, and her icy gaze fell on Jiaoxing standing in the corner. She said coldly, "Wang Yiniang, why are you still standing there foolishly without coming forward to serve? Li Yiniang is a concubine, but the master dotes on her. Now she's even more of a hero in our family. What qualifications do you have to be so disrespectful?"

As soon as these words were spoken, not only Jiaoxing but even the previously blushing Li Yiniang turned pale.

As a concubine, Jiaoxing had no right to sit at the table, and in the presence of the madam, she could only stand and wait. Madam Lin... kept calling for Jiaoxing, but in reality, she was reminding Li Yiniang that even a favored concubine was still just a concubine! She wanted everyone to know... that she was the madam of the house, and as long as she was there, Li Yiniang would only be able to stand on the side!

Old Madam Li glanced at Madam Lin, her face revealing a slight smirk. "Li Yiniang, now that you're pregnant, things are naturally different from before. Please, sit beside me." Li Yiniang's face showed concealed joy as she glanced at Madam Lin, her eyes betraying a sense of satisfaction.

Meanwhile, Ouyang Nuan lowered her head, hiding a smile behind her lips.

Old Madam Li didn't intend to back down. She continued, "Li Yiniang, since you married into our Ouyang family, we are now one family. I hope we can live in harmony and unity." Her voice paused briefly. "If there are any grievances, feel free to speak with me. Let's not disturb the peace and harmony of our household."

This was a display of authority aimed at Madam Lin! Ouyang Jue glanced around, observing everyone's reactions, then looked at his sister, Ouyang Nuan, who sat calmly with her head bowed, sipping her tea. Suddenly, he understood what was happening. He suppressed a smile and pretended not to have heard anything.

Li Yiniang glanced at Old Madam Li. In her eyes, a mixture of unease, embarrassment, and timidity could be seen, but she didn't dare to sit next to her. Instead, she walked to the bottommost seat and sat down lightly, her body slightly turned. Old Madam Li waved her hand and instructed to bring a goose feather cushion for her to sit on. Madam Lin, watching from the side, was almost infuriated by this sight.

On the rosewood table, inlaid with white jade, there was an intricately carved scene of the Eight Immortals crossing the sea. Dozens of porcelain plates, both large and small, were arranged on the tabletop, filled with various delicacies. However, Madam Lin glanced at them and couldn't bring herself to eat any of it. Beside her, Jiaoxing served her the dishes, but her eyes betrayed an impatient expression.

Jiaoxing wore a charming scarlet embroidered spring dress, made from a delicate fabric she had specially sought from Jiangnan. She had it tailored with the intention of impressing Ouyang Zhi, but since Li Yiniang became pregnant, Ouyang Zhi hadn't even glanced her way. This made her seethe with resentment. To make matters worse, Madam Lin now found fault with her at every turn. Whether it was for being too slow, not showing enough respect, or speaking too softly, it seemed like everything she did was wrong. Jiaoxing's pretty face contorted with frustration, but she had to force herself to endure it.

Madam Lin forced a smile as she addressed Old Madam Li, "With Yiniang being pregnant, the affairs of this household..."

Old Madam Li interjected calmly, "Nuan'er, from today onwards, you will assist Li Yiniang in managing the household."

Madam Lin was taken aback. Though her smile remained, her heart was in turmoil.

Ouyang Nuan'er's smile was as gentle as the softest touch of spring on a February willow branch, but there was a hint of hesitation in her voice as she replied, "I'm afraid I am still young and inexperienced. I might disappoint Grandmother's expectations."

"It's fine. Just do what you're told. It's better to have you handle it than some incompetent person making a mess of things. Our household can't afford any more chaos!" Old Madam Li's voice turned cold.

Just then, Jiaoxing accidentally dropped her chopsticks.

Madam Lin's anger flared up instantly. She sternly exclaimed, "Are you blind? What kind of occasion is this? How can you be so rude? After entering the Ouyang family's door, don't you understand even the most basic etiquette?!"

Jiaoxing immediately looked aggrieved, tears welling up in her eyes as she pleaded with Ouyang Zhi.

Ouyang Zhi already had no fondness for Madam Lin. Now, seeing her scold his beloved concubine, he became irritated. "Enough! There are elders present, and you're still shouting like that. What kind of behavior is this? Is this your idea of propriety?"

Madam Lin stared directly at Ouyang Zhi, sneering. "Master, the one who truly lacks manners in this house is who? I can't speak a few words loudly, but allowing a concubine to sit on equal footing with me is acceptable?"

She had intended to endure, but with Old Madam Li elevating Li Yiniang to such a position, if she remained silent, would she still have a place in this household?

Hearing this, Li Yiniang picked up her handkerchief and sobbed softly, saying with a meek tone, "It's all my fault. I didn't know my manners. I shouldn't be sitting here. Madam, please don't be angry." She quickly stood up, crying, and addressed Madam Lin, "Madam, it's all my fault. Please don't anger Old Madam and Master anymore. Let me serve you!"

Madam Lin glanced at her with a cold snort. "What are you so aggrieved about? As a concubine, serving the Madam is what you should do. Crying like this makes it seem like someone has wronged you!"

Ouyang Nuan stood up and gently advised, "Mother, you can say whatever you want. Now that you and Li Yiniang are both pregnant, it will cause trouble if either of you gets upset."

Li Yiniang cried even harder, repeatedly saying, "Young Mistress, please don't plead for me anymore. It's all my fault, it's all my fault."

Old Madam Li sneered, "I was the one who told you to sit down. Someone pointed out my fault specifically! It's escalated to this point today, and everyone here has seen it. There's no way to blame you for it! Wanru, if you have anything to say, say it to me directly! Why make it difficult for Li Yiniang!"

Madam Lin was furious. Although she knew Old Madam Li was biased, she didn't expect her to completely disregard her dignity in front of the servants. She had planned to endure it, but everyone was acting like this, making it unbearable for her!

She couldn't help but be angry. "Old Madam, I didn't mean to disrespect you in the slightest. However, this household is not without its rules. Even though Li Yiniang is now pregnant, she's still a concubine. Of course, she should stand. If you let her sit with us at the table, wouldn't it make our family a laughingstock?"

Old Madam Li's expression changed instantly, almost in disbelief as she stared at Madam Lin.

"Shut up!" Ouyang Zhi's cold face was terrifying, and his words added fuel to the fire. He pounded the table heavily, causing the plates and dishes to clatter loudly.

The hall fell silent, even Li Yiniang stopped crying. Everyone looked at Ouyang Zhi. However, Old Madam Li suddenly stood up, slammed the chopsticks onto the table, and exclaimed angrily, "Can't even have a peaceful meal! Zhang Mama, help me back to my quarters!"

Ouyang Nuan and Ouyang Jue immediately stood up to escort Old Madam Li, but she waved them away, seeming impatient. She then turned and walked away with Zhang Mama's support, ignoring Ouyang Zhi. Even Ouyang Zhi felt embarrassed and furious. "Disperse!" he ordered, then stormed off himself.

Li Yue'e glanced at Madam Lin's expression, then hurriedly followed Ouyang Zhi away. Jiaoxing lagged behind, but was stopped by Mama Wang. "Where do you think you're going? Do you think you're some precious lady with a child in your belly? Go back and continue serving Madam for the meal!"

Jiao Xing froze for a moment, her movements slowing by half a beat. Before she could react, Madam Lin's hand came down with a resounding slap, her long nails leaving two bloody trails on Jiaoxing's face. Jiaoxing let out a cry of shock, her face now marked with two bloody streaks.

Madam Lin let out a sigh of relief, feeling much better after venting her anger. She sneered, "Forget it. I've lost my appetite. Seeing you people just annoys me. Wang Mama, help me back."

Ouyang Nuan chuckled, "Mother, are you leaving just like this?"

Madam Lin glared at her fiercely, then turned and walked away with Wang Mama's support. Ouyang Nuan glanced at Jiaoxing, her expression filled with deep regret. "Wang Mama, her face is badly injured. She must take good care of it. In case it leaves scars..."

Wang Jiaoxing's face changed instantly. She had been favored for her beautiful face, and if it were to be marred now, where would Ouyang Zhi still look at her? She touched her face with regret, staring at Madam Lin's retreating figure with intense resentment.

Ouyang Nuan smiled at her and asked, "By the way, why haven't I seen Auntie's cat recently?"

Wang Jiaoxing loved cats, and Ouyang Zhi, in his affection for her, had managed to acquire a snowy white cat named Bier for her. Thinking of the cat, named Bier, Wang Jiaoxing paused for a moment before replying, "It's been missing for the past few days, I don't know where it went..."

'Oh, it is springtime, yes... Cats naturally roam around.' Jiaoxing thought.

Ouyang Nuan nodded, a faint distant smile playing on her lips. "Auntie, you should keep a close eye on that cat. With a pregnant woman in the house now, it needs to be quiet. Don't let the cat startle anyone recklessly."

Wang Jiaoxing looked at Ouyang Nuan, a hint of darkness crossing her eyes in surprise. Ouyang Nuan remained calm, smiling quietly without saying a word, as if she were just mentioning an ordinary matter with no special significance.

After a moment's thought, Wang Jiaoxing smiled brightly, revealing her white teeth. "Thank you for the reminder, Miss. I'll make sure to keep that cat in check and prevent it from running around." With that, she walked away, seemingly lost in thought.

Ouyang Jue sat back down and said to Ouyang Nuan, "Sister, the Eight Treasures Duck today is really delicious. Would you like to try some?"

Ouyang Nuan looked at him, a faint smile on her face, and replied, "You go ahead, I'm a bit tired." With that, she slowly walked away.

As she walked back, Fang Mama and Hongyu followed behind her. Hongyu asked her, "Miss, what did you mean by what you said to Wang Yiniang?"

Ouyang Nuan shook her head and continued walking along the corridor. The courtyard ahead was filled with blooming peach blossoms, vibrant and fiery. A gust of wind passed by, causing the blossoms to fall like snowflakes, scattering petals all around her. A few of these beautiful peach blossom petals landed on her shoulders, and she gently brushed them away with her hand. Her fair hands, as pure as snow, had a touch of brilliance with the petals stuck to them, giving her a radiant charm. Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly.

A silent tear slid down her palm.

"Miss, what's wrong?" Hongyu asked, alarmed. Fang Tangwu, equally puzzled, couldn't understand what was happening.

Ouyang Nuan lifted her face, gently wiping away the tear stains from her cheeks, and replied softly, "In ten days, it will be Mother's death anniversary, won't it?"

Mother is all alone, while Madam Lin struts around in front of everyone, acting as if the Ouyang household still belongs to her. Such a woman, full of guilt and sin. At midnight, she might tremble in fear in her dreams. Thinking this, Ouyang Nuan's smile became even gentler.

The next day, in the garden, Madam Lin was sitting in the sun. When she saw Wang Jiaoxing approaching from afar, she couldn't help but sneer and loudly ask, "Where is Wang Yiniang going?"

Wang Jiaoxi was taken aback, seemingly not expecting Madam Lin to be in the garden. Little did she know, Madam Lin had emerged victorious last night, but she wasn't hiding away. Instead, she aimed to assert her dominance in front of everyone. Wang Jiaoxi's face turned pale, and she walked up and said, "Madam, I... I was just going to find Bier. I found her and was about to take her back."

Madam Lin looked coldly at the pure white cat in Wang Jiaoxi's arms, with a hint of disgust flickering in her eyes. However, soon, a glint of cunning flashed in her eyes. She turned and smiled at Wang Mama, saying, "The flowers in the garden are in full bloom, looking beautiful. Please invite Li Yiniang to come and enjoy them."

Wang Mama was momentarily surprised but quickly dispatched someone to fetch Li Yiniang.

Wang Jiaoxi glanced at Madam Lin's expression and had a bad feeling. She lowered her head, holding onto Bier, not daring to look up at Madam Lin.

Madam Lin said lightly, "This cat seems quite obedient. Let me hold it."

Wang Jiaoxi was taken aback. Remembering what the young mistress had said, a wicked thought flashed through her mind. However, she couldn't bring herself to do it and reluctantly handed Bier over.

Struggling to hold onto Bier, Madam Lin eventually handed the cat to Mama Wang and sat there waiting for Li Yiniang to arrive. Li Yiniang had just come out of Shou'an Hall when someone informed her that the madam was looking for her. She couldn't refuse and had to follow to the garden. Upon seeing the scene, she was stunned and cautiously asked, "Madam, what can I do for you?"

"You're delicate with your condition now, can't I find you unless it's necessary?" Madam Lin sneered. Li Yiniang lowered her head. "Madam, whatever you command, just say it."

"It's nothing, just that the flowers in the garden are in full bloom. I wanted you all to come and appreciate them together." Madam Lin looked at Li Yiniang, subconsciously protecting her abdomen with her hands, showing a cautious demeanor with a hint of mockery on her face.

Li Yiniang was apprehensive. Madam Lin's hand casually reached out to stroke Bier's smooth fur as she softly said, "We're all here to serve the master. Though I may seem strict with you at times, it's for your own good. You should understand that."

Li Yiniang and Wang Jiaoxing exchanged glances, both showing a slight perplexity. Madam Lin had always been critical in the past, so they didn't understand the meaning behind her actions today.

Madam Lin looked at Li Yiniang with cold eyes. She was running out of patience. Her son wouldn't be born for another three months, but this woman was already pregnant. Fortunately, the fetus hadn't settled yet, giving her enough leeway to act.

She imagined the possible reactions of Ouyang Zhi. After considering it over and over, she felt that he wouldn't dare do anything to her. After all, she was the younger sister of the Minister of War. What could he do to her?

She stroked Bier's fur intermittently, saying, "Living in this household, you should know what to do and what not to do—"

Before she could finish her sentence, Wang Mama suddenly shouted sharply. Bier, in her hands, let out a sharp scream and dashed away, everyone bewildered by what was happening. They saw Bier heading straight towards Li Yiniang. The cat was quite large, and this sudden pounce was alarming. Everyone was stunned!

Li Yiniang reacted quickly, instinctively using her hand to shield her abdomen. Bier had aimed straight for her belly. Li Yiniang's hands and arms were immediately covered in more than ten bloody scratches, looking gruesome and terrifying!

Li Yiniang screamed in terror, stepping back, her handmaidens rushing to assist her as Wang Mama signaled them urgently. Li Yiniang tried to grab one of the handmaidens' hands in panic but was suddenly tripped by someone and fell backward heavily... She was so scared that she could hardly make a sound, and Wang Jiaoxi was equally terrified. Meanwhile, cries of shock filled the entire garden...

Ouyang Zhi heard about the incident in the garden and was furious, his face turning pale with anger. He hurried to visit Li Yiniang, but the doctor made it clear that the child could not be saved. This further enraged Ouyang Zhi.

Upon learning that the cat belonged to Jiao Xing, he immediately scolded her harshly and threatened to take disciplinary action against her. Jiao Xing, who had been favored since becoming a concubine, had never experienced such injustice before. She burst into tears, defending herself by saying it was Wang Mama, Madam Lin's attendant, who failed to restrain Bier properly, resulting in Li Yiniang losing her child. She wanted to say something to Madam Lin, but she feared her cruelty and dared not say a word more.

However, although she didn't finish her sentence, Ouyang Zhi realized that Madam Lin was the instigator of the incident. Unable to contain his anger, he immediately went to the Fuyuan Pavilion to hold Madam Lin accountable. Madam Lin pretended to be sorrowful, but Ouyang Zhi was no longer willing to believe her like before. He accused her of feigning compassion like a cat crying for the mouse.

Madam Lin explained with grievances, "I didn't raise that cat. Ultimately, Li Yiniang and I serve the Master together. What benefit would I gain from her losing her child?" Ouyang Zhi felt thoroughly humiliated but could not bring himself to believe her words. Despite his fear of Lin Wenyuan, he could no longer bear the humiliation and dragged Wang Mama out, subjecting her to a severe punishment of twenty strokes.

Wang Mama, whom Madam Lin trusted the most, being punished was akin to Madam Lin being publicly humiliated. Madam Lin felt the weight of everyone's cold eyes and the warmth shown towards Ouyang Nuan and his sister.

Moreover, considering her own child, who was deemed unfortunate by many, and Li Yiniang's miscarriage was blamed on him, which seemed to only fuel Ouyang Zhi's anger, Madam Lin couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with grievances. As she sat beside Wang Mama, who was still unable to get up after being beaten, she couldn't hold back her tears, venting her frustrations by scolding the servants around her.

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Jue secretly confided in Ouyang Nuan, "Sister, I thought Father was so angry he was going to divorce that woman, but it turns out he only punished a servant."

Ouyang Nuan looked at the peach blossoms in the courtyard nearby and smiled lightly, saying, "Father, you see... when Mother passed away, he didn't even bat an eye. Within a few months, he remarried Lin Wanru. Don't expect too much from him; he only cares about himself."

Ouyang Jue was momentarily stunned, then turned to Ouyang Nuan for confirmation, "Is this matter related to Sister?"

If Jiaoxing had been a bit more ruthless, today it wouldn't have been Li Yiniang who lost her child, but Madam Lin. Unfortunately, one cannot achieve much with flawed plans, and Madam Lin seized the opportunity first. However, by offending both of Ouyang Zhi's beloved concubines, she had dug her own grave. With these two young, beautiful, and Lin-hating women whispering in Ouyang Zhi's ear every day, she would never be able to rise again in this lifetime.

Most importantly, the more chaos they caused, the safer Jue would be.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, "Why should I act? If Madam Lin were wiser and more magnanimous, she could have avoided this punishment altogether. She may think that Father won't dare to do anything to her after one or two incidents, but she doesn't realize that over time, she'll be abandoned by everyone."

Ouyang Jue pondered for a moment and sighed, "I always feel sorry for Father..."

"He doesn't deserve genuine affection," Ouyang Nuan said lightly, her eyes revealing a hint of chilling determination.

“Three more months, and it will be the time when Madam Lin gives birth,” she looked forward to it eagerly.

•••

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