Chapter 103 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

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

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 103:

The Audacious Second Miss

Upon arriving at the entrance of the Pear Fragrance Courtyard, they were greeted by continuous cries and wails.

Just as Ouyang Nuan stepped into the courtyard, Rui Mama rushed over with a smile plastered on her face. "Eldest Miss, you've arrived. Let me go inside and announce your presence."

Ouyang Nuan smiled and held Rui Mama's hand gently. "Why be so formal, Rui Mama? I'm here to visit my sister. There's no need for announcements. Let's go in together."

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Rui Mama attempted to withdraw her hand, but Ouyang Nuan maintained her grasp, smiling softly at her. Rui Mama's heart skipped a beat as she lowered her head and complied, "Yes."

Before leaving the Ouyang Residence, Rui Mama had always sung praises of the Madam and the Second Miss. She used to treat the Eldest Young Miss as if she were nonexistent.

However, in just two short years, upon Ouyang Nuan's return, everyone's opinion of both Ouyang Nuan and Ouyang Ke had changed drastically. Ouyang Ke, born into a prestigious family, had led a charmed life from the start. In her eyes, servants were from a different world altogether, almost subhuman. She was indifferent to their emotions and thoughts.

Yet, Rui Mama noticed that despite her noble background, Ouyang Nuan was different. She was warm and kind, always wearing a smile. Consequently, the servants held her in high regard. Rui Mama understood the importance of the servants as sources of information. Ouyang Nuan was generous in her rewards to them and her humble demeanor endeared her to everyone. Already favored by the Old Madam, she quickly became the target of everyone's flattery.

Rui Mama, adopting a 'ride the winning horse' mentality, became a sought-after confidante. With her effective network of informants, it was likely that every move within the Pear Fragrance Courtyard would reach her ears in no time.

Rui Mama, in a state of shock, could only sigh inwardly. Upon entering the room, she saw Second Miss Ouyang, flushed and disheveled, holding a duster high in her hand and ruthlessly striking Xia Xue, who was kneeling on the ground.

The maidservants beside her were all kneeling, heads bowed and hands hanging limply, not daring to utter a word.

In the heat of the moment, Ouyang Ke spoke fiercely, "You're always whispering malicious gossip in front of me. Who gave you the right to say that Brother Su can't recover anymore?!" Before she finished her sentence, she grabbed a blue porcelain vase and forcefully smashed it on the ground.

The splattering porcelain resembled white snowflakes, scattering in all directions. This sudden outburst caused everyone to duck and dodge, while Xia Xue, covering her face, cried out in fear.

"What's wrong, little sister? Why such a temper tantrum?"

Ouyang Ke suddenly noticed Ouyang Nuan standing at the doorway and felt momentarily stunned, unsure of how to react. She didn't know whether to keep holding the duster or drop it.

Approaching her, Ouyang Nuan gently took the duster from her hand and softly advised, "It's okay to be angry, but please don't hurt yourself."

Xia Xue dared not raise her head, only sobbing quietly, afraid to cry too loudly.

Ouyang Ke glanced at Rui Mama beside her, then forced a smile and bowed slightly, saying, "Thank you, sister, for your concern. It's just that the maid is ignorant. I was just disciplining her."

Ouyang Nuan wore a look of surprise and pointed to Xia Xue on the ground, "This girl has always been obedient. What mistake did she make today to make you so angry?"

Xia Xue had simply informed Ouyang Ke about Su Yulou's misfortune, saying that this time Young Master Su's future prospects were probably ruined. This had infuriated Ouyang Ke, causing her to forget all of Rui Mama's teachings and lash out at Xia Xue. However, this explanation couldn't be revealed to Ouyang Nuan. Ouyang Ke hesitantly said, "She broke the jade Buddha that Sister gave me, and I got angry and gave her a couple of slaps."

Ouyang Nuan smiled and didn't delve further, simply helping Xia Xue up herself. "Alright, your mistress punished you in a fit of anger. You can go now," she said gently.

Xia Xue glanced nervously at Ouyang Ke, who shot her a cold stare. With a start, Xia Xue replied, "Yes," and quickly wiped away her tears before retreating.

Ouyang Nuan glanced around at the various expressions of the people and said, "I'm just here to talk to my sister today. Please tidy up and leave."

Rui Mama watched as the maids quietly cleaned up the broken pieces on the ground in the Peach Fragrance Courtyard and left one by one, feeling even more surprised. She never imagined that the maids in the Second Miss' Courtyard would listen to Ouyang Nuan like this...

Yet...It wasn't just Peach Fragrance Courtyard; within the short span of two years, all the people left behind by the Madam in the entire mansion had been completely replaced.

Ouyang Ke was dressed in a goose-yellow top and a moon-white long skirt, with long crescent moon-shaped earrings dangling from her ears. She appeared graceful and elegant, with delicate features, although her hair was slightly disheveled and her cheeks still showed a hint of the flush from her earlier anger. As she looked at Ouyang Nuan, all traces of fierceness disappeared, replaced by a timid smile.

The maid brought tea and snacks, and Ouyang Ke attentively stayed by the side, engaging in conversation with Ouyang Nuan. Seeing her current delicate and lovely appearance, others would never have imagined how fiercely she had just punished the maid.

Ouyang Nuan casually mentioned something: "Sister, I heard from Old Madam Li that the Madam from the Zhang family of the Taiping Marquisate visited our mansion these past few days."

"The Madam from the Zhang family of the Taiping Marquisate?" Ouyang Ke was suddenly taken aback, unsure why her sister would bring up this matter.

Rui Mama stared closely at Ouyang Nuan's face, hoping to discern something, but she found nothing.

Ouyang Nuan spoke half a sentence, then lifted the teacup. Fang Mama looked at the surprised expressions on both sides and smiled, saying, "Madam Zhang and the Princess of Xiang have a close relationship. It's said that half a year ago, she went to the Cui family to propose marriage on behalf of the second son of the Xiang Prince. However, the Cui family refused and even mocked Madam Zhang."

"The Cui family? Are they proposing marriage to Miss Cui Youluo?" Ouyang Ke asked hesitantly.

"Not to Youluo, but to her cousin, Cui Youlan, the daughter of her uncle. She has visited our mansion before, accompanying her grandmother during the old lady's birthday celebration. She just doesn't talk much, so you might not have noticed," Fang Mama explained.

Immediately, an image of a petite and unremarkable girl came to Ouyang Ke's mind, and she showed a surprised expression on her face. "How could the Prince of Xiang propose to her instead of You? Moreover, that Miss Cui is quite ordinary and even stutters when speaking. Her family isn't influential either. Having such a good marriage proposal should be a reason for joy. But from what Elder Sister just said, it seems they were rejected... What's going on?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "It's natural. Sister, you may not know, but the second son of the Prince of Xiang is not in good health..."

"Poor health?" Regardless of any ailment, once he reached adulthood, he still held the prestigious title of a county prince. How could he be rejected by a family like the Cui's? This just doesn't make sense at all.

"Miss, I heard that the second son of the Prince of Xiang is... not quite right," Fang Mama said with a smile, adopting a casual tone.

"What do you mean?" Ouyang Ke was taken aback.

"As far as I know, he's mentally impaired. He's fifteen this year and can't even take off his pants to use the restroom by himself!"

Ouyang Ke was stunned. She had heard about the second son of the Prince of Xiang being simple-minded and kept indoors under strict supervision, but she had no idea it was to this extent.

"How is that possible?" Rui Mama interjected.

"Rui Mama, this isn't just hearsay. You should go out and inquire. Many people know about this matter," Fang Mama said confidently, with a smile on her face.

The second son of the Prince of Xiang had always been a concern for him because of his intellectual disability. Families of equal social status naturally refused to marry their daughters to him. Buying a bride from common people would risk losing face for the royal family. Hence, they sought a girl from ordinary official families, preferably one without outstanding qualities or with some flaws. Yet, they were still rejected by the Cui family.

"I understand now," Ouyang Ke exclaimed, suddenly enlightened. "The Cui family must have heard some rumors, which led to their refusal. They are indeed audacious. In an ordinary situation, even if a family is unwilling, they wouldn't dare to reject so easily. After all, someone from a family like that of the Prince of Xiang..."

Ouyang Nuan's lips curled slightly upwards. "You're right, sister. But the Cui family still has some noble airs being a Hanlin mansion. Naturally, they would refuse. It might be different for other families."

"Yes, Miss, you may not know. Regarding Miss Cui Youlan's marriage, it's been quite a saga," Fang Mama sighed. "Miss mentioned that the Cui family is noble, but in the end, they simply looked down on the second son of the Prince of Xiang because he's a simpleton. Remember last time when Miss Youluo complained to you about her cousin stealing her marriage?"

Ouyang Ke couldn't hide her surprise. When did so much happen in the capital? She was completely clueless. With a forced smile, she asked, "Fang Mama, you just mentioned that Cui Youlan stole Youluo's marriage. What's that all about?"

Ouyang Nuan's expression darkened slightly, her voice crisp and cold. "Fang Mama, are you confused? Some things are better left unsaid. How can you use Cui Youlan's affairs to entertain us?"

Fang Mama quickly apologized, looking fearful.

"Sister, why blame her? I wanted to hear about it. What can't we discuss between sisters?" Ouyang Ke chuckled innocently, her face beaming with naivety. But to Ouyang Nuan, this innocence seemed extremely ludicrous.

They both knew who was acting and who was watching. They understood each other perfectly.

Ouyang Nuan's long eyelashes fluttered slightly as she sighed softly, her voice tinged with melancholy. "Speaking of which, Cui Youlan is also quite pitiful. Originally, Cui Hanyuan had promised her to the third young master of the Zhu family from Xuan Cheng County. I heard that the third young master is very knowledgeable and refined, a perfect match for Cui Youlou. It would have been an excellent match. Unfortunately, during the last banquet held by the Cui family, Cui Youlan didn't attend due to some taboo, and Cui Youlan took advantage of the opportunity to get close to the third young master of the Zhu family, ultimately stealing away this marriage."

"Ah?" Ouyang Ke's heart raced for a moment. She hesitated for a moment before asking, "Cui Youlan is far behind her cousin in both looks and talent. How could she deceive the third young master Zhu, who comes from a prestigious family and is knowledgeable?"

Ouyang Nuan sighed but refused to say more. Ouyang Ke was very curious about the matter, but since Ouyang Nuan didn't want to discuss it further, she could only shrug it off.

"Oh, by the way, you mentioned earlier that Madam Zhang also visited our mansion?" Ouyang Ke quickly ran through the whole situation in her mind and then immediately thought of this point. She exchanged a quick glance with Rui Mama, and their expressions both subtly changed.

Ouyang Nuan nodded and said, "Yes, she had a long conversation with Grandmother and even had lunch together."

Rui Mama's expression became even more grim. The Ouyang family only had two eligible young ladies. With Ouyang Nuan now being elevated to the status of a Princess, her status was completely different. Madam Li couldn't exert any influence over her. That left Ouyang Ke vulnerable. In the past, Old Madam Li might have hesitated, but now, without a mother to protect her and with her value diminished, Old Madam Li might be eager to marry her off.

Realizing this, Rui Mama cautiously looked at Ouyang Nuan and asked, "Eldest Miss, do you think Madam Zhang's visit might bring up old matters?"

"Bringing up old matters?" Ouyang Nuan furrowed her brows slightly, appearing genuinely surprised. "Oh, are you talking about marriage? Well, I've never considered that possibility. It shouldn't... No, it couldn't be."

Beside her, Ouyang Ke's eyes also betrayed her disbelief. She knew Ouyang Nuan had no reason to lie about this. Madam Zhang had indeed visited the mansion, and why she came was not a question that needed asking.

Despite knowing that her words had stirred up some emotions in Ouyang Ke, Ouyang Nuan maintained her calm demeanor and smiled gently. "Don't worry, sister. Grandmother loves you so much; she would never agree to marry you off to such a fool."

As she said this, a hint of amusement flashed in her eyes, leaving others to ponder its meaning.

Seeing Ouyang Ke's troubled expression, Ouyang Nuan seemed to recall something and sighed. "Speaking of which, as women, when it comes to marriage, it's usually up to our parents. A girl can't make decisions for herself. Even if she ends up marrying a fool, what can she do? Fortunately, the Xiang Prince's family is prominent, so marrying into it wouldn't be too bad..."

"What are you talking about, sister? If I were to marry, I wouldn't care about the family background. I would just want to marry an outstanding individual, someone with good looks, talent, and intelligence. Wealth would be secondary." Ouyang Ke smoothly interjected, but as soon as the words left her mouth, she blushed and stared at Ouyang Nuan, fearing she had revealed too much.

Ouyang Nuan seemed oblivious to her sister's discomfort and replied calmly, "Listening to my sister, it seems you want to marry a talented man?"

Ouyang Ke's face grew even redder, and there was a hint of probing in her eyes. "Sister, if I were to marry, indeed I would want to marry a talented man. Just imagine, a man with profound insights, his music and poetry would surely be extraordinary. Although I lack talent myself, I find the sound of someone reciting literature very pleasing to the ears. If I were to marry a talented man, with him studying under the lamplight while I listen quietly beside him, that would be my wish. Those so-called sons of high-ranking families might not be to my liking."

This aspect is just like my previous life. The Lin family probably felt quite exasperated after showing Ouyang Ke countless suitors, only for her to set her sights on a lowly merchant's son.

Ouyang Nuan chuckled and said, "So my sister likes bookworms. Perhaps in the future, you'll become the wife of a top scholar. Congratulations!"

Ouyang Ke was stirred by this remark, thinking of Su Yulou, who had been deprived of the position of top scholar. She felt a bit resentful that Ouyang Nuan's words were too sharp; she had unwittingly been drawn into them and didn't say anything.

At this moment, Hongyu gently reminded them that it was getting late. Ouyang Nuan stood up and said, "Yes, I should go back now. Sister, get some rest early."

Ouyang Ke also stood up and escorted her sister to the door again, wearing a smile on her face.

After returning, she frowned and scolded Xia Xue, "Hurry up and find out what Madam Zhang discussed with Grandma! And also, find out what happened with Cui Youlan?!"

Xia Xue lowered her head and went off to do as she was told, while Rui Mama anxiously watched Ouyang Nuan's departing figure, feeling a strange unease in her heart. Why had the young miss come today? Was it to warn the second young mistress that Grandma intended to betroth her to a fool? Was she acting out of kindness? But if the second young mistress really married the second son of the Duke of Xiang, her whole life would be ruined. Rui Mama felt that regardless of Ouyang Nuan's intentions, this matter needed to be clarified.

After two hours, Xia Xue returned, and Ouyang Ke anxiously waited in the room. When Xia Xue finally returned, she was met with a barrage of scolding from Ouyang Ke, only to be stopped by Rui Mama after a while. Xia Xue knelt on the ground and slowly recounted the information she had gathered.

"Madam Zhang spoke with Grandma in her room, and they dismissed everyone else, so nobody knows what they discussed. All I know is that Grandma seemed very pleased that afternoon, and she even personally escorted Madam Zhang to the door after they finished lunch."

"Useless!" Ouyang Ke exclaimed. Xia Xue's report seemed to echo what Ouyang Nuan had disclosed, but there was no further useful information. "And what about Miss Cui's matter?"

Xia Xue explained, "That Miss Cui pretended to be unwell, intentionally collapsing in front of Third Young Master Zhu, claiming she had a heartache and couldn't breathe properly. Third Young Master Zhu believed her and kindly helped her up, immediately rushing to find someone to assist her. But when others arrived, she accused Third Young Master Zhu of misconduct. Initially, nobody believed her, but she was holding Third Young Master Zhu's jade pendant in her hand, threatening that if the Zhu family refused to come and propose, she would hang herself at the gates of their residence, making it known to everyone in the capital that the Zhu family was unfaithful and bullied weak women! There has always been intense rivalry among the Zhu family's three branches, and they couldn't afford to let someone else hold such leverage. With no other choice, the Second Madam of the Zhu family was forced to arrange the marriage originally intended for Miss Cui Youlou to Miss Cui Youlan."

"So this is how it is. Cui Youlan is truly too unruly. By causing displeasure to her mother-in-law and husband before even entering the family, how will she establish herself in the future?" Rui Mama remarked coldly.

However, Ouyang Ke murmured, "But for a woman like her, if she doesn't employ some means, how could she possibly marry so well?"

"Miss, you're mistaken. This isn't a trivial matter to play around with! In the capital's noble families, reputation is everything. If this Miss Cui acts like this, she can forget about holding her head up high in the future!"

"Hmph, as long as she can marry the person she likes, even if she can't hold her head high, what does it matter? After all, we're not all eating from the same pot!" Ouyang Ke usually listened to Rui Mama, but today she unexpectedly showed stubbornness. Rui Mama sighed and said, "Miss, don't be so hasty. I suspect that Miss Ouyang isn't so kind as to just offer a friendly reminder; there must be something more to it. Don't be fooled by her words!"

However, Ouyang Ke remained silent with her head lowered. Xia Xue stole a glance at her expression, but Rui Mama noticed and gave her a fierce glare. Xia Xue immediately lowered her head and quietly left the room.

As soon as Xia Xue stepped into the courtyard, she heard Rui Mama shouting through the window, "Xia Xue, go to the kitchen and bring Miss Ouyang's lotus seed soup over!"

Xia Xue hurriedly replied and quickly left the courtyard.

After leaving the Pear Fragrance Courtyard, Xiaxue headed towards the kitchen. Upon entering, she loudly asked, "Zhao Mama, where is Second Miss' lotus seed soup?"

Zhao Mama replied with a beaming smile, "It was supposed to be made, but Madam asked for snow clam congee at the last minute, and the cook who manages the stove took a day off, so it got delayed for a while. Come in and wait for a bit." With that, she ushered Xia Xue inside.

The figure that had been following Xia Xue discreetly slipped away. Xia Xue peeked out from the kitchen, smirked, then turned to Zhao Mama and said, "Keep an eye on things for me."

Zhao Mama smiled and said, "The old servant understands, Miss, don't worry."

Xia Xue passed through the kitchen and went out through a small side door, heading straight to the Fragrant Listening Pavilion. Hongyu was already waiting for her at the door and guided her into the inner chamber.

As soon as Xia Xue entered, she respectfully bowed to Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Nuan personally helped her up and asked, "Are you badly injured?"

Hongyu pulled up Xia Xue's sleeve and said, "Miss, look at this. Second Miss always takes her anger out on Xia Xue, hitting her whenever she feels like it. Xia Xue's body is covered in bruises."

Xia Xue's body was bruised all over, a shocking sight at first glance. Ouyang Nuan's brow furrowed slightly, and she coldly remarked, "She's becoming more and more unreasonable." Then, she turned to Changpu and ordered, "Go get some medicine."

A look of hatred flashed in Xia Xue's eyes as she said, "I have always followed Second Miss. I often endure her beatings. Once, she even broke a chicken feather duster over me. Compared to that, today's injuries are nothing. I've gotten used to it."

Ouyang Nuan sighed. At that moment, Changpu retrieved the medicine from the drawer and applied it to Xia Xue's injuries. Xia Xue stared at Ouyang Nuan and said, "Miss, Rui Mama is very suspicious. Just now, she even sent someone to follow me to the kitchen. Fortunately, I was cautious and prepared for it. Otherwise, if she had found out, it might have caused trouble for you."

Rui Mama was indeed astute. Ouyang Nuan pondered for a moment before saying, "Be more careful in the future. Don't leave any traces."

"Yes," Xia Xue replied. Then she added, "Miss, I noticed that Second Miss seemed to be plotting something today."

Ouyang Nuan didn't share Xia Xue's enthusiasm. She remained silent for a moment before saying, "Rui Mama is very shrewd. With her in the Residence, we are always at a disadvantage."

Xia Xue smiled and said, "Miss, there's no need to worry too much. In my opinion, Second Miss is just trying to use Rui Mama's schemes to gain some advantage. She might not be sincerely aligned with her."

Fang Mama raised an eyebrow and chuckled softly, "Miss, why did you remind her of Madam Zhang's matter? Wouldn't it be better for Madam to arrange this marriage for you?"

Ouyang Nuan's eyes sparkled strangely as she shook her head and said, "Unfortunately, Grandmother didn't agree."

"Not agree? Why not?" Fang Mama asked in surprise.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, "Father still hopes that Uncle Lin can speak a few good words for him in front of Prince Qin, so he has kept Madam Lin's legitimate wife's position. How could he rush to marry his daughter to a fool? Isn't he afraid of being criticized for selling his daughter for the sake of climbing the ranks? The Ouyang family still cares about their reputation. Even if they were to sell her, they would do it discreetly, without incurring any losses." She paused, speaking gently, "Xia Xue, you understand the temperament of Ouyang Ke. If it weren't for Rui Mama's guidance, she would surely cause trouble. Do you understand?"

After a moment of confusion, Xia Xue quickly understood and raised the corners of her mouth, saying, "Yes, I understand, Miss."

Three days later, on a morning like any other, Xia Xue was combing Miss Ouyang Ke's hair as usual. Ouyang Ke stared at her reflection in the mirror, her face looking unusually pale. She said, "Quickly, take a look at my hair. Why is it so itchy? Do I have bumps? I can't feel anything."

Suppressing a smile, Xia Xue used her hands to part Ouyang Ke's hair, revealing her scalp, and pretended to be surprised, saying, "Oh my, how did this happen?"

Rui Mama, who had suffered from an itchy scalp all night, felt quite uncomfortable. She was frowning as she stood by, directing the maids to bring hot water for Ouyang Ke's morning wash.

When she heard Ouyang Ke's complaint, she became annoyed. "What's all this fuss about?" She quickly walked over, glaring fiercely at Xia Xue. Then, she examined Ouyang Ke's head. After seeing what was there, she was greatly surprised. Without hesitation, she gave Xia Xue a hard slap and scolded, "You're supposed to be serving Miss. How can you serve her like this?! What's wrong with Miss's head? If you can't handle even such a small matter properly, what use are you?!"

Xia Xue covered her face, too frightened to speak. Ouyang Ke frowned and demanded, "What's going on? Why is it so itchy?"

Rui Mama nervously explained, "Miss, it's head lice! We've never been near those lower-class people, so how did this happen?"

Head lice? Ouyang Ke was stunned, then erupted in anger! For a girl to get head lice was extremely difficult to deal with. Not only was the itching unbearable, but her once glossy hair would also become filled with yellowish-white nits due to the infestation. How disgusting! She had always taken great care of her black locks, and no one dared to touch them. Now, to have such a thing happen, it was like suffering a great injustice!

Furious, Rui Mama slapped Xia Xue again and scolded, "Useless thing! Go quickly, boil some hot water and add medicinal herbs for Miss to soak in!" Then, she comforted Ouyang Ke, saying, "Miss, don't worry too much. After soaking a few times and combing with a nit comb, the itching will stop."

At that moment, one of the maids serving on the side stared blankly and pointed at Zhao Mama, saying, "Mama, you have them too!"

Rui Mama couldn't believe it. She looked at herself in the copper mirror and indeed saw many white dots on her scalp. Shocked, she was at a loss for words. Ouyang Ke stood up abruptly, her face turning pale with anger. "Mama, it's you! How could you bring such filthy things in here! Get out now!"

Rui Mama had no idea what was going on. She had always been meticulous about cleanliness while serving in Miss's room, so she couldn't fathom how head lice had appeared. It never occurred to her that Xia Xue had tampered with her pillow.

Although Ouyang Ke refrained from scolding Rui Mama due to her role as her wet nurse, she still banished her to another courtyard, firmly refusing to let her near until her head lice were eradicated. Consequently, Rui Mama would be out of Ouyang Ke's sight for at least ten days to two weeks. Despite Rui Mama's pleas, Ouyang Ke remained resolute.

Left with no choice, Rui Mama packed her belongings and went to settle in another courtyard. She would only return to serve in the room after completely getting rid of the head lice. Before leaving, she scolded all the maids and servants in the courtyard, demanding that they report any incidents to her. With a heavy heart, she departed, casting numerous glances back as she walked away.

Xia Xue watched her receding figure, a cold smile playing at the corner of her lips.

Nightfall, Cao Residence

Since his tongue was partially severed and he narrowly escaped being emasculated by Xiao Tianye, Cao Rong had been confined to his home out of fear and apprehension. He dared not stir up trouble, especially with the emperor's restrictions in place. However, as things calmed down and there seemed to be no further repercussions from the emperor, his mind began to stir once more.

Ever since his "uncooperative" part started acting up, he had been seeking various treatments. Countless renowned doctors were consulted, and numerous medicines were consumed, even resorting to summoning imperial physicians from the palace. Yet, his ailment persisted. He couldn't afford to lose face in front of his concubines, so he relentlessly pressured Lin Yuanrou to handle the matter.

He could feel Lin Yuanrou's hand manipulating his weak desires, the touch so gentle yet chilling, causing him great discomfort. Yet, he persevered, trying to summon memories of his past virility. As he struggled, he felt a surge of passion slowly rising. No longer trembling or feeling cold, he pushed himself harder, only to suddenly lose control completely... He could smell the scent of his own defeat, realizing that he was still inadequate, utterly finished.

Lin Yuanrou sat up abruptly, pushing away Cao Rong who was still convulsing on the ground. She could no longer bear the daily torment and her face turned ashen with rage. "Get away from me! Don't touch me! You're worthless. Get out! Get out of here! You're not allowed to dirty my bed anymore..."

Lin Yuanrou's anger made Cao Rong feel utterly ashamed. Like a beaten dog, he scurried out of the room, kicking the servant standing in the corner with all his might.

"Master, please don't be angry! Master, I've inquired and there's a way to help you recover," the servant, named Tongmu, said hastily.

Cao Rong stared at the servant, his eyes wide with surprise, the sincerity evident on Tongmu's face. "Master, the servant has a friend who is an alchemist. His elixirs are very effective... Would you like to give it a try?"

Cao Rong glared at him fiercely, his gaze as if threatening to kill him if the remedy proved ineffective. Tongmu's expression turned fearful. "Rest assured, Master. I dare not lie. Whether it works or not, you'll know once you try!"

Cao Rong nodded slightly, then muttered indistinctly, "Ou... Yang..." His words were incomprehensible to others, but the servant, understanding him perfectly, immediately said, "Master, don't worry. I've been keeping an eye on the activities of the Ouyang family. If Miss Ouyang leaves the mansion, I'll report it to you."

Filled with hatred, Cao Rong's emotions surged, making it difficult for him to calm down. He completely ignored the cold glint in Tongmu's eyes and disregarded the imminent danger lurking nearby...

Warm Listening Pavilion

Ouyang Nuan was dressed in a light green blouse with silver butterfly patterns and a long skirt embroidered with white magnolia flowers. A golden hairpin adorned with delicate tassels hung from her hair, giving her a fresh and elegant appearance, exuding a sense of leisure. She was reclining on a couch reading a book when Hongyu came in to report, "Miss, Xia Xue has sent a message."

"Go on," Ouyang Nuan said without lifting her head or pausing her reading.

"Second Miss instructed Xia Xue to find a way to deliver a letter out of the mansion while Rui Mama is away..." Hongyu relayed.

"Oh?" Ouyang Nuan raised her eyes, sitting up straight. "To be delivered to Su Yulou?"

“Miss guessed right. Second Miss has sent three letters in a row, all requesting a meeting with Master Su. But unfortunately, he refuses to agree, completely ignoring her!"

Ouyang Nuan sneered. "She still refuses to give up, it seems."

"Yes. Today, she wrote the fourth letter and wants Xia Xue to deliver it out. But from what I see, her chances are slim. Master Su has been quite disheartened since the cheating incident. It's said that Madam Su is planning to return to Jiangnan. At a time like this, where would he find the mood for romance?"

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Nuan chuckled lightly. "If he lacks the mood, wouldn't it be a waste of my sister's sincere feelings? We always have to find a way to help these two lovers. Go and tell Xia Xue to pass on another message to Su Yulou. Tell him what Second Miss said, that she is eager to follow in the footsteps of the Lady in the Goose Yellow Dress[1], but she's uncertain if Master Su will give her such an opportunity."

Hongyu was taken aback. "Miss, isn't saying this—"

Ouyang Nuan gazed at the bright sunlight outside the window and replied calmly, "She is responsible for her own words. Whatever promises she makes have nothing to do with me, understood?"

Hongyu nodded in understanding. "Xia Xue also mentioned that Second Miss arranged to meet on the first day of the month. She intends to seize the opportunity when she accompanies Old Madam to the Temple for Buddha worship..."

Ouyang Nuan chuckled. "She dares to deceive even Old Madam. This girl really has some nerve."

Hongyu chuckled, "Second Miss was inspired by Miss Cui."

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "Ouyang Ke hates me to the core and believes I must be plotting against her at every turn. It's only because I haven't taken any action lately that she's become complacent, allowing us to find some clues." She sneered, "Let's use her infatuation to stage a good show."

Hongyu whispered, "Does Miss already have a plan in mind?"

"Indeed," Ouyang Nuan beckoned her closer and whispered a few words.

Hongyu smiled faintly. "Truly a good plan. Let's wait and see them reap what they sow."

•••

[1] "The Lady in the Goose Yellow Dress" (《鹅黄女英》): This story is part of the collection "The Tales of the World" (《世说新语》) compiled by the scholar Liu Yiqing during the Jin Dynasty (265–420 AD).

In this story, a young scholar falls in love with a beautiful and virtuous woman who is known for wearing a dress of goose yellow color. Despite their affection for each other, they face various obstacles and challenges, including social norms and family opposition. The story explores themes of love, perseverance, and societal expectations.

The phrase "wearing goose yellow" has become symbolic in Chinese culture, representing a woman's loyalty, virtue, and elegance. The story has been adapted into various forms of literature, drama, and art throughout Chinese history.

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