Chapter 82 ROTNDOAHRF

 FlamingoBees 

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

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Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family 

 Chapter 82: 

 The Prince and the Beauty meet late at night.

Ouyang Nuan's gaze remained fixed on the servant in green attire, when suddenly, a small hand grabbed hold of her skirt. She lowered her head and saw a face like an apple appear before her eyes, with grape-like big blinking eyes and a smiling mouth. 

"Sister!" Lin Yanxue exclaimed, using both hands and feet to climb onto the nearby railing, getting close to Ouyang Nuan's face. "Sister!" She reached out and encircled Ouyang Nuan's neck, leaning against her shoulder affectionately.

"Be careful, don't fall!" Ouyang Nuan quickly wrapped her arms around her, inadvertently agitating the wound on her chest, causing a slight frown.

Hongyu hurried to hold Lin Yanxue, fearing she might fall, but Lin Yanxue seemed to enjoy this posture, twisting and turning, refusing to behave.

At that moment, Ouyang Nuan felt a sharp gaze sweep over her. She lifted her head and looked into the person's eyes.

He stood there, dressed in the green attire of a lowly servant, with only half of his face exposed to the sunlight. There was a long scar on his left cheek, resembling a centipede, appearing both fierce and terrifying yet strangely captivating.

After glancing at him, Ouyang Nuan seemed to pay him no further attention, instead lowering her head and saying to Lin Yanxue, "If you don't behave, and you get hurt, sister won't take care of you."

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

Hearing this admonition, Lin Yanxue raised her head and looked at Ouyang Nuan seriously. She said earnestly, "Yanxue is very obedient. Big brother said sister is in pain, so I have to be very careful." She kissed Ouyang Nuan with her soft lips and asked coquettishly, "Sister, I'm very obedient, right?"

"Yeah, Yanxue is the best." Ouyang Nuan smiled gently at her. Even though she didn't intentionally look at the man, her senses remained keenly aware of his burning and focused gaze. But when she lifted her head, he lowered his, seemingly engrossed in trimming the flowers and plants.

"Yanxue has always been afraid of bothering sister!" Lin Yanxue's soft little hand circled around Ouyang Nuan's neck, coquettish like a kitten. Ouyang Nuan's gaze involuntarily softened.

In his presence, she seldom felt so unguarded. Meanwhile, the servant in the green attire unconsciously raised his eyes again, staring at her intently.

"Hey, can a person like you look at Miss like this? Lower your head now!" Zhao Mama, the stewardess in the garden, scolded.

The servant glanced at her, his gaze carrying a terrifying power that startled Zhao Mama, who involuntarily closed her mouth.

"Sister, I'm hungry!" Lin Yanxue leaned her head on Ouyang Nuan's hand, her voice soft.

"Then let's go back to Dream Rain Pavilion," she whispered, coaxing her, "I have freshly steamed sugar pastries and caramelized sugar buns there. They're delicious!"

"Okay!" Lin Yanxue replied cheerfully, releasing Ouyang Nuan's hand and jumping down with a thud, then eagerly taking Ouyang Nuan's hand.

A maid in the garden watched as Ouyang Nuan walked away with Lin Yanxue, then sighed softly, "This Miss really looks like a celestial being. I dare not even breathe in front of her, afraid of blowing her away!"

"Nonsense! What kind of talk is that?" Zhao Mama scolded, displeased.

"But everyone is saying it privately. Miss here is more elegant than our young ladies of the marquis's residence. Who knows what might happen in the future..." 

Ouyang Nuan was indeed young, beautiful, and gentle, like a blooming lotus flower. Each time she was seen, it inevitably reminded people of Lin Wanqing, the former young lady of the marquis's residence. However, Lin Wanqing was somewhat aloof and proud, unlike Ouyang Nuan, who always greeted people with a smile and was friendly and approachable.

 Zhao Mama couldn't help but admire her inwardly, but she wasn't as indiscreet as the maidservants. She quickly interrupted, "Stop talking nonsense! The masters don't like gossipy maidservants. You should speak less and do more work! If you keep blabbering, you'll be kicked out. It's disgraceful..."

The maid quickly lowered her head, not daring to utter another word.

Zhao Mama snorted coldly, thinking to herself how the servants in the mansion lacked proper discipline. It was bad enough for maidservants to gossip, but even a lowly gardener dared to stare at the noble young lady! With that thought, she looked around for the servant in the green clothes who had just been there, intending to catch him and hand him over to the steward for severe punishment. However, when she looked up again, the person was nowhere to be seen.

Upon closer inspection, the old dowager realized that the girl beside Ouyang Nuan was Lin Yanxue, an illegitimate daughter from the main branch. Surprised, the old dowager hadn't expected the rosy-cheeked girl, who always doted on her granddaughter, to be her own granddaughter. With a smile, she remarked, "Nuan'er, why are you out and about again? Isn't your body still not completely recovered?"

"Grandmother, Nuan'er's injuries have already healed. I can't stay cooped up in the house forever," Ouyang Nuan replied with a smile.

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

"Oh, where are you two off to?" the old madam asked with a smile, gently taking Ouyang Nuan's soft and delicate hand.

"I'm taking Yanxue to Dream Rain Pavilion," Ouyang Nuan replied with a smile. Sensing that the old dowager was in a good mood, she took the opportunity to bring up the past, "Grandmother, Nuan'er mentioned to you before about returning to the mansion..."

The old madam's face immediately darkened, and she pulled her hand back abruptly. "Return? What for! You almost lost your life last time! If you still regard me as your grandmother, you'll stay obediently in the marquis's mansion! No going back!"

Ouyang Nuan was about to say something more, but the Old Madam held her head and said, "Oh my, I must be getting old. Why am I feeling dizzy..."

Ouyang Nuan was taken aback, and the Old Madam winked at Du Mama beside her. Du Mama couldn't help but smile. The Old Madam was indeed amusing. She maintained such solemnity and dignity in front of others, but in front of her granddaughter, she acted like a child, even being a bit petty.

"Miss, let's discuss whatever you have in mind tomorrow. I'll help the Old Madam back first," Du Mama nodded at Ouyang Nuan. Ouyang Nuan sighed inwardly, watching as the Old Madam left with unsteady steps. Just as she disappeared from Ouyang Nuan's sight, the Old Madam sighed again, "This child is so foolish. That family is no good, yet she insists on walking into their trap!"

"Old Madam, Miss is also doing this for Young Master..." Du Mama explained softly and gently.

"Ha, always thinking about her little brother, truly reckless." The Old Madam's expression darkened further. In her eyes, Ouyang Jue was after all Ouyang Zhi's son, and he bore a closer resemblance to Ouyang Zhi. Every time she saw him, she couldn't help but feel displeased, sensing a barrier between them, unlike Ouyang Nuan, who was so affectionate and lovable, almost like a shadow of Wanqing.

"Old Madam, you shouldn't say such heart-wrenching words. Miss values you deeply. Don't forget, half a month ago when you caught a chill, Miss knew about it and personally came to accompany you. She took care of your meals and medicines meticulously, refusing to leave even late into the night. Despite being forced to leave due to her own health issues, she returned the next morning to continue her care until you recovered. Where else can you find such a dutiful granddaughter?"

 

Ouyang Nuan was indeed very caring and filial, and the Old Madam knew it, but her furrowed brow didn't relax at this. "Ah, I know what you're saying, but..."

"But Miss is inherently pure-hearted, always caring for others. If I may speak out of turn... Old Madam, Miss Lin is a bastard daughter. Even though the main wife granted her favor and kept her by her side, her birth mother's status is still too low. Throughout the household, who would truly regard her with kindness? Even the young master and the second miss only maintain superficial civility towards her. Yet, Miss is willing to accompany this child, showing her truly kind-hearted nature. If she treats Little Lin with such care, how much more would she care for her own blood brother? Remember the day when the young master came to deliver the news? His eyes were red with tears. Have you forgotten?"

"Her kindness is truly rare..." The Old Madam's expression softened with approval. Du Mama continued, "Old Madam, do you remember what Master Huian said? She mentioned that Miss still has great blessings awaiting her in the future!"

The Old Madam blinked slightly, recalling Master Huian's words. She nodded involuntarily and said, "Nuan'er is a thoughtful child. Back then, that girl, Wanhing, was too stubborn. She was always confrontational, causing trouble and exhaustion without gaining any favor. Nuan'er, on the other hand, knows how to be flexible. With such a gentle approach, she's bound to receive great blessings in the future. That's why I don't want her to return to that heartless mother and son! As Nuan'er grows older, I know exactly what schemes they have in mind!"

"You mean..."

The Old Madam snorted coldly, her expression icy. "The Ouyang family isn't thinking about finding a good match for their daughter. They're always aiming for higher status! Do you think I kept her by my side just for her to accompany this old lady? I did it for her sake. Now that Xinxin has found a good match, I must keep an eye out for Nuan'er!"

Du Mama nodded repeatedly, but inwardly she thought, among the granddaughters of the Zhen Guo Marquis Manor, apart from the legitimate heiress Lin Yuanxin of the main branch, the second miss of the second branch, Lin Yuanrou, and the third, fourth, and fifth misses of the third branch, Lin Yuanchan, Lin Yuanlan, and Lin Yuanmei, respectively, none of them are the Old Madam's biological granddaughters, nor do they share the same heart as the Old Madam. 

It's the granddaughter left behind by the legitimate eldest daughter of the Marquis Manor, Ouyang Nuan, who may be able to support Miss Yuanxin in the future. Miss Yuanxin's marriage is settled, so the Old Madam is even more eager to secure benefits for Miss. It's no wonder she's reluctant to let her go... With these thoughts in mind, Du Mama's smile deepened.

//

The wind gently blew, causing the willow by the lake to sway like green mist, accompanied by the charming flowers such as camellia, pomegranate, azalea, and peach blossom. It all seemed graceful and elegant, with the pool water rippling gently. Golden carp swam gracefully in the water, creating a scene of poetic beauty. Seeing the scene in the garden, Xiao Tianye smiled coldly. 

Ouyang Nuan, always scheming and adept at winning people over, had deceived everyone in the capital. Rumors were spreading everywhere about her beauty, talent, and her willingness to risk her life to save her younger brother. Others thought she was a truly pure-hearted person... In his view, the woman with the darkest heart and the most venomous tongue in this world was none other than Ouyang Nuan.

Xiao Tianye reclined with his legs crossed, lying in the grass outside the pavilion. Three days ago, Grand Prince Qin mentioned to him that he intended to betroth Lin Yuanrou from the Zhenguo Marquis Manor as the crown prince's consort. Whether Lin Yuanrou's features were round or flat, he hadn't paid attention. He only knew that Lin Yuanrou was Ouyang Nuan's cousin, and Ouyang Nuan was recuperating at the Zhenguo Marquis Manor. 

Just this fact alone piqued his interest, prompting him to find a way to infiltrate the manor. He told himself that he merely wanted to see what Lin Yuanrou looked like. In reality, he couldn't quite pinpoint his intentions. Unexpectedly, on the first day of his arrival, he ran into Ouyang Nuan. However, it seemed she hadn't recognized him at all. Otherwise, she would have already called out or humiliated him if she had. Xiao Tianye's lips curled into a cold smile. It was better if she didn't recognize him, making it easier for him to act!

Originally, the steward had arranged for him to share a room with three other servants. But how could someone of his status deign to stay in the same room as those lowly individuals? With a little manipulation, the three others gradually moved their bedding to other rooms, leaving him to have a room all to himself. Apart from the scar on his face, which he used to disguise himself, often attracting curious onlookers and whispers, he felt no discomfort whatsoever.

"A'ye!" Someone called out to him loudly from outside the pavilion. Though he heard it, he chose to ignore it. The voice persisted, calling out again, "A'ye!"

Xiao Tianye raised an eyebrow, squinting slightly, only to see a familiar maid standing with her hands on her hips before him.

There weren't many faces in this world that he could remember, but the person before him happened to be someone he recognized. She was the personal maid who followed Ouyang Nuan. Ouyang Nuan had just been with her. It wasn't so much that he remembered the maid, but rather that her association with her mistress was enough to disgust him.

Finally finding him, Changpu smiled and said, "So you're A'ye, right? Our young lady needs your help!"

Xiao Tianye, under the alias A'ye, frowned. Ouyang Nuan? Could it be that she had already seen through his disguise? It couldn't be possible. He had even purposely circled around Grand Prince Qin with this face, and even his own father hadn't been able to recognize him. He refused to believe that Ouyang Nuan could! So, he gave Changpu a cold glance and then calmly stood up, bowing his head slightly. "What does the young lady command?"

"Last night it rained, and the pathway in front of Dream Rain Pavilion is covered with fallen leaves and dust. Miss has a lot on her plate, and we maids are overwhelmed. We're short-handed. My mistress and the steward of the mansion have discussed it, and he said to assign you to help! So, we need you to sweep clean the pathway in front of Dream Rain Pavilion!" 

Sweep the floor? Did he hear it wrong? Or has Ouyang Nuan lost her mind? He, Xiao Tianye, the dignified Crown Prince of Qin, being commanded to sweep the floor? Before he could refuse, a broom was already thrust into his hand.

Xiao Tianye could hardly believe what he was seeing as he looked down at the broom in his hand.

Changpu chuckled. "Thanks for your hard work," she said, before disappearing from sight.

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

Xiao Tianye sneered. Assigned tasks by the steward, huh? Holding the broom, he slowly approached the entrance of Dream Rain Pavilion. With a gentle step forward and arms outstretched, he used his body as the center, sweeping the broom like he would wield a sword in practice. 

The fallen leaves on the pathway began to swirl, gathering obediently into piles as if mischievous children suddenly lost their edges and behaved. His movements were fluid, akin to a graceful dance with a sword. Not a drop of sweat appeared on his face as he effortlessly cleaned the pathway.

Dream Rain Pavilion, by the window on the second floor, Ouyang Nuan watched the scene before her with a smile.

Changpu curiously asked, "Miss, this person seems quite peculiar! Should we report to Old Madam?"

Ouyang Nuan replied, "I'm afraid by the time we go, he'll have disappeared somewhere else. He won't wait for you to catch him."

What was Prince Qin sneaking in for? That was indeed a puzzling question. Ouyang Nuan shook her head gently as she watched Xiao Tianye sweep away the fallen leaves with a stern expression.

"Should we just let him stay in the inner courtyard like this?" Changpu widened her eyes, looking at Ouyang Nuan.

"Although he has a malicious heart, he's not a common thief or ruffian. There's no need to be so nervous. Perhaps..." Ouyang Nuan's voice trailed off. Xiao Tianye's thoughts were inscrutable and unpredictable to outsiders. Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but sigh. "Since he wants to cause trouble, let's play along with him until he's tired of it."

"Yes, Miss!"...

"A'ye, tidy up the garden immediately! Those weeds are growing too long."

"A'ye, go repair the stable. The roof is leaking!"

"A'ye, did you water the flowers today? Those are Old Madam's favorite peonies. If they're damaged, you won't be able to afford the consequences!"

"A'ye, the water in the cistern is running out. Hurry up and fetch more!"

"A'ye, these two boxes, Miss wants them moved to the warehouse..." 

Xiao Tianye's lips curled into a cold smile. He had never followed anyone else's orders in his life! Even when his father wanted him to marry, it was a matter of negotiation. He had always been high above! Enjoying the respect and fear of others!

Why was he allowing himself to be ordered around by Ouyang Nuan, doing all sorts of odd jobs like chores, fixing roofs, and feeding horses? Didn't Zhen Guo Marquis's Manor have specialized staff for these tasks? Why was he, someone who was originally only responsible for gardening and weeding, suddenly doing so many things?

By the time he realized it, he had become highly regarded in everyone's eyes as a valued servant. There were even a few people who dared to pat him on the shoulder, showing approval and saying, "You worked hard today. We didn't expect Miss Ouyang to value you so much! You were sure to rise high in the future!"

Without realizing it, he had been treated by Ouyang Nuan as a mere servant!

This was the realization that dawned on Xiao Tianye after spending five days at Zhenguo Marquis's Manor.

Dream Rain Pavilion

Ouyang Nuan woke up from her nap, lying on the Guifei's couch reading a book. "Miss, are you awake?" Hongyu asked from outside the door. 

"Come in, I'm awake," Ouyang Nuan replied, watching Hongyu enter with a tray in her hands.

Hongyu lifted the teapot lid and smiled, saying, "This is the golden silk date tea specially brought from the small kitchen. It's good for the stomach and warms the heart. Miss, please have it while it's hot."

Ouyang Nuan nodded, and Hongyu glanced around curiously. "Where did Changpu go? Wasn't she supposed to be on duty today?"

"I asked her to run some errands," Ouyang Nuan smiled, her eyes carrying a deeper meaning.

"Miss, do you dislike that servant named A'ye? If so, I can report to the steward to have him driven out!" Hongyu remembered how Miss often sent Changpu to instruct the steward to assign tasks to A'ye, and she spoke earnestly.

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

Ouyang Nuan was taken aback by her words, then smiled brightly and said, "No, I find him very diligent and obedient."

"Miss, you don't know. When asked to weed, he pulled up valuable orchids by the roots; when asked to water the flowers, he ended up drowning a pot of premium peonies; when tasked with repairing the horse stable, a roof tile fell off and frightened the young master's favorite steed; when asked to fetch water, he couldn't even tell if the bucket was broken, and who knows how much water he spilled along the way! With shoulders that can't bear burdens and hands that can't carry loads, what use is such a servant? He's simply a pampered young master! Moreover, he's arrogant and bad-tempered. Whenever the steward says a few words, he scowls. I really don't know if having such a servant is a curse for the Marquis's household..." Hongyu clearly looked down on this A'ye.

Ouyang Nuan raised an eyebrow, listening to Hongyu recount A'ye's "achievements" with a smile on her face.

Hongyu became more and more indignant as she spoke, but Ouyang Nuan nodded and said with a smile, "Actually, being a servant is harder than being a young master. I think he will come to understand that from now on."

"What are you talking about, Miss?" Hongyu didn't quite understand.

"I mean, practice makes perfect. When you order him around, you're helping him fulfill the duties of a servant more quickly! He should be thankful to you!" Ouyang Nuan said with a smile.

Hongyu nodded in agreement. "What Miss says makes sense. I've already informed the steward according to your instructions. Any tasks that nobody in the mansion wants to do can be assigned to him to help him improve! Just as you instructed, Miss," she added as Changpu entered with a bright smile on her face, making her round eyes and thick eyebrows look particularly adorable. "Miss, I've informed the steward about the tasks you assigned!"

"What tasks did Miss assign this time?" Hongyu asked curiously.

Ouyang Nuan glanced at Hongyu, smiling faintly. Hongyu was indeed curious, but at that moment, Lixiang came in to report that Lin Yuanxin had arrived for a visit. Unable to satisfy her curiosity now, she smiled and went out to greet her visitor.

Lin Yuanxin quickly came in carrying a chess set, her bright smile illuminating the room. "Nuan'er, how about a game of chess?"

Ouyang Nuan nodded and instructed Hongyu to tidy up the table before placing the chessboard on top.

Lin Yuanxin loved playing chess, but her skills were not very high. She always felt criticized when playing with others. Even Lin Zhiran would avoid her when he saw her carrying the chessboard over. Only Ouyang Nuan had the patience to accompany her for hours on end.

Although Ouyang Nuan was exceptional at chess, for some reason, Lin Yuanxin managed to win one out of three games whenever they played together. At first, Lin Yuanxin thought Ouyang Nuan was intentionally letting her win, but she couldn't see any signs of it, so she happily attributed it to a significant improvement in her own chess skills.

The side table was adorned with honey tea and various delicate pastries. Lin Yuanxin's face lit up with joy as she played chess, picking her favorite treats to eat between moves. With every move she made, she indulged in a piece of pastry until the plate was empty.

Ouyang Nuan casually made her move, observing Lin Yuanxin's troubled expression as she contemplated her next move while absentmindedly reaching for more pastries, only to find the plate empty after a while.

Looking at her, Ouyang Nuan said seriously, "Yuanxin, don't you know? The Crown Prince prefers slender and graceful women. If you gain weight, what will you do when it's time to get married?"

"Ah..." Lin Yuanxin suddenly raised her head, her hand immediately retracting as if burnt. "Is that true?"

Ouyang Nuan's expression remained solemn. "It's only natural."

"What should I do then?"

Ouyang Nuan made another move before smiling. "Then starve yourself until you get married."

"Ah! But there are still several months left! I'll starve to death before then!" Lin Yuanxin exclaimed, glancing at the chess pieces on the board before calling out, "Nuan'er, you're so cunning. How could you make such moves? No, let's start over, let's start over..."

As she protested, she swiftly picked up the piece she had just placed and moved it to another spot. "I was so busy talking to you that I forgot about playing chess. This game doesn't count."

"Sister, in chess, there are no regrets," Ouyang Nuan said calmly.

"It's not fair! You're cheating!"

"All's fair in war. As long as the goal is achieved, what does the means matter?" Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "Let's play another ten games. You won't beat me today."

"I won't give up! I will definitely win!" Lin Yuanxin declared earnestly. "Let's go again, let's go again!"

//

Servants' quarters

Housekeeper Zhang Dayou glanced at Xiao Tianye with a blank expression. "Ay'e, pour out the night fragrances[1] in the servants' quarters, and while you're at it, scrub the chamber pots and remember to clean the floors afterward."

Xiao Tianye "......"  Silence enveloped the room as if it were dead.

"I've had enough," Xiao Tianye gritted his teeth, his words biting.

Yes, he had had enough! A prince, the Prince of Qin, why should he endure such a lowly life? Coming to the Zhenguo Marquis's Mansion in disguise as a servant was already humiliating enough, being ordered around like this made him feel even more miserable. And now, even scrubbing chamber pots? If word got out... would he still have the face to live in this world? It would be better to die cleanly!

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

His face tensed, and the handsome features marred by the long scar took on a frightening grimness. The pent-up anger and frustration burned fiercely in his heart.

Housekeeper Zhang smiled kindly. "A'ye, you know the rules of our marquis's mansion. Since you've signed a one-month contract, you can't easily back out. Otherwise, you won't find work anywhere else."

"This is none of your concern," sneered Xiaotian as he harbored a cold laugh within. Besides Ouyang Nuan, who else dares to assign him chores, as if he can't tolerate them!

"A'ye, don't blame me for not warning you. If you dare to leave now, we'll immediately have an artist draw your portrait, make a thousand copies, and plaster them all over the city gates in every direction. By then, everyone in the capital will know how unreliable you are!" Zhang Dayou's tone sounded normal, without a hint of threat. However, the seriousness in his eyes let Xiaotian know that he wasn't joking. "Since when did the Marquis's Manor have such a rule?"

"Zhang Dayou, you're lying through your teeth," snapped Xiaotian. 

"This is something recent." In fact, all of this was the result of Miss Ouyang's words to him, and it was indeed effective. Those lazy and cunning non-family servants were extremely fearful of this because if their portraits were posted by the Marquis's Manor, it meant they were blacklisted, and no other household would want such servants.

The cold calmness between Xiao Tianye's eyebrows suddenly broke apart, glaring fiercely at Zhang Dayou. However, Housekeeper Zhang remained unfazed, even nodding in affirmation. "If you don't believe me, you can try it!"

Although he did not appear with his true face, if this disguise were to be captured in a portrait and distributed everywhere, once seen by someone with ill intentions, who knew what trouble it could cause!

"Fine. I'll do it!" Xiao Tianye's eyes flashed with a sinister light. The narrowed black lashes concealed the murderous intent in his eyes, and his thin lips remained sealed without uttering a word. "Just please tell Miss Ouyang for me that one day she'll regret what she's done today!"

As Zhang Dayou left, Xiao Tianye kicked over the only nearby table in a fit of rage.

Ouyang Nuan seems to be treating him as a pastime, doesn't she? Every now and then, she teases him, plays with him. Whenever she manages to provoke him to the point of boiling rage, grinding his teeth, she just stands by and watches the show!

Xiao Tianye once again doubted. Perhaps she had already seen through his disguise. But as soon as he touched his scarred face, he immediately dismissed it all as coincidence. Humph! Whether she had or not, she would pay the price for her actions!

//

At dusk, Lin Zhiran returned to Moyu Hall, where Madam Shen was already waiting for him.

He strode in, greeted her, and asked with a smile, "Mother, why do you have time to come today?"

Madam Shen smiled and replied, "Just to see you, and also to discuss something with you."

As the maids around them gradually left, Madam Shen finally continued, "Your father asked me to tell you something..." but she didn't finish her sentence.

Lin Zhiran pondered for a moment, and his expression changed slightly.

Madam Shen glanced at him, smiling softly. "In the past, you didn't want to marry or take concubines too early, and I respected your wishes. But now that your sister is about to get married, your father mentioned yesterday that it's time for you to marry Miss Zheng as well."

Lin Zhiran's face went pale, but he remained silent, with a hint of brilliance flickering in his eyes, making it hard to guess his thoughts.

Madam Shen continued with a smile, "Miss Zheng comes from a reputable family, she's knowledgeable and sensible. She must be a suitable match for you. Mother doesn't understand, do you have any objections to her?"

Lin Zhiran's smile became somewhat distant. "If it's a betrothal arranged by my grandfather in the past, why would I have any objections?"

Madam Shen stared at him with a puzzled expression for a moment. "Could it be that you have someone else in mind?"

Lin Zhiran's heart skipped a beat, but he remained silent.

Madam Shen sighed softly and continued, "This marriage was arranged by your grandfather, and neither your father nor I can easily refuse it. Yesterday, the Old Madam mentioned it again, and I couldn't hide it anymore. If you don't want to marry her immediately, you can go and talk to her directly."

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

Lin Zhiran replied calmly, "Please rest assured, Mother. I will handle it with the Old Madam."

Madam Shen nodded, stood up, as if intending to leave. But after a few steps, she turned back to Lin Zhiran and said, "There are some things that you don't say, but I understand them. Just remember one thing: your grandfather arranged for you to marry the legitimate daughter of the Xingji Marquis for a reason. Keep that in mind."

Lin Zhiran replied indifferently, "I understand, Mother. You don't have to say it. I already know."

Madam Shen observed his expression, growing increasingly worried. She stopped in her tracks and said, "Could it be that you're interested in a girl from another family? If so, I can talk to the Old Madam and arrange for Miss Zheng to enter as your primary wife, and then take another concubine. If the girl's background is prestigious, we can even consider making her a primary wife. It shouldn't be difficult."

After a brief pause, Lin Zhiran replied, "No, there isn't." He hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Miss Zheng is a good match." He wore a slight smile, but Madam Shen couldn't detect any joy in it, which deepened her concern. Unable to continue discussing his marriage, she sighed and said, "Forget it. Marry whenever you're ready. I won't pressure you. However, even if I don't bring it up, the Old Madam will. You need to be prepared."

Lin Zhiran remained silent for a moment before saying, "I understand, Mother."

//

Dream Rain Tower

In the deep of night, Hongyu tiptoed into the inner chamber, the crystal curtains behind her tinkling crisply, creating a delightful sound.

Ouyang Nuan stood by the window, her gaze calm yet distant. Hongyu whispered, "Miss, it's time to rest."

Ouyang Nuan turned around, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she smiled, "No, I'm not tired yet."

Seeing her serene smile, Hongyu couldn't help but add, "What are you thinking, Miss? Your health has just recovered. Don't strain yourself. The young master has sent people to inquire about you several times a day. If you fall ill again, he will worry."

"The young master?" Ouyang Nuan murmured softly.

"Miss, I'm talking about the young master of the Zhenguo Marquis's Mansion," Hongyu smiled as she looked at Ouyang Nuan. But Ouyang Nuan just gave a faint smile, her gaze distant and cold, leaving Hongyu wondering what she was thinking.

"Or, would you like to put on a robe and read by the bedside? I can light the lamp for you," Hongyu suggested softly again.

"No. You may leave first. I'll call you if I need anything," Ouyang Nuan replied softly.

Hongyu glanced at her, feeling puzzled, but she didn't dare to ask further. She turned and left. Worried that Ouyang Nuan might need her later, she brought a small stool, took out some needle and thread, and earnestly waited outside the door, occasionally peeking inside, always ready for Ouyang Nuan's call.

Today was supposed to be Lixiang's night duty, but Hongyu insisted on staying and refused to leave. Ouyang Nuan watched silently, offering no persuasion. She casually picked up a book and sat under the lamp to read.

In the middle of the night, there was a sudden crisp sound of the candle flickering. Then, a clear voice came from behind, "Miss Ouyang, aren't you going to rest yet?"

Ouyang Nuan's eyes chilled slightly as she slowly turned around, revealing a smile. "Your Highness, I hope all is well with you?"

In the candlelight, Xiao Tianye's face was almost devilishly handsome, his slightly narrowed sparkling eyes exuding an inexplicable charm. He coldly assessed Ouyang Nuan, noticing her jet-black hair adorned with only a long tassel hairpin, and her figure draped in an embroidered georgette eight-panel pink-purple skirt. Her face was as beautiful as jade, her eyes shining brightly, exuding a unique elegance and beauty. His throat tightened, as if struggling to breathe, but his smile turned even colder in an instant. "So you did recognize me earlier."

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "Who else would dislike me as much as you do?" It was Xiao Tianye's peculiar and eerie gaze that gave him away. Ouyang Nuan had never seen such eyes on anyone else before.

"So you did it on purpose to provoke me?" Xiao Tianye snorted lightly, and the misty look in his eyes turned into frost and snow in an instant.

Ouyang Nuan's lips formed a graceful curve, and she spoke slowly after a long pause. "The Prince of Qin was born with unparalleled wealth and privilege, only indulging in springtime polo and horse riding, summer boating on Dan Lake, autumn hunting on horseback, and winter enjoying plum blossoms and tea... But perhaps he never thought he couldn't even handle the duties of a servant. So, I'm not playing games with you, just helping you face reality."

Xiao Tianye looked at her coldly. "Smooth talker! Those who play with me will pay the price, don't you know that?"

There was a faintly indifferent smile in Ouyang Nuan's eyes as she spoke in a gentle tone, but with a hidden sharpness. "If Prince Qin stayed obediently in the Prince mansion, how would I have the opportunity to play with you? Your actions, they couldn't possibly be about catching up with old times with me, right?"

Xiao Tianye sneered coldly. "Don't try to deceive me with words. Aren't you supposed to be clever and unparalleled? Then guess. What am I doing at the Zhengou Marquis Mansion?" 

Ouyang Nuan casually walked to a peony plant by the window, smiling at Xiao Tianye. "When flowers are blooming, they are meant to be picked. Don't wait until there are no flowers left to pick. Your visit, is it to pick a flower?"

A hint of coldness flashed in Xiao Tianye's eyes. "Nothing can escape your notice, Ouyang Nuan. It's not always a good thing for a woman to be too clever."

Ouyang Nuan smiled gently, lightly flicking a peony leaf with her fingers. "The Zhengou Marquis Mansion promised a maiden, and Prince Qin couldn't sit still, could he? But I didn't expect that this time it would be the prince himself who came."

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

Xiao Tianye's thick eyelashes trembled slightly, a hint of mocking smile on his lips. "Indeed, I want to see if Lin Yuanrou is qualified to be my principal wife."

With the light behind her, Ouyang Nuan squinted her eyes charmingly as she looked at him. Xiao Tianye's heart skipped a beat uncontrollably. "But upon seeing you, I suddenly changed my mind."

His tone was unusually eerie, surprising Ouyang Nuan. "Prince, don't tell me you've set your eyes on Yuanrou and then shifted them to me."

Xiaotianye smirked coldly. "What's wrong with that?"

Ouyang Nuan simply brushed away the strands of hair falling on her face and smiled at him. "Is this what they call a change of heart, Your Highness? I'm afraid the Grand Prince won't approve."

She remained calm and casual, her tone as indifferent as casual conversation, showing no signs of panic or nervousness. 

Xiao Tianye frowned at first, then smiled ironically. "For days, I've been thinking about how to torture you. Now I finally realize that as long as I marry you, how to torture you in the future will be my business. What do you think of this idea?"

Ouyang Nuan looked surprised, a hint of disgust flashing in her eyes, but she remained motionless, tilting her head slightly and smiling at him. "Really? Unfortunately, I will never be someone's concubine. Not to mention a concubine, even if you were to give me the title of princess consort, I still wouldn't accept it!"

Being dismissed and rejected was one thing, but being rejected with such coldness was another. Xiao Tianye sneered, "The daughter of an assistant Ministry of Rites official, yet you dare to have such a big mouth!"

Ouyang Nuan met his gaze calmly. "Prince, in the world, every decision boils down to reason, justice, and law. Reasonably speaking, you constantly make things difficult, pushing the limits of injustice. Legally, you indiscriminately kill, ignoring all laws. As for our relationship — between you and me, we're not even friends. Even if you were to ask me, I would never marry you!"

"You!" Xiao Tianye's eyes seemed to shoot countless cold sparks, with a faintly flickering boundless anger. "Do you know what it means to marry me?"

Ouyang Nuan's eyes, shining with flowing radiance, were filled with endless coldness. "To marry the prince naturally means wealth, status, and prestige. But I don't envy gold or jade, I do not envy wealth or nobility! If I wanted it, the position of prince's consort would naturally be mine! It's just a pity — I don't want you!"

Xiao Tianye had never been so despised before, and he instantly became furious again, his emotions that had just calmed down flaring up once more. "Fine! Fine! Fine! Ouyang Nuan, how dare you say such things!" He lunged forward, intending to grab Ouyang Nuan's wrist, but suddenly felt dizzy and fell backward!

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, picking up a peony flower between her fingers. "This peony, named 'Nongyan,' blooms at dusk and withers the next morning. It's not something found in every Marquis's residence, let alone planted by ordinary people. Do you know its purpose?"

Xiao Tianye sat down abruptly in the chair, his gaze stern. "I underestimated you."

"All the storms and trials have passed for the prince. If it weren't for underestimating me, how could you end up in this situation?" Ouyang Nuan's smile deepened.

Xiao Tianye angrily raised his hand, but couldn't move an inch. Ouyang Nuan's smile grew even deeper. "I advise you not to waste your energy. Without the antidote, the prince won't be able to escape."

"What do you want?" Xiao Tianye coldly glanced at her, squeezing out the words from his lips.

"I just want..." Ouyang Nuan smiled. Standing amidst the moonlight and fragrance of flowers, she appeared serene and tranquil, her voice clear and melodious. Xiao Tianye felt as if she were so far away from him, with only the pot of snowy peonies blooming quietly before him.

"Perhaps I could dress you up a bit and send you as a gift," Ouyang Nuan said lightly, a cold smile forming at the corner of her lips.

The candlelight illuminated her flowing robes, casting a dazzling sheen. The sound of the wind rustling through the leaves filled the air, entering their ears without restraint. In this moment, Xiaot Tanye felt as if he had gone mad. Despite being teased by her in such a way, he didn't immediately erupt in anger. He sneered, "Well then, you better dress me up nicely."

Ouyang Nuan looked at him, suddenly recalling the phrase "face like jade." In just that moment, she felt that his focused gaze was quite inappropriate. She turned her head to look elsewhere.

At that moment, the door creaked open, and Hongyu's panicked voice came from outside, "Miss? Th-this person is..." Changpu rushed in with a stick in hand, her eyes widening in shock at the scene inside. 

Ouyang Nuan, wearing a smile, said, "There's no need to be afraid. We simply have a distinguished guest visiting us."

Hongyu looked at the scarred face of Xiao Tianye, then back at the smiling Ouyang Nuan, feeling bewildered and uncertain.

© translations belonging to  flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

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[1] Night Fragrance/Soil: fecal matter

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