“You have spoken too gravely. I would not dare. You are all elders, and if you insist on entering, I naturally cannot stop you. However, this is Grandmother’s courtyard, and it is highly inappropriate for you to enter so abruptly. It would be best if I send someone in to announce your arrival first, so please wait outside for a moment.” After speaking, Ouyang Nuan waved at Hongyu, who immediately understood and turned to enter the room.

Before long, Nanny Du emerged from inside, her expression stern. “The two masters, madams, and all the young masters and misses should return. The grand madam has said she will not receive guests today.”

“I don’t believe it! How could Mother say such a thing?” Madam Jiang frowned.

“Second Sister-in-law is right! It must be you all who are preventing us from seeing Mother. Has something happened inside? Move aside at once!” Lin Wenpei shouted first.

After Nanny Du finished speaking, Ouyang Nuan once again stood firmly at the main entrance. Though she was just a delicate young girl, her gaze was calm and composed, showing no intention of yielding.

Lin Wenyuan sneered coldly. “Nuan’er, do not think that just because Mother favors you, you can block our way here!”

“I certainly would not dare to stop Second Uncle, but what Nanny Du conveyed is Grandmother’s own will.” Ouyang Nuan said with an unwavering smile.

Lin Wenyuan’s expression darkened, his smile fading. He had always thought of this niece as timid and weak, yet now she was standing up to him so boldly. “Are you forcing me to have the servants drag you away? That would be quite an embarrassing sight for a young lady like you!”

Ouyang Nuan remained motionless, her smile growing even more sincere and captivating. “Second Uncle, what are you saying? Everything I do is for your sake. First, Grandmother is certainly heartbroken over the loss of Fifth Brother, but at least she has Eldest Aunt and me by her side to console her. You, Second Uncle, hold an official position and have pressing matters to attend to, so how could we trouble you with such concerns? Second, Grandmother’s health has always been poor. If you insist on entering against her wishes and provoke her into a fit of rage that worsens her condition, what then? Third, I often hear Father say that the left minister of the Imperial Household Department was impeached by the censors simply because he misspoke and offended his legitimate mother. His official title, even as a first-rank minister, was stripped by His Majesty. Second Uncle, you know well that the plaque of Rongxi Hall was personally bestowed by the late emperor. What Nanny Du relayed just now were Grandmother’s own words. Those imperial censors are always keen to make an issue out of nothing. Why give them an opportunity to accuse you of disrespecting the late emperor and dishonoring your mother?”

At those words, not only Lin Wenyuan but everyone present was stunned into silence. The entire courtyard fell deathly quiet.

Only Lin Wenpei, who held no official position and was known for his reckless nature, scoffed loudly. “His Majesty is wise and just. He would never punish Second Brother over such a trivial matter!”

Ouyang Nuan smiled serenely, her expression as composed as ever. “Third Uncle is right. But even though I am still young, I understand the principle that harmony in the family brings prosperity, and a stable nation ensures peace. If His Majesty were to misunderstand and believe that Marquis Zhengou Manor is plagued with internal discord, who could bear the consequences of such an accusation?”

Lin Wenpei was still unwilling to back down, about to argue further, when Ouyang Nuan suddenly said in a soft voice, “Third Uncle, Grandmother was just speaking of something rather troubling. She mentioned that a few days ago, a deranged woman appeared at the back gate of Marquis Zhengou Manor, claiming to be the third madam. I found it quite strange. Third Aunt is standing right here, so how could there be another one? I say this only out of concern for you. Now is not the time to provoke Grandmother’s anger any further.”

The expression of Madam Meng changed instantly, while Lin Wenpei, as if choked by his own words, was unable to speak.

Lin Wenyuan scrutinized Ouyang Nuan carefully. Until now, he had only ever feared Grand Madam Ning, never expecting that the daughter of his long-deceased younger sister would grow so bold and formidable. Hadn’t Lin Wanru assured him that this girl was firmly under her control? How had things come to this?

He took a deep breath and said, “Enough. Since Mother refuses to see us, let us leave for now.”

Ouyang Nuan smiled as she watched them depart in anger. Turning around, she noticed Nanny Du looking at her with astonishment. “What is it?”

Nanny Du chuckled. “Nothing. The grand madam is waiting for you inside. Hurry in.”

Upon entering the room, she saw that Grand Madam Ning looked much better, studying Ouyang Nuan up and down before breaking into a smile. “Tell me, when did this child become so eloquent? You had your uncles completely tongue-tied today.”

Ouyang Nuan smiled and sat beside her. “Grandmother, it is not that I am eloquent, it is simply that they were in the wrong.”

Nanny Du asked curiously, “But how did you know about the woman causing a disturbance at the back gate of the manor?”

Ouyang Nuan tilted her head, looking from Grand Madam Ning to Nanny Du. “Because I have divine foresight, of course! A simple calculation, and I knew it!”

The capital was not that large, and rumors spread quickly. Everyone knew about Lin Wenpei keeping a mistress, and that woman had recently come knocking. Moreover, Ouyang Nuan had long instructed her people to keep an eye on the happenings around Marquis Zhengou Manor, so she was already well aware of the situation.

Grand Madam Ning chuckled, though she coughed lightly in the process. Ouyang Nuan gently patted her back. “They may have left for today, but they will surely return tomorrow. Where are Eldest Uncle and Eldest Aunt?”

Nanny Du hesitated before saying, “The eldest master has always been in poor health and cannot endure the cold. He remains bedridden, needing rest and care. The household relies heavily on Grand Madam and Eldest Madam, but now, with Eldest Madam grieving deeply over her son’s death, she has shut herself away since last night, refusing to manage household affairs. Otherwise, the second and third masters would not have dared to be so aggressive today!”

Lin Wenlong had inherited the title of Marquis Zhengou, but he was weak in both health and temperament. Compared to the robust and calculating Lin Wenyuan, he was indeed far inferior. In Ouyang Nuan’s previous life, Lin Wenlong had been plagued by illness for years before passing away early, and the title had eventually fallen to Lin Wenyuan, who had gained considerable influence in court. But Lin Wenlong was her blood uncle, whereas Lin Wenyuan was her stepmother’s brother. For that reason alone, Ouyang Nuan would not let him take the title so easily this time.

She thought for a moment before turning to Grand Madam Ning. “Grandmother, you must be tired. Please rest well. I should go see Eldest Aunt. I will return to keep you company later.”

“Go on, and do your best to console her.” Grand Madam Ning sighed deeply, her face clouded with sorrow.

Ouyang Nuan waited until Nanny Du had settled Grand Madam Ning for rest before quietly leaving.

Rongxi Hall had five main rooms with a rear door that connected to the rear courtyard. Exiting through this back door, Ouyang Nuan passed through the inner yard, crossed the east-west corridor, then walked down the north-south passageway, directly arriving at her eldest aunt’s courtyard.

After a maid announced her arrival, Ouyang Nuan entered to find Madam Shen dressed in a slate-blue silk jacket embroidered with white magnolias and a mint-green embroidered skirt. She looked utterly exhausted, reclining on a Luohan bed. Her face was pallid, still streaked with tears, while Nanny Xu, standing beside her, silently wept.

Upon seeing Ouyang Nuan, Madam Shen forced herself to sit up. “Nuan’er, you’re here. Come, sit with me.”

In Ouyang Nuan’s memories, Madam Shen had always been kind and generous. When her mother passed away, Madam Shen had often comforted her, holding her close and speaking soothing words. Compared to the hypocritical Lin Wenyuan and the others, Madam Shen was true family.

Smiling, Ouyang Nuan walked over and sat beside the other party. “Eldest Aunt.”

“It has been quite some time since we last met. The little girl from before has grown into a graceful young lady!” Madam Shen revealed a faint smile, yet there was an indescribable bitterness at the corners of her lips.

Her fifth younger brother was gone, and only his closest kin wept for him. The others, even if they shed tears, did not truly grieve. Ouyang Nuan understood Madam Shen’s feelings at this moment and softly consoled her, “Eldest Aunt, you have been crying all day. Be careful, or you may hurt your eyes. Eldest Uncle, Brother Ran, and Sister Xin still need you, and the household affairs require your management…… Besides, if you continue like this, Grandmother will be heartbroken as well.”

Then, Ouyang Nuan lowered her voice and said, “Nanny Xu, I have something to say to Eldest Aunt in private.”

Nanny Xu nodded and ordered all the servants to leave. They waited at a distance in the yard, while Nanny Xu carefully closed the door before turning back.

Madam Shen could no longer hold back her tears and sobbed uncontrollably. Nanny Xu quickly handed her a handkerchief, which she accepted, crying as she murmured in a low voice, “Nuan’er, you don’t know…… Hua’er was perfectly fine, but he was—”

Nanny Xu immediately spoke up to stop Madam Shen from continuing, saying, “Madam, you are too flustered. How can you say such things to the young miss? Please, don’t speak such nonsense anymore.”

Ouyang Nuan’s expression turned serious as she said, “Nanny Xu, Eldest Uncle is my uncle by blood, and Eldest Aunt has watched me grow up since I was a child. I would never side with outsiders. You can rest assured. Whatever Eldest Aunt wants to say, let her finish speaking.”

Nanny Xu had always thought that this young miss was a foolish girl deceived by her stepmother. But hearing her say those words now, Nanny Xu was truly taken aback.

Madam Shen had long wanted to say these words but had neither dared to speak to her frail husband nor confide in her aging mother-in-law. Now, with an urgent need to pour out her heart, she continued, “Your eldest uncle has been unwell, and I have been caring for him these past days, neglecting Hua’er. Initially, he only had an upset stomach, which could have been resolved with a simple cleanse. But who knew that the incompetent physician insisted it was dysentery and prescribed dangerous medicine……”

Ouyang Nuan slowly asked, “Eldest Aunt, was that physician……?”

Nanny Xu sighed and said, “Other than the grand madam, who uses Physician Liu, for years, the rest of us in the household have relied on Physician Zhou. But half a year ago, he moved his entire family south, so Second Master specially invited a renowned physician surnamed Xu.”

A renowned physician? The one Lin Wenyuan invited was more likely a poison physician! But now, her fifth brother was already gone. Even if they pursued this matter, it would be difficult to uncover anything.

Ouyang Nuan thought that but only softly said, “I understand everything Eldest Aunt has said, and I can empathize with you. But Grandmother and Brother Ran are truly pitiful. One has fallen ill from grief, and the other can only watch helplessly as his mother mourns……”

Madam Shen froze, not understanding what Ouyang Nuan meant.

Ouyang Nuan spoke gently, “Fifth Brother is Grandmother’s own grandson, and she is deeply heartbroken. While Eldest Aunt can hide away and weep, Grandmother has not had a moment of rest. Just now, Second Uncle and the others stormed in demanding an audience. With them around, even if Grandmother is devastated, she cannot express it.”

Hearing that, Madam Shen was shocked.

Ouyang Nuan continued, “Second Uncle has always coveted the title of Marquis Zhengou. Eldest Aunt, you know that well. But Eldest Uncle is the legitimate heir of the main branch, and more importantly, Grandmother is still here. No matter what, that title cannot fall into Second Uncle’s hands. But forgive me for saying something unfilial— if neither Eldest Uncle nor Grandmother can stop him, and he does inherit the title, have you considered what will become of Brother Ran?”

Lin Zhiran was the eldest son of Lin Wenlong and Madam Shen. If Lin Wenlong remained in good health, he would certainly inherit the title in the future. But no one knew better than Madam Shen that her husband’s health was failing, and he might not last many more years. Lin Zhiran was still very young. How could he compete with the wolves of the second household?

If Lin Wenyuan seized the title, even if he did not drive their branch out of the family, Lin Zhiran’s future would be completely ruined!

“Eldest Aunt, think carefully. If you continue to wallow in sorrow and allow those people to keep pressing Grandmother step by step, once Grandmother falls, Eldest Uncle will fall too. And who will truly benefit in the end? Hua’er is your youngest son, and we all know how much you cherish him. But Brother Ran is your firstborn. When you gave birth to him, you almost died from a difficult labor. When the midwife asked whether to save the mother or the child, you did not hesitate to choose to let Brother Ran live. You love him so much. Can you bear to see him left with no support and bullied by others?”

Those were the very words that Nanny Xu had wanted to say but dared not because of her position. Ouyang Nuan, however, had spoken them all.

The eldest madam’s excessive grief and refusal to take charge only benefited the second household. Once they forced the grand madam to her death, how long could the main branch hold out? In the end, it would be the eldest young master’s future that would be destroyed!

Seeing Madam Shen’s thoughtful expression, Nanny Xu quickly urged, “Madam, Young Miss is right. For Eldest Young Master’s sake, you must pull yourself together!”

Madam Shen remained silent for a long time. Ouyang Nuan did not rush her and simply waited patiently. Finally, Madam Shen gently nodded and said, “I understand now.”

Her eyes and nose were red, but her expression showed clarity.

Ouyang Nuan knew she had come around and said to Nanny Xu, “Please bring a basin of water so Eldest Aunt can freshen up.”

Nanny Xu responded and left. Ouyang Nuan, however, took Madam Shen’s hand and whispered, “Eldest Aunt, do not be unwilling to endure. The art of patience is in biding one’s time. There will be plenty of chances for revenge in the future.”

Madam Shen stared at this twelve-year-old niece in astonishment, unable to believe that she could say such words.

When Madam Shen married into Marquis Zhengou Manor, Ouyang Nuan’s mother, Lin Wanqing, had already married out. But although their time together had been short, they had gotten along well. When Lin Wanqing passed away, Madam Shen truly mourned for her sister-in-law, and her greatest worry had been that Ouyang Nuan, still so young, would have no one to guide her in life.

But now, this little niece had grown up to be a hundred times smarter than Lin Wanqing! What was even more remarkable was that at such a young age, she already understood how to endure and wait for the right opportunity to strike.

Realizing that, Madam Shen solemnly nodded.

────ρя


After Ouyang Nuan left, a figure stepped out from behind the translucent ink-painting screen inside the room.

Madam Shen glanced at him and smiled faintly. “Ran’er, Nuan’er is family, and she’s still a child. There is no need for you to avoid her like this.”

Lin Zhiran wore a narrow-sleeved robe of pale purple embroidered silk. His eyes, deep and sharp like cold stars, were set against a high-bridged nose and striking features. Though only fourteen years old, he already carried himself with an imposing presence.

Yet at this moment, his usually proud and unrestrained brows furrowed slightly as he said, “Mother, you know I have never liked Nuan’er.”

Madam Shen chuckled. “That is only because you are prejudiced against her. In my eyes, Nuan’er is lovely, well-mannered, and poised. Even in the entire capital, there are few noble daughters as outstanding as her. If your Aunt Wanqing were still alive, she would be delighted to see Nuan’er grow up.”

Lin Zhiran subconsciously glanced outside the window. In the courtyard, Ouyang Nuan was bidding farewell to Nanny Xu with a gentle smile. He hesitated for a moment before saying, “I feel that something about Nuan’er is different now. The things she said today carried a deeper meaning. She is nothing like the ignorant, muddle-headed girl she used to be.”

“That’s because she has grown up!” Madam Shen scolded lightly. “Before, she was always by your Aunt Wanru’s side, listening to everything she said. Even when Mother and I tried to advise her, she would get annoyed. But just look at her today, she is completely different. I suspect something must have happened that made her finally see things clearly.”

Lin Zhiran nodded. He thought his mother was not mistaken. Ouyang Nuan had been too skilled at protecting herself, so much so that she had not even trusted her own mother’s family.

Perhaps, it was because the environment she lived in was too dangerous.

Thinking of the scheming Lin Wanru, Lin Zhiran suddenly understood Ouyang Nuan’s change a little better.

Lin Zhiran saw that his mother, who had been devastated with grief, had now pulled herself together. He felt somewhat relieved and nodded, saying, “Mother, it’s best that you can be like this. Grandmother is still relying on you to take care of things. As for Hua’er’s matter……”

Madam Shen’s eyes still shimmered with tears, but her expression had turned resolute. “You mustn’t overthink or make wild guesses. After such an incident, everyone is watching our branch closely, hoping that Mother and I will collapse so they can be satisfied!”

Her gaze fell on Nanny Xu. “You must keep a close watch on the stewards, especially to ensure that nothing inappropriate is said. If you hear any idle gossip, you should know how to handle it properly.”

Nanny Xu immediately said, “That is only natural. Please rest assured, Eldest Madam.”

────ρя


Ouyang Nuan returned to Rongxi Hall and chatted with Grand Madam Ning for a while before coaxing her grandmother to rest. Only then did she return to Ouyang Manor.

The first thing she did upon arrival was report the day’s events to Old Madam Li.

In front of the entrance to Shou’an Hall, lanterns were already hanging high. Along the way, the servants bowed in greeting, their faces still bearing smiles. However, the closer she got to the main hall, the fewer people there were, and the heavier the atmosphere became.

A maid lifted the curtain for Ouyang Nuan, and she immediately saw Old Madam Li sitting at the head seat with a face full of anger. Ouyang Zhi sat beside her, his expression as dark as iron. Lin Wanru stood nearby with a strange smile on her face, while Li Yue’e lowered her head, appearing unwilling to speak.

Ouyang Nuan glanced at the man kneeling in the hall, her face carrying a smile as she asked, “Grandmother, what has made you so angry?”

Everyone in the room turned to look at Ouyang Nuan, except for the kneeling man, who kept his head down, his body curled up as if he had committed a grave crime.

“Nuan’er, I originally came to discuss the funeral arrangements for Concubine Zhou, but who knew…… Sigh……” Lin Wanru appeared somewhat troubled, but the triumph in her eyes was unmistakable.

Li Yue’e quickly glanced at Ouyang Nuan before speaking softly, “Eldest Miss, Steward Zhang has been kneeling at the door all day, insisting that the child in Concubine Zhou’s belly was his. He wants to take her remains back to his hometown for burial. This angered the old madam, who now insists on interrogating him personally!”

Oh? He had been kneeling all day? Old Madam Li had not intended to pursue this matter any further, yet Lin Wanru was still unwilling to let it go, determined to confirm Concubine Zhou’s supposed infidelity. She would not even spare the dead. Truly, she was as relentless as a vengeful spirit. But what had she promised Steward Zhang to make him take such a risk?

“Prepare a seat for the Eldest Miss.” Old Madam Li ordered upon seeing Ouyang Nuan. She ignored the kneeling man and instead asked about the situation at Marquis Zhengou Manor— how the grand madam and the eldest madam were faring, and so on.

Ouyang Nuan responded with a gentle smile, summarizing the events briefly and conveying Grand Madam Ning’s gratitude for Old Madam Li’s concern. Old Madam Li nodded in satisfaction, her previous anger diminishing significantly.

Seeing them conversing more harmoniously, Lin Wanru grew anxious. Her eyes darted around before she suddenly said, “Mother, forgive me for speaking out of turn, but since Steward Zhang insists on his relationship with Concubine Zhou, and she is no longer with us, why should we prevent them from reuniting as a family?”

The phrase ‘reuniting as a family’ seemed to provoke Ouyang Zhi, who had been suppressing his anger. He instantly felt an overwhelming sense of humiliation and exploded in rage, shouting, “Zhang Yashan! Have you forgotten all gratitude? When you were alone and helpless in the capital, who took you in and gave you food to eat? Is this how you repay me?”

Zhang Yashan heavily knocked his head against the ground before looking up and saying with a trembling voice, “Master, I beg you to show mercy! Concubine Zhou and I were truly unable to suppress our feelings…… We were childhood sweethearts, deeply in love. However, due to her family’s poverty, her youngest uncle sold her off, and she ended up here at Ouyang Manor. I traveled thousands of miles to find her, and we finally reunited after so much hardship. Now that she is dead, what use is it to keep her here? I beg Old Madam and Master to grant us this request!”

“Steward Zhang, have you lost your mind? How dare you spout such nonsense and tarnish Concubine Zhou’s reputation? Do you think the old madam and the master will tolerate this?” Li Yue’e said coldly.

Zhang Yashan knocked his head against the ground again before pulling out a handkerchief from his sleeve with trembling hands. “I would not dare speak recklessly. I have proof!”

As he unfolded the handkerchief, Ouyang Nuan caught a glimpse of two words embroidered on it— Zhang Lang.

Ouyang Zhi stepped forward in a few quick strides, snatched it up, and upon seeing the delicate handwriting, his face flushed red with anger. He kicked Zhang Yashan so hard that the man staggered. “Utter nonsense!”

Li Yue’e leaned in for a look and saw that the handkerchief contained a love poem, signed with Concubine Zhou’s name, Xiangxue. Her face turned pale, and for a moment, she was at a loss for words.

Behind her, Lin Wanru stood steadily, a cold smile on her lips. You cried so pitifully in Concubine Zhou’s room before, and now you’ve been thoroughly humiliated.

Old Madam Li’s face darkened with rage, and she was about to explode when Ouyang Nuan gently interjected, “Grandmother, please do not be angry. When Mother managed the household, she was always extremely strict. No steward could enter the rear courtyard without being summoned by the master. I wonder how Steward Zhang managed to get inside, make his way to Concubine Zhou’s courtyard, and avoid being seen by all the servants?”

Lin Wanru choked on her words before letting out a slow sigh. “Nuan’er, I oversee many matters daily. Inevitably, there are oversights. If some lowly person sneaked into the rear courtyard in the dead of night to commit shameful deeds, it would not be surprising. Ultimately, it was Concubine Zhou herself who lacked restraint!”

“Mother is right.” Ouyang Nuan nodded in agreement before continuing, “Grandmother, this concerns the reputation of our Ouyang family. Naturally, we must investigate thoroughly. May I ask a few questions?”

Old Madam Li hesitated for a moment before eventually nodding.

Ouyang Nuan thanked her, then stood up and walked over to Ouyang Zhi’s side, speaking softly, “Father, may I take a look at the handkerchief?”

Ouyang Zhi looked at his daughter, surprised that she wanted to examine the handkerchief. Doubt flickered across his face, but he still tossed it to her. “Go ahead, look at it! No matter how much you look, it’s nothing but filth!”

Ouyang Nuan carefully examined it for a moment before turning back with a smile and asking, “Steward Zhang, you claim that this handkerchief was given to you by Concubine Zhou. Do you have any witnesses?”

“This……” Zhang Yashan hesitated for a moment before saying, “Nanny Cui from my cousin’s courtyard knows about it.”

Lin Wanru remained calm as she said, “If that’s the case, then let Nanny Cui come in and testify.” Nanny Cui was her person, so she would naturally say whatever she had been instructed to.

“Bring her in!” Old Madam Li commanded.

Nanny Cui entered the room, trembling as she knelt and paid her respects.

Ouyang Nuan asked, “Nanny Cui, did Concubine Zhou give this handkerchief to Steward Zhang?”

Nanny Cui gritted her teeth and nodded. “Yes, Concubine Zhou did give a handkerchief to Steward Zhang. There was even a love poem written on it……”

A smile appeared on Lin Wanru’s face, as if a great weight had been lifted from her heart.

“And when did she write it?” Ouyang Nuan asked gently. “Where was it written? Who was with her at the time?”

Nanny Cui was stunned. Although they had rehearsed their story, the madam hadn’t mentioned these details! She stammered, “I-it was one night six months ago. I was serving at her side and saw her secretly writing it.”

“Oh? So Nanny Cui saw it with her own eyes?” Ouyang Nuan smiled, stepping forward and unfolding a handkerchief. “Was it this one?”

Nanny Cui, without thinking, immediately responded, “Yes! Yes!”

Ouyang Nuan continued, “Then could you read aloud what is written on it?”

Nanny Cui’s eyes widened, staring at the handkerchief as she began to recite, “Morning and night, my heart is with you, through life and death……”

Ouyang Nuan smiled and finished for her, “Morning and night, together as one, through life and dreams? Is this the line?”

“Yes, that is exactly it, Eldest Miss.” Nanny Cui replied hastily.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and turned to show the handkerchief to everyone in the room. Ouyang Zhi glanced at it and was startled to see that it actually read— ‘A thousand miles of yellow clouds obscure the sun, the northern wind blows, and snow flutters down.’ He hesitated. “Nuan’er, this is……”

“Father, I mistakenly took the wrong handkerchief just now. The one I handed to Nanny Cui was actually a piece of fabric where Jue’er scribbled a poem he recently learned at the academy. Alas, Nanny Cui must have been momentarily mistaken and identified the wrong one.” Ouyang Nuan sighed apologetically as she put her own handkerchief away, as if it had truly been an unintentional mix-up.

“Master, this Nanny Cui clearly cannot read! Yet she firmly insisted that the handkerchief contained a love poem! How could that not be suspicious?” Li Yue’e pointed out sharply.

Ouyang Zhi’s brows furrowed, his gaze toward Nanny Cui growing increasingly severe. The old woman’s face turned pale.

Lin Wanru abruptly raised her voice coldly, “Nanny Cui, do you realize the crime of deceiving the old madam and the master?”

Nanny Cui shuddered violently. “This servant would never dare deceive the old madam and the master! I am indeed illiterate, but I heard Concubine Zhou recite that poem several times, so how could I possibly forget it?”

“Oh? Is that so?” Ouyang Nuan asked softly. “Nanny Cui, I recall that Concubine Zhou had a maid named Huan’er. Where is she now?”

Nanny Cui lowered her head, concealing the unease in her eyes, and said, “Ever since Concubine Zhou passed away, Huan’er has been heartbroken, crying incessantly. This old servant requested Madam’s permission to send her out of the residence.”

Sent out of the residence? More likely, Huan’er had refused to join them in framing Concubine Zhou and was dealt with accordingly. Ouyang Nuan knew they wouldn’t easily reveal any flaws, so she merely smiled faintly and slowly walked over to Zhang Yashan, asking, “Steward Zhang, when exactly did Concubine Zhou give you this handkerchief?”

Zhang Yashan had already prepared his answer and replied without hesitation, “As Nanny Cui just mentioned, it was half a year ago.”

“Oh, half a year ago.” Ouyang Nuan repeated, feigning confusion. “Father, I am not well-versed in ink, but I have a vague feeling that this ink is not of high quality. Could you take a closer look at the ink marks on this handkerchief and determine what kind of ink was used?”

Ouyang Zhi was momentarily stunned but took the handkerchief from Zhang Yashan again and examined it carefully under the candlelight. With certainty, he declared, “This is Yunzhou ink.”

Ouyang Nuan nodded and praised, “Father is indeed knowledgeable. You can discern the origin of the ink just from the handwriting alone.”

Although Ouyang Zhi’s face still carried a hint of anger, his eyes revealed a trace of pride. “A child like you wouldn’t understand. Yunzhou ink has a bluish sheen, heavy glue content, and impurities. I have never liked it. Our residence has always used Qingzhou ink, which is not only fine in texture and deep black in color but also has the perfect glue consistency and makes no sound on the inkstone. If it weren’t for the recent flood in Qingzhou preventing the ink from being transported here, our household would never have settled for using Yunzhou ink……”

As he spoke, his expression suddenly changed!

Half a year ago, the residence had only used premium Qingzhou ink. Concubine Zhou lived deep in the rear courtyard and never stepped outside. Even if she truly wished to write a love poem to a lover, how could she have obtained inferior Yunzhou ink? Ouyang Zhi was no fool. Though he had been blinded by his frustrations over his woman’s supposed betrayal, realization dawned upon him now. He swiftly turned around and violently flung the handkerchief at Zhang Yashan’s face, his eyes blazing with fury as he gritted his teeth. “This handkerchief was written recently!”

“If the handkerchief was written recently, then why claim it was from half a year ago?” Ouyang Nuan’s voice was soft but clear, seemingly full of doubt, yet every person in the room could hear her words distinctly.

Zhang Yashan froze for a moment before hastily saying, “Master, this servant would never dare lie. This is indeed my cousin’s handwriting!”

Lin Wanru had been startled by Ouyang Zhi’s furious outburst. She had instructed Zhang Yashan to claim that the handkerchief was given half a year ago to convince Ouyang Zhi that the affair had been going on for a long time and that the child was not his! She had not anticipated that Ouyang Zhi could deduce from the ink alone that the handkerchief was written recently! Hearing Zhang Yashan’s defense, Lin Wanru jolted back to her senses and quickly recovered her composure. “Master, take a closer look. Is it truly Concubine Zhou’s handwriting?”

“Master, handwriting can be imitated. As long as someone has seen Concubine Zhou’s writing, they could easily hire a street calligrapher to replicate it perfectly. What’s so strange about that?” Li Yue’e interjected nonchalantly. Seeing Ouyang Zhi’s expression darken, she knew he was already half convinced.

“Hah, this performance today is quite something. Playing tricks right before my eyes?!” Old Madam Li sneered coldly. “Zhi’er, I think there’s indeed something unclean in your courtyard— not because Concubine Zhou has done anything improper, but because someone schemed against her!”

Ouyang Zhi’s face turned alternately green and pale. He pointed at Zhang Yashan, his voice filled with rage, “Drag him out and beat him to death!”

Zhang Yashan’s heart sank. Before he could even cry out, Nanny Cui had already collapsed to the floor, wailing loudly, “Master! Master! Spare me! This old servant had no choice—”

“Shut their mouths at once!” Lin Wanru reacted swiftly, barking her order. Immediately, eight rough servants stepped forward, gagging them and ignoring their desperate struggles as they dragged them out.

Old Madam Li watched coldly but did not intervene. A trickster crying out to catch a thief! Did Lin Wanru really think she was blind and deaf? If not for the sake of Marquis Zhengou Manor and Lin Wanru’s elder brother, Old Madam Li would have dealt with her long ago!

Ouyang Nuan’s gentle voice sounded in Ouyang Zhi’s ear, “Father, the most important thing now is not to escalate the situation. If things get out of hand, our family will not only lose face, but if outsiders learn that Concubine Zhou took her own life just to prove her innocence, won’t they assume that Mother is a cruel mistress who mistreats the concubines? By then, this won’t be a matter that can be settled by simply punishing someone. Even the minister of personnel might be alarmed, and you could be implicated……”

At that thought, Ouyang Zhi shuddered and angrily said, “From today onward, no one is allowed to mention Concubine Zhou again! Tell the outside world that she died of illness. If anyone dares to bring it up, they will be punished according to family law!”

At this point, the one who regretted the most was Lin Wanru. She had originally planned to expose Zhang Yashan as the supposed adulterer after Li Yue’e twisted the narrative and turned Concubine Zhou’s death into a so-called act of proving her innocence. With a man’s testimony, how could Ouyang Zhi not believe Lin Wanru? But who would have thought this wretched Ouyang Nuan would ruin her painstaking efforts in just a few words? It made her seethe with hatred!

────ρя


Ouyang Zhi returned to Furui Courtyard with a dark expression. As soon as he closed the door, he coldly ordered everyone to leave. He sat down on a chair, panting heavily, and glared at Lin Wanru.

She felt uneasy, but she forced a smile and approached him. “Husband—”

Before she could finish, Ouyang Zhi slapped her hard across the face!

Lin Wanru let out a sharp cry. She clutched her now-swollen left cheek in disbelief, her eyes brimming with tears as she looked at Ouyang Zhi, appearing utterly wronged.

Ouyang Zhi roared in fury, “Speak! Was it you scheming in the dark? You couldn’t stand to see a concubine bear a son, so you colluded with Zhang Yashan to frame her and drive her to death. Wasn’t it you? What happened to your so-called virtue and kindness? And to think you were born into a noble household! How could you stoop to such viciousness?”

Lin Wanru sobbed pitifully. “Zhi Lang, you must be mistaken about me. How could I possibly harm a concubine who is bearing a child for you? I was overjoyed for you! Why would I commit such a cruel act? It was all that wretched Concubine Zhang! She came to me, claiming Concubine Zhou was having an illicit affair. After investigating, I did find that Concubine Zhou was unusually close to Zhang Yashan. And just then, the physician confirmed her pregnancy. I was so furious that I nearly lost my mind! I only blamed Concubine Zhou for being foolish. How could she secretly conceive a child with another man? I racked my brain trying to cover it up, but who knew that some ill-intentioned people would secretly send filthy things into her courtyard and then shift the blame onto me?

In front of Mother, I kept my lips sealed, taking the blame upon myself rather than letting such a scandal tarnish our family’s reputation! But afterward, Zhang Yashan insisted that he had relations with Concubine Zhou. I had no choice but to let Mother decide his fate. Now, after hearing what you said, I realize that there is indeed something suspicious about this matter. If I am at fault, it is only because I worried too much for you and was too soft-hearted, afraid of muddling the Ouyang family’s bloodline!”

She pushed all the blame onto Concubine Zhang, who had been a mere maid before being promoted. All she wanted was for Ouyang Zhi to believe in her.

Ouyang Zhi sneered. “Zhang Yashan is not a fool. If you hadn’t been pulling the strings behind the scenes, would he have dared to falsely claim he had an affair with my woman?”

“Zhi Lang, I have always managed the rear courtyard.” Lin Wanru wept. “If Concubine Zhou was truly framed, wouldn’t that mean I failed to discipline my people? Think carefully— would I be so foolish?”

Over the past decade, Lin Wanru had indeed managed the Ouyang household well, making her a competent and virtuous wife. Ouyang Zhi hesitated. “If not you, then who else?”

Lin Wanru sighed. “Can’t you see, Zhi Lang? I have always been strict in managing the household and have inevitably offended many people. If you ask me to point out the mastermind, I truly cannot. But think about it— who would be the most unwilling to see me regain control of the rear courtyard? And who has the ability to make Mother speak on her behalf? Concubine Li has certainly whispered in your ear more than once, hasn’t she?”

Ouyang Zhi remained silent.

Lin Wanru continued, “Their scheme is clever. They have driven a wedge between us as husband and wife while also tarnishing your reputation. I ask you, what enemy have I made to warrant such a vicious attempt to throw all this filth onto me?”

“Enough!” Ouyang Zhi abruptly stood up. “I don’t believe that Yue’e is such a person.”

Lin Wanru threw herself into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably. “Fine, Zhi Lang, I won’t say another word. You may doubt everything else, but you should at least trust in the ten years of love between us. My devotion to you is unwavering. I would give my life to you without hesitation. How could I possibly do anything to displease you?”

Ouyang Zhi’s heart wavered. Though he still found it hard to believe that the delicate Li Yue’e was the mastermind, his suspicion toward Lin Wanru lessened.

Lin Wanru let out a small breath, then winced. “It hurts……” She teared up again. “Zhi Lang, you really had the heart to strike me……”

“Wanru…… I was wrong. Let me call a maid to bring some medicine for you.” Ouyang Zhi was already convinced, hurriedly moving toward the door.

Lin Wanru reached out and stopped him, her voice gentle, “No need. Do we really want the servants gossiping? If you truly feel sorry for me, there’s medicinal ointment in the room. Help me apply it, will you?”

Ouyang Zhi nodded, and Lin Wanru finally felt a bit relieved. Just as she was about to smile, her vision suddenly darkened, and she fainted on the spot.

Ouyang Zhi was startled and quickly called for Nanny Wang to come in. He immediately sent for Physician Qian, who had always treated Lin Wanru. After feeling her pulse for a long while, Physician Qian couldn’t help but smile and say, “Congratulations, congratulations! Madam is pregnant!”

As soon as those words were spoken, Lin Wanru was overjoyed. For a moment, she was so emotional that she couldn’t utter a single word. Nanny Wang’s face blossomed with delight as she hurriedly said, “Physician Qian, please take a closer look. Madam has been under some stress these past two days. Could it……”

Physician Qian immediately understood the underlying meaning of Nanny Wang’s words and chuckled. “No wonder there are signs of an unstable pregnancy. Madam must get plenty of rest, keep a cheerful mood, and be extra careful to ensure a safe pregnancy.”

Ouyang Zhi had originally believed that he had lost a child, but now, with this unexpected blessing, he was so overjoyed that he didn’t know what to do. He quickly asked Physician Qian to write a prescription and repeatedly instructed people to report the good news to the old madam.

Blushing, Lin Wanru deliberately said, “Husband, Physician Qian has already mentioned that the pregnancy is somewhat unstable. If you tell Mother now, what if I can’t keep the baby?”

“Nonsense!” Ouyang Zhi said with a joyful expression. “Physicians always say things like that. Even when there’s nothing wrong, they find something to worry about. If everything were fine, what would they have to treat? He only said that so you would take good care of yourself and rest. Don’t worry about anything. Leave everything to me. I won’t let you suffer anymore. This time, you must give me a son!”

While writing the prescription in the outer chamber, Physician Qian laughed. “Madam, since Master Ouyang has said so, you should just focus on recuperating.”

Ouyang Zhi grinned and said, “Physician Qian, make sure to prepare the best prenatal medicine for my wife. If it really is a son, there will be a great reward for you!”

Once the prescription was written, Ouyang Zhi happily sent Physician Qian off.