Chapter 92: Manipulation

◎ (Revised version) The father-in-law had already imagined his perfect eldest son becoming henpecked… ◇

After some deliberation, Yu Lian changed her tone and said she had heard that the daughter of Master Chen had become a noble concubine, and thus came to offer her congratulations. In a whisper, she added, "Master Chen seems unaware of the troubles he's about to face, yet he worries over such trifles?"

Upon hearing this, the steward was utterly shocked. He stared wide-eyed, but could not see Yu Lian behind her father-in-law Hua Zhan's towering figure.

Steward: "…" His face flushed as he retorted, "What nonsense are you spouting? Our young miss has become a court lady, favored by the Emperor. This is a time of great joy. What trouble could there be?"

The three men were also startled, not understanding what Yu Lian meant. However, they tactfully kept silent, maintaining stern expressions as if they knew the situation.

Yu Lian chuckled. "Why not convey my words to your master? We'll wait here."

Though the steward didn't comprehend the true meaning behind Yu Lian's words, he was intimidated. Noticing her and Hua Zhan's regal bearing, he quickly surmised they were no ordinary people. After a brief pause, he said, "Very well, we'll wait then."

Perhaps afraid to offend Yu Lian or lose them, he instructed the door attendant to lead them inside to wait.

Once the steward left, the four of them sat down. Hua Zhan turned to his daughter-in-law and asked, "What do you mean?"

Yu Lian smiled and said, "Just a petty trick."

"I hold no power or influence, and my background is obscure. It wouldn't be easy for me to meet Mister Chen, even under the pretense of purchasing land. That's because, apart from a few plots, no one else would sell theirs. If I were to claim that I have a solution to his predicament, he might suspect me as a fraud. By startling him first with the prediction of a great calamity, his anger and confusion will likely compel him to see me."

This was a simple psychological tactic, akin to a street fortune-teller who spots someone and warns them of an ominous face, a darkened forehead indicating potential bloodshed, instilling fear before swindling them of their money.

Zhu Ying was utterly perplexed, not grasping the meaning but admiring Madam Hua's cleverness all the same.

Hua Sanduo and Hua Zhan understood the plan: "...”

After a while, Landlord Chen indeed arrived, his steps hurried and his brow drenched in sweat. His ample flesh jiggled with each anxious stride.

Upon entering, he erupted in anger, "Which disrespectful scoundrel, which damned coward, dared to curse me with calamity?"

Raising his gaze, he saw Hua Zhan frowning, exuding an imposing presence. The young man beside her was even equipped with a long sword. Immediately, he didn't dare to raise his voice, almost stammering as he asked, "Who might you be, honored guests?"

Hua Zhan replied, "Ordinary mortals."

Landlord Chen: "..."

Zhu Ying couldn't help but giggle, causing Master Chen's face to fall. He entered and sat down with a thud, "Just who are you people? Are you not afraid of offending me, Chen?"

Afraid that her father-in-law's sharp tongue might provoke someone to anger, Yu Lian stepped forward with a gentle smile. "Though Master Chen is rejoicing in an impending joy, he may not be aware of the potential dangers that come with it. What seems like a blessing could lead to unforeseen troubles. My father and I initially came to purchase land, but upon hearing about the situation at the Chen residence, we were inspired to perform a good deed for the day."

Landlord Chen only then noticed the woman standing behind Hua Zhan. As the steward had mentioned, she was indeed incomparably more beautiful than his youngest daughter. Such a stunning woman couldn't possibly come from an ordinary family. Though he didn't have much exposure to high society, he could tell that she had an impressive background. Suppressing his anger, he said, "Speak your mind... ahem, directly. Don't beat around the bush; I won't understand."

Only then did Yu Lian realize that Master Chen was indeed the epitome of an unrefined rural tycoon, akin to a illiterate man with a heavy gold chain around his neck. Though crude, such individuals were far easier to deal with (and deceive) than shrewd merchants with endless schemes up their sleeves.

No wonder they are held in such tight grip by those influential families.

She let out a sigh and even instructed Zhu Ying to close the door, causing Master Chen to grow anxious.

Yu Lian spoke rather candidly, considering their brief acquaintance, "My father was once the East Yuan Marquis, and I am the sixth lady of the Wei Duke's residence."

Master Chen was so startled that he tumbled onto the floor.

Yu Lian chuckled softly, amused by Master Chen's reaction. She continued, "Although we are now in a state of decline, we are well-versed in the ways of the wealthiest places in the land. Witnessing the troubles of the Chen family, we couldn't bear to stand idly by, hence our desire to offer some advice to Master Chen."

Master Chen had previously heard rumors of an aristocratic family from the capital seeking refuge in their area, a family known as the East Yuan Marquis. Back then, he hadn't paid much attention; once they were fallen, what value would there be in befriending them?

Moreover, he had heard that she was guilty of a grave offense.

Now, upon hearing that the man beside Yu Lian was none other than the East Yuan Marquis, he was utterly startled. Then, when Yu Lian revealed herself to be the sixth miss of the Wei Duke's residence, he was astounded. Just what kind of prominent family was the Wei Duke's household?

It was beyond his wildest imagination.

Shaking with fear, he struggled to his feet and promptly chose to believe Yu Lian's words without hesitation.

Both Yu Lian and the man before him possessed exceptional looks and demeanor. People like them rarely, if ever, graced this humble countryside. Would they really bother to deceive him?

With the matter now out in the open, Landlord Chen, in his panic, did not attempt to hide anything. He asked straightforwardly, "You've been saying that my family is in peril. What kind of peril? My daughter has become a concubine and is favored by the emperor. Our family is on the brink of prosperity. This should be a joyous occasion..."

Yu Lian replied, "Indeed, your daughter's ascension to the rank of concubine is a cause for celebration. However, you're unaware of the true identity of the Empress Consort. She hails from the Ru Yang Marquis' main lineage and has spent years cultivating her influence in the palace. Moreover, she enjoys the emperor's deep affection. Yet, just as she is about to give birth to an imperial son, a lowly palace maid manages to steal his affections and share his bed instead. Doesn't that seem odd to you?"

"Well, it must be because my daughter is attractive..." But when faced with Yu Lian's gaze, his confidence wavered. In comparison, Yu Lian's beauty surpassed his daughter's. His child was merely a slightly more pleasing wildflower on the roadside.

Realizing something was amiss, he requested, "Please elaborate."

Before Yu Lian could respond, he suddenly remembered something and looked at her and her companion suspiciously. "What do you gain by helping me?"

"First, tell me what you're seeking," Landlord Chen said. Despite his limited horizons, he was an experienced rural landowner who knew the golden rule: no one bothers you without a reason or a profit to be made. Why would someone offer advice unless they stood to benefit?

Yu Lian replied frankly, "I've heard that your family is selling some land..."

Upon hearing this, Landlord Chen understood their intentions but also his predicament. "The county magistrate and those others are forcing me to sell at a low price. If I don't sell to one of them, the transfer won't go through, so even if I wanted to help you, it's impossible."

Yu Lian smiled. "That's easily solved. Sell it to me at eighty percent of its market value, and I'll take care of the transfer process. As for the remaining twenty percent, consider it my fee for assisting you."

Eighty percent of the market value... Although this wasn't a high price, it was significantly better than the bloodsucking offer he had received. Besides, Landlord Chen was already irritated by those people and was willing to sell at a loss rather than to them, even if it meant not selling the land at all.

Now, having considered Yu Lian's proposal for a moment, he was somewhat inclined to agree. However, before he could respond, Yu Lian continued, "Let's postpone those matters for later. First, allow me, Mr. Chen, to analyze your current predicament."

This was the most perplexing and unsettling issue for Master Chen, as it concerned not only his daughter's future but also the well-being of his entire family. It mattered far more than any land he possessed. Hearing this, he remained silent, awaiting Yu Lian's words.

"The Empress already has an heir, while the Concubine is with child, soon to give birth. Should she deliver a prince, both women will hold significant power - the Concubine as the Emperor's most favored, and the Empress as the embodiment of imperial grace. The entire palace and court would align themselves with either one. In this intense rivalry where neither side gains the upper hand, your daughter has been positioned as the Concubine's target. A single misstep could make her a pawn in the ongoing struggle within the palace and the court. And time is of the essence; it could happen at any moment..."

Landlord Chen grew anxious. "What target? What sacrifice? Please, explain yourself more clearly!"

"Naturally, it's because the Concubine has a child in her womb and fears persecution from the Empress. By setting up a scapegoat, she draws the Empress's attention away while also arousing the Emperor's guilt, making him cherish and protect her more. The Empress, though aware that Concubine Chen is merely a pawn, might still vent her anger on her. Terminating a mere Concubine is trivial for an Empress. Moreover, among the ladies of the harem, who is truly an easy person to deal with? One misstep, and one's fate could be shattered into pieces."

"Your journey to the capital will not only leave you without a place to stay, but Chen Concubine is still unstable in her position within the palace. She might even have lingering fears for her safety. Your presence would not be of assistance; instead, it could put you both in jeopardy."

These words struck fear into Lord Chen's heart. Yu Lian's reasoning was sound and delivered with confidence, revealing her intimate knowledge of the capital's court and imperial harem. Lord Chen was already convinced by nine-tenths of what she said, and her background only solidified his full belief!

He hesitated, "Then... shall we not go? I'll sever ties with that ungrateful daughter!"

Yu Lian: "..." What kind of monstrous father was this?

He'd willingly sent his daughter into the treacherous vortex of the imperial harem in pursuit of wealth and status. As a daughter of a landowner, she lacked connections and power, making every step within the palace a perilous one. Yet, at the first sign of danger, her father was ready to abandon her with the ultimate move of disownment...

Yu Lian sighed for the unfortunate girl and said solemnly, "No, staying behind might ensure your safety, but should you offend someone of high rank, severing ties won't be enough to protect you from trouble. I ask you, do you wish to take a chance at wealth and status?"

The landowner Chen's eyes gleamed. "Please advise me."

Yu Lian then offered a plan to Landowner Chen, suggesting he travel to the capital and instruct his daughter to secretly seek the support of the Empress. She should present herself as vulnerable and pitiful before the Emperor, as being a country girl, the Emperor wouldn't suspect her true intentions.

All they needed was for the Emperor to harbor a hint of compassion. It mattered little if the Empress believed her or not. As she had come from the Palace of the Honorable Consort, the Empress would be hesitant to harm her, and might even use her as a tool against her rival.

This way, she would be safe and could create chaos within the palace. If she were to gain the Emperor's favor, it would be even better.

"Yet, remember to decline any promotion from the Emperor. Her current position is inconspicuous and perfect. Any higher, and she'll attract suspicion."

If she refuses the upgrade, the Emperor might perceive this girl as unpretentious, not vying for fame or profit, and solely devoted to him.

Given Yu Lian's understanding of the novel's womanizing Emperor, such a thought is highly plausible...

Of course, speculations based on others' subjective perspectives aren't the main point. The primary objective is to guide Concubine Chen into becoming a favorite, covertly stirring trouble in the palace as revenge against the villain Hua Ji and his family, as well as avenging the original protagonist who was expelled from the palace, lost her reputation, and ultimately drowned herself.

Next, Yu Lian summarized all the palace intrigue tactics she had learned from TV dramas, movies, and novels, practically imparting a roadmap to divine favor upon Landlord Chen.

Landlord Chen: "....!!!" Astonished!

Hua Zhan's stern lips twitched involuntarily. He looked up at the sky, wondering where his daughter-in-law, a lady of noble birth, had learned so many tricks. Wouldn't Hua'er be completely dominated in the future?

Yu Lian, having vented her thoughts, didn't realize that her father-in-law had already imagined his impeccable eldest son turning into a henpecked husband...

"..."

Zhu Ying: Madam is truly remarkable!

Hua Sanduo: "..."

After recounting the familiar tropes of a concubine ascending to divine status and outlining the major dynamics of both the capital city and the imperial harem, though Yu Lian was far removed from the capital and ignorant of its inner workings, her parents and Li Xiang's letters in the past had given her a general understanding. Coupled with her deductions based on the story's plot, her grasp of the situation was fairly accurate.

Landlord Chen regarded Yu Lian as a precious treasure, his gaze filled with the hope of a savior. If possible, he naturally didn't wish to abandon the wealth and status he had meticulously planned for so long, nor did he want to sever ties with his daughter. As Yu Lian had pointed out, in the palace, any mishap could lead to disaster for the entire family – it was not something one could easily escape from.

Better to take a risk than be caught between two dangers; a landlord could become an influential relative, and a humble peasant transform into a precious golden gem.

The perspective and insights Yu Lian shared with him about the current situation in the capital, the palace intrigues, and her guidance on how her daughter should comport herself to win the Emperor's favor and navigate the perilous circumstances at hand genuinely touched Lord Chen's heart.

She even offered to take only seven out of ten instead of the usual eight. If her daughter could indeed win the Emperor's favor as Yu Lian suggested, elevating their entire family to prosperity, how could that be compared to mere farmland holdings?

Yu Lian accepted the offer with a sincere smile and added a piece of advice, "Stay humble in times of adversity, and avoid arrogance in moments of triumph." She knew from experience that the competitive world of wealth and status in the capital was treacherous, and she feared that if Chen's plan succeeded and his daughter became a favored concubine, he might become overbearing, only to face a harsh lesson later.

Exiting the Chen family's residence, Yu Lian now held a copy of their land registry. Chen had given her carte blanche to choose the lands she wanted and asked for a swift response so they could proceed with the transfer at the county office. Eager to avoid any mishaps involving his daughter, he was already anxious to depart for the capital.

Hua Sanduo had already held high expectations of his employer, but still found himself impressed by her breadth of influence. He realized that his own knowledge paled in comparison; his master truly lived up to her title, as even the purchase of land involved meddling in the imperial harem – a feat unparalleled in history.

Upon returning home, Hua Sanduo retreated while Zhu Ying took the children to practice martial arts. It was then that Hua Zhan softly spoke, prepared for a deep conversation, asking, "What are your thoughts, Lian'er?"

He hesitated, his expression profound and conflicted. He had already guessed part of the truth.

Sure enough, he saw his daughter-in-law lower her eyes, "I don't dare to mention the word 'revenge.' It was just a sudden impulse to avenge my husband in some small way."

"The last time I saw him, he was suffering terribly in prison, subjected to the cruel tortures of the Ministry of Justice's dungeon..." Yu Lian said, dabbing at the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief.

Hua Zhan's gaze darkened, and his fists clenched slightly.

Fortunately, Hua'er was blessed with good fortune, discovering the emperor and Seventh Prince's plot early on and making preparations, thus surviving the ordeal. If there was ever an opportunity in the future...

Just being alive was enough.

But then his face froze. He knew that his eldest son was still alive, which gave him some hope,

but what about his daughter-in-law?

She held deep feelings for his eldest son. Knowing that her beloved was gone and could never return, her act of revenge seemed like a petty thought of a young woman, but how much despair and pain did it entail?

Even though he hadn't experienced such pain himself, he knew that before learning of his eldest son's survival, his heart had felt as dead as ashes. So, what must his daughter-in-law be feeling now? Despite her usual resilience, was she still carrying the immense burden of loss?

For a moment, he almost blurted out the truth about his eldest son still being alive!

But at the last moment, he held back.

After intercepting Zhu Ying's letter during the New Year celebration, they had rewritten and sent it back. It had been two or three months since then, yet they had yet to receive a reply from their eldest son. He was worried that either Hua'er hadn't received the letter or was too busy to respond.

Either scenario filled him with concern. Even though he had learned from Zhu Ying that his eldest son was alive, without seeing his reply or having a genuine conversation with him, he couldn't truly set his mind at ease.

If he wasn't even certain himself... wouldn't Yu Lian be even more heartbroken if she found out and her hopes were dashed again? Besides, he wasn't sure what Hua Ji was thinking, whether he should reveal the truth to his daughter-in-law...

After much deliberation, he suppressed his impulse.

He let out a long sigh and said, "You have a kind heart." These few simple words conveyed the full extent of his complicated emotions.

Yu Lian felt that her father-in-law had been acting strange lately. This feeling had started since New Year's Day, and today it was particularly noticeable.

But she didn't dwell on it, assuming that her father-in-law was simply experiencing mixed emotions when thinking of his eldest son.

Before dinner, the whole family gathered in the main room. Yu Lian took out the landowner Chen's ledger and began discussing which plots of land they should purchase.

Certainly, purchasing land was a good thing, beneficial for the prosperity of the entire family. However, with only those ten acres of barren land, it might still be challenging to maintain their livelihood if there were no profits from business ventures. Nevertheless, the matriarch asked, "Doesn't Lian'er have other business plans in mind?" The matriarch understood Yu Lian's intentions and worried that if her granddaughter-in-law invested in land, she would not be able to continue her business, potentially derailing her progress.

Yu Lian smiled and replied, "There's always a time for business, but good land is hard to come by."

In this era of private land ownership, although land transactions were prevalent, families usually refrained from selling unless it was a matter of great importance. Landowners like Mrs. Chen wouldn't easily part with their land. If Yu Lian wished to acquire prime plots, luck would play a significant role, and securing the high-quality fields of the Chen family would be even more challenging.

Moreover, Mrs. Chen had agreed to sell at a discount of 70% under pressure from others and Yu Lian's kindness – a price as low as cabbage! This was an opportune moment to buy. Yu Lian saw this as a golden chance to become a small landowner!

The only issue now was the lack of funds in her possession. Otherwise, she would love to snatch up all of Mrs. Chen's land in one go.

Scanning the ledger, Yu Lian confirmed that the Chen family's land was indeed coveted by local gentry and even the county magistrate. There were over four hundred prime acres, not including the moderate to inferior plots. In total, there were more than ten hundred acres.

Considering that one hundred acres equaled one hundred mu, this would amount to over a thousand mu, wouldn't it?

Yu Lian focused solely on the prime fields, ignoring the lower grades. A superior mu was typically valued at around eight strings of coins, while the government imposed a land transfer tax of thirteen strings (typical of their greed). Disregarding the tax, acquiring one hundred mu would cost five hundred and sixty taels at the discounted price. Factoring in emergency reserves and capital for business operations, she could afford to purchase a maximum of three hundred mu, falling short of the over four hundred mu of premium land.

Yu Lian shared these details with the matriarch and the others, waiting for their input.

The matriarch had no objections; she trusted her granddaughter-in-law completely. Hua Zhan, Mrs. Chen, and the rest also left such matters to Yu Lian's judgment. Upon learning of Yu Lian's dilemma, they proposed a solution. "Since others can't buy his land, and those pressuring him won't sell to them, why not offer to manage the remaining plots for his family? Once we have enough money, we can gradually purchase them."

"At most, we'll offer some extra interest. Since he's in a hurry to leave and Yu Lian has given him an idea, you've done him a great favor. Perhaps he'll agree."

Yu Lian pondered carefully, her eyes sparkling. She turned with a smile, cuddling up to her grandmother's arm coquettishly. "Grandmother is so clever! How could I not have thought of that?"

The old lady chuckled, her cheeks trembling. "That's why Grandmother has eaten more salt than you've had meals. Back then, I managed a vast estate too. When problems arise, it's not about money, but adaptability. There are always more solutions than obstacles."

Yu Lian laughed. "You're absolutely right! With Grandmother and me joining forces, our family will become the largest landowner in town!"

And they would achieve this almost effortlessly! Yu Lian truly felt she had struck gold.

Afterward, the family finalized their plan to purchase the 300 acres of fertile land, awaiting the next day to negotiate with Landlord Chen.

Landlord Chen, however, couldn't sleep that night. He alternated between worry and anxiety, mulling over Yu Lian's words. He feared that his foolish daughter might fall prey to intrigue before they could reach the capital, becoming a sacrificial pawn.

He also worried that his carelessness might drag his family into trouble, leaving him with no chance to regret later.

Then, he considered Yu Lian's suggestion. If his daughter performed well and followed her advice, could she really rise to prominence one day? At that point, he wouldn't even dream of her becoming a concubine; he'd be grateful if she became a Noble Consort.

At the mere thought of it, he trembled with excitement and couldn't fall asleep.

His wife asked him what was wrong. "Why are you shaking so much that the bed is moving too?"

Landowner Chen burst into laughter. "Our family has encountered a noble person!" Then, he grew worried. "But what if it doesn't go as the noble person said, and we don't gain the Emperor's favor? What if we end up offending the Empress and the Concubine?"

His wife replied, "If you believe them, follow their advice. If not, you know the severity of those words. We should just pack our bags and run before anything happens. With silver in hand, there's nowhere in this vast world we can't find shelter."

Landowner Chen: "..." His wife was even more ruthless than he was.

Regardless, they couldn't stay here any longer. They either had to escape before being implicated by their daughter or take a gamble and turn from landlords into imperial relatives.

In any case, the land had to be sold, and quickly! They couldn't remain in this place of trouble, their old nest.

So, when Yu Lian paid a visit the next day, Landowner Chen's eyes were rimmed with dark circles. When Yu Lian offered to manage the remaining land for her, he didn't hesitate much but expressed his difficulty. "I'd be willing, but I need to acquire a residence in the capital and also provide some silver for my daughter...," implying that he was in urgent need of money. If Yu Lian could only provide cash for three hundred acres now, it would clearly be insufficient.

Yu Lian pondered for a moment and said, "There's no rush to buy a house right now. If you go to the capital and hastily purchase one, it might give the impression that you're eager to attach yourself to the royal family. That won't bode well if it reaches the Emperor's ears. Instead, it would be better to rent a residence first. It would be low-key, fitting your status, and secondly, if your daughter gains the Emperor's favor in the future, he will likely grant you a mansion, so there's no need to rush into buying one."

"Moreover, the Emperor might show even more affection for Concubine Chen if he learns that you have nowhere to live. Sometimes, showing vulnerability to those in power can be the best strategy to win favor."

Landowner Chen was utterly impressed by Yu Lian's wit and wisdom. Goodness, she truly lived up to her status as the daughter of the Wei Duke's residence. Her arguments were compelling, leaving him convinced. He no longer felt rushed or flustered; he agreed to her proposal without hesitation.

He declared that he would formally transfer all the land to the Hua family, but they must settle the payment promptly, ideally within half a year, with interest deposited in the moneylender's shop. He would collect it himself when the time came.

Yu Lian consented. Six months was neither too long nor too short, but she was confident in raising the thousand taels of silver. When the court became even more chaotic and the emperor was preoccupied, she could seize the opportunity to introduce a soap-like product for sale, without drawing undue attention.

However, there was still an issue at hand: how to transfer ownership of such extensive lands?

My dear male lead, your wife is about to give your venture a little nudge... ^_^

"Darlings, the revisions are complete."