Chapter 40 (Revision)

Chapter 40 (Revision)

Xiao Luolan, looking at herself in the mirror, felt unfamiliar despite five days of adjustment.

Since that morning's odd conversation with Head Zhou, there had been significant changes in her and her daughter's life.

Precious items continuously arrived at Dongge and Xinghua Residence. On the third day, an elderly woman named Cui came, referring to Xiao Luolan as her mistress and her daughter as the young lady. At 57, she wore deep indigo clothes interwoven with silver threads, her hair shiny with osmanthus oil and neatly adorned with silver hairpins, exuding a serene and kind aura.

Upon arrival, she respectfully addressed them as her mistresses, sent by Head Zhou to serve them, living in Dongge's adjacent room where all the gifts from Zhou Xu were stored. Cui and Fangyun carefully cataloged and organized everything, even noting their preservation methods, openly teaching Fangyun the process.

Fangyun, aspiring to serve her mistresses well, felt somewhat inferior to Cui but was grateful for her impartial guidance.

“I’ve never seen a lady more beautiful than you, mistress," Cui complimented, her presence always clean and comforting. She stood behind Xiao Luolan, placing a bird-and-pearl golden hairpin in her hair, followed by a shell-shaped hairpin on the other side.

With brows lightly swept and lips boldly colored, Xiao Luolan's beauty was enhanced.

Turning to Cui, Xiao Luolan's step-shake shimmered vibrantly.

A necklace of pearls and gold, with a sapphire pendant, adorned her delicate neck, elevated by her graceful posture, dazzling in brilliance.

Cui, admiring Xiao Luolan’s voluptuous beauty, knelt and asked, "Do you have any instructions, madam?"

Hesitant, Xiao Luolan inquired, "Has Head Zhou not returned to the residence yet?"

"Not yet, I went to inquire at the Lei residence earlier, and they have been busy these past few days," said Granny Cui slowly and respectfully.

Xiao Luolan felt something she wasn't aware of must have happened; otherwise, why would Sect Leader Zhou send so many things over? Since that day, he had left the residence and hadn't returned for five days, leaving her heart filled with unease and fear.

She touched the jade bracelet on her wrist, its coolness spreading through her palm, bringing back some calmness.

"Granny Cui, what's your name?" Xiao Luolan gently guided Granny Cui to sit on a stool, considering her age. Despite looking healthy, Granny Cui was close to sixty, and Xiao Luolan couldn't bear to let an elderly person kneel before her for too long without cause.

Granny Cui's eyes crinkled with smiles, her silver hair adding to her maternal aura, "You're too kind, my lady. My name is Cui He."

Since arriving here, Xiao Luolan, influenced by Sect Leader Zhou, had read many poems and asked, "Is it 'He' as in the auspicious grain in 'Jiahe born among grains'?"

Granny Cui patted the back of Xiao Luolan's hand with a deeper smile, "Yes, that's right."

Xiao Luolan pondered the meaning of 'Jiahe' – auspicious and robustly growing grain, a symbol of good fortune. She looked at Granny Cui, literate and numerate, with a significant name. She wondered about Sect Leader Zhou's intentions in assigning her.

"How did you come to be here?" Xiao Luolan asked, seeking to understand.

Granny Cui looked at Xiao Luolan, recognizing her uniqueness, not just in appearance but in character and habits. Despite her short stay, Granny Cui had discerned Xiao Luolan's preference for minimal service, especially during bathing, and her habit of doing things herself. She treated servants leniently, making Granny Cui wonder if Xiao Luolan had ever used servants before. Yet, Xiao Luolan exuded elegance and was well-educated, with flawless skin, soft hands, and neat white teeth. Granny Cui was certain from the first glance that Xiao Luolan came from a distinguished family.

Such a person couldn't be raised by an ordinary family, yet she lacked the airs of nobility, never seen commanding numerous servants. She quietly immersed herself in her own world, seemingly oblivious to those around her.

Despite her shy and gentle nature, Xiao Luolan's striking beauty made a stark contrast. Granny Cui sometimes found herself lost in thought, understanding why Sect Leader Zhou entrusted her care to her. Xiao Luolan, being naive, could easily be manipulated by others.

Without someone to look after her, such a person wouldn't survive long in these turbulent times, including her daughter.

Granny Cui explained, "Lord Zhou of Youzhou noticed you didn't have a reliable elder to look after you, so he assigned me to your service."

Xiao Luolan, hearing Granny Cui's frank words, realized she must know about her relationship with Sect Leader Zhou. She had prepared for rumors due to her proximity to him, reluctant to go out partly for this reason. Modern values weighed heavily on her, making her avoid thinking about Zhou's family, as if that nullified the issue.

Granny Cui continued, "I originally belonged to the Hengnan Cui family. My father was a military officer in Hengnan..."

Xiao Luolan looked up in surprise at Granny Cui's revelation.

Granny Cui sighed, "It's a long-gone story. Thirty years ago, when 30,000 Turkic cavalry invaded from the north, Taiyang was nothing but corpses. Those barbarians were cruel, sparing no one in villages and towns, never leaving survivors."

"My father was a military officer in Hengnan. He fought against the Turkic general Ashina Tuwa at Wei River. Defeated and with the prince under his command accidentally killed by an enemy arrow, the emperor, in a rage, executed my father for negligence. The Cui family of Hengnan was demoted, the men banished to the borders, and the women sent to music houses."

"Are you frightened, my lady?" Cui Po-po asked, noticing Xiao Luolan's prolonged silence and holding her slightly cold hand. "There's no need to worry; Taiyang Prefecture is very safe now."

Xiao Luolan wanted to smile, but couldn't. Her heart felt heavy, realizing the countless lives and tragedies behind a few lines in history books.

"Mother, Madame Dou told me Luo Langjun has come. He's waiting for us in the main hall of the front courtyard," Xiao Qingxue entered, searching for her mother, with Fangyun following her.

Dressed as a young man, she wore a bamboo-embroidered round-collared robe, a jade belt around her waist, and carried a fan and a small whip. Her entrance was akin to a dashing and elegant young master.

Cui Po-po rose from the stool and stood at a respectful distance inside the room.

Xiao Qingxue, with curved eyes, greeted, "Good morning, Cui Po-po."

Cui Po-po's face brightened with a smile: "Good morning, young mistress." Accustomed to witnessing much sorrow, the carefree demeanor of Xiao Qingxue reminded her of her own youthful days.

"Mother, shall we go and see?" Xiao Qingxue spun around her mother, admiringly adding, "Mother, you look so beautiful today."

"Why do you have a whip?" Xiao Luolan stood up and asked, noticing the small whip in her daughter's hand. Crafted with gold on the handle and a greenish tint on the body, it seemed more like a toy compared to Head Zhou's whip.

Xiao Qingxue bashfully replied, "I just like whips." She admired the majesty they represented, as even the formidable Head Zhou carried one. She found a suitable one among the gifts they received – not too long or short, just the right weight in her hand.

"Let's go then," Xiao Qingxue took her mother's arm, heading out together.

As they crossed the corridor and Moon Gate towards the front courtyard, they encountered Zhou Sixteen and the foreign youth, accompanied by six attendants.

Zhou Sixteen looked unwell, his face covered in cold sweat under the scorching sun, evidently still in pain from the injury on his back.

The exquisitely adorned Xiao Luolan in the front appeared increasingly glamorous and enchanting, her luxurious attire and golden hairpin complementing the gentle jingle of her accessories.

Zhou Sixteen paused his steps at the sight of Xiao Luolan, his gaze shifting to Cui Po-po behind her. Unbeknownst to many, her brother Cui Shizi was a trusted strategist of Head Zhou, a true confidant.

Xiao Luolan had intended to let the domineering Zhou Sixteen pass first, but surprisingly, he stood aside with his attendants, heads bowed in a respectful manner, a stark contrast to his initial demeanor.

As Xiao Luolan and her daughter walked past, she glanced back to see Zhou Sixteen still standing there, head bowed.

"My lady, you need not mind him," Cui Po-po reassured softly.

Xiao Luolan nodded, realizing she should focus on what mattered most to ensure her and her daughter's safety.

"Madam Xiao, you're well," greeted Luo Jinhu in the hall, evidently pleased by Xiao Luolan's favored status, bowing deeply and respectfully.

"There's no need for such formalities, Luo Langjun," Xiao Luolan responded with a courteous bow, also exchanging pleasantries with Madame Dou.

Luo Jinhu stepped aside, inviting her to sit: "Please, take a seat."

"Luo Langjun, do you have important matters to discuss?" inquired Xiao Luolan.

Luo Jinhu excitedly reported, "I've come to inform you that the soap has been a tremendous success. The first batch sold out quickly, and many nobles are eagerly waiting for more. The next batch is already mostly pre-ordered."

Xiao Luolan was pleasantly surprised by this unexpected success, reflecting on her past experience in selling products and the usual time it takes for new items to gain popularity.

"Really?" Xiao Qingxue asked in surprise.

Madame Dou in the hall confirmed with a smile, "Indeed, it's true. Especially the 'Seven Whites Soap' – I wouldn't have been able to get any if Luo Langjun hadn't reserved some for me."

Luo Jinhu respectfully bowed again, "Madam Xiao, there is something I neglected to inform you about the soap sales. Please forgive me."

Xiao Luolan responded, "Please speak, Luo Langjun, there's no need for such formality."

"Since the soap recipe was provided by you and Miss Xiao, and I heard from Madame Dou that it's a family heirloom, I marketed the soap as your family's exclusive bathing product. As soon as it was released, many noblewomen sent their maids to purchase it, leading to its great success."

Xiao Luolan understood that the story was essentially a marketing ploy, and felt indifferent as it had helped in making a profit.

"It's alright, Luo Langjun, don't worry about it," Xiao Luolan said with a smile.

Luo Jinhu replied with a smile, "I should have mentioned it earlier, but I got busy and forgot. Thankfully, you're not upset. You truly are as kind and generous as people say."

Xiao Luolan was puzzled, "What people?"

Luo Jinhu explained, "Didn't you generously share your family's medical recipes by having them carved on a stele outside the city? The news has spread rapidly in recent days, and the citizens of Taiyuan are all praising you."

"Especially the emergency method for treating choking in children. A woman from the dyehouse saved her child using your method, and she expressed her gratitude in front of the medical stele yesterday. It's well-known throughout Taiyuan."

Instantly, Xiao Luolan thought of Zhou Sixteen and wondered if he had been busy with this.

"As long as it helps others," Xiao Luolan blushed, feeling pleased that her shared knowledge had saved a child, even though the ideas weren't originally hers.

Luo Jinhu earnestly said, "Furthermore, the Jiedushi had medical books compiled, including your recipes, and placed them in the Hongwen Pavilion for public viewing and copying, free of charge. It's a truly benevolent act." Such knowledge was invaluable to the common folk, and Luo Jinhu admired Xiao Luolan for openly sharing her family's medical secrets for the benefit of the public.

After Luo Jinhu left.

"Zhou Sixteen really is a good person," Xiao Qingxue couldn't help but say.

"Indeed," Xiao Luolan was still somewhat in disbelief, recognizing that while Zhou Sixteen might not be a perfect gentleman to her, in these times, he genuinely sheltered many, including them.

Hearing this, Madam Cui glanced at Madam Xiao. The Jiedushi already wielded great influence in Youzhou, where people knew him more than the emperor. With Taiyuan as a pilot area, this initiative's expansion throughout Youzhou would elevate his popularity to new heights, and Madam Xiao, as the first to contribute the medical formulas, would also receive widespread adoration.

It was clear that these actions were intended to boost Madam Xiao's image.

Madam Cui, realizing this, lowered her head thoughtfully.

At noon, Xiao Luolan, observing the fierce sun, became restless thinking about Zhou Sixteen still busy with the medical formulas she had provided, while she enjoyed the comfort of the estate.

Xiao Luolan couldn’t feel at peace just idling in the cool estate.

"Madam, there’s sour plum soup in the kitchen to relieve the heat. Would you like some?" Madam Cui asked with a smile.

After a thought, Xiao Luolan said, "Let’s have a bowl of it cooled with well water in a food box."

"Certainly," replied Madam Cui.

Half an hour later, Madam Cui brought the food box. Xiao Luolan, holding the box, hesitated, feeling apprehensive about stepping outside for the first time. She had always harbored an indescribable fear of the outside world.

But eventually, she decided to go out with the food box.

"Madam, let me carry it for you," Madam Cui said, taking the food box from Xiao Luolan, who had again forgotten about the servants. Madam Cui was amused but couldn’t understand why Xiao Luolan was so resistant to the outside world, especially considering Zhou Sixteen's evident regard for her.

"I’d like to go out for a while," said Xiao Luolan, "but first, let’s see my daughter."

Madam Cui agreed.

Xiao Luolan went to her daughter's Apricot Blossom Residence and found her practicing with a whip, instructed by a Lei Clan cavalryman, while Fangyun was slicing peaches for her.

"The Lei Clan cavalrymen are skilled warriors. It's good for them to teach the young mistress self-defense," commented Madam Cui.

Madam Cui emphasized, "As long as you wish, and for non-crucial matters, the Lei Clan cavalrymen are at your service."

Xiao Luolan bit her lip, her breathing slightly uneven, gripping her hand tightly. Wasn't this the power she had sought? With strength, she wouldn't do anything wrong; she just wanted to live safely with her daughter.

When she left the house.

She informed Lei Shan of her intention to go out.

Lei Shan nodded in acknowledgment.

Xiao Luolan sat in the carriage, surrounded by four cavalrymen led by Lei Shan, who rode horses and carried swords, guarding the carriage.

She finally relaxed her clenched hand, revealing crescent-shaped red marks on her palm. Gazing out the window, separated by the curtain, the bustling outside world brought a sense of reality.

Li Han Zhang immediately noticed the Lei Clan cavalry escorted carriage. Standing in front of a tavern, he watched the carriage pass, a breeze lifting the sheer curtains, revealing the woman's faint visage and her brightly colored lips.

After a while, he returned to the tavern. His father's resignation had been submitted, awaiting the emperor's response.

Soon, they would leave Taiyuan. Although he had longed for it, it felt like a disgraceful expulsion. His brother's fingers were maimed, and the court was in uproar over the next Taiyuan prefect. Li Han Zhang wondered who would replace his father, but even his father didn't know.

Who could it be? Li Han Zhang no longer trusted those in court who criticized Zhou Youzhou. Could some of them be disguised allies?

Just like his Li family.

Thinking this, Li Han Zhang's cheeks flushed with anger. His family's belief was shattered by his father, yet he had to pretend nothing happened. He downed a strong drink and collapsed on the table, drunk.

Xiao Luolan lifted her veil, looking at Luo's Soap Shop near Jin Yu Building in the western market. The three-story building wasn't very large but elegantly designed with red balconies and intricate eaves. The shop was bustling, mainly with female customers, indicating good business.

While observing, Xiao Luolan was startled by a suddenly raised black whip.

"Madam Xiao?" Zhou Sixteen, on horseback, brightened upon seeing her in the carriage.

Xiao Luolan, intending to deliver sour plum soup, found herself speechless when confronted.

As the carriage moved to a secluded area, Zhou Sixteen dismounted and entered the carriage.

The carriage was filled with a delicate fragrance. Zhou Sixteen sat on a blue mat, smiling warmly at Madam Xiao, who was dressed in new clothes and adorned with new jewelry.

"I heard from Master Luo that you had the medical formulas engraved on the medical stele," Xiao Luolan said, trying to ease her nervousness. She opened the food box and poured some cool sour plum soup into a cup, setting it on the table.

"No rush, let me kiss you first," Zhou Sixteen, overwhelmed with longing, embraced Madam Xiao, planting a kiss on her, unable to contain his feelings.

Xiao Luolan blushed, her intended words of thanks yet unspoken.

Zhou Sixteen finished the sour plum soup in one gulp, resting his head against Xiao Luolan's neck. She turned slightly to see his sun-darkened skin and rough stubble. She noticed her carriage was surrounded by Lei Clan cavalry, seemingly ignored by Zhou Sixteen...

Zhou Sixteen, holding Madam Xiao, said with a laugh, "The medical stele matter is trivial. Wait until the cowpox yields definite results, then you can thank me."

Xiao Luolan felt overwhelmed by the gratitude she owed Zhou Sixteen.

Zhou Sixteen faced her, admiring her beauty in the light cyan robe, adorned with exquisite jewelry, her eyes sparkling like spring waters, cherry lips, and a slender waist.

"But if Madam truly wishes to express her gratitude, I won't mind," Zhou Sixteen whispered, kissing her earlobe. "The thanks I seek might differ from what you have in mind. Would you accept it?"

Xiao Luolan looked at Zhou Sixteen for a long time, unable to nod in agreement.

Zhou Sixteen, not surprised, had her sit on his lap, his favorite position lately, observing every expression on her face, including her reluctance and struggle.

If there was another way to repay him, Madam Xiao would surely be willing.

But he wouldn't accept any other way.

Zhou Sixteen smiled, pulling her close to him, caressing her neck, and asked softly, "What do you desire, Madam?"

Xiao Luolan always felt intimidated by this man, whose eyes seemed to see through everything. She trembled involuntarily in his presence.

Zhou Sixteen's hand slipped inside her light cyan robe, his voice husky: "Fame, power, family background... I can give it all."

"I want you to forever remain exalted, untainted by the dust of the world."

Tears blurred Xiao Luolan's eyes, adding a misty layer to her gaze.

Zhou Sixteen tenderly kissed Xiao Luolan's temple, his voice husky with concern, "Be careful, there are people outside. Keep your voice down later, we wouldn't want anyone to hear."

Xiao Luolan bit her lip, trembling all over, her face flushed with shame. Her green skirt billowed, fingers tightly curled together, tears of humiliation streaming down her face. How could there be someone as despicable as Zhou Sixteen in this world!

After a long while.

Zhou Sixteen held her close again, his spirits lifted, attempting to kiss Madam Xiao, but she dodged his advances. She still trembled uncontrollably in his arms.

Zhou Sixteen whispered in admiration, "Madam truly kept her word, not a single sound was made."

Xiao Luolan's cheeks burned with rage and humiliation, glaring furiously at Zhou Sixteen.

Realizing he had pushed her too far, Zhou Sixteen quickly coaxed, "Don't be angry, don't be angry. The carriage is soundproof. I was just teasing you."

Before entering the carriage, he had instructed his cavalry to drive the carriage to a secluded area and close all the doors and windows, not wanting anyone to overhear Madam's voice.

However, Madam's shy and indignant demeanor was also charming in its own way.