Chapter 98

Chapter 98

In the meantime, Manager Rong had invited thirteen merchant firms for a transaction. It wasn't their first deal, so Manager Rong went straight to the point with his first request.

Boss Yang inquired, "I can understand why we're not allowed to sell in the capital, but what about Lishui and Jiujiang? Both are prosperous provincial cities where we have our shops."

Manager Rong chuckled. "There are family connections in those two places, and they will only sell there."

So it was due to familial ties. Everyone immediately fell silent, as it was common practice in these times to prioritize connections through marriage. It was understandable that Meng Die would want to support her relatives.

Venerable Manager Rong promptly presented the second condition, and all present exchanged glances, unanimous in their acquiescence. When he announced the third condition – that after a night spent reckoning accounts, he demanded a sum of thirty thousand taels – a collective gasp of astonishment rippled through the crowd.

An annual payment of 30,000 taels for 15 consecutive years amounts to a total of 450,000 taels. How substantial is this sum? To the common folk, it would undoubtedly be an astronomical figure. But to prominent merchants sitting here, such as the Yang family, their annual turnover exceeds hundreds of thousands of taels. However, that is the flow of money, not pure profit.

Despite the Yang family's widespread business presence throughout the Great Yi Dynasty, be it rented or purchased storefronts, wasn't every aspect of their operations fueled by money? Were labor costs not significant, or were raw materials negligible? Putting all that aside, the annual expenditure for maintaining relationships and showing respect to those above and below them consumed no less than two-thirds of their net profits.

But - upon the mention of 'bribes,' the proprietors exchanged subtle glances, understanding the unspoken implications.

In their daily lives, if they possessed a valuable recipe and wished to keep it safe, they had to smooth the way in all directions. Otherwise, some high-ranking official could lay a trap for them, find an excuse to imprison them, and they would be forced to surrender the recipe. This cream cake recipe belonged to Meng Die. Everyone in the Great Yi Dynasty was aware of that fact. Who would dare to seize it from her?

Her grandfather was the Minister of Punishments in the Great Yi Dynasty, meaning all legal cases ultimately ended up under his jurisdiction. Did they dare to bully her and risk a glimpse into the horrors of the Ministry's dungeons? Besides, Meng Die herself held the title of County Princess. If she were to appeal to the Emperor and Empress, how could they neglect her plea?

Moreover, her husband was no idle nobleman; he was a valiant warrior on the frontlines, with a long list of military accomplishments. Should Meng Die be wronged, the soldiers at the frontier would be the first to protest. In case of any incident, the Emperor would not hold the frontline troops accountable; instead, the one causing trouble would face dire consequences.

They had purchased the recipe from Meng Die to engage in this food business. Even if some officials became envious, they wouldn't dare touch them. As long as they could sell the products, it would be pure profit.

Boss Yang clenched his teeth, swiftly making a decision. "Manager Rong, is it difficult to acquire the raw materials for making these cream cakes and sweets?"

Manager Rong chuckled. "Ladies and gentlemen, rest assured. Although the raw materials are not cheap, there is nothing exceptionally rare. Our Great Yi Dynasty can produce them from south to north, east to west. If we were to compare, the ingredients might be slightly cheaper in the north and pricier in the south."

Proprietor Yang inquired, "Is it because the flour is more expensive in the south?"

Proprietor Rong chuckled heartily. "Not just that. For cream cakes, naturally, we need cream. The north borders the Mongols, so dairy products are relatively cheaper there. In the south, they're more costly."

Proprietor Liu blurted out, "It's really made with cream?" He sounded somewhat discontented after his question.

Although it was called a cream cake, everyone in the capital believed that it wasn't actually made with cream, or perhaps only a tiny bit of it. They thought that Meng Die used this name as a decoy to protect the true ingredients needed for the recipe.

Proprietor Rong laughed so hard that he tilted backward. "Proprietor Liu, when has our Second Madam ever deceived anyone or told a lie? If she says it's a cream cake, then it's made with cream."

Your remark has indeed enlightened me. If I may assume, most of you are here primarily for the recipe of this cream cake. As for the other desserts, Second Grandmama mentioned that they are rather straightforward creations which could potentially be replicated by others. Hence, if you are purchasing a recipe, we are selling the recipe for the cream cake, while the other sweet treats would come as additional bonuses.

The proprietors were momentarily dazed. Meng Die had not been lying after all—it was indeed made of cream. This was... far too surprising.

Involving a span of fifteen years, no one immediately agreed; they all said they needed to discuss it at home first. It wasn't because of anything else, but rather, they had to figure out beforehand how to ensure the secrecy of this formula.

Amidst the escalating intrigue, Meng Die found herself embroiled yet again in another scandal.

Upon receiving this news, Meng Die was somewhat taken aback. Times have changed, and she now possesses formidable strength both personally and through her connections. Yet, someone still dared to challenge her. At the beginning, when she was selling the prescription, she had assured her maids that no one would dare to challenge her this time. However, before the transaction of the prescription was successful, she was swiftly and unexpectedly confronted with accusations: "What are you accusing me of? Collusion between officials and merchants?"

The messenger, a servant named Zuo, said: "It is said that extravagance and collusion between officials and merchants are being discussed."

Meng Die could understand the collusion between officials and businessmen. She had signed contracts with thirteen merchants to sell her son, so it was not a bad idea to make a fuss about it. Extravagance and waste?What the hell was this?

In the time it took to utter two sentences, the eunuch arrived with the imperial decree. Meng Die promptly changed into her official robes and made her way to the Hall of Diligent Governance to defend herself. She donned the attire befitting a County Princess; clad in these garments, she could directly present herself at the Hall of Diligent Governance for her defense. Had she worn the robes of a second-rank Lady of Imperial Decree, her destination would have been the side halls instead.

Today marks the grand court assembly in the Golden Hall, yet the grand assembly has already concluded. The emperor has convened a smaller court session in the Diligent Governance Hall, attended by civil and military officials alike, mostly of the third rank and above. Notably, the seventh-rank censors from the Censorate are also present, as they bear the responsibility of supervising all officials, a duty that transcends their rank.

Meng Die accompanied the eunuch into the Diligent Governance Palace, first bowing to the emperor with respect, "Minister Meng Die pays her respects to His Majesty."

Meng Die, most of the court officials present were hearing her maiden name for the very first time. In those days, a woman's maiden name was an extremely private matter. During the marriage ceremony, which involved three letters and six rituals, one of the rituals was to inquire about the bride's name. The groom's family would ask for the maiden name of the bride, highlighting its significance.

The emperor was not unfamiliar with the name, having referred to her previously as Li Meng's wife or simply Madam Meng. This was the first time he addressed her by her given name: "Meng Die, Inspector Geng has accused you of extravagance and collusion with merchants. What do you have to say in your defense?"

Meng Die bows respectfully and says, "Your subject wishes to inquire thoroughly with Minister Geng about the details."

Emperor: "Ask your question."

Meng Die straightened up: "Censor Geng, you accuse me of extravagance and collusion with merchants. Let's discuss this matter thoroughly today, one by one. First, let's talk about the extravagance. I truly do not know where I have been extravagant, so I would appreciate it if Censor Geng could specify."

Geng Inspector was around twenty-six or seven years old, exuding an air of refined integrity. Upon hearing Meng Die's words, he promptly responded, "The County Princess has a manor outside the capital, where many cattle and sheep are raised, correct?"

Meng Die nodded. "Indeed."

Geng Inspector continued, "The cream cakes sold in your shop - is the cream extracted from the milk of these livestock?"

Meng Die confirmed, "That's correct."

The inspector paused, as if finding it difficult to express himself. After a moment of hesitation, he said, "Fresh milk is a precious resource. Using it to make cream for food is one thing, but using the remaining milk after extracting the cream solely for skincare purposes - to maintain your complexion - is wasteful. Although it comes from your own manor, you must understand that there are still people in our kingdom who go hungry. How can you afford such extravagance? How many common folk would feel sorrow and despair upon learning this?"

Meng Die barely suppressed a laugh. "And here I thought it was something of consequence, only to find it's this matter. His Majesty, in his quest to understand the sentiments of the common folk, issued an edict in the second year of Tian Ding that particularly permitted the censors of the Censorate to report on matters they have heard of, even if such reports were based on rumors. Nonetheless, such a practice was meant for issues far from the capital, where evidence could not be immediately gathered. My estate lies just outside the city, and I myself am in the capital. Did Censor Geng not consider conducting a thorough investigation first?"

"The fresh milk produced in my manor is daily skimmed on-site for cream, which is then delivered to the shop for the making of cream cakes to be sold. The milk that has been skimmed of its cream is distributed among the manor's servants to nourish their bodies. Most of them were sold into my service due to the droughts in the previous and preceding years, and their health is indeed frail. Drinking this milk has significantly improved the majority of their physiques."

"Due to their frailty, we dare not nourish them excessively all at once. Thus, I instructed the head steward to administer the tonic to them every third day. To avoid any mistakes, the steward specially prepared an album for record-keeping. If Inspector Geng doubts this, he is more than welcome to send someone to the estate to retrieve the album and verify its contents."

Furthermore, due to the abundance of cattle and sheep I rear, there is a surplus of fresh milk. With the limited number of people in our manor, I instructed the head of the manor to distribute the skimmed milk to the servants and tenants of neighboring manors on several occasions. This is not a secret, and those tenants and servants can attest to my actions.

As Meng Die enumerated her points, Geng Yushi's expression became a fascinating mix of emotions. He was about to argue that the servants on the manor were all loyal to Meng Die and would therefore not be reliable witnesses, but before he could refute her, she mentioned that she had also distributed the surplus to the servants and tenants of the surrounding manors.

The emperor was pleased to hear this: "So it seems there has been a misunderstanding."

Meng Die bowed respectfully: "Your Majesty, I have a few more questions for Inspector Geng."

The emperor responded: "Ask away."

Meng Die turned to Inspector Geng: "I'm rather curious. Milk is generally known as a nourishing substance and has always been consumed. When one hears about milk, the natural response would be to think of drinking it. Wouldn't the first reaction to hearing about using leftover milk for bathing be skepticism or ridicule?"

"Did Inspector Geng, upon hearing this, not seek clarification or evidence before impeaching someone?" Meng Die smiled thinly. "One should know that in the eyes of the common folk, every thread, needle, petal, and leaf has its use. Yet, Inspector Geng immediately concluded that milk from which the cream has been separated is only fit for bathing. Isn't this somewhat akin to the obliviousness of those who ask, 'Why don't they eat meat if they're hungry?'"

In the grand hall, all the officials turned their gazes towards Meng Tingyi. Your granddaughter is too ruthless.

Only the trio from the Ministry of Revenue let out a sigh of relief. Suddenly, they realized that it wasn't so bad when Meng Die scolded them back then. At least she had given them a way out. Today, this Censor was surely going to be in deep trouble.

Censor Geng's ashen face instantly turned pale. The accusation of being oblivious to the sufferings of others was too heavy a burden to bear: "Your Highness, you've misunderstood me. I would never be so detached from the common people. Of course, I know that refined milk can still be consumed. That's precisely why I believe it's extravagant and wasteful for Your Highness to use it for bathing instead of letting people drink it."

Meng Die's smile widened, waiting for just such a response. "Drinking fresh milk is a common understanding. How did Censor Geng determine that I used it for bathing? Isn't that an unconventional practice?"

Censor Geng was taken aback. Bathing in milk was actually the common practice! In the capital, using refined milk for baths had become extremely popular, especially among the elite and wealthy. This had led to a constant rise in milk prices. However, he dared not speak of this. If he revealed this fact today, he would truly meet a terrible end.

Inspector Geng's forehead was dotted with fine beads of sweat. "I assumed the County Princess used it for bathing because the story came from one of her own servants, whose credibility seemed too high. That's why I didn't investigate in the outskirts of the capital."

Meng Die lowered her eyes. "Inspector Geng, can you tell me which servant it was? I will surely report such a slanderous servant to the authorities."

Geng hesitated before forcing himself to answer, "It was a family that you expelled from your residence."

Not only Meng Die, but even some of the upright ministers couldn't help but chuckle. Could the words of servants who had been kicked out be trusted?

Meng Die also questioned him without any politeness. "Inspector Geng, do you actually believe what you're saying? Would you trust the words of servants I've expelled, saying ill of me? I wonder if Inspector Geng has a prejudice against me or if there is another reason. Otherwise, aren't you being overly biased?"

Ignorance of the common folk's struggles and favoritism in hearing only one side of the story are grave offenses for any official, all the more so for an imperial censor.

Inspector Geng's forehead was dotted with fine beads of sweat, but sometimes, the more anxious one was, the less effective their thinking became. He knew Meng Die was skilled in scolding, but he hadn't anticipated that she could entangle people with just a few choice words, nor did he expect that the milk he intended to use for his argument had been given to the servants. Thus, all his preparations were rendered useless.

Another censor stepped forward, first bowing respectfully to the emperor, then straightened up and said: "Lord Meng, since the matter of extravagance has been clarified, could we postpone the issue of servants and discuss the collusion between officials and merchants?"

Meng Die cast him a glance. "May I ask the esteemed Censor what your surname is? Are you attempting to divert the conversation due to guilt? His Majesty's edict allowing Censors to report on rumors and hearsay is to understand the hardships of the people and ensure that news reaches the imperial court promptly, preventing any miscarriages of justice. It is not meant for the Censorate to indulge in biased accusations without grounds."

"If this continues, won't the imperial censors be able to pick anyone they please to malign, turning it into a tool for officials to undermine one another in court?"

The standing censor immediately turned red with embarrassment, beads of sweat appearing on his forehead as he lowered his hands, unable to continue speaking.

Meng Die had mentioned the Censorate, and as the Chief Censor, Left Censor Lin Kai De couldn't help but step forward. "Lady Meng is absolutely right. Inspector General Geng relied solely on the account of a dismissed servant to impeach someone. This indeed shows a tendency towards one-sidedness, a practice that must not be encouraged. Inspector Lu, please refrain from haste."

Upon hearing his superior's words, Inspector Lu quickly bowed his head and kept silent. Inspector General Geng was well aware that he could not be found guilty of partiality. Taking a deep breath, he tried to clear his foggy mind. "I admit that I did have prejudice against Lady Meng, which led me to accept this story without thorough investigation."

Meng Die asked, "Have we met before?"

Inspector General Geng dared not say that his prejudice stemmed from her reputation as a shrew. No matter how ill-tempered Meng Die might be, she had a legitimate reason for it, and had never engaged in any oppression. Moreover, she had discovered the method of making sugar from beetroot, earning tangible merits. "I also heard this from the servant, but their grievance was not against the County Lady, but rather against the maid who serves her – their own daughter."

Indeed, it was Mei'er's parents. They were found after being expelled for just one day. Meng Die sneered inwardly but kept her expression composed. She deliberately said, "I'm even more confused now."

The emperor was also somewhat curious. "What did they say?"

Geng Yushi replied, "Your Majesty, this couple claimed to have been servants in Marquis Yongyi's residence for generations. Their daughter was clever and was chosen by County Princess Meng to serve in her courtyard. At first, the whole family was overjoyed, but their daughter changed after starting her duties."

"As the girl grew older, a male servant from the residence proposed marriage. The couple thought his age and appearance were suitable, so they agreed. However, when the girl returned home and discussed the matter, she looked down on the male servant and refused him."

"The couple informed the male servant of her decision, thinking that would be the end of it. But he, deeply in love, refused to give up. On the 15th day of the first lunar month this year, he invited the couple to drink. After a few too many cups, the couple fell asleep, and the male servant went to find the girl. Drunk, his behavior became improper, leading to her firmly rejecting him. She was also very resentful towards her parents since they didn't come to her aid when she called out for help. Eventually, she severed ties with them, treating their nurturing as meaningless."

"Spouses couldn't help but grumble in their hearts, only to be banished from the mansion by County Princess Meng for the crime of gossiping. Even crows return favors and lambs kneel to nurse; how could a girl be so ungrateful? When I heard this, my heart burned with anger. Knowing she was from County Princess Meng's household, my impression of her plummeted to rock bottom."

At Geng Yushi's words, many ministers in the court nodded in agreement. His words were sincere and heartfelt, suggesting it was likely the truth. If they had heard such a story, their opinion of Meng Die wouldn't have been any better. After all, servants often mirror their masters!

Meng Die gave Geng Yushi a cold glance. "Imperial Censor Geng truly lives up to your title as a double champion scholar. You can turn a frivolous harassment into a tale of devotion, a skill unparalleled. It seems you'd be capable of rewriting history, twisting black into white and calling a deer a horse!"

Uh!

Lü Yushi interjected once more, "It's true that the male servant was in the wrong, but traditionally, marriage is decided by parents and matchmakers. For a girl to reject the proposal without hesitation seems rather overbearing."

Meng Die let out a soft laugh, sending shivers down the spine of Councillor Lu.

Meng Die: "Article 324 of the Great Yi Dynasty's laws states that all actions of those in servant or lowly status are subject to their masters' directives, including matters of marriage, mourning, and betrothal. It seems this Councillor's memory of our dynasty's laws is rather hazy! I wonder which field you specialized in for your scholarly degree, and who was your examiner."

Councillor Lu's face turned ashen, his gaze filled with disbelief. Was she simply spouting nonsense, or was this her tactic?

As Meng Die's lips curved into a subtle, mocking smile, a chill gripped Councillor Lu's heart. He realized that this fierce woman knew everything.

At the same time, the emperor spoke in a solemn voice, "How can one serve as a Censorate official if they do not have a firm grasp of the law? Return home and study the laws diligently behind closed doors."

Judge Lu's knees weakened, but he struggled to keep himself from collapsing as he bowed in obedience. "Your humble servant complies." His face turned even more ashen after the words left his lips.

Many military officers were baffled by the emperor's sudden somber mood, while the civil officials wore enigmatic expressions. Their gazes toward Meng Die were even more perplexing.

The Lu Censor we just mentioned, his principal examiner for the civil service examination was the former Prime Minister Li Sen. The current Prime Minister, Qiao Wanming, and the former Prime Minister Huangfu Ninghua are both trusted by the current Emperor. When Li Sen served as Prime Minister during the reign of the previous Emperor, it means he was a loyalist to the previous Emperor and a staunch member of the rebellious Qi King's faction.

With a few concise words, Meng Die dismissed the self-important man and turned her attention to Inspector Geng: "Setting aside the fact that the girl's parents failed in their duty to protect their child, since the girl has already refused the marriage, their continued drinking and carousing with male servants clearly indicates that they haven't given up hope. Is this the behavior one would expect from a parent, ignoring their daughter's wishes?"

Geng Yushi: "I am familiar with the law Lady Meng just mentioned. Isn't it true, however, that in most households, where the masters are occupied and there are numerous servants, marriages are still arranged through discussions between the two families, with the parents taking the lead?"

Meng Die nodded. "Indeed, unless there's an exceptional situation, it's usually sufficient for the servants to discuss among themselves and then report back to their masters with a brief update."

Geng Yushi exhaled a sigh of relief. It was good that Meng Die acknowledged this point: "If that's the case, there's nothing improper for a girl's parents to arrange her marriage beforehand. However, for her to outright reject it does seem a bit impetuous."

Meng Die smiled at Inspector Geng, "Is rejecting a marriage proposal all it takes to be considered arrogant? That's quite amusing. Are you saying that a girl cannot refuse an arranged marriage to someone on their deathbed? Or that she must marry a brutal man who beats people daily? Didn't Inspector Geng inquire about whom exactly this couple wants to betroth her to?"

Geng Yu Shi's expression clearly froze for a moment. After a brief silence, he ambiguously said, "Parents would never harm their own children. Most who sell their sons and daughters are driven to such desperation by natural disasters or unforeseen calamities."

Meng Die's smile transformed into a mocking grin. "So, according to you, the three- or five-year-old girls in brothels were born with lowly natures, insisting that their parents sell them into such establishments? Has Inspector Geng forgotten the case he once debated with Inspector Zhang, where that woman's brother dared to marry her off to an abusive brute without her parents' consent? It seems Inspector Geng is not well-acquainted with the struggles of the common folk. Perhaps he has never ventured into their world!"

Well, there we go again, circling back to the question of why one wouldn't consume meat broth.

The emperor's gaze fell upon Geng Yushi like needles, causing beads of sweat to trickle down the corners of his forehead. "I did inquire of the maiden why she refused the marriage. Her parents said she was displeased that the servant occasionally engaged in gambling. This in itself is not a significant matter; once married, he would surely take care of his wife and children and no longer indulge in such habits."

Meng Die's polite, faint smile faded from her face. "What if she continues to gamble? This ultimately concerns a young lady's entire life."

Geng Yushi declared firmly, "With a wife and children, his elders will certainly discipline him strictly. He won't gamble anymore."

Meng Die laughed again, but it was somewhat inappropriate, mostly due to the broadness of her smile. However, with her innate elegance, even a wide grin did not seem out of place on her. It was in contrast to the current etiquette of not showing teeth while smiling, yet it did not appear awkward. Instead, it carried a charm reminiscent of a chrysanthemum or orchid in full bloom. "Prosecutor Geng's words are truly amusing. You imply that one would stop gambling once they have a wife and children. Are you suggesting that all the gamblers in the capital's various gaming houses are mere children?"

Inspector Geng was speechless, unable to respond.

Meng Die continued, "Take Inspector Zhang's case from years ago as an example. That girl's brother not only already had a wife but also children. Why would he still be gambling? Has he reversed his age and become a child again? I suggested that Inspector Geng should venture out more often, observe the world around him, so he wouldn't appear ignorant and invite ridicule."

Large beads of sweat dripped from Geng's forehead, quickly dampening the collar of his shirt.

Meng Die pressed on relentlessly, "If elders enforce strict discipline, there's no way they'd continue gambling. It seems Inspector Geng is quite confident in persuading gamblers. How about this? Inspector Geng could marry his daughter to someone deeply immersed in gambling. If she can restrain him, it would count as a noble deed."

"Not just daughters, nieces, cousins, or even distant female relatives are acceptable. Every gambler you guide back onto the right path adds to your virtuous karma. Let's set a decade as our timeframe. If Inspector Geng succeeds, I will announce it to the entire city with drums and gongs ten years from now. I'll personally visit your residence to apologize and erect a monument in your honor, recording this act of kindness. What do you think, Inspector?"

Geng Inspector stammered, unable to utter a single word.

Meng Die scoffed openly. "Why the silence? If you refuse, it would truly echo the common saying – it's easy to speak without experiencing the pain yourself. You don't know the hurt until the knife falls on your own flesh!"

Sweat poured down Geng's face as his legs trembled, and spots danced before his eyes. He couldn't understand why Meng Die didn't respond as he had anticipated.

In the Great Yi Dynasty, gambling was not entirely forbidden; only officials were restricted from such activities, and even then, only those holding actual positions. For example, the Nine Gates Inspectorate was an actual post, thus gambling was strictly prohibited. However, someone like Marquis Yongyi, who held only a noble title without any official duties, was free to gamble. When the founding ancestor established the laws, he believed that small bets could be entertaining while large ones were detrimental to one's health. Thus, casual gambling during idle times was allowed, which led to many legitimate gambling houses in the capital.

Geng expected Meng Die to seize on the notion that gambling was a vice. With her doing so, he could subtly imply that she was challenging the founding ancestor, for how could light gambling be considered a vice when it brought amusement? Before accusing Meng Die, he had done his research and knew of her sharp tongue. He was well-prepared and was aware that the Marquis Yongyi's residence had recently expelled many servants involved in gambling. Yet, the outcome...

Seeing that the other party was completely speechless, Meng Die continued her discourse: "Gambling in moderation is a pastime, but excessive gambling can be harmful. In our leisure time, we all enjoy playing with leaf cards and engaging in archery games, but for a servant to gamble in a gambling house, such a character is not one that can be entrusted with a lifetime commitment. What's wrong with refusing?" Then, Meng Die abruptly changed the subject: "Censor Geng also accused me of colluding with merchants, I wonder where this comes from, and I hope Censor Geng can enlighten me."

At this moment, the Imperial Censor Geng felt utterly despondent. The collusion between officials and merchants was a far-fetched accusation to begin with. His meticulously prepared extravagance was shattered by Meng Die's haphazard onslaught, leaving the charge of official collusion utterly ineffective against her.

With a heavy heart, I must still speak bluntly: "Last year, you sold the recipe for bread to merchants for profit. This year, I have heard that you intend to sell the recipe for cream cake to merchants for profit as well. Repeatedly colluding with merchants for personal gain, isn't this a form of collusion between officials and merchants?"

If this were not the Diligent Government Hall, Meng Die could have directly thrown a basin of cold water at him and walked away with a flick of her sleeves: "The collusion between officials and merchants means that officials have power and merchants have money. Officials use their power to oppress the common people, and merchants take the opportunity to buy valuable goods from the people at low prices, then they split the profits. The essence of the collusion between officials and merchants is to conspire together to oppress the people for profit. I am merely selling a food recipe, which has nothing to do with the common people, how could I oppress them?"

Geng Yushi blurted out, "Who knows if those merchants might oppress the common folk for their raw materials?" His face paled even more, clearly showing signs of regret.

When all was said and done, Meng Die suspected that Inspector Geng had accused her for the recipe of the cream cake. But when he accused her of extravagance, she wavered. Now, after all this back and forth, it still boiled down to the recipe: "Inspector Geng's words are amusing. Suppose you bought a kitchen knife from a blacksmith, then used it to commit murder. Would you ultimately blame the blacksmith for selling you the knife?"

The Emperor couldn't help but support his forehead, instinctively looking towards his two trusted ministers, the Left and Right Supervisors of the Censorate.

At this moment, both of their faces were burning with embarrassment. They refused to believe that such an absurd censor was from their own Censorate, so foolish that it was unbearable to look at. They now couldn't help but wonder how this Censor Geng had passed the imperial examination and become a scholar in the first place. It seemed that he had been blinded by greed and avarice!

The emperor, weary at heart, still had to make a summary of the matter: "What was sold was a secret recipe for food, which does not constitute collusion between officials and merchants. Censor Geng still lacks understanding of the common people; for now, he should not serve as a censor. Instead, he should visit the grassroots level and gain a comprehensive understanding."

Commissioner Geng closed his eyes, "This humble official obeys." With that, he was promptly stripped of his office.

A contentious debate had cost two Censors their positions, and Meng Die was reasonably satisfied. She had willingly disclosed her mushroom cultivation method last time because she had no intention of keeping it to herself. Moreover, she had hoped to pave the way for her grandfather by introducing the sugar production from beetroot.

These people truly took her for a pushover, thinking that they could intimidate her into revealing the recipe for the cream cake, even using Mei'er's matter as leverage. He should be grateful he didn't utter any further threats, or else she wouldn't have let them off with just losing their official positions today.

Upon returning to the Marquis Manor, Lady Hou immediately pulled her to sit beside herself, expressing a tinge of regret in her words: "Ah, if only I had known this would happen, I wouldn't have driven them out back then. It might have been quieter if they had stayed within my sight."

Meng Die chuckled. "Grandmother, there's a saying that one can be a thief for a thousand days, but one cannot guard against thieves for a thousand days. With so many people in our manor and estates, even if it isn't their family, it could be someone else's. The main issue is that my cream cake recipe is simply too tempting."

Lady Hou: "Fine possessions are always coveted by others."

Meng Die: "Especially since I'm planning to sell my formulas soon. Once successful, I'd be earning three to four hundred thousand taels of silver annually. It's only natural for them to feel envious."

Lady Hou paused: "Indeed, tens of thousands of taels a year is no small fortune. She'd be considered a genuine wealthy lady."

Wen Shi smiled gently, pressing her lips together. "Grandmother, since she has become so wealthy, shouldn't we take advantage of it somehow? Like having cream cakes for everyone tomorrow?"

Lady Hou scolded playfully, "Look at you, so unambitious. Do you think a cream cake will settle the matter? Isn't Feng'er getting married soon? Perfect, during the main wedding feast, let's have a large cream cake served on each table."

Meng Die stood up, deliberately mimicking the comical gestures of a wealthy landowner from traditional operas. "A trivial matter, nothing more."

"Ahaha..." Every person in the room, without exception, laughed until they were leaning in all directions, their composure utterly lost.

After Meng Die's eloquent rebuttal, two other imperial censors were removed from their posts, further tarnishing her already questionable reputation among the literati. Some perceptive officials began to regard her with caution, having initially dismissed her as merely a sharp-tongued shrew, capable of nothing more than amassing wealth and creating novelty items. To their surprise, she revealed herself to possess a remarkable political acumen and skillful tactics.

With such a powerful backing and a title of her own, even as a woman, she would have the genuine opportunity to engage with power and intervene in court affairs.

The court officials' thoughts were unknown to the thirteen merchants, but they were quite concerned for a while upon learning that Meng Die was accused of collusion between officials and merchants by the imperial censors. Some merchants with less influential backing even considered giving up on the lucrative cream cake business, but this idea was stillborn as soon as it began to sprout.

In the Qinzheng Hall, Meng Die had a heated debate with the Imperial Censor and emerged victorious. Even the Emperor himself declared that selling food recipes does not constitute collusion between officials and merchants. What else is there to fear?

As soon as Meng Die returned to the Marquis's residence, no sooner had she stepped in than thirteen merchants, one after another, approached the esteemed Manager Rong with their silver tickets. The process of drafting contracts, signing, stamping, and handing over the silver tickets was executed seamlessly. Especially when it came to the handover of the silver tickets, to those who knew, it was clear that they were handing over silver tickets; to those who didn't, it might have seemed as if they were pushing away hot potatoes. The majordomos of the thirteen merchants almost seemed to be "shoving" the silver tickets into Manager Rong's hands.

With the silver notes in hand, they would be able to open a cream cake shop, a venture that would guarantee profits with no losses. The chief managers of the thirteen establishments could not hide their joyous smiles.

Meng Die watched Lu Wei count the silver notes with an equally delighted grin, baring her teeth in pure joy. Thirty-nine thousand taels of silver were now in their possession, and this was not just for this year; they would receive such an income annually for the next fourteen years. Selling the imperial prescription truly proved to be a risk-free profit!

In high spirits, Meng Die summoned Hulu again. "After we sent that family away yesterday, how have they been? Where are they living now?"

Hulu: "When they were expelled from the estate, they were not allowed to take any possessions. After being cast out, they moved to the northwest corner of the capital. That area still had shanties previously used for settling refugees from two years prior. They took shelter there and, for the time being, relied on Lady You and Xiaozhu's labor to make ends meet."

Meng Die: "What about that father and son duo?"

Hulu wrinkles her lips: "Those two lazy bums can do nothing but sleep and eat."

Meng Die lowers her gaze: "Ask someone to inform Nurse Fan. Find the right moment to cut off You Shi and Xiaozhu's duties. Also, keep a close eye on them. Those two imperial censors have no leverage against me, and they're seething with frustration. They won't let this go easily; they'll likely target that family."

Hulu: "Madam, are you worried that the two parties might clash?" Seeing Meng Die nod, Hulu promptly arranges for a messenger to convey the message.

Expecting it to take some time before any developments, Meng Die is surprised when Nurse Fan brings news just two days later: "Madam, Mei'er's entire family is gone."

Meng Die paused, a mix of surprise and non-surprise evident in her expression. It wasn't unexpected for her to know that this family couldn't have been living peacefully, but the audacity of the two Censors to push them to their deaths was a shock: "What exactly happened?"

Nanny Fan explained, "A couple of days ago, Second Aunt instructed us to seize an opportunity to cut off Lady You's and Xiaozhu's livelihood. We hadn't taken any action yet when others did. Master said they probably had the same idea as Second Aunt."

The group of maidservants turned to Meng Die.

Meng Die continued, "I assumed that with their poor character, life outside wouldn't be easy, and they might resort to theft or other illicit activities. Regardless of the severity of their crimes, they would still be breaking the law. When the time comes, let them serve their sentences in prison, confining them for a few years. If they remain disobedient after release, we'll deal with them again."

The maidservants nodded in understanding. Indeed, imprisonment was a means to silence them.

Meng Die spoke of this with some displeasure: "Initially, for Mei'er's reputation, I intended to handle their family discreetly. Who knew they would disregard our kindness and refuse to show gratitude."

Then, Meng Die's plans collided with those of the two imperial censors. What was even more unforeseen was that this family did not follow the script that Meng Die and the censors had envisioned.

Nanny Fan: "Seeing their financial situation dwindling, Qian Xi and his son were planning to sell Xiaozhu to a brothel. The shed they kept her in had terrible soundproofing, so Xiaozhu overheard their conversation. She created a commotion, but the Qian father and son locked her up in the room for two days. When Xiaozhu emerged, she claimed to have come to terms with it and thought that perhaps in the brothel, she might have the chance to encounter a kind patron who would buy her freedom. She even mentioned the prospect of becoming a concubine and living a life of luxury. Believing her, the Qian duo released her."

Meng Die found herself utterly perplexed by the intricacies of that family's thought processes.

Nanny Fan: "After she emerged, she meticulously dressed up, appearing quite delighted. This eased the Qian Xi father and son's vigilance. Then Xiaozhu went outside the city to dig up a considerable amount of aconite and added it into their meal. Whether Qian Xi and You Shi were immediately poisoned or simply fell unconscious is unclear; either way, they soon ceased all movement. Qian Youyu was entertained by a male courtesan outside at the time. He had just finished drinking and didn't have much for dinner, so the poison didn't take effect right away. Upon seeing his parents in that state, could he not have realized what was happening? He started fighting with Xiaozhu. It's uncertain whether he knocked her out or killed her, but once the fire broke out, neither sibling managed to escape. Their shack was completely burned down, and it even affected neighboring households. People in the area are cursing them now."

Meng Die fell silent for a moment. It turned out that they had brought their own destruction upon themselves; she had unjustly accused those two imperial censors.

Meihong remarked, "Little Zhu is truly ruthless!"

Hulu shrugged her lips. "She could do that to Mei'er back then, so naturally, she'd do the same to the rest of the Qian family now. They deserve it."