Chapter 118

Chapter 118

Amidst the chaos in the capital, Meng Die paid no heed; she was engrossed in refining her knowledge of household tips and tricks, or rather, rewriting them into books. This was the key to opening the doors of education for young girls in the future.

Aunt Fan rushed in with hurried steps, this time drenched in sweat with her hairdo slightly askew, giving off an appearance of distress. "Second Lady, it's terrible! Something has happened."

Meng Die put down her writing brush. "Again? What has happened?" The frequency of these incidents lately seemed rather too high.

Aunt Fan clenched her teeth in anger. "They say there's a spy in our estate."

"Spies?" Meng Die was taken aback at first. "Courtesans?"

Nanny Fan nodded frantically. "Yes, yes, that's right. They have spies among them." She paced anxiously. "Oh no, what should we do? Should Second Lady ask for Old Master's opinion? I'll go to the manor and interrogate all of them. If necessary, we can just dismiss them all!"

"Mammy, there's no need to panic," Meng Die chuckled. "Where did you get this information?"

Nanny Fan was momentarily stunned. "W-What do you mean where did I get it from? E-Everyone knows, they're all talking about it."

Meng Die's smile widened. "Everyone knows? Mammy, please tell me in detail, where exactly did you hear this?"

Nanny Fan observed Meng Die's confusion and explained, "I woke up early today, intending to buy some vegetables at the city gate. Oh, Second Lady might not know, but in summer, the city gates open at dawn and remain open until before noon for commoners to sell their surplus vegetables and items like eggs or old hens. In winter, they open at sunrise and allow stalls until mid-morning."

"I overheard a group of women discussing something when I arrived. Initially, I didn't pay much attention, but when I heard the word 'prostitutes,' I started listening carefully. They claimed that some of those Yangzhou thin horses were sent by our enemy nation to infiltrate the inner courtyards of noble households as spies."

Meng Die asked, "That's all they said?"

Nanny Fan nodded. "Yes, they spoke with great conviction. And it wasn't just one group; there were at least two or three clusters of people discussing this. Second Lady, what should we do?"

Meng Die smiled and shook her head. "Let me ask you, Nanny. You often go to the city gate to buy vegetables, right? There must be people there whom you recognize, even if you don't know their names. Many would be familiar faces. Were any of the women who were talking recognizable to you? I suspect not."

Aunt Fan was taken aback and pondered for a moment. "Ah, now that you mention it, not a single one of them seems familiar."

Meng Die chuckled. "That's right. These people are deceiving you. Ever since the incident with Little Wang Village Head at the Marquis residence, I've suspected that there's something off about these Yangzhou beauties. Why would fur traders suddenly bring back a beauty from Yangzhou? I asked you to investigate the matter of the Yangzhou beauties before, and you know the outcome better than I do."

Aunt Fan said sullenly, "All the informants claimed that after arriving in the capital, these Yangzhou beauties went straight into the inner courtyards of various households. They had no access to them, so they couldn't gather any information."

Meng Die replied, "I knew you wouldn't be able to find out much. I discussed this with my grandfather earlier. Nowadays, every family in the capital is investigating their own household for the gambling issue, and many have been exposed. Grandfather must have uncovered something as well. That's why those people put on such a show for you, out of desperation."

Aunt Fan was bewildered. "This... this..."

Xing Huang approached, "Why put on an act in front of Nurse Fan? How does this concern us?"

Meng Die replied, "This is a significant connection. You see, Nurse Fan was hurriedly drawn to me by those women's words. If I had also believed them, or if the investigation into the Yangzhou slender mares wasn't my initiative, my panic upon hearing about spies on our estate would inevitably lead me to seek Grandfather's help. By then, even if there are no spies on our estate now, there will be tomorrow."

Nurse Fan and Xing Huang were even more perplexed.

Meng Die continued, "If I were seen as harboring a spy, how could Grandfather proceed with the case? He would have to distance himself."

Nurse Fan finally understood, slapping her palm against her other hand, "So that's how it is. These black-hearted people."

Meng Die smiled. "If Grandfather can't investigate the case, he'll certainly hand it over. After such a long time and finally some progress, wouldn't it be like sewing a wedding dress for someone else if we gave up now? Logically speaking, would we be willing to accept that? Would we not try to hinder the new investigators?"

Xing Huang spat in disdain. "How narrow-minded, looking down on others from a crack in the door. Assuming everyone's as petty as you."

Meng Die continued, "This is only one aspect. Second, who knows whether the person taking over is friend or foe? What if they're also connected to the same parties? Besides, it might take the new investigator time to get settled. The spies might use this opportunity to slip away. And third, Nanny Fan just mentioned firing those courtesans if necessary. If I were to dismiss them, wouldn't all the trust I've built with them be ruined?"

Nanny Fan stood there, stunned.

Meihong chimed in, "These people are too much. What do those courtesans have to do with them anyway?"

Meng Die smiled. "It's not that we're avoiding trouble; it's because everyone now realizes how well-informed and useful courtesans can be. Especially for our enemies, who probably had their spies, disguised as entertainers, involved in the recent purge. They'll have to start all over again, and that will take time. With such a ready source of information right in front of them, wouldn't they be eager to recruit these women for their own use?"

Granny Fan finally came back to her senses. "So you were just playing me, huh? Well, I'll go back and send some gifts to Yi Yi and Hailan later."

Meng Die chuckled. "No need for that. Since they went through the trouble of setting up this trap to ensnare us, it would be too disrespectful if we didn't fall for it. Let's turn the tables on them."

Granny Fan asked, "Second Lady?"

Meng Die picked up a pen and wrote a short note with only four characters: 'Counter their plan.' After blowing on it to dry the ink, she handed it to Granny Fan. "When you return, go straight to the estate and dismiss all the courtesans. Tell them that since it's winter and there's no need to tend to the silkworms, there's no work for them. Slip this note to Yi Yi, and bring extra silver with you. Each dismissed courtesan will receive five taels of silver as compensation."

Nanny Fan cautiously pinched the note between her fingers. "I'll go now."

"Wait a moment," Meng Die stopped Nanny Fan. "Your current expression won't do. You need to look as you did when you first entered the courtyard."

"Oh?"

After Nanny Fan left, Xing Huang couldn't wait to ask, "Second Lady, how are we going to turn the tables?"

Meng Die looked at Xing Huang and noticed that Hulu and Meihong were only pretending to be busy while they were actually straining their ears to listen. She deliberately said, "You'll find out in due time."

Xing Huang let out a mournful cry.

Meng Die chuckled. "You're so impetuous. Actually, this matter isn't complicated at all. I merely suspected there were spies among the Yangzhou thin mares before, but now I'm certain. However, finding each and every one of these spies is like searching for a needle in a haystack – it's quite challenging. After all, they've all been sent to the inner courtyard, making it difficult for Grandfather to investigate."

"But since they covet the well-informed courtesans, I'll dismiss them, giving them a chance to try to win over Yiyi and the others."

Xing Huang's eyes widened. "Huh?"

"What 'huh'?" Meng Die huffed softly. "They can plant spies on our side, but I can't do the same to theirs? That doesn't make sense."

Xing Huang was utterly astonished. "So that's how it is! No wonder Second Grandma kept reminding me over and over again when we were making the preserves. She must have been worried about spies tampering with them. That's why she asked me to tell outsiders that these jars are merely for satisfying cravings."

Meng Die nodded in agreement. "Indeed. When nations have been at war for years, both sides would undoubtedly send spies, hoping to uncover any valuable information. Not to mention that, when other countries come to the Great Yi Dynasty for trade, do you really think they're all legitimate merchants? Many of them gather intelligence on our dynasty while conducting business. Should any unrest occur within our borders, do you believe that our borders would remain tranquil? Otherwise, how do you explain the emperor and his ministers' frantic efforts during the drought in the northern provinces a couple of years ago? Do you think they were solely focused on relief efforts?"

Xing Huang, Hulu, and Meihong were astounded, never imagining that there were so many intricate twists and turns involved.

Indeed, Yi Yi proved to be both wise and courageous. The spies, on the other hand, were fervently envious of the courtesans' well-informed network. With mutual interest, Yi Yi effortlessly connected with them and infiltrated their ranks. Before the Little New Year's celebrations had even concluded, Yi Yi successfully uncovered which of the Yangzhou slender mares sent to the capital were indeed spies.

Nanny Fan hurried once more to Meng Die's quarters, her steps quick and light. "Second Mistress, the six Yangzhou slim horses that Yi Yi provided on the list are all spies in disguise."

Meng Die took the list and unfolded it carefully. Yi Yi had written clearly, mainly listing the names of the "skinny horses" and where they were currently located, as well as whom they had entangled themselves with within the manor.

The other five were insignificant, as they had only involved themselves with servants similar to Little Wang Village Head from before. But there was one exception.

Meng Die fixated on Chun Liu's name and the residence she was listed under: the residence of the Left Minister of the Military Department. She had ensnared the eldest legitimate third son of the Left Minister's family. Most importantly, she had been in the Minister's residence for four years, entering at the age of fourteen. Due to her wit and agility, she was immediately assigned to serve the legitimate young master that same year.

Copying the list, Meng Die returned Yi Yi's original copy to Nurse Fan. "Deliver this personally to my grandfather's hands. Afterward, go to a reputable escort agency and hire some people to secretly protect Yi Yi and the others. Also, inform Head Village Wang that after the New Year, when there is ample manpower, we should further enhance the security of the village. Don't be stingy with the silver."

Nurse Fan pondered, "Is Second Lady worried about retaliation from spies? The security in our capital is still quite good."

Meng Die: "Even the best-ordered society has its vulnerabilities. Precautions must still be taken. Safety is crucial, regardless of their presence."

"Ai."

Upon receiving the list, Meng Tingyi immediately aligned his thoughts with Meng Die's. He borrowed a few skilled protectors from Fu Yanxiu to safeguard Yi Yi and the others. Promptly following the list, he apprehended not only the six spies but also those who had interacted with them, sending them all to the Ministry of Punishments.

The once-calm capital was once again thrown into turmoil.

At the Marquis Yongyi's residence, however, things remained tranquil. None of the arrested individuals had any connection to the household. With the approach of the Spring Festival, the mansion was festooned with lanterns and filled with the festive spirit, dispelling the previous tension.

Aixue: "Second Aunt, Third Aunt's side has sent someone to inquire if you're available."

Meng Die put down her pen. "I'm free. She can come over anytime."

In a short while, Yao, accompanied by Hongying, arrived. "Second Sister-in-law."

Observing Yao's uneasy expression, Meng Die asked, "Is something the matter?"

Yao took the teacup offered by Hulu and sipped it. "I wanted to ask Second Sister-in-law about those who were taken to the Ministry of Justice. What crimes were they accused of? I understand that such matters, if not officially disclosed by the ministry, might be difficult for you to discuss directly." With that, Yao dipped her finger into the tea and wrote the character "xi" (detail) on the table.

Madam Yao looked at Meng Die and said, "Second Sister-in-law, just nod or shake your head."

Meng Die nodded in response.

Madam Yao closed her eyes.

"Meng Die asked, "What's the matter? Is there some involvement?"

Madam Yao opened her eyes and revealed, "I have a cousin who married into the household of the Left Vice Minister of the Board of Military Affairs."

Meng Die's heart stirred. "Her husband?"

Madam Yao replied, "The third legitimate son from the main family of the Minister of War's left vice-minister."

Meng Die placed a hand on her forehead, feeling overwhelmed.

No matter how overwhelming it was, Meng Die had no choice. If someone was involved with espionage and the spy didn't obtain any useful information from him, then that person would likely be safe and might even be praised for his caution. But if the spy did manage to get valuable information from him, at best he'd be scolded and demoted, and at worst, if it affected the battlefront, his life would be at stake.

Madam Yao left with a troubled mind, and Meng Die could only shake her head and sigh. This was truly a stroke of bad luck.

On the twenty-sixth day of the twelfth lunar month, Fan Hong and Manager Zheng returned, covered in dust from their journey.

Looking at Fan Hong, Meng Die couldn't help but smile. "A single trip outside, and you've put on some weight."

Fan Hong chuckled in response. "This time, Manager Zheng and I traveled to many places. We weren't in a rush, and we had no pressing matters. Our meals were delightful, so we both gained weight without even realizing it."

Xing Huang interjected, "Delicious meals, what tasty dishes did you encounter along the way?"

A hint of nostalgia appeared on Fan Hong's face. "There was indeed a dish called Steamed Pot Chicken. It's said to have originated from the southern part of Yunnan, and its flavor was exquisite. In my opinion, it was on par with the famous Beggar's Chicken, each with its own unique charm."

Xing Huang was baffled. "Steamed Chicken in a Steam Pot? What does 'steam pot' mean?"

Meng Die paused. Mention of a steam pot reminded her of steam engines.

Fan Hong pondered for a moment. "It refers to the white vapor that rises when steaming buns. That vapor is used to cook the chicken. I have the recipe right here." Fan Hong took a piece of paper from his sleeve and handed it to Nurse Fan.

Nurse Fan took it and passed it to Xing Huang, who was astonished. "Isn't this a secret recipe? Everyone knows how to make it?"

Fan Hong laughed heartily. "Of course not. Not many restaurants can prepare this dish, so it's considered a secret recipe. They gave me the recipe because of Second Madam's reputation. Our cream cakes are very popular in the wealthy regions of Jiangsu and Zhejiang. This merchant, who originally ran a restaurant, has seen an influx of customers thanks to the fame of our cream cakes. When they saw that I enjoyed the dish and was interested, they specially wrote down the recipe and even allowed me to observe in their kitchen. They even said that if Miss Xing Huang wishes to learn and make it for Second Madam, she can do so freely. Another person might not receive such treatment."

Xing Huang: "Aren't you afraid I'll reveal the secret recipe?"

Fan Hong: "If they dared to give it to us, they must trust us. I've sewn the recipe into my sleeve and haven't let it out of my sight for a moment during our journey."

Xing Huang's brows danced with delight as she unfolded the paper to examine it meticulously.

Fan Hong continued, "Second Madam, the items have been handed over to Second Master. He holds them in high regard and has instructed the soldiers to store them all in the room adjacent to his bedroom. The remaining items were placed directly in his chambers."

Meng Die regained her composure and asked, "They're still kept in the living quarters?"

Fan Hong: "Yes, Lord Second's quarters are rather spartan, with only a bed, a table, and a chair. Those items wouldn't clutter the room at all. This is a letter from Lord Second to Lady Second."

Nanny Fan took it and passed it to Meng Die: "Life on the front lines is tough."

Meng Die accepted the letter but didn't rush to open it.

Fan Hong continued: "This time, Lord Second has instructed me to bring back some newly harvested lavender for Lady Second to replace the old in her pillow. In addition, he has sourced a considerable amount of Hetian jade, both carved pieces and raw materials. Lord Second said that if Lady Second finds anything she likes, she can have it tailored to her preference."

Meng Die smiled gently.

Fan Hong continued, "Second Master also mentioned that the watermelon seeds he planted this year have grown exceptionally well. The watermelons are so delicious that everyone vies for a taste. He added that those mischievous lads eventually resorted to sleeping in the melon field, only to end up with heads full of mosquito bites, much to their humbled dismay."

Meng Die couldn't hold back her laughter and burst into giggles, followed by the rest of the group who also found it hilarious.

Fan Hong: "The beetroot plants are thriving as well. Second Master mentioned that he harvested a few to make syrup, leaving the rest untouched for storage through the winter and to ensure seed production next year. Oh, and our Second Master has accomplished another feat; it seems the Mongol Khan has completely severed ties with the Muksu region."

Meng Die's eyes sparkled. "Completely broken off? How did it happen?"

Fan Hong promptly recounted the entire sequence of events. Nurse Fan covered her chest in shock, "Second Master is indeed very courageous, to have dared venture alone into enemy territory."

Meng Die admires Li Ai deeply for this: "If he didn't have such courage, he wouldn't have abandoned his wealth and status at the mere age of maturity to join the military frontlines under an assumed name."

Nanny Fan recalls how Meng Die and Li Ai came to be married, feeling rather emotional: "Back then, Grandfather said that Second Master and Second Lady were a perfect match."

Xing Huang can't help but giggle.

Remembering those days, Meng Die's face flushes red. She quickly changes the subject, turning to Fan Hong: "Despite the weight gain, you've worked hard throughout the journey. Go rest when we get back, especially since it's the New Year. Take more days off to recuperate."

Fan Hong replies, "Thank you, Second Lady."

Meng Die turned to Feng MaMa, "Please inform Lu Wei that she should find time to come back here, either today or tomorrow. It's almost the New Year, and we need to reward the servants in the household. Our female workers should also receive some New Year's money."

Feng MaMa replied, "Second Lady is thinking of them. I'll go and see Lu Wei right away."

That evening, when Lu Wei returned from the factory, Meng Die asked her, "What do other shops in the capital usually give their employees during the Spring Festival?"

Lu Wei answered, "Mostly, they give around two to three hundred wen, not exceeding five hundred at most. Some provide a pound or two of meat, and more generous ones might give a few feet of cloth."

Meng Die nodded. "We'll start the holiday on the twenty-ninth and resume work on the fourth day of the new year. After we resume, there won't be any obligation for everyone to come. Those who have the time and wish to earn extra can come, while those who are occupied can stay home. From the beginning of the holiday until the eighth day, every worker, whether they come or not, will receive their base salary."

Lu Wei smiled outright. "Would they dare not come? They're probably afraid we'll be idle during the break. Should we have some festivities on the fourth day?"

Meng Die replied, "Let's start with inviting a lion dance troupe, followed by a troupe to perform operas. And let's set off two strings of firecrackers."

"Alright."

Meng Die pondered for a moment more. "As for New Year's bonuses, let's give each person five hundred wen. Also, inquire with Manager Rong if he can purchase a large quantity of pork. If possible, give each worker one jin of lean meat and one jin of fat meat. If not, then forget it. Nine chi of cloth for each, plus twenty eggs. Oh, right, is Head Wang in charge of harvesting ice?"

Lu Wei answered, "Yes, Second Grandma instructed to build an ice cellar last summer, and Head Wang constructed a huge one. He's currently busy harvesting ice."

Meng Die: "Didn't we have plenty of fish fry last year? They should be about two years old now, just the right age for harvesting. Why are we only focusing on ice-making? Ask Head Wang to hire more people these next couple of days and have them catch more fish from the ponds. Then, everyone can have a fish at the New Year's feast – it symbolizes abundance every year!"

Lu Wei nodded enthusiastically. "Alright, I'll take care of it tomorrow."

When the female workers in the factory received these gifts, they were still in disbelief. Not only did they receive money, but also such generous provisions. Lady Second was indeed as magnanimous as always, and they would have a prosperous new year.

During the New Year's Eve gathering at the Marquis household, the fresh fish delighted everyone, and they praised Meng Die for her wise purchase of the estate.

Before the evening firecrackers began, Madam Jin, carrying the several-month-old Nu Juan'er, excused herself. The loud crackers could easily frighten the young child who didn't yet understand the celebration. Nu Juan'er was the eldest daughter of Li Hui and Madam Jin, born in late autumn the previous year.

Yun Clan's matriarch yawned. Meng Die observed her slightly protruding belly and suggested, "Why don't you go back and rest?"

After some thought, the matriarch nodded and didn't insist on staying.

Meng Die glanced back at the sky. The corner of her eye caught the envious and disheartened look in Lady Yao's eyes. A soft sigh escaped her.

Lady Yao had married into the family at the end of February last year, and today was New Year's Eve. It had been almost a year, yet there was no sign of pregnancy. Neither the elder nor the Ning matriarch were harsh mothers-in-law, so they hadn't said anything. But in this era, who wouldn't be anxious? Forget about her husband's family, even Lady Yao's own family had sent two sets of fertility remedies.

"Second Sister, look, those fireworks are truly beautiful."

Meng Die pretended not to notice the fleeting envy and disappointment in Lady Yao's expression. She lifted her gaze to the sky and commented, "This must be a new design for this year, a colorful flower, so lovely."

Lady Yao burst into laughter. "Second Sister, can't you use a different word for once?"

Meng Die responded with surprise, "Oh? You know about it too?"

"Ha ha..." The two sisters-in-law laughed together, dispelling all worries and troubles. At that moment, only joy remained.

The following morning, Meng Die donned her official robe and headed to the main residence. The elder madam and Madam Ning were also ready. Promptly on time, eunuchs from the palace arrived to convey the imperial edict and distribute rewards.

Having received the imperial favor, Meng Die accompanied Lady Elder and Lady Ning to the palace. Their dual purpose was to express gratitude and pay New Year's respects to both the Empress Dowager and the Empress. Eventually, under the envious gazes of the assembled noble ladies, the Empress personally requested to speak with Meng Die in private.