Chapter 25: Awakening

Chapter 25: Awakening

Before Marquis Xuanping, Kang's family had another daughter.

Pei Lian.

Back then, Marquis Xuanping had a cousin who had been living in his marquis residence since childhood. The two of them shared a close relationship. Growing up together like childhood sweethearts, they inevitably developed a vague affection for each other.

In ordinary noble families, rules dictate that a concubine cannot be taken before the legitimate wife has been properly installed. The new bride has not been in the household for long, thus it's also inappropriate to introduce another newcomer so soon. This cousin of his has deeply ingrained affections for the late Marquis Xuanping, and witnessing the affectionate and sweet interactions between her cousin and his wife is like torture to her. She throws tantrums secretly and causes endless trouble, making life unbearable for all.

Lady Kang had been married for barely three months when she became pregnant. The cousin, realizing her opportunity had arrived, resorted to underhanded tactics to secretly win the favor of the elder Marquis Xuanping. Upon learning this, Lady Kang was furious. As the head wife, she had her own methods to deal with such a situation involving her cousin.

Wives and concubines engage in unceasing intrigues, their schemes and plots proving ever difficult to guard against.

Legitimate consorts facing concubines, by rights, hold both moral high ground and an overwhelming advantage. In theory, it should be effortlessly easy for them to dispose of a concubine.

The cousin, having lived in the marquis's mansion for many years, had secretly won over numerous individuals. The servants were deeply entrenched and pervasive throughout the mansion, with no corner left unexplored. From the kitchen to the sewing room, every item that entered the premises, be it food or clothing, was a potential target for their schemes.

By the time Lady Kang realized her mistake, it was too late; the physician had declared that the poison had harmed the fetus within her womb. She suppressed her sorrow and made a scene, forcing the Elder Marquis Xuanping to send away his cousin. Though the cousin eventually died in an estate outside the capital, her unborn child barely survived as well.

Born amidst great adversity, Pei Lian was a frail yet extraordinarily understanding child from an early age. As a mother, Lady Kang would have spared no effort to summon the most renowned physicians across the land to tend to her daughter's ailments.

The pavilion by the water was a serene and recuperative setting, where Pei Lian resided. Despite the affluence of the Marquis Xuanping's residence and Lady Kang's meticulous care, she tragically did not live past the age of ten.

Lady Kang's affection for her daughter went beyond the fact that she was her firstborn; it was also due to the child's sensitivity and obedience. Every time she thought about the hardships her daughter endured, she was overwhelmed with guilt.

Five years after Pei Lian's birth, Marquis Xuanping arrived, five years her junior. Shortly after his birth, the elder Marquis Xuanping passed away. Three years later, Pei Lian succumbed to her illnesses.

From the time he could remember, he vaguely knew he had an older sister. However, due to her fragile health, he didn't often see her. When she passed away, he was too young to retain a clear memory of her appearance.

But Concubine Kang could never forget.

That was her first child, one who had suffered due to her strife with a concubine. Her guilt had lingered for years and had yet to dissipate. The sight of a young lady who resembled her daughter so closely was naturally shocking.

Just as Pei Yuanxi was about to kneel behind Madam Shen and Pei Yuanjun, she saw Concubine Kang totter over and grasp her hand tightly. With her world-weary eyes brimming with tears, she stared at Pei Yuanxi unblinkingly.

Confusion filled her gaze, and she seemed utterly lost.

Marquis Xuanping was the first to react. "Mother, this is Sanniang."

"Sanniang?" Kang's gaze gradually cleared. "So this is Sanniang. It seems Grandmother has never truly taken a good look at you. Child, come sit with me."

Behind Shen, Pei Yuanjun pinched her thigh in confusion. What was going on? Shouldn't Grandmother have called someone over to confront them? Why did her attitude change so drastically after seeing Third Sister? And who was this Lian'er?

Not even Shen knew that Marquis Xuanping had an elder sister who had passed away early.

"Nanny Yun," whispered the nanny, "Now that Third Young Lady is here, shouldn't you inquire about the origins of the jade pendant?"

Kang understood and released Pei Yuanxi's hand, allowing her to stand aside.

Confused, Pei Yuanxi obediently knelt beside Shen. Seeing her like this, Kang unexpectedly felt a deeper affection for her. This child might seem foolish, but she wasn't one without manners.

People's hearts were easily swayed. Facing a face that resembled Lian'er's by seven or eight points, Kang's heart tilted unknowingly.

"Let Second Sister speak first."

With tears in her eyes, Pei Yuanjun repeated her previous explanation. In the end, she still said, "Grandmother, it's not that I can't bear to part with a jade pendant. It's just that the pendant holds extraordinary meaning, as it was a birthday gift from my maternal grandmother when I turned ten. I'm willing to exchange it for something else with Third Sister."

Kang's expression was grave as she asked Pei Yuanxi, "Sanniang, tell me."

On Pei Yuanxi's face, fury and injustice were etched, like a child wrongly accused by elders and unable to defend herself. "Grandmother, I didn't. It was clearly Second Sister who gave it to me. I didn't steal it."

The dispute persisted, just as before.

All the witnesses were servants of Xuanting Courtyard. While some attested that they saw Pei Yuanxi leaving with her sleeves hidden, others claimed to have witnessed her taking the jade pendant.

Pei Yuanxi's neck stiffened, her small face flushed with anger. "If that person saw me take it, why didn't she stop me?"

Pei Yuanjun's heart skipped a beat, and she instinctively clenched her palms.

The maid was brought forward. Madam Kang sternly repeated the same question three times. At first, she insisted that she had seen it clearly, but when questioned why she hadn't spoken up at the time, she changed her story, saying she hadn't seen well enough and thus didn't dare to make a fuss.

Madam Kang flew into a rage and ordered the maid to be beaten with twenty strokes of the cane, to be carried out and punished in the courtyard.

The sound of the wooden cane striking flesh made everyone's hearts race, and the maid's mouth remained un gagged. At first, she cried out for justice, but later, she repeatedly begged for Second Miss to save her.

Madam Shen, having been immersed in the inner household for years, sensed that the situation might not be entirely as Yuanjun described.

Pei Yuanjun's heart tightened further, her face turning frighteningly pale. Almost unconsciously, she glanced at the witnesses on that side.

At this moment, the maid who previously mentioned seeing Pei Yuanxi leave with her sleeves covering her hands confessed. She admitted that she couldn't tolerate Pei Yuanxi's disrespect towards her own lady and felt aggrieved for her lady having to share a courtyard with a concubine's daughter. Thus, she deliberately gave Pei Yuanxi the jade pendant, claiming it was from Pei Yuanjun.

Madam Shen was furious. She naturally didn't doubt her own daughter, assuming that the servants were looking down on Pei Yuanxi and making things difficult for her. A mere maid dared to take matters into her own hands and torment her half-sister. Such audacity called for immediate punishment – she would be sold.

"These wicked and deceitful servants dare to deceive their masters. My previous negligence almost allowed them to deceive us. Thankfully, Mother intervened, preventing any discord between the two sisters."

Upon hearing this, Pei Yuanjun also bowed her head in apology, acknowledging her mistake in believing the servants' lies and almost blaming Pei Yuanxi unjustly. The maid was originally to be sold, but after Pei Yuanjun pleaded desperately, she was instead demoted to work at the manor.

The situation took a turn for the better, as if a dark cloud had lifted.

Both Madam Kang and Marquis Xuanping wore expressions of relief mixed with anger. Only Pei Yuanxi looked bewildered, her young face reflecting confusion as she looked from one person to another, seemingly unsure of what was happening.

"Is that how it really was?" She asked, puzzled by the unfolding events.

Madam Shen apologized gently and promised to compensate her with another jade pendant.

Pei Yuanxi didn't seem pleased; instead, she swallowed, "Mother, these jade pendants are too troublesome. One moment they're said to be given to me, then the next I'm accused of taking them. It's enough to give anyone a headache. I'd rather have some iced milk pudding."

A child who valued iced milk pudding over a jade pendant would never be suspected of stealing for the sake of wealth.

Madame Kang was not Madame Shen, and as an outsider, she understood the intricacies of this situation more clearly than anyone else. It was precisely because of this understanding that she felt deeply disappointed in Pei Yuanjun.

If the one lying were Sanniang, it would be somewhat understandable, given her impaired mental state and her tendency to speak confusedly due to memory lapses. However, if the liar turns out to be Er Niang, that would indicate a flaw in her character that cannot be condoned.

The young ladies of our household, each born and raised distinctively. Over the years, I have observed that you all have conducted yourselves admirably, and the daughters of our Marquisate are spoken of with praise whenever their names are mentioned. Nevertheless, upon closer scrutiny, there are still areas that warrant improvement. I implore you to enforce stricter discipline henceforth, lest a grave mistake be made that would bring disgrace upon the honor of our Marquisate.

This is a veiled criticism of the Shen family.

Madam Shen and Aunt Zhao both received the lesson with grace.

The matter is now clear; it was these servants who caused the discord between our mistresses. It seems you have had a difficult time taking care of Erniang. Sanniang, from now on, I'll take charge of her upbringing," Madam Kang spoke again, indirectly acknowledging Pei Yuanxi's residence in the pavilion.

With the farce concluded, Madam Shen arrived in a rage and left with humiliation etched on her face.

Pei Yuanjun followed behind, biting her lip. "Matron Luo, is Mother angry with me?"

Why hadn't Mother spoken to her after leaving Changhui Courtyard?

Madam Shen was indeed upset, but not about who was right or wrong in the incident. She was frustrated with Yuanjun's lack of finesse. Regardless of the objective or if she wanted to punish someone, one needed to consider all angles and be meticulous in execution. Such glaring flaws and vulnerability were utterly disgraceful.

Madam Lao's gaze was veiled with subtle meaning as she said, "Second Miss, you are the rightful daughter of the Marquisate and the sole daughter of the Lady. How could the Lady possibly be angry with you?"

"Why does Mother refuse to speak with me? Have I somehow disappointed her?"

"Second Miss, your mother has only you as her daughter. She dotes on you with all her heart, hoping for a life of wealth and honor for you. As a legitimate daughter, it is beneath you to engage in disputes with your half-sister. Today's incident has ended with your servants overstepping their bounds and disrespecting their master. How could Lady Elder and the Marquis not have their concerns? In the inner chambers, the art of scheming is not about the means used, but about avoiding suspicion and leaving no room for others to seize an advantage."

These words truly resonated with Shen's heart. There were many things, including the sordid affairs of the inner chambers, that she seldom mentioned to Yuanjun. She believed that with her protection in her natal family, her Yuanjun would not be wronged after marrying back into the marquisate. Therefore, she was unwilling for her daughter to know about those things that could not be brought to light.

Reflecting on the events of today, she was both frustrated and ashamed - frustrated with Yuanjun's improper handling of matters, and ashamed that she had failed to properly educate her daughter. It seemed that in the future, she would need to impart some wisdom to Yuanjun to prevent any missteps in the intricate world of the inner household.

After Mama Lao explained in great detail, Pei Yuanjun finally understood why Madam Shen was upset. She still felt uneasy, but if not for her father and grandmother's protection, she wouldn't have ended up in such an embarrassing situation.

"I feel that Mother seems to like Third Young Lady very much, as well as Father and Grandmother. They all seem to favor her. As the legitimate daughter, I am the one who ends up pushed aside," said Pei Yuanjun, lifting her head high. The pride of being a legitimate daughter forbade her from appearing downcast. However, she couldn't shake off a nagging worry that her younger sister, born of a concubine, might snatch away everything that belonged to her.

"How can Second Miss think that way? Third Young Lady is just simple-minded; Marquis Changqi and the Old Lady merely pity her. No matter how favored she is in the household, how could she ever surpass Second Miss you? Not only are you the legitimate daughter of the marquis's residence, but you're also the direct granddaughter of Marquis Changqi's family. In the entire Eastern Capital City, how many young ladies can boast of such an excellent background? Why should you concern yourself with a mere concubine-born sister?"

Feeling much better, Pei Yuanjun's arrogance showed even more prominently on her face. Mama Lao was right—she was her mother's only daughter, and no matter what she did, her mother would always support her. She was also the sole legitimate daughter of the marquis's residence, and no one could surpass her.

As her maternal family, Marquis Changqi's residence would naturally do everything to uphold her reputation.

For her coming-of-age ceremony, Madam Gu had already made her second visit. This time, she had come bearing gifts – numerous trunks and an elaborate ceremony that demonstrated the importance Marquis Changqi placed on his granddaughter.

When Madam Gu arrived at Changhui Courtyard to meet Madam Kang, she caught sight of Pei Yuanxi.

As a member of the maternal family, she naturally had heard some whispers. She knew about how much Marquis Xuanping valued his illegitimate, foolish daughter, as well as the matter of Pei Yuanxi being raised under Madam Kang's care.

She was privy to some of the inside story too.

Upon seeing the harmonious scene between the grandmother and granddaughter, her eyes flickered with emotion.

Feeling honored, Madam Kang displayed pride in her daughter-in-law's family's contribution to their granddaughter's reputation. During this time, Marquis Xuanping brought Pei Ji over, and Madam Kang playfully mentioned that Pei Yuanxi could be a handful, suggesting that Pei Ji take his sister out to play.

Madam Gu sensed the affection and intimacy in Madam Kang's words, which slightly surprised her. Hearing Marquis Xuanping praise his daughter's handwriting further startled her. By the time Pei Ji referred to Pei Yuanxi as his sister, she was no longer amazed.

It seemed not only did Marquis Xuanping hold the third young lady from the concubine line in high regard, but even Elder Madam Kang and the eldest son of the Pei family treated her with great importance.

Exiting Changhui Courtyard, Madam Gu expressed her sentiments to her confidante, "This Marquis Xuanping household is truly peculiar. They neglect their legitimate daughter while uplifting an illegitimate fool."

"Does Madam feel injustice for Miss Yuanxi?" her maid asked.

It's not that I feel injustice for Yuanjun, to be frank, her disposition isn't endearing. She's neither gentle nor considerate, nor is she compliant and charming. I worry that Yin Ge'er might suffer in the future. Not to mention that I am merely his aunt by marriage, even if she were my own niece, I would still prioritize Yin Ge'er's welfare above all else. With no biological brother to rely on and no elders to pity her, what can she possibly offer to Yin Ge'er?

The Marquis Changqi's estate was declining day by day. Her Yin Ge'er was talented and ambitious, in need of a powerful alliance through marriage. If such an alliance could not provide support and influence, what purpose would it serve?

She held Yuanjun in low esteem and similarly disapproved of her sister-in-law's actions over the years. As the matriarch of the Marquis's estate, why should it matter that she had not birthed a legitimate son? The proper course would be to elevate a devoted maidservant to the position of concubine, then bring the son she bore, though not of primary status, under her own care. In doing so, she would ensure that her daughter had a brother upon whom she could rely – that was the true wisdom.

How rare it is to find a sister-in-law so focused solely on her darling daughter, raising a legitimate daughter with an overly elevated sense of self and lacking adaptability. Such a girl, when married into another family, would similarly disregard the greater picture, caring only for her own small domain. How could she possibly be a capable and wise helpmate to Yin Ge'er?

Her expression was chilly. "Just because she's a legitimate daughter doesn't mean she's any better. If Miss Third from the Pei family were of fine character, I'd say she suits the role better than Yuanjun."

The old servant was perplexed. "Madam, how can a concubine's child compare to the worth of a legitimate child?"

You are unaware of this, but did you observe the manner in which Old Lady Kang treated Third Miss Pei just now? It was evident that she holds her in the highest regard, almost as if she pains to see her suffer. It's said that Third Miss Pei bears a striking resemblance to Master Pei's late elder sister. Truly, the workings of fate are inscrutable. Among the four young ladies of the Marquis's residence, it is Third Miss Pei who resembles that particular aunt. They say she is destined for a short life, but in my estimation, she is blessed with a fortune as deep as the seas and skies.

"Moreover, Lord Pei kept referring to my Sanniang as 'my family's Sanniang' this and that. I recall he only addressed Yuanjun by her given name. Anyone with eyes could see the affection Lord Pei's son had for Third Miss Pei; he called her 'sister,' not 'Third Sister.' Not even Yuanjun, let alone the eldest Miss of the Pei family, received such treatment. A girl with the love and support of her elder relatives, even if she's a concubine-born, is better off than a proud and solitary legitimate daughter. If it were Third Young Lady in this match, I'd say there would be some merit in it."

The old servant nodded repeatedly, deeply convinced by her ladyship's reasoning. "It's just a shame that Third Miss Pei is simple-minded. I've heard she has excellent calligraphy skills, and even the Prince's heir personally selected the gift she sent over this time."

Shen Changyin lavished praise on Pei Yuanxi's calligraphy, not looking down on her despite her being labeled as foolish. Gu Shi secretly mused that if Third Miss Pei were not a fool, even as a concubine's daughter, she would surpass Yuanjun in many ways.

"Yes, I've heard Yin Ge'er speak of her with high praise. If the situation were reversed, it would certainly be more pleasing."

Unbeknownst to the maid and her mistress, their private conversation was being secretly monitored. The words reached Pei Yuanjun's ears in no time, stirring her into a fit of rage.

She wasn't worthy of Chang Yin, but that fool was?

So, in her aunt's eyes, she was that despicable. No wonder, despite both families' intentions for an alliance over the years, no clear proposal had ever been made. It turned out that her aunt was dissatisfied.

What on earth was so great about that fool?

Silence fell upon the room as the servants dared not utter a sound.

She watched coldly as the mess was cleaned up, then observed as new tea sets were brought in and fresh tea brewed for her. After sipping two cups, her gaze grew even more icy.

"That fool doesn't deserve to compete with me!"

Madam Shen felt a sense of relief when she heard that her daughter intended to deliver the congratulatory gift personally to the waterside pavilion. However, when she learned that it was also an attempt to reconcile with Pei Yuanxi, her heart ached inexplicably. After all, this was her own flesh and blood. Even knowing that her daughter had made a mistake, she, as a mother, couldn't bear to criticize harshly.

Madam Gu brought the congratulatory gift to the door. As Pei Yuanxi had previously lived in Xuanting Courtyard, a gift was also prepared for Marquis Changqi's residence. It was a set of four treasures of the study, clearly chosen with thought.

Pei Yuanjun opened the gift box to reveal a wolf-hair brush as lustrous as bamboo green jade, causing her pupils to contract sharply.

Selected personally, indeed, much thought has been put into it.

Brother Chang Yin...

She would never tolerate anyone stealing what belonged to her, let alone someone vying for Chang Yin's affection. He was the man she had dreamed of marrying since childhood, and no one could sabotage her destiny with him.

Jade tube with a wolf-hair brush, that fool is not worthy of it.

The waterside pavilion was the most serene and cool retreat within the Marquis's residence. Amidst the sweltering heat of summer, it alone retained a hint of refreshing chill. Verdant tree shades, lush flowers and thriving plants, along with peculiar rocks and artificial hills, all came together with the gentle flow of a tiny bridge over the stream, forming a picturesque scene.

Compared to this place, let alone the Xuanting Courtyard, even the Changhui Courtyard where the Old Lady resides pales in comparison.

With each step Pei Yuanjun took, her hatred intensified. When she finally laid eyes on Pei Yuanxi, leisurely enjoying snacks and watching the fish in the pavilion, all her resentment reached its peak.

Pei Yuanxi's forehead was clear of hair, revealing her charming and enchanting features. She wore a delicate pink dress of sheer silk, light and airy, with a hairpin adorned with jade and pearls in the form of blossoms adorning her head.

Fresh and serene, with an air of leisurely ease.

A mere concubine's daughter, and one who is addled with foolishness. She lives in accommodations superior to those of the legitimate daughter, and enjoys privileges even the latter has never known. On what grounds does she deserve all this?

The Four Treasures of the Study were laid out on the table, bringing a sudden glow of delight to Pei Yuanxi's face.

"For me?" Her surprise was tinged with suspicion and a shadow of fear. Her unfocused eyes met Pei Yuanjun's, and a hint of lingering dread flashed across her face. "You're not going to accuse me of stealing them again, are you?"

Pei Yuanjun forced a smile. "That incident was a misunderstanding. Grandmother has already uncovered the truth, so Third Sister should let it go. This set of calligraphy tools was a congratulatory gift from my maternal family. Considering we share the same birthday, I thought I'd include you."

"I hope they really are for me. I don't want to be labeled a thief again," grumbled Pei Yuanxi discontentedly, eyeing the box with curiosity.

Upon seeing that it indeed contained the full set of calligraphy tools, she couldn't contain her joy.

Pei Yuanjun deliberately picked up the jade-tube wolf-hair brush, her voice low. "Look at this brush. The tube is made from fine green jade, warm in winter and cool in summer when held. Do you like it?"

"Very much," Pei Yuanxi nodded eagerly, reaching out to take it.

"Third Sister, some things are not your due. This set of calligraphy tools was personally chosen by Brother Chang Yin. Do you know who he is? He is the legitimate son of Marquis Changqi. Since he was five, my uncle has sought imperial approval to appoint him as heir. Born into nobility and grace, how could he, someone of such high birth, be within the reach of a foolish concubine's daughter like you? How dare you think you're worthy of something he has chosen?"

Pei Yuanjun's lips curved into an odd smile. With a gentle drop of her hand, the jade-tube brush hit the floor, breaking into two crisp halves.

Pei Yuanxi was stunned. "You broke my brush! You have to pay for it!"

"Third Sister, it was clearly your own carelessness. You can't blame me," Pei Yuanjun's eyes reddened with urgency, but when she looked at Pei Yuanxi, there was a hidden meaning in her gaze. "Third Sister, once is enough. The jade pendant incident wasn't long ago, and yet you're resorting to the same trick. I sincerely came to reconcile with you by presenting a gift, but you still want to harm me. I... really misjudged you!"

Confusion on her face turned into arrogance, and Pei Yuanxi's expression resembled that of an angry child. "It was you who did it! You broke it, yet you're blaming me. I'm going to find Father, I'm going to find Grandmother!"

"What's going on?" came Shen's voice. She had followed out of concern and heard Pei Yuanxi's voice before even entering the courtyard, causing her heart to skip a beat.

Upon seeing the broken brush on the ground, she widened her eyes in disbelief. Her fears had come true, how could this happen again?

"Yuanjun, what happened?" she asked sternly.

With red-rimmed eyes, Pei Yuanjun explained, "Third Sister was overly excited and didn't hold the brush steady, causing it to break. She must be afraid of Mother scolding her, so she's trying to pin the blame on me. I..."

"It's not like that," Pei Yuanxi cried out. "Mother, it was Second Sister who deliberately broke it. She didn't want to give me the brush."

Shen's head spun from the conflicting accounts. Once more, they were at loggerheads. What made matters worse was that their maidservants were also present, each supporting their respective mistress.

"Sanniang, your Second Sister specially brought you a birthday gift. She wouldn't do something like this intentionally. Perhaps it was an accident, or maybe you didn't catch it properly. It's just a brush; Mother will buy you another one."

She wished to downplay the incident and avoid escalating it further, for fear that it might reach the Old Lady and cause her unnecessary distress.

Unfortunately, her intentions were lost on Pei Yuanxi and Pei Yuanjun.

"Mother, Second Sister said it was something chosen by a prince, and that I'm not worthy of it. I don't even know this so-called prince, so why should I care about being worthy or not? I want my jade brush!"

A heavy feeling settled in Shen's heart as she instinctively turned to look at Pei Yuanjun.

Pei Yuanjun, filled with resentment, began to sob. "Mother, last time it was indeed the servants who deceived you, but this time, it was your daughter who saw it with her own eyes. Can Mother really allow Third Sister to falsely accuse me? It was clearly Third Sister who broke it, yet she tries to blame it on me. Mother, please seek justice for me!"

"No, Mother, it was Second Sister," Pei Yuanxi retorted, hopping with anger and her face flushed red.

Shen felt both headache and heartache. She spoke to Pei Yuanxi, "Sanniang, your Second Sister witnessed it herself this time. You mustn't slander her. It's just a brush; Mother will give you two more. Now, apologize to your Second Sister."

A hint of triumph flashed across Pei Yuanjun's face, her gaze tinged with provocation. She knew that her mother would always side with her, for she was her biological daughter.

This fool didn't deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as her.

Pei Yuanxi's voice sounded muffled. "Mother, I'm not lying. Liars are the wicked ones."

Madam Shen felt a sharp pang in her heart at the sight of Sanniang. She couldn't bear to see her like this. Yet, why did these two children seem to be ill-fated, always causing disasters whenever they met?

She had come out of concern, only to find that she was still too late.

"Yuanjun?"

"Mother, I am your own flesh and blood. Don't you trust me?"

Trust.

How could she not trust her own daughter? Even if she didn't, she had to.

Madam Shen found herself in a dilemma and attempted once more to persuade Pei Yuanxi. But Pei Yuanxi wouldn't have it. Her confused eyes were innocent and pitiful, on the verge of tears, with moisture already pooling in the corners.

"Mother, I'm not a bad person. I'm foolish, but I'm not evil."

"Mother never said you were a bad person..." Madam Shen tried to comfort her. Witnessing her tears rolling down like pearls, her heart felt as if it was being pierced by a blade, bleeding yet oblivious to the pain. "I know Sanniang isn't a bad person."

"You do, Mother. You don't believe me, you think I'm the lying, evil one. Mother, a fool isn't necessarily evil. Does being not foolish automatically make someone good?"

Madame Shen's heart ached once more, contracting into a tight knot that left her gasping for air. Sanniang... Sanniang's words were like daggers piercing her heart, finally stirring an overwhelming pain in her already wounded soul.

Pei Yuanjun's eyes brimmed with hatred. Her mother was showing weakness, compassion for this fool. For some inexplicable reason, she found this half-sister extremely irritating, as if only the girl's disappearance could alleviate her inner terror. Without thinking, she reached out and pushed Pei Yuanxi.

Pei Yuanxi's head tilted, colliding with the pillar of the pavilion.

It all happened in an instant, leaving Madame Shen stunned.

"Yuanjun, you..."

"Mother, I didn't mean to. Who would have thought Third Sister was so fragile? What should we do now... Grandmother and Father will surely blame me when they find out."

Before Chunyue could cry out, Madame Shen gave Laomama a subtle signal. Laomama promptly covered Chunyue's mouth and dragged her aside, then hurriedly sent someone to fetch a doctor.

Madame Shen's heart pounded wildly, overwhelmed by a sense of unease. Gazing at her daughter's panicked face, she forced herself to harden her heart. No matter how pitiful Sanniang was, she couldn't compare to her own flesh and blood.

"Don't be afraid, Yuanjun. Mother is here."

Madame Shen's reassurance calmed Pei Yuanjun's turmoil, and she gradually composed herself. A wicked thought flashed through her mind—how wonderful it would be if Third Sister never woke up.

When Lady Kang and Marquis Xuanping arrived, Pei Yuanxi was still unconscious. Her forehead was wrapped in white bandages, and her face was as pale as paper, showing no signs of stirring.

Lady Shen was weeping, overwhelmed with self-reproach and grief.

Through her sobs, Lady Kang and Marquis Xuanping learned what had transpired. After receiving the congratulatory gift, Pei Yuanxi had been overjoyed, dancing about with excitement. Unfortunately, she lost her balance and fell, shattering the jade writing brush and simultaneously hitting her head.

Pei Yuanjun clenched her palms tightly, endlessly blaming herself for not keeping a closer eye on Pei Yuanxi.

It was an unforeseen accident, and Lady Kang could not blame either mother or daughter for it.

Marquis Xuanping dispatched a summons for the imperial physician, who turned out to be the same Doctor Gong who had treated Pei Yuanxi before. Upon hearing that it was the Third Young Lady of the marquis household who was injured, he inwardly wondered which deity this Third Miss Pei had offended, for her life seemed beset with so many tribulations.

After examining her pulse, applying acupuncture, and prescribing medicine, Pei Yuanxi still remained unconscious.

Everyone sat in the outer chamber, their faces grave. She had simply fallen and yet couldn't awaken. Even Doctor Gong said her forehead injury wasn't severe; no one knew why she didn't regain consciousness.

"Madam, I'm somewhat worried," Mother Lao whispered to Madam Shen. "Aunt Li did mention something about Third Miss's fate… Perhaps it's because her blessings are too great for her to bear."

Madam Kang shot a sharp glance. "What fate?"

Nanny Luo spoke in a hushed tone, recounting Aunt Li's tale, her voice growing more and more anxious as she went on, her eyes filled with worry and suspicion by the end.

Aside from the explanation that Pei Yuanxi had a short-lived fate and couldn't accumulate blessings, there was no other way to rationalize the series of misfortunes that befell her since she gained attention. She fell ill with a high fever shortly after moving into the Xuanting Courtyard, and then Aunt Li nearly set herself ablaze after the Marquis Xuanping took a liking to her. Now, just after relocating to the waterside pavilion, she had a mishap and wouldn't wake up despite the imperial physicians claiming her injuries were minor.

Upon hearing Nanny Luo's words, Marquis Xuanping's expression darkened. "Nonsense! It was clearly an accidental fall. How can you say it's because of a weak fate?"

He refused to believe it. This was an accident.

"Marquis, I fear there might be something sinister at play. For something like this to happen to Sanniang right after she started living with Mother, could it not be because she lacks the fortune to endure it? The imperial physicians said her injuries aren't severe, so why won't she awaken?" Madam Shen had recovered by now, and for the sake of Yuanjun, she could only apologize to Sanniang.

All fell silent. If the first time was disbelief, and the second time disregard, then with a third occurrence, suspicion and doubt would inevitably start to creep in.

Compassion flickered in Lady Kang's eyes, and she silently recited the Buddha's name. Despite having known this granddaughter for less than two days, she had already developed a special attachment to her.

Though Sanniang might seem naive, her obedience tugs at one's heartstrings. Despite her evident lack of understanding, she behaves as if she comprehends everything. The mere sight of Sanniang's resemblance to Lian'er brings solace to her heart.

If Lian'er were to grow up, she would likely bear a resemblance to this.

"The imperial physicians have all said that the injuries aren't severe. Why are you uttering such disheartening words? There's no doubt that Sanniang will be just fine."

Marquis Xuanping surveyed the faces around him and said, "I don't believe it either. I'm sure Sanniang will be just fine."

With the mother and son taking such a stance, no one else dared to comment.

As they waited until almost midnight, Madam Kang began to feel overwhelmed and was escorted back by Nurse Yun to rest. Madam Shen asked Marquis Xuanping to return home, but she would stay behind and keep watch. The Marquis shook his head; he insisted on waiting.

His decision left Madam Shen with no choice but to stay as well.

Pei Yuanjun was filled with hatred, but she didn't leave either. Staring at Pei Yuanxi, who was lying in bed in the inner chamber, her maliciousness was barely concealed. If Third Sister didn't wake up, no one would know about any of the incidents, and no one would compete or fight with her for anything.

For a fleeting moment, an even more insane thought crossed her mind. If Father wasn't here, could she do something to ensure that Third Sister never regained consciousness?

Once someone became obsessed, their desire was like an uncontrollable wildfire. She glanced into the inner chamber several times, and her madness intensified with each look.

Madam Shen occasionally caught sight of the madness in Pei Yuanjun's eyes and felt a chill run down her spine. "Yuanjun, you should go back and rest. Tomorrow...your father and I can take turns keeping watch."

Tomorrow was her fifteenth birthday, the most significant day before her marriage. All her friends and relatives, as per the arrangement, would come to witness the ceremony. She needed to rest well and gather her strength.

Marquis Xuanping also urged her to return, but she persisted until almost three quarters past midnight before finally leaving.

Matron Luo bustled about, administering medicine to Pei Yuanxi several times in the process. More of the medicine seemed to spill than be swallowed. Marquis Xuanping's heart sank. If even the medicine couldn't be fed to her, then what of his Sanniang...

Just as dawn was breaking, a servant reported that Aunt Li had returned to the estate.

Aunt Li had wept all the way from the side gate to the pavilion. At this point, Marquis Xuanping could not afford to reprimand her nor had the time to investigate who had informed her, or who had allowed her to leave the manor.

Collapsing at the entrance, she wailed, "Third Young Lady, I'm here too late."

Veins pulsed visibly on Marquis Xuanping's forehead. "Sanniang is still alive. Why are you crying like it's a funeral?"

"Milord, I have sinned! It's my fault. Oh heavens, if you must take someone, take me instead. Don't take my Third Young Lady. I know you're angry, blaming me for not watching over her. Please, for the sake of her being just a child, spare her this once. I beg of you, I'll kowtow to you."

Her head hit the ground with a thud.

Madam Shen felt her heart skip a beat, and her exhausted and worried appearance made her look terrible. She covered her weak chest and gestured for Aunt Li to come inside to speak.

"You're back now, so go see Sanniang."

Aunt Li wiped away her tears and struggled to her feet, stumbling into the room. Upon entering the inner chamber and seeing Pei Yuanxi's deathly pale face lying on the bed, she rushed over and burst into tears.

"Third Young Lady, Third Young Lady, why won't you listen to Aunt Li? Aunt Li only wants you to grow up safely and live a stable life. Your fate is as fragile as paper, so why do you defy the heavens?" She wept until she was on the verge of fainting.

Madam Shen also wiped away tears. "If I had known her fate was like this, I should never have allowed her to follow her own whims. Marquis Xuanping, it's not too late yet. Perhaps we should let her return to her original courtyard..."

Aunt Li, clutching at straws, crawled to Marquis Xuanping's feet. "It's not too late, Marquis, it's not too late... The monk said that Third Young Lady's fifteenth birthday would be a major obstacle. Fearing for her safety, I left the manor without permission. After this incident, I'll accept any punishment from the Marquis. For Third Young Lady's sake, any punishment Marquis dishes out is fine with me..."

"You say it's not too late, what do you mean? Is there a solution?" Madam Shen asked anxiously.

"Yes, there is one method. The monk once told this servant that if Third Young Lady truly encounters calamity, another person's fate could be used in its place. A husband and wife's shared heart can bring good fortune and change destiny."

Bring good fortune?

Madam Shen's mind raced; indeed, such a practice existed.

In both noble households and common folk, there were examples of bringing good fortune to avert disaster. However, Sanniang wasn't engaged, and she was mentally challenged. Where would they find someone to bring good fortune on such short notice?

Furthermore, this was about exchanging destinies – an ordinary family wouldn't consent to it.

Marquis Xuanping pondered. Although he didn't believe in fate, given Sanniang's condition, it was better to believe than to disbelieve. If it could save his daughter, the idea of bringing good fortune was feasible. The issue was finding the right candidate... He couldn't just grab someone off the street.

"Marquis, I believe we must at least attempt it for Sanniang's sake," Madam Shen said.

"Is there someone suitable in mind?" Marquis Xuanping asked.

Madam Shen shook her head. Honestly, even if Sanniang were not currently unconscious, it would still be challenging to find a suitable husband for her. Wealthy families wouldn't dare to marry an idiotic daughter-in-law for fear of losing face, while poorer households couldn't afford to support or manage a foolish wife.

The couple exchanged glances, both aware of the difficulty they faced.

A surge of frustration rushed to Marquis Xuanping's head. "I refuse to believe we can't find anyone!"

Seeing him about to leave, Madam Shen was startled. "Marquis, where are you going?"

"There will always be a brave man for a generous reward."

"Marquis!" Aunt Li hastily called after him. "You mustn't make a spectacle for Third Young Lady. If word gets out, it'll tarnish your reputation. Third Young Lady is already ill-fated. If we forcefully bring back a man who doesn't willingly consent, not only would it fail to bring good fortune, but it might even create enmity and sins. Wouldn't that be another burden on her?"

Madam Shen realized Aunt Li had a point.

Marquis Xuanping halted, his anger mixed with helplessness.

Aunt Li bowed her head, lost in thought before hastily suggesting, "This servant has someone in mind who would undoubtedly consent. But I'm afraid Lord Marquis and Lady might not approve..."

"Who is it? Speak quickly. There's no time for hesitation now," Madam Shen urged.

"It's my nephew from my maiden family."

Marquis Xuanping drew a sharp breath. If it was Aunt Li's nephew, that meant he was a servant of Marquis Changqi's household. She dared to propose such a match—a mere servant for his daughter!

Madam Shen was initially taken aback but then fell into deep contemplation.

Matron Lao, observing the situation, whispered softly, "Madam, you've met Rulan's cousin from her maternal family before. As a child, he even served as Prince's reading companion and was known for his wit and eagerness to learn. A couple of years ago, the Elder Madam showed him great favor by allowing him to attend school. She even mentioned that if he were to achieve something significant in the future, she would free his entire family from their bondaged status as slaves."

Recalling the matter, Madam Shen said, "Yes, I remember. He was a well-mannered and studious young man. I heard he was doing quite well in his studies at the academy."

Marquis Xuanping's expression softened somewhat, but even if he was a man of letters, he remained a servant at heart. His Sanniang, on the other hand, was a lady of the Marquis's household; by any account, she should not be matched with a mere servant.

Mother Lao continued, "Actually, if she were to be freed from servitude, she would be an excellent choice right now."

"Madam, my nephew has always held Third Young Lady dearest to his heart. He will surely agree to this. Let alone exchanging fate, I believe he would not hesitate even if it meant sacrificing his own life."

Madam Shen felt somewhat tempted, for indeed, there was no more suitable candidate. If that young man from the Li family were to be freed from his slave status and later succeed in the imperial examinations, he could be an excellent choice.

With the patronage of the Marquis's estate, securing a position would not be a difficult task. Precisely because he is to rely on the estate and is a recipient of the master's generosity, he will undoubtedly harbor gratitude and treat Sanniang with kindness.

Marquis Xuanping seemed to be in deep thought, pondering over the feasibility of the matter.

Aunt Li eagerly watched them, her gaze filled with earnest anticipation.

At that moment, a cough echoed from within the inner chamber.

Aunt Li's face paled, and her eyes met Mama Lao's in a solemn gaze.

Marquis Xuanping was the first to rush in. Upon seeing Pei Yuanxi already awake in bed, an unprecedented joy and relief filled his eyes.

"San Niang, you... you're awake?"

Pei Yuanxi had already opened her eyes and, hearing the commotion, turned to look at Marquis Xuanping. Her usually bewildered and unfocused eyes were now clear and sharp, as if they had gathered countless stars.

She gazed at Marquis Xuanping, "Father, I'm awake."