Chapter 94: A Fine Appearance

Chapter 94: A Fine Appearance

In the evening, Chunyue quietly led a maid into the waterside pavilion.

Inside the pavilion, Pei Yuanxi was entertaining Xiantian. Xiantian's fur had grown thicker, and with its added flesh, it appeared plump and adorably cuddly. It was dozing off on her lap with its eyes half-closed, looking incredibly well-behaved.

When the maid entered, Xiantian abruptly jumped up and barked fiercely.

Chunyue hastily carried Xiantian out. As they passed by the maid, Xiantian bared its teeth at her. The maid turned pale with fright and fell to her knees.

"Second Miss, I didn't want to do this. I dared not stop Fourth Miss from her actions. If I had, she would've taken my life," the maid kowtowed, clearly assuming that Pei Yuanxi had summoned her to settle old scores.

This maid was called Pin Xiang, a servant of Pei Yuanhua. On the day when Pei Yuanxi saved Xiantian, Pin Xiang was also present. Due to Pei Yuanhua's anger over the delayed news, she had been beaten up.

"Do you think I summoned you here for that reason?"

Pin Xiang trembled in fear. "Isn't Second Miss calling me here to make amends for Master Xiantian?"

When did Xiantian become a master? Pei Yuanxi sneered in ridicule. This was truly the saying, "When one person attains success, even their dog rises with them." Now that she had gained status and influence, even her pet dog was treated as a master.

"Not really. I actually need your help with something. Today, your Aunt Qiu seemed to be in good spirits. I was wondering if you could find out what kind of health regimen or remedy she's been using?"

Pin Xiang was caught off guard by this unexpected question and hesitated, "This servant doesn't know."

She was Pei Yuanhua's maid, and life under her mistress wasn't easy. Pin Xiang had no knowledge of what went on in Aunt Qiu's quarters, let alone the specifics of her health regimen.

No maiden was averse to beauty, and Pin Xiang assumed that the second miss, with her rare beauty, would be no exception. If she had known that Miss Pei would inquire about her, she would have tried to win over Aunt Qiu's attendants to learn about the secret recipe.

Pei Yuanxi didn't seem disappointed, "Think carefully. Has Aunt Qiu gone out seeking remedies, or has someone delivered items to the manor for her?"

Nothing that happened outside the gates or within the courtyard could escape notice, and Pin Xiang was aware of such matters. Aunt Qiu hadn't left the estate, but there had been a visit when she first became pregnant. The visitor was Aunt Qiu's sister-in-law from the Autumn family, who lived forty miles outside the Eastern Capital City.

Aunt Qiu's father was a scholar, and she herself was literate. However, her brother didn't follow the scholarly path and instead led an idle life.

As a concubine's relative, she wasn't considered a legitimate member of the noble household, so Aunt Qiu's sister-in-law always used the back entrance. Everyone in Aunt Qiu's quarters knew that whenever the Autumn family's sister-in-law visited, it was for money. The Autumn family relied on the funds Aunt Qiu discreetly provided.

"Other than your aunt's sister-in-law's visit, has there been anything unusual between your aunt and the young misses recently?"

Pin Xiang's heart stirred, and she dared not meet Pei Yuanxi's gaze. The whip wounds on her arm throbbed subtly, a constant reminder of past injuries that could easily be renewed. If not for the fourth miss's recent good mood, she might have suffered new ones.

Miss Fourth appeared charming and lovely on the surface, but in reality, she was ruthless.

Working under Miss Fourth was a nightmare; one wrong move would result in a lash. Pin Xiang was considered a favored maid, not because of her loyalty, but due to her tolerance of Miss Fourth's temperament.

When servants gathered to discuss their mistresses, all agreed that serving in Miss Second's courtyard was the most relaxed. Everyone in the household envied Chunyue when they mentioned her. Miss Fourth often cursed Miss Second behind her back, labeling her as wickedly cunning. Pin Xiang, having heard this frequently, believed Miss Second, who seemed like an ethereal beauty, was a vengeful person.

If Miss Second inquired about these matters, could it be...

Unfortunately, Pin Xiang truly knew nothing about Aunt Qiu's affairs. Recently, Miss Fourth had been in an unusually good mood, seemingly due to acquiring some valuable item. "Miss Second, there is indeed something unusual. I'm unsure if it's due to good care or a nourishing diet, but I've noticed that Aunt Qiu seems much younger. Also, our Miss Fourth, though others may not perceive it, appears significantly more attractive lately."

Pin Xiang spoke with guilt, fearing reprimand from Pei Yuanxi. She realized she was too eager to please Miss Second by mentioning such trivial matters.

To her surprise, Miss Second didn't scold her but praised her instead. "You're quick-witted. If there's an opportunity in the future, I'll find you a better position."

Overjoyed, Pin Xiang expressed her gratitude profusely before Chunyue dismissed her.

Dianxin entered and laid at Pei Yuanxi's feet again. Squinting in the warmth of the room, she occasionally yawned while enjoying her leisure.

"You certainly know how to indulge yourself," Pei Yuanxi stroked its fur appreciatively.

If Aunt Qiu hadn't ventured out of the house these past few days, then where did she get the Turn-the-Baby Pill? Did it come from her sister-in-law from the Qi family? With the Turn-the-Baby Pill in hand, there was bound to be other nefarious substances involved.

There were no further discussions that night. The next morning, when Pei Yuanxi went to pay her respects to Lady Kang, she encountered Aunt Qiu once again. Not only was Aunt Qiu present, but Pei Yuanhua was there too. The mother and daughter stood together like sisters, presenting a pleasing sight.

Being younger, any changes on Pei Yuanhua's body would be less noticeable. If not for Pei Yuanxi's careful observation, she might not have noticed the subtle shift in the younger girl's complexion.

Aunt Zhao and her daughter were also there. Pei Yuanruo smiled at Pei Yuanxi, gesturing a greeting.

Aside from Madam Shen, all the female members of the household were assembled. There were only a few of them, which was quite a number compared to many noble families' inner courtyards. Lady Kang observed calmly, her aged and worldly-wise gaze lingering a little longer on Aunt Qiu's face.

It wasn't surprising that she would take a second look. Aunt Qiu was indeed striking. Her dark-colored attire didn't make her appear old; instead, it accentuated her fair skin, giving it a lustrous, jade-like glow.

Among the concubines, Aunt Qiu had been the youngest and the last to join the household, so it was natural that she was younger than Aunt Zhao and others. What was abnormal was how youthful she looked, far from being a woman in her thirties. She seemed more like a vibrant maiden in the prime of her life.

Aunt Zhao's gaze swept across Aunt Qiu's face, revealing a well-timed expression of surprise.

Feeling pleased with herself, Aunt Qiu couldn't help but marvel at her own blossoming beauty even when looking into a mirror. With this allure, she was confident of winning back the Marquis's favor. Once she regained his affection, she could resume her enviable lifestyle as before.

"Madam, I realize my mistake," she said, feigning remorse, her sorrow appearing all the more touching. "As soon as my health improved, I came to apologize to you."

Pei Yuanhua also began to weep, and for a moment, only the sobs of mother and daughter could be heard in the room.

Madam Kang was too exhausted to keep up the emotional display. "Let bygones be bygones. You've suffered enough. There's no need to talk about atonement. I see that you took good care of yourself during your confinement. With proper care, you'll have another child."

Which elder did not wish for a large, bustling family? Madam Kang was no exception.

As she looked at the two concubines before her, she had actually considered finding one or two more confidantes for her son. But then she thought of Shen lady and recent events, and the idea was quickly extinguished by her own hand.

It was better to avoid unnecessary troubles; the marquis household could not endure any more upheaval.

Aunt Qiu felt a surge of joy in her heart. She believed that with her rejuvenated youth, regaining the marquis's favor would make conception a simple matter. "Please rest assured, Madam, I will give Lord Marquis a healthy, plump son."

The words "plump son" were perhaps not the most appropriate choice at this time.

Madam Kang's expression darkened, while Aunt Zhao remained composed.

The heir to the marquis title was already capable of handling affairs on his own. It seemed that not only Madam Kang, but also Marquis Xuanping, had no lingering desire for another plump grandson.

Aunt Qiu held her head high, her demeanor becoming increasingly charming. Beside her, Pei Yuanhua shared in her glory, his face brimming with pride. The mother and daughter, their faces beaming with joy, caused Kang to sigh inwardly.

Well, let it be.

Such a fool is not even worth scolding.

"Madam, Second Miss has secured a favorable marriage, which brings honor to our Marquisate. As the saying goes, a single tree does not make a forest, nor does a single flower signify spring. I am of the thought that, with Second Miss marrying into the Commander's Mansion, the matrimonial prospects of the other ladies in the household must not fall short. Would you not agree?"

When Aunt Qiu said this, she cast a sideways glance at Aunt Zhao and her daughter.

The elder lady was older than the second, and while the second lady already had an arranged marriage, there was no sign of one for the elder. She simply couldn't believe that Madam Zhao had no intentions in this matter.

Regardless of her intention behind the words, she has indeed hit the nail on the head.

Lady Kang pondered seriously. Normally, the marriage affairs of the young ladies from each household were decided by the head mistress. But when it came to that daughter-in-law, she could do nothing but sigh, at a loss for words.

Aunt Qiu continued, "Madam, I have been in the Marquis's residence for over a decade, and Fourth Miss is the only flesh and blood I have to my name. As I watch Fourth Miss blossom into an even more beautiful young lady, my heart is filled with sorrow instead. Born of the same father, Second Miss has married into a prestigious family due to her good looks, yet our Fourth Miss is no less attractive…"

"Nonsense!" Lady Kang rebuked angrily. "One's appearance guarantees a good marriage? What absurd logic is that!"

A wife should be chosen for her virtue, while concubines are taken for their beauty – this lady Qi truly has no sense of propriety. The first part of her statement is reasonable, but what does the second part mean? It's Lady Er Niang's good fortune to marry into the general's residence.

Aunt Qiu feigned distress. "Madame, I had no choice but to speak thus. Our lady is indifferent to household affairs; just look at Miss Eldest, who is older than Miss Second, yet there is not even a hint of a marriage proposal for her."

Madame Kang suppressed her irritation. "This is not your concern."

In the past, Aunt Zhao would have interjected to mediate. But today's matter involved Miss Eldest's marriage, and she knew that Aunt Qiu aimed to use the eldest daughter as leverage. Thus, she held her tongue.

Silence from Aunt Zhao conveyed her intention, which Madame Kang understood.

Pei Yuanruo had indeed reached an age when marriage proposals were expected. Yet, Madam Shen showed no signs of action, seemingly oblivious to her status as the head of the family and wallowing in sorrow.

Moreover, Madame Kang had reservations about Madam Shen's judgment in people.

"I am well aware of the situation. Don't dwell on it too much," Madame Kang said.

With permission granted, Aunt Zhao bowed in gratitude.

Aunt Qiu was not appeased. "Madame, it's not that I am being disrespectful. You must consider your age and how long it has been since you've socialized. Even if you're willing to take on the burden, I cannot bear to see you exhaust yourself."

Madam Kang glared at her. "Then what do you suggest?"

"I dare not say, but if I were to express my thoughts, I would dare to mention it. Second Miss will be the Lady of a Commander in the future. It would be disgraceful for her sisters to marry into lesser families. Fourth Miss's fate isn't fortunate for being born as a concubine's child, bearing the label of a 'consort-born' daughter that prevents her from securing a good match. Aristocratic families highly value the distinction between a legitimate and a concubine-born child. If she had the status of a legitimate daughter..."

"How daring you are!" Madam Kang was too furious to speak. Aunt Qiu seemed to think that noble families were blind. A concubine-born daughter would always be a concubine-born daughter, and an acknowledged legitimate daughter wouldn't necessarily be more valuable. "So you mean for Fourth Miss to be recognized under her mother's name, allowing her to marry as a legitimate daughter in the future?"

That was precisely Aunt Qiu's intention. Hearing this, she glanced at Aunt Zhao. "I'm not doing this for myself, but for First Miss's sake. First Miss is already well-known for her talent and beauty; she just lacks the status of a legitimate daughter. If First Miss were to be acknowledged by Madam, wouldn't that be like adding luster to brocade? As for Fourth Miss, I don't think she would mind having one more..."

Aunt Zhao cast a sidelong glance at Pei Yuanxi and said, "This must not happen. The distinction between legitimate and concubine-born children must not be disturbed. That's the rule."

Madam Kang's eyes lit up with appreciation. This was a wise woman.

"I'll keep an eye on First Miss and Fourth Miss's marriage arrangements. Remember your places and refrain from harboring any unrealistic aspirations. If anyone tries to disrupt the harmony of our household, I won't spare them!"

Everyone agreed in unison.

As Nurse Yun softly suggested that Madam Kang take a brief rest, Pei Yuanxi and Aunt Zhao bid their farewells first. Aunt Qiu and her daughter, still eager to show off and having failed to achieve their goal, reluctantly followed suit with their respects.

Madam Kang initially wanted to chat with her second granddaughter but changed her mind, realizing that anything she might say would likely be futile. Second Miss had strong opinions and was clear about her likes and dislikes. Their grandmother-granddaughter bond was already tenuous, and if she were to disappoint Second Miss, their relationship would become even more distant.

The group bid their farewells and departed in different directions after exchanging a few words. The pavilion by the water was closest to Changhui Courtyard, so Pei Yuanxi took a shortcut. Just as she turned a corner, Pei Yuanhua caught up with her. "Second Sister, wait for me."

Pei Yuanxi turned around and stood still, gazing at her thoughtfully.

"Second Sister, are you afraid that I'll outshine you?"

"Why would you think that?"

Pei Yuanhua's face lit up with a hint of smugness. "Second Sister, the only reason the Grand Marshal is interested in you is because of your looks. You've landed a good marriage, but you can't bear for others to be happy too. How sinister of you."

Pei Yuanxi's expression remained cold. "You're right, I did secure a good marriage because of my appearance. One's looks are a gift from their parents, something no one else can envy away."

"I knew you weren't a good person. I'm your younger sister, yet you have such a wicked heart." As Pei Yuanhua spoke, she pretended to casually glance towards a nearby spot.

Not far away was a man-made hill, an excellent spot for hiding.

Pei Yuanxi's gaze remained calm. "What did I say that made Fourth Sister label me as wicked?"

"You still claim you've done nothing? As Mother's own daughter, once your marriage was arranged, she neglected the welfare of the concubine-born girls. You dare say you didn't whisper anything to her? Father is a man, and Grandmother is too old. Can you bear the guilt for betraying their affection for you?" Pei Yuanhua accused, her face filled with reproach.

From behind the rockery, the corner of an official robe seemed to peek out, then swiftly retreated.

Aunt Qiu clung tightly to Marquis Xuanping, cooing softly, "My Lord, have mercy on Fourth Miss. Allow her to seek clarification from Second Miss."

Marquis Xuanping struggled free, annoyed and reluctant to lose face in front of his daughter.

Pei Yuanxi, over there, suddenly laughed. "What a wonderful daughter and granddaughter you are, thinking of Father and Grandmother. But what you just asked was rather amusing. You asked if I was afraid that you would steal my limelight. Let me tell you, it isn't so. Someone like you doesn't even register on my radar. Beauty is a gift from our parents, do you really believe that by consuming all sorts of random potions, you could possess a beauty like mine?"

The mention of 'random potions' left Pei Yuanhua pale with fright. "You... you... what nonsense are you spouting?"

"Whether I'm speaking nonsense or not, you know it yourself. The transformation Aunt Qiu underwent is plain for all to see. You actually believe in such fairy tales as reversing aging and eternal youth, without realizing the harm it might bring to your body."

Aunt Qiu's hands trembled as she clung to Marquis Xuanping. Under his mounting anger and suspicion, she dared not lift her head.

"What potions have you taken this time?" Marquis Xuanping gritted his teeth, wishing he could toss her out.

She tried to hold herself together. "My Lord, don't listen to Second Miss's nonsense. This concubine hasn't..."

A sudden exclamation interrupted her, and she heard Xiao E cry out that Miss Four had fainted. Abandoning her own defense, she rushed over with Marquis Xuanping.

Marquis Xuanping found himself increasingly embarrassed by the serene gaze of his second daughter.

Pei Yuanhua lay on the ground, and Pin Xiang was frantically trying to help her up. While Aunt Qiu and Marquis Xuanping were both focused on Pei Yuanhua, Pin Xiang, almost involuntarily, cast a glance at the standing Pei Yuanxi.

A maiden not yet in her second decade, serene beyond her years, with a beauty that defies description, seems untouched by the earthly hustle and bustle even amidst the biting cold and frozen earth.

Exquisitely beautiful, yet exceedingly cold.

"Second Miss, did you do something? Otherwise, why would Fourth Miss suddenly faint?" Aunt Qiu wept, her eyes filled with venom as they fixated on Pei Yuanxi's face.

Natural beauty truly was extraordinary and only fueled others' envy.

Marquis Xuanping roared in anger, "Nonsense! Quickly help Yuan Hua up."

Then, turning to Pei Yuanxi, he said, "Your fourth sister is frail; she fainted on her own, I saw it clearly. If anyone dares to speak ill of you in the future, I will not spare them lightly."

These words were meant for Aunt Qiu's ears, and they only intensified her hatred. The Marquis had clearly not seen what happened, yet he lied to protect the second miss – his favoritism was blatant.

Upon hearing the noble lord's words, Pin Xiang noticed the icy demeanor of the Second Miss vanish in an instant. Her beauty remained mesmerizing, yet it now seemed to carry a subtle warmth that was previously absent.

A person like the Second Miss was truly enigmatic in every sense.