Chapter 29: True Intentions Are Elusive

Chapter 29: True Intentions Are Elusive

The two walked side by side, one stern and commanding, the other gentle and polished. As they passed, the young women and wives on the street blushed shyly.

Pei Zhang spoke leisurely, "I've heard that the scenery in Jiangnan is beautiful. This southern inspection is a good opportunity to see the waters of Jiangnan. What does Commander Lu think?"

Lu Feng's dark eyes were deep, and he cut straight to the heart of the matter, "You plan to enter Jiangnan incognito."

"Indeed, nothing escapes Commander Lu's keen eye."

Pei Zhang gave a bitter smile, "The water bandits in Jiangnan are so rampant, yet the local officials have turned a blind eye. It's probable that they are already colluding with the bandits."

The imperial edict mentioned "eliminating the water bandits" followed by "cleaning up the bureaucracy," indicating that the Emperor was well aware of the situation.

"Not just that."

Lu Feng said indifferently, "The Emperor suspects collusion between corrupt officials and bandits, and that it involves officials from the capital."

The Emperor ultimately chose Pei Zhang as the Imperial Inspector, not solely because of Lu Feng's recommendation. Water bandits have plagued the region for generations but have never been as brazen as they are now, daring to ambush scholars traveling to the capital for the imperial examinations.

What are they relying on? Our mighty empire is strong and well-armed. How can a group of ragtag bandits be so fearless?

Unless they have high-ranking officials protecting them.

The Emperor delved deeper, suspecting that beyond the Jiangnan officialdom, there were also capital officials involved. Among the court officials, Pei Zhang, despite his brief tenure, was the most suitable candidate.

In terms of background, he was a scholar selected through the imperial examinations, of impeccable integrity. In terms of ability, he rose from Jiaozhou to the capital in just three years, well-versed in the complexities of local officialdom, and having just arrived in the capital, he had no connections with the capital's power factions. The Emperor had long considered him but hesitated due to his talent.

He was the first in the dynasty to achieve the top three honors in the imperial examinations, joining the imperial cabinet at a young age. Even if he didn't take on this task, following the usual path, his future prospects would not be bad.

This trip to Jiangnan, while seemingly glorious, was laden with peril.

The Emperor had tested Pei Zhang in the court, and Pei Zhang, fully aware of the risks, remained resolute. The Emperor granting him the Imperial Sword was not just an honor but also a symbol of protection.

Regarding Pei Zhang's plan to enter Jiangnan incognito, Lu Feng commented, "Lord Pei is shrewd."

The water bandits are brutal. For a scholar like Pei Zhang, rather than being a target in official robes, it would be better to go undercover to uncover the truth.

"It's a last resort. If it were Commander Lu today, you certainly wouldn't be lurking in the shadows like me."

Pei Zhang smiled bitterly, a sharp glint flashing in his gentle eyes, "The bandits are so rampant that even the Emperor's envoy must steer clear of their ferocity. This time, we will definitely eradicate them."

Perhaps surprised by Pei Zhang's courage, Lu Feng glanced at him and asked, "Why?"

Why must you involve yourself in the chaos of Jiangnan?

Pei Zhang laughed heartily, "To repay the Emperor's grace, to serve the populace, to eradicate the bandits, and to bring peace to the people of Jiangnan."

Lu Feng remained noncommittal, not even a flicker of emotion on his face.

"—However, beyond these lofty words, I am also a common man, wishing to ensure my family's prosperity and bring honor to my lineage."

Lu Feng's dark eyes deepened as he turned to look at him and asked again, "Why?"

Why have you taken such care of my eldest son? Why are you revealing your true intentions now?

With intelligent people, few words are needed.

Pei Zhang said, "Your son is clever and endearing, and I hold him dear. You need not worry."

"Moreover, upon closer consideration, I must presume to call Commander Lu 'brother-in-law,' for your... wife is the younger sister of my own."

"At the beginning of the year, your esteemed wife sent New Year's gifts to my residence. With the season's busyness, I had forgotten. Before heading south to Jiangnan, I should visit your wife with my family."

Commander Lu frowned slightly and said stiffly, "No need."

He clearly remembered his wife mentioning her rocky relationship with her half-sister from her mother's side.

She was always kind to others, so if they didn't get along, it must be the other person's fault. Since she didn't like it, why meet and upset her?

He said, "She... never mind, let's discuss matters without involving women."

Just as Commander Lu didn't bring outside affairs into his home, he also disliked discussing Jiang Wanrou in front of outsiders. She was his wife, and any mention by others was an intrusion.

He wouldn't let her become gossip fodder.

Pei Zhang's eyes flickered subtly. Being astute, he smoothly steered the conversation back to the Jiangnan water bandits. They walked together for a bit before parting at a fork in the road. Pei Zhang, being of lower rank, stood respectfully, waiting for Commander Lu to leave first. He watched his retreating figure for a long, long time.

***

Pei Residence, main courtyard.

A strong medicinal smell filled the entire courtyard. A maid carefully brought over a bowl of dark, bitter medicine and said gently, "Madam, your medicine is ready."

Jiang Wanying slightly raised her eyes and sighed wearily, "Put it there; I'll drink it later."

The maid placed the medicine on the table and, noticing the untouched bowl of candied fruits, couldn't help but advise, "Madam, you've already had three bowls. At least have a piece of candied fruit to ease the bitterness."

"The candied fruits are sweet; eating too much might interfere with the medicine's effectiveness."

Jiang Wanying gently stroked her still-flat belly and whispered, "Then all my efforts would be wasted."

The maid couldn't quite grasp her mistress's thoughts and gently reminded her, "Madam, no doctor has ever said that eating candied fruits affects the medicine's effectiveness. You're overthinking it."

"You silly girl, you wouldn't get it."

Jiang Wanying shook her head, picked up the bowl of dark medicine, and without hesitation, downed it in one go. The bitterness made her grimace, and she immediately called for the maid to bring her water.

The medicine was bitter and harsh. A single bowl was usually hard to stomach, but Jiang Wanying had already downed three. It felt like countless tiny needles pricking her tongue. The intense bitterness spread through her mouth, yet she felt a strange sense of relief.

She thought to herself: She would definitely have a child. Given all she had endured, heaven would surely grant her a child.

The way of heaven is to reduce excess and supplement deficiency. Just as she now had everything, it must be because her past life had been too bitter, and the heavens had taken pity on her, giving her a chance to start anew.

Jiang Wanying clenched her teeth, letting the bitterness spread through her body. After a few moments, she calmed down and asked, "Has Pei Lang returned from court?"

The maid replied, "The master just returned and is in the study."

"Have someone heat up the chicken soup and bring it to him. Also, send a message that my monthly cycle has ended, and he should come early tonight—Pei Lang?"

Seeing the person who had entered, Jiang Wanying's eyes widened in surprise, and she stood up abruptly, "You... why are you here? Bring the chicken soup... no, quickly serve tea to the master."

Pei Zhang rarely entered her room during the day. Jiang Wanying was so flustered that she nearly knocked over the medicine bowl. Pei Zhang frowned almost imperceptibly and ordered, "Open the windows."

"Yes, yes."

Jiang Wanying quickly agreed, "Open the windows on both the east and west sides to air out the medicinal smell, so it doesn't bother Pei Lang."

Pei Zhang glanced at the three identical large porcelain bowls on the table, remained silent for a moment, and then said calmly, "Medicine is three parts poison. I'll speak to Mother. You... don't need to torment yourself like this."

Jiang Wanying quickly shook her head, "It’s no trouble, Pei Zhang, I’m willing."

A faint blush appeared behind her ears, "It’s my blessing to bear your children. How could I complain?"

She walked over to Pei Zhang, wanting to touch his hand but hesitated slightly, then instead took hold of his sleeve, softly saying, "Maybe I already have our child in my womb. He must be smart and clever."

Clever?

A figure flashed through Pei Zhang's mind, which he quickly suppressed. He said, "I’m about to set off for Jiangnan. Managing the household will be a burden for you."

"Jiangnan?"

Jiang Wanying was stunned for a moment, puzzled, "Why the sudden journey? When... when will you return?"

Pei Zhang said, "I’ve already requested the Emperor’s permission to go to Jiangnan to quell the bandits. It will take at least three months, possibly up to half a year. Every month I will send letters home. You take good care of the household, no need to worry."

"Jiangnan... no! You can’t go to Jiangnan!"

Jiang Wanying seemed not to have processed this news, murmuring, "Jiangnan... no!"

She suddenly widened her eyes, "This mission is dangerous! Pei Zhang, you can’t go! Why does it have to be you?"

She remembered, the Jiangnan water bandits, their ferocity and brutality, daring to ambush and kill the imperial envoy sent by the court. This incident shocked the entire court, and even she, a woman of the inner chambers, knew a little about it.

It shouldn’t be him!

Jiang Wanying urgently said, "Pei Zhang, you must not go! Take leave? Or just feign illness and stay safe at home..."

"My lady, be careful with your words!"

Pei Zhang scolded in a low voice, "The Emperor has personally appointed me as the imperial envoy. Such an honor—are you asking me to deceive the Emperor?"

"Anyway, Jiangnan is no place to go!"

Jiang Wanying clutched Pei Zhang's sleeve so tightly it wrinkled, her strength seemed as if she wanted to poke a hole through it. She panicked, "Pei Zhang, believe me this once, Jiangnan is too dangerous. The water bandits are brutal... you’ll lose your life!"

Pei Zhang sighed almost imperceptibly. He dismissed the maid, and when only the two of them were left in the room, he pried open Jiang Wanying's fingers, pulled out his sleeve, and patted her shoulder.

"Don’t panic."

He said, "Since you can see the danger of this trip, your insight is far beyond that of ordinary women. You should understand that fortune favors the bold. Though we’ll be apart for a while, upon my return with promotions and titles, I’ll bring honor to you and mother."

"I’ll have respect in the future, no need for you... Pei Zhang, there will be many chances for achievements later. Jiangnan is too dangerous—believe me this once!"

Jiang Wanying fell into deep panic. Though Pei Zhang didn’t dote on her as much as in her past life, he was still a remarkably good husband. A modest gentleman, gentle as jade, even when she made mistakes, he never blamed her, treating her with the respect a wife deserves.

She thought, it was enough. Even without her husband's affection, she had respect, status. In the future, she would be a glorious titled lady, and no one would dare to look down on her or bully her. It was enough.

She’d been drinking that medicine for a long time, three bowls a day. All they needed was a child! She’d been yearning for it day and night. How could everything suddenly be so different from her past life?

No one could answer her.

Not to mention that defying the imperial command was unthinkable. This mission was something Pei Zhang had meticulously planned for. Even if he were truly ill, he’d drag himself onto the ship heading south. Jiang Wanying was so anxious that blisters formed at the corners of her mouth, but how could matters of state be changed by her pleas? Pei Zhang gradually began staying out at night. On one hand, his wife's excessive worry added to his troubles; on the other, he was preparing for the trip south. Every day he went to the Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court to retrieve files on the water bandits. Coincidentally, Lu Feng was also a frequent visitor to these places, and over time, the two became acquainted, on nodding terms.

***

The Jiangnan water bandits, besides causing a great stir in the Pei residence, also had a minor impact on Jiang Wanrou in the backyard of the Lu residence.

She was six months pregnant, her belly round and bulging, much larger than that of an ordinary pregnant woman. The imperial physician said she might have been overfed, and the child was growing well. She’d been resting comfortably recently, rarely receiving guests.

However, some visits could be turned down, others could not, such as her third sister-in-law, Yao Jinyu.

Yao Jinyu walked in, already smiling before she even spoke. Looking at Jiang Wanrou's belly, she laughed, "Oh, last night I dreamt of a majestic golden dragon accompanied by a colorful phoenix. I didn't know what it meant, but seeing you today, sister-in-law, I understand now. It's an auspicious omen of the dragon and phoenix symbolizing prosperity."

"You always have a way with words," Jiang Wanrou chuckled. "Cuizhu, serve a plate of osmanthus cakes to the third wife. Let's see if the cakes are sweeter or her words are sweeter."

With Lu Huaiyi, the eldest son, at the helm, Jiang Wanrou felt little pressure about the gender of her unborn child. Recently craving spicy food, she thought, even if it's a girl, so what? Though not as valued as a boy, as long as the child is in her womb, she would do her best to ensure a worry-free life for her.

Since Jiang Wanrou didn't favor sweet foods, the pastries in her courtyard were subtly flavored. Yao Jinyu ate a piece, dabbed her lips with a silk handkerchief, and looked at Jiang Wanrou, saying, "Sister-in-law, today I come with some audacity to ask a favor."

The Yao family had long been prominent in the silk industry of Jiangnan, and their daughter had married into the prestigious Lu Duke's mansion in the capital, making the Yao family a local powerhouse. Upon hearing that the emperor had dispatched an imperial censor to inspect Jiangnan, the local clans immediately began to show their prowess, attempting to gather intelligence on the censor.

Yao Jinyu said, "I thought about it, and it's a coincidence! Isn't your sister married to Lord Pei? So, we're practically family."

Jiang Wanrou, though physically inconvenienced, was not mentally confused. "While that's true, I haven't seen my fifth sister in many years. Not just half-sisters, even full sisters can grow distant."

"One brushstroke can't write two Jiangs, sister-in-law. No matter what, you're closer to her than we outsiders are."

Seeing her not picking up the thread, Yao Jinyu straightforwardly stated her purpose, "It's not about bribing Lord Pei or anything of the sort... Oh, why should I, as the third wife, meddle in such matters! My father wrote, just wanting to know the preferences and taboos of the imperial censor, to serve him comfortably, and perhaps get a good word in front of the emperor, benefiting everyone. Don't you think that makes sense?"

Jiang Wanrou sipped her tea, stroking her belly and sighing, "This little one has been quite active lately; all my thoughts are on him. I don't understand court affairs."

Lu Feng preferred not to discuss court politics with Jiang Wanrou, but she wasn't completely ignorant.

Of course, she only knew the basics, like which officials were promoted or demoted, which families were related by marriage, and which had old grievances... These were the basics. Though she resided in the inner chambers, when she went out for social engagements, during festivals when gifts were exchanged and guests were received, if she were entirely uninformed, it would be quite the faux pas.

She couldn't very well have her husband impeach someone in the morning and then eagerly attend their grandchild's full moon banquet in the afternoon, could she?

When conversing with Mrs. Zhang, she couldn't compliment Mrs. Li, who was at odds with the Zhang family, for her good complexion, could she?

The festival gifts to the vice-minister's and minister's residences had to be appropriately scaled, matching their statuses, right?

When she first married into the family, her reputation wasn't impeccable, so she was extra cautious in her interactions. Now, few mentioned the past, and she was respected in society, partly due to Lu Feng's high standing and partly due to her own efforts.

Even now, during her pregnancy, although she seldom received guests, she wasn't completely idle. Jiang Wanrou had Jintao and Cuizhu tell her about the major events in the capital recently. She had heard of Pei Zhang's appointment as the imperial censor to inspect Jiangnan.

Moreover, at the New Year's palace banquet, sitting beside Lu Feng as little more than an ornament, she overheard a few words when the men discussed affairs.

Though some parts were unclear, she could see that the emperor took this matter very seriously. It was best not to get involved.

Jiang Wanrou suddenly said, "I heard... recently the Third Master has taken a liking to a maid?"

Yao Jinyu, who was about to persuade further, stiffened, her face showing embarrassment.

She paused, hinting, "Indeed, nothing escapes sister-in-law's eyes."

The Third Master, that rogue, had taken a fancy to maids on more than one occasion. His concubine had just given birth to a son, seven pounds and eight ounces, and Yao Jinyu showed no jealousy, even hosting a grand feast, displaying the demeanor of a proper wife. So when the Third Master hinted, Yao Jinyu understood and took the initiative to arrange for the maid to be taken in.

At least on the surface, Yao Jinyu didn't appear to be a jealous or harsh mistress, and the Third Master was considered dashing and handsome. Given the opportunity to be a mistress, who would choose to remain a servant? Such matters were usually consensual, and the third wife's side would inform, and Jiang Wanrou wouldn't bother to inquire.

This time was different; the Third Master had taken a liking to someone close to Zhou Ruotong.

As a junior, taking a liking to someone close to his sister-in-law was already inappropriate, especially since the person wasn't an ordinary maid but a distant relative who had sought refuge with Zhou Ruotong due to being implicated in the Prince Gong case.

The girl, who had been pampered at home, had fallen into hardship, not only becoming a servant but also being forced into concubinage. She was of a fiery temperament and immediately went to her room to hang herself, fortunately discovered early and saved.

Because of this incident, the second and third wives developed a rift, and their previous closeness was lost.

Jiang Wanrou knew about this, but before giving birth, she still had to rely on her two sisters-in-law, so it was inappropriate to side with either of them. Later, when she heard that the girl had been saved, she quietly sent gifts to the second wife and never mentioned it again.

Jiang Wanrou put down her teacup and said, "This matter should be based on mutual consent. Forcing things never turns out well. This time, it was Third Master's fault. If he were here, I would certainly reprimand him."

Although she was two years younger than Third Master, as the eldest sister-in-law, it was her duty to guide her younger brother-in-law.

Yao Jinyu knew that Jiang Wanrou wasn't really scolding Third Master; she was subtly hinting at her own mistakes. She forced a smile and said, "Indeed, it's fortunate that no major mistake was made. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to look the second sister-in-law in the eye in the future."

Jiang Wanrou nodded in satisfaction and said slowly, "You also bear some responsibility for negligence. I'm heavily pregnant now, and I've entrusted the household affairs to you and Lady Zhou. If you can't even manage the internal affairs properly, how can you get involved in southern affairs? Third sister-in-law, you're not a foolish person. Why can't you tell what's important now?"

Yao Jinyu was so embarrassed that she quickly got up from her chair and bowed deeply.

"Eldest sister-in-law is right. I was foolish and lost sight of things for a moment. Thank you for your earnest guidance."

Jiang Wanrou smiled, her tone returning to its usual gentleness. "You're exaggerating. It's not guidance, at most... just a heart-to-heart talk between sisters-in-law."

"I also know that although I've entrusted matters to you and the second sister-in-law, you're clever and capable, so you end up taking on more responsibilities than her. I can understand if you're overwhelmed."

"We're all women. Third Master is young and playful. I understand the difficulties you've faced over the years."

Yao Jinyu nearly teared up, but she was a proud person and didn't like to show weakness in front of others. She looked at Jiang Wanrou's belly with envy and said, "Eldest sister-in-law is blessed with great fortune. You must be someone destined for greatness."

Jiang Wanrou chuckled, "What fortune? It's all about hard work. Look at me, I've been talking for so long. Cuizhu, quickly pour some tea for Third Wife."

Yao Jinyu hurriedly said, "No need. You're pregnant and must be exhausted. I won't disturb you any longer."

She hastily took her leave. Just as Cuizhu brought the freshly brewed hot tea, Yao Jinyu was already gone. Cuizhu couldn't help but mutter, "This Third Wife is really inconsiderate, bringing all sorts of complicated issues to trouble you. She's an outsider, yet she meddles in southern affairs. She really oversteps her bounds."

"Cuizhu."

Jiang Wanrou softly chided her. After sitting for half an hour, a trace of fatigue appeared on her face. Cuizhu didn't dare say more and quickly knelt down to massage her legs.

Jiang Wanrou lightly tapped her hair bun and said, "You really need to mind your words. Be careful, as trouble often comes from careless speech."

In truth, Cuizhu didn't know that her beloved sister Jintao had once said to Jiang Wanrou, "Cuizhu is young, impulsive, and rash, always speaking without thinking. She really... isn't suited for this role by your side."

It wasn't that Jintao was jealous; she cared for the naive Cuizhu and feared that one day her impulsive nature might lead to a grave mistake. It would be better for her to tend to the gardens or manage the needlework, where she could feel more comfortable.

Jiang Wanrou smiled and said, "It's fine. Cuizhu may not be the brightest, but she is loyal."

"There are many smart and talented people in this world, but a sincere heart is hard to find. Don't worry, even if I'm not the most capable mistress, I will ensure both of you stay safe and well."

...

Jiang Wanrou said to Cuizhu, "Yao isn't necessarily eager to get involved in this, but she has no choice."

"The Yao family in the south sends so many gifts to the capital every year. That's the support they give to their married daughters. She's luckier than me, having a family that supports her."

"Madam, you're also fortunate."

Cuizhu said with a grin, "You have the eldest young master, the baby in your belly, and... and Master too. They can all support you, much better than that Yao family!"

As she spoke, steady footsteps could be heard from outside.

"Support?"

Lu Feng lifted the curtain and entered, looking at Jiang Wanrou. "Have you been treated unfairly?"