The Return of the Seventh Young Lady-Chapter 25 - 24

Chapter 24

Imperial Palace

In the vast, grandiose scriptorium, upon the dragon throne sits the nineteen-year-old young man, adorned in a splendid golden dragon robe. His facial features were impeccable and divine as if crafted by the heavens themselves. He intently scrutinized the scroll in his hands, his face a mask of icy detachment, while listening to the report delivered by the personal guard of Shin Wang from below.

"Your Majesty, Shin Wang has suffered a severe allergic reaction to Bi Xie flowers and has sent me to inform Your Majesty that he will be unable to attend today’s meeting," Shin Wang’s personal guard reported truthfully while kneeling.

The imposing figure on the dragon throne set down his document, raising an eyebrow slightly. "Oh...and how did Shin Wang come to be exposed to Bi Xie flowers?"

"Your Majesty, that...we are not certain. We only know that Shin Wang suddenly developed this allergic reaction,"

The guard answered, bowing deeply in apprehension. The Emperor then inquired further, "Is the condition severe? Has the royal physician already attended to him?"

"The condition is quite severe, Your Majesty. The Royal Doctor Ju has already gone to attend to Shin Wang at the palace."

"That’s good. Tell Shin Wang to focus on his recovery and not worry about anything else..." As soon as the powerful voice trailed off, the guard bowed respectfully before departing.

Once alone with only his trusted eunuch, the young emperor’s lips curled into a slight smile. "He is always so cautious to avoid Bi Xie flowers. How could he have slipped this time?"

The eunuch, standing beside him and always wearing a smile, joked lightly, "Even the most vigilant can falter, Your Majesty."

"Indeed,"

The Emperor chuckled softly before calling forth his shadow guard, tasked with monitoring Shin Wang’s activities,

"How was he today?"

In the blink of an eye, a figure clad entirely in a black cloak appeared before him, kneeling down on the floor. "Reporting to Your Majesty, after acquiring the precise location of Divine Doctor Li, Shin Wang set out for his pharmacy first thing in the morning."

"However, upon his arrival at the pharmacy, Shin Wang encountered only the shop attendant, as Divine Doctor Li was out. Initially, Shin Wang intended to wait for Divine Doctor Li’s return, but it seemed that the shop attendant was displeased. I suspect that Shin Wang’s severe allergic reaction to the Bi Xie flower was indeed orchestrated by that shop attendant.”

“At first glance, the shop attendant appeared to be a young man, but upon closer inspection using my internal energy, I realized she was actually a woman.”

“Although I have no concrete evidence, I witnessed the shop attendant picking certain herbs and disappearing behind the shop for an hour. When she emerged, she was carrying an incense burner, subsequently placing it beneath the staircase, allowing the fragrance to permeate throughout the establishment.”

“Had I not enhanced my sensory perception with my internal energy, I would have undoubtedly failed to detect the faint scent of Bi Xie flower emanating from that lit incense burner.”

Upon hearing this report, a sly smile crept across the young emperor’s face, his sharp eyes gleaming with amusement.

"A shop attendant? Intriguing indeed..."

...

..

.

After Shin Wang departed, it wasn’t long before Divine Doctor Li returned. Detecting the aroma of the Bi Xie powder, he inquired with curiosity,

"Did you make this incense?"

"Yes, I did. While tending the shop, I felt a bit bored and decided to practice making herbal incense following the recipes in the textbook," Mu Qingxuan fabricated calmly, her expression betraying no hint of deceit.

She was secretly satisfied by the anguish she had caused Shin Wang before he hurriedly left the premises, anticipating that he would suffer immensely for three full days and nights until the incense’s effects subsided!

Just thinking that that person must be in agony for three days and three nights, her heart was immediately filled with happiness.

"Is that so? Well done, then. This incense is quite decent, though it still carries a lingering scent. When I find some free time, I’ll teach you how to make it completely odorless," Doctor Li commented approvingly.

Hearing this, Mu Qingxuan secretly smirked to herself, thinking that the teacher seemed to claim he was too busy to teach her. Yet, all he did was either venture outside for food or nap behind the store. He would teach when he was free, he said, even though he seemed to have ample time on his hands!

Once the test concluded, Mu Qingxuan passed beautifully. Divine Doctor Li then scheduled for her to prepare for future lessons on real patient care.

Subsequently, Mu Qingxuan continued her duties at the pharmacy before sneaking back to the Mu Manor at dusk through the same secret door, unnoticed by anyone from her family.

These past days had been chaotic for the Mu family. Mu Cui Ming was hardly at home, busy dealing with the militia about the robbery of their property. Regardless, he had to recover it because if he failed, the Mu household would have nothing left for sustenance!

Despite full cooperation from the militia, the reality remained that success was uncertain, a fact constantly reminding Mu Cui Ming. Without achieving this, what would the Mu family’s next steps be?

Having just been appointed as the Left side Deputy Chancellor with no significant accomplishments, Mu Cui Ming couldn’t expect further accolades. He had already spent the last rewards, leaving only the inalienable items bestowed by the Emperor.

Moreover, with no income and only expenses in recent months, and without owning any businesses in the capital, how would they manage their finances?

Upon returning, the exhausted and drained Mu Cui Ming appeared aged beyond his years.

"Master, the Furen is waiting for you at the main house."

The head servant, who had been awaiting Mu Cui Ming’s return, observing his master’s weary demeanor, then approached to assist and report.

"Um, take me to the main house," Mu Cui Ming replied in a flat tone, asking the butler to support him towards the main house. He was truly exhausted today, both physically and emotionally, nearly devoid of any strength.

Although he wished to rest, the presence of his beautiful wife, who might have important matters to discuss or solutions for him, encouraged him slightly.

Throughout the years, it was always Bai Lijun, his wife, who stood by his side, devising various plans and strategies on his behalf, helping him overcome numerous obstacles. Even his rise to the position of Left side Deputy Chancellor.

It was due to her ingenuity!

During a major flood crisis, Bai Lijun suddenly presented him with a detailed plan that not only resolved the issue but also established his reputation as a competent official, leading to his promotion.

He deeply appreciated her support and acknowledged that without her, he wouldn’t be where he was today!

Bai Lijun always seemed to find solutions for him, and perhaps this time too, she might have a way out...

With this comforting thought, Mu Cui Ming felt slightly uplifted and asked the butler to assist him to the main house. Upon arrival, he found a charming figure waiting inside, along with prepared refreshments.

Seeing her husband, Bai Lijun gracefully welcomed him with a gentle smile, "Welcome back, my husband. You must be very tired. Please, sit and rest."

After speaking, Bai Lijun replaced the servant’s position, helping her husband to sit and serving him tea.

"Here’s your tea."

"Thank you very much, Lijun." When there was no one else in the house, he would address his wife tenderly with sweet words, reminiscent of their younger days, causing Bai Lijun to blush.

"Stop it, husband..."

Mu Cui Ming drank his tea, feeling his fatigue dissipate, especially with Bai Lijun massaging his shoulders, easing his discomfort significantly.

"How was your day?" She massaged him while asking curiously, but Mu Cui Ming immediately showed a tense expression.

"We still have no leads. The militia says there’s a fifty-fifty chance of success."

Bai Lijun paused momentarily upon hearing this, her fears confirmed. If their property had indeed been stolen, the likelihood of retrieving it was slim!

It was fortunate she had previously discussed potential solutions with Auntie Yang, or they would have faced significant difficulties!

"Lijun, you have always been clever. This time...What do you think we should do?" Mu Cui Ming turned to his beautiful wife for her usual wise counsel. Bai Lijun did not mind that her husband often sought her advice on work matters.

It was, in fact, a good sign that he regularly consulted her, showing his trust and allowing her to persuade him towards her preferred outcomes!

She wouldn’t refuse such opportunities!

She feigned a troubled look while speaking hesitantly, "Well, there is a way to help, but..."

"What is it? Just tell me. As long as there’s a way to escape this crisis, I’m willing to do anything," Mu Cui Ming said earnestly, his eyes showing determination. Hearing this, Bai Lijun smirked slightly.

"Months ago, the Bai family approached me, asking for your help to secure a small official position in the capital for Third Master Bai. But I already refused, considering your high standing. How could we collaborate with such people?"

Bai Lijun expressed, simulating distress. Mu Cui Ming was touched, admiring his wife’s integrity. "The Bai family, those scoundrels dared to approach you again?"

"Even so, I am a Bai, my husband. If they invoke this matter, what could I possibly do..."

She lowered her head slightly, appearing disheartened. Seeing this, Mu Cui Ming felt a pang of sympathy. He was fully aware of his wife’s troubled past; even knew the vile things that happened within the Bai family.

"Now you’re my wife, a part of the Mu family! Don’t be afraid, Lijun." He reached out to embrace her, comforting her without noticing the peculiar gleam in her eyes.

"Thank you, my husband, but I can bear it. To aid the Mu family, to assist you, I can endure the Bai family’s hauntings again to find a way out for us..."

Mu Cui Ming looked at her questioningly, "What will you do?"

Bai Lijun, leaning against her husband’s sturdy chest, suggested, "Since the Bai family needs our help, why not make them an offer? With our treasury depleted and unable to recover the lost assets, our most pressing issue is funding.”

“The Bai family can’t rely on anyone but us now. If we propose a deal, they will surely accept, paying three hundred thousand taels of gold for an official position could be a tempting trade for them."

Hearing this, Mu Cui Ming’s eyes immediately sparkled. "Indeed! Given their long history in trade, the Bai family wouldn’t hesitate to spend three hundred thousand taels of gold to make such a deal!"

"Yes, my husband. Once we have received the three hundred thousand taels of gold, you just need to find a small official position for the Bai family member. After that, we can invest a portion of this money to establish a business in the capital, generating revenue for us in the future,"

Explained Bai Lijun with clarity. Even though extorting three hundred thousand taels of gold from the Bai family was significant, it wouldn’t last indefinitely - at most, just two years!

Hence, she decided to invest part of the money in a lucrative business venture in the bustling capital.

"My wise Lijun! If you were a man, I might have to bow in respect to you!" Mu Cui Ming affectionately stroked his wife’s head, expressing sincere admiration before a thought struck him, and his eyes immediately showed remorse.

"Lijun, this will be troublesome for you...Though the Bai family is like a nightmare to you, you still willingly get involved with them to assist me."

Bai Lijun forced a smile, filled with bitterness, "It’s nothing. You are the man I love, my husband, the one who rescued me from that hell. I would do anything for you."

"Lijun, I don’t know how I could ever repay you. What you have done for me over the years is immeasurable. I am so proud to have you as my wife."

Mu Cui Ming tenderly held both of her hands, expressing his genuine gratitude. He was immensely thankful to the heavens for giving him such a wife. Without her, he didn’t know where he would be.

Realizing there was a solution to their problem, his stress dissipated immediately. He always knew he chose the right wife, who would surely lead them to prosperity!

Bai Lijun willingly nestled her face against his warmth. She invested everything, first and foremost, for her own future and her daughter’s, and secondly, to ensure her husband’s unwavering affection and to secure her position in the household.

Moreover, she subtly planted seeds of trust and gratitude in her husband’s heart, which would grow over time, ensuring he would listen to her willingly in the future and no one could obstruct her plans! 𝙛𝒓𝒆𝙚𝒘𝒆𝓫𝙣𝓸𝙫𝓮𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝓶

With a scheming glint in her eyes, her face that once exuded sweetness now revealed a sinister glow.

As Mu Cui Ming’s stress faded away, his affection and desire for his beautiful wife surged. He leaned down to whisper to her with a hoarse voice, "Lijun..."

Bai Lijun, nestled against his chest, moved closer, pressing her bosom enticingly against his robust frame, causing Mu Cui Ming’s body to heat up.

"It seems I must reward my beautiful wife now!"

He declared while lifting Bai Lijun in his arms, and walked through the curtains to the innermost bed of the room. Bai Lijun, with her arms around his neck, softly laughed. Their eyes met, filled with mutual desire, leading to the passionate symphony of a loving couple...

...

..

.

Time flew swiftly, and in just a blink, more than three months had passed since the carriage convoy from Qingyun City reached the capital, bringing shocking news.

Simultaneously, Uncle Wang’s informant in the capital had dispatched a speed horse to convey a message to Qingyun City, detailing the Mu family’s activities over the past two months.

Given that, in the eyes of outsiders, Mu Yingying had not fully recovered from her previous ordeal, she could not leave the manor. Therefore, Lu Jiu was tasked with delivering messages to Uncle Wang regarding their meeting tonight at the residence of the Seventh Young Miss.

As night fell, Uncle Wang stealthily entered the Mu family manor with the help of inside servants and quickly reached the eastern wing house. Upon entering the room, he found Mu Yingying already waiting.

"This old man has made the young miss wait,"

Uncle Wang said, bowing slightly with a warm smile. Mu Yingying looked up and returned a broad, endearing smile, "I haven’t waited long, Uncle Wang. I was just lost in my thoughts, not feeling the wait at all."

"Don’t overthink, Miss. Allow yourself some rest, or you’ll age as quickly as this old man," Uncle Wang said, laughing. The young miss laughed along before playfully replying,

"I’m only five years old now. Should I really worry about aging so soon?"

"You’re right. It’s just the old man being forgetful," Uncle Wang concluded, and they both laughed heartily.

After a brief moment, their conversation turned serious as Uncle Wang reported on the changes he had learned from the capital.

"Our people in the capital have sent word that the Mu family has found a solution to their financial problems.”

Mu Yingying arched her eyebrows in surprise, “That was quick, wasn’t it?”

She had intended to let the Mu family in the capital struggle financially a bit longer to complicate Bai Lijun’s situation. That they had found a solution so quickly was surprising to her as well.

However, this was also good news. As their plans unraveled, she could strategize accordingly.

"It seems that the Second Furen contacted her natal family for a quid pro quo deal. The Bai family wanted a small official post in the capital, and the Mu family needed money. Both families thus agreed to exchange three hundred thousand taels of gold for a small position." Uncle Wang paused briefly before adding, “It seems our plans will now involve the Bai family.”

“The Bai family?” Mu Yingying pondered the past she remembered.

In her past life, the Mu family in the capital wasn’t robbed, hence no such financial troubles ensued, and there was no deal with the Bai family.

If she remembered correctly, Bai Lijun almost had no interaction with the Bai family, suggesting some unresolved issues. Yet, in three years from now on, the Bai family would expand its trading influence into the capital’s territory, flourishing greatly and becoming one of the wealthiest families!

Once they amassed wealth, their connections with aristocrats began to emerge because the Bai family had made significant donations to the imperial treasury, especially during times of natural disasters in the region. They also managed to win the favor of several aristocrats, leading to a decree appointing the third master of the Bai family to a governmental position.

Third Master Bai was granted a fifth-rank official in the Department of Treasury. Although it was not a very high position, it provided significant prestige and visibility, drawing attention and desire for association from various other families.

Subsequently, the Bai family’s influence grew even more when their eighteen-year-old eldest young miss married into the family of a prominent Deputy Commander of the East Army, boosting the Bai family’s standing significantly. Even Bai Lijun, who had been out of contact for a while, benefited indirectly from this association.

However, just five years later, a scandal erupted within the Deputy Commander’s household!

Evidence was presented to the Emperor regarding the Deputy Commander’s embezzlement of military provisions and the Bai family’s prior covert support of a rebellion.

The evidence and testimonies were overwhelming, infuriating the Emperor, who then ordered the confiscation of all assets belonging to both the Bai family and the Deputy Commander’s household. The punishment extended to execution, damning nine generations of their lineage!

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