Ch 48: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

Madam Liu’s frustration weighed heavily on her, and the first to bear the brunt were Shen Ming and Shen Yu.

Shen Ming, having been doted on as a gifted and studious child, had always lived a life of privilege. But ever since his father decided to bring his older brother back from the countryside, his mother had begun to strictly monitor his studies, forcing him to work diligently.

At first, Shen Ming thought it was just for appearances, so he could impress his father. However, Madam Liu soon hired a tutor and two study companions—not to assist him, but to keep an eye on him. Any signs of laziness were reported back to her, and he would be scolded endlessly and punished with copying essays.

Shen Ming tried complaining to his father, but Shen Xiuyuan, upon hearing it was about his studies, commended Madam Liu’s efforts and urged him to focus, encouraging him to aim for scholarly success. Shen Ming was left feeling aggrieved.

Then, after Purple Bamboo Pavilion was furnished, Madam Liu abruptly had many of the valuable items from Shen Ming’s courtyard returned to the storeroom, leaving his quarters sparsely decorated.

Finally, unable to hold back his anger, Shen Ming confronted Madam Liu, suppressing his frustration. “Mother, what are you doing? Am I supposed to step aside for Shen Jun now that he’s coming back, giving way to him in everything?”

Madam Liu replied in a measured tone, “Your father is focused on compensating Shen Jun right now and may overlook you. But once Shen Jun returns and your father sees how uncultured he is compared to your diligence and scholarly achievements, he will naturally favor you.

“Furthermore, with Shen Yunxuan using so many treasures to decorate Shen Jun’s courtyard, your father might not mind now because of his guilt. But when he sees how modest and frugal you and Yu’er are in comparison, he will grow displeased with Shen Jun and favor you brothers instead.

“Everything I do has its reasons. You don’t need to question me; just focus on your studies. I’m waiting for the day you become a top scholar and bring me honor as a titled lady.”

Shen Ming frowned. “Mother, isn’t this unnecessary? Even if we do nothing, Shen Jun, having grown up in the countryside, can’t compare to me or Third Brother. Over time, Father will naturally see the difference. Can’t we live as we always have? Why are you so anxious?”

What could Madam Liu say? Should she tell him about Shen Yunrong’s nightmare and the calamity it foretold for their family? The thought of that dream only added to her irritation. She waved her hand dismissively. “Enough. I have my reasons. Just behave yourself and don’t make trouble. Go back and study.”

Shen Ming had no choice but to leave, seething with frustration. He decided to visit Shen Yu.

Shen Yu, still recovering from his punishment, had been bedridden for days. Having been pampered all his life, he wasn’t accustomed to such hardships and refused to take the bitter medicine, slowing his recovery. When Shen Ming arrived, Shen Yu was still lying on the bed, looking sullen.

Shen Ming frowned. “Why aren’t you better yet? Has a doctor seen you? When can you walk again?”

Shen Yu replied gloomily, “The doctor says I can walk now, but it still hurts when I move. I’m planning to rest for a few more days. If I’m left with lingering pain, how can I fight on the battlefield in the future?” He snorted. “It’s all Shen Yunxuan’s fault! She’s perfectly fine but still caused me to get beaten. I think she did it on purpose!”

Shen Ming didn’t respond. Although he didn’t believe Shen Yunxuan had acted deliberately, he couldn’t deny that recent events revolved around her. He was growing increasingly dissatisfied with her and couldn’t understand why their mother hadn’t yet finalized her marriage. If she were married off quickly, life would be much easier for all of them.

Noticing a stack of military books by Shen Yu’s bedside, Shen Ming was surprised. “You’re still nursing an injury, yet you’re so dedicated to reading?”

Shen Yu angrily swept the books onto the floor. “Mother must have lost her mind! She threw out all my picture books and sent me these military texts instead. She even adds bitter herbs to my medicine if I don’t finish reading them! She says she’s heard that Shen Jun has great potential as a military talent and could become a general if he joins the army. She doesn’t want me to lose to him.

Second Brother, who’s been feeding her such nonsense? How can she believe something so ridiculous? A country bumpkin, a great talent? Please! Mother’s overthinking everything. Ever since she heard that Lady Fang’s eldest son was coming back, she’s been so anxious she can’t sleep.”

“Watch your tone about Mother,” Shen Ming lightly reprimanded, though he didn’t entirely disagree with Shen Yu. The two brothers vented their frustrations to each other before begrudgingly returning to their studies, as Madam Liu had demanded. They had no choice. With people monitoring them and the threat of being fed servant meals or forbidden from leaving the house, they had to comply.

However, being forced into such rigorous study only fostered resentment. They quickly forgot what they read and grew to loathe their books, merely going through the motions in hopes of returning to their previous lives.

Madam Liu disliked using such harsh methods, but with her recent struggles, she had no time for gentler approaches. Unable to persuade Shen Xiuyuan to swap the marriage arrangements, she privately approached Madam Shao. To her dismay, Madam Shao firmly refused, insisting that the Shao family had agreed with Lady Shen that the bride would be Shen Yunxuan, not Shen Yunrong.

Madam Liu even brought up Shen Yunxuan’s extravagant furnishing of Purple Bamboo Pavilion, embellishing the story to paint her as shallow and greedy, intent on hoarding wealth for herself and her brother. But Madam Shao remained unmoved.

What Madam Liu couldn’t understand was why Madam Shao was so resolute. When the marriage was initially discussed, Shen Yunxuan was still in mourning for her grandfather, and Madam Shao had only met her twice at the temple, exchanging few words. How could she be so certain? Could it be that the late elder master had promised the Shao family some hidden benefit?

Thinking of those two old geezers, Madam Liu felt a surge of resentment. Back in their youth, although Old Master Shen had been a farmer, the family had long since turned its fortunes around thanks to Shen Xiuyuan’s academic achievements and political success. Over decades, the family amassed considerable wealth, and the two elders’ private treasury was well-stocked. However, when they passed away, they left nothing to the household—not even enough for her three children, save for a few keepsakes.

Instead, they gave everything to Shen Yunxuan and Shen Jun!

Those two old fools had been blatantly partial, justifying it by claiming Shen Yunxuan had served them faithfully in their old age and that the Shen family owed compensation to Shen Jun. They argued the two motherless children needed something to rely on. When Shen Xiuyuan tried to console her by saying the inheritance wasn’t substantial and promised to quietly make up for it with gifts for her and her children, what could she say? Yet now, Shen Xiuyuan was so consumed with guilt that he was letting Shen Yunxuan raid the storeroom, leaving Madam Liu and her children at a loss.

Pressing her temples in frustration, Madam Liu instructed Liu Mama to discreetly send a message to Qingju, asking her to probe whether there were any hidden matters concerning Shen Yunxuan’s marriage arrangement with the Shao family.

Mudan, overhearing this by chance, grew even more wary of Shen Yunxuan. No wonder Shen Yunxuan had remained unperturbed when Mudan had informed her about Madam Liu’s plans to change the bride. She must have known all along that Madam Shao would refuse. But how had Shen Yunxuan managed that? Mudan realized she had never truly understood this eldest daughter. It seemed no one in the entire household did.

And then there was Qingju—Madam Liu’s spy! But even Qingju appeared to be in the dark about Shen Yunxuan’s true thoughts. Could it be that Shen Yunxuan had long suspected Qingju’s allegiance? How deeply had Shen Yunxuan hidden her intentions?

Mudan abandoned any lingering thoughts of defiance. Shen Yunxuan would soon either marry or enter the palace, and their paths would no longer cross. All Mudan needed to do was faithfully assist Shen Yunxuan for the time being.

Qingju received her orders and began probing subtly, using complaints as her tactic. She grumbled about how Madam Liu still hadn’t finalized the wedding date with the Shao family and questioned why the Shaos hadn’t come forward to discuss the matter.

Shen Yunxuan responded with a casual smile. “What’s the rush? The marriage was already agreed upon; it won’t fall through. The Shao family has waited for me for years. Do you think they’d change their minds in just a few days?”

Qingju nodded but looked puzzled. “Miss, do you think the Shao family is truly that loyal? They’ve waited so long without complaint. Isn’t Shao Kun already 25? Aren’t they eager for grandchildren?”

Shen Yunxuan blushed and retorted, “What nonsense are you talking about?”

Qingju quickly apologized, “I’m only worried for you, Miss. Forgive me if I misspoke.”

Turning away, Shen Yunxuan picked up a travelogue and murmured softly, “There’s no need to worry. When Grandmother discussed this marriage with Madam Shao, Madam Shao did have some conditions.”

“What conditions?” Qingju’s curiosity was piqued, and she sidled up to Shen Yunxuan, tugging on her arm playfully as she pressed for details.

After some hesitation, Shen Yunxuan seemed to relent, leaning in to whisper, “Madam Shao said that Young General Shao has very high standards. He wants a wife who admires and adores him wholeheartedly, someone who will devote herself entirely to him. When Madam Shao met me, she asked me questions about the young general, and I answered them all correctly. Only then did she agree to the match.

“They’ve waited these years, likely because they don’t want to publicize such demands or risk misjudging another girl’s feelings for the young general.”

Qingju was taken aback. So that was the reason? When the family matriarch had taken Shen Yunxuan to the temple for blessings, Qinglan had accompanied her, which explained why Qingju hadn’t known. Matters concerning a young woman’s reputation were naturally kept private.

Satisfied with the explanation, Qingju promptly reported the details to Madam Liu that night. Madam Liu scoffed upon hearing it. So the matriarch had valued the Shao family’s simplicity, and the Shaos had seen Shen Yunxuan’s lack of favor in her own household as a guarantee of her devotion. That’s why they had matched so well, and even after the matriarch’s death, Madam Shao had remained steadfast in her promise.

This made swapping Shen Yunrong into the marriage much more complicated. Madam Liu spent a sleepless night mulling it over and summoned Shen Yunrong the next morning.

With a sigh, Madam Liu said, “Let’s abandon this plan. Didn’t your dream include other suitable families? You don’t want to enter the palace, but you could marry a prince or the son of another official. Why insist on the Shao family?”

Shen Yunrong immediately replied, “I didn’t dream of anyone else. Mother, the Shen family’s future is uncertain. We might face hard times. Since I know Shao Kun will become a marquis, how can I not aim to be his marchioness? For you, for Second Brother, and for Third Brother, I must marry Shao Kun!”

Grasping Madam Liu’s hands, she said firmly, “So what if he wants admiration and devotion? Mother, learn everything about Shao Kun and teach me. Take me to meet Madam Shao. I’ll make sure she’s satisfied and willingly agrees to change the bride.”

Madam Liu’s expression darkened. Though her status was no lower than Madam Shao’s, her meticulously raised daughter was now desperate to marry Madam Shao’s son. To grovel and express her admiration for Shao Kun in such a shameless manner? How could that be acceptable? Shen Yunxuan had acted this way because she had no better options, but for Shen Yunrong to do the same was a slap in Madam Liu’s face. How could she ever hold her head high before Madam Shao again?

Shen Yunrong immediately knelt at Madam Liu’s knees, crying softly and lamenting the bitterness and despair she had experienced in her dream of the Cold Palace. She spoke of how Shen Yunxuan had enjoyed a life of happiness and glory in the Shao family, while the Shen family had fallen into ruin, the estate sold off, and Shen Ming and Shen Yu left disheartened. Even their children were looked down upon.

The more Shen Yunrong described, the heavier Madam Liu’s heart grew. When she spoke of her fears, Madam Liu’s resolve softened, and she reluctantly agreed to Shen Yunrong’s request.

What did pride matter? If Shao Kun could truly become a marquis and protect her children, she would even lower herself to grovel before Madam Shao.

Having made her decision, Madam Liu planned a visit to the temple under the guise of offering incense. In truth, she had arranged to meet Madam Shao but kept it a secret from the household.

When Mudan relayed this news to Shen Yunxuan, she requested to join them, explaining with some melancholy that she wished to pray for her grandfather, grandmother, and mother. Madam Liu found the mention of Lady Fang distasteful but could not refuse such a reasonable request. Shen Xiuyuan saw no harm in the outing and readily agreed, reminding Madam Liu to take good care of Shen Yunxuan, as she was still recovering. This left Madam Liu fuming, her displeasure evident as they departed.

Shen Yunxuan and Shen Yunrong shared a carriage—only the second time they had met since Shen Yunxuan’s rebirth.

Shen Yunrong, reflecting on the many differences between this life and the last, could explain most of the changes as her own doing. Yet she couldn’t help probing, “Sister, Mother will soon begin arranging our marriages. Have you thought about life after you marry?”

Shen Yunxuan blushed slightly and lowered her head, smiling gently. “I suppose it will be about honoring my parents-in-law, supporting my husband, and raising children. Grandmother always said that to win genuine affection, one must first give without calculating losses, offering one’s heart selflessly. Good things will come eventually.”

Shen Yunrong inwardly thought this was naive but couldn’t deny that, in their previous life, Shen Yunxuan had been exceptionally filial, even personally caring for her in-laws when they were ill. This had deeply moved Shao Kun, who swore never to take a concubine. If Shen Yunrong followed Shen Yunxuan’s example, she might achieve the same result.

Jealousy bubbled up as she recalled the past, and she deliberately said, “But what if your husband has a favored concubine or someone he loves? Without scheming and fighting, you’ll only be left at the mercy of others, ending up with nothing. Sister, don’t be foolish—it’s too easy to be taken advantage of.”

Feigning concern, Shen Yunrong’s expression seemed earnest. Shen Yunxuan, playing along, nodded in agreement. “You’re right.”

“Sister, you mustn’t hesitate to fight for yourself. Don’t forget that the Shen family stands behind you. Father is the Minister of Rites; no one would dare act against you lightly. Whatever happens, focus on yourself—we’ll all support you.” Shen Yunrong hoped that Shen Yunxuan’s time in the palace would be marked by fierce competition and eventual downfall, perhaps even exile to the Cold Palace.

Shen Yunxuan nodded again. “Thank you, Sister. The same goes for you—should you face injustice, remember that we are here for you. Always fight for yourself.”

Shen Yunrong replied perfunctorily. She hardly needed Shen Yunxuan’s advice. The Shao family was a haven, and once she married Shao Kun, she would live a life of endless fortune. She even looked forward to visiting the palace to see how miserable Shen Yunxuan would become.

At the temple, Shen Yunxuan announced her intention to pray and recite scriptures for her grandparents and mother. Madam Liu and Shen Yunrong, eager to meet Madam Shao, were happy to separate from her and readily agreed.

Shen Yunxuan strolled leisurely through the temple, feeling an unusual sense of peace. In her previous life, she had little faith, but having been reborn and glimpsed her alternate lives in parallel worlds, she now believed.

Perhaps her loved ones, now departed, had been reincarnated or lived on in another realm. Whatever the case, she wished them happiness and peace in their continued journeys.

With this mindset, Shen Yunxuan knelt before the Buddha statue and began chanting scriptures with utmost sincerity. In her heart, she silently prayed: Grandfather, Grandmother, Mother, I was reborn too late to see you again and properly show my filial piety. Soon, my brother will return, and together we will protect ourselves. Please do not worry about this world or about us. I will live well and safeguard my brother. I hope you are safe and happy wherever you are…

A man entered the hall with his attendants and was about to leave upon noticing someone inside. However, hearing Shen Yunxuan’s heartfelt chanting, he paused.

Standing quietly at the doorway, he gazed at the Buddha statue, not sparing Shen Yunxuan a glance, yet feeling her voice harmonized with the serene surroundings, soothing his own recent frustrations.

Qinglan, accompanying Shen Yunxuan, noticed the group lingering. She stepped closer to Shen Yunxuan, her guard up, prompting the man to leave.

Later, Madam Shao entered the hall with her maidservants. Seeing Shen Yunxuan still earnestly praying, she knelt beside her, closing her eyes to pray for the Shao family and Shao Kun’s well-being.

When Shen Yunxuan finished her prayers and saw Madam Shao, she appeared both surprised and shy. She quickly greeted her, and Madam Shao helped her up, leading her to the bamboo grove outside. There, Madam Shao gently asked how she had been recently.

Shen Yunxuan smiled and said, “Thank you for your concern, Madam. Everything is well at home. By the way, my elder brother will return to the capital soon, and I will have him visit your residence.”

Madam Shao noticed Shen Yunxuan’s shy yet friendly demeanor, clearly still viewing herself as part of the Shao family. This did not align with what Madam Liu had claimed—that Shen Yunxuan was greedy for wealth and eager to enter the palace. After some thought, Madam Shao decided to speak directly.

“Child, do you know that in recent days Madam Shen has frequently sought me out to discuss your younger sister’s marriage?”

Shen Yunxuan looked at her in confusion, as if she hadn’t comprehended. “Yunrong’s marriage? But isn’t she…” Shen Yunxuan stopped herself, mindful of Yunrong’s undecided entry into the palace, and instead asked curiously, “Is Mother asking you to matchmake for Yunrong?”

Madam Shao sighed and held Shen Yunxuan’s hand. “Madam Shen spoke to me about a match between your sister and Shao Kun.”

Shen Yunxuan’s eyes widened instantly. Her mouth opened in shock before her face turned pale. “So that’s why they’ve been so kind to me recently, even Father has been compensating me…”

Realizing she had misspoken, Shen Yunxuan pressed her lips together and lowered her head, her eyes visibly reddened.

Madam Shao frowned and said, “Do not worry, Yunxuan. When I made this agreement with your grandmother, it was set in stone. I won’t go back on it. I came to you because—”

Madam Shao recalled how Shen Yunrong had shamelessly claimed to love Shao Kun for years right in front of her, and she frowned deeply. How could someone behave so brazenly? To steal her sister’s match and declare love for someone she had never met—how absurd! Yet, she chose to withhold these thoughts, simply saying, “Madam Shen seems determined and has been pressing me for some time. This matter may cause trouble if it escalates.”

Before she could finish, Shen Yunxuan clasped Madam Shao’s hand, her grip firm yet polite, showing her sincerity. By now, Shen Yunxuan had collected herself and spoke earnestly. “Madam, perhaps I am fated to have shallow familial ties, leading to such circumstances. But since this matter has arisen, insisting on my position will only create strife and might implicate your family as well. The agreement you made with my grandmother can end here. If you find Yunrong suitable, feel free to proceed without considering me.”

She stepped back and gave Madam Shao a composed smile. “The general and I have never met, nor was anything formally settled. The general is currently focused on advancing his career, and it would not be appropriate to let rumors taint his reputation. To avoid any damage to the honor of both families, let us drop the matter. You and Mother can discuss freely. Since my sister has come to see you today, it must be with sincerity. In time, the union of our two families will surely be a happy one.”

Madam Shao was taken aback. “And what about you?”

“Marriage is subject to the arrangements of one’s parents and matchmakers. I’ll leave it to fate. Madam, I will go find my mother now.” Shen Yunxuan bowed gracefully and turned to leave.

Madam Shao watched her retreating figure, hesitating for a moment but deciding not to call her back. At that instant, she genuinely felt sorry for this understanding and composed young woman. From her shy friendliness at the start, treating Madam Shao as her future mother-in-law, to her calm and poised response upon learning of the change, Shen Yunxuan handled everything flawlessly. She truly was a remarkable and thoughtful child.

However, Shen Yunxuan’s words also resonated with Madam Shao’s own concerns. Sisters competing for the same man, regardless of the reasons, would lead to unpleasant rumors that might tarnish Shao Kun’s reputation. How could she risk that? Were it not for her family’s unique circumstances, she would have outright rejected Madam Liu and severed ties with both sisters.

But now that Shen Yunxuan had voluntarily stepped aside, things were simpler. Especially since Shen Yunrong had openly expressed admiration and affection for Shao Kun, it seemed she would dedicate herself entirely to him after marriage. Furthermore, as this match was something Madam Liu and Shen Yunrong had fought for, they would have no grounds to cause trouble for the Shao family later.

Considering all this, Madam Shao tacitly accepted Shen Yunxuan’s decision. She also understood that Shen Yunxuan’s withdrawal was a test. Had she chosen to intervene and insist, it would have demonstrated the Shao family’s sincerity in seeking her as a bride. By staying silent, she confirmed their willingness to move on. Both sides could now part ways cleanly.

Walking through the bamboo grove, Shen Yunxuan felt the gentle breeze and smiled faintly. They were always digging pits for her, so it was only fair to return the favor. If they had to seize this match, she hoped they wouldn’t regret it in the future.

🌸˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧🩷˚⋆

Sandy: Next chapter is password locked. Pw is 47*()&)4