Marriage of Di daughter

149

In the following days, after finding out about Haitang's whereabouts, Jiang Li became calmer.As she had mentioned to Jiheng, besides Haitang, Xiao Deyin could be considered as living proof. However, getting Xiao Deyin to speak the truth was also a troublesome matter. It was still unknown how Xiao Deyin had drugged herself, or rather, how she had reached an agreement with Princess Yongning. It seemed that this was not solely Xiao Deyin's idea. If it weren't for Princess Yongning backing her up, Xiao Deyin wouldn't dare to make any moves in the Shen Mansion—she cared about her reputation, and once exposed, her pristine image would be tarnished.She had to start with Xiao Deyin.On a rare morning without snow but filled with mist, the bright moon entered and smiled, "Miss, Sister Zhu from the old lady's side just came by, saying that the new clothes tailored by the seamstress will be ready in two days. She asked if you still wanted any jewelry, you can go to the jewelry store to pick a set."Jiang Li smiled, "That's not necessary, I've received many gifts during this period."Perhaps now she was the most guilty miss in the Jiang Mansion, but for the time being, she lacked nothing and everyone came to care for her. Even Lu from the second room would invite her to sit in the yard and have some snacks whenever she saw her. Lu probably thought that no matter what, Jiang Li had defeated her least favorite Jiru, so she was helping her in a way. The steward's power in the Jiang Mansion now rested in Lu's hands.Jiang Li didn't hold any ill feelings towards the second room, and she was polite to Lu. In comparison, she was more cautious of the third room. Jiang Yuanxing and Lady Yang showed indifference towards the first and second rooms. Jiang Yuanxing became increasingly silent, and Jiang Yuyan was rarely seen. Jiang Li estimated that once the New Year passed, it wouldn't be long before Shen Ruyun married into the Ningyuan Marquis's residence. That meant the good days for Jiang Yueran were probably coming to an end.No matter how Jiang Yueran and Zhou Yanbang were now, whether they were inseparable or cold towards each other, Shen Ruyun would never allow Jiang Yueran to intervene. She would surely find ways to torment Jiang Yueran, who was no pushover herself in terms of pleasing and acting obedient, perhaps even stronger than Shen Ruyun in that aspect.Evil begets evil, and it seemed that the Ningyuan Marquis's residence would experience some turbulent days ahead.Grabbing her outer robe, Jiang Li glanced at herself in the mirror and felt satisfied. She said, "Let's go."Curiously, Mingyue asked, "Miss, are you going out so early?"Jiang Li smiled, "To visit my uncle."Knowing that Jiang Li had a good relationship with Ye Mingyu, the maids understood. Jiang Li would visit the Ye Mansion every few days, and now there was no one in the Jiang family to stop her. Although Jiru's scandal had spread, the true cause of Ye Zhenzhen's death was still unknown. Therefore, the Ye family still didn't know about the mysterious circumstances of Ye Zhenzhen's death. Perhaps feeling guilty towards the Ye family, Jiang Yuanbo would even tell Jiang Li that if the Ye family needed anything or if Ye Shijie needed help, they could approach him.It seemed like a way to compensate the Ye family, so Jiang Li's frequent visits to the Ye family became more justified.Jiang Li arrived at the Ye Mansion, and the servants at the gate, seeing the Jiang family's carriage, immediately opened the gate without a word, welcoming her with a smile, "Miss Biao has arrived!"Feeling as if she were among family, Jiang Li felt quite comfortable. Today was the day Situ Jiuyue would come to treat Xue Huaiyuan, and also the day Haitang would come to see Xue Huaiyuan. Jiang Li had promised Haitang earlier to let her meet Xue Huaiyuan. After discussing with Jiheng, the day was set for today.Ye Mingyu had just finished his workout and was sweating profusely. Seeing Jiang Li, he said, "Ali, the kitchen has made ox bone soup. Would you like some?""I've already had my meal, Uncle." Jiang Li looked around and asked, "Has Ye Biaoge (cousin) not come back from court yet?""No," Ye Mingyu scratched his head, "He's very busy, he'll be back in the evening. Today, Miss Jiuyue is coming to treat County Magistrate Xue. Are you here to see County Magistrate Xue as well?""Just dropping by, and also to bring a New Year's gift to my uncle." Jiang Li smiled and directed Bai Xue to have the goods from the carriage unloaded by the Ye Mansion's servants."A New Year's gift?" Ye Mingyu was puzzled."My father and grandmother asked me to deliver it." Jiang Li explained.With a grunt, Ye Mingyu said, "In the past, no New Year's gifts were exchanged, and the two families were like strangers. Now, suddenly thinking of sending New Year's gifts, it's really baffling. But one shouldn't turn down a smiling face. Since the gifts are being sent voluntarily, I can't refuse. I'll buy some gifts in the next few days and send them back to the Jiang Mansion."Knowing Ye Mingyu's reservations towards the Jiang family, Jiang Li changed the subject with a smile as they walked to Xue Huaiyuan's courtyard.Xue Huaiyuan was sitting in the courtyard, wearing a thick fur coat, and reading. The fur coat was made of tiger skin that Ye Mingyu had hunted in the past, and he had Xue Huaiyuan wear it. Jiang Li couldn't help but find it both funny and strange to see the refined Xue Huaiyuan wearing such a bold garment. Yet, Ye Mingyu thought it was great: "This tiger fur coat is very warm! Wearing the skin of the king of beasts can also strengthen the body, imbuing the courage of the beast king. Look, isn't County Magistrate Xue's health improving by the day?"Seeing him so enthusiastic, Jiang Li had to go along with it. Watching Xue Huaiyuan's appearance as he read, her gaze turned sorrowful, "He still doesn't understand?""No, he's been staring at the same page all day. If I hadn't noticed, I might have thought he was actually reading. It seems like he has regained consciousness, even though he's holding the book without reading, his actions indicate that his memories are slowly returning. It's a long process, but as long as there's progress, he will remember more and more until he recalls who he is, and his lost memories and consciousness can be restored."Jiang Li and Haitang were both pleasantly surprised.As long as there was hope for Xue Huaiyuan's recovery, there would come a day when Jiang Li would be able to reunite with him. However... her gaze shifted to Haitang beside her, and Jiang Li, after a moment of thought, asked, "Miss Jiuyue, is there a way to treat the scars on Haitang's face?""I asked her, and she said it wasn't necessary," Situ Jiuyue replied."Why isn't it necessary?" Jiang Li asked inquisitively.Haitang's expression dimmed, and she said, "Miss Jiang Li, there's no need to worry about me. The scars on my face are so severe that they are impossible to heal completely. At most, they can be slightly faded, and it serves no purpose to raise hope and then be disappointed later. Besides, the only thing I wish for now is for County Magistrate Xue to recover and to seek vengeance for my young lady. Looks are of no use to me."Although Haitang spoke lightly, Jiang Li sensed a tinge of desolation in her words. Considering Haitang's current age, it was just the right time for her to marry and bear children. While a person's feelings didn't lie in appearance, such looks would make everything she did in the future much more difficult. It would also make her...-->>She would also have to bear a lot of pain that she shouldn't bear."Miss September is a divine doctor," Jiang Li said, "You haven't even tried, so why give up? When Magistrate Xue was just rescued, everyone thought he wouldn't live much longer, but look now, isn't he getting better little by little? Compared to Magistrate Xue, your hope of healing the scars on her face is much greater."Haitang stared at Jiang Li blankly. Jiang Li's tone was gentle yet firm, making one involuntarily want to believe her, believe that she can get better."I am not a divine doctor. I have said it before, I am not good at saving people, I am good at making poisons." Situ Jiuyue finished the last needle without lifting her head and said, "But there is a way to heal the scars on her face. I have a method that can make her restore her former appearance."Upon hearing this, Jiang Li immediately asked, "Is this true?"Haitang's eyes also lit up. Which girl in the world doesn't love beauty? Especially when a originally beautiful person suddenly changes drastically and becomes unattractive, they would do everything possible to restore their former good looks."I never lie," Situ Jiuyue looked at Haitang and suddenly a smile appeared on her face. Although she was sweet-looking, her attitude was always slightly cold. When she smiled, there was a hint of cunning, as if hiding some malicious thoughts. She said, "However, my method is not the same as that of ordinary doctors."Jiang Li asked, "What method is it?""I am good at making poisons, and the wounds on her face can be treated with poison. There is a type of venomous spider in Molan. When it bites someone, the saliva it spits out can heal external wounds and restore the skin to its original state. These venomous spiders are very rare, with one being hard to find in ten years. Luckily, I have raised one."Having a venomous spider treat a person with poison sounds quite chilling. But Situ Jiuyue was not done yet. She continued, "When this type of venomous spider bites a person, it is very painful. How painful is it? It's like being pricked by a hundred needles simultaneously, not only is it painful, but it also itches immensely, so much so that you can't scratch it with your hands, or else all efforts will be in vain. Not only will it not heal, but the skin will ulcerate and die. But as long as you endure without scratching, get through it, you can restore your former appearance." At this point, a hint of pride appeared on her face. "The Molan royal family raises these spiders. If the women in the family accidentally ruin their appearance, they can use the venomous spiders to restore their looks. However, very few actually manage to endure the pain and itching. Most give in midway, unable to bear the pain, scratch, and end up dying."After Situ Jiuyue's words, Jiang Li almost suspected if this girl was intentionally scaring Haitang. But looking at her expression, she didn't seem to be joking.Situ Jiuyue looked at Haitang and asked, "So, have you made up your mind?"Even through the veil, Jiang Li could feel Haitang's sudden paleness. But after a moment of silence, she said, "Yes."Situ Jiuyue's gaze flickered. "Aren't you afraid? The process is very agonizing. If you can't endure it, you may lose your life. I heard you still want to clear your mistress's name. Are you willing to risk your life for restoring your appearance, regardless of whether you can survive to testify for your mistress?"Jiang Li thought that Situ Jiuyue's words were too harsh. They undoubtedly made Haitang even more upset. However, Haitang was not left speechless by Situ Jiuyue's words. Instead, she calmly said, "No, it's because I want to clear my mistress's name. If I can heal my scar, I can restore my appearance, and then others will recognize that I am indeed a maid of the Xue family. Otherwise, even if one day my mistress's case is revealed, when I come out to testify, and my appearance is ruined, they may not recognize my identity, saying that I am impersonating a maid of the Xue family. In that case, no one will believe what I say."Situ Jiuyue looked at Haitang and snorted, unable to discern her expression."And," Haitang smiled, "I can endure it. I have endured the pain of cutting my face with a knife, so this pain is nothing. Moreover, once I restore my appearance, not only will no one say I am not Haitang again, but it will also be a good thing for me. Earlier, Miss Jiang encouraged me to restore my appearance, even encouraged me to seek treatment. Why are you hesitating now?""That's..." She didn't know that restoring her appearance came with such great risks, even jeopardizing her life."It's okay." Haitang looked at Xue Huaiyuan sitting in the courtyard. "I believe that heaven will not turn a blind eye forever. Master has endured it, I can endure it too, really."Jiang Li looked at her for a long time, finally nodded. "Alright, you must... be extra careful."...After returning from the Ye Residence, Jiang Li seemed a bit downcast.Bai Xue and Tong'er noticed it, but they didn't dare to disturb her. Jiang Li was in the room thinking about everything that happened at the Ye Residence during the day, feeling a mix of joy and sorrow.The joy was that Xue Huaiyuan was slowly recovering, and Haitang might also regain her appearance. The sorrow was that during the process of restoring her appearance, Haitang might lose her life. This made Jiang Li uneasy, as Haitang had gone through so much to survive, and it was partly because of her that she ended up in her current situation. Regardless, Jiang Li hoped she would live. If something were to happen because of her, Jiang Li would feel guilty for a lifetime.Speaking of which, Haitang's determination was also fueled by her fervent desire to clear Xue Fangfei's name, to reveal the true face of Yongning to the world. Herself, along with the people around her, had suffered greatly because of Yongning's calamities, insanity, and dispersion. Yongning, as the mastermind, would not be forgiven.She would inevitably be punished.At this moment in the Princess's Residence, it was a scene of flickering lights.In the winter Princess's Residence, it was still warm as spring. There were fruits and melons on the table, some not typical for this season. Such precious items could only be found in the Princess's Residence. Even the aloeswood burning on the table was an extremely luxurious item.Princess Yongning was leaning against a couch, wearing a twisted silk gown that sparkled under the light. This used to be her exclusive beauty, but now a kind of "rippling water pattern" emerged inexplicably in the Yanjing City, not as expensive as her twisted silk, yet even more dazzling than her attire, leaving people in awe.The things she used to cherish alone were now shared with the commoners of Yanjing City. Even the wealthy families could afford the common "rippling water pattern," which was even more dazzling than her twisted silk clothing. This made her somewhat melancholic.Only Shen Yurong could lift her spirits slightly."Lord Shen," she called out, leaning her head gently on Shen Yurong's shoulder, displaying a completely girlish demeanor. Those who were familiar with her would be greatly surprised to see Princess Yongning in such a gentle and affectionate manner.Shen Yurong stroked her long hair, gazing at the flickering candlelight, lost in his thoughts.Princess Yongning was a bit unhappy. Since Xue Huaiyuan's case stirred up Yanjing City, that despicable Jiang Li dared to involve her. Although it was proven false later on, the rumors persisted, and she didn't dare to have too close of a relationship with Shen Yurong.In fact, Shen Yurong personally told her to keep her distance temporarily, not to be as intimate as before, to avoid giving others ammunition against them.Princess Yongning was both angry and aggrieved. Shen Yurong had clearly promised to be her husband, even Dowager Liu had agreed. If it weren't for the case of Tongxiang, they would have had an engagement by now, perhaps even been married.Why hide and conceal, as if they couldn't be seen together!Princess Yongning grew more and more dissatisfied, leaning against Shen Yurong's arms, saying, "Shen Lang, when will you marry me?"Shen Yurong paused for a moment in his gentle stroking of her hair, then softly said, "Didn't we agree that for now, it is not possible. The Tongxiang case has just passed, and you were involved, making you a target.""But it has been proven to be false! Besides, no one dares to gossip behind my back!" Princess Yongning said impatiently.Her patience was wearing thin. Every time she was close to success, something would come up midway to disrupt things, and even the best patience would be worn down.Shen Yurong looked at her without speaking.The more Princess Yongning thought about it, the more unpleasant she felt. Ever since Xue Huaiyuan's case came to light, Jiang Li, that wretch, dared to involve her as well. Although Jiang Li later clarified it was false, rumors spread like wildfire. Even though she didn't care much about other people's opinions, she could privately take care of those who gossiped behind her back, eliminate them, or silence them forever. She had always been this way - no one could stop her from doing what she wanted. If someone tried to obstruct her, they would be removed.But Shen Yurong was different. Shen Yurong couldn't tolerate others' gossip and suspicions. His career also had to be spotless, let alone any possible crimes.This was the conflict between her and Shen Yurong - to resolve it, one of them would have to compromise. Princess Yongning was unwilling to compromise with Shen Yurong because she didn't want to continue waiting like this. But Shen Yurong was also very stubborn; he couldn't compromise now.In the end, Princess Yongning averted her gaze, stretched out her arms, wrapped them around Shen Yurong's neck, and coquettishly said, "Alright, I understand. You don't have to look at me with a furrowed brow. Take your time, and I'll wait for you. You can't go back on your word.""Of course."Shen Yurong smiled and playfully flicked her nose, seemingly very indulgent, but a hint of hidden impatience flashed in his eyes.Thus, he naturally didn't see that the woman nestled in his arms was not genuinely cheerful, but harbored another kind of thought, continuously taking root and sprouting.They were both harboring their own secrets.