Love like the Galaxy - V1C4
Author and Editor's Notes
1- Transmigration, Sickness and Recovery
2- Survival
3- Sick again, Gossips and Jealousy
4- Family Reunion
5- Awkward Meeting
6- Drama Spirit
7- Crocodile tears
8- Mother and Son
9- Family Banquet
10- Good News!
11- Mother and Daughter
12- Enough is Enough
13- Madam Xiao's unfairness
14- Siblings' reunion and a moment of reflection
15- Third Uncle and Madam Sang
Chapter 4
Family Reunion[1]
Faking it until she made it, this moment of unconsciousness transported Yu Cailing into a dream. In her dream, she saw the boy from her hometown's neighbor—tall and handsome, reminiscent of the phoenix tree in her grandmother's courtyard—while her younger self stood beside him, looking up with admiration.
She had always wondered why other couples, composed of local men and educated young women sent to the countryside, remained loving and devoted. Even after economic reforms brought wealth, their way of demonstrating affection was often to follow their wives' example—reading more, donating to a public library, or establishing scholarships for local schools—unlike her father, who preferred to "enliven the entertainment industry."
As a child, Yu Cailing frequently peeked over the wall at this joyful family of three, feeling torn between envy and resentment. As she got older, she developed a crush on their son, only to see him bring home a girlfriend one day, pointing at her with a laugh and saying, "...This is my neighbor's little sister." Unfortunately, being sibling-zoned was even worse than being friend-zoned.
During her time in the university drama club, Yu Cailing caught the attention of the easygoing class president. He often relaxed during rehearsals but always found time to glance at her. However, her heart still belonged to a childhood crush—the neighbor boy from her hometown. His memory lingered like a sweet yet bittersweet song. This nostalgia kept her from accepting the exciting chances for a real relationship with the charming class president. She missed out on a potential romance, which left her wondering what could have been—a true romantic experience lost to the memories of her past. She thought about the delicate dance of attraction amid the busy life at university and felt disappointed.
Yu Cailing, lost in memories for what felt like ages, stayed half-conscious with weak, immobile limbs. She sensed someone helping her sit up and feeding her spoonfuls of a cool, pungent broth. After a few sips, her mind started to clear, and she slowly tried to open her eyes—like forcing open a tightly shut chest, almost hearing its stubborn hinges creak.
"She's awake, she's awake!"
Yu Cailing heard the relieved, happy voice of her "dear Aunt," Madam Ge.
“The Imperial Physician from the palace is truly impressive, just a few doses and she's already showing improvement! Congratulations, Old Madam, congratulations, Husband's Brother, and congratulations, Sister-in-law.
Before Madam Ge could finish her impassioned speech, an elderly woman, her voice laced with sharp sarcasm, suddenly interjected. "Don’t get carried away," she snapped, her eyes glinting with disdain. "People might start to think we’ve mistreated their daughter. Let’s not forget—we’ve neglected her for the past ten years, yet we’ve stood by her side through every challenge. Even if we remain in the shadows without any recognition, we’ve fulfilled our duties as best as we could. Every child falls ill from time to time; a few days of fever shouldn’t send everyone into a panic. If they’re truly so concerned for her well-being, then why didn’t they take the responsibility to raise her themselves?"
Finally opening her eyes, Yu Cailing saw a room filled with over a dozen kneeling maids and servants. She followed the voice and noticed a stout, towering old woman sitting majestically on a gleaming lacquered sandalwood folding chair, surrounded by attendants. The woman wore a dark purple robe with a straight collar, subtly embroidered with gold thread, and a wide jade belt loosely tied around her waist. Her hair was styled in a round bun at the back of her head, secured with a long hairpin made entirely of gold, as thick as a firewood stick. Her earlobes were adorned with large red-gold earrings so heavy they stretched her lobes, casting a garish gleam in the candlelight.
Yu Cailing felt a wave of irritation. Are you managing a gold shop? Why not insert some golden chopsticks into your nostrils or get gold teeth to finish the look?
The old woman’s face was elongated, filled with disdain, and seemingly forever dissatisfied. Next to her, Madam Ge and several maids knelt, some holding lacquer trays, others tending hand warmers—creating quite an impressive scene. Madam Ge sat empty-handed, watching Yu Cailing with a worried glance. Yu Cailing then noticed a middle-aged couple sitting beside her bed. The man was tall and muscular, his face hidden behind a thick beard. He wore a red padded robe beneath a dark purple outer garment, with his right arm exposed and dark iron bracers on both wrists—definitely indicative of a military officer.
Although he had taken off his armor, a sense of battle-worn intensity still radiated from him. He looked sharply at Yu Cailing, his eyes showing worry. The woman next to him stayed quiet, her head bowed, her slender, curvy figure partly visible, though her face was concealed.
The kneeling attendant, who suddenly stood up after hearing the old woman’s words, was comforting a woman who was softly crying. She wore a long blue gown, had delicate features, and, despite her age, spoke clearly: "Old Madam’s words are quite amusing, as if the Fourth Miss was abandoned because our Commander refused to raise her. I dare not overstep, but everyone knows the Fourth Miss stayed to fulfill her filial duties to you, Old Madam. Without the shaman’s divination, would our Commander have willingly left her three-year-old child?"
Yu Cailing instantly identified the old woman, the bearded man, and the crying lady. She hurriedly glanced around and realized this was not the room her "dear aunt" had arranged for her. The space was more modest and less adorned, with the polished wooden floors now layered with thick, multicolored fur rugs. A warm stove added coziness, and everyone was in thick socks.
Low square stools were scattered around, some covered with fur cushions for kneeling, while others knelt directly on the shining floor.
"Qing Cong, keep quiet," Madam Xiao, the crying woman, lifted her head and scolded before addressing Old Madam, Cheng Mu. "Mother-in-law, kindly forgive Qing Cong ’s outburst. She is upset over Fourth Miss."
But Old Madam Cheng refused to let it go. Enraged, she snapped, "Impudent wench! How dare you! Guards, bring the rod—"
Before she could finish, the military officer coldly cut her off and said, "Impudent? Was Qing Cong wrong? We kept Niao Niao behind out of filial piety, but now it appears we neglected her. Serving you is our duty, but let’s be honest here."
“Shi Er, you—!" Old Madam Cheng snapped, furious at the word "we," because she was angry that her eldest son, who was usually more obedient to his wife than to her, dared to defy her openly.
Yu Cailing felt dizzy, focusing on one detail: Am I really called "Niao Niao[1]"? A girl with the nickname "Little Bird"? Is this some compensatory name?
Qing Cong turned around and observed Yu Cailing’s exhausted, dazed look. Gently, she asked, "Fourth Miss, are you feeling better? After so many years apart from your Father and Mother, you should at least try to greet them properly." She then signaled to the two maids beside Yu Cailing. Yu Cailing had seen Fu Deng bow to Fu Zhu and Fu Yi before, but she wasn’t sure if the etiquette here was different. She then slowly raised her arms, unsteady and cautious. The two quick-witted maids immediately stepped forward to support her softly, half-kneeling on the bed. They pressed her right hand over her left, covered her arms with her sleeves, lifted her hands to her forehead, and then bowed her head onto the bed. One maid whispered, "The Young Lady greets Father and Mother." Yu Cailing followed the guidance, barely whispering, and was helped back up, then raised her eyebrows before lowering them again—completing the ritual. Though physically exhausted, Yu Cailing’s mind remained clear.
She had always wondered why other couples, composed of local men and educated young women sent to the countryside, remained loving and devoted. Even after economic reforms brought wealth, their way of demonstrating affection was often to follow their wives' example—reading more, donating to a public library, or establishing scholarships for local schools—unlike her father, who preferred to "enliven the entertainment industry."
As a child, Yu Cailing frequently peeked over the wall at this joyful family of three, feeling torn between envy and resentment. As she got older, she developed a crush on their son, only to see him bring home a girlfriend one day, pointing at her with a laugh and saying, "...This is my neighbor's little sister." Unfortunately, being sibling-zoned was even worse than being friend-zoned.
During her time in the university drama club, Yu Cailing caught the attention of the easygoing class president. He often relaxed during rehearsals but always found time to glance at her. However, her heart still belonged to a childhood crush—the neighbor boy from her hometown. His memory lingered like a sweet yet bittersweet song. This nostalgia kept her from accepting the exciting chances for a real relationship with the charming class president. She missed out on a potential romance, which left her wondering what could have been—a true romantic experience lost to the memories of her past. She thought about the delicate dance of attraction amid the busy life at university and felt disappointed.
Yu Cailing, lost in memories for what felt like ages, stayed half-conscious with weak, immobile limbs. She sensed someone helping her sit up and feeding her spoonfuls of a cool, pungent broth. After a few sips, her mind started to clear, and she slowly tried to open her eyes—like forcing open a tightly shut chest, almost hearing its stubborn hinges creak.
"She's awake, she's awake!"
Yu Cailing heard the relieved, happy voice of her "dear Aunt," Madam Ge.
“The Imperial Physician from the palace is truly impressive, just a few doses and she's already showing improvement! Congratulations, Old Madam, congratulations, Husband's Brother, and congratulations, Sister-in-law.
Before Madam Ge could finish her impassioned speech, an elderly woman, her voice laced with sharp sarcasm, suddenly interjected. "Don’t get carried away," she snapped, her eyes glinting with disdain. "People might start to think we’ve mistreated their daughter. Let’s not forget—we’ve neglected her for the past ten years, yet we’ve stood by her side through every challenge. Even if we remain in the shadows without any recognition, we’ve fulfilled our duties as best as we could. Every child falls ill from time to time; a few days of fever shouldn’t send everyone into a panic. If they’re truly so concerned for her well-being, then why didn’t they take the responsibility to raise her themselves?"
Finally opening her eyes, Yu Cailing saw a room filled with over a dozen kneeling maids and servants. She followed the voice and noticed a stout, towering old woman sitting majestically on a gleaming lacquered sandalwood folding chair, surrounded by attendants. The woman wore a dark purple robe with a straight collar, subtly embroidered with gold thread, and a wide jade belt loosely tied around her waist. Her hair was styled in a round bun at the back of her head, secured with a long hairpin made entirely of gold, as thick as a firewood stick. Her earlobes were adorned with large red-gold earrings so heavy they stretched her lobes, casting a garish gleam in the candlelight.
Yu Cailing felt a wave of irritation. Are you managing a gold shop? Why not insert some golden chopsticks into your nostrils or get gold teeth to finish the look?
The old woman’s face was elongated, filled with disdain, and seemingly forever dissatisfied. Next to her, Madam Ge and several maids knelt, some holding lacquer trays, others tending hand warmers—creating quite an impressive scene. Madam Ge sat empty-handed, watching Yu Cailing with a worried glance. Yu Cailing then noticed a middle-aged couple sitting beside her bed. The man was tall and muscular, his face hidden behind a thick beard. He wore a red padded robe beneath a dark purple outer garment, with his right arm exposed and dark iron bracers on both wrists—definitely indicative of a military officer.
Although he had taken off his armor, a sense of battle-worn intensity still radiated from him. He looked sharply at Yu Cailing, his eyes showing worry. The woman next to him stayed quiet, her head bowed, her slender, curvy figure partly visible, though her face was concealed.
The kneeling attendant, who suddenly stood up after hearing the old woman’s words, was comforting a woman who was softly crying. She wore a long blue gown, had delicate features, and, despite her age, spoke clearly: "Old Madam’s words are quite amusing, as if the Fourth Miss was abandoned because our Commander refused to raise her. I dare not overstep, but everyone knows the Fourth Miss stayed to fulfill her filial duties to you, Old Madam. Without the shaman’s divination, would our Commander have willingly left her three-year-old child?"
Yu Cailing instantly identified the old woman, the bearded man, and the crying lady. She hurriedly glanced around and realized this was not the room her "dear aunt" had arranged for her. The space was more modest and less adorned, with the polished wooden floors now layered with thick, multicolored fur rugs. A warm stove added coziness, and everyone was in thick socks.
Low square stools were scattered around, some covered with fur cushions for kneeling, while others knelt directly on the shining floor.
"Qing Cong, keep quiet," Madam Xiao, the crying woman, lifted her head and scolded before addressing Old Madam, Cheng Mu. "Mother-in-law, kindly forgive Qing Cong ’s outburst. She is upset over Fourth Miss."
But Old Madam Cheng refused to let it go. Enraged, she snapped, "Impudent wench! How dare you! Guards, bring the rod—"
Before she could finish, the military officer coldly cut her off and said, "Impudent? Was Qing Cong wrong? We kept Niao Niao behind out of filial piety, but now it appears we neglected her. Serving you is our duty, but let’s be honest here."
“Shi Er, you—!" Old Madam Cheng snapped, furious at the word "we," because she was angry that her eldest son, who was usually more obedient to his wife than to her, dared to defy her openly.
Yu Cailing felt dizzy, focusing on one detail: Am I really called "Niao Niao[1]"? A girl with the nickname "Little Bird"? Is this some compensatory name?
Qing Cong turned around and observed Yu Cailing’s exhausted, dazed look. Gently, she asked, "Fourth Miss, are you feeling better? After so many years apart from your Father and Mother, you should at least try to greet them properly." She then signaled to the two maids beside Yu Cailing. Yu Cailing had seen Fu Deng bow to Fu Zhu and Fu Yi before, but she wasn’t sure if the etiquette here was different. She then slowly raised her arms, unsteady and cautious. The two quick-witted maids immediately stepped forward to support her softly, half-kneeling on the bed. They pressed her right hand over her left, covered her arms with her sleeves, lifted her hands to her forehead, and then bowed her head onto the bed. One maid whispered, "The Young Lady greets Father and Mother." Yu Cailing followed the guidance, barely whispering, and was helped back up, then raised her eyebrows before lowering them again—completing the ritual. Though physically exhausted, Yu Cailing’s mind remained clear.
Ayio. Forcing a barely awake girl to show filial piety. For now, let's make good use of this weakness for a while and learn more about those people.
Madam Xiao gazed at her daughter, a mix of emotions on her face, and said, "Good."
Only then did Yu Cailing finally get a good look at Madam Xiao’s face, and she couldn’t help but feel admiration. In this era, she rarely saw women so meticulously groomed—most were either buck-toothed or bug-eyed, broad-shouldered or very slim. But Madam Xiao had porcelain skin and an elegant presence, even more attractive than the young women around Yu Cailing’s father in her previous life. This immediately boosted her confidence in her appearance, since she still had no idea what she truly looked like.
Possibly because she ascended too rapidly, Yu Cailing once again felt dizzy and leaned on the maidservant’s shoulder, nearly unconscious. This gesture was partly genuine and partly deliberate.
Seeing his daughter so small, fragile, with her weak, pitiful voice, tear stains on her cheeks from sleep, her tiny frame leaning against the maid like a delicate paper doll, and her face barely half the size of his palm, Cheng Shi felt a surge of heartbreak. “At thirteen, girls from common farming families are often already married, yet his daughter still looked like a young child. He raised his voice, saying, "While I was away guarding the borders and fighting battles, enduring hardships, my wife managed the private army and raised our children. Our first three sons and even the youngest, born later, are all healthy. Yet Niao Niao, living comfortably here in the Capital City, has become like this! Can you explain to us how this can be?"
At these words, Madam Ge, the person actually responsible for raising the child, paled. Cheng Shi was clearly blaming her. Cheng Shi was actually mistaken. Except for her recent illness, which was clearly due to her own negligence, the girl had been well-fed and physically cared for over the years. The Wan family’s elderly matriarch, living nearby, often visited and made rude remarks, such as, "Poor child, without parents, if you can’t raise her properly, why not send her back to Cheng Xiaowei?" Old Madam Cheng, being selfish and indifferent, insisted on keeping the Fourth Miss close but paid no attention to anything else. Madam Ge couldn’t even find subtle ways to hide her frustrations.
Meanwhile, Old Madam, after being scolded by her son, flew into a rage. She beat her chest and loudly wailed, "wā wā [2] So it’s true! Old age makes one a burden! After all these years away, you return only to fuss over the little ones, not even asking if your own mother is alive or dead! I’ve been terribly ill recently..." She paused for a few dry coughs before continuing to cry, "… What did you all promise when your father passed? To be filial to me! Now you’d rather see me dead than keep your word!" Not satisfied with crying and pounding on the folding chair, she suddenly straightened up with bloodshot eyes, howling like a wild boar: "If this still isn't enough, why don't I just die to join Fourth Miss in death!"
Old Madam Cheng Mu, once a humble peasant and physically formidable[3], shook the entire room with her outburst. Sensing the moment, Li Zhui subtly nudged Madam Ge, who quickly stepped forward and said, "Husband's mother, please don't be upset. Husband’s brother is a high-ranking official, and isn't His Majesty placing filial piety above all now? How can a husband’s brother be unfilial?"
Unable to vent his anger at his mother, Cheng Shi turned to Madam Ge instead: "Several years ago, when Mother recovered, I sent someone to fetch Niao Niao. What did you write in your letter then? You said Niao Niao was doing extremely well at home in every way, and that leaving the family estate might not be suitable for her!"
Yu Cailing felt inwardly delighted, Excellent, excellent! This middle-aged man Cheng, lacked any gentlemanly manners and freely scolded women without hesitation.
Madam Ge, startled by the harsh reprimand, quickly moved aside. Seeing this, Old Madam exclaimed, "Stop beating around the bush and scolding me! It was I who refused to let Fourth Miss go! The shaman said that although I was healed at the time, who knew if something might happen to me once the Fourth Miss left?" Madam Ge's words prompted her, and she hurriedly added, "Out there, filial officials have been known to cut their flesh and blood to aid their parents' recovery, yet you're so upset over a sick little girl!"
Looking at Madam Xiao kneeling with her head bowed, she sneered cruelly: "Next time you leave, leave Shaogong with me. They're twins—keeping either one makes no difference. If not... hmph! You're my son, and I can't punish you, but I will definitely report your wife for unfiliality!"
Cheng Shi objected annoyed, "What does this have to do with her? Mother, why must you always find fault with her?"
Madam Xiao kept her head bowed throughout, but Yu Cailing, observant, noticed a sneering smile lurking at the corner of her lips from that angle. However, when she lifted her head, her face returned to one of sorrowful respect.
She bowed deeply to Old Madam, her stepmother, kowtowing with a sad tone: "Husband's mother, please don't be angry. No one understands a son better than his mother. You surely know the master's personality. Over the years apart, he has always regretted not being able to care for you himself, and although his intentions are sincere, he doesn't always express them well in words.”
Old Madam looked at her with disdain. "How can I compare to your abilities? Shi'er just praised how effectively you manage the private army and children, yet I struggle to care for a single child. In earlier years, Shi'er would consult me on every matter at the Cheng household. But ever since you joined us, no matter how small or large, inside or outside, as soon as you speak, Shi'er replies 'Yes, yes, right, right'—does he still respect me as his mother?"
Hearing these resentful, jealous complaints, Yu Cailing didn't dare turn her neck but shook her head inwardly. The old lady believes she's still in her prime and wishes to delay retirement, yet her son and daughter-in-law refuse to let her continue shining—it's only fitting she gets scolded.
Cheng Shi said, feeling a headache, "The sage said, 'Let the younger generation handle the labor.' The new bride took charge of household chores to show filial piety to Mother, so that she could have some peace." This only enraged Cheng Mu further: "Sage my foot! If I had more leisure, I might as well be six feet under! Those noble ladies praise your virtue but look down on me, barely acknowledging me. General Wan's mother lives next door, yet in all these years, we've hardly exchanged three words. Whenever we meet, she either praises you, the new bride, for your hard work in managing the household and raising children, or asks about Fourth Lady, as if her aunt and I would mistreat her! Now you're back from your campaign. How many rewards did you get? How many captives? No one tells me, so I might as well be blind and deaf!"
Of this long tirade, Yu Cailing only agreed with the first sentence, and the last two words were lost on her.
Madam Xiao repeatedly bowed in apology, saying, "It is my fault for displeasing you, Husband's mother. It is late, and you should retire to rest."
Ignoring her daughter-in-law, Cheng Mu gave her son, Cheng Shi, a cold smile and said, "Put me in my coffin, and you’ll finally get your wish. I don’t care. This time you return, you must secure a few hundred bushels of official rank for your uncle, who has worked hard over the years. Also, find another twenty thousand coins for your aunt. The Dong family is getting a new bride."
Cheng Shi could endure no more: "I already know. It’s not a new bride but another concubine! My cousin is younger than I am. How many does he need? He already has heirs. Why are we spending so much…”
Old Madam cast a glance at Madam Xiao, still kneeling, then turned back to her son with increased sarcasm: "Over the years, how much have you spent on Xiao Feng’s education and marriage without hesitation? Your wife’s brother is family, but your own mother’s brother is just an outsider! Moreover, it’s proper for An’er’s bride to bring more maids to serve her husband and in-laws—unlike some... Hmph! If you truly showed filial piety, you would take more concubines to serve me directly."
Cheng Shi, frustrated by his mother’s unreasonable demands, snapped back angrily: "Education and marriage are proper matters, but taking concubines…"
Madam Xiao abruptly turned to her husband and softly interrupted him: "My lord, say no more. Let us follow what the Husband's mother advises." Turning her back to Old Madam, Madam Ge, and the servants, she gave her husband a discreet glance, a silent gesture. Those behind her couldn’t see her face, but Yu Cailing noticed it clearly.
Cheng Shi briefly closed his eyes before helplessly conceding, shaping his hands into a cup: "As you say, Mother. It's late, you should retire."
Seeing both son and daughter-in-law yield, Old Madam happily got up and left, followed by about seven or eight servants whose gentle sway resembled the Dragon King’s turtle minister from the East Sea[4]. Madam Ge quickly followed, feeling relieved that the conflict over Fourth Lady’s illness had ended. It seemed Madam Xiao still feared her mother-in-law and didn’t dare to push further—her panic days earlier had been unnecessary, and her prepared excuses weren’t used. Before departing, she even gave a smug look to her confidante Li Zhui, as if to say: See? Everything is fine.
Li Zhui, always eager to please, hurried to support her but was inwardly confused. A decade ago, conflicts between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law were common and usually ended with Madam Xiao apologizing. When disagreements arose, Cheng Shi would exchange sharp words with his mother, leaving everyone annoyed. Today, although Madam Xiao apologized repeatedly, her tone lacked genuine concern and seemed somewhat perfunctory. Cheng Shi's behavior was even more unusual. Normally, he would have made a bigger fuss in such situations, but today he remained calm, not rushing to help Madam Xiao up from her kneeling on the floor. Li Zhui hesitated but did not speak further. She understood Old Madam Cheng Mu didn’t truly favor her, as she merely despised Madam Xiao and was using Madam Ge as a tool to oppose her.
━━━━༻❁༺━━━━
Watching Old Madam and Madam Ge’s group leave the room like flowing water, Madam Xiao’s smile faded. She turned quietly and looked at Cheng Shi, saying nothing. Cheng Shi sighed, sat on the folding chair his mother just left, and looked at his daughter, who had once again fainted, leaning against her maids, sighing once more.
Qing Cong rose and asked the two maids to help Yu Cailing lie down. She gently checked her forehead, then carefully drew the heavy brocade bed curtains herself before silently signaling the other maids to leave and close the door.
In this quiet space, Yu Cailing lay on her side facing inward, trying to steady her breathing and pretend to be asleep. Her fists clenched, her eyes closed, and her palms sweaty. She had no idea what the couple might be discussing secretly. Her curiosity about the original parents of this body she now inhabited was overwhelming.
Actually, Madam Xiao was inherently cautious. If Madam Ge had not been unprepared—quickly clearing just a few rooms for Cheng Shi and his group—and if Madam Xiao had not refused to let her daughter go back to Madam Ge’s care, she would never have remained in her daughter’s room for a private conversation.
Soon after, Qing Cong entered through an inner door, followed by a woman. When she greeted them, Yu Cailing immediately recognized her voice— it was Fu Zhu!
“A Zhu, rise,” Madam Xiao said warmly, stepping forward to help her up. “Are you all right?”
Fu Zhu looked at Madam Xiao with tear-filled eyes and sobbed, “Yes, Mistress." Looking at General Cheng, she added, "The Commander hasn’t changed at all, and the master is even more magnificent than ever.”
Cheng Shi, who had been expressionless since they entered, finally smiled. He stroked his thick beard and said to his wife, “A Zhu is always the same. When she speaks, she only tells the truth.”
Everyone—from the acting Yu Cailing to the composed Madam Xiao—smiled subtly in amusement, while Qing Cong concealed her face behind her sleeve to hold back a laugh.
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Madam Xiao sat upright and said solemnly, “Tell us what happened.”
Fu Zhu respectfully bowed and explained, “A couple of weeks ago, the Commander ordered me to return to the Cheng estate. I was told that nothing unusual had occurred there for years, except that the Young Lady was very lonely and lacked care. She grew up alone. I only learned this from Li Zhui recently, along with vague rumors about her unruly reputation. Soo I went to the countryside and visited my natal village and found my family house in need of repairs. So I stayed there for a few weeks and returned to the Cheng manor."
She paused her speech to ensure she could report all details and then continued. "Over a month ago, I heard she argued with someone at a plum blossom banquet. Whether true or not, Madam Ge punished her by confining her to a secluded, old, unused courtyard for reflection. Attendant Li Zhui, who serves Madam Ge, was responsible for her care. Being an elderly woman who loves money, she is very selfish. I do not know whether Madam Ge ordered Li Zhui, but she left her alone in a cold, damp, long-abandoned brick room for many days, without much food, clean water, a warm blanket, or even clean, warm clothing. As a result, the Young Lady became very ill."
Everyone in the room was shocked and upset at this point. "Madam Ge appointed guards to prevent her from leaving the courtyard, stopping me from checking on her. Eventually, I bribed Li Zhui to allow me to see her, and I found her feverish for days. No doctor was present or visited, as I did not see any medicine in the room. I then bribed Li Zhui once more and took the Young Lady to my family’s countryside home, where I could care for her more effectively. My home isn’t luxurious, but I could provide more comfort and continuous care."
Fu Zhu sighed and continued her story, "It took ten days for her to recover enough to leave her bed without a fever and to walk. Shortly. Before your arrival, she was urgently taken back to the Cheng manor in the Capital because of your upcoming visit, and I could not come with her. During the half-day journey, she fell ill again with a high fever. Madam Ge placed her in another poor courtyard. When she heard of your arrival, she panicked, sent a doctor, and brought the Young Lady here. She did not receive proper medicine and care early in her illness, which is why she remains very weak.”
Cheng Shi was enraged. He pounded his palm on the armrest of the folding chair, breaking the carved wood. “That woman is completely despicable! My second brother should divorce her!”
Cheng Shi was enraged. He pounded his palm on the armrest of the folding chair, breaking the carved wood. “That woman is completely despicable! My second brother should divorce her!”
Fu Zhu hurriedly bowed once more. “This servant is at fault.”
Madam Xiao waved dismissively. “It’s not your fault. You weren’t assigned to her needs. You did well to rush there on time." "A-Yue..." A-Zhu had barely begun when Madam Xiao interrupted firmly, "No need to say more. I understand."
Yu Cailing secretly admired Madam Xiao's commanding, swift tone, almost unable to believe she was the same woman who had just kneeled submissively, offering gentle, humble apologies. Truly a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Qing Cong, noticing the looks on the master and mistress's faces, quickly changed the subject by teasing A-Zhu: "That was probably your first time seeing the Young Lady. I heard she has a fierce temper—did she ever punish you?"
A-Zhu sobbed softly, "Punish what? By the time I got there, the Young Lady was already on the brink of death. So fragile, so thin, burning with fever all over, lying on that damp, cold pallet. She was delirious from the fever and couldn't swallow medicine. I was terrified, worried that something might happen to the Young Lady and that I would betray the Commander's trust!"
Cheng Shi's eyes shifted to the bed, remembering how delicate and tiny his daughter appeared when he first saw her. That memory intensified his pain, especially compared to his four strong sons, each as vigorous as a young bull.
"As for the Young Lady's temper, I dare not say much," A-Zhu said indignantly. "I only ask the master and Commander to see for themselves once the Young Lady recovers. Then it will be clear whether those rumors were spread intentionally."
Fu Yi and his wife A-Zhu had been watching Cheng Shi for over a decade, so he was familiar with their personalities. If AZhu dared to speak this way, then his own daughter probably wasn't as the rumors claimed.
Qing Cong carefully watched Cheng Shi's expression before remarking with a smile, "Madam was truly wise to send people to the estate in advance. Without that, things might have gone badly. Who would have expected Second Madam to be so cruel?"
Cheng Shi's face darkened once more. Madam Xiao looked at him but then addressed Qing Cong slowly, saying, "What can be done? I already encountered some foolish people. Clever people don't scare me—at least you know they won't make stupid moves. But fools are really troublesome."
She let out a scornful laugh and casually continued, as if discussing a trivial topic, "Do you remember that year when the Donglu's second son in the village took a second wife? As soon as the second wife gave birth to a son, she sold the first wife's young children to merchants while the men were away bandit-hunting, claiming they had disappeared. Everyone was horrified and confused when the truth about her actions was revealed, and they were shocked that such a foolish woman could exist. But the world is full of fools who think they can commit evil and escape punishment."
Qing Cong resumed the story, saying, "When she was questioned, she kept insisting that because her child was now the sole heir of the Bo family, they couldn't execute the birth mother. Ultimately, however, the Donglu clan leader ordered her to commit suicide. Sadly, her own child died shortly afterward. Not long later, the Donglu first son married a new bride who had more children. Who now remembers her?"
Madam Xiao expressed her pity for the children of the first wife, saying, "What I feel sorry for are the children of the first wife. Even if the perpetrator was killed, the grieving families can't do anything. Those sweet children were never found again—who knows what kind of abuse they endured?" Her tone then shifted, adding, "And our family isn't as powerful as the Donglu family. If Niao Niao truly died of illness, could my lord have executed her aunt for a junior? Moreover, there's still the husband's mother above us."
As she spoke, Madam Xiao kept her eyes on Cheng Shi's face. Cheng Shi glanced at his wife but remained silent, his teeth clenched.
Watching the exchange between the husband and wife and the quick glance her sworn sister threw her, Qing Cong said softly, "This humble servant may be dull-witted, but I assume that being scolded inside the household won't lead to serious trouble. However, once outside the gates, anything could happen..." Her thoughts grew darker—without maids present to supervise and protect her at the estate, if the young lady encountered ruffians and was harmed, they would have no choice but to accept the bitter reality.
Noticing her husband's gloomy expression, Madam Xiao remarked mockingly, "Fortunately, our family comes from humble rural origins and has modest assets. Over the years, we've only acquired two small estates. If we were like the prestigious Yuan or Lou families, with generations of nobility and properties spanning two or three counties, I wouldn't have been able to guard against everything even if I tried."
Cheng Shi closed his eyes briefly and said heavily, "Enough! I understand all of this. Qing Cong, go summon Cheng Shun to wait for me in the front courtyard."
Qing Cong's face lit up with joy as she hurried off to comply, while A-Zhu also bowed and withdrew.
Now alone, Madam Xiao slowly stood up and moved to her husband's side. She placed her hands on Cheng Shi's broad shoulders and softly said, "As the books say, blind obedience can also be unfilial. Over the years, the husband's mother has truly..." Cheng Shi gently covered his wife's hand on his shoulder and responded, "I understand. When our family was poor, Mother wasn't like this. She was willing to share her extra grain with needy neighbors. Though her words could be harsh, her heart was kind. But over these years of wealth, she has become increasingly greedy and arrogant—constantly demanding official posts and money for my uncle, even inciting to seize others' farmland. As for my good-for-nothing uncle, while I risked my life at the front, he collected bribes behind my back, all because he relied on Mother's influence using my name."
At that moment, Qing Cong returned and announced, "My lord, Cheng Shun is here." Cheng Shi stood up and advised his wife, "You must be tired from traveling. Rest early. In a few days, the children will arrive with General Wan's group—don't overexert yourself." Then, he opened the door and departed.
━━━━༻❁༺━━━━
Qing Cong followed closely behind, quickly closing the door. Turning to Madam Xiao, she smiled and said, "Commander, it seems General Cheng has made up his mind."Madam Xiao remained silent, her gaze shifting toward the bed. Understanding her meaning, Qing Cong tiptoed over and gently drew back the bed curtains. The little girl was fast asleep, her breathing heavy with fever. Lowering the curtains again, Qing Cong turned and said, "It seems the fever hasn't fully broken yet. She's sleeping deeply."
Madam Xiao leaned back in her folding chair with her hands on her back, "The illness is like silk unraveling. The Imperial Physician examined her and said a few more doses of medicine should do it."
Yu Cailing was a master at pretending to sleep, her heart full of excitement. Her mother in this life was even more extraordinary than in her past one, effortlessly shifting personalities. Let's hear the dirty secrets now..."
Qing Cong approached and gently massaged Madam Xiao's back. "General Cheng must have made up his mind," she said. Madam Xiao replied, "He's been eager to act but hesitated out of respect for his mother." Qing Cong sighed. "Since Old Master Taigong died early, it hasn't been easy for the Old Madam living in widowhood."
Madam Xiao suddenly laughed and asked, "Would life have been any easier for her if my father-in-law had been alive?"
This made Qing Cong chuckle.
Madam Xiao scoffed and said, "A nobleman who loved composing songs, now fallen on hard times—when Emperor Li's corruption brought chaos and famine, who had the leisure for music? He couldn't marry a wealthy beauty like Zhuo Wenjun[5] to become the next Sima Xiangru[6]. Instead, he faced starvation and married a sturdy peasant woman. During his life, he couldn't even bring himself to speak to his wife. As soon as my husband built a new house, he quickly claimed the farthest courtyard from her courtyard for his refined pursuits, claiming that seeing his old wife too often would ruin his appetite."
Remembering how Cheng Taigong used to disdain his wife, Cheng Mu, now known as Old Madam, Qing Cong smiled. "Old Master Taigong always protected you, Commander."
“Naturally. Of the entire household, only I could understand his musical notations. After decades of marriage and raising children together, my mother-in-law still thought he was drawing shamanic symbols. She once suggested he set up a fortune-telling stall to supplement the family income.”
Qing Cong finally started laughing. However, Madam Xiao didn't join. Sighing, she said, "As the world became more chaotic and the Cheng family faced hardships, it was only thanks to her relentless efforts that we survived. Seeing his mother work hard while his father stayed cold and unconcerned about the family—how could my husband, as the eldest son, not feel upset for her?"
Hearing this, Yu Cailing smirked to herself. Now she knew where Old Madam's bitterness came from.
Qing Cong sighed softly. "If only Old Master Taigong were still alive—he would never have let the old mistress bully you. You wouldn’t have been separated from the Young Miss for ten years either."
But Madam Xiao sighed deeply before responding, "If any elder deserved to live long enough to enjoy wealth, it is truly her."
Qing Cong was startled and said, "Commander, you must be confused."
To her surprise, Madam Xiao replied, "Whether my husband's mother likes me or not, what truly matters is that I sincerely respect her. In difficult times, she would gather vegetables from the mountains, work tirelessly in the fields, and come home to spin cloth, starch clothes, and sweep the floors—taking care of her husband and children to keep them fed. Even when heavy rains threatened, she would straighten her bent back to carry on. She was not like her husband, who only plays music. Now, she deserves to enjoy her children and grandchildren's happiness!"
Hearing this, Yu Cailing felt even greater respect for Madam Xiao. Though the woman was quite calculating, she still had a strong sense of right and wrong.
After a pause, Madam Xiao added, "Besides, my husband's mother is much better than my own." Qing Cong didn't dare comment on her mistress's birth mother and swiftly shifted the topic. "Commander, have you noticed? The young lady looks like her maternal grandmother."
Once more, a complex expression flickered across Madam Xiao's cold face. "Let's hope her temperament isn't the same. That would be completely useless and a bother. It's better if she resembles her paternal grandmother."
"Please, no," Qing Cong quickly laughed. "Regardless of temperament, it's better if her looks favor your mother."
Madam Xiao chuckled softly as she recalled Old Madam's chubby figure.
Noticing Madam Xiao's expression, Qing Cong went on, "Actually, I don't believe the Old Madam faced much hardship. The master assumed control of the household finances at age ten, so she didn’t suffer for long." Then she added anxiously, "But... can General Cheng truly bring himself to act against Old Madam?"
"If the master possessed that kind of softness, he would have met his demise countless times by now," Madam Xiao remarked with unwavering confidence, her voice steady as she leaned back against the ornate wooden chair.
She glanced up at the tall ceiling beams and softly said to herself, "In this world, every new wife can outsmart her mother-in-law—it's just that the husband often refuses to help."
━━━━༻❁༺━━━━
Yu Cailing was taken aback by this philosophical statement. She suddenly understood that her mother, in this life, was not only an accomplished actress and expert in household schemes but also a philosopher with a materialist dialectical outlook!After this ever-dropping conversation, Yu Cailing gained a clearer understanding of who was who, their personalities, and what happened to this body, It seems my 'mother' also has some trauma related to her own mother.
Yu
Cailing shook her head, feeling like her new family could be straight
out of a TV drama. She felt caught between laughter and tears, wondering
why she kept having such difficult mothers. Despite her impressive
ancestral background, it seemed to hinder the progress of her later
generations. Maybe she should aim for a small goal—like, perhaps, being
reborn again.
Yu Cailing smiled, thinking about this loud 'father'. So let's resume... This body was sidelined by the scheming, cruel aunt with my grandmother's blessing, and both my parents now feel guilty after a decade of believing, 'If we don't see it, everything was fine, but now we see, and you need to pay.' Yu Cailing snorted.
[1] Cheng family characters:
- Mother Fu: generic name for nannies.
- A-Qing | Qing Gong | Aunt Qing: Sworn sister of Madam Xiao
- Madam Xiao | Yuan Yi | Madam | Commander | First Wife | Cheng Xiaowei (Shaohang’s mother). She remarried Cheng Shi (no child), the first son of the Cheng family.
- Cheng Shi (official name, firstname)| Master (used by servants)| General Cheng (used by nobles) | Shi’er (affectionate first name – see address forms on top menu)| | Eldest Son of the Cheng family (Shaoshang’s father). He married Yuan Yi, Madam Xiao.
- Old Madam | Old Madam Cheng | Cheng Mu | Husband's mother: (Shaoshang’s grandmother and Mother of Cheng Shi)
- Old Master Taigong: Late Old Madam's husband, father of her three sons, including Cheng Shi
"Niao" can mean "bird" in Mandarin Chinese. Still, it can also have other meanings depending on context, such as "stingy" or "frugal" in Singaporean slang, or "delicate" and "graceful" in classical Chinese. My interpretation is that the author is making fun of her nickname.
[2] English and Chinese onomatopoeia differ, and I prefer the Chinese version because both the characters and the author are Chinese, making it more fitting and amusing. However, there are hundreds of them, and it wouldn't be fun to stop reading them to constantly understand the meanings. Therefore, this novel contains a mix of both, although some are easier to remember because they frequently appear in TV dramas.
The most used onomatopoeia are:
- wū wū: Quiet sobbing, or whimpering
- wā wā: (wawaaa): Crying loudly or loud wailing
- āyā / āiyō: Oh dear, oops, ouch, or general exclamation of surprise/pain.
- hāhā: Laughter, "haha".
- hēhē: Chuckle, often used sarcastically or for light amusement.
- xīxī: Hee-hee, giggle.
- hēihēi: Heh-heh, sly grin or mischievous laugh.
- wāsāi: Wow!.
- pēi: Bah, ptooey (expression of disgust).
[3] Kind wording for ‘obese’. In ancient China, especially during the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), plumpness in women was a celebrated beauty ideal, symbolizing wealth, health, status, and fertility, in contrast to later eras' preference for slenderness.
[4] The "Dragon King's turtle minister from the East Sea" refers to a character from Chinese mythology and folklore, typically depicted as an advisor and official in the underwater crystal palace of Ao Guang, the Dragon King of the Eastern Sea. The Turtle Minister is often part of the entourage of sea creatures, including shrimp soldiers and crab generals.
[5] Zhuo Wenjun (c. 175–121 BCE) was an educated and talented Chinese poet of the Western Han dynasty, renowned for her brave pursuit of love and her literary works. Her life story, particularly her elopement with the famous poet Sima Xiangru, has become a legendary tale in Chinese history, symbolizing a woman's courage in choosing her own destiny
[6] Sima Xiangru (c. 179 – 117 BC) was a prominent Chinese poet, musician, and politician of the Western Han dynasty, widely regarded as the greatest composer of fu rhapsodies. He is a significant figure in classical Chinese literature, known for innovating the fu form by blending poetry and prose.
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