Princess Wei Yang - C12
1- The Deposed Empress
2- The Unwanted Daughter
3- Slave no more
4- First revenge
5- The Pigs Have Escaped!
6- Seventh Prince, Tuo Ba Yu
7- Returning to the Li’s Estate
8- Benevolent Mother, Filial Daughter
9- Surrendered by Xiaojies
10- Li Zhang Le
11- Prime Minister, Li Xiao Ran
12- Tea Brewing Skills
13- Tit for Tat
14- Battle of Wits
15- Da Furen
Chapter 12
Tea Brewing Skills
Wei Yang was enveloped in darkness as blood oozed from her broken legs, tormented day after day. Suddenly, she awoke from the nightmare, drenched in cold sweat, her clothes and blankets clinging to her skin.
Panting heavily, she noticed Bai Zhi lifting the aqua blue curtains and asking softly, “San xiaojie, are you alright?”
Li Wei Yang instinctively glanced at the bed adorned with a paisley design. It had all been just a dream. She was still alive. Despite being shrouded in darkness, a vague expression crossed her face as a few damp strands of hair clung to her forehead.
“San xiaojie, did you have nightmares again?” Bai Zhi asked cautiously. “Would you like some water?”
Li Wei Yang shook her head.
Just then, Mo Zhu entered and gently inquired, “Are you feeling unwell, San Xiaojie?”
Both Mo Zhu and Bai Zhi were on night watch that evening. Li Wei Yang briefly glanced at Bai Zhi, who quickly explained, “No, it’s just that the blanket is too thick, causing me to sweat!”
Bai Zhi was a perceptive servant, and Li Wei Yang reflected on how, that year, the Lis in Ping Cheng had gifted her both Bai Zhi and Zi Yan. Feeling sorry for their plight, she had initially kept her distance, following Da Furen’s advice to allow them to leave and start their own families. However, she now found herself in need of assistance again, and it was time to test the two servants once more.
Mo Zhu had originally been a second-rank servant for Lao Furen, Meng Shi, before being promoted to first-rank to serve San Xiaojie. After Bai Zhi’s explanation, Mo Zhu turned and stepped out to retrieve the warm water that had been boiling on the stove. Upon her return, she said, “Nubi will help Xiaojie bathe.”
Li Wei Yang nodded in agreement.
Mo Zhu worked efficiently. She poured boiling water into a tub and then retrieved a scented burlap handkerchief. Dipping the handkerchief into the warm water, she joined Bai Zhi in bathing and changing Li Wei Yang's clothes.
After changing out of her damp garments, Wei Yang felt her mood lift and a sense of calm wash over her. She smiled at the two servants and said, “There’s nothing else to be done. You both should rest. If I need anything, I will call for you.”
Li Wei Yang instinctively glanced at the bed adorned with a paisley design. It had all been just a dream. She was still alive. Despite being shrouded in darkness, a vague expression crossed her face as a few damp strands of hair clung to her forehead.
“San xiaojie, did you have nightmares again?” Bai Zhi asked cautiously. “Would you like some water?”
Li Wei Yang shook her head.
Just then, Mo Zhu entered and gently inquired, “Are you feeling unwell, San Xiaojie?”
Both Mo Zhu and Bai Zhi were on night watch that evening. Li Wei Yang briefly glanced at Bai Zhi, who quickly explained, “No, it’s just that the blanket is too thick, causing me to sweat!”
Bai Zhi was a perceptive servant, and Li Wei Yang reflected on how, that year, the Lis in Ping Cheng had gifted her both Bai Zhi and Zi Yan. Feeling sorry for their plight, she had initially kept her distance, following Da Furen’s advice to allow them to leave and start their own families. However, she now found herself in need of assistance again, and it was time to test the two servants once more.
Mo Zhu had originally been a second-rank servant for Lao Furen, Meng Shi, before being promoted to first-rank to serve San Xiaojie. After Bai Zhi’s explanation, Mo Zhu turned and stepped out to retrieve the warm water that had been boiling on the stove. Upon her return, she said, “Nubi will help Xiaojie bathe.”
Li Wei Yang nodded in agreement.
Mo Zhu worked efficiently. She poured boiling water into a tub and then retrieved a scented burlap handkerchief. Dipping the handkerchief into the warm water, she joined Bai Zhi in bathing and changing Li Wei Yang's clothes.
After changing out of her damp garments, Wei Yang felt her mood lift and a sense of calm wash over her. She smiled at the two servants and said, “There’s nothing else to be done. You both should rest. If I need anything, I will call for you.”
๑‿︵‿୨🌸୧‿︵‿๑
The following afternoon, Zi Yan brought in a small green ceramic bowl. “San xiaojie,” she said, “this was sent over from the kitchen. They informed me that Laoye has invited some guests today, so they haven’t been able to prepare a proper lunch. You should drink the chicken soup first.”
Unlike Zhang Le, who had her own private kitchen, Wei Yang had to share meals with everyone else. Listening to Zi Yan, she simply smiled and replied, “Okay.” When she opened the lid, she noticed that the chicken soup was watered down, containing only four pieces of chicken: the head, neck, butt, and breast. Most of it was bones, leaving little that was actually edible.
Wei Yang could only chuckle at this cheap attempt to annoy her.
In the Li family, certain rules were to be followed. On the surface, the treatment of concubines' children appeared fair and without discrimination. The decor was luxurious and expensive, and it seemed as if Da Furen was a benevolent and kind stepmother. However, all these expensive items were carefully recorded and tracked. They could not be discarded or damaged; otherwise, one would have to compensate for their value. Wei Yang had only two outfits that were presentable in front of guests, and even after staying for a month, the new tailored clothes promised by Da Furen had yet to materialize.
In her past life, Da Furen had not behaved this way. She had maintained a facade of kindness, but now it seemed she held a grudge against Wei Yang for the incident that had left her precious daughter, Li Zhang Le, drenched. Zhang Le had even caught a cold for two days afterward.
It appeared that the servants were starting to look down on her. Wei Yang gazed at the soup, a faint smile lingering on her face.
Zi Yan’s eyes reddened as she spoke. “San xiaojie, I argued with the kitchen staff, but they said it was the rules that even the other xiaojies had to follow. They claim you are being picky about the food. When the other xiaojies want something special, they pay extra for it. You could do the same.”
"Pay extra?" Wei Yang shook her head and laughed lightly. She was notorious as the daughter of the unloved concubine, with no money to give to the servants or staff. Although Da Furen appeared kind, she had only given Wei Yang items that could not be converted into cash. The servants must have already suspected that she was financially struggling. How interesting!
Wei Yang’s eyes lit up as an idea formed. She helped Zi Yan to her feet. “Bring me the scissors.”
Though unsure of what Wei Yang intended to do, Zi Yan obeyed, watching her nervously, concerned that Wei Yang might be planning something reckless.
Wei Yang grinned as she took off her coat. Using scissors, she cut off half of her sleeves and then allowed Zi Yan to patch them up haphazardly. Once it was done, she put her coat back on. No one could tell anything was amiss from the outside.
She stood up and said, “I heard Wu Mei Mei is already up and about. Perhaps she’s greeting Lao Furen.”
Zi Yan looked at Wei Yang, puzzled.
“Let’s go see Wu Mei Mei.” The smile on Wei Yang’s face grew even brighter, carrying a hint of slyness.
Stepping out of her chamber, Wei Yang wore a bright and cheerful expression. After all, no one liked to see a mournful face, including Lao Furen!
He Xiang Yuan was lively and fragrant. Da Furen sat beside Lao Furen as they discussed plans for the New Year.
Zhang Le wore a stunning snow-white fox fur dress adorned with cloud patterns and red begonias. In terms of appearance, she outshone the other xiaojies. Her beautiful outfit complemented her features perfectly, making her seem even more attractive, even while seated. The other maidens in the room paled in comparison. At that moment, she wore a delicate smile as she listened patiently to her mother.
Chang Xi was dressed in a coat made of mouse skin, adorned with red rose patterns. She accessorized with rubies and matching earrings that dangled from her earlobes. Her smile seemed natural and easygoing, concealing the tired, sluggish expression she wore after being confined to her room for an entire month. It was clear that she had become more clear-headed following her punishment. She made an effort to win Lao Furen’s favor by occasionally sharing light-hearted stories. However, despite her attempts, Lao Furen remained calm and unresponsive.
Chang Xiao was as quiet and reserved as ever. From time to time, she lifted her head to glance at Er Xiaojie, Chang Ru, who was Erfang’s daughter. Each time she looked over, she caught Chang Ru staring intently at Zhang Le with resentment and jealousy.
Although everyone in the elegantly decorated room appeared to be smiling and engaging in pleasant conversation, beneath the surface, there was an unmistakable tension. In that moment, it became clear: while they all projected an image of harmony and goodwill, each individual harbored personal agendas, eager to manipulate everything and everyone to their advantage.
A servant named Lu Xin brought over a tray and placed a cup of tea beside each person.
Lao Furen picked up her cup and took a sip, surprised. “Oh? This tea tastes great.”
Upon hearing this, Zhang Le also picked up her cup and took a small sip. She agreed, complimenting, “Mm, even the color of the tea is lovely. The flavor is long-lasting too. It’s definitely premium tea.” She looked over at Lu Xin and said, “As expected of someone serving Lao Furen. You are talented at everything. I’ve never tasted tea brewed so well!”
Tea brewing skills were regarded as elegant and sophisticated. It was popular not only among royals and bureaucrats but also among commoners. One notable expert in tea brewing was Zhang Le, who had been trained by a professional. Receiving her compliment was a sign that someone possessed exceptional tea-brewing abilities.
As everyone in the room began to taste the tea, they showered it with compliments. A broad smile spread across Lao Furen's face. “Lu Xin, your tea brewing skills have improved tremendously. This calls for a reward.”
Lu Xin bowed respectfully. “Lao Furen, this tea was not brewed by me, but by San Xiaojie.”
Everyone in the room was taken aback, and a complicated expression appeared on Da Furen's face. However, in Lao Furen's eyes, there was a smile. “Oh, was it Wei Yang? Please ask her to come in.”
Despite Chang Xi's efforts to impress Lao Furen, it was Li Wei Yang who easily earned her praises. As Wei Yang entered the room, Chang Xi felt anger and resentment instantly.
Unlike Zhang Le, who had her own private kitchen, Wei Yang had to share meals with everyone else. Listening to Zi Yan, she simply smiled and replied, “Okay.” When she opened the lid, she noticed that the chicken soup was watered down, containing only four pieces of chicken: the head, neck, butt, and breast. Most of it was bones, leaving little that was actually edible.
Wei Yang could only chuckle at this cheap attempt to annoy her.
In the Li family, certain rules were to be followed. On the surface, the treatment of concubines' children appeared fair and without discrimination. The decor was luxurious and expensive, and it seemed as if Da Furen was a benevolent and kind stepmother. However, all these expensive items were carefully recorded and tracked. They could not be discarded or damaged; otherwise, one would have to compensate for their value. Wei Yang had only two outfits that were presentable in front of guests, and even after staying for a month, the new tailored clothes promised by Da Furen had yet to materialize.
In her past life, Da Furen had not behaved this way. She had maintained a facade of kindness, but now it seemed she held a grudge against Wei Yang for the incident that had left her precious daughter, Li Zhang Le, drenched. Zhang Le had even caught a cold for two days afterward.
It appeared that the servants were starting to look down on her. Wei Yang gazed at the soup, a faint smile lingering on her face.
Zi Yan’s eyes reddened as she spoke. “San xiaojie, I argued with the kitchen staff, but they said it was the rules that even the other xiaojies had to follow. They claim you are being picky about the food. When the other xiaojies want something special, they pay extra for it. You could do the same.”
"Pay extra?" Wei Yang shook her head and laughed lightly. She was notorious as the daughter of the unloved concubine, with no money to give to the servants or staff. Although Da Furen appeared kind, she had only given Wei Yang items that could not be converted into cash. The servants must have already suspected that she was financially struggling. How interesting!
Wei Yang’s eyes lit up as an idea formed. She helped Zi Yan to her feet. “Bring me the scissors.”
Though unsure of what Wei Yang intended to do, Zi Yan obeyed, watching her nervously, concerned that Wei Yang might be planning something reckless.
Wei Yang grinned as she took off her coat. Using scissors, she cut off half of her sleeves and then allowed Zi Yan to patch them up haphazardly. Once it was done, she put her coat back on. No one could tell anything was amiss from the outside.
She stood up and said, “I heard Wu Mei Mei is already up and about. Perhaps she’s greeting Lao Furen.”
Zi Yan looked at Wei Yang, puzzled.
“Let’s go see Wu Mei Mei.” The smile on Wei Yang’s face grew even brighter, carrying a hint of slyness.
Stepping out of her chamber, Wei Yang wore a bright and cheerful expression. After all, no one liked to see a mournful face, including Lao Furen!
He Xiang Yuan was lively and fragrant. Da Furen sat beside Lao Furen as they discussed plans for the New Year.
Zhang Le wore a stunning snow-white fox fur dress adorned with cloud patterns and red begonias. In terms of appearance, she outshone the other xiaojies. Her beautiful outfit complemented her features perfectly, making her seem even more attractive, even while seated. The other maidens in the room paled in comparison. At that moment, she wore a delicate smile as she listened patiently to her mother.
Chang Xi was dressed in a coat made of mouse skin, adorned with red rose patterns. She accessorized with rubies and matching earrings that dangled from her earlobes. Her smile seemed natural and easygoing, concealing the tired, sluggish expression she wore after being confined to her room for an entire month. It was clear that she had become more clear-headed following her punishment. She made an effort to win Lao Furen’s favor by occasionally sharing light-hearted stories. However, despite her attempts, Lao Furen remained calm and unresponsive.
Chang Xiao was as quiet and reserved as ever. From time to time, she lifted her head to glance at Er Xiaojie, Chang Ru, who was Erfang’s daughter. Each time she looked over, she caught Chang Ru staring intently at Zhang Le with resentment and jealousy.
Although everyone in the elegantly decorated room appeared to be smiling and engaging in pleasant conversation, beneath the surface, there was an unmistakable tension. In that moment, it became clear: while they all projected an image of harmony and goodwill, each individual harbored personal agendas, eager to manipulate everything and everyone to their advantage.
A servant named Lu Xin brought over a tray and placed a cup of tea beside each person.
Lao Furen picked up her cup and took a sip, surprised. “Oh? This tea tastes great.”
Upon hearing this, Zhang Le also picked up her cup and took a small sip. She agreed, complimenting, “Mm, even the color of the tea is lovely. The flavor is long-lasting too. It’s definitely premium tea.” She looked over at Lu Xin and said, “As expected of someone serving Lao Furen. You are talented at everything. I’ve never tasted tea brewed so well!”
Tea brewing skills were regarded as elegant and sophisticated. It was popular not only among royals and bureaucrats but also among commoners. One notable expert in tea brewing was Zhang Le, who had been trained by a professional. Receiving her compliment was a sign that someone possessed exceptional tea-brewing abilities.
As everyone in the room began to taste the tea, they showered it with compliments. A broad smile spread across Lao Furen's face. “Lu Xin, your tea brewing skills have improved tremendously. This calls for a reward.”
Lu Xin bowed respectfully. “Lao Furen, this tea was not brewed by me, but by San Xiaojie.”
Everyone in the room was taken aback, and a complicated expression appeared on Da Furen's face. However, in Lao Furen's eyes, there was a smile. “Oh, was it Wei Yang? Please ask her to come in.”
Despite Chang Xi's efforts to impress Lao Furen, it was Li Wei Yang who easily earned her praises. As Wei Yang entered the room, Chang Xi felt anger and resentment instantly.
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