Chapter 355

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Protagonist:

Shen Yao

Huo Ningjun didn't cry for long; with the physician's single declaration of pregnancy, she quickly quieted down.

One can see this person still has some sense — she knows her natal family is unreliable, and that to live well in the Liu Family she must have offspring to rely on.

Taking advantage of the east wind of Huo Ningjun's pregnancy, Shen Yao conveniently took over the household management authority from her.

It wasn't that Shen Yao was willing to take it, but Huo Ningjun's body couldn't endure the suffering of pregnancy — she summoned physicians every three days — so she could only rest peacefully.

"Mistress, this servant heard from the servants that the Young Mistress rarely goes out on ordinary days; no matter what needs doing, it's all handled by maids," Qing Shui's eyes turned, and she leaned close to Shen Yao, whispering the gossip she'd heard.

Currently Huo Ningjun's side is a hot potato — not something to be taken on lightly.

Shen Yao is a sister-in-law; even biting the bullet she has to step up. The other servants all choose to protect themselves, avoiding this side as much as possible on ordinary days, just afraid of getting entangled in trouble for no reason.

"Using maids well also counts as ability, but Eldest Sister-in-law doesn't walk around much during pregnancy; when it comes time to give birth later, I fear she'll suffer," Huo Ningjun was originally of delicate build and not prone to easy conception; now she also likes to stay cooped up in her room without moving — tsk tsk, stepping into one childbirth pitfall after another, how difficult.

Qing Shui steadied her own mistress with both hands, lifting her feet and following unhurriedly.

"The Young Mistress values rules above all; she probably feels going out during pregnancy carries risk," Qing Shui kicked aside a blocking stone along the way, thinking the mansion servants have been rather lazy lately — she should find an excuse to give them a warning.

It's also because the mansion's masters are all lenient in handling matters, unlike other mansions where rules are heavier than heaven, causing these servants to become increasingly entitled, forgetting how to write the two words 'proper conduct'.

"As long as Eldest Sister-in-law doesn't go out, what danger could there be staying at the estate?"

The greatest danger is Huo Ningjun's natal family — they boast of being an elegant clan, yet practice petty schemes.

"Now that we're managing the estate, you must put in more effort; absolutely cannot let Eldest Sister-in-law and her child lack for food, clothing, or daily necessities," Madam Liu's side need not be overseen; Liu Xiuwen's front courtyard has a dedicated steward for food, clothing, housing, and travel.

Shen Yao only needs to put her heart into looking after Huo Ningjun's side and her own small courtyard; other places don't count as matters.

Qing Shui gave an "mm" and nodded, patting her chest to let her mistress rest assured — when she handles things, she'll absolutely not let the Young Mistress pick out any fault.

Qing Shui has been by Shen Yao's side serving her daily life since she entered Luojing; although on the surface she's merely Shen Yao's personal maid, in reality Qing Shui manages many things — more dignified and with more authority than a typical steward.

The household management authority Shen Yao reclaimed basically all fell into Qing Shui's hands.

Except for occasionally opening her mouth to ask a couple of questions about the Young Mistress's meal arrangements, everything else is decided by Qing Shui.

Qing Shui naturally didn't disappoint Shen Yao's trust, organizing all manner of trivial matters in perfect order.

Once Huo Ningjun's belly stabilizes, Shen Yao will decide to return the household management authority.

For this, Madam Liu even privately complained that Huo Ningjun doesn't know good from bad.

Shen Yao: ……

Facing her own mother-in-law, what could Shen Yao say? She could only persuade her to calm down — the child in Huo Ningjun's belly is most important.

Madam Liu pursed her lips, "She's just overly cautious; the Liu Family isn't the Huo Family," not that chaotic, although Father Liu is also quite troubled.

But Madam Liu gave birth to two promising sons, Shen Yao gave birth to three promising children — five people firmly holding most of Liu Xiuwen's attention, preventing other members of the Liu Family's direct line from raising their heads.

Unlike the Huo Family, where the direct line fights to the death; Huo Ningjun has seen all kinds of conspiracies and schemes since childhood — some behaviors are already carved into her bones, very hard to change.

Madam Liu is merely venting spite and complaining to Shen Yao; in reality, compared to Wei Zhaoling, Madam Liu is still quite satisfied with Huo Ningjun.

A person cannot be perfect; when this marriage was arranged for Liu Jingsheng back then, it was for the Huo Family's local connections in Yingchuan — now the Liu and Huo families get along well, Huo Ningjun's little quirks will only be counted as charm.

"In a few days, Jingyan is going out with his father — have you mentioned it to him?"

"It's for the Liyuan matter; with Father there, Jingyan can also see the world."

"You ah — but Liyuan must be gone to; Jingsheng has other arrangements, you need not worry."

Madam Liu's words were clear — it's not only Liu Jingyan going to a dangerous place; Liu Jingsheng is the same.

Shen Yao lowered her head, smiling silently — she wasn't that petty.

Returning to the small courtyard, Shen Yao summoned Qing Shui, reopening the already-packed luggage to inspect it, ensuring not a single thing to bring was missing.

After checking carefully once through, Shen Yao took out the purse containing talisman paper.

Liu Jingyan is quite good — as long as he goes out, he'll definitely bring gifts back for her. Regardless of whether they're jewelry or objects, they all prove Liu Jingyan has her in his heart.

"Also prepare a portion of healing medicine and silver money; going out on business shouldn't be disturbed by such vulgar matters," Shen Yao sent Qing Shui to fetch things, while she herself rummaged in her space — those treasures of unremarkable appearance, she took them all out for Liu Jingyan's protection.

By the time Liu Jingyan returned in the evening leading the three children, he saw his luggage had doubled.

"No need for this; this trip is only half a month," he'd be back very soon.

Shen Yao raised her head and gave him a reproachful glance, "Better safe than sorry; a bit more doesn't hurt."

One in the midst of fortune must know one's fortune; if it were another ordinary family, they couldn't even wish for these conditions.

Liu Jingyan: ……

A family of five gathered together and ate a dinner — all dishes suited to their tastes, not only beautifully plated but the flavors were also peerless.

Eating and drinking their fill, the three little ones jumped down from the table and ran to the couch to read and practice calligraphy; Liu Mingxuan and Liu Mingfei had childish natures — every hour or so they had to move their hands and tilt their heads — unlike Liu Mingchen, this child could truly sit still, reading those thick Buddhist scriptures — even Shen Yao felt dizzy watching.

Pulling Liu Jingyan to the study to talk, Shen Yao mentioned to be careful about the Liyuan matter.

Previously, the Exorcism Office's people went and never returned; it was only when Liu Xiuwen acted that they were fished out.

Now Liyuan has trouble again; Shen Yao herself always feels some unease in her heart.

Liu Jingyan laughed, pulling her into his embrace, "Don't be afraid; Father is still there."

Father Liu has already been transferred back; he ordinarily stays at the Demon Race defense line, occasionally returning when his hand is needed.

This time Father Liu and Liu Jingyan going to Liyuan is as Protectors of the Path. Liu Jingyan has reached the opportunity to advance — although it's only from Initial Stage to Intermediate Stage, there will still be danger in the end.

See, Father Liu personally escorting and protecting — if Liu Jingyan still encounters mishap, one can only say it's fate; no one could save him.

Liu Jingyan spoke without filter between meat and vegetarian topics, angering Shen Yao into hurriedly covering his mouth.

"No nonsense allowed; this time will definitely be peaceful and safe — I and the children will wait for you at home."

Although Shen Yao hasn't reached the point of living and dying together with Liu Jingyan, when he's not there, she'll still be sad.

Besides, the three children couldn't be without their father; Shen Yao looked up and touched Liu Jingyan's cheek, and sweet love words came as easily as speech.

Thinking that he was about to rush off to Liyuan, Liu Jingyan's heart caught fire.

The faint, crackling sounds were like a kitten extending its claws to scratch at his heart; though indistinct, they were extremely alluring.

The study's lamp flickered on and off, yet no servant lacking eyesight came to join the liveliness.

Pitifully, the three children staying on the couch, though fighting sleep, had not waited for their father and mother.

Sent back to her room to sleep by Qing Shui's gentle words, Qing Shui happily had the small kitchen warm water, "Remember to prepare more."

Not knowing how late the masters would stay up, Qing Shui stood in the courtyard, glanced at the sky, patted her palm, and forced herself to perk up.

………

Her sticky body had been cleaned; Shen Yao lay on the familiar bed, opened her eyes, and slowly moved her body.

After all, the study was not a place for rest; last night Shen Yao had been tossed back and forth, eaten and devoured, and her whole body felt tired and powerless.

Qing Shui smiled and brought the nourishing soup prepared by the kitchen, for nourishing the body and replenishing Qi.

After drinking it, Shen Yao lay on the bed to rest a while, and feeling it was about enough, she got up and went out.

She did not leave the estate, only walking around the newly built courtyard.

Liu Jingyan could still stay at home for a few days, so Shen Yao thought she might as well prepare more.

Unexpectedly, the things she prepared really came in use, but not by Liu Jingyan; rather, Liu Mingxuan and Liu Mingfei also wanted to go along.

Shen Yao:... Huh?

Shen Yao looked bewildered, Liu Jingyan did not understand either, and it was Liu Xiuwen who spoke, saying that this matter at Liyuan was not very difficult, and taking Liu Mingxuan and Liu Mingfei to see the world would be advantageous for their future cultivation.

"Won't they be too young?" Only five years old, not as tall as an adult's leg.

"Grandfather said Mingxuan and Mingfei have outstanding natural talent, and their future achievements are destined to far surpass mine;" don't think that because they are young they are easy to bully; those who look down on them will suffer a great loss.

Shen Yao thought of Mingxuan and Mingfei's usual behavior; although childish, they were not weak at all, and occasionally, because they could not control their own strength, the ornaments in the room could only break into pieces yet remain safe.

Instantly, Shen Yao felt reassured, and had Liu Jingyan go accompany their overly steady youngest son, while she herself busily took out new purses to send to her eldest son and eldest daughter.

Because they were going out with their biological father, Liu Mingxuan and Liu Mingfei were very happy; seeing their birth mother come over in a hurry, they rushed up to share their joy.

Shen Yao shook her head helplessly and sighed; truly, the young do not know the taste of sorrow.

Fortunately, the things had been prepared in advance; even adding two more people would be enough.

Shen Yao tied the purses well and instructed them to listen more to the elders at home, "When encountering difficulties, do not rush to the fore; observe carefully and consider seriously."

The two children were muddled, promising they would absolutely be the most well-bebrated children.

Shen Yao laughed softly, reached out and pinched their white and tender little cheeks, and made them repeat her words once more before turning to leave.

For this reason, at night Liu Jingyan ate a great deal of vinegar.

Shen Yao:...

Shen Yao had no choice; fortunately, this body of hers had a good foundation, otherwise, night after night of revelry, she truly could not bear it.

Sacrificing herself to accompany the gentleman, she properly soothed Liu Jingyan; after sending off the father and son the next day, Shen Yao was so sleepy she could barely open her eyes.

Fortunately, there was no major trouble at the estate, and Qing Shui could handle it; otherwise, Shen Yao could only tough it out.

"This month's accounts are incorrect; remind those purchasing stewards that if there is a next time, grab them directly and hand them over to the government office;" Shen Yao tossed off her words lightly, then casually grabbed a fruit and put it into her mouth.

Qing Shui held the account books, not passing them through anyone else's hands, but handling it herself, ensuring there would be no fish that slipped through the net.

On the Yingchuan side, the years were peaceful; the carriages and horses coming straight from Luojing to Liyuan found everything fresh wherever they looked.

Liu Mingxuan and Liu Mingfei, these two little ones, truly had never seen anything of the world.

The last time they went out was when they were a few months old, coming from Luojing to Yingchuan; they were just two little dolls who only knew how to nurse and sleep, how could they remember anything?

This time was different; they set out from Yingchuan and truly stepped onto a road different from Yingchuan.

"Wow, Eldest Young Master, look quickly, there's someone over there!"

"Over there, over there, what is it? So big."

Liu Mingfei chattered noisily; Liu Mingxuan, sitting beside her, was pulled this way and that, almost falling over.

Liu Jingyan did not ride a horse, but stayed in the carriage to take care of the two children.

The result was fine; he didn't get a word in, but was terribly heart-tired.

Thinking of the words his wife had said to him before leaving, Liu Jingyan helplessly rubbed his brow; this journey was destined not to be too relaxed.

"Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Master, look quickly..."

Liu Mingfei focused on not resting; even when the car fleet stopped to eat, she had to hold her rice bowl and squat by the roadside to observe.

Originally a clean and tidy child, she had thoroughly dirtied herself.

Liu Jingyan completely became a nanny taking care of children; usually, as soon as he opened his eyes he looked for the child, and even when he closed his eyes he would suddenly wake up to check on the child's sleeping situation.

By the time they arrived at Liyuan, his thick eye bags were about to cover his eye circles.

Liu's father couldn't bear to look; he had Liu Jingyan tidy himself up, while he went to meet with the government office and clans of Liyuan.

Here, on the surface, it was still Wei State territory, so Liu's father did not dare to act too wantonly.

But everyone knew that the Liu Family was the Local Emperor/Despot of the Yingchuan region; those above who wanted to curry favor with them were countless.

Liu Jingyan held the children; Liu Mingfei cried and wailed, and Liu Mingxuan was also unhappy.

The three of them looked at the woman fallen outside and directly closed the room door tightly.

Unexpectedly, someone was delivered to his place, and crucially, the two children were frightened; Liu Jingyan put on a cold face and told Liu's father about the matter, handing it all over to the other party to handle.

People who flatter and slap the horse's leg naturally won't end well.

Liu Jingyan was not Liu's father; Liu's father might let something pass as no big deal, but his own son Liu Jingyan did not have that mindset.

Taking this opportunity to harshly strike a batch of dishonest ones, Liu Jingyan rested for two days, and then went to do proper business.

On this side Liu Jingyan was busy with proper business; on the other side, Liu Jingsheng was also sent out by Liu Xiuwen.

He actually went directly back to Luojing.

Shen Yao received word from the System and sighed with emotion that Liu Xiuwen was a ruthless person.

Not only ruthless to himself, but ruthless to his kin as well. What is the situation in Luojing? It is a place you cannot get out of once you fall in. Liu Jingsheng running back to Luojing is definitely no small matter.

"He wants to probe the reality of the situation, and by the way see if he can gather some benefits."

The System disliked those affected, overly thoughtful words Liu Xiuwen spoke; it was more willing to translate them into plain speech that everyone could understand.

Shen Yao propped her chin, "Luojing is still being contested right now. The New Emperor is only six years old; mainly it is the Empress Dowager's maternal clan behind him. But nowadays the remaining Princes and Imperial Grandsons have none who are very close to the Former Emperor. After all, back when Luojing saw deaths, the Former Emperor's own sons died first."

"The Liu Family still has personal connections in Luojing, and Liu Jingsheng returned to the capital low-key. As long as he is not caught red-handed on the surface, Liu Jingsheng will be safe without worry."

"System, how much Liu Jingsheng can gather this time may directly determine the Liu Family's direction."

Whether to advance or lie low, there must be a verdict; they cannot remain deadlocked forever.