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Substitute Bride: I Became the Beloved of the Nine Thousand Year Old
墨書 Inktalez
"Sister, I don't want to marry a eunuch!"
"Fine, then which pillar are you planning to run into?"
From childhood, everything good in the family was taken by her. I always made concessions in both big and small matters. Was this a joke?
In the end, my mother knelt on the ground in tears, my father sighed in anger, and even our clan's Old Grandmother came out of the ancestral hall with her cane, shouting:
"Zhi Si, you are the blessing of our Lin family! Help your mother, help your grandmother!"
I actually gritted my teeth and nodded, reluctantly marrying into the Nine Thousand Years Mansion.
I thought I had entered a den of wolves.
Who would have thought I would be pampered to the heavens?
But can someone tell me why that man, who usually remains as calm as a statue, has recently been looking at me with an expression that says, "I know everything you've done"?
---
"Substitute marriage? Are you out of your mind?"
I looked at my sister, who was kneeling on the ground and crying like a rain-soaked pear blossom, and I could hardly suppress my eye roll.
From a young age, all the good things were hers, and all the troubles were mine.
Now, she actually wants me to marry a eunuch on her behalf?
“Mother, I don’t want to marry! Let Sister marry instead!”
My sister cried out, her face streaked with snot and tears, as if I had bullied her.
Mother held her tightly, looking up at me with eyes full of pleading.
“Zhi Si, your sister has always been delicate and can't bear any grievances. Please help her out.”
I let out a cold laugh.
“Help? How can I help? By pushing myself into the fire pit so she can enjoy herself outside?”
Father let out a heavy sigh.
“Zhi Si, this is an imperial decree. Disobeying it could cost you your life!”
I was so furious that my whole body trembled.
“An imperial decree? Does that mean one can casually sacrifice someone else's happiness?”
“Zhi Si, listen! If your sister marries Nine Thousand Years, she definitely won’t survive!”
My mother said this and unexpectedly knelt down.
I looked at my mother on the ground, my heart in turmoil.
“Zhi Si, just think of it as for your mother, for the Lin family, please agree.”
My mother cried even harder, her voice hoarse, making my heart ache.
I took a deep breath and closed my eyes.
“Alright, I agree.”
When I opened my eyes again, my gaze had turned icy.
This is what you forced me into.
Don’t blame me for being heartless in the future.
---
I was dressed in a bright red wedding gown, sitting in the swaying bridal sedan chair.
My heart felt as if it had been struck by lightning—
A substitute bride! They are sending me off just for an imperial decree; the Lin family truly knows how to scheme!
There was also that elusive Jiu Qian Sui Wang Xiang, rumored to be unpredictable and a ruthless killer. I feared I might lose half my life this time.
As soon as the bridal sedan came to a halt, before I could even perform the greeting ritual, a slightly cold voice came from the front.
"Where's the bride? Bring her over."
Before I could comprehend what was happening, the matchmaker yanked me forward with force—
In the next moment, the sleeves of my wedding gown dragged on the ground, and my shoes made a clattering sound as I stumbled.
Once inside the room, that icy voice spoke again, as if it had been thrown into an icehouse.
"How does it feel to be the Emperor's... My Beloved Wife?"
The moment those words were thrown at me, I froze in place.
With my red veil covering my face, I felt completely petrified.
What did he mean by that?!
Taking advantage of the awkwardness, I subtly lifted my wedding gown just enough to steal a glance at the person before me.
And with that glance, I gasped—
This... this is a eunuch?
How could someone be more beautiful than the Oiran in the painting?
His features were as delicate as a celestial being descended from the heavens, yet the slight curve of his lips held a chilling demeanor, revealing three parts amusement and seven parts frost, making him seem anything but human.
"What’s wrong? Are you stunned into silence? I’ve heard that the young lady of Lin Manor is lively and cheerful, yet today you seem quite serious. Do you think my taste is lacking and feel wronged as my delicate wife?"
His tone was so cold it could freeze flowers, and I nearly burst from within my bridal attire.
Feel wronged? You’ve got to be kidding! I was forced into this!
The true wife was at home crying her heart out, while I, the imposter, had to navigate this situation with you?!
Grinding my teeth, I quietly lowered my red veil.
"Husband... you misunderstand."
My mind was a whirlwind, unsure of what to say, so I could only speak softly.
He let out a scoff and unhesitatingly commanded, "Lift the veil."
With a flick of his hand, the veil fell away, exposing most of my face to his clear, water-like gaze.
He studied me for a moment, his thin lips curling slightly.
"Hmph, so you’ve actually cried."
"Well, this is quite interesting."
His tone was so frivolous that it sent chills from my hair down to my toes.
I silently lamented, my mind racing to come up with a countermeasure.
Yet, the next moment, I inexplicably blurted out, "Husband... you are so beautiful."
As soon as the words left my mouth, I was taken aback.
However, the man before me did not react with anger; instead, he smiled.
He lowered his head and fixed his gaze on me, his voice revealing an unprecedented interest.
"Beautiful?"
He gently repeated the word, then raised an eyebrow. "The Lin family is indeed quite amusing."
"Each one thinks they are clever."
I was even more stunned. What did this man mean by that?
But he said no more. Instead, he stood up, brushed off his sleeves, and softly said:
"Go rest, I don't like weeping women."
With that, he turned and left, leaving me in a state of shock.
When I finally snapped out of my daze, a waiting maid outside handed me a glass of water. "Madam, there's no need to worry. The Master is a eunuch and has no interest in women. He usually keeps to himself and will likely retire to the study tonight."
I tightened my grip on the handkerchief, my mind swirling with chaotic thoughts.
It seemed that this Nine Thousand Years was even more unpredictable than the rumors suggested.
Well, if he didn't touch me, I could play the fool.
After all, whether I lived or died tomorrow, I could only take it one step at a time...
As the door closed and silence enveloped the room, I sat on the edge of the bed, clutching the corner of the blanket, completely unaware that this first night held no promise for the future.
---
The next morning, before I had fully woken up, I was startled awake by a commotion.
As I groggily opened my eyes, I saw a group of maids filling my room with various rare treasures.
"Madam, this is the East Sea Night Pearl gifted by the Master!"
"Madam, this is the Thousand-Year Ginseng bestowed by the Master!"
"Madam, this is a gift from the Master..."
I was completely bewildered.
What... is going on?
My maid, Ran Qiu, squeezed through the crowd, her face alight with excitement as she said to me:
"Madam! The Master said these are all for you!"
I was even more confused.
"For me? Why?"
Ran Qiu smiled mysteriously.
"Hehe, Madam, just enjoy it in secret!"
I was at a loss, but looking at the room full of treasures, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement.
Could it be that as a substitute bride, I had unexpectedly stumbled upon good fortune?
After freshening up, I was about to go pay my respects to my "husband," but I was stopped by someone he sent.
"Madam, the Master is going to the palace for an Audience with the Emperor today. He specifically instructed that you should rest well in the manor."
I had no choice but to give up and return to my room, where I began to study those treasures.
I must say, the Nine Thousand Years was truly extravagant.
The East Sea Night Pearl, the Thousand-Year Ginseng, and various exquisite pieces of jewelry dazzled my eyes.
I picked up a large pearl and examined it closely in the sunlight.
The pearl was round and full, with a lustrous sheen that clearly indicated its high value.
I couldn't help but exclaim, "What exactly is the Nine Thousand Years?"
Ran Qiu, standing nearby, chuckled and said, "Madam, there's no need for wild guesses. The master is a favored figure before the emperor, wielding immense power and wealth that rivals nations!"
A thought crossed my mind.
Immense power?
So, does this mean that as a substitute bride, I have latched onto a golden thigh?
With that thought, I couldn't help but laugh out loud.
It seems that my good days are still ahead of me!
Wang Xiang seemed to sense my unease, and the smile on his lips deepened a little. He didn't press me further; instead, he casually turned around and strolled over to the window.
"Can you play the piano, my lady?" he suddenly asked.
I was taken aback for a moment, not quite processing what he had said.
"Um... I have a little knowledge of it," I replied hesitantly.
"Very good." Wang Xiang turned back to me, his gaze sweeping over me lightly. "I just had a bamboo grove built in the East Courtyard. In your leisure time, you can go there to play the piano and enjoy yourself."
A bamboo grove? He specifically had a bamboo grove built?
I doubted my ears.
Wang Xiang seemed to notice my surprise and, with that inscrutable smile like mist, said, "You like bamboo, don't you? My husband heard it from Ran Qiu."
I was momentarily speechless. This man really knew how to cater to my preferences! Before marriage, rumors had it that he was ruthless and uninterested in women. Yet after marrying me, he was so... attentive?
"Thank you for your kindness, my husband," I said, lowering my head in gratitude.
Wang Xiang looked at me and casually remarked, "No need to thank me. Whatever you like, my husband will do his best to provide."
My mind went blank; why did those words sound a bit sweet?
But when I lifted my gaze, I found Wang Xiang's expression had returned to its usual indifference. He shrugged slightly, his tone carrying a hint of detached apathy. "However—remember that some things are best left to fate. You can't force them, understand?"
" This Concubine understands," I replied obediently, nodding.
He turned to look out the window, seemingly focused on something beyond.
The night breeze tousled his long hair, and his silhouette appeared tall and solitary against the window.
What was he really thinking? His gentle words contrasted sharply with his distant demeanor, making one want to draw closer while simultaneously fearing that getting too close might bring pain.
"By the way, Husband plans to host a banquet in a few days and invite some Noble Guests to our residence," Wang Xiang suddenly spoke up, interrupting my wandering thoughts.
"Noble Guests?" I asked cautiously, "Who are they?"
"Left Assistant Minister, Right Vice Minister, General of the North, along with Fifth Princess and Consort," Wang Xiang tilted his head slightly, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth as he added, "You need to remember these names well. Don't mix up the titles when the time comes; it would embarrass me."
At his words, I felt my entire body tense up.
Each of these individuals was a powerful figure in their own right. Their statuses were all elevated, especially General of the North and Fifth Princess… they were people whom even the royal family held in high regard.
This banquet would likely carry more pressure than a court debate.
I raised my eyes to look at Wang Xiang, trying to discern any hint of what he might be feeling.
Yet he seemed completely oblivious to my unease; his smile remained unchanged but held an enigmatic quality.
"Rest assured, my Husband will take care of you. But do not let me down, my Lady."
Days later, the Banquet arrived as scheduled.
Through the beaded curtains of Hua Hall, I could faintly see a crowd of nobles gradually entering the estate. The Left Assistant Minister wore his official robes neatly, the General of the North had a treasured sword hanging at his waist, and even the Fifth Princess, dressed in Neon Dress, was smiling as she linked arms with the Consort to take their seats.
However, as they settled in, their gazes exchanged subtle glances among themselves. The atmosphere was heavier than a confrontation with hidden daggers in a tavern.
Wang Xiang remained composed, wearing a bright yet indifferent smile, like a spectator watching a play unfold.
He turned to me with a faint smile and instructed the maid beside him, "Please invite my Lady over."
Before long, I was led into the banquet hall.
As soon as I stepped in, all those who had been sizing each other up turned their attention towards me in unison.
The focused gazes around me felt piercing, but I straightened my back and followed the Lin family's teachings on proper lady-like demeanor, lowering my head with a gentle smile. "I greet all esteemed lords."
"Nine Thousand Years is fortunate; Lady Lin is as beautiful as a flower—a truly perfect match," the Left Assistant Minister remarked with a meaningful smile. His narrow eyes squinted slightly, revealing his probing and perceptive nature.
"Speaking of my Lady, it is indeed a marriage bestowed by His Majesty. This favor is something all the women in the capital must envy," the Right Vice Minister chimed in, his tone sounding more like an inquiry.
My face stiffened slightly, but when I glanced at Wang Xiang sitting at the head of the table, I saw him holding his wine cup with an air of ease, seemingly unconcerned about anything.
“Fifth Princess, what do you think of Lady Lin?” the Consort suddenly directed the question towards the Fifth Princess.
The Fifth Princess lightly covered her lips and smiled elegantly yet distantly. “Establishing a family and marrying a beautiful confidante is indeed one of life's great pleasures.”
Very well, they were all dancing around the topic, their words laced with veiled barbs, testing each other in both overt and subtle ways.
Yet here I was, merely a substitute bride trying to get by, completely unaccustomed to such an occasion.
After managing a forced smile for a while, I turned my head and stole a glance at Wang Xiang.
He finally set down his wine cup and reached out to interrupt the sharp exchanges at the table. His gaze fell on me as he said calmly, “Madam, come here.”
Hearing his voice, I felt a slight relief and quickly moved to sit beside him.
He spoke slowly, his eyes sweeping over the guests in the hall. “Though Madam is new to being a wife, she is virtuous and graceful. Husband is greatly pleased.”
This statement left the entire table momentarily speechless.
As the wine flowed more freely after several rounds, the atmosphere at the table gradually relaxed. Suddenly, the Consort put down her cup and burst into laughter.
“I heard an amusing story not long ago,” she said.
The General of the North raised an eyebrow. “Oh? What story?”
The Consort raised her eyebrows and continued, "The Third Prince... I don't know how, but he was scolded by His Majesty quite severely!"
The nobles at the table immediately became interested. "Why was the Third Prince reprimanded?"
The Consort feigned mystery and lowered her voice, "Recently, the Third Prince disguised himself as a nobleman and frequented the flower houses, which could be overlooked. But then... he actually took a back alley!"
"He nearly got the Male Courtesan from Southern Wind Pavilion killed! This matter has spread like wildfire, and even the Imperial Censor has submitted a memorial to His Majesty."
At this revelation, everyone burst into laughter, exchanging knowing glances among the prominent figures present.
"Tsk, it seems the Third Prince has really hit a wall this time," the General of the North chuckled, though his tone was serious.
Only the Fifth Princess and I looked bewildered, listening to strange phrases like "back alley" and feeling that the atmosphere was too odd.
"Madam, I will explain it to you tomorrow," Wang Xiang suddenly set down his cup and leaned closer to my ear, whispering, "It's a man's affair."
His voice was low and gentle, brushing against my ear like a soft feather. My ears instantly turned red, and I mechanically nodded, not daring to ask a single question.
When the banquet finally dispersed, I had just changed out of my formal dress when Wang Xiang called me into his study.
He was dressed in plain clothes, sitting upright behind the desk with his index finger lightly tapping on the surface, as if he had something to say.
I felt somewhat nervous standing before him with my head bowed, unsure of what I had done wrong.
"Lin Zhi Jiao," he suddenly spoke, his voice cold and carrying an undeniable authority. "You are here to take someone else's place, aren't you?"
My heart sank suddenly, my eyes widened in shock as I stood frozen, unsure of what to do.
He, however, smiled lightly, leaning back in the soft chair with a sigh.
"Don't worry, Husband has no intention of exposing you—after all, I have nothing to lose."
I stood there, my heart pounding loudly, my palms damp with sweat.
Had the matter of the marriage substitution been discovered?! But why hadn’t he exploded in anger? He even said he wouldn’t expose me?
"H-Husband, this Concubine..."
I was about to explain when Wang Xiang raised his hand to stop me.
Propping his chin on his hand, he looked at me with those enchanting phoenix eyes narrowed in amusement, as if he found it entertaining.
"After observing you for a few days, this 'fake' of yours isn't too bad."
He chuckled lightly, his tone casual as if we were merely chatting about daily life.
"Moreover... I have no interest in that Lin Zhi Jiao."
His words were too blunt. I looked up at him sharply but found no hint of emotion on his face.
He didn't care at all!
The truth seemed to flow like spilled water, instantly soaking my feet. I realized that all along, my secret had never truly escaped his grasp.
I felt a surge of unwillingness and couldn't help but ask, "Then... why does my husband treat This Concubine so well?"
As soon as the words left my mouth, I regretted it. Wasn't I just digging my own grave?
Wang Xiang raised an eyebrow, a half-smile playing on his lips as he looked at me. Slowly, he said, "Does the lady really want to know?"
I nodded, feeling my neck stiffen like a broken puppet.
Suddenly, Wang Xiang stepped closer, leaning down to whisper in my ear, his voice low and slightly chilling, "Because... the little dog is too obedient; I’m a bit reluctant to kill it."
Dog?! Obedient?! Reluctant to kill?!
My mind buzzed as if it had exploded. I stared wide-eyed, questioning whether I had misheard his metaphor.
He seemed accustomed to my shock, standing up straight and brushing off his sleeves.
"Alright, it's getting late. You should return to your room and rest," he said casually, as if his earlier almost mischievous metaphor had never been uttered.
Before I could recover from my astonishment, he had already turned back to his desk to continue handling official documents, not even lifting his head as he waved me away dismissively.
I returned to my room and curled up on the bed, feeling dazed, with his earlier words echoing in my mind.
"Because the puppy is so obedient..."
What on earth did he mean by that?!
Was he mocking me for willingly marrying into the family and being as obedient as a cherished toy, or was he warning me not to entertain any wild ideas?
The more I thought about it, the angrier I became. I hugged the blanket and tossed and turned, nearly punching my pillow.
The next morning, when I walked into the main hall with dark circles under my eyes, the moment I saw Wang Xiang, I wanted to turn around and leave.
But he seemed to be in a good mood, glanced at me, and said in his deep voice, laden with meaning:
"Did the lady not sleep well last night? Hmm, had a nightmare?"
I gritted my teeth and lowered my gaze submissively. "Thank you for your concern, This Concubine is fine."
He smiled, a knowing smile that seemed to see through everything, and said:
"That's good to hear. Remember, if there really is something wrong in the future, just tell Husband."
"Don't hold it in like a dog about to explode."
I: "……"
Fuming?!
I was so furious I felt like I might explode!
Lowering my head! Gritting my teeth! Not arguing back!
Endure it, live a long life!
After breakfast, I was about to head to the garden for a stroll when I saw Wang Xiang's personal eunuch, Fu Shun, approaching quickly.
"Madam, the master requests your presence in the study."
I nodded and followed Fu Shun to the study.
Wang Xiang was dressed in a light moon-white long robe today, sitting behind his desk reading. When he saw me enter, he set down his book and looked up at me with a gentle tone, "Zhi Jiao, are you feeling any better?"
I bowed slightly, "Thank you for your concern, husband. I'm much better now."
He stood up and walked to my side, reaching out to touch my cheek with a hint of tenderness in his voice, "It's still a bit swollen; it seems the Third Prince was quite ruthless."
I lowered my gaze in silence. The reason the Third Prince treated me that way was because of my sister.
Wang Xiang took my hand and led me to sit beside the soft couch. "As husband and wife, we are one. Your enemies are my enemies."
I looked up in surprise. "What does my husband intend to do?"
Wang Xiang chuckled lightly. "I have already sent word of the Third Prince's death to the General of the North."
A chill ran through me. The General of the North was the Third Prince's uncle and commanded a formidable army. With the Third Prince's untimely demise, the General would certainly not let this matter rest.
Wang Xiang took a sip from his teacup, his tone casual. "Next, we just wait for the drama to unfold."
A few days later, the General of the North indeed marched his troops to the palace, demanding that the Emperor thoroughly investigate the cause of the Third Prince's death and punish the murderer severely.
Under pressure, the Emperor entrusted this matter entirely to Wang Xiang.
Seizing this opportunity, Wang Xiang pointed the finger at the Seventh Prince.
The Seventh Prince was demoted to commoner status and exiled to Ningguta. Rong Guifei's entire family was executed.
Watching the once-glorious consort being dressed in prison garb and escorted to the marketplace, I felt an indescribable mix of emotions.
"Zhi Jiao, what's wrong?" Wang Xiang asked with concern.
I shook my head. "I am fine."
Wang Xiang took my hand. "Come on, let's go home."
As winter turned to spring and the weather gradually warmed, I was sitting in the garden basking in the sun when Ran Qiu suddenly rushed over, panic etched on her face. "Madam, it's bad! Old Madam is seriously ill. The master and madam request that you return to the Minister's Residence at once!"
I quickly got up and followed Ran Qiu to the Minister's Residence.
As soon as I entered the main gate of the Minister's Residence, I saw my sister dressed in mourning clothes, crying with tears streaming down her face.
I was puzzled; grandmother was gravely ill, so why was she crying?
I walked over to my sister's side and whispered, "Sister, what about grandmother...?"
My sister suddenly looked up, her eyes filled with tears as she gazed at me. "It's mother... she has passed away."
I stared in shock, my eyes wide. "How could this happen?"
With a choked voice, my sister replied, "Mother couldn't let go of you. She worried herself sick and became increasingly melancholic, and before long..."
I stood there frozen, unable to speak for a long time.
The Minister's Residence was busy with funeral arrangements. I suppressed my grief and helped handle various trivial matters.
After the funeral concluded, I returned to the Nine Thousand Years Residence, only to find Wang Xiang was not home.
Feeling puzzled, I went to ask Fu Shun, "Fu Shun, where has my husband gone?"
Fu Shun bowed and replied, "In response to Madam, the master has gone to Huguo Temple outside the city."
I nodded and then returned to my room to rest.
The next day, Wang Xiang returned, looking very tired and pale.
I hurried over to support him. "Husband, what happened?"
Wang Xiang forced a smile. "It's nothing, just a bit tired."
I helped him to the soft couch and poured him a cup of tea. "Husband, please drink some tea."
Wang Xiang took the cup, sipped from it, and then looked at me seriously. "Zhi Jiao, I need to tell you something."
I nodded. "Please, go on."
Wang Xiang took a deep breath and slowly said, "Actually, I am not a eunuch."
My mind instantly became a whirlwind of confusion. I wanted to question him but didn't know where to start, so I stammered, "You... Husband, are you joking with This Concubine?"
Wang Xiang looked at me, the corners of his mouth slightly lifting, but the smile did not reach his eyes. "I never make such jokes lightly."
He directly pulled down his trousers.
I stared in shock at what was revealed.
Seeing me frozen in place without any reaction, Wang Xiang put his trousers back on and softened his voice a little. "I would have told you eventually; now it's time for you to know everything. Regarding the Lin family matter at the Minister's Residence, I am willing to handle it together with you, but... do you already have your own plans?"
Hearing these words, a chill ran through my heart. He must have seen through my hidden schemes but chose not to expose them. By postponing everything until now, he likely wanted to use my hand to clarify my stance.
I looked at the man before me, a man I both loved and feared. The indifference in his enchanting phoenix eyes seemed to see through everything in the world, as if he cared for nothing but me, adding a hint of warmth to his otherwise aloof demeanor.
"My husband, I want to personally deal with the Lin family..."
Before I could finish my sentence, he chuckled lightly and said, "I know your obsession with the Lin family runs deep; that suits me just fine." Then he shifted his tone, "However, if they were merely destroyed by your plans, it would be too easy."
"How would it be easy?" I asked, puzzled.
"Too humane," Wang Xiang said, brushing his sleeve dismissively.
A few days later, I announced that after fulfilling my filial duties to my grandmother and deceased mother, I would officially reorganize the ties between our two families. Under the pretext of "preparing a family banquet to honor our ancestors after mourning," I allowed the Lin family to breathe a sigh of relief.
During the banquet, I feigned a reckoning of gifts by presenting valuable yet questionable accounts hidden away for over thirty years. I dumped all the accounts on the table, declaring, "Sorting through the dowry documents and supplementing the charges—how can it matter that my husband Wang Xian holds a mere title in the eunuch's residence..."
I deliberately raised my voice to ensure everyone present, especially those elderly faces from the Lin family, could hear me clearly. I scanned the room and slammed the account book onto the table with a loud thud that startled several timid maidservants nearly into jumping.
"I don't want any of this! When I married in place of my sister, these items were nothing more than my 'buying-my-life money!'" I paused for effect, my tone chilling. "Grandmother, father, mother, and sister—how much do you think my life is worth in silver?"
My grandmother turned pale, her lips trembling but unable to utter a word. My father wore an awkward expression, his gaze darting around as he dared not meet mine. My mother seemed about to speak but was silenced by a fierce glare from my father and could only shed silent tears. As for my sister, she hadn’t even attended this family banquet, claiming she was unwell and shutting herself away. Ha! She had learned to be clever enough to hide away.
"What’s wrong? No one has anything to say? When you forced me into this marriage years ago, you didn’t wear this face!" I sneered coldly, picked up a wine jug, poured myself a glass, and downed it in one go. "For over thirty years, I've lived like a dog! Do you know? I have nightmares every night—dreams of being torn apart by Wang Xiang's vicious dogs or being tormented by the Third Prince until life is worse than death..."
I intentionally paused to observe their reactions. Sure enough, pity flickered across my grandmother's and mother's faces while my father's brow furrowed tightly as if deep in thought.
"I tell you, I hate you all! I hate every single one of you!" I slammed my wine glass to the ground, shards scattering everywhere. "My life is not meant to pave the way for you! I, Lin Zhi Si, deserve to live for myself!"
I turned and walked away, leaving the guests in stunned silence.
Upon returning to Nine Thousand Years Residence, Wang Xiang was in the study, engrossed in a book. When he saw me enter, he set it down and walked over to me, his tone gentle. "Zhi Jiao, you're back."
I nodded and threw myself into his arms, holding him tightly. "Husband, I'm so tired."
Wang Xiang gently stroked my hair and spoke softly, "I know, I understand."
I looked up at him, my expression serious. "Husband, I want to take revenge on the Lin family. I want them to pay for what they've done!"
Wang Xiang's gaze deepened as he fell silent for a moment before responding, "Alright, I'll help you."
In the following days, Wang Xiang and I conspired and devised a plan.
First, I spread rumors claiming that the Lin family was involved in embezzlement and bribery, with irrefutable evidence. Then, I anonymously submitted this evidence to the Censorate.
As expected, the Lin family was soon raided. My grandmother and parents were thrown into prison.
But I did not stop there. I bribed the jailers to torment the three members of the Lin family in their cells, making them experience a fate worse than death.
As for my sister, I did not spare her either. I sent someone to find her and brought her before me.
Looking at this woman who once held herself high but now appeared so wretched, I felt not an ounce of pity in my heart.
“Lin Zhi Jiao, do you remember me?” I looked at her coldly.
My sister raised her head, looking at me with eyes full of fear. “You... you are...”
“I am Lin Zhi Si, your dear sister,” I sneered. “I’ve come to deliver a grand gift to you.”
I clapped my hands, and two guards entered, dragging my sister away.
I knew that what awaited her was a fate more terrifying than death.
As I watched the Lin family mansion on the verge of collapse, I felt no relief; instead, my heart was heavy.
I wandered alone into the garden, gazing at the blooming flowers, a mix of emotions swirling within me.
“Zhi Jiao.”
The voice of Wang Xiang came from behind me. I turned to see him walking towards me slowly.
“Husband,” I bowed slightly.
Wang Xiang stood beside me, looking out at the vibrant spring scenery, his tone calm. “The Lin family is finished.”
I nodded silently, not saying a word.
He reached out and pulled me into his embrace, resting his chin on the top of my head as he softly said, "I know you are hurting inside, but some things must be faced eventually."
I buried my face in his chest and murmured, "Husband, I'm fine."
He gently stroked my back and replied tenderly, "Zhi Jiao, we are one as husband and wife. Your grievances are my grievances; your pain is something I feel as well."
His words flowed into my heart like a gentle stream, warming my cold spirit.
I lifted my head to look at him, my eyes slightly red. "Husband..."
He lowered his head and kissed my forehead softly, saying, "Everything is in the past. From now on, I will take good care of you."
I nodded, resting my head on his shoulder and feeling his warmth. Gradually, my heart began to calm.
After the Lin family was exiled and their property confiscated, my parents were sent to a desolate borderland, while my sister had long since vanished without a trace.
I had once sent someone to the Beijing Suburbs to search for her in the Gang Alliance, but that place was already deserted, with no sign of her left behind.
Perhaps she was dead, or maybe she had assumed a new identity and was struggling to survive in some unknown place.
Regardless of the outcome, there was nothing more I could do for her.
I could only bury this regret deep within my heart and strive to live well.
As spring turned to autumn, it had been several years since I married Wang Xiang.
Over the years, Wang Xiang has treated me exceptionally well, cherishing me as if I were a precious treasure.
He built a bamboo grove for me, where we would often play the lute, drink wine, and compose poetry together during our leisure time. Life was comfortable and carefree.
I thought such days would last forever.
However, fate has a way of playing tricks on us.
That winter, a sudden plague swept through the entire capital.
Countless people fell ill and died, and fear gripped the hearts of many.
Wang Xiang was not spared; he fell ill, and his condition worsened.
I cared for him day and night, praying for his safety and well-being.
Yet, my prayers went unanswered.
On a night filled with howling winds and heavy snow, Wang Xiang finally left this world.
He departed peacefully, a faint smile on his face, as if he had merely fallen asleep.
I held his lifeless body, crying out in anguish.
I knew that my world would never again see the light of day.
After Wang Xiang's death, I brought his ashes back to Jiangnan and buried them beside the Wang Family ancestral grave.
Then, I left the capital with the child we had adopted and returned to Jiangnan Town, where I began a life of seclusion.
I transformed the bamboo grove into a school, offering free education to the children in the town.
I taught them to read, write, play the piano, and paint.
All my love was poured into these children.
I thought I would spend the rest of my days in this peaceful manner.
However, fate had another surprise in store for me.
On a sunny afternoon, while I was playing in the garden with the children, a familiar figure suddenly appeared in my line of sight.
I rubbed my eyes, unable to believe who stood before me.
"Sister?"
It was indeed my sister, Lin Zhi Jiao.
I could hardly believe I was not dreaming. How could my sister, who had disappeared for many years without a trace, suddenly appear here?
Lin Zhi Jiao looked much more haggard, her clothes somewhat simple, yet she still resembled the image I held in my memory. On her face, which bore a hint of vulnerability, there was now a flicker of complex emotions.
She stood at the entrance of the garden, her gaze hesitating as she looked at me, as if unsure how to begin.
"Sister?" I spoke again, my voice trembling slightly with surprise.
Lin Zhi Jiao hesitated, her lips moving silently for a moment before she softly said, "Zhi Si, it's been a long time."
I stood frozen in place, my mind suddenly blank. Did I hate her, or not? I couldn't even tell myself.
The children noticed my unusual demeanor and gathered around me, looking up with concern. "Sir, who is this lady?"
I snapped back to reality and suppressed the emotions swelling within me. I waved them off gently. "You all go inside and practice your writing; don’t wander too far."
The children murmured a few words but obediently left the garden. It was just Lin Zhi Jiao and me standing there now, the gentle breeze rustling the bamboo leaves around us.
"You’re still alive." That was the first thing I managed to say.
Lin Zhi Jiao lowered her head, seemingly unable to meet my gaze. "Yes, I’m lucky to be alive."
"Where have you been all these years? Have you heard about the fall of the Minister's Residence?" I fixed my eyes on hers, my voice involuntarily sharpening.
Her shoulders trembled slightly; it seemed this topic weighed heavily on her. "I know… I caused harm to my parents, to the Minister's Residence, and to you."
I scoffed. "Harmed me? Sister, you underestimate yourself. You not only forced me into a marriage and took everything from me but also dragged me deeper into the mire with the Lin family… Now that you’re here, what exactly do you want?"
My voice grew colder, my tone sharp as a knife. Memories surged in my mind, and I thought I had long since moved on. Yet, it turned out that certain things had never faded; they were merely buried deep within my heart. Her appearance had ripped open that bloody old scar.
Lin Zhi Jiao raised her face, tears glistening in her eyes as she looked at me. "Zhi Si, I have hidden away in the countryside for years, enduring humiliation. I never dared to hope to see you again... I know my sins are heavy, but I have nowhere else to go. I just want you to know that the wrongs I committed were never meant to harm you..."
"Enough!" I interrupted her sharply. "Did you ever think that it would end like this when you stood here all those years ago?"
Her face paled, and she seemed cornered by my words.
"Leave," I said coldly. "Do not disturb my life any longer." The compassion I once felt for her had vanished from my eyes. To me, she was an inescapable nightmare; even now, as she stood here pleading, I could not summon an ounce of pity.
She looked at me through her tears, murmuring, "Zhi Si, I'm sorry... I've lost my parents; you're all I have left..."
"Don't call me 'Zhi Si.' That name was buried with the Lin family the moment I was married off to Nine Thousand Years Residence!" My gentleness towards her had completely evaporated, and my tone was as hard as ice.
Lin Zhi Jiao knelt down, tears streaming down her face. "Please, Zhi Si! I truly have nowhere else to go..."
I closed my eyes, forcing myself not to look at her cold appearance. The faint pain in my chest only fueled my hatred for her.
"Get out," I said, my voice icy cold. "Don't let me see you again."
She knelt there sobbing for a long time before finally rising to her feet. Dragging her weary body, she disappeared down the street of the small town. Her figure was quickly swallowed by the dusk, and as I watched her vanish, a heavy stone seemed to press down on my chest, making it hard to breathe.
That night, I lay awake, her image kneeling on the ground with tears streaming down her face replaying in my mind over and over again.
Three months later, someone brought news.
"Have you heard? The Lin Family Young Lady was found dead in a dilapidated temple."
When the news reached me, I was in the classroom teaching the children calligraphy. Upon hearing that the Lin Family Young Lady had died in a broken temple, my hand froze, and my brush fell with a plop into the inkstone.
"Sir, your brush has fallen!" a child innocently reminded me.
I snapped back to reality, striving to calm my expression as I bent down to pick up the brush, only to find my fingers trembling slightly.
The Lin Family Young Lady? Could it be her?
Over the years, I had thought she had long perished amidst the turmoil of fate or completely vanished into the crowd. Yet three months ago, her appearance stirred something deep within me. Every action of hers, whether good or bad, reminded me that she was ultimately my sister by blood.
"Zhi Jiao... you have finally..." A complex feeling welled up inside me, perhaps a mix of emotions tinged with a hint of relief.
After the class ended, I sat in the courtyard for a long time before finally making up my mind. "Ran Qiu, prepare the carriage. I need to see for myself."
The dilapidated temple stood alone on the eastern outskirts of the town. Its state of decay could no longer shield it from the biting cold winds; moss covered the walls and eaves. As I pushed open the creaking door, I could almost smell the mold mingled with the scent of death.
"Miss Zhi Si..." my servant hesitated, "Madam..."
"I need to see for myself," I interrupted him.
The woman lying in the corner of the broken temple, though ragged and aged, was unmistakably recognizable to me.
It was Lin Zhi Jiao.
She lay curled up in the Straw Stack, her thin body surrounded by dried blood, a grim reminder of her violent end. Her face still bore a hint of defiance, and though her eyes were closed, they seemed to hold an unfulfilled regret.
"The lady must have been accidentally killed by a robber," the Attendant stated matter-of-factly. "She had nothing of value on her."
I remained silent, slowly approaching her. Even though we had drawn clear boundaries and I had repeatedly told myself that my heart had grown cold, standing before her now, I found my heart still unable to find peace.
"Sister." I knelt down and gently took her cold hand in mine. A single garment could not conceal the suffering she had endured in life. Her nails were all broken, and her cheeks and arms were covered in scars. The traces of her desperate struggle pierced my eyes, and I couldn't help but wonder what kind of despair she had faced to end up like this.
"You finally got your wish, returning everything to me," I murmured, tears streaming down my cheeks.
The Attendant, seemingly unable to bear the sight, quietly asked, "Madam, what do you plan to do with her...?"
I looked up and lightly touched her still-furrowed brow with my fingertip, softly saying, "Please take care of her remains. People come and go; we can hate her as much as we want, but in the end, she is still family..."
Half a month later, I buried my sister's ashes on a small hillside outside the town. The bamboo grove there would flourish abundantly in spring, as if even the sound of the wind carried a hint of life.
There was no name inscribed on the tombstone; I did not want her to bear any more humiliation from the past.
Standing before the grave, I held the adopted child in my arms and watched as the sunset gradually descended in the distance.
The child tugged at my sleeve and asked softly, "Mother, who is that sister?"
I smiled through my tears, mixed with a vague warmth. "She is my sister."
The child blinked innocently. "Is she sleeping?"
"Yes, she is asleep, a deep, long sleep." I nodded, my voice tinged with a hint of choked emotion, yet still gentle.
The child gazed at the distant sunset, seemingly understanding little. But I knew that everything had finally come to an end.
From now on, we would be worlds apart; dust to dust, earth to earth. The tangled threads between Lin Zhi Jiao and me would be firmly sealed in the depths of time, never to stir again.
Let’s go home.
(The End)
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