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墨書 Inktalez
Manager Liu's account books were quickly delivered, a thick stack of three large volumes. I instructed Qing Zhu to put them away and did not look through them immediately. I knew these account books must have been "embellished," and finding any flaws would require time and patience.
The urgent matter at hand was the upcoming palace banquet. In my previous life, it was at this banquet that Shen Ling orchestrated a scene that caused me to lose my composure in front of everyone, which also led Zhao Yan to harbor dissatisfaction towards me. This time, I absolutely could not let her succeed.
Moreover, I needed to take this opportunity to familiarize myself with Prince Jing's mansion.
Knowing oneself and knowing the enemy ensures victory in every battle. Prince Jing's mansion was Zhao Yan's stronghold, filled with unknown schemes and intrigues. I had to familiarize myself with the environment in advance and gather some information.
Having made up my mind, I approached Liu and expressed my desire to visit Prince Jing's mansion before the banquet to pay my respects to my future mother-in-law, Consort Shu, the mother of Prince Jing. Of course, this was merely a pretext; Consort Shu devoted herself to religious practices and did not reside in Prince Jing's mansion. My true intention was to "tour" the royal residence.
Liu was more than eager for me to establish a connection with Prince Jing's mansion and immediately agreed, even assigning the most capable housekeeper to accompany me, fearing that I might overlook any courtesies.
Three days later, I took Shen Residence's carriage to Prince Jing's mansion.
Prince Jing's mansion was located on the outskirts of the imperial city, with grand red gates and towering walls, exuding an extraordinary presence. The stone lions at the entrance were majestic, and the guards stood tall and alert, their eyes fixed ahead.
After announcing my arrival, the main gate of the mansion slowly opened. A shrewd-looking housekeeper dressed in deep purple attire came out to greet me.
"Servant Lin greets Miss Shen." Madam Lin curtsied respectfully but without being overly subservient.
I nodded slightly. "You are too kind, Madam."
In my previous memories, Madam Lin was Zhao Yan's confidante, managing all affairs within the inner courtyard of the mansion with considerable skill. While she appeared respectful towards me on the surface, she was always on guard and had often tried to trip me up.
"The prince happens to be in the mansion today. Upon hearing that Miss Shen would be visiting, he specifically instructed me to treat you well," Madam Lin said with a smile as she led the way.
Zhao Yan was also here? That caught me by surprise. Well then, let's see what tricks he has up his sleeve.
I followed Madam Lin through winding corridors into the inner courtyard of the mansion. Prince Jing's mansion was vast, filled with pavilions and towers, rockeries and flowing water; every step revealed a new scene that showcased royal grandeur. However, I had no interest in admiring it; I quietly noted down the layout and routes along the way.
Upon reaching an elegant Water Pavilion, I saw Zhao Yan sitting by the window with a book in hand, his profile strikingly handsome. Hearing footsteps, he set down his book and rose to greet me.
"Wei'er has arrived." A perfectly measured surprise and warmth graced his face as if he had been waiting for this moment for a long time.
"I pay my respects to His Highness." I performed a proper bow.
"We are soon to be husband and wife; there is no need for such formality," he stepped forward slightly, his fingertips brushing against my hand ever so lightly.
A chill ran through me as I subtly withdrew my hand. "Etiquette must not be neglected."
A flicker of something dark passed through Zhao Yan's eyes before he returned to his gentle smile. "Wei'er remains so courteous. Please sit."
We took our seats in the Water Pavilion as Madam Lin served tea and snacks before retreating, leaving just Zhao Yan and me.
"I heard you were unwell a few days ago; are you feeling better now?" Zhao Yan asked with concern.
"Thank you, my Lord," I said, my mind at ease. I lifted the teacup and took a sip. The tea was good, pre-rain Longjing, but unfortunately, the one who brewed it had impure intentions, which dulled its flavor.
"Wei'er," Zhao Yan looked at me, his gaze intense. "Before long, you will marry into the royal household and become the mistress here. From now on, everything in this residence will be under your management."
Was he testing me or merely painting a rosy picture?
I set down the teacup and met his gaze with a faint smile. "The royal household has its own rules and regulations, and with Madam Lin's capable management, there is no need for me to worry. I am just a newcomer and will need to consult with the prince and the matriarchs on many matters."
My response was watertight; it neither revealed ambition nor displayed false modesty.
Zhao Yan seemed somewhat surprised. The Shen Wei he remembered should have been shy and compliant, always obedient to him. Yet here I was, calm as a deep pool of water, making it difficult for him to read me.
"Wei'er is being modest," he smiled and shifted the topic. "By the way, I've heard that you’ve been checking on your dowry recently?"
The news traveled fast. Was it Liu or Shen Ling who informed him?
"Yes," I admitted readily. "It's important to have a clear understanding of my mother's legacy. I wouldn’t want to be caught off guard when asked about it."
"That is indeed wise," Zhao Yan nodded, casually adding, "If there are any mismanagements or unclear accounts, do not hesitate to address them directly. You are to be the future Consort Jing; the Shen family's assets cannot be coveted by unscrupulous individuals."
Though his words sounded grandiose, they were subtly suggesting that I should deal with Liu and Shen Ling without restraint—ideally causing turmoil within the Shen family so he could benefit from it. Wasn't this how he had gradually devoured the Shen family's wealth in my past life?
I chuckled coldly in my heart but maintained a composed exterior. "Thank you for your guidance, my Lord; it is much appreciated."
Afterward, Zhao Yan spoke of trivial matters—romantic tales and talented scholars—and I responded appropriately. During our conversation, I excused myself to change clothes and familiarized myself with the layout of the front courtyard and several main courtyards under Madam Lin's "accompaniment."
As the hour grew late, I stood to take my leave.
"I'll see you out," Zhao Yan offered as he rose.
"I wouldn't want to trouble you, my Lord," I replied with a respectful bow.
Zhao Yan gazed at me deeply for a moment but ultimately did not insist.
Stepping out of Prince Jing's mansion, I glanced back at the imposing entrance. In the sunlight, the three gilded characters spelling "Prince Jing's Mansion" gleamed brilliantly but carried an eerie chill.
Zhao Yan, I will return to your royal household one day—though next time, it will be in a way you least expect.
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