Chapter 65: The Way of Wives and Concubines

Proofread By : Mim

After Xiao Linzi finished speaking, Qin Yi remained silent. Observing the Crown Prince’s expression, Xiao Linzi cautiously suggested, “Your Highness, while it’s true that you shouldn’t meet before the wedding, now that you’ve come all the way to Taiyuan, it might seem impolite if you don’t pay a visit to your future in-laws.”

 

Qin Yi’s expression softened considerably. He cast a brief glance at Xiao Linzi and nodded. “You make a valid point.”

 

Xiao Linzi immediately flattered him, “Of course, Your Highness! You are known for your impeccable manners. People say no one is perfect, but clearly, Your Highness is the exception! I’ll go now to deliver an invitation to the Marquis of Changxing’s residence.”

 

Qin Yi’s expression didn’t change, but he shot a slightly exasperated look at Xiao Linzi. “Flatterer. Get out.”

 

“Right away!” Xiao Linzi responded brightly and quickly ran off.

 

A good servant must be perceptive above all else. Xiao Linzi immediately sent a formal invitation to the Marquis’s residence, patting himself on the back for his quick thinking.

 

—

 

Chu Jinyao sat by the window on a heated brick bed, enduring the disapproving stares of the two palace Momos as she calmly but firmly instructed that Su Hui be brought in.

 

The two Momos had learned about the mix-up between Chu Jinyao and Chu Jinmiao soon after arriving at the Marquis’s residence. Their initial reaction had been disbelief. A woman destined for the palace’s inner chambers should at least have been raised with strict training in the capital. How could she have grown up in a rural village, raised by a common farmer’s wife? But it was too late—the imperial decree had already been issued. There was no turning back now. Frustrated, they redoubled their efforts to rigorously train Chu Jinyao, determined to make up for the “deficiencies” in her upbringing.

 

Today, when Chu Jinyao heard that a woman named Su Hui had come to see her, she immediately gave her permission and asked for Su Hui to be brought in. The two Momos had been visibly displeased from the moment they heard about it, but despite their objections, Chu Jinyao remained polite yet firm. Seeing that they couldn’t sway her, and not daring to press her too much, the Momos grudgingly stepped aside, albeit with scowls.

 

When Su Hui arrived, Chu Jinyao personally went to greet her, smiling as she took Su Hui’s hand and led her to the western side room. The Momos frowned again and were about to speak up. “Fifth Young Lady, you’re the Crown Princess-to-be. The people you meet should be nobles—high-ranking women or daughters of prominent families. How can you sit with a common woman like this?”

 

“Linglong,” Chu Jinyao said, her expression unchanged as she calmly instructed, “take the Momos outside to enjoy some tea. The weather is hot.”

 

Linglong understood and quickly came over to escort the two Momos out, discreetly slipping some silver into their hands.

 

The Momos felt the weight of the silver, noting that while Chu Jinyao’s family background might not be impressive, she was certainly generous. As the future Crown Princess, even with the Empress’s backing, they couldn’t afford to offend her too much. Now that they had received the silver, they obediently followed Linglong outside.

 

Once the troublesome Momos were gone, Chu Jinyao finally let out a small sigh of relief and smiled at Su Hui. “Sister, don’t mind them. They’re from the palace and think everything here is beneath them. We’ve gotten used to their nitpicking.”

 

Su Hui gave a faint smile and asked, “I heard you’ve been betrothed to the Crown Prince and will become the Crown Princess?”

 

Chu Jinyao had become accustomed to hearing about her engagement over the past few days, and the words “Crown Prince” and “Crown Princess” no longer affected her as they once had. But hearing it from Su Hui made her feel a pang of shyness. Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she nodded almost imperceptibly. “Yes. But sister, none of this matters to us. We’re still the same as before.”

 

Su Hui’s smile faded, and she said softly, “How can things be the same? You were always different from us, being a legitimate daughter of the Marquis’s family. Now that you’re to be the Crown Princess, you’re even further beyond our reach.”

 

Chu Jinyao was taken aback. “Sister, what are you saying?”

 

Su Hui sighed, her face filled with genuine regret. “Jinyao, you’re different from us. I came today to say goodbye. I’ve already resigned from the embroidery workshop, and your brother-in-law and I have decided to move on. We’re capable people, after all. We can find work elsewhere. We can’t keep relying on you.”

 

“How can you call it relying on me? You were helping me…”

 

“I know your intentions are good, Jinyao, but the truth is, without me, there would still be others. Why do you think Manager Wei hired me of all people? Now that you’re the Crown Princess, I’m truly happy for you, but I can’t burden you any longer. The Momo was right—you have a different status now. How can you keep associating with someone like me, a commoner’s wife? Once or twice might be fine, but over time, people will talk. Even the Crown Prince might not approve.”

 

Chu Jinyao felt as though she had been struck by lightning. After the initial shock passed, she began to think clearly again. Looking directly at Su Hui, she asked bluntly, “Sister, are you saying this because of Su Sheng?”

 

Su Hui opened her mouth, as if to deny it, but then sighed deeply. “Jinyao, I’m not blaming you. You were right. Su Sheng is lazy and trouble-prone. He needed a wake-up call, and losing his chance at office might be the best thing for him. It’ll force him to face reality and settle down to farm, instead of dreaming of becoming a big official and making easy money. We’re just farmers; we should stick to honest work and not chase unrealistic dreams.”

 

Chu Jinyao turned her head away abruptly, blinking rapidly to hold back her tears, though her voice betrayed her emotions. “You do blame me.”

 

“I don’t,” Su Hui insisted. “You did the right thing. My parents were greedy and deserved a lesson. You’ve done nothing wrong—it’s us who are at fault. Our two families are worlds apart now, and it’s no longer appropriate for us to stay in touch. If we continue to mingle, I fear your brother-in-law and I will only grow more dependent, and eventually, we’ll sour our relationship. Worse yet, we might make things difficult for you in your new life. So it’s better this way. You’ll go on to become the Crown Princess, and I’ll find my own path with your brother-in-law. We’ll both live our lives, and while we may not see each other, knowing that you’re doing well will be enough for me.”

 

Chu Jinyao remained silent. Su Hui continued to persuade her, “Jinyao, you’ve grown up now. You’ll soon have your own family. The Crown Prince will become the most important person in your life. I, your humble sister, have reached the point where I must step aside.”

 

The sadness in Chu Jinyao’s heart deepened. It wasn’t because of Su Hui’s words, but rather because she knew Su Hui was right. That was what made it so painful. Su Hui had been a wonderful sister to her. They had depended on each other when they were younger, and even though they weren’t related by blood, Su Hui had treated her with nothing but kindness. Chu Jinyao had always been grateful to her and regarded her as a true sister. She genuinely wanted to help Su Hui live a better life.

 

But growing up had proven to be cruel. When they were younger, Su Hui had always told Chu Jinyao to hurry and grow up, and Chu Jinyao had eagerly awaited that day, hoping that when she did, they could all live happily together. Yet no one had told her that growing up would lead to separation, not reunion.

 

All the people who had once been closest to her now had their own families and were inevitably drifting apart. Chu Jinyao didn’t mind being talked about, but her brother-in-law certainly wouldn’t want Su Hui constantly visiting her, and she suspected the Crown Prince might feel the same.

 

After a long silence, Chu Jinyao spoke quietly, though she wasn’t sure if she was speaking to Su Hui or herself. “Sister, you and brother-in-law will have a good life together.”

 

Su Hui smiled. “And you too. Take care of yourself and get along well with the Crown Prince. He’s not like us—he’s of royal blood. You mustn’t be stubborn with him. Learn to control your temper and be gentle with him…”

 

Su Hui spoke like any ordinary sister offering advice, urging her to take good care of her new family. Chu Jinyao smiled bitterly. The place she was going wasn’t a common household. How could she even think of calling the Crown Prince her husband? The title “Crown Princess” said it all. She wasn’t his wife—she was just his primary consort.

 

But seeing Su Hui so earnestly concerned for her future, Chu Jinyao kept these thoughts to herself. She smiled and nodded. “You’re right, Sister. I’ll remember everything

 

At the end, Su Hui realized she might have said too much. She smiled and said, “Every couple has their own way of doing things. Once you enter the palace, get close to the Crown Prince. Make sure to talk things out with him. As long as your husband supports you, everything else will be fine. As for the concubines…”

 

Su Hui sighed helplessly, looking at Chu Jinyao with a bit of pity. “You’re the main wife, so there’s no need to compete with those women. What matters most is the Crown Prince’s opinion. Be magnanimous when necessary, and let him see your virtue. While you’re newly married and he still respects you, find a way to conceive a child. Once you have your own offspring, things will get easier.”

 

While outsiders marveled at Chu Jinyao’s luck, only those close to her worried about her future. Hearing Su Hui’s advice made Chu Jinyao feel even more sorrow. She smiled, gently pressing Su Hui’s hand. “I understand.”

 

“From now on, it’s just you. You must take care of yourself and live well.”

 

“Yes. Sister, you too…”

 

“Don’t cry. What’s there to cry about? Everyone grows up. You’re going to the capital, and I’ll likely stay in Taiyuan for the rest of my life. Though we won’t be able to see each other, you’re the Crown Princess now. I’ll hear about you all the time in the gossip from the streets. As long as I know you’re doing well, I’ll be at peace.” Su Hui stood up and smiled warmly at Chu Jinyao. “Alright, it’s about time. I have to go.”

 

Chu Jinyao held back her tears and stood to see Su Hui off. She knew that this parting might be forever. Though they were not blood sisters, they were closer than many siblings, yet because of their status, the Su family, and other circumstances, they had no choice but to part ways. They had relied on each other through hard times, but now that their lives were improving, they had to deliberately distance themselves and sever ties. It wasn’t that they couldn’t share good fortune—it was simply that it was better for both of them.

 

Chu Jinyao escorted Su Hui to the courtyard gate, where two palace Momos stopped her from going any further. Chu Jinyao stood there, watching with longing as Su Hui walked away. When Su Hui was about to turn the corner, Chu Jinyao couldn’t hold back and shouted, “Sister, take care!”

 

Su Hui turned her head, smiled, and waved. “You too!” she called, then disappeared around the corner.

 

Chu Jinyao strained her neck, but Su Hui was gone from sight. Deflated, she whispered softly, “She’s gone.”

 

Linglong had been accompanying Chu Jinyao and now quietly supported her, gently saying, “Miss, the sun is strong outside. It’s time to go back.”

 

Chu Jinyao nodded and obediently turned to walk back, but her expression remained downcast. A little while later, Jiegeng tried to cheer her up by saying, “Miss, the Eldest Young Lady just sent word that she will be returning to the marquis’ estate the day after tomorrow.”

 

“Chu Jinxian?” Chu Jinyao’s expression brightened. “Eldest sister is coming back?”

 

“Yes,” Jiegeng smiled. “It must be because you’ve become Crown Princess. She’s so happy that she’s coming to see you.”

 

Hearing this good news finally lifted Chu Jinyao’s spirits a little. She had once thought that both Su Hui and Chu Jinxian treated her well, believing she would have two sisters. But life had shown her that only Chu Jinxian could truly remain by her side for the long term. Social status and class were harsh realities.

 

With Chu Jinxian’s return, Chu Jinyao’s mood lightened, and she busied herself with preparing gifts for her. The palace Momos observed Chu Jinyao’s behavior for a long time. After assessing her posture and etiquette, they could find no faults. They couldn’t criticize her work, and since they couldn’t stop her from doing embroidery, they had no choice but to remain silent, although their eyes still followed her every move.

 

Through this constant supervision, Chu Jinyao had made remarkable progress in etiquette. If there had been any flaws before, standing for long periods would have tested her patience. But now, she moved gracefully, with refined details in every gesture. Even the palace Momos, who were always harping on the need for regal dignity, found it increasingly difficult to find any reasons to punish her.

 

It turned out that enduring hardships really was the best path to improvement.

 

Just as Chu Jinyao finished stitching a few lines, the sound of the courtyard door opening caught her attention. Before the person even entered the room, their distinctive voice had already reached Chu Jinyao’s ears. She sighed and put down her needlework.

 

“Fifth Sister, are you inside?”

 

In truth, this question was unnecessary. Everyone knew that Chu Jinyao rarely left her courtyard these days, except to pay respects to Old Madam Chu and Madam Zhao. The rest of her time was spent under strict supervision by the palace Momos. The entire household knew that Fifth Young Lady was confined to her courtyard to learn proper manners, so Third Young Lady’s question was just a pretense of closeness.

 

“I’m here,” Chu Jinyao replied evenly. “What brings you here, Third Sister?”

 

Even Chu Jinyao’s speech had been meticulously corrected by the Momos. Her tone had to be neither too fast nor too slow, embodying the dignity of a royal consort. Her voice couldn’t be too loud, lest it seem disrespectful, nor too soft, lest it make her seem timid. Chu Jinyao had endured countless beatings for this training, with many sessions under the cane. But she was persistent, determined to master it. Over time, she gradually adjusted to this new way of speaking.

 

Though they were sisters from the same family, Chu Jinyao and Third Young Lady were not close. Chu Jinyao had only been found and brought back last year, whereas Third Young Lady had grown up in the Marquis’s estate, under the protection of a favored concubine. Given their different upbringings, closeness was unlikely.

 

Still, a guest was a guest. Chu Jinyao politely invited Third Young Lady to sit, softly instructing her maid, “Bring fresh pastries and serve tea for Third Young Lady.”

 

Third Young Lady first glanced at Chu Jinyao’s attire, then began eyeing the furnishings in the room. Once the maid had left, she spoke somewhat enviously, “Fifth Sister, being the Crown Princess really does make a difference. You’ve only had the title for a few days, and already your bearing is entirely different. Even the furnishings here are more luxurious than ours.”

 

Chu Jinyao’s expression remained calm as she corrected her. “Third Sister, my room has always been like this.”

 

“Huh?”

 

“You just hadn’t come here before, or if you had, you didn’t notice.”

 

Third Young Lady felt embarrassed. In the past, she hadn’t paid much attention to Chu Jinyao. Her focus had been on currying favor with the Marquis and finding a suitable husband during banquets, so she hadn’t bothered to notice her newly returned sister. But now, things were different.

 

Thick-skinned as she was, Third Young Lady quickly brushed off her embarrassment and continued speaking. “Fifth Sister, I always knew you were destined for greatness. Even when Chu Jinmiao was in favor, I spoke up for you. Your residence in the northeast corner, with its separate courtyard, was a sign all along. The Crown Prince belongs to the east, which is associated with wood, and the north is a place of honor. You see? It was written in the stars that you would become the Crown Princess!”

 

What a bunch of nonsense, Chu Jinyao thought. She didn’t want to waste time listening to Third Young Lady’s empty flattery, so she cut to the point. “Thank you for your kind words, Third Sister. Now, what brings you here today?”

 

Third Young Lady felt she had established enough rapport and giggled. “Fifth Sister, they say sisters are as close as hands and feet. How can outsiders compare to family? You’re going to the Eastern Palace, and while everything will be wonderful, there’s one downside—you’ll be all alone, with no close relatives to speak to. Even the legendary Emperor Yao had his two wives, Ehuang and Nuying…”

 

Chu Jinyao immediately understood what Third Young Lady was getting at, and the maids behind her were already seething with anger, ready to throw her out. But Chu Jinyao remained composed. She set her teacup down and asked, “Third Sister, are these your own thoughts, or are you speaking on behalf of someone else?”

 

Third Young Lady froze, a brief look of panic crossing her face, before she forced a laugh. “Oh, I just say what comes to mind. Who else could I be speaking for?”

 

Chu Jinyao sighed softly. “I see. Well, you should leave now. I won’t agree to what you’ve suggested.”

 

Third Young Lady had anticipated that Chu Jinyao might not be happy with her suggestion, but she hadn’t expected her to outright refuse. Stunned, her voice became sharp. “Don’t you remember the teachings of womanly virtue? Jealousy is one of the Seven Grounds for Divorce…”

 

“Even if womanly virtue is to be upheld, it is the Crown Prince who should judge.” Chu Jinyao’s voice also rose as she picked up her tea again, signaling for her guest to leave. “You may go now, Third Sister. There’s no need to say any more. If you truly wish to be part of my household, then have the Crown Prince speak to me about it. As long as he commands it, I won’t frown for a second. Whatever he says, I’ll obey.”

 

“You—” Third Young Lady’s face twisted with anger, but she was thick-skinned. Remembering her concubine mother’s advice, she quickly adjusted her tone, smiling once more. “Fifth Sister, why are you like this? I’m only thinking of you. I was willing to sacrifice myself for your benefit. But if you don’t want it, that’s fine.”

 

Seeing that Chu Jinyao remained cold, Third Young Lady felt awkward and decided to leave. She stood up and smiled stiffly. “Since you’re busy, I won’t disturb you any longer. Oh, and by the way, the Crown Prince is coming the day after tomorrow. You should start preparing.”

 

Chu Jinyao had been ignoring her, but when she heard that, she turned her head sharply. “What did you say? The Crown Prince is coming?”

 

“Yes, the invitation has already been sent. The whole household is in a frenzy preparing.”

 

“The day after tomorrow? Isn’t Eldest Sister returning that day?”

 

Third Young Lady smirked and winked at Chu Jinyao. “Exactly. Why do you think Eldest Sister chose that day? She and the Zhao family are very sharp.”

 

Chu Jinyao’s expression darkened. “It’s getting late. Linglong, see Third Sister out.”

 

Linglong quickly responded and half-politely, half-forcefully escorted Third Young Lady out. Left alone in her room, Chu Jinyao brooded over what had just transpired, growing more and more frustrated.

 

The fact that Third Young Lady had dared to come and suggest such a thing to her meant that Old Madam Chu and Madam Zhao must have known about it. Perhaps even the Marquis of Changxing had silently approved. Chu Jinyao was both furious and disheartened. They didn’t want to say such disgraceful things themselves but were eager to test her reaction, so they had sent Third Young Lady to do their dirty work. After the anger subsided, Chu Jinyao felt a deep sense of helplessness. She hadn’t even married the Crown Prince yet, and already her family was playing these probing games. She couldn’t imagine what the Crown Prince must have endured all these years.

 

For the first time, Chu Jinyao began to grasp the reality of being a wife to the Crown Prince. Before, she had only understood the title in theory, knowing that she would become the Crown Princess. But now, she was starting to comprehend what that truly meant. Being the Crown Princess meant that her thoughts had to align with the Crown Prince’s. If the Crown Prince prospered, she might not necessarily share in his glory, but if he fell, she would certainly suffer with him. It also meant that even before officially entering the Eastern Palace, her family had already started to test her loyalties.

 

Chu Jinyao let out a long, weary sigh.

 

On the third day, as expected, Chu Jinxian’s carriage arrived early. Always composed, Chu Jinxian had become even more dignified since her marriage. With her hands clasped and her jewels elegantly arranged, she walked with grace through the corridors. When she saw Chu Jinyao, her usual calm expression softened into a slight smile. “You could have waited inside. Why did you come out?”

 

“I came to greet you,” Chu Jinyao replied with a smile. After greeting her sister and brother-in-law, she curtsied. “Eldest Sister, Brother-in-law.”

 

Before Chu Jinxian could say anything, Zhao Jiazhi raised his hand slightly, as if to stop her. “The Crown Princess should not bow.”

 

“Etiquette must be observed,” Chu Jinyao said with a gentle smile. “Besides, I haven’t been formally conferred as Crown Princess yet. And Eldest Sister is my real sister.”

 

Chu Jinxian smiled at that. After parting ways with Zhao Jiazhi at the gate, she followed Chu Jinyao to the inner quarters. “I couldn’t return when you were granted the marriage, and it’s only now that I can ask how you’ve been. Are you adjusting well?”

 

Chu Jinyao understood that her sister was asking about the strict court etiquette training. She nodded. “Thanks to the Momos’ guidance, everything is going smoothly.”

 

“Momos?” Chu Jinxian frowned slightly, asking, “Who are they?”

 

“They’re trusted aides of the Empress.”

 

Chu Jinxian exchanged a knowing glance with Chu Jinyao, immediately understanding the situation. She sighed inwardly but chose not to dwell on it. After they paid their respects to Old Madam Chu and Madam Zhao, the two sisters retreated to a side room for some private conversation. The difference in their social standings was evident in how they spoke. Two days ago, Su Hui had given Chu Jinyao advice on managing household affairs and handling marital relations, but when Chu Jinxian spoke, her focus was on managing a noble household.

 

“When you enter the Eastern Palace, taking concubines will be unavoidable. The family will likely send you some maids as concubines. It doesn’t matter who you choose, but remember to keep things clear. A concubine is a concubine, and a maid is a maid. The two must never mix. If someone is reliable, don’t let her have other ambitions. And if you plan to make her a concubine, don’t assign her important tasks.”

 

Chu Jinyao nodded, finding her elder sister’s advice very practical. Chu Jinxian, having been raised as a noblewoman and future mistress of a household, spoke from experience that was invaluable to Chu Jinyao. She continued, “And don’t be in too much of a hurry to take… to take concubines for your husband. You’re the Crown Princess. For the first month after marriage, the Crown Prince is supposed to stay in your quarters every night. Don’t let anyone trick you into thinking that you need to appear virtuous by arranging concubines right away. Use that time to win over the Crown Prince. Taking concubines can wait. If you rush into it, you’ll be opening the floodgates, and once you start, it will never end. In the end, you’ll be the one in tears.”

 

Chu Jinyao found her sister’s advice incredibly insightful, but she couldn’t help feeling a bit embarrassed. With her face flushed, she said, “Sister, what are you saying?”

 

“This is just how things work in the palace. The first month after marriage, and the first and fifteenth of each month, are privileges reserved for the main wife. Don’t just be shy; you need to remember this.”

 

Chu Jinxian almost poked her younger sister in the forehead as she spoke, while Chu Jinyao dodged, both embarrassed and indignant. “I remember!”

 

Chu Jinxian sighed. Her sister had faced many hardships growing up, and though she had been brought back into the family, she hadn’t had the same upbringing as other local noble girls. She lacked the experience in household management and dealing with concubines. Now, she was headed to one of the most cutthroat environments of all—the Eastern Palace. Chu Jinxian couldn’t help but worry. Whether a marriage was too lowly or too lofty, there was always cause for concern.

 

In truth, it should have been Madam Zhao, their mother, teaching Chu Jinyao these things. But neither sister held out much hope for Madam Zhao, so Chu Jinxian had taken it upon herself to fulfill the role of mother. She wanted to go over these matters in detail, but before she could continue, a maid came rushing in to announce, “Old Madam Chu, the Crown Prince has arrived!”

 

Author’s Note: Chu Jinyao is gradually adjusting to her new identity, and the changes in those around her, as well as her own transformation, are all condensed into a single day in this chapter. From a sheltered noblewoman who didn’t concern herself with household matters to a future Crown Princess who must stand on her own, Chu Jinyao is learning to grow through her experiences.

 

As for her view of the Crown Prince and Qi Ze, to her, they are still two different people. Qi Ze is like a fleeting glimpse of a romantic figure, while the Crown Prince remains a strange and unfamiliar person…