Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 68: Spark (Part 1)

Hehehehe… It’s so funny that some of you think that Chu Yin is one of the men in MSQ’s harem. But it’s not the case & we’ll find out in Ch 72, which is a funny chapter btw.

Cliffhanger warning! 😊

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY at the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 68

Spark (Part 1)

Entering the front hall, she just saw Jing Shui who was putting the food on the table, the captivating aroma could be smelled directly, Murong Shu Qing went by her side, and smilingly said: “Jing Shui, what delicious things did you make?”

Jing Shui was setting up the bowls and chopsticks, while she answered: “Sweet and sour fish, and crispy fried chicken.”

Taking a deep breath, Murong Shu Qing praisingly said: “Smell delicious ah!” After tasting Jing Shui’s cooking talent, her stomach was used to eating good stuffs, even she rarely went to Ying Ke Lou anymore. She should organize all of the chefs at Ying Ke Lou to come and learn from Jing Shui, then the business at Ying Ke Lou would definitely bring it up a level.

“Miss, taste it.” Carefully taking the fish bone out, Jing Shui took a piece of tender and juicy fish meat and gave it to Murong Shu Qing’s mouth.

The meat was succulent and smooth, the juice was very creamy, Murong Shu Qing satisfyingly nodded her head, and turned around to say to Qi Rui who was behind her: Really delicious, Elder brother, you try it also.”

Qi Rui shook his head and sighed: “Alright ah!” He and Murong Shu Qing entered the door together, this big person like him, was just standing there for a long time, while these two girls were eating happily, they simply acted like he was not even existed. Especially Jing Shui, after she saw him, her face immediately became reserved, and it made him feel dejected even more. Could it be that he and she were doomed to remain speechless like this!

Jing Shui lowered her head, and did not look at Qi Rui any longer, her hands were pretending to be busy arranging the bowls and chopsticks, sometimes she was steeping the tea, sometimes she was serving the food, and would not let herself to stop. Murong Shu Qing could not continue to look so she grabbed her hand and pulled her (JS) to her (MSQ) side, she sighed and said: “Jing Shui, do not be busy, go eat, I am hungry.” She knew that she was more and more deliberately doing this to ignore Qi Rui, this was just showing that her heart actually very much cared about him even more!

“Miss, I….” Jing Shui was standing by Murong Shu Qing’s side, and not willing to sit down, and she still wanted to say something, but could only see Murong Shu Qing miserably covered her stomach, and pulled her hand to say: “I am really hungry.” Looking at Miss like this, Jing Shui who still wanted to say something, could only swallow it back.

 

“Jing Shui, sit down.” Lu Yi walked behind her, and used her hands to push her shoulders with strength for her to sit down. She really did not understand what awkwardness that Jing Shui had. Eldest young master’s feeling was very obvious towards her, and her secret feeling was also obvious towards Young Master, the two of them were obviously in love with each other, why should they torment each other!

Finally, everyone sat down, and could eat the meal happily, even though Jing Shui did not speak all along, but when she heard Qi Rui was telling some childhood events from the past, she would smile happily. In between chatting and laughing, Lu Yi got up, and came in with a big bowl of plums. As if she presented a treasure in front of Murong Shu Qing, she said: “Miss, I bought these in front of the courtyard gate at noon today, one old lady brought down a big basket of plums from the mountain to sell, how pitiful oh. I looked and these plums did not look bad, so I bought them, you taste it.”

Was it already plum season now? It seemed that it had not arrived yet! But these plums even though they were not big, their colors looked enjoyable, rosy and adorable. Looking that Lu Yi was impatiently waiting for her to taste it, Murong Shu Qing was forced to pick one up, and put it in her mouth.

“How is it? Is it delicious?” Lu Yi impatiently asked.

Murong Shu Qing did not tell her immediately, and only quietly chewed it for a moment, then she said to the three people in front of her who were waiting for the answer: “You guys can try it too?”

The three people were looking at each other in dismay, each picked up one plum, and put it in their mouths ___

“Heaven ah, very sour oh!!” Lu Yi’s face was wrinkled for a moment, and promptly spat out the plum that was in her mouth. Getting the cups, she poured three cups of tea afterwards. She drank a big mouthful hurriedly, and she could finally get rid of the sour taste in her mouth.

Qi Rui was also grievingly narrowed his eyes, and he drank half of the cup of tea, looking at Murong Shu Qing who was sitting leisurely, smiling to look at their incessant whining, he smilingly scolded: “Qing-er, you are very bad, you still asked us to taste this sour thing.” He actually was not really interested in eating the plum, and he should not taste it out of curiosity. This girl was more and more refined, since she already ate that sour thing, so she would not let go off the other people.

Murong Shu Qing raised her eyebrows and slightly smiled, with an innocent face, she answered: “If you guys did not try it, how could you know if it was sour or sweet.”

She could still say this sentence! Qi Rui lovingly shook his head lightly, he pushed the plate of that plums to the side of the table, just solely smelling it now, he thought it was already sour. Jing Shui’s spirit gradually came back with great difficulty, looking at this big plate of plums, and thinking that there were still more in the kitchen, she started to worry. Thinking, Jing Shui got up and said: “These many plums, it is a pity to throw them away, I will go and get some sugar.”

Jing Shui already walked to the side of the door, Murong Shu Qing suddenly thought something, and said to her: “Jing Shui, take half a bowl of sugar and half a bowl of salt here.”

What to do with the salt? Even though she did not understand it, Jing Shui still answered: “Yes.”

Waiting for Jing Shui to bring the sugar and salt, Murong Shu Qing cut into half all of the plums and put them in two small dishes. She added sugar on the plums in one of the dishes, and sprinkled a thin layer of salt on the other dish.

Li Yi puzzlingly asked: “Miss, what is this?” She could understand adding sugar, but why would she add salt? It would be sour and salty, this would be very strange ah?!

Murong Shu Qing lightly stirred it once, and did not give any explanation, she took two dishes and pushed them in front of them, and smilingly said: “You try it again.”

They did not dare to act blindly without thinking now, all three of them agreed by chance to pick the plum that was added with sugar, even though there was sugar and it was not that sour, but it was still a sour taste on the after taste. Once they finished eating one plum, they did not want to eat it anymore, as for that plum that was added with salt, just imagining that would have sour and salty taste, it really made them to flinch.

Finally, it was still Lu Yi who summoned her courage, she picked up one plum, and bit a mouthful.

After chewing it quietly for a while, the taste was very special, there was no thought that this was unpalatable. The sour taste was still there, but after adding the salt, it was actually counteracted part of the sour taste, and she could also feel this trace of sweet taste. Lu Yi put the whole plum inside her mouth, curiously looked at Murong Shu Qing, and said: “This taste is very different?”

Murong Shu Qing smilingly asked: “Is it delicious?”

“En.” After thinking, Lu Yi nodded her head. Actually, it could not be said as delicious, it was just different taste than the previous one, this was very refreshing, very special.

Qi Rui and Jing Shui saw that Lu Yi unexpectedly said it was delicious, and she actually ate several plums. Both of their curiosities were provoked again, finally, they also picked one up, and ate it. After they tasted it, the two people’s eyes were bright, it was sour and salty, and there was a sweet taste also, and after only added the salt, this plum unexpectedly had this rich taste.

Actually, when she was traveling to the south in the past, she saw some of the local people who were eating some fruits with this unique method, it was indeed a distinct and unique method. She made them to try it today, her purpose was not just this either. Murong Shu Qing was looking at the floating tea that sunk into the bottom of the cup, and faintly said: “Thinking that it is sour, we will add sugar, because they are matched in people’s eyes. But adding salt is also actually giving a distinctive taste, so the matters of the world, there is no such thing as matching up or not matching up.”

She said these words with no expectation that Jing Shui would suddenly get rid of her psychological hindrance, but she only hoped that she would be enlightened by this.

Jing Shui could also feel Murong Shu Qing’s intentions, so she lowered her head again, and did not speak anymore.

Qi Rui smilingly said with a clear voice: “Very well said.”

Murong Shu Qing laughingly looked at Qi Rui who could not wait to approve her words, so she could not help but to mockingly say: “Since it is that good, I will let you take this basket of plums back with you so you can enjoy them slowly.”

“Qing-er….” Qi Rui grievingly called out, and he provoked another joyful laughter from the inside of the room.

*****

The night was hit by the continuous night wind, it was so frigid and overbearing. Blowing on the flame of the candle’s bright gleaming, it looked like the winter was getting closer. Putting down the scroll that was on her hand, Murong Shu Qing was leaning on the back of the soft woolen couch, and was somewhat tired so she closed her eyes.

Hindering in between Jing Shui and Qi Rui’s relationships, was Jing Shui’s inferiority feeling and slight autism illness, if one wanted to cure her, it could not be settled in a short period of time. Also curing her face would be a very important step to rebuilt her self-confidence. But that Chu Yin….. Remembering that fiery red figure, and also his cold temper, Murong Shu Qing lowly sighed, if they wanted to receive his help, it would not be a simple matter at all.

Moreover, the current Qi’s family situation also made her feel anxious. Even though Big Uncle was hurt, fortunately, his life was not in danger anymore. The Elder (she referred to Qi Zhong Lin here), seemed to be drinking tea and playing chess every day in tranquility. But the Qi family manor’s secret bodyguards had already reported to her often, that the Elder had understood something about the deployment also, so she was afraid that this was the calm before the storm.

Murong Shu Qing suddenly opened her eyes, there was someone outside the window! Softly raising her hand to let Yan Yu know not to act blindly without thinking. This person had come for a while, and was just looking around outside, but he had not made any other moves. Whether he was an enemy or a friend, she did not know it clearly, so she would just quietly observe for any good change.

Still leaning on the soft couch and not moving, Murong Shu Qing slowly closed her eyes, as if she was sleeping. She could feel that the black dress person pushed open the window, but he had not entered in, when another black shadow intercepted his way, very quickly, there was a fighting sound from the inside of the courtyard.

Murong Shu Qing got up, Yan Yu immediately appeared behind her now, she originally thought that Yan Yu was anxious about her safety, and would not let the person set foot inside the room, but it did not seem so now. Since it was not Yan Yu, then who was the person fighting outside? Murong Shu Qing walked to the side of the door, and looked around, it was not bright under the moonlight, so she could only see two black shadows who were in a tangle, it was hard for her to distinguish who was who.

 

Sian’s notes:
Thank goodness I just finished eating dinner before I started translating this chapter, otherwise I’d be starving… Even though I’m not a big fan of fish, but the description makes it sound delicious.

Ai…. I told you that their brother & sister’s relationships will be better. This chapter shows it that they can be like real siblings here. I love that Qi Rui is bullied by the girls.

So who are those people who are fighting? Let me give you a hint: one is a trouble maker who happens to be a future powerful person (☺️) & the other one is the guy whom I’m going to be falling in love with more and more. Hehehehe…

Chapter 67: Chu Yin

Chapter 69: Spark (Part 2)

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 67: Chu Yin

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY at the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 67

Chu Yin

Looking at his graceful writing, free and unconstrained use in the brush, Murong Shu Qing guessed that he should draw the plum flower. For her own ridiculous thought and anticipation, Murong Shu Qing moved forward and entered the plum forest that she had been watching for several days, only for the reason beside that picture scroll, where two cups of steam green tea were placed on!

Slowly entering the plum forest, she stopped in front of the low table, Murong Shu Qing’s gaze was completely drawn on that picture scroll that the ink was still wet. The painting was really a plum flower, but there was no colorful flower, there was only a strong plum branch, it was glowing insolently and intertwining in this one area. The composition of the painting was messy, it looked so casual and indolent, it also looked wild and unruly, so one could not see the theme and catch people’s attentions.

Picking up the writing brush that was still as wet as the picture scroll, Murong Shu Qing was pondering with a light smile. Lightly raising her wrist, she wrote a message on the middle of the picture scroll, a couple of the poem. Her quick, elegant and soft calligraphy style matched up with this willful, arrogant and cold plum, they would bring out the best of each other. Murong Shu Qing put down the writing brush, a slightly hoarse voice came through from behind her, but it sounded like a low chanting sound: “The cool breeze possesses the bone of the supernatural entity, the cool and elegant should be as good as a jade. Good sentence.”

The sudden sound made Murong Shu Qing’s heart slightly startled, she still saw that he was sitting on that side a moment ago, and this person was already behind her in a blink of an eye. Slowly turning around, she could finally see this red dress person’s face clearly ____

His eyes were as if they were deep and calm as a moon and deep as a puzzling man.

His face was as if it was a clean and spotless jade ice sculpture.

His lips were as if they were a beautiful red plum and magnificently full.

As if ____

As if ____

Murong Shu Qing captured all of her attentions into the person’s face who was in front of her, but she did not know what kind of words to use to describe his face for a moment. It was perfect and without any blemish, a man who also looked as beautiful as a woman, like a cool breeze bamboo dew, and also a harsh snow brash. He had already transcended into any gender accepted argument.

So after looking at him for an incense stick time (15 min), Murong Shu Qing finally recovered in a flash, she stroke her forehead and lightly smiled. Thinking that she was ‘already old’, but she was still puzzled like a young 17-18 years old girl, lightly coughing, Murong Shu Qing lightly smiled and sighed: “I forget my manners.”

The red dress person was used to it, and his face did not have any expression. But the corner of his mouth lightly stroke out, and lazily answered: “At the very least, you can still speak.” His low and light voice appeared to be laughing, but it also made people feel cold. It was not the type like a frigid and cold blooded person, also not the cruel, untamed and brash person who made people feel at a loss. It was just the type like a pure cold, apathetic, ignorant and estranged person, it was just enough to make people not knowing how to interact with him.

Murong Shu Qing laughingly withdrew her sight, should she be able to see this kind of immortal beauty and wonderful appearance, and still able to speak and feel any pride?! Picking up the warm green tea that was on the low table and poured it down lightly, Murong Shu Qing’s eyes were suddenly bright, it was the highest quality spring fruity tea!! This kind of tea could only be produced on the Ling (spirit/quick) Quan (spring) Shanshang (mountain) in Dong Yu, the output was not many, and hard to look for, basically it was wild. She also looked for it and only found a little of the tea a few years ago, unexpectedly, she could drink it here.

“Qing-er!” But unfortunately, after only tasting a mouthful, an angry sound of a man’s voice broke this comfortable beautiful scenery of the setting sun.

Not having time to put down the green tea that was on her hand, Qi Rui’s big and tall figure already rapidly came to Murong Shu Qing’s side, he grabbed her wrist, and with his urgent tone along with his anger and anxiousness, he said: “I said that you were not allowed to come here, did you not understand it?!! Go with me!” Finished speaking, Qi Rui lightly nodded his head towards that red dress person, left an apologetic sentence, and pulled Murong Shu Qing to hurriedly leave this plum forest.

The red dress person did not speak anything either, and just watched at the two people who were leaving in a hurry, he indifferently turned around and continued to lean by the side of the law table. Looking at the setting sun, but when his gaze was sweeping past that ink painting, his cold lips lightly perked up.

******

Murong Shu Qing was practically being dragged by Qi Rui to leave the fig trees forest, but she was only thinking now that it was a pity for that cup of top-notch spring fruity tea!

Along the way, Qi Rui finally stopped his footsteps in front of Jing Shui Ya Xiu, and he was directly facing Murong Shu Qing’s eyes. Both of his hands were tightly grasping her arms, his face showed a solemn and cold expression, and he said and commanded: “In the future, you are not allowed to enter the forest, do you hear me?!”

This was the first time that she had ever seen Qi Rui was so annoyed and angry like this, without struggling both of her arms that were already hurt her, Murong Shu Qing faintly said: “Give me an explanation.”

“There is no explanation, you only need to remember that you are not allowed to enter it again.” Qi Rui angrily roared lowly, and was not aware that he was tightening up his hands, that made Murong Shu Qing feel hurt even more and slightly knitted her eyebrows. But very quickly, a black shadow rapidly flashed through, and Murong Shu Qing’s hands were free.

Qi Rui was also a person who trained martial arts, but he was not Yan Yu’s opponent, after several moves, he was already forced to retreat about five meters from Murong Shu Qing.

Gently massaging her arms, Murong Shu Qing lowly said: “Yan Yu, that is enough.”

With a single heavy punch, Qi Rui was hit very far, Yan Yu just restrained from his punch and kick, and with one dodge, he did not retreat but he was rather standing behind Murong Shu Qing. Receiving this unfeeling black dress person’s final punch, Qi Rui could only feel a sharp pain. This person’s martial arts were really high, his skill was higher than his ability, but looking that he was protecting Qing-er like this, could it be that he was her bodyguard?!

Looking at the black dress man again, except for that dark clothing, he was not able to see his appearance, but his cold, cruel, threatening and imposing manner threatened him all along. He really did not have any sense of his existence a moment ago, there was no trace of him, so he was freely this arrogant and overbearing. Who could have thought that Qing-er could have this type of extraordinary talent by her side.

Holding his still aching palm, Qi Rui walked to the side of Murong Shu Qing, while he lowly sighed and said: “Qing-er, eldest brother is doing this for your own good.”

Murong Shu Qing still did not speak and was just looking at him, her usually smiling eyes, were looking straight at Qi Rui with persistence, she would not accept this kind of explanation.

Murong Shu Qing’s uncompromising look, made Qi Rui felt defeated somewhat, he knew that if he did not explain it clearly, Qing-er would definitely not drop this subject. Pondering for a movement, Qi Rui helplessly said it again: “Alright, that person is very dangerous, he can take your life at any time.” Even though Qing-er had this martial expert by her side, but that person’s moodiness were changeable easily, he was unfeeling and heartless, so he would still be anxious for her incessantly.

“Who is he?” This was the thing that Murong Shu Qing wanted to know the most now.

“He is Chu Yin, you probably do not know who he is, but…..” Qi Rui Only said a few words, but Murong Shu Qing’s startling voice had already interrupted.

“The Demonic Physician Chu Yin?!” Murong Shu Qing found it hard to believe, that the person whom she was sipping tea, talking, composing poetry a moment ago, was actually the respected and feared by the Jiang Hu’s people, the Demonic Physician Chu Yin! She knew about him because of Shen Xiao Yun, it was said that when he was sending some people to go and find the Demonic Physician, some of them could not find him, and some of them were gone forever. The rumor said that this person had never treated anybody on the basis of saving people, for him, human life was just like a grass. But his medical expertise was actually superb, the rumor in Jiang Hu was that there was nobody who could not be saved by him, but it was only because he did not want to save the people.

“You knew him?” Qi Rui was amazed that this daughter from the wealthy family unexpectedly knew about that Demonic Physician from Jiang Hu. But looking at that black figure who was behind her and not moving at all, he completely believed, this past three years, Shu Qing was not the Shu Qing whom he was familiar with anymore. But no matter what, she was still his younger sister whom he cherished the most, he could not let her to have any mishap. Qi Rui once again approached Murong Shu Qing, just liked when she was still a child, he lightly patted Murong Shu Qing’s shoulder, and softly coaxed and said: “This is also good, since you know him, you should understand elder brother’s intention. Every person who intrudes the plum forest, can not come out alive, even though you can escape unscathed today, but that person’s moodiness can change easily. You may not be lucky next time, so do not go into the plum forest anymore in the future, do you understand?”

Getting a warm feeling on her shoulder that was gently caressed, and his helpless urging, it made her think of her far away older brothers. When they were children, they would also tell her like this, that she had to wait for them at the end of the school, and could not peel the apple on her own because the knife was very sharp, but they could only long for each other from far away now. Her eyes were already slightly moist, so Murong Shu Qing closed her sad eyes, and lowered her head, and let her heart to completely finish her longing.

Qi Rui looked that Murong Shu Qing suddenly lowered her head, he thought that he was too strict on her, so he softly let Murong Shu Qing to lean on his shoulder, and comfortingly and softly rubbing her satin and soft long hair. Murong Shu Qing was softly leaning on Qi Rui’s wide and warm shoulders, so her mood was slowly calmed down. Then she just straightened up her body, and asked: “He is here now because of Jing Shui.” She heard from last time that he had already found the person who could treat Jing Shui’s birthmark, it seemed now that it should be Chu Yin.

“Yes, I spent three years time looking for him, two years time begging him, but he still has not agreed to treat Jing Shui’s face.” Bringing this up, Qi Rui’s face was filled with haziness. Ever since he found out on that day, that the Demonic Physician could cure Jing Shui, he had not given up looking for him. But even after he exhausted a lot methods to find him, he had actually gained nothing in the end. Finally, he actually ran into the Demonic Physician Chu Yin who loved the plum at the plum forest behind the mountain of his own courtyard. He originally thought that he could smoothly ask him to help Jing Shui’s face, but who would have thought that two years had past, and he was still unable to get him to agree to it. How could this not make him a depressed person. But after observing him these last two years, even though Chu Yin looked exactly as fearful as what the rumor said, but he was also a dangerous person. Thinking like this, Qi Rui solemnly said to Murong Shu Qing again: “Qing-er, promise elder brother, do not go to the plum forest again.”

Three years looking for him, and two years of waiting, she was afraid that this foolish elder brother’s feeling towards Jing Shui, was really deep. “I am hungry, let’s go and eat.” Murong Shu Qing had not answered Qi Rui yet, and just pulled his hand to enter that comfortable and simple Jing Shui Ya Xu.

 

Sian’s notes:
Let me guess, it probably won’t take too long for MSQ to get Chu Yin to agree to treat Jing Shui. I’m sure she has a way to do it. Anybody agrees with me? 😃

Chapter 66: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 2)

Chapter 68: Spark (Part 1)

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 66: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 2)

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 66

Shuang Tian Bie Yuan Courtyard (Part 2)

From a far away, near the plum forest, a trace of fiery figure was standing in the wind, it made Murong Shu Qing stop from walking into the plum forest. The sleeves of the clothing were swirling layer upon layer of the plum flowers. The person’s loose black and long hair was dancing freely with the wind, as if it was a dazzling dark satin. This person seemed to unite the aura from the heaven & earth, and made people not dare to watch intently. Standing at that place, for a thousand years, and was just wondering at that plum forest, had never left the place. However, that red color was the pinnacle of pretty and flirtatious, and was not so compatible with this person’s distinct, spirited, noble and proud characters.

Exactly because of this kind of contradiction views that made Murong Shu Qing quietly and calmly stand by the side of the plum forest, she did not even walked for one step either. If she walked in, it would just break this ‘proud and beautiful picture’.

The red figure that was facing the wind, did not turn around because of her arrival, nor did the person make her to leave. The person was still proudly standing in the wind, did not move nor saying anything, and there was only the slightly cold north wind that was upsurging that trace of gorgeous red clothing from time to time.

The setting sun was gradually leaning to the west, it showed Murong Shu Qing that it was already the evening time. Kneading her somewhat stiffed neck, she was actually standing and looking at that plum forest for almost one shichen (2 hrs), and did not even move at all, looking at the person’s shadow. Murong Shu Qing suddenly wanted to know what kind of an appearance that person had, that the person had this beautiful, lofty and unyielding characters, as if it was a quiet winter. Was this person the reason why Qi Rui did not allow her to go into the Bai Su Feng Lin forest?

Raising her head to show her calm and light smile, finally, even though Murong Shu Qing had not stepped into that red dress person’s world, she turned around to step on the dead leaves that were falling from the plum forest. Listening to the sound of the dead leaves that were under her feet and the tangling of the cool breeze, she could lightly smell the soil that was mixed with the forest air, Murong Shu Qing was strolling and departing from there.

Murong Shu Qing was strolling and appreciating the scenery all the way, when she returned back to Jing Shui Ya Xu, the sky was already dark. Entering the courtyard, she saw that the small courtyard was already tidied up. Originally, the courtyard was filed with chrysanthemum flowers, all over the vicinity of the courtyard and forming a crescent shape moon, the other empty space seemed to be out of place and needed a change. One could not say that the original appearance was not good, but the courtyard had been arranged by Lu Yi according to her liking now. Inside the courtyard’s small front hall, there were a soft couch and several low tables, the tea sets and many books.

Murong Shu Qing lightly smiled and shook her head, this girl, really wanted to spoil her.

Looking that Murong Shu Qing had entered the small courtyard for a good while, but she had not come in, Lu Yi came out to welcome her. Helping her to untie the robe, she supported her to enter the room, smilingly said: “Miss, you have returned, you can eat now.”

Inside the room, there was only Jing Shui who was just about to arrange the bowls and chopsticks, Murong Shu Qing was looking one glance at the surrounding, but she did not see Qi Rui’s figure.

Murong Shu Qing asked: “Where is elder brother?”

Lu Yi was holding the brocade robe, folding it properly and putting it aside, while she answered: “Young Master asked the young servant boy to inform us that he can not accompany you to eat tonight.”

Today was the first day that she was at the Shang Tian Bie Yuan, Qi Rui was really attached with Jing Shui also, it was reasonable to say that he could not easily go out. What kind of matter would make him hurriedly go like this?

When Murong Shu Qing lowered her eyebrows to ponder over it, Yan Yu’s black figure was already outside the door now, and walked into the room very quickly, his expression was still grave and stern and he was standing in front of Murong Shu Qing.

Murong Shu Qing raised her head and asked: “Yan Yu, what is wrong?” Ordinarily, Yan Yu would not appear unless she asked him to, could something happened?

Yan Yu’s tone was cold, but he was still tranquil when he answered: “The scout’s report, Cang Yue and Dong Yu officially started the war about 30 li (1 li = 500 meter) outside of Lin Feng Guan border yesterday evening. It was Dong Yu’s small victory during yesterday’s battle.”

“The army provisions have been delivered?” Even though she knew that this war could not be avoided, but she did not expect that it would be so quick like this. But the two armies that were fighting, the army provisions would be delivered in advance, but she had not received any news that the Imperial court had delivered the provisions. So hearing the news now that they had already started the war, it would still make her feel surprise.

“Not yet, the Imperial court just deployed a three months worth of the army’s provisions yesterday, to be delivered outside of Lin Feng Guan border.”

“Yesterday?” Murong Shu Qing slightly knitted her elegant eyebrows, it seemed that the Imperial court did not foresee that Cang Yue would take the initiative to attack either. Lightly dropping her head, Murong Shu Qing sighed and said: “I understood. Tell Cang Su to pay close attention to Cang Yue’s movements, especially that Cang Yue’s commander in chief, You Xiao!” This commander in chief showed up strangely, nobody had ever heard about this person before, but he was actually the country’s commander in chief. She asked Shen Xiao Yun investigate about him for one month, unexpectedly, he still could not get any information, this person appeared to show up out of thin air. She was afraid that this person was the biggest variable for this war.

“Yes!” When Yan Yu saw that Murong Shu Qing raised her hand to lightly wave at him, he slightly bowed and rapidly left the room.

Three months! The Imperial court only gave three months time to Xuanyuan Yi, if they could resolve this within the shortest time possible, that was certainly the best solution, based on Xuanyuan Yi’s strategy and military skills, he should be able to achieve this. But Murong Shu Qing felt that Cang Yue’s action was especially unusual this time, so people were not able to guess what they would do next, her mind was somewhat not peaceful.

If the war could not be ended within three months, the army provisions would be a key problem, the state treasury could not be completed used up either. So if the war continued for half a year, the Imperial court would turn towards the people for the provisions. The Murong’s family would bear the brunt, so she would start to plan for this.

Miss had to be worried about those trifling affairs again, Miss would have to worry about the Murong’s family business everyday, and she had to worry about the war now. At this time, she seemed to somewhat understood what Miss was saying, ‘sometimes not knowing was also a happy thing’, the previous Miss did not understand anything, so she could only feel happy and comfortable, live carefree and without worries. Now…. sighing, and feeling sorry for her health, Lu Yi picked up a bowl of soup, and carried it to Murong Shu Qing’s front, she sighed and said: “Miss, you should eat some food now, it will be cold.”

Recovered, she looked at Lu Yi who was anxiously looking at her, knowing that this girl was anxious for her, she raised a happy smile, and took the hot soup that was on Lu Yi’s hand. Coming to the front dining table, she smilingly said to Lu Yi and Jing Shui: “Alright, you guys are also hungry, sit down and eat.”

The two people were looking one glance at each other, and calmly sat down to accompany eating with Murong Shu Qing. Looking at them who bowed their heads and did not speak, and only engrossed in adding the dishes, Murong Shu Qing helplessly put down the bowl that was already piled as high as a mountain, she sighed and said: “Do you guys want to make me eat nonstop until tomorrow?”

The two people suddenly raised their heads to look at Murong Shu Qing whose bowl was already piled up and who showed her grieving expression, they could not help but to laugh out loud. The three people were laughing noisily, and they finished eating their meals quickly.

Lu Yi hurriedly cleaned up, and Jing Shui withdrew from Murong Shu Qing’s room, she knew that even though Miss was chatting and laughing with them from time to time, that was because she did not want them to worry. Her heart was still actually pondering over that meddlesome thing, but they could not understand it either. Since she could not help Miss, but at the very least, she would not disturb her.

******

Today was already several days later?! Murong Shu Qing could not remember it clearly either, that was still the unyielding, cold, beautiful trace of red figure in front of her. It was already a habit of her to wait for two shichen (4 hrs) at this plum forest everyday in the afternoon, but she could only quietly look at that picturesque person and the scenery that were in front of her. Moreover, that trace of red shadow was always showing her back for her for the entire time, alone, looking at the sky, standing for a day. The person would also drink wine and paint, but had never turned around to come over.

With the wide red robe, and the always loose long hair, made Murong Shu Qing unable to distinguish whether or not the person was a male or female, but this did not influence her decision to admire that person. The red dress person should also know Murong Shu Qing’s arrival, but he seemed to not care about it.

One person had never entered the plum forest, and never disturbed, the other was continuing in his own way, proud, aloof and solitary. One person was by the side of the fig tree, while the other person was standing proudly under the plum tree. Two kinds of bearings, but each staying at one side.

The sun was quickly setting again, she took the thick brocade robe that Lu Yi had especially prepared for her. Today seemed to be colder, the leaves of the fig tree by her side, were falling down from time to time. Comparing to the plum forest that was across from her, and was colder and more unyielding, this fig tree forest seemed to be somewhat desolate. But Murong Shu Qing just liked the long vitality of the fig tree which leaves were falling and then the full and new fig tree would come out. Stretching her waist, Murong Shu Qing who was always standing, just about planning to leave, but she saw the red dress person’s back who seemed to already complete his painting. He was different than any average person, who would linger and appreciate it for a long time after painting it, or would alter or inscribe it. But, he would put away his brush, and not look at that painting anymore that he drew for the whole afternoon. Casually leaning by the side of the low table, he tasted the tea and appreciated the scenery, as if he had never drawn anything.

Looking at his graceful writing, free and unconstrained use in the brush, Murong Shu Qing guessed that he should draw the plum flower. For her own ridiculous thought and anticipation, Murong Shu Qing moved forward and entered the plum forest that she had been watching for several days, only for the reason beside that picture scroll, where two cups of steam green tea were placed on!

 

Sian’s notes:
Another mysterious person? 😅 How many more characters need to be put in this novel?

Ok, even though we don’t know if this person is a man or woman, however, sometimes the raw is using the ‘he’ character. But the thing with Chinese character, sometimes the ‘he’ character can be used if the gender is unknown. So I’m trying to use ‘this person’ if I can to change the ‘he’ character whenever I can but sometimes I just leave the ‘he’ character in here.

Chapter 65: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 1)

Chapter 67: Chu Yin

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 65: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 1)

Wish you all an early Merry Christmas!!

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 65

Shuang Tian Bie Yuan Courtyard (Part 1)

Qi Rui’s Shang Tian Bie Yuan was located at the north suburbs from the Capital, originally, Murong Shu Qing was planning to stay at Ying Ke Lou after she left the Qi’s family. Later on, when she heard that Shuang Tian Bie Yuan was rather a famous place within the Capital, rumor stated that that place was a secluded courtyard, especially, the fig trees were planted everywhere, so it was even more elegant. Murong Shu Qing always liked beautiful scenery, so she could not let go of this kind of scenery. So after her group was traveling north for half a day, they just arrived at this prestigious Shuang Tian Bie Yuan.

Just getting of the carriage, Qi Rui had already welcomed them, but unfortunately, he did not look like he was welcoming Murong Shu Qing, but it was rather the person who was behind Murong Shu Qing, Jing Shui who finally could be convinced to come with them.

“Jing Shui, you really came!” Qi Rui excitingly held Jing Shui’s hand, even though she was still wearing a veil, but she finally came to visit this courtyard that he built for her. When he heard that Qing-er wanted to come and stay at Shang Tian Bie Yuan, he secretly prayed that Jing Shui would also come. He did not have any strategy left for her, and did not want to make things difficult for her, but was unable to let her go either.

“Young Master, please conduct yourselves with dignity.” Jing Shui wanted to pull her hand out, but to no avail as Qi Rui was unwilling to let it go, so the two people were tussling with each other at the gate of the courtyard.

Qi Rui was afraid that he would hurt Jing Shui, so he did not dare to use too much force, but he still was not willing to let go. Looking across the veil, at that pair of bright, glossy and dark eyes, Qi Rui whispered at the side of her ear with a muffled and hoarse voice: “I conduct myself with too much dignity.” He should have captured her earlier, so he did not need to wait for ten years, and was still unable to be with her.

“You….!” The depressing and suffering sentence that Qi Rui said in her ear, made Jing Shui to stop struggling, she slightly lowered her head. She was happy in her heart, and also filled with suffering, they did not match ah! Why brother to continue with this kind of entanglement?!

The two people were resisting like this for a good while, finally Jing Shui could not bear it anymore and struggled again, what was this person doing, did he not know that people were watching them!!

Murong Shu Qing admired the surroundings scenery once, except the sound from the wind that was blowing the rustling tree, she could also hear the intermittent sound of the dripping water occasionally. The air was filled with the slightly damp forest trees, during this early winter time, it was very hard to come by. The courtyard gate did not have any unique arrangement, it was built completely from a real tree. There was no brick and roof tiles, it was simple and plain, but it was the style that she liked. It really made people to want to go in to check it out.

But Murong Shu Qing was not in a hurry either, so she quietly walked to the front of the courtyard that was beside the tree. Looking at the couple of the sweetheart who acted without regard for others, the young servant girl who was at the courtyard, was smiling but she did not say anything. She did not want to disturb either, so she could only continue to admire it.

Finally, when he was afraid that Jing Shui would start crying, Qi Rui softly sighed, and let go of her hand. Once she received her freedom, Jing Shui promptly hid behind Lu Yi who was lowly laughing incessantly, and did not dare to look at Qi Rui.

Qi Rui was sighing grievingly in his heart, it seemed that what Qing-er said was true, his emotional journey would still be long. Turning his body around, he just caught Murong Shu Qing who was casually smiling beside the tree, Qi Rui quietly cleared his throat, while he said: “Qing-er, come in ah, what are you doing still standing outside!”

But Murong Shu Qing did not plan to let him go easily like this, so she was still leaning by the side of the tree, and with no urgent nor slow tone, she mockingly said: “No worry, the two of you can still chat slowly, I am also admiring the good scenery.”

Stoping his footsteps, Qi Rui did not know whether to laugh or cry, and smilingly said: “This girl, you dare to mock your eldest brother.”

“I don’t dare ah, if eldest brother ignores me and Jing Shui, I think we can still leave now.” Saying this, Murong Shu Qing came to Jing Shui’s side, and pretended to pull Jing Shui to go to the carriage.

Qi Rui suddenly came with big strides, and blocked in front of the two of them, he helplessly and laughingly sighed and said: “You ah….! Everything is eldest brother’s fault, Qing-er, please forgive me.” Finished speaking, he still forced a smile and bowed by clasping his hands, this darling younger sister of his, no matter if it was in the past or now, it was still the same that she would not let him have an easy time!

Qi Rui helplessly bowed and apologized in every possible way, all of the people who were looking at the scene, could not help but to laugh, even Jing Shui who was always embarrassed and did not dare to raise her head, the corner of her mouth was also raised up.

After a burst of their noisy laughs, Murong Shu Qing did not continue to make things difficult for him, a group of people were finally walking towards the center of the courtyard while they were chatting and laughing.

The plants that they passed at the courtyard, were nicely trimmed, they looked orderly and neat, their shapes were also quite pleasing to the eyes. But Murong Shu Qing was somewhat disappointed because she liked a natural beauty even more. This kind of artificial and exquisite work was somewhat less elegant. A group of people finally arrived at the middle part of the courtyard, a towering trail attracted Murong Shu Qing’s entire gaze.

That trail could accommodate two carriages, both sides of the paths were planted with the tall and big fig trees. During winter time, the branches and leaves were not lush, but one could actually admire the winter scenery.

Murong Shu Qing puzzlingly asked: “What is upfront?” The dead leaves that were on the ground were not swept cleanly by anyone, the roadside only had the new buds of creeper wild flowers, there was no beautiful flowers landscape, and the area was extremely different than the other part of the courtyard that looked delicate. This pathway seemed to be the other faction that manifested its own desolation, it was unconstrained and natural.

Qi Rui was thinking and he hesitatingly answered: “That is Bai Su (white) Feng (wind) Lin (forest).”

Bai Su Feng Lin! It was a good name, she originally wanted to go in and check it out, and wanted even more to go in to this unique forest courtyard now.

Murong Shu Qing was just about to walk several steps, but Qi Rui pulled her back, so she turned around puzzlingly, and saw Qi Rui’s solemn and deep eyes.

Qi Rui’s expression was solemn, and he held Murong Shu Qing’s hand with slight strength, and said this sentence: “Qing-er, there is a noble guest who stays inside, you can not go in and bother the noble guest.”

Qi Rui’s sudden and solemn warning made Murong Shu Qing feel even more interesting with this courtyard, but she did not insist on going to this place now, so she answered with a light smile: “Alright.” Finished speaking, she continued going forward to the exquisite bird carved small courtyard.

Murong Shu Qing easily agreed to him, actually made Qi Rui feel somewhat doubtful, if it was in the past, she would be crying, yelling, and rushing to go in. He would not be worry too much, but now with her calm smile and decision to step back, she actually made him feel more anxious and worry.

Murong Shu Qing leisurely walking forward, Qi Rui looked towards that pathway from time to time, his face was looking pensive.

Once they walked pass the flowery pathways, a two floors wooden cabin showed up in front of their eyes, it was not very gorgeous, and was actually plain and simple. There was a rising four letters seal, Jing Shui (clean water) Ya (elegant) Xu (cotton) on a not very big lintel door.

Murong Shu Qing smilingly sighed and said: “The words are not that bad!” As it turned out, this Shuang Tian Bie Yuan was built for Jing Shui, Qi Rui was really considerate. So if Jing Shui could open her mind and accept Qi Rui, they will be a happily married couple.

Not very loud nor whisper mumbling sound, but it let everybody hear it, Lu Yi was smiling even more and lightly pinching Jing Shui who was by her side, and it made Jing Shui was even more embarrassed and ashamed.

“Qing-er, you guys just stay here, my Yi Shui (river) Ju (residence) is right on the side. I still have things to do, I will come back to accompany you guys to eat tonight.” Maybe Qi Rui felt embarrassed, he hurriedly withdrew after he said his sentence, and left Jing Shui Ya Xu.

Looking at that tall figure who was ‘leaving desolately and running away’, it made Murong Shu Qing shake her head and lightly smile. He just knew to feel embarrassed now, but he was declaring his ‘sovereignty’ when they were at the gate a moment ago!

Qi Rui just left, so Murong Shu Qing turned around to go to that small garden, Lu Yi who was beside her, promptly asked: “Miss, where are you going? I will accompany you.” Miss went out alone last time, and managed to find a problem, it still made her feel fear endlessly.

Knowing that Lu Yi was still frightened by the situation from last time, Murong Shu Qing lightly shook her head, and smilingly said: “You and Jing Shui stay to tidy up, I am only casually walking.” It was not that she would have bad luck every time, and there was Yan Yu by her side this time, so she should not have any problem. Thinking of that pair of frosted snow and cold eyes, Murong Shu Qing’s heart would still be in fear.

Moreover, looking at Qi Rui’s cautious manner, she did not know who was staying at that Bai Su Feng Lin forest, so she did not want to take any risk taking Lu Yi.

Knowing that Miss should have a reason for not taking her, Lu Yi put on the brocade coat that was on her hand, on Murong Shu Qing’s shoulder, she warned in a whisper: “Alright, wear this extra clothing.”

Smiling and nodding her head, she gave Lu Yi her peaceful smile, Murong Shu Qing went out of Jing Shui Ya Xu. Going along the pathway, she walked towards that magical fig trees forest.

Walking on the quiet and secluded road, the wind-borne fig tree leaves were floating down, they produced some rustling sounds under one’s feet. Murong Shu Qing gathered her hair together that was blowing chaotically by the wind. The whole journey felt so bleak, with a boundless atmosphere, it always made her immerse within it. Not knowing how long she had been walking, the trees that were in front of her eyes, changed gradually, they were still standing upright loftily, but with different styles.

In front of her eyes was a plum forest, even during this early winter, and the plum flowers had not yet blooming, but they were standing upright loftily, and their proud, strong and vigorous styles had already been fully exposed.

At a distant place, among the plum forest, a trace of downwind fiery figure was standing, it made Murong Shu Qing to halt her steps from entering the plum forest.

 

Sian’s notes:
Aahhh… Qi Rui is so nice to Jing Shui. 😍😍😍 It’s funny that this novel doesn’t have a lot romance for MSQ but she seems to do a good job to be a matchmaker for Huo Zhi Qing & Yan Hao Yu and Qi Rui & Jing Shui. 😂😂😂

I think you’ll finally see that MSQ’s relationship with Qi Rui (or the Qi’s family in general) started to get better now. It reminded me how she would be teasing her older brother during her modern life too. Honestly, three years is a long time for not seeing her brother or anybody. Granted this happened because Bai Yi Fan’s soul went to MSQ’s body so it was definitely a more difficult and complicated situation. But I remembered when I didn’t see my older brother for four years (coz he was studying in US), even though we were always closed when we were back home, it took a while for us to actually get to know each other again when we saw each other again in US. Whether we realized it or not, we did change within those four years that he had never come home. It’s part of growing up…

Oh, who’s this other noble guest??? Like we need more names in our character list, right? 😉

Chapter 64: First Sign

Chapter 66: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 2)

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 64: First Sign

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 64

First Sign

When Murong Shu Qing came to Qi Yun’s Qi (live) Yun (cloud) Yuan (courtyard) (the Qi in Qi Yun is different than the Qi in Qi Yun Yuan), the sky was already completely dark, there were two rows of crimson lanterns within the courtyard, that were used to brighten the darkness. Inside the front hall, people’s shadows were swaying, Wu Mei was distractingly walking back and forth, and looking towards the inner room from time to time, her tears were sliding silently, which looked worst than if she was wailing. He Xiang Jun was sitting on the master’s seat, her face also showed anxiousness and depression, the bloody water kept coming from the inner room continuously, so it really made their hearts feel agitated even more.

In contrast, Qi Zhong Lin looked a lot more tranquil, but this elderly person clenched both of his hands on his chest, his usually wise and farsighted tiger eyes slightly closed, like he was resting, so nobody knew what he was thinking.

Murong Shu Qing entered the front hall, but did not make any sound either, and just quietly stood by the side. Nobody was paying any attention to her at this time, there was no trace of Qi Rui and Qi Feng Xian, so she did not know whether they had not heard about Qi Yun’s injury, or they had already investigated for the news. After a good while, Qi Zhong Lin opened his eyes, and looked at Murong Shu Qing who was looking pensively and standing by the side of the door, he softly called with a somewhat tired voice: “Shu Qing, you came.”

Murong Shu Qing raised her head, and looked at those pair of eyes that were still kind, bright and farsighted, but she could also catch some worries in them. She walked slowly to his side, and lowly answered: “Maternal grandfather, how is Big Uncle?” She had been standing here for a while, it seemed that Qi Yun’s injury should be very heavy.

Qi Zhong Lin did not reply right away, he got up and said: “Follow me.”

The two people, one in the front and the other one on the back, came out of the front hall that made people feel depressed. Qi Yun Yuan’s courtyard was filled with trees, it was imposing and wide. During this night, there were countless shadows of the mottled, the two people were standing under the reflection of the shadow of the big tree. Qi Zhong Lin did not plan to beat around the bushes either, so he directly said: “You clearly know that Dong Yu and Cang Yue’s wars can not be avoided.”

“I know, Big Uncle’s attack today seemed to be deliberate, in that case, the war had already started.” Actually, when Xuanyuan Yi was in a hurry to get to Lin Feng Guan border, this war was already a forgone conclusion.

“Then, you should know even more why they attacked your Big Uncle.” Looking at Shu Qing who was calm and tranquil in front of him, Qi Zhong Lin who always strained his face, showed his gratifying smile. This kind of Shu Qing was not a greenhouse and delicate orchid (weak person), in that case, during a storm, nobody could easily beat her down.

The two countries were having confrontation with military strengths, martial arts, military strategies, and ___ army provisions. Xuanyuan Yi’s name shook the four directions, facing off against him, it could be said that Cang Yue would not be certain that they would win. If she did not guess wrongly, next, Cang Yue would inflict heavy losses at Dong Yu’s most direct and effective way, which was to cut off his army provisions.

Pondering this carefully for a moment, Murong Shu Qing was somewhat anxious when she looked at Qi Zhong Lin who felt burdened for her. He had already withdrawn from the Imperial court for many years, he really intended to avoid politics, but today’s matter could be only the beginning. If one wanted to protect the Qi’s family, one would be afraid to take on this muddy water. But Maternal grandfather was already 70 years old, a trace of pain stung Murong Shu Qing’s eyes, she could not bear to let him be drawn into this complicated affairs again, so Murong Shu Qing sighed and said: “Maternal grandfather, let me handle this matter!”

Qi Zhong Lin looked up at the full moon, and forthrightly laughed out loud, throughout his life, he was able to move unhindered in the whole world, but today, this young lady who was in front of him, wanted to support the sky for him. Turning around kindly to lightly pat on Murong Shu Qing’s shoulder, Qi Zhong Lin’s eyes that had already experienced many affairs of life affairs, showed a light mist, he ruefully smiled and said: “Maternal grandfather knows that the people who are by your side, can protect you thoroughly, also knows your intentions, but this Qi’s family is not safe, you go to Rui-er’s Shuang Tian (frosty sky) Bie (leave) Yuan (courtyard) to stay, then Maternal grandfather will know exactly what to do.”

Murong Shu Qing was still thinking on what to say again, but she also understood, since Qi Zhong Lin already had his own plans, so she would protect herself properly and not become his burden, that should be the best thing that she should do. Lightly nodding, Murong Shu Qing still showed that light and calm smile when she raised her head, and answered: “I understand, you do not need to be worried about me either.”

“En, go now.” Qi Zhong Lin nodded his head, and waved his hand, then turned around to that mottled bluish green shadow again.

Murong Shu Qing turned around, walked slowly to leave, and did not disturb his thought anymore. She should also think carefully, what she wanted to do next.

*****

Under the full moon, Die Cui Xiao Su looked like another beautiful reflection, was elegant, beautiful and secluded. Murong Shu Qing just stepped into the courtyard, and saw a bowl of plain congee and a cup of green tea that were on the low table in the pavilion. Sitting down in the soft couch, she lightly stroke the cup to feel the slightly warm temperature, it warmed up Murong Shu Qing’s hand and her heart. Murong Shu Qing ate the plain congee slowly, she could feel the faint sweetness on her lips from beginning to end.

Quietly finished eating the plain congee, Murong Shu Qing’s train of thought that was slightly in chaos, became clear gradually. Getting up to the courtyard, she gently called: “Yan Yu, Cang Su.”

Once she finished her calling, two black clothing with strong figures appeared not too far away behind Murong Shu Qing.

Murong Shu Qing’s bright voice echoed within this quiet courtyard: “Yan Yu, you accompany me to go to Shuang Tian Bie Yuan tomorrow, then, notify Feng Qi Xuan to let him arrange ten people to return to the Murong’s family, I do not want anybody in the Murong’s family to have any harm. Moreover, leave four people to stay at the Qi’s family, I want to know the situation at the Qi’s family at all times. Cang Su, you immediately go to Lin Feng Guan border, so you can write a letter to inform me about the daily situation at Lin Feng Guan border and Cang Yue.”

“Yes.” Just like when they came out, after each of them received their tasks, their agile figures disappeared within the courtyard in a flash.

Closing her eyes, she could feel the slightly cold night wind, she was not willing to get involved in politics, but sometimes one could not always run out of one’s responsibilities. Especially when you needed to take care of someone, however, the kind of burden also made her feel happy.

“Miss, it is already early winter, you have to take care of your body.” Looking at Miss from a distance, whose meager figure was standing within the night wind, it seemed like the wind could blow her away at any time. She was always worried for other people, but she did not know how to help and protect her own self.

Pulling at Jing Shui who was draping a brocade coat on her shoulder, Murong Shu Qing was grasping her hand to take her to the pavilion, both of them were sitting on the soft couch. Even though Jing Shui was still somewhat uncomfortable, but because of Shu Qing’s persistence, she was forced to drop the subject. Murong Shu Qing faintly asked: “Jing Shui, what arrangement do you have for your future life?” She was most worried about Jing Shui, that this child’s autism did not get cured, so her future would bring a very big influence, and that foolish ‘elder brother’ of her would also be suffering.

“I?” Jing Shui who was just relaxing her body, tensed up her body again because of those sentences. Thinking for a moment, she just pensively answered: “I am only a slave, what kind of arrangement can I have.”

“Do you want to stay at this small courtyard all along?”

Did I want to stay here all along? Jing Shui did not say anything, and only lowered her head continuously, and did not speak for a long time. Murong Shu Qing knew that she had confined herself within her own world, lowly sighing, she patted her hand, and said: “I will leave the Qi’s family tomorrow, but I am somewhat worried about you.” She wanted to take Jing Shui along to be by her side, and hope that she could slowly enlighten her.

“Miss, you want to leave!” Hearing the news that Murong Shu Qing wanted to leave, Jing Shui’s heart was unexpectedly uneasy, she was already used accompanying by Miss’ side. If she wanted to leave now, in that case, what should she do on her own?! “Then, I….”

“Jing Shui, of course, you have to go with us together?” Looking that Jing Shui was struggling, Lu Yi could not help but to come out of the room.

“Lu Yi….”

Understanding Jing Shui’s conflicting thoughts, Murong Shu Qing did not want to force her too much, so she smilingly said: “A calm heart is where a home is. Lu Yi, let Jing Shui think about it properly.”

Lu Yi walked to the front of Jing Shui, slightly lifted up her face, she said this sentence to Jing Shui’s indecisive eyes: “Alright, but Jing Shui, being peaceful is a type of feeling, just like when I stay by Miss’ side, I am very peaceful. If I am not by Miss’ side anymore, but thinking that she will give me encouragements and take care of me, I am also very peaceful. That is because peacefulness settles people’s strength all along and it is in everyone’s own heart, and it is not in this small courtyard.”

This words from Lu Yi, made Murong Shu Qing show her joyful smile, three years, this young girl grew up.

Knowing that Lu Yi’s words really made sense, but Jing Shui was still somewhat hesitating, she lightly raised her lips, and said with difficulty: “Lu Yi, I am afraid that I am not strong enough.”

Looking that she was already moved emotionally, Lu Yi promptly and encouragingly said: “No one knows if one is strong enough, but going out of this small courtyard, that is already a strong and brave first step! Moreover, if you do not take care of Miss together with me, how can I do it on my own. Miss, she will not take care her own body, will not add another clothing during cold weather, if she is busy, she will forget to eat, furthermore….”

“Alright!” Murong Shu Qing did not know whether to laugh or cry and shook her head, she looked one glance at Lu Yi, and smilingly said: “Jing Shui, if you do not agree, this girl will keep going on the bad things that I am not able to do on my own!”

“Miss….!!” Lu Yi lightly stamped on her feet, was she not trying to help Miss to convince Jing Shui, but Miss was still laughing at her like this!

Murong Shu Qing looked like she was patting a puppy when she was gently stroking Lu Yi’s head, it made Jing Shui unable to restrain her laugh, so one could hear a ripple of joyful laughters from the three people in the small courtyard.

 

Sian’s notes:
Hmm, not sure why it is safer staying at Qi Rui’s place? Isn’t Qi Rui still living at the Qi’s family manor? Or Qi Rui actually lives in his own manor. Even if Qi Rui lives in his own manor, why is it safer staying there than at the Qi’s family? He’s a member of the Qi’s family. I don’t quite understand the logic. Was Qi Zhong Lin suggesting that the assassination was actually originated from Dong Yu’s Imperial court to take out the Qi family’s influence (aka him)? So whoever the person who ordered the assassination, was using the war between Dong Yu and Cang Yue to add more drama in the Dong Yu’s Imperial court? Or is the plan to separate Qi Yun and MSQ as once the war breaks out, these two people will be the two most important people who deal with the army provisions. Remember that Qi Yun is the head of the Ministry of Revenue and MSQ is the master of the Murong’s family that produces the most grains in Dong Yu. So their positions in this war will be even more important. If one wants to cut off the army provisions, one will have to assassinate both Qi Yun & MSQ. I hate the complex nature of the Imperial court or politics in general.

Actually after reading & translating more future chapters, those initial questions that I had once I finished translating this chapter, will be answered in the future chapters. 😃 I think this is part of the reason why I love the way the author sets up the plots. I think she’s a master of setting up plots. Hehehehe…

Chapter 63: Assassination

Chapter 65: Shuang Tian Bie Yuan (Part 1)

 

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 63: Assassination

Oh no, I don’t like the title…

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 63

Assassination

Putting the reed straw that was in her hand, backed into the flower vase, Murong Shu Qing helplessly got up, she actually did not want to repeat her theory about the clear porridge that she wrote in a moment of desperation again. But if she did not say anything, it seemed that she would let down Xi Lie Yue’s teasing and Xian Yi’s pondering gaze. So slightly cupping her hands, Murong Shu Qing politely greeted and perfunctorily answered: “Xian Gongzi is mocking me, Qin Mou’s opinion is unworthy, but the public opinion also states food.”

Presented by this extraordinary knowledge from this person, these several short words had already expressed Murong Shu Qing’s opinion. Xian Yi’s face was restrained from a joking expression a moment ago, his star liked eyes were slightly held back, and he quite interestingly said: “Gongzi’s knowledge is really out of the ordinary, I am not sure if Gongzi knows where ‘how to remove worry’ comes from?”

Xian Yi’s question, not only caused the interest of Xi Lie Yue, Murong Shu Qing was also facing the man who was in front of her, when he asked this question, how many bright Masters and virtuous Officials had thought about this question painstakingly, but how could she answer this? The answer was no, she did not know it. The man’s identity was unknown, Xi Liu Yue was already ‘glaring like a tiger watching its prey’ to her, so she would still say it cleverly. After pondering for a little bit, Murong Shu Qing answered with a rather common way: “The rising of the peasants is the cause to lower the taxation.” Finally, looking one glance at Xi Liu Yue’s hand that was close to her, Murong Shu Qing smilingly added a sentence: “And to restrict the wine.”

Suspecting that he would have a different and brilliant explanation, but his obvious and perfunctory answer, made Xian Yi feel somewhat disappointed. But his final sentence about restricting the wine was actually interesting, Xian Yi smilingly asked: “Why?”

Coming to the side of Xi Lie Yue, she had picked up the white jade wine cup that was on her hand, the iced tasteless wine inside was overflowing. Murong Shu Qing casted one glance at her, then she lightly smiled and answered: “This wine is rich and mellow, pure and sweet smelling, but this kind of good wine will actually use up tenfold of foodstuffs. If the country is rich and powerful, the rice and grains are adequate, the wine products will certainly be a good business, on the other hand ____”

Even though she was saying it like this, Xi Liu Yue was somewhat disappointed, but what she was saying was a fact. The Murong’s family, Niang Jiu (brew wine) Fang (shop) used up so many foodstuffs, she understood it, that it basically used glutinous rice fermentation to brew wine during this era, the cost to make the wine was really expensive.

Restricting the wine was indeed a new formulation, even though he knew that this man intentionally exercised restraint from his own talent, but inadvertently, one could still impress by his exquisite thought, and unusually clever thought. So Xian Yi sincerely praised: “Qin Gongzi’s thought is very unique, this Xian Mou really admires you.”

Xi Lie Yue who was half leaning on the soft couch, propped her chin with her hands, and knew that Murong Shu Qing wanted her to listen to these words. Even though she was fond with wine, but she would not disregard people’s livelihoods either. Moreover, Hai Yu’s population was not many, its natural resources were plentiful, she should absolutely not be anxious about this. And looking one glance at Murong Shu Qing, Xi Lie Yue did not forget to tease her back either: “I actually think those sentences are only from one’s personal opinion!”

She did not know her identity last time and only felt that she was especially meticulous with regards to foodstuffs, so her opinion was rather original. Once she knew her identify afterwards, she was actually the biggest producer of grains, the family’s master who grew crops, no wonder that she ‘haggled over every ounce’ of foodstuff like this. But she was Dong Yu’s landlord and financial magnate, and she was ____.

She was very looking forward for them to have a confrontation in the future.

Xian Yi surprisingly said: “Is Qin Gongzi’s family background in brewing wine?” Looking at his temperament and conversation style, he actually did not look like it, moreover, within the domestic wine taverns in Dong Yu, there was nobody who could spend ten thousand taels of silver just to listen to a song! Or, he was not a resident of Dong Yu?

Brewing wine? He just finished asking, Murong Shu Qing and Xi Lie Yue stared blankly at first, after they were slightly startled, Xi Lie Yue was laughing out loud. Murong Shu Qing did not know whether to laugh or cry, did she look like a person who brewed wine? Keeping her smile in her heart, Murong Shu Qing cupped his hands and smilingly said: “Only slightly read about it.”

Looking at their expressions, Xian Yi already knew that his guess was wrong, but what was the identify of the man after all? This mysterious person appeared to be in a relationship with this unconventional and amorous Hai Yue. His thin but not weak figure always attracted his sight unconsciously. He really should investigate this person!

Xian Yi bowed his head to ponder, the man who was behind him, reminded him with a whisper: “Master, it is already late.”

While Xian Yi was thinking something, he lightly nodded his head, the man respectfully retreated back.

Xian Yi brightly smiled and cupped his hands: “Chatting like this today is a very happy occasion, and hoping that we can still chat with Qin Gongzi and Miss Hai Yue freely in the future, Xian Mou has other important things to attend to today, so I say goodbye first.”

Xi Lie Yue lazily stayed sit on the couch, conveniently picked up a thin silk on the side, and shook it, she smilingly said: “Gongzi, take care.”

Murong Shu Qing faintly smiled and nodded, she did not get up either, and answered with courtesy: “Hope to see you again.”

Xian Yi deeply looked one glance at Murong Shu Qing who was still sitting upright again, and smilingly said: “Hope to see you again.” Finished speaking, he departed the decorated boat confidently and freely. He wanted to meet them again every quickly.

Murong Shu Qing did not know it now, this courtesy sentence ‘hope to see you again’, would actually turn into a nightmare that she was unable to escape.

Murong Shu Qing looked at the sky, the sun had already setting, but the afterglow was still fiery, the magnificent red color added a slight color on the river, as if it took along its brief and gorgeous vitality. Getting up and tidying her slightly wrinkled scholar garment, she slowly walked to leave the ship, allowing the cool breeze to touch her long hair, she faintly said: “I am also leaving.”

Lying on that soft couch, she took the tasteless wine that was handed over by the young child, Xi Lie Yue smilingly said to Murong Shu Qing who was standing on the deck: “What are you in a hurry for, just accompany me to drink a couple of cups again.”

Murong Shu Qing shook her head, as it turned out, Xi Lie Yue was a ‘drunkard’! Smilingly turning around towards the indolent Xi Lie Yue who slightly squinted her eyes, Murong Shu Qing straightforwardly made fun of her: “Forget it, you smile just like a fox, if I do not leave, I am afraid that you will tear apart the bone in my stomach.” She increased her knowledge today about Xi Lie Yue’s bad behavior.

She would not tear apart the bone in her stomach, and would accept if she had an intention to be a good official. Murong Shu Qing had a character and style to handle affairs of the country and she (XLY) really hit it off with her (MSQ). She really sincerely hoped that she would be willing to return to Hai Yu with her, at that time, they could make decisions to make Hai Yu into a flourishing country.

“Hehe, take care ah!” But Xi Lie Yue did not have any power to make her to stay, it was already hard to be her close friend, but she would want to think of some ways to make Murong Shu Qing voluntarily go to Hai Yu.

Murong Shu Qing did not pay any attention to her anymore, and got out of the decorated boat with Lu Yi, marching along the twilight of the sunset, they were walking slowly along the river bank. The fine, glossy and wet sand that were under their feet, seemed like sinking with their steps, even though there was not too much weight on it. The ray of the sunset was the most difficult to grasp, only within a dazzling effort, that the world was in a dazzling red color, and then it gradually submerged into a dark blue cloud, so it was hard to look for any trace of it.

“Yan.” Xi Lie Yue turned around and gently leaped down the soft couch, from an embroidery pouch that was on her waist, she took out a dark jade seal and tossed it easily to fall on Yan’s hand. Looking at Murong Shu Qing whose elegant figure was gradually getting further apart, Xi Lie Yue leaned on the boat’s mast, the corner of her mouth raised up, and she smilingly said: “Write and send a letter back to Hai Yu, ask Xiu Zhi to immediately come over.”

Murong Shu Qing, I wanted to see where you could hide!

“Yes.” She understood what her Master wanted to do, but how could this Miss Murong easily compromise to other people? Yan Song shrugged her shoulders, she still had to write a letter, and set aside ‘the fight’ for these two people, then it would be good.

*****

From returning to the Qi’s family from the back door, Murong Shu Qing keenly detected that the atmosphere was not right, the rear court only had two bodyguards who were patrolling in the past. But they were actually increased to four people now, and there were two teams who were patrolling at the same time, something certainly happened at this Qi’s family. In order not to create any trouble, Murong Shu Qing who was wearing a man’s clothing, was shielded by Lu Yi, Yan Yu and Cang Su, so she could smoothly return to Die Cui Xiao Su.

Just barely setting her feet into the courtyard, Jing Shui who had been waiting for a long time, welcomed her up, she slightly wrinkled her eyebrows, and said with a somewhat anxiousness: “Miss, you are finally back.”

Murong Shu Qing patted Jing Shui’s hand, and walked with her into the courtyard, then she quietly asked: “What had happened?”

Looking at Murong Shu Qing, Jing Shui felt that her heart was indescribably tranquil, deeply breathing, she informed Murong Shu Qing what she heard when she was cleaning the gate of the courtyard: “I just heard a moment ago that Head housekeeper Yu told Yi Yong to invite a physician, he said that the Eldest Master (MSQ’s Big Uncle) ran into an assassin on the way home, and suffered an injury!”

Qi Yun was attacked by an assassin? Murong Shu Qing’s brows were lightly frowned, there was already some news that came from Lin Feng Guan border yesterday. Cang Yue really stationed 80,000 troops outside of Lin Feng Guan, while Dong Yu moved 60,000 troops outside of Lin Feng Guan, both armies already appeared to get ready to start the war. Qi Yun was attacked by an assassin today, was it a coincidence or deliberate situation? If it was a deliberate situation, what could happen next?

Murong Shu Qing lightly sighed, and said to Lu Yi: “Lu Yi, give me a woman’s clothing, I want to go and look.” Maybe, Maternal grandfather already had a clue.

 

Sian’s notes:
Anybody wants to guess who this Xian Yi is??? I’m not sure either. At first I thought he’s just another passerby but I’m not so sure now. Can he be the third potential male lead, who is the most powerful man in Dong Yu??? That paragraph about MSQ’s courtesy sentence saying ‘hope to see you again’, kind of strikes me hard in thinking that this Xian Yi maybe the Emperor of Dong Yu… Either way, poor MSQ just attracted another man. Hehehehe…

Cool, the plot seems to pick up a notch…

Chapter 62: Wine

Chapter 64: First Sign

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 62: Wine

One of the readers from the previous chapter randomly asked a question whether or not there’s anybody who’s 8 ft tall. Out of curiosity, I googled it out & voila…  there are a few of 8 ft tall men in this world… Check this out if you’re interested:  http://www.naturalheightgrowth.com/2012/07/31/how-many-8-foot-tall-people-are-in-the-world/

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 62

Wine

Xi Lie Yue and Murong Shu Qing looked one glance at each other, she winked her beautiful and bright looking eyes, and proudly and leisurely continued to lightly shake the wine jug. Murong Shu Qing’s outer appearance showed a faint smile, but she bitterly laughed in her heart, this person showed her arrogant and overbearing manner, she reckoned that she (XLY) was also an expert in acting shamelessly.

Xian Yi was secretly observing these two people’s interactions, they actually did not pay any attention to him at all, they were actually flirting with each other. He did not speak either, only lightly pouring a cup of wine and waiting this so-called interesting game.

Xi Lie Yue took the wine jug that was in her hand and putting it on the round table, and smilingly said: “Alright, each of us will make a type of wine for us to drink, that wine should taste differently, if you can not do it, then you lose the bet and have to drink one whole jug, how about that?” That slightly provocative eyes were looking at the two men back and forth.

One whole jug? She also drank a whole jug last time, and slept for a whole day in the end, even though she liked drinking wine, but her capacity for liquor was actually not good. Murong Shu Qing grievingly sighed, this Xi Lie Yue’s capacity for liquor was so much better?! Looking at the situation now, Xian Yi who was on the side, had already nodded and agreed interestingly, so it would be useless if she opposed to it. Helplessly smiling lightly, she also nodded her head to join this game.

“Then, I will go first.” Looking that the two of them nodded their heads, Xi Lie Yue was not long-winded either, she said to the red dress woman who was by her side: “Yan, bring those ice cubes.”

The red dress woman efficiently answered: “Yes.” Finished speaking, she went to the back end of the inner room, and came out with a bucket of ice cubes.

Moving the cold ice cubes, and being on the decorated boat in this late autumn, the temperature was slightly chilly. Did she want to use ice in wine? This method was quite common, but Xi Lie Yue was a type of person who would think outside the box, so Murong Shu Qing was somewhat curious what she would do?

This time, Xi Lie Yue took the tasteless wine that was in front of her and poured it into that bucket of ice cubes, she left it in there and not doing anything special anymore. Afterwards, she took out a white jade wine bottle, and poured the wine in the wine cups, with a confident posture, she gestured and smilingly said: “Give it a try.”

Xi Lie Yue’s full confidence made Murong Shu Qing unable to guess what was in her mind, but this would not influence her feeling in appreciating the wine. Lightly smiling, she grasped the wine cup, the cold white jade wine cup made her feel puzzled. The time that wine was inside the ice cube, was not long, the cup had not been frozen either, how come the cup was so cold like this? Lowering her head to look at it, the wine cup was actually showing a faint blue color, lightly sniffing it, it was also no longer smell-less, there was a slight sweet smelling wine fragrant that was revolving around her nose. As it turned out, if one drank the tasteless wine this way, one could really taste it like this, no wonder that it would turn into the three biggest national treasures in Hai Yu.

After Xian Yi tasted it, he willingly nodded and smilingly said: “The wine is really unique.” It had a sweet taste, refreshing and crisp.

Hai Yue looked at Xian Yi, she raised her eyebrows and lightly smiled: “It should be your turn.”

Putting down the jade cup, Xian Yi straightforwardly said: “Alright, I need a stove.”

Stove?! Xi Lie Yue slightly raised her hand, the maid who was behind her, softly nodded her head and she brought a warm stove very quickly. Xian Yi was just like Xi Lie Yue, he confidently picked up the blue and white porcelain with his hand and put it in the middle of the stove, his method was somewhat different than making the common hot drink. An average person would separate the wine and water, and put it on the stove to heat it slowly until it boiled. This kind of direct method in putting it into a raging flame could be regarded as new and original.

After waiting for a moment, the wine bottle was slowly boiling, a distinct and rich smell of hua diao wine (a type of rice wine originated from Shao Xing) filled the whole decorated boat. One did not have any choice but to smell its strong wine fragrant, the other good wine that were on the round table appeared to lose their colors.

When the hot drink of the hua diao wine entered into the stomach, the heat would dissolve and enter the blood at once, the heated blood would go around the entire body to replace the tired, cold and wet atmosphere into a refreshing one. And because it was directly put on the stove, it seemed to be warmer.

“Good, good wine.” Xi Lie Yue drank the wine while she smiled at Murong Shu Qing, and smilingly said: “Qin Gongzi, it is your turn now.” She really wanted to see what interesting method that Murong Shu Qing could do.

Murong Shu Qing just knew that Xi Lie Yue would not let her get away easily, iced and hot drinks, that were basically the two common methods to use, they had already used them. It would be hard for her to search for another method! But she did not want to attempt to drink for a whole jug again, so she could only catch them off guard. Raising her head to look at the arrangement on both sides of the decorated boat, Murong Shu Qing’s gaze fell on that top-notch cold white jade cup, that was a completely unblemished jade quality, so that the jade cup was crystal clear under the sun, it was almost like transparent.

Murong Shu Qing faintly smiled and answered: “It will be an ugly display.” Getting up to walk to the jade cup, she took it under the puzzling eyes of Xi Lie Yue. Murong Shu Qing put the jade cup on the round table, and smilingly said: “I am borrowing this cup.”

Xi Lie Yue generously nodded, and looked at her who was choosing several types of wine that were on the table, and pouring them into a small cup that was on the side. For a period of time, she still did not understand what she was doing, Xian Yi who was on the other side, was also attentively watching the meager man all along, who was incessantly fiddling with the various kinds of good wine. The two people remained silent, but their eyes were paying attention to Murong Shu Qing all along who was busy with both of her hands.

Five years ago, because of her curiosity, she had learned on how to mix cocktails, but she had not used it for a long time, there was no measuring flasks to add the wine either, and she could not be sure what the alcohol percentage for this wine even more, but she had no other choice but to experiment it. First, she used the regular tasteless wine and slowly poured it into the cup, and she took the light green zhu ye qing wine (bamboo leaf green) and lightly poured it into the cup, finally, she poured the slightly amber color yuan hong wine (rice wine type), in the end, the three types of cocktails were basically done. Even though the color became one, but in any case, it should be done. Secretly sighing, Murong Shu Qing raised her head, and when Xi Lie Yue suddenly stretched over her head and she (XLY) frightened her!

Xi Lie Yue was very interested with this wine, but after she looked at it for a long time, she could not see what it was either. So she asked: “What do you call this? All type of colors in profusion.”

What should she call this? If she said cocktail, they would definitely not understand, she was also lazy to explain it, after thinking, she said: “This wine is called a thousand (qian) layers (ceng) overflowing (fu) wine.” Even though she only used three types of wine and calling it a thousand was somewhat far-fetched, but she could not really come out with a good name.

They concentratedly studied the wine, so Murong Shu Qing did not disturb them either, she slowly walked to the side of the decorated boat. Lightly picking up two decorative reed straws, she was immersing into the refreshing river water for a moment, and had to snap out of it slightly to go to the front of the two people. She gave each one of them one of the reed straws, but did not say anything either, and only lightly smiled and stood there, as she wanted to see whether or not they could make use of it.

Holding that slightly moist reed straws, Xi Lie Yue and Xian Yi looked at each other and smiled, they never drank this kind of wine! Xian Yi looked at the thing on his hand, he deeply thought for a moment and afterwards, he took the reed stick and carefully put it into the cup, and lightly sucked from the other end of the stick. The good wine came along the reed straw and into his mouth, there was the existing sweet wine taste, along with the reed sweet scent, it was more than drinking one type of wine, the taste was rich, and the fragrant felt like it complimented one another even more.

Originally, Xi Lie Yue was only interested in this beautiful wine, after she drank it, she also praised it without stopping. Her guessed was really correct, she could really see many interesting things from Murong Shu Qing.

Xian Yi’s attention was always on that thin and reserved man, he also felt very strange, as he was originally only paid a little attention to his indifferent character, but less than one shichen (2 hrs) later, he could also feel his indifferent and ingenious mind. He was even more curious about him.

Xi Lie Yue tasted the wine while she did not forget to watch Xian Yi’s expression, she really wanted to see if these two people were in confrontation, then it would be very interesting!!

Since the wine was completely drank up, Xi Lie Yue indifferently said: “We have been drinking the wine, but we have not heard any story.”

Xian Yi regained his mind, and smilingly said to Xi Lie Yue: “Miss Hai Yue really has a delightful character and mind, and can thing of this many interesting game. If it is not because of this, I will not have any opportunity to taste these unusual wines. Just like last time when you asked ‘how to remove worry’, that question really made Xian Mou (honorific used for oneself) think about it a lot.”

Xi Lie Yue put down the reed straw that was on her hand, she casually looked at Murong Shu Qing who was sitting by the side of the decorated boat, and did not pay any attention to them anymore, she teasingly said: “Speaking about ‘how to remove worry’, it was still Qin Gongzi’s answer that was the most interesting answer, and it caught my heart the most!”

Murong Shu Qing’s hand that was lightly shaking the reed, stopped, she turned around towards Xi Lie Yue whose eyes were filled with smiling expression, and she was firmly staring one glance at her, this woman just could not stop for a moment.

“Oh? I like to hear the details!” Their turbulent undercurrents were seen by Xuan Yi, his curiosity also raised up, what was the reason why this casual and calm man would stare at (XLY).

Ignoring Murong Shu Qing’s threatening eyes, Xi Lie Yue smilingly said one sentence: “How to remove worry ____ only ____ with clear porridge.”

Xian Yi stared blankly, this ~~~ answer was indeed weird, the corner of his handsome mouth could not help but to hook up.

Murong Shu Qing completely gave up this time, Xi Lie Yue, this woman was completely a bad friend for selling her friend!! Facing Xian Yi’s pondering eyes and a room filled with muffled laughters, Murong Shu Qing could only forced a smile, and did not know what kind of expression she should have!

 

Sian’s notes:
I think this is the first time that MSQ gets “bullied” by anybody. Hahahaha… Even though a future queen is not just anybody. Is this how XLY gets her revenge from MSQ because of her rejection to her offer to marry her brother? 😂😂😂 Or is this her way to make things interesting in MSQ’s life? 😉 XLY made MSQ to be in the center of attention again and made this Xian Gongzi to be curious with MSQ even more. Bad or good thing for MSQ?

The types of wine that are mentioned in this book are actually real wine. Zhu Ye Qing aka bamboo leaf green liquor is real. This is actually originated from bamboo leaf green tea that’s made as a wine. While Yuan Hong wine is similar like the Shao Xing wine (rice wine) that can be used for cooking and drinking. I don’t know that rice wine can be used for drinking, I thought it can be used for cooking only. Interesting…. Wu Wei (tasteless) wine is also originated from tea but I’m not sure if there is wine called Wu Wei.
Wikipedia about types of wine: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huangjiu
Huadiao wine: http://www.21food.com/products/quot;hua-diaoquot;-wine-486.html

Chapter 61: Xian Yi

Chapter 63: Assassination

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 61: Xian Yi

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 61

Xian Yi

“What?!” Murong Shu Qing cried out for the first time!

Unbelievingly looking at Xi Lie Yue, Murong Shu Qing did not know whether to laugh or cry, she could but deny that Qin Xiu Zhi really had charms that could make women to admire him greatly, especially that faint discernible style of his, as if the cloud that was dispersing tranquility. It could make people to want to approach him, long for him and own him. She admired him, but it did not mean that she would agree to this preposterous decision.

Xi Lie Yue was not concerned with Murong Shu Qing’s difficult appearance, according to her, Xiu Zhi and Shu Qing were well matched, the man was amazingly handsome and bright, the woman was calm and refined. So satisfyingly pointed at the picture scroll, and she praisingly said: “He is my Imperial elder brother, because of a villain’s set up, he had to leave Hai Yu with his Imperial concubine father ten years ago. Not long ago, he just returned to Hai Yu because of your help, he is very handsome! He knows the four arts (zither, go, calligraphy, painting), is proficient with any song and poem verses, and also gentle, soft and considerate, even more ~~”

“Stop talking!” Murong Shu Qing kneaded her aching temple, she helplessly interrupted Xi Lie Yue’s overflowing explanation.

“What is wrong, you do not like him?” Xi Lie Yue did not understand, with Xiu Zhi’s appearance and talents, he only returned for less than half a month, but many famous families, and the Officials from the Imperial court had visited to seek for his hands in marriage one after another. How could Murong Shu Qing feel dissatisfied about him?

Passing the picture scroll that caught her unprepared, Murong Shu Qing entered the inner room, she casually sat on the velvet wool carpet by the side of the low table, grievingly sighed and said: “I am not familiar with him, how can I like or not like him!!”

Xi Lie Yue also walked in soon after, she waved her hand to make the young child put away the picture scroll, and also sat down just like Murong Shu Qing on the low table opposite her, she shrugged her shoulders and smilingly said: “He is familiar with you ah, moreover, he fell in love at first sight with you!”

During the wedding reception at that time, there were many people who were mingling, the evening was also ‘moonless and with high wind’, she was not some unique and beautiful woman either, where did that love at first sight come from ah! It seemed that it would not be easy talking about this matter with this country’s apparent heir to the throne. Murong Shu Qing was facing Xi Lie Yue, and seriously said: “We do not understand each other at all, you are doing thing like this, what if I and he will find our own beloved in the future, how is this be a good thing?!”

Clearly, Xi Lie Yue did not think that this would be a problem at all, she raised her eyebrows and smiled, relaxingly said: “What kind of conflict is there? If you meet the person whom you like in the future, you can also marry him, as long as you treat my Imperial elder brother nicely, that will be fine. As for my Imperial elder brother, you are his beloved one!”

Heavens ah! How could she forget that Hai Yu was a country that was run by a woman, a woman could marry many husbands in that place. But she was not interested ah! Murong Shu Qing sighed and said this sentence: “Here is not Hai Yu.”

Xi Lie Yue’s eyes were suddenly bright, excitingly said: “Oh right, you can come to Hai Yu ah, I will bestow you a Prime Minister title!” This idea was not bad, Murong Shu Qing was definitely not a thing in the middle of a pond, staying in a country where a man was governing it, was really a waste. If she could bring her back to Hai Yu, and assist her to rule the country, that would be the biggest bonus.

“You ~~” Murong Shu Qing was really dumbfounded, forget it, she did not want to say anymore words about this, stroking the side of the white wine bottle, she faintly answered: “I can not accept this treasure.”

Even though Murong Shu Qing’s tone was calm and gentle, but her desire to decline the gift, was already expressed very clearly. Xi Lie Yue’s rising eyebrows were lightly knitted, her bright and deep eyes slightly narrowed, with a tone not too urgent nor too slow, and with a clear voice that could not be refuted, she showed an imposing manner while she said: “Since I have already given him to you, so he is yours, if you do not want him, he is also your person, he does not have any qualification to marry another woman.”

Her hand that was caressing the pitcher, stopped, Murong Shu Qing raised her eyes to look, in a flash, her eyes did not look bright and beautiful like in the past, but they were rather imposing to people. It was a monarch’s temperament, and a monarch’s prestige. But today, Murong Shu Qing did not plan to retreat at all, since they were already friends, she wanted to see whether or not she could become close friends with this sovereign queen.

Not affected by this oppressive atmosphere, Murong Shu Qing answered tranquilly as before: “Xi Lie Yue, the matter about affection should be agreed by both sides willingly, if you insist on doing it like this, I will not say anything anymore, but I, Murong Shu Qing will definitely not compromise.”

Murong Shu Qing’s words made Xi Lie Yue knitted her eyebrows even more, her expression was also difficult to read, the white wine cup was being held tightly by her hand. The young maids who were in the cabin, promptly knelt down, their heads were practically stuck on the ground. Lu Yi could also feel the confrontation atmosphere, and nervously stood behind Murong Shu Qing.

The two people would not withdraw their eyes, Xi Lie Yue was not pleased and unyielding, Murong Shu Qing indifferently persisted on it. One side was fiery, while the other side was like water. For a good while, when the young maids who were kneeling, nervously breathing freely, Xi Lie Yue suddenly laughed out loud: “Good, a very good Murong Shu Qing.” There was never anyone who would confront her before, not even conceding one bit, even with her Emperor Mother, she (her mother) would comply with her to some degree when she (XLY) persisted in something. Delighted! She decided to make friends with this person.

Faintly raising her lips to smile, Xi Lie Yue has already put down the white wine cup that was on her hand, raising the wine jar that was in front of her, she leaned her entire body, and leaned on the small table, then she provokingly smiled and said: “I will drop this matter today, but you have said it, as long as both sides are willing, you have to accept it!?” She would not believe that Xiu Zhi’s stunning and handsome personality, incredible talents, that were as pure as jade, could not move Murong Shu Qing’s heart.

She just knew that Xi Lie Yue would not be easy to compromise like this, her strange expression made Murong Shu Qing had goose bumps all over. As it turned out, this future ruler of a country was dignified and exceptional, and also better in setting up a teasing trap to a person. Shaking her head bitterly, she inattentively sighed, when the red dress woman who was always standing on the deck, walked in, she directly went to the front of Xi Lie Yue, and respectfully said: “Master, Xian Gongzi asks to see you.”

“It is him!” Hearing the red dress woman’s announcement, Hai Yue who was lazily leaning by the side of the table, also put away her joking expression, after slightly thinking, she raised a trace of adventitious elusive smile again, and smilingly said to Murong Shu Qing: “I will introduce you to this person.”

Murong Shu Qing was curious inevitably with this person whom Xi Lie Yue could put so much attentions to, so she nodded her head and smilingly said: “Alright!”

Not too long, two men came in to follow the red dress woman, the man who was walking upfront, was about 30 years old, his arrogant eyebrows looked like stars. If one would compare him to the other beautiful men, he did not have An Qin Xuan’s demonic charms, did not have Qin Xiu Zhi’s handsomeness, did not have Xuanyuan Yi’s unruliness, did not have Mo Can’s coldness. However, the him who had a dark silver cheongsam, would make people to open their eyes with his elegant manner, virtuous and gentlemanly styles, along with his proud and oppressive personalities. He seemed to have two completely different temperaments that were welded together in his body ingeniously.

The man behind him was about 8 feet tall (2.44 m), he did not speak anything, one could feel the same feeling as Yan Yu on his body, so he should be that man’s bodyguard.

While Murong Shu Qing was observing him, the man was also secretly evaluating her, he had already seen Hai Yue’s eye-grabbing light blue decorated boat earlier. After this plain clothing man got on the boat, he could quickly hear a very talented sound of the music. The music sounded like towering mountain peaks and flowing spring water, it was a difficult music, that sound was difficult to feel but it was moving, and stirring his heart.

When he approached the person, he could see this white dress man who was on a deck, from a distant and standing tall, but he could not see his appearance, but that carefree silhouette actually made people want to peek in him even more. Looking at him closer, he appeared to look ordinary, meager figure with a plain white clothing, but he did not disappoint him at all, as he always had a light smile like that while he was standing there.

Seamlessly regaining his sight, Xian Yi slightly cupped his hands, and smilingly said: “Just a moment ago, I heard music from Miss’ decorated boat, it was a very exquisite sound, so I came to visit and disturb you!”

Xi Lie Yue also slightly bowed, and returned his greetings: “Xian Gongzi is too polite.”

At this time, Xian Yi pretended that he just saw Murong Shu Qing, so he gave courtesy and smilingly said: “As it turns out, Miss has a guest.”

Xi Lie Yue quickly came to Murong Shu Qing’s side, smilingly said with a loud voice: “This is Qin Gongzi who paid 10,000 taels to listen to Hai Yue’s playing zither.”

Murong Shu Qing slightly frowned her eyebrows, what kind of trick was Xi Lie Yue playing, that she would actually and intentionally mention the 10,000 taels (incident) from that night. Could it be this Xian Gongzi was also bidding that evening?! Even if it was like that, nobody saw her that night either, why did Xi Lie Yue emphasize on this?

Xian Yi looked towards this thin and weak man again, he was the person who won the sky-high price bidding that night? He was able to spend 10,000 taels to only listen to a song, this man’s identity made him feel suspicious. He was thinking in his heart, but his face showed a smile and he praisingly said: “Qin Gongzi is indeed a romantic and elegant scholar.”

Murong Shu Qing did not have any choice but to cup both of his hands in greetings, and answered: “You flatter me!”

While the two people exchanged conventional greetings, Xi Lie Yue had already ordered someone to move the wine from the low table to the round table, and she turned around to Xian Yi and smilingly said: “Today, Hai Yue and Qin Gongzi are drinking wine and appreciating the music, is Xian Gongzi interested to join us!”

“Of course.”

One hand was holding the wine, while her other hand was lightly tapping on the table, Xi Lie Yue’s mischievous eyes slightly carried a smile, she glanced at the two people. The corner of her lips gently lifted, and she smilingly said: “Hai Yue has some good wine and people, how about if I play a game with these two Gongzi?!”

“I am willing to accompany.” One person’s spirit was rather high.

“I will try with my effort.” The other person was reluctant. According to her (MSQ) understanding about Xi Lie Yue, she (MSQ) did not know what kind of incident that she (XLY) would draw out from this game!

 

Sian’s notes:
So I guess we have four unofficial & possible male leads so far. An Qin Xuan, Qin Xiu Zhi, Xuanyuan Yi & Mo Can. 😂😂😂😂 And throw another name while we’re at it, Xian Yi. Hehehehe… I think he was sitting next to the room that MSQ was sitting while they were at Feng Qing Lou brothel. And I think this Xian Gongzi would win Hai Yue’s bidding at 7,000 taels if Huo Zhi Qing didn’t scream 10,000 taels in the end. But the official male leads so far are Xuanyuan Yi & Mo Can. The third one hasn’t shown up or has he? 🤔

Hahahaha…. in Hai Yu, the queen gets a lot of concubines too so it’s so funny when Hai Yue referred Qin Xiu Zhi’s Father as Imperial concubine Father. 😂😂😂 This chapter is one of the funniest chapter so far.

Chapter 60: Identity

Chapter 62: Wine

 

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 60: Identity

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 60

Identity

After falling into the water two days ago, and also playing chess with Maternal grandfather in the evening until the third night watch (between 11 pm – 1 am), she was somewhat tired the next day. Since she did not get any fever or caught the cold, it seemed that the big soup that Lu Yi prepared at this time, was actually pretty effective. So looking at the soup that was put on her hand, Murong Shu Qing frowned to protest, but she did but dare to object.

With great difficulty, Murong Shu Qing finished drinking that big bowl of soup, and she walked slowly to go into the courtyard. It was already late autumn, the tree leaves fell on the ground by the courtyard, the bleak atmosphere could be felt from the cold air. Only those short chaste tree shrubs were still vibrant, that brought the tea fragrant within this small courtyard, with that bunches of white chrysanthemums that were standing in the wind.

Murong Shu Qing picked up a scissor that was on the side, she carefully trimmed the branches and leaves of the white chrysanthemums. Lu Yi who was behind her, holding a couple set of clothing to compare, and she asked: “Miss, are you going to wear a man or woman’s clothing?”

Murong Shu Qing turned around blankly, she looked at Lu Yu’s left hand that was holding a crescent moon white scholar garment, and her right hand that was holding a light green slander skirt. She (LY) was waiting until she (MSQ) made a decision, but was she going out today?

Miss’ confused expression made Lu Yi to sigh softly, helplessly raising both of the clothing, she said: “Today is the tenth day that you and Miss Hai Yue has agreed upon.”

Murong Shu Qing suddenly understood, she was sick and confused for the past two days, but recalling what Yan Yu said about the investigation yesterday, Hai Yue’s identity was extraordinary, so she was hesitating whether she should go or not? After a good while, Murong Shu Qing got up, lightly swatted the corner of the skirt, and faintly answered: “Man’s clothing!” Even though Hai Yue had already known that she was a woman, but wearing man’s clothing was always more convenient.

******

When Murong Shu Qing and Lu Yu arrived at the Yue Yang riverside, that sophisticated and unique light blue decorated boat was already waiting there. Both of them just got on the deck, when that quick-witted, delicate and skillful red dress woman lifted up the blue muslin and welcomed them to go into the cabin. She happily smiled and said: “Our Family Master has been waiting for you for a long time! Please quickly come!” The light blue muslin person was holding the ship for them.

Hai Yue was wearing a plain blue cheong sam today, a long white jade hairpin was fixed on her hair, her face did not have any cosmetics. She was kneeling in front of the low table near the window, fiddling with the different colors of wine bottles that were on the table. Even though her dress was in plain color, but it did not affect her colorful complexion, noble and sophisticated styles.

Hai Yue raised her head, she picked up a white wine bottle, lightly poured one mouthful of the wine, then she faintly smiled and said: “I thought that you would not come!”

Murong Shu Qing faintly smiled and came to Hai Yue’s side, she picked up another green porcelain bottle and lightly sniffed it, it was guihua (osmanthus flower) niang (wine brew), she liked it. She was pouring the wine lightly, while she mockingly answered: “How could I not come, I am still waiting for your treasure!”

Hai Yue was proudly shaking the wine jar, smilingly said: “You should prepared a music score first, Miss Murong.”

She had already guessed that she would find out her identity, especially after she knew about her (Hai Yue) identity, Murong Shu Qing casually smiled and said: “The music score has been prepared properly, Lu Yi ____”

“Yes!” Lu Yi got up, lightly stepped out, and sat down in front of the guqin. Looking at the two Masters who were not sitting but only leaning by the side of the table, Lu Yi sorrowfully sighed in her heart, no wonder Miss and Miss Hai Yue were already familiar with each other at first sight!

Lu Yi’s hands were on the strings, Hai Yue put down the wine that was on her hand, and listened to Lu Yi’s play with concentration, she did not know what kind of a nice surprise that Murong Shu Qing would give her this time. She could only see that Lu Yi’s right hand strode on the third octave, excellent playing skill, at the same, while her performance was solemn and as clear as water. The middle right hand part of the song was like flowing water, the left hand’s bass position fitted with the standing tall mountain. The latter half part used a continuous pattern to draw the running water away from the strike of the rapid high mountain. The final part used a harmonious ending as if the music dropped softly and melodiously.

After the song was finished, Hai Yue sat next to Murong Shu Qing, and asked: “This music is soft and graceful, what is it called?” It was totally different than Bi Hai Chao Sheng music that was unpredictable, and very imposing. This music was lucid and elegant, but it was not too ordinary, and had a lot of wisdom and brightness, it was memorable.

Murong Shu Qing answered: “Gao Shan (high mountain) Liu Shui (flowing water). This song also has a story.” She also liked this story very much, so much that after listening this music for many times, the story about this song was livelier than the song itself.

Hai Yue’s interest came out, she urged and said: “Oh? Say it so I can hear it.”

Murong Shu Qing did not tell her immediately, but she got up and walked to the deck, the boat had already been traveling on the river, both of the fresh and green sides were flourishing and shining, they were also harmonious. The cool breeze was brushing her face away, Murong Shu Qing faintly brought up this touching subject, it was a sorrowful but enviable story: “Legend said that there was a guqin player, Yu Bo Ya who was playing the instrument on the desert mountain in the wilderness for the first time, the woodcutter, Zhong Zi Qi could unexpectedly understand his artistic mood. Afterwards, Bo Ya actually remembered what Zhong Zi Qi had, and the two people became sincere and close friends. After Zi Qi’s death, Bo Ya was in pain losing his soulmate, so he threw his guqin down and broke the strings. Then, he did not play the instrument for a lifetime, so therefore, there was only Gao Shan Liu Shui song.”

Her words were finished, the two people, one was inside the boat and the other was outside on the deck, they remained silent. For a long time, Hai Yue came out to the deck, and went behind Murong Shu Qing, her voice sounded clear and thoughtful, but she asked with persistent: “Then, are we close friends?”

Murong Shu Qing turned her head around, and stood opposite Hai Yue, she was watching attentively at her bright eyes. Murong Shu Qing raised a cozy and simple smile, and she said this sentence: “That depends on Her Royal Highness, Xi Lie!”

After Hai Yue was startled slightly, her candid smile came out, she was really right. Hai Yue also met Murong Shu Qing’s smiling eyes, she firmly answered: “Since you came, we are already close friends.”

Hai Yue, no, Xi Lie Yue was Hai Yu’s heir to the throne, when Murong Shu Qing found out this answer from Yan Yu, she somewhat did not believe it. Hai Yu was always a mysterious country, and it also put a woman at the highest respect excessively, and she unexpectedly came to Dong Yu quietly to be a courtesan at Qing Lou brothel?!! This woman was definitely not the typical woman who followed the norms in this society, there was probably nothing that she would not dare doing on this earth. Being a friend with an apparent heir to the throne of one country was also not a simple matter. But in Murong Shu Qing’s opinion, looking for a close friend was hard to do, her identity should not separate the two of them from being friends, so that was why she still came.

Being on the deck, the two elegant women were facing the wind, standing, looking and smiling at each other.

Xi Lie Yue suddenly thought of something, she smiled and said: “Someone comes, bring it up!”

Two young children were clasping a picture scroll respectfully, and half kneeling when they raised it up. Murong Shu Qing puzzlingly asked: “This is the treasure that you want to give me?” It should be a calligraphy painting? Not knowing which Great Master did this masterpiece, that Xi Lie Yue thought of it as a treasure.

Hai Yue pretended to be mysterious and shook her head, affirmatively rebuffed it: “No.”

No? Then, what was the thing that she gave her? Not waiting until Murong Shu Qing got rid of her puzzled feeling, the picture scroll that was in front of her, was opened _____

The picture scroll was actually a drawing of a tranquil lake, the blue sky and white cloud were tranquilly elegant, the depth of the sea was blue, so it made the picture to look pure and peaceful. There was a white dress man who was playing the zither on the right side of the picture scroll, even though he was only in a small section of the picture, but no one would be able to ignore his existence. His long hair was waving freely with the wind, it really made him appear to be casual and free, his perfect facial features were distinct and stood out, his moist and plump lips were slightly raised, he looked like a magnificent jade. Especially that pair of bright eyes that looked like stars, they made Murong Shu Qing have a deja vu feeling.

Murong Shu Qing lowly mumbled: “Is that him?” That pair of eyes really resembled that man whom she saw at Yi Yun Shi’s wedding last time!

Hai Yue raised her eyebrows and smilingly asked: “You are familiar with him?”

Murong Shu Qing lightly shook her head, and answered: “I am not so sure, I have met him once, that person’s eyes and the person on the picture’s eyes really looked alike, he inquired on how to go to Hai Yu to me.” The eyes were similar, but the appearance was completely different, the man who was at the wedding, was extremely ordinary, people could have some deep impression because of those eyes. And the man who was on the picture, was absolutely handsome, there was no flaw on his facial features so much so that he would make every beautiful woman was crazy about him. But after she was familiar with Tang Xiao Xiao, Murong Shu Qing knew that there was this thing called Yi Rong Shu (again, a skill that somebody can change his/her appearance), so she could not be sure whether or not it was that man, but they really looked alike.

Xi Lie Yue’s eyes were bright suddenly, she pulled Murong Shu Qing hand, and surprisingly asked: “You were the woman who helped him to return to Hai Yu? And were you the one who gave him that piece of jade girdle ornament?” After he returned, that jade girdle ornament had never left his body, and he was always complimenting that the woman who assisted him in returning to the country, was very special, and very magnificent, could it be Murong Shu Qing?!

Xi Lie Yue’s enthusiasm made Murong Shu Qing have this bad premonition, after hesitating for a moment, she carefully said: “I think so.”

Xi Lie Yue happily smiled, satisfyingly pointed to the portrait, she proudly smiled and said: “This is extremely a coincidence. He ____ is the treasure that I want to give you!”

“What?!” Murong Shu Qing cried out in fear for the first time!

 

Sian’s notes:
If you want to hear that Gao Shan Liu Shui, here’s the YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UBbUuvGl8kc
The person who was associated with this piece, called Bo Ya. You can read about him on this, https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bo_Ya

So there you go! Hai Yue is the future Queen from Hai Yu. Din2 guessed it correctly but I was guessing that she’s the daughter of Cang Yue’s General, Shang Jun instead. Din2 guessed that the future Queen was looking for her own harem, that’s why she went to that brothel and invited those noble men. Hehehehe… There is another reader who had guessed correctly also & this person’s insights to guess Hai Yue, were amazingly on points and so deep. But actually the author put in a rather obvious clue towards the end of Chapter 42, when one of the young boy who was working for Hai Yue, was kneeling to her when he gave her cookies. 😉

Hahahahahaha…. first Huo Zhi Qing is ‘selling’ her brother to MSQ and now this future queen of Hai Yu is ‘giving’ her brother to MSQ. I can’t remember who wants this Qin Xiu Zhi to be our male lead. So it turns out Qin Gongzi is actually another handsome man in this novel. He’s a Prince also. Hehehehe…

Chapter 59: Playing Chess

Chapter 61: Xian Yi

Destined Marriage With Fragrance Chapter 59: Playing Chess

Going to get pretty hectic in a little while so I’m posting this chapter a little bit earlier before I forget about it. And I posted chapter 58 yesterday so make sure you read that chapter first.

I have to say that this is my favorite chapter so far. It doesn’t even have anything to do with any romance, which is still very lacking by the way. But this chapter is a very cool chapter as MSQ has to confront Qi Zhong Lin and I just love how the author decides to get this issue “resolved”.

Oh, I don’t play chess so I have no idea about the descriptions on playing chess either. I meant I played the game but I was no good. 😅

This chapter was translated for https://nuttyisprocrasinating.wordpress.com only. And only for those people who don’t mind reading unprofessional translation that was being translated FREELY using the translator’s and editor’s own free times. So rude & entitled people aren’t welcome to read this translation!!! So GO AWAY….

By Qian Lu

Chapter 59

Playing Chess

Arriving at the door, the study room was wide open, Qi Zhong Lin was sitting at the side of the low table, and concentrating on playing chess. The study room was very big, a bamboo curtain divided the study room into two sides, the book case was on the back side, and there were a big red sandalwood wooden table on the front left side and a small platform on the front right side. There were several low tables and game of chess on the platform. On the the study room wall was filled with calligraphy paintings from the calligraphy Masters. Murong Shu Qing was leaning on the outside door and comfortably looking, she had not entered the room yet as she did not want to disturb the elderly person who was concentrating and playing chess. Carefully looking, she unexpectedly saw the rhyming couplets that she wrote during the birthday feast, was hanging on one side of the wall. Murong Shu Qing was somewhat surprised, she did not anticipate that Qi Zhong Lin would hang it up on the study room.

“You came, accompany me to play chess.” Qi Zhong Lin did not raise his head, and he was still concentrating on the chessboard in front of him.

Murong Shu Qing walked into this unique study room, and stopped beside Qi Zhong Lin, there were numerous black and white chess pieces on the chessboard. The white chess pieces looked like it would have victory within its grasp. She was not really proficient in playing chess, the rules were very simple, but having too many leeways could make one to be lazy. The game of chess could be changeable too easy, and she had never won playing chess with Paternal grandfather in the past (her past life). Facing this great master of chess, Qi Zhong Lin now, she could only helplessly answer: “I can not play.”

One white chess piece fell down, the outcome of the battle was already closed, Qi Zhong Lin raised his head, his sharp eyes showed a smiling expression, he straightforwardly said to Murong Shu Qing who showed a relaxing face: “It does not matter, just play casually. Since you are a successful business woman, you should not be a bad opponent.”

The woman who was in front of him and had a light smile, had never showed her ordinary characters, she could control half of Dong Yu’s economy within three years, and nobody actually knew that there was a Murong Shu Qing. During his life, he had seen many amazing people, but he had not seen anybody who was this magnificent and whose age was as young as she was! It could not be helped that he was very curious.

“Alright!” Murong Shu Qing frivolously bent her eyebrows, and smilingly sat opposite him, since he had already investigated her clearly, she did not need to be pretentious either, what was the harm in winning or losing!

The game of chess was an intelligent game, but Murong Shu Qing was only playing superficially, several moves later, she had already felt the high chess skills and planning strategies from Qi Zhong Lin’s game. No wonder, the game of chess was also known as hand talks, from less than three moves on the chessboard, the chess pieces were replaced, and one could already see one’s capability and charm.

Alright, she could not lose too tragically, so Murong Shu Qing thought deeply for a moment, there was ‘golden corner, silver side of the grass stomach’ (one of the positions) in the game of chess, then she would just take advantage of the two sides of the chessboard, and occupied on the corner.

Unfortunately, after playing several pieces, Murong Shu Qing discovered that Qi Zhong Lin also switched his style of playing, not only that she could not occupy the corner, she even lost on the side. According to the chessboard, the situation of her black pieces were actually many, but unfortunately, they were almost dead pieces. Raising her head to look at Qi Zhong Lin who was opposite her, he gently tasted the fragrant tea, and played with a relaxing manner, but she was playing this with great difficulty.

Softly sighing, Murong Shu Qing just put down her black piece, Qi Zhong Lin grasped the tea with his hand and slightly paused, then he smilingly said: “You want to give this piece for me!” Putting it down like this, it was the same as committing suicide.

“If one wants to take something, one must first give in!” Murong Shu Qing was unconcerned, it was impossible for her to win this chess game, but she did not want to lose too terribly. Getting rid of her precious dragon piece was not her first escape route, she would get rid of it first, then she would also borrow from another source.

Her unique method of playing made Qi Zhong Lin’s eyes shine brightly, even though the black pieces on the chessboard were decreased by a lot, but she actually opened up another world for her. But this did not give Murong Shu Qing any victory either, a white piece was falling prettily, Murong Shu Qing could not go anywhere with her black pieces. Murong Shu Qing withdrew her hand, she softly smiled and said: “I lost.”

“You lost brilliantly.” He had played chess for so many years, but he had not seen anybody who used this kind of technique, even though she lost, but she was really brilliant.

Lost brilliantly?! Murong Shu Qing forced a smile and did not say anything, this could be considered as a compliment for her!

Qi Zhong Lin got up to the front of the wall where Murong Shu Qing’s rhyming couplets that she wrote during his birthday feast, was hung up. A good skill, elegant strokes, graceful and outstanding characters, this could not be practiced for 8-10 years of skills, any person could not write these words.

“Who are you?” Stroking the delicate silk and thin paper, Qi Zhong Lin threw out his forceful words, his voice would not allow people to make any mistake and deceive him.

She had never intended to cover up the truth, gently tasting the fragrant tea, she calmly answered: “I am not Murong Shu Qing. Originally, I did not belong to this place, but because of a small accident, I woke up in Murong Shu Qing’s body. Until now, I have not found any ways to go back yet.”

“Then, what about Qing-er?” Qi Zhong Lin sighed, and painfully closed his eyes, he had already guessed that the woman who was in front of him, was not Qing-er. But hearing it with his own ears, his heart was aching as if it was pierced by needles, Yue-er had already left him. Could it be her flesh and blood, Qing-er, could not accompany him either?!

“I do not know!” She did not know anything about this cross over either, maybe she was crossing over to another world just like her, or maybe, she had already perished when she fell into the water. But looking at Qi Zhong Lin’s broken-hearted expression like this, how could she have a heart to say it out.

“I ~” She wanted to say something to comfort this elderly person who was sad and heart-broken, but she did not have any standing either, maybe he would feel a little better if he did not see her! So Murong Shu Qing said in a whisper: “I will move out of the Qi’s manor tomorrow.”

This kind of bizarre thing, Qi Zhong Lin had heard about it before, but since it happened to Qing-er, it was still difficult for him to let it go. Even though the simple and elegant woman who was in front him, was not Qing-er, but he could see Yue-er’s magnificent talents on her. Moreover, she had her own distinct characteristics, was calm and collected, he also admired and liked this woman. Qi Zhong Lin sighed and said: “Since you have arrived here, we must have some relationships, Yue-er’s Die Cui Xiao Su really suits you, just stay there!”

Murong Shu Qing knew that whatever words that she wanted to say at this moment, would be meaningless so she just thought of leaving. Since Qi Zhong Lin was already calmed down from his sadness, he waved towards her so the two people sat in front of the low table, and drank tea and water, they remained silent for a long time.

“The war between Cang Yue and Dong Yu is unavoidable, the Murong’s family will definitely be implicated by this, have you prepared for this?” He could not help but to worry about this girl because of the current situation. The war was not always related to the military strategy and tactics during the battlefields, or fighting efforts, but there was also the battle about the national’s army provisions. Even if one had powerful military officers, and large armies, but without the army provisions, it would be in a difficult situation.

The Murong’s family was the biggest producer of foodstuffs and clothing within Dong Yu, even though it was low-key and had exercised restraint, but it still had strength, it was already the concern and target from the Imperial court. If the Murong’s family had some reservations, the Imperial court would be resentful. But if it came to help with strength, and showed its strength, then, the Imperial household would be anxious with it, and desire to quickly eliminate it after. This was extremely possible that the Murong’s family would get caught up in an impossible situation, did this young girl already prepare for this?!

All of the matters that Qi Zhong Lin said, Murong Shu Qing had already thought about it carefully earlier. “From the time that I continued to stay with the Murong’s family, I had already known that there would be this day, I will definitely not make it turn into a disaster for the Murong’s family. On the contrary, if the opportunity is appropriate, this will make the Murong’s family to avert the dying gold medal (being exterminated by the Imperial court). Moreover, the current Emperor is also a bright ruler, he has already decided to mobilize the national’s foodstuffs. If it is unnecessary, I will not disturb the people, so the Murong’s family will not be dealing directly with the Imperial court temporarily.”

The water that carried the boat could also overturn the boat, it was possible that the Murong’s family property and businesses would frighten the Imperial family. But she could also turn the Imperial household to rely on the Murong’s family strength without any choice. But when this happened, the relationships with the Imperial family would be very complicated, she did not really want to see this, and this was also the reason why she made the Murong’s family exercise restraint and to be low-key.

“You have already arranged someone by the Emperor’s side also!” If one wanted to arrange a few people inside the Imperial court and the palace, it would already be difficult, but to arrange someone by the Emperor’s side closely, would be even more difficult.

The matter about mobilizing the army provisions, the Emperor secretly summoned the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Commerce last night. She unexpectedly already knew about it, Qi Zhong Lin did not have any choice but to view her in a different light!

Looking towards Qi Zhong Lin’s thoughtful look, complicated and difficult eyes, Murong Shu Qing lightly caressed the edge of the cup, she faintly replied: “The Imperial court is an unstable situation, and the Monarch’s heart is hard to fathom.” A good ruler’s heart was hard to fathom!

Qi Zhong Lin proudly praised, and said with a clear voice: “Very good, you are worthy to be my, Qi Zhong Lin’s granddaughter.”

Murong Shu Qing was slightly startled, he already knew that she was not ~~

Qi Zhong Lin looked that she was still startling and standing there, so he pretended to be angry and said: “What is wrong? You are not willing!”

Did he just recognize her as his granddaughter? Murong Shu Qing recovered, promptly and politely saluted with half bending, then she said in a whisper emotionally: “Thank you, Maternal grandfather!” She could sense her Paternal grandfather’s emotions from his body, his concern and love without showing it consciously, and as a teacher or a friend who would talk freely. Maternal grandfather’s recognization made her heart to feel warm again.

Qi Zhong Lin happily smiled, and supported Murong Shu Qing up, and he brought her to the front of the chessboard, he grabbed the white chess piece, and said with a provocative tone: “One more game?” It was not that her chess skill was high, but when he was playing chess with this girl, she could always have this unique way to put the pieces down, it was very interesting.

Murong Shu Qing smiled and looked at Qi Zhong Lin’s childish and proud expressions, there was indeed a fine line between a child and an elderly person. Walking slowly to the front of the table, she grabbed the black pieces and accompany him to sit down across from him. She agilely put down the black pieces, and her mouth simply answered: “Why not!”

The moon was already on the top of the trees’ branches outside, the inside of the courtyard was quiet, the image from the window was simple, one could only see an elderly person and a young woman who were still enjoying playing with each other.

 

Sian’s notes:
The game is actually called Go or Chinese chess game. It’s using a round black & white pieces instead of the regular chess pieces, but the two games are almost similar in term of the rules. One’s trying to checkmate the other person to win the game.

You know, while I was translating this chapter, I was pondering hard when Qi Zhong Lin asked where Qing-er (the real MSQ) was now. I wonder if Qing-er actually went to the modern era so their souls were actually switched or did Qing-er actually die? I wish Qian Lu, the author would write another novel that told a story about Qing-er who’s living in the modern era as Bai Yi Fan. Having such a loving family in the modern era would probably be a better life for Qing-er as that what she wanted all this time so it would be kind of a very satisfying conclusion for the both of them. Bai Yi Fan’s two brothers would adore Qing-er and her “parents” would give her love that she didn’t get in this era. Hehehe… just my crazy thought as it’ll be better for both MSQ & BYF to have their own happy endings. 😍😍

Yay!!! MSQ gets a backup from the former PM. Don’t you love this former PM aka the old fox! For whatever reason, I always have a soft spot for a Prime Minister’s character. They seem to be so wise and always my favorite character…

Chapter 58: Mo Can

Chapter 60: Identity