Chapter Forty-Three: Lady Hu
Morning
Li Yu stood on the terrace of Lanxiu Manor, gazing into the distance.
Yan Lingji had left—she slipped away at dawn. Li Yu knew this little sprite had sneaked into his room the night before, casting her fiery charm to probe his intentions toward the celestial spirit. The thought made Li Yu smile—he harbored no ill will toward Yan Lingji, his conscience clear, his feelings pure.
“You ten will reside here from now on, guarding this young lady. Contact me if anything arises. She’ll return soon—inform me at once.” Li Yu spoke to the air.
“Yes.” Ten figures clad in black appeared before him, bowing respectfully—the very assassins from yesterday.
…
Li Yu returned to his residence in Xinzheng. Jingni, seeing him unharmed, said nothing and resumed weaving tiny garments—clearly for a baby.
“Wife, time was short yesterday. I had to rescue someone, and I made you worry.” Li Yu, his hand wandering, reached for her curves.
Jingni, seeing no one outside, set her work aside and nestled in his arms. “Tell me next time, so I won’t worry.”
Li Yu chuckled. “Ni’er, yesterday I learned the old man at the Tianxia Bank is a top-tier assassin.”
“Aren’t assassins supposed to be cold and ruthless? He doesn’t seem like it! If I hadn’t asked on purpose yesterday, I’d still be in the dark.” Jingni spoke as she enjoyed Li Yu’s caress. “I’ve seen him before, always at Lü Buwei’s side. Didn’t expect him here.”
“Oh? Lü Buwei’s man—that explains it.” Something clicked for Li Yu.
“Enough about that. The day’s plan begins in the morning. Let’s practice together.” Li Yu whispered softly in Jingni’s ear.
“Go close the door.”
“Right away.”
…
As the music’s rhythm began, the maids blushed and hurried out, legs pressed together.
~
Zilan Pavilion
Honglian pouted, rubbing her numb thighs as she gazed resentfully at her stern master, Zinu, tears threatening to spill.
“Master, I’m exhausted! Can we rest? Maybe today’s enough—let’s practice again tomorrow?” Honglian pleaded coquettishly.
Zinu glanced coldly at the adorable Honglian—if not now, then when? Once Li Yu takes you in, there’ll be no more chances.
Zinu knew Li Yu well—a good man, kind to women, almost too good for his era. But his heart wandered. This charming girl, so young and alluring—Li Yu would hardly let her slip away.
“Master, how did you meet Grandmaster? Did you pursue him, or did he chase you?” Honglian asked, tapping her jade legs curiously.
Zinu’s gaze narrowed. “Why do you ask? Don’t forget your promise.”
Honglian blinked, tilting her head in confusion. “What did I say?”
Zinu reminded her, “You said you’d never betray propriety.”
“Oh, that! Don’t worry, Master—I remember.” Honglian nodded, then brightened as a figure appeared behind her. “Grandmaster’s here!”
“Hmm?” Zinu turned. Li Yu, flamboyant in white, holding a jade flute, stood at the courtyard gate, grinning at the two.
“Zier, you’ve worked hard!” Li Yu took the branch from Zinu’s hand in greeting.
“Grandmaster, Master is so strict—she used the branch to spank me!” Honglian complained first.
Li Yu looked at Honglian, poised in horse stance, and smiled. “Hardship is temporary—pain first, sweetness later. When you become a heroine, think of Princess Honglian aiding the oppressed—how glorious!”
He soothed her, “I have a method to relieve fatigue. Want to learn?”
“Oh? What is it, Grandmaster? Teach me!” Honglian was eager to rid herself of soreness.
“There are three ways: Tai Chi, yoga, and massage.” Li Yu explained step by step, like a kindly uncle tempting a child.
“These three—only I know them in the world.” He raised his chin proudly, playing the mystic.
“What brings you here?” Zinu interrupted, reminding him she wasn’t invisible.
“Zier, I need your cooperation for something today.” Li Yu was serious.
“What is it?”
“Someone may cause trouble at Zilan Pavilion soon. Be vigilant, especially regarding Nongyu.”
“Why?” Zinu grew more curious. Why warn Nongyu, and why involve her?
“Don’t you want to know who Nongyu’s biological mother is?” Li Yu whispered in Zinu’s ear.
“You know?” Zinu was surprised.
“I do, but it’s not convenient to say now. She’s another man’s wife, and it’s not time to reunite.” Li Yu revealed a bit.
“You mean that person might harm Nongyu?” Zinu asked with concern.
“No worries—I’ll handle everything.” Li Yu promised.
The next day
Zilan Pavilion staged the White Snake Legend, Xu Shilin rescuing his mother from Leifeng Pagoda.
The audience was deeply moved, especially Princess Honglian, who sobbed uncontrollably on her brother Han Fei’s shoulder.
An unpleasant voice broke the harmony.
“What is this performance? You dare charge a hundred gold coins for this?”
Everyone glared—it was Left Sima Liu Yi. What had gotten into him today?
Zinu stepped forward. “Sir, if you’re dissatisfied, speak privately. Why disturb others?”
“Yes, yes,” some echoed.
“I demand a refund.” Liu Yi seemed determined to trouble Zilan Pavilion.
Li Yu also stepped forward. The crowd knew of his ties to Zilan Pavilion and wasn’t surprised.
Li Yu whispered something in Liu Yi’s ear.
Liu Yi’s face changed dramatically. He bowed nervously to Li Yu and hurriedly left.
“Left Sima, ashamed for disturbing everyone, has withdrawn. Let the music and dance continue—today, all drinks are on Zilan Pavilion!” Li Yu announced generously.
“Great!” Han Fei cheered first, but seeing Honglian beside him, his spirits fell—how unfortunate.
Zinu pulled Li Yu aside and whispered, “Is Nongyu’s mother Lady Hu?”
Li Yu glanced at her and smiled, “Zier, you’re truly clever.”
…
Left Sima’s residence
The maids trembled outdoors, listening to the sounds of smashing and screams inside.
“Madam is so pitiful,” one whispered.
“Yes, her inability to bear children isn’t entirely her fault,” another sympathized.
“Lately, the master hits her more often.”
“What can we do?”
“Let’s hope tomorrow’s visit from Beauty Hu brings some relief.”
…
Sunshine
Not a cloud in the sky.
Li Yu’s mood was excellent—it was his seven-day rendezvous with the little fox.
He was well-prepared, having eaten extra lamb, his ammunition plentiful.
He slipped into the courtyard effortlessly, opened the door—it was unlocked.
The little enchantress must be anxious. Li Yu undressed as he approached the bed.
“So shy today, wrapping yourself up like a dumpling.” He saw the tightly wrapped blanket.
He gently slipped his hand in, then his whole body.
No clothes—so smooth.
Today, the urgency was mutual; Li Yu got straight to the point.
“Wife, why so nervous today?” He searched in the darkness, his tongue finding her ear, gently nibbling as he whispered.
No answer.
“Wife, it’s too hot under the blanket—let’s get some air.” He tried to pull it back.
His hand was caught, so he gave up.
“Such novelty—trying new games?” He pressed on, sweat and all.
Just as the moment peaked, the door opened.
“Sister, I’ve prepared the ointment. Uncover the blanket and I’ll apply it.”
“Just leave it. I want to sleep awhile,” came the voice from under the blanket.
Li Yu was stunned—the person inside was the elder sister, Lady Hu!
Beauty Hu was outside.
Exciting—mental and physical stimulation reached a peak.
“Sis, why are you trembling? Honestly, Liu Yi only pushes because you’re too accommodating.” Beauty Hu chatted casually.
“It’s my fault—don’t say more, just leave,” Lady Hu replied from under the blanket.
“Fine, fine, I’m leaving. You’re such a pushover—I can’t stand it.” Beauty Hu left, closing the door.
The blanket was lifted; Li Yu looked at the tearful Lady Hu and felt equally miserable.
Was this being caught in the act?
“Greetings, madam!” Li Yu greeted awkwardly.
“Get out,” Lady Hu blushed and turned away, shy.
“Oh, sorry.” Li Yu hurried to get up.
A sound—both were embarrassed.
Lady Hu quickly wrapped herself up again.
“When did you and my sister start?” Lady Hu wanted to send Li Yu away, but curiosity won.
“Thirteen days ago,” Li Yu answered directly.
“Beauty Hu is pitiable, married to a fat old man. Luckily, she has me.” Li Yu shamelessly sighed.
“Why didn’t you stop me just now?” Li Yu asked, curious.
“I—I didn’t dare. I feared you’d hurt me.” Lady Hu was still shaken.
“I saw bruises—are they from Liu Yi?” Li Yu’s keen eyes had spotted them.
Seductive and heartbreaking—a woman’s allure peaks at thirty.
“There’s ointment outside. Shall I apply it for you?” He asked, seeing the ointment Beauty Hu had brought.
“No need—I’ll do it myself later.” Lady Hu seemed wary, retreating further under the blanket.
“Then I won’t disturb your rest.” Li Yu rose and headed for the door.
Hand on the door, he added, “Don’t be afraid—I care for your happiness and will clear your path.”
He exited.
Outside, Li Yu was startled—Beauty Hu stood in the yard, watching him emerge impeccably dressed.
She wore a sly smile, so reminiscent of a fox.
“Are you satisfied, husband?” Beauty Hu teased.
Li Yu quickly composed himself and embraced her. “Something’s odd—this must be your doing, fox.”
“Right?” Beauty Hu enjoyed his touch, gazing at his handsome face. “She’s my sister. Only this way could I help her. We women are born to suffer.”
Li Yu caressed her face. “Don’t worry—I’ll bring you happiness. It won’t be long.”
On the way back, Li Yu saw a tall man approaching.
“Left Sima, where are you off to?” Li Yu greeted.
“Ah, Grand Tutor. Are you free today to visit my humble home?” Liu Yi had wanted to speak to him.
Home? With such grandeur, it’s no wonder Ji Wuye dislikes you.
“I’d be honored.” Li Yu bowed and smiled.
Lady Hu was restless all day—not sure why she’d ended up naked in her sister’s room. When that rogue entered, she hadn’t stopped him—a mistake upon mistake.
Luckily, her sister didn’t notice.
Hopefully, she’d never encounter that rogue again—though he was quite handsome.
Just as she thought this, her husband led his horse in—and, to her shock, the rogue followed.
Lady Hu’s knees trembled, but Liu Yi’s authority forced her to greet him. “Husband, you’re back. I’ll prepare dinner.”
She hurried toward the kitchen.
“Don’t you see the guest? Prepare refreshments first, you stupid woman!” Liu Yi, feeling slighted, scolded her.
He turned to Li Yu. “Sorry for the embarrassment, Grand Tutor. Please, let’s talk inside.”
Li Yu smiled and greeted Beauty Hu, “Is this your wife? She seems virtuous—you’re lucky, Sima.”
Liu Yi glanced at Lady Hu. “She’s ignorant. Hurry up.”
Lady Hu was eager to escape, running to the kitchen.
Liu Yi shook his head in regret at his wife’s lack of decorum.
Li Yu saw all—Brother, after your death, I’ll care for your wife. Don’t worry.
His smile grew brighter as he accompanied Liu Yi to the living room.
They sat together.
Liu Yi got straight to the point. “How did you know about the five hundred thousand gold I deposited?”
Li Yu smiled. “Such a large sum—I had to investigate its origin. If it’s tainted, it would spell trouble.”
Liu Yi assured him, “The money is clean, Grand Tutor. Rest easy.”
“Then I’ll expedite the paperwork and personally deliver the glazed ware to your mansion, without outsiders knowing.”
Liu Yi smiled. “You honor me. From now on, call on me anytime.”
Lady Hu entered, serving tea silently, first to Liu Yi, then to Li Yu. Li Yu took the cup, discreetly scratching her hand.
She trembled, spilling tea on Li Yu’s hand.
“You can’t do anything right—leave!” Liu Yi scolded.
Lady Hu bowed her head and fled—her heart pounding. Why wouldn’t this rogue leave her alone? With her sister, still pestering me?
She assumed Li Yu had come for her.
Such a bitter fate!
…
Li Yu and Liu Yi enjoyed their conversation, lamenting only that they met too late.
Liu Yi personally saw him out.
He turned to his servant, “Where is my wife now?”
“She has returned to her room to rest.”
Liu Yi frowned, growing increasingly dissatisfied with Lady Hu.
If not for Beauty Hu in the palace, he would have divorced her already.
Li Yu, pleased with himself, looked forward to the future—mother and daughter, sisters.
He laughed aloud at the thought.
“Grandmaster, what makes you so happy?” A clear magpie chirped.
Li Yu jumped—a rosy little darling, like a blooming peach blossom, appeared before him.
He composed himself. “I’m thinking of new pieces for the stage.”
The peach blossom girl was skeptical. “Grandmaster, your smile is so lecherous—you must be thinking of something naughty.”
Li Yu’s face stiffened—was it that obvious? Still, he replied calmly, “Nonsense. I’m upstanding—just preparing a comedic plot, so I must smile.”
“Really?”
“Really!”
“Grandmaster, when will you teach me yoga, Tai Chi, and massage?”
Li Yu inhaled her youthful scent and replied, “Tomorrow at your palace—it’s too crowded at Zilan Pavilion.”
The peach blossom girl seemed to imagine something risqué. “Grandmaster, you mustn’t have improper thoughts.”
Li Yu gave her a playful knock on the head. “I have no interest in children.”
He left, while she stamped her foot, indignantly—who’s a child? I’m grown! She straightened her ample chest in defiance.
…
Zilan Pavilion
Li Yu embraced Nongyu, savoring her intoxicating scent, wholly enraptured.
Nongyu, demure, leaned against his chest, eyes dreamy.
If Li Yu’s trousers weren’t halfway off, it would have been a beautiful scene.
As Nongyu trembled, the moment froze.
Lingering in the warmth—
“Yu’er, shall I bring your mother to you?” Li Yu murmured, nibbling her ear.
“Husband, do you have clues?” Nongyu responded quickly.
“A few—are you willing to meet her?” Li Yu asked gently.
“She abandoned me—why should I want to meet her?” Nongyu voiced her feelings.
“Let me tell you a story. Years ago, two childhood sweethearts fell in love and pledged themselves to each other. The man went to war and didn’t return. The woman, pregnant, was forced to marry a man she didn’t love, who coveted her sister, a palace beauty. When the child was born, the man threw her into the river, but the woman secretly saved her, leaving her at a shop’s door.”
“That child is me?” Nongyu quickly understood.
She jumped up, startling Li Yu as well.
“Sorry, husband—did I hurt you?” Nongyu saw Li Yu hopping and rushed to comfort him.
“No worries.” Li Yu gritted his teeth, steadied himself.
Nongyu blushed, helped Li Yu with his trousers, asking, “Is the woman Lady Hu?”
“My clever wife, you grasp it instantly.” Li Yu felt the pain fade, drew her into his arms.
“I never expected it. The only palace beauty is Beauty Hu—easy to deduce.” Nongyu marveled.
She truly hadn’t expected Lady Hu, so gentle and timid, to be her mother.
“How did you know?” Nongyu asked.
“You both wear matching Fire Rain agate at your waists. The rest I learned from investigation.” Li Yu replied, half joking.
“Thank you, husband.” Nongyu gave him a deep kiss.
“Thanks aren’t enough—you must bear me a child!” Li Yu teased.
“Husband—”
…
For seven days, Li Yu stayed in the Great Zheng Palace.
Thus began days when the king neglected court, enthralling Li Yu.
Cradling the ever-more alluring Zhao Ji, Li Yu was reluctant to leave.
“Mother, I must go out for a few days.” He proposed.
“I know, Yu’er. You’ve kept me company—I’m content. Go—no complaints.” Zhao Ji lay in his arms.
“I’ll visit you first thing upon my return,” Li Yu promised.
“No need—I’m not unreasonable. Go.” Zhao Ji attempted to rise.
Li Yu held her close. “No hurry—let me serve you before I leave.”
He began to kiss her.
The red curtains billowed with the breeze’s rhythm.
…
Watching Zhao Ji sleep, Li Yu donned a maid’s attire and left the palace, his first stop at Fragrant Garden.
“Wife, you’ve grown more beautiful in just a few days.” Li Yu hugged Feixu’s waist.
“Husband, you’ve been at the Great Zheng Palace these days?” Liu Feixu quickly deduced his schedule.
“The palace is heavily guarded—each visit is precious.” Li Yu explained, lest Feixu be jealous.
“I’m not jealous—just want to know your plans.” Feixu reported her own progress.
“We’re husband and wife—no need for formalities. Help me contact Zhao Gao—I wish to see the King of Qin.” Li Yu stated his purpose.
“Sure. Also, the Han state’s arrangements are nearly complete—you can deploy them anytime.” Feixu updated him.
“Thank you, wife. Let me repay you now.” Li Yu scooped her up and carried her to the bedroom.