Dream of the Red Chamber

Chapter 331 Hidden Blade, Trouble Already Brewing

Tan Chun's face turned deathly pale, and she immediately clung to Chen Siyuan's arms. Glancing sideways, she saw the carriage shattered into pieces, and her heart pounded wildly in fright.

Looking up again, she saw Chen Siyuan frowning and staring intently, then lowering his head and asking with concern, "Is Third Sister alright?"

Tan Chun was as forthright as any man, and her favorite people were upright and honest men. Chen Siyuan was usually gentle and mild-mannered, but he bravely came to her rescue in a time of crisis. She was at an age where she was just beginning to understand things, and a feeling of affection immediately arose in her heart.

Startled, Tan Chun stared at Chen Siyuan without replying for a moment. Only after Chen Siyuan asked again did she come to her senses and say, "I, I'm fine."

Chen Siyuan dismounted, lifted Tan Chun off the large blue horse, and handed her to the maids and old women who rushed up. He then shouted to Qingyu in the distance, "Watch that coachman!"

Qingyu twisted the driver's arm and hurriedly retorted. Chen Siyuan turned and walked towards the scene of the accident. In front of the shattered carriage were two mules that were still whimpering and were clearly not going to survive.

Tan Chun was still in shock, letting the maids and old women examine her haphazardly. She kept staring at the spot where Chen Siyuan had squatted down and began to examine the horse's rump.

At this moment, Sister Feng and Ping'er ran over and grabbed Tan Chun, asking, "How is Tan Chun?"

Tan Chun shook her head, her face pale, and hurriedly said, "How could the horse have been startled for no reason? Sister Feng, quickly arrest the coachman and interrogate him."

Sister Feng's eyebrows furrowed, her face turned frosty, and she angrily shouted, "Even if Third Sister doesn't speak, I'll still interrogate her properly. Come here, bring that coachman to me!"

At this moment, Li Wan and Yingchun also came over. Yingchun asked Tanchun a few questions and then saw Chen Siyuan squatting in front with a furrowed brow. She immediately had some guesses in her mind. Li Wan, unaware of the reason, immediately said to Fengjie, "Sister-in-law, there are many people coming and going here. It may not be appropriate to interrogate him in the street. I think it would be better to take him back and interrogate him properly."

Sister Feng thought about it and agreed. With all the women of the household on the street, it wouldn't be good to linger there. Just as she was about to speak, Chen Siyuan hurried back. Sister Feng immediately went to greet him and asked, "Brother Yuan, have you discovered anything?"

"Second sister-in-law, take a look!" Chen Siyuan held out his hand and showed a needle more than four inches long, with bloodstains on it.

Sister Feng frowned and asked, "Where did this come from?"

"Found on the side of the left hind leg of the mule."

Sister Feng grew increasingly angry and cursed, "What a disloyal dog! Come here, tie up that coachman and gag him. We'll interrogate him properly when we get back!" After cursing, she said to Chen Siyuan, "It's fortunate that Brother Yuan is so skilled, otherwise Tan Ya would have been in serious trouble this time."

Chen Siyuan nodded, knowing it was inconvenient to say more at this moment. He glanced at Tan Chun, exchanged a look with Ying Chun before parting, and then mounted his horse.

The servants were left to deal with the accident, while the rest of the group continued their journey back to the Rongguo Mansion.

In the carriage behind, when Grandmother Jia learned of this, she immediately began chanting "Amitabha Buddha" repeatedly. She was naturally filled with lingering fear, but she thought it was just an accident and was glad that Third Sister was unharmed.

The head maid, Yuanyang, attended to the old lady, but her heart was filled with suspicion. The Rongguo Mansion had strict rules; they always conducted thorough inspections before going out, and the horses they used were carefully selected. Such a frightened horse should never have happened. Moreover, just now, when she peeked through the curtains, she glimpsed Master Yuan squatting and inspecting the scene. Could this not have been an accident?

Yuanyang had served Grandmother Jia for several years, and the two knew each other very well. When Grandmother Jia saw that Yuanyang's expression was unusual, she was immediately alarmed.

She secretly thought that Tan Chun was originally raised in Madam Wang's room, but because Feng Jie and Madam Wang were vying for control of the household, Madam Wang pushed her out to manage the household. Unexpectedly, Madam Wang had shot herself in the foot. Since Tan Chun took charge of the household, she had acted uprightly and impartially, and punished people appropriately. Because of her impartiality, she had repeatedly attacked Madam Wang's faction, which naturally angered Madam Wang.

However, this person was recommended by Madam Wang, and it wouldn't be good to go back on one's word... Could it be that Madam Wang is planning to scheme against Tan Ya and take back the job of steward?

The more Grandmother Jia thought about it, the more likely it seemed, so she asked, "Yuanyang, did Madam... did the First Madam come down to check just now?"

Just as Yuanyang was about to reflect, Amber in the carriage said, "Reporting to the old lady, I just checked. The eldest madam peeked through the curtain and found that everything was fine at the madam's place. She only sent Yuchuan to check."

Grandmother Jia frowned immediately, her mind drifting back to the bloody infighting that had gripped the Ningguo Mansion earlier. It was only after Jia Jing fled the city and disposed of all his concubines before leaving that peace returned to the Ningguo Mansion.

If the second daughter-in-law acts this way, and Sister Feng is a strong-willed person, wouldn't a fight between the two lead to a repeat of the old story of Ningguo Mansion?
However, relying on the power of Yuan Chun and the Wang family, Lady Wang became increasingly reckless in her actions. Moreover, neither Feng Jie nor Lady Wang were the type to tolerate such things, so it was feared that once this conflict was started, it would be difficult to quell it.

Grandmother Jia was getting old and knew she didn't have many years left, so she always tried to mend the situation. As for what would happen after her death... she couldn't even manage things while she was alive, let alone what would happen after she died.
Suddenly remembering what Lady Wang had mentioned about Zhang Jinge, Grandmother Jia realized she had fallen into a trap. If Tan'er were to lose her job as head maid and Feng Jie were preoccupied with her infighting with Zhang Jinge, who in the household would be able to keep Lady Wang in check?
The old lady looked worried and preoccupied. Before she could come up with a solution, the carriage had already entered the Rongguo Mansion.

Sister Feng got out of the carriage first and immediately found the steward and ordered, "Take that coachman to the south hall. I want to ask him properly where this scoundrel got the audacity to plot against the young lady of the manor!"

Several burly servants immediately brought the coachman over. The coachman spat out the handkerchief in his mouth and cried out, "Second Madam, spare my life! I have never done anything to harm the young lady!"

At this moment, Madam Wang, Madam Xing, and Aunt Xue also came over. Madam Wang asked, "Feng'er, what exactly is going on?"

Sister Feng sneered, "Didn't Madam just send Yuchuan to ask? This wicked servant, for some reason, had evil intentions and actually used a long needle to prick the horse's buttocks, which caused the mule and horse to be startled."

Meanwhile, Feng'er was already waiting at the side gate of the ceremonial gate. After calling out a few times from afar, Ping'er hurriedly came over. After hearing Feng'er's few words, her expression changed drastically.

Turning back to Sister Feng, after Sister Feng gave her instructions, he clasped his hands together and whispered a few words in her ear. Sister Feng, who was originally angry, was stunned for a moment, and then looked at Ping'er suspiciously.

Ping'er quickly said, "Grandma, Feng'er is at the side gate. You can find out as soon as you ask."

Feng Jie'er's phoenix eyes flashed with anger as she flicked her sleeve and said, "Fine, your second master has improved. I want to see what kind of scum he's taken in!"

Just as Grandmother Jia got out of the carriage, she saw that Sister Feng was angry and knew that things were not going well. She quickly sent Yuanyang and Amber to stop her.

When Madam Wang saw Feng Jie throwing a tantrum and trying to force her way in, she was secretly delighted and ordered, "Take that coachman to the south hall. I want to interrogate him myself."

The maids, servants, and maids all responded and hurried toward the south hall. At this moment, Madam Wang and Aunt Xue approached Feng Jie. Madam Wang feigned surprise and asked, "What's wrong with Feng Jie this time?"

Then Tanxin said, "Madam doesn't know, but Second Mistress got word that Second Master Lian took advantage of everyone going to Nengren Temple to burn incense to bring a concubine into the family, and she's furious now!"

Aunt Xue suddenly glared coldly at Madam Wang, her heart turning ice-cold. She felt that her good sister was indeed ruthless, having hit Feng Jie's weak spot this time. Madam Xing, who had caught up later, was still confused and exclaimed in surprise, "What? Is that so?"

Madam Xing was not very shrewd; if it weren't for the presence of others, she probably would have covered her mouth and laughed long ago. She had always been at odds with Sister Feng and loved to see Sister Feng make a fool of herself.

Supported by her maid, Grandmother Jia approached and, leaning on her cane, said, "Feng-ge'er, don't be angry. Be careful not to ruin your relationship as husband and wife!"

Feng Jie immediately burst into tears, saying, "I don't like hearing what you're saying, Grandmother. After what happened with Qiu Tong, she went to the Second Master's room. When did I ever stop the Second Master from taking a concubine? What is this now? He's secretly bringing a concubine home while I'm not here. What will people outside say about me if word gets out?"

Grandmother Jia immediately said, "Lian'er was wrong to do this, but what's done is done. You can't make a scene today. I'll decide that Lian'er will be severely punished tomorrow, and I'll definitely get revenge for you!"

Feng Jie, sobbing, glanced around. She saw Grandmother Jia frowning with worry, Lady Wang and Aunt Xue watching coldly, and Lady Xing even gloating. After looking around, Feng Jie felt a chill in her heart. She thought to herself, how could this be such a coincidence? Jia Lian has always been afraid of her. If someone hadn't stood up for him, even if he had the guts of a bear and the gall of a leopard, he probably wouldn't have dared to do such a thing.

His gaze then fell upon Grandmother Jia's face, where he saw a hint of guilt. His heart grew even colder. Indeed, without the old lady's intervention, where would Jia Lian have gotten the audacity to secretly bring his concubine back?

Grandmother Jia continued, "You'll stay in my room today, so you won't have to put up with that rudeness! Tomorrow I'll find Lian'er and ask her out properly. If the girl is from a respectable family, she can be a dutiful concubine; if she's a vixen, I'll decide to sell her off directly. No matter what, I won't let anyone else get ahead of you!"

Fengjie burst into tears, knowing the matter was beyond repair. Continuing the commotion would not only make her a laughingstock in front of Lady Wang and the others, but would also displease Grandmother Jia. So she readily agreed and, still weeping, made her way to Rongqing Hall. Grandmother Jia, still standing at the ceremonial gate, glanced at Lady Wang, her heart filled with apprehension. Seeing all the young ladies alight from their carriages and crowding towards them, Grandmother Jia found Tanchun and asked, "How is Tanchun?"

Shi Shu, supporting the pale-faced Tan Chun, said, "Grandma, our young lady has not injured her bones, she's just a little frightened."

Grandmother Jia instructed, "Quickly help Sanya back to rest." After a pause, she glanced at Chen Siyuan, who had just spoken with the gatekeeper Yu Liu, and said, "This matter is strange today. Madam is an impatient person, but Yuan-ge'er is always thoughtful. You should help Madam to investigate this matter thoroughly."

Chen Siyuan stepped forward, cupped his hands in acceptance, and then gave Madam Xing a look, saying, "Madam, this matter is of great importance. I think it would be better to let Aunt hear it as well?"

After a moment's thought, Grandmother Jia understood Chen Siyuan's meaning. The eldest and second branches of the family were now irreconcilable enemies, and Madam Xing, being petty, was eager to cause trouble for the second branch. With Chen Siyuan eavesdropping, she wouldn't allow Madam Wang to cover it up carelessly. Therefore, she nodded and said, "Very well, then the eldest madam should also go and listen."

This was the first time Madam Xing had been singled out by the old lady, and she immediately said with a smile, "Don't worry, Madam, I will definitely investigate this matter thoroughly!"

Grandmother Jia nodded, then, with faltering steps, she was helped by her two maids, Yuanyang and Amber, towards Rongqing Hall. There, on the other side, was a weeping Fengjie waiting to be comforted.

Madam Wang took a deep breath and quickly glanced at Yu Chuan'er. Seeing that Yu Chuan'er quietly shook her head, she said, "Then I'll go first and change my clothes before going to the South Hall."

Chen Siyuan bowed and saw them off. After Madam Wang and the others entered the ceremonial gate, Madam Xing, who was beside him, spat and said, "Where did all these bad habits come from? Young master, let's hurry up and make the first move. We must interrogate that coachman properly."

Chen Siyuan smiled bitterly and said, "I'm afraid we won't be able to find anything."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

Chen Siyuan said, "Since Madam dared to go back to change first, I'm afraid the clues were cut off long ago. That long needle may not be the driver's doing; perhaps someone else did it." He paused, then beckoned his servant Qingyu over and instructed him, "Keep an eye on Li Gui lately and see who he associates with when he goes out."

Qingyu clasped his hands in acceptance and said no more.

The women had already entered the inner quarters when Chen Siyuan and Madam Xing passed through the ceremonial gate and arrived at the south-facing hall. The coachman, who had been bound hand and foot, was now banging his head against the ground, weeping bitterly.

Before Madam Wang arrived, Madam Xing ordered her men to give him twenty lashes, but the coachman stubbornly insisted he knew nothing about it.

When Madam Wang arrived, seeing the coachman's buttocks covered in blood and gore, she said, "Our household has always been kind and lenient, and we must not allow a tragedy of forced confession to occur. Without clear evidence, we must not torture this man any further."

Just as Madam Xing was about to speak sarcastically, Chen Siyuan preemptively said, "Madam is right. I think we should detain this coachman for now and make a decision later after finding clear evidence."

Madam Wang nodded and said, "Then let's do as Yuan-ge'er says."

After saying this, he waved his hand, and the servants escorted the coachman away. The coachman shouted his innocence all the way, but we won't go into details.

Madam Wang rose and took her leave, leading Yu Chuan'er, Tan Xin, and the others to the back.

All the maids and servants withdrew, leaving only Chen Siyuan and Madam Xing. Madam Xing spat and said, "It's a good thing I had him beaten twenty times first, otherwise wouldn't that dog of a servant have gotten away with it for nothing?"

Chen Siyuan glanced around, and Miao'er and Tiao'er quickly stepped back to guard the door. Chen Siyuan then leaned closer and whispered, "Although there's no concrete evidence, I'm afraid the old lady has already suspected something. Today, Third Sister had a car accident, and Second Brother Lian took a concubine today. Everything he did was clearly aimed at Second Sister-in-law."

"Spend more time with the old lady these days, and don't argue with your second sister-in-law. You might just get something in return."

Madam Xing frowned and said, "I understand now. When it comes to scheming, even if I were to take on both of them, I'm afraid my sister-in-law and Feng'er wouldn't be a match for them. What use would it be if I gained something? I might as well stay with Fourth Brother... By the way, that matter... what have you thought about?"

Chen Siyuan said, "It's already been planned. Does he usually drink medicinal wine?"

Madam Xing nodded repeatedly, saying, "His health is failing, and he has to drink a cup of medicinal wine every day..." As she spoke, she suddenly glanced at Chen Siyuan and said with delight, "Could it be... that you're going to tamper with the wine?" After her initial delight, she frowned deeply, "Isn't that a bit inappropriate? What if someone finds out?"

Chen Siyuan said in a low voice, "I've already told you, I have a foolproof plan. This is not the time to talk. Tomorrow, find an excuse to come to my humble cottage."

Madam Xing agreed, and then led Miao'er and Tiao'er away.

After seeing Madam Xing off, Chen Siyuan couldn't help but sigh with regret before frowning and heading towards the Grand View Garden at the back.

As soon as she arrived at her own door, she saw Ying'er and Hongyu whispering something in the courtyard. It was obvious that Baochai hadn't even changed her clothes before coming.

Chen Siyuan felt a warmth in his heart and immediately strode inside.

............................................................

Snapped--

Madam Wang slammed her hand on the table, still furious. She thought to herself, "I always thought Xia Jingui was so thoughtful and considerate, but who knew she'd make such a mistake? Not only is Tan'er unharmed, but I'll have to clean up the mess myself."

At this moment, Tan Xin entered and reported, "Madam, Miss Xia has arrived."

Madam Wang's face was gloomy. Knowing that she shouldn't blame Xia Jingui for this, she took a deep breath and said, "Let her in."

Tan Xin agreed, and before she could relay the message outside, Yu Chuan'er led Xia Jingui around the screen and into the inner room. Xia Jingui stepped forward to greet her, glanced at Madam Wang's expression, and after dismissing the others, she stepped forward and said, "The long needle was shot into the carriage shaft. When the mules and horses are running, it will pierce their buttocks. The blowgun is hidden in the palm of the hand. Li Gui said that it did not arouse suspicion... Madam, rest assured, this matter will definitely not implicate you."

"Hmm," Madam Wang responded, feeling somewhat relieved.

Xia Jingui whispered again, "It's a pity that the man surnamed Chen interfered, otherwise this matter would have been settled!"

Yes, if Chen Siyuan hadn't risked his life to save her, Tan Chun would have been badly injured, if not dead.

Madam Wang said angrily, "A distant relative who's not even remotely related to me has come to ruin my plans. Just you wait and see, I'll teach him a lesson he won't forget!"

Seeing that she had successfully transferred her resentment to Chen Siyuan, Xia Jingui said gently, "Madam, there's no need to be too anxious. I just checked on the Third Miss, and the imperial physician said she was quite frightened... She might have fallen ill."

"Oh?" Madam Wang pondered for a while before coming to her senses and asking, "Which imperial physician treated Tan'er just now?"

Xia Jingui smiled and said, "It's Physician Hu."

Physician Hu has always been a follower of Lady Wang. Since Xia Jingui said that Tan Chun was frightened, it's understandable that she had a persistent high fever at night. Without needing anything else, as long as Tan Chun stays in bed for a few days, the power to manage the household will change hands.

Madam Wang smiled and said, "It must have been hard on Tan'er. Please tell Physician Hu to prescribe some calming medicine for her."

(End of this chapter)