Jinyi Spring

Chapter 143 Secret Meeting
A gentle light appeared in Princess Yanghe's eyes.

“I like that child too. Ever since I saw that she looked like Qingxin when she was young, I felt even more sorry for her. Poor thing, an orphan girl, not only is she a skilled doctor, but she also runs the largest clinic in the capital. I will not only reward Physician Wang, but also her.”

The Imperial Son-in-Law hurriedly said, "We must never mention her resemblance to the nun Qingxin again. The nun Qingxin is a thorn in that person's side."

Princess Yanghe pursed her lips and lowered her voice:
"I really don't know what the Emperor was thinking. He went to great lengths to marry Xiao into the palace, but he didn't cherish her at all. In the end, he spoiled Xue and Zhao to an extreme degree and even made Xiao leave home to become a nun."

"Among the princes, he seems to favor Prince Zhao the most, saying that he is kind and benevolent... But if he truly favors Prince Zhao, why did he bring Ming Shanyue back to restrain Xue Jicheng? Sometimes I can't help but think that if Consort Zhao had a prince, the Emperor might favor his son."

Although she and the emperor were siblings, she found it increasingly difficult to understand the emperor's younger brother's thoughts.

The Imperial Son-in-Law shook his head. "The Emperor's mind is unfathomable." He then solemnly reminded him, "Now that the princes are all grown up, they each have their own thoughts. We should not take sides and should keep our distance from Consort Xue and the Prince of Zhao's residence."

Princess Yanghe said, "I understand. Now when I go to the palace, I only go to Cining Palace to pay my respects to the Empress Dowager. I don't go to the other concubines' places easily." She then pursed her lips and said, "Fortunately, the Empress Dowager is fair and kind. She never favors the Xue family and treats all the princes equally."

Shangguan Yunqi frowned slightly, "There are some things we shouldn't say too explicitly to the Empress Dowager... It's not that we don't trust her, but we're not sure if the people around her have been bribed by the Xue family."

Yang He nodded in deep agreement, "I'll save it."

That day, Shangguan Rulin personally came to fetch his wife home. He stood guard outside the clinic, letting the old woman go in to settle the lodging fees, and also brought her a basket of red eggs.

Feng Chuchen regarded the red eggs as a banner from her past life, and she was happier to receive red eggs than to receive silver.

Aunt Wang removed Wei's stitches and, after examining her, smiled and said, "The wound is healing very well. You can have intercourse as soon as the lochia stops. If you don't have an episiotomy, it's easy to tear that area. In mild cases, it will take at least a few months to heal, and in severe cases, it can lead to postpartum hemorrhage or puerperal fever."

Ms. Wei smiled and said, "I didn't feel any pain during the episiotomy and stitching, and I can walk normally today... Thank you, Dr. Wang, and thank you, Dr. Feng."

Just then, a maid ran in and said with a smile, "Fourth Madam, Princess Yanghe's reward has arrived and is right outside the clinic."

The gatekeeper, Granny Guo, also rushed over with a smile to announce, "Miss Feng, Sister-in-law Wang, Her Highness Princess Yanghe has bestowed a reward upon you!"

Aunt Wang exclaimed in surprise, "There's...there's still a reward for me?"

“Of course, the eunuch specifically mentioned ‘Wang the Physician’.”

The old woman draped a hooded cloak over Wei's shoulders, and the group went outside together.

Outside the door, a eunuch stood in front holding a whisk, while three maids stood behind him carrying trays.

Shangguan Rulin was exchanging pleasantries with the eunuch.

Once everyone was present, the eunuch announced loudly, "The Princess's decree—"

Everyone lowered their heads and listened intently, their expressions composed.

"Shangguan Wei, with her resolute character and unconventional approach, readily embraced the emerging 'lateral incision' technique, and ultimately gave birth to a son. Both mother and child are healthy and well—a cause for celebration. Physician Feng and Physician Wang have implemented this new method with excellent medical skills, which I greatly commend. Therefore, I hereby bestow upon Shangguan Wei two bolts of brocade and two strings of red coral beads; and upon Physician Feng and Physician Wang, two bolts of brocade and two strings of fragrant sand beads each. This is my decree—"

Everyone was overjoyed.

This not only saves face for Shangguan Si's grandmother and silences public opinion, but also openly affirms Tongji Women and Children's Hospital, especially the medical technique of "episiotomy".

Aunt Wang shed tears of joy.

Even the imperial edicts of Lianyang and the Princess addressed her as "Wang the Physician," thus solidifying her title and placing her far above ordinary midwives.

After seeing the Shangguan family off, Aunt Wang said, "I'll pay for the dinner tonight."

Feng Chuchen did not argue with her. Through this imperial edict, "Doctor Wang" achieved a milestone leap and progress. This joy and dignity rightfully belonged to her.

When Feng Buji returned from school, he was overjoyed to hear the news.

He said proudly, "I got a top grade in today's exam, and the teacher praised me, saying I'll definitely amount to something great in the future. I go to the clinic every day, and not only have I not been affected by any bad luck, but I've become even more prosperous."

As evening fell, the crimson glow of the sunset bathed the western clouds, their edges seemingly outlined with pale gold.

After finally seeing all the patients and checking on the pregnant women in the inpatient ward, Feng Chuchen dragged her tired body back to her residence.

Ah Xuan arrived at some point and played with the two children and Da Tou.

Upon seeing her, the little creature exclaimed joyfully, "Amitabha! Miss, even the lotus cannot compare to your beauty..."

Feng Chuchen thought of her mother, who was still suffering in the nunnery. The medicine was ready, but she wondered when her mother would be able to take it…

Tonight, we've set up six tables, inviting not only everyone from the clinic but also familiar neighbors, including Uncle Zheng and his family.

When the Imperial Medical Academy heard about this, Chief Physician Li and Chief Physician Fang wanted to promote episiotomy in the palace and among the imperial clan, but they had to give up because Chief Physician Fan strongly opposed it.

On this day, Xia left the Ming Mansion under the pretext of wanting to browse the embroidery shop and buy some items.

The day before yesterday, at the lotus banquet at the Zhenbei Marquis's residence, as she passed by Madam Xue, Madam Xue whispered "See you at the usual place" and then hurriedly left.

Now that the Ming family and the Xue family have a grudge, it's difficult for the Xia family and the Xue family to even have a private conversation.

Hearing Madam Xue's words, Madam Xia felt a chill run down her spine; the Xue family was going to secretly meet with her again!

"The old place" likely refers to that location, which she visited once nineteen years ago.

That place, and that incident, were the deepest secrets buried in her heart.

She dared not refuse, and she truly needed the Xue family's help... so she had no choice but to go.

She first went to two famous embroidery shops and picked out some embroidery items that she and her daughter needed. She also chose two headbands for the old lady, two fan pendants for the old Duke, and two round fans for Madam Ming.

They also encountered Xue Yan'er in front of an embroidery shop.

Xue Yan'er also saw Xia Shi, but didn't even lift her eyelids, only letting out a "humph".

Not daring to offend the Xue family, Xia forced a smile and said, "Yan girl."

Xue Yan'er turned her head and walked past.

In front of the servants, Madam Xia felt extremely embarrassed, but she smiled magnanimously and said, "It's just childishness." At noon, Madam Xia stepped into Defuquan Grand Restaurant—one of the most magnificent restaurants in the capital, and also owned by the Xue family.

She had her servants eat in the main hall, while she herself, along with her head maid Yulan, went to the private room "Tingzhuxuan" on the third floor.

The interior is elegantly furnished with carved nanmu wood tables and chairs, and several ink bamboo paintings hanging on the walls. There is a small, tightly closed door on the west wall—this door can be opened to connect to the next room if there are many people or female relatives present.

After ordering, Yulan served the food and helped us eat.

Xia suddenly raised her eyes and said softly, "If even a whisper of what happened today gets out... you and your whole family will be dead."

Yulan hurriedly knelt down, "This servant belongs to you in life and in death, and would never dare to betray you."

Xia nodded in satisfaction, took a pair of crimson gold shrimp-whisker bracelets from her wrist and handed them to her, "Good girl, I know you are loyal, so I only brought you with me today."

He sighed inwardly; cultivating a trusted confidant was no easy feat, but knowing this secret meant he couldn't let him remain...

A short while later, three very soft knocks came from behind the small door—tap, tap, tap.

Xia got up and went over, bowing three times in return.

The door was gently pulled open from the other side.

In another elegant room, only Madam Xue stood at the door.

Seeing that Madam Xue had come in person, Madam Xia could not hide her excitement. She hurried over, but Madam Xue closed the door again.

Madam Xue warmly took Xia's hand and they sat down together at a round table away from the small door.

"Alas, now that the Xue family and the Ming family have fallen to this point, I just want to see you and have a private chat, but I have to resort to such secretive methods."

Madam Xia sighed, “Who can argue with that? Actually, Yan’er already said that it was just a young girl being playful and losing her sense of propriety. It’s nothing serious, so we can’t blame Miss Xue. It’s just that our old lady has such a strong personality… you know, she’s the most protective of her own.”

Madam Xue gently patted the back of her hand, her words considerate, "Of course I understand. Princess Changning was known for her fierceness when she was young, and few people dared to provoke her. You have served by her side all these years, always being careful and watching her every move, which has truly been difficult for you."

These words struck Xia's heart, and her eyes immediately reddened. She took out her handkerchief and dabbed at the corners of her eyes. "How many people know the hardships that have been endured?" She quickly changed her words, "My father and mother have been so kind to me, it is only right that I serve them."

Madam Xue wiped her mouth with a handkerchief. "Now that the old lady has entered the palace, she is accompanied by Lady Shangguan. Even the Imperial Concubine finds it difficult to have a chance to speak with you."

“That’s right,” Xia agreed, “I also think of the Empress Dowager and the Imperial Concubine all the time, but I just don’t have the chance.”

Madam Xue leaned forward slightly, her eyes full of sincerity, and her voice even lower.

"I won't lie to you, the Imperial Concubine has always liked Yan'er, saying that she is exceptionally beautiful and clever. His Highness Prince Zhao currently only has one concubine in his harem. Firstly, it is not advisable for His Highness to indulge in too many women, and secondly... it is the Imperial Concubine's intention. She is willing to reserve a place for Yan'er. She will arrange the marriage as soon as she comes of age."

Xia had thought the matter was hopeless, but upon hearing this, she was trembling and tears welled up in her eyes.

She covered her mouth with a handkerchief and said, "I...I knew it. The First Madam must have said a lot of good things about Yan'er to the Imperial Concubine. Thank you. My daughter and I will never forget this kindness."

Madam Xue's smile deepened. "We've known each other for so many years, how could we become estranged because of a little quarrel between the younger generation? As you know, our Xue family has always held goodwill towards the Ming family. We even wanted to marry Yan'er to them back then. Now, this situation is truly not what we wanted."

She changed the subject slightly, her tone becoming more inquisitive, "My husband always feels that the falling out between the two families, besides the quarrel between the two young girls, is probably due to something else. Have you heard any other rumors? If we know, we can try to make amends and prevent the misunderstanding from getting worse."

Xia hesitated, her voice lowering, "My father and mother have treated me with boundless kindness, I really..."

She shook her head, looking conflicted.

Madam Xue scoffed inwardly, "Easier said than done. Even the actors on stage can't act as well as you. They've treated you with such kindness, so why did you…?"

On his face, however, his smile grew even gentler. “We’ve known each other for so many years, and I know you are loyal and kind. It’s precisely because our Xue family doesn’t want to drift further and further apart from the Ming family and end up as enemies that we want to know the reason behind it.”

Xia seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, frowned and pondered for a moment before suddenly remembering something, and said, "Oh, there is one... The old Duke always felt that the birth of 'Red Hare' by Lady Xiao was suspicious, and suspected that Lady Xiao was framed when she was deposed. He mentioned this recently."

A flash of malice crossed Madam Xue's eyes, but she said helplessly, "The old Duke is really... Qingxin Fagu gave birth to Chitu. Does he suspect that our Xue family tampered with it? So many eyes were watching outside the delivery room. The evidence is conclusive, even Xiao Henian himself admitted it. How can he be so stubborn..."

Xia sighed, "Who can say otherwise? Father is stubborn and inflexible, and perhaps he still cherishes his friendship with Lord Xiao."

Madam Xue smiled and said, "I understand. If it's just this matter, it's easy to handle. The truth will out, and the falsehood will become truth. Our Xue family has never done this. In time, the old Duke will believe it."

He patted Xia's hand again, "Don't worry, I will definitely keep that matter in mind and find a way to make it happen. I will ask the Empress Dowager to grant us a marriage, and try to get engaged next year. The year after next, when Yan'er comes of age, she can marry into the Prince Zhao's mansion."

Madam Xia's smile widened, and she repeatedly expressed her gratitude, "Thank you, Madam, thank you, Empress Dowager, thank you, Consort."

Madam Xue nodded and said, "You also know the wife of Lord Wan, the deputy commander of the South City Military Command." Her maiden name is Li Zizhen.

"Li Zizhen!" Xia Shi repeated it twice before remembering.

He couldn't help but laugh and said, "Oh, right, her father was a junior official in the Ministry of Rites in his early years. We played together when we were young, and I remember she played the flute very well."

Madam Xue smiled and said, "It is indeed her. Her eldest daughter is named Wan Heyu, who is fifteen years old and was born on an unlucky day and month. She is extremely beautiful."

Xia understood what was meant and sighed, "Now I'm being blamed. Shanyue always says that the girls I've introduced to him all have flaws..."

As soon as he said it, he remembered that Xue Yan'er had a few small freckles on her face, so he quickly stopped talking, his face turning red.

He quickly changed his tune, saying, "I was mainly talking about that Miss Zhen. She... hehe, she has a bit of body odor."

Madam Xue didn't mind and continued to introduce her, "This Miss Wan, apart from her humble background, is truly impeccable. She is beautiful, gentle and virtuous, and quite talented. She is a truly good person."

Xia smiled and said, "Is it really that good? Alright, I'll help mediate."

Madam Xue said, "The day after tomorrow, Madam Wan and her daughter will go to the White Sheep Temple in the east of the city to pray for blessings..."

Xia understood immediately. It meant that she had "coincidentally" met the mother and daughter at Baiyang Temple and had taken a liking to the girl.

The two exchanged a few more indifferent words, then Xia got up, opened the side door, and walked over.

The side door closed again.